The First Trimester. (Part 2)

Week 8 drama.
Tuesday.
I woke up early and made my way alone to KKIA Kuchai since Monkey had to fly off somewhere.
Got there at 08:01 and waited until 08:52 when my number was finally called to a small window where a nurse poked my finger and placed a droplet of blood each on a test strip for HIV screening and another to measure my haemoglobin level.
She then asked me to pee in a cup.

I headed back to the waiting area until my number was called again at 09:15 into a room where there was a doctor and a nurse waiting to have a look at my teeth.
Apparently it's crucial to take care of your dental hygiene while being pregnant because the baby needs calcium, and if your teeth needs work anytime during the pregnancy, it could create stress on the baby.
I didn't have anything obviously wrong with my teeth so this part didn't take long, and I went back outside until my number was called again at 09:22 into the roomful of nurses.

That's when I first saw the pink book, the book where everything will be recorded on, all through my prenatal check ups. My nurse then, Nor Fatimah asked me to fill up the details on the front cover of the book while she fills up another pink book similar to the one I was working on.
She asked about my medical history, husband's history, if I have any allergy to any medication, if I'm on any drugs, and if I smoke.
Once that was done, I was sent to another room to get my blood drawn for a full work up.

At 09:50 my number was called again where I met up with my nurse and got physical. She took a look  and felt around my tummy and breasts. She advised to avoid using soap on the nipples to prevent them feeling dry. That was pretty weird to hear, but it made sense I suppose.
She then prescribed me with Iberet, which is a supplement that contained iron, B complex vitamins, vitamin C and folic acid. She advised me to take it with an empty stomach with juice so the contents of the pill could be fully absorbed. Either an empty stomach or two hours after -- and one hour before a meal.

She then wrote down my next appointment date in the pink book and asked me to wait outside to see the doctor.
NOTE: I found that different clinics provides different supplements. While I was prescribed with Iberet, a friend was prescribed with Zincofer from her KK and my sister was given Pramilet at her private clinic.

My number was finally called at 10:40 into the doctor's room (not the same doctor that did the dental check) where we talked a little and she proceeded to do an ultrasound over my lower belly.

This is the part that SUCKED.
This particular doctor took a long time trying to look for Nugget. The equipment was obviously unimpressive but her bedside manner was just as shit! She even called the nurse that was with her to try and look and despite me telling them that I'd just seen my insignificant dot and heard its hearbeat the week before, she wrote down "empty sac seen" in my pink book.
She then told me to go ahead and get another ultrasound at the private clinic that I went to immediately to confirm that I was still pregnant.

I was worried, but mostly angry at the doctor for her insensitivity. Is that how a doctor supposed to talk to an expecting mother? I told her that there was no bleeding or cramps and still she didn't say a single thing to make me feel any better. How can my baby jump out of my womb into thin air??
Anyway, she then gave me some kind of a referral letter for me to give the doctor at the private clinic also one of the pink books for my record and to bring in my future check-ups and send me off my way.

Then I took an Uber to that private OBGYN clinic in Sri Petaling to get another ultrasound. The nice doctor went on ahead and there it was.. my little Nugget, alive and well with a stronger heartbeat.
So that's how my very first check up went basically.
Came out from the clinic at about 11:30 AM and headed to Pizza Hut because I was starving!

That's pretty much how my first trimester went on, really. I woke up early morning feeling hungry. And gassy. It helped when I eat small portions every few hours. I hadn't heard people talked much about this, but I was a little constipated. Perhaps all these while I've always had coffee and cigarettes to help it move along, but since I stopped when I found out that I was pregnant, it's hard to have a bowel movement routine. Also, I get tired a little faster. Adjusting to the "situation" took a little while. For some time I was a little upset that my body didn't feel like mine. I suppose it's normal, but adjusting.. it wasn't easy.

Apart from that, though, my first trimester was quite easy. No queasiness.. no throwing up.. No obvious morning sickness, which I am very grateful of.
I wasn't craving for anything weird, but I was quite picky with food. Mostly because most things tasted really salty somehow. And funnily things tasted just as salty to Monkey as well!

I'll talk about my second prenatal check-up in Part 3.

2017 Wishlist.

As you may have known, the last time I bought something without much care was in December.
Being a stay-at-home wife in my current state, doesn't seem right to go around to shop my heart's desire. Of course, I don't really need any new handbags or make-up (especially when I don't really reach for them these days) but the keyword here is HEART'S DESIRE.
hahahaha!

Despite my changing hormones and the emotional roller coaster that I've been on, I am still pretty rational. I can still think logically. I know I don't need these things but I would still love to own them. So don't mind me while I list down the things I'm coveting.

NARS came out with ten new shades of their beloved Velvet Matte Lip Pencils. Three really caught my eye; an oxblood burgundy shade called Endangered Red, Mysterious Red that's described as crimson red and there's another shade that intrigued me called Do Me Baby which is described as a chestnut rose shade.
God knows how many of these I already own, and STILL I want MORE. gahhhh!!

I am also extremely curious of their new Soft Matte Complete Concealer. I've always been in between the shade Custard and Ginger but I think sometime last year they came out with some new shades and Macadamia seemed like a shade smacked in between my two typical shades.
Would love nothing more than to try it out, but I hate going into the store and not get anything! hahahha! Especially two of the associates in Midvalley and Pavilion are familiar with me.

Another lip product; Hourglass GIRL Lip Stylo in Liberator which is a deep berry shade. Honestly there are plenty of shades that I would love to get but Hourglass is such an expensive brand! And somehow I feel like getting several Nars lip pencils are justifiable than getting several Hourglass lipsticks. heh. Not that I'll be getting any of them anytime soon.
I've swatched them in Sephora and they felt SO creamy and lovely and aahhh! Maybe next year. hahahha!

I haven't bought an eye palette in yonks! Oh, perhaps last year when I got the Nars Jetsetter palette. I was keen on the Smashbox Cover Shot Eye Palette in Ablaze when I first saw it coming out. It consists of eight beautiful warm shades, and I don't know.. that warm red and terracotta shade really calls out to me.
Good thing that somehow I'd never seen this particular palette stocked in Sephora here. Makes it easier to not crave for it too much. (I still keep a look out for it though.. can't help myself.)

When cushion foundations first came out, I was never really into them. Didn't even cross my mind to swatch any of them. But since I've been using less make-up lately, they seemed like a good option? hahahha!
I mean, pregnancy has been making my skin spotty. Some days I'd like to have them disguised, but most days I couldn't be bothered with spending the time putting it on during the day and washing it off later at night.. but the idea of having a little coverage that I could put on quickly really intrigued me.
So here comes in Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Cushion Foundation.

I'd never pictured myself as a handbag collector, but when I first saw Rebecca Minkoff Darren Messenger Satchel in Bangkok some months ago, my heart just fluttered. Stupid, really. I've always loved Rebecca Minkoff's shoulder bags.. I shouldn't have subscribed to the newsletter now that I'm pretty much on a no-buy ban! So now I'm left coveting..
It's especially hard since there's also a red Mini MAC and a black MAC on their sample sale going on right now. haihh..

I suppose that's what's been on my wishlist since the beginning of the year.
I mean, I KNOW these are things that I don't need, so it'll stay at the back of my mind for now.. but you know how it is for me when I want something. I just can't quite forget about them.
Perhaps next year.
If I'm lucky I'll completely forget about them and replace them with something that I actually really need! heh.

The First Trimester. (Part 1)

So here's my story from Week 1 through Week 12 of my pregnancy.

Okay, not even from Week 1 since I found out about the pregnancy around Week 5 or 6! And I had meant to write about the entire trimester in one entry but I feel like it's going to be too long. Just too long!



First thing the doctor or nurse will ask you when you come in is;

When was the first day of your last period?



So it is really handy for you to have this information. I have an app on my phone called Clue that helps me keep track of my cycle. I do find it helpful, and especially so when it notifies me when my PMS is coming up!



Until they do an ultrasound of your belly, the doctor/nurse will use that last period date as an estimation of how far long you are in the pregnancy and your expected delivery date.

As mentioned in a previous post, a doctor from the airport clinic had confirmed that I was truly pregnant -- and that I was six weeks pregnant.



So there I was at six weeks. Went on Google to see when was the right time to get myself thoroughly checked and found that a majority of people said that the best time to get your first prenatal check up was between Week 8 and Week 12.



Okay. I had planned on going at Week 9; somewhere in the middle. heh!

Except that a week after my initial pregnancy confirmation, I had some bleeding. There was no cramps what so ever, and I wasn't bleeding heavily or anything. It wasn't bright, and it wasn't dark either.. A part of me thought that there was no cause to worry, but being my first pregnancy, I couldn't stop worrying!



So Monkey brought me to my first unofficial check up at a private OBGYN clinic where the first thing the doctor asked was;

Were you doing some strenuous activity? Heavy lifting? Sex?



Yeeaaaah..

So...



The doctor went on that the first trimester is where the pregnancy is really fragile. If the foetus is healthy, it'll stick. If there is something wrong with it (that it isn't healthy), our body will reject it and self-abort basically.

Slight bleeding in the beginning is common, apparently. But if they're followed by cramps, that's when you need to take caution.



The doctor then told me to lie down on the bed and proceeded with an ultrasound over my belly area.
We saw an almost insignificant dot inside of a small hollow inside my belly, and heard a murmur of a racing heartbeat.

He measured the dot and informed me that the foetus is six weeks old; a week later than what's initially estimated based on my last period alone.

He also prescribed me with Duphaston for a whole month that should help the foetus stick stronger.
He also advised Monkey and I to keep our pants on until the first trimester is over. (ha!)



So that's that.

A little over a week after that Monkey and I decided to just go ahead and get myself checked at a government health clinic.

This part was a little annoying. When I went on the Health Ministry official website to look for the nearest health clinic, it doesn't really say which clinic that I should go to. The website is really stupid, honestly I don't know if I was just dumb or everyone else was just like me and took a guess!



I actually whipped out Waze on my phone and typed up "klinik kesihatan" and it gave us two possible location. Being a Monday morning, I chose the one that was faster to get to and it was a Klinik Kesihatan Ibu Dan Anak (KKIA) in Kuchai.

It was a little over 8AM and the reception area on the ground floor was pretty empty. I told the nurse at the desk that it was my first time there and she asked where am I staying.
NOTE: Bring a bill or letter that is addressed to you (if your ID has a different address). They'd want to see it.
So the nurse told me to head on upstairs to the first floor and tell the nurse there that I'd like to "open a book". (bukak buku.)

I went upstairs, went into a roomful of parents with small children walking about, crying, then said to the nurse at the front desk that I'd like to open a book, and she pointed me in the direction of another room and said to talk to any of the nurses in there. Now, at this point Monkey and I couldn't understand why we didn't see any pregnant women around. Just a bunch of couples with children.

So I did what the nurse told me to do, went into the room and awkwardly looked around to see if any of the nurses in the room was available for me to talk to. Most of them were busy talking to patients (their parents, really) or writing up something in a pale blue book, until one of them saw me standing at the doorway and asked if I needed something.

I went up to her and said that I'd like to open a book. She asked me to take a seat and asked for my ID and asked for my current address (second time I had to procure my bank statement which has my address.) She proceeded to scribbling my details on a small piece of note paper and explained to me that this particular health clinic only attends to expecting mothers on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. While she was jotting my details in a ledger of sort, she asked me to come back the next day early morning because the process of opening a book would take a while.
She then handed me the small piece of note that she was writing on (like an appointment sheet) to bring in the next day and I made my way home.

So here's what I learn that day;
1. The Health Ministry website is shit and useless.
2. I got lucky for picking out the right health clinic -- had I gone to the other one, we'd most likely have to make our way to this one because the zones really matter, it seemed.
3. different health clinics has different days for different patients. In Kuchai at least, Mondays are for children, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are for pregnant ladies.. and I have no clue what Thursdays and Fridays are for.
4. When in doubt, bring along your bill or letter with your mailing address on it.

Here is where I leave you, at the beginning of Week 8 and it's already too long!
I should talk about the itty bitty boring details of that first check-up in my next entry.

MY Pregnancy.

Thought I'd talk about my experiences with this first pregnancy.
I remember when I first found out, I wanted to know how to get on about it. Where and when to actually get an official test done and perhaps, share some random details that only I care about. So yeah, hopefully this entry would be of some help to others out there.

This entry is most probably going to be just me talking about random things leading up to finding out that I was pregnant.
Check back next time if you're interested to know about my first trimester.

So, a little back story,
WERE WE TRYING TO GET PREGNANT?

I had an IUD inserted a while back and I had been meaning to get it removed for months before finally having the time to go to the doctor's in September.
Anyway, he asked if I'm trying to get pregnant is why I'm having it removed.
I honestly don't know how to answer that question.
I mean, my husband and I are knocking boots, that's for sure. Were we consciously thinking about procreating everytime we do it? I for one definitely didn't. But we were fully aware that it could happen. We were in no rush, but we do want kids eventually.

FINDING OUT.

So my IUD was removed in September.
October's period came as per normal.
November's was late, so it did make me think, "is this it?' -- but it was just that.. a week late.
Kinda hit me then that perhaps I was trying after all. I was also getting worried if I may have passed my prime age to get pregnant. Being a flight attendant for the past seven years didn't help with the worry -- you know, radiation.. hard landings.. lack of exercise (not existent).. being a smoker..
I mean, I wasn't expecting to get pregnant immediately, let's be real. But I also hadn't anticipated feeling the way that I'd felt.
I had worried about being old and neglected to properly care for my body.

December, my period was even more late than it was in November. I was on a work trip with an especially difficult supervisor (whom was known for his laziness, and get this -- he knew that he's known for it! WTH!) and it was SO exhausting!
Didn't help that I had diarrhoea throughout that last day of the trip. (Still that supervisor didn't do all that much, the asshole!)
I was thinking of doing a home pregnancy test at new year's. I don't know, I just felt like what ever the result is would be a good ending to 2016, and a good start to 2017.
But as I got home to my empty apartment that night (Monkey was in Jeddah, arriving the next day), feeling crushed and all in all tired.. I grabbed one of those home pregnancy test kit (I'd stocked up some a few months leading up to this, hahaha!) and peed on the stick.

TWO LINES.

So....
The stick indicated that I was pregnant.
Then my mind was racing.. when do I tell the company?
Oh wait, HOW do I tell Monkey? When do I tell him?
We had planned on heading to Melaka for a wedding once he got back from flight. So the plan was for me to meet up with him at the airport, then we'll drive to our friend's place in Nilai, leave the car there and make our way to Melaka all four of us in their car.

The next day I got to the airport a little early and made my way to the clinic there before he arrived. The doctor asked when my last period was then I was asked to pee in a cup.
I suppose he knew the airlines' procedure when it comes to pregnancies so he wrote me a little note basically just saying that I'm how many weeks pregnant and my expected delivery date for me to hand to my HR department.

TO DECLARE OR NOT TO DECLARE?

Well, it didn't take long for me to tell Monkey. I had thought of maybe doing some elaborate scheme to let him know but I kinda needed his thoughts on when to declare my pregnancy to my company.
After Melaka I had one last flight of the year; a three days trip that didn't seem too hard. January roster had came out and I was on Delhi flight on the second.

Also, being a smoker -- a HEAVY smoker, I reckon it'd be weird if Monkey sees me not smoking. Or if I was smoking, I needed someone to keep me in check and remind me that I shouldn't be smoking!
So I told him in the car, just as we got to Nilai. SO not the way I'd imagined it, but my brain was thinking all sorts of things so I really needed his brain in on it.

IDEALLY..

I had wanted to quit smoking before we actually start "trying".
I had also wanted to clear my credit card debts and have a little bit money saved up. Maybe fly a few more months before I actually declare to my company, knowing that they'll put me on no pay leave once they knew.

But my previous trip was SO tiring -- may be caused by the supervisor or might be the pregnancy, the idea of another trip was kind of scary. And Delhi! Even if I was in perfect health, I am not too keen on flying that way.
I was scared of being exhausted, and Monkey insisted that I shouldn't risk the pregnancy.

So begins.. 2017.
My no pay leave.. The stay-at-home wife part of my life.

Twenty-plus weeks in today, and it's been a tad bumpy.. but not too bad.
We'll get into that in the coming entries.
I promise that I'll talk about check-ups in the next pregnancy entry.
Until then, thanks for stopping by!

High school drama.

So recently I found out that someone had (good God, I hope she's over it!) a crush on my husband a while back.
I mean, I am not all that surprised. Monkey is such a gentleman when he wants to be and very much loveable once you get to know him -- and no, that is NOT an invitation for anyone to get to know him and love him!

I'm happy that people likes him. Gives me a sense of pride that he's with me instead of all the other girls that wants him. And me having a border-lining depression will probably always feel unworthy to be loved by him, despite being reminded pretty much everyday that he chose me almost eight years ago and that he's been choosing me every damn day that he's with me.

Yes, I realise that. Knew it. Still gets depressed by it.
FML.

Anyway, it's the way that I found out that kinda irked me.
I was pretty much minding my own business, going through my several social media platforms and stumbled upon one familiar name. Didn't think much of it when I clicked the link.. I just knew her by name after all.
Then reading through her posts made me self-concious. She was bashing on someone -- and it sounded like she was bashing ME!

It didn't make any sense to me but the more I read, the more I was convinced that her anger was directed at me, and that it was somehow related to Monkey!
It didn't make any sense AT ALL. This is just a person that Monkey worked with, whom he mentioned maybe once or twice in passing, along with all his other colleagues, so I was just so confused.

Honestly it wouldn't bother me as much if she hated me for me, but she sounded like she hated me just because of who I am with! hahahaha! Can you get any more high school than that?
I would probably entertain that sort of behaviour when I was twenty-two, but man! She's even older than I am! I really couldn't comprehend.
Just to show that wisdom does NOT come with age.

Naturally, I talked to Monkey about it. I mean, of course I would. Asked if he knew anything about it and he had no clue. Suggested that if he talks about it with his friend, they'd probably have a good laugh about it.
I myself am not finding the humour in it yet. It is just.. SO - WEIRD!

Oh well, he reckons I should let it go. Not much I can do anyway, since she hadn't bashed me directly. I would have a lot more to say if she had, instead of just ranting my general confusion.
Seriously, April.. why did you have to be so weird?

"Too much time".. konon.

In case you'd noticed me mention about having a little too much time in my hands lately..
Some may know, have guessed from my random Insta-stories and lack of travel pictures on Instagram really, Monkey and I are expecting!

We were not exactly trying to hide it or anything, but for what ever reason I do feel like it's a BIG secret up to the point where I (sorta) announced it on Instagram yesterday. I'll be honest, before then, anytime anyone commented on my feed mentioning about the pregnancy, I couldn't help but delete the comment! HAHAHAHHA! Am I horrible??
I just think it's weird when someone else talks about me being pregnant when I haven't said a single thing (well, except for the little hints here and there) about it myself.
Feels like langkah bendul, like dat. hahahahha!

I mean, anytime anyone asks about it, hubs and I would have no trouble talking about it.
But to actually start talking about it feels kinda.. weird.

But yeah! We're happy and excited to meet our little Nugget. I find myself talking to Nugget every so often now. Almost like a crazy woman, but I know I'm not since I am actually talking to another person! I mean, ignore the fact that Nugget doesn't have a clue what I'm saying, but it's the thought that counts right?
And yes, I am calling the baby Nugget for the time being. Or may be forever!

So what have I been doing since January?
Nothing much really. Some days I do feel like I'm going insane. I haven't missed flying yet, but I miss having my own money. hahahha!
Suppose I should explain. Being a female cabin crew, once you've declared to the company (my company at least) that you're pregnant, they'll put you on "pregnancy leave" which is basically No Pay Leave! You read that right. NO PAY. Not even our basic salary. Makes sense really, why would your boss pay you when you're not doing anything for the company, right?
Yeah, so basically I've just been chilling at home, attempted to cook every once in a while and let Monkey be the man that he is and SUPPORT me.
BAHAHAHAHAHA!!

Well, I'm not crazy about that to be honest. I've been supporting myself for almost a decade now and we've always been pretty much fifty-fifty when it comes to finance.
I mostly HATE that I can't go around and shop my heart's desire. I keep feeling the need to report back to Monkey how I've been spending HIS money.. so yeah.. I'm finding it tough adjusting to that.
Also having to make a shopping list for him whenever I need something from somewhere outside since I can't go get it myself.
I really miss shopping.
Monkey is perfectly aware that his wife is itching to shop, and he does let me get away with some random things sometimes but I just feel bad about it. I just bought two pairs of maternity pants from H&M the other day (not so random) but I still feel bad.

Kina did hand me down two of her pregnancy pants but even Monkey chuckled when he saw them. They were still in great shape, but my taste and Kina's are so different that it's funny. I do appreciate the gesture but I really can't imagine myself wearing a cream-coloured pants and a bootcut jeans. heehee. I honestly have no idea how to pull them off.

Anyway, back to shopping -- the last time I shopped in Sephora was in December!!
GAWWWDD!
Months of just looking and not buying anything is almost heartbreaking. But I really have no use for any new make-up! Since I am not required in the office, I really haven't been putting much make-up at all! I simply can't be bothered with it, to be honest! hahaha!
Most of the time when I go out, I just have my eyebrows on and some kind of a lip product. When I'm feeling a little extra, I'll dab a bit of concealer.
So really.. as much I would LOVE to get some of the new releases from Sephora and NARS, I simply couldn't justify them. So I'll just keep on looking.. coveting..

So with my spare time, you'd think I should be able to blog more right? hahahaha! Well, that was kinda the plan. But I honestly don't know where my time went. Well, maybe I do. I've been lazing watching YouTube, catching up on Candy Crush (ha!) and just wasting time, really!
Perhaps in the next coming months I'll be able to manage my time better. I'd like to catch up on some reading, organise my wardrobe, sort my bedroom (it's been a year that we moved in, and I haven't really put away everything!) and also sort my make-up collection!
It's probably time that I throw out some stuff that has passed its prime.

I have been journaling a bit more, though.
I was wondering if anyone would be interested if I start blogging little details about my pregnancy. I mean, I would anyway. I remember going on Google when I first found out that I was pregnant, wanting to know more about check-ups and stuff but I didn't find much about them. Or not as detailed as I would have liked. So yeah.. hopefully that's coming in the next few weeks.
I am also journaling for Nugget on top of my Moleskine. I mean, this is my kid we're talking about. Nugget will probably want to know some stuff later on and I may have forgotten about the little details.

So that's what's new with me and what's in store in the near future for the blog.
Nothing about work, nothing much of shopping and beauty stuff, and a little about pregnancy and baby stuff!
Hope it wouldn't be too much of a drag.

Have a lovely May, dear readers!

Another Empties Entry.

I swear I am trying to be better at this.
I am trying to manage my time better and hopefully update this blog more than what seemingly to be once a month.
Sometimes I do wish that my thoughts would somehow just magically type itself and publish on its own on this blog. Would save me a whole lot of trouble from all the guilt by not writing anything on this blog.

So anyway, it has been six months since my last "empties" (products I've used up) blog, I thought it's a good enough time to update you on what I've finished up since then!
Mind you, I've been collecting for six months and hubs have been making funny comments about me putting aside garbage. Understandable, really. I myself got tired of looking at my pile of rubbish for the past six months.

BODY CARE.

So let's talk about the stuff that I have the most of in this picture; Bausch & Lomb Renu Fresh Multi-Purpose Solution; four bottles of the 120ml and two of the 60ml (normally what I carry in my travel toiletries bag) in the course of six months, I think that's a good number. I definitely did not use one for longer than it should be used.
Then there's also one of the ReNu MultiPlus Lubricating and Rewetting Drops. I should probably have more of that but I have multiples of it in many of my handbags that I don't go through them as fast as I probably should.

Then we have Original Source Body Butter in Vanilla & Raspberry. I've talked about this brand and this particular scent in their body wash form in my previous empties blog, so when I saw that they have it as body butter as I was randomly walking around in Boots in Bangkok months ago, I just couldn't walk away! Loved it while it lasted. Wouldn't mind having it again, but as I mentioned previously, when it comes to body products I really don't mind trying out different things.

A favourite, Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser. So perfect for days when I couldn't be bothered to smother myself with proper moisturisers but knew better than to go without it. Basically it's a lotion mist that you spray all over your body then you're all set! It's so easy to the point that Encem uses it too. We are currently going through another one of this.
Not sure if you can find it here, but I got it from Priceline in AU. I do hope we have something like this over here!

Something basic and boring, I 'd gone through another tube of Colgate Optic White. We currently have a normal toothpaste in our bathroom though. I feel like YEARS of using a whitening toothpaste is making my teeth a lil' sensitive. Just a little. And I'm not even sure if it actually works! hahaha! I mean, years of drinking coffee, tea and smoking.. I hadn't expected much to be honest.

Finally for body care products, I've finished up Bath & Body Works Shower Gel in Winter Candy Apple and the Deep Cleansing Hand Soap in Golden Pineapple Luau. Winter Candy smelled nice; kinda like apple pie, smelled of apples and cinnamon. Golden Pineapple Luau smelled great. I feel like everytime I wash my hands the whole room would smell like pineapples, LOVED it!

SKIN CARE.

Feels like I'd gone through a bunch of skin care stuff in the past six months.
There was the tub of Origins Make A Difference Night, Make A Difference Plus and also the sample size that I travelled with. Loved them. I always go back and forth between the Make A Difference and GinZing range, so they are one of those things that I will repurchase.

I'd also finish up a deluxe size of First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, and the Facial Radiance Pads. The cream is pretty basic, but I do love the fact that you can use it anywhere; from the face to all over the body. I didn't hate it, but I don't see myself repurchasing it when my heart is just stuck on Origins.
The pads however, I loved. This was my second tub and I just hadn't gone around to repurchasing it. I don't usually use toner for my skin but this stuff makes it so easy that I couldn't not use it.

More moisturisers -- Lush Million Dollar Moisturiser. Too heavy, doesn't really absorb into my skin. Also, I think there are teeny tiny glitters in it. I mean, my face didn't exactly look glittery but they were almost shimmery. Just not my thing.
A glow would be nice, but shimmers is a bit much.

Now we turn to cleansers, I've finish up a travel size of NARSskin Gentle Cream Cleanser. Basic. Nothing much to talk about. I never have much to talk about cleansers. Except that this one doesn't really foam. But my skin did feel clean afterwards.

After years and years of working on it, I've finally finish up the Bourjois Micellar Cleansing Water! I swear I got this YEAARRS ago when I made my very first purchase of Bourjois makeup in Hong Kong and got this for free.
Well, it worked like any other micellar water. But I don't really reach for micellar water that often which is why it took so SO long to get through.

Then there's the sole Simple Kind To Skin Cleansing Facial Wipes. Like my contacts lense solution, pretty sure I've used up more than just one packet of it but perhaps too lazy to keep it aside.
Loved it. Will always repurchase.

HAIR CARE.

So I've finished up my second pair of OGX Biotin & Collagen shampoo and conditioner. Apparently biotin is good for your hair and this particular range smelled really nice. I got these while I was in AU (naturally) while they're on sale. Pretty sure I'd seen the brand here in Watsons though.
I'm not particular enough to notice if it made my hair stronger or anything like that but I love how the scent lingers in my hair.

Another favourite, Josie Maran Argan Oil Hair Serum. Unfortunately our Sephora no longer carries Josie Maran and the last time I was in AU and looked for it in Mecca, they didn't have it in stock! Kinda upsetting because I would love to repurchase this. It feels a little silicone-y but it has such a lovely smell and it worked for my hair. Can't complain.
Trying to find ways to get more of it. I do have a little bit of it in a travel size but it is SO precious that I couldn't bear to use it.

Something I bought because I couldn't get a hold of the Josie Maran hair serum; Ouai Hair Oil. I don't think my hair responded as well to the hair serum. And it smelled of Jasmine flower, which I'm not crazy about. I suppose it helped a bit with my dry ends, but it's just not good enough for me to repurchase.

Lastly, I'd gone through my travel hairspray; Kao Cape 3D Extra Keep hairspray that I always stock up whenever I'm in Japan. There are a few variations of these hairsprays and I never seem to notice the difference between them, but I always have them in my work bag to tame my fly-aways as best as I can. As long as it's small, doesn't smell funky and doesn't make my hair feel crunchy, that's a good enough reason for me to keep repurchasing it.

MAKE-UP.

I'd gone through the last of my Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz. I'd also gone through Benefit Cosmetics Precisely, My Brow Pencil in shade 3. Between the two, I MUCH prefer the Brow Wiz but it's a little harder to get a hold of. Also, I think it is slightly cheaper than Benefit's brow pencil and lasts much longer. I feel like I went through Benefit's SO quickly!
I am currently using It Cosmetics' brow pencil and I think I'll go back to Anastasia once I've run out. I really do miss it.

I'm also getting rid of a sample size of Tarte Gifted mascara. It was fine, didn't exactly wow-ed me or anything. I remember the formula being a little dry which didn't do much for my eyelashes. Perhaps I got a bad batch or something but it just didn't impress me.

RANDOM BITS.

We're near the end, guys!

I used up a pack of Sephora Soft Touch Cotton Pads that I got on a whim. I did enjoy that it has different textures on its two sides. One was soft, the other was kinda exfoliating. I used it with the micellar water but now that I've run out of that, I suppose I have no need to repurchase the cotton pads.

Something for the home, I'd gone through the Bath & Body Works Wallflower that I only kept one of. I threw most of them out consciously knowing that I was going to feature them in this blog but I pretty much use one up every month and I have them in my bedroom and living room so I don't see the point in having ten to twelve of them for this entry. (Different than my contacts solution because I never knew how much I was using them before this. hehe. Now that I do, I won't be keeping multiples of the empty bottles for my next empties blog.)
Oh, I do love the stuff. Probably not very economical but I really like getting a whiff of it everytime I enter the room.

Super random; Method Home Dish Soap in the Cucumber scent! hahahaha! Never thought I'd feature a dish soap on my blog, but I do love this stuff! Yes, pricey, but it's naturally derived and I especially love that it doesn't smell like your average dish soap. I don't know about you but my hands don't feel as dry after doing the dishes and I do appreciate that.
I'm the sort of person who used to wear gloves whenever she does a load of dishes -- true story. My hands would get so SO dry, Method dish soap is such a life saver!
Would repurchase -- have repurchased. (This is my second bottle even, currently going through my third.)

And that is it! Damn, this is a long entry.
So that's all the crap that I can happily throw away and stop Encem from giving me funny comments about me hoarding trash.
Suppose I'll do this again in six months but I have a feeling that the collection will be more or less the same. I'll try and make it short and sweet if it does.

Thank you for staying and reading this through.
Let's hope that I'll have a more exciting entry next time. (I'm hoping anyway.)

Good God, I've been lazy!

I don't know..
I feel like I've been putting a WHOLE lot of things lately.
My bedroom is a mess and everyday I keep saying that I'll sort things out.
I don't even bother making my bed since I've been lounging all day.

I had said to myself that if ever I get more spare time, I'd DO stuff. I'd be more useful.
But ever since I actually got the spare time, I've been a lot lazier. Thinking that I have PLENTY of time to do what ever that needed to be done.
Yeah, I don't like that.
I don't like the fact that I'm writing less and less.
I haven't blogged, I haven't journaled; even when I thought I'd bullet it out on my lazy days, but nope, I haven't done that. I had meant to start a different sort of journal too, but apart from the two and a half pages I'd written sometime four weeks ago, I hadn't written anything at all!

Anyway, that's my quick life update.
Still alive, still around.. just LAZY.

Happy New Year.

Here's what I've noticed so far in my 32 years of life;
January is possibly the month where I am the most LAZY.
On contrary to other people who look forward to a new year, "new start", a kick to their resolution.. I never really got that. I always knew that I don't need a whole new YEAR to get a start on anything. It could be next Tuesday if I wanted to. It could be right now, if I really wanted to.
So yeah, I'll probably do an overview of 2016 for tradition's sake in some future post. And I also might write about 2017 resolution -- which in my heart it actually reads "hopes".
Because it's fun to write about.
Because I always end up laughing how horribly I am with being consistent.

Half a month has gone and I haven't written a single word in my Moleskine!
I didn't even finish last year's journal properly, so.. I wasn't really expecting much of myself. hehe.
I haven't been feeling like myself in the past couple of weeks, spent a lot of my time just lounging in bed so there really isn't much to write about.

I do hope to write more in the next coming weeks!
I was halfway done on a blog post about all the beauty things I've loved in 2016 but it went on too long that I had to take a break from it. hahaha! Typical, really.

Okay, I feel like going back to lounging.

Hello, 32.

And hi, reality. hahahaha!

Well, I've always talked about my grey hair anyway and I do embrace them. Makes me a whole lot like Rogue of X-Men. Unfortunately my job does not agree with the "old and wise" look so I always have to colour them in every few months.

Not my favourite thing to do since all those hair colouring products stink.

Gets really boring when you've done them since you're 25 -- and yes, that's how young I was when I first noticed the grey hairs.

Anyway, I've been really quiet this month, haven't I? My ideas just never made it to the blog unfortunately. Like always, ideas on this and that but time always gets the better of me.

My birthday came and went and I've got nothing to report.

As always I expected more, but at the same time there really is nothing to expect. It's always like that. I keep hoping for something magical to happen, maybe. But what magic is there when it's just one more day, one more year of your life?

Yes, yes, I am blessed and grateful for another day, but really.. I just can't seem to shake off the bad funk that I always feel around this time of year. It's sad and sickening at the same time. I am constantly in this loop that I can't get out of.

So hey!

I bought some stuff to cheer me up. hahaha! Let's call this my birthday haul. Stuff that I truly bought in the excuse of my birthday.

First I made a purchase in Sephora (naturally), and I was happy to see that they carried the holiday limited edition set from Kat Von D! As you may know (if you happen to stumble upon my Instagram, I suppose) I LOVE her Everlasting Liquid Lipstick! I already have eight of them and when I saw this set online, I knew.. I MUST have it!

Perhaps I'll write a specific post on them one day. heh! Don't hold your breath though.

Then I saw a cute lil' onesie by La Senza, and though I've always been apprehensive about bodysuits before -- how does one get out of it when they need to tinkle? -- and against my better judgement, I decided to get it anyway.

Just so you know.. onesie.. bodysuits.. whatever you decide to call it -- if you ever think of getting it, I hope you have the bladders of steel! Because let me tell you, it IS a pain to get out of one everytime you need to pee! hahahaha. But you can't deny, they are stinkin' cute on.

My final purchase was a flashy one. Been wanting to get a new perfume for months now. Been wanting a Dyptique perfume since probably last year even! I guess they're probably just as expensive as Jo Malone but I somehow feel like Jo Malone is a tad more achievable. hahahaha! (They're just as expensive, really.)

I went into the store in Pavilion not really knowing what to get but the sales associates were really helpful. Having Encem there was great too because it's just easier to decide on a scent with him around. After all, he's going to be smelling it of off me so we might as well get a scent that the both of us could love.

Loving my purchases so far. Not enough to get me out of my funk, but I'm pretty happy with my buys.

Year-end is fast approaching and I do intend to have a couple more entries before we enter the new year. So let's hope that happens and not become yet another idea that didn't materialise.

Hope you're having a good December, I'll speak to you again soon.

#SuperSpendy

I don't know..
I feel like I'm especially super spendy lately.
I mean, "feeling spendy" is pretty frequent for me but for the past few weeks I'd been SUPER spendy.
I blame the upcoming holidays and basically all my favourite brands came out with special edition stuff and "value for money" sets.
I wish I could go through a whole year without spending except for at this time of the year when I know that I'll definitely spend my money.

Suppose I don't feel too bad considering I don't just buy things for myself.
But I do buy a whole lot for myself! bahahahaha!!

I kinda blame my roster too for giving me the access to spend. heehee
I've been flying to Perth in the past few weeks and I LOVE Perth!
I can always find something to buy whenever I'm there. Terrible, but I can't hate it.

Let's start off with Lush Cosmetics.
I LOVE getting bubble baths. Even though I don't really have a bath at home, but a lot of the hotels that I'm staying in has a bath tub.
Naturally I had to stock up on my fave bubble bars and shower products for those times when I do get the chance to have a bath.

So I got myself two of the Christmas edition's bubble bars; Sunnyside which smelled really citrusy and completely covered in gold dust, and Magic Wand which smelled like candy and I honestly got because it looked cute and even has a little bell tied to the stick! hahaha

I also got a couple of Kinky hot oil treatment for hair because I was curious and I've never had any hot oil treatment what so ever. The idea sounded fun and easy enough to do, so yeah..
I repurchased the smallest size of The Olive Branch because it's tiny, good for travel and Encem and I have a holiday-ish coming up.

And last, I grabbed the Happy Daze gift box (and gifted it to MYSELF) because my favourites were in there! I had set my heart on a different gift box before I got to the store but I don't know.. the wrapper for the Happy Daze set looked really fun, I guess. hahahha! I am such a sucker for packaging, I know.

So I've used Sunnyside while I was in Narita the other day, and I was worried that the gold dust might stick to my skin and would be too hard to remove but I had no trouble at all. It made my tiny bathroom smelled really sweet and fresh and the water an almost ethereal orange colour with the gold specks floating around.

I tried out Kinky, but I don't have any real thoughts on it yet. Perhaps I put too much hot water in it or something but it didn't make my really curly hair any less kinked. It felt quite nourished without feeling oily, made my hair kinda heavy.. maybe a little less frizzy, but they were just as easily tangled.
So I don't know.. Not too sure how my hair was supposed to feel anyway, but I do plan on doing the treatment again and then decide whether I actually like the product or not.

Alright, my next purchase was from David Jones. David Jones and Myer is basically equivalent to Parkson or Metrojaya here in Malaysia.
I love going into these stores to look at their home stuff. Appliances, utensils, servingware..  I know, mak-mak sangat, but I especially love checking out the home bits by Kate Spade New York.
fun fact! I love checking out Kate Spade for their homewares and stationeries instead for what they're better know for; bags and clothes, but we don't get much of those in KL..

I did get the yellow journal from the store in MidValley but what I was originally looking for was the one with the pink cover. I figured that it would probably run out of stock before I was able to look for it elsewhere, but lo and behold! It was right there in David Jones.
So I had to have it. Plus they're blank ruled journals. I'll find ways to use the one with the yellow cover somehow so I didn't think I was reckless for spending RM100 on a journal. I mean, all my Moleskines must've costed more than that. I mean.. who are we kidding, I ALWAYS splurge on my stationeries! hahahha

It irked me a little how 'spensive it is compared to the one I bought in KL. I find that American brands in Australia is normally more expensive than they are in KL. I do have a rule to not simply buy things anywhere outside of KL unless they're obviously cheaper and they're simply not available here. And thanks to modern technology, I would normally browse the internet for the prices so I can compare.

So yeah, even if you see me write about all these posts about shopping and stuff, most of them are well planned ahead and calculated. Also, most times I have a shopping list that I carry in my back pocket.

Back onto the Kate Spade journal though, I had a specific idea, a writing project that I want to start with the one with the pink cover. I've been going in and out of Kate Spade stores here for months hoping to find it. Getting it online, paying for shipping just for the one thing would be reckless so when I actually saw it on display -- HAD to have it.

I didn't have to get the Initial Card Set though.. that was a splurge. heeheee
I'm also a sucker for personalised shit, as you should figure out by now.

Then my final shopping spree happened once I got back to KL. Origins had came out with their holiday gift sets so I was basically stocking up on my faves and setting myself up for the year. I've tried a bunch of skincare products from a bunch of brands but I always come back to Origins.

The first one I got was the Radiance Ready set (RM200) which has a scrub cleanser and moisturiser from the Ginzing range, and a serum and mask from the Original Skin range. I've tried and loved three of the products so I am looking forward to trying out the scrub which is the only product I've never tried before.The second set that I got was the Moisturize and Be Merry gift set (RM280) which includes a serum, moisturiser, treatment lotion and cleansing milk from the Make A Difference Plus+ range, which is another line that my skin loves.Now, if you've never tried Origins products before, the GinZing line is catered for normal skin while the Make A Difference Plus+ is for dryer skin. They do have a bunch of lines targeting specific skin concerns but I just mostly need hydration so these two lines are what I usually go after.The last set I got was the Prep & Mask set (RM 165) because I've been meaning to try the Maskimizer which was advertised to make your masks works better. May be gimmicky but it's basically a deluxe sample size so at least I'm not spending too much money on a bottle of spray water. It also has the Clear Improvement mask which is a standard charcoal mask, Original Skin mask that I've mentioned, I LOVE and don't mind having back ups of, and the Drink Up intensive overnight mask which is one that I currently have in my travel toiletries bag.I now just basically use that as my night cream instead of an actual night cream whenever I'm on a night stop somewhere. Smells delicious and really hydrates the skin. Pretty perfect after spending the day in an aircraft, really.So that's it! Everything that I've bought recently in an almost carefree manner. hahahha! I'm especially excited on the skincare because I'm close to finishing the day cream that I am currently using, and it's not by Origins so I've been missing my usual favourites.I did go back to Sephora last week to get some bits of things that weren't available during the sales. Also got a small present for Mama's birthday that is coming up this weekend. Also some bits and bobs I might need for our holiday-ish.Honestly.. just.. super spendy somehow.

JPO Haul!

You know my love for bargains..
And perhaps you know my love for outlets too.. heh!

It's been a while since I've been to any factory outlets. I have not stepped foot in Citygate (Hong Kong) for God knows how long. I missed out on Rinku (Osaka) earlier this year because I was unwell. Can't remember when I last went to Watertown (Perth) and since Rebecca Minkoff left Shisui (Narita), I just didn't feel like paying the ¥700 bus fare to get there.
I did have a look around in Mitsui (Sepang) in January but there wasn't anything much to get then.

So when I'm rostered for a day off in JHB, all I could think of was Johor Premium Outlet!
And the hotel we're staying offers free shuttle to and fro the outlet so, hooray!

Apparently the last time I was there was May of 2014! A lot has changed. The place seemed a lot livelier and there were a lot more interesting brands on offer!

My first purchase was from Kate Spade New York. I'd been coveting the Zodiac Pendant Necklace since I first saw it sometime last year, but I really couldn't justify the price. So as all of the Kate Spade accessories that I own, I only get them on sales. It was luck really, that they had my sign!
It was originally RM230, but after 60% discount I paid RM92!

Then I went into The Cosmetic Company Store where I got the Origins Superstar Minis which was a 2014 gift set. I am quite critical when buying beauty products to be honest. I mean, I am well prepared to wait for the gift sets coming up in the next few weeks but I love Origins. And I love minis. Plus products manufactured two years ago didn't seem TOO bad, in my head. I mean, they are unopened! But that's where I set my limit; no more than two years.
Anyway, I paid RM116 for the set. I'll probably chuck some of these minis into my emergency toiletries kit.

I also got a Bobbi Brown Long-wear Cream Shadow Stick in the shade Greige from the same store. I think it's RM110-ish(?) from a Bobbi Brown store, and CCS sells them for RM88.
Pretty good, I think. You know how I owe my lazy days to cream eyeshadow sticks!

I also went to the Levi's, GAP and La Senza outlets, but I really don't need anymore denim and I'm all stocked in the lingerie department all thanks to the Independence Day Sales almost two months ago.

So next I headed to the Bath & Body Works outlet. They mostly had their normal priced items, but a few off-season scents that were half-priced!
Which was PERFECT and annoying at the same time.
Side story; last month I ran out of my favourite wallflower scent, Watermelon Lemonade. So I purchased some other scents for the rooms in my home. Last week Bath & Body Works had a sale where you get "RM50 off with RM150 purchase, RM100 off with RM250 purchase." Knowing that I'll probably only see my favourite scent next summer (B&BW changes their scent range according to the seasons, in case you didn't know) I decided to stock up on the scents I like now.

Since the B&BW outlet in JPO has off-season scents, guess what they have at 50% off..
Watermelon Lemonade wallflower refills!
Of course I got a few of them.
Of course I got some other things that were half-priced as well; Leaves in the Scentportables refills and Concentrated Room Spray.

Just as I thought I was done and was heading to Coffee Bean to wait for my shuttle back to the hotel, I saw the Cosmetics & Designer Fragrance store.

Said I wasn't going to repurchase Giorgio Armani Si perfume. (Well, technically.. I didn't.) Then I saw it in deodorant spray (n.p. RM233.20 - crazy!) on display. On its right was Si shower gel (n.p. RM169.60), while on its left was the body cream (n.p. RM349.80 - nuts!).
I caved like I never caved before, I was such a sucker! hahahaha
My actual total was RM335 but I got an extra 10% off so I paid RM301.50 for all three items, which was cool!

That was a total splurge so I feel kinda bad for that one. At the same time, I'm also SO excited to start using them! My armpits are going to smell oh-SO-good! HAHAHAHA

All in all I had an awesome shopping trip in JPO! Clearly I was feeling spendy, but I think I made pretty awesome purchases there!

Not looking forward to work tomorrow though. Wake up call is at 0400!

Brooding.

Honestly I'd say that I'm quite depressed.
A friend once said that I was brooding.
Years have passed, and apparently I simply couldn't stop brooding.

I suppose I shouldn't really diagnose myself as being depressed.
Or even talk about it when I haven't really seek help.
Like I never seek help for my trouble sleeping.
As this suffocating feeling of sadness and hopelessness.

Every once in a while it gets like this for me.
My head gets heavy. Then there's like an invisible force pressing on my chest. Every laughter feels like an elaborated act. Every smile feels like an effort.
When I'm alone in my bed, I'd just cry my eyes out. Didn't need to be over anything. Sometimes having to do the laundry triggers it. Basically nothing, really.

I'm feeling unimportant.
I'm feeling worthless.
And I'm quite a feminist myself, so feeling these sort of feelings is also making me feel stupid at the same time. I'm angry at myself, I'm angry at the world.
I'm angry with life.

I'm questioning my part in the world.
Questioning my purpose in life.
How can I love my family, and know that I'm loved, but still feel excruciatingly alone.

Anyway, this will pass.
It may not sound normal, but it's pretty normal for me by now.
I may not keep my chin up, but I'll carry on. I'll wander around this earth in the attempts to fill up the emptiness inside of me.
Pray that perhaps one day I can be done with writing such sad entries.
Confident that when I say that I'm happy, I truly am and contented.

Time wasted.. or time well spent?

I came back from Mumbai today wanting to do a whole lot of stuff.

Do a load of laundry..
Sort the pile of clean clothes into the wardrobe..
File my nails.
Clean my travel makeup bag, because my Nars tinted moisturiser exploded in it and made a mess onto everything else in that bag.
Do an inventory of all my personal care back-ups so I know what I need to get the next time I go shopping thus avoiding unnecessary spending.
Pay the bills.
Water the plants.
Sort my makeup collection, and switch up the contents of my travel makeup bag.
Replenish what that is lacking from my toiletries bag.
Throw out the trash.. because no one else bothered to do it before I get back.
Wash my hair.
Colour my hair.

I got home at noon, and after a little chill out with YouTube while I was filing my nails, I shut down around two thirty because I barely had an hour of sleep before my flight back. I managed to set the alarm to wake me up at three, but after a couple of snooze, I just turn it off and finally woke up at seven thirty in the evening!

So much for wanting to be productive.

It's time like this when I get so upset for wasting daylight and the chance to get things done.
At the same time, I also believe that I needed that time to just rest and not worry about all my "plans".
I'm not great at sleeping, so when I do sleep, I should appreciate that time more, right? I still feel like I've wasted my time, though.

I am still chilling and haven't quite muster the energy to carry out my chores. Paid the bills, since I'm in front of the laptop anyway. It is almost midnight and I do feel the need to wash my hair so it needs to happen tonight.

Wish I am not feeling so discouraged to do all the houseworks honestly.
I've been feeling like I'M the only person in this house who ever gives a shit. I'm tired of feeling so alone. Bored of having to be the responsible one. Am I not allowed to be lazy once in a while?? Pfft!

Ranting isn't doing any good, so I'll stop.
I need a good long holiday, really. I just need to get away.

Sephora Black Card Members Sale; October 2016

Dear God, I spent a LOT!

Doesn't look like much, but if my shopping bag were stolen yesterday, I would run after the thief! Or cry. Probably run after the thief first then cry because I am so out of shape!
To think that I had wanted some other things but they were all out of stock in store..

Now if you're not familiar with Malaysian Sephora, they normally have their member's sale every May and October with 20% discount on everything. So if you have something 'spensive you'd like to try, it's the BEST time to get it!

I got four things from the Sephora brand itself;
First, is a box of the Express Eye Makeup Remover Wipes. I've never tried this before, but I love the portability of their Instant Nail Polish Remover Wipes so I decided to chuck it in my basket.
When it comes to makeup removing wipes, I trust in the Simple brand, but the packaging is quite large and would take up some space in my toiletries bag.

So I plan on putting some sachets of these Sephora wipes in my "emergency toiletries bag". For times when Encem tells me that we're going to see his mom in Puncak Alam where the drive takes forty minutes to an hour. And we'd stay there for hours, and he'd be too tired or sleepy (from the awesome meals) to drive back home.
Which reminds me, I should put together that emergency toiletries bag soon.

I also got a loofah (or as they call it, Bath Flower! pfft), because as it turns out I like the one from Sephora! It gets the job done and has held its shape. I've had mine for months now (which is why I should replace it) and it is still well intact.

Then there's the Glass Nail File which I bought because Cristine from Simply Nailogical said that clipping your nails is bad. hahahha.

Last from the Sephora Collection is the Mini 4-step Buffer that I bought because Encem uses them. Simply. I do think of him sometimes when I shop, see! hahaha

Now on to the more fun part;
I got the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder on a whim. As mentioned in the previous post, I am not a powder-girl but this setting powder has so many good reviews and I've always wanted to try baking. I don't know.. Felt kinda bad for getting it when it wasn't on my wishlist/shopping list (as the rest of the things I purchased were) but thinking it was on sale (RM189 n.p.) and I'd never get it otherwise.. purchase -- happened.

I mean, I could bake with my Nars Light Reflecting Loose Setting Powder that Mami got me a couple of birthdays ago but you never see any of those YouTubers talk about it! huhuu.
Anyway, no excuses really. I told you I got the powder on a whim.

Another sort-of-whim, sort-of-not purchase is the Too Faced Hangover Primer. I also don't normally prime my face because I have yet to find one that I can say I love. I've tried Benefit The POREfessional, Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer, Nars Pro-prime Light Optimizing Primer and I have no particular thoughts on them. They all made my makeup stay longer (I think?) but I always feel that it's a hassle to put on. Truly, just another extra step to do before I put on my makeup. And, I can always feel them on, which I don't particularly enjoy.
Apparently the Hangover Primer is suppose to hydrate the skin as well, so we'll see how I get on with it. I did try it on once I got home yesterday and it is lightweight, so that's a good sign.

I repurchased the Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Complete Coverage Concealer. I do love it. My under-eyes loves it. I mean, I am quite sad that it's taken the number one spot, replacing my old time fave Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer but it's what my skin loves at the moment.

Then I (re)purchased WEN by Chaz Dean Healthy Hair Kit. I've used one up a couple of months ago and loved it. But spending RM 136 on a 480ml shampoo is.. terrible, really. (Pretty sure it didn't cost that much when I first bought it, though.)
This set is RM 198 n.p. (yikesss!!) but you get the full size cleansing conditioner, a hair masque and a treatment mist. The product is basically a lazy-girl's shampoo; a cleansing conditioner. One that mostly hydrates your hair but leaves it feeling squeaky clean.
I would normally use this when my hair feels disgusting, but I still have work the next day so it's a waste of time to do the whole hair care shebang when I know it's just going to get disgusting again. heh. It's great for days like that.

A new purchase is the Benefit Gimme Brow Volumizing Eyebrow Gel. Believe it or not, it has been on my wishlist ever since it first came out! But for the life of me, I cannot justify the price for a friggin' brow gel. Still had doubts about getting it. But yesterday I just took it off the shelf and chuck it into my basket.
The thing about having a wishlist, while the thing you wanted is still on that list, it just keeps on haunting you. Even when you KNOW that you're not supposed to get it. You KNOW it can't be that magical to have such steep price. Still, it haunts you.
The heart wants what it wants. hahaha

I've also repurchased a full size Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Mood Light. Now, that's a commitment. And yes, I've just bought a loose setting powder. Whatever.
Dim Light was sold out everywhere and all the other shades were too shimmery for what I intend to do with it. Plus Dim Light can sometimes make my foundation seem a bit warmer since it has a peachy-beige tone to it. I'm hoping the pinky tone of Mood Light will keep things neutral on me.

The final thing that I bought on this sale (also the one I am most excited about.. also the most 'spensive. huhuu) is the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick. It has great reviews from my favourite YouTubers so naturally, I had to try it out.
I don't know why I like to hover around Hourglass honestly. They're damn expensive!!

Anyway, I tried it yesterday and liked it so far. I mean, I can't say much when I've only used it for a couple of hours. It does have a huge selection of shades, and it is high coverage. Quite creamy, blends easily and I didn't use much at all. Really looking forward to using it again and have a true test of its staying power.
It's my first time ever owning a stick foundation by the way, so I'm excited!

So that's what I got during the Sephora Black Card Members Sale this time around. I don't think I've ever spent this much on makeup.. thanks, Hourglass!
If you're looking to get anything from Sephora, the sale is still on until tomorrow, Sunday October the 9th, in stores and online!

*Some of the products mentioned are linked to the product page on Sephora.COM as the products are only available in the physical stores.
**Not all Sephora stores are stocked equally, Hourglass products are only stocked in Starhill and KLCC, Laura Mercier is not stocked in Starhill and Pyramid.. you may want to call them up and check if the store you'd like to visit has the brand that you're looking for.
***Random story: I visited three Sephora stores yesterday, started off in Starhill, had lunch in Pavilion, walked towards KLCC then checked the one in Avenue K before I headed home on the LRT.

Empties!

Let's get this one thing straight.
Keeping aside all my empty bottles and tubes feels really unnatural. And having to put them all on the bed for this picture.. feels kinda yuck! hahahaha

But anyway, thought I'd talk about some of the things I've finish up in the past few weeks.

MAKE-UP;

I've finally finish up my NARS Sheer Glow foundation! ..and you know that I've got a new bottle of it! I love this stuff, and the only reason that I hadn't finish it sooner is because I don't travel with it. A little horrified by the thought of leaving it in some hotel, rather than the bottle breaking really.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz is the bomb when it comes to brow pencils, honestly. I am still using that one as I always buy back-ups. But as I am now using the back-up, I need to order some more because not having a spare is making me rather nervous.

Benefit They're Real mascara is one of my faves. This is my second tube of it, but I'm quite fickle when it comes to mascaras. Not too fussy about it so I am currently using one from Urban Decay (at home) and Tarte (while travelling) but I know if all fails, I can always go back to They're Real.

Urban Decay Naked Skin concealer was pretty good. It might even be better than my old fave NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. I don't know, perhaps the skin under my eye has been even drier than normal and the consistency of the Urban Decay concealer is a tad lighter and feels nicer under my eye.

I've also run out of my travel size Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Dim Light. It seem like I have a wee bit more on the pan but everytime I try to powder my face with it, it doesn't seem to give me anything really.
Now, I'm not really a powder-girl, but this I LOVE. It made my skin seem smooth and luminous.

HAIR CARE;

Liese Juicy Shower refill.
Okay. I've used this stuff for YEARS and I still don't know what it really does for my hair! hahaha! But I love the way it smells. And it's really handy to have while I'm doing my hair for work. Since I don't wash my hair everyday and it's easier for me to put my hair up in a bun when it's slightly damp.
This is one of those things that I'll ALWAYS repurchase but probably won't talk about again because as mentioned, I don't really know what it does apart from being a good smelling water for the hair.

Now for the first time ever, I don't have a back-up of the Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque. Kinda bothers me a bit. It's been a favourite for SO long, but I don't know.. I feel like branching out, trying out different things.
Suppose I'll repurchase if it's on offer or nothing else works out.

Loreal Studio Line Fix and Shine hairspray.
I used to always use this when I started flying. Bought it again because I ran out of hairspray and the brand that I was using was not available at the drug store at the time I had to repurchase.
Reminded why I hadn't use it for so long.
I hated it.
I hate how crunchy it made my hair feel.
HATE how it smells like.. hairspray. hahahha! I feel like getting sick everytime I do my hair for work.
So yeah.. I definitely won't buy this again. SO glad I manage to use it up.

BODY CARE;

Bath and Body Works Body Scrub in Wild Madagascar is yet another favourite. This was my second tube of it, and I'm going through the third. That's all I have to say about that.

Bath and Body Works Gentle Foaming Handwash in Fresh Watermelon Lemonade is the handwash that I have in my bathroom. LOVE the scent of it, and yet another product I've repurchased.

Bath and Body Works Deep Cleansing Handwash in Pink Grapefruit Pop is the handwash I had in the kitchen. Perhaps it's the word "deep cleansing" that made it fitting for the kitchen. Basically what made it "deep cleansing" is the presence of beads in the liquid soap. It's a mild scrub for the hands! I've also repurchased this handwash, but in a different scent this time. Now the kitchen area sometimes smells of pineapple!

I've almost run out of the Lush Cosmetics body wash in The Olive Branch but I decided to include the bottle in for this entry because there's probably just enough for one shower left. It is unlike any other body wash I've used. It's very thin in consistency, very liquid-y. But I like the scent, and so does Encem. I don't really know how to describe the scent, but it doesn't smell like olive oil that's for sure. It smells fresh and pleasant. hahahaha! So descriptive.

Another body wash I've used up is the Original Source in Vanilla & Raspberry. Now this, I can say, smelled divine! It's like the yummiest, sweetest cake you've ever smelled! Loved it while it lasted, but I don't think I'll repurchase anytime soon. I like changing things up when it comes to body wash. A shame really, to keep buying the same scent when there are SO many options out there.
I might try a different scent from the same brand though. I love it when things are labelled "vegan" or "natural". Hipster much? hahahaha!
I just love the idea of having less chemical in my products really. (Which is why I tend to splurge on the "good" stuff. heh)

SKINCARE;

Clinique Take The Day Off cleansing balm is amongst those things that I'll keep repurchasing. I can't find a bad thing to say about it. It does what it said it would without irritating my eyes or skin. Even though I am currently using Boscia's cleansing oil for when I'm home -- which is just as good, still I repurchased the cleansing balm for me to transfer into a smaller pot for when I'm travelling!

I've also used up a generous sample of Origins Mega-bright Skin Illuminating Cleanser.
It's a foamy cleanser. It washes my face squeaky clean. What else can I say? Suppose I won't repurchase because I'm really not that fussy about foaming cleansers, so I like to try out different things.

I've repurchased Lush Cosmetics Eau Roma Water because I am such a lazy person. Of all the skincare steps, I am most lazy to use a toner. So, a toner water in a spray bottle? Perfect!

PERFUME;

I am SO proud (and excited) to say that I've used up TWO perfumes; Taylor Swift Wonderstruck and Georgio Armani Si EDP. Seriously. It is SO rare for me to finish up a bottle of perfume, let alone two! I loved these two scents. Would probably buy Wonderstruck again as it was my work-scent for the longest time. Maybe not Si, because Bestie uses the same scent in Intense sometimes.
I don't know about you, but I always find it weird to smell the same as someone close to you.
Or someone random uses the same perfume as someone close to you.
Scents are just too personal for me, I guess.

Anyway, excited to get a new perfume in the future!
Not too soon though, because I still have a bunch in my collection. Well, four. Five if you count the one that I keep for sentimental value. hehehe

RANDOM BITS;

Colgate Optic White toothpaste! hahahahha. Everybody should brush their teeth and this is my toothpaste of choice. I've used up tubes of it. Still not sure if it actually whitens my teeth, but I'll keep on using this -- just in case if it does help with my coffee and cigarette stains.

Lastly, I've finished yet another Bausch & Lomb Renu Fresh Multi-purpose Solution in the 120ml. I only buy the smaller size actually. Read or heard somewhere that you're not supposed to keep an opened eye-solution for too long. Made sense to me since it sits in my bathroom anyway, and it's something that'll end up in my eye. (Should probably not leave it in the bathroom, I know..)
I used to buy the larger bottle as they are more value for money but I am the only one in this household who wears contacts, and I remember that the large bottle lasted me for close to a year!
I doubt that's a good practice.

And that is it! Thank you for staying strong and read through my crap about my trash. I know it sounds kinda stupid but I do feel a deep sense of accomplishment seeing this bundle of crap I've collected. I mean, I know I shop a LOT, but I do go through them!

So yeah.. I can finally throw out all these empty tubes and bottles!
More room for new stuff! bahahhaha!
..which I might talk about tomorrow. heehee

One ring to rule them all.

I'm still on the look out for the perfect wedding band.
Seven and a half months in, Encem still doesn't have a wedding ring.
I mean, not that it's necessary.. but I'm sappy like that.
I've always loved rings. And of all jewellery ever created for men, I didn't mind rings the most. (Does that sentence make any sense?)

Anyway, we had a silver couple ring made while we were just dating.
I hadn't wore mine since the engagement as I'm only allowed to wear two rings while in uniform. So I chose to wear the engagement ring, which is a simple gold band that Dida and I describe as "Lord of The Rings ring" on my left hand, and on my right is a white gold ring Encem got me with his first paycheck when we started flying.
Yeah.. he's kinda sappy too.

My wedding ring has a stone on it so naturally, I only get to wear it when I'm off.
Wouldn't want anything terrible happen to it.
But I think it's lovely and I wish I get to wear it more often. Plus, we got it at a bargain so yeah, I adore it! hahahaha

So I've browsed the internet for ideas and was keen on this particular Bvlgari platinum ring..
Even went to the Bvlgari store to check it out in person months before our wedding.
It was over RM 5K!
And as much as I'd like to get it, Encem had already told me not to spend too much for his ring. (Also, that ring is waayy more 'spensive than the ring he got me.. so.. tak aci! hahahahha!)

Damn, why does platinum has to be so expensive?!

The search went on and I was then keen on looking at titanium rings. Read on titanium and got myself worried that apparently, if the ring was stuck tight to your finger, hospitals in general doesn't have the tools to cut it!

I mean, not that I'm expecting Encem to get into an accident. But shit could happen, right?
He might get an allergic reaction to something and his hands swells up then he couldn't get the ring off.

Damn, why does titanium has to be so scary??!

So I've been stopping at those small kiosks in malls where they sell jewellery out of silver.
Silver -- how unexciting.
But even they didn't have the design that I was looking for! I've been looking for MONTHS and I'm getting frustrated.

I really hope that I'll find something by our first anniversary.
I still have a few months to be inspired.
Or save up and get him an expensive one and just not tell him that it's actually expensive. hahahaha! I am more likely to do that, really.

I've been feeling spendy lately but for the life of me, I couldn't justify getting anything at all!
Kinda trying to save up.
We need a good.. loooong holiday.
My leave for this year have pretty much run out so I'm really looking forward to the new year!

I did.. NOTHING!

Bahahahha!
So much for wanting to be productive.
Suppose I shouldn't have went to bed at 3 AM in the first place. heh
I did woke up just about 10 though, so it wasn't terrible..
But Encem was around and he was sleeping in.. and really, if you have any idea how HARD it is being a crew-couple, you'll understand how difficult it is to do ANYTHING at all when your partner is around, but leaving.

Does that make any sense at all?

While I have the day completely free, Encem was flying out in the evening and would be gone for a couple of days.
So all my hopes and dreams were gone when I saw him still sound asleep yesterday morning.
I just didn't feel like getting busy.
Even after he woke up, and was cool with one of my errands, I really didn't feel like doing anything else than chill with him.

Better luck today.

I probably need to just have a day's rest anyway. Being home with hubs gave me just that.
Slept in. (Kinda.) Did a bit of laundry; our hamper is empty for once in a very long time! Played Angry Birds Friends (ha!), Encem made lunch (God knows I can't cook!) then napped for a few hours! I didn't need to, but hubs will be working overnight so.. I had nothing else better to do. hahahha!

I miss Encem already.
Even though I've been cranky a whole lot this past few days.
Gotta get to bed early tonight if I wanna do anything useful later during the day.

Admin-day... sort of.

Late arrival last night.
Or extremely early arrival today.
MH 2617, STA 0030.
Depends on how you'd like to see it.
But basically I have the entire day to do what ever the heck I want.. on a Thursday.

I enjoy having a free-day during a weekday.
Feels like I can get a whole lot of things done. Theoretically anyway.
Depends on what time I'll wake up later today. I might actually set an alarm even though I hate doing so on a sort of off day.

Kinda keen on the idea of going to the bank.
Or get an appointment with a doctor.
Maybe window shop.
Or catch pokémon. BAHAHAHAHA!!
I should probably call the bank (not the one that I need to go to) to sort my auto-debit for my insurance. Kinda keen on just going to that bank instead of making a call. (ughhh phonecalls!)
I have a list of things that I'd like to sort out but I'm more interested on making that list instead of doing what's on them.

Anyway, I am feeling kinda random.
I hadn't planned on writing this entry for the sake of writing an entry but it seems to be turning out that way. Sorry.

I haven't posted anything girly in a while, and I've been planning for one for weeks now. Just haven't got the time to take the photos that I meant to take for that post.

Enough random rambling.
Suppose I could be all random in my Moleskine next.

#WvsStdby

I HATE being on reserve.
I understand the necessities; understand the importance of it.
But I HATE it with a burning passion.

Few days ago I was scrolling through my Instagram feed and saw a colleague post a picture of herself holding a cup of Baskin Robbins in front of a big mirror in either H&M or Forever 21 or the likes, with a caption that she wasn't called up during her 0600-1400 standby period.
I thought, cool.. I'll be on standby on that period as well! Maybe I too, won't get called up.

Then I looked again at my roster.
My standby starts on a Saturday..
And with my track record -- sure enough, I got called up at 6:02 AM two days ago for four sectors.

I don't know why, but I keep flying with arses.
Sorry, maybe not really arses. They were "nice" enough. But I'd categorise them as "bajet best". Which annoys the hell out of me, and I'd always end up heading home exhausted and cranky. Hating work.. hating life; because I'll nitpick every random things I see.

Yesterday was a good day.. Because I was called up on Saturday, my reserve period on Sunday was reduced so operations didn't bother calling me up.
Encem too, who was on reserve was not called up.
So we decided on family time. Went to see both our parents, and even hung out with my sister at her place.

Today is my last day of standby.
A weekday.
When normally it is less likely to get called up.
But of course.. of course..
They rang at 6 something which I didn't pick up, and didn't call again -- until 8 something.
Pfft!
There should be a bunch of people who starts their standby period at eight, and stiiilllllll.. I'm the one who gets called up to a lousy flight.

I'm trying very hard not to be all negative. Trying.
But I need a loooong break.
I was happy that I am rostered with a little over fifty hours this month. I mean, yes, shitty allowance.. I've got bills to pay. But being this unhappy over a little extra money is SO not worth it!

And I've got another set of standby sometime later this month.
Pffft!

I should be getting ready now.