California Raisin's Raya Rasa Sayang 2019 | Cooking Challenge

California Sun-Maid Raisins

For the past 4 years of my life, I have realized that there are so many different ways to work with raisins! And going back to my first ever cooking show with California Raisins in 2015, I have been so inspired to incorporate raisins into my dishes to replace the usage of sugar and any artificial flavoring.  This year being a brand new year for me to further explore the potential of raisins, I've formed a team with Miriam and Suki to participate a cooking challenge of preparing a dish that carries a special ingredient, "California Raisins".

Here attending the California Raisin Raya Rasa Sayang

Discussing with my team mates on some ways to work with Raisins

As we all know, raisins are considered a healthy snack that is loved by adults and kids as well. Even for me, I'll have a huge pack of raisins in my office, just because I rather snack on raisins instead of chips. The beauty of these California Raisins is that it has a naturally sweet taste that also contains tons of nutrients for the body. Even in my lifestyle, I consider it a great energy booster and a great on the go snack when youre feeling hungry.

Listening to an informative talk on California Raisins and where they came from

And finally, its time to get messy in the kitchen

So, going back to the 'Raya Rasa Sayang' cooking challenge, we were to create an appetizer or main dish that incorporates raisins to continue the beauty of raisins being a part of the festive season coming up. Raisins are not only a healthier choice but its also very appetizing to include it in your main dishes as well. And no, im not saying as a topic, but as a natural food enhancer. Hehe. Thus my team has decided to prepare 3 dishes, starting with 'Mango Salad with Raisin Vanaigrette', 'Raisin Sambal with Chicken' and 'Fried Cauliflower Rice' as our dish, presenting it as Ramadhan Blessings.

Here's mua fying the chicken with tumeric first before making the sauce

And Miriam preping her fried couliflower

And not to forget Suki who's busy prepping her Mango Salad in Raisin Vanaigrette

During the challenge, all 8 teams were given one hour to plan, prepare and cook a meal that would not take so much time to prove yourself worthy of the challenge. Most of us created unique dishes to incorporate raisins, and I must say that it was a tough call to really compete. Our team was under the theme of blessings, and all of us contributed in creating dishes that we would enjoy, which I m super thankful for as we managed to achieve our target to complete different sides to incorporate raisins in the dish.

And tadaa! We managed to pulled it off within 1 hour

The outcome of our dish

After roughly an hour of being busy in the kitchen, it has been proven that California Raisins are very easy to work with in preparing any dish that you would like to naturally sweeten. Moreover, I find it also a great way to promote a healthier lifestyle in preparing the festive food that we eat by reducing the sugar intake and replacing the sugar with California Raisins. So, think about it. If you have a family member that is suffering through diabetes, it's always best to provide them with a healthier alternative to replace sugar with raisins. Won't you agree?

During the judging session

And we were lucky to win the Grand Prize! 

Once our time was up, we were all instructed to present our dish to the judges, explaining both our concept and our theme to relate with the food that we have freshly prepared. Under the theme blessing, we explained our way by saying that we are blessing the people with the food prepared by raisins, and with raisins, we managed to create a variety of dishes to show that raisins are versatile to work with. No sugar was used in the dish, and it tasted pretty amazing too! And to our surprise, we were the grand prize winner, snagging away with RM800 cash to split within the team. Hehe.

A secret tip? Enjoy creating something new with new ingredients

Congrats to everyone else too for the fantastic work in the kitchen!

So the next time you look at your favorite box of raisins, think about what other things it can do for you other than maintaining a better lifestyle, but also creating dishes that you'd love too! I hope this post inspired you on the potential of raisins, and if you do need some guidance on where to start, you can always head over to www.calraisins.com for some recipes that you can try to prep for yourself. For more information, you can leave me a comment below or maybe share me your creations! Hehe. Well, that's all for now :)

California Raisins 

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Chriszen Match Matte Serum Foundation | Asian Skin tone Foundation

Chriszen just launched the Match Matte Serum Foundation

Have you struggled to find the right foundation for your skin? Well I know I have, when I love the texture and functions, its not my skin tone, and when it is my skin tone, I don't like the feel of it on my skin. I've been very loyal to only a few foundation brands that I keep very close at my heart, and now, im pretty happy to add in Chriszen in my list of foundations that I'd recommend! Here's why.

Got a feel of it during the launch, and im in LOVE!

So being Malaysian, I find it a little tricky to find a foundation that would repair the skin while providing coverage. Chriszen has been Malaysia leading beauty and skincare brand, and im excited to share with you that they have recently launched a new foundation called the Chriszen Match Matte Serum Foundation. I know I know. What can be so exciting about another foundation being out in the market? Well, let me break the details for you cause this isn't your typical foundation. They have managed to develop a unique formula that would balance out both make-up and skincare functions giving you both the benefits of beautifying while nourishing the skin.

There are 5 variants of shades to suit SEA skintones

Chriszen Match Matte Serum Swatches

From the product name itself, you can pretty much tell that this foundation not only acts as makeup as it also functions as a serum for your face too. The serum has a smaller molecular size and will not only provide smooth and in-depth coverage but also penetrates deep into the skin to provide adequate nourishment, and heal flaws while providing you the coverage that you need. How amazing is that?  I was sold when I found out about it!

During application as proof that i tested the product out myself

And to complete the look, dont forget to apply lipstick

Now, what does it contain? Well, the serum foundation is packed with 11 ingredients namely bearberry extract, oat kernel extract, red sea algae, licorice root extract, vitamin B3, frangipani, trehalose, fucogel, aloe vera, manuka honey and hazel extract providing essential benefits for the skin for hydration, skin whitening, anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties. Since I also managed to get a feel of it being on my skin, I must say that it's incredibly lightweight and it moisturizes my skin pretty well too (not leaving any patchy spots on my skin).

Loving the flawless finishes. This photo is also non editted btw

Won't you agree that it provides a pretty flawless coverage across the skin? I don't know about you, but the minute I applied it on my skin, I feel like my skin is glowing. It's suitable for all skin types and comes in 5 shades created especially for Southeast Asian skin tones, namely Natural Ivory, Light Beige, Nude Beige, Natural Beige, and Rich Honey. In my case, im labeled under shade Natural Beige which suits my skin tone very well considering that it blends well with the skin.

Its also as lightweight as my pose in this photo. hehe

As a verdict, I would have to say that its a great foundation for daily use and even for those who have skin concerns. I recently had breakouts and usually I would prevent wearing make up to prevent any blockage or infections from spreading, but with the Chriszen Match Matte Serum Foundation, i now wont need to worry about my skin getting worst on days when I need coverage (which also includes on days when my skin is at its worst). Thank you Chriszen!

So, it retails at RM65.90 and is exclusively available at Guardian Stores

Chriszen Match Matte Serum Foundation comes in a 30ml pump bottle and retails at RM56.90 in West Malaysia and RM65.90 in East Malaysia. Its currently exclusively available at Guardian stores nationwide, so be sure to keep your eyes on it in stores. For more information, you can always visit their social sites which I will include below. Well, that's all for now. Im thinking of doing a makeup look to show you guys how well it covers. So stay tuned for that!

Chriszen

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Mamonde Now Available at Watsons Malaysia starting April 2019

Mamonde now available tat Watsons Malaysia

If you know me well enough, Mamonde has always been in my highly recommended skincare list as its a Korean skincare brand that is inspired by flowers. It used to only be available at limited sources, but now it has expanded its sales channel to Watsons and is now available at over 50 Watsons stores nationwide. (YAY!) Im a regular shopper at Watsons since its located so conveniently almost anywhere you go, and now im happy to share with you that can now shop for Mamonde products more conveniently apart from beauty counters that are located at departmental stores.

Source: Global Cosmetic News

Among popular Mamonde products that are sold at Watsons outlets include its First Energy series (All time favourite serum) , the Floral Hydro range, Moisture Ceramide range, Floral Toner and Flower Facial masks series. Selected Watsons stores will also carry Mamonde makeup products such as the All-Stay Foundation, Creamy Tint lip products and the innovative Pang Pang Hair Shadow too!

The launch of Mamonde into Watsons store nationwide is in line with Amorepacific’s global partnership with A.S Watsons Group to widen its distribution platform for both online and offline. Watsons Group currently operates 15,000 health and beauty retail stores in 12 different store names in 25 countries around the globe. Also, if you havent noticed Mamonde products are also currently sold at selected Sephora outlets as well as online shopping platforms such as Lazada, Hermo and Shopee Mall.

In conjunction with the launch at Watsons, Mamonde is offering a 10% discount exclusive for Watsons Members when they produce their membership card at the counter. This exciting offer will be valid from 26 April – 3 May 2019 only.

Mamonde Malaysia

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Jason Mraz Tours Malaysia | MAY 2019

Jason Mraz fans! This goes to you. Believe it or not, Jason Mraz will be bringing his Good Vibes Tour to Malaysia on 13th May (Monday), 8.30pm at Axiata Areana. if you have been keeping up with the entertainment industry, you would remember that his album shot to flame when his album 'Waiting For My Rocket To Come' launched in 2002, which was where he amasses fans all around the globe by bringing positive vibes through his vibrant recordings.

It's no wonder that Jason Mraz has won numerous platinum and awards for his various releases such as "Im Yours" and "I won't give Up" where he made history with his record-breaking singles. He also won two Grammy Awards and received the prestigious Song Writer Hall of Fame Hal David Award and also had sold out amphitheaters and arenas across the globe! Would his visit to Malaysia be sold out as well? Let's find out!

I remember 10 years ago in 2009, where Jason Mraz first performed in Malaysia in 2009, followed by Tour is A Four Letter Word in 2012. According to the entertainment industry, Jason Mraz did highlight to his Asian fans that he enjoys traveling and performing for listeners in Asia. He also highlighted that the audience participation in Asia is more harmonic and supersonic which could be a possibility on why is he making a return to Malaysia once again in 2019!

The Good Vibes Tour announced that the release of Jason's sixth studio album KNOW on August 10th, 2018, becoming his fifth consecutive studio album to debut in the Top 1- of the Billboard 200. The album was produced by Andrew Wells who brings organic and groovy feel to the albums classic acoustic rock sound. Which now questions me that have you heard his whole album which was released just last year to keep up with his concert if youre planning to go next month?

So if youre ready for Jason Marz, be sure to secure your tickets and start planning your month ahead. The Good Vibes Tour started in North America last summer, and it continues in Asia where Jason Mraz will be performing in Manila, Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Taipei in May 2019. And once again, if youre from Malaysia, Jason Mraz will be performing in Kuala Lumpur this May 2019! Details below for your information:

Date: 13 May 2019 (Monday)

Time: 8.30pm

Venue: Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, KL

Ticket Prices: RM198, RM298, RM398, RM498, RM598 and RM698 (VIP)

Tickets are available NOW on www.myticket.asia

CONTEST! 

Oh, if youre feeling lucky, you may be able to win tickets to Jason Mraz's Good Vibes Tour in Kuala Lumpur! Just join the "Love Is Still The Answer" Snap & Win Photo Contest and you might stand a chance to win a pair of VIP Tickets (worth RM698 each ticket). All you have to do is upload a photo of what love means to you on social media and don't forget to hashtag #LoveIsStillTheAnswerPhotoContest #JasonMrazLiveInMalaysia! So be sure to join! Who knows you might be one of the lucky 12 winners.

MAMONDE'S RED ENERGY RECOVERY SERUM | Giving Skin New Life

Being a person who is constantly on-the-go and exposed to harsh environments, i noticed that the stress level rises while my body energy level depletes thereby causing that heavy fatigue feeling. Similarly, our skin that is constantly exposed to harsh environments and external pollutants will lose its vitality and become more sensitive over time. To combat these issues, im happy to share with you that Mamonde has formulated a brand-new serum containing a special trademarked ingredient that will bring life and energy back to our worn-out skin! Introducing the Red Energy Recovery Serum with Blossoming Energy™ and pomegranate that helps recover and revitalize exhausted skin, bringing it back to its optimal condition.

Presenting to you the Mamonde Red Energy Recovery Serum

The Blossoming Energy™ is Mamonde’s latest innovation – a special active ingredient that helps to boost skin’s energy, which is derived from a 28-year study of flowers. Through observation of the  lifecycle of flowers through changes in colour and temperature, Mamonde has discovered a unique component that helps flowers to bloom and survive longer than its usual lifespan. This component was extracted, tested on skin and has since been developed to become the core ingredient for the Red Energy Recovery Serum, bringing forth properties that boosts skin’s energy and return it to its healthiest condition.

Source: Pamper.my

Another key ingredient in the serum derives from the pomegranate blossom and fruit. Did you know that the pomegranate blossom is also one of the few flowers that do not wither but transform into a fruit after its blossoming period. The pomegranate flower and fruit are known to have a high content of polyphenol and phytoestrogen as well as vitamin B and C. Polyphenol has the ability to protect plants against harsh UV rays, and on human skin provides high anti-oxidant benefits, suppressing the synthesis of reactive oxygen to help recover and revitalize worn-out skin due to external irritants. Flowers and fruits that are red are also said to have higher polyphenol content than fruits and vegetables of other colours.

The Red Energy Recovery Serum works in 3 ways: 1) Strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and self-defence system for healthy and supple skin 2) Boosting the skin’s energy production by bringing the cellular turnover cycle back to normal thereby improving the skin’s texture 3) Deep moisturisation and hydration to give the skin a healthy, dewy look. With a smooth glide-over liquid barrier technology, the serum’s structure consists of a multi-layered lipid membrane that is formed on the skin’s surface to prevent loss of moisture and damage making it the next ideal step of a skincare routine after toner. The Red Energy Recovery Serum is free from animal ingredients, mineral oil, polyacrylamide, imidazolidinyl urea, triethanolamine, synthetic colorant, PEG surfactant and paraben. It’s mild hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested formula makes it suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.

Retailing at RM130 for 30ml and RM190 for 50ml, the Mamonde Red Energy Recovery Serum is available at Mamonde Beauty Counters at Aeon 1 Utama, PJ, Aeon Mid Valley Megamall KL, Aeon Bukit Indah JB and Aeon Tebrau City JB. It is also available on Hermo.my and Lazada.com.my. So what are you waiting for? Get your hands on this today to give your skin that extra blooming glow.

Mamonde Malaysia

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[REVIEW] NOVU 360 Solution X Butterfly Project | Parkson Sunway Pyramid

Im here at NOVU 360 Solutions @ Sunway Pyramid

Recently I was invited to do a little review on NOVU 360 Solutions and honestly, this was already my third time here! Since I went for the first 2 with my own expenses, I realized that I haven't really gotten the chance to do a proper review on it. So, since I finally have time to do a write-up, all thanks to the Butterfly Project for having me, im pretty happy on how far my skin is after their treatments. The first time I went was in December 2018 and now we're in April 2019 (Currently 4 months pregnant!) Wondering how and what is safe for pregnant women when it comes to quick NOVU 360 Solutions? Continue to read this post to find out what treatment I did.

First timer promotion: Any 2 for RM168

Before every treament, theres always a form to sign for security measures

The initial pakage that i wanted to tryout for the day

Initially, I came to try out their Revital Eye Treatment which is supposed to be a treatment to reduce droopy eyelids, laugh lines and dark circles. Since they recently launched the treatment in Malaysia in March 2019, NOVU 360 Solution was having a treatment introductory offer at RM168 (Usual Price: RM298) which is a good deal for those who are exploring into finding solutions. The offer is for a limited period of time only, so be quick if youre eager to try it out yourself.

Before every treatment, they would usually cleanse your makeup away first

Unfortunately, when I reached my destination, I was told that the treatment isn't as suitable for me since im pregnant. But im thankful that they told me way ahead regarding this. So, instead of trying out the Revital Eye Treatment, I was recommended to try out their signature treatments which would be milder for a pregnant woman to handle, the P+ Phyto Laser and Radiance Light. Honestly, they were very well trained to know what is safe for a pregnant woman as not all aesthetic treatments are evasive.

P+ Phyto Laser

P+Phyto Laser treatment

Now, let's get into details! As much as the P+ Phyto Laser sounds very scary if it's your first time, it's actually not as bad as you think. The treatment is actually a non-ablative laser treatment that promotes skin rejuvenation while reducing pigmentation and acne. The purpose of this treatment would be to make the skin looks brighter and clearer. It's also gentle enough to treat a wide variety of skin types. Honestly speaking, this was the most painless laser treatment I've done (comparing to other aesthetic centers that I've been to).

The 3 C's of NOVU 360

The treatment was incredibly quick comparing to other centers where they would usually take more time as they need to apply numbing cream before the treatment. At NOVU 360, they would cleanse and remove any makeup from your face first, and I was not applied with any numbing cream. I can really say that it didn't hurt at all. On a scale of 1 to 10, i'd say it felt like a 2 to me. If you can tolerate extractions at facial centers, then this is nothing. It really just felt like tiny ant bites that went for good 10 minutes throughout the session.

Radiance Light

The light had a machine, almost similar to the VR machine. (Didnt have anyone to help me take a pic)

After the P+Phyto Laser, usually the beautician would suggest to follow up with the Radiance Light treatment which stimulates collagen production, kills surface bacteria while inhibiting acne and pimple formation and also brightens and evens out the skin tone. This session was actually very fast as it only took less than 4-5 minutes in duration.

For beginners, naturally these are the signature treatments by NOVU

What it is, is basically a machine that covers your entire face and they would usually have to cover your eye with some blockers to prevent you from being shock from the bright lights. Trust me, it shines as bright as Rihanna's diamond. Once it's on your face, the light movement moves from left to right and vice versa in short flashes. It felt like nothing, to be honest, but I guess what it really does is to kill any bacteria on the skin.

After the treatment, they would usually apply moisturiser and sunblock before you head off

Definitley edffortless and doesnt take too much of your time

For better results, it would be best to include their RF-Fibrotaut and Ion Infusion, but since im pregnant, those treatments were not recommended for me. Even though there are no side effects that they might cause, it's always better to prevent the risk. So, following up to the treatments I did, both focus on skin concerns, consistency and skin contours which is like a combo for a quick solution. I must say that my skin was literally glowing after the treatment and im impressed!

Verdict

Showing off my after glow treatment

As a verdict, I would recommend NOVU 360 Solutions as their treatments are quick and efficient when it comes to results. I will definitely come back again as I have a few more remaining treatments under my account which I purchased earlier. Hehe. My main concerns as always been acne and pigmentations, and so far it has been almost a month after the treatment and my skin is still glowing! Love it! Well, that's all for now, and I can't wait to get the baby out to be able to try the Revital Eye Treatment. Hehe. Tata for now. xx

NOVU 360 Solutions

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[CONTEST] Yeo's Raya Bergaya Contest 2019 | 15th April - 9th June 2019

On a hot day, my favourite drink has always been Yeo's Lychee!

Contest geeks, this is your chance to win yourself some 'Duit Raya' and if you're lucky, you might walk away with the grand prize, a Proton X70! Since the secret word under the title is 'Yeo's, you can now enjoy your favorite drinks made without preservatives while standing a chance to win yourself weekly prizes of RM500 for 200 contestants weekly and of course who knows, you might also drive away with a Proton X70. Even I'm tempted to win a cool ride!

CONTEST MECHANICS 

Contest mechanics for Yeo's Raya Bergaya Contest 2019

So if youre reading this, you're one of the first to know about the contest organized by Yeo’s Malaysia. The contest is open to all Malaysians residing in Malaysia and for those below the age of 18, they would need their legal guardian consent prior to joining. The duration of the contest will be between 15th April 2019 till 9th June 2019 at 11.59pm. So be sure to stock up your home with Yeo's and keep the receipt with you.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Step 1: 

Here are my purchase and don't forget to keep the receipt!

With 3 simple steps, all you need to do to buy any Yeo's food or drinks up to a minimum worth of RM8 in a single receipt with a minimum purchase of 1 Yeo's drink in bottle/PET which 1 receipt would equal to 1 entry. (Yeo's food/drink includes canned food, sauce, noodle, Cintan, Justea, and Tong Nam.) Also, be sure that the brand and price of the product must be clearly listed on the outlet receipt with the date stated during the contest period.

Step 2: 

Open your WhatsApp (cause we all have phones now), and attach the Official Receipt and type (Full Name, Identity Card Number (NRIC) & Official Receipt Number. Be sure that your shared image is clear as any non-clear figures may also lead your submission to be disqualified. Date of receipt should be within the contest period duration.

Whatsapp (example) : 

Name: ALIZA SARA *****, 

IC: 92****-14*-****

OFFICIAL RECEIPT NUMBER: ***********

Step 3: 

Send your submission through Whatsapp to 017-6627511 and you will receive an official notification from the Organizer in 1 to 3 working days for each successful submission. Keep the receipt in a safe place for verification purposes. And that's it! 

Weekly Prize Winner: 200 x RM500.00 Cash

Week 1: 15 Apr – 21 Apr 2019

Week 2: 22 Apr – 28 Apr 2019

Week 3: 29 Apr – 5 May 2019

Week 4: 6 May – 12 May 2019

Week 5: 13 May – 19 May 2019

Week 6: 20 May – 26 May 2019

Week 7: 27 May – 2 Jun 2019

Week 8: 3 Jun – 9 Jun 2019

Grand Prize: 1 x Proton SUV X70 1.8 TGDI Standard 2WD

Yeo's Soya 1 Litre Bottle *NEW*

Also if you have been browsing through supermarkets already, you'd notice that there's a new addition of the Yeo's Soya 1 Litre Bottle in their variation. With fasting season being just around the corner, this would be a nice addition to your 'sahur' and 'buka puasa' as it will definitely leave you replenished with nutrients and thirst with well-maintained quality of soya milk. Yums! Im already trying to get myself to at least one of the prizes. Hehe. That's all for now, and I wish all participants of the contest good luck!

Yeo’s Malaysia

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