tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945261810060747142024-03-14T11:19:17.077+08:00{bubble tea love}Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.comBlogger651125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-67044348501508564072016-04-07T15:44:00.000+08:002016-04-07T15:44:27.005+08:00Music memoriesI have the office to myself this afternoon so I can ditch the headphones and am turning up the music.<br />
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I used to be really up to date with music, read music blogs and keep up with new songs, artists, go to gigs.. but this has sort of faded out in the last few years. These days I seem to rely a lot on Spotify and their playlists and recommendations which is great for busy people!<br />
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But this afternoon I am feeling a bit nostalgic so reminiscing and playing some songs played at our wedding back in 2010 which is bringing back some beautiful memories. <br />
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Walking down the aisle:<br />
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First dance:<br />
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-82804762797129536222016-03-29T14:07:00.000+08:002016-03-29T14:08:46.042+08:00Back to blogging.. And I'm back... I have found myself with some more spare time up my sleeve recently and a friend suggested that I should throw myself back into blogging again so here I am! <br />
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It's crazy that it's been almost a year since my last post. 2015 was a bit of a pretty dramatic year for us on the health front so we are hoping for a lot less drama this year!<br />
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But it will be a big year with a new home purchase and us moving in mid-year. So that means some renovating and decorating which I will hopefully post about here. The <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/phuongtrinh/one-moulmein-rise/">pinning</a> has already begun...! <br />
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In the meantime, we just enjoyed a lovely long Easter weekend at home and hosted some friends for lunch on Easter Saturday. First time we made a lamb roast (and it turned out great to our delight) and we also pulled out the same <a href="http://bubbletealove.blogspot.sg/2015/04/one-penny-two-penny-hot-cross-buns.html">hot cross buns recipe</a> that I used last year which was a hit. I think this will become an annual Easter tradition. <br />
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I really do love cooking for family and friends so I think my next hosting challenge will be this awesome <a href="http://apairandasparediy.com/2016/03/an-easy-and-impressive-brunch-table-platter.html">brunch table platter</a> (check out the pic below). It looks amazing!!<br />
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<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-55730688964565430222015-05-08T11:26:00.000+08:002015-05-08T11:26:46.148+08:00xo Today I need to concentrate and write a briefing paper for my boss' boss. Being in an open plan office it means putting on my headphones and turning on Spotify to listen to their <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/16BpjqQV1Ey0HeDueNDSYz">Afternoon Acoustic </a>playlist. It's my go-to playlist and features this sweet little tune from John Mayer...<br />
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<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-89006624243713232312015-05-07T08:57:00.001+08:002015-05-07T08:57:36.115+08:00#missadventureLove <a href="http://www.katespade.com/miss-adventure/kate-spade-films,en_US,sc.html?cm_sp=home042815-_-home-_-missadventure">Kate Spade</a>. Love <a href="https://twitter.com/annakendrick47">Anna Kendrick.</a> Love the <a href="http://www.katespade.com/playa-flamingo-underwire-maillot/S25017,en_US,pd.html">Pink Flamingo swimmers</a>.<br />
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-88504839156707669612015-05-06T09:19:00.001+08:002015-05-06T09:21:14.155+08:00A week in Washington <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I got back last Friday from a week away in Washington and I fell in love with the place. I was there for work so didn't have too much time to get out and about. I did land on a Sunday though so had that day to myself to sightsee which was lovely. It's such a great city! <br />
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I just walked and walked and walked... One of highlights was chancing upon the <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2015/04/17/white-house-announces-2015-spring-garden-tours">White House Spring Garden Tour</a> by complete accident. The timing was perfect as they only open the gardens for two weekends a year so I was able to go in and have a closer look. I didn't have time to see too much of the city but I loved walking through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgetown_%28Washington,_D.C.%29">Georgetown</a> and the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/nama/index.htm">National Mall</a> and it was such beautiful Spring weather. It's definitely a city to revisit.<br />
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One of the best things about being in the US was the food. I love bagels and they are so hard to find in Singapore so I took advantage and had a bagel with cream cheese every morning. I also spent ages in <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">Whole Foods</a> :)<br />
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Some other restaurant/cafe tips from my short week:<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.burgertapshake.com/bts-menu.html">Burger Tap & Shake</a>: great burgers, amazing choc shake and buzzy vibe </li>
<li><a href="http://www.filtercoffeehouse.com/">Filter Coffeehouse</a>: I found a flat white! It was good too </li>
<li><a href="http://www.bourbonsteakdc.com/">Bourbon Steak</a>: Great steakhouse</li>
<li><a href="http://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/">Founding Farmers</a>: Farm to table dining and always busy! </li>
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I didn't get there this time but a friend also recommended <a href="http://lediplomatedc.com/">Le Diplomate</a> (great French bistro style), <a href="http://www.fioladc.com/">Fiola</a> (for awesome Italian) and <a href="http://dc.eater.com/maps/the-38-essential-washington-restaurants-january-2015">Eater</a> (38 essential Washington restaurants) for more foodie options. </div>
Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-13100998817624051032015-05-04T15:15:00.001+08:002015-05-04T15:22:20.299+08:00Home made granola - our very own crunchy monkey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When we were in Phuket last month, the Mr found some really tasty locally made granola by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Crunchy-Monkey-granola/1422552061360151?fref=photo">Crunchy Monkey</a> at the supermarket. We liked it so much we bought a few bags home with us. The little Miss is a big fan and is always asking to eat 'crunchy monkey' (even when it isn't breakfast time!). <br />
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Unfortunately our stocks are running low and good quality granola (that is not just toasted oats) is so expensive! So to keep me and the little girl busy on the weekend and to try and combat the jetlag I was suffering, I decided to try and make our own. It was way easier than I expected and is super yum. It was also a fun and easy way to get the little Miss involved in cooking. <br />
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I tried a simple recipe but I think I will try other variations next time. I turned to trusty google and this <a href="http://www.elizabethrider.com/easy-healthy-homemade-granola-recipe/">one</a> was the first result after searching 'home made granola' so I adapted it and gave it a go...<br />
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<i>Homemade Granola </i><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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<ul>
<li>2 cups rolled oats</li>
<li>1/2 cup chopped raw nuts (any nuts will do, I used cashews and almonds)</li>
<li>1/2 cup dried fruit (any will do, I used sultanas and cranberries)</li>
<li>1/4 cup raw seeds (any seeds will do, I used flaxseed and chia seeds)</li>
<li>2-3 tablespoons of honey</li>
<li>2 tbspn coconut oil</li>
<li>1/2 tspn vanilla extract </li>
</ul>
Method:<br />
Preheat oven to 150C. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and use your hands to mix well and toss. Spread the mixture in a thin layer on a baking tray and bake for 10mins or until lightly toasted. Cool before serving and keep in an airtight container or jar. <br />
<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-89340874385282922002015-04-23T09:08:00.002+08:002015-04-23T09:08:48.253+08:00Fig and Rosewater Chia Pudding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I first tried chia seeds when I started getting into <a href="http://bubbletealove.blogspot.sg/2014/10/a-cynics-guide-to-green-smoothies.html">green smoothies</a> last year. I wanted to know what all the fuss was about. At that time, all I knew was that chia seeds were those those things from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chia_Pet">Chia Pets</a> that you may have had as a kid! They are actually quite the superfood and full of nutrients, antioxidants, omega 3 etc. </div>
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I used to see all these chia seed pudding recipes and was very skeptical but chia seeds soaked overnight with some milk, honey and topped with fresh fruit really is yum and a good option for breakfast or dessert. </div>
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Then I saw this <a href="http://www.beauticate.com/how-to/fig-and-rosewater-chia-pudding">recipe</a> this morning on <a href="http://www.beauticate.com/how-to/fig-and-rosewater-chia-pudding">Beauticate</a>... rose and figs - two of my favourite things! I definitely want to try this recipe out. </div>
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-21822252924072081092015-04-16T11:20:00.000+08:002015-04-16T11:22:33.059+08:00Megan Hess x LaceAustralian illustrator, <a href="http://meganhess.com/">Megan Hess</a>, has just launched a gorgeous collection of limited edition lace inspired prints that can be purchased on her site. Super beautiful. I am so tempted to get one for my walls at home.. LOVE.<br />
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-45206524125462852922015-04-09T10:55:00.000+08:002015-04-09T11:02:29.986+08:00Carla Zampatti turns 50 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This year marks 50 years of the iconic <a href="https://www.carlazampatti.com.au/">Carla Zampatti</a> fashion label. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After being denied a pay rise from her <span style="background-color: white;">£13 a week job designing blouses for a wholesale fashion house in 1964, she launched her own label a year later and the rest is fashion history. The fashion house </span></span>celebrated yesterday with the 2015 Spring/Summer showcase in Sydney at the Opera House. A beautiful, elegant and gorgeous collection. Well played Ms Zampatti. </div>
Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-66486856909293389932015-04-09T09:42:00.000+08:002015-04-09T21:41:07.733+08:00Career advice I wish I had at 25<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A great Linkedin career advice post from<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/shane-rodgers/7/531/ba4?trk=pulse-det-athr_prof-art_hdr"> Shane Rodgers</a> appeared on my Facebook feed this morning. Although it is titled advice for 25 year olds I think it rings true for all ages and all careers. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The full post is <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/career-advice-i-wish-had-25-shane-rodgers">here</a> but I have extracted a few I particularly liked: </span><br>
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<b>A career is a marathon, not a sprint</b></div>
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Chill. When we are younger we tend to be impatient...</div>
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<b><b>Most success comes from repetition, not new things</b></b></div>
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...The lesson here is to get good at things before you try to move to the next thing. Genuine expertise belongs to an elite few. They seldom have superpowers. They usually have endurance, patience and take a long-term view. They also love what they do. If your find that, don’t let it go.</div>
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<b><b>Deprioritise your career when your kids are young</b></b></div>
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If you have skills, commitment and passion, careers tend to take care of themselves. Over the long haul, it really doesn’t matter if you have a few years when your career is in canter mode while you prioritise young children. This should apply to men and women... Childhood is fleeting. When it is in its formative stages, you get one chance.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">[I don't necessarily agree with the term 'deprioritising' your career - I think that denotes something negative. I think career and family responsibilities can be equal priorities if that is what you want. The reality is though you can't be in two places at one time so of course there will constantly be difficult choices to make. So for working parents there are adjustments to be made and expectations to be managed in the workplace and at home]</div>
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<b><b>In the workforce, always act like you are 35</b></b></div>
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A recruiter gave me this advice some years ago. It is quite inspired. What she meant was, when you are young in the workplace, don’t act as a novice. If you are smart and competent, step up and do whatever you are capable of doing in a mature way. Similarly, when you are an older worker, don’t act like it. Approach your day with youthful energy...</div>
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<b><b>Management is about people, not things</b></b></div>
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It is easy to fall into the trap of believing that all people are equal, behave the same every day and have a generic capacity to perform. Humans are simply not made like that. Business guru Jack Welsh says the workforce consists of 20 per cent of people who are high performers, 10 per cent that you should get rid of and 70 per cent who do okay. The problem is the 70 per cent. Most managers want everyone in the 20 per cent. We need to be careful not to believe that the 70 per cent are underperformers. Sometimes we need to celebrate the competence of the masses not the superpowers of the elite. As managers, we are not managing things, we are empowering people and making the best use of whatever it is they bring to the table.</div>
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<b><b>Genuinely listen to others</b></b></div>
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It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking we have all the answers as individuals. We don’t. As a group we are far more powerful. We need to learn to genuinely collaborate and really listen to the opinions of others. And we need to ask our own people first...</div>
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<b><b>Don’t just network with people your own age</b></b></div>
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Beware the whiz kid syndrome. Smart, young people have a habit of forming communities of other smart young people and feeding off each other’s energy. In the older world they are seen as “bright young things” that give confidence that the future is in good hands. Argghhhh. How many times have you heard that? Youth enclaves can actually be restrictive. Smart 20-somethings should make sure they network with older people too. In fact their networking should be about meeting useful mentors and career champions who can open doors and fast track careers. Similarly, older, successful people shouldn’t just sit in musty clubs talking about the 1970s. They should be proactively seeking out smart, young people who can shake them out of their comfort zone and open their eyes to new ideas.</div>
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<b><b>Don’t put off working overseas</b></b></div>
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Geography is becoming less relevant. We are all citizens of the world... If you get the chance to work overseas, and you aspire to do that, take it. There is never a right time. And we always regret the things we don’t do far more than the things we do.</div>
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<b><b>Work in an office where you have friends</b></b></div>
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You will spend a lot of time at work. You should work with people you like... The happiest people are those who do things they are passionate about with people they really like. Further to that, if you find you have taken on a job you hate, ditch it quickly. Your career can survive a few well-intentioned detours and mistaken pathways.</div>
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<b><b>Never sacrifice personal ethics for a work reason</b></b></div>
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Crucial to workplace happiness is value alignment. If you work somewhere that compromises your personal ethics and values, get out of there as quickly as you can. Good people will be unnerved by things that don’t feel right. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Bad things only manifest when good people don’t take a stand.</div>
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<b><b>Recognise that failure is learning</b></b></div>
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As bizarre as it might sound, failing is not failure. Researchers recognise that failure is just part of a process to eliminate unsuccessful options... If we fear failure we tend to take a minimalist approach to our jobs and the opportunities around us. Takes some risks. Sometimes failing spectacularly is the best evidence that we are alive, human and serious about aspiring to the extraordinary. There is no value in being ordinary when you have the capacity to be remarkable.</div>
Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-52914889765723762112015-04-07T15:04:00.001+08:002015-04-07T15:12:29.307+08:00Tasty Tuesday with the Design Files<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://thedesignfiles.net/">The Design Files</a> has featured Vietnamese recipes all this month in its Tasty Tuesday series courtesy of Michael Pham of the <a href="https://instagram.com/phamilykitchen/">Phamily Kitchen</a>.<br />
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All my faves are there including <a href="http://thedesignfiles.net/2015/03/thit-kho-pork-belly-and-eggs/">Thit Kho</a> (caramelised pork belly and eggs), <a href="http://thedesignfiles.net/2015/03/vegetarian-pho/">Pho</a> and <a href="http://thedesignfiles.net/2015/03/banh-xeo-vietnamese-crispy-pancake/">Banh Xeo </a>(Vietnamese pancake). Click <a href="http://thedesignfiles.net/section/food/">here</a> for all the recipe links.<br />
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-44716388528686538562015-04-06T11:06:00.000+08:002015-04-06T11:06:10.153+08:00One a penny, two a penny, hot cross buns!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In Australia around Easter time you can expect to find hot cross buns selling in every supermarket and bakery in town. They are a must have at this time of year. However, in Singapore they are an extremely rare commodity. <br />
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After seeing lots of pics of hot cross buns on Instagram, I was having a serious craving for them. We had no big plans for the long weekend so I decided to try baking them for us. I was very chuffed as they turned out great! We even ended up making two batches over the long weekend as we brought a dozen over to our friend's place for Easter Sunday lunch.<br />
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They are surprisingly quite easy to make but it just takes a bit of time as you have to wait for the dough to rise and proof.<br />
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I googled and found this recipe from the <a href="http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/2066661/hot-cross-buns">BBC</a> which seemed the easiest and most fuss free. I skipped the fresh fruit and just used 230g of dried mixed fruit. I also used marmalade/other citrusy jam for the glaze as I didn't have any apricot jam at home. I used plain flour for the first batch and bread flour for the second batch. I recommend using bread flour if you can, it yields much tastier results! Happy Baking!<br />
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<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-14829075998469237882015-03-27T14:47:00.001+08:002015-03-29T20:18:20.520+08:00Feeling grateful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Two political leaders who have had personal impacts on my life passed away in the last week or so. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Former Australian Prime Minister, </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malcolm_Fraser" style="font-family: inherit;">Malcolm Fraser</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and Singapore's first prime minister, </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Kuan_Yew" style="font-family: inherit;">Lee Kuan Yew</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Malcom Fraser was instrumental to the Australian Government's policy shift in the mid-late 70's which embraced and welcomed Vietnamese refugees to Australia. This move was the <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/opinion/columnists/fraser-the-unsung-hero-of-humane-refugee-policy/story-e6frg7ax-1225815259755">first significant step towards multiculturalism following the dismantling of the White Australia Policy</a>. When he came to power<span style="background-color: white;"> in 1975, less than 400 Vietnamese lived in Australia. By the end of his term, tens of thousands of Vietnamese would be recognised as refugees. My parents and sister were three of those people. Upon hearing the news of his passing and then seeing the coverage of his funeral, I surprised myself at how emotional I felt for this man I had never met. He was a man of true compassion and strength <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/mar/20/frasers-politics-didnt-shift-much-since-1975-the-rest-of-australias-did">whose support for human rights was unwavering</a>. </span>Without him and his strength of leadership, my family and I would literally not be where we are today. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lee Kuan Yew was the first Prime Minister of Singapore and is said to be the key architect behind Singapore's incredible development. Singapore has transformed from a third world country to a first world country within a single generation. He is known as the founding father of modern Singapore and whilst not all may agree with his policies, without him, I would not have the comfort, security and opportunities I currently enjoy in this amazing city state which has become my second home. The <a href="http://www.rememberingleekuanyew.sg/">outpouring of grief and mourning</a> across the country and how the <a href="http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/long-queues-to-pay-final/1740008.html">people of Singapore have reacted</a> has been so moving. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Reflecting on the loss of these two men, I am feeling very grateful that I can be the beneficiary of their life's work. I am also grateful for living in a democratic society where my vote counts and the leaders we vote in can really have such a significant and personal impact. We must not take this for granted. I only hope that we and our political leaders continue to be inspired and learn from them as we strive to be the best we can be and to be good to those around us. </span></div>
<br>Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-84026882627532165072015-03-27T10:19:00.000+08:002015-03-27T10:19:44.001+08:00Note to self... A friend linked this on Facebook this morning and I loved it so wanted to share.<br />
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<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-90534371786693875342015-02-24T10:39:00.000+08:002015-02-24T10:39:44.011+08:00She does it again...Sienna Miller (who was <a href="http://bubbletealove.blogspot.sg/2015/01/this-dress.html">one of my favourite looks at the Golden Globes</a>) pulled out another winner at yesterday's Oscars wearing Oscar de la Renta. So pretty. <br />
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<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-74771350348466687962015-02-18T08:39:00.003+08:002015-02-18T08:39:14.777+08:00The Year of the Goat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love this time of year.<br />
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It means time with family and friends, lots and lots of good food, lion dancing, firecrackers, red packets and since moving to Singapore, I have discovered the delightful <a href="http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/food-wine/story/singapores-best-pineapple-tarts-according-sundaylifes-panel-20150201">pineapple tart</a>! <br />
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This holiday is the most significant for my side of the family. Some of my fondest childhood memories are of going to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/336481639883944/">Tet Festival </a>every year in Brisbane where we would indulge in sugar cane juice and beef skewers wrapped in betel leaves (the only time of year we used to eat it). I remember my dad covering my ears when the firecrackers were going off and being scared of the guy in the mask with the rosy cheeks who teases the lion dancers. I think I still find him a bit creepy :) <br />
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Whilst we will not be in Brisbane this year to celebrate, I am looking forward to starting some new traditions with the Mr and the little Miss. Gong Xi Fa Cai / Chuc Mung Nam Moi!Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-554880916239626322015-02-16T14:34:00.002+08:002015-02-16T14:34:56.880+08:00Sexism and the City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As a mum working in the finance industry I was really interested to read a recent Financial Times feature called "<a href="http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/2/7c182ab8-9c33-11e4-b9f8-00144feabdc0.html#axzz3Rs3xmCqJ">London: Sexism and the City</a>" on women, leadership and the finance industry. It focuses on London but I think a lot of it applies and is relevant to other countries. <br />
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The statistics are pretty telling - only 16.2% of the managing director level positions at banks are held by women. The report touches on the reasons behind the statistic including gender stereotypes and bias, sexual harassment and sexist cultures and career disruptions due to parenthood. It also suggests some possible solutions including incentives for diversity, adequate maternity leave and return to work policies. <br />
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Some very good food for thought. <br />
<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-26097024391489787402015-02-02T11:33:00.000+08:002015-02-02T11:36:46.726+08:00Afternoon Tea Over the weekend I hosted a friend's baby shower afternoon tea. I like baking and cooking but I am also short on time so when deciding the menu, I wanted minimal ingredients, time and effort. <br />
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For the savoury, I chose <a href="http://allrecipes.com.au/recipe/9508/easy-mini-quiches.aspx">mini quiches</a> and pumpernickel bread topped with egg + smoked salmon and cream cheese. <br />
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For the sweets, I went with <a href="http://www.nigella.com/recipes/view/rocky-road-crunch-bars-25">Nigella Lawson's Rocky Road Crunch Bars</a> and Frankie Magazine's All Together Cake from their <a href="http://www.frankiepress.com.au/shop/frankie/afternoon-tea">Afternoon Tea</a> book/<a href="http://www.frankiepress.com.au/shop/frankie/afternoon-tea-cookbook-app-for-ipad">app</a>. <br />
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The Rocky Road is super easy to make and sooo good and moreish! Nigella has dark chocolate in her recipe but I just melted choc chips I found at the supermarket. I also used honey instead of golden syrup as that is all I had in the pantry. <br />
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The All Together Cake is also super easy (recipe below). Just make sure your self raising flour isn't too old. Mine was nearing its expiry date so the first cake was a disaster as it didn't rise!<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i>All Together Cake Recipe:</i></span></b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><i>Ingredients: 1/4 cup of milk, 125g butter, 3/4 caster sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon plain flour, 1 cup self raising flour, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><i>Preheat oven to 180 C. Combine all ingredients in a bowl & beat for about 6 minutes. Grease cake tin, pour mixture in & bake for 40 minutes. </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><i>Ice cake with your preferred icing. I used butter, icing sugar and a little hot water. </i></span><br />
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-77567787196340557512015-02-02T09:21:00.002+08:002015-02-02T09:52:30.546+08:00Busy BeautyJanuary is over and I am finally starting to get back into my exercise routine again after a holiday season hiatus. My morning routine (which I try to do a couple of times a week) is to drop the little Miss at nursery, go to the gym and then head to the office. I usually try and get in by 9am. <br />
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To do all that usually means my max workout time is 20-30mins + a super fast shower and beauty routine at the gym. </div>
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That's why I loved this little discovery on <a href="http://www.beauticate.com/">Beauticate</a> (great beauty blog by ex Vogue beauty editor, Sigourney Cantelo) on how to do your eye liner in like 3 seconds. It works a treat! </div>
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There is also a great vid on 5 minute glowy makeup. </div>
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-1935194925475389162015-01-14T16:42:00.002+08:002015-01-14T16:42:13.319+08:00Reminders of home <div>
We spent a wonderful 2 weeks back home in Australia over the Christmas/New Year period. We had lots of family, beach and chill time. I was also super excited to go shopping in Aussie supermarkets and big box stores like Kmart and Target haha. Living away does mean you often miss the conveniences and way of life back home so some recent discoveries have given me a few little cute reminders of Oz....</div>
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Australian bird prints by <a href="http://www.studiocockatoo.com.au/">Studio Cockatoo</a> which I purchased from <a href="http://www.lamington.net.au/">Lamington</a>. </div>
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I also spied these wooden kids toys from <a href="http://makemeiconic.bigcartel.com/category/toys">Make me Iconic</a> recently - I think it would be a cute way to introduce some Aussie food to the little Miss! </div>
Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-4051423192335442932015-01-12T15:24:00.000+08:002015-01-12T21:44:20.935+08:00This dress. One of my favourite looks from today's Golden Globes is Sienna Miller in Miu Miu. Love. <br />
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<br />Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-82131661275962647672014-12-12T16:00:00.002+08:002014-12-12T16:04:01.008+08:00Sam Smith: Have Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasA beautiful beautiful cover of my favourite Christmas song by Mr Sam Smith<br />
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-82136620995399036032014-12-11T09:53:00.003+08:002014-12-12T15:35:24.734+08:00Bali Love Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="text-align: left;">I was lucky enough to escape to Bali recently to have a quick weekend girls getaway with my friend </span><a href="http://thebokeeffect.com/" style="text-align: left;">Andrea</a><span style="text-align: left;">. I was child free and we have similar tastes in fashion and food so it was fun exploring a few new places I haven't been before. </span><span style="text-align: left;">We visited some old favourites but</span><span style="text-align: left;"> to add a few more places to my </span><a href="http://bubbletealove.blogspot.sg/2014/07/bali-love.html" style="text-align: left;">earlier list</a><span style="text-align: left;">:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.watercressbali.com/" style="text-align: center;">Watercress Cafe</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - gorgeous setting, great coffee, excellent food - the corn fritters were a winner. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.cornerhousebali.com/" style="text-align: center;">Cornerhouse</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - great casual food in a bistro setting</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://merahputihbali.com/" style="text-align: center;">Merah Putih</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - beautiful Indonesian food</span></li>
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<span style="text-align: center;">We stayed at the <a href="http://www.thelhotels.com/">L Hotel</a> which was a great little find c/o the folks at <a href="https://www.theluxenomad.com/">Luxe Nomad</a>. </span>The L spa next door was great for massages. </div>
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Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-20876920363228043282014-11-21T15:11:00.003+08:002014-11-21T15:11:21.160+08:0020 December 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was our wedding anniversary yesterday and I can't believe it has been 4 years already. I was looking back on some of <a href="http://www.toddhuntermcgaw.com.au/blog/phuong-mark/">our photos from the day</a> (courtesy of the wonderful <a href="http://toddhuntermcgaw.com.au/">Todd Hunter McGaw</a>) and was just thinking how so much has happened and how we've been through so much. Love you Mr - the little Miss and I are so lucky to have you xx<br />
Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2994526181006074714.post-20129662815853886012014-11-21T11:11:00.000+08:002014-11-21T11:11:56.354+08:00From Mothers to Daughters: Do As I Say, Not As I Do<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I recently saw this post titled "From Mothers to Daughters: Do as I Say, Not as I Do" and I wanted to share it as it was a nice little reminder for me and I hope it is for others too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Prompted by an article in the Atlantic titled "the <a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/features/archive/2014/04/the-confidence-gap/359815/">Confidence Gap</a>' (which is also an interesting read), Kathryn Sollman writes,</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4f51; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;"><i>Too many professional women hold themselves back from the big promotion or raise and too many others believe they made an irrevocable choice to leave the workforce. All wish much bigger career achievements—and more confidence–for their daughters... </i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4f51; line-height: 24px;">In my view, however, there is a big disconnect. I see this spectrum of women—those who work in and out of the paid workforce—in my community, at my child’s school and in my professional work. All of these women encourage the utmost confidence and achievement in their daughters—but not in themselves...</span> </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4f51; line-height: 24px;">It would be hard to find a woman in my personal and professional circles who isn’t encouraging her daughters to be as good as—or better than–the boys. Speak up in class. Don’t be shy. Run for student government. Be the captain of the team. Be the editor of the newspaper. Get the best grades possible to get into the best colleges....</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4f51; line-height: 24px;">.</span> </span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4f51; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;"><i>And while you’re at it, make sure that you hold yourself to the same high standards. Both mothers and daughters need to continually build and refresh the confidence to reach, stretch and achieve their personal definition of work+life fulfillment. It takes lifelong tweaking, and a belief that there’s never an age or stage when your ship has sailed.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">I have experienced the 'confidence gap' many times in my life and have felt like a fraud whenever I have been promoted or taken on more responsibility in my career...just waiting for people to realise they made a mistake! I know this isn't just an issue for women so I think we should all remember to</span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> back ourselves more and go after what we want. </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">Read the full post </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/article/20141110151219-3772926-from-mothers-to-daughters-do-as-i-say-not-as-i-do?trk=object-title" style="background-color: transparent;">here</a> </span></div>
Phuonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00558038652772747803noreply@blogger.com1