tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30867166219071628922024-03-12T22:45:36.484-04:00Bite my Big Appledaphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.comBlogger193125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-79647993191405458162010-02-18T10:44:00.014-05:002010-05-14T12:02:29.371-04:00Let's begin with Lent<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As promised, here's where we'll do it all over again: <a href="http://wheredidthewkendgo.blogspot.com/">wheredidthewkendgo.blogspot.com</a></span><br />
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">PS: Happy Birthday Mum...we miss you!</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-47475987140654550282010-02-17T01:24:00.000-05:002010-02-18T16:25:12.506-05:00New<span style="font-family: inherit;">A new blog is in the works...stay tuned!</span>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com198tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-75824289000204843812010-01-01T15:15:00.002-05:002010-01-17T15:17:39.036-05:00Pause.<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I'm on a blogging hiatus for now :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Watch this space for further updates!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">xoxo</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Happy 2010 to you all!</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-3377079470227290172009-12-25T10:16:00.000-05:002010-01-04T22:20:53.693-05:00Seasons Greetings!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/S0KvTITndxI/AAAAAAAAGs4/QyDzM2WGAwo/s1600-h/12-24zm+the+three+of+us.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/S0KvTITndxI/AAAAAAAAGs4/QyDzM2WGAwo/s320/12-24zm+the+three+of+us.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423089644489635602" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I'm back from my adventure in Seoul and spending time with family and friends in YVR. I hope you're having an awesome yuletide season and partying it up for New Years to ring in, *gasp* 2010.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Photos of fun times to follow...</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-40249464714861353022009-12-12T17:27:00.003-05:002009-12-12T17:38:04.831-05:00Counting down till SEOUL!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Oh I am so excited! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Kimchi, bulgogi, kimbab, dukkboki and korean fashions & cosmetics HERE I COME! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Oh and of course being reunited with my man :) </span></span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-66395946361719148362009-12-01T21:05:00.001-05:002009-12-02T21:10:15.521-05:00Daddy came! :)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SxcdbPZcv6I/AAAAAAAAGpw/BciIVyETrMQ/s1600-h/11-29f+Daphne+and+me.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SxcdbPZcv6I/AAAAAAAAGpw/BciIVyETrMQ/s320/11-29f+Daphne+and+me.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410825831135887266" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">See you at Christmas Dad! :D Don't forget to put up the tree!</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-51591165994368404472009-11-28T23:30:00.009-05:002009-11-29T00:39:06.217-05:00Woodbury Common Run #2<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dad's in town during Thanksgiving season - so a must-do is indeed another trip to the outlets to cash in on the Thanksgiving sales and complete my Christmas shopping. So off we went bright and early this morning at 9am.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">It started off relatively peaceful and civilized and eventually became madness resulting in my Dad exclaiming how he never wanted to do Thanksgiving shopping ever again. But we left (11 hours later!!!) with a full car trunk and exhausted from the day's shopping, not to mention my Christmas list all checked off. How awesome.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">So here's the highlights from today's run (<i>without giving too much away for Christmas surprises</i>):</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">COUPONS!!! Thanks to being a VIP at Chelsea Premium Outlets</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Workout gear from Lululemon (the lowest prices I've seen so far!)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Renewing my love for cardigans at JCrew</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Longchamp (another unbeatable deal!)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Juicy Couture & Betsey Johnson trinkets</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">And finally, an awesome, early Christmas gift courtesy of Dad from Burberry :)</span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Low lights include:</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Skipping several stores because of the long lines, including Coach, Prada, Banana Republic, UGG (the UGG line was INSANE!!! guess those boots are still very much in demand..)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Trying on 2 gorgeous Emilio Pucci dresses realising I cannot afford either even at outlet pricing</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Looking old in DVF</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">No size @ Nine West!</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Disappointing selection at Neiman Marcus Last Call & Saks Off Fifth</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Not going back to Barneys to get a Marc Jacobs knit motorcycle jacket :(</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Never ever being able to go to every store you want to in Woodbury Common...</span></li></ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">I'm exhausted and won't be shopping till Seoul (fingers crossed). Time for bed. Good night and happy Christmas shopping to you all because, I'M ALL DONE!!! Hee hee hee...</span></div></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-59829878106271941682009-11-13T16:11:00.005-05:002009-11-18T23:21:31.245-05:00Updatorama<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;">Wow. I realised its been a while since my last post - 11 days being quite a while for my standards at least. So to anyone who cares this is what I've been up to:<br /></span><ul style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><li>Online shopping way too much - Urban Outfitters has amazing sales and I picked up goodies for my apartment to prepare for the arrival of my Dad this US Thanksgiving and of course a cute dress I've been eyeing for myself @ a reduced price of $29.99! SCORE!<br /><br /></li><li>Frantically packing my apartment for Dad's visit<br /><br /></li><li>Reading a couple of books, one of which is a Korean language book in preparation for my vacation to Seoul (Thanks to HSBC where I redeemed points to get Amazon.com gift certificates!)<br /><br /></li><li>Preparing a Black Friday list for <a href="http://bitemybigapple.blogspot.com/2009/06/woodbury-commons-run-1.html">Woodbury Common</a> -Potential Burberry trench in my future perhaps?<br /><br /></li><li>Cooking: Namely a pretty good beginner <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bak_kut_teh">Bak Kut Teh</a>, Soy Sauced Chicken Stew, Creamed Spinach...etc.<br /><br /></li><li>Making my Christmas lists<br /><br /></li><li>Working out 3 times a week! Woohoo!! With the exception of this week because I forgot to bring my gear today. I spin, I kickbox, I pilates & now, I<a href="http://www.zumba.com/us/"> ZUMBA</a>! :D YAY! Note to self: Get thee to a spin class/kickboxing class this weekend!<br /><br /></li><li>Bonding with my guinea pig: letting Willi run wild around my living room - floor time is her favourite thing especially being cooped up in the cage all day. She loves sitting under the ottoman or behind the sofa. Also when I insist, she snuggles in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=19668242">Etsy cuddle cup</a> and occasionally gets to hang out in my bedroom on the window sill bench.<br /><br /></li><li>Missing the boy - who's far and away in Beijing & counting the days till we're reunited again! 1 MORE MONTH!!! YAY!<br /></li></ul><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Have a great weekend! :)</span>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-33759153232290491812009-11-02T23:50:00.004-05:002009-11-18T23:21:53.360-05:00Happy Birthday Daddy!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/Su-2xZ8Su1I/AAAAAAAAGm4/WXVw4GahMqE/s1600-h/P1000935.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/Su-2xZ8Su1I/AAAAAAAAGm4/WXVw4GahMqE/s320/P1000935.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399735438134131538" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">To the 1st and most important man in my life.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I'm glad I'm the first one to ever send you flowers!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">They won't be the last! :D</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Love you lots & see you at Thanksgiving! xoxo</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-83769365967488894782009-11-01T00:38:00.003-04:002009-11-18T23:24:46.663-05:00Harrroooween!<div style="text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SvZZdixDzoI/AAAAAAAAGnw/CQZcE-6AkWk/s1600-h/Halloween+20091.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SvZZdixDzoI/AAAAAAAAGnw/CQZcE-6AkWk/s400/Halloween+20091.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> </div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></a></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><br /></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">2 sailors and a table = fun night of falsies, festivities and fotos! :D</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-69682568392265853402009-10-24T01:01:00.003-04:002009-11-18T23:22:40.158-05:00This may not be the best picture of us...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SuKMSiof2nI/AAAAAAAAGhM/AoGB01-y8Jw/s1600-h/P1010143-bw.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SuKMSiof2nI/AAAAAAAAGhM/AoGB01-y8Jw/s320/P1010143-bw.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396029553705474674" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">But I don't care, because I miss you so...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Counting down the days till sweet sweet December.</div><div style="text-align: center;">我爱你!</div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-10160336258646638662009-10-16T00:13:00.003-04:002009-11-18T23:23:26.545-05:00Twitterbug<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I feel I've not been blogging as much thanks to Twitter...ahh, the wonderful world of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microblogging">microblogging</a>. It saves time and makes for fast & efficient nuggets of things I found interesting or musings. I've also found it to be quite a useful resource for mini news feeds and updates on anything from the Straits Times in Singapore, Vancouver Sun or even my favourite fashion/lifestyle blogs. Many articles online are Twitter-friendly too - with sharing options so I can share what I read with the rest of the world or anyone who cares to read my ramblings. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">And just an FYI - I<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/15/fashion/15bloggers.html?scp=1&sq=alison%20brod&st=cse">'m not paid by Twitter. </a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Happy Tweeting guys & feel free to follow <a href="http://www.twitter.com/daphnehowe">me</a>!</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-68135423640574801242009-10-05T15:45:00.002-04:002009-11-18T23:24:34.283-05:00My 1st write up<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I got a great opportunity to do a </span><a href="http://partlysunny.ca/2009/10/04/mac-cheesy-nyc/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">review</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> of the newly opened macbar in Soho by </span><a href="http://www.partlysunny.ca/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">partly sunny</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> - one of Vancouver's foremost fashion industry insiders. Check it out! :)</span>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-90993500361978491942009-10-01T21:27:00.006-04:002009-11-18T23:25:16.730-05:00+J<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqOrpCCYI1_fJdnQY6TamPHETSVrMkyPALlVNdloiaJM6yYfMe9o4uCE2QX9tI4zrqU9dGWr-IWoBhr4RWOUbSxREhds991f2Jy66aqcntsAwx-6w7PQjvWBJ1jI0Di_KmSbXlTk-8jRA/s400/uniqlo-jil-sander-lookbook-4-503x540.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 373px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqOrpCCYI1_fJdnQY6TamPHETSVrMkyPALlVNdloiaJM6yYfMe9o4uCE2QX9tI4zrqU9dGWr-IWoBhr4RWOUbSxREhds991f2Jy66aqcntsAwx-6w7PQjvWBJ1jI0Di_KmSbXlTk-8jRA/s400/uniqlo-jil-sander-lookbook-4-503x540.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Today Jil Sander's collection +J, at Uniqlo opens and boy was there a </span><a href="http://racked.com/archives/2009/10/01/above_the_fray_inside_uniqlo_j_is_already_decimated.php"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">line</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">! As much as I've been practicing great self control over my shopping habits - I couldn't say no to a grey woolen pea coat, one out of Jil Sander's 100 piece collaboration with Japanese basics mecca. *Sigh* With prices this affordable, it was hard to resist. My pea coat came in black & grey - Jil Sander's signature minimalistic and monochromatic aesthetic.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The selection was great for basics - cashmere cardis, sweater, crisp shirts, woolen blazers & coats. Apparently according to some line-bloggers, there were more men than women. My co-worker picked up 2 coats for her husband. Great shapes and well-fitted, I slid into the heathered charcoal pea coat and was thrilled at the fit :) I had to get it. It was Jil Sander afterall - probably the closest I'll ever be to the designer :P</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I spoke to a salesperson and asked about replenishment - word is they will replenish tomorrow morning and that's it - the collection will be sold until its all gone. Happy Shopping & welcome to October!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">ps: those Uniqlo cords that I wanted, aren't on sale anymore...good for me I guess! :P</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-77312830701608254142009-09-28T13:43:00.012-04:002009-11-18T23:25:39.221-05:00My Money Saving Tips<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">After my big <a href="http://bitemybigapple.blogspot.com/2009/09/ive-got-you-under-my-skin.html">splurge</a> a few posts ago, I decided I need to scrimp & save on some things for the next couple of months or so. Sadly, those Uniqlo cords I wanted to get might be out of the picture, though $19.90 for a pair are really unbelievable..so we'll see how long I can hold out for...<br /><br />But I did come up with some money saving tips that I thought I might share with everyone, so here goes:<br /></span><ul style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><li>Find inventive ways to style your hair - curl it, mimic a salon blowout. Whatever it is, styling your do refreshes it & buys you time before your next trim. So dust-off those curling irons and wake up a little earlier & put some effort into it. People notice, trust me.<br /><br /></li><li>Save on color cosmetics - especially the trendy stuff. Eyeshadows and lipsticks in experimental colors for the season don't have to be expensive. Drugstore brands will do just fine and if you're worried about the colors not being pigmented enough, just make sure you use an eyeshadow base/primer.<br /><br /></li><li>Always be on the lookout for good sales/deals - Old Navy has fantastic deals on basic tshirts and tank tops. Forever 21 and H&M are my go-tos for current trends. Uniqlo is awesome for affordable basics too. Being in NY, we have sample sales galore - so hit them up and stock up on the classics.<br /><br /></li><li>When shopping online - ALWAYS look for coupon codes. You never know when you can get an extra 15% off or free shipping.<br /><br /></li><li>Buy handmade - I've found great items for very affordable prices from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy.com</a> These are up and coming designers trying to make a small living from their crafty hobbies.<br /><br /></li><li>Buy refill packs of shampoo/body wash etc instead of new bottles. You will often save a few dollars by reusing your old containers.<br /><br /></li><li>If you have small pets like I do, like hamsters or guinea pigs - recycle things around your home for them to play in or use instead of buying feeders or bowls from stores. An old tissue box, toilet rolls and paperbags make fun toys, makeshift feeders & hideouts for them.<br /><br /></li><li>Jojoba oil is a great multi-purpose product! Use it to treat split ends or as a hair treatment. It can also be used as a makeup remover (since it leaves no residue) and foot & hand treatment for dry skin & cuticles!<br /><br /></li><li>Invest in neutral nail polish to save you trips to the manicurist. Neutral colors last longer and chips are less obvious and they're easier to paint on.<br /><br /></li><li>Reinforce the soles and heels of your new or current shoes to make them last a lot longer and always consult a cobbler before throwing away a pair of old shoes/boots to see if it can be salvaged.<br /><br /></li><li>Pack your own lunch to work!<br /><br /></li><li>Drink your own homemade coffee or tea rather than ringing it up at Starbucks while on the way to work<br /><br /></li><li>Make use of a water filter rather than bottled water or if you are the bottled mineral water drinker - look out for deals. The other day at Rite Aid, I saw Smart Water on sale for 5 for $5!<br /><br /></li><li>Don't ever be shy when asking for samples. This gives you the opportunity to try new products without paying full price.<br /><br /></li><li>Make use of drugstore coupons and weekly deals they have. Often, essentials are featured like toothpaste or toilet paper and even cosmetics are sometimes buy one get one free!<br /><br /></li><li>Subscribe to magazines - its MUCH cheaper!<br /><br /></li><li>Never be afraid to look for cheaper alternatives online. Especially if you know what you're looking for. I found my Hot Tools curling iron for more than 40% off online than if I bought it at a beauty supply store. My vacuum was also at least 50% off too. Amazon has books which are sold used but really are in quite good condition and you save anywhere from 30%-70% off the retail price. This doesn't exclude designer/branded items too, my gf got awesome deals at <a href="http://www.yoox.com/">Yoox.com</a> - she paid $70 for a pair Giorgio Armani flats and $60 for a Marni skirt!<br /></li></ul><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I do hope this proves to be useful information - in this economy a little bit can go a long way. Would love to hear any other money saving tips any of you might have! :) Go forth & save!</span>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-34744679860317454572009-09-27T19:24:00.006-04:002009-11-18T23:26:21.663-05:00Golden Shopping Mall, Flushing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SsAKw4UZRcI/AAAAAAAAGeU/WkzgH2xecVg/s1600-h/Friends.jpg"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 229px; " src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SsAKw4UZRcI/AAAAAAAAGeU/WkzgH2xecVg/s320/Friends.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386316989203039682" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Today, my girlfriend & I decided to venture Flushing, NY - famous for good Chinese food, cheap Chinese groceries and all around Chinese goodness. Our goal Anthony Bourdain's featured spot on the "<a href="http://ny.eater.com/archives/2009/09/bourdain_1.php">Outer Boroughs</a>" episode on <a href="http://www.travelchannel.com/TV_Shows/Anthony_Bourdain">No Reservations</a> - </span><a href="http://newyork.seriouseats.com/2008/06/draft-golden-shopping-mall-in-flushing.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Golden Shopping Mall</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Armed with an empty stomach we made the trek out of Manhattan into the burbs of what is a predominantly Asian/Chinese area. All the signs are in Mandarin, no one speaks English and not a single Caucasian soul in sight. Feels like Asia already! And of course being Sunday, its universal grocery shopping day so Main Street is bustling!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">With our iPhones and Google Maps in hand, we find our destination and eventually find the entrance and walk downstairs to enter a bustling, cramped, dirty food court. Ah! At last! & it feels so authentic too. Brought me back to the days in Singapore where hawker stalls are cramped together, while patrons sit on make shift seating consisting of stools and foldable tables and orders are always yelled out. PERFECT!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">We do a quick look around and settle with dumplings first. We place our orders and dug in. Note: they aren't any menus and if there are its all in Chinese so if you don't read or speak the language, be prepared to point and pay. I also think its cash only but that shouldn't be a problem, our dumpling feast was $5 with a side of fried chive pancake. Disgustingly cheap for NY's standards but also fresh, handmade and piping hot. Plenty of chilli paste and chinese black vinegar. Slurp and all 12 are gone. Next stop, Xi'an Famous Foods - another foodstall toured by Mr Bourdain. Famed for </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liang_pi"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Liang Pi</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> & their lamb burger. Seeing how I don't eat lamb we went for the pulled pork instead which was well-spiced and seasoned to perfection. Mmm..Mmm...The Liang Pi was a first for me and it was AMAZING! Apparently, the recipe from this stall is several generations old and very authentic. Chewy, tangy, spicy and peanuty all in one - its a flavour that's hard to define and must be tried. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Stuffed and sweaty, we decided to pop outside for a breather and some bubble tea and before venturing home. We swung by for cheap groceries and hopped back on the 7 to return to the city. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday!</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-8180821247578564022009-09-21T11:29:00.004-04:002009-11-18T23:26:47.753-05:00My Emmy Picks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SrhA8sWH4JI/AAAAAAAAGdE/w5xwGNEeCpY/s1600-h/Emmys.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 229px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SrhA8sWH4JI/AAAAAAAAGdE/w5xwGNEeCpY/s320/Emmys.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384124765961707666" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I only watch this for the gorgeous gowns. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">My top 2: Blake Lively (HOT!!! in Versace) and Drew Barrymore (Divine in nude Monique Lhuillier)</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-52855221507095530742009-09-21T00:04:00.005-04:002009-11-19T16:26:54.768-05:00This song always makes me cry<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qi5UXkWVjJo&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qi5UXkWVjJo&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I was surfing Youtube and came across a few unsigned but incredibly talented artists which I felt were worth a listen. In this cover of Death Cab for a Cutie's I Will Follow You into the Dark - is </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/jinahmusic"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Jinah</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> & </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/singindork888"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Gerald</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> (aka singindork888 or afraid of everest). </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Everytime I listen to this song, I cry. More than just cry, I bawl. Partly because its such a sad song and partly because its so profoundly sweet. I don't profess to know the intention of song but it invites me to long for a type of love described here. It's incredibly hard to articulate but the lyrics of this song speak it so clearly and never fails to touch my heart.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">It's the type of love only time can mould and inspire. The kind which supersedes death, separation & hardship. The kind of epic love stories and deep but quiet relationships are made of. The kind shared by an elderly couple or tragic young lovers. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">It's the kind of love I should be so lucky to have one day...with time, age, wisdom and a deeply intimate partnership with the one I love and who loves me. </span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-74436867414004047682009-09-18T19:22:00.007-04:002009-11-18T23:28:15.795-05:00I've got you under my skin...<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Holy cow. I think I just about spent the most lavish amount of money on my skin EVER. I decided it was about high time I treated myself to a facial. So off I went after work to <a href="http://www.amorepacific.com/">Amore Pacific</a> down the street. An hour and a half later, I walk out with glowing skin and a hole in my pocket from what I consider an obscene amount of money on my face.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Walking back home, I try to justify my indulgent purchase. 2 products & 1 facial treatment and my credit card is crying from the burn. I'm sure gonna feel it this next month...But I was thoroughly impressed by the impeccable service and quality of products. It better be, for what I just paid! I also remembered something my mum once told me: "You only have one face, so you better take good care of it" And with that, I decided recently that I will take better care of my skin. I realise youthful skin doesn't come to the lazy or complacent and once the damage is done - its done for good. Unless of course, you have no qualms spending even more obscene amounts of money to fix it later.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Good quality products go a long way. My mum used to always advocate spending a little more to keep your skin looking flawless and well-maintained. My mother had AMAZING skin - right till the end mind you, despite her illness. She always encouraged me to have facials once a month, always moisturize and use eye cream. She was the 1st person to introduce me to a proper skin care regime (cleanse, tone & moisturize!) along with a starter kit from Clinique at the age of 16.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Having facials once a month is a little out of my budget these days but I do try to maintain a good routine. I'm no product snob - I use drugstore brands as well as Japanese and other more professional/higher end products. I'm a big fan of Asian brands because I feel they target my skin better than generic products :) Although as I get older, I feel the need to invest a little more in the professional brands which come with much more extensive and advanced R&D.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Whatever your skin type - remember that you only have 1 face so the best thing to do is understand your skin's needs and be proactive about taking preventive measures rather than dealing with your skin issues later. So with a large hole in my wallet, here's looking forward to glowing skin :)</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-77404401060594402612009-09-11T22:15:00.005-04:002009-11-18T23:28:37.083-05:00Fashion Week begins!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.apparelnews.net/image/seward/fashion-night-out.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 347px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.apparelnews.net/image/seward/fashion-night-out.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><div style="text-align: left;">The end of Summer is commemorated by NY Fashion Week and to begin the festivities: Anna Wintour's brain child - <a href="http://www.style.com/vogue/voguedaily/2009/09/all-about-fashions-night-out/">Fashion's Night Out</a>. A celebration of fashion where brands and retailers all over the world in fabulous cities come together to encourage shopping :)</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', fantasy;">Being fortunate enough to live in the ultimate city of fashion and work in the heart of a fashionable neighbourhood, I strolled the streets after work with some friends and checked out the festivities which involved freebies, appys, lotsa cocktails and champagne and apparently celebrities - which I was completely oblivious to :P Boo. I think I left Tory Burch a few minutes after Russell Simmons arrived. I missed Anna Wintour at Bloomingdales and I did see the crazy line-up at Bathing Ape which must've had some sort of celebrity (it was Kid Cuddi - <i>WHO?</i>)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;">Of course, I was also following the tons of live play-by-play tweets as I roamed the streets. But an early day of work the next day prompted me to retire early and head on home at 9pm. I do hope this is repeated every year - it seemed like a great success and apparently Jason Wu alone, moved about $30,000 of merchandise so I hope it did the retail scene a little good this slow back-to-school/fall buying season.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;">It's a Friday night, I'm exhausted from work and chilling at home with Willi and am in dire need of catching up on NYFW's first shows & my September books, doing my laundry and general apartment cleaning/tidying up.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;">Ah...it's nice to be home :) Happy Housekeeping!</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-49124572965783331572009-09-02T09:45:00.002-04:002009-11-18T23:28:59.037-05:00Always listen to your mother/grandmother<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">You know how your mom or grandma used to tell you to never go to bed with wet/damp hair because it will give you a headache? Well, shame on me. Always listen to your mom/grandma - their advice/old wives' tales may sounds ridiculous and totally unscientific but there's always some truth in it.<br /><br />I know she must be laughing at me right about now :P<br /></span>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-20351690402376892512009-08-31T21:23:00.007-04:002009-11-18T23:29:22.218-05:00Say hello to Willi<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpyZfDeq3zI/AAAAAAAAGZg/ASKi4c9t7Es/s1600-h/P1010188.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpyZfDeq3zI/AAAAAAAAGZg/ASKi4c9t7Es/s320/P1010188.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376340813962469170" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpyZeksbteI/AAAAAAAAGZY/WdhNYzD40yo/s1600-h/P1010185.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpyZeksbteI/AAAAAAAAGZY/WdhNYzD40yo/s320/P1010185.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376340805698696674" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpyZefCQ18I/AAAAAAAAGZQ/gYeEuNcwu58/s1600-h/P1010184.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpyZefCQ18I/AAAAAAAAGZQ/gYeEuNcwu58/s320/P1010184.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376340804179646402" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br />Meet my new roomie: Willi, an Abyssinian guinea pig. He's a gift from Jordan to keep me company while he's away. We adopted him from a Columbia med student who named him after </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prader-Willi_syndrome"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Prader-Willi Syndrome</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">. He's slowly but surely getting used to his new home and me. He loves wheatgrass and tons of veggies and Timothy hay. He loves cuddles too but still get nervous every now and then. I look forward to lotsa bonding time! :) *wheek*</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', fantasy;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', -webkit-fantasy;"><i>NEW UPDATE: Willi's actually a girl! :D Willamina then? :P hahahaha....It's an honest mistake! But I was told it was a HE! :P</i></span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-74601220188792096562009-08-31T14:56:00.003-04:002009-11-18T23:29:41.877-05:00Walk this Way<p align="center"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/g8DCt3Lmi28&hl=" fs="1&" width="425" height="344" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This weekend I get the opportunity to be part of a wedding party and lo and behold, a dance routine is in store. I just hope we can look as cool as this! :)</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Congratulations to my good friend, E & her man! See you in LA this weekend!</span></p>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-88163838385737438352009-08-30T12:22:00.002-04:002009-11-18T23:30:24.370-05:00Philly<div style="text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpqnayrkNfI/AAAAAAAAGYI/HAHYwzsWOiA/s1600-h/Philadelphia,+PA.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpqnayrkNfI/AAAAAAAAGYI/HAHYwzsWOiA/s400/Philadelphia,+PA.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span><div style="text-align:center;margin:0px auto 10px;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpqnbZ2ARXI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/Why_-nxOW6k/s1600-h/Philadelphia,+PA1.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xEBy1Vr4os/SpqnbZ2ARXI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/Why_-nxOW6k/s400/Philadelphia,+PA1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></span></a></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Our weekend away from Manhattan left us hot & bothered but it was a pleasant time exploring a new city with my better half. Philly reminds me much of Boston, colonial and old with tons of heritage & history. We ate well, slept well and enjoyed each others company. Highlights included an amazing omakase meal at Morimoto, a spectacular lightning & thunderstorm viewed right from our waterfront hotel room, savouring Philly cheesesteaks for the 1st time and an insanely comfy hotel bed.</span></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:CENTER"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I miss you already. Thank you for an amazing month and for being more than anything I could ever ask for.</span></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086716621907162892.post-75187417234334382132009-08-27T15:44:00.003-04:002009-11-18T23:31:04.230-05:00<div align="center"><a href="http://www.foozoodesign.com/blog/images/2008/08/tiffanybox5-600x312.png"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 600px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 312px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.foozoodesign.com/blog/images/2008/08/tiffanybox5-600x312.png" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm way behind on blogging about things that have surfaced in the past week or so. Namely 1 extended weekend in Philly but I had to write this as soon as I could or else I burst of excitement and glee. I just got back from a lovely luncheon with my man and he presented me with a divine surprise.<br />As a result, I've been rendered completely unproductive at work. *GRIN*<br /></span><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">THANK YOU my love!!!</span><br /></div>daphnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09262933953723999225noreply@blogger.com0