Hey there!

Hope this finds you well (:

I've been short of time recently because my prelims and exams are fast approaching. In Feb/Mar and May/Jun to be exact.

Therefore I apologise that I haven't been updating twice a week as I've been last year. I do try to update at least once a week and there should be a Review + Swatch on 3 of Colourpop Cosmetics Lippie Stix. I know I have 6 but I could only photograph 3 before I had to head out. Haha.

As much as I would like to post up swatches of the myriad of lip products I have, those posts are dependant on the sunlight and Q's availability because it is him who helps photograph me. Which means that I basically only have the weekends to do that. In addition, the past two months have been rather gloomy therefore at times the sunlight I get isn't bright enough. #thestruggleisreal

Don't fret though, I've been compiling whatever product photos I can shoot by myself and planning out my blog schedule for when I finally am on semester break. I may be busy with school + work, but I still found time to shop online. Heh.

RECENT HAUL

I've been testing out products and formed opinions on most of them so I'm very excited to when I can finally get the chance (and time) to share it with you. That's why I started this blog is the first place, I'm a opinionated individual wanting to be heard. Hahaha. I'll also posts prioritise limited edition releases because what's the point of updating if it's already sold out right?

SEOUL 2014

Makeup aside, if you've read my travel tag, you'll know that I went on holiday last Dec to Bangkok and Seoul. I also have some posts planned pertaining to that but those will to wait. (Not to mention I still have my Perth posts. Heh.) Those posts won't exactly be about what I did but more to Tips & Tricks you might appreciate knowing before heading there, from a budget (basically whatever category I belong in) traveller perspective.

MY 22nd BIRTHDAY LUNCH

On to something more personal, I recently turned 22 and I feel... Old. It's not the number itself that makes me feel old but the fact that my youngest sister is finally in secondary school.We have a 9-year age gap, get what I mean? Sometimes I forget she's too old to get toys as presents. Hahaha.

BACK IN 2010, LOOK HOW YOUNG MY SISTERS ARE

That's basically all I have to offer today. May you have a wonderful week!

♥ Sheena V

Okay, maybe one last thing. 

Q meanly made this meme;

Hahaha he cb.

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Ferguson Farm, Perth 2014

I saw this tag floating on Hello Khronicles and seeing that I'll be off travelling tomorrow, I thought this was very fitting!

Not to mentioned I hadn't done anything me-related in a while. Haha.

What made you start travelling?
The desire to spend time away from family, with friends to a place off a different island. That was when I was still an angsty teenager. Hahaha. Now I travel just to take a break from my commitments. Although I can't afford to do that often, I make it a point to at least go somewhere substantial once a year.

Philippines 2013

Where was your first plane ride to?
Philippines. My mum is a Filipino so we go back to visit once every few years. This first trip happened when I was slightly more than a year old. It was the first trip back for my parents as a family (Parents + older brother + me). I recall it being quite fun with the older ones pampering me since I was a cute little circle. Hahaha.

Gold Coast / Brisbane 2013
First trip down under

Where have you travelled to that you would love to visit again?
Australia. I fell in love with the country in my first visit there in 2013. To be more specific, it was Brisbane that got me hooked to the country. I love the winter weather and I love how spacious the place is. There's no such thing as invasion of personal space. I have a goal to visit a different state each year if possible. I already did Perth this year so next up, I have Melbourne on my mind. (:

What are you 3 must have travel items?
Aside from the compulsory passport, air ticket and sufficient clothes, I always bring the following;

• Travel adapter It would so suck so bad not being able to charge your phone
• Hoodie
  No matter how high class a hotel may be, I always bring a hoodie to wear to sleep, hood up and all. Some places are very dusty so I do so to prevent breakouts on my face and breaking into a sneezing fit
• Truckload of tissue packets
  I get the sniffles easily so I must always have a couple of tissue packets on hand. In addition, as mentioned, hotels can be quite dusty so I always have a pack or two beside me when I sleep.
• Bonus! Portable Charger
  Especially looking at the current state of my mobile, the battery tends to run out faster. It is also a known fact that battery life is shortened in cold weather.

Window, aisle or middle seat?
If I was placed at the side columns with friends/family, I would prefer the window seat.

If I was placed at the side columns with strangers, I would prefer the aisle seat because I don't like to be 'cornered' by strangers.

Also, if I was placed in the middle columns, regardless of who I'm seated with, I would prefer the aisle seat. because although I'm not one who regularly visits the toilet during flights, should I need to, I'm not comfortable with the idea of squeezing through people to get to the toilet. I would much rather have to get up from my seat to give way to those who need the toilet because it doesn't bother me that much since I wouldn't be sleeping of watching movies anyway.

Which places are on your 'visit-to-next' list?
Melbourne. I hope to travel there during my next semester break, if I can afford it. If Melbourne turns out to be too expensive, I would like to check out Hong Kong for Dim Sum or Brunei for the wide range of cheap Halal food. However, if we were in a world whereby we could travel freely, I would check out either London or Switzerland. In the meantime, I'm heading to BKK and ICN in the coming two weeks!

Brisbane 2013
Best weather everrrrrr

Where would you travel just for the weather?

Australia, specifically during winter. I personally find their winter weather just right for me. I find the strong wind refreshing and breathtaking. Some of my friends found it too cold, not me. I can still escape wearing a thin jacket or even shorts on the less windy days.

KL 2014
with my father missing-in-action

Do you have an interesting 'I'm lost' story?
Fortunately, not yet. Hahaha. I've been too anal to allow that to happen. Hopefully my trip to BKK and ICn doesn't break that lucky streak.

I do have another interesting story of a lost father though.

This past June, my family and I (sans my brother), went to KL for the very first time. Q tagged along as well. However, my father was actually a last minute addition to the trip. So instead of taking the plane like the rest of us, my father actually took the bus there.

Because the journey for my dad would take longer, he left Singapore earlier so that all of us would arrive at the hotel about the same time.

My party arrived first and we waited for my dad for an hour before deciding to leave for lunch as all of us have not eaten. We thought that my father could just call us once he reached and we would head back since the shopping mall was only a 5 min walk away. We also left a message for my dad at the hotel counter, just in case.

We ended up exploring the mall for a few hours. In the meantime I was getting very worried on the whereabouts of my father since he hasn't called and it was getting quite late. Worried that my father's mobile possibly died on him and that he was actually waiting at the lobby grumpily prompted us to make a return.

When we arrived at the hotel, there was no sign of him at the lobby. We also asked the counter if my father did show up and they said no. Perplexed, we decided to just return to our room. Upon nearing the room, I could hear the television playing which was surprising because I recalled switching everything before we left.

We went in and saw my father lying on the bed, watching television without a care in the world. -_-

I tell you, I was fuming that he didn't even call us. Waiting for food only that one. D<

(It was also disconcerting that a staff just let my father in the room solely because my father presented the name of who the booking was made by and none of the other staff were aware that my father as actually already in the room.)

Where would you like to travel to, just for the food?
Brunei / Hong Kong. I've seen too many pictures of good food from friends who've been there. My time will come soon :D

Is there a place you would never go again?
I have restaurants I have vowed not to return to and companions I have vowed not to travel with again but never places to  avoid travelling to again. If I had to pick a place I'm in no rush to revisit though, I would say Phuket mainly because, it's one of those places whereby, once is enough.

Harbour Village , Perth 2014

If you could take one person with you to travel, who would it be?

Q. Although we more or less like to do the same things, it's good to know he will acquiesce to whatever requests I have. Heh Heh.

How do you pass the time on the airplane?
There seems to generally be two types of people, one who prefers to sleep it through and one who prefers to have a movie marathon.

I am neither. If it's a short flight, I let my mind wander my way through. If it's longer, I usually occupy myself by typing/writing down my thoughts. My mind is too active to just sleep or mindless watch movies. I might throw in an episode of Elementary or Sherlock but not a whole marathon. Or maybe a few rounds of chess on my tablet!

Are there other people whom you think should do this?
Well, not really. Hahaha. I'm the only one in my circle of friends who blogs. Or maybe @heyitsbrina and @gnatniamrahs if you're reading! If anyone else decides to do it, leave a comment! Would love to read it. (:

So yeah! Check out my IG @fsnavee if you're interested in my travel pics (:

I have some prescheduled posts coming up so keep a look out! Bye!

♥ Sheena V

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Please join me in welcoming the new additions to my mask family!

A few weeks back, I put my face (teehee) in the back seat and decided to post up the photo you see on the left.

While I genuinely use facial masks about 3 times a week, that post was my entry in another contest held by @SephoraSg

I enjoy participating in mini contests held by them because their contests, more often than not, give each participant a fair chance to win. The criteria of their contests usually entails uploading a creative photo.

It also helps that the prizes usually intrigue me. (I'm currently in a cosmetics and skincare phase). I don't join every one I see though.

If it's a prize I know I won't enjoy, I won't join. Mainly because I prefer to let someone else who wants it more to have a higher chance of winning. Good Karma right? Haha.

On the other hand, contests that I dislike joining are those that require to "like-and-repost". It is very unlikely that winners are chosen with the help of a randomizer, so what are the odds? Most of the time, winners of such contests are usually a specific type, so it isn't that random at all.

Plus I dislike flooding the Instagram feed with reposts.

So enough babbling and let me introduce to you the 3 different masks included in the prize.

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FOR BELOVED ONE | Melasleep Whitening Bio-Cellulose Mask

For those who may not know ( i.e. me), For Beloved One is a cosmeceutical brand from Taiwan.

FBO is said to be a firm advocate in cherishing every woman and providing a range of safe and effective skincare to the diverse desires and needs of consumers.

This particular mask on the left, is actually the first of its kind.

Box Description Effectively brightens skin, reduces blemishes and wrinkles and moisturises skin. Bio-Cellulose material enhances absorption of essence for firm, radiant and tender skin and long-lasting results.

There's 3 x Sheets included in this pack so I'll give one a go for review and pass the other two to my mum because I'm sure she'll enjoy it more than me. I hate sheet masks because I find those messy. The fact that this is a whitening mask also doesn't attract me because I don't think I need it. *flips hair

PETER THOMAS ROTH | Rose Stem Cell Bio-Repair Gel Mask

I own a deluxe sample of the Cucumber Gel Mask, as mentioned in a previous post, and I quite enjoy it. Whilst I don't use that often enough to see a major difference, I like the instant cooling relief it provides my face.

I pretty sure I'll enjoy the Rose Stem Cell version too since it seems to be the same texture but won't know until I actually try it.

Box Description A cooling, rejuvenating gel to help stimulate cell turnover for younger looking skin. Helps repair signs of ageing, including appearances of fine lines and wrinkles, dehydration, dullness and sagging as it strengthens and tones the look of skin.

GLAMGLOW | YouthMud TinglExfoliate Treatment

Ahh... The most obnoxious (and expensive) of them all.

Box Description Provides gentle resurfacing exfoliation to activate collagen synthesis to leave skin smoother, brighter and softer to give a more youthful appearance. The mask absorbs impurities without removing natural oils to leave tighter skin texture and tighter pores.

I can't mention enough how much I enjoy the sister product, i.e. SuperMud Clearing Treatment, and almost been keen to try on the other 4 masks in the line.

I was never however, too intrigued that I had to go out and buy the full size of the other masks because if my SuperMud ain't broke, why fix it, am I right? Plus these are too expensive to buy a full size with the risk of not liking it. (For example, the ThirstyMud. I did not like that at all and I'm glad I only bought the travel size).

Like seriously, the packaging reminds me of those stereotypical popular kids in high school
who know they are the coolest and have no shame flaunting it.
But apparently, I don't care. Haha.

Hence to receive the full size of this, I am eternally grateful. I'm pretty sure I would enjoy using this though maybe not more than the SuperMud. If anything, I'll gift it to Q who's running out of his SuperMud, I just bust opened a new bottle of the SuperMud. :D

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I'll update my findings once I've tried out the masks. A post on the FBO mask will probably come up first since that simply takes a day to test out. After I get rid of backlog though. Hahaha.

With that, goodbye sexy! (;

♥ Sheena V

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Hey guys!

This is overdue news but way back in October, @SephoraSg held a contest calling NARS fans to send in their #NARSBestPout.

I couldn't pass up an opportunity to add one more lipstick to my collection. Hahaha.

Coincidentally, I was headed to the beach with Q's family so I had a great setting to toss out a few poses. Hahahaha. I'll admit, I was a wee bit embarrassed having Q take shots of me in from of them but hey, nothing comes easy right?

Settled on the sleepy shot below;

Lo and behold! I was one of the 10 winners! Hahahahaha.

My session was at the NARS counter at Tangs Orchard and to be honest, the session didn't start off on the right note.

For some reason, they weren't expecting me, which threw me off. There was two beauty assistants present. One of them seemed disinterested and told the other to do the makeover for me, in a way that made me feel like I wasn't worth her time.

Just to make it clear, I do not expect them to treat me like a princess. However, I do expect them to treat me with respect as a person. Bring your potty mood elsewhere. If you're gonna be rude serving customers, don't work in this line. From one front line staff to another! >(

The lady who did my make up was nice though. I didn't catch her name but she was very informative, sharing with me what products she used on my face. I've been wanting to try out their foundation and creamy concealer, amongst other products, so it was great to find out the shades I was in for future reference.

I felt bad for her though, her rude partner was on a "toilet break" twice for about 10 minutes each. Which was inconsiderate because that left the nice lady to juggle two tasks - doing my make up + attending to the other customers.

At times, the lady had to put my session on hold for 5 minutes or so because the other customers needed help. Technically unprofessional but I knew it wasn't her fault, it was her douche colleague who kept making disappearing acts.

Waiting for the assistant to get back to me

The whole session, with breaks included, took about about 45 minutes. She didn't go too crazy with my make up because I told her I wanted to take my passport photo after. Hahahaha.

Perfect opportunity right? :D

It just so happened that my passport needed to be updated so what great luck I had! Heh.

So yeah, my new passport photo with my new NARS Pure Matte Lipstick in Amsterdam.

Check back on Monday for a swatch and review on the lipstick  ;)

♥ Sheena V

Update: Review now up here.

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SOURCE
Tampines 1 #01-03/07
10 Tampines Central 1 S(529536)
Tel: 6634 0522

So last week, a little birdie let slip this;

Now this was an exciting revelation, not only because there will now be a Sephora a bus ride away, there were gonna give out Vanity Cases to the 50 customers in line!

SOURCE

You see, I bought Sephora's small acrylic train case slightly over a year ago. However, I have accumulated an embarrassing amount of makeup in that short span such that it doesn't hold everything anymore. Lol.

Initially, I was hesitant to go queue like a typical Singaporean (paiseh you know). Q was actually nice enough to volunteer to queue (hurhur) for me. Despite that offer, I decided to go along with him. Yalah takkan I subject him to embarrassment alone right?

We went there quite early, not gonna say what time we were there because the mere fact we were queuing was embarrassing enough. :x We later found out that we didn't really need to as the main bulk started queuing at about 11:20am? The store was scheduled to be open at 12pm. Although, being there early did have its benefits: person no. 20 onwards had to queue outside of the building. I think that one more paiseh. Hahaha. I also made friends with the lady behind me and we started chatting to pass time (Q was more interested in the shows on his tablet). Both of us were also trying our best to avoid all form of photography. No thanks!

SOURCE

The store didn't open at 12pm sharp though, there was a mini dance performance / confetti throwing / photo taking session that lasted about 15mins. The first two I didn't mind waiting for because I did understand that it was part of the opening, it was the photo taking session amongst the team itself I wasn't too pleased. From a business perspective, are you seriously gonna make your customers wait just because of that? Taking note that this was already after opening hours. I don't think customers are interested watching YOU taking pictures when all they want to do was get in, shop and leave. Any corporate picture taking should have taken before 12pm or at least open the shop first -_-

As you can see, doors were open but no one was allowed in yet
SOURCE

So anyway, when it was finally open, I whizzed through the aisles to check out the range available before collecting the vanity case. We didn't linger too long after as it was overcrowded (Q doesn't like crowds and I prefer to look at make up in peace). Plus I had work to do back home. I already spent a bomb in the recent Black Card Member sale anyway. Heh. Not to say I won't be back when the excitement dies down though!

Without further ado, let me present to you Sephora's Exclusive Vanity Case!

To be very honest, I was only expecting it to be the bigger version of the one I already have. Not complaining though, this one is impressive with the brand name emblazoned on the front. It's also MASSIVE. I measured it to be 10'' x 7'' x 7''.

Upon opening;

Comes complete with a key to keep naughty sisters out;

The top inserts open up manually;

Observe the double panelling at the side;

Because it opens up!;

To a fully retractable drawer!;

To be honest, I only discovered this extra insert after viewing someone else post a picture on to their Facebook page.

In all its glory;

I actually have two of these as Q and I took one each. Will be giving one to my sisters to share because I better not be needing so much space! Hahahaha. Or maybe I'll keep these two and gift them the smaller one. Perangai buruk, I know :D

Last but not least, guess what?

Q's vanity case was one of the lucky 5 to have the Sephora IT Palette included la seh!

To be completely frank, I couldn't care less about the palette because I've swatched it in store prior to this and it didn't impress me. I gifted it to my mum instead. Hahaha.

I did however take pictures of the swatches of the eyeshadows in the palette and will post them up when they're ready.

Thus that marks the end of my story. It was a really (somewhat) exciting morning with Q because it's not something we usually do. By that, I mean queuing up way before time. Probably not gonna do that again any time soon. Haha.

This is me, signing out (:

♥ Sheena V

Update: Review now up here.

Sephora small train acrylic case, available here.
Sephora IT Palette - Smoky, available here. 
Use code ZBAPC2h to get 15% off your first purchase. 

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I guess saying I turn 5 in Rubi is a gross overestimation.

Saying I turn 5 in The Cotton On Group would be more accurate. 

Before I go on, I'd like to clarify that I only work there on a part time basis. 

I was extremely surprised to have received this "certificate". I burst out laughing when my manager held this out to me! Even though this is nothing official, there was a grammatical error in which I photoshop-ed out, it was still an unexpected gesture from the upper management. Out of my 5 years with this company, they have never showed much value towards their part time staff. 

This isn't my first job, mind you. It's actually my third. (This is also not my only job since as I do take up temporary full time jobs during the holiday.) I had switched to Cotton On because then, they paid the highest wages to retail part timers at $7/hr. Now I believe the top spot goes to Abercrombie and Fitch? Heck, even Daiso's staff are paid higher. Haha.

I was initially employed to work at Cotton On Bugis at the tender (haha) age of 16, when I had just entered Temasek Polytechnic.  Back then, the store was probably only a third of what you currently see standing in Bugis Junction.

I left that outlet after 2 years mainly due to conflict. You see, that company tends to hire young managers who are not yet emotionally stable themselves to handle a team compromising mostly of youths. I'm glad to say most of those managers have left the company, either willingly or not.  

There was also a problem about the location being too much of a hassle and expense for me. I only earn $7/hour and mostly on 4 hour shifts. Doesn't make sense for me to spend $4 on transport alone each time right?

So anyway, I requested for a transfer to my current Rubi outlet and I haven't looked back since. The girls here are much more pleasant and we treat each other with respect, something that was missing previously. Of course there were some bad apples along the way but those eventually left. 

I'm proud to say that if I were to quit today, I will leave with some lifelong friends. Namely the one who coincidentally stays in the same block as me. Hahaha.

Gone are the days whereby I dedicate 4-5 days a week to this job. With my current commitment to school, it's hard to maintain shifts. I'm glad my manager understands. It also helps that there are many other staff who needs the shifts more than me, otherwise she'll be hounding my ass. Hahahaha. Currently I'm on a "when necessary only" basis. Fine by me!

My colleagues, those who've worked almost as long as me, and I always joke with each other on when we should finally quit. Or when I we gonna convert to full time staff. Hahaha. I know my expiry date will come soon enough, once I get my degree and it's time to enter the real world. But for know, I'm just enjoying what time I have in store :)

Once again, I can't believe this company ate half a decade of my life. 

♥ Sheena V

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Easter Themed Flower Dome in 2013
Shot by Me

It's the start of a brand new month, in which we are currently on November.

I can't believe almost two months of classes have passed. It makes me nervous just thinking of it because it means I'm that much more closer to my exams. Granted my exams start next May but I can't afford to repeat modules. Like literally. Have you seen the school fees?! Mad expensive. As in the dean, or whoever is responsible, is mad.

I'm behind on my readings, though not as bad as I was last year (yeah, keep telling myself that). Doesn't help I'm taking two week-long trips in December (not complaining but it means more work piled up *cries). Scrambling behind my readings doesn't leave me much room to do anything else either.

It's been 3 weeks since my last recipe adventure. Bummer. Even Q is showing his discontent. Haha.

Whilst blogging allows me to let my creative juices out, it's also very time consuming. I don't mind it, of course. I just wish I had more time to post more because I simply have a myriad of things to share!

I know my posts have been beauty related of late, but that's only because those take up the shortest amount of time. Travel posts take up a full day because I know how stagnant pictures can be so I like to ensure that I have a short video to accompany each post. Call me a people pleaser. But help! I still have Day 3-7 of Perth undone!

Recently, I've attended a two beauty launches by NARS and Urban Decay that I wish to blog about. I also won a makeover (HAHA) and lipstick from NARS in which I thought was an "interesting" experience. I also went to the opening of Sephora's Tampines 1 outlet, complete with a funny incident.

I also wish to blog more about my BTO experience because it's something I want to remember in years to come. Though currently there's not much to show except dirt and machines. Heh. On another note, if any of you secret readers have any questions with regards to this topic, do let me know! Happy to help where I can.

I know here I am saying I'm so busy blah3 but my instagram seems as active as ever. Therefore this might be hard to believe, but I rarely ever leave the house.

For the past weeks, other than school, the launches were the only time I left home. Even then, straight home I went. My manager has also very kindly decreased my work shifts at my request coz I simply ain't got time.

You know my lip swatch pictures? Those are taken right outside my house. Hahahaha. A friend who knows where I stay, stared at me in disbelief when she knew. It's all about the lighting ;D Which inadvertently means I can only photograph between 1-3pm. Oh, the trials and tribulations. Also, if you knew what the backgrounds of my other photos were, you would probably laugh. Hahahaha.

At this moment, I only allow myself to post every Sunday, after my week's revision is done. Acts as sort of a refresher. Today is an exception because I had classes. I have this rule whereby if I've had a full day of classes, I must relax when I get home. Non-negotiable. Lol.

That being said, I'm already itching to upload another post. Oops.

I should stop while I'm ahead. Until my next one!

♥ Sheena V

PS I just remembered I have my 3rd wisdom tooth extraction next week. Damnit!

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Hi guys!

Sometime last week, I got two of my wisdom tooth removed.

Being the first amongst my circle of friends to require wisdom teeth removal, I didn't have updated information on how much it would cost hence unsure if I could afford it. Therefore, I hope this post would be useful for those in the same boat as me.

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CONSULTATION + X-RAY COST

First up, we have the consultation cost shown below;

Consultation Cost
Click to enlarge

Consultation cost has to be paid upfront. My consultation was done at National Dental Centre (NDC). It can also be done at Changi General Hospital (CGH). Slightly over a year ago, I was referred to CGH for my wisdom teeth consultation. 

Cost-wise, I'm not sure if CGH's the same as NDC. The only reason I went to the NDC the second time round was that my polyclinic dentist happened to refer me there. He didn't ask for my opinion, and I didn't protest. Although CGH would have been much more convenient for me, I'm pretty sure had I requested for CGH he would have acquiesced. 

Important note: The dentist at CGH informed me if I waited for more than 6 months after getting my X-ray done to go for removal, I might be subjected to go for another X-ray. Reason being, it is very possible that your teeth might have shifted within those few months. The dental surgeon conducts the surgery based off  the latest X-ray taken. Hence it is crucial that the latest X-ray is also recent to maximise accuracy. As shown above, an X-ray can be quite costly therefore please plan ahead. 

SURGERY: Estimated Cost

After the consultation, an appointment for the removal will be made. While that is being done, a nurse will go through the estimated cost of the extraction and/or surgery. This will be reflected in the Day Surgery Authorisation Form.

Mine is shown below;

Day Surgery Authorisation Form
Click to enlarge

For my case, "Surgical Operation" includes;
1) Simple Extraction
     - Removal of a tooth that has fully grown out.
2) Excision
     - Removal of an impacted tooth i.e. not fully grown out.

'Consumables' are basically the disposable items used for the surgery. For example, the disposable scrub hat and booties worn by the patient into the surgery as well as the sterile supplies used.

Important Note: If each wisdom tooth only requires simple extraction, Medisave cannot be used to offset the total amount.
You can only pay for an extraction via Medisave if and only if you undergo an excision during the same session.
This clause can be seen under the "Estimated Medisave Claimable Amount for Day Surgery Operation" segment of the Day Surgery Authorisation Form.

Medisave Authorisation Form
Click to enlarge

As my removal includes an excision, I opted to pay via my father's Medisave. Furthermore, although I'm utilising his Medisave, he need not be present for the operation.  

All I needed to bring was;
1) Completed Medisave Authorisation Form (approach staff on where to obtain it)
2) Photocopy of the account holder's NRIC
3) Photocopy of the witness's NRIC

SURGERY: Actual Cost (Updated: 18 Nov 2014)

About two weeks after the surgery, I received an invoice for the actual surgery cost.

Mine is shown below;

Actual Surgery Cost
Click to enlarge

As you can see, it shows that the estimate given in the Day Authorisation Surgery Form is a rather accurate.

MEDICINE

I was given;
1) 7 units of painkillers (1/day, taken when needed)
2) 2 x 250ml of mouthwash

Those amounted to $31 (as seen the invoice above).

Depending on the depth of the cut needed to make to remove an impacted tooth, patient may be required to consume a course of antibiotics.

STITCH REMOVAL

Slightly over a week after the surgery is done, I had to return to NDC again to have my stitches removed. This visit was neither free nor covered by Medisave, sadly.

The cost incurred is shown below;

Stitch Removal Cost
Click to enlarge

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Those undergoing NS, please just get it over and done with while it's free. One surgery will get you about 6 days MC.
wink wink nudge nudge

I hope this has been useful to some of you. Will write about the experience soon! I have another extraction scheduled in November :O

♥ Sheena V

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I think one of the most interesting stories one can tell, with regards to house buying, is -

"How did you tell your parents?"

Both Q and I had our fair share of discomfort when it came to sharing the news. Let's get real here. Most parents don't even take your relationship with your significant other seriously. At least mine didn't. Can't blame them though, if you know what I mean. Hahahahahaha.

For goodness sake, it was only in recent weeks that my parents stopped referring Q as my "friend". Especially my mum. She would go, "Is your friend coming tonight?" "You go out with who, your friend?" etc even though she knows fully well his name. I found it particularly amusing though. Q, not so much. Haha. To be perfectly honest, I didn't exactly discourage her. I would reply to her queries the same way i.e. "Yah my friend blah3" etc. Heh

Ok, back to the main story. When we registered our interest in applying to HDB in September 2013, there was one slight problem;

I wasn't 21 yet.

This meant that according to the rules stated here, I had to get both my parents to complete the written consent form shown below; 

Click to enlarge

The initial plan was to keep this journey to ourselves, for very least the initial stages. I'm not one to share my decision making matters with my parents. Of course I don't recommend doing that lah, it's always good to let your parents know. Am also well aware how hypocritical that sounds hahahaha. We actually thought we didn't need to. After all, our flat selection date was after my 21st. Unfortunately, a quick check with HDB verified that we indeed still needed the written consent. Meh. 

Q and I hatched a game plan. Back then, it was only November hence we still had ample time to inform my parents. We had family trip to Philippines in December in which Q was invited along to. It's his first trip with my family and he was to use that trip to bond and charm them. Devious, I know.  

The trip came and left. 

Phase 1: Success 

Next, deliver the news. 

We agreed that bringing my parents out for lunch would be the best time to ambush inform them. My family and Q have had meals together before but never just the four of us. Naturally, my mum got suspicious the moment I said we wanted to bring only the two of them out for lunch. She ain't stupid, she knew something was up.

On the day of unveiling, she refused to go out. Exasperated, we chose to get takeaway instead.

Food was bought and placed in the living room but my mum still refused to leave her room.

Only after I went to her and said Q had something to tell her did she leave her cave. Her expression was one that looked like she was prepared to slap me. It was only then that it occurred to me;

Mummy must think that I'm pregnant! 

HAHAHAHAHAHA. Sorry lah mummy, I'm just fat lah.

Q basically just blurted out that we were getting a flat and needed her to sign a form. You should have seen the wave of relief on her face hahahahahahaha. My mum then mumbled something like "okay but I'll have to let her father know first" (My dad hadn't return from work at that time but we knew the real issue would be my mum).

Operation: Success!

So basically that's the gist of my story. Hope it made you laugh!

♥ Sheena V

P.S. Guess what. When we arrived for our flat selection, the counter staff attending to us returned my written consent without a second glance. Why? Because apparently, you only need to be 21 at the point of flat selection. So future home buyers, take note yah.

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"Life will find a way" - Jurassic Park

Hey guuuuuyysss

Some of you may know I went to Perth for a short holiday. Travelled with Q and his family (a first). Am currently back home in Singapore and not adjusting too well to the heat. I kid you not, the moment we landed, my pits started to sweat. I even started to break out a little due to the lack of crisp, clean air. It was that bad. I don't know why I'm even surprised. Hahahaha.

L-R: Me, Q, Dad, Mum, Sis

So anyway, presented below is just our brief itinerary and some general information.
I'll go further in depth in posts to come.

Travel Dates: 7 to 14 September 2014
Season: End Winter / Early Spring

Flight Details
SIN/PER
SQ225/07.09.2014
0005/0515HRS

PER/SIN
SQ224/14.09.2014
0630/1155HRS

I managed to spot us a sweet deal two months beforehand for our return flights via SQ at $599.70 per pax inclusive taxes. As far for flights go, it's still a little pricey but for one of the best full cost carriers out there, not bad at all!

I would usually stick to budget carriers because fact is, I'm just a student with the occasional part time job. Hahaha. Why waste my hard earned cash just for a slight added comfort?

Unfortunately, due to our conflicting schedules, we couldn't skew our travelling dates to get much cheaper fares. Q could only go after his reservist, his sister had to finish filming for her show and I had to be back for school by 15 September. Hence for our preferred dates, budget carriers like Scoot would actually cost us the same as SQ to fly to Perth. Weird right? Especially considering the fact that they're essentially the same company. Even the much feared Malaysia Airlines costs double for our dates. I cannot emphasize enough that travellers who are on a tighter budget to always do your due research to get more bang for your buck.

Itinerary
Day 1: Cik Jumali's @ Riverton
Day 2: Fremantle
Day 3: Ferguson Farmstay
Day 4: Ferguson Farmstay
Day 5: Busselton
Day 6: Busselton
Day 7: Cik Jumali's @ Riverton
Day 8: Depart for Singapore

Our trip was 7D7N long as we had an early flight home. 7 days is by no means long enough, especially if you plan to do what we did which is to travel to different parts of Perth. Riverton and Fremantle are only 10 minutes apart by car and are located nearby Perth City. On the other hand, Ferguson and Busselton are located along south of Perth.

I would have preferred to stay at least 10 days total, like what I did for Brisbane last year. Also, my personal practice is to stay at least 3 nights at each spot, unlike the 2 we did for this trip. I highly recommend taking that route. Reason being, if you stay only 2 nights, it's as good as getting only one day of exploration. Alas, Q and his dad couldn't take more time off work.

A very important note: In Australia, most attractions and shops close at 5pm sharp. And during weekdays, most eating establishments close from 1430hrs to 1700hrs.

If you don't learn to adapt and manage your time well, you would at most be able to fit only 3 attractions in a day; 2 if the attractions are located further apart from each other. Bear in mind that we rented a car from Hertz. Taking public transport would probably only get you as far Fremantle from the airport. Not to fret, there's actually a lot to explore at Fremantle. Unfortunately we only had a day's worth there due to time constraints.

To browse rates, click here.

As mentioned, we rented a car from Hertz. Why Hertz? Coz my Aunt works there. Haha. Not that we could get a crazy discount, it was more for our convenience. If we had any doubts, I could easily contact her for clarification. Being frist time car renters,, this proved to be a useful asset. It also helped that because we were travelling so close to the NATAS fair, we could cash in on the promo they were having, which was 20% off rates. This promotion was open to everyone who attended the fair. However since my Aunt works there, we didn't have to step foot in that crazy place. Hahahaha. Will share with you how much our rental costs were below.

Amount shown including it's various components are true to what we were charged

We rented a Holden Captiva (shown below) which fit the 5 of us fine. We aren't skinny by any means. Hahaha. The boot itself is quite spacious. If you view their website, you'll find that the Captiva or similar has the biggest boot size. As quoted from the website, it can fit "two large suitcases and two small suitcases". In practise, the boot could fit one 27'' x 30" suitcase, two 21" x 18" suitcase, one 18" x 15" suitcase and an additional 15" long duffel bag. (All measurements are approximate). Pretty spacious if you ask me! Oh and always, always get maximum coverage for your car rental insurance which also covers lost luggage from the car, unless your personal travel insurance already covers that. The most unpleasant incident happened to us right before we left.

I do like to add that do check the opening hours of the location you wish to collect and return your rental car. Though we were due to arrive in Perth at 0515hrs, the Hertz airport counter is scheduled to open only at 0700hrs. However for some odd reason, the counter was already attended to when we went at around 6ish. Not gonna complain there!

One last note, before departing for any part of Australia, please ensure that you acquire a Visa. Australia is very strict with their immigration rules. Flout them and it'll be hell for you. Not the best way to start a holiday. It costs 20AUD which you can apply online here. Or if you have any travel agent friends with access to the Abacus system, they can probably do it for you for free. That's what I did. Thick skin required though.  Hahaha.

With that I shall end this post. Do check out future posts for our daily doings!

♥ Sheena V

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