New CollectionsBaring your feet and looking for shoes?
We would be expecting new designs at Lavendaz in a few days time - In-house collection.
At Lavendaz, we believe in exclusiveness, where each collection is a limited edition.Sound a little too advertising…ha!
But, I am sure, we girls have been there. How often have you clashed with someone with the same watch, blouses, bags and I feel offensive when it comes to shoes (especially). It’s a personal ownership to my feet… and they deserve a unique identity. I hold on firmly to my principles, company policy - Keeping each collection to minimum quantity with no repeats. Hopefully I am not coming on a little too strong, well, that’s primarily the reason why we started Lavendaz.
I love shoes.
match them. dance them. parade them through.While waiting for the new collections, leaf us through at
http://www.lavendaz.com/Labels: lavendaz news
The CatRecently when we were doing our shopping in takashimaya, Josh was captivated by the cat figurine on display, more popularly known as “Welcoming cat” or “Fortune cat”, however they are traditionally known as Maneki Neko.
It’s the one which sits and has it's front paw raised as if it is calling for someone – that’s "Maneki neko". Most commonly, they sit in the house or in the store. I did a little read up and realized that there is actually a different between one raises its left and right paw. Humm…
The most common belief is that a raised left paw brings in customers, while a right paw brings wealth and good luck. However, it appears that the origin of this legend was not clear. Also, it is commonly believed the higher the raised paw, the greater the luck.
(whatever…)
Anyway, we are fuss-free about this neko (“cat” in Japanese). Josh has simple intention to bring one of these porcelain sculptures in as it compliments our furnishing. ha! I did mentioned that we have personal-liking to Japan, isn’t it? The cat breed represented in the sculpture is generally a Japanese Bobtail and some of the well made ones are actually pretty adorable.
Conclusively, our mission is to get one of them (when we find the time to).
And this Christmas…we received this from one of our close friends, Conrad and Jessica. Some friends just seems to know you best, isn't it?
And it comes with dogs! Oh…
Therefore, that promotes us to the next mission - to find a place to house them. :)
My Neighbor TotoroJosh and I had a Christmas pact years ago. While Christmas IS a season of giving, we promised to develop a tradition to exchange a significant gift
(not in terms of monetary value!) annually. It has to be a thoughtful and meaningful gift, something that impresses, that speaks or touches the heart. Well, easier said than….
I guess I never got around to getting them done. For the past few years, as I did mention before, I am such a last-min-shopper and evidently, his Christmas gifts are always robbed of the shopping malls at the very last day…usually it’s a shirt. Ok. It has always been shirts.
This year, I approached Christmas confidently…as I know he will be thrilled with what’s under the tree.
Da…tahh…..
Well, you need to be a fan to seriously appreciate what this means.
These figurines are from the animation ‘My Neighbor Totoro” 1988 film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli.
Miyazaki is the creator of many popular anime feature films. Perhaps you would be more familiar if I have mentioned “Spirited Away”, which is more well-known across our nation. How about Princess Mononoke? Howl's Moving Castle?
Seen any of his films?
A grey, friendly forest spirit, at least three meters tall. Why is this creature known as ‘Totoro’?
In the film, Mei (younger girl in the show) refers to Totoro as which is a childish mispronunciation of the Japanese version of troll (tororu).
Anyway. Josh is a big fan of Miyazaki’s production. He owns the full collections of his films and bought this set of dollies from Japan years ago and he intentionally bought a cabinet to house them well in our lounge.
It was a little difficult to comprehend his liking (initially)…till I was influenced. Miyazaki's films are often out of the ordinary – "remarkable" is the word. He presents humanity's relationship to nature and technology, and the difficulty of maintaining a pacifist ethic. The “heros” or rather protagonists of his movies are often strong, independent girls or young women (much to my delight!) while the "villains" are often ambiguous characters with redeeming qualities. His films are made with a personal touch that outstands himself among the rest.
Well, thanks a lot to my lovely dovey sister, Fion! She helped me to import these six-figurines collectables from Japan through her magical means (just before Christmas!). Josh was glowing as he un-wrapped the gift. They did made up for the many years of guilty as charged – insincere gifts.
I’m dreaming of a dry Christmas…
Rain, Rain go away…As usual, we spent Christmas lunch with my Melbourne friends. They are always my closest one…and it is indeed a privilege to have a group of close friends to share, dream and create significant moments together.
It’s our annual practice to hold a potluck party at my humble house every Christmas lunch. In fact, we kept our old traditions (after so-many-years) to celebrate Chinese New year, Easter day, National day (strangely) and Christmas! Although over the years, some might have ‘disappeared’ or drifted away…the group of us stayed close and bonded stronger than ever…and of course, along the way, we ‘recruited’ new ones through so and so’s boyfriend/girlfriend and eventually life-partners.
A cosy afternoon with buddies
Yummy Yummy Yummy...generously sponsored by Cornelius
The loving couple…and what caught their attention?
The snuggling pair...
It’s men-talk!
Aside from a dish, each was supposed to bring along a gift for exchange. Instead of the usual numbered-drawing method, we played a game. Everyone had a number with them and in sequence, we were allowed to unwrapped a gift OR take any gift from anyone before us (who has selected and unwrapped the gifts). We went crazy going after a blender, cafetier, toaster…etc. It was a roaring time!
Drawing number lots…
Colin unwillingly giving up his toaster to Jessica…..ha!
Colin targeting someone else gift…
Keat received the i-tunes vounchers!
Jessica scheming after Mok’s cafetier…
Finally….let me introduce Jodie! She is the first dolly among us…officially owned by Cornelius and Lishan. She does the little high-five, kissing, waving, clapping and peek-a-boo…so reactive, the centre of attraction that afternoon! Not for long, we would be expecting (targeting to) “new arrivals” by next Christmas….!
Labels: Festive
My Merry Christmas Eve...X’mas has ALWAYS been a very busy day for us….especially now that we are serving at Children ministry. The mornings/afternoons are usually packed with kids programs and all. This year on X’mas eve, we have arranged for the Sunday school children to perform on the stage during the 2nd service and manz, no matter how many times we have rehearsed; it seriously doesn’t imply anything at all. Once they are lined up on the stage, they are out of hand! Ha!
Some were snatching the microphones, others were making funny faces. The outspoken ones shouted “Hi! Hey! Woo!” on the stage. The performance was chaos….yet really entertaining. Not to mention that the audiences were really spontaneous…all the oohing and aahing over the children and they were singing and clapping along with them. That's the spirit of Christmas!
Evidently, it was not about performance at all, as innocent as they are, they sang for the Lord. That’s the heart of worship.
Followed closely after the performance, we brought them back to our hall and played a little game to keep them busy. It was a competition between the 4 teams to wrap a Christmas gift and draw a Christmas card.
They were really participative. It is amazing how much the children are capable of…always beyond our expectations.
Look at what they have drawn! The girls were mumbling among themselves, “How to you spell Christmas?…Jesus?”. They have clearly written “We love you, Jesus!” without any of our help!
The night…
We had a bbq party with a group of church friends in the night and even though it was drizzling, we still pull through. Ha! The guys were holding huge golf umbrellas around the pit, we girls were just fellowshipping among ourselves under the shelter.
Josh and I took our X’mas photo under our tree just before 12am. Our tree is overflowing with gifts….!!! Can’t wait to give them away tomorrow!
My TreeIt’s a new Christmas resolution this year. For the past years, I would still be struggling with gift wrapping at 4am on Christmas day morning...and NONE would even receive a card from me. This Christmas, I well-organised all my Christmas shopping (including Josh's), gifts-wrapping, cards-writing early. This year, I approached Christmas proudly with my beaming tree filled with gifts underneath.
I am the tree decorator, while my hubby sacrificing took the role of the tree-set-up-ER (if we permit such a word).
Of all my years at my parents’ place, I always wanted my very own Christmas tree. Last year, celebrating my very first Christmas at my own home. We generously spent on the tree. Ha! It’s not to say that I would spent thousands of dollars on the tree, however, we painstakingly took much effort to do our research and identify what we really wanted on the tree. As an aspect of my personality, I need the tree to be themed, organized and hopingly brings a little wow factor in the lounge.
For both years (last and this), we have themed them red and gold. It kinds of work out really well as it matches perfectly among my zen-ish Japanese theme furnishing and the red curtains along the platforms.
I found my Christmas resolution for 2007, I would bring on a different colour scheme and different ornaments and theme for my next Christmas. Inspired by the recent purple Christmas painting in town (takashimaya, robinson and even Metro are on full craved for purple!)….I am purplish-moved…and if the desires hold long enough, I would be going for a purplish tree in 2007!
Labels: Festive
Birthday Bash!Had a proper dinner and did x’mas shopping with dad and mum on my birthday eve. We even cut a cake together this year.
My cool dad and bro seems less interested in the photo-taking. ha!
I had intention to keep the actual day quiet….just wanna continue with my x’mas shopping (still struggling) and have a simple dinner with my three close friends in the night.
Had a good morning, had breakfast with my childhood friend, Peggy. Afterwhich, I hopped on to Evelyn’s place to do some work….we are trying to work on the press release kit.
I steal some private moments with Evie (Eve’s 2nd born). She is a cool babe!...when I said cool means, its hard to catch her smile usually…but today, she seems to be in exceptional good mood. I managed to catch her giggling a couple of times.
Trying to catch her on camera and I can’t get her to laugh again! Anyway, this is the cool babe…Evie!
Met Peggy again and as according to my plans, we did x’mas shopping. Manz…while my pocket feels lighter :( my hands feel heavier. Ha!
As planned, I had dinner with a few close friends (Fion, Delphine and Chris) at marina square. It was just what I wanted…nice and quiet.
By 10pm, Josh and I got back home and look what happen!
I love this photo. While people pay him thousands to shoot for events, I got it for FREE. Taken by Andrew Mok of
moomedia.
That’s Mok mimicking his nose-digging…
Finally a proper photo….but we are missing Loretta that came later!
These are my Melbourne friends. Shared many incredible moments together…and most treasured ones too. Thanks for the really lovely and successful surprise party!
Had a second look at the birthday balloons this morning.
Colin claimed that he did most of the blowing tasks…..and while I was looking at them again this morning, I just need to take another photo to remember them. They are tastefully done by my tasteful friends.
It’s such a blessing from God to have all of you in my life!
The Evening @ Doc Cheng'sWe were at Doc Cheng's (located in the Raffles Hotel ) last Saturday celebrating my birthday. It’s a Euro-Asian Restaurant, serving Fusion food. The fusion concept was clearing shown thru’ the ancient and contemporary interior designs and the place indeed reflect the blending of West and East synergy.
On the menu, I could see that they have clearly used the ‘traditional’ Oriental cooking methods on European ingredients…..exotic cuisine indeed! There’s two dining areas which allow you to dine alfresco under the veranda or in cool air-conditioning inside. :)
I love the atmosphere of the place. It’s detailed with oriental wood carvings and filled with pictures which tell an old story of the history of Singapore!
The dreamy looking ambience…
We went for the 6-course set meals….Let me bring you through!
(Note: In bold are exact description quoted from the menu)
1st course: Oyster dunThis is seriously interesting. They are the two oysters served in very different way, the left is the typical fresh oyster, the right is deep fried one. Josh and I are not fan of oysters but these taste really fab!
2nd course: Tempura nori tuna, nashi pear salad and green olive tapenadeThis has to be Josh’s fav. He loves maguro tuna. The pear salad is refreshingly sweet.
3rd course: Peking duck pancake, Chinese rock sugar dressing and Russian bliniThis is interesting isn’t it? Oriental peking duck wrapped in pancake skin, this does resembles our asian ‘bo pian’ (spring rolls)...
4th course: Salt and pepper soft shell crab, spicy papaya salad and vine-ripened tomatoThis is a more Japanese inspired dish. Josh loves this, but I kind of find it a little too peppish for me…..I am a great fan of thai salad, not surprising that I enjoyed the spicy papaya salad that comes along with it.
For the 5th course, there is a selection between tandoori ocean trout and Szechuan rack of lamb.
5th course: Tandoori ocean trout wild rice ricotto and smoked tomato coulisJosh had the ocean trout, the wild rice was fragranced with fusion spices.
5th course: Szechuan rack of lamb truffled potato and celeriac gateauI am not a great fan of meal actually, but honestly, I enjoyed the lamb.
6th course: Jasmine valrhona chocolate Bavarian exotic coconut pearl and kaffir citrus sorbetThis was the surprise of the night. The serving crew (including the head chef!) came on to us towards the end of the night with the dessert and sang a birthday song. ha! Josh mentioned that he initially wanted to arrange a cake to be brought in, however the restaurant has strict policy on ‘no other food allowed’ and the captain suggested to put a candle on the dessert instead. The birthday cake that Josh has bought is now sitting in our fridge. ho ho!
I love how Doc Cheng's captures the little details in the restaurant.
Look at the coaster!
The witty looking menu!
Indian naan was served as the appetizer. They had a variety of favors to select from. The naan were served hot with warm butter and salad dressing for dipping.
The tea-cup was fun. Look at how they separate the milk and tea mug.
I love this picture, captivating character of the oldie-looking Singapore.
If you are considering a fine dining restaurant, I would recommend Doc Cheng's.
DOC CHENG’S @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - Tel: +65 64316156 Lunch: Monday to Friday - 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm
Dinner: Daily - 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Cocktails: Monday to Friday - 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm
Aside that all that I have mentioned, their service touches me. :) The serving crew was one of the best I encountered. The restaurant captain was exceptionally sweet. It’s her delightful gesture that does makes me feel really welcome!
In my humble opinion, I would feel that Doc Cheng's is a better experience even as compared to
Jaan at Equinox. Although Jaan does come along with the awe-inspiring scene….humm…
Hey Josh, thanks for the lovely evening.
Platform Heels
Rambled on this gorgeous pair of heels… It literally reminds me of the myth of Cinderella a pair of captivating elegant sexy shoes with a crystal tip. She is probably a more ‘trendy’ Cinderella that goes for transparent platform heel with chic looking silver buckles around the ankle. *wink*
Ever since we brought in a couple of platform shoes, I discovered that people loves platform shoes for very practical reasons. Platform sandals make you look and feel so much taller, while you do not feel that much discomfort with the little help from the platform on the ramp; it does reduces the strain on the heel.
Beside, most platform heels come along with fun and chunky heels which naturally give more stability and support to our feet. Platform sandals great fun!
Pic: Carra from Lavendaz.comTwo interlocking straps form the stunning vamp of this fabric heel. The petite bow adds fun to this
Carra platform. Depending on your personal style, these would match fantastic with jeans, denim skirt, and basically most casual wear.
Pic: Seanna from Lavendaz.comA retro-looking pair of platform peep toes. This full leather
Seanna features a crisscrossed vamp forming an open toe. They're so versatile and easy to match with clothes. I think it looks best with corporate wear.
Pic: Meg and Brige from Lavendaz.comThese platform pumps make you feel so much taller and are fun too wear. Surely it’s eye catching with the overlapping bucket band of alternating around the vamp. It comes in both colours, brown (
Meg) and beige (
Brige).
While reading up on platform shoes, I come across some platform shoes that are wow! Read on…
The above unbelievable pair belongs to the 1970s. Platform shoes are back in a big way this year, but the look is more modern than the classic 1970s style. It was said that during those years, it was the experimentation period with fashion and it naturally broke all kinds of rules. By 1970s, it was considered the most exciting year in shoe design, the platform shoe experienced it's most playful and colorful look.
Are these shoes made for walking?
7" Stiletto Heels! Beautiful? Yes. Practical? Hardly.
In truth, we've been standing tall in shoes for centuries. In the early century, women wore incredibly high heels which are unbearable. Most of them had to be supported by servants and hovered each step on the edge of misfortune. Some of those shoes are nearly 20" high! :O
It's seriously a fashion statement.
Labels: lavendaz news
This post is directed to Evelyn....Surprise! Look what I have found?? :P
It's one of the complimentary appetizer dish at ikoi Japanese Restaurant (Hotel Miramar). They stuffed blended ice in the glass, among the carrot and celery sticks. An enhancement idea for your consideration huh.....
This is a personal joke between us. Anyway, talk about ikoi, I don't quite understand what is the fuss about this place. It's seriously small and the spread is not that fantastic. I don't find the sashimi as fresh as compared to some other places we frequent. Josh and I are Japanese fanatic. Love the culture, animation, country and...most of all, food.
If you know if any nice Japanese restaurant, do drop me a comment! I would really appreciate that.
Patent FashionPatent Leather is experiencing a comeback, and I for one am stoked about it. I am a pretty subtle when it comes to dressing, perhaps it's the little girl in me, I still do desire the little attention…on my feet.
Patent, or perhaps shiny shoes are eye-catching tools. It’s a girl thing perhaps, we never really got past being attracted to shiny shoes - or anything shiny, for that matter.
Woo...gorgeous patent pair! Love the heels especially....but not very practical for everyday wear. I bet we all know that wooden insole aren't there was comfort reason.
What is Patent exactly? Patent leather is basically a leather that has been coated with a high gloss finish, so that it has exceptional shine.
Customer always asked the most tradition question,
“How to take care of patent shoes?” . Patent leather shoes are relatively easy to care for, but be certain to use products actually made for this type of material. For causal Cleaning, it is easily done with a mild soap and a wet cloth. Avoid using Vaseline. Sure it shines for a few minutes but then, as dust starts sticking to it, it starts looking kind of cloudy.
Mandy joined my collections awhile back. Wearing a pearl-white patent, I love how it glows on my feet! Paired in with a fancy patent belt and bag, you can easily give a totally retro-mod look! Compliments further on the 2” height, it’s
comfortable enough to wear all day.
While some might conclude that patent leather lends to be for dressy events, I feel otherwise. I would say it’s not the best match for black tie events or dressy/formal occasions. The shine of shoes might make the shoe appears too heavy or bulky for elegant dress. In my opinion, Casual shoes come in patent rock best in denim jeans!
Isn’t the above gorgeous? We would be having something very similar in versatile black and stunning red next month. Keep visiting us at
Lavendaz.com for new collections.
Look what I have found? Can’t miss on these cool patent baby-shoes!! Aren’t they fun and funky? I do wonder if they are suitable for toddlers thou. Patent leather is not the most comfortable leather and its hard finish varnish is not very breathable. Seriously, Eye-catching though.
Chic, elegant, classy and sexy are words that can fit many type of leathers but, when you are craving for attention, patent leather shines!
Gingerbread!Recently the topic of gingerbread has been circling around our office. :) One of my close colleague, Kim is baking gingerbread for sale during xmas season...yum yum. Not only they taste good, seriously, they are really lovely!
I have never been a great fan of any dairy product, mainly cos' I really don't like the dairy smeeelll... *yuck* That would means, I am not a fan of cakes, pastries, cookies (especially butter cookies)...
Well, but this cutie-looking gingerbread man is an exceptional.
Aren't they lovely? I ordered two little ones for Josh to bring along with him when he flys again tonight. :) Kim was really thoughful. She puts on two red M&M as the buttons for the girl and blue for the boy.
I always wonder why are this little creature known as gingerbread. Did a little read up and found out that gingerbread can be in the form of cake or cookie, and usually it is covered with a variety of candies and icing. In MY case, I have both the icing and M&Ms!
Interestingly, I discovered that the word ‘gingerbread’ orginated from Latin ‘Zingiber’, which means to preserved ginger.
If you would like to have a taste on Kim’s delicious gingerbread man, you can contact at the details below. She is selling them at $2 per piece. Above 25 pieces, she would be delivering to your doorstep! You can contact Kimberly at
96321966 or email her at
kymwee@gmail.com.
“Run, run, as fast as you can. You can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man!”
