tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5918478189330759852024-03-18T11:03:52.096+08:00LIPSTICKMYNAMENabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-50181246004143294482021-09-10T17:04:00.010+08:002021-09-10T17:31:35.703+08:00Shop LMN<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeRmrN7vgp7LOcIovLqsSciSQyagKICqI1Pr4ct8me6w7VakacDd4PXiAUV4DnDAgguVyCtq0dfQUrfrhu9Wlh-HfcjfiSDDOs3Zi4NRA2VJNZIeIRRTYKLsELuEs7VPddrHIxSfEm3A/s2048/IMG_6629.PNG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeRmrN7vgp7LOcIovLqsSciSQyagKICqI1Pr4ct8me6w7VakacDd4PXiAUV4DnDAgguVyCtq0dfQUrfrhu9Wlh-HfcjfiSDDOs3Zi4NRA2VJNZIeIRRTYKLsELuEs7VPddrHIxSfEm3A/s320/IMG_6629.PNG"/></a></div>
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</div>Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-62489499454454323102020-12-08T08:29:00.004+08:002020-12-08T08:29:57.936+08:00Digital Side Hustle: Part 1<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLVmoHUpKXtqyeXX61MVHfdalrY5gImc_TZmuxG9Mboq-PRJv60ePmqnVHTHfBhmVrBbIJZmgTACOCU9qIwQ0igOpoh1p6bMdLUwKk9-kUioSEfmxqpGpwJ_ES-NOGdwmeOq77tuaCac/s1776/0A063143-430B-4EC5-9397-29634125B7A5-36AE95D7-A8CE-4AB3-AA60-063D2CFB5FB5.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLVmoHUpKXtqyeXX61MVHfdalrY5gImc_TZmuxG9Mboq-PRJv60ePmqnVHTHfBhmVrBbIJZmgTACOCU9qIwQ0igOpoh1p6bMdLUwKk9-kUioSEfmxqpGpwJ_ES-NOGdwmeOq77tuaCac/w266-h400/0A063143-430B-4EC5-9397-29634125B7A5-36AE95D7-A8CE-4AB3-AA60-063D2CFB5FB5.JPG" width="266" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">I am what people call an ‘influencer’. I try so hard to
shake that term off because it’s clouded with a lot of negative connotations
and perceptions. It’s ridiculed and looked down upon. I don’t know what about
it makes it quite possibly one of the most hated words in the past few years.
People say it with such disgust that even ‘influencers’ have stopped calling
themselves that and switched it out with social media content creator or some
other disguise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTetNtTknzSCLmQkscbImqWoUGbwpP7e1ZnTOvcdPsnikfHfW9iTds7gKno75-JhSSDNvHNBO67Aebizfds2h7ejxsXHrk939KR1n_ybcwQQQZX6rN5CmszKri5qMDtEMgG3j5djEBoVE/s1776/IMG_1877.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1776" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTetNtTknzSCLmQkscbImqWoUGbwpP7e1ZnTOvcdPsnikfHfW9iTds7gKno75-JhSSDNvHNBO67Aebizfds2h7ejxsXHrk939KR1n_ybcwQQQZX6rN5CmszKri5qMDtEMgG3j5djEBoVE/w400-h266/IMG_1877.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Let me be real and say, I am embarrassed to be one because
I’ve always been the type to care about what people think. But even so, I never
stopped being one because (a) I actually quite enjoy it and (b) I make money
out of it and people who hate what I do, do not pay my damn bills. I’ve decided
to just live on, for now at least, and let people hate. But, I will always try
to be kind to them because it really just makes them look bad and says more
about them than me really.</span></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy4qYQIr8P0hrbU6s8kx56Yz4ZMIiVV8UDUJL2AyAZdPGZdNVLseMPqj4VwgYgC3N3YFNKb_wUHBglCyGU4SCUntY3gJqUhQD1vzA_1Yz1erwHgiU9GIollhiQmorQBjHnwknDR6lp2g/s1388/IMG_3640.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1388" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy4qYQIr8P0hrbU6s8kx56Yz4ZMIiVV8UDUJL2AyAZdPGZdNVLseMPqj4VwgYgC3N3YFNKb_wUHBglCyGU4SCUntY3gJqUhQD1vzA_1Yz1erwHgiU9GIollhiQmorQBjHnwknDR6lp2g/w400-h341/IMG_3640.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalfDmbbk2WAdttcN8INptaA_Fta5fF_ZJBiqLKsUkJTat3UjU2KDo0IWcT7qa8Jzyp-1Ghph2DL-SFEe0KS57e0QoJDwdrzbjKyNJtE6vsG9uF5SR3ZlzipvwjPGdL5KTr_G6ySk4Fak/s1280/IMG_4140.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="852" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalfDmbbk2WAdttcN8INptaA_Fta5fF_ZJBiqLKsUkJTat3UjU2KDo0IWcT7qa8Jzyp-1Ghph2DL-SFEe0KS57e0QoJDwdrzbjKyNJtE6vsG9uF5SR3ZlzipvwjPGdL5KTr_G6ySk4Fak/w266-h400/IMG_4140.JPG" width="266" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Hahaha that time I came to an event twinning with Vivy! Still so funny.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHq-1bcXfRxNP91zTjNsFKLPXMO-yIKHi3Zl62uXkFp55JPfb2l0rai-wTx-ljcVHNLB8uGLl_gItFJGZMO5mgjiAyHTVIm476bu4pK14JUqi5sZ877ABKMfJK3yDg9SW-b-XN4E7AI4/s1543/IMG_4256.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1543" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHq-1bcXfRxNP91zTjNsFKLPXMO-yIKHi3Zl62uXkFp55JPfb2l0rai-wTx-ljcVHNLB8uGLl_gItFJGZMO5mgjiAyHTVIm476bu4pK14JUqi5sZ877ABKMfJK3yDg9SW-b-XN4E7AI4/w400-h308/IMG_4256.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Back to what I do—LMN—there’s two sides to my business.
Obviously, there’s the apparel RTW business that has probably been on a small
break due to COVID. COVID definitely shook my entire supply chain and new
business models would need to be thought of at this point. Hopefully LMN the
label will survive this and make its way back for Eid 2021. I’ll let you in on
a secret, it has started production.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">The other side of LMN is the social media side. I mostly
enjoy it because of the marketing aspect. I think that’s where I’d like to head
in the future—marketing. I know it’s a vast subject and social media marketing
is just a small dot, but it’s such a fun and exciting expertise to be in. So
far I’ve only done a lot of stills, but in 2021, I hope my creativity will take
me further (hah, if my MBA permits).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRFCFoTTSUwyNsD8dF6chgd95ADavrKOTMzgwom5XOLjDwZxzAFRraW_nyHQoYuX0MjrGCimnuxYxPkEaMP8Cr-i9kF7eyFssAG9uRTgqTO57-xG__oZTyt5h7WbADpMFJUft_EaNsxI/s1242/IMG_7015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1219" data-original-width="1242" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRFCFoTTSUwyNsD8dF6chgd95ADavrKOTMzgwom5XOLjDwZxzAFRraW_nyHQoYuX0MjrGCimnuxYxPkEaMP8Cr-i9kF7eyFssAG9uRTgqTO57-xG__oZTyt5h7WbADpMFJUft_EaNsxI/w400-h393/IMG_7015.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmyhJ-RnKJm-4lor13Mptz6Cs9AoiFjEOdkQxbkh17dPUxEY0q8gyUimSF27JZ7TcPx_uGihWYJcZrc7fYmlfiTIrUAHzeRyH8cusFwwORnKh9VopxTOjFe26qhkJmEihOlYErlbnJYw8/s1776/IMG_9146.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmyhJ-RnKJm-4lor13Mptz6Cs9AoiFjEOdkQxbkh17dPUxEY0q8gyUimSF27JZ7TcPx_uGihWYJcZrc7fYmlfiTIrUAHzeRyH8cusFwwORnKh9VopxTOjFe26qhkJmEihOlYErlbnJYw8/w266-h400/IMG_9146.JPG" width="266" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7Dl5mp_TwA7afAHIxSiCxEPRn0lQwzM6P3_Zt1nd2j4wLBRxzQ2O5plODH6-EEaR1cSv3ewW7qHx5g_9FU81Q1ttD-_RJbBGbZDmDNIQoU5CTO0hngbVv6yU14MkI2EirJBJtnDD0zs/s1776/IMG_9136.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1776" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7Dl5mp_TwA7afAHIxSiCxEPRn0lQwzM6P3_Zt1nd2j4wLBRxzQ2O5plODH6-EEaR1cSv3ewW7qHx5g_9FU81Q1ttD-_RJbBGbZDmDNIQoU5CTO0hngbVv6yU14MkI2EirJBJtnDD0zs/w400-h266/IMG_9136.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium; text-align: left;">How I earn from it is mostly by producing content for
brands. Back in 2015 when I was still building the brand, I mostly took things
for free to keep churning out content for my platform and blog but now I mostly
take on paid projects. Not because I’m a sellout. People don’t seem to
understand that creating content takes (a) time and (b) money to purchase
whatever it is you need to create content. I get frustrated when brands ask to
do this and that and set a deadline without giving me monetary compensation. I
feel a little disrespected, not because I feel I deserve to be paid, but more
because I’m taking my time out to create something for you and I know it
translates into profits for your business, but you think giving me something
for free is enough. Gladly, a lot of companies are starting to understand that.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Anyway, that aside, I also earn money from sales commissions
so I’m quite grateful every time you use any of my codes. I think those are
important because it also shows the impact of my content to the businesses I’m
working with. Like a report card, I suppose. So to those of you who have used
my code in the past or will use them in the future, thank you from the bottom
of heart. It keeps LMN going. In some countries, it’s a more viable and
sustainable career, but it isn’t where we live. I’m going to ride it out, until
I can’t anymore.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">In Part 2, I’ll write about what actually happens when I
create content and walk you through the process in my head. I’ll also talk
about the challenges that I face.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Hope you enjoyed Part 1! Speak soon!</span></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-1690673226682484992020-11-04T10:19:00.080+08:002020-11-06T12:50:42.816+08:00Lisa Eldridge Velvet Lipsticks<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #202122; line-height: 107%;">According to Wiki, the <b>lipstick effect</b> is
the theory that when facing an </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">economic crisis</span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #202122; line-height: 107%;"> consumers will be more willing to buy
less costly </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">luxury goods<span style="color: #202122;">... like lipsticks.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: #202122;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #202122; line-height: 107%;">That's what I tell myself to justify my spending as a student many years ago. I felt so much joy every time I bought a new lipstick. I was also very
much obsessed so I had tons. Every time MAC launched a new collection, I would
buy all of the lipsticks. Sigh, if you remember the Venomous Villains collection
(omg… aced the packaging) and the nudes that came out during the Mickey
Contractor collection (Yash is now permanent, thank goodness). I always
gravitated towards the nudes and reds. If I was daring, muted cool-toned pinks.
Never fuchsia or coral because it never went well on my skin. My first
favourite lipstick (and I always make sure I have one in my collection) was
MAC’s Honey Love. I love their matte formula but I think right now their Powder
Kiss formula has topped it. I might swatch that next because I impulsively bought
a box of 5 of those from the Holiday collection. Whoops.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #202122; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #202122; line-height: 107%;">Ever since then, I have tried lipsticks from… I
would say almost every brand. I was hooked on the Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy
Sculpting Lipsticks in Insatiable Ivory and Desirable… I loved (and still do)
Pat McGrath’s Omi and Realness. I love Duck Cosmetics’s colors and formula from
The Love Duck collection. I was once obsessed with Chanel’s Rouge Allure Velvet
Luminous Matte lipstick in #34 (available on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shoppaintedbykashf/?hl=en">@shoppaintedbykashf</a> if I’m not mistaken)… and how could I ever forget NARS’s Velvet Matte Lip Pencils in Red
Square and Dolce Vita! But guys, I think I found the best lipstick formula
ever.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #202122; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; text-align: justify;">Lisa Eldridge is an international make-up
artist who makes Youtube videos that really make you conscious of the way you
apply skincare and make up (she does it so softly and gently that makes me
question whether I’m tugging on my skin a bit too much). When she came out with lipsticks, I knew I had to try them. I love
matte lipsticks so when she called them velvet, I knew that was a battle I was
going to lose. The first one I bought was Velvet Muse. It’s my favourite
lipstick this year and even after buying 5 more shades, Muse is still my favourite.
So enough talking, here are the swatches on me.</span> </p><p><br /></p><p>Also, I've used some photos from <b>Temptalia</b> because her swatches and photos are ace. I'm not competing with that. So if you want to read what she says...<a href="https://www.temptalia.com/product/lisa-eldridge-plush-true-velvet-lipstick-colour/"><b><i> click here</i></b></a> and navigate away.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXE9DW9DUkf6pi9davVsvhzBnVLco6mltWRRtMUIC6qdeRhJGw-H1dCKXTW4d37NqyMdHQp4deNHv1hjPONi4iAsX9arN8mTXBNs3tmn9cT0Hr5xGj1S2iX3m3sshMF0f5-f_RoIKFvE/s1776/image5.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXE9DW9DUkf6pi9davVsvhzBnVLco6mltWRRtMUIC6qdeRhJGw-H1dCKXTW4d37NqyMdHQp4deNHv1hjPONi4iAsX9arN8mTXBNs3tmn9cT0Hr5xGj1S2iX3m3sshMF0f5-f_RoIKFvE/w266-h400/image5.jpeg" title="Velvet Fawn" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Fawn</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPKaW6QvBKFQbhaZhuWGm1Cep-tfeckVUghQH0ETk2kJsHXY87awAF8P5R1lBYO8RqQzE5YgxK7C-4TdlRMi0eIAm6rMU860cq07-TrPjYVoa4GL-eL8XYQvbt8ac_KNcY8AWvGez5Ro8/s760/Fawn+1.jpg" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="760" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPKaW6QvBKFQbhaZhuWGm1Cep-tfeckVUghQH0ETk2kJsHXY87awAF8P5R1lBYO8RqQzE5YgxK7C-4TdlRMi0eIAm6rMU860cq07-TrPjYVoa4GL-eL8XYQvbt8ac_KNcY8AWvGez5Ro8/w200-h200/Fawn+1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeqRnx2XobVh9UarCgc1_05YIWuqf3ClDfoaQowibxy0OqdaY1jN93HJZn5u-EHux_VruIk01QtBpj3s35Ec0sHZtJEu8vT-4ot7fphWoJIL60LzdM1N_0gaKGJa7ETvN8xFzkNi7vq8s/s760/Fawn+2.jpg" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="760" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeqRnx2XobVh9UarCgc1_05YIWuqf3ClDfoaQowibxy0OqdaY1jN93HJZn5u-EHux_VruIk01QtBpj3s35Ec0sHZtJEu8vT-4ot7fphWoJIL60LzdM1N_0gaKGJa7ETvN8xFzkNi7vq8s/w244-h200/Fawn+2.jpg" width="244" /></a></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YOdHvuLqvBjMiSPV0bK2vL-cbditevtPtEaVBNonc1xMF1Fz1oZqg4eZ9RCJPEc5MT8R0cBUfwMsTunwTauEwm4v9ycN4LpW_6vb_YyY1qF2XJWfCQkbdUXQhYQ0OPfojhmWRPSPSL4/s1776/image4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YOdHvuLqvBjMiSPV0bK2vL-cbditevtPtEaVBNonc1xMF1Fz1oZqg4eZ9RCJPEc5MT8R0cBUfwMsTunwTauEwm4v9ycN4LpW_6vb_YyY1qF2XJWfCQkbdUXQhYQ0OPfojhmWRPSPSL4/w266-h400/image4.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="266" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Muse (my fave!)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YOdHvuLqvBjMiSPV0bK2vL-cbditevtPtEaVBNonc1xMF1Fz1oZqg4eZ9RCJPEc5MT8R0cBUfwMsTunwTauEwm4v9ycN4LpW_6vb_YyY1qF2XJWfCQkbdUXQhYQ0OPfojhmWRPSPSL4/s1776/image4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCufUOJkWxkEuJQkzZcA4Yzi9wJJu2epGwYM1Uoh8O0GmM7geAI0tXj6ku_gE42qcBflHsIbkr4-aXY4r_EcYJXzbuPFJOSLxVAPgP1BOKDe9wlWSayDsIRTkae7c69E9BnkTNHmo7Z8/s760/Muse+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="760" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCufUOJkWxkEuJQkzZcA4Yzi9wJJu2epGwYM1Uoh8O0GmM7geAI0tXj6ku_gE42qcBflHsIbkr4-aXY4r_EcYJXzbuPFJOSLxVAPgP1BOKDe9wlWSayDsIRTkae7c69E9BnkTNHmo7Z8/w200-h164/Muse+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHyvFoanXsbyzZ5NUF4evzeWwEGLVHtByxkwAI7u_UfCbE-yIapSVwjVGdrQlm6SV20jtRl61hYULeQh-zIJP1f-kTlxLKGNdJ7Y6ksbs6uzQB_CmlmWGeVpEI_vAqXjbHP2vVoaCA_AA/s1776/image3.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHyvFoanXsbyzZ5NUF4evzeWwEGLVHtByxkwAI7u_UfCbE-yIapSVwjVGdrQlm6SV20jtRl61hYULeQh-zIJP1f-kTlxLKGNdJ7Y6ksbs6uzQB_CmlmWGeVpEI_vAqXjbHP2vVoaCA_AA/w266-h400/image3.jpeg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Beauty (too pink for my liking)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cXEGBCmN0qEtS9SbsQZs2ZEbTPvLOk0yVCp0B8UEKZV5cM7KZ6JAYhRHcDQJrSgSW6YDUfVttrnpZQIwniE5VSM7_HfVTATul1CAXTen5Lcb2oHfxKyhfStJ0TYZRgahfityoKILl2k/s760/Beauty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="760" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cXEGBCmN0qEtS9SbsQZs2ZEbTPvLOk0yVCp0B8UEKZV5cM7KZ6JAYhRHcDQJrSgSW6YDUfVttrnpZQIwniE5VSM7_HfVTATul1CAXTen5Lcb2oHfxKyhfStJ0TYZRgahfityoKILl2k/w200-h164/Beauty.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyv3LTdwmTZZtflqEq0ocMlsrY0Q9tNyEF_cQb_cc4FWoORVXp8-Q-dhVBEcM6sDU_fK4-my2uxxe6kQfDRcKHikrkrsMeA7MEKXa3mmx1Xh4y3tBaN1ljO03vJYEjX3p23O2NQF5VSA/s1776/image2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyv3LTdwmTZZtflqEq0ocMlsrY0Q9tNyEF_cQb_cc4FWoORVXp8-Q-dhVBEcM6sDU_fK4-my2uxxe6kQfDRcKHikrkrsMeA7MEKXa3mmx1Xh4y3tBaN1ljO03vJYEjX3p23O2NQF5VSA/w266-h400/image2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="266" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Blush</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_dq72eOKJHTiQmhxRID7TgpO5-nuuOrlZIvS3Ra5k76QIW1qk-IJA-TPIwsFtnfsQHT0FIx65UNt_2ZQ8G5pioCLToHrM8dvKsvGZlOJnmIMWgy2d7bT66tA8W6t6G8c3JoXCe9c0bg/s103/Blush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="85" data-original-width="103" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_dq72eOKJHTiQmhxRID7TgpO5-nuuOrlZIvS3Ra5k76QIW1qk-IJA-TPIwsFtnfsQHT0FIx65UNt_2ZQ8G5pioCLToHrM8dvKsvGZlOJnmIMWgy2d7bT66tA8W6t6G8c3JoXCe9c0bg/w200-h165/Blush.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MCoEu46nZW_rt_Op51R59bO8arSHPyJ3SxIrDQ4HzT0hpfJKs-8RbJuiqCUbCOW6pUCVFbdCT9eNPB58iTH2xZ6tgfMVnjYVPv1nD_hH2yAMZDO4Uy2JPd3x_J5z39hI-nc1weNH-eI/s1776/image1.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MCoEu46nZW_rt_Op51R59bO8arSHPyJ3SxIrDQ4HzT0hpfJKs-8RbJuiqCUbCOW6pUCVFbdCT9eNPB58iTH2xZ6tgfMVnjYVPv1nD_hH2yAMZDO4Uy2JPd3x_J5z39hI-nc1weNH-eI/w266-h400/image1.jpeg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Dragon (love this but warmer tones tend to make your teeth look yellower)</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQbYEqA1VAnGFJTNqwYMac8aEQe5mjJ0rFkBWGrel4bhhQus37-KW8j_tCmHX2O2aiYZ5Hi5B21KrHlOZsyiXaW9hkZHtQYr68BKN26VZwPRlGsRd1YP_o-tLU9TAs_46B9WFNrEueQE/s103/Dragon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="85" data-original-width="103" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQbYEqA1VAnGFJTNqwYMac8aEQe5mjJ0rFkBWGrel4bhhQus37-KW8j_tCmHX2O2aiYZ5Hi5B21KrHlOZsyiXaW9hkZHtQYr68BKN26VZwPRlGsRd1YP_o-tLU9TAs_46B9WFNrEueQE/w200-h165/Dragon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tSMM8QoXeSodV463jUkpnpB4PnZIG9v_4B_i_LskvgOubsr64JCF-3_3DXilAqh-dbbhyphenhyphenb0FWD8HZx7YHEOWxGFjBE5Lrpehl6MC8-MRDTbgoQaB5xnutBfT8UBam493-hkZPZ6VSSY/s1776/image0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="1184" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tSMM8QoXeSodV463jUkpnpB4PnZIG9v_4B_i_LskvgOubsr64JCF-3_3DXilAqh-dbbhyphenhyphenb0FWD8HZx7YHEOWxGFjBE5Lrpehl6MC8-MRDTbgoQaB5xnutBfT8UBam493-hkZPZ6VSSY/w266-h400/image0.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="266" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Ribbon</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tSMM8QoXeSodV463jUkpnpB4PnZIG9v_4B_i_LskvgOubsr64JCF-3_3DXilAqh-dbbhyphenhyphenb0FWD8HZx7YHEOWxGFjBE5Lrpehl6MC8-MRDTbgoQaB5xnutBfT8UBam493-hkZPZ6VSSY/s1776/image0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1vrl-sD8fkRCOnWnSK_T3ooKg4JkCWDY9ayPdyrgpV4Y-F1ghRRxeI4wQal6zFjjwo1tFzX7J9EZr_mEIJi5VEcKPsbROQcFqQGpjmvNS_hMUE3dLDiaqfKAtnh3n98XbiESXN9kbi4/s760/Ribbon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="760" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1vrl-sD8fkRCOnWnSK_T3ooKg4JkCWDY9ayPdyrgpV4Y-F1ghRRxeI4wQal6zFjjwo1tFzX7J9EZr_mEIJi5VEcKPsbROQcFqQGpjmvNS_hMUE3dLDiaqfKAtnh3n98XbiESXN9kbi4/w200-h164/Ribbon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />You can get them <a href="https://www.lisaeldridge.com/collections/lipsticks">here</a>. Which one's your favourite?<div><br /></div><div>x,</div><div>N<br /><p><br /></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-9027090106810332012020-04-18T16:27:00.000+08:002020-04-18T16:32:35.310+08:00Maktub Series: I'll Put This Love in a Bottle<br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Hi all,</i></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>I've met plenty people on this journey and we will be forever bonded by the similarities in our stories. I've always wanted this one person to be a special guest on my blog. I was over the moon when she agreed. If you relate to the post at all, know that you are not alone... and we are here for you.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>x, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>N</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_ND9qqlj1voZ8exsU79P7fVUBiqzeaCinB4NH-69rysrRI5skDAtxM1SX3Pqqp6AiCgfMG5m2movnTanv3o3AiRYbFFfHzYRCPQm7CHjlspuGba5Wurke3-pJ6O8cRkm5LE91wkE-ls/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_ND9qqlj1voZ8exsU79P7fVUBiqzeaCinB4NH-69rysrRI5skDAtxM1SX3Pqqp6AiCgfMG5m2movnTanv3o3AiRYbFFfHzYRCPQm7CHjlspuGba5Wurke3-pJ6O8cRkm5LE91wkE-ls/s640/Snapseed.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I’ve been meaning to put this all down. I told
myself I would, because I wanted to remember what we went through to become
parents; all the ups and downs, the insides and outs of it all. Lo and behold,
out of the blue – I get the opportunity to share my story here as a guest
blogger. Thank you dear, FN <3 I dedicate this on the most part to you,
because your kind heart shared valuable information that would change the
course of the path I would walk on in this life. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The year was 2017. We had been married for
over three years and of course, as many married couples know, that ONE question
would play like a broken record – <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“alum kamu
beranak?”</i> The alternatives would be, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“alum
ada kah?” / “alum kau berisi?”</i> with judging looks or smirks; comparing us
to other couples that have been married a few months and were already pregnant.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some would go as far as, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“inda kamu mau anak kah?”.</i> Trust me,
there were much worse questions I’ve been asked, but that’s a whole new topic
to write about. Yes, it hurts to be asked those questions. To the point where
you just want to avoid going to functions or skip Hari Raya completely and fly
off on vacation, because there’s a 100% chance you’ll be asked that. It doesn’t
help to see that somehow everyone around you were having babies or they could
just trip and get pregnant. Sorry, I really was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> bitter and sad back then. I gained a lot of weight as well and
was at my heaviest maybe 1-2 years after getting married, from emotional eating
and feeling depressed. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Truth of the matter is, I always wanted to
be a mom. Even as a teenager - I knew that I always wanted to have children one
day, and have them as soon as possible after getting married! Scratch the
honeymoon phase! We tried and prayed to be blessed with our own children. All
the prayers, the doas to be blessed with your own offspring – I can recite them
all by heart. Things didn’t go as we planned. We even took fertility tests around
a year after getting married <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(yes, I was that
desperate!),</i> but it was taking a toll on us financially and with work and
everything else going on, we just decided to take a break from it all and focus
on ourselves and our health. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">August 2017.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mother heard someone wanted to give away
their newborn baby boy and introduced me to the idea of adoption. I had never
really thought about it. My plan all along was: Get married, get pregnant and
give birth to our babies. Work was busy at the time, so I kind of shrugged it
off and didn’t process it all properly… but I asked my husband what he thought,
his reply was, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“If you want to, then I’m
with you.”</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know how badly my
mother wanted grandchildren, feeling the pressure, I told her, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Bah, mana saja, Ma…”</i>. I was feeling
50/50 about it all, but began to prepare myself mentally. I was going to be a
mom. Not the ‘conventional’ way and definitely not the way I planned. I was
starting to feel excited and found myself smiling like a fool, driving alone in
my car lost in my own thoughts that this could finally be happening for
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even started looking up male baby
names, possible names for our son.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A week later, my mom called me. The birth
mother changed her mind. I was speechless. I felt like a ton of bricks were
dropped on top of me; crushing me instantly. I guess I just realized how badly
I wanted this child. I remember crying in my car on the way home and the rain
was pouring <i>(yes, sounds dramatic, but
it’s true!).</i> Maybe so that people driving passed couldn’t see me ugly cry
that hard in my car. A song was playing, with these lyrics blasting so
appropriately:</span></div>
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>They say there’s one chance you get</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>They say there’s one life you live, but there’s only one you…</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Don’t want to think about it right now</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I’ll put this love in a bottle and I’ll go to the beach,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Lose this pain and sorrow as it flows out to sea,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>And if it’s you, if it’s you, if it’s you…you’ll come back to me</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>But for now I’ll be right here with the memories</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
</i><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All my emotions in this pre-chorus. The
thought that my husband and I would become parents was only lent to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, just like that, it was taken away from
us. I told myself, I guess it’s not our rezeki, maybe it just wasn’t meant for
us. To cope with my grieving, I kept myself occupied and busy. With that news,
I cried it all out then dove into my work, went to as many spinning classes I
could go to, to just forget about it all. Don’t even get me started on my
mother - she was just so upset, she just deleted the photos she received of
that newborn baby boy from her phone and she would go on and on about how
upsetting it all was. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can’t recall exactly, but maybe a week
later, whilst in a meeting, my phone rang. I excused myself to answer this
call; there was news that the birth mother changed her mind again – she was
quite young with financial difficulties and wouldn’t be able to support her
son. They asked, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Can you pick him up
this afternoon when you’re off from work?”</i> Another moment of being
speechless, but I asked them to give me a few minutes while I called my
husband. My husband, again replying, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“If
you want to go for it, then I’m with you.” <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was shaking. This was it. Just like that
song, if it was meant to be him, he would come back to us. This was really
going to happen. Over the phone, they told me that they had some essential baby
items to last the next few days, so we didn’t need to rush or shop for
everything immediately. I got off work as soon as it was 4.30pm and hurried to
meet my husband. We drove to the address where our future awaited us. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When we entered the house, they asked us to
sit down while they prepared his items and were going to bring him out. I felt
like I was holding my breath waiting for him, I just kept fidgeting and tapping
my right foot. The birth mother brought him out and I could see from her face
that this wasn’t easy for her. Without a word, she placed a 12-day old baby boy
in my arms with a sad, yet relieved expression. I could feel that she was
entrusting me to raise this boy as my own. As I awkwardly adjusted my arms to
cradle him, she looked at me with earnest eyes and said, “Thank you for doing
this.” She smiled at me, wiping away her tears...but I was the thankful one! I
was receiving a priceless gift; a child, a human being! I told her that my husband
and I would do everything in our power to take the best care of him and raise
him; that she wouldn’t have to worry. She nodded and smiled at me again. I felt
like she was reassured that she was doing the right thing, even though it could
very well be the hardest decision she would ever have to make. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I observed that he was bundled in a thin,
ragged and discoloured towel which broke my heart. In that moment, I made my
heart speak to this baby and tell him that I would be his mommy and I would
give him everything that he needs and more. I still keep this towel that we
received him in from that very day, to serve as a constant reminder that I
would always do my best to give him everything he needs and deserves. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, there he was in my arms. Is this what it
feels like to be a mom? You look at them and you just know they’re yours, that
they’re the most beautiful thing you have ever laid your eyes on. Is this what
women feel after they give birth, to see and hold their babies for the very
first time? I really do hope that I got to feel even just an ounce of that,
with this boy in my arms that I just couldn’t take my eyes off and never wanted
to let go of. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was almost 6 o’clock – you know what
that means – Maghrib was approaching, and with a baby in tow, we needed to go
home. I was anticipating bringing our baby boy to my mother, I hadn’t told her
the news and wanted to surprise her. Unplanned, we walked into the house and
found my mother in the kitchen standing with her phone in her hands as it was
plugged into the wall. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Hi Ma,”</i> I
said casually, waiting for her to notice. It took a few seconds for her to
yell, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“ANAK SIAPA KAU AMBIL ANI?!?!”</i>
I told her, that this was him; the baby we were going to be given all along.
She cried, taking him from my arms, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Ya
Allah, lai… anak ani yang inda besalah inda bedusa…panggil dorang adi beradimu,
suruh tia turun!”</i> – my sisters came downstairs and so to cut the story short;
it was a crying fest in the kitchen. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After our crying ended, it was the baby’s
turn to cry. Almost two hours had passed and he was hungry. Earlier on, we were
given a blue basket with his items, containing some clothes, towels, a bag of
diapers, two baby bottles and his formula milk. Since we had no experience and didn’t
have a clue what to do, my mother quickly went into action to make his milk and
started verbally listing out things we needed to buy. With not much time to
think and digest that we welcomed a baby home; we rushed out to buy what we
could because we only had less than two hours before shops closed for the
night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Exhausted from the shopping and setting up
the cot and other essentials, we finally lay our baby down in his bed for the
night. I gave in early and lied down with the baby’s cot right next to my side
of the bed. I would jolt up every now and then just to check on him, but my
husband was already there, leaning on the side of the cot, just smiling and
watching our son sleeping peacefully. Babies are truly breathtaking; they
really are such a blessing and we were definitely feeling this even during our
first night with him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Being totally new to this experience, we
came to find out how frequently babies need to be fed and what any parent mean
about ‘sleepless nights’ within the first few months of a baby’s life. Bear in
mind, all of this was unplanned and unexpected, so I didn’t apply for leave
beforehand and still had to work the next day even though I was sleep-deprived.
As tired as we felt, we knew evermore so how blessed we were, Alhamdulillah. We
adjusted to this new routine and lives with our baby boy the next few months.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">[End of Part 1]<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-5129565688640480432020-04-09T10:09:00.000+08:002020-04-09T10:09:50.893+08:00Man, I Feel Just Like A Rockstar<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm currently reading Radical Candor by Kim Scott and it started talking about two different groups of excellent people at the office. One she calls 'superstars' and the other group, 'rockstars'. Superstars are those that are hyper-ambitious and are on a steep growth trajectory. They want to always be challenged. These are the people who always want to explore new positions and new roles. They don't stay put for a very long time and it would drive them completely off the wall if they stayed in the same position doing the same thing next year. These people are the drivers of growth in a company.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The rockstars are those on a more gradual growth trajectory. Don't be mistaken. They still strive for excellence. They are still world-class in what they do but they're not eyeing for their boss's job. They are happy where they are. One of the characteristics that Kim Scott included was that these people, instead of excelling at the office, excelled outside of work. They are the drivers of stability in any organization. Kim Scott's book, and this is also echoed in the book called Loonshots that I read a few months back, that in any organization, there needs to be a balance of both growth and stability. A company will get no where if everyone is busy fighting for promotions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZcBBXudParcuoIjaO20s3qbdM5I0PClBTHBkZ62uoZmgu4hu6pwd-wQ-ui0otHCcWZ6E1EAXQsHmdpscuXqw0nONrLwYZ01a_MKST0HclS-_IW-U8GFWHmwJeSqvuuPrU_sTglmKA2k/s1600/120445A3-C5B0-465C-97F1-820DCC08A502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZcBBXudParcuoIjaO20s3qbdM5I0PClBTHBkZ62uoZmgu4hu6pwd-wQ-ui0otHCcWZ6E1EAXQsHmdpscuXqw0nONrLwYZ01a_MKST0HclS-_IW-U8GFWHmwJeSqvuuPrU_sTglmKA2k/s640/120445A3-C5B0-465C-97F1-820DCC08A502.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
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It made me think about the growth trajectory that I was on. I remember graduating and actively looking for jobs back in 2012. I considered myself lucky. I think the labour market is a lot tougher these days. I landed a job soon after and I'm still here today after 7 years. I remember joining the workforce full of determination and drive. I remember being excited to achieve things. I remember the feeling of being fully motivated and ready to launch. I was a superstar. Well... I wouldn't call myself one but let's just say there were only two buckets where people could fit in. You can either be a superstar or a rockstar. For this purpose, let's say I was a superstar.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over the years, things happen right? I realize my gears shifted to a more gradual growth trajectory for a couple of reasons. One, there was no point being a superstar and aiming for a steep growth trajectory when you're on a flat road and it doesn't seem like it was gonna change in the near future. Secondly, I found that social media and trying to set up my own business kept me centered, so I wanted to invest time in that and hence the stability at the office was key. Thirdly, I had a baby boy who helped shift my priorities. I wanted to be there for him first and foremost.<br />
<br />
I have no regrets for shifting gears. I believe at the moment, I was meant to be on that path. I was meant to earn a little bit more through social media. I was meant to give LMN a chance. I was meant to meet all these amazing inspiring people. But it's been 5 years and with the bleak future of influencer marketing... I have no clue what lies ahead. I have and will always love creating content for brands. It always feels like such an honor to be acknowledged by them. I'm not saying I'm leaving that life. I'm just saying... I don't know where it's going.<br />
<br />
But in terms of my career? I think I'm ready to switch gears again.<br />
<br />
x,<br />
N</div>
Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-16316349431943068752020-03-25T11:07:00.000+08:002020-03-25T11:07:02.105+08:00Shopping on Beaute Pratique<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi guys! I am currently on leave. We don't have the work-from-home thing in place so we thought it'd be best to just take our leaves and stay home for the time being. We've been very concerned about leaving the house and if we do, to get take out or whatever, we come home straight to the shower. At some point, I'm also unwilling to take three showers a day, so we stay home. Hope you guys are well and keeping safe and clean at all times.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm also on a shopping ban because I need to save more money haha and I did a lot of damage during my birthday month and I have tons of back-up for my skincare already. BUTTTT that doesn't stop me from window-shopping. I was on Beaute Pratique yesterday and found some cool stuff that I thought I'd share with you since you too are probably online shopping and looking for cool things to stock up on. This isn't sponsored. Legit just wanted to help you guys out since I know a lot of people who have run out of their skincare products and would like to top up asap.</div>
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Note: Photos aren't mine. Got them off Google just to show you guys what it looks like.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u>Niacinamide</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Everyone knows I love this ingredient. It really helps to keep the pimples and acne at bay. I had a horrible breakout for months on my forehead and when I started using Niacinamide (I started with The Ordinary). it completely vanished up until now! Incredible, right? It says it could be used for uneven skintone, hyperpigmentation and dullness but it specifically handles acne for me.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-avSKKuPF1NQKhd3KcE0vszVaUy6N-sP-b4MP3PsMYa7rJIlzAw0CGulNct7gwyXMngjD2NTYMOsmCNKJ4-WEzcnwB4-BTtOTczSb-v22-Bg4E3PX1ctHwCH9hHzzywpi-DaOmxoD3Jg/s1600/BP1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-avSKKuPF1NQKhd3KcE0vszVaUy6N-sP-b4MP3PsMYa7rJIlzAw0CGulNct7gwyXMngjD2NTYMOsmCNKJ4-WEzcnwB4-BTtOTczSb-v22-Bg4E3PX1ctHwCH9hHzzywpi-DaOmxoD3Jg/s320/BP1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. <b>The Ordinary</b>: <a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/niacinamide-10-zinc-1">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/niacinamide-10-zinc-1</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Alternatives:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. <b>Good Molecules</b>, also at 10% Niacinamide:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/niacinamide-serum">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/niacinamide-serum</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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3. I'm currently using <b>The Inkey Lis</b>t but it isn't available on BP. You can find it on Cult Beauty and again it is 10% Niacinamide:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/the-inkey-list-niacinamide.html">https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/the-inkey-list-niacinamide.html</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Itching to try:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. This Niacinamide Toner from <b>Good Molecules</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/niacinamide-toner">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/niacinamide-toner</a></div>
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<b><u>Cleanser</u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLvLWWmn3DR1XunwwnxKQzSraSYKjZ86CQy1oer2Wt5c5LcMwS-qKR9zafRL19WH5oXmTsOEgW2EJAgjgSol7fG1-KTzxA2FgM27LOmcRDQjq9MqUvxjGJ1rJX0stn7uvdBYQcxPg34Q/s1600/BP2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="832" data-original-width="1356" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLvLWWmn3DR1XunwwnxKQzSraSYKjZ86CQy1oer2Wt5c5LcMwS-qKR9zafRL19WH5oXmTsOEgW2EJAgjgSol7fG1-KTzxA2FgM27LOmcRDQjq9MqUvxjGJ1rJX0stn7uvdBYQcxPg34Q/s320/BP2.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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1. This is my holy grail cleansing oil. I have been using it since my University days: <b>Shu Uemura</b>'s Cleansing Oil. I don't have a favourite type--they have one for anti-aging, for brightening, etc. I usually go for the pink or purple. It's super effective as a makeup remover for your FIRST CLEANSE. DOUBLE CLEANSE GUYS. DOUBLE. CLEANSE. You slather it all over your face to melt off all your make up including waterproof mascara and eyeliner. Use water to turn it milky, give it an extra massage and then you wash it off. Then you follow with your usual cleanser. </div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/blanc-chroma-brightening-and-polishing-cleansing-oil">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/blanc-chroma-brightening-and-polishing-cleansing-oil</a></div>
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2. One of my favourites. I always talk about it. It's none other than <b>Glossier</b>'s Milky Jelly Cleanser. Gentle and soothing. I finished bottles and bottles of this:</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/milky-jelly-cleanser?variant=32013785694311">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/milky-jelly-cleanser?variant=32013785694311</a></div>
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<i>Itching to try:</i> </div>
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3. <b>Farmacy</b>'s Green Clean Balm. It looks and sounds so lush but it comes in a jar and that's my only problem.</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/green-clean-balm">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/green-clean-balm</a></div>
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<b><u>SPF</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkD6DySbYBppxAAWWrYY2cNNB1yXWOkrI8EOUWdQZctqTV9RhG4YUSpHKPBy349POyygSgU0AOoX4GEyzzr7lh7SKPTxwI50nGRRiish6x9WVqSTNcmdnXgX9poDQ0yP72OT3zveBk8I/s1600/BP4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkD6DySbYBppxAAWWrYY2cNNB1yXWOkrI8EOUWdQZctqTV9RhG4YUSpHKPBy349POyygSgU0AOoX4GEyzzr7lh7SKPTxwI50nGRRiish6x9WVqSTNcmdnXgX9poDQ0yP72OT3zveBk8I/s320/BP4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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1. Favourite SPF. No fuss. No cast. Non-sticky. Only wish it had a higher SPF. But if you hate the white-cast greasy types, this is for you! It's again from <b>Glossier</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/invisible-shield">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/invisible-shield</a></div>
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1. I saw @acertainshadeofceej use this and I was sold cause her dark circles are... non-existent. She has none. No eyebags... just absolutely flawless youthful looking eyes. She used this product by <b>Klair's </b>and it was the main reason why I was on BP's website in the first place!</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/fundamental-eye-awakening-gel">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/fundamental-eye-awakening-gel</a></div>
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<b><u>Moisturizer</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTV5FdWyaqzACcAjnaPcVwpkhjjQLreHwL4Q3a5ZgjmFQOaXxfNe8eMEcBxhjGDxPobVgF9cQOYIFUO9NmpOmtXtasOXxF50Zx8V5LH8wXay26ztTTu9EIfAwkxWI4BdjWBF55frl2iss/s1600/BP5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTV5FdWyaqzACcAjnaPcVwpkhjjQLreHwL4Q3a5ZgjmFQOaXxfNe8eMEcBxhjGDxPobVgF9cQOYIFUO9NmpOmtXtasOXxF50Zx8V5LH8wXay26ztTTu9EIfAwkxWI4BdjWBF55frl2iss/s320/BP5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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1. Currently using this one from <b>Glossier</b>. I'm currently enjoying it. Just a simple, no fuss product. They also have a light version that is also in stock on the website. Check it out if you are needing one now.</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/products/priming-moisturiser-rich?_pos=22&_sid=5d7414671&_ss=r">https://beautepratique.co/products/priming-moisturiser-rich?_pos=22&_sid=5d7414671&_ss=r</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPno2h6Xq8-Mr9hs1zCEAku5s_L-Fx06LvLGoqGi0kfIdNlOi4awvOXNjCCfCEN88bpg-QtBjbSjvwGp-esSqfTq757U4D4muYCQPWvd2Edly1m9kt3jyfkdAbLLrsz4RdFIHXDLHJ9c/s1600/BP3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPno2h6Xq8-Mr9hs1zCEAku5s_L-Fx06LvLGoqGi0kfIdNlOi4awvOXNjCCfCEN88bpg-QtBjbSjvwGp-esSqfTq757U4D4muYCQPWvd2Edly1m9kt3jyfkdAbLLrsz4RdFIHXDLHJ9c/s320/BP3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm a die-hard <b>Pixi </b>fan when it comes to their toners. I've used both below and enjoy it. So if you're running low on toner and need one asap, give these ones a go.</div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/glow-tonic">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/glow-tonic</a></div>
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<a href="https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/retinol-tonic">https://beautepratique.co/collections/skincare/products/retinol-tonic</a></div>
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Well, that's it. Happy shopping! Stay clean!</div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-77880096999483973672020-03-11T16:46:00.000+08:002020-03-25T10:28:26.350+08:00In&Out: March 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hi guys,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here's a quick beauty update on my empties and replacements. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Cleanser:</b> I recently finished my umpteenth bottle of <b>Glossier's Milky Jelly Cleanser </b><a href="https://beautepratique.co/products/milky-jelly-cleanser?_pos=20&_sid=60a3864e7&_ss=r&variant=32013785694311"><i>(about BND34 on Beauty Pratique for 177ml)</i></a>. I love that stuff. It's so gentle and it smells really light. I use it every morning and every night after removing my make up. One of my friends say that it makes her face a little oily but it doesn't at all on my skin. So if you do want to give this a go, maybe try the smaller bottle first. Unfortunately, they don't ship to Brunei yet so I thought it would be a good time to try out a cleanser from Renee Rouleau. They do a mini test to see which of the products work best for you and they picked the <b>Luxe Mint Cleansing Gel </b><i><a href="https://www.reneerouleau.com/products/luxe-mint-cleansing-gel?_pos=1&_sid=6b6d4bafc&_ss=r">(USD33.50</a>). </i>On the website it talks about awakening the tired skin and I was sold. Dull, tired skin? That's me! So I was super excited to try this out. Initially, I felt a little tightness in my skin which usually makes me automatically dislike a product. But the more I used it, the more my skin adapted to the product and now I can definitely say it has illuminated my skin (this and another thing that I used at the same time... I'll mention it below). The minty fresh scent (like ubat batuk k) really wakes you up and my skin feels alive. Ever since I've used it, I don't wear a base to work anymore. I'd definitely repurchase this... and could possibly prefer it over the Glossier one. Yup. I said it. Big revelation there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qsPAgWKCO7CbNnJdrzWTHjgMekpQufHOAOeKLNLH2_0LrMKkO3ERkDapWMaHezlhmbVDVuLtnCs7CFP7wMleD3o0Z8dkNNWeEChbqojf1p0ZQlUhlbwfYaNWEcBltzAVuK5is5gfhAY/s1600/image0+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qsPAgWKCO7CbNnJdrzWTHjgMekpQufHOAOeKLNLH2_0LrMKkO3ERkDapWMaHezlhmbVDVuLtnCs7CFP7wMleD3o0Z8dkNNWeEChbqojf1p0ZQlUhlbwfYaNWEcBltzAVuK5is5gfhAY/s640/image0+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Vitamin C Serum:</b> Next on the list was a Vitamin C serum. Before this I was on the Fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Serum, which was absolutely divine! It smelled like oranges and really brightened my skin. But it was a small bottle of 15ml and if I remember correctly it was pretty pricey too. So I opted for the <b>Vitamin C from the Inkey List</b> which costed me around <i><a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/the-inkey-list-vitamin-c-serum.html">GBP8 for 30ml on Cult Beauty</a></i>. Pretty neat, right? Unfortunately, the texture was a bit weird for me. Grainy almost... and it didn't quite sit well with my foundation. Currently, I'm using the<b> Vitamin C&E Treatment</b> <b>from Renee Rouleau</b>. It was about <a href="https://www.reneerouleau.com/collections/all/products/vitamin-c-e-treatment"><i>USD69.50</i></a> (YIKES I DID NOT REALIZE THIS) but this stuff works and it smells like oranges! If you do get it, don't forget to leave it on for a minute before you slather your moisturizer on top. This is the main reason for my skin looking more awake, although the cleansing gel did it's magic too. Ahhh. Have you tried anything from Renee Rouleau? And if yes, what do you recommend?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Edit: I learnt that the Inkey List contained 30% of L-Ascorbic Acid which is extremely potent and you can feel it especially if you have sensitive skin. The grainy texture can be eliminated if you use less. Apparently, I was using a bit too much. So if you use a tiny amount, a little goes a long way. It leaves a slight white cast. The Vitamin C&E doesn't using L-Ascorbic Acid, they use Magnesium Ascorbic Phosphate, which turns into Ascorbic Acid on the skin slowly and remains stable throughout the day. It's equivalent to 14% of free Vitamin C and because of the time-release mechanism, it's less irritating on the skin. Depending on what you want, just take those into account. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUEsdKPwnNlrwxRjs7TvBxdpxIUjlFTqLJtnSD5jUI0dwoddh0i1Y_i_0jOFT7ZlNihVfdM4TyP2MpDSQjf2qLufv0TJ0GJ40UKikfQW4JiUKKOt55n-Wpm0o9WL98PJTSQE58yVyuIw/s1600/image1+%252812%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUEsdKPwnNlrwxRjs7TvBxdpxIUjlFTqLJtnSD5jUI0dwoddh0i1Y_i_0jOFT7ZlNihVfdM4TyP2MpDSQjf2qLufv0TJ0GJ40UKikfQW4JiUKKOt55n-Wpm0o9WL98PJTSQE58yVyuIw/s640/image1+%252812%2529.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Moisturizer</b>: I ran out of <b>Dr. Dennis Gross's Alpha Beta Exfoliating Moisturizer </b><i><a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/dr-dennis-gross-skincare-alpha-beta-exfoliating-moisturizer.html">(GBP79 on CultBeauty)</a></i>. I think that took me three months! But I'm finally out of it and finally able to crack open this <b>Glossier Priming Moisturizer Rich </b><i><a href="https://beautepratique.co/products/priming-moisturiser-rich?_pos=22&_sid=60a3864e7&_ss=r">(BND63 on Beaute Pratique)</a></i>. Okay--Dr. Dennis Gross one first. I liked it. I didn't see anything wrong with it. It worked. My face was never dry. Not sure if the Alpha Beta component worked. The Glossier one I'm using now feels nice. It's simple and has a light scent of lavender. I think that's why we all love Glossier products right? No fuss, straightforward and works. Definitely like this one too. No special effects but I'm gonna give it extra points for it's light scent that makes me feel like I'm in a spa.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlD_TaG6TaiGcLYDiP6zzKDTT3nEotI4fropEOZ12_nYsx7TcfiHJZxvvuE3kjlFXZ4NmY1ynRYij3OAfhHDWUXJBrh9tRC9lSt_SozNxCSQTn2m5iTwK0VOxIH3Odq8ZfjVrklXOkzU/s1600/image2+%25284%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1482" data-original-width="911" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlD_TaG6TaiGcLYDiP6zzKDTT3nEotI4fropEOZ12_nYsx7TcfiHJZxvvuE3kjlFXZ4NmY1ynRYij3OAfhHDWUXJBrh9tRC9lSt_SozNxCSQTn2m5iTwK0VOxIH3Odq8ZfjVrklXOkzU/s640/image2+%25284%2529.jpeg" width="392" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Retinol/Probiotics: </b>Although <b>Aurelia's The Probiotic Concentrate</b> <i><a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/aurelia-probiotic-skincare-the-probiotic-concentrate.html">(GBP38 on CultBeauty)</a></i> can be used in conjunction with Retinol/Retinoid because of their properties that are able to calm irritated and inflamed skin caused by harsh ingredients, you are also able to use it as an alternative to Retinol/Retinoid as it also improves signs of aging, reduces pigmentation and UV-induced damage. After I ran out of <b>The Ordinary's Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion </b><i><a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/the-ordinary-advanced-retinoid-2.html">(GBP8)</a></i>, I have now been using the probiotic as a substitute at night. Sometimes I just use it by it itself, other times together with my moisturizer. I like it. I think it does it's job. My face looks brilliant in the morning. So if you're looking for an alternative, try this out!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidN0NB1DVHfcRL8fxVAVMeXpd5spTuQ3XFxjmY3SEe2flnDwa-Letta_dtDzoAD2ywMQulObmRGEwkQql1K_EdhNXSFSgiehWqdXJGiicAuRh3R-re8XBUbDJhLqQ6MpRUQCJcYLEG9bQ/s1600/6AA8D1F9-A6E6-4C45-AC86-D6C3FABFCCD3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidN0NB1DVHfcRL8fxVAVMeXpd5spTuQ3XFxjmY3SEe2flnDwa-Letta_dtDzoAD2ywMQulObmRGEwkQql1K_EdhNXSFSgiehWqdXJGiicAuRh3R-re8XBUbDJhLqQ6MpRUQCJcYLEG9bQ/s640/6AA8D1F9-A6E6-4C45-AC86-D6C3FABFCCD3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I already have back ups for when these products are done which I cannot wait to try! I'm also trying to use up my eye cream and my spf that I already have back ups for. And then I'm excited to purchase new back ups for my back ups hahaha.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Catch you later, beauty addicts!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Love, </span></div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-43047622173445358992020-02-20T17:35:00.000+08:002020-02-20T17:35:24.953+08:00To One Boy: PS I Still Love You<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Pictures are from our pre-wed shoot by the amazing Aiman Besar.</span><br />
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Didn't we all, hopeless romantics, celebrate when the clock struck midnight on the 12th of February? Netflix released the sequel to the movie that took us back to when we were young and new to love? I remember watching the first one and grew obsessed over Peter Kavinsky's character. I was so head over heels and giddy. I'm pretty sure I've said it before but I love LOVE and all the corny stuff that comes with it. The butterflies in your tummy create a whirlwind with their wings, it rises up to your heart and amplifies the heartbeats til it pounds onto your chest. From your chest, it gains kinetic energy that is insurmountable that a surge of energy just launches into your voicebox, hitting notes that only dogs can hear. All in just seconds.</div>
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I think I'm still that girl that gets giddy and loves corny love things, so I'm pretty biased. I absolutely loved the movie and I've watched it three times already. I'm such a sucker of the charming PK vibe (which some might argue is the very reason for the amount of arguments girls have with their men... haha these movies set a certain benchmark that is almost impossible to reach. I mean... it was based on a book written by a lady). But anyway, I don't think I'll ever grow out of it, to be honest. Sweep me off my feet until my last breath. That's the deal. (I hope you read my blog, H. Haha.)<br />
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Dearest darling,</div>
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Thank you for being the amazing person that you are, for being my rock, for making me happy, for making my birthdays and our anniversaries really special, for being such a fighter and fighting for me all the friggin' damn time even when I'm a difficult wreck. Thank you for being understanding and forgiving. Thank you for riding my emotional waves. Thank you for taking care of Umair the way that you do and for making his milk every time I'm reading a book or when I'm watching a movie I love on Netflix. </div>
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At one point, we grew in different directions but we made it through in the end. You kept us together. You kept us strong. And that's why you were meant for me and I was meant for you. We've been together since 2006 and boy that feels both long and short at the same time. We've overcome so many obstacles together and ventured so many new opportunities and experiences. We've won many battles and we'll continue winning them for as long as we stay together. InshaAllah.</div>
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I hope He blesses us with long and healthy lives filled with more love and happiness than we can ever imagine. Amin. (May He also bless you and your loved ones, my dear reader, so you can be with your soulmate and create many memories for many many years to come. Amin).</div>
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x,</div>
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Nabeela</div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-2916952976305038312020-02-03T12:14:00.001+08:002020-02-03T16:14:08.977+08:00Ramblings and a Candid Photo<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I don't know why I feel the need to explain myself. I feel like... the version of me you've painted in your head (especially if we've never met), is really not my responsibility. People think I care a lot about what other people think. I guess that's correct to some extent. I care if people think I'm a mean bully because that is the last thing I want to be. I've been cyber-bullied by strangers who talk smack about me (<i>atu boleh?</i>) and it does not feel nice. So, why would I ever intentionally make anyone feel that way? </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who says I never post candid photos? I've posted ugly photos of me on stories and FB. Also... why can't I keep my IG to only nice ones?</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I do not, however, care about what people say about my outfit. I totally get it you know because style is incredibly subjective. What I like to wear may be something you completely hate. And vice versa. I love my Staud handbag, which I'm sure some of you do not understand as it looks like a </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">pasu</i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">/vase. Haha I totally agree with you guys on that but I suppose that makes it charming to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I also do NOT care what everyone else wears. I said this during the Fasting Bro interview but it wasn't included in the version released--I said that people should wear whatever makes them happy. You do you. No matter what anyone says. I stand by that completely. I understand that everyone is different and we have different preferences and it makes fashion interesting, don't you think? I'm completely oblivious to my surroundings, so when I read posts of people saying that I look down on others as I scan them from head to toe..... <b>GIRLLLLLL, I PROBABLY LOVE YOUR OUTFIT THAT'S WHY I'M LOOKING. </b>(BTW... young people these days dress to the nines man! AMAZING).<b> </b>Nevertheless, I apologize completely if I've ever given you that vibe. I really... don't judge people based on the clothes they wear. Fashion is a statement--whether you dress up or dress down. It is your statement to make... and I'm appreciative of that. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you could take a peek into my mind, you'll realize that I do not just think about taking 100 photos to take the perfect shot (<i>??</i>). It's hilarious because do you think I don't have some kind of life? Hahaha I have a full time job that's been more and more demanding. I have deadlines to hit. I have bills to pay. I have a son to raise... friends to talk to. I have family matters to attend to. Birthdays. Gatherings. GAME NIGHTS. It's 2020. Can we please stop assuming things? And even if I was taking 100 photos just to get that one perfect shot, can we just let people be?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm still not a fan of instant hijabs though---WAIT I HAVE A REASON--it's only because I hate it on me. Someone on reddit has mentioned it--that I have an alien-shaped face. That is indeed correct. I don't know what is up with my faceshape haha. But it is exactly why I cannot fit into instant hijabs. It's not because of privilege or money. Ya'll are the privileged ones. You have been blessed with a nice face shape that won't make you feel strangled in an instant. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But anyway, I just hope people remember that whatever is edited into a segment or a show does not depict the entire conversation. Also, when I say I do not like something, it ain't a diss. I also do not like Maggi Ayam but I'm pretty sure a lot of you will disagree and say it's nice... and that's perfectly fine. (Maggi Asam Laksa bruh... best thing ever). That's all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">REMEMBER: You do you! I mean it when I say it. All love.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Additionally, I would like to just take it as lessons learnt. I just have to be more aware of how I am in public. So thank you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Love,</span></div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-77119236057769759452019-12-24T19:30:00.001+08:002019-12-24T19:30:23.099+08:00Dream it, Wish it, Do it.<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love the secret quotes hidden at the back of my charms. They are words of motivation that I literally carry with me everywhere I go. I have one from Hazim that says Forever & Always My Beautiful Wife, one that says Let Your Dreams Blossom, an Aladdin one that says 'You Fill My World With Wonder' and a Slytherin house charm that says Ambition Pride Cunning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Dream it, Wish it, Do it." - that's on one of the latest charms that I got from the December collection... and I feel like the timing is quite apt. I've been feeling like I haven't been doing enough. I've been feeling a little lost. I need to just sit down and reevaluate my life's purpose. Think about what it is that I want to accomplish and go from there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yuna posted photos of her 'beginning of the decade vs end of the decade' and it was mad inspiring to see. It's amazing to see someone achieve so much in the span of 10 years. It's a lot of hard work to be trailblazing like that and to be touring Europe and having your face on a huge billboard at Times Square. It's insane and surreal and very motivating. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I also spoke to a very inspiring local today. We were catching up on work stuff and then we got to catch up on our personal lives. Before this I absolutely admired Dr. Vanessa of Agrome IQ... now I totally admire her even more for her drive, efforts and accomplishments. (She was actually a fashion blogger previously and I remember being envious of her attending one of the big shows at either London or New York. She's a hustler.). She talked about her passion for creating an impact and creating sustainable systems. She's designed apps and widgets, and I think that woman is spectacular. Partly also because I'm technologically... challenged and really suck at coding. But after that conversation, I feel energized to also create some sort of impact to society.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I've always wanted to do something more but I was always either scared to act on it or I just didn't 'have time' to sit down and think my ideas through. The problem with that is... that someone else will do it. I want 2020... to be about doing it. Doing more. Doing more for society. Doing more for the economy. Doing more for the creative industry. Doing more for my own creativity. Immersing myself in art to make myself constantly inspired and motivated to just... do it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy New Year, everyone.</span><br />
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-57374749576477097342019-11-08T13:43:00.000+08:002019-11-08T13:43:13.377+08:00The Umair Takeover: Battling the Twos<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As soon as the clock struck 12 on the morning of his second birthday, I thought we were already experiencing the infamous 'terrible twos' but little did I know the difficulty level went up a few notches. Now... I don't like calling it 'terrible' because I'm sure they have reasons for screaming and rolling on the floor and the loud fake cries. I feel... it's mostly terrible for the parent because we feel awful not being able to understand what exactly it is they want.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, fast forward to a month and a bit, everyday has been a battle between giving in to his tantrums or being mentally strong and deafening the ears to the wailing. I don't have a lot in me, let's just put it out there--I'm not patient, I'm not calm, I'm not a walk in the park either. But let me also tell you that being a mother has trained me to become all those things... and although I am no way near being a perfect mom, I love what he is teaching me. I am amazed sometimes how long I can endure the ear-piercing sounds my little angel can make.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One night, he threw the biggest, loudest... strongest tantrum and I gave in. I gave him his iPad in bed... something I really don't like him doing. In that moment, I was exhausted from a long day at work and I just needed some peace and quiet. I felt defeated and I just let him do whatever he wanted. Ironically, I also felt... relieved. Like I had just extinguished a dark cloud that was raining on me. That night, I realized that we have to pick our battles. Some battles we lose, and that's okay because we're human. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes I get really frustrated when I lose. I think it's the pressure I put on myself. I mean... this is the time when we start teaching our kids what's right and wrong, what not to do, what's counted as good or bad behavior... and it's actually tough. It's a lot of hard work both mentally and physically. It's a lot of responsibility raising a child and making sure they turn out to be respectful, kind, brave, smart, wise human beings etc. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you didn't come here looking for advice because I don't have any. I'm looking for tips myself so please share them. Help a sister out. I'm still figuring it all out and I think I'm going to continue to figure it out forever. Everyday is a new day and an entirely new level but we become better and better. It's a fulfilling and satisfying journey nonetheless.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gotta go. He's going to wake up any second now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love,</span></div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-55851961706810991652019-10-26T19:31:00.000+08:002019-10-26T19:31:43.201+08:00A Letter to my 15 Year Old Self<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dear Nabeela,</div>
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You are probably freaking out right now and stressing out over your O' Levels. It will be okay. I'm glad you had fun in school and I'm glad you found some of your bestest friends there. They will be your pillars of strength growing up. Almost 15 years later, they are still people you run to. About your exam results, they were a little below your expectations. You studied hard and did your best and I know we sort of blanked out during additional math on a particular question that we've done over and over again. It happens... and you shouldn't beat yourself up for it. It's honestly quite funny now.</div>
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Don't be afraid of making mistakes. Everyone makes it. What's important is you try and keep trying. Actually, I'm not too worried about that. You're a dreamer... you're driven... you're ambitious. You had fire... honestly, a lot more fire than I have now. Along the way I sort of got discouraged but that's another story. I hope you never get discouraged... no matter what anyone says or does to you.</div>
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You are beautiful. I know we're not... Kendall Jenner beautiful haha (not sure if KUWTK are on air already back then but if it is... yes... Kendall will become the hottest Kardashian). We're not the obvious kind, no. I know this sounds cliche but... everybody IS beautiful in their own special way. Beauty in their smile, in their eyes, in the way they talk, in the way they walk, in the way they think. And kid you not, we just did two Bobbi Brown campaigns this year. Can you even believe that? I can't wrap my head around it sometimes. I'm just holding on to it for as long as I can... given the fast pace of the digital world. One day you're in, the next day you're out. But that's okay. We'll adapt.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihU66swLzWIO4kerYE5VV_iSLY4c1QpAV82d-7koERGRkCsgRITj_ye0xKhVhxin3yFmTMOx_xNFBzhx72GT-of-kJn5704J78V1P_Q-6vX_moR8Qtxpv1XaBZ94qiUDC_r0H_jJRC8Js/s1600/Paris+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihU66swLzWIO4kerYE5VV_iSLY4c1QpAV82d-7koERGRkCsgRITj_ye0xKhVhxin3yFmTMOx_xNFBzhx72GT-of-kJn5704J78V1P_Q-6vX_moR8Qtxpv1XaBZ94qiUDC_r0H_jJRC8Js/s640/Paris+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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You also meet the love of your life this year. It will be an amazing journey. You'll get married and it will be wonderful. There will be a little heartbreak along the way at the doctor's hospital but it ends well. I won't spoil it for you. But trust me... everything will be okay. About the love of your life... he will soon prove to be the sincerest and kindest and most loving man you'll ever meet. No one else comes close. </div>
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Travel more. You would think when you get a job, you'll have more money to fly. My darling, the problem is we don't have a lot of time. Plus it was definitely cheaper to travel around Europe from UK... so do it during your University years. You will not regret it. Spend less on materialistic goods if you can. I know those Balenciaga bags come in yummy colours... but you hardly use them now. </div>
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Make wiser decisions especially with regards to the people you let in your life. I want to tell you to also think hard before making a commitment for example... your choice of Uni, or your degree, or your job... but I suppose that's something you have to go through yourself to understand. But if I could stop you from doing one thing... do not take Time Series Econometrics... that is so abstract it does not make any sense. You end up extremely stressed out the night before the exam (you passed btw) and had a few Redbulls. It was probably the last time you had it. You met more bestfriends in Nottingham... and darling, over the years you will understand why God gave them to you and why you have each other.</div>
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Lastly, do not let the heartbreaks and the evils of the world... and the horrendous online trolls... change your heart. I know you always want to do good, you always mean well... stay that way. We can't let disappointments get to us. Our heart can't harden just because we want to protect it. </div>
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Live fully. Love deeply. Laugh harder. Worry less.</div>
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Love,</div>
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You</div>
Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-31599540601901613582019-09-30T17:50:00.002+08:002019-10-02T08:56:35.905+08:005 things I learnt from Social Media<div class="m_307220839788010059p1" style="background-color: white;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbq-lKGVBiyHzfGSshNrhuUAau3knvOoT9CJmZ2QWWWV7aPieid1zZ6-F8AHFRVn6YxzHKgMEjIYNFjwD2dbvEc5JGUuJlW9Thmnw-WLgbOa2HDwt6DecA1l1NjZRjIZ8PMwp5apGIMI/s1600/7723E9D8-9125-4E00-9357-26EC69036C8A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbq-lKGVBiyHzfGSshNrhuUAau3knvOoT9CJmZ2QWWWV7aPieid1zZ6-F8AHFRVn6YxzHKgMEjIYNFjwD2dbvEc5JGUuJlW9Thmnw-WLgbOa2HDwt6DecA1l1NjZRjIZ8PMwp5apGIMI/s640/7723E9D8-9125-4E00-9357-26EC69036C8A.JPG" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="m_307220839788010059s1" style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I woke up 4am one morning just thinking and talking to myself. So here I am putting down my thoughts... I have a habit of doing that. Mind you I’m feeling a bit whoozy since I had only three hours of sleep before my brain started her motivational pep talk (at the time of writing this). I may be talking nonsense here and it isn't even the full version that was going through my mind. This is sort of a spin-off. </span></div>
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<span class="m_307220839788010059s1" style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Welcome to my Ted Talk.</span></span></div>
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<span class="m_307220839788010059s1" style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was never the patient kind. I can never sit still for long periods of time and I’m always itching to learn new things. The thought of leaving my development and progress up to luck and fate gives me anxiety. That pushed me to take the online fashion course back in 2015, which eventually led to the birth of my social media life and LMN. </span></div>
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<span class="m_307220839788010059s1" style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some people probably wonder why the sudden deviation from finance. I mean... let’s be real here, some of you think being a blogger just means splashing our vanity across social media... but being active on social media has taught me a lot. </span></div>
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<span class="m_307220839788010059s1" style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Five main things I learnt from social media:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>1. Entrepreneurial skills</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When you're paid to showcase a product on your platform, you essentially become a standalone advertising and marketing company. You become a service provider but not just for your client but to the end-users as well. Your job is to reach as much audience as you can while providing them accurate information and sincere thoughts with regards to the product. You learn about the strategies that work best which includes, the type of marketing that gets the best engagement, the best time to post such photos (probably a bit less of a factor now thanks to the unhelpful algorithm changes), etc. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>2. More confident in valuing my work</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Initially when I started getting inquiries about potential collaborations, I did a lot of work for free because I found it hard and uncomfortable to put a value on my work. Eventually after you realize how much it was worth especially when you use up your free time to think of a theme, put a story together, edit it, or take time away from your family, you're more confident to put a figure down. If they value you, then they'll agree.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. Branding</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Building that marketing platform is a form of personal branding. After going through a few collaborations, the definition of your brand becomes clearer and clearer. You would know who your target market is. You would know if you're specialized towards a niche market or you're a general one who caters to the wider market. You learn that being true to your brand is important. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>4. Being less wary about what people think, makes you more productive</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">At the beginning I used to really care about what people thought of me and what I do but I realize that if we learn to care less about other people and put more focus on what you love... your creativity just flows and your product on social media improves. Like in the real world, the moment you stop caring about what others think or say, you'll be happier. You wouldn't be able to be productive at work every time you took a bad comment to heart. Just focus on your work, your art... focus on developing yourself and delivering the best you can. If others don't see it... then going back to #2... if they don't see your value, they're not your target market... and that's okay.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. People love realness</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I feel like a lot of businesses haven't mastered the art of story-telling nor do they understand the importance of having a story behind the products they sell. I love this about people. We love realness and human connection despite living in such a disconnected world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Love,</span></div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-63824656526168344122019-09-16T20:05:00.001+08:002019-09-17T15:23:52.665+08:00Adventures with You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm experiencing major travel withdrawals and in the spirit of celebrating our anniversary, why not walk down memory lane and think about some travel moments with Mr. LMN. This is a fun exercise for my memory too... some holidays date back to a decade ago and isn't it great to just reflect and think about the good ol' times? Makes you feel more grateful because sometimes you just forget about them entirely. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hawaii and LA:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Favourite memory of this trip has definitely got to be snorkeling in the open water with manta rays at night while we were in Hawaii. It's actually in the list of top 100 things you have to see before you die. It's true. It's like watching ballet underwater by these huge graceful creatures. Trust me, you have to go see it for yourself. We also went on a helicopter over the whole island, including an active volcano.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I remember loving the yummy brunch cafes in Melbourne and was totally in love with our trip down Great Ocean Road, but looking back I would go back for the fresh seafood at the Sydney Fish Market. That was the crunchiest grilled octopus we've ever had. However, the funniest moment of the trip was when we climbed up Sydney Harbour Bridge and a bird shat on my shoulder. There was a large area of space underneath, you guys... but nooooo, it decided to take a crap right above me. At that moment, it was horrible but I can laugh at it now.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bangkok and Koh Phi Phi:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was such a beautiful island. I was blown away with Maya Bay, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio. I hope our future generations are able to experience this kind of beauty because it truly is phenomenal. Despite the beauty, however, I was the most cranky person on this trip because it was super hot and humid, and I constantly had sand in my feet... even in our hotel room! We laugh about it now but hahaha I was not a fun travel companion on this trip. Sorry babe.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Umrah:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was a beautiful trip. Madinah was a magical place that really makes you forget about all your worries and all the worldly things that are temporary. It made me feel calm and at peace at a much needed time of my life. Funny moment? That bird in the photo... yup it pooped on me. Another city, another poop story.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Paris (2009):</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was us at Disneyland on Alifah's birthday. In honor of celebrating her birthday, she made me go on the ride at the back called Space Mountain. Now I hate rides. I'm always anxious so I don't understand people who consciously choose to have that feeling. But I went on it anyway to prove our friendship. I cried. I cried a few seconds in and then another 5-10 minutes after I got off. It was hilarious but I'm never getting on a ride ever again. I love Paris... it really is the city of love. We went again in 2015 with our families.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">New York and Washington:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was a fun trip! We flew with our friends and stayed in beautiful Air BnBs. We've flown to New York City before in 2011 for 3 days as students and we absolutely loved it. This time we went for two weeks and got to experience more things. We watched plays--one of which had Josh Groban in it. We queued up 4 hours in the rain to go see Statue of Liberty for like 4 seconds--quite surprised we didn't catch a cold. BUT FUNNY STORY (of course this would happen to me)... on the way back from Statue of Liberty, I fell on my bum in a puddle of mud in front of a billion tourists (and I swear I heard a little laughing). Still loving this trip though. We had so much fun trying to watch the ball drop live (total failure btw and this was the one where Mariah Carey had that blunder) but ended up having a cozy dinner. We cycled up a hill in Washington and I realized that my resistance was at the fullest which explained why everyone was cycling faster than me. I was in suede and wearing heeled boots too. Fashion over safety.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mallorca:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A spontaneous trip with friends. It was just for a few nights to escape thesis-writing. We went snorkeling, I had the worse experience of motion-sickness, puked on our raft, fell asleep while everyone else was swimming with fishes and then woke up having the worse sunburn. I was 10 shades darker, not lying!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">No funny stories here but it was our first trip with both our families so that was special. We did hang around at this area outside a mosque until a local told us it was where they washed dead bodies. So... really really sorry about that. We should have known. The food there was scrumptious! No bird pooped on me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now we get to fly with a third-wheeler and yes the dynamics have changed. It's a little trickier but we wouldn't have it any other way. To many more adventures, my love. InshaAllah. Happy Anniversary.</span></div>
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Love,</div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-63770928600873449272019-08-15T16:58:00.001+08:002019-08-15T16:58:23.924+08:00The Umair Takeover: Youtube<div style="text-align: justify;">
Before I became a mom, I had this entire parenting plan all worked out. Then the baby came and the plan magically turned into dust and you learn to live life precariously and spontaneously. Everyday is just unpredictable and you start making decisions you never thought you would. How to handle youtube is one of them. So last week, I asked my Instagram family whether they limited their children's screen times and if they did, how do they distract them away from it and when do they allow it. About 310 people responded, of which 90% limit their children's screen time.<br />
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Now, being a mom... I hate it when other people mom-shame other moms. Every mom is just doing their best trying to stay sane while keeping their babies happy and safe. So whichever you prefer, you do you, boo. You are doing absolutely amazing and you're kicking total ass. Don't let other people put you down and judge you for being a working mom, a SAHM, for not fully breastfeeding, for giving them the pacifier, for allowing screen time, for taking hours away to do your nails or whatever because you have your reasons and it's none of their business.</div>
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Anyway, pulling myself out of that mom-shaming rant now to get on with the main point of this post: <b>Youtube</b>. It's obviously different for each and every child, and obviously you know what's best for your own kid. With my little prince, we try to limit his screen time for various reasons. Firstly, his eyesight. I'm a bit worried that the glare from the screen would ruin his eyesight quite early in his life. Secondly, (we realized this at the beginning) he does not respond to us when he's engrossed with these videos on Youtube. Initially, this worried me so much, I was worried about his attention and concentration span, as well as his ability to interact with other people. So we limited his exposure, read him books and entertained him with flashcards and toys... and Alhamdulillah that's when he began to start speaking.</div>
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Those who have responded typically allowed for screen time when we want them to just stay put i.e. during diaper changes, when they're eating, when we're eating (lol so true), when we're getting ready to go to work, on the plane, at restaurants while waiting for food to arrive and when they've resorted to emotional blackmail and thrown out tantrums on full blast (while sometimes I probably shouldn't give in to this, other times it's a survival mechanism for us to stay sane hahaha those who don't agree with me are lying). </div>
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While I'm sharing your responses, let me just share a bit more... a lot of you limit the screen times to only 2 hours a week or only during term holidays. Faye (hi!) plays Youtube on TV so her son doesn't get to choose and eventually gets bored of it. One even changed her phone's wallpaper to a photo of the Joker so her nieces never touch her phone anymore hahaha. Genius. Another mommy also just downloads the videos and switches off the wifi, and that way her son isn't able to fall into the Youtube rabbit hole which we are all guilty of. </div>
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What do we distract them with? You guys responded with a bunch of stuff, mainly toys, puzzles, books, giving them our attention by playing with them and introducing them to more outdoor activities etc. I totally agree with this. I think with Umair, you have to just quickly distract him with something else. I am in love with whoever made Pinkfong song books though. You guys are awesome. That helped us a lot because Umair loves them and it basically makes our car trips more peaceful. He has other books too now but his Baby Shark and Dinosaur song books are still the saviors... and now he knows the names of some dinosaurs which is amazing. At 1 and 10 months, I don't think I knew what a Stegosaurus was. In fact, mom told me I only started talking when I was 3... and now I can't ever seem to shut up that I even felt the need to open a blog to write down my thoughts!</div>
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When he wants Youtube in our room, we play it on the big screen and he does eventually get bored and starts playing with his football and slide (and suddenly there's a big mess of my lotion on the floor and he's totally dismembered the insides of his dad's wallet). I do love it for the songs and music though. Umair loves to dance to them and the other day we were so shocked to hear him singing to all these songs. We've also downloaded apps that we'd prefer him use other than Youtube like Dave and Ava's Numbers & Counting and Alphabets. He learnt numbers and alphabets mostly from there. There are some good and bad in giving screen time, I suppose. Good is like when he rejects a call I don't want to pick up haha bless. Anyway, jokes aside... thank you everyone who's shared their stories. Like I said before, the mommy community online rocks. Sending love to each and every one of you!</div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-86842793917046485212019-08-12T17:27:00.002+08:002019-08-12T17:27:40.711+08:00Learning From Mistakes<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've had this drafted for a while. Since it's Eid (Selamat Hari Raya Aidiladha!) and it's the season of forgiveness, I thought I'd release this post. It's just a short snippet of my thoughts about making mistake. I know it sort of ends abruptly, but my mind kind of decided to think about something else while I was typing. Tell me that happens to everyone?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've had my fair share of mistakes. I've been the villain in someone else's movie. I've made bad decisions after bad decisions (had bubble tea three days in a row now and I'm feeling awful about it). Like anybody else, I have tons of regrets... but you can't deny the lessons they teach. There is no lesson greater than from your own mistakes and failures that I sometimes wonder what my life would be like if I hadn't made any. If everything was just clear blue skies and not a dark cloud over my head... would I have learnt how to pick myself up, take my shattered heart and put it back together? Would I be strong enough to deal with pain, humiliation and self-doubt, and still move forward? Would I be judgmental of others who continuously make mistakes?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel like... when I was younger... it was easier to judge someone who was in the wrong. We were little and everything was simple. But growing up, you begin to realize that you can never really know why people do the things they do. Every decision was based on a sequence of events that led up to the day the decision was made. They carry stories of their own... that you do not have purview of. Sometimes we hear people (even ourselves!) judge others' choices or actions when we know absolutely nothing that's going on in their minds or their hearts. Everyone goes through tests and hardships that are not more than what he/she can bear. If He never put you through such tests, maybe your choices and actions would have been far worse. "Have you ever thought about that?"--is what I ask myself when I feel like I'm about to question someone's choices.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And while everyone is responsible and accountable for our own mistakes, it does not define us. It does not define who we were, who we are and who we're going to be. What matters is your response after the storm and what lesson you're going to take from it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you realize that our mistakes have also made us more understanding of others? I think that's the best power one can have. When you try to understand other people, you become more emphatic and less judgmental. You're less likely to be upset by what they choose to do. You're likely to be more aware of the words you choose when you speak to them (or when it's your friend and he/she has come to you looking for advice). I hope our mistakes has made us better people in this aspect. You really do start to walk in other peoples' shoes and it's truly humbling. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, in the spirit of forgiveness and forgiving, I think I've said this before, but don't forget to forgive ourselves for our past mistakes. To err is human--a lot of people forget that. I'd also like to take the opportunity to apologize for all my wrongdoings, whether on purpose or not, and may we all be better versions of ourselves every single day. Have a blessed Eid, everyone.</span><br />
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-28255650724569806122019-07-05T13:09:00.004+08:002019-07-05T13:09:54.201+08:00The Umair Takeover: 21 things at 21 months<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I think I should start a new series that focuses on everything Umair. Maybe post it during the weekend and call it TGIU or Umaiyay (brain is obviously not feeling so creative tonight! Haha). I've received so many requests for me to churn out more content on my darling son. Initially, I really did not want to. I didn't want to turn into a mom-blogger and wanted LMN to still concentrate on fashion, beauty and lifestyle, and I wanted to attract that target audience. Let's be clear, LMN will always be about fashion, beauty and lifestyle, but I guess once in a while (maybe once in two weeks if I can?), I can share bits and bobs of this wonderful boy that changed my life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Let's just ease into it shall we. I'll share with you his current developments, some of which you may have seen on my stories. U is a year and 9 months already. I look back at old photos and my heart saddens at the thought of him growing up so fast but at the same time I'm excited for what's ahead. At 21 months, he's done the following:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Count from 1 to 10;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Prefers to feed himself (albeit terribly as he still hasn't mastered the art of using a spoon);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Obsessed with dinosaurs and has started to sing and dance along to the dino songs on Pink Fong;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows colors (gets them wrong sometimes but that's okay... grown-ups sometimes argue whether something is blue or green);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows the difference between cars, trucks, trains and buses;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows a lot of the names of his great uncles (and Hazim has a lot of uncles btw);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Can point out numbers from 11 to 20 but can't say them yet;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows how to ask for hugs and kisses (guys... this melts my heart completely, I wish I could record it to have forever but he always does it out of the blue);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Started to say 'I love you';</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Started to understand what it means when we go on business trips without him (cause he was terribly sad when we both had to leave for work on consecutive weeks);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Loves playing football with his left foot;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Loves sticking his dinosaurs stickers everywhere! (Hazim found one on his luggage when he landed in London hahaha);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Loves strumming the guitar;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">More cheeky than ever i.e. gives side-eye glances, teases his little cousin, makes funny faces, sulks like a teenage girl when we get mad at him etc;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows the difference between biscuits, 'keropok' and cakes (he loves them all... thanks to the festive season);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows how to say 'brush teeth' and 'comb hair' (and he loves to show people that he can do both... 'kambang' like mommy it seems); </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tells us when he poops or wants to poop;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows all of the words from his flashcard deck;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows how to say 'Youtube' - not particularly proud of this I have to say;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knows a lot of animals and the sounds they make; and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Joins us when we pray.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Watching him grow has been the absolute best. Kids really do fill your days with joy because seeing them learn and discover new things make you so proud as a parent (also applicable to proud aunts/uncles and proud pet owners). Seeing them curious and watching them pick up new words... it's such a thrill (a bit like Russian Roulette sometimes because you never know which word they're going to pick up next... it also makes me worry about what I say in front of him now!). However, it makes me realize that I'm getting older and my brain is no longer a sponge that can absorb a lot of information anymore. Isn't it fun being a kid? But anyway, that can be another topic for another day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">More TGIU posts coming up! Hmm... I'm not feeling that name..... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">//Series is called The Umair Takeover now. I do realize that the abbreviation is TUT but... we'll just roll with it! Let me know what else you'd like to read about!</span><br />
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-26301175176629353982019-04-25T13:25:00.001+08:002019-04-29T16:21:22.445+08:00Avoiding Fast Fashion and 5 Ways to be Fashionably Eco-Conscious. <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know it's hard to not enter a Zara store when you're walking past one... just like how it's hard for me to resist stopping by a McDonald's drive thru when I'm in Jerudong. I fell into the trap of fast fashion being a University student who loved keeping up with the latest trends. Brands like Zara and H&M were relatively cheaper and less brutal on the pockets. But with fashion being one of the biggest polluting industries, there's more to just buying cheap clothes that go out of fashion (and won't last that long anyway).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Edit: As I was re-reading that, I don't want you to think that I think Zara is cheap or neither do I want you to think that I feel like I'm too cool for Zara. Let's just all agree that Zara churns out amazing clothes. Zara is one of my weaknesses. I love the colors and the style pieces of Zara and the entire Inditex Group. When I talk about cheap clothes... I meant fast fashion in general. Primark. Boohoo. Missguided. Anything that does mass production of RELATIVELY cheaper clothes and has a high rate of wastage. Hope that clears things.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carcel is one of my favorite ethical brands made with sustainable material by women who are imprisoned for poverty-related crimes.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I dedicated my Masters Degree to research on the sustainability of fast fashion. The amount of resources used (like water), the high carbon emissions, the amount of waste not bought and thrown out when the seasons change, the unfair treatment towards garment makers in developing/underdeveloped countries... are so ugly that you gotta think twice before you make a purchase. I haven't walked into a Zara store for over a year... and I don't remember the last time I shopped at H&M. While having started to make a move into the ethical direction with more climate positive goals and by having their own 'conscious' lines that use recycled polyester and organic cotton, these two biggest fast fashion retailers are still not doing enough.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The incident at a garment factory in Bangladesh that happened 6 years ago today, took around 1,134 lives and injured around 2,500 people. That really affected me. I never understood the magnitude of the matter until photos started circulating around. Cheap clothes mean that the supply chain must be relatively cheap too. How could I ever feel good wearing something knowing that it was made by someone who was underpaid (in some cases NOT paid. Sources: <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/zara-istanbul-unpaid-workers-inditex-bravo-clothing-tags-notes-a8037256.html">here</a> and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2018/jun/05/female-garment-workers-gap-hm-south-asia">here</a> but you can just look it up to read a plethora of sources that discuss this issue) and not taken care of? I haven't even gotten to the environmental impact of the entire industry. All the chemicals and microfibers that end up in the oceans and even the water we drink. But we only have ourselves to blame... these big companies are driven by the consumer culture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My dear shopaholic friends, it's time we be wiser and start shopping consciously.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. Buy classics.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Buy pieces that can withstand the test of time. White, black and neutral colored basics are staples in my wardrobe. A good, durable and resilient pair of jeans. A black blazer. You could come up with multiple outfits just by having that alone.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. Don't submit to trends.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm getting better at this. I don't follow trends anymore. At least, not a lot of them. Plus I'm too old for them sometimes. Love the look of socks in heels and colored eyeshadows in editorial magazines and fashion week... but I'm not cool enough for that. I do still follow trends when a season comes out with a great color though... like Lilac in 2018. But purchase it in something you'd wear even after the trend dies down. This all goes back to #1. Sticking to the classics.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. Sleep on it.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Avoid impulse purchases. Give it a few days/weeks. If you still want it by then, then you can get it. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. Increase the number of uses per wash.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our clothes shed a lot of plastic microfibers in the washing machine. Plus... save energy. Unless you just rolled around in mud and perspired buckets... I say... reuse those pair of jeans for tomorrow. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. Do your research and support brands that care about being sustainable and ethical. </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can always read more about your favorite brands to know where your money goes. (Unfortunately, Uniqlo isn't that transparent. You would think that a company who doesn't really follow the conventional fast fashion model could easily set up something more sustainable... but you still hear news about them not paying their workers. Read <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/2169836/uniqlo-exploited-us-now-it-ignores-us-indonesian-factory-workers">here</a> but just google it to find out more. So I'm not sure about this one.) Caring about workers' welfare and the environment are not easy tasks. They're not cheap either. Wherever you can, let's try and support these wonderful brands that don't get enough love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope to move LMN into that direction. Gradually but surely. We have no choice. We need to be better.</span><br />
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-79825488297441315132019-04-21T20:34:00.002+08:002019-07-05T15:03:08.527+08:00Skincare: Sulwhasoo<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've had many people ask about my current skincare routine and I've finally found time to blog about it! I've been using this brand since November when I went to Seoul and went a little crazy at the Sulwhasoo flagship store. I bought myself an entire new routine. I do still use some of my old loves such as Glossier's Milk Jelly Cleanser (can't stay away from that... no other cleanser will ever do) and my Pixi Glow Tonic (because I can't seem to find out whether my Sulwhasoo stuff has any AHA/acid in them).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sulwhasoo is a k-beauty brand under AmorePacific Corporation alongside 32 other brands including Laneige, Innisfree, Annick Goutal and Etude House. The price range is a little on the high side so it was definitely a treat for myself when I bought it. I was trying to see whether it was cruelty-free. I read that the ones sold in China have to go through animal testing but the ones sold outside particularly in South Korea are cruelty-free. Going forward, I definitely see myself repurchasing because my skin feels softer and less sallow/dull (which was my ultimate goal anyway).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For cleanser, I still use the Glossier Milk Jelly Cleanser. That's total holy grail status and everything else seem to pale in comparison. It's just perfect--simple, lightly-scented and non-greasy. I know it isn't the case for one of my best friends who much prefers the Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel (that one made my face super greasy and it was quite heavily scented for my liking). I don't know... if this didn't work for you, let me know why because I really love this stuff.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then, the first thing I put on my face is the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum or the Pixi Glow Tonic (if i feel like my skin needs extra exfoliation). They both create the perfect canvas to layer on the subsequent products. It allows for better penetration and absorption.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next, is either the Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening Water or Fresh's Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence and then the Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening Emulsion. The Snowise range is a brightening range which targets unevenness and any discoloration. The kind lady at Sulwhasoo recommended I try them out. I can't say it has done wonders for my dark spots to be honest, but I think this is the main reason why I'm not looking as dull as I used to. On a side note, I recently purchased the Snowise Brightening Spot Serum that supposedly fades and prevents any dark spots. I have yet to use this religiously so I cannot say whether it works or not.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ah... the expensive serum that I pray will make me look 25 at 35--Sulwhasoo Timetreasure Renovating Serum EX. This is a premium anti-aging serum using ingredients from deep inside red pine leaves. Absolutely no clue what that is or what it does. They have a lower range for anti-aging that I also love-- the Concentrated Ginseng smells like a luxurious tree.........idk that's the best I got but you really smell like a spa when putting that stuff on your face. On days where zits show up, I use The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% and Zinc 1%. HG. Really works. I then continue with the Sulwhasoo Timetreasure Renovating Eye Serum. I bought it with the Golden Eye Care Massager which comes with steps on how to use it around your eyes. It's so luxe, I tell you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I use the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream for my moisturiser. They have a gel version which is lighter but I used the cream because I have dehydrated skin and I usually powder after anyway. To finish off I use the Glossier Invisible Shield SPF35 as my daily sunscreen during the day. This formula is total genius. I love it and I wish it came in a higher SPF value because I don't think SPF35 will do for the amount of sun we get here in Brunei.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyway, that's all. I'm actually on Cult Beauty picking out a retinol. Most probably going to repurchase The Ordinary's Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion. Skincare junkie, signing out!</span><br />
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-11389010812460557492019-03-26T11:00:00.001+08:002019-03-26T11:01:13.050+08:00A Wave of Thoughts<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi.</div>
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I just want to talk... about a lot of things on my mind lately.<br />
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This past week has been emotional. I'm completely shattered over the recent events in New Zealand. I'm also completely baffled and hurt by all the hatred popping up in the news to not just Muslims but other races, other religions, people with other beliefs. I cannot understand why people can't just coexist. It doesn't matter who or what you believe in or who you love. What matters is you're kind and respectful of others. Everyone's fighting their own battles. I mean... how true is that phrase? Every single one of us have battles of our own. Why would you want to add to anyone's misery? You're not perfect. You don't have a guaranteed ticket to heaven. Calm down.</div>
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I recently read an article and the writer being adopted describes her families as 'her family' and 'her <i>real </i>family'. I hear that a lot actually. People asking me about U's 'real' mom. I'm going to be honest here. I'm a bit triggered by the term 'real' mom. As innocent as it is, I mean I totally understand that people don't mean it that way... but what does that make me? A fake one? I am as real as it gets. I may be in tact (down there), and I don't have scars on my belly, but I try my best everyday to be the best mom I can be. I breastfed him, I did go through all the late nights, the tears, I did go through a period of feeling lost, I am constantly worrying about him, the late night visits to the outpatient clinic, we save for him monthly, we've registered him at a good school. The term 'real' mom really hurts but again I know people don't mean it that way. But maybe you could use the term 'mom' and 'birthmom'. That would be really nice and I'd really appreciate it. Thank you.</div>
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We also lost one of the kindest people over the weekend--Hazim's aunt who had been unwell for a few years already. She was sort of like the glue that kept everyone together. She was kind, and sweet and graceful. I'm so lucky to have had her in my life and to be able to call her Aunty. When she passed away, I read our text msgs and she never failed to greet me on my birthday with her long sweet doas. Someone also passed away yesterday (at the time of writing) was a relative of a colleague who apparently just collapsed. She was only a few years older than me. It's scary, isn't it? You never know when's your time to go. And you start thinking about the lack of good deeds you've done and all the times you chose dunya over the afterlife. I mean... that's gotta change.</div>
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Those are the main 'tabs' that have been active in my brain. It feels good to write it down every now and then. Anyway, hope my readers are doing well. Do I still have readers? Haha</div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-65817737919722183652019-03-08T17:04:00.002+08:002019-03-08T17:08:33.509+08:00Gal Pals<h1 class="quoteText" style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;">
“Maybe our girlfriends are our soulmates and guys are just people to have fun with.”</h1>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;">― </span><span class="authorOrTitle" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "lato" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">Candace Bushnell, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><span id="quote_book_link_7455" style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;"><a class="authorOrTitle" href="https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/3297002" style="color: #333333; font-family: Lato, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: none;">Sex and the City</a></span><br />
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Before we had boyfriends or husbands, we had our gal pals. They stuck by us through all the storms that came our way, and we knew we would be okay because they were just a call away. I'm so lucky to have best friends like these. They finish off my sentences and they know what I'm thinking about by just giving them a look. When I need them, they show up with comfort food. When they need me, I drop everything to be there for them. Soulmates. I can't imagine living life without them.</div>
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8th March marks International Womens' Day and today I would like to not only celebrate our fight for gender equality... but I would like to celebrate these women in my life. They were there for me through love and heartbreaks, tears, babies, secrets, uncontrollable laughter, bad days, great days, highs and lows and internet trolls. They helped build me to be the person I am today. They made me stronger, wiser and more courageous than I could have ever been.</div>
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I wanted to share my favourite hilarious stories with my girlfriends with you but after thinking about all the things we've done (and we're ridiculous silly idiots btw), I don't think I could ever disclose them! I just spent the past two hours laughing at all these un-share-able stories that I have with them. OMG. WHAT IN THE WORLD? HAHAHA. Believe me when I say we had so much fun pre-wife days. After some filtering, these are the bearable ones (btw I've used their fake names to conceal their identities):</div>
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<b>1. The One Where Lily Peed In The Kitchen </b></div>
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Lily had been holding her pee while cooking/cleaning in the kitchen. Out of no where (that's how I remember it), her leg had pins and needles. One of us (we're pretty mean), started kicking her poor leg and soon after, we almost had a puddle in the kitchen. Love you, Lily. But we did not want to clean that mess up. HAHAHAHA.</div>
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<b>2. The One Where We Followed Our Cute Landlord And He Made Us Walk Home</b></div>
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Our landlord arrived pretty early one day to sign some papers for the house. I don't know why we were in a rush or why we had to go to his office, but we left in our PJs and slippers, in our cute landlord's car. When we arrived at his house and signed off our agreements, he said bye and we were like um hello, how do we get home? It was a hilarious walk back. In our PJs. In our slippers. In the SNOW. On my birthday.... I swear when we got home, my feet were blue.</div>
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<b>3. The One Where My Wedding Dress Ripped On Stage</b></div>
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During my <i>sanding, </i>as I was sitting down on my <i>pelamin</i>, my back zipper tore from the top to my bum. Thank god the top was secured with a hook because the front part of the dress was super heavy from all the beading. My girls rushed to the reception to get a sewing kit and before the night ended and I had to stand in front of cameras for photos, they've had resurrected my dress. (POORLY BTW BUT I LOVE THEM STILL.... HAHAHA I SAY POORLY BECAUSE THAT NIGHT IT TOOK US 2 HOURS TO GET ME OUT OF THAT THING! They stitched that thing back together permanently!)</div>
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<b>4. The One Where We Were Third-Wheeling On Many Awkward Dates (I'm not going to give details but my besties know this)</b></div>
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a. The guy who wore a raincoat.</div>
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b. The guy who was either really nervous or really cold in the cinema that he was vibrating like a phone on his seat.</div>
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c. The guy who wore flip flops on the first date.</div>
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d. This list is endless.</div>
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<b>5. The One Where Fiona Wore Heels To The Park And Fell On Her Knees. Twice.</b></div>
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She doesn't usually where heels but Kurt Geiger was on sale and we bought a million shoes. We decided to walk around in the park with our new shoes and as we were walking on the sidewalk, Fiona fell on her knees. It was so funny. It was like a cartoon moment. We all just stared at her until we broke into fits of laughter. She was literally praying (<i>sujud</i>) on the ground in front of cars. You had to be there. HAHA. Fiona broke up with those shoes that day.</div>
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Ahh. Where would I be without you girls?</div>
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Happy International Womens' Day, Queens. May we all lift each other and celebrate each others' successes, always. </div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-65816256878433858792019-01-26T19:00:00.004+08:002019-01-26T19:00:57.241+08:00I'm an introvert, believe me.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I always thought introversion was
a disease until I stumbled upon a Ted Talk by Susan Cain about The Power of
Introverts. That changed the way I saw myself and all the other introverts I’ve
met and known. I’m currently reading her book called <b>Quiet Power</b> and it’s interesting how much it resonates with me. I’m
an introvert despite what everyone thinks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know what you’re thinking.
She’s a social media <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">influencer </i>(use
word with caution) and of course she’s an extrovert. Wrong. Social Media is the
platform where I am able to express myself through pictures. It’s where I am
able to wander into the creative abyss and get inspired. I am able to express
myself through the captions, through the garments… through comments and direct
messages. I am able to be me… by hitting ‘post’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know you’re also thinking that
I’m not so bad with communicating with people on a daily basis. I admit. I’m
not awful at striking conversations and keeping the conversations going. But in
that book, it talks about how while introverts can also have normal
conversations, it drains them out faster than extroverts. Which basically
means, after a lot of conversations, meeting new people, being in new
environments and attending social events… I need to take a step back and be in
my own world before I lose it. (Which is why I love being in my room in
complete silence with my book or… just some alone time with Youtube and
Netflix).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some people don’t really
understand this trait. They take it as being anti-social or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sombong</i>. But it really does wear me out
sometimes. Don’t get me wrong… I do enjoy meeting new people and attending cool
launches and fashion shows. I just need some quiet time after that to keep myself
balanced. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel like introverts are
especially misunderstood… at work… in school… basically anywhere you go they
seem to only be rewarding the extroverts who are loud and brave and confident
and outspoken. That leaves the introverts being scrutinized as being somewhat
empty. People sometimes mistake quietness for having no ideas or questions or
opinions. In fact… it’s the opposite. We have too many ideas, too many
questions and too many opinions. We overthink everything. I don’t know about
you, but I’m very calculative when it comes to formal discussions. I overthink
every word that comes out of my mouth. Is my question stupid? Will my opinion
offend others? Will my idea be good enough? Sometimes I admire the extroverts
and how confident they can be. (Sometimes they can say the darnest things and
still look smart).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I’m not against these extroverts.
I often try to mingle with them just so I can learn how to be one. The book
also mentions how when extroverts and introverts work together, magic can
happen because they complement one another. Like Steve Jobs and Stephen
Wozniak. Wozniak invented the first Apple computer and Steve Jobs’s charismatic
behavior was able to drive it (yet when you think of Apple… you think of Jobs).
My point exactly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I get anxiety attacks every now
and then. Not super hyperventilating attacks… but milder dull anxieties in the
chest that just would not subside. Probably because I overthink some things but
mainly because sometimes circumstances force you to be an extrovert. Like at
work… my superior commented how I was being overshadowed by a colleague and I
think as my performance bonus depends on it… the only way to stop that from
happening is to be more visible. I am definitely up for the challenge… but
again I don’t think people understand how much it exhausts me. My colleague is
a natural when it comes to voicing out his opinions or being the first to talk.
I have to have arguments with myself in my head first. But now I have to not be
myself and flip a switch to be this other person. So to him, it would probably
just require a glass of water to get his energy back. But to me… I kind of need
breakfast, lunch and a nap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now you’re thinking, maybe I
should just land a job where I’m in the backseat. You’re wrong again.
Introverts don’t necessarily want to be at the back all the time. Some also
dream of leading. But it’s okay fellow introverts, I got one tip for you. Push
yourself to do that damn thing that's giving you anxiety. I sang in front of hundreds of people at the DST Carnival back in
2015 because of this reason. I thought I was going to collapse. Sometimes you have to push yourself to see what
you’re capable of. Till this day, when I get the jitters, I tell myself… if I
can sing in front of hundreds of people, I can definitely give one presentation
in front of the Board. The more you push your boundaries, the more practice you
get… and the anxiety will slowly lessen. That doesn't mean you should stop being you. Retreat whenever you need to. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-11403741869672669542018-12-14T18:48:00.002+08:002018-12-14T18:48:28.493+08:00Trip Tips: Baby Edition<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I finally have time to blog! Here's one about traveling with the little one that I get asked frequently about. I'm no pro at traveling with babies so feel free to share more tips in the comment section or drop me a DM... because I really want to know! From traveling to UK (Umair's first trip was a long haul flight and thankfully it was a breeze), to KL and Singapore and recently to Seoul (I love Seoul btw!), and taking into account my frequently asked questions on Instagram, this is what I've gathered:</span></div>
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We had to download Pinkfong videos on Youtube for Umair. I'm trying to reduce his screen time so whenever we pull this card out, I feel like such a failure. Sigh. But anyway, when we flew to UK, all he did was drink, sleep, poop, sleep and repeat. Now, he loves running around, plays hide and seek with our seat neighbors and basically wants our unwavering attention. We take out our ammo one by one so it buys us time. So far it seems to work. We've also managed to distract him when we're busy eating, so that's good.</div>
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I know the pacifier is so controversial, but it really calms Umair down in ways I cannot explain. I do get worried about his teeth or his over-reliance but... sometimes I just let it go because he falls asleep as soon as we give it to him. So far, he hasn't been bothered by the air pressure... so I guess feeding him works.</div>
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A lot of people ask how we bring our milk formula and bottles onto the plane. I was worried about this too on our first flight but you can actually bring your hot water on-board so not to worry. They understand. We have each bottles pre-filled with room temp water too!</div>
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For the baby AND YOURSELF. I remember arriving in London and realizing that it was me smelling like poop. Umair's poop had leaked onto my pants!! And when we were in Seoul, Umair had gotten carsick in the taxi and puked all over himself AND Hazim. I bring socks in case he gets cold on the plane. Probably not necessary for short-haul flights but I still have it packed anyway because even on 1 hour plane rides, my feet gets cold and that would increase trips to the bathroom........</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6-12 months: Bring your food processor. We brought our trusty Beaba in its travel case. I know some prefer the rice cooker so whichever works. Once you land, you can quickly just drop by a supermarket to get your rice, fruits and vegetables for the whole trip. But if you have no time to do that, you could pack all that too for the x number of days you'll be away (I've done that once).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Above 12 months: Save some porridge/food from the hotel's breakfast in an insulated jar that will last you through lunch hahaha. I love hotel breakfast. Unfortunately, in Seoul we didn't want to pay BND70 per person for breakfast, so that was a bit tricky. We just ordered rice and something simple for Umair wherever we ended up eating. Hazim's the stricter one... no salt, no oil and fried food etc, so we made sure to avoid all that. </span></div>
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But I suppose at the end of the day, what's important is that your child is fed. Umair has had yoghurt, dimsum, pancakes, omelettes (try eggs at home first please), etc when we're abroad. He LOVES going on holiday, I swear, because when we come back, it's back to eating bland food!</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Or whatever works for your baby. I brought <a href="https://www.bellarynature.com/shop/3-in-1-salve-infant/">these ones </a>from Bellary Nature, a mini tube of Sudocream and a pot of Vicks BabyRub (some may contest but it works on Umair and especially after our trip to UK when he fell sick... I will do whatever it takes to prevent that from happening again!). I use it before we go out in the cold, when he's having a restless night, when he's motion-sick or coughing, etc.</span></div>
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<b>6. Wash your baby bottles</b></div>
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We usually just have his washing liquid in a small travel-sized dispenser and bring a long a laptop-size container that's deep enough to soak his bottles in. I'm really not sure what's the most efficient way. If you have a better idea, let me know!</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>7. Get an easy stroller</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was the first thing I looked for when we were first looking for strollers. Obviously I wanted the super chic looking Stokke ones but let's be real here... I'm not going to be strolling Umair around in this heat--this isn't Hyde Park in September. My first condition was that it would fold into something I could carry easily and the Baby Zen Yoyo did just that. You fold it and throw it on your shoulders and get on with your day. You can also fit it in the overhead compartments on the plane but we chuck it in cargo now because that's one less thing to carry!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some people prefer those toddler leashes/harnesses or a carrier because their babies don't like being strapped to a stroller (I don't get why they don't... you just have to sit down and someone pushes you to the next destination while you drink haha). Umair now prefers to walk about btw so we had to get a harness. I'm a paranoid mom and he cannot be more than a metre away from me!</span></div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-73545305360987825072018-11-03T16:20:00.000+08:002018-11-03T16:20:42.659+08:00Diminishing Returns of Materialism<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Other than wrinkles, dark pigmentation and back aches, there are two other signs of aging that you'll experience. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Diminishing Returns of Materialism, and</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Increased Propensity to Save.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first Balenciaga</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />My recent big purchase was the Dior Saddle Bag and the strap that's paired with it in the Dior influencer campaigns. Now... don't get me wrong... I don't regret purchasing it but I did feel a tiny-sized bullet go through my chest as I was paying for them. There was something else I realized... I didn't feel as ecstatic as I did before. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I remember my first few designer bags. I was into Balenciaga City Bags and I really wanted them... I may have even cried because I wanted them that much. I think they were one month's worth of student allowance back when I was an undergraduate in Nottingham. When I graduated from my Masters, I ended up with a Gucci, a Prada, 2 Balenciagas, 6 Bond No. 9 perfumes, loads of shoes... and a whole lot of other luxury items that I was afraid to bring home to my mother. I mean, my parents would have to send me food from home and they'd lecture me every time they see something new. Pretty embarrassing--not proud of it.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aftermath of Kurt Geiger going on sale - mine and my housemates</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I remember being so ecstatic about those purchases I would have hugged them to sleep if I could. But now... I'm not as happy considering the amount I just swiped. I realize that every other new luxury item I purchase, it makes me more happy but the amount of marginal happiness is depreciating. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What's increasing is my addiction to park money for the future. I get excited about saving now and watching your savings grow makes you even more motivated to save. I can give you savings tips--maybe next time. Wow, I feel so adult. I never thought I would get here, but here I am. I think twice before swiping my credit card. I got my insurances and retirement plans set (scarily, it still isn't enough for me to maintain my current lifestyle when I retire). I've parked a little in investments and my car loan is paid off. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I do wonder if I'll ever feel that level of euphoria again. I think the last time I really loved a luxury purchase was in 2014 and it was a pair of Louboutins. But this is good! I will remind myself every time I want a new bag whether it'll make me crazy happy or just mediocre happy. If it's the latter, it's definitely not worth it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I do still splurge on myself from time to time. I am a girl after all and a professional shopaholic. Once in a while, I get myself an expensive dress or spend a bit too much on skincare (another sign of aging btw is when you choose skincare over makeup) but now I can feel that I have more control over my impulses. If I don't need it or if there's a cheaper option, out my cart it goes. </span></div>
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Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-591847818933075985.post-2105249687728113772018-10-27T18:39:00.001+08:002018-10-27T18:39:39.124+08:00Good Mom vs Good Career<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm in the middle of Season 10 of Grey's Anatomy now. I know... I'm kind of late to the game and never really understood the craze but I'm definitely on board now. Anyway, I just passed the episodes where Meredith was feeling like she had to prove that she was a good surgeon despite being a mom. Sometimes it's really odd when things around you mirror your exact feelings be it a song or a movie or in this case... a popular medical series.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ever since I had my son, I've felt the need to prove to people at work that I can do my job well despite having to go to doctor's appointments during office hours and what not. This on top of feeling like I have to prove that I'm not a bimbo airhead who's into fashion and beauty only. I've cried myself to sleep, had anxiety attacks and felt a little down... all because I feel like I'm not up to a certain standard or on par with people who can work after hours and read emails at 9PM (in a work environment that I feel penalizes those who don't btw). I've dialed down my social media presence enough so I can give in extra hours to do work but not enough for brands to stop working with me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You want to know what's more ridiculous? My work guilt is sometimes bigger than my mom guilt... which in turn makes me feel more guilty because I feel like such a horrible mom! When my team stays late til 7PM... I feel more guilty leaving them than I do not spending time with my baby... MY BABY?! My baby who's growing up too fast and sooner or later will not want to spend time with me. What is the matter with me?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The feminist in me also refuses to back down at the office because for years people fought for our rights and we're now able to go to work and earn money for ourselves. I loathe every time I hear someone make 'maternity leave' as an excuse. Like... oh we need more men in the workforce because women go on maternity leave for three months. I'm going to leave it at that now because that's a topic all on it's own. But anyway working moms, I want you to know that you are not alone. The point of this post is to let you know that we're all in this together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I still go through these phases... but I haven't given up at work. I do everything I can and as much as I can when I'm on my desk. But I try really hard to allocate my time after hours (6.30PM max at the office) and during weekends for my family. I don't do work when I'm at home or when I'm on leave. I don't beat myself up every time I feel I'm a bit behind because of it. I get up... and catch up and move on. I just needed to stop doing that to myself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There's that quote... I forget. But it was about... setting your priorities straight. It was about... giving people the time they deserved. It was about... putting time and effort with your family. The quote was about choosing between your career and the people you love. It reminded me that while your job can replace you in a second, your son looks at you like you're the best thing on the planet and you're irreplaceable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As much as we want to give 100% to both motherhood and our careers... we only have 100% to give. I still have my daily battles but I think I'm winning. I just need to make sure I still perform at work, I'm on top of things, I'm able to solve problems... and if it seems like my colleagues are better than me because they can give their full 100% at their job and do work til 11PM... I'm not going to feel like I'm inadequate. I'm not going to blame motherhood or myself. I may cry... But I'll still kick ass the next day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tell me I'm not alone.</span></div>
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<br />Nabeela Fadzilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04641858280551594305noreply@blogger.com0