The Best of Haagen-Dazs Creations

March 17, 2015, 9:40 pm

≫ Next: Machines Clearance 1Utama (Bargain Corner)

≪ Previous: Bad Experience at I Style Beaute Santuary (Eyelash Extension)

the signature collection - Haagen-Dazs Fomdue RM68

There's no denying my love for ice-cream, it's the only dessert I eat. I don't like cakes, chocolate, sweets, bread, pastries, oh whatever in the line of desserts because nobody can steal ice-cream from my heart!. My favourite ice-cream? No other than Haagen-Dazs, the only one membership card I carry for dinosaur years. They served the best of ice-creams there is and if I would quote from The Joy Luck Club, highest quality gets my money. I get a 15% off for purchases above RM50 and on my birthday month, a 30% discount and free scoop of ice-cream to show off my birthday smile. Which is great because last year, I threw a ice-cream fondue birthday party at Haagen Dazs Soho Mont Kiara on New Year Day (yes I'm a New Year baby) and I utilised the 30% to treat my friends to 12 whooping awesome fondues! They loved it to bits and were a bit crazy after being high on chocolate.

trying the new indulgent collection at Haagen-Dazs 1Utama

look at Terince's face lighting up the moment we order Fondue

my all time party favourite

now you can choose dark / milk chocolate sauce!

This year I didn't celebrate my birthday at all which was a bit sad :( and I'm still thinking of what to do for it, it's never too late right to celebrate a birthday? I haven't seen my bffs for a long time and I missed them so much. With Haagen-Dazs new menu being introduced recently, I think this would make the perfect get-together for all of us and should I have the money, here's three reasons why I would treat them to Haagen-Dazs:

Reason 1 - Heavenly Ice-Cream

vowing my friends with heavenly magic

What's not to love about slow melting ice-cream that's smooth, creamy and flavourful to the tongue? Having a spoonful brings you to heaven, and that's what I loved about the Seventh Heaven creation from Haagen-Dazs. The dry ice fumes, makes it a spectacular scene to behold. Imagine me impressing my friends when the waiters bring it in, all with the glorious fumes evaporating through the air. If I have a wedding, the dessert finale should come in as grand as the first dish served to mark the end of a beautiful night.

Seventh Heaven is the classic Haagen-Dazs creation. A heavenly collection of seven Häagen-Dazs™ flavors of your choice, served with orchard fruits, drazzled with chocolate sauce. Ideal for sharing with our loved ones.

Reason 2 - friendships blossom through ice-cream

I don't know about you but I think the laughter and smiles at the ice-cream table with friends, brings us closer. People are more relaxed and unhibited when their mind, body and soul gives in to the spur of the melting ice-cream moment in their mouth. The delicate tastes, couple with sinfully captivating chocolate and fruits just makes people go soft. As such, I feel friendships blossom through ice-cream and stressed when spelled backwards is desserts. I will treat my friends to Flower Blossom and give them a big hug and a peck on the cheeks, a sweet message of friendship delivered through ice-cream.

The Flower Blossom is a crunchy waffle basket holds a harmony of six Häagen-Dazs™ flavors: Vanilla & Cream, Belgian Chocolate, Strawberry and Cookies & Vanilla Cream ice-cream, and Raspberry and Mango sorbets. Beautifully served with strawberry sauce, almond flakes, whipped cream and strawberry slices.

Reason 3 - drinks on the house! *yumseeeeeng*
(always wanted to say this)

And well if we ever felt ice-cream was too much, drinks are the way to go for a good long gossip on the table. Coffee, Frappe or Shakes? I tried them all - no kidding! and I would recommend to my friends to go for the shakes, because baby what's better than your favourite ice-cream turned into milkshake!. My favourite has got to be the cookies and cream shake. I get brain freeze *hahaha* and well hey, forget beers and the cosmopolitans. Milkshakes for everyone and we can play drinking games like who gets their brain freeze first? I dare you! (finish off all 4 shakes / frappe at one go).

From left to right: Strawberry Velvet (Frappe), Mango Sorbet (Shake), Cookies & Vanilla Cream (Shake), Matcha Chocolate (Frappe). Decadent frappes that burst with the flavours of Haagen-Dazs' best selling ice-creams, to delicious irresistible shakes for a delectable twist.

3 reasons to treat my friends to Haagen-Dazs

With three reasons - heavenly ice-cream, blossoming friendships, and drinks on the house! Who would I really bring to enjoy an afternoon of desserts, de-stressing and gossiping away while strangers turned to peek at a bunch of girls laughing wildly as if they were hypnotised by a gypsy? My best girlfriends of course, who I haven't seen in a long time due to work and up & downs of life has to offer for each and every one of us. It's time we take a break to redefine our senses and let loose around the ones we loved the most.

Here's to my love for Haagen-Dazs ice-cream, the only ice-cream desserts that captivates my heart.

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Machines Clearance 1Utama (Bargain Corner)

March 18, 2015, 3:58 am

≫ Next: Spotlight Ikano Power Centre Grand Opening Sale

≪ Previous: The Best of Haagen-Dazs Creations

today's machine haul

Alright to all you apple fan boys and girls, Machines is having a clearance at the Bargain Corner, 1Utama (Rainforest Ground Flr). Today's the first day and you can get casings for your apple products from RM10 onwards. Just to name a few things I spotted, iPhone crystal screen protector RM5, RM10 for 3 iPhone casings, RM20 leather sleeves for Macbook Pro 15", RM20 for Macbook Air 11" and the display apple products will be on sale this Friday. Basically you can find casings at an average of RM10 for iPhone 4 - 5s. Casings for iPhone 6 is limited, same goes to iPad 2 to new iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini. Powerbanks (below 10K mAh) are priced from RM20 onwards.

new toys for my babies

Machine Clearance, Bargain Corner 1Utama (Rainforest)

My retail theapy today? RM80 for 4 items - Genuine Leather Macbook Sleeve 15" RM20, iPhone 5s casing in champagne gold (that mimics the phone design itself) RM10, iPad 2 transparent plastic casing at RM20 and lastly a cute Tulip powerbank that I have been looking for at RM30 for 3,000 mAh (very low but meh it's super cute). The clearance starts today until end of this month. I'm super happy with my find :)

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Spotlight Ikano Power Centre Grand Opening Sale

March 19, 2015, 12:57 pm

≫ Next: Si by Giorgio Armani Review

≪ Previous: Machines Clearance 1Utama (Bargain Corner)

shopping day at Spotlight, Ikano

(bought 100% feather pillow at 40% off!)

Being a blogger has its perks. You get to discover things before they launch in the market, invitations to store and movie previews, and review products and services. I love being one but I'm quite picky as to what I blog about because first, I need to be convinced it's blog worthy. That's pretty easy, either it's something I like, would like or think it's relevant to my readers. Shopping has always been one of my favourite activities as a blogger so when Spotlight, one of the craft and wonder store I stalk back in Melbourne announced they're in Malaysia, I went crazy!.

I blogged about their first store launch in Ampang Point last year here but it was just too far for me. Now with the opening of their latest Spotlight, Ikano Power Centre, I went mad because it's 15 mins drive away from me. I got an invitation to shop first hand before the grand opening as well so I bought two feather pillows to build my pillow fort at home.

It's 1.5 times bigger than the one in Ampang Point. This means more craft materials, bigger party supplies, more fun for the whole family!. Spotlight is big on craft so they have crafting activities now and then for children, teens and adults to participate in. Check out which activities on their Facebook if you're curious.

Spotlight 's Grand Opening Sale until 24th March

click here to see the bargains

iron on cuties, just look at the owls!

cotton cloths for sewing & quilting

kitchen and home supplies

just a big playground for the craft maniacs like me

If you like what you see here, you're going to love what you see there!. Head to the top floor on Ikano Power Centre where the pet store used to be, it's next to Popular bookstore. If you can find the same buys out cheaper than Spotlight, bring it back to get a 10% discount!. Yankee candles, bedding, Sizzix dye cut machine (which is usually expensive to get because the Scrapbook stores import them in) can be found here at RM600++ but with the grand opening price, it's now only RM400++.

My personal favourite has got to be the bedding section because it reminds me of my time in Melbourne, Australia. Being in a country with four seasons, I always find the quilts interesting. There's quilts for summer use, winter use, couple use, duo use quilts etc. Anyway I'm into scrap booking and party decorations so this store gets a A+ in my books.

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Si by Giorgio Armani Review

March 22, 2015, 7:38 am

≫ Next: Interview with the Juries of the Brush Contest

≪ Previous: Spotlight Ikano Power Centre Grand Opening Sale

embracing the beauty of life with Si by Giorgio Armani

My favourite perfume this month is Si by Giorgio Armani. I can't say how much I love this perfume! It's really the embodiment of how I feel about life as a women. The eau de parfum, captures life in a bottle and gives you the courage to look at life's bitter sweet moments in the eye, embracing the beauty of it not knowing what will happen, and make wonderful memories out of it.

Si to dreams, Si to freedom, Si to life

A soft, sensual perfume that's so womanly but powerful at the same time. It's hard to describe how much I feel connected to this perfume, and how each time I spray this on, I feel like a woman ready to be sweep off my feet and yet have a steady head on to know not to fall. I highly recommend this perfume, and my friend Ella caught the scent when I stepped into her car one day and the next week, she bought the perfume. Seriously, go smell it and don't say I didn't warn you how captivating it is.

the bottle - an essence of Armani style

a chypre reinvented

Chypre, pronounced: [ʃipʁ] or [ʃipχ], is the name of a family (or concept) of perfumes that are characterised by an accord composed of citrus top-notes, a middle centered on cistus labdanum, and a mossy-animalic base-note derived from oak moss and musk. Chypre perfumes fall into numerous classes according to their modifier notes, which include but are not limited to leather, florals, fruits, and amber - wikipedia

Anne Fontaine, French film director shoots
Cate Blanchett for Si by Giorgio Armani tvc

To sum up, this is one perfume I will repurchase because it's worth every cent you pay. I can't repeat how good this perfume is. I'm obsessed with the sweet musky woody scent that's just so intoxicating. The scent makes me feel warm all over, sexy and feminine. It's long lasting, my clothes still carries the scent even though the sweet notes are gone, the woody musks stays on. Please watch the tvc on Si by Giorgio Armani! It's in French but there's subtitles for you to understand. You will fall in love with this perfume after watching the video!.

Giorgio Armani Si combines heart notes of Rose, Neroli and Jasmine, top notes of Sicilian Bergamot, Mandarin Oil & Liquer de Cassis and base notes of Patchouli Oil, Blond Woods, Amber, Orcanox™ (musky base) and Vanilla.

Si by Giorgio Armani retails for 50ml @ RM413.50 on Lazada. Currently you can find this at the Si by Giorgio Armani roadshow in MidValley (near Delicious Cafe, Benefit Cosmetics, Swarovski outlets). I spotted promotional sets and GWPS.

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Interview with the Juries of the Brush Contest

March 22, 2015, 1:59 pm

≫ Next: Eat Shop Go On 2 Wheels in Taiwan

≪ Previous: Si by Giorgio Armani Review

interview with the juries

I've got some pretty good answers from the judges last week at L'Oreal Paris Malaysia's HQ on the Brush contest where 10 finalists from Malaysia will go through another series of judging to compete internationally with 10 countries. In short for all u Malaysians here, the Brush contest (YouTube submission) is the Cinderella Fairy Tale of the make up world. One winner whose make up skills & personality shines through, will win a one year contract with L'Oreal Paris Makeup Designer team worth100,000 Euro, a glamorous star studded trip to Cannes International Film Festival, and not to mention all the fame & glory that comes with winning this contest. Here's to the 10 Malaysian finalists, make us proud and bring it home for us! I'm cheering u all on. Here's some word of encouragement and advise from the four juries of the Brush Contest Malaysia.

the juries last words to the final 10

Of course, when it sums down to the heart of the competition, the happy bunch (juries) shared their thoughts on the overall journey, qualities the winner should have and what it takes to be the best. Should the contest be a success, L'Oreal might consider making it a yearly activity to inspire make up artists in the industry, whether amateur or professional.

:: Darren Ho, the General Manager of L'Oreal Consumer Division encourages the finalists to enjoy the experience, be full of energy and be an inspiration to all. This is the first time L'Oreal Paris launched a makeup designer contest exclusively on youtube where 11 countries will be participating and the winner will not only enjoy the prizes but be given an opportunity to work with L'Oreal Paris Makeup Designer team for a year.

:: Geraldine Loy, Professional Makeup Artist gave her feedback in terms of technical skills. Always be one step ahead, focus and be confident. A makeup artist must possessed the skills to innovate, study facial features, play with colours, create dimensions and the technique to shine it through. Be versatile she says. They are half way there to complete their dream.

:: Emma Chong Johnston, Editor-In-Chief of Tongue in Chicadvises the finalists to show their personality and be comfortable in front of the camera. It's going to take the best of the best to compete internationally and it's not just about the makeup skills, your personality the overall package will be taken into consideration as well.

:: Megan Tan, TV Host & Celebritycheerfully agrees with Emma and adds that this is golden opportunity for all the finalists to compete in the National Finals. She gave a big smile and encourages the finalists to smile and be confident. Jump and give it all you've got and when in doubt ask questions, you have got nothing to lose!.

I'm rooting for all 10 of you to shine your way to the National Finals and to the winner competing internationally, make our country proud and bring the trophy home! I'll be stalking from home. For more information about the Brush contest click here and to follow updates on social channels using via #TheBrushContest. This is Tammy, L'Oreal Paris's blogger who interviewed the juries signing off.

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Eat Shop Go On 2 Wheels in Taiwan

March 23, 2015, 11:23 am

≫ Next: Caffe Crema Plaza Mont Kiara

≪ Previous: Interview with the Juries of the Brush Contest

Eat, shop & go on two wheels in Taiwan!

Before that grab the best travel deals at Taiwan Travel Fair

Whether you are considering a first or subsequent visits to Taiwan, there’s never a better time to tour the island than in 2015! Taiwan Tourism Bureau Kuala Lumpur (TTBKL) is organising its first-ever Taiwan Travel Fair in Malaysia. With the theme of “Time to Enjoy Life”, it will be held at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, where the public can get the best deals for Taiwan travel at this one-stop event from 25 to 29 March 2015.

With the first Taiwan Travel Fair, TTBKL hopes to present great value travel deals to Malaysian families. They have tied up with top Taiwanese and Malaysian travel agencies to offer a variety of exciting packages and the most attractive travel deals for all destinations in Taiwan. This also includes customised packages or tours specially-catered for Muslim visitors.

For visitors of the fair who purchase any tour package from participating agents, they stand a chance to participate in a lucky draw for every RM500 spent. Prizes include Taipei return flight tickets sponsored by China Airlines and Eva Airways; and East Asia cruise on Star Aquarius, Star Virgo and Aquarius liners sponsored by Star Cruises. So do make a date with us and visit the Taiwan Tourism Fair to bring back these fabulous prizes!

The Taiwan Travel Fair will be held at the Oval concourse in 1 Utama Shopping Centre from 25 to 29 March 2015. Opens 10 am daily. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/tbrockl !

Based on a survey conducted by Taiwan Tourism in 2012, the top attractions for inbound tourists are sights and sceneries, food and shopping. As such, the Taiwan Travel Fair will also highlight three major experiences under the theme of “Time to Enjoy Life”:

Time to Eat

When it comes to food, Taiwan has it all. Dine like royalty without paying a king’s ransom for it. From juicy seasonal fruits, sumptuous traditional Chinese dishes, healthy vegetarian dishes, icy desserts to creative tea drinks, Taiwanese cuisine makes full use of local ingredients and age-old techniques to surprise and satisfy your palate. Don’t forget the world-famous night markets, filled with the enticing aromas of delicious street food and snacks!

Time to Shop

Taiwan is a shopaholic’s dream come true, with many large shopping centres and chain department stores in all four corners of the island. Shop for anything you want, from high-quality made-in-Taiwan 3C products, to famous highland tea and handmade weavings. For the fashion lover, all kinds of affordable clothing, leather goods and branded products are at your fingertips. In Taiwan, you are sure to find just about everything you want.

Time to go on Two Wheels

These days, the LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) trend is gaining popularity as people begin to be more health and eco-conscious. Taiwan is well-known for its LOHAS practices, and there is no better way to experience it than to travel along the breath-taking coastal highways by bicycle! Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and appreciate the simple yet wonderful things in life with your loved ones.

~end~

for more images on Taiwan click
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/sqkswmm87sveplk/AABYBp3AqE6M1rwbKUDBe2haa?dl=0

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Caffe Crema Plaza Mont Kiara

March 23, 2015, 10:30 am

≫ Next: The New BOSS BOTTLED by Hugo Boss

≪ Previous: Eat Shop Go On 2 Wheels in Taiwan

a lazy Sunday in Mont Kiara

a cup of cappuccino to keep me awake

feeling black & white

Sometimes, when I feel overwhelm with the world, I go into silent mode and would be wandering around, spending time unwinding with my thoughts. Last Sunday, I took Uber to Plaza Mont Kiara, checked myself into Caffe Crema and ordered a cappuccino. I sat outside, peering into the sky. It was going to rain. I took out my phone and snap a couple of pictures, edited it on my instagram and share it on Facebook.

Caffe Crema Coffee & Tea

E01-02, Plaza Mont Kiara,
Block E, 2 Jalan Kiara,
Mont Kiara, Mont kiara,
50480 Kuala Lumpur.

Phone:03-6206 2237

Hours: Open today · 8:00 am – 8:00 pm

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The New BOSS BOTTLED by Hugo Boss

March 24, 2015, 1:07 pm

≫ Next: Blog Your Way To Taiwan Contest

≪ Previous: Caffe Crema Plaza Mont Kiara

BOSS BOTTLED The Collection

Is anyone on Tinder or any of those dating apps that's hitting the scene these days? I was introduced to an app where answering questions matches you based on compatibility rating. The questions are pretty entertaining at times, but there's a few questions I remembered that would make or break a potential match. Behold question "Is smelling good important to you?" of course I answered yes! I love a man who smells good. One that smells like a boss is even better. A man of today, a contemporary man full of charm, chivalry, courage and appreciation towards life - the modern masculinity they call it.

Which is why, any man that uses Hugo Boss perfume would be my kind of man (kinky?) haha. Come on, don't you think so? When talking about a masculine man, Hugo Boss is one of the brands that pops out of my mind. Take Gerard Butler for instance? He's the new face of BOSS BOTTLED. Who can forget his ever charming accent and personality in P.S I Love You.

Gerard Butler, face of BOSS BOTTLED
(soooo handsome!!!)

over 15 years of success

The packaging? sleek, black, masculine representing the Man of Today. It's versatility couple with the Hugo Boss timeless elegant style, is the epitome of the modern man. Which is why I have decided to photograph the perfume in black and white using my iPhone 6. BOSS BOTTLED gave me the feeling of a man in a tuxedo, sensitive, sensual and yet still confidently a man just like Gerard Butler. A gift befitting any of your friends who would have the honoured of being thought as such!.

the masculine scent for today's man

Overall, I love love love the scent and would like to see my future man, wearing this and just sweeping me off my feet. It's fruity and sexy, follow by a strong warm vanilla base. Vanilla being my favourite, makes this perfume a A+ in my books. Traditionally vanilla is an ingredient in female fragrances, but with the addition of vanilla, it has become revolutionary. Smelling the scent over and over again on my hand, I just want to snuggle up to this BOSS man :) that's how seductively manly the perfume is. Now if only I have a man, I'll make him wear this to bed (lol) wish me luck in Tinder!.

The notes

Fruity and citrus top notes of apple, lemon and plum, balance with a floral and spicy heart, dominated by geranium, with the added spice of cinnamon and clove. Warming base notes of sandalwood, vetiver and cedarwood are offset by vanilla.

BOSS BOTTLED EDT 30ml RM178
BOSS BOTTLED EDT 50ml RM241

BOSS BOTTLED EDT 100ml RM312

BOSS BOTTLED EDT 200ml RM431

BOSS BOTTLED Aftershave Lotion 100ml RM233

photographs of the product seen here are taken with the iPhone6 edited on instagram

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Blog Your Way To Taiwan Contest

March 24, 2015, 9:11 pm

≫ Next: Meet Gudetama My iPhone Buddy

≪ Previous: The New BOSS BOTTLED by Hugo Boss

win a 5D4N Taiwan Trip for 2!

Thanks to Taiwan Tourism Bureau Kuala Lumpur, we are going to send a lucky butterfly and her friend to Taiwan! The trip includes a 5D4N stay, return air flights, accommodation and tour worth RM8,000! But wait who are we sending?! Let us have a blogging contest to see which butterfly has what it takes to go Taiwan!

Easy peasy, tell us why you want to go Taiwan and how you will enjoy your trip inspired by 1 of the 3 themes available: Time to Eat (for foodies) / Time to Shop (shopaholics!) / Time for 2 Wheels (LOHAS lifestyle)

Tammy says: Taiwan is going to be reading your blog posts. This is your chance to gain exposure to be a travel / lifestyle blogger so give it a try! Who knows you win!

How To Join?

1. Register via Rafflecopter app below & like the FB pages.

2. Blog about the contest (refer to app for instructions).

3. Refer to information & pics here to write your post.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions:

1. Contest is open to Butterfly Project members residing in Malaysia from 9/3/15 - 31/3/15.

2. Incomplete registrations will be void.

3. Grand Prize 5D4N Time for Taiwan Trip for 2 worth RM8,000 for the best blog post entry.

5. Winner will be announced & contacted for prize collection.

6. Selection of winner are final. No further correspondence will be entertained.

7. Prizes are non-exchangeable.

8. All data provided herein are governed by Personal Data Protection Act 2010.

9. Butterfly Project reserves the right to amend the terms and conditions here without prior notification.

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Meet Gudetama My iPhone Buddy

March 25, 2015, 8:34 pm

≫ Next: Winter is Coming...

≪ Previous: Blog Your Way To Taiwan Contest

look what I have from Japan!!!

Ever since I saw Tenshi shared on Facebook about Gudetama, a weird looking egg on rice creature iPhone 6 casing, I went "OMG I WANT THAT". A friend happened to be in Japan at that time so I texted him to see if he could help me get it. It's only sold in Japan, and they have a line of accessories made under Gudetama's character. Knowing men, they probably wouldn't care what us girls tell them but this friend of mine actually went to look for it, came back and texted me to meet up saying he has a souvenir for me. I was like... meh the usual chocolates or key chain from Japan (which I have enough off, I don't eat chocolates or collect keychains). The only thing I collect is Coca Cola cans from all over the country. My friends would bring a can back from their travels.

this is how it looks like as a iPhone cover

awwww..come on... Gudetama

The minute he showed me my souvenir, I was like "OMG!!!" It's GUDETAMA!!! *faints*. Okay I didn't faint, I went snappy happy taking pictures of my cute iPhone casing from Japan. Which is not only adorably cute but you can't buy it in Malaysia.

hello Gudetama, let me eat you!

the short film on Gudetama, so cute!

What's Gudetama?

It's the latest character to join the Sanrio family, Hello Kitty's new friend. Not even near anyway like Hello Kitty and friends, this creature of depression is an egg named Gudetama. It's a yellow like glob with arms and legs and profoundly unmotivated by anything. He lives to be cracked open onto a bowl of steaming rice to be eaten by you. He can also be eaten fried on rice, as tomago sushi and dripping from a cracked egg. He's whiny. depressive, has a face of despair and highly "unmotivated".

So if you happen to be travelling to Japan anytime soon, check Gudetama out :) your friends will crack up inspecting the funny looking egg-blob on your iPhone 6 casing.

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Winter is Coming...

March 26, 2015, 7:00 am

≫ Next: Top 5 Fashion Stores I Visit (Regularly)

≪ Previous: Meet Gudetama My iPhone Buddy

inspiration ~~board~~ wall for my next wanderlust adventure

Recently inspired by the fall/winter fashion from Japanese magazine, I decided to tape pages from Jasmine magazine on my wall. It's just one of those visuals that inspires me in life. Someday I would like to own all these jackets, cardigans, sweaters in my wardrobe. I love styles that's demure, simple and comfortable. Also I'm saving up to travel to Japan or Europe this year, Japan on top of the list. Europe, I always wonder how it would be like. I know friends says it's depressive but that happens to be my middle name. My relatives Mandy Bond is there (dad's side) and my cousin Danny who became a daddy already. Curious, I should give it a go and explore the world for a change. Somewhere further than Asia perhaps as the only places I've ever been to is Thailand, Indonesia (Bali), Singapore and Australia. Somewhere cold, because I love the chilly air blowing in my face.

winter in Englad (source)

winter in Tokyo (source)

of bitter sweet symphonies and vanilla ice-cream

getting inspiration for my next wanderlust

Researching what to wear when I go, I've stuck pictures of clothing I would wear and the different poses with it on my bedroom wall. I spent a day admiring my wall, thinking and dreaming of my adventure travelling by myself in a foreign country. I had on a watch, which reminds me that my time on earth is short and that I should enjoy what little time I have before it's too late.

a special watch to mark a special day

xxx wanderlust time xxx

This classic watch would make the perfect pairing for my fall/winter clothing. It's a Alain Delon limited edition watch designed with sapphire crystals (front & back) comes with a leather strap with purple stitching. Specially crafted for AD Time's 25 years of success in the retail and fashion industry, only 999 made in the world and mine is no. 909.

congratulations AD Time for celebration 25 years of success

I had the honour to receive one and to attend their extravagant gala dinner at Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur as the founder of The Butterfly Project, the beauty & lifestyle bloggers community in Malaysia. I invited along 4 of my beautiful butterflies to grace the red carpet with me. The night was filled with lights, magic and beautiful people from all around Asia. Clients, lifelong partners, celebrities and VIPS were given the ultimate treatment and appreciation awards for supporting AD Time throughout the years. Lucky draws gave me the chills as prizes totalling up to RM150,000 were ~~thrown~~ given away from cash prizes to luxury brand products, shopping vouchers and even electronic devices like iPad, iPhone 6 and cameras.

xxx wanderlust time xxx

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Top 5 Fashion Stores I Visit (Regularly)

March 26, 2015, 11:28 am

≫ Next: Peonies I Heart You

≪ Previous: Winter is Coming...

where do I shop?

I get this question a lot - "where do you shop?". Being plus size was borderline plus size now after losing so much weight last year, I still frequent the same stores because heck, I love clothes that's comfortable, casual and well big. I don't like wearing tents, but like the Olsen twins, I have a penchant for clothes that's extra large. I call them the anti-fat clothes, it sure slims you down if you know where to shop and what to pair it with. My top favourite would have to be Marks & Spencer because the clothes (there's sizes) gives a slimming effect to us beautiful big ladies. Uniqlo, H&M, Gap and Esprit are casuals for me. I love their fall/winter collection :) never fails to make me feel the holidays. As for Dorothy Perkins, I buy my jeans there in boot cut, denim. It gives the illusion of longer looking legs for me. Other stores I visit - Flow, Ms. Read, Cotton On, Springfield and Lalu (a Singapore brand).

Marks & Spencer
:: source ::

Uniqlo
:: source ::

H&M
:: source ::

Gap

:: source ::

Dorothy Perkins

:: source ::

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Peonies I Heart You

March 26, 2015, 1:26 pm

≫ Next: How To Delay Your Period

≪ Previous: Top 5 Fashion Stores I Visit (Regularly)

I can't stop thinking about peonies

For the longest time, I have been thinking to buy a carful of peonies and decorate my room with it. I don't know why I have this obsession with filling my room with flowers, and peonies is just so pretty (closing my mouth, stopping my screams). They're prettier when they're closed, which makes me want to go around them like a puppy, stop and stare at them. I found out Petaling Street sells them by the stalks thanks to Mai Sarah's instagram. She was there yesterday buying a bunch for RM20 - RM30. Quite expensive but they're just so pretty. For now I'm just staring at pictures of peonies on pinterest. The pink ones mixed with roses and other types of fillers are so beautiful, just beautiful. I am so tempted to go to Petaling Street tomorrow to buy them and take photographs in my room. Looking at them just inspires me to feel beautiful. They tug my heart strings like no other flowers could, sighs. I wish I could wake up to a room full of roses and peonies.

I'm in love with peonies

peonies, roses, lavender stalks

love the mood board & colour combinations here

:: source ::

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How To Delay Your Period

March 27, 2015, 12:21 pm

≫ Next: Sangkaya Coconut Ice-Cream

≪ Previous: Peonies I Heart You

planning a holiday but your period is coming?

I thought I share about how I delayed my period when I had to travel to a beach getaway last year with my friends. You know how you plan that big day and then you get a feeling that your period is about to come? or suddenly you feel cramps and you know miss PMS is visiting soon? I use a period tracker app on my iPhone, it's called the period tracker. It's pretty useful to keep track of you period, your ovulation days, and safe days. It'll also give you a summary of how long your period last for, and you can insert lil' cute notes like moody, etc on it.

the period tracker

For those who's planning to get pregnant, this app allows you to estimate when you're fertile and your ovulation day (which is all an estimate based on your period cycle). You can put lil' hearts called "intimate" days to track your baby making diary. Download the app from itunes here (apple users) | google play store here (android).

Anyway back to how to delay your period, just head over to the pharmacy and ask for Norcolut from the pharmacist. Let them know what you're looking for, they're able to ascertain what you need. It's a box of 20 pills for RM8. Norculut is to be taken before your period comes (3 days at least), every morning 3 times a day. Your period will be delayed and once you stop the medication, your period will return. This medicine is also used to induce period. I've tried it even on the day I see spotting and it still works (guess just me).

I thought I share this as it would be helpful for those who's getting married and you don't want to have ops "accidents" on your white dress. Go on holidays with ease of mind, or swim without stuffing a tampon into yourself (I hate using tampons). Common side effects includes mood swings, tender breasts, etc check with your pharmacist.

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Sangkaya Coconut Ice-Cream

March 29, 2015, 2:29 am

≫ Next: Short Trip to Bangkok & A Brand New Phone

≪ Previous: How To Delay Your Period

the coconut ice-cream

It just so happens that I chance upon the infamous Sangkaya coconut ice-cream everyone is talking about on Facebook at The Markets, Jaya One. It sure is high time someone just replicate the coconut ice-cream in Bangkok so we locals can enjoy the taste of coconuts and monkeys running about in our tongue. Curious, I bought their signature at RM9.90 and watch as my ice-cream unfolds right before my eyes. I was asked to choose 3 kinds of toppings so my choice was char roasted coconut flakes, peanuts and corn. Halfway eating, I started to drip ice-cream all over myself and the floor no thanks to the cracked coconut shell given. I wonder if that's on purpose or my shell was "defective". My verdict? It tastes close to the coconut ice-cream in Bangkok but creamier and smoother. Bangkok's taste fresher, purer and melts in your mouth.

the signature RM9.90

The Signature RM9.90
Our signature. A palatial taste of coconut haven purest to the bud hand crafted to perfection. 4 scoops of premium coconut ice-cream, 3 all natural topping choice served on a coconut husk with flesh strips.

The Cup RM6.90
Classic sundae in the name of good indulgence. With a personalised condiment flair. 3 scoops of premium coconut ice-cream, 1 all natural topping choice served on a 5oz takeaway cup.

The Cone RM2.90
The cult waffle cone on the move. Now with a tropical twist. A scoop of premium coconut ice-cream, served on a crispy waffle cone with a sprinkle of char roasted coconut flakes.

Coconut Water RM5.90
Nature's miracle water; super hydrating; nutrient packed; potassium stack; mega electrolyte; it needs no introduction. 100% fresh & all natural coconut water that contains no added sugar power packed into a 12 ouncer.

:: photographs taken by iPhone6 edited via instagram ::

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Short Trip to Bangkok & A Brand New Phone

March 29, 2015, 10:37 am

≫ Next: Throwback Then & Now

≪ Previous: Sangkaya Coconut Ice-Cream

level up :D yay

I got a brand new baby today! It's the iPhone 6 65GB Gold, replacing my iPhone 5s. I'll be flying off to Bangkok for a short stay with my mom. I couldn't let her travel alone so I have decided to follow her there. She wants to buy materials for her clothing project from Bangkok's Chinatown which apparently is one of the largest Chinatown around, bigger than New York. I though I catch Nanta (Korean Musical Cooking Show) while I'm there and eat coconut ice-cream at Khao San Road. Also I can't wait to snap photographs of the streets in Bangkok and eat the street food again! My favourite are Thai Beef Noodles, the pandan pancakes, tom yum soup, Thai basil chicken rice with egg and their milk coffee. I'll be staying at Pratunam area because it's convenient to the shopping malls, food and BTS.

Here's my 3D2N Bangkok Itinerary:

Day 1:
11.30am - Goodbye Kuala Lumpur, here I come Bangkok!
2.00pm - check into Budacco hotel, Pratunam
2.30pm - grab lunch at my fave noodle store nearby
3.00pm - bring mom shopping Plantinum Shopping Mall / Central World / MBK / Siam Paragon
7.00pm - Khao San Road

Day 2:
9.00am - bring mom shopping at Chinatown (whole day)

7.30pm - Pick up to Nanta Cooking Show
8.30pm - Nanta Cooking Show
10.00pm - massage massage massage =)

Day 3: (Free & Easy)
12.00pm - check out
3.15pm - goodbye Bangkok!

Khao San Road, Bangkok

:: source ::

Chinatown (Yaowarat), Bangkok
:: source ::

Cooking Nanta Show at RCA Plaza, Bangkok

:: source ::

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Throwback Then & Now

April 3, 2015, 8:51 pm

≫ Next: 10 Things About Me

≪ Previous: Short Trip to Bangkok & A Brand New Phone

then & now (no make up)

A friend chatted with me this morning, asking me how long ago was this picture taken (the one with the cats). Took me a bit to start up the old brain in the morning as I sat thinking and realised that picture was taken 12 years ago when I was studying in Melbourne. It was taken with a webcam and dam, you young people these days have all the technology luxuries we oldies can't have. Back in my hey days, there's no smart phone with cameras. Heck digital camera just came about and it was bloody expensive. International students like us relied heavily on calling cards and borrowing each other's web camera (low resolution junks) to get connected back home AND HOME that time had really bad connection so it was laggy and crappy.

did I just press restart on the game of life

Anyway the picture of me reminded me of the how I was awfully unhappy in Melbourne. It's something I buried away deep in my memory so it took me a while to remember that I once had bangs a.k.a fringe (cut them myself) and the now me, look exactly the same which is scary. Albeit, I look nerdier, innocent and slimmer back then compared to the now me. So today, look back at your pictures 10 years ago, compared it to now - what has changed? did skincare or lifestyle changes affect the way you look then and now?. Tell me what you think if you're not too old to press comment.

I guess, I've come a long way to be who I am now and without all these experiences, I wouldn't be the same person you're talking to. Heck I wouldn't be a blogger even so here's to life *cheers*.

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10 Things About Me

April 5, 2015, 5:49 am

≫ Next: My Tattoo Experience: Getting Inked!

≪ Previous: Throwback Then & Now

I'm a free spirited writer who owns a blog

I'll try to keep this short and sweet so you don't start snoring on the keyboard. My Christian name is Tammy which means "palm tree" but I know my mom named me after Tammy Wynette the country singer. I'm a Malaysian Chinese if you're wondering what breed of human I am. My Chinese name is 林翠恩 which means jade of kindness / grace which just so explains why I have so much heart for people around me (a weakness imho). According to my personality trait, I'm a ENFP - a free spirited person. There's only 7% of people like me in the population (like seriously?).

How I started Blogging? I was a hardcore World of Warcraft (WOW - MMPORG) gamer for 6 years. After losing sense of time, I quit and started a blog called Plusizekitten (big, bold & beautiful). Blogging started out as a passion, the innate desire to share about my experiences be it as a consumer or as a woman in Malaysia. Blogging in short, has changed who I am and shape me to become a better person, a person who's more open and sociable. It brought me to places I never imagine, experience things I never thought I'll get to feel. I've been blogging for over 8 years now and my followers are my greatest muse to continue.

10, 9, 8, 7, .... 2, 1 Happy New Year everyone!

Whenever someone gets a glimpse of my NRIC (identity card) they'll gasp and say "You're born on New Year's Day?!". I get that a lot, so much so I have a response ready "Yea it's cool and all but nobody remembers you on your birthday. They're too busy counting down and being hung over the next day". Yes my mother is awesome, she manage to countdown and then give birth to me at 3am in the morning. My sister was born on 8th August, 1988, so now you know my mother is really something. New Year's Day baby, yes I do feel special especially when I get free fireworks at the stroke of midnight on my birthday.

I write the way I think, sorry if my English sucks

I wanted to be a writer for the longest time but truth be told, my England isn't that awesome so I stuck to blogging instead. The way I write is exactly the way I speak. I can be long winded and I can be quite simple, depending on my mood which often enough is carefree and light. Sometimes I can be cynical. Carrie from Sexy & The City is my inspiration (but who don't love SATC?). To keep this from becoming a biography, I'll make a list of top 10 things about me for a speedy understanding of what makes me, me.

1. A fashion rebel, loner & dreamer

2. I love all things apple, Steve Jobs is my hero

3. I want to discover the undiscovered

(Japan, Korea & UK on top of my list)

4. I love photography, even if I don't know how

(check out my instagram)

5. I love winter & winter clothings

(sweaters, hats, jackets is my weakness)

6. I love whimsical, cute, dreamy things

7. Peonies are my favourite blooms

8. Spas & massages make me feel like a woman

9. I'm a recovering shopaholic

(now I have only 1 credit card)

10. My life experiences would shock most people

And you would often see the way I write would be a melting pot of elements from here as I relate all my writings to my life and personal experiences. That's about the shortest introduction I could do and if you're interested to find out about my blogger profile click here.

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for - and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool - for love - for your dreams - for the adventure of being alive. - Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Plusizekitten.com has a following of an average of 300,000 pageviews a month, highest 600,000 over pageviews sighted. Highest unique viewers sighted was over 30,000 unique visitors according to Nuffnang. Followers are 99% females aged between 24 - 34 years old (Malay 40%, Chinese 50% others 10%) Malaysian young working adults. Tammy Lim competed in Cleo's Next Top Blogger Malaysia competition and emerged as the winner after a 5-week blogging challenge in 2011. She was nominated and featured by Top10Malaysia (business magazine) as the Top 10 popular female bloggers in Malaysia Dec, 2014.

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My Tattoo Experience: Getting Inked!

April 9, 2015, 12:38 pm

≫ Next: Look Book Diary : Glamour Glitz Collection Cosmetics

≪ Previous: 10 Things About Me

inspired by freedom

I always wanted a tattoo but my family would totally kill me for it. Well I am old enough to make my own decisions and I don't believe it will bring me to hell. I also have life insurance thanks to AIA should my family decides to kill me. You would ask, why tattoo? Well I always wanted one as a form of self expression. I wouldn't go all yakuza on myself, I just want something simple, beautiful and meaningful. Hence I got freedom tattoo on my back, a reminder that I am free to live my life. I google tattoos and sparrows with dandelions spoke best to my heart. I decided to get two tattoos done for my first time (so brave yeah!).

Why sparrows (or swallows) and dandelions?

Both are positive symbols of freedom. Dandelion for example, considered the ordinary and plain flower compared to other blooms. It lacks colour and obvious beauty but makes up for it with its unique geometry. As a child, we would blow dandelions and gasp at how amazing and magical it seems flying through the air. This is said to be a reminder of youth and joy. An unimpressive plain weed, impossible to remove due to its strong roots. When the wind blows, it suddenly turns beautiful, it's white fluffy seeds flying with the wind, a sign of life reminding us to enjoy every moment in life. As I always say, life is a short bitter sweet symphony of experiences, delicate and tenacious as it may be, we only have one chance to live this life of ours.

The dandelion is also a symbol of hope and dreams coming true. Remember as children, we closed our eyes, blow and make a wish as the dandelion seeds fly? In tattoo designs, sometimes the dandelion seeds transforms into feathers or sparrows. It signifies rebirth, freedom and love.

examples of tattoo designs I got inspired by

just google for sparrow tattoo design for ideas

Tattoos are permanent unlike sticker tattoos (flash tattoos) where you can just wash them off. I gave it some though and even chicken out on my first appointment. After a month, I said screw it, I'm doing this. I did some asking around on Facebook on where I could get mine done, so it happens a friend recommended Tiger Rich Tatz, a tattoo artist from Boracay, Philippines with over 20 years of experience. He's also a travelling tattoo artist with clients from all over the world inviting him over to do what he does best, body art (huge tattoos with elaborate designs) and portrait tattoos. I waited a month for him to come back from Thailand (so hot stuff this guy). While waiting I had a few tattoo questions lined up:

1. Will it be painful?
2. What's the down time? (recovering period)
3. Which areas would be good for tattoos? (body area)
4. What should I prepare before going for my first tattoo? (like pain killers etc)

Now Pain is very subjective and I watch YouTube videos of girls screaming away even before the needles hit them. This was very much the no.1 reason why I chicken out. Down time is said to be up to a month or more, depending on how well you heal and how long it takes for the tattoo to settle after. FYI, I google a lot about tattoos so I found out that pain killers will not help but actually make things worst. It's advisable to bring sweets though!. A nappy rash cream from the pharmacy for after care on your tattoo will help with the healing process e.g Bepanthen.

Tigerich Tattoo's shop at Aman Suria

discussing with Tiger Rich how my tattoo would look like

(showing picture examples)

based on the picture, he sketch my tattoo out for my approval

(don't be shy to discuss & change it to your liking)

the sketch would then be copied onto your skin

(in this picture, I'm having my first tattoo drawn)

my first tattoo was done in 15 mins

(3 sparrows on my chest)

my second tattoo took about 40mins
(the one with dandelion & sparrows)

Tigerich uses a very fine needle & a good tattoo gun

(so my experience was really good & smooth)

The famous question - was it painful? Surprisingly NO! I can't believe it. What have I been missing out on these years? It wasn't the kind of pain that would leave you screaming or crying. It was more of an annoying sharp pencil grazing on your skin. It was bearable, not painful and was kind of therapeutic at one point. I was afraid yes, but wow I think my tattoo artist is amazingly skilful or I have a high pain tolerance out of the sudden. Albeit a bit messy, as while getting inked, ink would actually be splattered around your skin so there's a lot of wiping and cleaning to do in the process. My designs are simple and small, so it was a lot faster and tolerable. I heard if you choose a bigger design, it would take 3 needles which would then be painful. Mine was only 1 needle and it was done using a high end tattoo gun (good quality tattoo gun) which also makes a difference.

The needle is also new, if you're thinking whether this is clean. Before getting inked, Tiger took his time sanitising and preparing the room. He took out packets of needles (only to be open when use), inks ready on the side, warming up his tattoo gun and with a smile asked me if I'm ready.

this is how it looks like after 40mins
(my skin would be red around the tattoo)

this is how it looks like after a month
(after the peeling & colour settling down)

I can't express how happy I am that I finally got my tattoos done. I made the right decision going to my friend's tattoo artist, he made me feel at ease with the whole process and being so experience, I believe the pain and discomfort was greatly minimised under his skillful hands. Tigerich is also a friendly guy, he shares about his experiences when he first came to Malaysia and how he has travel the world inking people around. I kinda admire him, being able to do what he's passionate about, travel the world and getting paid for doing it. He also shared how we must go to his home country - Boracay which is a beautiful place to visit. I will one day go there and say hello :)

I went home with a bandage over my tattoos for 2 hours, it's to prevent dust / infection from the streets or air. A freshly inked tattoo is a fresh wound, so treat it with care. Just because it looks pretty doesn't mean it's not a wound. I applied Bepanthen everyday for 2 weeks, following by an oil-free moisturiser. In the first two weeks, I also avoided seafood, spicy and friend food so my tattoos would heal smoothly. Hot water and to avoid soaking in water as well, otherwise the tattoo would be affected (it has not settled down yet on your skin). After 2 weeks, my skin started to itch and flake as it heals (DO NOT SCRATCH IT). After a month, I could see my tattoos settling down beautifully. Read www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-New-Tattoo.

thinking about getting a tattoo?

21 Things You Need To Know Before Getting A Tattoo

:: image source ::

So if you're thinking about getting a tattoo, here's my advise, take your time to research and find out what works for you.Which area would you want to get inked? Areas closes to the bone or nerve would be more sensitive compared to meaty areas. Don't go get drunk get inked, you're going to regret it. Understand what tattoo is about, the risks, what it means, and whether you will regret it years later. Tattoo removal is super expensive so don't get your boyfriend's face or name tattoo on yourself. Some tattoo artists could tattoo over that if you don't want to remove it. AH please don't get a tattoo behind your back, just above your pantie line. Guys called that "tramp stamp".

My appendix surgery left me with scars;
I'm thinking to cover it with tattoos

(another reason why tattoos are popular)

Finding the right tattoo artist is also important. Remember, tattoos are for life and you have once chance of doing it right, don't be a cheapskate! Go find a good tattoo artist please. I highly recommend Tigerich Tatz who did mine :) he's awesome as you can see from my pictures, his workmanship is fabulous, the experience was smooth and he's one friendly guy. He's not here all the time so follow him on his Tiger Rich Tatz FB to check where he's at and book an appointment.

After getting my first two tattoos, I'm already thinking of getting a third one done on my ankle or an elaborate one on my chest. What they say is true, once you get inked, you're addicted to getting more!

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Look Book Diary : Glamour Glitz Collection Cosmetics

April 10, 2015, 11:56 am

≫ Next: Look Book Diary: Rocker Chic Collection Cosmetics

≪ Previous: My Tattoo Experience: Getting Inked!

the glamour glitz behind the scenes selfies

I'm clearing my Dropbox storage since I'm not paying for a premium account, it's a pity to delete my pictures away so I'm going to publish all the "selfies" I've taken when I'm on a make up review. This one here is a collection of looks using Collection Cosmetics (UK). I woke up in the morning and started using the make up to create a more mature glamorous look for a black dress event. I took pictures with my phone and tried to give that sly look and using my hands to create a more elegant feminine pose. Anyway I love the lipstick colour in this look, one which I will continue to repurchase. Leave a comment let me know if you like what I'm doing?