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Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Single Parents in Singapore

(Update)
So sorry but I actually didn't really read the original article before writing this (usually get news from friends) but after reading it I sorta understand it better. This was written when someone sent me the one from the "anti government" website which is slightly biased. So yes, pretty much aware of the "real" situation after several ppl sent me the original article from non-biased websites.

"In an interview with government-controlled media Channel News Asia, Minister for Social and Family Development (MSF) Tan Chuan Jin said that the ruling PAP Government will still not support equal rights for single parents because it is not the “norm”"

"Going by Minister Tan Chuan Jin’s logic, it appears giving these single parents equal rights will result in an increase in the number of single parents and that married couples become single parents out of choice and not circumstances."

It's so stupid because not all Single Parents want to be Single Parents by choice. Yes, some people do choose to lead that lifestyle because going through an abortion does seem cruel and some women do feel strong and are capable enough to do so. But many don't...and many times it's because the Father of the child isn't a good person. So these women have to live with a cheating husband or an abusive guy for the rest of her life just so she can enjoy the benefits from the government? If father of the child has another woman outside, the mother has to marry him just so she can have a "normal" family? You'd say, then why they even had a child in the first place. Well, people can change overnight and ya, accidents do happen. Everyone wants a perfect family, who would choose not to have one if they could? Also, some guys just refuse to be responsible for the life they created, how about the government force these men to be responsible since they wanna "force" marriage like that? It's always the woman's fault but hey, it takes 2 hands to clap? Whether Single or Married, the responsibility to raise a child is the same...a parent is a parent. In fact, it is two times tougher on a single parent! Single parents aren't even asking for more benefits...just EQUAL benefits. After all, everyone is paying taxes too.

For myself, thankfully I have great family support and because my partner and I have plans, this "status" won't be for long. So this complain post isn't about me but for those other mummies out there. It is not the same for everyone... I have met so many single moms who really struggle. They struggle to find time to look after their child because they have to work full time (some even work 2 Jobs) to pay the bills and also struggle to find a roof over their head because single parents cannot purchase a HDB (until they reach 35). Most of the time thanks to their irresponsible partners who abandoned them. Still, they chose to keep the child because they really cannot bear to go through an abortion. Especially those who discover their pregnancy at a later stage, when you see the ultrasound scan of a fully formed baby, you have the heart to abort meh?? Also met one whom partner passed away the week they were going to tie the knot and shortly after found out she was 5 weeks pregnant. Some things are really not by choice. Hopefully one day the government would be a little more sympathetic and give single parents the same benefits because it really isn't easy raising a child on their own at all. I'm not anti PAP and do wish they continue running the country as they've been doing a great job so far and am not sure if the opposition can do better but there are little things like that I wish would change. Why should the parent be punished for choosing the brave step to raise a child? It is just so sad these parents get condemned for their bravery.

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Prenatal Massage


Pregnancy isn't the easiest thing to go through. Many pregnant women tend to suffer from back ache and swollen feet during pregnancy due to carrying the additional weight all around.

Credit: x

I have experienced times whereby I am so sore all over and so in need of a good massage but when I visit the massage palours I go to pre-pregnancy, they refuse to lay a finger on me as they say they are not certified pre-natal masseurs and afraid to harm my baby. So yes, you can't just walk into any random massage palour you see.

How can prenatal massage help me?

The therapeutic benefits of massage for pregnant women haven't been studied very much. There's some evidence that massage may help people who suffer from low back pain and possibly those with chronic headaches, but the studies weren't done with pregnant women. In any case, massage may decrease stress and promote relaxation, helping you cope with discomfort even if it doesn't specifically alleviate or prevent it.

Carrying a baby inside you changes your center of gravity and puts a lot of stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles, and shoulders. Pregnancy also relaxes your ligaments, so that your pelvic joints are less stable, and changes your posture, pulling your pelvis forward. Add to that the extra weight you're carrying and you may find you've got an aching lower back.

Credit: x

That is why I have prepared a list of places to check out should you be in need of a good prenatal massage in Singapore to relax because you deserve it, momma to be! 

East

Tel: 92716091
Add: 180 Joo Chiat Road #02-02 (Shophouse) Singapore 427451


Java Spa
Tel: 62451151
Add:711 East Coast Road, Singapore 459065


North

Tel: 64566556
Add:1382 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Bishan park 2, Singapore 569931


West

Tel: +65 9655 6112
Address: 46 Pandan Loop Singapore 119728 (appointment only)


Central

Phone: +65 6836 0676
Add: 263 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058812

Tel: 6356 6623
Add: 10 Sinaran Drive #02-10 Square 2 Singapore 307506


Tel: 6235 0688
Add: 290 Orchard Road #14-11/12 Paragon Singapore 238859

Credits: x


Rather enjoy a massage in the comfort of your own home? 
You can always arrange an appointment with masseurs who will travel to your place! The masseurs below specialize in pre and post-natal massage. All you need is a bed, 2 pillows and 2 towels. :)

Oriental Jamu
Phone: +65 8518 8726 (Jessica)
Email: orientaljamu@gmail.com


Rahayu Homespa
Phone: 9878 2394
Email: ayu@rahayu-homespa.com


Madam Noura
Phone: 94345343


Mdm Masita
Phone: 90510005

I personally prefer the home massage option and also did home post-natal massage after the delivery of my baby as was having Chinese confinement and could not go out for a month. I like Jessica and Rahayu a lot and will be using them for my 2nd pregnancy. Have 2 in case one isn't free hehe. Usually the home massage masseurs are very busy and it can be a little bit difficult if you want to do it last minute which is why I decided to put in 4 options (first 2 I've personally had a good experience with and the other 2 were recommended by mummy friends).

Pamper yourself with a good massage once a week if you can! It will really make your pregnancy more relaxing and hopefully, enjoyable. :) I personally do it every 2 weeks!

Might do a post on post-natal massage when i've gathered enough places offering it (any mommas know of good post-natal masseurs, do feel free to e-mail me at tammytay@hotmail.sg).






Monday, July 27, 2015

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Friday, July 24, 2015

Hiding my Bump

I'm now in Week 22 and haven't posted a "looking pregnant" picture yet because the past few weeks I just wanted to look as "unpregnant" as I could just so I can see the shocked faces of people when I tell them that I have a baby in my belly. Haha.

But from next week onwards, imma start SHOWING OFF! EMBRACE THIS BUMP!!! It is a pretty good size now! By good size I mean it will no longer be mistaken as a food belly. Haha. 

I look forward to sharing my #dressingthebump OOTDs on Instagram! 

Now that it's my 2nd time being pregnant, I sorta have a better idea of how to dress. I don't want to go to work and meet people looking all sloppy and frumpy. Many have asked how I manage look the way I do while pregnant. Why thank you, that means I look good right? Haha. Well...I have my insecurities and have days I feel kinda shitty about the way I look but my partner reminds me I'm growing a life in me and i am loved the same so yay to comforting words. My way to feeling more confident and looking better while pregnant is to make an effort to put on make up because the clothes you can wear while pregnant are honestly pretty limited. Make up makes all the difference! Oh and yes, this time round my skin is SOOOO bad. I kinda fixed it but I guess I went a little overboard, dried it out and now it looks bad again. Damn...I've to spend another week trying to fix it again. Sigh. Good thing is a found a pretty good mask! Will share that with you guys after I test it out more times. Anyway, bad skin shall not stop me from going out and feeling confident because I've my make up! Hehe. Ya I know people would be like "oh but make up will make your bad skin worse blahblah"...well it won't if you use products your skin isn't sensitive to and most importantly cleanse the make up thoroughly after!!! I've gone through bad skin and it managed to get better even with the usage of make up throughout - I hardly go a day without make up especially when my skin doesn't look its best. Of course it is good to let it breathe but bad skin really kills one's confidence! 

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Baby Doesnt Look Like Me



So as the title says...and so does the picture above, MY BABY DOESN'T LOOK LIKE ME.

I know...i've gotten this A LOT!!!

Like when we are out...people would be like "oh this is YOUR baby?! but he doesn't look like you at all".

"YES HE IS MY BABY...I HAD HIM IN MY TUM TUM FOR 10 MONTHS AND GAVE BIRTH TO HIM! MINE MINE MINEEEEEEE!!!!"

And no it is not because i did soooo much to my face that he doesn't look like me...

HE JUST REALLY REALLY REALLY LOOKS LIKE HIS FATHER.

But recently, after 10 months....i have people tell me he has my lips. SO YAY! WE NOW HAVE SOMETHING IN COMMON. Besides liking to laugh a lot. Haha.

You know...in the beginning, honestly had a few bad days...when people say "don't look like you". Like i feel so left out....like as if i'm some surrogate mother, baby sitter or nanny. But but but i've really came to accept it now lah and just laugh it off! After all, it is really a very cute sight when the man and little one get together!

Now that i have number 2, i googled the weirdest thing..."is there anything i can do to make my child look like me?" HAHAHA. Like i actually hoped there would be something i could eat to make the baby inside my tumtum look more like me...LOL. I can't believe i'm admitting to it....oh if you could see what i google all the time you'd think i'm CRAY.

Pretty interesting thing i've read though...

"I have heard that babies tend look like their dads for a biological/evolutionary reason so the dads will know it’s their baby and want to take care of it. There can’t be any doubt who the mother is, so it doesn’t matter so much if the baby doesn’t look like her.

A friend of mine has an explanation for this (unscientific, but smart nonetheless). She thinks that it goes back to our primal, caveman roots. Kids need to look like their fathers to facilitate bonding and to basically let the dad know that the kid REALLY does belong to them. Then maybe Dad will be more inclined to stick around to hunt and provide for his kids. We moms will love our kids no matter what they look like, but before the concept of monogamy and wedding bands, the dads needed a little extra reassurance that the kids are really theirs."
 
source: x
 
 
I must also remember physical resemblance can take years to develop and isn't the only thing that makes family members appear similar. For me, i grew up not looking like any of my parents. Even my mom admitted when i asked her...she said that when she looked at me when i was younger, she wondered why i didnt look like her or my biological dad at all? Hearing that I secretly wondered if i was adopted?! Moreover, my biological dad seemed to not love me and was not good to me at all. 

But but now that i'm 24, MANY have said the resemblance to my mother is uncanny!!! My friends joke and call me by my mother's name because they say i look super like her now...haha. Like we have the same eyes and nose but that is damn weird because i got zhng my face here and there...i did not do silicon implants or anything too crazy so the result isn't like very drastic but still, i did make improvements to my face and end up looking more and more like her. Haha. They tell me the way we speak and behave is super similar. When i think about it, ya i really think we do have quite a lot in common...like for example our career paths...and that we both love food a lot that the man living with us wonder how we can eat so much and be eating all the time. So ya, 20+ years of living and now my mom can put a finger as to who i look like. Haha.

As kids grow, more physical attributes may come out, like the way he holds his mouth or the way his nose grows. Also, they begin to mimic your mannerisms, speech patterns, facial expressions. So it may not be the case now but in future!!! So ya, for me...20 over years lor. Haha.



Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Happy Mookata at Serangoon

Visited Happy Mookata - Serangoon for the first time last week! I didn't really know they were THAT popular and had a total of 3 outlets until i googled for the when writing this post.


I have drove past the restaurant a lot recently as i live around the area and have been visiting my friend's Teochew Porridge stall (Ah Seah) to eat (i love!). I always pack my food and go and haven't checked out most restaurants there.

My friends and i decided to check it out one evening, since we were going to play MJ at a friend's place around the corner. When we were outside the restaurant, i actually didnt want to go in. The place looks SOOOO bare like it wasn't open....but there were people inside eating and another friends said she has heard good reviews on Happy Mookata so yeah, why not give it a shot. After all, it isnt good to judge a book by its cover right? Haha.

Oh and wait, maybe i should type is as HaPpY MoOkAtA because that's what the sign shows....haha. I am puzzled and wonder why they choose that to be their logo. It just reminds me of "Twit" Days. DaYz PpL tYpEd LiKe DiZxZ. If you are born before '92, you'd know Twit isn't related to Twitter in any way....it sorta means Ah Lian? Well it was the days where typing X and Zto the word would be a "cool" thing to do....which THANK GOD came and gone FAST.

When we entered, we had to pay $25/person...it was EAT ALL YOU CAN! SO CHEAP!!!! Was what we all exclaimed. I don't think i've been to a Mookata restaurant that cheap....or in fact, a BBQ restaurant. Since the price was like that, i didnt expect much also lah. As long as it's fresh, doesn't smell and tastes ok, i would be contented! Oh and not forgetting good service and nice staff.

We could order fried finger food from the menu and the rest of the raw food we have to take it ourselves from the refrigerator.

Free flow drinks and ice cream!!!! Got Thai Milk Tea which was quite nice.


I'm sorry to say this but the restaurant looks damn dodgy la...i just couldn't stop looking around thinking how i can improve the place. Haha. I guess it's all i think above ever since i started work at ImaginebySK66. Well, at least put up some pictures of food on the walls or something laaaaa. And the lights....omo the lights!!! It was so bright it just made me feel 10x more insecure about my bad skin im facing during pregnancy....haha.

But food wise, not fantastic but not too bad either!!! I ate SOOOO much! Considering i had like 5 beef and 4 garlic chicken all by myself because i liked it most out of the many choices of meat. It wasn't THAAAAT yummy as compared to the garlic chicken at one of my fav mookata places but price so much cheaper so OK la, i understand. The chilli was not bad but for someone who loves spicy stuff, it wasn't spicy enough for me. Wish they had like options for the spice level...actually i could've asked for chilli padi to make it more spicy and maybe i'd like it better then...shall do that the next time round! One thing though, i dont know why but the soup was just very bland, even after 2 hours of eating. From what i remember, most of the time the soup would be super tasty and flavorful but not the case for us at Happy Mookata Serangoon. Still, i was happy with the BBQ!!! I also feel that the service was good...they were quick to serve us and attend to us. Thumbs up.


Oh but i smelled SOOOO bad after the meal...SO SO SO bad. I guess it's expected since we were indoors so yeah.

I would definitely go back there for supper because it opens till late! And yes, the attractive price.

Overall a PlEaSaNt ExPeRiEnCe. :)

HaPpY MoOkAtA

Sunset Way
106 Clementi Street 12
#01-46
S120106

Upper Serangoon
21 Teck Chye Terrace
Serangoon
Singapore 545726

Golden Mile Tower
6001 Beach Rd, #01-55D, Golden Mile Tower,


Friday, July 10, 2015

:')

I have so so much to say and want to share but can't. But all I can say is I'm so truly blessed right now I cannot be any more thankful for the things happening to me and the people around me. 

Thank God for putting his angels around me, all the people I love - the people who matter most. Life just keeps getting better and better and things just go so smoothly without to stress and much worries at all recently. Maybe because I have really been trying my best to always be positive that's why things are going in that direction! This little family I have has made me so much better in so many ways...and I'm way happier as compared to before this family came around! Gone are the days I feel "lonely". Even though Number 2 will tire me out, I look forward to more fun and joy she will bring to this Home. 

It's been a good year so far and although I know how life is full of ups and downs and happiness can be quite short-lived (and there I have my pessimistic self speaking...still happens occasionally haha), I want to treasure every bit of the good happening in my life now. Nobody has a perfect life as much as they wish they had (and portray it to be) but if you tell yourself it's good enough for you, that is perfect already. I don't think my "happiness" can be shared with yall on my social media platforms for various reasons but it's ok, life can still go on and be wonderful keeping many things more "private". People will talk, people will gossip, but they don't know what is really going on and can only judge from the little things they assume to know.

Tonight I just feel overwhelmed with happiness...and extremely grateful and I want to pen it down so when I'm down and not loving life as much, I'll look back and find this post to remind me of positive days and times which has happened to me. :')  

"each day we get a chance to say ‘I love you’ to the ones we love is a blessing."

Week 21

Halfway there! 

Another 20 more weeks or less to go~

Just did my detailed scan and all looks great. So so happy and relieved! I don't know why but I was worrying so much because I couldn't feel my baby move at all. But soon! I'm guessing I should feel her by this week? 

Finally have a visible baby bump that doesn't look like a food baby! Hehe. But still can hide under most of my clothes unless I wear like a body con...which I do if I am going to crowded places so I don't get pushed around and maybe, get priority...and bigger food portions LOL. Some perks of being preggers!



Kinda hoping my bump doesn't grow too fast because I won't be able to carry Elroy anymore when that happens and I'm super scared he will distant himself from me and be much much closer to daddy and the helper. I'll feel so left out!!! :( I really feel very sad when I don't feel like Elroy's favourite person but many mummies tell me it's pretty normal for a period of time? Actually Elroy is so easy-going it's like anyone also can! So like I don't feel important? Kinda childish and stupid to feel sad about it but I think it's something you'll only understand when you're a mummy! Haha. 

I am thankful for a super smooth 2nd pregnancy so far and a healthy baby growth!

I'm still not sure if I can find the time to do a maternity photoshoot but I kinda wanna do one with baby girl in my belly holding Baby Elroy too, in case this is my last pregnancy! Any photographers wanna work together, lemme know! 

Been pretty busy with work but happy to be occupied and learning something new everyday. I guess that's why time is passing so quickly too! Lately it feels like 24 hours a day just isn't enough. 



Week 21 (2nd Pregnancy)
Current Weight: 55kg
Weight Gained: 6kg (starting weight 49kg)

Till the next pregnancy update, xoxo.

P.S thank you all who left comments/emails sharing with me how you cleared your skin and improved your skin! I personally have tried A LOT of products and it's like during pregnancy, many just don't work as well...some which were super effective for me before pregnancy like rosehip oil (in fact most face oils) broke me out during this current pregnancy :( it's damn sad because I do like facial oils and how I used to wake up with glowing skin the day after using it. Oh well, guess pregnancy hormones do mess things up.

Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Imagine Inside - Cushion Cover

A friend and i just started this little simple webstore selling cushion covers (and a few other stuff) called Imagine Inisde. We are just trying it out to see how it goes for now!

Focusing on mostly Cushion Covers for now! I personally love changing out the cushion in my house as different prints and colors give a different feel! And i'm always on a hunt for nice printed ones. Hopefully this will progress so we can bring in more stuff in future! :)






Check it out at www.imagineinside.com

:)

Monday, July 6, 2015

Difference between 1st & 2nd Pregnancy

I hit 20 weeks this week! Which means I'm already halfway through my 2nd pregnancy.

So I am now 5 months pregnant with a girl on the way and have a 10 month old baby boy. 

I have realized many differences in my 1st and 2nd pregnancies so I shall share some with you!

Let me share some similarities between my 1st and 2nd first!

It's only 4 things haha...
1. I did not have morning sickness at all!
2. My appetite is crazy when pregnant and I just can't feel full for long so I'm always always eating.
3. My hips and back hurt a lot...and it's only going to get worse. I dread going through the last few weeks with this pain in my hip again. During the last pregnancy it was so so bad.

Now the differences...

Nobody Cares 

1st Pregnancy: Everyone is always concerned about you and asking about you. I get texts from close and not so close friends all the time asking how I'm coping with the pregnancy.

2nd Pregnancy: Nobody cares. I'm serious! It's like as if I'm not pregnant at all? Haha. Even my partner and close friends sometimes forget that I am?! It's a bit sad but it's true. 

----------

Weight Gain and Food Choices

1st Pregnancy: Eat EVERYTHING because I'm eating for two!!!! I usually limit myself to 1500 calories but since I can eat for 2, I can eat 3000 calories! Hungry at 3am, call mcdelivery and a mcspicy and filet O fish! Just eat because it means baby wants it! Give in to ALL my cravings because I can and deserve it and everyone feeds me all the time anyway. OMG, 10kg weight gain at halfway mark already?!

2nd Pregnancy: Eat healthier! Craving macs at 3am? Nahhhh I'll just eat bread and an apple! Because eating healthy means you don't put on unnecessary weight and it's much healthier for both mummy and baby. Only 5kg weight gain at my halfway mark! Oh and uhhh nobody cares too so nobody feeds me and encourages me to eat more anymore haha. 

-----------

Heavy Stuff

1st Pregnancy: *out shopping with friends* *attempts to pick shopping bags from the counter* "eh I help you carry la! You pregnant cannot carry so many things one!"

2nd Pregnancy: *carries 10kg+ baby boy* *picks up heavy shopping bags from grocery shopping* NOBODY CARES. 

----------

Always Updated

1st Pregnancy: Remembering clearly what week + day I am. Getting updates on apps and constantly checking out Baby Center and What to a Expect. I can go into the app like 4 times in the same week reason it over and over again. Oh and wanting to know week by week what fruit size my baby is now. 

2nd Pregnancy: "Eh, now what week already ah?" 

----------

Buying Baby Stuff

1st Pregnancy: "He needs this! And this! And this!!!" "Oh he is new born so I need to get NB clothes" I was buying things almost everyday??? Also I bought SO SO many things because I'm very kiasu which are pretty unnecessary and ended up not using because he grew so quickly too! 

2nd Pregnancy: Everything can use Elroy's yay to saving money on that! Still buying though...BECAUSE FINALLY I CAN BUY PINK STUFF! Hehe. But I buy more practical clothes now and make sure I buy it bigger! Rather her be in oversized clothing so can wear the item longer haha.

----------

At Doctor's Appointment

1st Pregnancy: "Oh no! I hit my belly ytd, is my baby alright?" "Oh no! I accidentally ate a bit of my friend's egg Benedict is my baby gonna be ok?" "I accidentally ate pineapple, is it ok?" Basically asking A LOT of questions and can spend almost 45min inside asking questions...one time I wrote down a list of things to ask my doc in case I forgot.

2nd Pregnancy: *hears baby's heartbeat and sees baby on screen* "Your baby is growing well and right on track." "That's great! See you next month!" *out in 5min*

----------

Bonding with Bump

1st Pregnancy: *plays classical music and place it near belly for baby* *read to the bump* I also cannot stop touching my bump...like ALL THE TIME. Whenever, wherever. Everyone wanted to touch it and talk to baby inside too.

2nd Pregnancy: *sleeps on belly or back* *feels uncomfortable* "Oh ya... got baby inside that's why!" 

----------

I sound like I totally don't care about this pregnancy but I DO!!! Just that I'm not so paranoid and worried because I sorta know what to expect already and also...because people around me don't seem to care about me, I also end up not caring so much about me. Lol. Not to mention, my 10 month old baby is kinda too active already haha. Brought him to meet some baby friends and mummies told me my baby is much more active than their babies and they can't imagine how much more tiring it'll be for my helper and I when he starts walking. For now, he has to crawl EVERYWHERE so it's kinda bad alr. And he will keep trying to stand up. He doesn't sleep that much anymore so it's super tiring. Nothing can keep him still. Not even the iPad. I guess that's why I'm always so tired and tend to forget about my pregnancy. Lol. Not sure if it's a good thing or not because I'm not "enjoying" the process and remembering it at all. What if this is my last baby (I don't mind more but have to wait and see how things go)!! After all, having one boy and one girl is "perfect" alr right? After writing this, maybe I should try to start being more attentive to myself and enjoy being pregnant...haha.









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Saturday, July 4, 2015

Pregnancy Acne Cleared!

Oh my goodness! I finally cleared my skin and i am super duper happy!!! It's been a horrible 2 months for me suffering from acne and blemishes like never before. Ok, i'm lying...it's been probably 2 years since i last face such severe skin issues. Haha. 

Anyway, i REALLY give thanks to this 4 products!


1. Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash
(can also be left on your skin for like 10 min as a wash-off mask)
 
2. Belli Acne Control Spot Treatment
 
3. La-Roche Posay Effaclar Facial Wash
Available at most Guardians and Watsons in Singapore.
 
4. Albion Skin Conditioner
You can get this from Takashimaya Albion Counter in Singapore.

This 4 products have turned my skin around and have gained my confidence back (well sorta....).

Also, i have to thank Atlas Medical Clinic for being ever so patient with me and helping me do extraction on my skin when it was super congested! That must've helped clear up my skin too.

I'm sorry but i did not take any pictures of my skin due to self-esteem issues i've been facing (sigh i really think it's the pregnancy hormones making me feel so horrible about myself). But i really swear by this 4 products which has saved my skin.

If you are pregnant and facing acne problems, please try the 4 items out! I hope it will work as well on you as it worked for me. 

Oh actually you don't have to be pregnant to use Belli, ANYONE with acne prone skin can use it to help get rid of acne! It may be a bit weird to use a "pregnancy" product when you aren't preggers but hey, if it worked well on my acne skin, why not! This will be my go to product even after pregnancy I'm sure! That is, if it'll still work next time...idk why but products stop working on my skin after long usage that's why I'm always changing. The ingredients are very safe for pregnancy that's why it's a recommended product for pregnant women.

It was super difficult to find a good product. I've tried SO MANY in the past few months and most made my skin worse. Many products which worked for me in the past were unsuitable for pregnancy due to the ingredients it contained so i did some research and found Belli. Delivery took like a week, which was totally ok with me because i saw improvement in 3 days after using the products!

So my routine is super simple during the period i was trying to resolve my horrible skin.

In the morning, i wash my face with La-Roche Posay Effaclar and Pat Albion Skin Conditioner before putting my usual make up (primer, concealer, foundation blah). 
At night, i use my Shu Uemura Oil Cleanser to remove my make up, then use Belli Facial Wash and Apply the Spot Control Treatment. On some nights, i leave the facial wash on for about 5-10 min before washing it off. I don't really know if it's working well but since they claim it's a versatile product and can be used as i wash off mask i decided to do that haha.

Belli does feel drying on my skin and my skin is really pretty dry now but it's so SOOOO much better than congested and pimply skin for sure. 

I will start to slap on a good moisturizer now and hope i don't start breaking out again. It's like during pregnancy, my skin is SO DIFFERENT! Super sensitive and acne prone :( Hoping it'll go back to normal after i give birth man.

Now i need not pile on so much make up to cover up my bad skin because my skin is CLEARED! FINALLY. Ya...i know i shouldnt even have piled on make up on my bad skin because that will just make it worse but i really feel very crappy if i do not cover up the pimples and blemishes and i'd not want to see anyone or go out.

This is not a paid ad.



Ad: HollyHoque



The piece i'm wearing is available here
Available online and at Orchard Gateway B2-02
Use discount code "Ohsofickle" at the HollyHoque store (Orchard Gateway B2-02) for a 10% discount!
(Discount is not applicable with other promotions and is valid until end July)


About Hollyhoque

The name Hollyhoque is derived from the flower, Hollyhock, and is also pronounced as such. Sheila, the brainchild behind the brand, chose it because it signifies both fruitfulness and luxuriance.

At first glance, Hollyhoque’s logo may look like a normal “H”; upon closer scrutiny, perhaps, one will then come to realize there are 2 H’s, one capital and the other small. However, not many are aware just how much more there is to it! Beautifully written and lovingly created, the design actually includes Sheila’s initial (S) and her boyfriend’s (J), of whom co-manages the blogshop. On top of that, the numerals 4 and 2008 are also very subtly and ingeniously incorporated into the logo, as Hollyhoque launched its very first collection sometime in April 2008.

The letters are written in a straight stroke to symbolize Hollyhoque’s smooth-sailing journey, and are also purple in color to represents fulfillment and inspiration.

The duo’s ideals for Hollyhoque remains steadfast since its humble beginnings: Hollyhoque will and shall be every girl’s dream wardrobe updater with weekly themed launches at wallet-friendly prices. Carrying an extensive range of today’s fashion with uniquely manufactured items attached with our very own in-house label as well as an array of apparel sourced from all over the world, Hollyhoque aims to cater to the fashion savvy.

After having relinquished the livejournal platform, Hollyhoque has been ever growing and expanding – it not only nestles happily in the era of the dot.com with pride and joy, it also has a flagship store in Singapore’s most bustling shopping area, Orchard. You may locate it at Orchard Gateway #B2-02, and can arrive there through Somerset’s MRT station.

Hollyhoque is having a SALE up to 60% off!!! 

Do check out both their online store and their retail store at Orchard Gateway B2-02.

Use discount code "Ohsofickle" at the HollyHoque store (Orchard Gateway B2-02) for a 10% discount!
(Discount is not applicable with other promotions and is valid until end July) 

Shop Now

Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Choosing a PreSchool Singapore

I have finally decided on the preschool for Elroy and have registered and secured a place for him already. Yes, he is only 9 months old but being a typical kiasu Singaporean, i decided to do the registration ASAP so i won't have to be placed on Waiting List. Due to privacy, i am not going to reveal the school i chose but it is one of the schools listed in this post.

I had a hard time narrowing down the preschools to visit and had to do some research on the many schools friends and readers suggested. I think my list had like 30 schools in total! Feel that most mummies might also have a hard time so here is my narrowed down list of the preschools worth considering. I visited 7 preschools in total on one week i was surprisingly really free. 4 of them in this list (EtonHouse, Brighton, Pat's, Mindchamps), and another 3 others i visited which i didn't like therefore won't be sharing.

When choosing the school, it is best you make an appointment beforehand so you can do a school tour and know more about the schools.

Decide what kind of curriculum you think is better for your child. Different preschools offer different curriculums, read up on it and decide what you feel is the best (here).

International Baccalaureate/Primary Years Program – Featuring six transdisciplinary themes to encourage confidence and identity, the IB PYP programs adds an additional dimension to traditional curriculum. 
Play-based learning. Although most preschools offer a version of play-based learning, here are a few of our picks.
Mandarin Language Immersion
Montessori – A school of thought that recognizes the uniqueness of the child, rewarding their individuality in learning. You can find Montessori-based schools throughout Singapore. Just to name a few specialty picks around town:
Waldorf Steiner
Reggio Emilia – A philosophy of self guided curriculum where children learn in a supportive environment that enhances exploration and discovery.
(Credits x)

I also considered the child to teacher ratio – how many kids to 1 teacher. Because my son will only be 19 months old when he enters school, i did not want a too "crowded" classroom and preferred schools which have like a 1:7 ratio so my child gets more attention. A friend of mine told me the school she sent her child to has a ration of like 1:10? Don't know how the teachers can manage! Also, it is best to choose one which is nearest to your place, but even if it isn't, most preschools will recommend you an external school bus service to pick your child from home to school and back. And of course, last but not least, the cost of the school fees. Most of the schools in this list cost around $1300-$2000/month for full day pre-nursery (after deduction of working mom subsidy). Most parents usually put their child half day though so price is lower. For me, i enrolled my son for Full Day course but am going for "Flexi-Hours", as the school i chose doesn't offer "Flexi-Hours". Was told it isn't "good" to do Full Day when he is so young so i think i'll alternate it...like some days full day, some days i'll pick him up half-day.

Here is the list of the preschools i considered enrolling Elroy to and have visited and liked it...

Chiltern House




Chiltern House Enrolment
Address : 902 East Coast Parkway
Block C #01-09/10
Playground@Big Splash
Singapore 449874
Tel : (+65) 6346 6130

Chiltern House East Coast
Address : 902 East Coast Parkway
Block C, #02-17/18
Playground @ Big Splash
Singapore 449874
Tel : (+65) 6345 9912

Chiltern House Forum
Address : #04-01 Forum
583 Orchard Road
Singapore 238884
Tel : (+65) 6737 1966

Chiltern House Thomson
Address : 510 Thomson Road, #04-01A
SLF Building Singapore 298135
Tel : (+65) 6299 5161


They have a more centres, you can find the full list on their website.

Cherie Hearts



Cherie Hearts @ Upper Thomson (NEW!)
6 Tagore Drive
Tagore Building #B1-05/06, Singapore 787623
Email: ong.yen.lyn@cheriehearts.com.sg
Phone: 6456 3802

Cherie Hearts Little Play House (Tai Seng)
30 Tai Seng Street
BreadTalk IHQ #02-12/13, Singapore 534013
Email: andy.ng@cheriehearts.com.sg
Phone: 6288 8261

Cherie Hearts Holdings @ Kim Keat
60 Kim Keat Rd, Kim Keat House
#01-01/03, Singapore 328827
Email: kimkeat@cheriehearts.com.sg
Phone: 6252 6228

Cherie Hearts Holdings @ Tampines St 42
Blk 460 Tampines St 42
#01-312, Singapore 520460
Email: tampines42@cheriehearts.com.sg
Phone: 6788 0603

Cherie Hearts @ Gombak (Upper Bukit Timah)
Blk 307 Gombak Recreation Centre
Bukit Panjang Camp, Bukit Panjang Loop, Singapore 669638
Email: gombak@cheriehearts.com.sg
Phone: 6768 3259

Cherie Hearts Holdings @ Jurong East
Blk 248 Jurong East St 24
#01-72, Singapore 600248
Email: jurongeast@cheriehearts.com.sg
Phone: 6560 8786

They have a more centres, you can find the full list on their website.


Pat's Schoolhouse




Pat's Schoolhouse Claymore
11 Claymore Road, Singapore 229541
Hotline: +65 6781 2288

Pat's Schoolhouse Raffles
11 Beach Road #03-01 Singapore 189675
Hotline: +65 6781 2288

Pat's Schoolhouse GrassRoots
190 Ang Mo Kio, Ave 8, #01-04 The Grassroots' Club, Singapore 568046
Hotline: +65 6781 2288+65 6781 2288

Pat's Schoolhouse Kovan
755 Upper Serangoon Road
Singapore 534625
Hotline: 6781 2288

Pat's Schoolhouse Lakeside
5 Kang Ching Road, Singapore 619061
Hotline: +65 6781 2288

They have a more centres, you can find the full list on their website.


LEAP Schoolhouse




LEAP Schoolhouse City Square
180 Kitchener Road
#09-09/10, City Square Mall
Singapore 208539
BRN: 200913496R

Tel: 6634 0828

LEAP Schoolhouse Pasir Ris
443 Pasir Ris Drive 6
#03-02
Singapore 510443
We are located above the Pasir Ris HDB branch office,
and we are right beside Nissi childcare centre.

Tel: 6581 2271 / 9230 5117

LEAP Schoolhouse
5 Jalan Lana
Singapore 419037

Tel: 6449 0306 / 6246 3695



Mindchamps




MindChamps PreSchool @ Yio Chu Kang
202 Ang Mo Kio Ave 9, #01-204
Yio Chu Kang Swimming Complex
Singapore 569771 (Yio Chu Kang MRT)

Tel: +65 6481 6626 / +65 8492 7888

MindChamps PreSchool @ Woodlands
11 Woodlands Close, #01-38/39 Woodlands 11
Singapore 737853 (near Admiralty MRT)

Tel: +65 6339 3296

MindChamps PreSchool @ Toa Payoh
#05-12 HDB Hub Biz 3, Lift Lobby 2,
490 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh,
Singapore 310490 (Toa Payoh MRT)

Tel: +65 6828 2648

MindChamps PreSchool @ Bishan
Midview City, 18 Sin Ming Lane, #01-18
Singapore 573960 (near Marymount & Bishan MRT)

Tel: +65 6734 8400

MindChamps PreSchool @ 143 East Coast Road
143 East Coast Road,
Singapore 428833 (Opp. 112 Katong)

Tel: +65 9681 4481 / +65 6440 0859

MindChamps PreSchool @ Bedok
750C Chai Chee Rd,
#01-01 Technopark @ Chai Chee (near Bedok MRT)

Tel: +65 9833 4567

They have a more centres, you can find the full list on their website.


EtonHouse




EtonHouse Newton
Address: 39 Newton Road Singapore 307966
Tel: 6352 3322

EtonHouse Bilingual Bukit Timah
215 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 588 184
Email 215BT@etonhouse.edu.sg

EtonHouse Mountbatten 223
Address: 223 Mountbatten Road , #01-18 , Singapore 398008
Tel: (65) 6440 5100



Brighton Montessori




Brighton Montessori Fort Road
16 Fort Road
Singapore 439077

Brighton Montessori Frankel Avenue
125 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458235

Brighton Montessori River Valley
370 River Valley Road
Singapore 248279

Brighton Montessori Sunset Way
41 Sunset Way, #02-01/02 Clementi Arcade
Singapore 597071

Brighton Montessori The Grassroots' Club *New*
190 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8, #02-01 The Grassroots Club
Singapore 568046

You can contact us at our hotline +65 6588 3883 to find out more.



Hopefully this list would be helpful in helping you find the best preschool for your child!