Crochet Class @ Fabric Fanatics

Before the Covid-19 pandemic started, I have occasional crochet classes for beginners, normally at cafes. And then lockdown came along so no teaching activity for the past 2 years or so. After a long hiatus, I have finally started my first crochet class this year! It was a coincidence as I was at the right place at the right time and I just went with the flow, not hoping for much since I do have my day job and this is just my back-up plan for when I retire. After a few chats, I had my first crochet class at Fabric Fanatics, Summit Mall.

Thank you, Ashley, for having faith in me and given me this opportunity. I sure hope your Pokeball turned out good.

If you want a refresher class, we can have it at a mutually agreed cafe :-)

Thank you, Edel, for having me guide you through your WIP. I sure hope you managed to finish your shawl and booties :-)

If you are interested to learn crochet or you require a refresher class, please send me an email to discuss. My fee starts from RM100 for a 4 hours session.

Amok: Cover Reveal

What is Amok?

Amok is a new novel by Anna Tan, a talented Malaysian author based in Penang, which will be released on 24th June 2021. I had the opportunity to read the e-ARC of this awesome novel recently! Finally, the cover reveal is here! It sure looks as awesome as the novel itself!

You can read my full review here:

Amok: e-ARC review

What is faith, except hope in desperation?

All Putera Mikal wants is to gain the Amok Strength, the supernatural power granted by Kudus to the Mahan royal family. No matter how religiously Mikal keeps his vows, Kudus still denies him the Strength—whilst his father, Sultan Simson, flaunts the Strength despite his blatant defiance of the Temple and the priests’ visions of coming doom.

Then the prophecies come true.

Taken captive, Mikal must find a way to liberate his people and restore his throne in Maha—and the key to this is the Amok Strength. But what does it take to gain Kudus’ favour?

If you are interested, you can order from the Pre-order links here:

For Malaysia Only: Paperback (signed copies) preorder price: RM35 [Full price: RM45]

Signed Paperbacks: https://teaspoonpublishing.com.my/shop/amok-paperback/ 

For the rest of the world: Ebook preorder price: USD2.99 / RM12.00 [Full price: USD4.99 / RM20]

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Amok-Absolution-Book-Anna-Tan-ebook/dp/B08YXQKPN7/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anna Tan grew up in Malaysia, the country that is not Singapore. She is interested in Malay/Nusantara and Chinese legends and folklore in exploring the intersection of language, culture, and faith. 

Anna has an MA in Creative Writing: The Novel under a Chevening scholarship and is the President of the Malaysian Writers Society. She can be found tweeting as @natzers and forgetting to update annatsp.com.

Where to find Anna online:

Website: https://annatsp.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/annatsp

Facebook: http://facebook.com/annatansp

Twitter: http://twitter.com/natzers

[MPOV] Allertoin Cream for Kids - 1 month later

I have been blessed to be given this opportunity to try out this awesome cream which has worked wonders for my eczema-flared skin. As the affected area is around my waist, I am overcome with shyness to share my skin diary. As such, the outcome of the photos provided may look indifferent and the result not as positively clear (as seen on my Instagram). However, I am able to share my experience and positive feedback in writing.

It's been a month since I've started using Allertoin Cream for Kids to treat my eczema and the result has been promising so far. The affected area around my waist did flare up occasionally and more so recently due to a freak accident (hence more stress LOL) but overall, it was controllable and not as itchy. So far, my skin has not been broken and the eczema did not spread further with less temptation or inclination to scratch. I do apply the cream each time on the affected area in circular motion to ensure it has been evenly absorbed after I have taken my shower i.e. twice a day at least. If it does flare up suddenly, I'll just apply it and the itchy burning sensation will slowly ease off. The light textured, non-oily cream is truly a wonder plus it's fragrance free so making it a blessing to use.

I did noticed that some of the scars seemed less visible, as though it's fading out slowly. I do so hoped that it is true and eventually I would have a scar-free waist! Bikini, here I come LOL!!! With ingredients like olive oil, Ectoin, and vegetable oil to name a few, it sure is safe to use always since it does not contain steroid. Yes, it is steroid-free!!! All mild yet effective ingredients to combat eczema and the likes especially for sensitive skin.

I have provided an initial feedback earlier, a week after use, in this link below:

http://www.sholee.net/2020/09/mpov-allertoin-creams-week-1.html

If you are interested, this product is available at all leading pharmacies selling at RRP RM80.

You can check out their Facebook page for more info:

https://www.facebook.com/commerce/products/3533845820020868/

[MPOV] Money Stories from Malaysians Volume 1

My rating: 4/5

Goodreads rating: 4.46/5

Publisher: self-published

Published: March 2019

Author: Suraya Zainudin

Genre: short stories

Money Stories from Malaysians: Volume 1 is a compilation of 10 short stories from 10 different authors.

#tbntbookchallenge:

9) Read a Book by a Malaysian Author OR a Book set in Malaysia

This month's read is a Malaysian themed book written by Malaysians set in Malaysia. Coincidentally it's also Malaysia Day on 16th September 2020 with 57 years since Malaysia has been formed from Peninsular to Sabah and Sarawak.

I've enjoyed the short stories a lot especially since it is relatable with humour and lots of monetary references. Well, it is a book about 'money' LOL! Honestly, with funny jibes and all, it is not a boring book. These 10 authors have put much thought and plot into their stories to make it worthy. A breezy read to boot!

If you are interested to read this awesome book, you can purchase it directly from here:

Money Stories from Malaysians Volume 1

FYI, Volume 2 has been recently released so I'll definitely get it once I've settled all my pending e-ARC's :-)

[MPOV] Allertoin creams - week 1

I have recently been given the opportunity to participate in Allertoin's Eczema and Dermatitis Advocate Program. I am so glad for this as I have been having eczema (I didn't know it then) for years since I was in my early twenties! I have tried many creams and soaps but to no avail. I finally visited a doctor and was diagnosed as having eczema. At that time, I was apparently allergic to some materials hence I can only wear cotton material. Medication and change of soap and lotion helped but the damage has been done. I couldn't remove the scars of over scratching it left behind. It has been under control though bouts of flare will tend to return as and when I'm stressed or just suddenly. I've been off meds for a long time but controlling it using non-perfumed soap and body lotion plus making sure my clothes are cotton made. Of course, there are cheat sheets at times where I would use some perfumed soap or lotion LOL!

Eczema is a condition where patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, red, cracked and rough. Eczema can vary in severity and symptoms may flare up or subside from day to day. If severe, it can disrupt sleep and increase risk of infection.

Anyway, I have already given up hope to any cure that exists so when I was given this chance to try Allertoin Cream, I was definitely doubtful of it's effectiveness. It is a non-steroid cream for eczema which I am glad as it means I can use it many times without much side effect. Fragrance free, preservative free, paraben free and without mineral oil, it has been clinically proven of it's efficacy and safe to use always.

Allertoin Cream and Allertoin Cream for Kids are more than just basic therapies of eczema and psoriasis. These Ectoin-containing products can be used between exacerbations to stabilise the skin barrier and protect the skin against external stress factors. Ectoin was discovered in extremophiles which supports the living of the microorganism's in hostile environment. It hydrates and protects the cells from allergens or other harmful substances. 

I have used it for one week and I can immediately feel the difference. I have been using it twice daily each time after shower. The first thing I've noticed is that it didn't feel as itchy anymore. There are also less flaring thus far even though I was stressed with a vertigo attack. I am surprised that the cream, though looked thick but was actually light and after applying it felt smooth and doesn't feel sticky nor oily. 

Anyway, here is my subject diary after a week of use:

I do hope that the scars will eventually lighten and disappear so that I can wear bikini worry free LOL!

Why Hire Professional House Movers in KL

Have you always asked yourself why hire professional house movers in Kuala Lumpur? It is an exciting new chapter of your life when you decide to move to a new home but the process of moving can be tough.

An unprofessional house mover can give you more trouble than you think! There is always a possibility of your belongings being misplaced or stolen. There is no fixed price where the price might vary based on their convenience which is very hard for you to make a projection on the price. We’ve all heard problems like movers not showing up after the deposit is paid as well but this is all a bad experience with the unprofessional movers. Hence, you should always opt to hire a professional one.

Still not convinced why you should hire a professional? Here are some reasons why this could benefit you:

Experienced

Professional movers are more experienced in this job. They know how to handle big items such as furniture and also fragile items like glass ornaments. They will be extra careful in handling your items. Only, an experienced mover knows how to move heavy and big items without damaging the item or causing any injuries to themselves.

Time Efficient

The idea of moving is amazing but the process can be troublesome and dreadful. You will need to clean, pack and organize all your belongings. After that, you will need to bring each of your belongings but what if you can’t fit it all in one go? Are you willing to go behind the wheels a few rounds to move everything? Don’t forget, you will have to unpack afterwards as well! Thinking of this itself makes us tired and that’s why you should hire a professional house mover to ease the whole process for you!  It saves you a whole lot of time especially if you are busy or have a big family to take care of.

Well- Equipped

Professional movers require a set of equipment, tools and vehicles to move your items. For example, you might need a lorry to help you move big items such as cupboards, television and other furniture but obviously not everyone owns one so it’s safe to have a professional mover to help you out.

Save Cost

With professional movers, you can choose for a full moving and packing service and storage if needed. So the price is based on the services you choose and most services have a fixed price so you do not have to be worried about having to pay extra.

It must be a hard choice when it comes to choosing a service provider. So do take some time to do your research for the best service providers in Klang Valley. Read through the testimonials and client reviews to get a better understanding so it is easier for you to make the best informed decision.

If you are ready to hire a professional house mover, you can consider Mover2U to be one of your top choices. Mainly because Mover2U is established and provides the best mover services in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor and with well-equipped professionals and affordable services. So what are you waiting for? Contact their team via phone, live chat or email to get in touch with them now!

[MPOV] EliteSoft Wallet power bank and Speedy data cable

All thanks to Pokemon Go, my mobile phone's battery depletes very fast so I rely on power bank a lot. It's one of those 'must have' items in my handbag LOL! As such, I prefer a reliable power bank as most in the market is not plus the life span is short.

EliteSoft Wallet 10,000 mAh Power Bank with Speedy 2.4A Cable

So here comes EliteSoft, an unknown brand to me, with a lightweight power bank which works as hard. I wasn't sure at first since it's made in China plus it is light for a 10,000 mAh! Who would have thought that this small fella is hardy and works really well, even with 2 phones charging at the same time!

It has dual output i.e. 1A and 2A, not fast charging but works equally as fast for a 10,000 mAh! Ultra slim with 25% thinner and lighter than most similar capacity power banks! Coupled it with a Speedy 2.4A data cable, my mobile phone is fully charged within a few hours! Okay, I screw up here as I forgot to time the charging but I think it usually takes 3 to 4 hours to fully charge my mobile phone.

I honestly liked this bundle a lot and it has been my constant companion in my handbag ever since I was given this set to try. So much so that I've stocked it up to sell at Nyc Nat Nook *shameless plug* Well, sharing is caring mah... you can hardly find a lightweight power bank with a leather wrapped data cable which look aesthetically neat and classy ya...

If you are interested, you can look them up here:
https://www.facebook.com/NycNatNook/

Mary Kay beauty class with Adrianne

A good friend recently decided to venture into the beauty business and she was enthusiastic to practice her demo with us. Though it started off a little rough, I was totally sold in the end!

It's a basic beauty class for Mary Kay products. I've totally enjoyed the session and I'm actually in awe with my own skin at the end of the class LOL!!! Honestly, it did feels plumped up and soft to the touch like those beauty advertisements where the skin feels 'toing toing' :-)

Meet our beauty consultant, Adrianne

Me, goofing around while waiting :-p

Joyce, our hostess

A glowing me, after the session!

Azreen too!!!

While waiting for the LRT, with natural lighting, I've never seen my skin glow so nicely! I'm truly intrigued but have to wait lah as...

1. I do still have at least a year stock of beauty products so have to finish it first
2. The range is not cheap so most likely having to buy it 1 by 1 lah

So have to be patient now before achieving flawless skin especially freckles free!!!

If you are interested, you can send me an email and I'll pass your contacts to Adrianne ya...
OR you can get in touch with her directly here:
https://www.instagram.com/adriannemkbeautyclstant/

[MPOV] Uni-V Skin Care - Jelly Mask

Previously, I've blogged about my experience using the Essence Spray here:
http://www.sholee.net/2017/11/mpov-uni-v-skin-care-essence-spray.html

And now, the final product, Jelly Mask.

A simple, easy to use mask with less hassle, similarly to the old style version of mask where we can just apply it on the skin. After a cleansed and toned skin, with it's light jelly texture, I've evenly spread it on my skin leaving it to dry for 20 mins. And here's the best part, I can remove it or wash it off using the tap's running water easily. No need warm water nor hot towel. Easy peasy, towel dry and then apply the usual moisturisers. I have been using it once every 2 weeks and so far, so good. Lightly fragrant and not overwhelming which helped to feel relax and not nauseating.

The outcome: Though I did not take any photos... well, I was kinda lazy lah... in fact, I keep forgetting LOL! Well, I do it before I sleep so I'm usually half asleep so please excuse my tardiness. Anyway, I do feel that my skin has flourished, doesn't feel as dry and feels more taut... just like those 'toing toing' adverts ya LOL!!! I'm truly happy with how my skin turns out and have been diligently using both the essence and mask which I am loving it so far.

For more details of the products or where to purchase, you can check out their website:
https://www.uni-v.asia/

[MPOV] Uni-V Skin Care - Essence Spray

Earlier, I've blogged about this new gem which I've started using, you can view my previous post here. 

After a month of usage, I'm a happy camper! My skin feels soft and supple, the product itself smells nice and smooth to use. I'm glad to be given this opportunity to try it! 

So here's my review of the first product: Essence Spray 50ml RM69.90

Made of natural marine ingredients, collagen and red algae, this bottle of essence is conveniently packed with a spray nozzle. I'm using this after my moisturiser / before my sunblock during the day and after moisturiser during the night. I've initially used the spray directly on my skin but I find it rather wasting as the light mist spritz all over hence the wastage though invigorating LOL!

You can either spray it directly on your skin

I've since sprayed it on my cotton ball first before dabbing it on my skin in upwards motion. It's lightly fragranced so I find it perky in the morning after using it. Apparently some may not like the scent so perhaps you can dab it lightly instead. It is suitable for dry and sensitive skin.

Or spray it on a cotton ball before applying it on your skin

The outcome: I find my skin more soft and supple, not as drying and I'm glad that there's no adverse effect on my sensitive skin! Now I wonder if it'll lighten my freckles! LOL!

The best part, this product is made in Malaysia so a plus point for me as I do support local products and entrepreneurs.

For more details, you can check out their website:
https://www.uni-v.asia/

Next: Jelly Mask

[MPOV] Uni-V Skin Care

I have always been looking for the right skin care for my freckled, wrinkled and dry skin as I am not getting any younger LOL! So when I was approached recently to try out this new skin care brand in the market, I quickly grabbed the opportunity! Thank you Uni-V!

Currently, Uni-V Skin Care has 2 products in the market namely Essence Spray and Jelly Mask. This 2 products can be used over our daily skin care regime and the best part, both products smell so nice! I have started using it on October 1st, 2017 so I will provide an in-depth for each product at a later post. So please keep a lookout for it!

Uni-V: Unleash your beauty within

Spotlight: Angel A - Mary Poser Giveaway!

Earlier, I was given the opportunity to read and review this e-ARC, Mary Poser. You can read my full review here:
http://www.sholee.net/2017/04/mpov-mary-poser-butterflies-and-white.html

About the author:
Angel A is a world traveller who shares her insights and experiences of global culture through narratives that are compelling, inspiring and insightful. Mary Poser is Angel's first novel. Her passion is to explore our inner world as revealed through the challenges, triumphs and revelations experienced in our outer world.

About the book:
Mary Poser is a novel about a girl who must overcome deeply entrenched obstacles to follow her heart. She crashes so badly, it almost takes her life. But this isn't her greatest threat, as how she hides her suffering to please others could prove devastating.

And now, I have been given 2 copies of iBook to be given away! So there will be 2 lucky winners ya!! Of course, it's open internationally!!!

http://www.maryposer.com/about.html

How to win? Easy peasy... just comment below and I'll randomly pick the winners via Random Number Generator. So 1 comment = 1 entry ya.

1. This giveaway starts from August 18th to September 7th, 2017. Winners will be announced on September 11th, 2017.
2. 2 winners will be picked randomly using Random Number Generator and will be in contact via email.
3. Both winners will each receive an iBook copy of Mary Poser.
4. Please be reminded that vouchers issued by iTunes are valid for 4 weeks only so once the winners have been identified, they will have 4 weeks to accept it.
5. It is open to all... internationally... but since it is an iBook copy, winners must have an iTunes account.

Paperbacks of Mary Poser will be released on August 21st, 2017 in all major bookstores. If you can't wait or prefers the softcopy, it is also available online currently from the below websites:

• Amazon: getBook.at/Maryposer
• iTunes (iBooks): https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/mary-poser/id1255812974?mt=11
• Kobo: http://www.kobobooks.com/search/search.html?q=9780987622204
• Book Depository: https://www.bookdepository.com/Mary-Poser--Angel/9780987622228?ref=grid-view&qid=1502671633894&sr=1-1

You can also participate here:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a531f810/

If you want to win a copy, please comment away!!!

A Worthy Book: Ladies Edition

I have finally utilised my Worthy Book voucher! Since there's an online website and I don't have to physically be there, so why not? Online shopping is addictive and bad! Anyway, for those who didn't know, Worthy Book is a book filled with many discounts and offers. There are 2 types in the market, one is Food Edition and the other Ladies Edition.

You can read my previous foodie experience here:
http://www.sholee.net/2015/08/a-worthy-book.html

You can read my point of view here:
http://www.sholee.net/2016/11/mpov-worthy-book-ladies-edition-2016.html

So the kiasu me has already gone through the whole book and tore out the relevant vouchers that I am interested in. Unlike the food vouchers where I had to dine in, the ladies vouchers were more user-friendly as I can shop online! So when I was free, just key in the URL and sign-up for an account! After that, just start shopping for the items I wanted and checked out! Easy peasy!

Yeap, I've recently shopped for some nice flats and thankfully they have Christy Ng's! What's more... I can shop online! Thank heavens for that! As you can see, a variety of offers which can be utilised either by walking in or online shopping :-)

Voucher code: check

Sign-up: check

Shoes: check

Continue shopping: check

Another pair of shoes: check

Checkout: check

Voucher code: ready

Just typed in the code and continue

Successfully discounted yay!

Proceed to pay the balance

Order completed after payment

It's as easy as ABC! I don't have to get caught in the traffic jam or bad weather, all in the comfort of my home and laptop! This is definitely a wonderful shopping experience and addictive! Now waiting for my shoes to arrive :-)

You can get this Ladies Edition from any 7 11 outlets nation wide for RM25! Book stores like MPH, myNews, Kinokuniya, Popular and Borders are also selling it!

This post is written in collaboration with http://www.worthybook.my/

[MPOV] A Worthy Book Ladies Edition 2016-2017

Last year, I did a review of the Worthy Book FNB Edition which was so worth it! So many vouchers for redemption, easy and convenient. You can read my review of the food edition here:
http://www.sholee.net/2015/08/a-worthy-book.html

Well, guess what? I've finally gotten the Worthy Book Ladies Edition!!! Lo and behold, the various beauty, fashion and health freebies and vouchers are so tantalizing... just in time for Christmas!

Look what came in my mailbox :-)

At frugal times like now where all prices are increasing, this book comes as a blessing with loads of savings :-) In summary, there are a total of 150 vouchers in this book which covers famous shopping and wellness brands in Malaysia... all in 1 book! From OPI to Sothys to Zalora to Photobook, to name a few, you can shop till you drop and in the same time save more than RM30,000 worth of freebies and vouchers! Also, this edition is valid until mid of next year!

Flipping through the pages, it is easy and straightforward to redeem. I can either use the tear-out vouchers at the respective outlets OR shop online using the special discount code... easy peasy! I have my eyes set on a few so finding time to check it out soon! Terms and conditions are stated clearly including where and how to redeem.

Though small but straight to the point

For example, Christy Ng's beautiful shoes... I can just login to the e-store, http://www.christyng.com/, selected the shoes I want and then enter the relevant discount code which I want to redeem upon checkout... hassle-free and convenient... now waiting for my package to arrive!

Some of my tear-out vouchers

Or another example... like Young Hearts' comfortable lingerie... I can just walk-in to the outlet at Main Place, choose the lingerie that I want and then redeemed the tear-out voucher upon purchasing. Just look for the correct voucher which I want to redeem and tear it out... hand it over to the cashier and pay the balance required. Nothing more, nothing less... straightforward right? What more can I asked for?

Interested? You can get this Ladies Edition from any 7 11 outlets nation wide for RM25!!! Book stores like MPH, myNews, Kinokuniya, Popular and Borders are also selling it :-)

Time to shop for Christmas gifts! Also self-rejuvenate for Chinese New Year! So frugal me won't feel guilty as I'll be saving a lot here!

This post is written in collaboration with http://www.worthybook.my/

ShopBack with Qoo10 Malaysia

Online shopping has started picking up all over the world, including Malaysia, as more and more people are internet savvy. With the latest mobile phone's technology, online shopping has become much easier, with just a few clicks of the button! In fact, the thrill of receiving the packages is so exciting... lots of anticipation while checking the tracking number and waiting for it to arrive at the doorstep... hence making online shopping more tempting!

I used to love shopping at malls until finding parking or squeezing into public transport became daunting. Honestly, humans nowadays lacked manners and courtesy which made the overall experience more difficult. With online shopping, you won't have all these issues! No jam, no hassle... just a few clicks away and then wait for it to arrive!

What if shopping online also rewards you with cashback? Not possible you say?

Well, there is ONE of it's kind now in Malaysia!

ShopBack is the top cashback and coupon online site with more than 500 merchants and they are also established in Singapore, Indonesia, Taiwan, India and the Philippines. You can enjoy savings and cashback from merchants like Taobao, Lazada, Groupon, Agoda, Zalora, Fashion Valet and not forgetting Qoo10!

For example, if you are looking for local best cosmetic, diet and food, you can check out Qoo10. You can Get Qoo10 coupon with cashback by clicking on the Qoo10 banner and tadaa... easy peasy:

Isn't that fun? What's more, Malaysia CyberSale 2016 is coming soon! Get more cashback and discounts during this 5 days sale! Groupon, Lazada, Qoo10, Zalora and FoodPanda will be taking part, giving you the best cyber deal ever!

So don't miss out on all these fantabulous sales and cashback, sign up now! Time for me to go shopping and also get some cash back!

Note: This post was written in collaboration with ShopBack Malaysia.

[Unboxed] Prescription glasses from GlassesShop

Finally my order has arrived and I totally forgot about it! Well, it took a while to reach me since it's coming from China *sheepish grin* Yes, GlassesShop is based in China but the staff is professional and easy to liaise with.

The unassuming packaging :-) arrived a month later!

After unboxing it!

I quickly checked out the whole package and it was unbelievably right on. Also sturdily packed so no need to worry of broken lenses or frames. I was truly in awe that the frame was of good quality! Even the springy joints were good and did not awkwardly come off like some frames would. After trying it on, it seemed everything was alright including my prescription lenses...

Suits me or not???

I do like it a lot as it feels elegant and classy unlike my current plastic one. I'm happy to wear it for my everyday squinting, straining and staring LOL! Now I kinda regret not getting a prescription sunglasses... perhaps next round when I have the budget and the need for a bifocal lenses. Their affordable and cheap glasses do look expensive, mind you! Also their slogan 'Online Eyeglasses Doctor Quality' definitely fits the bill and they do live up to it; in my books thus far...

For those who are interested to get a pair, you can utilise the special coupon code below and get 50% off!!! You can have 50% off on any eyeglasses and sunglasses with free lenses; except for frames which are on sale ya...

Special Coupon Code - GSHOT50

This blog post has been written in collaboration with the good people at GlassesShop in exchange of my honest review.