ART & CRAFT

Multi gemstone bracelet

2011-08-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

Starry starry night

2011-08-01T06:27:00.000-07:00

Can't decide what to do with this. Should it be a pendant or a charm?

The Black Beauty

2011-07-22T06:25:00.000-07:00

Flower gemstone necklace

2011-07-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

Multi gemstone necklace

2011-07-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

Multi gemstone necklace

2011-07-08T06:19:00.000-07:00

Leaf with broken stones necklace

2011-07-04T06:17:00.001-07:00

PEARL RING

2011-07-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

A handmade beautiful pearl ring with a bling bling centrepiece.

BEADED TIARA

2011-02-07T04:11:00.001-08:00

Made a beaded tiara for my girl's birthday party. I think it's beautiful. Unfortunately she forgot to wear it when she cut the cake.

Beaded belt

2010-12-31T03:08:00.000-08:00

Did a new beaded belt. It will brighten up a simple dress.

HOLIDAY AT PORT DICKSON

2010-12-18T01:05:00.000-08:00

Went to Port Dickson and book at 3D2N stay at International Water Legend Hotel. Nice hotel for relaxation. Good for those who truly want to stay in the hotel to relax only. The buffet breakfast and buffet dinner is surprisingly good and value for money. However, not much places to visit in PD. We went to a Pasar Malam, the stuff are the same which you can find in S'pore night market but it's packed with people cos there is no shopping there, so its a big deal to the locals. We also went to Ostrich Farm, got to pay R8 for adult and R4 for children. It's a very small farm and full of mosquitoes. Not worth to go. Some photos of the hotel.

FLEA MARKET

2010-10-10T01:54:00.001-07:00

Tried setting another stall in flea market. Failed cos there is no crowd and not the right target audience. However, taken picture of the stall as remembrance.

HANDPHONE CHARMS

2010-10-10T01:50:00.000-07:00

Made some handphone charms with words like "love", "peace", "joy" for X'mas presents.

PURPLE SNOWFLAKE PENDANT

2010-06-06T23:37:00.000-07:00

SWAROSKI SIDE LONG NECKLACE

2010-06-02T23:34:00.000-07:00

CRYSTAL PEARL

2010-05-28T23:30:00.000-07:00

This string of crystal pearl looks so sweet and unique. Very simple but look great when worn on.

BLUE STAR EARRING

2010-05-21T23:13:00.000-07:00

Looks like a very simple earring but took me a lot of time to do. It's rather small, so rather difficult to handle it.

BOXY RED RING

2010-05-21T23:05:00.000-07:00

THE BOX

2010-03-05T01:01:00.000-08:00

This pendant looks like a rectangular box. I thought it looks unique cos you don't get to see this design being sold outside.

Ferry Wheel

2010-02-28T00:54:00.000-08:00

This is a long necklace which you can wear any way that you like. I called it the ferry wheel because the 2 pendant look like ferry wheel.

My love

2010-02-14T00:57:00.000-08:00

Today is Valentine's Day, so this heart shape necklace is very suitable for wearing on this day. Very simple yet classy.

THE TRIPLETS

2010-02-07T00:50:00.000-08:00

Made this necklace which I named The triplets cos there are 3 flowers formed as the centrepiece. Sweet and dainty.

MORE EARRINGS

2009-12-30T00:08:00.000-08:00

Pictures of more handmade earrings.

FLAT SQUARE NECKLACE

2009-12-27T00:05:00.000-08:00

I like this flat square necklace very much. However, will be giving it away as a present. Now I got to look out for such flat face beads to make another necklace for myself.

BLUE BRACELET

2009-12-24T00:03:00.000-08:00

Made this blue bracelet for a rather elegant colleague. I think it suits her as the bracelet is very simple and can be worn casually.

FINGER RINGS

2009-12-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

First time tried to make finger rings, one in bunches of pearl and the other one using purple bead.

FROGGIE

2009-12-19T23:52:00.000-08:00

The little frog made of green seed beads and I strung it as a handphone accessory.

RED FLOWER BROOCH

2009-12-19T23:47:00.000-08:00

Long time no new project. The coming X'mas season is a good time for me to make some handmade accessories for friends. I will be posting the projects in the next few days.

This one is all made of red seed beads. First time that I tried doing a brooch, so may not be perfect.

Crystal snowflake

2009-10-03T02:31:00.000-07:00

This latest addition is a crystal snowflake pendant. It should look stunning when worn with a wide neckline dress.

D'Kranji Farm Resort

2009-09-23T08:04:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, me and hubby brought the kids to the farm. While driving around the farm, decided that we go to the only farm chalet in Singapore at Lim Chu Kang. Fortunately we were there. The farm is really beautiful. The farm is full of fruit trees. There are bananas, pomeloes, chillies, dragon fruits, brinjals, lemons, cherry tomatoes, and so on. So so interesting. I was in fact more excited than the kids when admiring all these beautiful fruit trees. It was even more interesting than Desaru fruit farm. The chalets look clean and new but I don't really see people staying there. Many shops are not opened yet though. However the farm looks very neat. The rental of the chalet is pretty expensive at about $300+ for one night stay, so may not be too worth it, since the place does not have much activities except the plots of fruit trees. It will be ideal if you just want full relaxation there only. There is a spa, a restaurant, and a few shops. I'll think it will be better to just go there to see the fruit farm instead. Unfortunately, I didn't take any photos. I hope to go back again and to take more pictures.

TUTORIAL ON DRAWSTRING POUCH

2009-09-08T07:51:00.000-07:00

A very simple project to make a drawstring pouch. Do try the tutorial at Tooth Fairy Bag Project Journal.

FELTED HAIR TIE

2009-09-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

This free tutorial on how to make felted hair tie is so cute and easy to make. I intend to make some for my little girl who loves to tie her hair with pretty hair accessories. Do look at the tutorial for the project>>>>http://vlijtig.blogspot.com/2009/02/felt-hair-tie-tutorial.html.

DOMO

2009-09-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

My son asked me to make him a domo. I've seen it on sale in many places and they are not cheap. Looking at the toy, it seems easy to make. I used felt to sew the domo toy and my boy played for a couple of days, so the material came off a little.

PAPER FLOWERS

2009-09-03T07:48:00.001-07:00

I've also done some paper flower for Teachers' Day.

EARRINGS FOR TEACHERS' DAY

2009-08-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

Teachers' Day is coming. Decided to make some little handmade gifts for my kids' teachers to show appreciation. These earrings are made but still not decided which teachers to be given to. I think they look decent enough for teachers to wear.

FABRIC PENCIL CASE

2009-08-28T07:22:00.000-07:00

My second girl simply loves pencil cases after pencil cases. She collects them and changes them whenever she has the mood. Just like how some ladies love to change handbags. I made her a pencil case. This is one pencil case but sewn different pictures on both sides. She loves it and I think she's proud to show to her friends and teachers, especially this pencil case with her name sewn on. She loves the cupcake, donut and lollipop.

RABBIT FELT PURSE

2009-08-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

Another felt craft which I made for my daughter. Her wallet was spoilt, so I decided to make her a purse instead. Save money and yet very personalised for her. Her friends were impressed and commented the purse looked striking and pretty.

Miniature bag

2009-08-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

Another miniature bag that I made. This bag looks more for career women to carry, albeit a mini "woman". Used my girl's barbie doll to carry the bag. So cute!

Cherry drawstring pouch

2009-08-09T23:21:00.000-07:00

Made myself a drawstring pouch to store my handphone. I rather like this as it was well done after trying a few projects before. I've cut out felt for the cherry and leaves and then using embroidery thread to sew on them all on with the stem.

Drawstring pouches

2009-08-09T00:06:00.000-07:00

Recently I've borrowed a craft book from the library on hand sewn craft. The craft seems so interesting and practical. I made a tissue holder and a drawstring pouch for my daughter and one drawstring pouch for her friend. I still intend to make more for gifts and myself too. Photos below are some of the first sewing I've done. Not too well done but should be able to get better with practice.

White bag/Black bag

2009-06-21T00:22:00.000-07:00

I have made 2 miniature bags, one in white and one in black. A little girlfriend of my girl is really keen to have one of these bags, so I specially made for her. Unfortunately, my little girls are not keen of these, they are just too tomboyish to keep such things. Which one is prettier?

Chinese knot necklace

2009-06-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

Borrowed some books on Chinese knots and I've made a very simple necklace. It looks traditional yet trendy. It's best worn on simple clothing and the necklace shines from there. I will definitely try more such projects.

Star penguin

2009-06-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Another keychain using wire and seed beads again. It's the star penguin. That's my daughter's favourite shape.

Betty Boob

2009-06-06T21:27:00.000-07:00

Long time no new project. Very busy with lots of things. However, manage to do a keychain of Betty Boob. This is using wire and string with seed beads. Looks so cute, right? Intend to do more and give away as X'mas presents.

Ribbon necklaces

2009-04-17T23:33:00.000-07:00

A friend requested me to make a ribbon necklace for her and her daughter to wear. This piece can be worn by a young teen and a sexy mom. After doing it, I did one for myself. See the different effect of the pendents using different colours.

Trapeze

2009-04-17T23:04:00.000-07:00

Recently plucked up my courage to do a trapeze in mid air. It was organised by my workplace. Well rather surprised with my own gut and after doing it, didn't think it was too difficult. I'm just glad that I tried it and experienced this.

Classy pearl necklace

2009-02-11T06:08:00.000-08:00

This classy pearl necklace is suitable for function or wedding. I used wire to string them up and it's pretty heavy to wear.

Miss Sunshine

2009-02-04T06:05:00.000-08:00

I called this pair of earrings Miss Sunshine as it reminds me of cheerfulness with the bright colours, especially the orange. It's a nice pair of danglers.

Drawing and painting website

2009-02-02T06:47:00.000-08:00

I am interested in taking up caricature drawing, so I came across this website about different types of drawings. The info is pretty interesting and I would like to share with readers about this resource. Do check it out if you are keen in drawing.
http://www.allcrafts.net/drawpaint.htm

Lavender earrings

2009-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Recently I have decided to do more earrings as I have become lazier in wearing necklaces. This pair is made with wire.

Lunar New Year Paper flowers

2009-01-17T05:58:00.000-08:00

This Lunar New Year, I have made some paper flowers for my home. I made bamboo shoots, with roses and pussywillows. It looks very traditional. I took 2 photos but using digitalised it with different background colours and they turn out to look like Chinese brush painting.

Miniature bag

2008-12-21T23:57:00.000-08:00

Such a cute little bag. Doesn't have much use except for a barbie doll. Can also use it to hang on real bag.

Pearlcross

2008-12-13T23:51:00.001-08:00

Another creation using pearls.

My Display Box

2008-12-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

I was offered a display box at Downtown East to display my handmade beaded necklaces. It's pretty exciting as I have a space to display my own pieces. Well I won't be able to earn much but it's the thrill to show off. I have just set it up yesterday and also taken some photos. The boxes are at Level 4, near to the cinema. Do pop down if you are free.

The Bread for Life Diet

2008-12-01T03:19:00.000-08:00

I've read this book "The Bread for Life Diet" written by Olga Raz, R.D. The book is very interesting as it recommends eating bread to a healthier body. I have tried for a couple of weeks and noticed my weight did drop a little. Now, I have problem losing weight despite exercising 4 to 5 times a week. I also do not eat that much. So I suspect it's really genetic because my family members are of about the same size. But I am rather particular about keeping fit and healthy, so I think this diet is rather good. Let me summarise what's the book about and if you are interested, do read it up.

Principles of the Bread for Life Diet
1) Eat plenty of bread & other complex carbohydrates
2) Eat frequently - complex carbo every 3 to 4 hrs
3) Never skip a meal
4) Make meals small
5) Drink plenty of fluids
6) Do some physical activities
7) Take the right supplements - multivitamins & calcium
8) Take Take out

3 major categories of food
1) Recommended, unlimited (eg vegetables)
2) Recommended, limied (eg bread, fruits)
3) Not recommended (eg processed foods, high fat red meat, fats, sweets)

General guidelines
1) Bread every day - choose whole grain
2) Sandwich variety - single thin layer of just anything except sweet spreads (and butter or margarine); eg cheese spread (fat free/light cheese), canned or smoked tuna/sardines/salmon
3) Thin is In - spread must be very thin and contain only 1 type of spread
4) Pile on the vegetables
5) Preparation makes a difference - fresh, boiled, grilled, steamed, stir fired in small amount of canola or olive oil; avoid cutting vegetables before eating or cooking
6) Fruits in moderation
7) Meat, poultry and fish are welcomed
8) No bread with protein meals
9) Eggs any style
10) Dairy products - do not exceed 8 ounces of milk a day, substitute soy milk for dairy milk, other dairy foods are permissible if they contain no more than 5% fat or 1.4g of fat per ounce (28g)
11) Oils are a must - consume 2 to 3 tbs of olive or canola oil a day
12) Some fats are out - eg margarine
13) Eat all day - 3 to 4 hrs
14) Eat at night - if hungry
15) Lots of fluids
16) Caffeine is ok - black tea and green tea

Some of the recommendations are logical but some are not. So you have to decide for yourself which one to follow.

Sushi Papercraft

2008-11-24T05:39:00.000-08:00

More papercraft project done with my girl. This is a sushi set. Does it look real? Wow, you will surely get addicted doing the craft work.

Papercraft project

2008-11-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

More papercraft project printed from Japanese Papercraft. This is a toy cum tibits store. My 2nd daughter and myself did this. She helped to colour while I folded. A bit crude but nice job for the kid.

White bear

2008-11-19T09:20:00.000-08:00

I've made this white bear for my little boy. Went to source for the material at a craft shop and also purchased the eyes. For the nose, I used some leftover felt material to sew over it. The shirt is actually an unwanted X'mas hat left from last year. The total cost is only about $3. Will be teaching my elder daughter to do it for the school holiday project.

Bento set papercraft

2008-11-17T21:12:00.000-08:00

The school vacation has started. To keep the children occupied, I have sourced for Japanese papercraft for them to do. We have done a few, most of the time, is I do for them. Look at this paper benta craft. How's it? Beautiful right?

Dazzle eye

2008-11-15T00:37:00.000-08:00

This piece has a focused purple bead. It looks very victorian.

Paperdoll papercraft

2008-11-09T05:24:00.000-08:00

The school vacation is coming soon. To have some activities for the kids to get involved and yet do not have to spend money, I suggest parents try to go into this website to print papercraft dollhouse for their kids to do. I do not have a colour printer, but I printed the papercraft on recycled card and get the kids to colour on them. They do not turn out that nice as compared to colour printer printout, but it's the effort of the kids. I then help them to cut and fold. We have done halfway and surprisingly I am really interested in completing the project. Once complete, I'll post in the blog for everyone to see. Do try the craft as it is a very good bonding activity with your kids and yet does not incur high cost.
http://paper.sanwasupply.co.jp/craft/dollhouse/index.html

Brooch

2008-11-07T00:19:00.000-08:00

First time I tried making a brooch from a design found in a book. This is made with coloured wires. Well, I thought it looks unique.

Choker

2008-11-04T00:14:00.000-08:00

Using swaroski beads and black seed beads, I have strung this choker. It looks stunning when worn at night.

Blue leaf Beaded necklace

2008-11-01T23:49:00.000-07:00

Recently completed this wire beaded necklaces which I have listed in my blogshop for sale. I list it here again to show others who like to look at it.

How to clean swarovski jewellery

2008-10-11T06:59:00.000-07:00

I saw this article from Simply Beads on the tips for cleaning swarovski jewellery. I put in here to share with everyone and to also remind myself of the tips when I need to do the cleaning.

Q. What product do you recommend for cleaning Swarovski® jewelry? After a while the bracelet will accumulate a bit of the oils produced by the skin. What do you recommend for cleaning the crystal without harming the crystal?

A. Swarovski® recommends washing your crystals in a bath of lukewarm water combined with a small amount of a mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid. You can use a soft, natural bristle brush if you'd like. Rinse under running water. Dry with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth while wearing cotton gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints. Do not wash the Swarovski® simulated pearls -- these should be buffed with a soft dry cloth.

Some designers advocate using alcohol-based baby wipes, window cleaners or windshield fluid to cut through body oils and restore sparkle. Swarovski® strongly recommends avoiding sonic cleaners, boiling water or jewelry cleaners for cleaning montees, cupchains and headpins. Jewelry cleaners contain ammonia or alcohol which damages the plating on these components.

For polishing other components in the piece, experiment with a variety of cleaning and polishing cloths to determine which best meets your cleaning or polishing needs.

Dragonfly

2008-10-07T02:12:00.000-07:00

I have got to give credit to Beadjewellery.com which shared the design of this dragonfly. I've made 2, one was given to my boy and one for my own keeping. It's simple to make and looks cute too.

The Regal

2008-10-05T06:41:00.000-07:00

I have done this piece of very Japanese kind of necklace, using irregular stone beads and strung with a red centrepiece. It's called "ma nao" in Chinese. Looks very "princess" like, and should be very suitable to be worn with evening gown.

Beaded necklace

2008-10-02T06:34:00.000-07:00

I have made this piece as a farewell present for a colleague. The design is pretty youngish and a little weird but I feel it suits her, although she is a very decent and mature young lady. Hope she likes it though. I want to wish her all the best in her new job.

Shape Run 2008

2008-07-31T07:39:00.000-07:00

This is the 2nd marathon I have joined. The 1st one was in 2007 Oct under Great Eastern Run. That time the run was only for 5km and it was called a fun run. This year, I've decided to try the 10km run. I am pretty happy that I could complete the run in 1 hr 26 mins and my position is 2045 out of 3232 participants. The great thing is I am under veteran group which only comprised of 15% of the total 8000 participants. Not bad for an old lady like me. The next one I'm looking forward to challenge myself is the Standard Chartered 10km run.

Virtual hairstyle

2008-07-21T22:14:00.000-07:00

I came across this website. So cute, can try virtual hairstyle. So before you plan to change your hairstyle, try the different hairstyles and see which one is most suitable for you. The address is : http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style/makeover/

Book Review

2008-07-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Title of book : The Great Escape : The 10 secrets to loving your life and living your dreams by Geoff Thompson

Today, want to share with you about this book. This is a very interesting motivational book. I jotted down some of the more interesting points to remind myself. If you are free, read it and it will help to open our minds.

1) The Power of Intention

Write down your intention, write down the consequences of having what you want at the same time be aware of the cost. If you want something, make sure that you are prepared for the cost and then if you are still sure, intend it to happen. If you don't know what you want, then ask, and leave all avenues open for the reply.

2) The Power of Goals

Set your goals, write them down and be clear that you are prepared to pay the price. Never mistake activities for progress. Set a goal that is high enough.

3) The Power of Asking

Ask but make sure you include all the alternatives because you tend to get what you ask for. You need a reason why you want it.

4) The Power of Reason

Make sure you have a good reason for wanting your goal. Make them strong, moral and if possible multiple.

5) The Power of Happiness

6) The Power of Thought

Our thoughts create our world. If our thoughts are negative and limiting, our world becomes a mirror image. Pray to any religion. Contemplate, pick a subject and spend 15 mins or whatever you can manage and contemplate its purpose, debate the subject back and forward in our mind. Reading but stick to empowering, educational and motivational works. Abstinence from certain thoughts, deeds, foods, negative thinking.

7) The Power of Inspiration - Power of books

8) The Power of Balance - listen to your body

9) The Power of Tithing - art of giving, art of charity

10) The Power of Now - do not have excuses, do not blame others

Starburst

2008-07-18T22:52:00.000-07:00

This design is copied from a book. It's called Starburst. This is the 1st time I used nymo thread to string up with seed beads and swaroski beads.

Free Primary School Worksheets

2008-07-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

Tests and exams are coming for the kids. Found more worksheets at Primary School levels for the kids to practice on. At least help to save some money for parents since inflation is getting higher. Do remember to print on recycled paper to save the environment though.
The website is : http://www.tut-world.com/index.html

Wire necklace : The victorian lady

2008-07-04T23:01:00.000-07:00

Another variation of wire necklace. This time I've twisted the wire in an abstract way and hang on some dangling beads to make it more feminine. I'll name it the Victorian lady.

Canon 3D Papercraft

2008-06-24T07:11:00.000-07:00

My girl recommended me this website as she is currently doing a project with her friend. They are making paper town with houses, cars, track, etc. I have also printed out and folded the papercraft. Very interesting and they will look excellent in colours. This craft will interest kids especially when free during the holidays. Now only problem is what to do with the craft after completion? The website is http://cp.c-ij.com/english/3D-papercraft/index.html

Free Primary School Educational Materials

2008-06-22T07:08:00.000-07:00

Another website with free test papers for Primary School levels, http://www.oldschool.com.sg/index.php/module/CustomersPub/action/Default

The revolving planet

2008-06-21T23:51:00.001-07:00

This design is inspired by the revolving planets. I have used tiger eye beads and the whole necklace is handmade using wire wrapping. Posted 2 photos of the same item on different colour background to see the effects.

Free Primary School Assessment Papers

2008-06-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Came across this website that offers free worksheets at Primary School levels. Instead of buying and spending more money on assessment books, parents can download some of these worksheets for their children to do. They are quite good. You can select to print from Primary 1 to 6 level. The website is ttp://www.yestuition.sg/FreePaper_P1.php.

Image Processing Utilities

2008-06-10T08:48:00.000-07:00

I came across this free software called Image Processing Utilities. It is very useful if you want to use it to processs digital photos into sketch, charcoal drawing, etc. I have done my kids photo in sketch at the left side of the blog. Do try it out at http://sporkforge.com/imaging/index.php.

Experience at Flea market

2008-06-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

On 7 & 8 Jun 08, for the first time in my life, I went to set up a booth to sell my handmade jewellery at the flea market. The objectives are to test the demand for my work, have the kids to join in the fun, and to fulfil my wish to try out flea market. It's a total failure in sales (zero sales for 16 hrs of waiting) but on the positive side, I learnt a lot from the experience. Maybe it's a good thing to share the mistakes I made with those newbies who are keen to sell stuff in the flea market.

1) Location and Target Audience

Really, we must always recee the place. I did not do such preparation by looking at the location and the target audience. I was very impulsive and just wanted to kickstart the activity since I've already told myself a long time ago that I would like to try out the experience. Suddenly the opportunity arose, so I quickly grabbed it by renting the booth for 2 days. Phew, luckily not too expensive. While there, I realised the customers are really the high brow arty farty kind of people. So my stuff do not appeal to them. Those sellers, especially those who sell jewellery have very queer and quirky designs which will never appeal to me but probably are popular with the crowd there. Moreover the number of people turned out for the 2 days were really few. Just wonder why there were repeated sellers at that place as I am skeptical they can earn much. I believe some of them may be just publicising their projects only.

2) Lack of preparation in visual display

I looked around all the stalls and I can tell you all of them were so professionally done and presented so attractively. Mine was the worst, so kiddish and amateurish! On the 1st day, I just poured out all my 100 pieces and laid them haphazardly on the table. Moreover, I displayed the price tag as though I was in the pasar malam. Really looked so funny and cheap. Look at the photos and you'll know what I mean. Luckily, my hubby came and told me to remove most of them, so the display became more acceptable. Unfortunately, it was still not sufficient to attract customers to linger longer at my booth to look at the stuff as they were not the artistic kind of products.

What do I gain?

1) There are really many creative people around. It's an eye opening for me because I saw artists using different unimaginable materials to make different stuff. Egs, using scrabble pieces to make pendant, silver art clay, recycle packaging such as diaper, packet drinks, toothpaste, etc, to make bags, beer bottle caps as pendant, white "Good morning" towel to make hat, pillow case, etc. beaded hanger, etc. Really weird things but people are able to think of the material that they can use them for. How amazing! They are really artist. My standard is really too low to show off.

2) I've learnt the art of displaying stuff attractively. I've copied some ideas, such as using shoe boxes to create steps on table so you can place the items nicely, using spot light to shine on the items, using nice quaint looking mirror, etc. Things like using mooncake box to create a box to display earrings, to use foam box to display necklaces, etc, using proper cloth material on the table is important too.

3) For the kids, it's boring for them but at least they know money can't be earned if there are no customers. So in future, if they want to be entrepreneur, hopefully, they can also remember some of the lessons learnt. Actually I'm pretty impressed with my eldest girl, she is still enthusiastic despite the bad experience and even though she know there is no business, still still followed me around and helped me to take care of the stall.

4) Finally, I thought I will get laughed at by my hubby, in-law, parents and friends but they are so supportive, especially my hubby. He even told me I could do another flea market at another location but we will recee the place and need to make the right preparations in future. So nice of all of them. 2 of my friends are so sweet too, Julianna came purposely to support me and kept me company for 1 hr plus to help me pass time while Celine sms me throughout to keep me awake. Thanks to my dear friends.

OK as promised, see these 3 pictures, the displays before and after. So yucky, right. It's also for me to remember my 1st time in the flea market, hehehe.

Do leave a comment if you also want to share your experience.

Mutitasker

2008-06-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

I called this long crystal necklace a multitasker because it can be worn in any creative ways you can think of. Basically, it is just one long necklace and there is no clasp to restrict the length that you want to wear.

The greenie

2008-06-05T07:53:00.000-07:00

Another variation of shell bead with green seed beads. There is no centrepiece but rather 2 sides have the designs. A unique piece for the daring lady to wear.

MAAD Flea Market Sale

2008-05-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,
I will be selling my beaded stuff at the MAAD Flea market on 7 and 8 Jun 08 from 11am to 7pm. It is at Maxwell Rd, Little Red Dot Museum. My kids have helped me to make a poster and also we made some boxes using unwanted card paper for packaging the items. I thought they are cute. If you are keen to see the actual items and to get them, do visit me on the 2 days. My prices range from $10 to maximum of $25. My little darlings will be there to help me and definitely we're going to have fun. See you then.

Shell Bead Choker

2008-05-29T06:56:00.000-07:00

As promised, I have done another version of beaded necklace using shell bead. The centrepiece is red so that it will contrast with the white shell bead. The wearer will get all the attention focused on the neck with the lovely flower centrepiece.

Shell bead with pearls necklace

2008-05-25T06:27:00.000-07:00

This necklace is made with shell bead and pearls. It is so sweet. I am going to make another similar one using similar material, except that it's going to be a choker. Watch out for the next post.

Jade beaded Necklace

2008-05-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

I've made another beaded necklace with the jade pendant that was given to my kids. There was a previous one which I made and surprisingly it was sold and the feedback from the buyer was that it was beautiful. So I've decided to make another one.

Daisy flower pendant

2008-05-18T23:14:00.000-07:00

This is a daisy pendant made of wire and twisted with pearls. It's a very simple and casual design.

How to stop cough in five minutes

2008-05-12T05:45:00.000-07:00

This email was circulated to me. I have tried on my children and noticed that their cough was better after doing the method proposed, not 100% though. Do try it.

Treatment:
To stop night time coughing in a chil d (or an a dult, as we found out personally), put Vicks Vapor Rub generously on the bottom of the feet at bedtime and then cover with socks.

Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about five minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief. This works 100 percent of the time, and is more effective in children than even very strong prescription cough medicines. In addition it is extremely soothing and comforting and they will sleep soundly. I heard the head of the Canada Research Council describe these findings on the part of their scientists when they were investigating the effectiveness and usage of prescription cough medicines in children, as compared to alternative therapies like acupressure. I just happened to tune in to a.m. Radio and picked up this guy talking about why cough medicines in kids often do more harm than good due to the chemical makeup of these strong drugs, so I listened. It was a surprising finding and found to be more effective than prescribed medicines for children at bedtime, and in addition to have a soothing and calming effect on sick children who then went on to sleep soundly. My wife tried it on herself when she had a very deep constant and persistent cough a few weeks ago, and it worked 100 percent ! She said it felt like a warm blanket had enveloped
her. The coughing stopped in a few minutes, and believe me this was a deep (incredibly annoying!) every few seconds, uncontrollable cough and she slept cough-free for hours every night she used it.

How to retire young at 40 or 50

2008-05-09T06:24:00.000-07:00

I've just finished reading a book on "How to retire young at 40 or 50 yrs old". It's written in America context, so not very applicable to Singaporeans. However there are 3 main points which are quite useful to learn. They are :
1) Live simply
2) Financial discipline
3) Invest wisely

For living simply, it means not cluttering your lives with too many materialistic stuff. There is no need to buy branded stuff, eat in most expensive restaurant, drive big cars, stay big houses. You can still enjoy life without this BIG & expensive stuff. Here we are not talking about depriving yourself but to be able live simply yet happy. Not many people can achieve that, especially in Singapore where people are competititve and always looking for the best.

For financial discipline, it's similar to (1) above. That means not spending on unnecessary items. Not incurring more debts to buy big houses, etc or even to keep overspending using credit cards.

Lastly the author advised that readers should invest in shares but in blue chips on long term basis. He noted that by investing in good shares for long term, the dividend can range from 7% to 20%.

I think I can achieve (1) & (2) but for (3), still no gut to buy too much shares. So got to think of other ways so as to be able to retire young.

Free pattern : Wired Hoods

2008-05-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

I've found this from Ruby's Jewellery & Design. It's a free pattern on doing a wired hoops beaded accessories. Do look into http://www.rubysbeadwork.com/WiredHoops.html for the beautiful designs and incorporate your own ideas, you can create something very nice. I'm definitely trying it out.

Beaded dog charms

2008-05-01T01:01:00.000-07:00

A long time since I last post a project. I was very busy with lots of things going on. Anyway, I have managed to squeeze time doing 3 beaded dog handphone charms. I intend to give them away as gifts. Aren't they beautiful and cute!

A Simple beaded Necklace

2008-04-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

This necklace is very easy to do. I use a fine fishing line to string up the seed beads. It can be worn with casual outfit for a youthful look.

Aerobic - 8 minute Abs (workout fitness)

2008-04-07T07:28:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vXsoFnnNHA

Wow, this abs exercise looks very good. Hopefully doing this at least 3 times a week will help to trim my big tummy.

Beaded wire necklace and earring set

2008-03-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Look at the wirework with many circles. They are all twisted by hand. This is truely a handmade wirework beading project. As for the beads, there are leftovers which are made to good use.

Take out the trash from your mind

2008-03-25T17:36:00.003-07:00

A very meaningful article from A Slice of Life written, produced and presented by Eugene Loh , 938LIVE, a station of MediaCorp Radio'.

Taking Out the Trash
In order to maintain a clean, comfortable home, we regular clear out the garbage. Our liver and kidneys function pretty much in the same way as well to keep our bodies in good health. Natural law dictates that in order for something to perform at its most efficient, any clutter, excess, rubbish or accumulated toxins must be frequently removed.

It's no different with our mental health. Our minds can accrue lots of "stuff" that's useless and takes up valuable space, or worse, things that harass our peace of mind and suck our energy. This personal garbage is the result of the wear and tear of modern life. It's that ugly, smelly gunk that holds us back from experiencing joy and meaning. It's what we find when we want a quick fix, an easy path to fulfilment, or a scapegoat for disappointment.

Personal garbage festers in our ego, in the demands of others, in the negativity that surrounds us, in just turning on the tv and watching mindlessly to whatever's on, in deciding to live life without intention, in forgetting to hear our voice, losing our authenticity, in getting too busy and too distracted to listen to our heart.

People and incidents can throw garbage in our faces, but we have the personal power to start each day by taking our garbage out. Learn to begin again each morning, to jumpstart your self-esteem, your personal energy, your love, and your genius by getting rid of your personal baggage.

How do we do this?
1. Decide to let go of what you cannot change. Choose simply to embrace what you can do today to bring more love and more satisfaction into your life.
2. Decide to get happy. Force yourself to smile, to laugh. Get that injection of oxygen into your blood! Embrace humour as a way of life. Don't deny or suppress your inner child; let it teach you how to see the world in a fun, positive light again.
3. Take back the responsibility for your own joy. When you do this, you stop blaming and bearing grudges. You begin to feel in control of your life. You understand that when you take charge of your own joy, you really can achieve happiness, and no one can make you upset against your will.
4. Embrace a human moment, a higher moment, and give something away. Move out of your personal realm and help someone else. Give your time, your encouragement, your money, your hug, your smile.
Keep your mental state in the pink of health by taking out the trash everyday.

Beaded Ribbon

2008-03-25T17:36:00.001-07:00

I have posted the pattern on how to do this beaded ribbon. I have finally done it using g28wire and seed beads. Hm, it turns out quite cute and unique. So far, I've never seen this being sold outside.

An Attitude of Gratitude

2008-03-25T17:35:00.003-07:00

Author Melody Beattie once said "Gratitude turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."
An attitude of gratitude is one of the most useful things one can possess. It's an unending resource from which one can draw inspiration and comfort. It's also one of the most precious gifts a parent can give a child.

Have you ever wondered why it is that some children who seem to have it all are pleasant and friendly while others become spoiled? The difference is in the attitude. Some children expect to have certain things, and they soon become spoiled and easily discontented. Other children remain thankful and appreciative.

Think of adults you know that fit these descriptions. Whom do you know has a chip on their shoulder or feels the world owes them something? Whom do you know greets each discovery with appreciation? It is easy to guess who is happier and more fulfilled.

Developing a thankful attitude goes a long way toward developing a more resilient and appreciative self. Here are a few ideas for spreading the attitude of gratitude. Think about the whole process. When you receive anything, be it a child's drawing or an expensive gift, focus on how much time, effort, and thought went into the gift. Taking the time to realize how much work, caring, and thought a person has given you is a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation of both the giver and the gift.

Realize that each day is a gift. There are so many things that we take for granted. Many times we don't realize how much we actually take for granted until tragedy strikes. Take your loved ones, for example. Do you regular take time to appreciate them? To show them how much you love them? Remember, they won't be around forever.

And lower your expectations. If you keep expecting things to be in your favour, you'll be thwarted by the many things that will be unfavourable. You'll focus on the negative until you become an irritable, unpleasant grouch. But when we quit expecting the world or people to give us things, we can become more focused on enjoying the gifts that do come our way.

A good way to cultivate gratitude is to keep a Gratitude Journal. In it, record five at least five things you can be thankful for each day. Even on seemingly lousy days, you should be able to list at least five. Look beyond the obvious. You'll soon notice how this deepens your appreciation for life and helps to maintain a positive outlook.

A Slice of Life is written, produced and presented by 'Eugene Loh, 938LIVE, a station of MediaCorp Radio'.

Beaded Pendant

2008-03-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

Recently I bought a book on beading flowers. So on one fine day with nothing to do, I took out some seed beads and using wire, followed the instructions in the book to try to do a flower. However, it eventually turned out to the design as shown. I then decided to convert it to a pendant instead. Well, so far I have not seen such a pendant in any books, so it's unique. I used a leather cord to string up this pendant. I'll think it is more for casual wear, especially with jeans and T-shirt.

Beaded Ribbon Bow

2008-03-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

Saw this pattern under Beadjewelrymaking.com. It is a beaded ribbon and it looks pretty interesting. The beaded ribbon can be a brooch or a pendant. I'll try to make a pendant and will show it in my blog later. Meanwhile readers can try it out too. I have copied the design as follows. You just need seed beads and one round 4mm or 5mm crystal. The beading wire is 25mm or 25 gauge.

Free Printable Snowflake

2008-03-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

This is a free printable snowflake paper cutting. Wow it's so beautiful and definitely the kids will be amazed and have fun cutting out the paper. It can be used to glue on cards to make beautiful cards for occassions. The URL is http://www.marcels-kid-crafts.com/snowflake-pattern.html. Will also be ideal for X'mas decorations.