Our Christmas This Year

Hubs and I didn’t do much during Christmas this year. He asked me to go along with him to church for the midnight mass on the eve. We had Texas Chicken for dinner at Jaya and then walked around until it’s almost time to head to the church.  On Christmas day, we just stayed home and as usual, I would be watching my k-drama to pass time and also did some housework.

This is the Nativity scene at the Church of Assumption.

As for missy, she and 2 of her friends stayed home and cooked on the eve as everywhere is closed. During the day, they baked white chocolate cookies

Here’s the homecooked Christmas Eve dinner for 3 of them. Her 2 other flat mates were travelling so they didn’t join them for dinner.

Then closed to midnight, they decided to bake brownies.

I guess they were busy prepping and cooking their meals. Missy has been studying at every day to prepare for her first term exam in January.

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Show Your Love with Ironpandafit’s Stylish Gym Shirts This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to express your love and appreciation for someone special in your life. While the usual traditional gifts such as flowers, chocolates, and romantic dinners are timeless, giving meaningful gift that reflects your loved one’s personality and passions can make the day even more memorable.

If your partner or friend is passionate about fitness, health, and staying active, then stylish gym apparel from Ironpandafit.com is a good choice. These gifts will show that you care about their interests. This year, surprise your loved one with a thoughtfully selected gym shirt that combines style, comfort, and motivation. Ironpandafit offers a wide range of trendy gym shirts, including women printed gym shirts, gym hoodies for women, workout shirts, and some eye-catching Gym Hooded Tank. These are perfect pieces to elevate their workout wardrobe and make a statement.

The Perfect Destination for Fitness-Inspired Fashion

Ironpandafit is a leading online retailer for fitness apparel that blends performance and style seamlessly. Their collection is designed with quality materials, innovative designs, and vibrant graphics. This will ensure that your gift stands out and makes a lasting impression. Here are some of the standout products that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day gifting

Stylish Gym Shirts for Men and Women

A classic gym shirt is essential for any workout wardrobe. Ironpandafit’s gym shirts are made from breathable fabrics that keep wearers comfortable and dry during workout. Their designs range from simple and sleek to bold and eye-catching, catering to diverse tastes. These workout shirts are a staple for any fitness enthusiast. A stylish gym shirt can inspire your loved one to feel confident and motivated, whether they’re lifting weights, running, or doing yoga.

ME and me Washed Gym Shirt

Women Printed Gym Shirts

For women who love to make a statement with their workout attire, Ironpandafit’s women printed gym shirts are the perfect gift. Featuring empowering slogans, artistic graphics, and vibrant colors, these shirts can inspire her to push her limits. The printed gym shirts combine fashion with motivation, thus making them a meaningful gift that she can wear proudly. The unique designs also stand out in the gym or during casual outings.

In My Lifting Era printed Gym Shirt

Gym Hoodies for Women

When the weather gets cooler, a cozy gym hoodie is an essential piece. Ironpandafit’s gym hoodies for women are designed for comfort and style. The high quality hoodie will keep her warm and stylish. They are perfect for warm ups before a workout or casual wear outside the gym. A high-quality hoodie can make her workout and leisure time more enjoyable.

SHE IS STRONG WASHED GYM HOODIE

Gym Hooded Tank from Ironpandafit.com

One of the most unique and stylish pieces in Ironpandafit’s collection is the Gym Hooded Tank. This hybrid piece combines the sleeveless versatility of a tank top with the added style and warmth of a hooded sweatshirt. It’s lightweight, breathable and trendy, making it perfect for active use or casual outings. It makes a great gift this Valentine’s Day as it’s functional and fashionable while making a bold style statement.

Be Kind Lift Heavy Hooded Tank

This Valentine’s Day, show your love and support by gifting a stylish apparel from Ironpandafit. Whether it’s a printed gym shirt, a cozy hoodie, a versatile workout top, or the trendy Gym Hooded Tank, these pieces offer encouragement, motivation, and appreciation for her dedication to fitness.

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Perfect Teachers Shirts for Every Educator’s Wardrobe

Teachers or educators wear many hats, from guiding students to inspiring change. As such, their wardrobe should reflect that vibrant, different identity. A great collection of teacher shirts is not only comfortable and practical, but it also offers meaningful expression, and personal pride. Brands such as TeachersGram have come out with designs that resonate deeply with teachers and educators.

Teacher shirts are more than just casual wear. They are also conversation starters, morale boosters, and even educational tools. On busy teaching days when comfort is important, a soft cotton tee with relatable messaging can make the day seems a bit brighter. Whether worn in the classroom, at school events, or while running errands, these tees help educators express humor, values, empathy, and personal style.

Classic Teacher Tee

The classic teacher t shirts are a staple in any educator’s wardrobe. They are made from breathable cotton or cotton blends, and are very comfortable. These shirts often carry fun and relatable sayings like “Teach, Inspire, Repeat” or “Coffee, Teach, Love.”  As teachers spend a lot of time on their feet to teach, interact and engage students, soft fabrics make it a world of difference for all day wear. These tees can be paired easily with jeans, skirts, or a casual blazer for a relaxed yet teacher-ready look.

Teacher Valentine Shirts

Valentine’s Day is one of those occasions where teacher shirts become part of the fun culture in schools. Instead of generic hearts and cupids, the teacher Valentine shirts can creatively mix love with learning. With designs such as hearts and books, they make the perfect gift for teacher teams during February. Teachergram’s range of teacher shirtts are cozy, inspirational and perfect for the season.

Books Full Of Love Teacher T-Shirt

Celebrate Strength With Empowered Women Shirts

One of the standout categories from TeachersGram is their empowered women shirts for teachers collection. These tees are designed to boost confidence, gender equality, and social awareness. All these are qualities that many educators embody and champion every day. Designs like “And Though She Be But Little, She Is Fierce” or “Speak Your Mind Even If Your Voice Shakes” embody strength and resilience. They resonate with teachers who uplift young minds. The bold typography, elegant fonts, and expressive designs help educators express individuality and values.

Human Rights T-Shirts: Teaching Justice Through Fashion

In a world where social justice is becoming a fundamental part of education, shirts that highlight human rights themes have become impactful. These human right t shirts reflect beliefs teachers may hold deeply, such as equality, and respect for all students regardless of background or identity. The tees from Teachersgram showcase creative typography and encourage conversations about civil rights and social justice. Such shirts help educators to communicate personal values and also support inclusive classrooms where all students feel represented and valued.

Whether it’s a funny statement for daily wear, a festive Valentine’s design, an empowered women tee that celebrates strength, or a human rights t-shirt that sparks conversation, these shirts from Teachersgram help educators communicate who they are and what they stand for.

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Celebrating Winter Solstice Festival

Yesterday was Dongzhi or Winter Solstice Festival. It’s a celebration of unity and togetherness. Every year, my mom would roll the colorful glutinuous rice balls (tang yuan) and cook them in sugar syrup if she’s in KL. Ashley and I would help her with the rolling of the tang yuan. Ashley enjoyed it very much as she would make all sorts of funny round shapes and then laughed about them.

I bought some frozen ones from the market and cooked them for praying at the altar and hubs ate some too.

A few days earlier, I have reminded Ashley of this festival and asked her to check out the Asian grocer near her home for these rice balls. I told her what she needed and how to cook them. She said she will get them and cook for her friends too. She found frozen rice balls and mochi, and also frozen pandan leaves.

She sent me a photo of the tang yuan she cooked yesterday. This is her first time cooking and having glutinuous rice balls away from home. Not too bad *chuckle*. Am not sure what are those little round balls. Haven’t got a chance to chat with her. She’s always busy or in a hurry. As I’m typing this, she’s already on her way to Liverpool with her friends.

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Collecting Memories One Trip At A Time

Ashley’s time in the UK has turned into more than just for studies. It has become a beautiful adventure filled with discovery, friendship, and unforgettable memories. Now that she is there, she has quickly embraced every opportunity to explore whenever time permits.

Travelling has become something that she truly loves. With limited time in the UK, she wants to see the world as much as she can before she comes home. So far, she has travelled to Manchester and Vatican City with her close friends. Each trip is filled with unforgettable moments, learning and laughter that will stay with her forever.

With her friend in Manchester

Colosseum in Rome

Piazza de Trevi

What makes these trips even more special is the way the girls plan them together. They would come up with the itineraries, scour the internet for affordable accommodation, and hunt for the cheapest flight, bus, and train tickets. To save money, they walk whenever possible instead of taking taxis or subway trains. I think this is great as the walks allow them to truly soak in the sights and atmosphere of each city.

Right now, Ashley and her friend are enjoying her time in London. She wants to see the  magical Christmas decorations that light up the city and make the winter season feel extra special. The festive vibe added another joy to her UK experience. Now, she can’t wait for snow to fall.  The girls are already planning a trip to Liverpool later this month.

Ashley and her friends also had hopes of traveling to Germany in January, but because it’s there’s exam during that month, she’s decided to postpone the trip. After all, exams come first, and she can always travel later. Besides, January is the coldest winter month so it’s better that she explore when it’s warmer.

Seeing Ashley explore the world, grow more independent, and embrace new cultures brings so much happiness. This chapter of her life is a great adventure. It is shaping her in ways that are far beyond the classroom. My only wish for her is that she studies hard, stays safe, and remains happy always.

Here are some photos taken in London.

Tower Bridge in London

London Eye

Covent Garden at night

Spotted a cute pelican. Maybe this was in St. James Park.

Chinatown in London

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My Shopping Loots In Seoul

This time around, I didn’t seem to shop a lot in Seoul compared to the trip I went with my sisters. Being autumn season, I couldn’t find any suitable clothes or shoes too. Missy also gave me a list of things to buy for her but I only managed to find some.

So I thought I would have spent less for this trip but actually I think I spent more. Not sure what spent on though and I didn’t keep track of the finances too. Here are some of the shopping loots from Seoul.

Missy wanted something that’s Y2K style and I saw this bag at Shopen in Hongdae. It looks kinda like Y2K bag so I bought it. The bag is really soft and is in off-white shade.

Shopping loot from Lotte Shopping Mall. This basket consists of my favourite HBAF wasabi almonds, Zero chocolate balls and the rest are souvenirs like Market O brownies and pre-packaged hotteok (Korean sweet pancake) and more.

So I saw all kinds of nuts being sold at Gyeongdong Market and since I love snacking on pumpkin seeds, I bought a 1 kg bag that cost 8000 won. Still cheaper than buying here but it was pretty heavy to lug around with other shopping loots.

Bought Miffy keychain and socks for Missy. Also a name tag holder from Hello Kitty Cafe in Myeongdong.

We walked past a handmade leather bag shop in Bukchon and this was the first bag I saw and liked. Was contemplating if I should get it but my friends said I should or else I would be thinking about it and we won’t be going back to that shop later. So it’s now in my house.

This is a packet of the instant broth tablet anchovy flavour that my friend recommended. She cooks the soup using this and it’s flavourful. I have yet to cook with it. The other one is the Maxim sugar-free instant coffee. I thought it’s just coffee and creamer but it has stevia and the coffee tasted very sweet. Not my kind of coffee so I gave it to hubs.

These are my favourite Korean soybean paste stew sauce / Korean tofu stew sauce. I love cooking my sundubu jiggae with these pastes. They are available here but cheaper in Seoul.

Besides the above, I also bought some beauty products like Missha eyeliners, lip tints, hand lotions, face cream, a pair of white wide-legged pants and a pair of Blue Elephant sunglasses.

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Gifts for Book Lovers from Pagewings

If you’re on the lookout for the perfect gift for avid readers and literary enthusiasts, you’d know that it can be both exciting and challenging. Luckily, Pagewings.com, an online retailer has a range of thoughtfully designed apparel and merchandise that celebrate the love of reading in style.

Whether it’s a cozy sweatshirt, a quirky library merch, or eye-catching bookish accessories, Pagewings has something that will delight every book lover. Let’s check out its fantastic collection and discover some of the best gifts you can give from Pagewings.

This online retailer specializes in creating apparel that showcases a love for books and also allows readers to express their identity. From casual t-shirts to cozy sweatshirts, their collection is perfect for every occasion, whether it’s lounging at home, visiting the library, or attending a book club meeting.

Library Shirts & Book Lover Shirts

Show off your passion with Pagewings’ library shirts. Made with comfort and style in mind, these shirts feature classic library motifs or witty slogans that appeal to those who love books. The book lover shirt is perfect for those who want to wear their passion on their sleeve. Whether it’s a funny graphic or a clever quote about reading, these shirts make great gifts for any book enthusiast.

Book Club Shirts

The book club shirt collection often feature fun sayings like “Cool Mums Book Club” or “What Happens At Book Club Stays At Book Club,” that foster togetherness among friends and fellow book lovers. They’re perfect for book club meetings, casual outings, or as a gift to encourage others to join the reading fun.

Book Lover Sweatshirts & Crop Sweatshirts

Nothing beats a cozy book lover sweatshirt when the weather turns chilly. These sweatshirts are not just warm and comfortable, they are also stylish. Often featuring literary quotes or book-themed graphics, they also make excellent gift. For those who prefer something shorter, there are also book lover crop sweatshirt style available that adds a trendy twist, and are perfect for younger readers.

Library and Bookish Merch to Celebrate Reading

Apart from apparel, Pagewings offers a variety of library merchandise that appeals to enthusiasts and gift-givers alike.

Reading Rainbow Hoodie

One standout piece is the Reading Rainbow hoodie that plays tribute to the beloved children’s TV show which fostered a love of reading. With bright colors and nostalgic imagery, this hoodie is ideal for readers of all ages who want to carry a piece of this TV show with them.

Banned Books Shirts & Sweatshirts

To celebrate literary freedom, Pagewings’ range of banned books shirts and banned books sweatshirts are a statement. These designs often feature titles that have faced censorship. The shirts and banned books sweatshirts make meaningful gifts for activists, educators, or anyone who’s passionate about advocating for freedom to read.

Cardigan Donuts & Ugly Sweater Cardigan

For those who want to show off their passion in a fun and unique way, Pagewings has a range of funny and ugly sweater cardigans for a touch of humor. The cardigan donuts are playful, cozy, and perfect for layering during chilly days.

When paired with a book-themed t-shirt, these ugly sweater cardigan takes the holiday cheer to another level.

Pagewings’s collection of bookish shirts, cardigans and hoodies are available in a wide range of designs, from minimalist graphics to witty quotes. They are versatile and expressive, making them the perfect gifts for casual readers, students, educators or anyone who appreciates a good book.

Explore their full range today and give a gift the inspire, comfort and delight every book enthusiasts out there.

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The Funniest Maturelion Christmas Apparels That Will Have You Laughing All The Way

There is no other season than the holiday season to show off your personality, spread cheer, and share a good laugh. If you’re someone who loves humor and bold statements, Maturelion has an incredible collection of Christmas apparel that will have everyone smiling or even laughing all the way. From men’s clothes like funny gun shirts to vintage henley shirt, caps, and holiday-themed apparel, there’s something for every fun-loving spirit.

Let’s check out some of the funniest and most unique Christmas apparel from Maturelion that will definitely turn heads and spark conversations!

Funny Men’s Clothes That Make a Statement

When it comes to holiday humor, nothing beats a witty or hilarious shirt or sweatshirt. Maturelion offers a variety of funny men’s clothes that are great for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or just looking to spread some holiday cheer.

Funny Henley Shirts and Funny Henley Shirts for Men

These funny Henley shirts are comfortable to wear and humorous too. They often feature witty slogans or quirky designs that are perfect for casual holiday outings. The vintage vibe of the henley shirts for men add a stylish touch to the fun.

Funny Sweatshirts

Cozy and hilarious, these funny men sweatshirts often sport humorous graphics or slogans like “Bah Humbug” or cheeky holiday puns that will make everyone chuckle.

Humorous Tees and Shirts with a Twist

Some of the most popular items from Maturelion include funny text shirts and funny gun shirts that’s ideal for those who like bold humor and a little bit of rebellious.

  • F Caw F Shirt & WKRP Turkey Drop Shirt are classic tees reference memorable moments from pop culture and comedy, reimagined with a holiday twist. For instance, a F Caw F shirt can be a hilarious way to add some humor to your Christmas wardrobe, especially if you love making statements.
  • USMC Hoodie ar DD 214 T Shirt are perfect for military enthusiasts or proud veterans. These apparel pieces incorporate patriotism with some humour, making them perfect for Christmas gift-giving or casual holiday wear.

    With the Marine Corps Apparel, you can show your pride and humor, making your holiday attire stand out.

    Caps and Accessories That Bring the Fun

    No outfit is complete without accessories. Maturelion has a range of funny caps that are perfect for adding a light-hearted touch to your holiday look. Whether it’s a cap with a funny slogan or a vintage design, these accessories are sure to get smiles.

    Holiday-Inspired Hawaiian Shirts 

    The funny Hawaiian shirts, especially, add a tropical, lighthearted feel to the holiday season. They are best for Christmas in warm climates or holiday parties with a relaxed vibe.

    For this Christmas, say goodbye to boring outfits and gear up with Maturelion’s range of apparel and accessories that will guarantee a good laugh.

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    My Comfort Food in Seoul

    Before I went into the world of K-drama, I didn’t know much about Korean food. In fact, when I first went to Seoul (pre-kdrama days), I couldn’t understand why Koreans love kimchi. I thought their food was boring because all they only eat kimchi, fried meat and spicy food.  How wrong I was. After I was hooked onto k-dramas, I began to love their food. My favourites are sundubue jiggae, kimchi jiggae, Korean fried chicken, korean BBQ and their banchans.

    During my recent trip, my friend brought me to different restaurants to have some of the freshest and best food from Korea. I actually ate carbs! Can you believe it? So I tried the famous Jayeondo salt bread that has a branch near the airbnb that we were staying which is in Hongdae.

    It was so fluffy soft and it’s like biting into clouds. The bread was buttery with a tinge of saltiness. Heaven!

    On the first day, we had lunch at Grandma’s Recipe restaurant in Seongsu. My friend actually did some research to find out where to eat and she recommended this cafe-like modern restaurant. The menu features comfort food that the Koreas usually associate with such as beef bone soup, bulgogi, spicy pork, grilled fish and more. Grandma’s Recipe is in the 2018 Michelin Guide Seoul.

    I had the Spicy Pork Set Menu which came with rice, soup, banchan and sweet pumpkin paste. Served together with my set are the jeotgal which consist of pollock roe, pollock intestines and baby octopus. The server taught me how to eat the spicy pork and that’s to it with perilla leaves, add in some rice and the pollack intestine.  Yums! The meal was really good. The food is simple, comforting and well-seasoned, just like a homecooked meal.

    We all left the restaurant with our bellies full and happy hearts.

    Below are some of the delicious food that we had in Seoul. We wanted to try Tosokchon Samgyetang near the Gyeongbokgung Palace but the queue was very long. So we walked around to look for other food to eat and stumbled upon this Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup restaurant (Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang) that’s located at the entrance to Bukchon Hanok Village. They serve naturally raised chicken with ingredients such as ginseng, jujube, ginko, glutinuos rice and more. The chicken comes in each individual pot. We ordered two different types of samgyetang and a plate of fried chicken. Again the soup was so comforting. Ginseng must be heaty for my body as I developed ulcers in my mouth the next day, but no regrets!

    We had fish stew, stir fried cuttlefish and vegetables at Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market.

    Another nourishing meal – Gukbap (pork bone soup with rice)

    The meal comes with unlimited banchan

    Street food at Namdaemun. I love the Eomuk (fish cakes)

    Sundubue jiggae (beancurd and seafood stew with hot bean paste) in the food court inside Lotte World Department Store.

    Grilled mackerel set that we share.

    My tummy is growling as I type this post. I so miss all the food I had there.

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    Life skills

    Ashley and her friends have been cooking their meals daily and they aren’t saving money. They are actually learning life skills that will serve them long after they have graduated. Meal planning, budgeting, cooking, and not forgetting, teamwork are all part of their daily routine.  Am glad that with a little planning and a lot of heart, they’re making the most of their university year in the UK, both in the kitchen and out in the world.

    Sometimes she would share with us photos of the food that she and her friends have cooked for either lunch or dinner. Here are some of them.

    Fried rice

    Ramen with tofu and mushrooms

    Japanese curry rice

    Another meal of fried rice

    Tomato Pasta

    They even bring their bento boxes out with them when they go to the city center so they can save some money. I can see that they ordered some drinks from the restaurant. I am surprised that they were allowed to eat outside food while seating in the restaurant.

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