September 2024 – HEALTH FREAK MOMMY

The Throes of Motherhood: University Fees Nightmares

Tonight is one of those dreaded nights that I have to face not just three times a year, but now six times a year. It’s the time of the year to pay university fees, and this time, it’s for both Alycia and Sherilyn. Alycia is entering her Final Year, First Semester, while Sherilyn is just starting her First Year, First Semester of her Bachelor in Science in Architecture. The burden of handling their fees has now become a 6-times a year challenge that never seems to get easier.

For Alycia, I managed to make her payment using my credit card. It’s always a tricky process since I keep a low credit card limit for security reasons. This decision saved me earlier this year from falling victim to a good friend’s (now not friends anymore) scam attempt, but I’ll leave that story for another day. The first time that I attempted payment via credit card, it failed and I had to attempt it again. Thankfully, it went through the second time.

Then came Sherilyn’s fees, and this time, things got even more complicated. Sherilyn, in her usual last-minute style, informed me that her payment was due tonight—at the eleventh hour, of course. She warned me that if the fees weren’t paid by midnight, there would be a RM100 penalty. Unfortunately, making her payment was going to be impossible. The bank transfer requires me to increase my transfer limit, and thanks to the new security measures, there’s a 12-hour cooling-off period before I can use the new limit. The cherry on top? Even if I wanted to pay with my credit card, my limit would be completely maxed out with close to RM20k needed for Sherilyn’s fees.

I told Sherilyn that she would have to take responsibility for this oversight. If she wants to avoid the penalty, she’ll need to plead with the university to waive the RM100, or she’ll have to bear the cost herself. After all, she didn’t give me enough notice to make the payment on time.

These are the moments that truly test your patience as a mother. Juggling the financial demands of two university students is no easy feat, especially when you have to deal with technical obstacles like bank limits and cooling-off periods. There’s always something that makes this process more stressful than it needs to be.

Oh yes, while I was trying to change the transfer limit on my desktop PC, a message popped up on my phone when I tried to use the bank app to approve the transfer limit BUT I had to update the banking app first. Needless to say, the request failed as the update of the app on my phone needed time. I spent more than an hour on this dreaded chore. Yet, as exhausting as it is, I know it’s all worth it for the education and future of my daughters.

Motherhood has its share of challenges, and this is just one of them—navigating the maze of fees, bank procedures, and deadlines. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that nothing in motherhood comes easy, and these throes of stress are just part of the journey.

While I was making payment, Alycia’s university website was ‘hang’ and she had to use her laptop, which was also ‘hang’. We both waited for almost half an hour before payment went through.

No. of times viewed = 32

The Fastest and Healthiest Way to Cook Sweet Corn: Microwaving

Today I tried microwaving sweet corns, something that I’ve never done before. I resorted to this method as carrying our heavy stainless steel wok and pot for steaming is too much for my painful tennis elbow hand to bear. So I had a light bulb moment and popped an ear of sweet corn into the microwave oven for 3 minutes, and voila, the corns tasted just as good as steamed ones!

Microwaving sweet corn saves you time, and it also preserves many of the corn’s essential nutrients, making it one of the best cooking methods for this tasty vegetable.

Microwaving sweet corn is incredibly simple. There’s no need to shuck the corn beforehand—just pop the whole ear, husk and all, directly into the microwave. Cooking it with the husk on steams the corn naturally, locking in moisture and flavor. This method takes about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave and the number of ears you’re cooking.

The sweet corns that I bought from the supermarket today were already shucked. Next time I will try microwaving corns with the husk and all.

After microwaving, the husk and silk slide off easily, eliminating the messy process of peeling raw corn. For anyone in a rush or looking for a hassle-free cooking experience, this is a game-changer.

One of the key benefits of microwaving sweet corn is that it helps preserve its nutritional value. Sweet corn is packed with fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins and vitamin C), and minerals like potassium and magnesium. Traditional cooking methods like boiling can cause some of these nutrients to leach into the water, reducing the overall nutritional content of the corn. Microwaving, on the other hand, uses minimal water, meaning more of these essential nutrients remain intact in the corn itself.

Moreover, the steaming effect of microwaving ensures that antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health, are retained. These antioxidants are heat-sensitive, so quick cooking methods like microwaving prevent significant nutrient loss, ensuring that you get the most out of your corn.

How to Microwave Sweet Corn

Here’s how easy it is to prepare sweet corn using the microwave:

Leave the Husk On: Place the whole ear of corn (with the husk) in the microwave. You can cook one ear at a time or multiple, depending on your microwave’s capacity. Add a little water (about 2 tablespoons) on a microwave-safe plate with the corns.

Microwave on High: Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. One ear usually takes 3 minutes, while two or more may take slightly longer.

Remove with Caution: The corn will be hot when it comes out, so let it cool for a minute before handling.

Shuck Easily: Once slightly cooled, the husk and silk should peel away easily. No more struggling with sticky silk strands!

Season to Taste: Once shucked, you can enjoy the corn as is or add butter, salt, or any seasonings you prefer. I like my corn plain sans any seasoning.

Microwaving sweet corn is the fastest and healthiest way to enjoy this nutritious and delicious vegetable. It’s not only convenient, requiring minimal preparation and clean-up, but it also preserves the corn’s natural flavor and nutrients better than boiling or grilling. Next time you’re craving sweet corn, give the microwave method a try for a quick, nutritious, and tasty treat!

So juicy and delicious! Corns are great for your eyes too, thanks to lutein.

No. of times viewed = 22

Kaleidoscope Vision : My Frightening Experience

Some time ago, I experienced a terrifying episode of kaleidoscope vision, something that had never happened to me before. For about 15 minutes, my vision was filled with what looked like shattered glass, shifting and moving like the fragments inside a kaleidoscope. The fear and uncertainty that came with this experience were overwhelming, especially since, as age creeps up on me, I’ve been encountering minor health issues that I never had before.

It all started when someone slammed the door after I had told her to do something. She can be quite the little devil at times, and the stress of that moment triggered something strange within me. As I stepped outside to throw out the garbage, my vision suddenly transformed—bright, jagged shapes, like pieces of broken glass, filled my sight. I could still see and felt normal, but everything was distorted. I started to panic.

When I got back inside, the vision still hadn’t cleared. I was scared. I thought about all the things that could be wrong—maybe my retina had torn or detached, or worse, I could be experiencing a stroke. I began praying, trying to calm myself and distract my mind from the frightening images. Thankfully, after a while, the kaleidoscope vision stopped. But the fear lingered.

I quickly turned to Google for answers and learned that what I had experienced was known as “kaleidoscope vision.” The information I found eased my mind a little, but I knew it was important to understand more about this condition. Here’s what I learned.

What Is Kaleidoscope Vision?
Kaleidoscope vision is a type of visual disturbance where people see fractured, multicolored shapes and patterns, much like the view inside a kaleidoscope. The vision can be blurry, and you might see shifting shapes that resemble jagged, glass-like pieces. It can affect one or both eyes and typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes.

This kind of visual disturbance is often linked to migraines, but in some cases, it can also be a result of other underlying conditions like stress, panic attacks, or even eye problems.

Symptoms of Kaleidoscope Vision
The main symptom of kaleidoscope vision is distorted vision, where objects appear fragmented, colorful, or shimmering. Other symptoms that may accompany kaleidoscope vision include:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headache, which may come before or after the visual episode
Sensitivity to light
Nausea or disorientation
Tingling or numbness in different parts of the body (if linked to a migraine aura)

In my case, the kaleidoscope vision was accompanied by a feeling of anxiety and panic, which led me to believe that stress was a contributing factor. I didn’t experience any headache, dizziness, numbness or nausea.

Causes of Kaleidoscope Vision
There are several potential causes for kaleidoscope vision, including:

Migraines: Kaleidoscope vision is often part of a migraine aura that occurs before the onset of a migraine headache. However, not all migraine auras lead to a headache.

Panic Attacks and Stress: Intense emotional stress or panic attacks can trigger visual disturbances like kaleidoscope vision. When your body is in a state of panic, blood pressure and heart rate can spike, which may affect your eyesight.

Ocular or Retinal Problems: In rare cases, kaleidoscope vision could be related to issues with the retina or blood vessels in the eye. Conditions like retinal detachment, retinal migraine, or ocular migraine can lead to visual distortions.

Other Causes: Less commonly, kaleidoscope vision could be a sign of more serious conditions like stroke, brain injury, or a neurological disorder. However, these cases are typically accompanied by other severe symptoms, such as difficulty speaking, numbness, or muscle weakness.

Treatment and Prevention
If you experience kaleidoscope vision, it’s important to stay calm and try to focus on relaxing your body. If the vision disturbance is related to stress or a panic attack, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises may help stop the episode sooner.

If your kaleidoscope vision is related to migraines, avoiding known migraine triggers, such as bright lights, stress, and certain foods, can help prevent future episodes. Over-the-counter pain relief or prescribed medication may be necessary to manage the headache that often follows the visual disturbance.

In any case, if you experience kaleidoscope vision, especially if it’s new or accompanied by other worrisome symptoms, it’s essential to consult a doctor. They may refer you to an eye specialist or neurologist to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Note to self – It’s time to schedule an appointment with my ophthalmologist at ISEC soon!

No. of times viewed = 30

N.I.C.E Bistronome – French Italian, Section 17

Two Sundays ago, it was just my hubby, Sherilyn, and I out for lunch. Alycia was off enjoying her holiday in Taiwan with friends, and Cass was at her figure skating class. Unsure of where to eat, hubby decided to drive to Section 17 in PJ, and we stumbled upon Nice Bistronome, a new French-Italian fusion restaurant. We were intrigued, especially after learning that the restaurant is named after Nice, the second-largest city in France, with dishes inspired by the flavors of this beautiful French town. What a fitting name, and as it turned out, the food was just as “nice” as its namesake!

To kick off our meal, hubby ordered focaccia as the starter (RM20). It was light, airy, and served warm, perfect for dipping. It came with a dipping of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and the other was a standout tapenade spread. The tapenade was a flavor-packed mix of capers, olives, and anchovies, and it was absolutely fantastic. I enjoyed it so much that I ended up polishing off almost the entire basket of focaccia dipped with the three condiments!

Next, hubby ordered half a dozen escargots with pesto (RM36), which were delicious and the meat was just right and not rubbery. We also had fried halibut tenders (RM60), roast spring chicken with rosemary and herbs (RM72), and tiger prawns pasta (RM62). Every dish was well-executed and full of flavor. The roast spring chicken was succulent and fragrant with rosemary, while the fried halibut tenders were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The star of the meal had to be the tiger prawn pasta. The sauce was infused with rich prawn broth, making it incredibly flavorful. Each bite was divine, and we were thoroughly impressed by the dish.

For dessert, we decided to take our dining experience upstairs to a charming little café called Doux Doux (same owner as NICE). Hubby ordered a piccolo latte, while Sherilyn chose a matcha latte. To satisfy our sweet tooth, we ordered a soufflé and an entremet cake. Both desserts were indulgent and beautifully presented, rounding off our meal perfectly. Our stomachs were full, and so were our hearts.

It was one of those lunches where everything came together—the food, the ambiance, and the company. The only thing missing was Alycia and Cass, who would have undoubtedly enjoyed the experience with us. We’ll definitely be returning to Nice Bistronome, and hopefully next time, the whole family can join in on the feast!

NICE Bistronome
939, Jalan 17/38,
Seksyen 17, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
*Below Doux Doux by Chateau Dionne
@nice_bistronome
+60125799309

Warm and lightly toasted focaccia along with dipping.

Escargot pesto served on a bed of pebbles.

Tiger prawn pasta and deep fried halibut tenders.

Roast spring chicken. The serving was huge and we couldn’t finish it, so had it doggy-bagged home for Cass.

The open-kitchen concept makes it a spectacle for us to observe how the chefs skillfully dish out the food.

No. of times viewed = 42

Sherilyn Shines at Asia Open Dance Championship with Gold Medal Win

Last Saturday, Sherilyn achieved another incredible milestone by winning a gold medal in the Modern Contemporary (Solo) dance at the Asia Open Dance Championship, held at the PJ Performing Arts Centre. This triumph is just one of a few in what has been a week filled with success, as she has now secured two gold medals and one Double Platinum medal from two different dance competitions. It’s a testament to her unwavering commitment and love for dance, which has fueled her through rigorous training and numerous sacrifices.

Despite being a full-time university student, Sherilyn attends dance classes at two different studios, often squeezing in three to four sessions a week after her academic day ends. It’s not easy juggling both her studies and her passion for dance, but her perseverance has paid off, and I couldn’t be prouder of her. Sherilyn’s love for competition runs deep, and I have no doubt that she will continue to participate in many more dance contests in the future. In fact, one of her goals is to secure a Talent Scholarship from her university, which would open up even more opportunities for her to compete at higher levels.

As long as Sherilyn remains happy and her university grades aren’t compromised, I will continue to support her dream. She has already proven that she can excel in both her academic pursuits and her passion for dance. This week, in the midst of all the excitement, she is also preparing to embark on her first year at university, where she will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture.

No. of times viewed = 12

What To Wear In Japan For All Seasons

Japan is an amazingly beautiful country rich in culture, history, delectable food, pop culture, breathtaking mountain views, onsen, Sakura, and friendly people. Whether it is the scenery, Japanese-style clothing, or the onsen hot spring that you’re drawn to, Japan is a country that has something to offer everyone.

There are four seasons in Japan, namely:

Spring (April to May),

Summer (June to August),

Fall (September to November) and

Winter (December to March)

If you’re planning to travel to Japan and wondering what clothing to pack for the different seasons, below is a guide on what to pack.

What To Wear In Spring (temperature range: 2° to 24°C)

In Japan, spring means the arrival of the cherry blossom or sakura, one of the most iconic emblems of spring in Japan. Many tourists flock to Japan during spring to witness the blooming of Sakura. It is recommended to pack coats or jackets if you’re visiting during the first half of spring. For the second half of spring, short or long-sleeved Japan t shirts and sweaters or cardigans are recommended.

What To Wear In Summer (temperature range: temperature range: 16°-30°C)

Japan experiences hot and humid summers, so it is recommended to pack Japanese tank tops, thin short-sleeved or sleeveless tops, sundresses, or any clothing that is light and breathable. Shorts are perfect too unless you plan to visit shrines or temples where there’s a certain dress code as a sign of respect.

What To Wear In Fall (temperature range: temperature range: 7°-27°C)

If you’re visiting Japan during the first half of fall, you can pack light shirts and dresses for the mornings. Nighttime can be breezy and cold, so pack along jackets, Japanese style hoodies, and shawls. The second half of fall can be chilly, so pack thicker jackets, sweaters, or coats and layer your clothing to keep you warm and cozy.

What To Wear In Winter (temperature range: temperature range: -6°-20°C)

Japan is a beautiful winter wonderland from December through March for those who like snow and cold weather. You will need down coats, puffer jackets, earmuffs, gloves, winter socks, and thermal clothing. If you plan to visit snowy regions to ski or experience snow, consider wearing waterproof and anti-slip snow boots and good-quality ski gloves. Always dress up in layers to trap heat and top with a waterproof outer layer to keep dry.

Japan is a country that never ceases to amaze. Whether you like hot, breezy, or cold, there’s always a perfect time to visit Japan. As the weather in Japan can be quite diverse and unpredictable, it’s important to check the weather forecast for your specific destination and pack your clothes accordingly. Remember to dress appropriately if you are planning to visit temples and shrines. Make a checklist of the right clothing to bring – jackets, coats, Japanese t shirts, thermal wear, socks, gloves, scarves, and appropriate shoes for the specific season. Plan your trip well, bring ample clothing, and enjoy your vacation!

No. of times viewed = 11

How to Treat Loose Skin on the Face

As we get older, the natural ageing process takes its toll on our skin. Collagen and elastin production starts to decline, leading to loose, sagging skin on areas like the face, jawline, and neck. This loss of elasticity can make the face appear droopy and wrinkled, adding years to your appearance. While some facial wrinkling is normal, excessive looseness and sagging can be socially detrimental, making you look far older than your real age.

The good news is that there are many ways to treat and tighten loose, hanging facial skin for a more youthful look. With the right skincare methods and treatments, you can restore firmer, more contoured facial skin and minimise sagging. It just takes consistency and a multifaceted approach. In this article, we’ll explore various lifestyle changes, at-home treatments, topical products, and professional procedures that can successfully treat loose, crepey skin on the face and neck.

Lifestyle Changes

Simple lifestyle changes can help improve skin elasticity over time. Be sure to wear sunscreen daily, as UV exposure damages collagen. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to keep skin supple. Eat foods rich in antioxidants like berries, dark leafy greens, avocados, tomatoes, and fish to fight free radical damage. Don’t smoke, as it restricts blood flow and deprives your skin of nutrients and oxygen. Get sufficient sleep regularly, as lack of sleep can decrease collagen production.

Facial Exercises

Facial exercises and massages can also help tone the muscles underneath sagging skin on the face and jaw area. Popular exercises include cheek raises, jaw releases, neck stretches, and fish lips. Use your fingers to massage face creams and serums into the skin to boost circulation. Devices like jade rollers, gua sha stones, or facial massage wands may also help contour, depuff, and stimulate skin when used in facial massage techniques. Perform facial exercises for 5-10 minutes daily.

Moisturisers and Creams

Using moisturisers and anti-ageing creams can hydrate your skin and make it appear firmer and more youthful. Look for products containing retinoids like retinol, which increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production. Vitamin C serums help protect the skin and brighten dullness. Peptides and growth factors signal to your skin to produce more collagen. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides also help skin retain moisture and fullness.

At-Home Devices

At-home skin tightening devices like LED light masks, microcurrent tools, and radiofrequency wands can also be used to treat sagging facial skin. LED light therapy boosts collagen growth. Microcurrent therapy tones facial muscles. Radiofrequency heating works to rebuild collagen. Using these devices for 5-10 minutes a few times per week can produce gradual tightening over 2-3 months of use.

Dermatological Procedures

For more dramatic results on loose facial skin, dermatological procedures can tighten skin and stimulate new collagen. These include microneedling, laser skin resurfacing, Ultherapy, and PDO threads London. Consult with a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to determine which treatment may be most effective for your needs.

Treating loose, sagging facial skin can help you achieve a more youthful, contoured appearance. While topical products provide mild improvements over time, lifestyle changes, facial exercises, at-home devices, and dermatological procedures can provide more significant tightening and skin rejuvenation results. Speak to your dermatologist to develop an effective anti-aging skincare and treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs.

No. of times viewed = 18

The Joy of Wearing Funny Tees

Life can be harsh for many of us in this cruel and sometimes heartless world. How do you cope when you feel like your life is in shambles? First things first, do not wallow in self-pity. There are plenty of ways to feel happier, like shopping for some funny tank tops to wear, watching a rom-com or deadpan comedy, talking to a good friend or family, playing with your pet dog or cat, and just doing whatever makes you feel happy.

When you’re feeling forlorn and dispirited, have a little fun with your outfit by putting on a funny t shirt to feel witty. It’s a quick and easy way to add some light-hearted fun to what you’re wearing, bringing a smile to you and anyone who sees it.

One way of making life less stressful is to stop taking life too seriously and distract yourself with things that seem frivolous. Find simple things that will make you laugh out loud every day, such as investing in a few funny shirts for men and women. These shirts come in many designs, puns, graphics, and sizes, so you’ll surely find something that tickles your funny bone.

Funny t shirts for men and women are perfect for casual gatherings, holidays, and even to the workplace if the company’s dress code allows casual wear. These t shirts make people smile and are a perfect way to send a message about your individuality or showcase your sense of humour.

For men seeking to stay cool, comfortable, and funny, funny mens tank tops are ideal, and these tops are entertaining too. They can be matched with jeans, Bermuda pants, or shorts and are suitable for the beach, outdoor activities, and gym. Tank tops are great for layering on cooler days and pair stylishly with a jacket or hoodie, without losing that entertaining touch.

Men wear funny men’s shirts to express themselves without offending anyone, whether through satire, social justice messages, or punny slogans. These humorous shirts are a form of visual storytelling that reflects your outlook on life in a non-verbal way.

In conclusion, funny t shirts are a fun and humorous way to display your personality and outlook. They can diffuse a tense situation, put a smile on anyone’s face, and make you chuckle. Do not settle for boring clothes, get some funny t shirts and tell the world about your free-spirited soul while bringing smiles wherever you go!

No. of times viewed = 10

New Parent’s Dilemma: What to Buy and What to Skip

Preparing for a new baby’s arrival often involves buying a long list of gear and supplies. With so many options and recommendations, it can be overwhelming trying to determine what is essential and what you can live without. This guide breaks down the must-haves versus the non-essentials to help simplify a new parent’s shopping.

Essential Purchases for Baby’s First Year

While babies don’t need much in their first few months, there are some key items every new parent should have on hand. Here are the most useful buys for your baby’s first year that are worth investing in.

Cot with Mattress

A safe sleep space is the top priority. Pick a cot that meets current safety standards, along with a firm, properly fitted mattress. Having at least two cot sheet sets allows you to easily change messy sheets quickly.

Car Seat

A car seat is non-negotiable for safely transporting your baby in vehicles. Choose one that accommodates newborns up to the maximum weight and height limits.

Pram/Pushchair

A reliable pram or pushchair is needed for walks and outings. Look for one with features like a lie-flat seat for newborns, adjustable handles, and ample storage space.

Muslin Cloths

These multi-purpose cotton cloths can be used for everything from burp cloths to nursing covers. Stock up on at least a dozen as they will get frequent use. Swaddling babies with muslin cloths is also recommended to help soothe newborns.

Baby Carrier/Sling

Wearable baby carriers allow caregivers to be hands-free while keeping your baby close. Different types like wraps, ring slings, and soft-structured carriers suit different preferences and stages.

Things to Skip or Buy Later

With so many clever baby products and gadgets, it can be tempting to go all out shopping. But there are plenty of items you can wait on or skip altogether. Holding off on these non-essentials will save money and storage space.

Fancy Bedding

Elaborate bedding sets with bumpers, duvets, and plush toys pose safety hazards. Opt for minimal, basic bedding instead. A fitted sheet plus a wearable blanket or sleeping bag is safest for a newborn.

Changing Table

A separate changing table takes up space many nurseries lack. A changing pad on top of a dresser works just as well in the early months. Add a changing table later if needed.

Baby Bathtub

Skip a dedicated baby bathtub and opt to bathe your newborn in a shallow basin, sink, or even your own tub. Specialty bathtubs take up room and babies outgrow them quickly.

Wipe Warmer

While chilly wipes can startle babies, a wipe warmer is not an essential purchase. Storing wipes at room temperature or warming them between your hands works fine.

Fancy Socks

Adorable baby socks seem like a must-buy, but most simply will not stay on newborns’ tiny feet. Opt for footed rompers or sleepers rather than fussing with socks that fall off. Baby joggers with built-in socks are also much easier to get on and stay put. You can find baby joggers such as baby girl joggers and infant jeans in all sorts of designs.

Shop Smart, Not Excessive

Preparing for a new baby does require buying gear, but purchasing every item marketed towards new parents is overkill. Be a savvy shopper by sticking to the absolute essentials at first while holding off on the non-necessities. Following this approach helps limit overspending and clutter while still getting what you truly need to care for your newborn. The right baby items can make the transition to parenthood a little smoother.

No. of times viewed = 12

Human In A Cat

As each day passes by since the day we rescued Haru from the streets in early 2021 (she’s our pandemic cat), we can’t help but to see how intelligent and emotionally in-tune this little kitty is. Not too long ago, my hubby and I found ourselves in a heated argument over something as trivial as where to place Haru’s bag of litter. Voices were raised, and tension filled the air—something that hasn’t happened in our home for a long time.

Suddenly, in the middle of our escalating disagreement, Haru decided to intervene. She meowed in a very persuasive and almost pleading manner, as if she could sense the tension and wanted to bring peace. Then, she walked right up to her human dad, meowed again, and gently brushed her head against his leg. It was as if she was telling him, “Stop arguing with Mum.” Her timing was impeccable, and her cute yet commanding meows made both of us stop in our tracks.

In that moment, all I wanted to do was burst out laughing. It was incredible how Haru, our little feline, had so effortlessly diffused the argument. She didn’t stop there. For the next 15 minutes, Haru kept following her dad around, making sure to stay close, as if reminding him to stay calm and not to continue the argument. She even climbed up the chair at the dining table when hubby ate lunch, just to stay next to him to make sure that he didn’t argue with me anymore.

The whole situation left both of us in awe. I couldn’t believe that Haru was so aware of what was happening and had the intuition to step in when she did. Her intelligence shines through in moments like this, when she seems to understand exactly how to tug at our heartstrings and bring peace to the household.

Haru is more than just a pet—she’s a vital part of our family, and her ability to sense emotions and respond so thoughtfully shows just how intelligent she is. I love her to bits, and moments like these make me appreciate her even more.

Sleeping like a human baby, with face buried in her hands.
We wanted to give Haru’s cage to the vet but Haru loves her cage and still goes inside to take her siesta.

No. of times viewed = 11

What’s The Difference Between Geeks and Nerds?

We often hear people referring to geek and nerd interchangeably but are these two the same? Let’s get to the 101 on geeks and nerds.

Geek 101

Geeks are enthusiasts or very knowledgeable about and obsessively interested in a particular topic, hobby, or field, especially one related to technical or intellectual pursuits.

Geeks are obsessed with collecting facts and mementos related to their subject of interest. They like to be the first few to know about the newest and trendiest things that are related to their area of interest.

Long ago, the term geek was used to describe someone eccentric or non-mainstream, who was not fashionable or popular. They were someone whose interests took precedence over popularity and, thus were thought to be socially impaired. Fast forward to the Information Age or Computer Age, if you’re called a geek, it is deemed a positive term and means that you are perceived to be very intellectual and knowledgeable. In this era, most geeks like to wear a geek t shirt and are part of social media and hangout groups for geeks. From Mark Zuckerberg to Nikola Tesla to Bill Gates, these are some of the geekiest people to walk the planet.

A geek who plays computer games knows an extensive amount of information about computer games. They would have information on each game’s development and the company that developed it at their fingertips. They are always glued to the computer and don a gamer t shirt most of the time. Their lives evolve around computer games and some make lucrative earnings from eSports. Some professional gamers earn salaries and receive sponsorships and even scholarships from universities for eSports programs.

Whether they’re attending a gaming contest, convention, or hanging out with fellow geeks, wearing a geek shirt creates a sense of belonging in a community of enthusiasts and serves as a badge of honor. The designs on these shirts often reflect the interests of these people, whether it’s gaming, science, or tech stuff.

Nerd 101

A nerd is an overly intellectual individual, again of a particular topic or field. As opposed to geeks, nerds are achievement-oriented and are likely bent on acquiring knowledge and skills over memorabilia. These people are often introverted, shy, obsessive, pedantic, and devoted to intellectual or academic pursuits. They are often socially inept and lack a good sense of fashion, dressing in a nerd shirt and in a quirky sort of way. They spend much of their time on books and unpopular or non-mainstream activities, which are generally either very technical, complicated, or related to topics such as math and science.

To those who have always thought of nerds as someone who is a weirdo, read this: Bill Gates, one of the richest men in the world, once said, “Be nice to nerds. Chances are you’ll end up working for one”.

In conclusion, if you think someone is a nerd or a geek and wouldn’t want to be seen with these people, think again. These people that have been the butt of many jokes for their thick glasses, quirky behavior, nerd t shirts, and unfashionable clothes, are a force to be reckoned with. According to a study, nerds who were less popular as teenagers end up doing better in life than their ‘cooler’ peers. The researchers followed the lives of adolescents for ten years and found the ones labeled as ‘geeks’ went on to outperform their peers by the time they reached adulthood.

No. of times viewed = 13

Sherilyn Wins Gold in Get The Beat Dance Competition

Today has been an exciting day for Sherilyn, as she just won two prestigious medals at the Get The Beat (GTB) dance competition! GTB is an internationally touring dance competition, and this marks Sherilyn’s second time shining on their stage. Her first victory came six years ago when she was just 13 years old, making this win even more special.

In the hip hop category for her age group, Sherilyn wowed the judges and secured a gold medal. She didn’t stop there—she clinched a Double Platinum medal in her Contemporary dance performance.

The day wasn’t without its hiccups, though. Sherilyn accidentally left her dance studio jacket behind at home, and with little time to spare before her performance at the PJ Performing Arts Centre, she ordered a Grab bike driver to get the jacket from home. I was eating breakfast half way and had to hurriedly change and bring the jacket down to the Grab driver. Despite the small drama, she stayed focused and delivered stellar performances on stage.

Today’s achievement has certainly made her a very happy camper, and as always, we’re incredibly proud of her dedication, passion, and hard work.

Grab rider picking up Sherilyn’s jacket from our condo

No. of times viewed = 20

Why Do Some Christians Wear Christian Clothing and Accessories?

The cross is a strong symbol of love, protection, and sacrifice for Christians as Jesus sacrificed himself on the cross to save us from our sins. Many Christians believe that wearing a cross necklace epitomizes the meaning of the cross and may protect them from evil.

Just as wearing a cross necklace, some believers wear Christian clothing and carry Christian-inspired fashion accessories to express their faith and spirituality, spread the word, and are proud to do so. Christian apparel and fashion accessories have always been popular and there are specialty stores that sell such items. Here are some of the reasons why the trend in Christian-inspired clothing and accessories is still popular among believers.

1. Expression of Faith

Wearing Christian t-shirts and accessories that represent our faith reminds us to be conscious of our actions and behavior and to live in a manner that reflects the love, grace, and compassion of Christ. It helps believers to stay grounded in their beliefs and to stay true to their relationship with God.

2. To Reflect Christ’s Grace

When believers wear Christian graphic tee shirts or use Christian-inspired accessories such as bags, hats, keychains, and phone casings, it prompts them to be mindful of how to behave and to treat others with love, kindness, and forgiveness, just as how Jesus has shown us.

3. Spreading the Word

For many believers, Christian clothing and Christian bags that they carry are more than just clothing and fashion accessories. They are instruments for spreading the word of God. They become walking billboards, promoting love and hope.

4. Building Community

Christian apparel serves as a great instrument for expression within the Christian community, allowing believers to showcase their faith and belief.

5. Supporting Christian-Based Businesses

Purchasing from Christian-based stores is a way to support businesses that align with the values of believers. Many of these stores donate a portion of their profit to the community or charitable causes.

In A Nutshell

Believers wear Christian clothing and use Christian-inspired accessories to express their faith and love for God. It promotes positivity, kindness, love, and hope and supports faith-based businesses. Clothing that contains an influential message is a great way to deliver your message and showcase your passion.

No. of times viewed = 21

Alycia’s One Week Holiday in Taiwan

Upon arrival in Taipei, Alycia had a lucky moment and won 5000 Taiwan Dollars in a tourist draw at the airport, which gave her a nice bonus to spend on snacks and shopping. That’s a tidy sum of close to RM700! After landing in Taipei, Alycia and her friends hopped on a train to Tainan for a couple of days and then made their way back to Taipei.

I haven’t heard all the details of her adventures yet, as she’s been catching up on sleep since she returned early this morning after a long journey with no sleep for over 24 hours. They took a 12:45 am flight back, so she’s been out cold since she got back, waking up to eat her dinner, and then went back to sleep.

From the few updates she’s shared, Alycia had a wonderful time in Taiwan. During one of their trips to another town, their Uber driver treated them to cakes and Bingsu at a dessert shop—a sweet and unexpected gesture. Alycia didn’t miss the opportunity to shop, bringing home some cool Nike shoes and socks, and plenty of Taiwan snacks and facial masks to share.

It’s clear she had a blast, and she’ll be off again next month, this time to South Korea with another friend. I’m definitely feeling a little envious of her adventures!

Alycia’s lucky draw win of 5000 Taiwan Dollars.

With the win, she treated her friends to some ready-to-eat meals from 7-11 before they took a train to Tainan. She said the food ain’t nice 😁. Of course, these packaged foods are never nice or healthy!

The Uber driver (male) treated the girls to Bingsu. He ate with them at the dessert shop. He had to wait for the girls to finish all the touristy things before driving them back to Taipei.

My MIL’s order- crispy meat floss with seaweed and pineapple cakes.

My souvenir from Alycia was three packets of facial masks. She said they’re pretty expensive but I think it’s my ‘wages’ for helping her wash and dry her 7 days of dirty laundry! Definitely not a good deal for me! 😌

No. of times viewed = 14

Would You Wear Matching Clothes With Your Family?

I would wear matching clothes with my family and I think it’s cool and fun! I used to wear matchy clothes with my three girls when they were younger and our coordinated outfits turned out beautiful in photos. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration of a loved one, a festive celebration, or a holiday, wearing matching clothes with your family, friends and loved ones creates a sense of unity and beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Are you the kind who would wear matching clothes, such as family Halloween shirts or Chinese New Year shirts with your spouse or children? Let’s dive into this trend and why it’s popular.

Family Matching for Festive Seasons

Festive seasons like Christmas, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Deepavali are some of the most popular times for people to do family matching. By wearing coordinated festive looks, such as the same color, same design, or the same print of festive clothes, such as family Christmas shirts, these matching family clothes make for beautiful festive photos, perfect for social media bragging rights, and wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

My mum likes to buy family matching Christmas T-shirts for everyone in the family whenever there’s a Christmas gathering. Our family would gather around the Christmas tree and have lots of photos taken, before exchanging gifts. It’s a lovely tradition that we all look forward to.

Personalized Outfits for the Newborn

It’s always such an exciting and happy time whenever a new member is added to the family. Parents and grandparents can’t resist getting a personalized newborn outfit for the bundle of joy. These super cute baby outfits can be customized with names, genders, birth dates, or cute wordings. These are perfect for newborn photo sessions, baby full moon parties, or family photos. The parents, siblings, grandparents, aunties, and uncles can wear matching T-shirts with customized words, such as “Dad”, “Mom”, “Sister” and “Brother”.

Conclusion

I’m in when it comes to wearing matching clothes with my family. Many families say yes too, especially during major festivals. Dressing alike makes the celebration more joyous and creates lasting memories. Whether it’s family Christmas shirts, family Halloween shirts, or outfits to welcome a new baby, dressing alike as a family is a simple way to celebrate togetherness and bond with your family.

No. of times viewed = 17

Good Riddance

A week after our suspicious next-door neighbors, whom we suspect were involved in scamming or illegal activities, moved out, they finally had all their belongings removed. Interestingly, they didn’t even return to the unit themselves. Instead, they hired movers from Lalamove (I saw the truck with the Lalamove logo) to pack, seal, and transport their clothes and other possessions. They vacated not just their unit, but also two other units from a different block in our condo.

I can’t help but wonder where these suspicious Chinese nationals are relocating. With such a large group of people, it’s inevitable that they’ll draw attention wherever they go—especially from vigilant neighbors like me!

Yesterday, cleaners arrived to tidy up their unit, and, oh my goodness, the place was a complete mess! There was an overwhelming amount of trash, and the unit reeked of what I can only describe as rotting garbage. I had to spray a generous amount of disinfectant to cover up the stench, but even today, traces of the foul odor still linger. It’s unsettling, to say the least.

I hope my new neighbors will be someone decent. The two previous tenants were Japanese and they were all very friendly and nice folks. The first tenant, an elderly couple returned to Japan. The second tenant moved to another neighborhood nearer to their kids’ school.

No. of times viewed = 12