Clouds of thankfulness

Hello there! Well, it's been long... like really long. Ever since my laptop have been taking a break, and time at work has been particularly draining, I have not been touching this space for a long while.

Days like this, with the current virus going around, I can't stop but to feel how blessed I have been surrounded by my loved ones. If this happened last year, I wouldn't know what kind of fear I will be undergoing back in Birmingham, staying by myself. Coming back to Singapore have been nothing but a blessing. That feeling of having my family and friends around me, and how I have met another person in my life who have been giving me comfort at times when I need it.

There have been times that I just felt like I couldn't move on any further - I felt so tired, so lethargic. But I want to dedicate this to someone important in my life, who have been there for me when I encountered some family matters - you know who you are! Thank you for giving me a shelter and your shoulders to lean on, always hearing me out and just being there for me physically and emotionally. Till date, I am thankful everyday that I have met you. At times when you feel that you are not the best, in fact, you really are. There are things that sometimes we don't see for ourselves, but the others see it all. And I see it all :) His patience, concern and him meticulously doing things to surprise me. I am so thankful that he appeared in my life and I will continue to count my blessings everyday.

So today, perhaps we could take some time out to think, and see how blessed we have come along. The world out there is chaotic now, but we are thankful that in our home that we live in, our loved ones are still around us, to have our meals together, to laugh and come through this tough time together.

I am thankful for all of them, and will continue to be thankful.

Till then, stay safe!

My 2nd time back to Haw Par Villa!

Hello guys! Hope your week has been going well :)
We are just a day away from weekends, how exciting!
Last Saturday, I had the opportunity to tag along with my mum to visit Haw Par Villa, alongside with the RC committee. It was an eye-opening experience for me, considering the fact that I have been away from the Asian culture for awhile. Plus, the last time I went was probably back in Primary or Secondary school!
It has undergone much changes with its recent renovation, so you will be able to see the statues in a more realistic and vibrant color!

Well, there's Confucius! Basically, Haw Par Villa is filled with various sorts of Chinese history and beliefs. Not just about the beliefs of Life and Death, but it also involves legendary stories such as Journey to the West. Showered with the warmth from the sun, we spent 2 hours walking around the area and admiring those statues. 

Aside from the statues, Haw Par Villa consists of some really nice sceneries as well as activities such as feeding the tortoises! You can pay $1 to get a bag of tortoise feed, and you will be amazed by how all the tortoises gather around when you throw the feed into the pond! Bring some coins along as well as they have a wishing pond there as well if you want to make a wish.
For your info, the admission of Haw Par Villa is free! Just take the metro via Circle Line and alight at Haw Par Villa station - yes it's that convenient! I also heard that there's a wholesale market nearby that area which sells fresh produce and dried goods, so you might want to head there for a little shopping as well!

That's my mum and I! Missed that beautiful smile on her face. It was so nice catching up with my mum and just spending the day at a place that she prefers than just plainly shopping at malls. Really meaningful. We then had dinner over at LeNu at Northpoint City with my sister, my first time trying it!

Onsen Egg

Pork Wonton Noodles

Dried Anchovies Noodles

Vegetable Pork Dumplings in Pork Broth.

That was our dinner for the day. I love how the noodles were springy and the broth was really flavourful - the best part was how I don't feel thirsty after drinking the broth! So I guess there was little to no MSG in it (personal perspectives only!) The dumplings were great too, it tasted fresh and the skin was not overly thick, so you could taste the ingredients more. Moreover, it was at an affordable price at about 37 bucks alongside with a plate of vegetables! Definitely worth for me to visit again.

That's all for today! And should you wish to find out more about Haw Par Villa, Time Out Singapore has recently posted an article on it so its worth checking out! You can find out more about the history and outlook of Haw Par Villa here! Also, if you want to check out on LeNu, here's a link to their website as well - LeNu.

That's all for today and do let me know if you have any experiences with these places too!

thank you!

cynnie.

Good times!

Hello people! Hope you guys are having a great day thus far.
This week seems like it's gonna be a great week, with school holidays and all - it's really nice seeing families spending time together and simply embracing the presence of one another.
I am quite a family-oriented person, so I would love to stick to my parents or siblings whenever they are free. Perhaps that's the result of almost 2 years away from home and family.

Friends play a huge role in my life as well, and I'm so glad to have met up with 2 of my girls back then when I was in NTU. We spent time together back at our favorite cafe - Supply & Demand at Orchard Gateway. The ambience, the interior and the company was still the same, just like back in the old days. Being back at our favorite spot, we ordered something that we absolutely fell in love with - the Thick Cut Garlic Truffle Fries!

Good old taste. The fragrance of the garlic alongside with the truffle oil made me pick up my fork and start digging in. Even the visuals was so appealing!
While I'm not a fan of the mayonnaise dip, the sweet chili sauce stole my heart away. I had to get a second serving of the dip! I have not been able to eat much spicy stuff currently since the food in UK are pretty much non-spicy (unless you head to Asian restaurants), so this dip is suitable if you can't eat spicy food!
Oh not forgetting, the fries was pretty well-cooked with some being extremely crispy, love it!

Besides the fries, we are a fan of the pasta there as well. We ordered an Aglio Olio w/ prawns in full size, so it pretty much filled us up along with the coffees we ordered. If you're wondering the beverage at the back of the fries, that's the hazelnut latte which is by far the best! Iced Long Black was great too for people like me who don't really fancy milk. You can get a syrup along with it too to sweeten things up!

Finally, the Aglio Olio. I love how the olive oil was well-mixed along with the pasta, it was not overly oily, neither was it too dry. However, I do recommend you to eat it as soon as possible while its hot - I wasn't too keen when it cooled down. The prawns was pretty good in my opinion too - while I'm not an expert in eating prawns due to my shellfish allergy, it tastes fresh without tasting like those frozen prawns. 

We paid approximately 70 bucks for 3 beverages, 1 side and 1 mains. While it is a bit on the pricey note, the quality of the food did not disappoint since the very last time I ate it. Could be a good place to go to if you desire a nice ambience, centralized location and decent food for your catch ups! 

After brunch, it was nice strolling along Orchard Road on a Sunday, visiting shops and all that I used to visit. It is saddening to see some places closed or perhaps under revamp and I hope that they reopen soon someday. Headed to The Coffee Academics at Scotts Square later in the day for a good cold brew to cool me down amidst the hot weather. It was a chill day and I definitely hope to catch up with them again. 💕

Wow, it feels good to be back blogging again and I will definitely try posting up more with more photos! :)

Thank you guys!

cynnie.

thoughts.

Sitting at an empty row of benches, the gorgeous view of aircraft taking off and landing is just right beside me through the huge glass panels. Yes, I am back in Dubai Airport as I'm typing this post. And by the time I post this up, I'm probably back in Singapore. Please bear with me as I reminiscence the memories of mine in that 2 years.

2 years flew by in a blink of an eye, I came towards the end of university life, the end of my working life in Whittard. I remember the time when I first arrived in Birmingham - everything was so unfamiliar, unexpected experiences, the good times, the bad times, everything. There were so many ups and downs when I first came, and I have never felt that insecure about my decision of coming to U.K. While I still believed that it was right for me to pursue my passion, but there were certain conditions that made me feel like it was a mistake and I could not wait to head back home. Indeed, I went back home during summer 2017, to clear out those toxic and negative thoughts that I had and to start afresh in pursuing my studies. Without a doubt, I came back feeling happier, with more positivity and enthusiasm in doing whatever I was doing.

Given the opportunity to be able to work in Whittard, was one of the best things that happened to me. it was not just any other job, but it gradually became my 2nd home, my 2nd family (Well, definitely my university mates are also like my family!) Balancing between school and work was not an easy feat, as it takes a lot of discipline in ensuring that neither of it is being neglected. My sense of responsibility, discipline and time management skills seemed to have improved a tiny weeny bit. 

I can never imagine myself  having such bittersweet moments when I was leaving on the actual day.

Dinners with my Whittard mates was probably one of the most memorable ones, everyone was just chill and we could talk about anything - interests, life, problems, relationships etc. Such bonding sessions actually pulled us together and now everyone is close with each other, something that I'm thankful for as I established friendships that I knew I can rely on. Even for my university mates, my usual clique have been there through all my ups and downs. Without their consistent encouragement all this while, I guess I would not have pulled through the end. Not forgetting the team at Coach, who treated me as part of their family even though I have only been there twice or thrice.

Receiving such kindness and love, I can't help but to feel blessed with whatever I am receiving from all these folks. Thank you all for weaving such beautiful memories and relationships that I know I will hold close to my heart for eternity. And thank you for making me feel that I was never alone in Birmingham, because I am embraced by another family here.

Happiness is something that we have to fight for, depending on the kind of attitude that we hold in life. While it comes and goes, all we could do is to cherish every moment that we have of these happiness. This time round, I am so glad that I will be back to spend more happiness with my family, friends, and especially friends who stood by me all these while. 

It may not apply for everyone. But for someone like me who went through times that I deemed was the worst in my whole life, I feel that when it gets tough or too toxic, I really got to "filter" my life and find out what's the thing that is bothering me. There can be a million things that create happiness in our lives, but just one incident could just ruin it all for us too. It's not easy to maintain that kind of positivity all the time, but perhaps it would be nice if we could look at the positive things that we had. Someday we may think back about those unhappy times, and probably laugh at our own silliness for being upset over insignificant things.

Stay happy, stay joyful, love yourself and you could love the others too!

signing off, cynnie.

Hello everyone!

It's me, cynnie. Finally, I found some time to settle down with my laptop, a cup of Americano and a mind filled with thoughts.

With so many things happening lately, it is one of those times that we feel grateful for every day that we wake up to.

For every sunshine and moonlight we see.

Every breath we take.

Every bite we take.

Every experiences we have. 

Every emotions we feel.

Every interactions we have with our loved ones.

It hits upon so hardly that life's predicament will always catch us unexpectedly. Today, I could be worrying about how my grades are going to turn out. Tomorrow, I could be worrying about finding a job and how life is going to go on after university. The reason why we worked so hard, is for the sake of our future. But at the same time, how many times I felt like I have made myself and my life absolutely horrible. Sometimes, it's not just us. The comments and the way that the others look at us, often affects the way that we look at ourselves. Looking back, I can finally see the amount of unhappiness trapped within me, the amount of negativity. The amount of sadness I have given to my parents, because of how I was. At the end of the day, what are we really fighting for? 

Are we fighting for ourselves, or are we fighting for the recognition of others? Is it just social standards that we are using to gauge whether we are successful, happy or as intelligent as the others? These are those questions that I often ask myself, especially when I have so much more alone time. I tend to think a lot more. No matter what it is, there's no harm in expressing to our loved ones how much we love them, how much we appreciate them. Sometimes, my sister asks me - how do I live with such positivity in my life. Simply put into words, by thinking of what's the worst that could happen and what I am experiencing is definitely not the worst. And I am blessed with whatever that comes to me: the family I was born into, the friends I have made, the rough patches that I have undergone in my life. I love all of you, each and every one of you. Remember, there's always someone that loves you so deeply, unconditionally, that you will want to live your life to the utmost. I will live as a better person, and I want to make people that I have met before to be a bit happier, even if it is a tiny weeny bit. The best version of ourselves are crafted by ourselves, and to love ourselves is the only way that we will know how to love the others :)

cynnie.

Tao's Footwear, something I would love to have!

Hello everyone! It's cynnie back here again. Life has been as hectic as usual, with my final semester coming to an end soon, I barely have enough time to chill myself around town or to even enjoy the festive spirit in London. Work has been pretty hectic as well as the Christmas crowd gets bigger every week!

Similarly, my working shifts are also getting longer with 8-9 hours shift every weekend. Lest to say that I go back home with sore feet and aching heels that I desperately need some body scrub to get rid of those nasty dead skin. I have always been one who is willing to invest in good quality shoes because - I don't want to be complaining about my painful shoes or feet while I'm out having fun!

Even when I try going out for jogs, I realize that my feet aches the following day, despite me trying to keep up with a good jogging posture - also known as Plantar fasciitis which the tissues from my toes linking to my heels get inflamed. And it definitely ruins my plans for the rest of the day. Perhaps my shoes wasn't that good enough for jogging purposes and I would need a pair of running shoes that gives sufficient support while absorbing the pressure that my feet undertakes while jogging.

I've tried Clarks, Timberland, Hush Puppies, Nike and many more brands before for shoes. Not just for jogging purposes but also for outgoing purposes. And now, I've encountered Taos' Footwear online, which just might be my next favorite!

Founded in 2005 and designed in Southern California, the influence of Taos' footwear remains tied to the city of Taos in New Mexico, which led to the brand name.

Image Credits to Taos Footwear

What makes Taos stand out from the other brands, is the reputation of their signature footbeds are gives ample support to our feet, making it really comfortable while looking fashionable even for your outfits. If you are someone who needs specific support, you can even get yourself orthotic-friendly removable footbed that contours and hugs to your feet!

These are absolutely some of my favorite picks from their selections!

Image Credits: Taos Footwear

Classic sneakers is my absolute fave! Perfect for any seasons, I could foresee myself wearing it in the U.K. or sunny Singapore! I am an avid fan of sneakers (any kinds!) as streetwear is currently the style I am trying to pull off now - which I have no idea if it even fits me 😬

Image Credits: Taos Footwear

Another pick which I feel its perfect for my mom! She works long hours standing as well, and whenever we head out for shopping, she would always try to find somewhere to rest her tired feet. Besides being fashionable, this pair of shoes is really comfortable to keep you going for the rest of the day too!

Image Credits: Taos Footwear

How can I ever forget about those heeled boots? Loving those minimalistic designs with the utmost comfort, I can fit it in with tights and an oversized shirt - then I'm ready for the day! Designed with the classic suede material, this pair of boots look classier than ever in my eyes! Compared to canvas ones which I've worn before and the color faded off really quickly under the sun. 

Now, now. I've curated a my Christmas wish list with all these shoes listed in my heads now. I can safely get comfortable shoes for myself now without breaking the bank.

It is definitely time for us to Get Up and Stand Comfortable!™ 

Psst... Taos' Footwear was awarded the Best Women's Comfort in the Foot Wear Plus Award 2017,

Sharing this good deals with you now over at Taos Footwear.

Thanks for reading guys, much loves!

x cynnieco.

Hilltop Gardening Dining - Arbora is the place to go!

 Friends who know me would also know me for loving those greenery places. Especially ever since I came to U.K., I am more immersed into the nature than ever. While I did not get the opportunity to attend the opening of Arbora by One Faber Group, I am ecstatic to find out what Arbora has to offer to their customers - like me!

Located at Faber Peak Singapore, this hilltop sanctuary is the next dining destination that I think is perfect for a nights out or even a date! Just imagine you and your company immersing into the beauty of nature, an overview of the urban areas alongside with great food and drinks. I can't say no to the idea of that. With trees being the main surrounding for this restaurant, we can imagine how the name Arbora came about - an eponym for a Latin word "Arbor" which represents trees. If you didn't know, Arbora is formerly known as Spuds & Apron which my friends and I really love!

This place sounds like a great place to hang out anytime or any day to me, perhaps like a great brunch place to go to! Not to forget that they have all-day dining available here with 35 selections, created by Executive Chef Kenny Yeo to delight your palates of starters, entrees and desserts. If you have been to Dusk Restaurant & Bar before, the creator of the European tapas menu is also created by yours truly, Chef Kenny Yeo.

Let's talk business, the food is what attracts people to a place alongside with the great atmosphere. 

Think of lamb served alongside with prune sauce (Rack of Lamb - SGD36++) 

A tomato-based seafood broth with tender baby abalones in it (Fisherman's Stew - SGD42++)... how mouth-watering. Especially the Fisherman's Stew is hooking up my tastebuds as the weather starts getting colder in the U.K.

Or perhaps a Wild Mushroom Salad (SGD14++) to get more veggies into your meal? and I absolutely love mushrooms, am really anticipating to try out this place!

and what's better than having a drink alongside with a meal? I find that whenever I'm having my meals, I always need like water or a drink to go alongside with it. As though I have been dehydrated along the process of eating hurhur. If I could choose a cocktail, my go-to drink is always a Mojito. And that preference of mine have never changed since then. But okay, next time I'm going to take a leap of faith and try the the Botanic Roku cocktail which is at SG15++ which I find it pretty decent for a drink.

Visuals: ✓

Price: ✓

Taste: Pending (but if you've tried it please let me know how it tastes!)

How beautiful it is, that I would order it off the menu, if one day I have to decide to be heartless and just forget about mojitos for a nights out. 

fyi: not an alcoholic person!

and with a bit of twist, anise stars on a cocktail. 

well, well, did anyone mention that anise stars is a spice that's usually used for cooking? 

Anise Stars (SGD15++) sounds so magical, almost like a galaxy to me. But just the look of it is appealing to me. I can never imagine how it tastes like, but that gives me another excuse to drink cocktails.

With Arbora's opening, they are giving us a treat!Get a free snack or salad when you order 2 mains from the menu, such as hand-cooked chips (loves!) and Wild Mushroom Salad (loves x2!). Also, you can get your hands on their Arbora craft beers at a promotional price of SGD30+ for 3 bottles (U.P. SGD36++) 

Good things are meant to be shared. Follow through Arbora with their menus and specials to keep yourself updated on what special treats they have to offer!

Visit www.onefabergroup.com/arbora to find out more details on the promotions.

thank you hoomans for reading!

cynnieco x.

*Special thanks to WOM Communications for the details and images, as well as One Faber Group.