creating a perfect gift with wines

Few days, we went for a simple dinner at our favourite Pantai Seafood restaurant in Kampong Ara and was kinda surprised that the restaurant had allocated a special wine room for diners. Die hard wine lovers can choose from the wine of the month to the wide cellar of wines in the wine room... a typical chinese seafood restaurant is adding a little pizazz to the seafood menu too!



Wine drinking has always been popular in business networking events and social parties. How to delight your guests in a wedding reception without serving wine with the gourmet treats on the reception table? Sending a wine gift is equally popular during anniversaries, housewarming parties, corporate events, openings and special occasion celebrations. Just like sending your wishes with flowers, you can create a perfect gift with wines. Make Your Special Events Memorable! Personalize Your Label Today!

learn from others on the map

I'm one of those who enjoy travel commentaries, travel reviews and participating in unbiased travel forums/sites. It all started when we were travelling to New Zealand and I needed to find out more about this beautiful country. Since, I've been an active contributor in this travel portal site.

Along the way, I stumbled upon Atlas Post. This is an interesting travel-related community site that allows you to read travel stories and personal articles based on the geographical location of the person. You can read someone's story and view their photos by clicking on the Map. The features of the site grants the user the opportunity to network and get to know friends from their neighbourhood. It can be someone who live near your city or work near your workplace. You can communicate, build friendship, send virtual gifts to your friends through the network.

I believe this is one way to expand your knowledge in travel destinations while providing you the opportunity to learn from like-minded individuals. Check out Atlas Post and get to know people via the MAP.

THOOF - oh, what is that?

A new social media and personalized news site had been launched, I was told. When I went finding out what it was, my friend scribbled on a piece of paper - THOOF.COM. I looked at her and thought she might have made a mistake - what was she talking about>

Oh well, I went looking this morning. So she was right about how it was spelt - Thoof.com. But I wonder, why this name - why not something else? Looking at the logo design of Thoof, the 2 'O's remind me of the 'O's in GOOGLE. They are graphical representation of our human eyes. And that's what Thoof is about anyway - it searches for news, list them for your read and save you time from googling. 'Th' can be the short form to 'That', 'This', 'They, 'Them'... it's about 'Anything' - people, events, things, happenings, buzz... etc. 'F' - oh well, I don't mean to be rude but some people may think it means the big 'F' swearing word. But maybe, it's just there to make the term sounds good. Thoof is better than 'THOO', right?

But let's not worry about what it means... what's cool is the kind of information you can get at this social media site and from here, you can be kept up to date with what's going on in and around the web. So, what do you think 'THOOF" mean :)

the right place for recovery

Can you get addicted to pain killers? The answer is YES! I know of people who always ensure a steady supply of pain killers at home. It sounds spooky to have Pain Killer Addiction but this is actually just a sort of drug abuse, and it is common among millions of Americans.

Pain Killer Addiction is a disease that involves the physical and psychological aspects of the person. It seems that the better place for pain killer recovery and treatment to take place would be an experienced and professional drug rehab. Sunset Malibu is a residential drug treatment center that does more than helping those with drug and alcohol addiction problems.

Situated in Malibu, surrounded by views of oceans and a natural and calm environmental setting, patients can ensure privacy and dedicated care at Sunset Malibu. The trained team of medical professional, therapists, nurses and health advisors ensure that all patients' needs are met with special programs tailored to help individuals struggling to recover from drug and alcohol addiction, eating disorders, substance abuse and even depression.

Recognizing the importance and steps to maintain sobriety, patients are guided through various treatment methods while placing focus on their overall health and wellbeing. With modern amenities and plasma screen TVs, a comfortable and relaxing setting, and being placed in the care of experts, this is the place to heal, recover and restore.

A One-Stop Network

Over the last few months, I have come across many drug rehab stories, programs, treatments and centers. But this is the first time I have been led to a one-stop resource for all Drug Rehabilitation concerns. A resource center not only on treatment centers, addiction programs and treatment methods, but also on medical professionals including therapists, counselors, nurses and attorneys. Along with the information, the network provides an unbiased but honest assessment of the various drug rehab programs and listed services.

The noble objective of this network seeks to aid those who are looking for help and care in their desperate situation. I am impressed with the related articles and news addiction programs, drug treatments, alcohol treatments and much more.

The network stands out with two added features for those conducting research in this area as it is linked to selected medical journal and government websites. Also, it is linked to many 12-Step sites which helps to motivate and support those undergoing a recovery program in finding long term care and help.

Drug Rehab program at Stone Hawk

Nothing in life can touch someone more than compassion. So when someone is going struggling to overcome a drug addiction problem or other challenges such as alcoholism, what the patient needs is a counsellor or trained person who not only can understand the struggle, but somone who has 'been there, done that'.

At this Stone Hawk, the Narconon program is a tried and tested drug rehab treatment program that has brought about a success rate of more than 70% and what is important is graduates left and stay clean. The program focuses on the total wellbeing of the patient, without the use of drugs. A careful medical check up is necessary before going through the program. The drug addiction treatment involves a body detox, cleaning the body, following a healthy and wholesome diet, and including regular fitness to strengthen the mental and physical aspects of the student. I believe a 'drug free' approach to definitely the way to go to not only stay clean but build physical health in the long run.

Stop Your Addiction

In all things, the 'first step' is the most challenging. Just like a little baby who first learnt how to take his first step... it was tough, painful, scary... but eventually, this challenge would be overcome.

Similarly, making a decision to take the 'first step' in any drug addiction recovery is the toughest. With this in mind, the Stone Hawk First Step 28-day drug rehab program is tailored to address the needs of those struggling in drug addictions. The program centers on the health aspects of detoxification and offering appropriate education to overcome drug addiction.

The First Step Drug Rehab consists of these 5 steps:

• Detoxification and Withdrawal
• Self Control and Communication Exercises
• Sauna Cleansing Process
• Study Improvement
• Drug Free Remedies for Discomforts

Know of someone who needs to take the 'first step', point him to Stop Your Addiction for a good head start.

Wanna be a US citizen?

Many of our friends are planning for migration with some in the midst of application. It seems like the few most popular countries people are opting for are namely Australia, New Zealand and US.

Before our Aussie migration was approved, DH was contemplating on a US citizenship application. It is not surprising why he thinks about that. His close cousins live in California and his youngest brother, in Sans Francisco. Besides, he did his high school and university studies in Arizona.

As with any kind of migration, you need to be sure of your decision and feel comfortable about your chosen destination. Also, migration agents have one advice in common: Apply before laws change! With the advent of internet technology, you can apply for US citizenship online conveniently with guided instructions for new applicants. In case you don't know, it can be an overwhelming and confusing process of becoming a US Citizen but here is a website that presents the important information in a simple and understandable way. Most importantly, you save money on engaging lawyers.

My brother in law is a PR in US while his cousins are now citizens. Let's look at some perks of becoming a US citizen (courtesy of uscitienship.info):

1. The right to vote and obtain certain federal jobs
2. Security from anti-immigrant laws
3. Security from removal
4. The right to live or take long trips outside the United States
5. Special rights and protections when traveling outside the United States
6. An unquestioned right to return to the United States
7. The ability to bring other family members to the United States (faster than you could as a permanent resident)
8. The right to apply for public benefits
9. Cost savings in renewing Green card every 10 years (in fees and time)
10. Pass Citizenship to your children

Education on drug treatments

What would our normal reactions be when we hear that someone we know well is a drug addict? Do we shun them or do we show our compassion by thinking of ways to help him?

Education is important as it helps to remove fears, anxieties and over worrying. There are many different types of drug treatment treatments and programs available and the best drug treatment program is one that is chosen appropriately to answer to the needs of the individual involved.

It is not wise to generalize drug rehab treatments as there are different kinds of drug addictions. Other than knowing what these addictions are and understanding the kind of treatments available, one should consult a trained professional to receive the right treatment and be placed in the appropriate drug rehab program.

1800nodrugs.com offers dedicated advice and counselling while connecting these individuals to the these drug rehab programs.

Parenting teens in the 21st century

Being parents of the 21st century is certainly challenging these days. I witnessed it with my own eyes as I thought about my design students who fell between the age group of 16 -15 years old. The rising rate of troubled teens at that age group tend to experience problems related to peer pressure, emotional instability and parental disagreement. At this age where teens fight for independence and freedom of space, they don't like intrusion from parents or guardians into their private lives.

Yet for some parents who seem to be at wit's end in dealing with a troubled teen, some can considered Wilderness Programs For Troubled Teens as an option. It is important to understand the pros and cons before deciding on sending your teen to a program like this as not all may be suited for the programs available.

Parents must also not think that sending a difficult teen to a wilderness program is an easy way out to ease themselves of parental responsibilities or duties. In any case, do consult a counsellor who can assist you in finding the right solution or program for your child.

Drug detox treatment

I am into Part 5 of my Detox series in my health blog. Do you know that detox is also is number one step to drug addiction recovery? Basically, a drug addict who has been dependent on the use of drugs needs to train the body to stop this dependency and be weaned off drugs. With various methods to drug detox, the natural way would be NewLife Detox where vitamins, minerals, sauna, exercise and other wellness approaches are used.

Sometimes a drug rehab treatment program needs to be followed for those who are addicted to certain drugs such as heroine and cocaine. The program involves counselling and guidance to provide drug addicts the tools to rekindle the confidence to follow the road to recovery.

The road to drug recovery

I met my auntie during my grandma's funeral two weeks ago. She is mum to a close cousin of mine who has been behind bars for the last 10 years. He is a close grandson to my grandma so he had asked for permission to pay his last respects to my grandma at the funeral.

Meng had got into bad company in his early adulthood and became a drug addict under peer pressure and wrong influence. I asked his mum about him during the funeral and with tears in her eyes, she said, "I hate him". It was disheartening for a mum to utter such words about her son but I knew that she was hurting.

Due to the lack of proper counselling, Meng did not succeed in his addiction recovery and his family did not know how to provide the support he needed. If only the family was well aware of the different addiction treatments available through good drug rehabilitation network, Meng's road to recovery would be promising.

The article on addiction recovery at RehabilitationHQ provides a comprehensive insight on the recovery journey for both the drug addicts and their families. It explains clearly the emotional and mental issues involved when a commitment is made to overcome this struggle.

Addiction counselling can help to prevent a relapse during the drug treatment process and such counselling involves not only the drug addict but the family too. It is important to receive the support of loved ones during the addiction recovery process and to help in dealing with self-hatred, loss of self-esteem and shame.

Another helpful article for my auntie's family is the "Survival Guide to a Loved One's Addiction". It lists down some helpful suggestions that the family can use, that they must first regain the confidence and strength before they can offer emotional support to the person suffering from addiction. It is important for the family to recognize that they are not alone in this and there is a support network that they can receive help from.

They should also understand the different drug treatment options available and how a drug rehab can benefit Meng in the long run. Proper counselling can prepare the family and the addict emotionally, mentally and physically while receiving the appropriate treatment.

My auntie and the rest of the family definitely needs the strength to overcome the hurts and pain they have experienced over the years. Meng is due to be out of jail end of this year. I pray that he will enter a new lifestyle with new strength and hope as he reunites with his family.

Daycare Bear

What a useful and fabulous service for working parents! As a working mom myself, finding reliable and quality daycare help for our toddler is essential during days where I need to conduct events and meetings. Though we have the privilege to look after Clayton as WAH parents, we know that many parents are desperate in finding good babysitters, daycare centers or preschools.

Daycare Bear connects childcare providers with parents together by providing a service for such needs. You can locate your provider by feeling in your location, child's age in Daycare Bear's comprehensive website. Check it out this great service coupled with useful information and resources available for free for all parents and providers.

Place Your Ads for FREE!

Whenever I read something about UK, I think about my friend, Janet, who has taken the bold step as an entrepreneur in starting her own ceramic business with the support of her husband. This is admirable for a 24 year old girl and I am glad that she has recently launched her business online.

As she is constantly looking for exposure for her business, the free ads placement in itsmymarket.com would be a great community site for her to check out. This is not only a classified ads site for the UK community, there are other useful resources on what's on, news on local weather, blogs and even free dating features.

Well, you don't have to be a UK resident to leverage on these great features. If you have business whose target audience is those of the UK market, you can place your ad for FREE in the classified ads.

To add to all the above, I find the website friendly, attractive with those colourful navigation buttons.

My Interview at 5 Minutes for Mom

Hi Mommies,
If you have a blog, website or an online store, you can do a little self promotion by submitting your blog/site/listing at 5 minutes for mom and it costs you nothing. This is a fabulous website that aims to bring moms the best in shopping, blogging, parenting and entertainment.
Check it out now!

What does '420 mean?

Lately, I came across a few drug rehab websites and it was good to know that there were proper centres set up to help this group of people to get back on their feet again.

This morning, I learn about cord blood drug rehab which has comprehensive information and resources on how to identity signs of drug addiction among individuals. There are also guidelines on how to educate kids and teenagers on the reality of drugs as kids at 11 and above are usually curious about alchohol and drugs.

What I find interesting is the significance of '420', on what it means to drug users and the meaning and theories behind this term.

My opinion on interracial marriages

Actually, I am rather glad that most dating singles today are opened to interracial marriages and relationships. I have a few couple friends who are happily married despite racial differences and what matters most in a relationship is always love, trust and acceptance. My husband's close cousin marries a non-Chinese and you should look at the beautiful features of their children - they are so good looking!

In fact,black white dating is no longer a newsworthy topic as compared to the past. People are more open-minded as they become more affluent with proper education and cultural exposure. I am impressed by the success stories in an interracial dating site, showing happy couples in a relationship and marriage.

Everyone can be romantic now

Ask any woman if she likes to receive love letters and the answer is normally a big YES! I am one of them. Maybe I was reading too much romance novels in my teenage years or perhaps I was growing in the world of fairytale fantasies.

It is nice to receive comforting, sweet notes from someone you care about and love. Writing love letters need not be a daunting task. All you need is to be sincere, be willing to express yourself and it doesn't have to be a long winding one anyway. A short note of love goes a long way. If you don't believe it, try it.

Here is a simple example:

"You are...

loved
honored
respected
treasured
adored
cherished
longed for and...
missed.

I love you,

xxxxx"

Want more ideas, browse through more sweet notes at Romance for Everyone.

Complain while maintaining your privacy

Ever had a bad experience in a restaurant and yet, you don't want to disclose your identity in the feedback form? Anonymous Email allows you to send an email to the recipient without the need of disclosing your personal email.

This may be a good medium for parents and students if they like to voice certain concerns to the principal. For instance, if a disruptive or unprofessional behaviour of a teacher is being noticed and sometimes, the student may be too afraid to report such acts. In the workplace, you may lodge a complaint about the harassment of a colleague or someone performing any illegal activities at work without losing your privacy.

When used constructively, this anonymous way of communication can be useful and helpful in many scenarios.

A drug free treatment for drug addicts

Following on from what I wrote previously on teenage entering drugs at a young age, and how important it was to seek the right drug rehab help and treatment.

Stone Hawk Drug Treatment is a special place to provide drug rehab and addiction treatment for addicts. The counselors empathize and care for the addicts because they were once addicts too. They know the struggle and challenges involved in kicking that stinking habit. With more than 70% success rate, Stone Hawk's drug treatment program is the most successful in the country. The program uses a drug-free approach as the center believes that drug addicts should not inject more chemicals in the body. The traditional treatment by drug rehab uses medication and drugs which differs from Stone Hawk's aim to help addicts improve their mental and physical health without any more drugs.

This drug free method ensures that graudates leave clean and stay clean, without the dependency of drugs and other medications at all.