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Monday, January 30, 2017

Bonsai Master Masashi Hirao | Bonsai Project


The word 'Bon-sai' is a Japanese term which, literally means "planted in a container" when translated. Since i was a little curious about where the art of Bonsai came from, i managed to do a little research on the beauty of it. Apparently, it all started when the Japanese decided to develop the art of Bonsai along the influence of Zen Buddhism which has been around for over a thousand years. The goal to growing a Bonsai is usually to create miniaturized but realistic representation of nature in the form of a tree, and personally speaking, it really takes a lot of passion and patience to create such art.


In fact, a thousand years ago, there is a Japanese passage saying "a tree that is left growing in its natural state is a crude thing. It is only when it is kept close to human beings who fashion it with loving care that its shape and style acquire the ability to move one". From the saying, it actually projects a lot of deep meanings about how we should care about the existence of life. If you agree with me, you'd be excited to know more about Masashi Hirao, a.k.a the Bonsai Master, has a Bonsai Project coming up, where he shares his love and passion to the art of zen featuring the Bonsai


From a personal experience, i've never really appreciated the art of Bonsai till i visited Japan about 5 years back. Japan is home to the world's most beautiful Bonsai trees, and i would highly say that its a place to visit at least once in a lifetime because the quality of the Bonsai's in their famous Japanese gardens are usually overwhelming. And believe me, the minute you step in a Japanese garden with Bonsai, its as if you've step into a small part of heaven.

Masashi Hirao creating his masterpiece

Given the privilege to be aware, about Masashi Hirao whereabouts, im here to share with you about his Bonsai Project which will be featured on RTM1 on February 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th from 2pm to 3pm. So if you would like to know more about Masashi Hirao's Bonsai Project, be sure to check out RTM1 on the dates given, as this would be a once in a lifetime opportunity to be able to see how Bonsai art is created by sitting down right in front of your tv screen.



So what are you waiting for? Set your pre-recording on astro, if youre watching on astro, or alternatively, you can also set a reminder on your phone to be sure that you wont miss out on this exciting show. Psst, hover over "Masashi Hirao" to redirect yourself to his official youtube page to see some of his beautiful creations. And let me warn you that after watching the video's, you may have the urge to own your very own Bonsai tree too. But oh well, i guess theres no harm to that right?hehe. Well, thats all for now. Do also stay tuned on my next blogpost on the Bonsai Project as i will be sharing my views on the show. Thank you for reading my blogpost, and im hoping that you're looking forward to the show! xx

BONSAI PROJECT | RTM1 | 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th February 2017 | 2pm-3pm


Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Unboxing CubeCrate; January 2017 Box

Unboxing CubeCrate January 2017
And just in time to celebrate New Year, my CubeCrate January Box has made its way to my house just before Chinese New Year. The year started pretty messed up for me, but thankfully that I subscribed to a CubeCrate box to cheer me up each month. To greet the new years, I'm pretty sure CubeCrate has some exciting things featured in this months box, and if you're as curious as i am, lets find out what's inside!

Do you feel the Chinese New Year vibes?!
Brands featured in this months box!
Upon unboxing, i can already sense the Chinese New Year spirit! What's there not to love? Being in malaysia, I absolutely love the culture that we have here, and to be a part of such a massive celebration really means a lot to me. Thank you CubeCrate or giving me a feel of the Chinese New Year spirit! Hehe. So from the list of brands featured in this month's box would be from J&E Botanicals, Potsie Pottie, The Tea Republic and Feather Gifts Shop.

Sugar Scrub in Candy Cane *My item of the month!
Sugary scrub goodness! 
First up would be something from J&E Botanicals, where i got myself a candy cane sugar scrub! Just in time to scrub away my dead skin from my body. Teehee. Got to try this out and it smells just heavenly. I sensed a very strong scent of peppermint and i really can't wait to scrub myself with this candy cane sugar scrub. Extra points for its lovely glass packaging, it would look like a decorative item when put it on my bathroom shelves.

Earring from Potsie Pottie
How cure are these earrings?!
Next thing i got would be an earring from Potsie Pottie. I remember getting a few earrings from Potsie Pottie months back, and surprisingly i still have it with me still in perfect condition. Looks like I'll be adding another item to the collection that i have from Potsie Pottie. Being a versatile pair of earrings, i absolutely can't wait to see what kind of look i can create with these earrings. YAS

Some Tea from the Tea Republic anyone?
Looks so good! A sucker for tea's like these.
The aroma really relaxes me.
And guess whats next in the list? I got myself a tea sample by The Tea Republic. This actually gave me a nostalgic memory of my last visit in China where tea is really an important tradition in the chinese culture as back in the olden times if im not mistaken, it resembles wealth. So without hesitating, I decided to boil hot water and instantly try the tea out! The tea flavor that I received was actually a blend of lemongrass and ginger (Way too obvious), and despite not being a fan of ginger in my tea, this tea somehow tasted pleasant. Since I liked it, I decided to head over to The Tea Republic's website just to be amazed at the variety they had. So better check it out and see if any of their collection got you craving for tea. hehe

A decorative item and a magnet from feather gifts shop. 
Its now on my fridge! 
Last but not least would be something from the Feather Gifts Shop. The Feather Gifts Shop mainly sells Chinese cultural and educational related gift, but in this months CubeCrate box, i got myself a decorative item in a shape of a money bag, and a fridge magnet that resembles so much of antiquity. I'm hoping that the money bag i received is actually a symbolic gift that I'll have a wealthy year this year. Hehe.

Whats in my January 2017 CubeCrate box
So, i guess that's all for now. Thank you so much for reading my blog post. If you happen to want to subscribe to CubeCrate's subscription plan, be sure to head on over to Cube Crate Malaysia's website to see what plan they offer. In case you're wondering, eachCubeCrate box is priced at RM35, but for the past 1 year that I've been receiving their parcels, i guarantee that each box is usually worth more than the price you pay for. What are you waiting for? Subscribe today already! *wink.

Also, enjoy this video below of my sister reviewing my box for this months CubeCrate. It's her first video and im actually proud of her random acts. LOL.


Monday, January 23, 2017

[Launch] Hada Labo's New & Improved Lifting & Firming Range

Presenting Hada Labo's Lifting & Firming Range
Well, as much as I'm looking forward to starting a fresh new year, its also shocking to find out that im a quarter to 100 this year. (HOLY OMG I KNOW!) But of course, to prevent AGE from bothering, you need to age with grace, and in my context, I age with grace with a little help by Hada Labo. Been so in love with their lotions, and recently I was invited to attend their most recent launch featuring the new and improve Hada Labo Lifting & Firming range. For many women, turning 30 signals a time to truly consider the best-suited skincare and I would say that it's wise if you decide to check out on Hada Labo's Lifting & Firming range which I will further discuss why.

Targeting skin issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity and collagen.
As we age, it's important to choose a skincare range that targets skin issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity and collagen. Formulated to restore youthful radiance to the skin, the new and improved Hada Labo Lifting & Firming Range does just that. The two key ingredients in the improved formula featuring Hydrolyzed Elastin and Hydrolyzed Collagen, which work together at cell level to create skin strength, firmness, and shape. The range also infused elasgrow and fermented soymilk as an exclusive ingredient to boost collagen and elastin production that helps improve the condition of the skin.

Activity during the launch, where the chopsticks resembles the skin, and the rubber band resembles the collagen and elastin
Just because the venue is such a worthy place to take pictures!
With 4 types of Hyaluronic Acid being the highlight of the product, it helps to deeply hydrate skin from the surface to the inner skin layers for a significantly soft, smooth and supple skin. The range also contains powerful anti-oxidants properties to fight against the damaging effects of free radicals too. With 6 distinct products, I believe that Hada Labo has created the perfect range for women who are turning 30.

Lifting & Firming Lotion - Rich (RM67.50)

Lifting + Firming Lotion (Rich)
Texture test: Super rich and moisturizing
As we all know, the lotion is an essential first step after cleansing. It helps to awaken the skin as it drives moisture deep into the inner skin layers to prepare skin to fully receive the benefits of the next skincare regime that follows. I was actually rather shocked to find how moisturizing the lotion is, unlike your liquid lotion, this had a slightly gooey texture. To use, gently pat the lotion onto the face until its fully absorbed. For best results, use twice daily after cleansing.

Lifting & Firming Milk - (RM70.90)

Lifting + Firming Milk
Texture test: Light milky creamy texture
This is a light weight milk that easily penetrates deep into skin to restore youthful radiance and luminosity, leaving the skin visibly firmer and smoother. After testing it on my hand, I would say that this lifting and firming milk really would moisturize your skin almost instantly! This can be applied twice daily after lotion/essence. Gently pat onto face until its thoroughly absorbed.

Lifting & Firming Cream  - (RM78.00)

Lifting + Firming Cream
Texture test: Slightly heavy (may leave a sticky feeling on skin)
The cream has a velvety texture that melts into the skin to provide an intense nourishment to strengthen and improve the skin's youthfulness, leaving the skin visibly lifted, firmer and more luminous. Apply after lotion/ essence, and evenly spread the cream around the face and neck area. You'd be surprised how moisturizing the texture is, perfect for a firmer lift for the skin.

Lifting & Firming Wrinkle Care Cream - (RM74.90)

Lifting + Firming Wrinkle Care Cream
Texture test: Thicker than the lifting and firming cream.
Don't judge a book by its cover as this care cream really does wonders! Its a rich and nourishing cream that is designed to treat age sensitive contours around the lips and eyes. With regular usage of this would leave your lines looking finer and smoother, revealing a plumper, more youthful and renewed skin texture. It would be advisable to use this twice daily after moisturizing. To use, gently dab onto wrinkle-prone areas such as the forehead, eyes and lip area.

Lifting & Firming Mask -  (RM52.90)

Lifting + Firming Mask
Some details at the back of the box
The lifting & firming mask is a serum soaked mask enriched with anti-aging ingredients to deeply hydrate the skin and restore the skin's youthful vitality. This soft cloth mask is designed with the right thickness to fit the face perfectly. If your skin feels dry, this will instantly revitalize, lift and smoothen the skin. Best to be used once or twice a week.

 Lifting & Firming Essence - (RM89.90)

Lifting + Firming Essence
Come with a dropper cap. Texture test: Provides extra moisture to skin
Last but not least would be the lifting & firming essence. It contains naturally derived pomegranate extract and Lycopene, which boasts 100 times more antioxidant power than Vitamin E to fight signs of aging and pollution. This essence contains soybean extract to help improve skin elasticity and boost collagen and elastin in the skin to reveal firm and youthful skin. Formulated with high-performance penetrating & deep moisturizing (HPP&M) Technology which has an active delivery system to drive moisture deep into skin to fully hydrate skin from the surface to the inner skin layers. Best to be used after lotion, to prepare the skin to receive the full benefits of skincare.

The perfect skincare for women turning 30
And that's about it! The Hado Labo Lifting & Firming range is pH balanced and free from alcohol, fragrance, colorant as well as mineral oil. To women turning 30, I would really recommend you to try this out for an extra lift to a firmer appearance. After testing the products out myself, I would really say that these products are specialized to what its suppose to do. So get yours now as it's now available at all major pharmacies nationwide starting from January 2017. For more updates on Hada Labo, be sure to like their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MyHadaLabo.

Friday, January 20, 2017

[FASHION] Zacheela's Glamorous Devotion Fashion Show

Muslimah Fashion Show by Zacheela
Zacheela, a modest Muslimah designer clothing brand has targeted to be a fashionable brand for modest fashion to suit different personalities from all around the world! Recently I was invited to their Glamorous Devotion Fashion Show 16/17, thus giving me a reason to share out the good news to you as I'm proud to say that Zacheela is Malaysian based! Support local brands peeps! 

Devotion Fashion Show, held at Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur
The fashion show was held at Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur where Zacheela showcased 5 of the latest collection (Baroque, Flora, Moroccan, Abstract and Geometric)  which consist of 30 modest Muslimah selections overall. Using only the finest quality of Rasatti Silk and Korean Polyester, the collection also exclusively features pearls and premium beads on ONLY 100 pieces for each design making the designs highly exclusive once you own it. 

Baroque Collection

Baroque prints
A mix of black and nude
The Baroque Collection is a luxurious international brand where the patents are designed exclusively with interesting patterns. The collection features 2 luxurious shades, black and nude to create an elegant look making it a perfect glam outfit to get jaws dropping at night events. I honestly have to say that for a glam night out filled with sophistication, these pieces would definitely make head turns.

Flora Collection

Featuring pastel floral shades
The flora collections are hand drawn with floral patterns to suit sweet and soft personalities. The collection features shades of purple and dusty green on the fabric which creates a modest feminine look. Just looking at this collection just reminds me the essence of having high tea with girlfriends with some macaroons as sides on a lovely afternoon. Perfect for any girl at heart.

Morroccan Collection


The Moroccan collection is inspired by the middle east with a touch of elegance to give it more class to the designs. There's just something so mesmerizing about this collection really. It's like a combination of dreamy Moroccan aesthetics. Most of the range for this particular collections are in pastel colors, making it a rare sight to see. If this collection had a character, I would personally describe it as fierce but mysterious

Abstract Collection

The Abstract Collection
This collection features abstract designs with shades of soft pink petals, which also happens to be the signature design for Zacheela as the design features eye-catching abstract patterns. On a first impression, I believe that this collection is inspired by a form of a kimono from the Japanese culture, and Zacheela managed to add a twist to the design with abstract art in mind. For those who dare to be different, this has to be a must have! 

Geometric Collection


For the geometry collection, this design has been created for those who likes to look more outgoing. Blue signifies bravery to suit the wearer's character. I have a slight preference to this collection as I'm in love with the mysterious shade of blue accompanied with a geometrical pattern that adds a little more class to the collection. 

These ready to wear collection has successfully created designs make any wearer of the collection feel elegant and unique. Sizes start from XS to XXL, and retails at a reasonable price ranging between RM179 to RM299! That's affordable if you ask me, especially for designs that are super exclusive. 

Zacheela's Brand Ambassador 

Presenting the brand ambassador, Anzalna Nasir
To celebrate the occasion, Zacheela has appointed, famous Malaysian actress, Anzalna Nasir as their brand ambassador as she resembles the brand perfectly. According to the founder of Zaheela, Tengku Shaheela Tengku Abd Malek, the collection emphasizes on bravery through innovative elements and trending colors that would satisfy any fashion enthusiast with more choices in Modest Muslimah fashion. 

Featuring one the bridal collections which looked jaw dropping during the fashion show
By having the glamorous devotion fashion show, Zacheela hopes that the brand would further inspire fashion enthusiasts to believe in the brand and to also build trust with customers by providing only the best service and quality that would not disappoint. Despite being a Muslimah brand, I believe the collection is amazing to suit even for those who are not wearing headscarves (a.k.a people like me). 

Zacheela's Bangi Boutique

So what are you waiting for?! If you love these collections as much as I do, be sure to spare some time by visiting their boutique whenever you're free. I'm personally amazed at how exclusive the designs are and on top of that are available at unbelievably affordable pricesZacheela has to be on my 'keep a look out' list as something tells me that they will be a major hit coming in the near future. Be sure to visit www.zacheela.com.my for more updates on the latest collection, and also do leave me a comment below to share with me your thoughts on the collection. xx

Monday, January 16, 2017

[FOOD REVIEW] Sanoook @ Pavilion

Sanoook at Pavilion Food Review
Sanoook has been in the scene lately, and assuming that it has been creating a huge wave among those who crave for adventure in Sunway Pyramid, Sanoook had proudly opened their second outlet in Pavilion! It was such an honor to be invited to their media food review session as it was an amazing experience to be indulging Asian Thai fusion cuisine. And if you're here to read about what Sanoook, has to offer, then scroll away!

The iconic Red Train
Upon reaching Pavilion for the review, it wasn't that hard to find if you're familiar with Pavilion's layout. And if you haven't been there in a while, keep your heads up to Pavilion's layout upgrade! Sanoook is located in Pavilions new building, not too far from the current food court making it the ideal location to surprise shoppers with something more interesting. Sanoook also has a trademark of having a red train right in front of the restaurant, which makes it really easy to identify the restaurant from afar.

Interior Impression Shot
Spot the cute Sushi Burger on the wall
Being an architect graduate, I do have a thing for ambiance, and my comment for Sanoook's ambiance is actually very Asian. It has a minimalist touch to it, which features a slight feel of Japanese materials and texture within the surroundings. I was also really attracted to their wall decorations which one of it was featuring a sushi burger. YES, I said sushi burger. Well, Sanoook really had tons of things to offer, but here are the few that I managed to try.

APPETIZERS

Might Kam // RM18.90
In the appetizers list, we decided to try the Mieng Kam which happens to be the traditional Thai snack which features a betal leaf wrap served with 7 condiments. As a Malaysian myself, it felt rather weird to be consuming a leaf with condiments, but once you get a bite of everything in your mouth, you'll understand why its a favorite Thai snack! Pfft, who needs to go to Mieng Kam when you have Sanoook available in the heart of Kuala Lumpur? Teehee.

SOUP

Thai Coconut Soup with Chicken Wonton // RM17.90
To get our appetite going, we also managed to try the Thai coconut Soup with Chicken Wonton which was rather interesting to me. The first time I heard about it, I was like THAI COCONUT SOUP? Don't be fooled by its bizarre name, cause if you love creamy soup, this is one of it that you would learn to love! I also love how it has chicken wonton in it as a personal touch to the dish. Highly addictive once you get used to the taste.

SALAD AND VEGETABLES

Sanoook Salad // RM25.90
Sanoook also has a signature salad, so being known for their crazy fusions might as well give Sanoook a go on their Sanoook salad. Its actually Japanese cucumber wrapped with torched salmon and greens with sesame mayo which taste amazeballs! I'm a sucker for salmon, so I might also be biased to the dish. Hehe. But of course, if you love salmon, I'm not sure how they did it, but the salmon in this dish is cooked to perfection!

SUSHI BURGERS

Grilled Chicken with Green Curry Sauce Sushi Burger // RM18.90
Is it a sushi, is it a burger? NO! It's a sushi burger. With pictures all over the store resembling a sushi burger, it would be a waste to visit without trying their Sushi burger! Got a moment to try their Grilled Chicken with Green Curry Sauce Sushi Burger and boy was I surprised on how it was presented. Honestly, I would say that the highlight of the dish would be the condiments on the sides. The condiments are filled with flavors and texture, but if you like your sushi to be shaped in a burger, then order right away!

SKEWERS

Beef Skewers // RM18.90
Chicken Skewers // RM18.90
Sanoook is also known for their skewers, so here are the two skewers that we managed to try, featuring the Chicken (4 sticks) in Massaman sauce and the Beef (4 sticks) in Green Curry sauce. I'm aware that in Japan, skewers are a treat to indulge, but at Sanoook, it's definitely a whole new level of skewers! It looks like the traditional Japanese skewer but it tastes like a fusion of Thai flavors. Not too bad as it played with spices within the ingredients which I actually like.

SUSHI ROLLS

Sanoook Vegetarian Sushi Roll with Mayonaise // RM20.90
Grilled Tuna Sushi Roll with Spicy Tom Yam Sauce // RM28.90
Sushi Rolls are very common in Japan, but not so common when it's serve with a Thai twist.  The images above, we ordered the Sanoook Vegetarian Sushi Roll with Sesame Mayonnaise and the Grilled Tuna Sushi Roll with Spicy Tom Yam Sauce. I wouldn't say that this is your regular sushi, but if you're adventurous enough to go crazy with your tastebuds, Sanoook's sushi rolls are definitely a must try.  Between the two, I personally prefer the Grilled Tuna Sushi Roll with Spicy Tom Yam more because it has Tuna with an interesting spicy of Tom Yam instead of Wasabi.

RICE and NOODLES

Seafood Tom Yam fried Rice // RM22.90
Phad Thai Noodles with Prawn // RM21.90
Sanoook also offers more options if you're looking at having rice or noodles for lunch/dinner if you're less daring but still want the taste of fusion. In the photo above we managed to try the Seafood Tom Yam Fried Rice which was a really pleasant taste of Thailand, but I'm a sucker for Phad Thai noodles, so the Phad Thai Noodles with Prawn wins! If you haven't been to Thailand, you HAVE to try the Phad Thai Noodles as it's not your typical Malaysian everyday noodles.

SWEET ENDING

Mango Sticky Rice with Ice Cream // RM16.90
Thai Volcano // RM17.90 
Fuji Volcano // RM17.90
Now for my favorite part, dessert time! For every meal, to complete your dining experience, there is always a sweet ending to look forward to. Trust me, it was actually really hard to decide on what to pick, but i had to try would be the Mango Sticky Rice with Ice Cream, because of its Mango Sticky Rice. A little heavy for dessert, but I personally think its perfect for sharing as it comes in 2 scoops per order. We also got to try the Thai Volcano and Fuji Volcano since it was recommended by the manager. I shall let the pictures do all the talking as it tasted like an amazing explosion of flavors. Mmmhmmm. (Might be coming back for some volcano to share with friends)

DRINK

Sanoook Punch (RM11.90) & Thai Milky Ice Tea (RM9.90)
From the drink menu, I'm actually surprised to see that they offer mocktails in the list. Don't get me wrong, some people are a little confused with the word mocktail by thinking that its alcoholic, well ladies and gentlemen, that's why its called a MOCKtail. Decided to order the Sanoook Punch because it sounds interesting since its a combination of Mango, Pineapple, Grapefruit and Grenadine. Another drink we ordered would be the Thai Milky Ice Tea, because it's a classic Thai drink. Both tasted amazing, but I would definitely come back for the mocktail. Teehee

A few images of their specialties
Sanoook's Main Menu
Sanoook's Drink Menu
So there you have it! I think you can pretty much tell that Sanoook has tons of things to offer with their love affair between Thai and Japanese Cuisine. FUNFACT: Did you know that they use authentic Thai recipes from their flagship restaurant Chakri palace? I also managed to do a research on why its called Sanook, and found out the reason why! 'Sanook' means 'fun' in Thai and the reason to the extra 'O' represents a circle of endless friendship. Way too cute! So I guess I'll end my review here, thank you so much for reading my humble review. For more information on Sanoook, head on over to www.sanoook.my for the latest deets and promotional offers. xx

Location : Pavilion Mall (1.104.00 & S1.104.00)
Contact: +603-21105756
Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm