Dear Diary | November 2023 Edition

Dear November,

It's my birthday month! ❤ And I was so looking forward to celebrate this big day with a positive and hopeful mood this year. Let it be a great start of the new beginnings!

However, work has been increasingly challenging between mid till end of the month. I am so glad that I have completed a full filing cycle in Singapore now, and everyday life reminds me to never stop learning, because life never stops teaching.

First Omakase experience in Singapore

01.11.2023 | Sushi Kyuu by Shunsui - Read my review here. It was our first omakase experience in Singapore and I was pretty excited for the 21-course menu especially the over-flowing Ikura rice. So happy and blessed to be able to do my favourite thing here while savouring my favourite food!

Hello, Panda! | Birthday nails

04.11.2023 | Homebound, for a series of errands and spending time with the family. But not forgetting my birthday month's nail pampering session. Love the nude sparkly tone this round! 

08.11.2023 | Biggest event of the year. Happy to be part of this and take a baby step out of my comfort zone for new experiences, albeit the 2 days spent here were exhausting :) 

13.11.2023 | 31st. Couldn't be more blessed to have all these specially arranged for my very special day. I will always remember this memorable 31st birthday celebration. Thank you for making me feel special! ❤

P.S. Cafe @ Palais Renaissance | Age Ya (楊屋) @ Far East Plaza

18.11.2023 | ❤ Back to my favourite weekend things - pork ribs in P.S. Cafe and mentai salmon rice in Age Ya. Totally lost count on how many times we actually revisit these two places which we are very fond of. 

Also, special shoutout to CASETiFY for the ultra cute Powerpuff Girls phone case and charm!

Thanks for reliving my childhood memories :)

Fried Dory Fish Tacos & Chicken Fajitas @ Papi's Tacos

25.11.2023 | Going Mexican for the Thanksgiving weekend! ❤ Happy to have met new friends here in Singapore and enjoy exploring new food together :) Looking forward to trying out other Tex-Mex eateries in town.

30.11.2023 | Words couldn't describe how exhausted I was after the whole crazy filing cycle. Now that we are done and dusted for the year - I am so proud!

November has been a roller coaster month, filled with happiness, pain and tears. I couldn't discuss more about how exactly I feel here (knowing that the online blog is never a 'safe space'), but I just wanted to remind myself:

KEEP GOING.

There are past versions of you that would be so proud of where you are right now.

There are future versions of you that have so much to look forward to.

But remember to take a break. Rest is productive.

Do it for yourself, not anyone else.

You deserve all the things you can't stop thinking about.

You are not going to let self-doubt hold you back any longer.

Keep going, it is going to get easier. 

❤ ❤ ❤

Cheers to the final month of the year! 

xoxo,

FiSh @ 30.11.2023

More Than a Fragrance: The Purported Health Benefits of Afghan Rose Oil

Known as the "liquid gold of Afghanistan," rose oil derived from Rosa damascena flowers grown in Afghanistan has been prized for centuries for its beautiful fragrance. However, some believe this precious oil may also have exciting health and wellness applications beyond its use in perfumes.

Soothing Skin and Senses

Rose oil is often added to skincare products for its gentle cleansing properties. The oil's naturally occurring compounds may help clear blemishes without drying or irritating sensitive skin. Applying a few drops of rose oil or rose serum from Rena Roots is also said to help balance pH levels, leaving skin looking healthy and vibrant.

Inhaling rose oil’s sweet floral scent is purported to have calming effects as well. The aroma is believed to help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and promote feelings of relaxation. Massaging diluted rose oil onto the skin may also help induce tranquility through aromatherapy.

Supporting Women’s Health

Rose oil has traditionally been used to support women’s reproductive health. Its natural compounds are thought to help regulate menstrual cycles, potentially easing symptoms of PMS and menopause. Anecdotal reports also suggest rose oil’s antispasmodic effects may help relieve menstrual cramping when applied topically.

Furthermore, rose oil is sometimes recommended for reducing hot flashes and other discomforts during menopause. The oil’s soothing aroma and stabilising properties are said to provide natural relief without the need for hormone therapies.

Boosting Immunity and Heart Health

With its abundance of antioxidants like phenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C, rose oil is believed to strengthen the immune system and help combat illness. Its purported antiviral actions may help prevent and shorten the duration of colds.

These same antioxidant compounds are thought to support heart health by preventing LDL cholesterol oxidation. Rose oil is believed to help reduce hypertension and stress-related cardiovascular damage.

A Versatile Wellness Aid

In addition to the purported benefits already mentioned, rose oil is also used in holistic traditions for a wide range of other wellness applications. The oil's anti-inflammatory properties are thought to help treat skin conditions like eczema and acne when applied topically. Rose oil's floral scent is also believed to uplift mood, making it a popular aromatherapy choice for alleviating depression.

Some people even mix a few drops of rose oil into hot tea or take it internally in capsule form to soothe sore throats, reduce nausea, and aid digestion. When diluted with a carrier oil, rose oil may also help ease headaches, muscle pains, and arthritis when massaged onto the skin.

Precious and Potent

While more research is certainly needed, rose oil's long history of traditional use across many cultures points to its potential as a versatile natural remedy. From its skin-soothing emollient effects to its purported power to lift mood, tame tension, and more, this precious "liquid gold" is valued not just for its fragrance but for its wide-ranging therapeutic promise. While modern science has yet to fully validate the many health claims surrounding rose oil, its long history of traditional use dating back thousands of years offers convincing anecdotal evidence. From soothing dry skin to easing hot flashes, this treasured “liquid gold” has been used for centuries as far more than a mere fragrance.

The Timeless Allure of Handmade Jewelry in Today's Fashion Scene

Jewelry has always been an integral part of fashion, allowing people to add personal flair and character to their outfits. In recent years, handmade and artisanal jewelry has seen a major resurgence, offering an appealing antidote to mass-produced accessories. For fashion enthusiasts today, the allure of handcrafted jewelry lies in its ability to make a statement while connecting the wearer to the artisan who meticulously shaped each piece.

The Rise of Artisanal Appeal

The handmade jewelry trend taking hold reflects a growing desire for unique, customized pieces over factory-produced accessories. Shoppers increasingly value the one-of-a-kind nature of handcrafted adornments, which offer a more personal touch than generic store-bought items. Much of the appeal also stems from an appreciation for time-honored craftsmanship and the charming imperfections of each handmade piece.

The Intimacy of Knowing the Maker

When someone purchases a handmade necklace or set of earrings directly from the artisan who created it, a sense of connection develops between patron and maker. By supporting independent jewelers, customers become part of preserving treasured skills that have been passed down through generations. This intimate exchange elevates handmade pieces to keepsakes imbued with the maker's creativity and care.

A Testament of Skill and Dedication

If you've ever bought beads from The Bead Traders and had a go at making your own jewelry, you'll know how much practice it takes to get it right. Expertly crafted handmade jewelry reflects remarkable mastery honed over many years of practice. Because artisans personally attend to each step of the design and production process, their pieces stand as a testament to their capabilities. The time and effort invested in handmade adornments are evident in the meticulous finishing and thoughtful details that mass manufacturing simply cannot replicate.

The Allure of Imperfections

While factory-produced jewelry emphasizes uniformity, the beauty of handmade pieces lies in their natural imperfections. The small irregularities in shapes, textures, or finishes add organic warmth and character to handcrafted jewelry. These signs of the maker's hand distinguishing each item help counter the sterile predictability of manufactured accessories.

A Legacy of Traditional Techniques

Heirloom-quality jewelry relies on time-honored metallurgy, setting, engraving, stone-cutting, and other traditional methods passed between generations. By continuing to practice these intensive hand-based techniques in an age of automation, artisans keep ancestral skills alive. For many customers today, handcrafted jewelry's link to historic processes increases its appeal.

An Antidote to Fast-Fashion

In a culture of disposable fast fashion, handmade jewelry offers more meaning and permanence. When an artisan produces a necklace or bracelet start to finish, the result is a cherished object made to last. The conscientious approach of jewelry makers who focus on quality over quantity provides a refreshing change from the transience and waste of mass clothing manufacturing.

The recent rise in handmade and artisanal jewelry speaks to the human desire for connection, uniqueness, and authenticity. By choosing handcrafted pieces, modern fashion enthusiasts carry on timeless traditions while making a more ethical, creative choice. The intimacy, skill, and care imbued in handmade adornments give them an enduring allure no factory can match.

[Food Review] Sushi Kyuu by Shunsui @ City Gate

I have been hunting for some great value-for-money Japanese omakase course in town, and I found Sushi Kyuu by Shunsui which has recently opened its second outlet in City Gate (opposite Nicoll Highway MRT)!

If you do not already know, Sushi Kyuu is part of the Shunsui Group, a sister restaurant of 5-time Michelin Plate awardee between 2018-2023, Kappo Shunsui. 

It is our first time immersing in such an intimate omakase experience at Sushi Kyuu. With only 10 seats, it definitely gives a truly personalized, exclusive dining experience.

Here you can choose from various omakase course menus:

❤ Sushi Kyuu Tasting Course ($69++) at 5pm  

❤ Sushi Kyuu Omakase Course ($129++) at 6:15pm / 8:15pm

❤ Sushi Kyuu Premium Omakase Course ($159++) at 6:15pm / 8:15pm

--- Special promotion! ---

You can enjoy special promotional price now for the Omakase menus:

❤ Sushi Kyuu Omakase Course ($99++ promo price)  

❤ Sushi Kyuu Premium Omakase Course ($129++ promo price)  

*Available at all seating timings, except 8:15pm slots on Friday, Saturday and Eve of Public Holiday..

*Promo is only valid for specified reservation timings. For a limited time only.

We had the Premium Omakase Course which came with 23 courses altogether - specially curated by the chef with exquisite detail on every dish despite the surprisingly friendly price point. It was such an irresistibly good deal! 

Siphone Dashi Soup

The omakase course started with a pleasant surprise - the Siphone Dashi Soup made with kombu and dried bonito flakes, where the earthy, citrus tones are well-infused into the concoction using a hot infusion siphon at the table. 

Corn Vinegar Jelly 

(a cold scallop starter with dashi jelly vinaigrette)

Nama Yuba | Ankimo

(Silky bean curd skin, followed by monkfish liver served with thinly sliced scallions and ponzu sauce)

Flounder Sashimi 

Amongst the stars of the evening is the sliced flounder sashimi which can be served in 3 ways: (1) Add a drizzle of lime juice onto the fish; (2) Rub the fish with a dash of salt; and (3) Enjoy with a dollop of soy sauce foam. Personally I love how a little salt elevates the natural oceanic sweetness of the flounder! 

Madai | Shimaaji

(Sea bream | Striped jack - Lovin' the firm, springy texture!)

Ika | Mekajiki

(Squid with sesame sprinkles | Swordfish)

Sawara

(Torched Spanish mackerel)

Chawanmushi with Fresh Seaweed

The simple steamed egg custard is enhanced by the braised fresh seaweed,

lending a strong hint of umami taste to it. Delicious!

Unagi Sando

(Grilled egg sandwiched between Japanese rice on a piece of seaweed)

Akami Zuke | Chutoro | Otoro

(Tuna of 3 different levels of fattiness)

If you are a fan of fatty tuna, you'd love it!

I enjoy every piece of the tuna that gives a beautiful contrasting texture and flavour. 

Ebi | Aji

(Prawn | Japanese horse mackerel)

The premium prawn is extra crunchy and sweet, while the sharp flavour of the

Japanese horse mackerel is nicely cut through by the spring onion and ginger.

Uni Roll | Toro Taku Maki with seasonal pickles

The hand roll topped with a luscious layer of uni is the bomb!

Overflowing Ikura Rice

The showstopper - Overflowing Ikura Rice - a signature item in the Shunsui Group is one of my favourites of the evening. The chef even fills the mini pot of rice with golden ikura right in front of the diners!

Monaka Ice Cream

Here comes the sweet ending of Sushi Kyuu premium omakase menu.

Verdict:

Overall, the omakase experience here indeed offers great value for money as we get to savour the freshest, high-quality ingredients at sincere prices. While the menus change with the season's offerings, most of the ingredients here are flown from Japan for guaranteed freshness. 

寿司 九 | Sushi Kyuu By Shunsui

Reservation: linktr.ee/sushikyuu

Website: https://www.sushikyuu.sg/

Facebook: fb.com/sushikyuusg

Instagram: @sushikyuu_official

Available at 2 locations:

Orchard Plaza (#03-55)

*NEW* City Gate (#02-54)

Business hours:

5pm - 11pm

Tuesday - Sunday

Closed on Monday