Poem: Of Man and Nature

Its working in the wilderness 

That opens the senses 

Up to the unexpected, 

Like this guest of mine, uninvited. 

And its always kept me fascinated- 

The stark contrast between whats created 

By men, and by Nature, 

And how we strive to live all as One. 

Copyright © 2016 thearcticstar

Poem: Desirable Darkness

Once upon a time, 

I used to misunderstand darkness, 

Fearinng it, shunning its comfort; 

Seeing in its abyss nothingness, 

And I had thought, 

That it was my enemy. 

I now know the its allure, 

How thoughts come alive in darkness, 

Embracing it, enjoying its solace; 

Visions come to mind and eyes, 

And I now know, 

That it is my nemesis... 

Copyright © 2016 thearcticstar

Poem: Torturous Thoughts

When you shut your eyes 

In order not to see, 

It is more agonizing, 

To see it in the mind - 

Torturing you, taunting 

Adding on fragments of imagination 

To add on to reality, 

You'd wish you could shut them out. 

Copyright © 2016 thearcticstar

[Media Invite] Dinner at Legend Seafood Restaurant (鸿宇海鲜馆) @ Bishan

Block 151 Bishan Street 11, #01-195, Singapore 570151

Tel: 9183 1580

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legendseafood

Reservation: http://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/legend-seafood-thomson-sin-ming-bishan-01-195

Located in a bustling residential area a couple of streets away from Zion Bible Presbyterian Church and Bishan Home, is where Legend Seafood Restaurant stands. It is a coffee-shop styled Chinese zichar restaurant, boosting a varied menu consisting of innovative seafood items, meat items and vegetables etc.

Service crew are donned in the same uniform and provide good service to all, despite dinner's peaked patronage. I was honoured to be invited for a tasting session here with representatives from Hungrygowhere, as well as a couple of familiar food reviewers / bloggers.

The starter of the evening was Double Flavour Fish (SGD$60.00), giving us the best of both worlds, in the form of a Grouper prepared 2 ways. Loved the battered deep-fried side that's infused with Thai-style sweet chili sauce, but enjoyed the cereal -covered side even more. This one crackles with light hints of sweetness.

Next, Cheesy Crayfish Bee Hoon (SGD$18.00), comprising generous amounts of bouncy, juicy crayfish and a saccharine, creamy broth.  Hearty, and we were informed that it might even taste like the famous dish in your favorite Malacca restaurant - well, I'll let you decide on that.

Then it was Salted Egg Crab Mee Sua (SGD$32.00), served with fried buns. Enjoyed the springy sweetness of the crabs and smooth strands of meesua (vermicelli) but thought the salted egg's taste could have been a little more distinctive.

The Fried Clams with Soup (SGD$12.00) was one of our favorites of the night. Tasty, fleshy clams in a pool of flavourful clear broth - distinctiveness of Chinese wine within, as well as vegetables to give it a nice balance.

Following that, Crispy Homemade Tofu with Pork Floss  (SGD$12.00) - crispy rectangles of deep-fried beancurd stuffed with pork floss, this was a tasty, innovative local delicacy.

Barbecued Prawns (SGD$16.00) - smokey deliciousness of grilled prawns coated with a familiar savoury-sweet sauce. They were so crispy, you could eat these springy prawns with the shell.

Then there were Salted Egg Pork Ribs (SGD$12.00) - succulent ribs, well-doused with salted egg sauce to give it a richer flavour. I loved how tiny chilli and curry leaves were used to give the dish a subtle pierce.

Next, Deep-fried Egg with Oysters (SGD$10.00) served with sambal sauce. From the golden-brown edges to its entirety, the egg was crispy and simply irresistable. The plump, sumptuous oysters bursted in the palate like a dream, easily making this dish a personal favorite of many of us that evening.

The Butter-Corn Crayfish (SGD$28.00) was relished eagerly as well - sweet and creamy penetration to the bouncy flesh of the crayfish.  Loved how the juicy corn added crunch as well.

Last but not least, Salted Egg Battered Mushrooms, a good appetiser for whetting the appetite - earthly flavour blending well with the salted egg's own. Add on to that a crackling exterior, I don't see how one could stop munching on these.

Overall, we enjoyed dinner here very much - this is a place perfect for hearty local delicacies with friends or family, and the owner Jimson and team are constantly looking to get innovative about their dishes, in keeping up with ever-changing times / food trends.  Thank you Legend Seafood for hosting us, and thank you Hungrygowhere for the invite.

The Honeymoon Series [i] - Selecting the Destination

So, with the ending of The Nuptial Series, we shall now see the birth of The Honeymoon Series, an essentiality after the wedding, for us to spend some quality time with each other without the interference of work or family.

Here's Part 1 of The Honeymoon Series, where we begin with firming up the period of travel, budget and venues.  This may also be your step-by-step guide on where and how to plan for the honeymoon without being too fussy or spoilt for choices. Read on.

DECIDING ON THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE GOING

Yes, a honeymoon, traditionally, should be enjoyed by two persons namely the newly-weds. But these days, with many overseas trips enjoyed way before the wedding already, it is not surprising to hear that some couples include their family members into their honeymoon. 

PLANNING THE BUDGET

This is very important as it helps you to determine the places you can afford to visit, as well the length of the honeymoon.  It may also give you an idea of when you can finally go for the honeymoon.

Do you have surplus "earnings" from the wedding ceremonies or monetary wedding gifts you can set aside for honeymoon? Or have you already saved up for it, or intend to start saving up for the honeymoon after settling the wedding expenses? Or do you prefer a shorter honeymoon that does not strain you financially and physically?

SETTLING ON THE PERIOD

How long a honeymoon we can take is very important, as it determines the locations we can then plan to visit, how many cities we can cover, as well as calculating the total costs. Also take into consideration if your company allows for the long leave you intend to apply, or if any other membership, activities, commitment may be affected by your long absence.

Then decide on the season you wish to travel. Are you looking to do a Winter vacation with picturesque snow-capped mountains, trying out skiing, visiting Christmas wonderlands etc? Then bear in mind too that you may need to forgo shopping as most malls would carry winter wear, which is not suitable for the weather back home (Singapore).

We wanted the start of Winter, so that the weather would be neither scorching nor too cold. White Christmas sounds tempting for me but by then it would be too cold and my skin cracks in extremely cold weathers so I would rather not spoil our honeymoon with bad mood each time my skin flakes. The ending of fall / beginning of Winter is just nice.

SELECTING THE DESTINATIONS

The first step is to decide on the venue. Somewhere far, somewhere we have not visited before, and wish to explore.

We have between the both of us covered most of Asia itself, including the Australasia regions. Therefore a honeymoon in these continents are out.

How about a nice beach resort, where we get exclusive privacy, be close to scenic waters and totally relax? Such as Bora-Bora, Maldives, Mauritius etc? We could live in resorts on stilts, dine over the waters, swim with the fish, and close our eyes to the sound of lapping waves.  We took that option out as well, as resort trips should be one of those usual trips for us, and we thought it was too un-exciting for a memorable honeymoon.

On my to-visit list are Europe, America, Alaska and Egypt.

We eliminated North America since it was never at the top of the list, and we had visited Vancouver 2 years back, the culture and places bearing close resemblences to the USA. Maybe another time, then. 

We decided against Egypt as well, because while I love the exoticness of it all - tents, deserts, tunnels and pyramids - it wasnt on The Beau's top priority.

We did ponder over Alaska, so that we could see my polar bears, visit the ice palaces, bars, museums etc, and most importantly see the Northern Lights (rumor has it that this is the last year until another decade later). We did some research, on Alaska and Iceland, but other than the Northern lights and ice buildings, we didn't find anything else of interest. 

So we settled on Central Europe, because it encompasses some of my favorite cities such as Paris, Fontainbleu, Venice, Rome, Florence, and UK and Switzerland. We hope to be able to work Santorini and Athens in too.  This should be the best time to visit Europe, so we could explore a few countries at a go.

MODE OF TRAVEL

Finally, at this stage, before you launch into the detailed research, it is vital to determine mode of travel. Are you thinking of going  by guided tours , so that there is safety in numbers and your land transport and accommodation are all taken care of? This would also be good if your honeymoon includes family members.

Or do you prefer to go Free and Easy, so that you are not subject to the brutal hours of the tour itineraries, and can roam anywhere, anytime as you please?

Once you have decided on all the above, it is now time to go into in-depth research of the chosen destinations, the travel agents (if applicable), the hotels and flights etc. Keep a lookout for Part 2 of The Honeymoon Series, where I will share with you on my research.

Dinner at BlissHouse Theme Restaurant at The Central

6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #03-21 Clarke Quay Central, Singapore 059817

Tel: 6225 5532

Website: http://www.blisshouse.com.sg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlissHouse.sg

Having seen many dreamy photographs that my friends took in this themed restaurant, I decided to head over to have a look for myself. I was sufficiently dazzled, indeed.

Herein lies a charming love story of two lovers running away from persecution and into a Garden of Eden (which the restaurant is trying to simulate). Visit their website for the full story, so sweet and romantic - and the restaurant reflects exactly that. This could even make for a really lovely wedding photoshoot or celebration venue!.

Upon stepping in, we were greeted by friendly staff and the good service level persisted throughout the course of our meal. The menu here comprises mostly Western dishes, such as pasta, poultry and seafood, some with Asian twists.

The interior was breathtaking, like a fairyland literally. One could choose to sit by the windows if they wish. Carriages, swings, bridge, fountains and a table surrounded by big Teddies formed part of the beautiful decor, all sitting on faux grass carpeting. Candles lit up all the tables, giving it an almost enchanting quality.

Just so you know, inside the kitchen area (visible to us but probably out of bounds to step) lies a very huge faux fireplace in white as well, blazing with "flames", emanating visual warmth filled with beauty.

Chilli Crab Pasta (SGD$20.80) was robust in flavour -spicy tinged with sweetness, gravy thickened with the beaten egg. Pasta was relatively springy and soft shell crab portions were generous, tasty and crispy.

Sambal Snapper (SGD$20.80) was grilled and topped with sambal chilli, and served with vegetables on the side. Knifepoint slid through crackling skin and touched the snowy flesh which flaked off prettily, firm in texture. Sambal chilli could be more spicy in my opinion - I thought it tasted a little too sweet.

The only drawback was the unavailability of drinks (we were there on the Eve of a public holiday, and the restaurant wasn't very busy) - my Lychee Yogurt was not available so I ordered a pretty pot of Rose Tea (SGD$6.80), sitting on glass-and-candle holder.  *Anoushka wanted Almond Latte but that was not available as well so she settled for Ginger Ale.

Overall, we enjoyed ourselves at this quiet and stunning restaurant, befit for princesses. Yes, one does tend to feel blissful here. I would love to return, if only just for the cakes and more photos.

Review on Cyber Colours Black Label UV Essence Cream Foundatiom

With the cessation of my much-loved Cyber Colours Gemstone Pudding Foundation (review here), I had no choice but to source for alternatives. Back to Lancome's Teint Miracle? Dior Snow? Chanel Le Blanc?

I was persuaded to try the Cyber Colours Black Label UV Essence Cream Foundation (SGD$66.90), which comes in a very classy packaging (black with glitters!!!) and consists of natural goodness such as Chinese herbal extracts (angelica senensis, ginseng, lucid ganoderma extracts), peach kernel and kawatani seeds. 

Practically like tonic for the skin, this product with its rich ingredients is supposed to cover spots and fine lines effectively, smoothly but without grease It also has SPF 18++ protection, and proclaims to absorb excess sebum, is sweat-resistant and waterproof.  (I wonder if I could go swimming after applying, just to test this claim out).

Opening up the mysterious black box, one is impressively wowed by the small pot of black-sheened cream foundation within, accompanied by a small scoop placed standing upright as well. It looked so classy I was nearly reluctant to touch them.

Anyway, I did - opened the lid up to see the smooth, pale cream foundation within. Using the tiny scoop, I spaded up a tiny amount and applied to my face. It was silky and not too rich; I appreciated the fact that it was devoid of odours as well, despite its quality herbal ingredients (I half expected to breathe in aromas of ginseng and angelica).

By the way there are 3 shades to this foundation - Ivory, Natural and Beige. I chose the middle tone.

The foundation was absorbed into my face pretty fast, with a light velvety smoothness and middle coverage. I patted loose powder to set the makeup and was out.

Overall I liked the product because of the ease of application, its sleek packaging, the superior ingredients, reasonable price and soft coverage.

The drawbacks are its exclusive availability only at Sasa's outlets, and being in a tub makes bringing out (or travelling) a little tricky. Also, lastly, one of the ingredients is alcohol, so if you have sensitive skin, this may not be suitable. However I do have sensitive skin, but this product has so far worked fine for me (been using it for around 2 months).

Schooling Proves that Singapore Talents do Exist Too

13 August 2016 marks the day that Singapore is put on the charts once again - this time ranked Number #1 in the Rio Olympics, by swimmer Joseph Issac Schooling.  He came in first in the Men's Butterfly 100m race, setting the records at a mere 50:39 seconds, snagging away the Gold Medal from the supposed arms of his idol Michael Phelps - he literally flew to his spot like a butterfly!

His name is all over news portals and social media platforms currently, replacing the tiresome updates on Pokemon Go, which have unfortunately swamped the media arenas like a plaque.  I welcome the refreshing change, and I am very happy for Joseph Issac Schooling, Singapore's very own talent, taking our flag straight to the top and bringing our National Anthem to broadcast worldwide. It was truly a "Majulah Singapura" moment - a wonderful birthday present for Singapore's 51st Birthday.

Photosource: http://graphics.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/Interactives/2016/08/olympics-blog/index.html

The Race and The Win
Having met his idol Michael Phelps at the tender age of 13, the national sports star has already made up his mind to obtain proper training and develop in this field. Of course, the determination might have also been speared since the even younger age of 6, when he learned of his granduncle Lloyd Valberg being Singapore's first Olympian in the 1940s as a national High-Jumper.

So off to The Bolles School in Florida he went, first to train under Coach Sergio Lopez, and then Coach Eddie Reese at University of Texas. Hard work and sweat must have been put into the training, and it helped that he was training away from home and the constant celebrity-hood he would receive here back in his homeland, which might be distractions for the young athelete.

Despite having won many medals in various competitions before, such as Gold in Incheon's Asia Games 2014, bagging all 9 gold at 28th SEA Games, and scoring 1st at the 16th FINA's World Championship, the very recent win at Rio Olympics 2016 has set new grounds for Singapore and Joseph himself.

The surreality of having won would have taken a while to sink in, amidst all the cheering, clapping and congratulations he was receiving left, right and centre. It would be the kind of feeling where one feels on a high, envisioning their own names on various charts and channels, and then the eagerness to want to break the news to their supportive family, coaches and friends.

What Does It Mean for Joseph Schooling

• Having attained such an honour for Singapore would only mean more hard work and training in future, so that he can bring home more awards for the country
• Being a good-looking champion would also mean that more sponsors and advertisers are going to knock on his door now
• People who previously did not believe in him would now tell others, "I always knew he could do it!"
• People who were not close to him would start bringing up incidents shared by themselves and Schooling, affiliating themselves with the National Star.
• He has deferred his National Service for 3 years in order to undergo training and compete in the Rio Olympics. If / when he has to serve his time now, would he be able to take it? Will he suddenly have a lot of false friends or envious foes?
• He has made his parents, his schools and coaches as well as country very proud, and created a name for himself on a different level
• He can now easily contribute more to The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund, a campaign which he has helped kick-start with his initial SGD$10,000 donation in June 2015.

Photosource:  http://graphics.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/Interactives/2016/08/olympics-blog/index.html

What Does It Mean for Singapore

• It means that (and I state the obvious here) Singapore does have its own talents, all that is required is the correct nurturing and development. 
• It means that it is time to stop purchasing foreign talents and it is time to start grooming our own sports talents.
• It means that more support is important for budding sportsmen (and artists) in Singapore - in terms of family support, community support and financial support by the relevant Ministries. 
• I hope Lawrence Wong and team sits up and start pondering more so that more sports scholarships, and overseas training programs can be in place.
• It means that there should not be sole emphasis on academic results, but one should also be recognized for their alternative talents, such as sports or arts.  Imagine if Colin and May Schooling had been old-fashioned and academically-focused, then this phenomenal moment today would not have taken place. 
• It also means that now that Singapore has been proven to be capable of breeding its own National Talents, there should be more to come, so that this would not become a one-off event.

Photosource: http://www.theonlinecitizen.com/2015/06/17/joseph-schooling-donates-10k-to-charity-on-his-birthday

Well done, Joseph Issac Schooling of Anglo-Chinese (Independent) High of Singapore! Looking forward to more worldwide records from you.  In the meantime, let's not forget other national talents who have also made it to various games and / or brought back medals for the nation as well, such as Quan Zheng Wen, his sister Quah Ting Wen and Joscelin Yeo, etc.  Let's continue to cheer them on.