Baby André Aaron's First Birthday Celebration

Our family picture

How time flies! My baby boy, Andre Aaron turned one a week ago. We held a high tea birthday celebration for him at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel on Sunday, 21 August, which was just a day before his actual birthday as we reckoned that most of our guests would probably not be able to attend the party on a Monday.

Planning a party is a daunting task when you have to juggle work and domestic affairs. However, I am glad that I had the assistance of the hotel's Assistant Director of Events, Nellie who made planning for this party a breeze. I worked with her on conceptualising the theme for the party and sought her advice on various matters from selection of the table linen to the menu to the balloon decorations. I am also thankful to the culinary team who worked hard to provide a sumptuous menu for my guests. I love the Doraemon cake which was meticulously crafted by the award-winning pastry team. A million thanks to Naili Printing for designing my baby boy's banner and the Little Red Balloon for the lovely balloons which added a really nice touch to the overall decor.

My invitations went out to my guests about two weeks before the party and I am glad that most of the guests I invited were able to attend. The whole celebration went on smoothly, without a hitch much to our relief. This party is important as it marked Baby André Aaron's transition from an infant to a toddler.

Here are some pictures and a video of the cake-cutting ceremony which I would like to share with all of you.

Thank you once again to all my dear friends and relatives who made the effort to attend his party.

With Audrey and her daughter, Denise

With my KC friends

With Mum and relatives

With my cousins and their kids

With ex colleagues from MediaCorp VizPro and Vasantham

With Ms Mah, Shialey, Min Shi, Raymund and his wife

With Lynnette

With Swee Khiang 

With my ex MediaCorp Suria colleague, Haiz

With Christy and Soon Hoe

With Carol

With Yuh Min, Karen, Kelvin, Chef Robert and his wife

With Chef Robert

My hubby and his colleagues from the Singapore Police Force

With Tracy and family

Zalinah and family

With mum, Karen, Lemmi, Jessica and Chef Robert's wife

The stage set-up

The lovely Doraemon cake specially crafted by Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel's award-winning pastry team

Red skin potato salad with chives and egg and onion vinaigrette and slow-cooked beetroot salad with orange

Mini croissant with mayo tuna and tomato

Assorted Nyonya kuih

Mango panna cotta

Strawberry cheesecake

Chocolate éclair 

Cake cutting ceremony video

Thank you for attending my first birthday party.

Review - Beauty Mums & Babies and Made4Baby Skincare Products

At Media Launch Event of Beauty, Mums & Babies at Paragon

I attended the Media Launch Event of Beauty, Mums & Babies at Paragon a few months ago and was amazed by the range of services that this one-stop wellness centre offers. From Mum and Baby yoga, to baby spa, pre and post natal massages to tuina classes for babies, you can definitely find something which suits you and your baby. The centre provides a relaxing ambience, making it conducive for mums and babies to bond. Motherhood is such a breeze when you have experts advising you on how to care for your little one. During the event, we were also given goodie bags containing skincare products for mums and babies, which are only available for sale at the wellness centre. 

Initially, I was a little hesitant to try the products as I have very sensitive skin prone to breakouts. However, I decided to give the products a try and I must say that I am pretty satisfied with the results. 

Here's my honest review of the products.

Cleansing Milk with Cucumber ($69)

This is my favourite product from the Beauty Mums & Babies skincare range. I had lots of bad experience with cleansing milk. Most of the ones in the market are either too oily and cause breakouts. The worst part is that they do not effectively remove makeup. This cleansing milk is light and creamy and has a soft exfoliating effect. What I like about it is that you only need to use a little for removal of light makeup. It does not leave a greasy feeling and my skin feels smooth and clean after using it. It also acts as an exfoliator and gives my skin a radiant look after cleansing. The cucumber extract which contains anti inflammatory properties, provides a soothing effect.

Face Tonic with Green Tea & Aloe Vera ($69)

Gentle and soothing to the skin, this face tonic is a must-have in your skincare collection. Made of natural ingredients such as green tea and aloe vera, it helps reduce redness and inflammation, promotes healing and gives moisture to the skin. What I like about this is that is refreshing and is non-stinging as it does not contain alcohol. Some of the toners I have tried strip the skin off all moisture making my skin sensitive and red. This face tonic is very calming and after using it for a month, I can see that my skin is clearer and more luminous.

Ultra Hydrating serum with Hyaluronic & PCA ($138)

This is the perfect serum to use if you are looking for something to slow down the ageing process. Hyaluronic locks in the moisture within the skin, increasing the skin’s regenerative power. If you have combination or oily skin, I would recommend that you use it on alternate days instead of daily. Just a pea size would be sufficient. If you use too much, it may cause breakouts. Initially, I used it everyday and I used a little too much resulting in some mild acne. After that, I decided to reduce the quantity and I noticed a great improvement in my skin. It looks plumper and more youthful and fine lines are reduced.

Moisturiser with Rosehip Oil ($108)

I like this moisturiser as it contains rosehip seed oil which is a natural source of essential fatty acids omega 3, 6 and 9 and helps to repair and and regenerate damaged skin issue. Rosehip seed oil is also rich in Vitamin C which helps to reduce pigmentation and brighten the skin. I noticed that after using it for a month, my skin tone is more even and my complexion looks clearer and more radiant. My skin also feels velvety and soft. What is most amazing is that this moisturiser is lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin. There was one time when I accidentally scratched my skin, leaving a red mark behind. I applied the moisturiser to the mark and after about six weeks, the mark miraculously disappeared. 

Made4Baby Skincare Range

Made4Baby Foaming Hair and Body Wash ($23.50)

Initially, I was sceptical about using this for my baby as foaming cleansers are usually dehydrating. However, I realised that I was wrong. This foaming cleanser does not contain parabens, petrochemicals and sodium lauryl sulphate, a cancer causing agent found in most shampoos and soaps. The fragrance-free formula is also beneficial for the soft, delicate skin of babies. As it is very gentle, it does not sting my baby’s eyes even when some of the wash gets into his eyes.The wash does not have the nice, fresh fragrance of most shower gels, and initially I was not use to it, however I gradually got accustomed to it. The best thing is that my baby loves the bubbles in his bath. 

Made4Baby

All Over Baby Lotion ($21)

The main ingredients of this lotion are water, sweet almond oil, rosehip seed oil, avocado oil, aloe vera extract and cocoa butter. All the ingredients contain healing and soothing properties, therefore it is also great for adults with sensitive skin. I used it daily on my hands and legs for a month and I really like the smooth, silky texture of my skin after I apply the lotion. As it does not contain harsh detergents, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances and parabens, it is excellent even for those with eczema. When my baby was about two to three months old, he had very bad rashes. I applied this on his face and his body and the rashes miraculously disappeared.

Made4Baby

Baby Massage Oil ($25) 

I must stay that I haven’t been using this very regularly due to laziness. I have only used it twice.

This mineral free oil is made using avocado, rosehip and jojoba oils and gently conditions the skin, giving it a soft and smooth texture. The sweet almond oil base is absorbed readily into the skin, making my baby feel relaxed and calm. I notice that he sleeps better after a good massage. I will definitely make it a point to use the massage oil more often. 

Overall, I would recommend Beauty Mums & Babies and Made4Babies skincare products. They are made of natural ingredients and using them in the long run will be beneficial for both you and your baby.

Restful Slumber with Makura Pillow

A good night’s sleep is important as it helps your body to repair and restore itself. Constant deprivation is detrimental to the body as it inhibits cell renewal and can increase your risk for health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and stroke.

Since the birth of my baby André Aaron, I have not had sufficient sleep, probably due to work stress and the challenges of managing motherhood. Therefore, I was glad when I was introduced to Makura’s Health and Neck Support pillow.

This pillow is the latest wonder product by Active Hive, a lifestyle and wellness agency which also offers the Minus Calories workout. Made in Japan, it keeps the neck and spine aligned in the optimum angle and helps to promote a restful slumber, helping to enhance the body’s processes and prevent serious health conditions which may occur in the future.

I have been sleeping on this pillow for the past month and I must say that the results are amazing. It gives me uninterrupted sleep and I am able to sleep through the night without waking up halfway. Initially, I was sceptical about the pillow as it is not soft like other pillows. It is firm and contains capsules which feel like beads. However, I got used to it after three days. The capsules provide better air circulation when I am asleep, enabling me to sleep better at night. I did not even wake up once throughout the night after using the pillow. A good night's sleep also helps me to concentrate better at work.You can also remove the capsules to suit your head and neck position.

After experiencing the benefits, I decided to pass the pillow to my hubby so that he can reap the benefits too. My hubby is very particular about pillows and always complains whenever he feels the pillows are too hard, soft, high or low. He has been using Makura's pillow for the past month and does not want to return the pillow to me. My hubby feels that after using the pillow, he is able to sleep well and does not suffer from neck and backaches anymore. I have also noticed that he snores a lot less now.

Makura pillow is 100% safe even for those with sensitive skin. The capsules are machine-washable, you just need to place the whole pillow into a laundry net and into the washing machine to wash and spin-dry. Do not use the dryer. After it has been washed, you can let it dry naturally under the sun. 

A restful slumber is only a pillow away. Makura pillow retails at $188 and is available at Active Hive. 

Receive a complimentary Minus Calories workout worth $103 with each purchase of Makura Health and Neck Support Pillow! Buy a second Makura Health and Neck Support Pillow at 50% off!

To purchase online, please visit here.

Key in promo code jenyeo30 to enjoy 30% discount for the first pillow. Alternatively, you may purchase it at Active Hive located at 65 Ubi Road 1, #02-88 Oxley Bizhub, Singapore 408729. For enquiries, please call 63842758 or email activehive@gmail.com

Review - NEW Ice's Secret Pure Radiance Series Treatment Facial at Supreme Q.X. Beauty Spa

The reception desk

I can't remember the last time I went for a facial, I think it was probably more than four years ago. In the past, I was sceptical about facials and used to think that the services offered at beauty salons are just pampering treatments for people who have too much time.

When I was pregnant, I was advised not to go for skin treatment or facials, so I did not step into any beauty salon. I have a regular dermatologist that I go to, however, for the past year, I only went to her clinic to purchase products. 

After the birth of Baby André Aaron, it was difficult finding time to go for spa or skincare treatments. When I was invited to review the Supreme Q.X. Beauty Spa's NEW Ice's Secret Pure Radiance Series Treatment Facial, I had some reservations.  I was doubtful of the efficacy of the treatment and was a little afraid that the facial would make my skin sensitive and blotchy. However, I decided to give it a try as I have heard good reviews of the treatment. Being a working mum, it is also vital that I take care of my skin and appearance.

Supreme Q.X. Beauty Spa was founded in 1999 by former beauty queen, Icemichelle Chen who advocates using the natural approach for beauty. She strongly believes that beauty comes from within, when you are healthy inside, the glow will reflect on your skin. Voted the most popular spa specialising in TCM methods, Supreme Q.X. Beauty Spa incorporates both Eastern and Western techniques coupled with advanced technology to achieve high quality, long last results. Each treatment is specially customised for each customer's needs to produce desired results.

The waiting area

Supreme Q.X. Beauty Spa is well lit and has an elegant ambience. The salon has comfortable plush sofa seats. Service is impeccable and staff are amicable. 

The treatment room

I was brought to the treatment room which was dim and cosy, making me feel relaxed. The therapist proceeded to remove my makeup for me.

 My cleansed skin, without a trace of make-up

After that, she applied a face peel to help me to get exfoliate the skin and to get rid of dead skin cells.

Renewal of skin cells

An ampoule is then added before Ice's Secret Multi-Power Device is used on the skin. This helps to speed up the renewal of cells. There was a little stinging sensation at some points, but it was generally painless.

Therapist massaging my eye area

She proceeded to massage my eyes, cheeks and shoulder. This helped to improve my blood circulation and promotes further drainage of toxins.

Massaging under the eye 

The first layer of mask that the therapist applied was the pure radiance mask which helped to prevent cell aging, reduce the appearance of fine lines, reduce excess melanin production, even out unbalanced skin tones, lighten hyperpigmentation, acne marks and eye circles and brighten dull complexion. The colour of the mask is white, however after 10 to 15 minutes, the colour blended in with the skin. 

Sheep placenta mask

The second layer was the sheep placenta mask which helped to boost collagen, tighten skin and prevent ageing. The two masks were left on my skin for about 25 minutes before the therapist removed them for me.

My refreshed look after the facial

Overall, I am very happy with the results. My skin looks fairer with a radiant, luminous glow. I also felt rejuvenated after the facial. The whole session was very relaxing and pampering. The therapist also gave me a pure radiance mask sample which I could use as an overnight mask about twice a week. This mask is devoid of harmful additives and preservatives and is suitable for all skin types. The main ingredients include white mulberry root, kudzu rot, magnolia tree bark, peony root, aloe leaf, lavender essential oil, strawberry begonia flower and titanium dioxide.

I will definitely recommend this treatment to anyone who is looking at improving the condition of his or her skin.

With the spa manager. Picture taken after the facial.

The entrance

Supreme Q.X. Beauty Spa is located at Blk 513 Bishan St 21 #01-510 Singapore 570513 (next to Bishan Bus Interchange/ Bishan MRT/ Bishan CPF Building). The beauty spa offers an array of TCM and Meridian Point treatments for both the face and body which help to enhance the beauty and promote overall health.

Here are the special trial prices:

Premium Face Treatment & Relax Head Massage (90 mins) UP: $398 Trial: $78 

Ice’s Secret Premium Eye’s Treatment (East meets West Eye Therapy) U.P.: $198 Trial: $48 

Ice’s Secret Signature Eye’s Dark Circle Treatment U.P.: $138 Trial $38 

Ice’s Secret Premium Neck Treatment + Shoulder Whitening Treatment U.P.: $198 Trial: $48 

Ice’s Secret Signature Radiance Neck Treatment U.P.: $138 Trial: $38 

In addition, my blog readers can enjoy a complimentary Ice's Secret Signature Eye Dark Circle Treatment (U.P $138) if you come for any of the above trial treatments.

For enquiries and bookings, please call 6358 3029. Alternatively, please visit here.

Philips AVENT Combined Steamer and Blender Makes Food Preparation for Babies A Breeze!

Philips AVENT Combined Steamer and Blender

Baby André Aaron turned 7 months about a week ago. His appetite is growing by the day and at this stage, it is vital to ensure that he gets sufficient nutrition. I attempted to breastfeed him from the time he was born till he was about two months. I found it tough as he was impatient and somehow I could not produce enough to satisfy his appetite. Formula milk was the solution. For the first six months, baby André's diet consisted of mainly Friso Gold infant formula milk. It was great as the taste was pleasant and he did not develop any allergy. We tried to switch to Dumex as some friends recommended it, however, it was not suitable for baby André and he immediately developed rashes after consuming the milk. Therefore, we had to switch back to Friso as it works well for him.

When Baby André was about six months old, I was happy as I could start him on some solid food. It made me feel less guilty for not breastfeeding him. When I saw the Philips AVENT Combined steamer and blender, I decided to get it as it made meal preparation a breeze. Some mothers buy ready foods from the supermarket as it is convenient and takes away the hassle of preparing your own food. I am extremely particular about the freshness of food, therefore I try to prepare my own food as much as possible.

The Philips AVENT Steamer and Blender is the greatest invention ever as it is easy to use and is light and portable. The best thing is that I can steam and blend using just one gadget. Steaming with the Philips AVENT Combined Steamer and Blender helps to retain essential nutrients because the juices released from the food during the steaming process are retained for mixing back into the food during the blending phase.  With this, I can prepare nutritious meals for my baby boy conveniently. In fact, I have been using the Philips AVENT Combined Steamer and Blender religiously and I get great joy experimenting with different recipes. I feel a sense of achievement when baby André smiles while eating the food I prepared.  Food which is processed in the blender tastes sweet and the texture is very fine, perfect for infants. It is also extremely easy to use and I would recommend all mums to use this to prepare meals for babies.

Philips AVENT Steamer and Blender is available at major departmental stores such as Isetan and is priced at $159.

Here's some of the food that I have prepared for him.

Carrot and pumpkin purée

Brown rice porridge with fish, broccoli and carrot

Corn, carrot and fish porridge

Pumpkin risotto with mushrooms. For this, I used the traditional potato masher instead of the Philips AVENT Combined Steamer and Blender.

Video of Baby André Aaron eating Mummy's porridge

Beauty, Mums & Babies - A One-Stop Wellness Centre for Mums and Babies

At Beauty. Mums & Babies outlet at Paragon

It’s the Weekend! Time to bond with baby, André Aaron again. This week has been a hectic week, lots of urgent projects and work keeps piling up. I look forward to weekends as it gives me time to take a breather and be in touch with my family.

I discovered this wonderful place which offers a great opportunity for mums and babies to workout, connect and to relish lovely moments together.

Beauty, Mums & Babies is a one-stop wellness centre for mums and babies which provides many interesting activities such as Mums & Babies Yoga, Baby Spa, Baby Massage, Baby Grooming and pre and post-natal massages for Mums.

I tried three of the centre’s services, including the Mums & Babies Yoga, Baby Spa and Baby Massage. I must say that I am extremely pleased with the service and the overall ambience. For the Mums & Babies Yoga, we attended the session at the Paragon outlet and for the Baby Spa and Massage, we went to the outlet at Seletar Mall.

Mums & Babies Yoga

Bonding time with baby through yoga 

If you are looking for a place to lose your post pregnancy weight and bond with your baby, this is something you can consider. The Mums & Babies Yoga provides quality physical stimulation for you and your baby including, movement, touch, voice and deep relaxation. The session induces a relaxed, carefree and stress-free parent-infant interaction which develops as your baby grows.

Getting baby to relax during the session

The various and moves taught during the session include cat and cow, boat, camel, bridge, warrior and tree which help in the postural development of your baby from lying, sitting to walking. The movements also improve concentration, enhance body circulation, promote longer and more restful sleep and prevent indigestion and constipation. Regular yoga will also help your baby to be more nimble and agile.

Initially, Baby André was a little apprehensive and impatient and was crying as he was not used to being in a confined environment for too long. However, he was more relaxed after ten minutes and seemed to enjoy the yoga more. For first-timers, it is good not to force yourself or your baby to do all the moves as both of you may get injured. Always pace yourself and stop if you feel uncomfortable. If your baby is tired or fidgety, you can let him/ her lie on the mat and rest. The session is supposed to help you to de-stress, so do not overwork yourself.

Baby is delighted after the class

Movement combined with gentle touch is probably the best stimulation we can offer our babies. In Mums & Babies Yoga, this stimulation occurs through mutual involvement and engagement of parent and infant at a pace which is comfortable for both.

The instructor Joyce was very patient and was amazing with infants. She helped some of the mums to carry their babies when they got cranky and tired. 

Another picture with baby

After the first session, I felt rejuvenated and somehow my muscles felt more relaxed. Baby André also slept for over six hours during the night.

I will definitely be back for more Mums & Babies yoga sessions.



Baby Spa

Enjoying the spa

Babies love water as hydrotheraphy is the closest experience that replicates the environment in the womb. Baby André enjoys his daily baths as water has a calming effect on him. When we brought him to the baby spa, he was very excited. The therapists were very good with babies and managed to put him at ease. They helped him to change into his disposable swimming nappy and placed a float around him before putting him into the water. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience, however he got tired after about fifteen minutes. 

The baby spa is suitable for babies above a month old. It helps to support brain and physical development, increase lung capacity, strengthen cardiovascular system, stimulate innate swimming reflexes and co-ordination and builds up the immune system. 

The professional therapist massaging Baby André 

Baby Massage

The therapists were very friendly and professional. Gentle soothing strokes were used to create feel-good hormone oxytoxin, making the baby feel relaxed. The therapists also used toys to keep him entertained throughout the massage. Baby André enjoyed the massage and the attention he was getting from the therapists. He was smiling throughout the whole session.

It is good for babies to go for massages by a trained therapist as it improves the quality of sleep, improves circulation and respiratory systems, relieves colic, aids digestion and ease constipation. It also makes babies feel more secure and loved. 

After the session, Baby André slept instantly, a testament to the efficacy of the massage. We will definitely be back!

Beauty, Mums & Babies has two outlets, one at Paragon and one at Seletar Mall.

Beauty, Mums & Babies at Paragon

#05-02 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road

Singapore 238859

Tel: +65 6235 1800/ +65 6235 5818

Beauty, Mums & Babies at Seletar Mall

#03-31/32 Seletar Mall

33 Sengkang West Ave

Singapore 797653

Tel: +65 6702 6616)/ +65 6341 6101

For more information, please visit their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/beautymumsbabies/?fref=ts&ref=br_tf.

Or Website

Dance your way to a Slimmer and Sexier Body with Mummy & Baby Salsa

Can't wait for the class to start

Salsa is a dance which is close to my heart. About a decade ago, I met my hubby at a salsa class and our feelings blossomed gradually as we shared the same love for dance.

Salsa, which originated in New York in the mid 1970s is regarded as the King of Latin dances. 

It is an intimate and passionate dance which has its roots in the earlier Latin dance styles such as Cha-Cha and is later influenced by other dance moves. It is a combination of different dance moves just like the sauce 'salsa' which is delightful mix of various ingredients.

When I heard that JJ Salsa Rengue is offering a Mummy and Baby Salsa dance class, I was elated and decided to sign up immediately. This special class allows me to to workout, burn calories and bond with my baby, André Aaron. I thought it was good to introduce my baby to salsa at a tender age so that it can help to develop his passion for music and dance. In addition, I can also interact with other mums.

The instructor, Kit (who is also a Mummy) was very professional during the class. The first 20 minutes was dedicated to teaching us the basic steps. It was a refresher course for me as I have not danced salsa for a couple of years.  

Striking a pose with my little dance partner

Salsa consists of eight beats with strong emphasis on the first and fifth beat. In Salsa, the man leads while the woman follows. In Mummy and baby salsa, mummy leads with baby comfortably snuggled up in the carrier. Baby André loves the class as the music is relaxing and he feels safe and secure in the baby carrier. Kit introduced us to the shines moves (footwork performed in solo salsa dancing). She was very patient and waited till everyone was familiar before choreographing a dance routine for us. The entire class was very engaging and fun and I was surprised that Baby André did not cry during the class. In fact, he was so comfortable that he fell asleep in my arms towards the end of the class.

With salsa instructor, Kit and her baby

Overall, the class offers an excellent workout and bonding time with your baby. It is also an ideal platform to connect with other mums. This class is perfect for people who have always wanted to learn dance but could not convince their other half to do so. 

Mummy and Baby Salsa is suitable for babies aged three months and above. For safety reasons, it is recommended to wear exercise attire and track shoes during the class. The next intake will commence in April. 

Snippets of Mummy and Baby salsa class

JJ Salsa Rengue is located at 1 Tras Link, #02-08, Orchid Hotel, 078867. For more information on the class, please call 6443 7223 or email info@jjsalsarengue.com.sg.  Alternatively, please visit here. 
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