Petals and Pedals

♥

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sun, 13 May 2018 08:36:00 +0000

Adulting is tough, said everyone.

#chanmarichan

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 09 Sep 2017 13:55:00 +0000

Married my best friend today :')

Hello there,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 06 May 2017 03:21:00 +0000

It's been a while since I last penned down my scattered thoughts here. It's like having a little parade in my mind - an organised mess but somewhat cathartic. Also, it's the perfect sojourn away from crafting structured papers in the office heehee. Frivolity aside, wedding planning has been going on slow and steady, amazing to see how things are starting to fall in place. Even little details like the type of flowers and the table calligraphy all add to the bigger picture....though the most important detail is for our marriage to be accountable to God. Though true love is vulnerable, I've never been happier.

We'll be sending out Save the Dates soon, so do look out for them!♥

Peace out (in R's glasses and terrible backlight).

Greek islands - Santorini II,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 07:08:00 +0000

20.06.2013

Santorini is a fascinating island to explore, there are nooks and crannies that veer you off the tourist focal points. While it's the largest island of the archipelago, Santorini is a small island - I daresay that driving from one end to the other takes about an hour tops. The best way to enjoy the island is by renting a car, so you can take it at your own pace and not subject yourself to the mainstream transport routes.

There are many villages within Santorini, with the popular ones being Oia and Thira. We stayed in an bed and breakfast in Oia (Villa Ecoxenia, Cyclades Islands 8470), which was a popular area for their sunset views. We didn't choose to stay by the caldera, because of the crowd and sheer cost of accommodation; will share more pictures in my next post, the backyard was still really gorgeous! R has a knack for choosing the right places to stay in.

Credit: Sveta NYC

Oia is your typical Greece postcard view - azure blue sky, cliff-perched coast and white-washed cubiform houses. There's a certain charm to the serenity of the place, provided you do not get caught with throngs of tourists getting in the way of your personal space. Not to mention the soft breeze blowing up from the caldera.

Fresh fruit, cheese and bread; and cafe wifi.

Greek yoghurt with fresh fruit - they will usually provide some honey on the side for you to drizzle for sweetness.

Decked in full H&M from Rome (can't afford anything else), an impromptu we-ran-out-of-clothes holiday situation. It was also because we transitioned from a cold Spring -> hot Summer in the month and headed South.

The islands are the epitome of laid-back island life - reading, cool sea breeze, beer, calamari, conversations and friendly Greeks. This was by far one of the most scenic and carefree holiday destinations I've been to, it was really a huge blessing to be in awe of His amazing creations!

The Red beach near the Akrotiri was relatively crowded when we went, and was about a 5-10 min walk from the ATV parking area. But it was worth it, because the enveloping slopes of red and black volcanic rocks were really unique, and not to mention the crystal clear waters! You could glimpse it from the headland, at the beginning of the path if you're lazy to go down; but would suggest for you to climb down to the beach to enjoy the view and see it for yourself. The waters were a bit too chilly for frolicking though, and this was in June (maybe it's just me, R's threshold is a lot higher)

Gallivanting around the area, one of the pitstops enroute to the Black beach @ Perissa.

Lunch at a roadside tavern, looks peaceful but there were tons of summer flies around - the waiter laughed at me (so did R).

Arrived at the Black Beach @ Perissa, armed with our beach equipment aka ball pong.

Driving back to Oia for dinner and busking in the golden hour journeying back.

Not all who wander are lost,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 11 Mar 2017 05:12:00 +0000

R had psyched me into watching the highly acclaimed trilogy ("Lord of the Rings") 3 years back. I'm never into such make-believe worlds, but I must say that it has piqued some interest into the world of fantasy.

Greek islands - Santorini I,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 13:30:00 +0000

17.06.2013

One of the most unforgettable summers we've had was in Greece, which will always hold a special place in our hearts. Ferrying in from Athens after our stay in Thessalonica, we arrived @ Santorini close to midnight - in darkness. Come morning, we were greeted by azure blue skies, calm caldera waters and white-washed cubiform houses by the coast. As one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean sea, Santorini's rugged landscape was caused by a volcanic eruption which took place in the 16th century. And not forgetting the many small beaches and cliffs that adorn the coast, the shores of which are laid by beautiful red and black volcanic pebbles. Nothing like a game of Gin Rummy (a great couple card game that we were hooked on) by the beach, and a refreshing dip in the waters to shake off the summer heat! (though admittedly, it was rather cold for me at times; so cold beer it is)

To get around, we rented an ATV - pretty much the main transport we used in the Greece islands. Not sure if we were meant to take it on the highways, but we did and it was exhilarating! I was slightly afraid of the downslopes at first, and we ended up trading it for a car in one day.....but we immediately switched back to an ATV the day after.

A cosy home-stay styled apartment which we stayed in, the owners were really friendly.

Our ride

Missing the gusts of the cool evening air blowing into our faces as we drove along the coast in our salty sea-soaked beachwear. The smell of the crisp fresh air never felt more invigorating!

♥

Another milestone,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sun, 19 Jun 2016 12:30:00 +0000

19.06.2016
Biel, Hokkaido

Looking forward to spending the rest of my life with my best friend and partner-in-crime, in Christ ♥ When Russell first knelt down to ask for my hand in marriage, it was a heart numbing experience, with the past 8 years shuffling before my eyes, from one memory to another.

God has indeed been gracious to us through IB, army, university and the 3-year long distance. Walking me home from ACSI, secretly holding my hand underneath the SAC tables (when the whole world could see), sneaking moments during BB/council night camps just to say hello, waking up at 5am every day during army just to steal a few good mornings and gallivanting tirelessly around White Sands/Joo Koon for your Friday book-outs (if any). Long distance was also not an easy journey, trading personal touch for intimate conversations through computer pixels, heartfelt prayers through time zones and the occasional airmail that flies over a thousand miles to land in the hands of the other. Yet these were the quiet little joys which have made us cherish our relationship more each passing day.

To Russell, the world out there is vast expanse of doubt and uncertainty. Thank you for staying by my side and encouraging me since 2008. Our love is not perfect but it has indeed cast out many shadows of ambivalence and perplexities that life brings. Each and every year that has passed us has been nothing short of the Lord's blessing and a great joy. I daresay that it has been many years of ups and downs, and that if we had to relive it all over again, I don’t think we would have done it any differently.

Thank you to my family, close friends and loved ones, who have been so encouraging and supportive through this journey. And last but not least, God who has been faithful and gracious through these humbling years.

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:9-12.

We’re looking forward to spending this new stage of our lives together, in encouraging each other’s walk with the Lord - and wide-eyed at this vast, big world. While the years beyond stand ahead as tall as lions, may the beauty of our bond be made sublime in Christ.

Fireworks and Calligraphy class,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 14:44:00 +0000

Saturday was a wait for fireworks by the bay kind of day. Love the heart thumping of each shoot up.

Of Black and White on B&W, featuring my cracked nail polish.

And the real sparks that afternoon @ Wessex tavern, thanks to Souldeelight's calligraphy class I now have a new tool to play with! Hello pretty nibs and jet black ink, my mind's already bursting about the myraid of colours and magic playing with ganache! Weekends please come sooner.

July has always been the charm of the year, but work's been horrendously piling up - August please be nice and you will be rewarded.

Dark nights,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Indeed, The darkest nights produce the brightest stars. Late night calligraphy doodles with an office pen and dividers, and of course with Matchbox 20 on repeat - nostalgic of good ole school nights and procrastination at its best. On the brightest note, have signed up for my first calligraphy class with Souldeelight on 27 June @Wessex Tavern, really excited and we'll see what amazing sparks transpire.

Amsterdam

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 09:46:00 +0000

1 March 2013: Be at London Victoria Station by the Whistlestop Shop at 7pm.

I was clearly on time and even had time to spare in fussing with my frizzy dry hair (winter blues). Zoe (from Georgia, US) invited me for a short weekend trip down to Amsterdam, as her friend had a spare ticket for an overnight bus ride across the English channel - saying yes to spontaneity, I had packed up my backpack in a jiffy. That's the charm of being on exchange, plans change and you're *snap* game on.

With the bus being delayed by almost 4-5 hours, was glad to have befriended friendly Brazilians and Americans along the way - which really helped to negate the long bus ride and wait! This lucky lad forgot his passport, and had the luxury to fetch it from home (all the way to Kensington and back) with hours to spare lol.

Party and high night life aside, Amsterdam 's beauty lies in her origins as the dam of Amstel river. Derived from its Dutch name Amsteledamme, Amsterdam started as a fishing village in the 12th century - later growing to become one of the most famous ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. Today, she is the capital city of the Netherlands and sits in the province of North Holland. The endless systems of canals, winding waterways and idyllic bridges prides Amsterdam as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are quite a therapeutic sight to behold (but most definitely not a system to get lost in, for we learnt it the hard way!).

Making only 1 pitstop (read: brushing teeth in ice cold water) at a conveniently opened 24-hours MacDonalds, we woke up achy on the overnight coach. The sinks in the ladies' bathroom were swamped with groggy passengers inching to get the chance to fresh up. Toothbrushes out, facial wash, girls powdering their morning faces - and then someone decides to makes a protein shake which spontaneously bursts open and gets awkwardly strewn across 3 sinks and the mirrors, much to everyone's dismay. Good morning Amsterdam.

At first glance, Amsterdam was blanketed in the typical winter gloom. The trees were lifeless and the ground dry and barren. It didn't change much upon reaching the city...

Until we walked over to the canals ♥ Throwback to 1997, Amsterdam remains as one of the cities I fondly remember - the bricked residences, mirror-like reflections on the canal waters, bicycles galore and idyllic bridges. And not to mention the boat houses lined along the waterways.

Tranquility in the form of 2 visiting swans gliding across the waters. Amsterdam has a grand total of 165 canals, which amounts to about 100km - wonder how long they swim each day!

Easiest transportation around the city is via the tram lines, the stations can be conveniently found across the city - just be sure to hop on in the correct direction! Best way to travel is possibly by cycling though, but note that it may be quite a challenge to spot out your parked bicycle in a sea of entangled bikes.

Or if you're rushing for a boat ride - take a cab! It wasn't too expensive when we split it 3-way and the driver was really friendly.

Dam square is the city's central area that is buzzing with activity, and a perfect place to orientate yourself in the medieval city centre. Overlooking the square lies the Royal Palace which was the former Cityhall in the Dutch Golden Age. It later housed King Louis Napoleon and became the Dutch Royal House. Next to it is the Nieuwe Kerk, a 15th Century church; and a National monument. On many occasions, the Dam square is used for National events, such as Remembrance Day (4 May) or for light-hearted carnivals complete with ferris wheels and candy stores. In other times, it is typically filled with tourists and locals alike, and many passer-bys in transition. Definitely a great place to people watch if it wasn't so chilly!

The Old Wooden House: Silently standing in one of the secluded inner courts of the city, (Begijnhof) the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam has been restored and preserved for its heritage since 1528. The courts now belong to the English Reformed Church. The house most certainly stands out from its red brick neighbours and is very easy to pick out once you enter the private courtyards - pretty amazing how it has stood the test of time and even fire hazards in the past!

A key trait of buildings in Amsterdam is that many of them tilt forward. They definitely aren't visible in the pictures and at most times you won't even be able to tell in real life either! In the past, many of the buildings were warehouses, and often had a pulley or hoist system to lift goods up to various floors. Hence, the slight tilt helped to prevent the goods from damaging the foundation of the building through these daily operations. With the conversion of these old warehouses to residences, these quirky characteristics remain untouched.

Apart from the system of canals, narrow back alleys are also characteristic of the city. Check out the free expressions on the walls and bicycles parked at every corner possible!

Mini greenhouses selling flowers by one of the main canals, the flowers in the market were indeed very fresh - was really tempted to purchase some for my window beam back home. Eventually decided against it when I thought of the long bus ride to London, couldn't bear to see my precious tulips being squished from all angles. Really wish we had an optimal climate for tulips to thrive in Singapore, they are one of my favourite flowers :') (But tend to be extremely expensive, thanks R for the occasional effort to gift them even though they don't last very long!)

When in Holland, fill up on Dutch pancakes! There are many bruin cafes around which serve authentic Dutch food, and they are mostly cosy and very homely. Loosely translated as 'brown cafes', they are traditional Dutch pubs which showcase a dark wood interior and dim lighting. Some of the older cafes have sand on the floor, as this was typical of the past.

Posting a postcard home, made it a point to send one from every city I visited.

Queued up for Anne frank's house, we waited close to an hour.

Amsterdam is renowned for their coffeeshops, many of them can be found condensed around Oudebrugsteeg. This is just across the waters from Central Station, and just next to the Red light district. Always interesting to just step in and check out the interiors, even if you're not a fan. Note: Am not advocating any cause here, this is purely for information.

Battling the cold to pay a visit to the Heineken brewery

Learning about hops and brewing them for beer:

The Heineken experience (they pride in not calling themselves a museum) was certainly informative and interesting, you could get a glimpse into the industry of beer brewing and be surrounded by brass beer tanks. They even had a small horse stable, seemingly to replicate one of their older designs on the beer bottles. It was however, rather commercialized and for a whooping 18 euros per ticket, would have easily given this a miss and head straight for the Rijksmuseum just a 10 mins walk away.

Amsterdam Heineken Experience

Stadhouderskade 78 1072 AE

Amsterdam The Netherlands

More canal wandering:

'IAmstermdam' is how the city brands and prides itself, you can locate the big bold letters behind the Rijksmuseum. On a side note, the museum is definitely worth a visit even though I didn't get the chance to do so during this trip.

Catching a mini boat ride across the canal, it was great to end the day on such a soothing note - my dear companions fell asleep 10 mins into the ride.

Walking around aimlessly to settle down for dinner, spoilt for choice!

Central Station

What is this strange curved wall doing in the open? Much to our dismay (or surprise, however you look at it) it's meant for guys to pee in the open! When you gotta go, you gotta go! Believe R and I saw this Brussels as well, so it's pretty common in Europe.

Waiting for the bus by the road side.

By night, the city exudes a different kind of charm, a far cry from her day facade. At first glance, it was pretty overwhelming, especially with just 2 of us girls and when we walked up the wrong alley with tons of guys shoving around in the Red Light district. The Amsterdam of the day transforms into the night of sins and lust - certainly an eye opener.

And nearby, a church perches itself nonchalantly.

So Z and I legit-ly wanted to get some English tea/coffee for warmth, and scuttled around trying to find a real coffeeshop - to no avail! It was seemingly easier to find a Coffeeshop (where they sell marijuana/hash, space cakes) than a Koffie Huis (juices, coffee, tea, sandwiches).

We also stumbled upon one of the most famous coffeeshops in the city - The Bulldog was the first coffee shop established in Amsterdam and was brimming with customers even at 8pm. It's located at Leidseplein (Oudezijds Voorburgwal 220), where a police station once resided and just beside the canal. Shouldn't be hard to spot because of it's distinctive blue glow.

So we decided to just settle for some Mayo soaked fries and hot tea from Burger King for supper.

We woke early the next day to head down to De Zaanse Schans - would have been pretty fun to cycle instead, though it would have been really chilly. Venturing out to the outskirts was such a great idea because of the picturesque sights that being in the city can never replace (though I would like to believe I'm still a city girl), we also caught some windmills and flying countryside birds along the way. Gorgeous!

The Zaan district has many industrial windmills that help to drive the manufacturing of products such as lumber and paint. There's also a cheese and clog factory, which I fondly remember visiting when I was younger.

Finding out how cheese and made, and sampling - some things never change and it was exactly how I remembered it to be from many years back!

Ain't no cheese without them goats.

Hi there buddy!

Soaking in the windmills and gorgeous open plains - while the breeze made it slightly chilly, the landscape was really unforgettable! We decided to venture towards these giant windmills, many of which were painted in bright bold colours or housed with bricks.

The Clog factory - excellent workmanship and craftswork but some traditions are hard to keep...

Heading back to London

Would most definitely wish to come back to Amsterdam once again, and to try cycling to the outskirts and neighbouring districts! One of the most beautiful memories I've had of Holland was the fields and fields of tulips, truly mesmerizing - which typically happens in May (dependent on the year and temperature). But for now, I'll just encapsulate these fond memories in the form of the wooden tulips on my shelf, preciously kept since 1997 ♥

Ciao!

The Midnight sun,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 13:42:00 +0000

In awe of His wonderful creations - it's amazing how I stumbled upon this time lapse video about 3 years ago and then again today, but much has changed since then. The world out there is vast and great, with bountiful beauty beyond the shores to discover. And indeed, Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries on earth that I've been blessed to visit: Iceland I, Iceland II, Iceland III.

是什麼讓我遇見這樣的你?

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 14:58:00 +0000

是什么让我遇见这样的你
是什么让我不再怀疑自己
是什么让我不再害怕失去
在这茫茫人海里我不要变得透明

Been diggin' this new indie Taiwan singer, 白安. Stumbled upon her when incessantly surfing Vimeo. Love it that her videos have such a subtle trippy feel to it, and an equally mesmerizing voice to complement - she reminds me of Best Coast! While she has been criticized for her sloppy Chinese enunciation, I love how she embraces it to express herself in song. This artiste makes her way straight into my music library, perfect for the early morning commute on reflective train rides.

We're all nothing but specks of dust in this universe, but what made us abandon all fear of loss, what made us stop questioning ourselves? Amidst the haystack of mankind, two souls meet and they may end up as lovers - is it only fate that makes that happen? 是什麼讓我遇見這樣的你? What let me meet someone like you? I know it's a terribly loose and clumsy translation, but it's testimony to how English can't fully encapsulate the beauty of the Chinese language.

P.S. Am currently reading a mortician's autobiography - while it demystifies death, it inadvertently reveals the fragility of life

My cat-acomb of buried thoughts,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 13:29:00 +0000

Check out this beauty, whose picture was snapped spontaneously by yours truly at Meomi Cat Cafe at Haji lane - on the same day R left for London in April. I was never a cat kinda lady, they're much too independent and unpredictable; and not to mention how I was chased up 6 levels at 5am in my previous HDB estate. And those cold eyes, how they pierce through your soul.

But at a grand age of 23 going on 24, I'm slowly seeing beyond those cold eyes and exterior, they can be rather amicable and meek ♥ Loving their intricate features and smooth fur, and their sleepy faces.

Lunch at Fika, with the occasional sweet treat heehee.

Ciao!

Thessaloniki,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 13:45:00 +0000

Thessaloniki (pronounced as thess-ah-lo-nee-kih) is the capital of Greek Macedonia and the second largest city in Greece. While more commonly known as Thessaloniki, some locals also refer to it as Thessalonica or Salonica, but they essentially mean the same place. Majority of the city's tourism comes from domestic travels.

16 June 2013: Flying in budget from Rome, it was the first time R and I step foot into Greece - and indeed it was outfitted with historical symbols of their glorious past. In the city, it is hard to miss out on the White Tower by the waterfront, Ottoman structures and Byzantine walls in the Upper town area. There were also peeks of grand structures such as Byzantine churches, 5th century churches and Roman palace ruins. Generally, it was a laid-back town with lots of sunshine, and extremely easy to get around. The Greek letters were slightly daunting at first, not to mention that we knew nothing in Greek to get around (much less read the puzzling letters) except how to call someone an asshole and persuade that 'I have balls the sizes of planets' (Thank you Pavlos for the useful Greek lessons). But fret not as most city areas tend to have English translations and most locals are also able to converse in English.

The first thing we did when we got off our flight was to be thrown into a public bus - being packed like sardines was an understatement! Adding on the woes of the June summer heat and my heavy backpack, thought I was gonna collapse in the bus. Took in gulps of air whenever someone dropped off at their station, which seemed to help with the air circulation. Not to mention, the bus station names were in Greek alphabets hahaha, but we miraculously got off our stop (with R as our wonderful human compass, nothing is impossible) and walked some distance to our apartment. Hello Greece!

For accomodation, we stayed at Monastiriou 135, Thessaloniki, Makedonia Thraki 546 27 booked from Airbnb under Georgios. His profile still exists but the listing is currently not available, it was a lovely apartment and Georgios was a great and hospitable host who ensured that we were comfortable during our stay! We started gallivanting from our apartment building:

Summer in Thessaloniki was hot! While it wasn't as humid as tropical Singapore climate, I believe I had gotten as much sun in 1 day as I would have had in a month of London. We stumbled across a bus that took us around town and hopped on for a ride - at a worthy rate of 0.80 euros per pax for 1 route. We later found out that this was the Thessaloniki Bus Service, that also had a 24-hour ticket for unlimited routes at 4 euros each, and you could purchase from Ticket offices around the city (e.g. convenience stores, kiosks, etc.)

The loop duration was about 70 mins, and frequency of 40 mins. It takes you around the main features of the city: Archeological Museum, Church of Agia Sophia, Church of agios Dimitrios, Byzantine Castles, Galerius Arch (Kamara), Aristotle's Square and the Port area. It was definitely worth the cool break to rest our dear feet.

The bus was located in the vicinity of the city's most famous landmark - the White tower. Albeit the pure image of its name, the tower is actually bathed in blood from the 1820s where ottoman Sultan Mahmud II massacred rebellious elite troops of Islamicised Christian boys. Upon the Greek's reconquest in 1913, the tower was whitewashed to be rid of its grim and haunting past. Believe that there was a museum that presented more of the city's history, but we gave that a miss and decided to walk about the waterfront instead. Read more about the architectural landmark here.

The waterfront is lined with modern cafes, booming with locals frolicking in the evening sun and soaking in the sea breeze. Quite relaxing I must say, but of course the view came with a hefty price tag for drinks (especially those with an unobstructed view). There was also a restaurant party boat that was enticing us to come onboard, pretty nifty idea no?

Walking by the waterfront was definitely one of the most enjoyable highlights in the city, it exudes such a simple yet alluring combination of the sea breeze, low-lying developments and an unobstructed view of the horizon ahhhh.

A stone's throw away is the Aristotle Square. As the main city square of the city, it is buzzing with activity and quite a big difference from the old town area. The square is located on Nikis avenue along the city's vibrant waterfront, and was designed by the French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918. Since then, many of the buildings surrounding the central square have been restored and renovated from their earlier glories. Now, it's filled with locals hanging around snacking on sweet treats, feeding the pigeons plump and the occasional balloon vendor - like any good European piazza.

Walking deeper into the city center, you'll find the Paleochristian template of Panagia Halkeon and the historic Ottoman building of Bey Hamam.

On hindsight, cycling along the waterfront would have been pretty fun!

Stopping by for dinner at one of the restaurants.

And of course feasting on greek gyros and souvlaki (mostly grilled meat platters) while washing them down with Mythos beer!

Walking around the neighbourhood, lovin' the widespread use of wooden furniture and random graffiti in alleyways.

Look at their very own Club Koko! Reminded me of the one in Camden near our Carpenter Court :P

Walking aimlessly and trying to spot where we had wandered to.

Chancing upon beautiful gradients in the sky, little joys that I really cherished every time I'm overseas - seeing the horizon! It's quite hard to get an unobstructed view of the sky in Singapore, with all the high rise buildings and skyscrapers enveloping the air space. Doesn't it just exudes a timely reminder for us to just slow our pace down for nightfall?

Sentiments aside, the Modiano market is one of the most traditional (and signature) markets of Thessaloniki. Located in the heart of the city, the market tradition has not wavered through modernity of supermarkets and hypermarts. In fact, the market has been part of city life for close to 80 years! It was established in early 1930s, and consists mostly of food stores selling spices, dairy products like cheese and milk, produce, fish and meat. Trivia: being in Greece for some time, you'll also slowly start to realise that Fish isn't considered Meat. You'll occasionally also find a tavern (their term for a restaurant) and some cosy eateries.

You can easily located the market, as it lies between 2 major streets of the city center - Vasileos Irakliou Street and Egnatia Avenue. The small shops and cobbled streets does really remind me of the Parisian flea markets in the open! And closer to home, it was reminiscent of our Singapore wet markets, minus the chaos. It's mostly open in the morning, where the air is crisp and cool before the afternoon sun unleashes its wrath.

And not to mention these Thessaloniki sweet treats which we kindly bought a box for Pavlos and his family, as well as a small packet for the train ride to Athens. Definitely a must-try for those with a sweet tooth, but try not to eat them all in one seating. We didn't know what they were so we chose them randomly, some had flaky pastry bits to my delight!

Back to the waterfront, had a hard time choosing a perfect place to nest; but settled with a glass of juice to fuel up on Vitamin C!

Looking at these old pictures is definitely digging up the nostalgia in me! Could literally feel the summer heat in the air while looking at our Thessaloniki adventures, and how we really needed some cool air amidst the suffocating heat in Day 1. Oh the things that Google never tells you prior to the trip. Sidenote: But check out our happy sun-kissed skin, which pales in comparison to my indoor office complexion heh.

If you're planning to visit the city, this mini guide may be useful. And of course, for unique (and yet comfy and hospitable) stays around the world, check out Airbnb! We've tried it in many countries and they always turn out to be such a great experience, especially with great hosts :)

Till my next travelogue, ciao ♥

Silent thoughts,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Raspberry Pana Cotta topped with chrysanthemum petals! Am not a huge fan of Pana Cotta but 'twas a good spread to feast on (both on the eyes and for the tummy) at the 13th Dave Ulrich Asia Forum. The speaker was extremely engaging, making it an extremely light-hearted organisational development seminar with so much great information about effecting change from within. Have most certainly learnt a lot, owing to his experience and insights.

Times flies, and I've been at my job for about a year - filled with ups and downs but definitely enjoying the exposure to the spectrum of HR functions around and thankful for all the learning opportunities. As a newbie, it takes time to strike a balance between work and play - reality most certainly doesn't come with a sprinkle of stardust. Just take time and take heart ♥

Have also been getting busy in the kitchen lately, and trying out a multitude of recipes for Macaroons - still finding that one recipe that perfects it! If anyone has tips for baking Macaroons please drop me a note :) Have a feeling that it's due to the liquid food colouring that messes up the consistency, time to hit the baking racks once again.

Also hoping to journal more often, and to constantly remind myself not to get caught in the daily grind of things to miss out on the little joys of life - much like the beauty of scribbling down my scattered thoughts and watching the world go by. Not to mention picking up a few good books, on my list writes: Smoke gets in your eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty and Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife by Eben Alexander. Time has come and go, and while my thoughts may have matured along the way, deep down - my sentimental inclination silently remains.

Indeed,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sun, 24 May 2015 12:57:00 +0000

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised ."

Proverbs 31:30

Valentine's,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 11:47:00 +0000

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear."

1 John 4:18

The world out there is a vast expanse of doubt and chance-upons. Thank you for being my constant and being there with me each and every step of the way since '08. Our love is not perfect but it has indeed cast out many shadows of ambivalence and perplexities that life brings; and with each and every year that pass us, it has nothing short of the Lord's blessing and a great joy. Looking forward to spending yet another phase of our lives together, wide-eyed at this vast, big world - Happy Valentine's R ♥

Back from China 中国,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sun, 18 Jan 2015 14:27:00 +0000

Hello folks, I'm finally back from the Land of Mao - even though parts of the trip was a battle against my stamina (thanks R for being so selfless and caring), thought it was a great experience for the first time setting foot on new grounds, we even made some local friends who infused the 小苹果 song into our heads. Here's a sneak peek of the trip, loving the splash of colours! More about it on a separate post, for now it's back to reality as the office beckons.

R's trip back home in Singapore has been an extreme whirlwind, but I'm thankful because we got to spend some quality time over Christmas and the New Year. It was also very refreshing (and not to mention therapeutic) spending the crossover to 2015 amidst the countryside cold and giant mountains. Reminds us on how tiny we really are on the surface of earth, and how the years before us are standing erect like giants. Nothing short of reflective.

Can't wait till the next break already, ciao!

Somserset house, London

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 06:27:00 +0000

Even though most of my time in London saw me shuttling between Bloomsbury and Central Camden, I've visited the beautiful Somerset house at the Strand on many occasions. It is a huge pale-washed Neoclassical building and a great delight to just relax by the side with a book or some doodles. It overlooks the River Thames and the Waterloo Bridge, and many Brits perched themselves on chairs facing the sun for some much needed summer sunshine.

Aesthetics aside, the Somerset House serves as an Arts and Cultural centre of London. They provide contemporary art programmes and host art exhibitions which range from paintings to graphic design to photography, as well as workshops and guided tours around the different wings - check them out here. It is also the home base for London Fashion Week. In winter, the fountain area doubles up as an ice skating rink (R's friends saw Emma Watson at this very ice skating spot!).

My favourite place within the premises would definitely have to be the fountains in the Edwond J. Safra Fountain Court. Located in the heart of the building and facing the Strand entrance, it's a grand sight to behold. The fountain jets are constantly in play throughout the day, and there's just something about the sound of water that is musically therapeutic to the ears. In the warm(ish) summer, they are a huge attraction with the kids.

Brought my family there when they came over as well.

Al-fresco coffee and tea.

The in-house Rizzoli Bookshops offers a spectrum of artsy collaterals and subject books, ranging from fashion to architecture and interior design. They also have stationery from local British local designers (albeit the hefty prices) and programme booklets for exhibitions. Worthwhile to pop by anc check them out, got really tempted to purchase a few merchandise many a times.

Landmark: The Fields of Photography exhibition.

Stairwells

My doodle notebook.

The security guards are very friendly. I was sitting precariously on the railings (was very careful but would plunge about 2 storeys down if I were to fall back), and the guard came over to tell me to be careful and we struck up a conversation about acute mental disorders and the psychology. We spent some time talking before we split ways, and he insisted to help me take a picture with the grand building.

Ah, the beauty of conversations with strangers.

It's definitely a place to just relax - perfect for a book and cuppa tea on a cool summer day. Will be back for Winter ice skating, hopefully soon - ciao!

Strand, London WC2R 1LA

United Kingdom

London ice bar,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 06:20:00 +0000

After reading about Ice bar in a travel magazine and having a close encounter in Sweden (we didn't have enough time to find the place and also got lazy), we decided to visit the one at Heddon Street in London! We invited Nav along because he was visiting from Oxford, that guy never fails to be great company :')

We arrived slightly early, admittedly I was beyond enthused to get in even though sub zero temperatures ain't really my thing. Tucked away in a cosy corner of Regent Street, Ice Bar (as the name speaks for itself) is a quirky bar designed out of entirely ice. It is kept at -5 degree celsius everyday, and they alternate the design experience regularly. The ice is specially shipped over from Sweden (supposedly Tome River's purest ice) and carved out in sculptures. I must say that it was quite a unique experience!

A £14 ticket gets you for about an hour and a free drink, visitors are also provided with a dark blue thermal cape and gloves to keep warm. It was frosty alright, but the unique setting was quite a distraction. The cocktail menu was limited (some were really aptly named: Arctic Freeze), I barely even remember what I had - probably something tropical since it was yellow.

Loved how even the cups were made of ice, no more warm beer worries!

Hands on Ice table challenge.

Red noses and tearing up because of the cold.

"The Ice is pure!"

Although it was a unique sensory experience (oh come on, I come from the tropics and we don't have winter here), the ambience was definitely not the best. It was a pretty small room, and there were many patrons. We had fun but perhaps it was just novelty at its best (or just great company) - I'm actually quite curious to whether the Sweden one would have been different, as the concept originated from the Swedes.

Ciao!

London Ice Bar

31-33 Heddon St, London W1B 4BN, United Kingdom

Jamie's italian: Covent garden, London

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 13:21:00 +0000

Walked around Covent Garden when my family came over for a visit in London and we settled for a cosy lunch at Jamie's Italian. The bright colours and open dining concept caught our eye - and also because while we were spoilt for choices in lunch options, many were really expensive restaurants.

The portions were large, we ordered 3 mains and a side to share so we could leave room for some to-go snacks later in the day. The Pumpkin soup was served in a petite porcelain cup, with toasted bread on the side. The consistency was rather thick because of the pumpkin fibre, hence it was good for sharing with my sister. However, it tasted flavourful and was naturally sweet so we thought that it was a good complement to the savoury mains we had ordered.

The Free-range chicken primavera was one of the more popular dishes in the restaurants and my dad's favourite. It comes with a blend of peas on top, and baked free-range chicken sitting on top of creamy baby potatoes and asparagus.

The Fish'n Chips dish was huge, but there wasn't anything particularly fancy about this dish considering we were in the UK with tons of good Fish'n Chips options around. What we liked about it, however, was the butter and chives spread that came along with the dish. While it complemented the fish really well, it got pretty heavy going after a while.

Ciao!

Jamie's Italian

11 Upper St Martin's Ln, London WC2H 9FB

United Kingdom

What do you wish upon?

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 08:00:00 +0000

I'm not a superstitious person by heart, and by faith - but when this wishbone necklace came in the mail, I was really excited ♥ In traditional Euro-American culture, the wishbone is said to symbolize luck. It is customary for the wishbone to be pulled apart by two people, when it cracks the person who ends up with the longer piece will be granted their wish.

Lucky charm or not, this elegant piece is definitely in for keeps. (and sure hope I don't see it cracking!)

The LDR Chronicles,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 01:00:00 +0000

Look what came in the mail, all the way from the Cold war era Soviet passport photograph machine in Berlin! These picture strips never fail to put a smile on my face, and to brighten up my day :') Having a long distance relationship is never easy, and I'm glad to say we're nearly done with ours - with R graduating next year July/September. God has indeed been gracious through IB, army, our university days and this 3 year long distance that we have to go through.

"Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

1 Corinthians 13:7

I'm not going to count the chicks before the eggs hatch but I'm really thankful for all the experiences that we have seen through. It's not easy, but it's definitely not impossible. Trading personal touch to intimate conversations through computer pixels in the form of Skype, daily (but heartfelt and un-curated) text messages and the occasional air mail that flies over a thousand miles to land in the hands of the other. Counting down to the very day that we'll have a reunion, planning our next adventure trip together or even just looking forward the small things within the relationship like praying for each other and playing gin rummy online (and having his jacket which smells just like him lying next to me hahaha don't judge). R's graduation is next year, but this new (possible) new stage of our life feels very, very, real.

To everyone who is also going through a long distance relationship, hang on there because it'll all be worth it - and you'll know it when....you know it ♥

A Beautiful Mess,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 12:48:00 +0000

Organic mess VS Curated order - which side would you choose?

I love this frozen snapshot of the security guard post at Red Dot museum (where the colleagues and I went down for a site recce for an event). It's a great juxaposition between the raw organic mess in the foreground and the curated orderly pattern of British styled red letterboxes in the background. Does it speak volumes about our daily lives at large? Do we gravitate towards order? Sometimes, we try so hard to reach out in the distance to curate the future, and yet in the process we neglect the present organic affairs, little thoughts that matter. Or, do we consciously try to curate our thoughts and hold back the unconscious stream of thoughts that truly speaks for who we are.

It definitely reminds me of the art class where Ernest was telling me to be more organic in sketching out some rocks. "Be more organic! That looks so planned, be more human!"

Shying away from order doesn't seem so bad after all, yes? The world needs more beautiful messes.

The setting sun,

noreply@blogger.com (Petalsandpedals) — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0000

Hortpark at dusk, after a full day of work plan strategizing. It was a good day of discussions, bonding and laughter, and a laid back lunch at Vineyard, a charming French restaurant nestled within Hortpark. I'm really glad for the team and everyone ♥ Even though it has only been 4.5 months, everyone has been really encouraging and nurturing; and of course the inspiring synergy - thankful to have made it to the team and to be learning under experienced bosses.

And to those in Singapore, do jump the bandwagon and hop on to Uber! It's like Grab taxi except that it's incredibly convenient and cash-less. The drivers are really friendly and what's not to love when there's a great promotion going on :P Download the Uber app on your iPhone or Android, and key in my promotion code: yantingc1 and you get $10 free credits for use.

Ciao!