Vogue-U

Vogue-U Potion - Star Cruise Exclusive Event

2010-09-28T10:05:00.020+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Last year Mak Pah was invited by my company's corporate travel agent to an exclusive event to view the Super Star Cruise. Mak Pah was so excited and couldn't wait for the day to come. On the day of the event, we were greeted at Harbour Front by our agent's Account Manager. And the journey began from there for us to view the spectacular cruise liner the SuperStar Virgo. Without further ado, let me share with you what they have or provided in the cruise ship.....!!!!!

Memoir with collegues from our HQ office together with one of our travel agent ticketing team, Mabel (in grey polo t-shirt). We were waiting for our boarding passes to enter the SuperStar Virgo

The bubbly Diners World Travel Corp Account Manager, Connie (in grey t-shirt) giving a brief description of the cruise holding the event, the SuperStar Virgo

A memoir with my colleague, Ms Sue

Representative from Star Cruise held the banner for us to follow her into the boarding area where we need to surrender our boarding passes at the boarding gate

The journey started going through the boarding alleys towards the ship berth

Welcome Banner

We were led to the theatre to be entertained by their performers from Europe

Compere introducing the live performance... too bad we were not able to catch photo of the performance coz it was too dark

Memoir with the compere

Memoir with one of the performer... I think he's from Russia.... his body was so flexible

A memoir with another performer..... she's so tall!!!

After the performance, we were ushered to the top level of the deck for a sumptuous hi-tea

Happy faces..... de-stress moment

(Can you see the background? That is Sentosa Island and during that time we could see the Universal Studio was being constructed)

1st round of our spread...... hehehe couldn't recall how many rounds we had

Then we joined the cruise tour held by SuperStar Virgo crew (1st stop the history of the cruise)

More info to read about the cruise liner......

Activity Centre - couldn't recall what it was... probably the gym and spa

There's an amphitheatre as well

If not mistaken the antique phone was to call the rooms

The top deck where we had our hi-tea had a walkway which is called Galaxy of the Stars

For bookworms, there's a library!!!

Children's pool

Another swimming pool at different deck

Another view of the Parthenon pool (look at the winding slide....so long!!)

Can you see the cable cars on top of this photo..... they were passing to and fro from Harbour Front to Sentosa and also from Harbour Front to Mount Faber

There's also the jacuzzi at this pool area

Giant checker board game..... with this you can exercise both your brains and your body...hehe

Look at the game room.... the place is so huge!!!!

The Harley rider in the making...hehe

Souvenir shop

Hair and Beauty salon

Different products and range for hair and face displayed at the counter of the hair and beauty salon

They have different ethnic restaurant in the cruise as well, this is an Indian restaurant

Kawaiiiinessssss from Japanese waitresses from the Japanese restaurant

A taste from the Middle East, Mediterranean Buffet

1 booth caught my eyes coz they have real tropical fruits hanging as deco

And they have Swensens!!!!!

Memoir with one of SuperStar Virgo crew

Memoir with another SuperStar Virgo crew

SuperStar Virgo mascot - a penguin

Photo of Harbour Front taken from the boarding alley

At last we reached the Immigration checkpoint

I guess that's about all I've covered what's in SuperStar Virgo..... quite tiring but fun. Hopefully, Star Cruise can extend their invitation to all VU gals and let us invite a handful of VU readers as well in the future hah.... wouldn't that be great!!!!

One thing about cruise holidays, your holiday starts the moment you step into the cruise liner....

I hope you've enjoyed the "journey" in SuperStar Virgo.

Since Harbour Front is next to Vivocity....... what else to do after that..... Shopping!!!! haha

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL FITRI DARI VOGUE-U

2010-09-09T08:07:00.005+08:00

Dikesempatan ini kami menyusun sepuluh jari memohon maaf zahir dan batin kepada semua yg mengenali kami.......

Selamat Menyambut Aidil Fitri......

Semoga Allah melimpahi kurnia and rahmatNya kepada kita semua.....

InsyaAllah.....

Ameen

We take this moment to lay our both hands seeking forgiveness to all......

in conjunction of Eidul Fitri......

May Allah bestowed all of us with His mercy and blessings.....

If He permits....

Ameen

From All of Us in VU.....

Nadh, Raf, Indra Pearl, Mama Ann, Mama Moralle and Mak Pah

Last but not least...

Happy Holidays too......

Vogue-U Potion - Couples Dynamics

2010-09-07T11:58:00.005+08:00

Eid Ramadan and May Peace Be With You......

Mak Pah has been keeping this in my folder for sometime. I guess I'll share with all then. Let's see how people percept certain issues or things in such manner....

In Mak Pah's view, everyone is born beautiful, doesn't matter from which background they come from. It's up to us to be what we are. As the saying goes, beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder.

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - "Remarkable Pencils" / "Recycled Pencils"

2010-08-31T12:07:00.008+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Salam Ramadan to all.

Mak Pah just wants to share pictures of recycled pencils which some artists have redesigned into a form of art.....

I really admired the artists' patience and endurance to produce such piece of art. Remarkable indeed.

Enjoy all......

Well if I were to do such piece, I don't know what's the outcome of it....hehehehe

To Muslims, have a great iftar tonight!!!!

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Direct from Farm, Oh My Lovely Mak Siti!!!

2010-08-24T09:28:00.015+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Salam Ramadan to all...... wow how fast time flies and today is already the 14th day of Ramadan. May we all have a blessed Ramadan. InsyaAllah. Ameen.

OK the above post title could be quite misleading.... hehe. Well actually Mak Pah wanted to introduce the herbs and spices for cooking, under the name of Mak Siti produced by Nasuha Herbs and Spices Sdn Bhd.... remember the post about the farm a few weeks ago.... (http://vogue-u.blogspot.com/2010/08/vogue-u-potion-sprinkles-of-herbs-and.html).

Introducing the range of Mak Siti Herbs and Spices

FYI, Mak Pah did not buy the herbs and spices for cooking direct from Nasuha Farm, but came across the sachets while scrutinizing the spices counters in Tesco Hypermarket in Johor a very long time ago, without realising they were from Nasuha farm. It's only after watching 1 programme in M'sia's TV3 channel, that I got to know about Nasuha Farm and fell in love with their organic herbs and spices. The best part they not only came in big packaging, but also in sachet packets as well, which is suitable for 1-time cooking, whereby you don't have to bother to keep the balance powder into a container for future use or wondering how much to put into your cooking if you buy the bigger packaging type. BTW, behind each sachet, they also have print out of recipes, but of course you may choose to do your style of cooking too.

Come let me introduce to you what I have stock up in my kitchen........

They came in 2 types of spread, the powdered type and the bagged type (Malays called them "punjut" or "bunjut")

Here's the powdered range. They are packed in 25 gram each.

Soup Spices Powder - suitable to cook with any kind of meat.... just boil the meat till tender, then drop in onions and ginger (garlic is optional for soups), pour the whole sachet of spices. Add in any vegetables like potatoes, carrot and celery. Garnish with fried shallots and sliced coriander leaves. Also suitable for vegetarian soup!!!

Spices for cooking soto noodles, rice cake soto, can be chicken shredded soto or meat soto, up to your preferance. Mak Pah normally add about 1 whole chicken, with slices of onions and ginger, some chopped or pounded garlic, 1 or 2 kafir leaves, about 2 to 3 liters of water, 2 tablespoon of salt and 1 or 2 sachets of the Soto powdered spice. Boil till chicken or meat is tender. For chicken, you need to take it out and shred the meat before serving. To serve, lay a handful of parboiled noodles (any type, bee hoon, yellow noodles, kway teow, laksa), with a bit or handful of beansprouts (can be raw or parboiled), lay shredded chicken meat, pour in the soup and garnish with chopped chinese celery and fried shallots, and also black small chillies sauce (blend a cup of dark soya sauce with a handful of brid's eye chillies and 1 garlic). Some people like to serve with potato balls or potato cutlets (well it's optional)

Mix spices for soya sauce fish (any kind of fried fish), very easy to prepare and recipe is indicated at the back of the sachet. However Mak Pah finds this sachet is too full of spices, so it's best to add more water to dilute the spices evenly. Nevertheless it's still quite tantalizing.

Mak Pah finds this soya sauce meat spices powder is more suitable for chicken. I did try cooking beef soya sauce, but still prefer the chicken version. Well you should try and rate it yourself then. Recipe is also stated behind the sachet.

OK now let me introduce to you the bag type. They came in 10 grams per sachet. Normally for those who prefer lighter version of soups.

Bag Soup sachet - suitable for all kinds of poultry, seafood or vegetables. With addition of either sliced onions and ginger (garlic is optional) and 1 litre of water, with a pinch of salt and pepper.... voila you get a soup for the day....

This is the lighter version of Soto soup. Recipe can follow the powdered type above but lesser water, probably 1 litre only.

King of Soup - also suitable for any kind of soup for poultry, seafood and vegetables.

If not mistaken there is 1 more sachet which is not in my kitchen pantry now. I think it's the Bone Soup Spices (Rempah Sup Tulang). Well they come in many colours and packaging, so it's up to user to choose wisely. As for Mak Pah, I will only stock up the sachets each time I shop at Tesco Hypermart. I'm not sure whether other supermarkets in Malaysia carries the Mak Siti products. Maybe can venture as well.

Last but not least, meet my partner in "crime" each time I go to Tesco........

My youngest niece.... so vain taking a shot with a bunch of flowers for VU's readers.

K all, happy trying out Mak Siti's spices for a spice of your life...hehe

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

RECIPE - MAMA MORALLE

2010-08-18T12:50:00.001+08:00

Helooooooo salam to all.........today mama nak post the most eazyyy meazzyyyy recipe, close one eye pun can sure jadi.....its very simple, for those who is rushing from work, or may be for sahur, its a good one :)

Its a recipe that I had tried from a lady called Rossya..........she had many wonderful and nice recipe, thou she had closed her fotopages, mama still browse through her fotopages once a while to cari-cari recipe....

IKAN POTONG CILI BAWANG

beberapa keping ikan goreng (mama suggest ikan kerisi besar, lembut)

2 batang lada merah & hijau dimayang

1 labu bawang besar dimayang

2 ulas bawang putih dimayang

1 mangkuk kecil air asam jawa

garam dan gula

Sediakan kuali dan bubuh sedikit minyak untuk menumis. Masukkan cili, bawang besar dan bawang putih. Tumis hingga wangi dan garing. Tuangkan air asam dan bubuh garam serta gula. Masukkan ikan goreng. Setelah mendidih.. matikan api..

C..........easy right......so try it u will never regret it :):)

Pic taken from owner fotopages........

Vogue-U Potion - Recycling Idea - Plastic Bottle Caps

2010-08-17T09:14:00.005+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Ramadan Al Mubarak to all......

Today Mak Pah wants to share a useful tip in order for us to do good to all and the environment. Before I begin, let me thanked my cousin, Yuana for sharing this useful tip with me.

Majority of us after taking any plastic bottle drinks, we tend to throw away the bottle coz most of know water cannot be kept too long in plastic bottle in our humid environment due to a chemical excretion from plastics called diacin which is harmful to our body.

Nevertheless, most of all didn't take a step ahead or think outside the box that the bottle caps are actually useful and can be recycled!!!! Come let me show you.....

Step 1 - cut an incision at the neck of the plastic water bottle

Step 2 - unscrew the bottle cap and insert the plastic bag into or through the neck of the bottle which you have just cut off.... and voila it became an airtight plastic bag for your nuts!!! But some may ask, how about potato chips, do we have to crush the chips or what???? Well, my answer is easy, just pull the plastic bag from the bottle neck and eat your chips and after you are done, insert the plastic back again into the bottle neck and screw the cap back!!

Better than the plastic clips that you have to buy right??!!

I guess I'll start saving all those water bottle drinks after drinking the contents now hah....

So all, it's up to us to save the environment....

Lots of Luv... Mak Pah

RECIPE - MAMA MORALLE

2010-08-13T11:00:00.000+08:00

Assalammualaikum.......insyaallah sempena Ramadhan ni, mama will try to post few dishes that I hv tried from other source and di jamin sedap.

One more recipe to try and ini pun sodapppp...simple n easy lagi....selamat mencuba :):)

TAHU KUKUS

Bahan-bahannya

1 pack tahu lembut
2 sudu besar sos tiram
2 sudu besar kicap manis
secukup udang
minyak untuk menumis

Bahan untuk kisar

1 batang lada merah
3 sudu makan udang kering, direndam dan cuci bersih

Bahan untuk hiasan

bawang goreng
hirisan lada merah
hirisan lada hijau
daun sup/ daun bawang

Cara-caranya

1. Tumis bahan yang telah dikisar sehingga naik bau. Kemudian masukkan sos tiram dan kicap manis. Bila telah sebati tuangkan diatas tahu yang hendak dikukus.

2. Letakkan beberapa ekor udang diatasnya dan kukus selama 15 minit.

3. Setelah dikukus taburkan dengan bawang goreng, hirisan lada merah dan hijau dan juga daun sup/ daun bawang. Siap untuk dihidangkan.

**Resepi asal and pic dari koleksi resepi pilihan Diana**

RECIPE.......MAMA MORALLE

2010-08-12T08:50:00.001+08:00

Assalammualaikum semua................selamat berpuasa :):)

Wahhh lama sungguh tak update di sini, not only here, my own blog pun dah terbengkalai...

Ok enuf blabbering, today mama nak share a recipe yg uols semua can try ok...its nice, I've tried this, n thinking of cooking it again this wkends...

Selamat Mencuba...tak cuba rugiii tau.....

DAGING BISTIK

Bahan-bahannya

1/2 kg daging batang pinang, dihiris nipis
3 biji kentang, dipotong wedges
2 batang karot, dipotong ikut suka
2 biji tomato, dipotong empat
3 sudu makan rempah kari daging
3/4 cawan sos tomato
3/4 cawan kicap
4 cawan air
sedikit kayu manis, buah pelaga, bunga cengkih dan bunga lawang
garam secukup rasa
serbuk perasa jika suka
minyak untuk menumis

Bahan untuk dikisar

2 biji bawang besar
1 ulas bawang putih
1/2 inci halia
5 batang lada merah
10 batang cili padi thailand

Cara-caranya

1. Panaskan minyak, kentang yang telah dipotong wedges dan karot digoreng setengah masak, angkat, toskan. Ketepikan.

2. Panaskan minyak, masukkan kayu manis, buah pelaga, bunga cengkih dan bunga lawang. Kemudian masukkan rempah yang telah dikisar dan tumis sehingga naik bau. Masukkan pula rempah kari dagiing kacau hingga sebati dan tuang sedikit air. Biar ia mendidih sekejap.

3. Masukkan sos tomato, garam, serbuk perasa dan juga kicap. Gaul rata. Masukkan pula air dan daging yang telah dihiris nipis. Gaul rata dan biarkan ia reneh pada api yang sederhana selama 10 minit.

4. Bila daging telah setengah masak, masukkan pula kentang dan karot yang telah digoreng tadi. Biarkan ia reneh lagi selama 10 - 15 minit sehingga semua kuah dan bahan-bahan sebati. Kalau airnya kurang boleh tambah sedikit.

5. Rasakan kuahnya jika kurang perasa, tambah apa yang patut. Masukkan tomato dan tutup api. Biarkan sebentar dan sedia untuk dihidang.

NOTA: Masakan ini sedap dimakan dengan roti atau nasi putih bersama telur mata lembu.

**Resepi asal dari koleksi resepi pilihan Diana**

Vogue-U Potion - Sprinkles of Herbs and Spices

2010-08-10T08:27:00.007+08:00

May Peace Be With You......

I guess majority of us somehow or another knows that herbs and spices are not only used in cooking but also in medicinal form like improving blood circulation, relief of fatique, relief of aches and paints, maintaining our health, so on and so for.

That said, well the reason for this post was, each time Mak Pah goes back to KL, we normally detoured by the Pagoh exit for authentic Malay dishes like "asam pedas" either in Muar or Malacca. And each time before reaching Muar, we would pass a famous organic farm called Nasuha Herbs and Spices Farm, located on the left side of the road, about 19km from Pagoh exit to Muar. However each time we passed by, it's always night time and they are closed. Thus I would always remind my husband one day we need to come during the day in order to try their well-known restaurant (heard about in the M'sia's media).

Voila, when the day came, we happened to go back to KL last July for my husband's family gatherings and prayers. We decided to come back early in order not to miss the opportunity to drop at Nasuha Herbal and Spices restaurant as I have been eyeing to try their herbal soup for so long.

So come let me show you around through these photos taken by hubby and me.....

Entrance to Nasuha Herbal Restaurant

The dish counter dividing the kitchen and dining area... I love the wall features of embossed cemented shapes of giant herbs and spices. Creative indeed!!! You should see their washrooms.... too bad I forgot to snap a photo of it. All areas are equipped with their essential oil scents (even the washrooms smell so refreshing, hehe!!!)

Our dinner, organic goat's meat briyani set and vegetarian herbal beehoon soup (no added salt at all, totally pure herbs and spices)..... Total price of our dinner was around RM20+ (can't remember the actual but it was less than RM30/-, considered quite reasonable for an organic food). The goat meat was tender and fresh with no pungent goat smell at all. After taking them including the herbal tea, I kept urinating (hubby said detox process!!). And if you noticed the 2 tree trunks behind us - they were embedded with their empty herbal tea containers. Again another creative deco idea.

Meet, Mr Haji Nasuha, founder and entrepreneur of Nasuha Herbs and Spices Sdn Bhd

Here, Mr Nasuha explaining the scientific factors and effects of herbs and spices to our body. He was glad it was easier to explain to my husband considering he's in the chemical industry.

I like the colourful features on their paperbags....hehe

Damages to my husband's wallet

A memoir of Mr Sam Poi and Mr Haji Nasuha (Mr Nasuha was so tan coz he just came back from swimming with his youngest daughter)

By the way, we have to be barefooted when entering their shop and restaurant, coz the floor is embedded with reflexology stones. All of us would walk around the area while waiting for our food.

A satisfied customer!!! Walking around the area to get the fresh herbs and spices scent after a hefty meal.

Well, I duly recommend this place for a refreshing and rejuvenating stay, coz besides the restaurant, they also have the log cabin, chalet and dormitory, herbal steam bath, spa and many more, which I am looking forward to go one day. Do visit their website at http://www.nasuhaherbsparadise.com/ for more details.

And yes before I forget, for Muslims, Mr Nasuha said, they also conduct the "Qurban" of their organic goats (not sure about cow, must ask them then) for "Hari Raya Haji".... so do visit their website for their contact if you wish to have your "Qurban" done there.

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Time to be High Landers.....

2010-07-27T14:20:00.006+08:00

May Peace Be With You

Do you recall my last post to Kota Tinggi for the attacked of the horseshoe crab dish at Mahkota Belangkas restaurant. Well, since we were already in Kota Tinggi, we decided to visit the Kota Tinggi waterfalls. As usual we set the GPS to the said destination and off we proceeded.

The waterfall is located at the outskirt of Kota Tinggi town via road to Kluang. As expected, the road would be meandering like a snake as we drove upwards towards the waterfall area. Upon reaching, we saw a gantry at the park's entrance. Initially I thought it was the parking fee booth which I considered quite normal. However we saw the signboard indicated entrance fee is also chargeable per person per entrance..... The entrance fee is charged at RM7.50 per adult (couldn't recall how much was the fee for children, probably half the adult fee I guessed). And parking fee was charged at RM3.00/vehicle.

After paying, the lady told hubby to pass the receipt to another gantry in front in order to collect our entrance passes. After passing the receipt, the other lady passed us 2 waterproof paper wristband labelled "Adult", to be worn upon entrance. I asked the lady what else to expect besides the waterfall. She smiled and answered "waterfall only". I looked at my hubby and my hubby looked back at me puzzled..... coz we didn't know whether the lady understood my question as normally when we go to any waterfall parks, there was no entrance fee incurred. Nevertheless we couldn't be bothered to ask further and drove off to search for a parking space.

Both hubby and me didn't wish to soak ourselves in the stream, so both of us just walked and enjoyed the scenery....

OK let's not waste time...... come let's enjoy the photos taken while we were there......

Visitors soaking themselves and enjoying the cooling water

Hubby feeding some freshwater carps in the waterfall pond with "chin chau" from his drink!!!

The other side of the pond after the bridge.... people enjoying a dip in the stream

And this is the attraction.... a man-made water slide (they dam up the stream in order to build the slide)

Down stream after the big slide is another snake-like water slide

The view from far......

The side road along the waterfall stream

People looking so fresh after dipping, dunking, soaking and sliding in mineral water (well that's what hubby said, natural stream or waterfall have minerals and ions in them)

And yes we met a couple from Malacca with their 2-yr old baby who detoured to Kota Tinggi after their holidays in Tioman Island and Desaru

See how active their 2-yr old toddler was..... I couldn't even take a proper photo of her...hehe

So vogue-u-ers, probably this is one of the attractions you may wish to go when you are in Kota Tinggi. You'll come back totally refresh.....huhu!!!!!

Lots of Luv... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Mahkota Belangkas Restaurant

2010-07-13T09:04:00.011+08:00

May Peace Be With You....

What is Belangkas? It is a malay name for horseshoe crab....

A few weekends back, both hubby and me wanted to try the authentic and famous asam pedas belangkas in Kota Tinggi. The restaurant is called Restoran Belangkas Mahkota. The owner of the restaurant, Pak Hamid, said the restaurant was named after the the Crown Prince of Johor (Tengku MahKota Johor), who is currently the Sultan of Johor. It was told that he likes to eat asam pedas Belangkas. Pak Hamid, a former fisherman from Tanjung Buai said the restaurant gained famed as it is the only place that sells this rare delicacy. The crab does not have much meat. Only the female crab is cooked.

It is located along Jalan Tun Seri Lanang. When you go to Kota Tinggi via JB to Mersing, detour into Kota Tinggi, when in Kota Tinggi town, turn right upon reaching the town's square junction. If you come via Kluang, then you need to turn left at the square junction. After turning you will noticed a Shell petrol kiosk on the left, then ahead is a small bridge of a river (you may noticed small sailing boats on the right of the bridge. The restaurant is located just after the bridge on your left, however you need to enter via Esso petrol kiosk entrance and u-turn to enter a slit road leading to the restaurant. It's a bit confusing, and that's why we had difficulty locating the restaurant previously and ended up dissappointed coz the restaurant closed at 2pm.

In order not to miss the opportunity again as the restaurant only operates from 10am - 2pm, we set out early to Kota Tinggi and had an early and light breakfast in Old Town White Coffee near KIP Mart-Kota Tinggi. We are their first customer of Mahkota Belangkas restaurant that day and was told only the "gong gong shell fish" is not ready. My hubby said it's alright, both of us were there more for the asam pedas belangkas.

OK all, let's enjoy pictures of the food we ordered for our lunch that day......

Our lunch order is served

Meet the signature dish - asam pedas belangkas (it is always cooked dried or malay call it asam pedas kering)

Fish is normally cooked in wet version of asam pedas (this is asam pedas ikan sembilang (catfish)) - fresh and no fishy smell)

Lala goreng rempah (spicy shell fish) - this is a must try dish.... so delicious!!!!

Kerabu or some call it urap (mixed vegetable salad)

Let's tuck in..... start with the belangkas dish (horseshoe crab dish)

Look at the eggs!!!! It has a buttery taste and the best part no fishy smell as well

ooooo look at the eggs again.... it's finger-licking good!!!

Now a demo of how I tear open the horseshoe crab to reveal more eggs!!! FYI the female crabs do not have much flesh but lots of eggs!!!!

Asam pedas ikan sembilang...... must try as well.... so delicious

Lala goreng - the flesh is so fat and no regrets ordering it!!!

The damages from me

The damages from my hubby were more!!! He was enjoying the dishes until reluctant any photoshoot of him digging in the food....haha

The final damages by 2 adults.....

Still not satisfied and kept digging for the spices.... hahaha

Meet Pak Hamid who runs Mahkota Belangkas Restaurant.... a humble and chatty person, was a fisherman in Tanjung Buai. Chatted with us for more than 1 hour. He specialised in cooking the asam pedas belangkas and asam pedas ikan sembilang or any catfish species, whereas his wife cooks the kari ayam kampung (village chicken curry) and gong gong (white shell fish). Other non-signature dishes will be helped by his children and helpers.

The dishes counter.... just a small corner serving quite a handful of dishes.....

Pictures of the sultanate of Johor descedents placed on the walls of the restaurant and also paper cuttings of the restaurant in M'sia's media

Picture taken from inside the retaurant, see the Esso kiosk, you need to enter from there and u-turn towards the slit road to the restaurant. FYI the building opposite Esso is KIP Mart-Kota Tinggi

People started coming for lunch when we were about to leave the restaurant

So all.... if you are adventurous and daring to try such delicacies, why not drop by Mahkota Belangkas Restaurant in Kota Tinggi, one of these days..... BTW they closed on Sundays!

Lots of luv..... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - They came flying on a "Dragon" to our "Far Far Away Land" of Singapore

2010-07-06T09:54:00.009+08:00

May Peace Be With You.......

The family came for a vacation to a land 'Far, Far Away' where Dinosaurs once ruled the land, and Mummies cursed anyone trying to lay hands on their treasures. They flew on the back of a dragon, and searched for treasures within the walls of Imhotep resting place. They also met Frankenstein, a well known green ogre and Charlie Chaplin is actually still alive!.......

The above I quote are the intro words from none other than the Gembos from the "Land of Oil"!!!! haha.... where is that????..... starts with the letter B..... and ends with the letter I...... and yes if your guess is BRUNEI...

They came during the first week of June school holidays. And this time round they came with their kids..... 1 whole family!!!!!!! We can call it a fairy tale vacation..... they left their footsteps at the Universal Studio of S'pore, their finger prints at the S'pore Zoo, conquered Orchard Rd and was invited to the royale banquet by the VUs..... at Kampong Chai Chee Seafood restaurant!!!!

Hail all!!!! you are invited to witness the banquet set by VU for them.....

Enjoy....

Meet the whole Gembos, all the way from Brunei

The banquet is served.....

Meet the signature dish..... chilli crab!!

Before we chomp..... kawai!!!!

and before the hands touch the chillies...... "guchi guchi" to the youngest and cutest addition of VU, non other that Raf's Junior Blushwax

Mr G is telling..... "dun disturb my crab!!"

yeay you cannot catch me.... I finished the crabs......

stomach already full.... so can play catching next

Indra and Mama Ann with the vogue post

now here comes the Gembo's princesses.... cute

Nadh's catch-phrase.... "When Mak Pah meets Mak Yah....."

OK... I continue with a poem...

Go market to buy papaya

Drop by Geylang to eat curry

When Mak Pah meets Mak Yah

Uncle Shah sekaki listen to story

Finally, a memoir of Mr G and Mr Sam Poi

Well the Gembos have frequent S'pore and don't know whether any of us VU gals shall be fetch by the dragon to fly to the Land of Oil..... only time will tell.

The gathering was short but full of fun, laughter and finger licking good satisfaction..... nevertheless all of us missed Mama Moralle as she was having high fever and flu at that time..... However Alhamdulilah she's on her feet and in the pink of health now.

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Marina Bay Sands in Singapore

2010-06-29T10:40:00.009+08:00

May Peace Be With You....

The Marina Bay Sands....... well most of us have heard about this popular hotel and it's casino resort even before it is built. The enormous hotel, which dominates the Singapore skyline, has 2,560 rooms and suites, a fleet of celebrity chef restaurants, shopping areas, theatres, a museum, a casino and a crystal pavilion.

Since I have some photos sent to me via email by a friend, I guess I'll share them with you to view.

Enjoy....

The Marina Bay Sands Resort - photo taken from across the bay. According to the designer, Moshe Safdie, the three towers were based on a deck of cards

The view over the side: An artist's impression shows the Skypark that tops the Marina Bay Sands hotel towers, including the infinity pool

The Infinity Pool... and beyond! The pool stretches 150 metres, three times the length of an Olympic swimming pool.

Infinity pools are designed to make it seem as though the water extends to the horizon. In reality, the edge of the pool is usually about an inch below the water level. The water therefore spills over the edge into a catchment below, and is then pumped back into the pool. The concept is said to have been inspired by the terraced rice paddies in Bali, Indonesia..... hmmmm creative indeed!

A guest swims in the infinity pool of the Skypark that tops the Marina Bay Sands hotel towers - 55 stories over the city of Singapore.... oooooo I can't imagine swimming to the edge of this pool..... OMG!

A skydiver parachutes pass the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands casino resort as part of the venue's opening celebrations

The opening celebrations also featured a death-defying relay. Seven teams of three participants each scaled the three towers in succession before sprinting across the 340-metre long Sands SkyPark, where the infinity pool is located, to the finish line.

By the way..... do you dare to be the window cleaners??? It's 55 stories high!!!!!

Romantic moment - a newly-wed couple enjoy a canal ride inside the resort's shopping centre

A man looks through a steel web art structure in one of the towers... hmmm design looks complicated but unique...

Last but not least the Casino..... the entrance to the casino, which is attracting 25,000 visitors each day

Maybe can plan for a chill out moment in Marina Bay Sands..... or for those married couples, probably a honeymoon within the country!!!!

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Art of Chinese Words

2010-06-22T10:10:00.006+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

My cousin forwarded the under-mentioned sometime ago. Wanted to post for sometime but was too busy until I forgot totally about them.

Looking at them, I realised how wide one's creative mind works, anything can be a form of art....... and the source can be very universal.

So Enjoy.......

In another perspective, Mak Pah sees the morale behind art is that it teaches us to be more versatile and expand our creativity in life......

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Chilling Out with the Bee

2010-06-01T08:54:00.005+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Pearl-VU shared this joke with me and thought would also be a good segment to chill out once in a while...... Enjoy.........

EVER MET A FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL BEE?

Well one day, a man was driving down the road and ran out of gas. Just at that moment, a bee flew in his window.

The bee asked, 'What seems to be the problem?'

'I'm out of gas,' the man replied.

The bee told the man to wait right there and flew away. Minutes later, the man watched as an entire swarm of bees flew to his car and into his gas tank. After a few minutes, the bees flew out.

'Try it now,' said one bee.

The man turned the ignition key and the car started right up.

'Wow!' the man exclaimed, 'what did you put in my gas tank?'

The bee answered............,

'Bee Pee...'

OK..... I see some of you smiling :)

Have a great day all!!

Lots of luv...... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Versatility of a piece of Cloth

2010-05-25T09:55:00.008+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

When Shasha gave me a piece of sash as a gift, my daughter was elated. The moment she got hold of it, she started experimenting ways of using it. FYI some people may call the sash in different names like scarf or muffler. Mak Pah managed to take some photos of my daughter modelling the many versatility of the sash...... Enjoy!

As muffler 1

As muffler 2

As headgear 1

As headgear 2

As body-wrap (sweater) during cold days

Actually there are many ways to use it, but my daughter asked me to stop taking anymore photos of her......hehe. By the way, Mak Pah saw one wool-like wrap selling like hotcakes in City Square - JB. It has the same function like a sash and very versatile as well. My colleague bought one online and is using it the office. If one day Mak Pah has a chance to take photos of it, I will introduce to all okay.

To Shasha Deen, thanks dear for the useful gift.

Lots of Luv......Mak Pah

Time out with Shopper Mama - Authentic Coach bag for sale!

2010-05-13T09:55:00.001+08:00

Hello Vogue-uers!

We have an Authentic Brand Coach bag for sale

Ali Signature Sateen Small Hobo - S$ 280

- Signature print sateen with pearlized leather or metallic leather trim

- Cutout charm and hangtag details
- Inside zip pocket
- Cellphone/multi-function pockets
- Ring to clip accessory or keyfob
- Fabric lining
- Zip top closure
- 21" adjustable handle with 7.5" drop
- Aprox size : 12.5(L) x 9.5(H) x 2.5(w)
- No dustbag will be given

Brown - Sold

Black - Available 1 piece only

Interested, pls email me at mrs.juli.ann@gmail or bagtastic.sg@gmail.com

Or pls visit http://www.bag-tastic.blogspot.com/

Vogue-U Potion - Classic Singapore in the 60s

2010-05-11T15:11:00.013+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Remember Mak Pah wrote about "Then and Now" http://vogue-u.blogspot.com/2010/04/vogue-u-potion-then-and-now.html a few weeks back. Suddenly my friend forwarded some classic photos of S'pore during the 60s which she got from her other friends. Mak Pah took the opportunity to post the pictures here for us to cherish the nostalgic moments. I guessed if we want to see more, probably need to arrange a visit to either the S'pore Archive or S'pore Meseum..... So come let's enjoy the pictures for the moment of history.....

This is where the National Day celebration used to be held besides the National Stadium

My parents loved to bring us here for picnic or stroll.... then we would end up having our dinner at either one of the food stalls near Victoria Theater or behind Capitol Theater

Look at the area then.... so clear and no traffic jam!!!

Look at the old buses then..... no air-con and only 1 door in the center to board and alight

Small lanes were make-shift into a wet market during the wee-hours of the day, and sometimes into a food centers or "pasar malam" by nite

Mak Pah used to hate going here coz of the smell..... but now our S'pore River is one of the cleanest...... Thank God.

My late father used to have a Vespa bike, while my uncle a Lambretta bike.... Mak Pah ever hitched a ride in that kind of lorry (red lorry) when we moved house

After that they called this place SAFTI or something..... now it seemed we have such clubhouse for our NSmen all over S'pore.... latest in Jurong West (near Boon Lay MRT/interchange)

Look at the bus then, like I mentioned earlier, no air-con and the door was in the centre fo the bus for alighting and boarding. BTW Mak Pah ever got drenched during heavy downpour while waiting for the bus to come!!!!

The theater has long been demolished and the land (opposite Clarke Quay area) is vacant now. There's a small park between National Theater and Van Kleef Aquarium and Mak Pah used to go there with classmates for our revision or project assignments.

This place was just beside the National Theater. This was the place where Mak Pah got to see for the first time live piranhas (carnivorous fishes from the Amazon)

Mak Pah and classmates normally would hang out here to do our projects, homeworks and revisions. When they opened the first branch in Marine Parade, we were among the first to patronise them coz it was near our home!!!

Mak Pah's relative used to stay at the corner flat on the highest floor in Taman Jurong. Whenever we went over during school holidays, all of us would cramp the bedroom balcony to watch the movie which was just adjacent to my relative's bedroom balcony. The drive-in had long gone and now I think you can only see Jurong Bowl and the famous Sheng Siong Supermarket there.

At one glance, it made you stand still and admired the nostalgic moment

The first time Mak Pah went to Haw Par Villa was during my primary school excursion. All of us were very young and so scared at the life-size figurines. Mak Pah could still recalled the stretch of young coconut drink stalls in front of Haw Par Villa.... The hawkers would call out to tourists in particular, to quench their thirst with young coconut drink. I could still recalled my mom would force me to put on a big hat over my head each time Mak Pah went for excursion, saying it's hot out there!!! Now you can still go there and the best part it's FOC

Mak Pah used to have difficulty pronouncing the name of this supermarket. When Cold Storage and Yaohan started to flourish, Fitzpatrick's seemed forgotten

When I was young, I used to follow my late father to Chinatown (Eu Tong Seng St) to get the latest Montagut and Three Riffle shirts. I would sit quietly in one corner while my late father would be choosing his shirts. He would also get his tailored pants sewn there.

My siblings and me loved to play catching around the Big Clock at Raffles Place (it has long be gone ever since the terrible Fire in the 70s)

Whoah... so less traffic!!!!

But this side was the parking lot.....

Look at the bum boats....

My parents used to bring us here to view the seafront panorama... that time it was the most spectacular site

Parking lot full of cars, but road quite free flow hah....

I think this could be the first Cold Storage.... look at the Santa Claus poster... big!!!

See the green roof entrance... this was where normally they displayed the Xmas decorations each year. My siblings and me would be sitting at Wisma Indonesia (then) or Wisma Atria (now) and admired the deco!!!

My classmates and me would be rushing to queue for the latest movie in town. That time there was no popcorn or hotdogs... but just a mamak stall selling kacang putih n tit-bits. My favourite was the groundnuts...so imagine peeling the skin and crunching over the nuts (noisy right)... but don't forget those eating "kuaci"!!!! But don't worry no handphone rings then!!!

This same spot looked totally different now right....!!!!

I used to follow my late father to buy the best "roti john" at one of the stall just opposite the entrance of Botanic Gardens (if not mistaken the area was called Taman Serasi)..... the queue was like a snake each time during lunch and dinner. If not mistaken the place has been demolished and majority of stall owners had moved to other parts of S'pore.

The above were just some snapshots taken way back in the 60s, and memories of them had made Mak Pah realised how precious some of the moments were. How much we missed some of the places we used to go and see. However life has to go on and we have to make ways of new development and technology. And as time goes by, we have to accept, adapt and adopt to the change in order to fit into the modern lifestyles.

So let us enjoy life to the fullest....

Lots of luv.... Mak Pah.

Vogue-U Potion - Touched By A Lost Charmed Angel In S'pore

2010-05-04T09:04:00.008+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Last Thursday morning, an ^angel in disguise^ dropped in S'pore.

Surprised!!!! It's none other than VU follower from KL, Shasha Deen (http://www.lostcharmedangel.blogspot.com/).

Well a recap - Mak Pah knew Shasha from another blogger in Malacca who has a link to Shasha's blog. FYI Shasha is a big fan of Ning Baizura and after scrutinizing her facial expression, indeed she has some similarity of Ning. FYI, this blogging world is humangous. Initially Mak Pah read a link to a blogger in Pahang who wrote about the late actor, Hani Mohsin. From there Mak Pah got the link to many bloggers in M'sia and S'pore, which eventually lead Mak Pah to Shasha's blog as well. That time Mak Pah did not have a blog. However since the formation of VU blog last year, Shasha is one of the follower.

Shasha and me has never met before but we liaised via MSN, emails and facebook. When Mak Pah wrote about the opening of Universal Studios S'pore (USS) a few mths back, Shasha msn me saying she wanted to go to USS and obviously Mak Pah welcomed her. When her flight and accomodation were confirmed, she msn me again to confirm our meet. Since other VU clan were busy, Mak Pah decided to meet her alone. Nevertheless on the day of our meet, my eldest daughter and best friend were available to accompany me. Since USS is in Sentosa, Mak Pah decided to meet Shasha and her best friend, Mimi at Vivocity for dinner (FYI, Vivocity is located opposite Sentosa Island).

So after work, my friend and me met up with my daughter at Vivocity before meeting up with Shasha and Mimi. FYI Mimi is like our VU manager cum photographer, Nadh. She's carrying a Nikon camera and took our photographs that nite. Thks Mimi..... u r as great as our VU's, Nadh and Raf. But she preferred to remain out of our limelight that nite, so no picture of Mimi here.

Since Shasha did not know what to eat, I led her to Vivo's Halal Foodcourt, the Banquet. Both Shasha and Mimi were overwhelmed with the spread of different kinds of Halal foodstalls serving Chinese, North Indian, Indonesian and Western. My daughter had the the baked rice from the Western stall, whereas the rest of us ordered our dishes at the steamboat stall. Shasha had the fried fish steamboat with skimmed milk soup, while Mimi had the tomyam steamboat. Sue and myself being small eaters shared our tomyam steamboat with 1 bowl of rice each, which both of us did not finished them in the end....what a waste! I managed to eat half bowl of rice and Sue managed to finish 3/4 of her rice. All of us could not finish our steamboat except for Shasha which I was glad she enjoyed it so much.

Actually I wanted to bring Shasha and Mimi to relax at the rooftop Oasis of Vivocity. At least they could probably dunk their tired feet into the pool to relax after the whole day of fun and thrill in USS, but we were so engrossed with our chatting that all of us did not barge from the Banquet until it was about time they wanted to close shop....hehehehehe. We were all so tired but the company was fun...we laughed, joked and reminisced the experiences and the blog posts we did. Our neighbouring tables kept changing people, but we remained....hehe. The Banquet became quiet a while, then crowded, then quiet and so on...... By the time we bid farewell it was almost 10pm. We enjoyed the chat and was kind of reluctant to bid farewell for the nite. Time was so limited when we just got started to warm up the atmosphere of the company hah.

Okay, let's see the candid shots taken by Mimi that nite....... Enjoy!!!

Muacks Muacks...... Hi Shasha... (look at her curly hair...so nice!!)

Did u wait long for me? How's USS? Hungry?? bla bla bla

Steamboat flaming hot..... look at the flame under the steamboat bowl!!!

Hmmmm..... what drink should I have with my tomyam steamboat ah!!!??? Oh BTW, meet my best friend, Sue (the lady in grey) and my eldest daughter, Farisha (in purple t-shirt)

Candid shot by Mimi while we chatted after leaving the Banquet

Sweet memories with the Charmed Angel

Bidding farewell to my lovely angel.... when will I see u again!!! ooh ooh, aah aah....

To Shasha and Mimi - glad to have met you both. Both of you are a bunch of fun and exciting people. May we meet again either in S'pore again or probably next time in KL then..... InsyaAllah.

To my dear friend, Sue and my patient daughter, Farisha - thank you for the company gals......

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - What To Eat To Beat Knee Pain

2010-04-20T13:02:00.005+08:00

May Peace Be With You......

Everywhere Mak Pah goes it seemed almost everyone is complaining of knee problem. Fastest solution is to get glucosamine medication/cream over the counter. I am grateful when my cousin forwarded the link to natural healing through our daily diet which may be effective medication of knee pain, and I find it quite useful to share with all.......

Carried on 22-June-2009 http://www.everydayhealth.com/knee-pain/knee-pain-what-to-eat.aspx

Looking for a natural way to relieve knee pain? You may want to tweak your diet. A growing body of research suggests that small dietary changes can add up to big benefits for knee health. “A number of foods have powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may be as effective as some prescription medicines for arthritis and other types of knee pain,” says Beth Reardon, RD, MS, an integrative nutritionist and medicinal foods expert at Duke Integrative Medicine Center in Durham, N.C. Read on to learn how mealtime may be affecting the health of your knees.

Diet and Knee Pain: Go Fish

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are natural anti-inflammatories. Calming joint inflammation can often help ease knee soreness, according to Steven Stuchin, MD, director of orthopedic surgery at NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases in New York City. In randomized clinical studies, omega-3 fatty acids were found to ease pain and reduce the duration of morning stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The best sources of omega-3s are salmon, tuna, sardines, herring, cod, and mackerel, as well as fish oil supplements. Another benefit of adding fish to your diet: “Fish is safer than anti-inflammatory medication, which may have side effects,” says Reardon.

Diet and Knee Pain: Drink Orange Juice

Orange juice is a top-notch source of vitamin C, a nutrient that may guard against knee osteoarthritis. A 10-year Australian study of almost 300 middle-aged adults found that those getting high amounts of vitamin C were less likely to suffer the kind of bone degeneration associated with knee osteoarthritis. “Drinking a glass of orange juice provides about 25 percent more vitamin C than eating an orange,” says Reardon. Other good sources of vitamin C to prevent knee pain are green peppers, grapefruit, and strawberries.

Diet and Knee Pain: Eat Spinach and Onions

Follow Popeye's lead and add spinach to your regime. Australian researchers found that getting high amounts of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin (found in green veggies like spinach) can help relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. Several studies have found an additional benefit of lutein and zeaxanthin, as they can help prevent vision-related diseases. Don't forget to add some onions to your spinach salad as well. Adding onions to salads, sandwiches, stews, and casseroles may help put the brakes on knee pain. Onions are a rich source of quercetin, a flavonoid with strong anti-inflammatory properties, says Reardon. In studies of arthritic mice, quercetin resulted in significant decreases in arthritis symptoms. Apples, red grapes, and tea are also good sources of quercetin.

Diet and Knee Pain: Order Indian Food

A helping of curry could do wonders for your knee pain. That’s because turmeric, a spice used in curry and other Indian dishes, contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory. “Curcumin works similarly to COX-2 inhibitors — drugs that reduce the COX-2 enzyme that causes the pain and swelling of arthritis,” says Reardon. A 2006 Canadian study of the effects of both curcumin and quercetin found that curcumin reduced the inflammation of arthritis in animals. Quercetin (the flavonoid in onions) worked too, but not to the extent of the curcumin.

Diet and Knee Pain: Use Ginger Generously

The herb ginger traditionally has been used to relieve upset stomach, but researchers recently discovered that it also reduces knee pain by decreasing inflammation. In a study of 261 patients with moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis, ginger extract significantly reduced knee pain during standing and walking. Cooking with this spice can increase the flavor of meals while decreasing knee pain.

Diet and Knee Pain: Avoid Refined Carbohydrates

Some research suggests that diets high in refined carbohydrates can increase inflammation, says Reardon. She recommends steering clear of white bread, pasta, and baked goods — taking these foods out of your diet can have an added bonus of helping you drop excess pounds. Because changing your diet is a relatively easy step, it makes sense to try some — or all — of the foods listed above. You may find some relief from knee pain and get some added health benefits to boot.

Well, whatever our intake of food, let it be in moderation coz sometimes we don't realise and tend to go overboard when craving for certain food, especially if going for buffet luncheons. One thing Mak Pah learnt over the years, when going for buffet spread is to take whatever but in small portions, whether it is for taste or indulgence and lower or avoid the carbohydrate spread as well. And now with the above guidelines, I guess I will surely increase the portion of them in my food then.

May all of us be in the pink of health....

Lots of luv..... Mak Pah.

Time-out with Shopper Mama - Online shopping!

2010-04-14T10:44:00.001+08:00

Hey ya Vogue-uers!!!

For today’s slot, Shopper-mama would like to bring you shopping in the comfort of your own chair!

Here are some sites that I would like to recommend

For those residing in Singapore, if you are looking for Coach bags, then here is one for you

www.bag-tastic.blogspot.com

We promise you that the Coach bags are AUTHENTIC and the prices, very reasonable and much cheaper than the boutiques here. We have more stuff coming, so pls do keep a lookout for them.

For chic and trendy fashion, then you should checkout

http://eyyeffass.livejournal.com/

- Owned by Deebz & her frens

If only I am 20 years younger.......

For funky and limited edition tees, this is the site

http://bojanggo.blogspot.com/

And for you Malaysians out there, you guys are soooo lucky!!! Coz there are many many sites that you can choose from, to do your online shopping! Here are some for you to checkout if you are looking for some bargains:

http://urshoppingtreats.blogspot.com/

- This online boutique is partly owned by a fellow blogger friend, Mrs Taj, so if you see something you like here, just give her a buzz….

In addition, I also like to check this too

http://mummyliciousshoppingspree.blogspot.com/

- She is a shopaholic mummy and she sets up this blog “for all shopaholic mummies out there who love authentic, branded goods for their loved ones without shop till you drop concept! Definitely affordable to everyone”

And of course, 1 of my favourites online shopping for authentic designer stuff

www.mybrandoutletstore.blogspot.com

- The boss name is Kerengga Kurus. Such a cute name and I bet she is even cuter in personality too as she describes her buyers as ‘Datin’ or ‘Dato’…. Hahahaha. So once you buy from her, not only will you get her stuff at great prices, you will automatically be bestowed with the title of Datin too!! Aint that cool???

Ok, I hope these sites I recommend are useful for you. You don’t need to leave your house – just a click will do to satisfy your shopping desires!

Vogue-U Potion - Then and Now

2010-04-13T15:10:00.005+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Last Friday, Mak Pah was on leave and was at my sis's home. In the afternoon, my mum asked me to join her to go to Tangs coz she wanted to get a small handbag while my sis wanted to replenish some of her Bobbi Brown cosmetics in Isetan.

Going through the handbag counters I realised the brands have totally changed through the years. During the late 70s and 80s, handbag brands used to be Firina (this is the 1st branded leather goods Mak Pah bought from my 1st job), Bonia, Chantal Thomas, Cartier, Bally and Fendi. I knew about Bally and Fendi during my teenage years coz my mum used to have them. When I started working, I used to borrow from my mum for Dinner events, or friends' and colleagues' wedding banquet. At that time, I didn't realised the shoes or clutches were branded until my senior colleagues told me.

I asked my mum what happened to her bags and shoes. She said the leather had deteriorated over the years and she couldn't recall whether she threw them away or given away. She said normally she would buy from my father's relative who always travel, as shopping centres and boutiques were quite limited during the 70s.

Going through the abundance of patterns and brands, my mum got so confused and not abled to get what she wanted. In Isetan, we went to Fendi boutique coz I wanted to ask about the repair cost of the leather strip. The SO was a sweet and nice pregnant lady, and she said for leather strip, it would cost about S$170/- and would take about 3 - 4 weeks to repair. My mum scrutinized the patterns and remarked Fendi used to carry Grey colour then, but now mostly Fendi carries Brown colour which she thought was quite exclusive.

When we were at the Bobbi Brown cosmetics counter, I said to myself, my time we used to buy Max Factor, Maybeline and those China brand cosmetics from small shops in Geylang.

My mum said when my siblings and myself were young, my mum would bring us to Aroora shopping center (not sure spelling is right) located in High Street. Now that place is where Peninsula Shopping Centre. She would get the well-known "Jen-Jen" brand clothings for children. There was no Osh Kosh B'Gosh, GuessKids or Mickey brands during 60s and 70s. And at that time, good children shoes were from Americaya located near Aroora also around High Street. I seemed to recall some of the events when my mum brought us there and we used to play behind the high court building.

Hmmm...... how time flies and tastes varied. Brands like LV, Braun Buffel and Coach started to conquer Asian market in the late 80s or early 90s I guessed coz that was the time I started seeing people around me carrying them. And their boutiques started to flourish and became well-known among the ladies especially!!!

So as time passes, things change. Life was hard and it's part and parcel to work hard and earn a living. My mum said she was fortunate that time coz she mend a coffee stall in Wisma Indonesia (now known as Wisma Atria). That's when I recalled bumping to some of the famous Indonesian artists during the 70s..... and the famous Indonesian Badminton player Rudy Hartono!!!! I told my mum I recalled my late father got me to take a photo of the winning badminton trophy but I couldn't recall the player's face. My mum said that time Mak Pah was only 4 or 5 yrs old only...... hehe!!!

Looking back at Orchard Rd then and now, it is a drastic change totally. Tangs was known as CK Tang that time and the store was in a very oriental kind of design with green ceramic bamboo roofing and the place was clustered with all kinds of products from all over the world. Mak Pah always looked forward to Xmas season coz CK Tang was the only shopping store that would decorate their building, roof and entrance with life-size decos, in order to get the Xmas spirit among shoppers. My siblings and me would seat in front of Wisma Indonesia and admired the decorations each year while my mum mend the coffee stall. And without missed, we would be the everyday customers that time..... hehehe those were the days!!!!

So vogue-u-ers, do you recall any of your then and now experiences??? See how much changes has affected us somehow or another all these while.

Nevertheless, we are able to adapt and adopt new things and technology in order to be where we are now.

Enjoy life everybody......

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Time-out with Shopper Mama - More cleaning tips!

2010-04-07T10:15:00.000+08:00

Yo Vogue-uers! Shopper-mama is back again!

Have you read the tips that I wrote here? And have you tried them?

Well, here are more tips for you and this time, its all about cleaning! Again, thanks to URBAN for the tips!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CIF cream cleaner

CIF is a powerful cleaning product commonly used to remove stubborn dirt and grease. It can also remove ink stains from leather bags and shoes.

How it works – Cream cleaners are thicker than liquid cleaners and hence reduce the risk of water damage.

How to clean – Using a soft towel with a drop of CIF the size of a 10-cent coin, start from the outside of the stain snd rub gently towards the centre.

Switch to a cleaner part of the towel as necessary.

Do not rub hard or you might risk discolouring the item. Thereafter, wipe with a clean towel and leave it to dry.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Vaseline Enriched Petroleum Jelly

This moisturiser can also be used to keep the shine on patent products.

How it works - Vaseline is a mixture of mineral oils, paraffin and microcrystalline waxes that, when blended together, create a smooth, jelly-like mixture. It forms a barrier to prevent natural water loss.

How to clean – Dampen a soft towel with warm water and squeeze a small blob of Vaseline about the size of a 20-cent coin onto it. Gently rub the towel in small circular motion, buffing the product in parts. This ensures that the jelly melts into the leather.

Once this is done, buff the leather gently with a clean, dry towel to maintain the shine of your patent leather goods.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Carbonated water eg. SPRITE

To remove stains from clothes, fizzy drinks are a handy aid.

Keep to only clear carbonated water such as Sprite, 7-Up or soda water to avoid staining your garments, esp the white ones.

How it works – The acidic agents in carbonated water work to dislodge dirt, from ink to food stains.

How to use – Place a dry paper towel under the part where the stain is. Sprinkle a few drops of carbonated water onto the stain and gently blot it with another dry piece of paper towel until it disappears.

Remembers not to rub the stain as this might damage the fabric or aggravate the stain spread. This method is also not advised for delicate or expensive fabrics.

Machine wash your garment to remove all traces of the stain and the fizzy drink.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Non-acetone nail polish remover

Sally Hansen Strengthening Polish Remover

Nail polish removers come with or without acetone, a volatile organic solvent commonly used in chemistry laboratories. They can remove scuff marks on patent leather goods.

How it works – While acetone is an excellent solvent to remove scuff marks, it is very drying and may damage the leather. Opt for non-acetone nail-polish removers instead as they are mixed with water and conditioners such as Vit E.

How to clean – About 5 drops of the solution on a cotton ball should do the trick. Gently rub the cotton ball on the spot for half a minute. Make sure you do not press hard while rubbing or the colour might run.

After a minute, dry the spot with a dry cotton pad and a little baby oil or Vaseline, rubbing it in gently. This keeps the material from drying out and retains its shine.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ok that is all for today! I hope these tips are useful for you and have fun trying them out!

* All pics googled
* Tips taken from URBAN

Vogue-U Potion - School Days' Test Papers

2010-04-06T10:46:00.007+08:00

May Peace Be With You....

When my sis forward me these, it reminded me of my school days time, especially during primary schools...... we were so naive and our answers were anything that we could think of and anything which we felt deemed right......

Just for laughs everyone..... Enjoy....

Well, have you had a good laugh coz I had...... muahahahahaha

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - A Guide on All You Need To Know About Universal Studios Singapore (USS)

2010-03-30T11:16:00.009+08:00

May Peace Be With You....

OK since the most talked about attractions, Universal Studios Singapore (USS) was officially opened to public on 18/03/2010, Mak Pah received infos on details regarding USS for visitors which is quite useful to all. It's quite a long list, so here goes.....

Hours of operation

Weekdays: 9:00 hrs – 18:00 hrs
Weekends: 9:00 hrs- 21:00 hrs

Handicapped facilities

A complimentary guide for guests with disabilities is available at Guest Services. The guide explains boarding procedures and specific information relating to each attraction.

Ride restrictions

For safety purposes, there are height, weight, and/or health restrictions at various attractions.

Lights, Camera, Action (New York):
Height Restrictions: Children under 122 cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult.

Accelerator (Sci- Fi City):
Height Restrictions: Children under 122 cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Hand-held infants are not permitted.

Battlestar Galactica (Sci-Fi City):
Height Restrictions: Guests under 125cm may not ride.
Weight Restrictions: Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

Revenge of the Mummy (Ancient Egypt):
Height Restrictions: Guests under 122cm may not ride.
Weight Restrictions:Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

Treasure Hunters (Ancient Egypt):
Height Restrictions: Children under 122cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Hand-held infants are not permitted.

Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure (The Lost World):
Height Restrictions: Guests under 107cm may not ride. Children between 107cm and 122cm must be accompanied by supervising companion.

Dino Soarin’ (The Lost World):
Height Restrictions: Children under 122cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult. No hand-held infants.
Weight Restrictions: Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

Amber Rock Climb (The Lost World):
Weight Restrictions: Guests must weigh between 34kg and 310kg in order to climb.
*Please note that extra charges apply for this attraction.

Canopy Flyer (The Lost World):
Height Restrictions: Guests under 92cm may not ride. Children between 92cm and 122cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Hand-held infants are not permitted.
Weight Restrictions: Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

Magic Potion Spin (Far Far Away):

Height Restrictions: Children under 122cm must have a supervising adult near attraction. Hand-held infants are not permitted.
Weight Restrictions: Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

Enchanted Airways (Far Far Away):
Height Restrictions: Guests under 92cm may not ride. Children between 92cm and 122cm must be accompanied by a supervising adults. No hand-held infants..
Weight Restrictions: Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

King Julien’s Party-Go-Round: (Madagascar):
Height Restrictions: Children under 122cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult.
Weight Restrictions: Weight restrictions may apply. (Please refer to our park guide map for details).

Madagascar: A Crate Adventure (Madagascar):
Height Restrictions: Guests under 107cm may not ride. Children between 107cm and 122cm must be accompanied by a supervising adult.

Help for the Hearing-impaired

They will offer open captioning (captioning is always on) in:
• The Lights, Camera, Action preshow
• The Shrek 4D Adventure preshow

They will offer closed captioning (captioning available when requested) in:
• The Shrek 4D Adventure main theatre

They will offer assistive listening (broadcast amplified audio) in:
• Pantages Hollywood Theatre
• Lights, Camera, Action (preshow and main show)
• WaterWorld Stunt Show
• Shrek 4D Adventure (preshow and main theatre)
• Donkey: LIVE! (preshow and main theatre)

All safety information will be posted clearly in both English and Mandarin.

Queue entertainment videos (where applicable) will be captioned in English.

Safety videos (where applicable) will be captioned in both English and Mandarin.

Detailed information on all attractions will also be written in the park’s Rider’s Guide for Rider Safety and Guests with Disabilities – which will be available at Guest Services at the front of the park.

Directions

For directions on how to get to Universal Studios Singapore, please refer to Resorts World’s “How to Get Here” map.

Contact: For enquires regarding Universal Studios Singapore, please contact the following:

Guest Services:
Address:
Universal Studios Singapore
8 Sentosa Gateway,
Sentosa Island,
Singapore

Email: enquiries@rwsentosa.com

Contact number:+65 6577 8888

Sales Packages Main Number: + 65 6577 8888

Hotel Reservations Main Number: +65 6577 8899

Lost and Found Contact number: +65 6577 8888

Seasonal Dates:

There are certain black-out dates at Universal Studios. More details will be offered soon.

Tickets

One Day Pass

Enjoy all the attractions at Universal Studios Singapore for the entire day (except for Amber Rock Climb)

NOTE:
Valid for one guest admission ONLY
This ticket is non-transferable and non-refundable
Ticket price is inclusive of all government taxes.
Kindly ensure that you have a valid printer to print the Print @ Home Tickets
Do note that printing of the Print @ Home Tickets on Dot Matrix printer is not advisable

Two Day Pass

Enjoy all the attractions at Universal Studios Singapore over two consecutive days (except for Amber Rock Climb)

NOTE:
Valid for one guest admission ONLY
This ticket is non-transferable and non-refundable
Ticket price is inclusive of all government taxes.
Kindly ensure that you have a valid printer to print the Print @ Home Tickets
Do note that printing of the Print @ Home Tickets on Dot Matrix printer is not advisable

Annual Pass

Relive the thrills and spills with your family and loved ones all year round and enjoy ultimate Annual Pass privileges! Make Universal Studios Singapore™ your personal playground with priority access to the latest attractions, special previews, exclusive discounts on accommodations, merchandise, dining and much more!

2 types of passes to choose from:

Fun Pass
Enjoy unlimited admission for 312 days (Most weekdays and weekends)

Universal Studios Singapore lanyard with 2 pins.
S$25 Resorts World Sentosa gift voucher.
5% discount off selected F&B outlets at Universal Studios Singapore and Resorts World Sentosa.
5% discount off selected retail outlets at Universal Studios Singapore and Resorts World Store and Resorts World Gift Shop.
Receive our monthly E-bulletin on the latest happenings in Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore.
10% early bird discount for Universal Studios Singapore events.
Sneak previews of new rides and attractions.
Entitled to a maximum of FIVE Universal Studios Singapore day passes at 10% discount for your accompanying guests during your birthday month.

Superstar Pass
Enjoy unlimited admission with no black-out dates for 365 days
Universal Studios Singapore lanyard with 4 pins
S$100 Resorts World Sentosa gift voucher
5% discount off selected F&B outlets at Universal Studios Singapore and Resorts World Sentosa
5% discount off selected retail outlets at Universal Studios Singapore and Resorts World Store and Resorts World Gift Shop
Receive our monthly E-bulletin on the latest happenings in Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore
10% early bird discount for Universal Studios Singapore events
Sneak previews of new rides and attractions
Entitled to a maximum of FIVE Universal Studios Singapore day passes at 10% discount for your accompanying guests during your birthday month
One complimentary pass to Halloween Horror Nights™
30% off the rack rate of the Resorts World Sentosa VIP Tour
Enjoy unlimited climbs at the Amber Rock Climb™ which is an attraction in The Lost World™
Enjoy complimentary Universal Express access to all the attractions in Universal Studios Singapore
Reservation made for a Deluxe Room in Festive Hotel™ and Hotel Michael™ will enjoy a complimentary upgrade to the Deluxe Family Room and the Club Deluxe Room respectively

Benefits
Each Annual Passholder may enjoy different benefits from time to time throughout the year
To enjoy the benefits, simply present your Annual Pass and personal identification at the time of redemption

NOTE:
Valid for one guest admission ONLY
This pass is non-transferable and non-refundable
The Annual Pass price is determined by the age of the Guest at the time the Pass is processed
Ticket price is inclusive of all government taxes

Universal Express™

Universal Express allows you to bypass the regular at participating attractions at Universal Studios Singapore.
Universal Express access is a separate line with a shorter wait line at each valid attraction.
Valid for use only one (1) time at each participating attraction.
Universal Express pass is not valid for admission to the theme park.

Pantages Hollywood Theater™

Lights, Camera, Action!™ Hosted by Steven Spielberg

Battlestar Galactica™ CYLON

Battlestar Galactica™ HUMAN

Accelerator™

Revenge of the Mummy™

Treasure Hunters™

Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure™

Canopy Flyer™

Dino-Soarin’™

WaterWorld™

Shrek 4-D Adventure™

Donkey LIVE™

Enchanted Airways™

King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round™

Off Peak: Valid for Weekdays ONLY
Peak: Valid for Weekdays on School Holidays
Super Peak: Valid for Weekends and Black-Out Dates

NOTE:
This pass is non-transferable and non- refundable.
There are only a limited number of passes available for sale for each date and are subject to availability.
Participating attractions are subject to availability.
Price is inclusive of all government taxes.
Kindly ensure that you have a valid printer to print the Print @ Home Tickets.
Do note that printing of the Print @ Home Tickets on Dot Matrix printer is not advisable.Upgrade

Upgrade your Admission Ticket
Want to spend another day at the Park or have unlimited access to the park for the entire year?
Simply pay the difference and upgrade your 1-Day Ticket to a 2-Day Ticket or to either of the 2 Annual Passes.
Proceed to our Guest Services Window located at the main entrance to upgrade your ticket prior to entering the Park if the following scenarios apply:

If you already have your unused, valid ticket in hand.

If you have purchased your ticket online and it is before expiration date.

If you would like to upgrade your one-day ticket during your visit, please visit our Guest Services located along Hollywood Boulevard™ prior to exiting the Park.

If you would like to upgrade your unexpired Fun Pass, please visit our Guest Services or the Annual Pass Processing located along Hollywood Boulevard™. The expiry date of the upgraded Annual Pass will be the same as the date printed on the original Annual Pass.

NOTE:
Upgrades cannot be made on days of high attendance (including days when high attendance is projected)
Some types of tickets are not eligible for upgrades
Ticket can only be upgraded on the same day or before the ticket expires
Annual Pass issued upon upgrade will be valid for one year starting from the date when the original ticket was first used
To upgrade your ticket, simply approach our Guest Services located along Hollywood Boulevard™ before exiting the park

F & B Listing

Hollywood

Celebrity Cafe & Bakery™

Munch on freshly-made sandwiches, puff pastry pies and classic desserts as you mingle with our celeb characters like Marilyn Monroe.

Hollywood China Bistro

Feast on traditional Cantonese cuisine in this modern art-deco restaurant straight out of a Hollywood movie set.

Mel’s Drive-in

Rock-n-roll at this '50s drive-in restaurant as you feast on yummy Burgers and Fries, Chicken Sandwiches, Chicken Fingers and Frosty Milk Shakes while grooving to the oldies on the jukebox.

New York

KT’s Grill

Sink your teeth into authentic New York cuisine, like grill entrees, sandwiches, soups and salads, right here in this 1940’s New York dinner house, which features a fresh oyster bar too.

Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor™

Choose from a wide variety of traditional Italian pizzas, as well as some local Singapore favorites, including Hawaiian pizza, tandoori chicken pizza, vegetarian pizza and more.

Ancient Egypt

Oasis Spice Cafe™

The best of Mediterranean, Indian and Malay cuisines are served buffet-styled in this Egyptian setting.

The Lost World

Discovery Food Court™

Savour Singapore’s best selection of laksa, chicken rice and other local delights here, the building that was featured in the original Jurassic Park movie. Beware of ferocious dinosuars!

Fossil Fuels™

Get an energy boost here as light snacks and quick bites are served here, or quench your thirst by sipping on our refreshing frozen drinks.

Far Far Away

Goldilocks™

Chomp on the crispiest fried chicken and fish and chips here, together with tasty sides like freshly-mashed potatoes soaked in delicious gravy, alongside coleslaw and French fries.

Friar’s™

Friar’s offers fast yet delicious food on the go, where you can select from a variety of wraps including Thai peanut chicken, tandoori chicken, turkey and more.

Fairy Godmother's Juice Bar

Thirsty guests can get rejuvenated as healthy, freshly-made fruit juices are served here.

Madagascar

Casa Del Wild™

Marty the Zebra fronts Casa Del Wild, which serves a variety of lip-smacking South East Asian specialties, such as nasi padang, pad thai, chicken rice and Asian rotisserie chicken.

Gloria’s Snack Shack™

Join Gloria the hippo at her favorite watering hole, which offers Japanese-inspired quick bites like yakitori and rice bowls, and invigorating thirst-quenchers.

Shopping - Retail Listing

Get your hands on quirky souvenirs, movie memorabilia at shops dotted all around the theme park.

Hollywood

Universal Studios Store

The main store of the entire park offers the largest variety of merchandise from all seven zones.

The Dark Room™

Guests can get their photographic supplies from The Dark Room which stocks cameras, lenses, film and a wide variety of electronic products.

Star Characters™

Exclusive merchandise of DreamWorks Animation characters, along with creative products and keepsakes can be found here.

Silver Screen Collectibles™

Get novel collectibles of celebrities straight from the Hollywood Walk of Fame at the store that shouts glamour.

Superstar Candies™

It’s time for sugar rush as guests get to pick and choose from a dazzling array of sweets and treats, with saccharine star appeal.

The Brown Derby™

This is the store that sells all kinds of funny, crazy, silly hats and accessories for the young and young at heart.

Sci Fi City

Galactica PX

Bring home a piece of the future from this futuristic store featuring Battlestar Galactica collectible merchandise and other Sci-Fi favourites!

The Lost World

Jurassic Outfitters™ T

There’s something for everyone at this store including themed hats, shorts, photo-frames and lots more.

The Dino-Store™

Calling all prehistoric fans, here’s a dino-mite store full of innovative Jurassic Park souvenirs to be discovered.

Far Far Away

Fairy Godmother’s Potion Shop™

Guest can purchase a full range of merchandise from the Shrek fanchise here.

Ancient Egypt

Carter’s Curiosities™

For the aspiring archaeologists, grab replicas of historical artifacts or fossils discovered from ancient Egyptian ruins here.

Madagascar

Penguin Mercantile™

This is an open-air store composed of shipping crates, with plush hats, key fobs, T-shirts and other assorted keepsakes inspired by the many characters of Madagascar.

General FAQs for Universal Studios Singapore?

How and where can I buy Universal Studios Singapore tickets?

You may do so online at http://www.rwsentosa.com/, via the Resorts World Sentosa Call Centre (+65 6577 8899), or on-site at a Universal Studios ticket booth. Please take note of peak period and blackout dates when purchasing your tickets. Click here for our seasonal chart.

Can I buy tickets on the same day that I wish to visit the park?

We regret that same day tickets are not available for sale during the soft opening weeks. To avoid disappointment, we encourage visitors to purchase theme park tickets in advance.

Will tickets sold online be cheaper than those sold on-site at the theme park sales counter?

Although online tickets are the same price, the print-at-home function allows immediate access into the park without needing to stop at a ticket counter.

How long will this soft opening period last?

The soft opening period allows our team members to make technical and creative adjustments in the park to improve the customer (“Guest”) experience. The park soft opening phase will end when we are satisfied that the park is ready.

Are there Stay-and-Play packages which include hotel stays and Universal Studios Singapore tickets?

Yes there are. Visit http://www.rwsentosa.com/ or check with your local travel agents for the latest promotions and packages to suit your holiday needs.

I am staying at one of the hotels at Resorts World, how do I purchase Universal Studios tickets? (This applies only from 10 March 2010 onwards)

Same day tickets are not available for sale during the soft opening weeks. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets before arrival at the hotels via the website or the reservations hotline at +65 6577 8899 to avoid disappointment. If the guests have already arrived at the hotel and have not bought tickets yet, they can do so by physically going to the ticket booths outside the theme park to purchase tickets at least a day before the intended day of visit, or call the reservations hotline to book the tickets. Guests who need help can approach their concierges.

Are hotel guests guaranteed tickets to the Park?

There will be tickets for hotel guests on a first-come-first-served basis during this soft opening period, but as tickets are limited, we encourage guests to book their tickets when they make their room reservations.

Do I have to pay extra to visit the attractions in the Universal Studios Singapore?

Once inside Universal Studios, all attractions are included in your admission, except the Amber Rock Climb, which costs an additional $10 per climb. You may also wish to purchase Universal Express, for $30-68 (depending on the type of day- refer to our seasonal chart) at any ticket window or Guest Services location, which eases your queue frustration at the various attractions.

Why must I pay for the Amber Rock Climb?

The experience of rock climbing is an added-value experience to a guest day. Rock climbing walls are not a typical theme park offering, and due to the nature of the experience, the capacity is low and there are a very limited number of people who will be able to participate.

What are the preferred modes of payment?

For your convenience, a variety of payment methods are accepted including cash, credit/debit cards, NETS.

Are tickets transferable?

Prior to their first use, all tickets are transferrable. After their first use, tickets are not transferrable and must be used by the same person on all days.

Are tickets refundable?

We regret that tickets sold are non-refundable.

I lost my ticket(s)/ I forgot the confirmation number of my ticket(s). Is there a way to retrieve it?

If you purchased your ticket online or via the Resorts World Call Center, please visit the Guest Services windows so that your unused ticket can be reprinted. Unfortunately, if your ticket was purchased on-site, it is not available to be reprinted. If a lost ticket has been used already, it cannot be reprinted.

Can I leave and re-enter the theme park?

Park admission is valid for an entire day. If you need to leave the park, please get a handstamp at the exit. A valid handstamp and ticket are required for re-entry. Some special events and shows may require a separate ticket.

I am unable to make it to the theme park and have decided to visit it another day. Will I be able to do so?

Please visit the Guest Services windows just outside the main entrance to Universal Studios to discuss your situation.

What should I wear to the Park?

For the best experience, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You may wish to bring along a spare set of clothes, as certain attractions may get you wet. Lockers are available to store any spare clothes, for a fee.

In the Park

What are the operating hours for Universal Studios Singapore?

Park operating hours vary based on the time of year and day of week. Please check our website for details on your chosen day to visit.

Will the park be closed during heavy downpours or thunderstorms?

Although there are many sheltered areas within Universal Studios, there are areas exposed to weather. In the event of severe weather, selected attractions may close temporarily.

Will I be able to get a refund on my ticket(s) should the Park be closed in the case of bad weather?

Universal Studios does not close based on weather conditions, therefore, tickets are non-refundable.

Will I be able to bring in food and drinks into the Park?

We offer a variety of fresh and delicious food for our guests to enjoy at our restaurants and concession stands throughout the Park. However, we do understand that guests may need to bring in food bought from outside the Park. Please note the following guidelines:

Acceptable items:

Bottled water

Small snacks that do not require heating

Any food required for medical purposes and medically–indicated nutritional supplements

Any food required for special dietary needs

Baby food/baby formula

Soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5” wide x 6” high x 6” deep (216mm x 152mm x 152mm)

Prohibited items:

Picnic lunches

Food that requires heating or refrigeration

Alcohol

Hard-sided coolers and glass containers

Soft-sided coolers larger than 8.5” wide x 6” high x 6” deep

Coolers, suitcases, and bags with wheels

Please be advised that all bags and personal items are subject to inspection.

What are the preferred modes of payment within the Park?

Cash, NETS, major credit and debit cards are acceptable. There are available cash points for withdrawals on-site as well. For assistance, consult a park guide map, or ask any Team Member.

Are there any ATMs nearby?

ATMs are located outside the Studio near the lockers, as well as inside the Studio adjacent to the Dino Store by Jurassic Park. Please refer to the Studio Guide, or ask any Team Member, for more information.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Health Services is available in Universal Studios, and if you are feeling unwell, you are encouraged to approach any Team Member for assistance.

What should I do if I realized I lost something?

Please inquire about it with Team Members at the locations where you may have left it. You can also visit Lost and Found (located in Guest Services), or ask any Team Member for assistance.

Are there age, height or weight restrictions for the attractions in the theme park?

For safety purposes, there are height, weight, and/or health restrictions for various attractions. Please check a park guide map for more information.

Are there facilities for the handicapped in the Park?

A complimentary guide for guests with disabilities is available at Guest Services. This guide explains boarding procedures and specific information relating to each attraction.

Are there shower facilities in the Park?

There are no shower facilities within the park.

Will there be baby prams provided in the Park?

Rentals are available at $10 per single stroller, or $15 per double stroller. Purchases can be made at any ticket window, or at the Rentals location (to the right upon park entry).

Are there nursing rooms within the Park?

There is a nursing area available within the Baby Care Centre in Guest Services.

F & B

Are there Halal-certified restaurants within the Park?

Yes. There are in fact, several. These restaurants are Mel’s Drive-In, Friar’s, Goldilocks, Celebrity Cafe & Bakery, Oasis Spice Cafe and Gloria’s Snack Shack.

Are there vegetarian options available in the Park?

Yes. All our outlets will be offering a vegetarian choice and/or a healthy choice, including kids’ meals.

Is it possible for parties and conventions to be held within Universal Studios Singapore?

Yes! Please contact our MICE Sales Representatives through email at mice@rwsentosa.com or call +65 6577 9977 for any event’s needs.

Are there food carts in and around the Park?

Yes, there are plenty, and these offer a wide variety of food choices, from kebabs to popcorn.

Others

I wish to take my wedding pictures in and around the Park. Is this possible?

As the park is expected to be crowded on most days, we do not allow props and tripods to be used for wedding photography for safety reasons. We apologise for the inconvenience. Couples who wish to proceed should email at mice@rwsentosa.com at least two weeks in advance with their request.

Am I allowed to take photographs within the Park?

Feel free to take as many pictures as you would like. There are also photographers located within the park to assist with capturing your lasting memories.

Are pets and animals allowed within the Park?

No pets or animals are allowed within our premises, with the exception of service animals for the visually impaired.

Is smoking allowed within the Park premises?

Smoking is allowed only within designated areas. Please refer to a park guide map, or ask any Team Member for assistance. We urge customers to be considerate and observe the designated smoking areas.

So to all.... Enjoy your trip to USS....

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

Sales Alert - Adidas Sale

2010-03-23T09:24:00.003+08:00

Salam to all.....

Mak Pah's colleague informed that Adidas has moved into the same building with our headquarters. As a start, they are offering opening sale at a discount of 30% on all items. Details are as follows:

ADIDAS SALES

Date:

25/03/2010 (Thur)

Venue:

SIA Building,

No. 77 Robinson Road

S'pore 068896

5th Floor

(take the 3rd lift from the right - pls ask security if you are not sure)

Time:

10am - 7.30pm

Interested??? Go then.....

Happy Shopping!!!

i LOVE mondays : Designer Baby!!!!

2010-03-23T01:28:00.004+08:00

In the name of Almighty, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

i LOVE mondays is proud to announce the arrival of our Blushwax princess - She's born on Monday and definitely earn her Walk of Fame in i LOVE mondays.. I could already see her artistic and creative values in her joyful face...

Congratulation to our VU gal, Raf, on the new addition!

Your VU family wishes that the little one grows up to be a graceful girl with all good things surrounds her and be blessed by His Grace.

From All of US - Mak Pah, Mama Moralle, Mama Ann, Pearl, Naddy

Warehouse Sales Alert - AKIRA EXTRAvaganza Sale!

2010-03-18T14:55:00.003+08:00

Time-out with Shopper-Mama: Beauty alternatives - Part 2

2010-03-17T09:20:00.000+08:00

Hellooo again you beautiful vogue-uers!

In continuation to my previous entry here, as promised, here are some more cheap Beauty alternative tips for you to try and this time, its for our body!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Everyone hates Body odour! So just in case you have run out of deodorant at home, dont despair.

Run to the kitchen & pray that yr mother has kept stock of this...

Baking soda bicarbonate (price ranges at most supermarkets)

What: Besides cooking and cleaning, baking soda can also be used as a natural form of deodorant - a cheap and effective fix for when you have run out of your regular supply.

How: Baking soda is an alkaline that helps absorb sweat.

Start by putting an eighth of a teaspoon of baking soda in your palm, then add a quarter teaspoon of water.

Mix them well and apply directly to your underarms. Note that sodium bicarbonate can cause skin sensitivity so test a small amount to your skin first.

Shopper-mama said: Well, considering that I dont bake at all, its time I check into the supermarket & grab a bottle of the Baking Soda.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brown sugar (price differs - at most supermarkets)

Extra virgin olive oil (price differs - at most supermarkets)

What: These are ingredients commonly found in kitchens. However, when mixed together, they can be a gentle yet effective body scrub that is especially good for dry skin.

How: The small brown sugar granules make a good base for the scrub and are not too rough on the skin.

Olive oil and, in particular, extra virgin olive oil, is soothing, moisturizing and contains antioxidants to combat the effects of ageing.

To make the scrub, mix one cup of brown sugar with half a cup of extra virgin olive oil and apply in the shower.

You can use a buffer to apply the scrub, then rinse with water.

Shopper-mama said: Hmmm, since I am not into pampering my body, should I just give it a try???

~~~~~~~~~~~

Ok that's it for today!

Hope these DIY tips are useful for some of you and most importantly, helps to ease yr wallet!

All pics credit to yahoo.com images.

These tips are from Urban, The Straits Times.

Vogue-U Potion - Your Wish Is My Command.....

2010-03-16T08:26:00.005+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

Happy morning all..... The story below is just a comic relief for the day! Hope you'll enjoy it and may your day today and days to come be filled with joy..... InsyaAllah.

A man walks into a restaurant with a full-grown ostrich behind him. The waitress asks them for their orders. The man says, 'A hamburger, fries and a coke,' and turns to the ostrich, 'What's yours?'. 'I'll have the same,' says the ostrich.

A short time later the waitress returns with the order. 'That will be $9.40 please.' And the man reaches into his pocket and pulls out the exact change for payment.

The next day, the man and the ostrich come again and the man says, 'A hamburger, fries and a coke.' The ostrich says, 'I'll have the same.' Again the man reaches into his pocket and pays with exact change.

This becomes routine until the two enter again. 'The usual?' asks the waitress. 'No, this is Friday night, so I will have a steak, baked potato and a salad,' says the man.. 'Same,' says the ostrich. Shortly the waitress brings the order and says, 'That will be $32.62.' Once again the man pulls the exact change out of his pocket and places it on the table.

The waitress cannot hold back her curiosity any longer. 'Excuse me, sir. How do you manage to always come up with the exact change in your pocket every time?'. 'Well,' says the man, 'several years ago I was cleaning the attic and found an old lamp. When I rubbed it, a Genie appeared and offered me two wishes. My first wish was that if I ever had to pay for anything, I would just put my hand in my pocket and the right amount of money would always be there.' 'That's brilliant!' says the waitress. 'Most people would ask for a million dollars or something, but you'll always be as rich as you want for as long as you live!'. 'That's right. Whether it's a gallon of milk or a Rolls Royce, the exact money is always there,' says the man....

The waitress asks, 'What's with the ostrich?' The man sighs, pauses and answers, 'My second wish was for a tall chick with a big butt and long legs who agrees with everything I say.'

Haha..... you may wish for anything under the sun, but sometimes you need to be careful and more precise, coz you'll never know what you wanted may not be what the giver perceived.... hehe

Enjoy....

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - What to do when you are bored at work......

2010-03-09T13:04:00.004+08:00

May Peace Be With You

What to do when you are bored at work....... (is there???)

1. Kill a few Flies.

2. Put them in the sun to dry for one hour.

3. Once they are dry, pick a pencil and paper...

Let your imagination flow.

4. Here are a few examples...

Sun-bathing anyone??

yee-haw...!!!! let's go horse riding

hey... mine furthest....!!!!

Ok... my turn. I'll jump higher than him

I told you a million times.... he did a great knee job. Now see who's losing on height!!

yeah.... I'm champion 3 years in a row!!!!

can reach or not??

ooops... too light, overboard

oh please whoever is in there, make it fast!!!!!!!

Hahahahahahaa.... Enjoy.....

Lots of Luv... Mak Pah

Vogue-U Potion - Never Lie to a Woman

2010-03-09T08:32:00.006+08:00

May Peace Be With You......

Before I read the article below, the title made me wondered what could have happened when a man lie to a woman. So my mind went a bit wild, well we've heard of many cases of foul play and to the extreme of cutting the guy up and his body parts being cooked!!!

Nevertheless, let's relax and read on......

A man called home to his wife and said, 'Honey I have been asked to go fishing up in Canada with my boss & several of his friends. We'll be gone for a week. This is a good opportunity for me to get that Promotion I've been wanting, so could you please pack enough clothes for a week and set out my rod and fishing box, we're leaving from the office & I will swing by the house to pick my things up'. 'Oh! Please pack my new blue silk pyjamas.'

The wife thinks this sounds a bit fishy but being the good wife she is, did exactly what her husband asked. The following weekend he came home a little tired but otherwise looking good. The wife welcomed him home and asked if he caught many fish? He said, 'Yes! Lots of Salmon, some Bluegill, and a few Swordfish. But why didn't you pack my new blue silk pyjamas like I asked you to do?'

You'll love the answer...

The wife replied, 'I did. They're in your fishing box ....'

Haha..... Never Lie To A Woman...!!!

So guys out there, never under-estimate your wives' ability to think ahead of you.... well guys out there, you may probably resort to leave the pyjamas at home hah.... hehe

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah

i LOVE mondays : Energy Spill - Ketika Cinta Bertasbih

2010-03-08T12:33:00.002+08:00

May Peace b Upon You

After the success of Ayat Ayat Cinta, another novel by Habiburrahman El-Shirazy - Ketika Cinta Bertasbih comes to the big screen.

I was already smitten by Melly Goeslaw's soundtrack Ketika Cinta Bertasbih and only managed to pay my dues to watch this movie last weekend when one of my girlfriend kept insisting. me to do it. And so I asked, what's the biggie with the movie and she replied.."Ah..it motivates me HOW to find my future partner.." And my cynical laugh was what she gets.

Anyways, after watching it, I have to say I enjoyed Ketika Cinta Bertasbih's storyline, that I had to brace through the early morning to continue watching Ketika Cinta Bertasbih 2.

Thus i LOVE monday decides to share this movie with you and hope that you will enjoy watching it as much as I do....And get inspired.......

KETIKA CINTA BERTASBIH 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-Tws2sn_WU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8p8161ay0sc&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGjaEvEhPiM&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBL_eATi9FI&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-R-i0PHUEq8&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzIwXTci7_Y&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=us5tkLIlUQU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOduNd9XgLs&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHvPOWkiiYw&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsVfhakY09E&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LoRBbU85cY&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imDSHTwzEq0&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJN5VVu8tgw&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCfcMIqS0rA&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neDWqCqFCnQ&feature=related

KETIKA CINTA BERTASBIH 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAD1IE-zkvY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcQ6FFV4kh0&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=huNltKHi3Uc&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGJl9zd7nbs&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7f-yiVNav5E&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTU2gott80E&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGjfc4AsQKU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WuvMCYphV10&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLzPYkKsOi8&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsoU6rBH3kg&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wz9SrfpVQ9s&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BA9T11ztLCI&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKCAi2u-MmU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKAIN3oy3Jg&feature=related

Fi hifzillah,
PearL

i LOVE mondays : Design Flaws

2010-03-08T08:54:00.001+08:00

May Peace b Upon You

While there are good and functional design, there are still some which kept our minds thinking.....what is going on this their minds...

These are some hilarious details which DO happens sometimes. i LOVE mondays decides to explore some of these "smack on your head" end result just to put a bit of a smile on your Monday.

watch out ..I'm looking at you..eerrr..

stairway to nowhere?..

bridge of horror

one of these windows is doing its own thing..."sesame street tune"

somewhere along the way, I'm confused...Up or down?..

well, never too early to prepare that expansion floor...

Nah, i'll forgo the windows....so i can walk around naked

i sure know when the train's coming...

that lampost is sure a "heritage"

once you in....you're IN..

a good way to save money...make the ATMs unobtainable.
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And the winner goes to..

shall we share?

Now this I have encounter before. What you draw may have a different interpretation by the builder. Count themselves lucky that they did not paint the No. 2 and A6.10 on the floor!!!

Now, have you ever came across a construction or design that just makes your mind goes...hmmmm?

Have a great Monday!

From your loving "kawaii" designer,
PearL

Time-out with Shopper Mama: Beauty Alternatives - Part 1

2010-03-03T09:05:00.000+08:00

Helloooooo Vogue-ers!

I came across an article on beauty alternatives in Urban, and its worth sharing with you! As you know, some potions and lotions are sooooo pricy that it breaks my heart to part my moolah buying them! For example, would I ever spend S$300 for an ounce of the miracle Creme De La Mer? Nope, no way baby!

In actual fact, there are so many other beauty alternatives too we can get traditionally but some are quite troublesome to prepare, for example, the leaves or dedaun has to be grated or pounded etc. As such, here are some cheaper alternatives recommended by Urban which can be bought off the shelves, no need to grind, mince, crush or mash whatsoever, for you to try out!

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For your beautiful face

Sudocrem - S$12 for 60g (from most pharmacies)

What - Most mothers know Sudocrem is handy for healing nappy rash, bites and rash. But few know that it also gets rid of pimples - just ask British pop star Cheryl Cole (soon-to-be Cheryl Tweedy with millions to her name, if she is smart enough to fight for it!) who swears by its zit-zapping powers.

How - The cream contains high levels of zinc oxide which reduces the loss of tissue fluid. This helps to dry out unwanted pimples. It also contains benzyl benzoate, which acts as a healing agent, and benzyl alcohol, which is an antiseptic.

Simply apply a small amount to the problem area and leave overnight!

Shopper-Mama said: Ok well, if Cheryl Cole swears by it, then I will try it too and zap that zit off, which I do get once in a while!

**********

Vaseline - S$ 3.54 for 100 ml (from most pharmacies)

What - This multi-purpose petroleum jelly is widely used as a body moisturiser and to relieve chapped lips. Jennifer Lopez, yes that Jenny on the block, even uses it to help remove stubborn eye make-up. And it also helps to keep pesky eyebrow hairs in place!

How - The product contains a mixture of mineral oils, paraffin and waxes. Together, they create a non-sticky but thick moisturing jelly. When applied, it melts into the skin but maintains a barrier to lock in moisture. To remove eye make-up, apply a pea-sized amount to yr eye-lids. Then, using a cotton pad, gently wipe the make up off.

Shopper-Mama said: This is certainly a much much cheaper alternative eye make-up remover, worth trying! I can safely say bye-bye to Ms Shu Uemura!

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For your lustrous hair

Johnson's baby powder - S$1.35 for 100g (from most pharmacies, supermarkets & general stores)

What - Baby powder can also work as a dry shampoo, especially for those who wish to maintain colour-treated hair and not wash it everyday.

How - The powder will absorb some of the oil that hair generates between washings. Use only a small amount and apply it starting from the scalp using a comb or your fingers.

Rub the powder in and your hair will soon smell fresher and appear less greasy. To ensure that the powder does not leave visible white streaks in your hair, shake out any excess product.

Shopper-Mama said: OK I have to admit, this one, I dare not try...hahaha. Coz it reminds me of those cite hantu2 pontianak with white streaks of hair! hehehehe

Oh pls remember to shake or dust off those excess powder, otherwise, when you flick your hair ala-ala those girls in the advertisements, imagine how the person next to you will look like when the excess powder flew right onto their face!

*********

Apple cider vinegar - S$3.15 for 473 ml (from supermarkets)

What - This sour-tasting liquid is great for adding flavour to your cooking, but it also can bring life to dull looking hair. A vinegar rinse is known to give hair a healthy shine and make it easier to manage.

How – The residue caused by the regular use of the products can leave hair looking dull and lifeless. Vinegar can help to neutralize the alkali left by shampooing your hair too often. To make a vinegar rinse, add half a tablespoon of vinegar to one cup of water. Apply this directly to your hair after shampooing. You can wash the vinegar out with water or leave it to dry. Do this twice a week.

Shopper-Mama said: Yes everyone has her bad hair days! So it doesn’t seem to hurt (your pocket) to try this cheaper option, rather than spend a fortune at salons! Say hello to shiny glossy hair, the DIY way!

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Ok thats it for today! Next time, I will give you tips for the body.

If any of you have some tips to share, please do so here with me.

Till then, enjoy the rest of the week!

All pics credit to yahoo.com images.
These tips are from Urban, The Straits Times.

Vogue-U Potion - Always Ask, Never Assume..........

2010-03-02T09:44:00.004+08:00

In the name of the Almighty, the most Gracious and most Merciful......

When I read the under-mentioned, it made me laughed the whole day. Credit to Pearl for such a eye-opener topic for Mak Pah's potion today........

Upon approval of his request, the CNN News photographer quickly used a cell phone to call the local airport to charter a flight. He was told a twin-engine plane would be waiting for him at the airport. Arriving at the airfield, he spotted a plane warming up outside a hanger.

He jumped in with his bag, slammed the door shut, and shouted, 'Let's go'.

The pilot taxied out, swung the plane into the wind and took off. Once in the air, the photographer instructed the pilot, 'Fly over the valley and make low passes so I can take pictures of the fires on the hillsides.'

'Why?' asked the pilot. 'Because I'm a photographer for CNN' , he responded, 'and I need to get some close up shots.'

The pilot was strangely silent for a moment, finally he stammered, 'So, what you're telling me, is . . . You're NOT my flight instructor?'

Life is short.......

Someone said:
When you ASSUME = you make an ASS out of U and ME....

So the morale behind the story is to Always Ask, Never Assume!! If not you may end up in deep soup.

Lots of Luv.... Mak Pah.

Vogue-U Potion - Train Track and Children

2010-02-23T09:18:00.007+08:00

May Peace Be With You.......

The story here is quite interesting and really gives us an insight into Decision Making. Without realising it, Mak Pah noticed we tend to be quite stereotyped in making a rational decision which in the end could be disasterous. Read on to analyse the situation......

A group of children were playing near two railway tracks, one track was still in use while the other disused. Only one child played on the disused track, and the rest were on the operational track.

The train came, and you were just beside the track interchange. It was not possible to stop the train but you could make the train change its course to the disused track and saved most of the kids!

However, that would also mean the lone child playing on the disused track would be sacrificed. Or would you rather let the train go its way????

Let's take a pause to think what kind of decision we could make.....................

Analyse the situation.................

Think and reflect..................

Decided on your answer??????

Most of us might choose to divert the course of the train, and sacrifice only one life.

To save majority of the children at the expense of only one child was quite a rational decision we would make, morally and emotionally..... right????

But, have we ever thought that the child choosing to play on the disused track had in fact made the right decision to play at a safe place?

Nevertheless, he had to be sacrificed because of his ignorant friends who chose to play where the danger was!!!

This kind of dilemma happens around us almost everytime....... In the office, in any community, in politics and in any society, the minorities is often sacrificed for the interest of majority, no matter how foolish or ignorant the majority are, and how farsighted and knowledgeable the minority are.

In the above story, the child chose not to play with the rest on the operational track was sidelined. And in the case he was sacrificed, no one would shed a tear for him!

Thus making the proper decision is not trying to change the course of the train because kids playing on the operational track should have known very well that the track was still in use, and they should have run away if they heard the train's siren.

If the train was diverted, that lone child would definitely die because he never thought the train could come over the disused track. Moreover, that track was not in use, probably because it was not safe.

In fact, if the train was diverted to the disused track, we could put lives of all passengers on board at stake as well. And in the attempt to save a few kids by sacrificing one child, we may end up sacrificing hundreds more lives!!!!!

While we are all aware that life is full of tough decisions that need to be made, we may not realize that hasty decisions may not always be the right one.

"Remember that what's right is not always popular........... and what's popular is not always right."

Everybody makes mistakes; and that's why many pencils have erasers on them......

Something for us to ponder.......

Lots of Luv....... Mak Pah

i LOVE mondays - Energy Spill : Kasihnya Allah pada wanita

2010-02-22T12:57:00.003+08:00

May Peace be Upon You

A girlfriend of mine forwarded me this article and I thought its worth to share it in i LOVE mondays afternoon read....

"Keistimewaan yang Tuhan berikan kepada wanita terlalu banyaknya". "Kasihnya Tuhan kepada wanita!" Itulah kata-kata yang paling mudah digunakan untuk menggambarkan 'layanan' istimewa terhadap wanita dalam Islam. Sesungguhnya, tidak akan ada mana-mana ajaran, ideologi, isme atau agama lain yang dapat melayan wanita dengan sebegitu baik sepertimana Islam melayan wanitanya. Malah, kalau bergabung pun kesemua wanita yang cerdik pandai, berharta dan berkuasa di seluruh dunia ini untuk menambah hak dan pengiktirafan buat mereka, mereka pasti tidak akan mencapai taraf kemuliaan serta layanan baik yang Allah SWT tawarkan buat seorang wanita di dalam Islam.

Namun, ramai wanita yang tidak memahami hal ini. Lantaran itu kebanyakan mereka tertipu oleh nafsu sendiri dan merasa terkongkong dengan amalan atau larangan tertentu yang digunakan ke atas wanita Islam seperti amalan menutup aurat, larangan bergaul bebas, poligami, larangan wanita menjadi pemimpin dan lain-lain lagi. Mereka cukup takut dan gerun dengan kesemua amalan atau larangan yang dianggap sangat menindas wanita. Walhal kalau dikaji setiap satu amalan atau larangan itu, mudah sahaja untuk melihat hikmah dan kebaikannya kepada kaum wanita itu sendiri.

Lalu kita melihat apa yang diperjuangkan oleh pejuang-pejuang hak wanita ialah mereka kalau boleh tidak mahu sebarang sekatan dikenakan ke atas mereka. Tentulah ini tidak munasabah. Sedangkan manusia sendiri banyak membuat peraturan-peraturan serta larangan itu dan ini, atas alasan hendak menjaga keselamatan diri atau masyarakat awam. Contohnya, dalam soal lalu-lintas, terlalu banyak peraturan dan larangan yang manusia buat seperti jangan memandu melebihi had laju, tidak boleh letak kereta di garisan kuning, mesti berhenti apabila ada isyarat lampu merah, mesti hidupkan lampu selepas pukul 7 malam dan berbagai-bagai lagi. Kalau dalam bidang sekecil ini pun perlu banyak peraturan dan larangan, sudah tentulah dalam bidang kehidupan lebih memerlukan lagi, dan lebih-lebih lagilah kalau skopnya itu jauh lebih luas iaitu untuk keselamatan dunia dan Akhirat.

Tuhan sebenarnya sangat kasih dan memuliakan kaum wanita. Segala suruhan dan larangan yang Tuhan kenakan ke atas kaum wanita tidak lain dan tidak bukan ialah untuk memastikan keselamatan dirinya dan masyarakat dan sekali-kali bukan untuk menyusahkan mereka. Tetapi, atas hujah dan alasan apa dakwaan ini dibuat? Mari kita lihat satu persatu pengiktirafan yang diberikan olehTuhan kepada wanita, sama ada setara langsung atau pun tidak.
i) Gelaran bagi `isteri' di dalam Al Quran

Perkataan yang Allah SWT gunakan di dalam Al Quran untuk menunjukkan suami atau isteri adalah perkataan yang sama, sedangkan dalam bahasa- bahasa lain, perkataan untuk suami dan perkataan untuk isteri menggunakan dua perkataan yang berbeza. Misalnya, dalam bahasa Inggeris, perkataan untuk suami ialah `husband' manakala perkataan untuk isteri ialah `wife'. Sementara dalam bahasa Perancis pula, perkataan untuk suami ialah `mari' manakala perkataan `femme' untuk isteri.

Tetapi di dalam Al Quran, suami dan isteri tidak disebut dua perkataan yang berbeza `zaujuh' dan `zaujati'. Hanya satu perkataan yang digunakan untuk kedua-duanya iaitu `zaujuh' yang bermakna `pasangan'. Islam melihat suami dan isteri adalah pasangan, penutup dan juga pelindung buat yang lain. Mereka dilihat sebagai sepasang, bukan berasingan. Sudah tentulah ini bermakna yang kaum lelaki di dalam Islam tidak dianggap lebih mulia daripada kaum wanitanya. Apabila kita mengatakan sepasang kaca mata, sepasang stokin atau sepasang baju, tentulah kita menganggap mereka setara dan tidak dapat dipisahkan di antara satu sama lain. Dan sudah tentulah kita tidak menganggap yang stokin kanan lebih hebat daripada stokin kiri atau kaca mata kanan lebih baik daripada kaca mata kiri. Begitulah tamsilannya sepasang suami isteri di dalam Islam seperti yang tercatat di dalam Al Quran.

Namun, gelaran zaujuh ini hanya diberikan kepada isteri yang sama beriman. Bagi isteri yang tidak beriman, mereka tidak disebut zaujuh. Contohnya, isteri Nabi Lut dan isteri Nabi Nuh. Di dalam Al Quran, mereka disebut 'imraah', kerana isteri sebegini tidak dianggap pelengkap, pelindung atau penutup kepada suaminya.

ii) Pembelaan Rasulullah SAW Terhadap Wanita

Rasulullah SAW ada banyak menyatakan Hadis-Hadis yang menunjukkan betapa wanita itu dimuliakan di dalam Islam. Antaranya:

a. "Syurga di bawah telapak kaki ibu." Apakah wanita tidak rasa mulia dengan Hadis ini? Mengapa Rasulullah SAW memilih perkataan "di bawah telapak kaki" dan bukan "di dalam tangan" atau "di sisi" seorang ibu? Sudah tentu ini sangat menggambarkan mulianya seorang wanita di dalam Islam. Seorang yang faham tentu akan sangat memandang mulia, menghormati, membela serta berlumba-lumba untuk berkhidmat dan meng'hamba'kan diri kepada ibunya (dengan syarat segala yang dibuat itu tidak melanggar syariat). Tidakkah beruntung menjadi seorang ibu di dalam Islam? Dia tidak akan terbiar dan dipinggirkan, malah akan sentiasa dibela, dihormati dan dimuliakan oleh anak-anaknya.

b. "Orang yang paling baik dari antara kamu itu ialah yang paling baik kepada isi rumahnya, dan aku ini orang yang paling baik dari antara kamu kepada isi rumahku."

c. "Tidak akan memuliakan perempuan-perempuan melainkan orang yang mulia, dan tidak menghina akan perempuan-perempuan melainkan orang yang hina."(Hadis riwayat Ibnu `Asakir)

d. "Bergaullah kamu dengan isteri-isteri kamu dengan cara yang sopan. Kemudian bila kamu tidak menyukai mereka, (maka bersabarlah) kerana mungkin kamu tidak menyukai sesuatu, padahal Allah menjadikan padanya kebaikan yang banyak."

e. "Janganlah seorang mukmin lelaki membenci kepada seorang
(isterinya yang) mukminah, kerana walaupun ada satu perangainya yang lelaki itu tidak suka, tetapi (tentu) ada lain perangainya yang is suka."(Hadis riwayat Ahmad dan Muslim)

Demikianlah hak-hak istimewa seorang wanita yang diberi oleh Islam. Dalam satu masyarakat yang bertaqwa, kaum wanita tidak perlu bimbang yang mereka akan diperleceh, dipermain atau diperkotak-katikkan oleh kaum lelaki, sebaliknya mereka boleh yakin bahawa pihak lelaki akan sentiasa melindungi, menasihati, menegur dan membimbing mereka dengan ikhlas.

iii) Bahagian Tubuh Wanita Dianugerahkan Nama yang Mulia

Dalam tubuh wanita, ada satu bahagian yang diberi nana yang begitu mulia iaitu rahim. Perkataan ini diambil dari nama Tuhan, yang bermaksud `Maha Penyayang'. Sudah tentulah Tuhan tidak akan memberikan nama yang semulia ini kepada sesuatu yang hina di sisi- Nya. Sudah tentuTuhan akan memilih sesuatu yang mulia juga untuk dianugerahkan nama yang begitu mulia. Tuhan tidak berikan nama yang semulia ini kepada bahagian tubuh lelaki tetapi Dia memberikannya kepada bahagian tubuh wanita. Rahim inilah yang merupakan penghubung kepada makhluk. Di dalam rahimlah, wanita menjaga ciptaanTuhan dan memberi makan kepada apa yang Tuhan ciptakan.

Kaum wanita sepatutnya merasa sangat malu kepada Tuhan kerana memberi penghargaan yang begitu tinggi kepada mereka. Siapa boleh nafikan kepentingan rahim untuk kewujudan manusia? Anugerah rahim kepada wanita sebenarnya sudah cukup untuk membuktikan akan mulianya wanita di sisi Tuhan.

iv) Diberi Pahala yang Berterusan

Wanita disebut `kurang dari sudut agama', tetapi ini bukan bermaksud yang wanita itu kurang dari sudut iman dan taqwanya. Mereka cuma kurang bersolat ketika datang haid dan nifas. Namun, oleh kerana di waktu-waktu lain mereka sentiasa bersolat, maka sepanjang waktu haid dan nifas itu, Tuhan tetap memberikan juga pahala solat sekiranya mereka dapat bersabar dengan keadaannya yang tidak selesa itu.

Bayangkan seorang wanita yang baru melahirkan anak. Sudahlah digugurkan dosa-dosanya seperti seorang bayi yang baru lahir, diberikan pula pahala solat percuma sepanjang dia dalam keadaan nifas. Dan kalau dia sabar menyusu, memelihara dan melayan kerenah anaknya pula, makin banyaknya pahala yang Tuhan sediakan untuknya.

Aduh! Maha Pemurahnya Tuhan kepada wanita. Maha Baiknya Tuhan kepada golongan yang sering dianggap lemah dan terpinggir ini! Kalaulah wanita-wanita pejuang hak asasi itu tahu begini sekali ganjaran- ganjaran yang Tuhan berikan kepada seorang wanita mukminah, pastilah mereka akan meninggalkan perjuangan mereka. Tidak ada apa-apa lagi hak yang perlu diperjuangkan oleh seorang wanita mukminah. Yang Tuhan tawarkan itu pun sudah terlampau banyaknya.
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150. Sesungguhnya orang-orang yang kafir kepada Allah dan rasul-rasul-Nya, dan bermaksud memperbedakan antara (keimanan kepada) Allah dan rasul-rasul-Nya, dengan mengatakan: "Kami beriman kepada sebahagian dan kami kafir terhadap sebahagian (yang lain)", serta bermaksud (dengan perkataan itu) mengambil jalan (tengah) di antara yang demikian (iman atau kafir),

151. merekalah orang-orang yang kafir sebenar-benarnya.Kami telah menyediakan untuk orang-orang yang kafir itu siksaan yang menghinakan.

152. Orang-orang yang beriman kepada Allah dan para Rasul-Nya dan tidak membeda-bedakan seorangpun di antara mereka, kelak Allah akan memberikan kepada mereka pahalanya. Dan adalah Allah Maha Pengampun lagi Maha Penyayang.

(An-Nisaa': 150-152)

Fi hifzillah - PearL

i LOVE mondays - AngPaos for the Tiger

2010-02-22T09:17:00.004+08:00

May Peace Be Upon You

Gong Xi Fa Cai to all!! i LOVE mondays is now in the year of the Tiger!!!!..And happens to be the year yours truly is born ...

So as usual, I'm a sucker for these money envelopes and this year I went a little overboard. Not just going to the banks to collect the envelopes but roped in Shopaholic Mama to gave me hers too...Well, the images that is...

Lets have a run down.

CIMB Bank : Going away from the traditional RED angpao, it does have an elegance touch to it.

Maybank : Not the current year design but I got this at the Money changer. I quite like the size, suitable for the smaller notes but not so keen with the design. It could have looked better with just the calligraphy minus the oranges.

Public Bank Group : Another that I got from the money changer.

NTUC Fairprice : One of my favourites actually. Its fun, its refreshing and tastefully done.

UOB Bank : Predictable.....

DBS Bank : Another favourite!.

OCBC Bank : Somehow, the design seems similar with DBS... Coincidence I guess. OCBC gives a selection of design in a pack which is a clever thought. You could separate use a different colour for different denomination and still have a nice set of angpaos.

DBS Treasures : The more exclusive feel for the "upper crust"

Starhub : Now, this is my No. 1 favourite!!!! Whilst its not your traditional red angpao, the graphics still represents that Oriental essence with great colour contrast.

Starhub : Another from Starhub, although I still prefers the first design.

Singtel : A pleasant colour combination and the graphic works quite well.

Maybank : This one very functional. An envelope within an envelope. Very versatile. Just flip the inner slot to suit the occasion - Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Weddings....

So, which one is your favourite?

Have a prosperous Tiger year ahead. May you have abundance Wealth and lasting Health!!!!
Pearl

IN THE KITCHEN WITH MAMA MORALLE.....CNY RECIPES TO TRY

2010-02-12T10:30:00.005+08:00

Gong Xi, Gong Xi, Happy Chinese New Year to all our Chinese Voguerssss…………..

Since CNY is over the weekends, today mama would like to share some recipes that our Chinese friends out there can try for te CNY, not only for the Chinese, even others can try it too, tukar selera ape salahnye kan :):)

Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies :

Ingredients (yield 30 – 40 cookies)

300g peanuts, fried/roasted and ground until fine
200g castor sugar
250g all purpose flour
200ml of canola oil (use sparingly and use only enough to bind the mixture)
teaspoon salt
handful of peanuts, fried/roasted, halved then cut into quarter when still hot.
one egg white for the glazing finishing touch

Methods

Preheat the oven at 200°C and lay out 2 baking sheets with greased baking paper or silicone mat.

Grind the roasted peanuts till fine and put them in a large mixing bowl. The oil from the ground peanut will make them stick into lumps, use fingers to break them apart.

Sift the flour, salt and sugar into the peanut mixture and mix them together until well combined.

drizzle half of the oil into the bowl, use hand and knead the mixture together.

Pour the rest of the oil while still kneading the mixture until all the sugar melted and you can roll the mixture up into a ball without sticking to the bowl or your fingers. Then test it with a small lump of the mixture and roll into a ball between your palms. If it doesn’t crumble, then your mixture is ready. If not, add just bit more oil until you can roll them into a ball.

wash, clean and dry your hands. Sit down, turn on the TV and switch to your favourite channel and ready for some ball rolling action.

Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture into your palm, and roll them into small balls. Place them on the baking sheets.

Put a little quartered peanut on top of each ball, then glaze it with the egg white. Put in the oven for 17 mins or until golden brown.

Note: once cool down on the rack, put them in an air-tight seal container. Alternatively, you can store in any container with a screw top lid, then seal it with sticky tape for that authentic home made cookies look.

Shrimp Wontons Recipe :

Ingredients:

3/4 lb shrimp (shelled and deveined)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon oil
1 teaspoon peeled, grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons corn starch
3 sprigs coriander (leaves only, minced)
2 water chestnuts, peeled and finely chopped
White pepper powder to taste
1/2 beaten egg (for sealing wontons)

Coarsely chop shrimp into pieces (not too small) and mix well with the above seasonings. Set aside. Fill each wonton skin with 1 heaping teaspoon of filling and seal the wonton skin with the beaten egg.

Boil the wontons in boiling water for a couple of minutes or until they start floating. Serve hot with ginger vinegar dipping sauce and/or garlic chili sauce.

Garlic Chili Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:
4 garlic cloves
8 dry red chilies (minced)2 teaspoons of grated fresh ginger
Salt to taste

Blend the above ingredients and stir fry them with oil until fragrant. Set aside.

Ginger Vinegar Dipping Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:
2 teaspoons peeled, grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of dark vinegar
1 tablespoon of chopped scallion

Mix the above ingredients and set aside.

Red Bean Paste Pancakes
(end the family dinner with a sweet note with this Chinese dessert pancakes)

Ingredients:

1 large egg, lightly beaten

5 tablespoons all purpose-flour

51/2 tablespoons water

4 tablespoons canned red bean paste

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Cooking oil for deep frying

Method:

In a mixing bowl, blend the egg, flour, and water together to form the batter. Divide the batter into 2 equal portion.

Put a smear of oil on an 8-inch flat, non-stick frying pan and wipe all over with a paper towel. Pour all but 1 teaspoon of one portion of the batter into the frying pan and tilt it to let the mixture run evenly to the edges, forming a thin layer.

Cook over low heat for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes a thin pancake but without any brown spots. Do not turn the pancake over.

Loosen the edges and using a spatula, lift the pancake to a lightly oiled plate or a flat surface.

Make the other pancake the same way.

Spread 2 tablespoons of the red bean paste across the middle third of each pancake, leaving about 1 inch at either end. Fold the near flap over the bean paste and the side flaps inwards and then the far flap over towards the center. Seal with a little of the leftover batter smeared on the edges.

Smear sesame seeds on the surface of the pancakes. Seal with the leftover batter.

Heat the wok or deep fryer (to 350 degree) and deep fry the pancakes until they turn golden in color.

Remove the pancake from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Cut each pancake into strips and serve immediately.

Longan Dessert/Longan Tong Sui :

Ingredients:

2-3 oz dried longan

6 cups water

6 dried red dates

12 ginkgo nuts

5 pieces snow fungus (soaked until soft)

Sugar to taste

Method:

Bring water to boil. Add the dried longan, red dates, ginkgo nuts, and snow fungus. Boil in low heat for 30-45 minutes or until the water turns brown in color. Add sugar to taste. Serve warm or cold with ice cubes.

"HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL"

**all pics courtesy of googles**

Vogue-U Potion - How Barbie Dolls Are Created

2010-02-09T09:24:00.009+08:00

Praise to the Almighty, Most Gracious and Most Merciful

Most of us know about the famous Barbie dolls, but only a few of us know the history behind them. Mak Pah's cousin sent an email last week on how Barbie dolls are created, and out of curiousity, Mak Pah decided to goggle about these captivating dolls. And to my surprise history of the dolls went back in the year 1959. Read on what Mak Pah found in the net.....

The history of Barbie doll dates back to March 9, 1959, when Ruth Handler invented it. The doll which has been captivating the imagination of thousands of young girls throughout the world has completed fifty years in 2009. The name of Ruth Handler's daughter was Barbara, and it is believed that the doll is named after her. The doll was made up by Mattel, Inc. - the largest toy importing company and Ruth Handler was the co-founder of that organization. Today, Mattel, Inc. is regarded as one of the largest company in the world ranked on the basis of revenue earned, and Barbie dolls accounts to almost 80% of the total profit earned. Barbie introduced herself to the world at the American Toy Fair held in New York City. Sometimes she is seen as a symbol of American culture and sometimes criticized as the icon of the materialistic society. Some people also criticize her for representing the stereotypical woman. Her image as the stereotype woman has given birth to the term “Barbie Doll” which is used to describe a beautiful and attractive but conventional woman. Her popularity is still immense in the sense, even after 50 years, almost every young girl wishes to possess at least one Barbie doll.

Here's some pictures forwarded by my cousin on the process of creating the Barbie dolls.

Enjoy.....

Wow, looking at the process, makes me salute to the creator for the details and effort put in to produce them.

Lots of Luv........ Mak Pah

credit to my cousin, Wana..... muacks

The Geek Chic 101 - Home based Business

2010-02-06T12:58:00.000+08:00

Last 2 weekends, I was at a fleamarket and I got to know quite a few home business owners which I would want to recommend for and share with. Networking is normal when it comes to things like this. :)

Peachy Swits Homemade Delights
http://peachyswits.multiply.com/

My say: Their brownies are one of the best I've tasted! So were their kuih tat and suji. Their prices are affordable too. A sweet bunch of family. :)

Malmas Delicacies
http://malmas.multiply.com/

Specialised in customised cupcakes, birthday cakes, wedding berkats, pulut, etc.

Hajah Kumanah Muzari

http://picasaweb.google.com/kumanah12

Specialised in kek lapis sarawak, nutella rolls, gubahan and cakes!

My say: Hajah Kumanah was actually one of my customers actually. She's a very nice and humble lady. Although I have not tried any of her delicacies, I dare say that by looking at the photos, she's one awesome baker! Creative too! :)

Cover Me Different

http://covermedifferent.multiply.com

The Geek Chic says YES! to this cool-looking headwear for Muslim women. ;)

Traditional Massage For Women Only
Puan Zalinah Ja'afar

For Appointment Pls Call: 9740 7940

Specialised in:

Post Natal Massage
Normal Massage 1 hr - $40 Head to Toe
Bridal Scrub/ Lulur & Massage

If I'm not mistaken, she lives in Choa Chu Kang area.

That's some of them for my fleamarket networking deals. Hope to get to know more of them in my next fleamarket, if there is one. Hehe. Have a great weekend!

IN THE KITCHEN WITH MAMA MORALLE.....LOVE POTIONS RECIPES

2010-02-05T11:01:00.003+08:00

Hi there voguerssss.........time for us to share the love recipes again.......mama found this while surfing, lets just read n enjoy this love potions ya, who knows ada gunanye suatu hari untuk kiter semua ..... :):)

7 Habits of Highly Successful Couples

Keeping intimate relationship alive requires strength, motivation, and a little something called love. We are guilty of basing our romantic beliefs on fairytales. The problem with happily ever after is there's more to ever after than meets the eye. To hold on to Prince Charming, Snow White has to be willing to do more than sing with the bluebirds.

If you are willing to put forth the effort to keep your relationship alive, then developing the following seven habits will help you become one of those highly successful couples.

HABIT #1 - GIVE EACH OTHER PLEASURE

Your goal in the relationship is to give each other pleasure, not to cause pain. Simple, isn't it? However... for just a single day, become consciously aware of everything you do, by asking yourself the question, "Is what I'm about to do or say going to cause my partner pain or pleasure?"

To help you, each of you should make two lists: one for all the things your partner does that hurt you, and another for all that you'd like your partner to do to give you pleasure. Swap lists, and now you know exactly what to do and what not to do. No more guessing!

HABIT #2 - CREATE LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP RITUALS

We fall in love through rituals of connection and intimacy such as romantic dinners, long conversations, riding bicycles or going for walks, exchanging gifts, talking every night on the telephone...

When we fall in love our relationship becomes the center point of our life, with anything else becoming secondary. Over time, when the relationship becomes more settled (particularly after we have children), this process reverses. The children, our work, our hobbies, our friends - take the center stage and the relationship being relegated to the background tending only to receive our attention in times of crisis.

The remedy to routine (the main cause of dull relationships) is connection and intimacy rituals.

For example, every Saturday evening, as a changeover from the working week into the weekend, take two hours together when you put a "do not disturb" sign on your busy life. No phones, no answered doors, no e-mails, no TV, nothing... Just the two of you and your relationship. Do what you will with the time, however it must be an investment in your relationship.

HABIT #3 - CREATE A SAFE SPACE FOR OPEN AND HONEST SHARING

Create a sense of safety and acceptance that allows each of you to express your feelings, problems, expectations and disappointments. One of our connection rituals is a process called "Clearing" that creates this atmosphere of safety and acceptance.

EVERY NIGHT before we go to sleep, we ask each other "what DID NOT work for you today?" We give each other a chance to share about all the things that went "wrong" during the day (whether connected to the relationship or not). If there are any solutions that we can mutually agree upon to assist with improvements for the future, we raise the issue.

When both of us are complete, we initiate a second round, in which we ask each other "what DID work for you today?" This is our opportunity to share about all the goodness that we've experienced during the day, as well as acknowledge each other (and others) for the support and love we've received.

HABIT #4 - WORK TOGETHER TO RESOLVE CONFLICT AND CRISIS

The problem with the way most couples argue is that they attempt to find solutions before allowing each other the chance to say what they need to say. The "Council" process ensures that before you engage in solution talk, each one of you feels you have been fully heard.

Here's how it can be made to work in the practice: One person holds an object in their hand, called the "Talking Piece", which symbolizes that he or she has the floor. While one person has the floor, the other person is allowed only to listen without interruption.

When speaking, you should focus on speaking from your heart (emotional, spontaneous, instinctive as opposed to mental). When listening, you are encouraged to listen from your heart (i.e. from acceptance and compassion). Only after each person has been fully "heard," (in case it is still necessary) continue through to the process of problem solving.

HABIT #5 - TURN TOWARD EACH OTHER, RATHER THAN AWAY

When you pass your lover during the course of a day, do you stop and rub their shoulder, give them a kiss on the cheek, and whisper something nice in their ear - or do you just walk on by? This is the meaning of "turning toward" as opposed to "turning away." Turning toward each other means making each other your number one priority. Make sure to find ways to be physically and emotionally close to each other, such as doing things together that you both enjoy. Take walks together, drink coffee together after dinner, listen to music together...

HABIT #6 - SCHEDULE TIME FOR LOVE

Want to improve your sex life? Here's one of the most profound pieces of advice I can give you: SCHEDULE IT! Doesn't sound very romantic, I know. But it works.

Waiting for that "magic moment" when you're both "in the mood" may be romantic, but it's not always practical. We all have had times when we were waiting and waiting and... waiting.

Plan in the morning to make love that night. Call each other all day long with reminders, ideas and seductive suggestions. By the time evening rolls around you'll both feel like you've engaged in foreplay all day long - and you'll be ready for an exciting night!

HABIT #7 - CREATE MEANING IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP

Think about it, besides having fun, what else would you like to do together in the coming 40 years?

We all need meaning in our lives. You will enrich your relationship by sharing meaningful experiences with each other. The ultimate in meaning is to share a common philosophy of life and life purpose. This is why couples who choose a path of personal-growth or spirituality together, have great source of meaning in their lives.

When you practice these seven habits intentionally and consistently, you'll re-create every day a loving, fulfilling and long-lasting relationship.

It's easy - give it a try....HAPPY WKENDS TO ALL

Timeout with Shopper Mama - Medical alert!

2010-02-03T14:50:00.001+08:00

Hellooo hellooooo...

Do you realise that time flies so fast, when we are too over stress in office. So before you over-kill yourself, read this -

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Centre for Disease Control has issued a medical alert about a highly contagious, potentially dangerous virus that is transmitted orally, by hand, and even electronically.

This virus is called Weekly Overload Recreational Killer (WORK).

If you receive WORK from your boss, any of your colleagues or anyone else via any means whatsoever - DO NOT TOUCH IT!!! This virus will wipe out your private life entirely. If you should come into contact with WORK you should immediately leave the premises.

You should immediately forward this medical alert to your friends. If you do not have friends, you have already been infected and WORK is, sadly, controlling your life. Get help immediately !

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, take a coffee break now ok!

Vogue-U Potion - The Truth About Hugs!

2010-02-02T09:30:00.010+08:00

May Peace Be With You.....

There's no such thing as

a bag hug, only good ones

and great ones

Hugs are

non-fattening and

they don't cause cancer or cavities...

HUGS ARE

all natural

with no preservatives, artificial

ingredients or pesticide residue...

Hugs are

cholesterol-free,

naturally sweet, 100% wholesome

and they are a completely

renewable resource...

Hugs are

Easy to care for, they don't require batteries,

tune-ups, or x-rays...

HUGS are

non-taxable,

fully returnable and energy efficient...

HUGS ARE

safe in

all kinds of weather...

In fact,

HUGS ARE

especially good for

cold and rainy days

and

HUGS ARE

exceptionally

effective in treating problems

like bad dreams or Monday blues...

Never wait until tomorrow to hug

someone you could hug today,

because when you give one,

you get one right back

your way!

Lots of Luv..... Mak Pah

Hope for Haiti: Tees Charity Project for 2010 Haiti Earthquake

2010-01-31T16:03:00.001+08:00

Hi All,
Currently my blogshop is busy with our latest project; in aid for the Haitians who were badly affected by the recent Earthquake and I would like to call upon Vogue-ers to lend a helping hand in support to rebuild lives.

An horrendous earthquake furiously shook Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, one of the poorest countries in the world, flattening hospitals, schools, the Presidential Palace and thousands of homes.

Tens of thousands are dead and more than three million people have been affected by the disaster. Even before the disaster, many Haitians already found it difficult to conduct ordinary lives — 85 per cent of them live on less than $3 a day.

Now they have lost their loved ones, their homes and their livelihoods, and they are trying to survive without clean water, food or shelter, and with very little medical assistance. The scale of the disaster is immense.

According to the UN secretary general Ban Ki Moon, this is one of the worst ever humanitarian emergencies. The damage to the already-poor Haiti infrastructure is so great that even providing emergency relief has proven extremely difficult.

We are collaborating with DoubletakeClothing from the US and our printer, Booyod Republic from Malaysia in our pledge to support the Haitians.

All net proceeds will go to several Haiti Earthquake Relief Organizations including The Singapore Red Cross Society and World Vision Singapore. We, Bo Janggo is not charging any overhead (we make $0!) and all delivery costs (registered mail) are included. International buyers from Malaysia are mostly welcome to purchase the t-shirts as we have Booyod Republic representing us too. (Payments through Maybank account transfers.) Donations from Malaysians will be forwarded to the Malaysian Red Crescent Society.

Any other form of donations are also welcome. We will periodically keep you updated with our estimated total donation here. :)

Note: This is a pre-order item, so we will get the shirts to you as fast as possible. (max: 1 week.)

EACH HAITI TEE COST SGD15 or RM25 ONLY

Colours Available:

Black, White, Red, Grey, Orange, Yellow, Khaki, Royal Blue

Sizes (Measurements in inches)
(Chest - Pit to Pit Flat)

XS : 15-16
S : 17-18

M : 19-20

L : 21-22

XL : 23-24

2XL : 25-26

3XL : 27-28

*For 2XL and 3XL, please add SGD1 or RM2 to the total cost.

For purchases, please email us at bo.janggo@gmail.com and provide the following details:

Your name:
Contact Number:
Delivery Address:
Tee Colour(s):
Tee Size(s):

We ensure you that we will reply within 24 hours and will advise you further on the process of payment.

Thank you for supporting. :)

Our prayers are with Haiti.

IN THE KITCHEN WITH MAMA MORALLE.......SALAD RECIPES

2010-01-29T08:00:00.004+08:00

Halo halo voguerssssss..........lets eat healthy this wkends, fruits n vege, aint it healthy, hehe :):)

Make Great Side Dishes With These Easy Salad Recipes!

Fruit Salad Recipes

Fruit salad recipes don't have to be fancy or made with a large number of different ingredients. Just cutting up an apple and putting it on a plate or in a bowl can be enough to call it a fruit salad.

When I make a fruit salad I simply go to the grocery store and buy 1 or 2 of a variety of different fruits. I like to really mix it up with citrus, berries, melons, apples, bananas, peaches, and whatever else I can find. I sometimes mix fresh and canned fruits which gives the salad lots of extra juice.

Fruits Ingredients :

1 grapefruit

2 oranges

2 bananas

6 large strawberries-sliced

2 nectarines

honeydew melon balls from 1/2 of a melon

Keep salad in the refrigerator covered with clear plastic wrap. This salad should be eaten within 1 day as some of the ingredients will get mushy and brown over time.

You can serve this salad as is or dress it with a whipped topping, yogurt, or instant pudding.

Classic Potato Salad Recipes

They may take a little time to make, but these classic potato salad recipes are very popular and easy to make.

You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make the basic version of this dish, just start with potatoes and mayonnaise, add some vegetables of your choice, season with a little salt or other condiment and you have your own unique version.

Ingredients:
Potatoes

6 hard boiled eggs

mayonnaise

Extra veggys:
Purple onion

Orange peppers

broccoli

celery

Peel and boil enough potatoes to fill your salad bowl. Rinse cooked potatoes under cold water and let cool. When cooled, put the potatoes back in the pot and chop them into roughly even sized pieces.

Peel and chop 4 of the hard boiled eggs and add them to the pot.

Chop the vegetables and add a little at a time until you have an even mix

Add mayo a little at a time while mixing it into the salad.

When you have the right consistency, sample and add salt to taste.

When ready, transfer salad to your bowl, peel and slice the remaining 2 eggs and place on top of the salad. Garnish with a little paprika if desired and you are ready to eat.

There's lots of ways to tweak this salad, such as using any gourmet mustard you might have, or maybe you have some spicy sauces in your pantry. I find that the best potato salad recipes are made by experimenting with different ingredients as you put it together.

Broccoli Salad Recipe

This is the basic version of a broccoli salad recipe. You can add your own ingredients to if you want to spruce it up a little, such as any fruits, vegetables or nuts.

You can also mix the broccoli with cauliflower for a tasty alternative.

This is a great salad to have at home or take on the road to your next picnic, party, or pot-luck.

Ingredients:
1-2 heads broccoli

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1 cup shredded cheese

Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup vinegar

1/4 cup sugar

Directions:
Cut up broccoli flowerettes into bite-sized pieces, leaving just a little stem. Cut up enough for about 4 cups of flowerettes.

Add onion, cheese and dressing.

Refrigerate 2-3 hours or overnight.

Here are a few alternatives for dressings:
Miracle Whip-instead of mayonnaise
Yogurt-usually mixed with mayonnaise 50/50.
Vinegar-any type will do such as apple cider, red wine or any flavoured.
Lemon juice-can be used with/instead of vinegar.
Sugar-substitute with Equal or Stavia.

Here are some popular add-ons for this salad:
Celery
Green onion

Olives

Peas

Carrot-sliced

Peppers-red, yellow, orange,jalepeno.

Chopped nuts

Sunflower seeds

Raisins

Seafood

Apple Carrot Salad

This apple carrot salad is an easy quick dish that needs minimal ingredients. It has a sweet flavor with a hint of vanilla that makes it a nice side dish or quick snack.

Ingredients:
2-4 carrots

1 apple

Optional Ingredients:
1/4 cup raisins

1/4 cup chopped nuts

Dressing:
3-4 tbsp. vanilla yogurt

1 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. honey

Peel and grate carrots into a bowl. Use enough to make about 2 cups.

For the apple you can either grate it down to the core or slice it up with a knife to the core and cut it up into chunks. If you grate it the flavour isn't quite as pronounced as it blends in with the carrot and doesn't always come through unless it is tart or slightly under-ripe.

I leave the skin on but you may prefer to peel the apple first.

For the dressing you can use plain yogurt and add a few drops of vanilla extract instead of vanilla yogurt. You can also experiment with different flavoured yogurts as well. Fat-free, partly skimmed or regular yogurt will all work well with this recipe. For fat free yogurt use 4 tablespoons, less for regular.

The lemon juice can be substituted with any other fruit juice you may have. Orange and lime juice are good alternatives.

If you don't have or want to use honey you can use a little sugar, artificial sweetener or even pancake syrup. Just remember to use sweeteners sparingly.

Mix dressing together in a small bowl and add to salad. Mix well and cool salad for at least an hour before serving.

Waldorf Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
1 apple-cored and cut into 1" cubes
1 celery stick-thinly sliced
1/4 cup walnuts pieces
1/4 cup seedles grapes-halved

Dressing:
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
2 tbsp. yogurt
1 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. lemon rind(optional)

Cut up apple, celery, grapes and add to salad bowl. Add walnut pieces as well.

Mix dressing in a small bowl. If you are using juice from a real lemon grate some of the rind and add it to the mix. If you are using lemon juice from a bottle skip this ingredient.

Add dressing to bowl and toss salad well. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Chicken Pineapple Salad Sandwich

This chicken pineapple salad sandwich has a nice tangy flavour. It's a very basic salad that doesn't have all that many ingredients but still has a very unique taste. For the dressing you can substitute any mustard for the dijon if you wish.

Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken-finely chopped
4 green onions-chopped
1 stick celery-finely chopped
4 slices red pepper
1 can crushed pineapple-strained
Salt & pepper

Dressing:
4 tbsp. Mayonnaise
2 tbsp. Dijon Mustard
2 tsp. lemon or lime juice

Cook chicken and refrigerate soon after. when cool, chop it up finely and add to bowl. Add other ingredients and mix thoroughly. Add salt & pepper to taste.

Store in refrigerator if not using immediately.

Make 4-6 sandwiches.

Vogue-U Potion - Meaning of Life

2010-01-26T10:17:00.000+08:00

May Peace Be With You....

When Mak Pah received the under-mentioned article from a friend, I was touched by the morale behind the story. Let's read on......

A long time ago, there was an Emperor who told his horseman that if he could ride on his horse and cover as much land area as he likes, then the Emperor would give him the area of land he has covered. Sure enough, the horseman quickly jumped onto his horse and rode as fast as possible to cover as much land area as he could. He kept on riding and riding, whipping the horse to go as fast as possible. When he was hungry or tired, he did not stop because he wanted to cover as much area as possible. Came to a point when he had covered a substantial area and he was exhausted and was dying. Then he asked himself, "Why did I push myself so hard to cover so much land area? Now I am dying and I only need a very small area to bury myself."

The above story is similar with the journey of our Life. We push very hard everyday to make more money, to gain power and recognition. We neglect our health, time with our family and to appreciate the surrounding beauty and the hobbies we love...

One day when we look back, we will realize that we don't really need that much, but then we cannot turn back time for what we have missed.

Life is not about making money, acquiring power or recognition . Life is definitely not about work! Work is only necessary to keep us living so as to enjoy the beauty and pleasures of life. Life is a balance of Work, Family and Personal time.. You have to decide how you want to balance your Life. Define your priorities, realize what you are able to compromise but always let some of your decisions be based on your instincts. Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of Life, the whole aim of human existence.

So, take it easy, do what you want to do and appreciate nature. Life is fragile, Life is short. Do not take Life for granted. Live a balanced lifestyle and enjoy Life!

Watch your thoughts ; they become words.
Watch your words ; they become actions.
Watch your actions ; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

Thinking back I realised sometimes we are so engrossed in trying to have the best in life but yet we forgot about our own self, what actually is essential for us. So the morale behind the above story is just follow the flow, do things in moderation and within your limits. Best of all enjoy life to the fullest.

Lots of Luv....... Mak Pah.

i LOVE mondays - Design Jobs @ VU

2010-01-25T08:24:00.002+08:00

May Peace Be Upon You

DJ @ Vogue U

I.D + A
Interior Designer
Closing date : 18 February 2010
Send resume to : hrm@hauslab.com.sg

Requirements:

At least holder to an interior design diploma or degree certificate,
Min 3 years in relevant job experience, especially in retail and offices.
Proficiency in AutoCad, 3D Max/Viz and Photoshop.
Only Singaporeans and PR need apply

Edgeline Planners Ltd
Interior Designer
Closing date : 20 February 2010
Send resume to : enquiry@edgeline.com.sg

Requirements:

Interior Design Qualifications
Creative and able to keep abreast of design trends and preferences
Computer Literacy (Photo Shop / AutoCad / 3D)
Only Singaporeans / Singapore PRs / Malaysians need apply

Gleam Consulting
Interior Designer and Sales Manager
Closing date : 10 February 2010
Send resume to : salesjobs@gleam.com.sg

Responsibilities:

· Identify & propose concepts in accordance to clients’ branding requirements

· Reporting on sales, sales forecast and management reports

· Monitor & control division budget and cash-flow for each project

· Maintain and develop network contacts with existing and new clientele for the company.

· Close liaison with marketing team in the planning and execution of all sales and marketing activities.

· Accountability and achievement of sales target

· Willing to travel for overseas projects

· Leads a team of designers, operations , sales and marketing

Requirements:

· Minimum Diploma in any disciplines

· At least 2 years experience in Exhibitions or Interior Design (Retail / Commercial) Industries

· Carpentry / Production knowledge is an advantage

· Good knowledge of renovation material, design and construction works

· Possess effective communication skills and is customer focused

. Singaporean/ SPR and Malaysian are welcome

IN THE KITCHEN WITH MAMA MORALLE......RECIPES OF HELP AND LOVE

2010-01-22T09:01:00.011+08:00

Salam Friday to all voguerssssssss..........Mama found this great RECIPE while surfing.

The best wish for all of us is to live in harmony with each other ,to give a smile and not a punch,to help the ones who are in need :

MY INGREDIENTS:

--Desire

--Determination

--Feeling

--Smile

--Courage

--Faith

--Love

DIRECTIONS:

before doing any thing you must have the DESIRE and the DETERMINATION.

Say to yourself: I want to change for better my life, I have to perfect my relation with others, I have to be human...

Always have positive FEELING, the feeling hidden in your deep inside, share it with others...

SMILE to others, it can be the best gift that you can give them...

Have the COURAGE to face the different obstacles that can prevent you for reaching your aims...

Keep always the FAITH ,and be sure that there is a wonderful power which help you when you want to help others...

LOVE your familly, your friends, your neighbours, nature, animals,l ove every thing that can give you a moment of happiness ...

I hope that this recipe will reach your hearts because it comes from the deep of mine :):)

oooooooo nice.......

Stay cool ya and hv a great weekends.