Friday, July 31, 2020

This is Home Truly, where the Party must be!

This year is going to be so different, especially for any celebratory events exceeding 5 persons. I should know better, as I recently had a dinner catchup with some of my old pals the day before my birthday and it was pretty awkward taking photos and singing the birthday song, and we had to do that without the kiddos so as to keep within the size limit!

Alas, this year’s National Day is also going to be a muted event somewhat, since there will be no physical parade. BUT NDPeeps will be bringing a series of live broadcasts and programmes through TV and their social media accounts. You can find out more about their activities here - https://www.ndp.gov.sg/whatshappening/bringing-ndp-to-our-homes/

Someone cannot keep her eyes off the goodies lor!

But staying at home does not mean taking the fun away and what is our favourite national pastime again? It is MAKAN lor! Maybe this is the time to give the chef of the house a break during National Day, and order in some food instead. Lucky us, we got to savour some very special limited-edition National Day themed food offerings from our local brands, made available by PartyDiva.Co

PartyDiva.Co is an e-commerce marketplace that brings merchants and consumers together for a seamless experience from gifting to event and party planning. This National Day, aside from retailing their own thematic decoratives, PartyDiva.Co also pulled together a roster of thematic offerings curated by some of our favourite homegrown F&B brands – all available for delivery right to the door!


AMICI Catering (https://partydiva.co/marketplace/vendor/amicisg)

Celebrations made easy, with PartyDiva.Co!

First up, we had a very sumptuous dinner catered by AMICI Catering and they are offering a 5-course National Day Mini Gourmet Buffet ($108+) that comes with a complimentary 6" decadent Raspberry Lychee Rose cake so that you can celebrate the nation's birthday together with the whole family! We, especially the kiddos, loved the cake! With the bits of lychee stuffed inside to give the cake a richer texture, every bite was accompanied by the sweet floral scent of the rose essence too to end the hearty meal on a sweet note.

The chicken was an absolute hit with the kiddos! I have never seen them eat faster!

We had Garlic Fried Rice with Chicken Floss & Spring Onions which was just right, and not overwhelming for the kiddos. Our Boneless Chicken Leg marinated with Teriyaki Sauce was absolutely tender, and the kiddos gobbled up everything! The Cereal Oat Fish Fillet was nice but a little dry though, maybe due to the abundance of cereal toppings, which was a snacky delight for the little ones. The Stir-fried Cauliflower with Almond Butter could do with just a little more seasoning, but the Roasted Mushrooms with Caramelised Onions was great and flavourful!

This complimentary Raspberry Lychee Rose cake is great as an after-dinner dessert!



Okay, I shall be honest. My first thought of this creation was that it was a little overboard. I mean, making a cake out of Nasi Lemak??? Like seriously and for $132? So we saved it for the last – and we’re glad we did! 

Seriously? A Nasi Lemak cake? BUT it was really delicious!

Surprise, surprise! I was really impressed with how the entire cake held up, which is quite heavy by the way! And I was wowed by the taste of it! In spite of its bold aesthetic twist, the Nasi Lemak Cake ($132) retained its uncompromising traditional Nasi Lemak flavours.Cutting into the cake revealed layers of fried eggs and muar otah hiding between the slab of blue pea rice.

The creator of this cake mentioned that the different ingredients in it represented our different ethnic groups, as a symbolic gesture towards our nation’s diversity. The seasoned sambal topped with Goreng Tempeh, anchovies and peanuts in Kicap Manis is meant to symbolise the Malays in Singapore. Likewise, the Papadum is a nod to our Indian community, accompanied with Fried Shrimp Paste Chicken and Blue Pea Rice as a token for the Chinese and Peranakans in Singapore.

This will no doubt be a very interesting talking point at any gathering and the portion would suit 8-10 persons I reckon - as a full meal! Worth it but my only grouse is that they should also have additional chilli lah!




Lovely assortment of kueh, both sweet and savoury! Looks great for the gram right?

I think one should be quite familiar with these very Instagrammable kuehs from Kueh Ho Jiak right? If not, just go search for hashtag #KuehHoJiak and you can see for yourself. They have put together a very patriotic-looking Kueh platter ($37.50) consisting of 6 mini png kuehs (rice cake), 5 Red and White Heart kueh lapis and 4 Merlion ang ku kuehs (with grated coconut fillings). The traditional kuehs tasted as nice as they looked, and are also vegan and made with less sugar and salt with no additional preservatives or artificial colouring.




Sweet but potent stuff, each bottle to be poured into rock glass with ice and meant for 2 servings!

I am the only drinker in the house, and I was pretty happy to have the five sampling bottles of Nana Sling ($90, set of 5x120ml bottles) specially made by our local artisan mixologists all for myself! Don't be fooled by the sweet-looking pink coloured brew, because they pack a punch and I love it! It comprises of Brugal Rum infused with banana leaves. The tropical mix was also especially refreshing with its combinative blend of zesty Cointreau, freshly squeezed lemon juice and homemade orange blossom water. Definitely on the sweeter as you would expect from a "sling" and comes in a very pretty bottles for keepsake too!



Sweet but potent stuff, each bottle to be poured into rock glass with ice and meant for 2 servings!

Enjoying a soothing glass of tea with the family after meal. Great for detoxing too! Having had such a feast throughout the day, it would be a great idea to end the day with a blooming tea session with the wife, and Steffi too. It was so interesting to watch how to the tea ball slowly opens up in the hot water and transforms into a beautiful underwater bouquet. Their National Day gift set ($65), consists of their 6 best-selling tea flavours, including their limited-edition tea, “My Fair Lady”. The gift set also comes with2 tea glasses, perfect for viewing!


PartyDiva.Co (https://partydiva.co/)

Finally, how can we forget about the party planner who put together all these goodies together for my birthday cum Pre-National Day celebration? Supplying us with all the National Day themed food toppers, bunting and cupcake stand, making our party (and us) look so patriotic lor! Not that we are not by the way…

This National Day will feature PartyDiva.Co’s very own limited-edition party bundle ($100) comprising of food and cake toppers, a bunting and cupcake holder that highlights notable Singapore icons such as the Merlion and Gardens by the Bay, as well as local slangs such as “Relax Lah” and “Shiok Ah” to make this celebration a truly Singaporean affair.

The props and decorations of any party can really make a difference in setting the mood!

The food and beverages would have been more than enough to last our family for an entire day of celebration and once again, it was an absolute delight to try out the new offerings made by the different local companies! Great that we all #SupportLocal!

So if you are going to have a celebration together with the nation come 9 August, be sure to check what they have to offer over here at https://partydiva.co/sg55! While you are there, check out their special SG55 stickers app if you happen to be on mobile and you can stand to win some cool prizes too!


Thank you PartyDiva.Co for sending the media tasting preview over! We thoroughly enjoyed the food and drinks during our home celebration!
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Wednesday, July 15, 2020

A Visit to The Invisalign Centre In Singapore


A beautiful smile is often seen as a sign of confidence. But for me, I always find it a little awkward to smile properly somehow, with my attempts at smiling naturally at the camera often ending up with photos of my contorted face. When looking into the mirror many years ago, I realized that it was due to my misaligned teeth that caused my uneven bite and resulting slanted jaws.

Now that I have kids of my own, I do pay a little more attention to their teeth when I help them brush. I got concerned when their milk teeth do not fall off despite their adult teeth already erupted behind. Well, we are often told that the adult teeth will eventually move into the correct position, but they do not always do so perfectly. I know because that was what happened to my girls.

Knowing that my sis-in-law had worn metal braces in her younger days over a period of 2 years, I thought it would be a good idea for the girls to understand more about teeth straightening from her and we had a chat over it. Alas! I could see that Steffi and Stacci were terrified as their aunt shared her painful experience of getting frequent ulcers that even took away the joy of eating her favourite sashimi!


Invisalign set up Invisalign Centre in Wisma Atria B1-14, and we were curious to find out what was offered at the centre. I mean a centre about braces for teeth???

And since we are going to the Centre, I did my little research online it to see if it would be suitable for Steffi or Stacci, and was shown with quite a number of other clear aligner brands. Browsing through their FAQ to check if treatments were available for children, it turned out that most were meant more for mild problems only, and some even stated upfront that they were not meant for kids.

If you just walk pass the Invisalign Centre @ Wisma Atria B1-14, it looks almost like an optical shop at first glance. Only if you stop and check it out, would you learn so much more about how aligners work, and that our teeth can be straightened up over a series of Invisalign clear aligners.

So let me now share with you on what we found out during our one-hour trip to the first Invisalign Centre in Singapore.


 Invisalign SmileView Station


There are a series of tablets here that you can use to take a selfie with, and we all know how kids are naturally attracted to the iPad stations right? But these are not for games though. This is where your search for a better smile starts!

It was fun trying out the virtual simulation and see how much improvement one’s smile can get. The before/after photos were obvious when viewed side by side. You should really pop by the centre to try visualising your straightened-teeth look!

Here we can find the SmileView technology, which allowed Steffi and Stacci to try out the teeth simulation simply by taking a selfie. It will then generate your simulated new smile within a minute, and both Steffi and Stacci were really amazed by the results of their simulated new smiles. Actually, I can guarantee you will too, unless you already have perfectly straight teeth to start with, or if you wear dentures.

Look at how much better Stacci looked without the glaring gaps between her front and canines in her simulated smile!


 Experience Bar

Here you can touch and feel for yourself how the aligner feels like and see real-life examples of how the aligners changed over varying periods to finally get to the perfect smile for the wearer. The brand is an obvious play on the words “invisible” and “align” and it holds true that the clear aligners are not that noticeable, especially from a distance.

Check out the series of Invisalign aligners prescribed by Invisalign doctors for the users for their treatment and be marvelled by the final results!

We also learnt from the Smile Concierge that these clear aligners were made from their patented material called SmartTrack. While the material itself is soft and flexible (as tested by my girls who tried bending it), it still has good control to shape teeth gently and comfortably.

The aligners use gentle force to shape precisely while straightening the teeth gently and comfortably, day by day, as one goes about with daily chores. You can compare the first set of aligners to the final one, it was really incredible to see how some protruding teeth can be nudged back into place simply by using these rather soft plastic aligners.

And here is Steffi trying out how to put the aligners on, and the proper way to remove them from the teeth moulds.

It is little wonder that with the commitment that Invisalign has, with over 8 million users as they work hand in hand with dentists / orthodontists to provide professional care and support, that the results speak for themselves. Definitely not the same as those you order online and without support from the same or your preferred doctor or clinic from start to end. I think getting support from the same doctor and same clinic is important, just like how we prefer to go back to the same pediatrician when it comes to our kiddos right? They know us personally, know what to watch out for and surely feels more assuring this way.

The photos show some of the common teeth misalignments and stated how long it took for the users to achieve their desired smiles.

It is really comforting to hold the actual aligners in my hands, knowing that the Invisalign treatment will be a far cry from wearing metal braces. With Invisalign, there is no need to worry about wires dropping off or having to work around the metal bit when brushing or flossing! I cannot imagine any mishaps such as the brackets falling off and wires poking the kids just days or weeks before crucial periods like their exams.

Have a look and see if some of the above problems are affecting your smile? Because fear not, the Invisalign treatment had proven to be effective in correcting these cases.

I noticed that the sample cases were from different age groups, and so I checked with the Smile Concierge if treatment was possible for Stacci, since she is only 8 years and still has her milk teeth. She went on to share with us more information on Invisalign for kids - Invisalign First suitable for 6 -10 years old, which is to develop young jaws and/or arches to make room for existing teeth and for incoming permanent teeth to avoid severe teeth misalignment when they grow up.

Only when you hold and touch the aligners yourself, like Stacci here, would you be able to experience the flexibility and lightness of it.

Invisalign is indeed advanced in teeth straightening that covers kids to adults and also mild to severe teeth misalignment as compared to other clear aligner brands as it has over 22 years of research and development and work with over 170,000 doctors in over 100 countries. It is also widely used by over 2 million teens worldwide. *data as per www.invisalign.com.

There may be other brands of clear aligners in the market but after researching into them, I realized that they treat only mild to moderate cases and don't provide for teens or kids.

Getting the littles ones started early from as young as 6, would help prevent the erupting permanent teeth from growing into one of the problematic cases on the right.


 3D Scan and Outcome Simulator (iTero scan)

I was told that some Invisalign doctors would be using these machines at their clinics to do a 3D scanning of your teeth and will be able to share with you on your desired new smile. In fact one can request to change the positioning or angle of their teeth on the simulator and fit the image of their perfect smile. It is like starting with the end in mind, the smile that is!

How technology has advanced, that such a detailed 3D color model of one’s gum and teeth can be saved in a just a few minutes!

Teeth straightening is an investment and involves moving of teeth, so I do not want to take any risks in getting the right end result. Invisalign has a patented treatment plan that is able to map out the tooth movement at every stage, just like how GPS works on guiding you to drive from Punggol to the East Coast, informing you on how to get there and how long it takes. There is indeed a plan.

Walking through with us on how the dentist would be able to reposition the teeth and subsequently come up with the individual treatment plan after consultation on the desired look.

The usual process of making teeth moulds would involve the biting down hard into some sticky icky material and would depend a lot on the skill of the person doing it. Now with this type of quick scanning, it will be fuss-free to kids. Kids can’t stay still lor!


Smile Concierge

So, the whole idea about having this Invisalign Centre, is really for educational purposes, so that one can find out more about the Invisalign treatment from the friendly Smile Concierge in a very casual setting. It is surely not as intimidating as discussing this on the dental chair, or as awkward as holding up other patients at the dental clinics.

The Smile Concierge is seen here checking out the closest Invisalign doctors within the vicinity of our house.

And if you are interested to go for your first consultation with an Invisalign doctor like we do, they can also recommend you to Invisalign-certified dentists near to the location of your preference. In fact, you will even get a voucher entitling you up to $200 off* your Invisalign treatment when you book the appointment with your preferred Invisalign doctor through them.

*Terms and conditions apply


 In Conclusion

I am sold, or should I say, we were all sold on the effectiveness of these clear aligners in helping reshape the teeth into better smiles. The prospect of having ulcers from other forms of treatments such as metal braces, is enough to put many off from seeking treatment but Invisalign aligners are custom-made with precision and would not hurt the gums when worn.

To have a better inkling and understanding on the cost of treatments available for the girls, I called up a dental clinic to enquire. Based on the brief case backgrounds of Stacci and Steffi that I gave to the staff, I was advised that the first-generation braces (or wire braces) would cost from $3,600 up. However I was advised that Stacci would be too young for it, and was asked to consider Invisalign for both the girls.


Was told that Invisalign First treatment (kids 6- 10years old) would cost around $3,500 - $5,000, or around $6,000 for Steffi's age (above 11years) but of course there was a disclaimer given, that the treatment cost depends on the severity and can only be determined following a consultation that can cost around $70*(cost may vary among doctors) .

Already 8 million smiles we were told.
When buying any products and services, especially when one must put in a considerable amount of investment, testimonials and track records are often scrutinized. With 8 million better smiles worldwide, the product literally sells for itself. But I will be frank, I like to know my time and financial commitments before making any decisions and you cannot get these at the centre because every case is unique.

As the Invisalign Centre is for educational purposes, you cannot make the aligners there because Invisalign works with Invisalign-certified doctors to deliver prescribed and well-supervised treatment to you. If you are interested, go hear it from an Invisalign-certified doctor near your location and get up to $200 off your Invisalign treatment. *T&C apply.


[Sponsored]

Visit the Invisalign Centre @ #B1-14 Wisma Atria 435 Orchard Road, Singapore 238877

Phone: +65 6362 1066

No time to drop by? Check out their Virtual Tour and Free Assessment!
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Saturday, July 4, 2020

Celebrating Any Occasion with Downtown East!

During Father's Day this year, the family was treated to a fantastic dinner from Downtown East as we reviewed their Just4U Celebration Package. There's food, drinks, a card and free gifts included! Let me just share with you a litte more on what this package is all about and what we had.

The spread was more than enough for my family, and the bubble teas were definitely welcomed!

For a price of $148, you will receive the delivery of a meal for 4 from one of the 4 restaurants with outlets in Downtown East. They are namely Flaming Spice, Segar Restaurant, Swensen's and Yam's Kitchen. For us, we decided on Segar Restaurant and we found the Fish Head Curry fantastic! Tom Yum Seafood was awesome as well!

The tze char dishes were all up to standard and delivered still hot! I actually had the fish head curry for 3 consecutive days, because I am the only one who takes such spicy stuff, and was still enjoying it on the last! 

Beside the food, you will also be able to select 4 different beverages from Kung Fu Tea to go along. You can choose from Rich Milk Tea, Pearl Milk with Brown Sugar, 38 Milk Tea or Passion Fruits Green Tea. If you like grass jelly, I would suggest the 38 Milk Tea that has grass jelly and pearl as well! Best of both world, more worth it leh... 

It was a great evening that ended on a sweet note with the whole family!

You will also get a GIANT greeting card which can include any personalized message for the person you would like to send the package to. And best of all, you will also receive a surprise gift worth anything between $10 - $50. These can include admission tickets to their attractions etc. If a cake is a must for your celebration, you can also choose to top up $40 for a Swensen's or Twelve Cupcakes cake to go along with your order.

The cake is an add-on. But this Tropical Mango Cake is yummy!

The delivery is included in the price but do note that they only deliver within Bedok, Upper East Coast, Eastwood, Kew Drive, Loyang, Changi, Simei, Tampines, Pasir Ris, Hougang, Punggol and Sengkang only. 

Teach you how to get $10 off. If you self-collect, use code [PICKUP10], or if you want delivery, use code [PF10]. Both will entitle you to $10 off, but vote... I mean choose wisely. Thanks for the treat once again Downtown East, we cannot wait to visit you guys again! 

You can head over to https://www.downtowneast.com.sg/celebrate/just-4-u for more info and to place your order.
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Thursday, July 2, 2020

Durian Delivery With 8 Durian!

It would be hard to miss friends posting about durians online, or catching the aroma when you walk pass fruit stores now that the durian session is back! Steffi, like myself, is a durian lover, and her eyes literally lit up when she saw our delivery from 8 Durians.

They are packed in these sturdy boxes and vacuum packed. But one can still smell the durians, albeit faintly.

While I still have to admit that opening up some durians and gathering round the tables with friend, and discussing the intensity and aroma of different cultivars would still be the best experience. But in this climate now, ordering online and getting them dehusked and delivered to the comfort of your home, would be the next best practical thing.

These 3 boxes were enough to keep the durian-lovers in the family very happy indeed.

The durians come in a box that is vacuum-sealed in plastic but the durian aroma is unmistakable. The moment we opened it and even though the boys (who are not exactly durian fans) were far away, they shouted out loud, asking how come there was durian smell!

You can imagine the distinctive aroma of these beautiful MSW right?

The first thing that struck me was the how little durians there seemed to be only, and dunno how big the actual seed were lor especially when they were showing in their premium AAA and Black Gold MSW from Pahang High Mountain Plantation. The Penang Red Prawn also looked quite small. 

Small flat seed of the MSW even though they were showing though the flesh.

Look at these incredibly small seeds from some regular-sized Red Prawn flesh!

Hahaha in the end my fears were unfounded because the seeds were literally flat for the MSW and even for the Red Prawn, some had seeds so small that I might accidentally swallow them lor! And that is even though the flesh looks regular sized! It was a great durian feast with the family, sans the boys would prefer something else. I love the sweet flesh MSW with the tinge of bitterness. The red prawn is also nice lah, and the after taste felt almost like having a little alcohol at the end. 

The girls (and myself) had a very good evening, ending on a (bitter) sweet note!

Thanks for the durian treat for the family, and I must say that you guys really have some pretty good quality stuff delivered to us! So actually unless one hates durians, fuss-free ordering with super fast delivery would have to be 8 Durian. Hmm shouldn't it be 8 Durians instead though? 
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