Dongzhi in Ipoh: Where I Wish Time Would Stand Still

Today marks my 11th day back in Ipoh, and honestly, I wish I could stay here forever.

There’s something deeply comforting about being home with my parents — the familiar rhythms, the unspoken understanding, and the quiet joy of simply being. Life here feels slower, softer, and more intentional. I wake up without rush, eat without worry, and fall asleep feeling taken care of in ways that only parents can.

Today is Dongzhi, the Winter Solstice — a day about reunion, warmth, and family. And my dad, as always, marked the occasion by cooking up an absolute storm.

True to his nature, he refused any help in the kitchen. Cooking is his domain, and he likes full control of the entire process — from planning to chopping to seasoning. We’ve learned to respect that. So we let him be, happily. My role comes after: mopping the floor, cleaning the stove, washing the dirty kitchen slippers, and helping with the dishes. My younger brother Roy chips in too, tackling the dirty dishes alongside me. It’s teamwork, just in different stages.

Dad cooked my absolute favourite — rice wine chicken with black fungus and fried egg, using two whole thighs of bearded chicken. The meat was firm, flavourful, and deeply comforting, the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

He also steamed a beautiful white pomfret, stir-fried snow peas with fish paste and garlic, sautéed baby bok choy, and cooked a big, nourishing pot of beetroot soup with sweet corn, arrow root (fun kok), pork ribs, and red dates.

Mum contributed too — she cooked parboiled basmati rice infused with blue pea flowers from our garden, turning a simple staple into something quietly special.

It was such a lovely dinner — one of those meals where the food is wonderful, but the company makes it unforgettable. Sitting at the table with my parents and brother, sharing stories and laughter, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. These are the moments that truly matter.

I did wish, though, that my three daughters were here with us today. Dongzhi is, after all, about togetherness.

We didn’t make or buy any tong yuen this year — we’re honestly not fans of glutinous balls. But yesterday, my eldest daughter Alycia, who’s in KL, surprised us in the sweetest way. She ordered desserts from the famous Douba Dessert Shop and had them delivered to us via GrabFood.

There was black glutinous tong sui with tong yuen, herbal jelly with boba and taro balls, mochi, and tau foo far. We enjoyed every bite — not just because they were delicious, but because they came with love. Even though she’s far away, she remembered us, thought of us, and found a way to be present.

That gesture filled my heart.

This Dongzhi, I’m reminded that family isn’t just about being physically together. It’s about thoughtfulness, care, and showing up — in meals cooked, floors cleaned, desserts sent, and love quietly expressed.

And here in Ipoh, surrounded by my parents, my brother, and the memories we’re still creating, I feel exactly where I’m meant to be.

Desserts ordered by Alycia in KL and delivered to us in Ipoh by Grab Food yesterday.

Rice wine bearded chicken with black fungus and fried egg.

Stir fried baby bokchoi and snow peas with fish paste.

Beet root + sweet corn + corn silk + arrow root (fun kok) + pork ribs + red dates soup boiled in the slow cooker for over 6 hours.

My brother and dad splashed extra hard liquor into their bowl of rice wine chicken.

Choosing Simple Joys in Ipoh

Today was one of those quietly meaningful days — ordinary on the surface, but deeply grounding.

I accompanied my parents to the bank to settle some Safe Deposit Box matters. No rush, no stress, just the three of us moving through errands at a gentle pace. After banking, we stopped by a furniture shop, browsing without urgency, talking about practical things and small possibilities. Then came lunch — simple chap fan (economy rice), comforting and familiar, the kind of meal that doesn’t try to impress but always satisfies.

After a week-long break, I finally laced up my shoes and went for a brisk walk around my neighbourhood. The moment I stepped out, my body remembered why I love walking here. Ipoh is wrapped in limestone hills and lush greenery, and every walk feels like a quiet conversation with nature.

Some days, I’m greeted by monkeys living by the hills, watching curiously from a distance. Other days, I walk a little faster after being almost chased by dogs — a reminder to stay alert and laugh about it later. It’s never boring, always alive, always real.

As I walked, it became even clearer to me — Ipoh is where I want to spend the rest of my life. I love the peace here. I love the limestone hills standing quietly in the background, the good food that doesn’t need hype, the lower cost of living, and the deep familiarity of everything around me. Nothing feels foreign. Nothing feels forced.

Life in Ipoh is simple. But I’ve learned that simplicity can buy me something far more valuable than flashy wealth or luxury — peace and happiness.

And right now, that feels like everything.

These chap fan dishes from Ritzbina @ Bercham only cost RM32, consisting of 6 dishes, 2 large brown rice, a huge braised fish head and a big packet of steamed chickpeas. We kept the braised fish head for dinner.  The dishes are by far the best in Ipoh in terms of quality (not overly salty or oily) and price. My parents love to get their chap fan at this restaurant.

My mum stole some pix of me while I was doing banking at the ATM.

A Smooth Ride Home: Back to Ipoh With My Soul Cat, Haru

The drive back to Ipoh on 10 December 2025 felt… different this time. Maybe it was because I went home without any of my daughters following me, maybe it was the familiar comfort of going home, or maybe—just maybe—it was because my little shadow, Haru, handled the entire journey like a seasoned traveller.

For the first time ever, Haru didn’t meow at all during the trip. Not a single complaint, not even her usual “Are we there yet?” chirps. After two previous road trips, she’s finally gotten used to the long drive and seems to trust that mama will get her safely to her destination. Once we reached Ipoh, she settled down comfortably in our room—though, true to her mysterious cat personality, she still chose to spend most of her day hiding under my bed. That’s her safe bunker, her little retreat. As long as she feels secure, I’m happy.

Being back in Ipoh feels like sinking into a warm, familiar hug. My parents have been pampering me in every way possible. Dad even double-boiled bird’s nest with ginseng for me—his signature “super tonic” to nourish the body and soul. Meals? All taken care of. Laundry? Not my responsibility for once, though I still helped out. All I needed to do was help out with small house chores here and there, and even then, my parents kept telling me to rest, rest, rest. Mom went "stop wiping the floor" all the time.

And honestly… it’s such a luxury. No worrying about feeding my girls. No stressing over piles of laundry. No mental checklist running 24/7. No feeling of being rushed. Just a chance to breathe, slow down, and let my tired batteries recharge fully under my parents’ loving care.

Feels like exactly what my heart needed.

Stay tuned—more Ipoh stories coming soon!

Last minute photo-taking with their beloved Haru. Cass and Sherilyn miss Haru more than they miss me. Actually they don't miss me at all.

Haru inside her carrier in my car on our way back to Ipoh. My younger brother drove my car.

Casting Further For Less: How Budget-Savvy Anglers Save When Shopping Piscifun

Fishing can be a wonderfully simple hobby, but the gear list rarely feels simple at all. Reels, rods, line, tools, storage, clothing, bags for the bank or boat – it adds up fast. Piscifun has become a favourite name for anglers who want capable tackle without luxury-brand pricing, yet even value-focused equipment can strain a budget if you buy it without a plan. The good news is that with a bit of thought, a sense of timing and smart use of Piscifun promo codes, you can build out a seriously useful kit while still leaving room in the wallet for bait, travel and licence fees.

This guide looks at saving from the angle of a real-world angler: someone who wants solid gear that works hard, lasts well and does not demand a second mortgage. Instead of chasing every new release, you will learn how to make the most of what Piscifun already offers, how to spot quiet bargains on the site and how to layer your own buying habits on top so you always feel you are getting a fair deal.

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Start By Matching Gear To The Way You Actually Fish

Overspending often begins long before you reach the checkout. It starts with imagining the sort of angler you would like to be rather than the one you are right now. The best way to protect your budget is to be brutally honest about how, where and how often you fish.

Think about questions such as:

• do you mostly fish small local waters, larger lakes or moving rivers

• is your style relaxed bank fishing, mobile lure work, kayak sessions or boat trips

• do you chase many species or focus on a small handful through the year

• how rough is your typical terrain and weather

• how much gear do you actually carry on a normal day

Once you understand this, it becomes clearer which reels and bags make sense and which products are more fantasy than reality. Piscifun has options for many styles, from compact reels and light tackle storage to hard-working sea models and rugged packs. When you buy only what fits your real routine, you avoid expensive clutter that never leaves the garage.

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Why Buying Direct From Piscifun Can Make Sense

Anglers sometimes assume third-party marketplaces are always cheaper, but buying direct from the brand can carry hidden advantages that save money over time.

Shopping on the official store usually gives you:

• access to the complete current catalogue in one place

• clear product descriptions that explain capacity, drag design and best uses

• direct communication with support if you have questions about pairing reels and rods

• faster help with problems under warranty

• brand-run deals that might not appear elsewhere

When those in-house advantages are layered with Piscifun discount codes, the combined value often beats the scattered savings you might find by chasing random offers from unknown resellers.

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Build A “Whole-Trip” Gear Plan Instead Of Buying Piece By Piece

It is tempting to spot a good price on a reel and click buy, then repeat the process later for a bag, then again for tools, and so on. This piecemeal approach is one of the easiest ways to overspend because you never see the full total until long after the money has gone.

A better method is to step back and picture your typical day on the water from start to finish. Imagine:

• how you travel to the water and what you can realistically carry

• where your rods and reels will sit between sessions

• how you will store lures, terminal tackle and spare line

• what tools you rely on for unhooking, cutting and quick repairs

• how you keep valuables safe and dry

Now group your needs into a small set of categories such as reels, storage, clothing and tools. When you eventually visit the Piscifun store, you are not shopping for random items; you are filling clearly defined roles in a trip plan. This makes it much easier to compare similar products and avoid impulse extras.

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Use The Site Layout To Hunt For Hidden Value

Many brand stores quietly guide you toward full-price bestsellers. To save money, you want to swim slightly against that current and look for the corners of the site that reward patient anglers.

On Piscifun, useful hunting grounds include:

• deal or sale sections where marked-down reels, tools and bags live

• clearance areas with last-season colours or older model runs

• highlighted bundles or kit sets that gather several items together

• limited campaigns tied to particular seasons or fishing styles

These parts of the store often contain products that are still perfectly relevant but priced more kindly because new graphics, minor improvements or fresh campaigns have arrived. When you build a basket mainly from these pockets of value and then add Piscifun voucher codes on top, you push the price down long before sacrificing quality.

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Think In Kits And Systems Rather Than Single Pieces

Anglers do not fish in isolated items; they fish in systems. A reel is only as useful as the rod and line you pair with it. A backpack only shines when it works neatly with your smaller tackle boxes, pliers, scales and drinks bottle. Thinking in systems keeps your purchases grounded.

You might sketch out kits such as:

• a mobile bank-walking setup with one or two versatile combos and a light bag

• a boat-friendly selection built around higher-capacity reels and safer storage

• a minimalist travel kit that fits in hand luggage yet still covers your favourite methods

• a hardy “bad weather” system with waterproof storage and robust gear you do not baby

Looking at gear this way stops you from buying four nearly identical reels that all cover the same water, or a pile of bags that do not integrate with the tackle boxes you already own. You buy fewer pieces, but each one earns its place.

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Let Timing Do Some Of The Saving For You

Even if you love a particular reel or bag the moment you see it, you do not always need it immediately. Timing can be one of your strongest allies.

Common moments that bring better prices include:

• brand anniversaries and themed events

• seasonal changeovers when stock is refreshed

• tackle-show periods when many angling brands run campaigns

• holiday seasons when fishing kit often appears in gift promotions

By noting these patterns and delaying larger purchases until you sense an event approaching, you often gain access to deeper reductions. When those in-store offers are then combined with well-timed Piscifun promo codes, your final price can look surprisingly gentle.

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Use Rewards And Referrals As A Long-Game Strategy

Short-term bargains are fun, but long-term habits pay off more. Piscifun encourages repeat custom through reward schemes and referral bonuses, and these systems can become powerful if you buy thoughtfully rather than randomly.

It helps to:

• create an account so purchases earn points instead of checking out as a guest

• redeem points in sensible chunks rather than tiny amounts every time

• share referral links only with anglers who genuinely want to try the brand

• time the use of earned credit to coincide with bigger orders

This approach slowly converts your normal fishing spend into future discounts, effectively giving you a small rebate on your loyalty.

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Look Closely At Bundles, Multi-Buy Deals And Threshold Offers

Piscifun frequently experiments with offer formats designed for anglers who are stocking up. Some promotions reward you for buying more than a single item in the same family, others for crossing a certain basket value, and some for picking selected product combinations.

These structures suit anglers who plan ahead. Instead of grabbing one reel now and another much later, it can be smarter to buy both during a multi-buy event. The same logic applies to tools, storage accessories and clothing. As long as you only purchase gear you truly intend to use, you turn those layered deals into genuine savings rather than clutter.

Offers like free or reduced shipping above a particular order value can also tip the balance. Grouping several planned purchases into one basket to unlock better delivery terms often costs less overall than placing several small orders spread across a season.

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Combine Codes With Care Instead Of Chasing Every Offer

Anglers love a good deal, but a chaotic approach to vouchers can leave money on the table. Most checkouts allow a single manual promo entry, so you need to decide which code brings the greatest benefit for your current basket.

A simple rule of thumb is:

• use percentage-based offers when your basket contains a mix of reels, bags and tools at standard prices

• consider fixed-value reductions once your order has grown beyond a modest spend

• save broad site-wide promotions for orders where nearly everything qualifies

Rather than scattering discounts across random purchases, treat each strong code as something you want to deploy against a carefully assembled basket. When that basket already leans on sale items and bundle value, a single well-chosen voucher can have a dramatic effect.

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Learn From Other Anglers Before You Buy

One of the easiest ways to waste money is to buy tackle that does not quite suit your conditions, then replace it later. Reading reviews and watching real-world feedback from anglers who fish similarly to you helps avoid this trap.

Look for comments about:

• how reels behave under steady pressure and sudden runs

• whether drag feels smooth under realistic loads

• how bags and packs sit on the shoulders during long walks

• whether zips, clips and straps stand up to repeated trips

• how tools handle cold, wet hands or low light by the bank

This kind of information is more useful than studio specifications. When you understand how a piece of gear feels and behaves session after session, you only buy it when you know it will earn regular use.

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Let Coupons And External Vouchers Do Quiet Extra Work

Once you have planned your kit, watched for promotions and checked real-world feedback, the final stage is to see whether a little extra help is available from outside the brand itself. It is perfectly reasonable to let Adventures in Coupons promo codes play a small supporting role in that process, especially for larger baskets where even a modest percentage or fixed reduction can make a noticeable difference.

Used in this subtle way, vouchers become the last polish on a purchase you would have been happy with anyway, rather than the main reason you bought something in the first place.

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Turning Piscifun Into A Long-Term Ally For Your Budget

Piscifun’s whole identity is built around the idea that enjoyable, capable fishing gear should not be reserved only for anglers with deep pockets. That philosophy becomes even more powerful when you respond with your own strategies.

By matching tackle to the way you truly fish, buying in coherent systems rather than scattered items, hunting the valuable corners of the site, timing major purchases around brand events, leaning on rewards and referrals, and letting carefully chosen Piscifun discount codes finish the job, you turn the brand into an ally for both your time on the water and your financial sanity.

Over seasons of use, this approach quietly transforms your collection. Instead of a pile of half-used gadgets, you end up with a lean, reliable set of reels, bags, tools and accessories that genuinely earn their keep. Your kit feels stronger, your sessions feel smoother, and your budget still has enough room left to explore new waters when the urge to wander strikes.

Heading Home to Ipoh… With Haru in Tow!

I’m typing this while waiting for my younger brother, Roy, to come and pick me up. In a little while, we’ll be heading back to Ipoh together — my parents, myself… and of course, Haru. My little shadow. My soul cat. Wherever I go, she follows, as if she already knows that she’s part of every chapter of my life now.

This time, I’ll be spending a long holiday in Ipoh. A well-deserved break to reset, breathe, and let myself be pampered by my parents the way only parents can — with food, fussing, and that familiar comfort that feels like medicine for the soul.

I’m really hoping Haru behaves in the car again, just like she did on her past two road trips home. Fingers crossed she keeps calm and doesn’t hiss at anyone, claw my shoulder, or plot her escape plan halfway through the North-South Highway!

This is just a short update before we get on the road.

Stay tuned — more Ipoh stories coming soon!

Below are pix of our sumptuous dinner at Dancing Fish (Malay-Indo cuisine) @ BSC with my visiting SILs and their families from overseas last weekend.

Dancing Fish's signature deep-fried crispy dancing fish.

Fried tempeh with petai, braised ox tongue in kicap hitam, ikan bakar and pucuk pakis in coconut milk curry.

Platter of deep-fried veggies, squid, otak-otak, and satay with kerabu mango.

Ice kacang and cendol

Deep fried egg tofu.

Sunless Tan Lotion by Sun Labs: Your Ultimate Guide to a Flawless Glow

Achieving a beautiful, natural-looking tan no longer requires hours under the sun or risking the harmful effects of UV rays. Thanks to advanced formulas like Sun Labs Sunless Tan Lotion, you can enjoy a deep, even, and radiant glow safely and conveniently from home. Whether you're a longtime fan of self-tanners or just discovering the world of sunless tanning, Sun Labs’ iconic formula offers a professional-grade finish trusted by beauty lovers worldwide.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Sun Labs’ sunless tanning lotion—from how it works to how to apply it flawlessly, and why it stands out from countless other self tans on the market.

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What Makes Sun Labs Sunless Tan Lotion Unique?

Sun Labs has been a pioneer in the sunless tanning industry for decades. Their formulas are known for being packed with skin-loving ingredients while delivering a deep, rich tan that develops beautifully on all skin tones.

Key Benefits Include:

1. Natural, Streak-Free Results

The lotion blends evenly into the skin and is designed to avoid streaks, patches, or orange tones. The color develops into a realistic bronze that looks like a natural summer tan.

2. Fast-Developing Formula

Most Sun Labs tanners, including their Dark, Very Dark, and Ultra Dark versions, begin to develop in as little as 3 hours and reach full depth within 12–24 hours.

3. Hydrating Ingredients

Infused with soothing natural extracts and moisturizers, this lotion nourishes the skin instead of drying it out like many traditional tanners.

4. Long-Lasting Color

With proper prep and moisturization, the tan can last up to 5–7 days before gently fading.

5. Vegan, Cruelty-Free, and Paraben-Free

Sun Labs products are formulated with skin health in mind—ideal for people who want cleaner ingredients in their beauty routine.

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How Sunless Tan Lotion Works

Sun Labs sunless tanning lotion uses DHA, a plant-derived ingredient that interacts with the amino acids on the skin’s surface. This reaction creates a brown tone that mimics a natural tan—without the UV damage.

Unlike bronzers that wash off, DHA tans stay on the skin until the top layers naturally exfoliate. Because of this, prepping your skin correctly is essential for long-lasting, even results.

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How to Apply Sun Labs Sunless Tan Lotion for Best Results

To get the most out of your tanning session, follow these steps:

1. Exfoliate Thoroughly

Use a mitt, scrub, or exfoliating glove to remove dead skin cells. Focus on elbows, knees, ankles, and hands.

2. Moisturize Dry Areas

Apply a light layer of lotion to dry spots to prevent them from absorbing too much color.

3. Apply the Tanning Lotion with a Mitt

Using a tanning mitt ensures even application and keeps your palms stain-free. Work in circular motions and blend well.

4. Let It Dry Completely

Allow at least 10–15 minutes before getting dressed and avoid tight clothing.

5. Avoid Water for 4–6 Hours

Let the color fully develop. Shower only after the recommended timeframe.

6. Maintain Your Tan

Moisturize daily and avoid harsh exfoliants to extend the life of your sunless tan.

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Choosing the Right Sun Labs Shade

Sun Labs offers several options depending on how deep you want your tan to be:

• Medium for light, natural color

• Dark for a noticeable bronze

• Very Dark for deep sun-kissed glow

• Ultra Dark for maximum impact, ideal for experienced tanners

If you’re unsure, start with Medium or Dark and build from there.

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Why People Love Sun Labs Sunless Tanning Lotion

Thousands of beauty enthusiasts rely on Sun Labs because the formula is consistent, clean, and easy to use. It delivers:

✔ Professional results at home
✔ A tan that complements all skin tones
✔ A scent that’s lighter than many competitors
✔ An affordable alternative to salon spray tans

Whether you're preparing for an event, maintaining a year-round bronze, or replacing UV tanning beds with a healthier option, Sun Labs makes it simple.

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Final Thoughts

Sun Labs Tan Lotion Sunless remains one of the most trusted self-tanning products on the market. Its hydrating formula, rich color payoff, and long-lasting results make it a staple for anyone who wants a flawless glow without sun exposure. With the right prep and application techniques, you can enjoy a smooth, streak-free tan that looks naturally radiant and never orange.

The Beauty of Loose Mineral Eyeshadow: Color, Purity, and Endless Creativity

Loose mineral eyeshadow has become a favorite choice for beauty lovers who value clean ingredients, smooth textures, and vibrant color payoff. Made from finely milled natural minerals, this type of eyeshadow offers a lightweight feel while still delivering impressive depth and luminosity. It has quickly become a must-have for anyone who wants makeup that looks beautiful and feels gentle on the skin.

One of the biggest advantages of loose  giselle mineral eyeshadow loose is its cleaner ingredient list. Many formulas avoid parabens, fragrances, talc, and harsh chemical additives, making them a great option for people with sensitive eyes or delicate skin. The powder applies softly and blends smoothly, allowing you to control the intensity of the color with ease.

Color performance is where mineral pigments really shine. Each shade is rich, reflective, and buildable. You can sweep on a soft wash of color for a natural daytime look or layer it for a bold, radiant finish. When applied with a damp brush, the pigments transform into a creamy, intensified effect that adds dramatic depth and dimension.

Another benefit is versatility. Loose mineral eyeshadows giselle  can be used for much more than eye looks. Many shades work beautifully as highlighters, shimmering body accents, or even custom lip toppers. This flexibility makes them an excellent addition to any makeup collection, giving you endless ways to express your creativity.

Application is simple once you get comfortable with the loose texture. Start with a small amount of product and build slowly. Use a fluffy brush for soft blending or a dense brush for concentrated color. To keep your powders performing their best, always seal the lids tightly and store the jars in a dry place. This helps prevent moisture from altering the texture or pigment quality.

Overall, loose mineral eyeshadow is an ideal choice for anyone who wants clean beauty, customizable color, and a radiant finish. Whether you love soft neutrals, glowing bronzes, vivid metallics, or romantic pastels, mineral pigments offer stunning results with minimal effort. They blend beautifully, feel comfortable on the skin, and open the door to limitless creative looks for every occasion.

Tips for Long-Lasting Wear

To get the most out of your mineral eyeshadow, start with a clean, moisturized eyelid. Apply a primer or light concealer to create a smooth canvas that enhances color payoff and prevents creasing. Using brushes designed for mineral powders ensures even application and minimizes fallout. For extra intensity, lightly mist your brush with a setting spray before picking up the pigment. This technique transforms the powder into a creamy texture that adheres well to the eyelid and lasts throughout the day.

Layering loose mineral eyeshadows over each other can also increase longevity. Lightly dust the base color first, then blend your mid-tone and highlight shades. Finish with a setting spray to lock in color and shimmer. Unlike traditional pressed shadows, mineral powders can be refreshed easily during the day by gently patting a small amount on top without disturbing the underlying makeup.

Alycia Turns 22 — A Birthday to Remember at Hut Dining Buffet, Lalaport

We kicked off December with a double celebration that felt extra meaningful this year. With my MIL’s 80th birthday coming up on 9 December, all four of her children and their families flew back from overseas for the celebration. It’s the first time ever — in all these years — that the entire family is back together under one roof. And what made it even more special was that we also got to celebrate Alycia’s 22nd birthday on the 5th of December.

To mark the occasion, we decided on a family dinner at Hut Dining Buffet at Lalaport, a Japanese eat-all-you-can buffet that has been raved about for its quality. And I must say… the reviews did not lie!

Ordering is all done via iPads placed on the tables, and every dish is freshly prepared only after an order is placed. No pre-made trays, no soggy food sitting under warmers — everything comes straight from the kitchen, beautifully plated and incredibly fresh.

And with a big family like ours, you can imagine how the ordering went.

Umpteen plates of fresh sashimi, snow crabs, hamachi, unagi, shellfish, raw oysters, wagyu beef, and so much more arrived one after another. Everyone had their favourites, and we happily ate to our hearts’ content. Dessert was a highlight too — Haagen-Dazs stick ice creams in various flavours, the perfect finishing touch to an already fantastic meal.

Honestly, it was one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time.

The total bill came up to over RM4,000, generously treated by my BIL who flew in from New Zealand yesterday.

After dinner, we headed back to my SIL’s unit (same condo, just a different unit) for a simple cake-cutting session for Alycia. She turned 22 surrounded by her grandma, uncles, aunties, cousins, sisters, and all the people who love her.

It was a beautiful night — great food, laughter, bonding, and a rare gathering of the entire family. A celebration we will all remember for years to come.

Alycia with her Sarah ku ku from Hawaii.  Alycia spent her baby and toddler days a lot with Sarah before she left to work in Saipan.  The tiramisu cake is from Lacher Patisserie.

These are just some of the dishes that we ordered, which I managed to snap photos of. 

Baked prawns, grilled hamachi, wagyu sukiyaki, deep-fried soft shell crab, grilled saba and California rolls.

Pingu Birthday cake from Alycia's high-school bff. Her bff is now living in Auckland, but she never fails to send Alycia birthday gifts since she left about 7 years ago.

Fresh oysters, sashimi, snow crab chawan mushi, and I can't remember the names of some of the dishes here.

Snow crabs.

More fresh sashimi, baked snow crab with cheese, soft shell crab maki and wagyu don.

Fresh sashimi platter. We ordered many of these.

Ordering is done on an iPad.

Restaurant staff singing Happy Birthday to the birthday girl, with complimentary birthday cake.

Haagen Dazs stickbar ice-creams in four delicious flavours. I shared a salted caramel and macha bar with Cass.

Enjoying her snow crab.

Balancing Motherhood and Mental Wellness: Simple Tips for Busy Moms

Motherhood brings immense joy, but it also comes with unique challenges that can impact mental wellness. Between caring for children, managing household responsibilities, and often juggling career demands, mothers frequently find themselves overwhelmed and struggling to maintain their psychological well-being. The reality is that taking care of your mental health isn't selfish; it's essential for both you and your family.

Many mothers experience guilt when prioritizing their own needs, feeling as though they should always put their children first. However, when mental wellness suffers, it affects every aspect of life, including parenting quality and family relationships. Understanding how to balance motherhood with mental health care is crucial for creating a sustainable and fulfilling life.

Understanding the Mental Health Challenges of Motherhood

The transition into motherhood and the ongoing demands of raising children can trigger various mental health challenges. Sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, social isolation, and the constant pressure to be a "perfect mother" all contribute to stress and anxiety. Research shows that mothers are at higher risk for depression and anxiety disorders compared to women without children.

The modern expectation that mothers should effortlessly manage everything while maintaining a positive attitude creates unrealistic pressure. Social media often amplifies these feelings by presenting curated versions of motherhood that seem flawless and easy. This comparison trap can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

Additionally, many mothers experience a loss of identity as they adapt to their new role. The person they were before children may feel distant, and finding time for personal interests and relationships becomes increasingly difficult. This identity shift, while natural, can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety if not addressed properly.

Recognizing the Signs of Mental Health Struggles

Before implementing strategies for better mental wellness, it's important to recognize when you might be struggling. Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, excessive worry about your children's safety, irritability that seems disproportionate to situations, difficulty sleeping even when the opportunity arises, and feeling disconnected from activities you once enjoyed.

Physical symptoms can also indicate mental health challenges. Frequent headaches, digestive issues, muscle tension, and changes in appetite or energy levels may all be signs that stress and mental health concerns are affecting your body. Some mothers also experience intrusive thoughts about harm coming to their children, which can be particularly distressing but are often a symptom of anxiety disorders that can be effectively treated.

Many mothers dismiss these symptoms as normal parts of parenting, but persistent mental health struggles shouldn't be ignored. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, recognizing when you need support is the first step toward better mental wellness.

Creating Realistic Expectations and Boundaries

One of the most effective ways to protect your mental wellness is to establish realistic expectations for yourself and create healthy boundaries. Perfect motherhood doesn't exist, and striving for it often leads to burnout and disappointment. Instead, focus on being a "good enough" mother who provides love, security, and guidance while also taking care of her own needs.

Setting boundaries means learning to say no to commitments that drain your energy without providing meaningful benefit. This might include declining social invitations when you're feeling overwhelmed, limiting volunteer activities at school, or asking family members to respect your time and space. Boundaries also apply to technology use; consider setting specific times for checking social media and news to prevent information overload.

It's also helpful to redefine what productivity looks like as a mother. Some days, simply keeping everyone fed and safe is an accomplishment worth celebrating. Other days, you might have energy for more activities and projects. Allowing for this natural ebb and flow reduces the pressure to maintain constant high performance.

Simple Daily Practices for Mental Wellness

Incorporating small, manageable wellness practices into your daily routine can significantly impact your mental health. These don't require hours of time or expensive resources, making them accessible even for the busiest mothers.

Morning Mindfulness

Starting your day with just five minutes of mindfulness can set a positive tone. This might involve deep breathing exercises while drinking your morning coffee, writing three things you're grateful for, or simply sitting quietly before the rest of the household wakes up. These brief moments of intentional calm help center your mind and prepare you for the day's challenges.

Movement and Exercise

Physical activity is one of the most effective natural mood boosters available. You don't need a gym membership or hour-long workout sessions to benefit. Dancing to music while preparing dinner, taking a walk with your children, doing yoga videos during naptime, or even parking farther away from store entrances all count as beneficial movement.

Connection and Communication

Isolation often exacerbates mental health struggles, so prioritizing connection with others is crucial. This might mean scheduling regular phone calls with friends, joining local parenting groups, or participating in online communities for mothers. Even brief conversations with neighbors or other parents at school pickup can help combat feelings of loneliness.

Don't underestimate the power of honest communication with your partner, family members, or close friends about your struggles. Many people want to help but don't know how unless you express your needs clearly. Asking for specific support, whether it's help with childcare or simply someone to listen, can provide significant relief.

Building Your Support Network

A strong support network is essential for maintaining mental wellness as a mother. This network might include family members, friends, other parents, healthcare providers, and community resources. Identify the people in your life who provide different types of support, whether emotional, practical, or informational.

Consider joining parenting groups, either in-person or online, where you can connect with others facing similar challenges. Many communities offer new mother support groups, playgroups, or mom's clubs that provide both social interaction and practical advice. Religious organizations, community centers, and libraries often host these types of gatherings.

Professional support should also be part of your network. This includes your primary care physician, your children's pediatrician, and mental health professionals. Having established relationships with these providers makes it easier to seek help when needed. Services like Mind Voyage counselling can provide specialized support for mothers navigating mental health challenges while balancing family responsibilities.

Time Management and Self-Care Strategies

Effective time management can reduce stress and create space for self-care activities. Start by tracking how you spend your time for a week to identify areas where you might be able to make adjustments. Look for tasks that can be simplified, delegated, or eliminated entirely.

Batch similar activities together to increase efficiency. For example, prepare multiple meals at once, do all your errands in one trip, or designate specific times for answering emails and messages. This approach reduces the mental energy required to switch between different types of tasks throughout the day.

Self-care doesn't always require large blocks of time. Micro-moments of self-care can be just as valuable. This might include applying a face mask while children watch a movie, listening to a favorite podcast while folding laundry, or taking five deep breaths before entering a stressful situation.

Managing Mom Guilt and Perfectionism

Mom guilt is pervasive and can significantly impact mental wellness. This guilt often stems from unrealistic expectations about what good mothers should do and feel. Remember that experiencing negative emotions about parenting doesn't make you a bad mother; it makes you human.

Challenge perfectionist thoughts by examining the evidence for and against them. Ask yourself whether you would expect the same standards from a friend in your situation. Often, we're much harder on ourselves than we would be on others facing similar challenges.

Reframe self-care as an investment in your family's well-being rather than a selfish indulgence. When you take care of your mental health, you're better equipped to handle parenting challenges with patience and creativity. Your children also benefit from seeing a parent who values and maintains their own well-being.

Creating Long-Term Mental Wellness Habits

Sustainable mental wellness requires consistent, long-term practices rather than quick fixes. Develop routines that support your mental health and gradually build them into your daily life. This might include a bedtime routine that promotes good sleep, weekly meal planning to reduce daily stress, or regular check-ins with friends and family.

Regularly assess and adjust your mental health strategies as your life circumstances change. What works when you have toddlers might need modification as your children grow and their needs evolve. Stay flexible and willing to try new approaches when existing strategies are no longer serving you effectively.

Consider keeping a simple journal to track your mood, stress levels, and what activities or situations most impact your mental wellness. This information can help you make informed decisions about how to spend your time and energy.

When to Seek Professional Help

While self-care strategies are valuable, they're not always sufficient for managing serious mental health challenges. It's important to recognize when professional help is needed and to seek it without shame or hesitation.

Consider reaching out to a mental health professional if you're experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety that interferes with daily activities, thoughts of self-harm, or difficulty bonding with your children. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common and highly treatable conditions that shouldn't be endured in silence.

Many therapists specialize in working with mothers and understand the unique challenges of balancing mental wellness with parenting responsibilities. They can provide strategies specific to your situation and help you develop coping skills that work within the constraints of your daily life.

Conclusion

Balancing motherhood and mental wellness is an ongoing process that requires intention, self-compassion, and flexibility. By implementing simple daily practices, building strong support networks, and maintaining realistic expectations, mothers can protect and nurture their mental health while caring for their families.

Remember that taking care of your mental wellness isn't a luxury; it's a necessity that benefits everyone in your family. Small, consistent efforts toward better mental health can create significant positive changes in your overall quality of life and parenting experience. Start with one or two strategies that feel manageable and gradually build from there. Your mental wellness matters, and investing in it is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your children.

 

December Routines, Exam Seasons & Little Joys on the Horizon

With four papers done and seven more to go, Cass is officially deep in the trenches of SPM 2025. Her exam marathon will only end on 23 December, which feels incredibly far away for both mother and child. Today was her Math paper, and tomorrow will be Moral—one of those subjects that somehow looks easy until you actually sit down to study it.

Watching her revise day and night brings back memories of my own SPM 35 years ago. Honestly, nothing I’ve studied since has ever come close to the pressure and intensity of that exam. Even the Human Resources Management Certificate course I took—fully sponsored by the bank I worked for—felt easier in comparison. Back then, I had to attend Saturday classes and squeeze in night study sessions after work, but it was still nothing like the all-consuming anticipation of sitting for SPM. There’s something about that one big national exam that just hits differently.

Meanwhile, Sherilyn had her own challenge this week—and she aced it once again. She and her team won another dance competition yesterday! What made this win even more meaningful was the fact that she wasn’t feeling well the day before. On Saturday, she asked me to take her to the clinic so she could get medication and recover quickly in time for the competition. True enough, she bounced back the next day, strong enough to perform and strong enough to win. Her determination never fails to amaze me.

Alycia, on the other hand, continues to live her 2025 in “travel mode.” Her travelling stars are shining brightly again after a year of hopping from one country to another. And now, there’s a chance she may be heading to Tokyo next month! Of course, this depends on whether her company approves her leave—and since she’s still on probation, she's keeping her fingers crossed. Still, it’s exciting to see her life filled with so many new adventures.

As for me, my little joy comes in the form of an overdue hometown escape. I’m looking forward to going back to Ipoh with my parents next week. They’ll be coming to KL to attend my MIL’s 80th birthday celebration, and the next day I’ll be heading back with them. I can’t wait. After missing Dong Zhi and Christmas with them for so many years, being able to celebrate together again feels like a blessing. I’m already imagining the warmth of home, familiar dishes, and simple family moments.

December may be hectic, stressful, and full of moving parts—but it’s also full of milestones, hopes, and the comforting promise of home.

The team clinched the champion title again in the contemporary dance category.

This photo popped up on my Google Photos today - taken exactly 10 years ago on 2 December 2015.  How did time pass SO quickly?!