Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2014 is coming!

Posted on November 6, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

Melbourne is set to make waves with 200 events across Victoria with a glorious celebration of food and wine: All events on sale 3 December.

Celebration of food and wine

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival presented by Bank of Melbourne will reel in more than 200 events for a global celebration of the bounty of water, 28 February – 16 March 2014.

Over 17 days food and wine lovers are invited to celebrate the world’s ocean and river fare guided by the best seafood chefs, join exclusive behind-the-scenes tours both on and off the water, get amongst it at lively street parties, secure a spot at never-to-be-repeated dinners with Michelin-starred chefs, and much more. Launched as one single program, tickets to all Festival events go on sale 3 December 2013.

The Festival’s hub project and centrepiece of the 2014 program is a bold expression of the Festival theme exploring the cycle of water with a temporary bar, restaurant and raingarden, popping up in the city’s Queensbridge Square.

Following on from the Urban Coffee Farm & Brew Bar in 2013, this ambitious project designed for the second year by HASSELL, anchors three levels to the Yarra’s edge featuring a riverside bar, an open-kitchen restaurant on the concourse and a top-level verdant raingarden. Melbourne chefs including Florent Gerardin (Silo), Jesse Gerner (Anada & Bomba), Adam Liston (Borrowed Space) and Daniel Wilson (Huxtable & Huxtaburger) will bring their take on dishes inspired by the three states of water – liquid, solid and gas – to the restaurant, and by night, the country’s boundary-pushing bartenders will craft one-off cocktails and drinks that celebrate the cycle of water.

Bank of Melbourne World’s Longest Lunch

Festival favourite Bank of Melbourne World’s Longest Lunch (28 February) gathers 1,500 lunching revellers at one 500 metre-long table to kick off the first day of the Festival along the banks of the Yarra in Alexandra Park. The three-course menu will be designed by Jacques Reymond, Adam D’Sylva, and Stefano de Pieri and brought to life by Peter Rowland Catering. Celebrating the world’s waterways as the lifeblood of food and wine, each chef will draw on personal connections to the Amazon, Mekong, and Murray-Darling rivers respectively to create a menu made with Victorian produce.

New for 2014, the Flemington Grazing Trail & Cellar Door combines the best of Victoria’s wineries, craft breweries and artisan producers with Group 1 racing on Flemington’s Super Saturday race meeting. The event at the iconic racecourse offers trackside wine tasting and gourmet produce picnics just outside of the city.

Back in Melbourne, budding cooks can learn from Melbourne’s favourite chefs about our city’s diverse culinary heritage at Festival Foodies, an event for kids in Queensbridge Square. For those seeking to explore and debate the social and environmental issues connected with water, the Festival is collaborating with The Wheeler Centre for a one-off talkfest featuring a broad spectrum of speakers on 6 March.

At the hotly anticipated Langham Melbourne MasterClass, 8 – 9 March, learn from and taste the creations of the new wave of young gun chefs alongside global greats of the kitchen as they share their connection with the world’s most precious resource, water. Chilean food forager Rodolfo Guzman (Borago, Santiago), seafood crusader and Spain’s Best Chef Angel Leon (Aponiente, Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain), and Lummi Island locavore Blaine Wetzel (Willows Inn, USA), are among the star-studded line up.

Now at the core of the new dedicated wine weekend, 1 – 2 March, Acqua Panna Global Wine Experience returns with benchmark wine tasting guided by a panel of Australia’s most influential winemakers, writers and sommeliers including Rick Kinzbrunner (Giaconda, Beechworth) and Guill de Pury (Yeringberg, Yarra Valley).

Melbourne’s hottest restaurants will pull out all the stops to bring you dining experiences exclusive to the Festival. Brothers Matt and Andrew McConnell join forces for Blood is Thicker than Water, a street party between Casa Ciuccio and Cutler & Co with water and blood-inspired dishes; Darren Purchese (Burch & Purchese Sweet Studio) takes over the historic Johnston Collection for decadent desserts at Swan Lake’s Sweet Seduction; and chef Frank Camorra and food writer Richard Cornish will talk foodies through a gastronomic tour of southern Spain, from the secrets of Spanish seafood to tales of nuns making moreish doughnuts (A Gastro-Tour of Spain, MoVida Aqui).

Learn about and taste the state’s outstanding seafood at events on and off the water. Hook, Lunch & Sinker returns with a fishing trip and lunch at Stokehouse Upstairs lead by The Age Good Food Guide Young Chef of the Year Ollie Gould, or at Melbourne’s Fish Mongrels at Sanford Australia, Melbourne’s wholesale fish hub, take a tour and a first-hand look at wild-caught seafood.

Join other food and wine lovers in this celebration

Foodies are invited to tour through Victoria over Regional Weekend (14 – 16 March) with all Festival events taking place out in the regions. The weekend kicks off with 20 Regional World’s Longest Lunches at spectacular locations across the state including Queenscliff Harbour on the Bellarine Peninsula, among the vines at Elgee Park vineyard in the Mornington Peninsula and overlooking the ocean in Inverloch, Gippsland.

Also over Regional Weekend, join the ultimate ‘60s themed cocktail party at The Dispensary Enoteca (Bendigo), H2007 James Bond vs. Don Draper, as they pit the signature drinks of the two smooth operators against each other. Feast at regional events embracing Victoria’s waterways, from floating down the King River ‘river sledding’ on lilos followed by lunch at Dal Zotto Winery (High Country) for Lilos & Prosecco; to dinner with Ovens River produce in the Alpine Valley at Tani Eat & Drink’s Down by the River.

Union Dining’s Nicky Riemer will bring her provincial style cooking to Bress in the Goldfields for Raining Produce at Bress, and in the High Country, get back to the core of outstanding produce at Philip Lobely Wines’ Water, Wheat and Wine, learning about the role of sun, water and earth in creating wine and artisan bread.

This is just a small taste of Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2014. The full program can be viewed from 26 November at melbournefoodandwine.com.au.

28 February – 16 March 2014 All Festival events on sale 3 December 2013

melbournefoodandwine.com.au

French dining with The Expat Group & Wine Talk

Posted on October 27, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

The Expat Group, together with Wine Talk, hosted a French dining experience at Le Cordon Bleu in Bandar Sunway on 25^th October 2013.

Guests indulged into a delightful selection of French cuisine carefully prepared by Le Cordon Bleu’s top chefs and culinary team. Le Cordon Bleu is globally recognized for offering the most intensive and comprehensive training in classic French culinary techniques and Pattiserie. The famed culinary organization is now on Malaysian shores and has begun to apply the Blue Ribbon’s distinctive teaching methodology since 2012, where students gain culinary skills through demonstration classes and hands-on learning.

The Expat Group’s guests that included both locals and expatriates were welcomed by French canapés and white wine. Tables were beautifully prepared for guests and created an exciting anticipation for what awaited their taste buds and palate.

The Expat Group CEO Andy Davison and TEG Digital General Manager Nick Davison



Wine Talk Malaysia, online wine delivery service, provided the superb French wines for the night.



Wine Talk Malaysia General Manager/ Sommelier David Stephan gave a quick talk about the French wines: Arthur Metz Pinot Gris (Alsace, France), Gerard Bertrand ‘Art De Vivre’ Viognier (Languedoc, France), and Chateau Siffle-Merle, Blaye (Coates de Bordeaux).



Le Cordon Bleu’s chefs, Franck Bruwier, Thierry Lerallu and David Morris, personally welcomed the guests to the French dining experience.

The French dining started with this appetizer:

Hot Foie Gras Quenelle

White Mushroom and Asparagus Fricasse

Duck Consomme Solferino

Wine: Arthur Metz Pinot Gris

Main course:

Braised Beed Cheeks in Cabernet

Fava Beans Toast

Glazed Carrots and Daikon

Wine: Chateau Siffle-Merle, Blaye

Dessert:

Plated Strawberry Vacherin

Petits Fours

For inquiries on French culinary arts programmes, call:
Sunway Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts
No. 5 Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway,
46150, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Tel. No. +603 5632 1188
Email: malaysia@cordonbleu.edu

To be part of The Expat Group’s monthly dining experience, visit:
www.expatgomalaysia.com
www.theexpatcard.com

For wine requirements and sommelier advice, call:
Wine Talk Malaysia 1300 88 9788

www.winetalk.com.my

info@winetalk.com.my

Dare to Wax with Bubble Gum Wax & Butterfly Project

Posted on October 26, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

Always facing unwanted hair on certain parts of your body? Shaving regularly? Tired of it? Then you should consider waxing!

I say YES to waxing!

Dealing with those stubborn, excess hair is probably any girl’s daily or 3 x weekly affair. Hair on your underarms, legs, upper lips, brow area and even ‘down there’. I had the chance to be invited by Bubble Gum Wax and Butterfly Project to be part of a waxing session to experience Brazilian waxing by the experts from Bubble Gum Wax.

I have to admit that I’m not a ‘virgin’ to Brazilian wax. I’ve gone through several times way back when I was still in Philippines. But the last one I had was more than 5 years ago and I never had the chance to have one again since I lived in Malaysia. I got pregnant a few months when I first arrived here and I guess I didn’t bother to be smooth down there when I became a mummy.

And so I was delighted when I received a message from Tammy Lim to attend the waxing session. I miss Brazilian waxing! That Sunday afternoon, I happily joined other bloggers inside Bubble Gum Wax’s boutique for the first time.

The guest lounge beamed with pink decorations and other pink stuff. Pink food, pink balloons and other sweet-colored things. We were also encouraged to be in pink and black before coming to the event. The theme was fun, sweet and pretty. Bubble Gum Wax and Butterfly Project really pulled a great one!



Pink stuff everywhere at Bubble Gum Wax

Yummy pink stuff

And this has gotta be the sexiest cookie I’ve seen in my life…

Shop manager, Jess, Tammy and Illy welcomed everyone to the session. Jess gave a short introduction about Bubble Gum and some tips on waxing. I wasn’t aware that there are creams that should be applied to areas after waxing especially on sensitive skin.

Tammy introduced another exciting part of the session. Guests are challenged to create a decorative arrangement using the Bubble Gum Wax products and a shoebox. Something like this…

While the others started with their creations, me and 2 other pretty guests braved to be the first batch of Brazilian waxing customers. The waxing room is very welcoming with its candy and sexy legs posters. My first thought was, “Alright, let’s start getting smooth and sexy!”

And in no time, I was pretty hairless down there. The biggest question in everybody’s mind, especially those who haven’t done it before, was ‘is it painful?’ To that, I’ll admit yes, there’s pain to deal with but the benefits outweigh the short-term pain. If it can help others to better understand and consider doing this, I’m sharing why I enjoy Brazilian waxing:

Lasts longer than shaving. I have smoother area for a longer time unlike with shaving where I need to do it regularly. This is because waxing pulls hair from the roots so the growth of hair takes slower.

No cuts. Since waxing does not deal with blades, I don’t get cuts which can cause discomfort and sometimes skin discoloration.

With waxing, I have the option not to do it myself and leave it to experts. There are no shaving centers around, right? Not that I’m being lazy but sometimes, we hardworking ladies also need to feel the comfort of not doing everything ourselves.

It’s just sexy and nobody can deny it. Being smooth and hairless down there is, without a doubt, as sexy as anyone could be. It feels very clean, you can see everything, makes you feel light and more confident.

I enjoyed my waxing more because the waxing expert was also friendly and warm. Her name was Joyce and she was great. We talked about a lot of things while she’s doing her waxing expertise and without really noticing it, I was done in a jiffy.

I then faced the challenge of creating the Bubble Gum goodie arrangement together with the other guests.

A pretty guest wrapping her shoe box

Voila! This is my simple arrangement, which included Bubble Gum items such as a mug, Gelato cream, Aloe Vera cooling mask, hygienic wipe, spray, bubble gum sweets and more.

I had time to mingle around, see how the other guests were doing, and I found this lovely girl, Lulu, with her pretty arrangement. Lulu actually won the grand prize for her very creative arrangement later.

Lulu and her lovely creation

This is my first time to attend an event with the Butterfly Project group and I was quite happy to meet new friends and, of course, see a familiar face again. Although we’re keeping in touch, Tammy and I last saw each other more than a year ago at a blogger session that I held for a beauty brand that I manage before. Cheers to Tammy for organizing events and becoming such a role model and leader in a short time after I first met her!

Pinkish me with pinkish Tammy

The rest of the guests finally experienced Brazilian waxing and I believe everybody had a fun, enlightening time. Not only did they do something new but also enjoyed a creative exercise and 3 guests bagged prizes for their creations. Congratulations to the 3 winners!

I’ve been a big fan of Brazilian waxing but I haven’t done on other parts. Bubble Gum Wax also provides waxing services on other body parts such as legs, arms, back, stomach and more. If you’re not yet sure of going for Brazilian wax, maybe you can try bikini wax first and take it further from there.

Great news for men, Bubble Gum Wax has BOYzilian! Isn’t that clever?

BOYzilian available at Bubble Gum Wax

The prices are reasonable and I think these are just right for the type of service you’ll experience — like a goddess.

Enough said, there’s no better way to understand waxing but to experience it! So go ahead and give it a try. No more hairy secrets, no more shaving several times a week, just a smoother and sexier you!

For inquiries and schedule bookings of your waxing sessions, get in touch with

Bubble Gum Wax – The Waxing Expert

(My personal waxing expert was Joyce Chew)

F-1-7 Block F, Plaza Damas, No. 60, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1,Sri Hartamas, 50480 KL

Tel. No. 03 6211 5038/ 39

http://www.fb.com/bbgwax

Fashion Icon Designer Outlet Unveils ZERO is Not a Size

Posted on October 4, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

I’ve always enjoyed watching fashion shows. I still remember my younger years of working for a global lingerie brand where I was screening models, preparing for fashion shows, dressing up models, running up and down…oh, it was such a thrill. There’s this certain of nervousness about how the show will turn out, what the guests will think of it, what the bosses will say, will somebody trip, are the models perfect enough and all. So much of hard work is involved in a fashion show yet it only takes less than an hour (or even half an hour) for it to get judged, scrutinized or praised. This is why I have high respect for teams who organize fashion shows because I know it’s damn hard.

I had the opportunity to witness a fashion show worthy of recognition and support. Nestled in an exclusive haven at Persiaran Hampshire, Fashion Icon Designer Outlet held a fashion show themed “Zero is Not a Size” on 28th September 2013. Zero is Not a Size was held in support of Women’s Aid Organization (WAO) to highlight women’s health issues and encourage a positive body image mindset to women for the enhancement of self confidence regardless of body size and shape.

Fashion Icon Designer Outlet at Persiaran Hampshire in Kuala Lumpur

Fashion Icon fashion show

Fashion Icon believes that the joy in style and fashion should be enjoyed by everyone regardless of size, shape and color. “A perfect body and a perfect shape is not everything,” as confidently said by Ms. Regine Wong, Fashion Icon Designer Outlet General Manager. Honestly, I am one of those women who are very much bothered by their size. As I’ve mentioned in several of my stories, my post-pregnancy size is somehow stuck and I’ve been trying so hard to get rid of those unsightly tummy fats. Not that I’m less confident but my size is somehow holding me back to explore more fashionable styles in the way I dress. I salute Fashion Icon and WAO for making this event an education about confidence no matter what size.

Guests and customers were entertained by live vocal performances by lovely singers Ezza Afiqa, Ida Mariana and Joy Victor. They were fashionable and chic, not to mention cool and friendly as I managed to snap a few shots with them…

BabyFootAddict (right) with Ida Mariana (left) and Joy Victor (middle)

BabyFootAddict with Ezza Afiqa

Ezza Afiqa

Ida Mariana

Joy Victor

Fashion Icon houses a vast collection of designer items such as bags, shoes, wallets, accessories, women’s wear, men’s wear and fragrances. Bags and shoes were very gorgeous. Take a look at these fabulous items…

These blue and red Prada bags are simply beautiful!

A red Louis Vuitton drawstring bag…

Lovely shoes by GAS…

Jelly and croc pattern FURLA bag…

Chloe sunglasses…

WAO had a Shop for Good Cause display that sells T-Shirts featuring a work of art by a Malaysian artist at only RM45. The shirt is quite cool, showcasing an art that feels like an actual painting on shirt. I grabbed a black one in LARGE size (!) and I had to remind myself that not fitting on a medium size anymore shouldn’t make me feel bad.

To posh ladies and fashionable men, check out Fashion Icon Designer Outlet at Persiaran Hampshire in Kuala Lumpur. Not only will you find great designer items but you’ll be treated to great service beyond your color, shape or size.

Fashion Icon Designer Outlet is at No. 3 Persiaran Hampshire Off Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur Contact +60321615255 for more info.

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Malaysian Women’s Weekly Style Workshop at M&S Suria KLCC (part 2)

Posted on October 2, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

The Malaysian Women’s Weekly team invited the Style Workshop guests to some refreshments served by Marks & Spencer just right in front of their food hall. We were all treated to delicious bread, tea, jam and more from M&S.

And so I went snooping around the Marks & Spencer’s bigger and better outlet at Suria KLCC, Concourse Level. To make it easier for us to spot style picks, the MWW team cleverly placed yellow cards on hangers of their selected clothes.

The new M&S outlet is filled with very stylish collection for casual wear, office wear and more. There are wide selection of colors — from classic yet elegant hues to daring and trendy ones. I loved the group display of different colors and looks in every corner on mannequins which presented combination of clothes and styles that make it easy for shoppers to get fashion ideas. Just look at these gorgeous displays…

So where did I spend most of my time (and my shopping money) that day? (Drum roll…)

At the lingerie section!

During the mini-fashion show by the MWW team, some guests were concerned about how to look great in clothes if they have flabby tummy or excess mid-part fats (ok, it’s kinda difficult to word it nicely). Aside from the great tips from MWW, the M&S team also suggested using tummy control intimate wear to have that instant sculpted tummy!

There were different kinds of Magicwear inside the lingerie section. You can find full corset, full panty, boy leg cut and more. I picked this black waist cincher which has a very light and soft material. You can immediately tell that it will be comfortable to wear.

Take a closer look at what the front label says:

Secrets Slimming

Magicwear

No VPL (no visible panty lines)

Waist cincher

Smooths & sculpts waist & tummy

Lifts bum

Look slimmer in seconds!

With COOL COMFORT technology

FIRM control (just what I need)

88% of our test wearers saw an immediate reduction in measurements

And the back label:

COOL COMFORT keeps you cool all day (so this is not the typical corset material that makes you feel hot)

What is Magicwear technology? Side seam free, zoned control to shape your silhouette

Flattens tummy and shapes waist

Integrated sling for bottom lift

Interesting enough, right? I knew I gotta have one! My mummy fats seem to be stuck on my hips and tummy so this is just a great item to have in my wardrobe. I haven’t tested it yet but I’m having an important evening soon and this instant solution to my tummy will be my best friend! To my fellow hot mummies/ chicks who just can’t get rid of those tummy flabs, check out this Magicwear Waist Cincher.

Malaysian Women’s Weekly Style Workshop at M&S Suria KLCC (part 1)

Posted on September 28, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

Yes, I admit it, I’m not really fashion-savvy and with the additional weight I’ve gained post-pregnancy, I’ve become very reserved when it comes to choosing clothes or experimenting with different looks. Sigh, if only I can shed extra 15 kilos off by working so hard…

So when I heard about Malaysian Women’s Weekly Style Workshop, I knew I have to check it out. Would I miss this chance to meet and greet MWW Editor, Elaine Kwong, and Fashion Editor, Sabrina Salehuddin? And, of course, I also wanted to see the new Marks & Spencer outlet at Suria KLCC.

The BabyFootAddict with Malaysian Women’s Weekly’s Sabrina Salehuddin (left) and Elaine Kwong (right)

Fresh and feeling great on a Saturday morning, I was in front of M&S by 10am. The facade of the store is warm and welcoming.

Marks & Spencer at Suria KLCC, Concourse Level

The lovely morning started with greetings and introduction from Elaine. They will share 6 different looks with gorgeous models wearing Marks & Spencer items.

MWW Editor, Elaine Kwong

The pretty Ms Sabrina sporting a sweet smile before the model parade of styles…

STYLED LOOK #1:

First up was model Olga, wearing ox-blood-color skirt, white blouse, fitted blazer and black ankle boots.

I like this look because it’s something that I can see myself wearing on a normal working day. It’s sleek, stylish yet corporate. It’s even something I can wear to a business presentation with potential partners or board of directors. I’m just not sure if I can get away with this cutting of skirt as I have mummy-tummy and mummy-hips to hide.

STYLED LOOK #2:

Second look was with model Chloe, wearing printed dress with multi-color patterns in elbow-length sleeves and a pair of peep-toe black ankle boots.

I find this dress nice to wear for a normal office day, and as suggested by MWW team, can be thrown over with a jacket to make it more suitable for the office. Not recommendable for someone with my body shape, though, as my mummy tummy will surely pop out. But Elaine gave a tip of looking for a dress like this with folds at the right places to hide tummy fats.

STYLED LOOK #3:

Olga walked up in a lovely style of white-collared blouse, black cropped pants red jacket, black high-heeled shoes while carrying a small blue purse.

I’d say this is my favorite look. I loved the flair of this red color jacket over black-and-white attire. If I were to flaunt this style, I’d be wearing a pair of peep-toe, sling-back shoes as I really get uncomfortable with closed shoes especially pointed, high heels. But overall, this is such a lovely style and I’d be shopping one of these days to get this look!

STYLED LOOK #4:

Chloe came back wearing a cute, long-sleeved big shirt with Panda face, over full-length black leggings, animal print boots and a big bag.

This one’s for that casual, chic look and will look good for those with slim, long legs. Sabrina also showed other possible combinations such as this grayish, jeweled blouse.

I think this is lovely and I just wish I still have my old legs when I was only 49kg! If I were to wear this look, I’d be using a longer blouse to hide my oversized-hips and butt then glam it up with gold or silver open-toe wedges.

STYLED LOOK #5: Olga wore an animal print, one-piece fitted dress, gold necklace and black, closed, high-heel shoes while carrying a small, long-strapped purse.

This can be good for office wear but, personally, I’m not a big fan of animal print on dresses. I’d be alright with small splashes or accents of animal print but not on a whole piece. But this will still be great for ladies who love animal print even those who are not as slim as a model like Olga or Chloe. Of course, for those with bigger frame, I think that a small purse like this will not work well as it can accentuate your body size against the purse. I’d go for a mid-size or bigger-sized bag.

STYLED LOOK #6:

Last look from Chloe was a 2-piece ensemble of a printed white blouse and a printed black skirt. Shoes were peep-toe ankle boots.

I’m not used to seeing printed blouse and skirt with different patterns but this one is quite chic. I don’t think I can get away with the length of this skirt, though, so if I were to try a print-on-print look, it will probably be a pair of cropped pants.

Here are more looks from Malaysian Women’s Weekly Style Workshop on mannequins:

This workshop made me think about experimenting more with my fashion style despite the mummy tummy. Great tips and styles from Elaine Kwong and Sabrina Salehuddin! Thanks to MWW and M&S!

Okay, I’ve blabbed too much! I have to split this story into 2 and share more about what I did at Marks & Spencer after the Style Workshop: snooping and taking photos around the vast clothing collections, discovery of an instant solution to my bulging tummy and what I bought that day!

Sunshine September for Autism Awareness at Suria KLCC

Posted on September 23, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

“We can do no great things, only small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa

Last Saturday, I found myself wandering around the lovely grounds of Suria KLCC. This place never fails to give me a feeling of thankfulness to have the ability to appreciate its grandeur. Maybe to some Malaysians, this is just an ordinary view, a simple building in this part of Kuala Lumpur. But to me, this place signifies magnificence, an enduring evidence of what this country has accomplished through the years.

Yes, it truly is a blessing to behold such beauty. But in this life and at this very moment, there are people who are less fortunate, children who are fighting for their lives and for their dreams. Suria KLCC, together with other companies, has put together an event to help these children — Sunshine September for Autism Awareness.

Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects the brain’s normal development of social and communication skills, typically appears within the first 3 years of life. It currently affects the lives and families of 1 in 600 Malaysian children. It is associated with rigid routines or repetitive behaviors such as obsessively following schedules or playing certain toys in a monotonous manner, etc. It is a spectrum disorder, variable in severity and in symptoms across individuals. It makes life hard and difficult for autistic patients and their families, health care providers and their teachers.

In Malaysia, persons with autism are referred to NASOM (National Autism Society of Malaysia) by government hospitals and private practitioners. NASOM has experienced a 30% increase in their intake for the past 3 years. Yet the waiting list gets longer each day.

I urge everyone to visit the Concourse Level in Suria KLCC and extend support to NASOM. There are so many children out there who need help, even a small effort can go a long way. There’s a big setup of Sunshine September with several booths where we can extend whatever support we can. At the HerWorld booth, for example, simply purchase an October issue and you will also get a 250ml The Body Shop gentle eye makeup remover.

There is also a memory game booth where you can win a gift.

This booth offers Sunshine September memorabilia at very affordable prices. There are thumb drives, T-shirts, garment bags and more.

Look at this purple plush toy, very adorable at only RM20.

There are also some paintings for sale. Gorgeous ones, really nice for home decor.

There are a lot of participating outlets within Suria KLCC who are contributing proceeds to NASOM this September. For a complete list of stores, you can check out the purple booklet distributed within the concourse level.

Let’s share some love, everyone. Visit the concourse level at Suria KLCC. And if it’s already too late by the time you stumbled upon this blog, please call +603 2382 2828 or www.suriaklcc.com.my to inquire how you can support NASOM and help autistic children.

Alternatively, you can directly contact NASOM at +603 7886 8233 or visit www.nasom.com.my

SHAPE Magazine and Skechers convinced me to RUN!

Posted on August 27, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

One Saturday morning, I found myself up and awake early at 7:00am, walking upon the lovely grounds of Desa Park City, wearing some sneakers and preparing myself for something that will change the way I understand ‘running’.

One of my good friends invited me to join her in attending SHAPE Magazine’s Run to Win Workshop on 24th August. For a fee of RM50 per pair of participants, my friend and I registered to be part of this activity. I’ve never attended something like this and I am also not a regular runner. I believe the last time I really ran for exercise was 5 years ago, in 2008 when I was still in Philippines. My husband and I would drive every Saturday morning to a nice park and I’d run while he walks. Then we’d go for a McDonald’s breakfast in a nearby mall. Well, that was 5 years ago. I’ve always thought of running again so I can go back to my pre-mummyhood weight or at least be close to it. But I guess my busy working life for the past few years dampened motivation, or I was just plain lazy.

Thanks to Shape magazine, Skechers and my dear friend, I managed to get my lazy ass off from bed early that morning to learn more about running. When we arrived at the registration, the organizers gave us a goodie bag that contained…(drumroll) a brand new pair of Skechers running shoes, a red Skechers shirt and the workshop notes. How cool is that! So my friend and I changed into the shirt and shoes then braced ourselves for the next surprise.

The workshop started with welcome remarks from the Shape team, followed by an introduction to running by Raj Subramaniam, a master trainer. I enjoyed listening to this guy as he really gave a lot of information about running. How was I to know that there’s actually a proper posture for the head, neck, shoulders and arms while I run? Raj guided us on each part of the body that we should take note of to run efficiently.

Raj explaining important posture points for running

Raj also introduced us to the pair of Skechers running shoes that we wore. When I put the shoes on, I immediately noticed the comfort and lightness of the shoes. It was very soft and cushioned with every step. For me, having good running shoes is very important as I’ve experienced pain and discomfort before from running due to inappropriate shoes. I kinda had a phobia already from wearing rubber shoes as I easily get uncomfortable. It’s either the shoes make my feet feel very warm and sweaty, or I get blisters on certain spots even while wearing thick socks.

Anyway, this pair of Skechers is just great. It’s light, soft and comfortable. You know that you’re wearing shoes but you don’t feel the weight. Raj also pointed out that this pair, the GoRunRide, gives a cushioned running experience with innovative mid foot strike technology. The shoe is shaped to make our feet land naturally on the mid foot, not on the heel and not on the toes. It’s very lightweight which makes running very comfortable. The tongue is also stitched to eliminate the need to constantly move that middle part of the shoe back in place (the tongue is that part under the shoe lace that often gets out-of-place as you run then you keep pulling it back in place). Skechers calls this feature ‘VARI-LOCK’ for stay-put tongue. Very clever. I hated having that problem with sneakers.

Raj also mentioned some of the injuries that runners might experience and how to avoid it such as side stitches, knee pain, shin splints, ankle sprains, muscle pull and more.

All of us went through several exercises for strength, warmup and actual running practices to train us for a more efficient running technique. It was very tiring since I haven’t done any of these in a long time. But it really woke me up and got my blood running.

Photo by Shape

After a while, though, I was feeling pain on my right side (it’s called side stitches, now I know there’s a term for that). I normally experience this when walking too fast or running. Apparently, it can be caused by meals before running. There must be an interval of around 2 hours between a light meal and running to prevent this pain. I didn’t join the short run around the park. So I managed to snap a few more shots…

My new pair of Skechers GoRunRide shoes…

We had some stretching exercises after the short run then Raj gave us a few more pointers and a Q&A session. Did you know that milk is a great drink for after-running? It can even be a better option than isotonic drinks because milk has a lot of nutrients and will give you an insulin spike which will help your body in recovering energy.

The back of our red Skechers shirt is cool. I love the statement…

We were treated to some light snacks of sandwiches, water and a 4-piece pack of Anlene chocolate milk. I was feeling pretty good at this time. The run and exercises really gave my body a good boost!

Thanks to Shape and Skechers for this activity and the goodies. I was really convinced now to start planning my regular running routine. Maybe I’ll start with every Saturday first then eventually do twice a week.

Here’s the ultra comfortable pair of Skechers…

Which, by the way, also came with extra pair of turquoise laces…

I just love the interesting tags with snippets of the technology behind the shoes…

NOTHING to slow you down. Gets you motivated, doesn’t it?

I’ve now set my mind to doing weekend runs. First, I need to get new sets of running shorts or knee-length pants. My old pairs of exercise pants don’t fit anymore! This simply means I REALLY need to do more exercise, be fit and lose weight…

My Skechers running shoes are waiting so I’m looking forward to an early morning run starting this Saturday. Hope you are also planning to do some fitness exercise soon! Let’s do it, ladies!

Delicious Dining at La Bodega

Posted on August 9, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

I seldom go to Bangsar Village and much less do I visit Jalan Telawi. But when good food and great wines call, there’s no doubt that this area within KL is a place to be.

My hunger brought me to La Bodega Deli one Wednesday afternoon, 7th of August to be exact, the last day before Raya holidays. I was getting ready for another wine tasting event hosted at the same venue. Anyway, I needed to grab a quick bite before my wine session. For me, wine is more enjoyable when taken with just some light food so I better not be too hungry while “wine-ing”.

I’ve always enjoyed La Bodega’s breakfast menu: the Big breakfast, the Omelette, English breakfast, French toast, Crepe…man, they’re all good. And the great thing about La Bodega Deli is that they still serve the breakfast menu in the late afternoon or early evening. Some of you may find it weird but I love it. So I ordered another favorite: Scrambled Egg with Smoked Salmon on Toast. This is, so far, the best scrambled egg I’ve had in my life. Not to mention the healthiest as well… Smoked salmon makes it even more delicious, good for health and good for the skin!

Of course, I’m not just in love with their breakfast menu. The pastas and tapas are mouth-watering as well. My other faves include Linguine Alfredo, Deep Fried Goat Cheese (OMG, this is really a must-try!), Calamares Fritos and Gambas al Ajillo (Tiger prawns in some delicious sauce). Well, let me save those for another post. There’s so much to try. And being a cheese addict, I’d love to indulge in their cheese platter one of these days!

The La Bodega Lounge where the wine tasting event was hosted is just above the La Bodega Deli. To reach the lounge, a flight of wooden stairs is strategically placed right beside the facade of the deli. I love how the stairs, together with the paintings hung neatly on the wall, gives a warm feeling and homeliness. The Spanish theme is just a delight and very comforting.

The lounge has a wide selection of wines and other liquors. The staff were all very friendly, quick and easy to talk to.

The La Bodega Lounge is just perfect for spending time with friends. Great selection of food that matches well with great wines are accessible from the deli and great wines are ready to be served by the lounge.

And so the night went on with the wine tasting. I had a wonderful time, met a lot of new and exciting group of people, and everyone went home happy (and red-cheeked!). Thanks once again to the La Bodega team for their great service.

Here are a few of La Bodega’s friendly staff…

Cheers to all of you!

CITIBANK and WINE TALK treat Citigold clients to wine appreciation

Posted on July 12, 2013 by CelesteDeJesus

An evening with David Stephan, Wine Talk’s exclusive sommelier

Citibank and Wine Talk teamed up to host a wine appreciation workshop exclusively for Citigold clients at La Bodega Lounge in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur on June 21, 2013.

The workshop was aimed at providing Citigold customers with a hands-on wine tasting experience and an understanding of wine labels under the guidance of Wine Talk’s exclusive wine expert or sommelier, David Stephan.

Wine beginners and enthusiasts were entertained to an evening of amazing wine facts, wine sampling, delicious canapés and interaction with the sommelier.

Kenneth Lim, Branch Head for Sales & Distribution of Citibank Damansara said, “Citibank–Citigold and Wine Talk created this workshop for customers, who are interested in wines but rarely have the opportunity to experience wine tasting with a sommelier, who can offer them guidance on wine selection and wine tasting.”

David Stephan said Wine Talk, an online wine ordering and delivery service, offered customers the option to easily choose from over 400 different labels. For wine enthusiasts who wanted to explore new wines, Wine Talk’s Wine Club also provides home delivery service for a selection of great wines on selected months.

“Wine Talk guarantees selection and prices for all customers. For instance, customers will receive a new bottle of wine if they did not enjoy the wine they bought, provided the product is returned within 30 days of purchase. Customers will also receive a refund if the wine they ordered via Wine Talk was more expensive than that sold in major super and hypermarkets in Peninsular Malaysia. They must, however, return the product within 14 days of purchase,” Stephan added.

Amongst the wines sampled by Citigold customers were Wine Talk’s Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, Chardonnay from Australia, Pinot Gris from France, Pinot Noir from Argentina, Bordeaux from France and a Portuguese red wine.