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feisty, whimsical, makeup enthusiast, mobile phone photographer, learning to live life to the fullest

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Feisty. Whimsy. Makeup enthusiast. Mobile phone photographer. Learning to live life to the fullest.
  • SL-Week 5: Lights – With volume, dense and palpable

    SL-Week 5: Lights – With volume, dense and palpable

    In response to Sylvain LANDRY, SL-Week 5: Light.

    I desperately wanted to hug that beam of light (photo below) to my chest but could not because there was a fence in front of me (not in photo). The fence had been built to prevent people like me from moving too close to the light and falling over.

    I like the dense and palpable look of it but could not reach it. Even if I could reach the light with the tip of my fingers, I would not be able to hold light. I had to capture the light somehow; I captured the light with my photograph.

    The light is so intense that it still seems almost tangible.

    two beams of intense yellow light DSC06407

    How does yellow feel? Have you ever wondered?

    Enjoy!

    [Photo: Taken at Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore, 2012.]

  • 2015 July Readings Roundup Part 2

    2015 July Readings Roundup Part 2

    I figured out that the link becomes very unresponsive when I tried to embed too many materials, so I have to split up my readings roundup.

    Inspirational, call-for-action:
    I started questioning. I thought, “what if I used the data to surface people with suicidal intent?”

     
    Self-improvement:
    I thought these interview questions are worth thinking about even if I am not going for an interview.
    http://www.businessinsider.com/7-interview-questions-that-determine-emotional-intelligence-2015-8?IR=T&

    Enjoy!

  • 2015 July Readings Roundup Part 1

    2015 July Readings Roundup Part 1

    I have learned a lot from reading these articles in the past month. I am so happy to be able to share them with you.

    On Blogging:
    I got good advice to get my blog going.

    I learned something new about Pinterest for my blog.

    Informative:
    I felt my heart chill.

    Motivational:
    How I got energised in under ten minutes:

    Enjoy!

  • 31 things you can do instead of spending money – #1 Completed | cocoaevenings

    31 things you can do instead of spending money – #1 Completed | cocoaevenings

    Find the most beautiful place within 100 miles and go there. Explore it. Or just find a bench and take in the view.

    I fell head over heels in love with the spot by the canal besides a row of houses in the picture below.

    beautiful cottages besides canal at tanah merah

    I was mesmerised after I spotted an incredilby beautiful sunset behind the row of houses, more than a year ago. I remember the view vividly and had been wanting to come back to this spot ever since.

    That gorgeous sunset was the kind with bright orange and red rays, shooting out from beneath deep clear blue clouds. It sets into a romantic purple.

    Unfortunately, the sky was not clear on the day that I went back in search of the wonderful sunset.

    Before that, I tried to get a better view of the sunset by climbing up the overhead bridge. But to no avail.

    park bridge

    I took many deep breaths of fresh air and took in the sights. I went on to walk along that canal by the row of houses for a bit. Along the way, I took a break on one of the benches.

    The sun soon set and the sky got dark. There was still the last streams of light.

    I caught a picturesque view of a balding tree.

    artistic painted tree low light photographyAnd the rolling clouds in the vast blue sky.

    ite college east

    Darkness fell sooner rather than later. I was at a junction then.

    t-junction dusk expo

    The rush hour had almost gone and the day was approaching an end. Goodnight. Goodbye.

    Cocoa’s notes:
    I took about forty-five minutes to walk all the way. I must admit that spending this forty-five minutes on a walk in fresh air surrounded by greenery proved to be more satisfying than I had imagined. Till now, I relish that sense of accomplishment – achieving something for the first time in life. I would talk about this to my children if I had children, and I would teach them to enjoy such little things in life.

    Do you enjoy walks? If you do, would you prefer to take quiet walks alone or with others?

    Enjoy!

  • 31 things you can do instead of spending money – Have you done them? | cocoaevenings

    31 things you can do instead of spending money – Have you done them? | cocoaevenings

    In response to lifehack.org – 31 Things You Can Do Instead Of Spending Money.

    I wish to try out the suggestions by lifehack.org and review if they indeed could replace the tendency or urge to spend money. You could join me!

    1. Copy and paste the list below into a blog/ Facebook post, and link back to lifehack.org to credit them.
    2. For a blog post, title your post ’31 things you can do instead of spending money’ for others to find your post easily.
    3. Start doing! Record your progress or the outcome in a blog post, Facebook post, a Tweet, an Instagram photo, a photo on Flickr, etc.
    4. Strike that item off your original list like how I have done so.
    5. Share the link to your record (in Step 2) on any social media platform with me by commenting on this post. You could also Pingback to me by pasting the URL of this post into your blog post, and hyperlink it.

    Brand new list for you below:

    1. Find the most beautiful place within 100 miles and go there. Explore it. Or just find a bench and take in the view.
    2. Read a book. Start with a classic like Catch 22 or Great Gatsby.
    3. Visit a local museum. Art museums often have wonderful grounds to explore.
    4. Go to a park. Play on the playground or dip your toes in the stream.
    5. Clean your house. There’s never a wrong time to check it off the list.
    6. Write. Anything. It doesn’t have to be the next American novel, and no one else has to read it. But putting your thoughts on paper can change your life.
    7. Visit the library. They still exist. And they are better than you remember.
    8. Ride your bike. Just make sure to wear a helmet.
    9. Take a walk. And not with iTunes blaring. Get to know your area.
    10. Volunteer. There are hundreds of opportunities daily to make a difference. Today’s the day.
    11. Exercise. You’ll feel better and get healthy. Skip the gym and find somewhere outdoors.
    12. Spend time with a friend. In person. The only reason for a phone is to take a selfie to remember the good times.
    13. Call your grandparents. They miss you.
    14. Update your resume, even when you’re not looking for a new job. You never know when an opportunity will present itself.
    15. Spend time in the garden. Your plants will thank you.
    16. Play tennis. Or basketball. Or soccer. Any sport.
    17. Take a nap. A hammock, back yard, or beach are the ideal spots.
    18. Learn a new language. Practice with native speakers.
    19. Learn how to code. No matter what your profession, learning new computer skills can help you stand out.
    20. Clean out your email box. It’s time to get organized.
    21. Learn to play guitar. Or go fishing. Find your next hobby.
    22. Make time for romance. Channel your inner high-school-self and have some fun with your spouse.
    23. Build something. If you’re handy, use old wood to create a table. If you’re not, find a project on Pinterest that anyone can do.
    24. Experiment in the kitchen. Use all those ingredients that got shoved to the back of the pantry and experiment. You may discover your inner Bobby Flay.
    25. Groom and bathe your pets. Fido and socks will thank you. Your family will too.
    26. Find a heavily traffic spot and people watch. Reality TV has nothing on an hour of people watching.
    27. Have a bonfire. Invite your friends or enjoy the time with your family.
    28. Sit on your porch or deck. Your favorite spirits were optional.
    29. Host a game night. Play cards and board games. Make it a potluck to save money.
    30. Go to a high school sporting event. You may have to pay for football and basketball, but many games don’t cost a dime.
    31. Get a second job. The only thing better than saving money is making money. Find a part-time job you enjoy together with people you enjoy.

    on the railway track ktm malaysia singapore

    My list is below. I have completed some of the items! =D Click on any of the items that I have completed reading my reflections on them.

    1. Find the most beautiful place within 100 miles and go there. Explore it. Or just find a bench and take in the view.
    2. Read a book. Start with a classic like Catch 22 or Great Gatsby.
    3. Visit a local museum. Art museums often have wonderful grounds to explore.
    4. Go to a park. Play on the playground or dip your toes in the stream.
    5. Clean your house. There’s never a wrong time to check it off the list.
    6. Write. Anything. It doesn’t have to be the next American novel, and no one else has to read it. But putting your thoughts on paper can change your life.
    7. Visit the library. They still exist. And they are better than you remember.
    8. Ride your bike. Just make sure to wear a helmet.
    9. Take a walk. And not with iTunes blaring. Get to know your area.
    10. Volunteer. There are hundreds of opportunities daily to make a difference. Today’s the day.
    11. Exercise. You’ll feel better and get healthy. Skip the gym and find somewhere outdoors.
    12. Spend time with a friend. In person. The only reason for a phone is to take a selfie to remember the good times.
    13. Call your grandparents. They miss you.
    14. Update your resume, even when you’re not looking for a new job. You never know when an opportunity will present itself.
    15. Spend time in the garden. Your plants will thank you.
    16. Play tennis. Or basketball. Or soccer. Any sport.
    17. Take a nap. A hammock, back yard, or beach are the ideal spots.
    18. Learn a new language. Practice with native speakers.
    19. Learn how to code. No matter what your profession, learning new computer skills can help you stand out.
    20. Clean out your email box. It’s time to get organized.
    21. Learn to play guitar. Or go fishing. Find your next hobby.
    22. Make time for romance. Channel your inner high-school-self and have some fun with your spouse.
    23. Build something. If you’re handy, use old wood to create a table. If you’re not, find a project on Pinterest that anyone can do.
    24. Experiment in the kitchen. Use all those ingredients that got shoved to the back of the pantry and experiment. You may discover your inner Bobby Flay.
    25. Groom and bathe your pets. Fido and socks will thank you. Your family will too.
    26. Find a heavily traffic spot and people watch. Reality TV has nothing on an hour of people watching.
    27. Have a bonfire. Invite your friends or enjoy the time with your family.
    28. Sit on your porch or deck. Your favorite spirits were optional.
    29. Host a game night. Play cards and board games. Make it a potluck to save money.
    30. Go to a high school sporting event. You may have to pay for football and basketball, but many games don’t cost a dime.
    31. Get a second job. The only thing better than saving money is making money. Find a part-time job you enjoy together with people you enjoy.

    Have fun doing them! Remember to Pingback.

    Enjoy!

  • Cee’s Which Way Challenge: 2015 Week #31 – Books Therapy

    Cee’s Which Way Challenge: 2015 Week #31 – Books Therapy

    In response to Cee’s Photography Which Way Challenge tag.

    I have an indoor walkway for you!

    Books are therapeutic.

    Looking at books soothes my soul.
    Touching the books calms my heart.
    Hearing the book pages flip rests my body.
    Reading books tranquilises my mind.
    Tasting the thoughts brings peace to my being.

    books bookshelves national library singapore

    Do you enjoy being amongst rows and rows of books?

    Click the banner below to participate and read more of Which Way Challenge Tag.

    041315ww_6You may also find Cee’s response for this week here.

    Enjoy!

  • MM 2-22: Monochrome Madness Bridges – The Helix, Singapore | cocoavenings

    MM 2-22: Monochrome Madness Bridges – The Helix, Singapore | cocoavenings

    I love bridges. I fondly remember holding my mother’s hand or her pocket as I slowly but surely climb those stone stairs of the overhead bridge. I remember how I was scared of crossing bridges for fear that they would fall because I saw cracks in between the stone slabs and big gaps in between two steps of the stairs. I had to cross an overhead bridge at least once every fortnight when I was little, as I had to visit my grandmother and aunt together with my mother.

    ***

    The Helix, a new and modern bridge in my country, Singapore, is shown below.

    the helix black and white at marina bay sands singapore

    A walk over The Helix is an absolute must-do if you visit Singapore. The bridge connects the ArtScience Museum area of Marina Bay Sands to the park area around The Float at Marina Bay (stadium on the water). The walk would lead on to Promenade MRT Station.

    Of course, the walk could start from Promenade MRT Station, across The Helix bridge, and to Marina Bay Sands.

    How does a bridge usually make you feel?

    More bridges on Leanne Cole Photography here.

    Enjoy!

    [Photo: Taken at The Helix, Singapore, 2011.]

  • Flower of the Day – August 2, 2015 – Cape Leadwort (Plumbago Auriculata) | cocoaevenings

    Flower of the Day – August 2, 2015 – Cape Leadwort (Plumbago Auriculata) | cocoaevenings

    The attractive white flower that seems to be Cape Leadwort based on my searches.

    cape leadwort plumbago auriculata white flower five petalsEnjoy!

  • SL-Week 2: Rouge or Red – 31 Shades of Red | Red Lipsticks Collection

    SL-Week 2: Rouge or Red – 31 Shades of Red | Red Lipsticks Collection

    In response to Sylvain LANDRY, SL-Week 2: Rouge or Red.

    Red Lipsticks Collection

    Red is a cornerstone of the beauty industry. In cosmetics, red is a base to many of the colours that people would wear – red, coral, pink, peach, orange, and brown. In makeup, red lipsticks are a must-have.

    Red lipsticks are so popular that every cosmetic brand will produce their version of the best red. Each red lipstick also comes with a name that signifies the meaning of red.

    Thirty-one Shades of Red

    In this post, I present to you thirty-one shades of red and their names. I hope the list of names would give you an idea of the meaning of red on the lips.

    Coincidentally, I own just enough to wear a different shade of red for every day of the month.

    red lipsticks collection

    The photo below shows my red lipsticks by M.A.C.

    m.a.c red lipsticks

    From left to right, they are i) Riri Woo Lipglass (Limited Edition), ii) Lady Bug Lustre, iii) Crosswires Cremesheen, iv) Prepare for Pleasure Cremesheen (Limited Edition), v) Lady at Play Mineralize Rich, vi) New Temptation Sheen Supreme, and vii) Eden Rouge Mattene (Limited Edition).

    my m.a.c red lipsticks swatched

    I wear iii) Crosswires all the time.

    The photo below shows my red lipsticks from high-end brands.

    high end luxury brands red lipsticks

    From left to right, i) Guerlain Provocative #863 Rouge G de Guerlain Lip Colour (Limited Edition), ii) Guerlain Madame Flirte #861 Rouge G de Guerlain Lip Colour (Limited Edition), iii) Guerlain Lou-Ling #760 Shine Automatique Lipstick (Limited Edition), iv) Chanel Monte-Carlo #62 Rouge Coco Shine Hydrating Sheer Lipshine, v) Dior Almee #851 Rouge Dior (Discontinued), vi) Marc Jacobs Beauty Showstopper #134 Lovemarc Lip Gel, vii) NARS Annabella Audacious Lipstick, viii) Anna Sui #460 Lip Rouge V (Discontinued), and ix) Illamasqua Tramp Lipstick (Discontinued).

    my high end lipsticks swatched

    I always wear ii) Guerlain Madam Flirte #861 Rouge G on special occasions. The tone of red fits my complexion the best and the Rouge G formula is remarkably comfortable, relatively long-lasting and very easy to maintain during the event.

    For formula, I love the NARS Audacious Lipsticks and Marc Jacobs Beauty Lovemarc.

    The picture below shows my collection of red lipsticks from the drugstore.

    my drugstore red lipsticks collection

    From left to right, i) Maybelline Red Revival #645 Colour Sensational, ii) Maybelline Red Porcelain #RP41 Colour Sensational (Limited Edition), iii) Essence Cosmetics All You Need Is Red #02 Longlasting Lipstick, iv) NYX Eros #536 Extra Creamy Round Lipstick, v) NYX Chaos #511 Extra Creamy Round Lipstick, vi) Covergirl Soulmate #320 Colourlicious Lipstick (Discontinued), and vii) Bourjois #15 Rouge Edition 12 Hour Lipstick.

    my drugstore red lipsticks swatched

    I am a big fan of the Maybelline Colour Sensational and NYX Extra Creamy Round Lipstick formulae. They run opaque in one slide and the colour is always true-to-tube.

    I often wear ii) Maybelline Red Porcelain and iv) NYX Eros.

    The picture below shows my miscellaneous red lipsticks or lip products.

    my miscellaneous red lip products

    From left to right, i) Laneige Royal Red #R16 Silk Intense Lipstick, ii) Etude House #RD301 Colour in Liquid Lips, iii) Stila Beso #10 Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick, iv) Etude House #2 Play 101 Pencil, v) Majolica Majorca Blood On Cheek and Lips Healthy Glow (Limited Edition).

    swatches of my miscellaneous red lip products

    The ii) Etude House Colour in Liquid Lips and v) Majolica Majorca Blood On impresses me very much. Etude House Colour in Liquid Lips could give the YSL and Stila liquid lipsticks a run for their money. Majolica Majorca Blood On gets repromoted every once in a while and comes in a white packaging now.

    The picture below shows three of my red lip products that I am currently using and missed out previously as they were in my bag.

    current favourite red lipsticks dior chanel nvey eco

    From left to right, i) Dior Diablotine Extreme #643 Addict Extreme, ii) Chanel Coco #416 Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour, and iii) Nvey Eco Temptress Organic Lip Lustre (Repackaged).

    swatches of my current favourite red lipsticks

    I go back to Dior Diablotine Extreme all the time because of the festive tone of red that compliments my complexion so well and the comfortable lip balm Addict Extreme formula that still serves up enough colour intensity.

    I find the Rouge Coco formula a close competitor to Dior Addict Extreme.

    Red Lips

    Red lipsticks often have names associated with sensual experiences such as “pleasure”, “play”, “temptation”, “eros”, “chaos”, “royal”, and “blood”.

    Red lipsticks are used for practical purposes as well though they often play a role in romantic dinner dates. In movies, red lips could signify power or evil. In the Singapore Airlines, bright cherry red lips could make a stewardess stand out in the dark. In editorials, red lips bring attention to the model’s face and may also look more luxurious.

    red lipstick collection inverse colour photography

    Are you interested to know more about any of the lipsticks mentioned? Feel free to ask me. =)

    Enjoy!

  • Beauty 301: Daiso or Tweezerman to tweeze eyebrows? | Save or Splurge Product Review

    Beauty 301: Daiso or Tweezerman to tweeze eyebrows? | Save or Splurge Product Review

    In reference to my previous post on the Top 11 Tips and Tricks for Tweezing Eyebrows.

    I need some tools for tweezing my brow hair, and the most important tool is the tweezer. I currently own two tweezers. One of them is from Daiso and the other is Tweezerman.

    I prefer to use the straight-cut, nondescript, silver tweezers sold in Daiso for two dollars rather than the slant-cut, fancy, pastel green Tweezerman sold in Sephora for about twenty dollars. The pair of Daiso tweezers costs a fraction of the price of Tweezerman!

    My reasons are as follows:

    1. The pair of Daiso tweezers is wider where it pinches the brow hair than Tweezerman, allowing the former to grab the brow hair more quickly.

    2. The straight-cut of the pair of Daiso tweezers allows me to pinch the hair on my left eyebrow more efficiently than when I use the slant-cut Tweezerman. My right wrist can twist to the left lesser when using a straight-cut pair of tweezers than when using a slant-cut one.

    slant cut tweezerman and straight cut daiso tweezers

    Practicality aside, the pair of tweezers from Daiso appeals less aesthetically than Tweezerman. The former is not coloured and is embossed with “stainless steel Japan” on one side whereas the latter is almost fully painted and stencilled with “Tweezerman” on both sides. The former also does not have a case and a “keeper” while the latter comes in a clear transparent tube and a bit of plastic to “keep” the pinching ends closed.

    The pair of Daiso tweezers is a much better option for me than the Tweezerman since the pair of Daiso tweezers performs the same task better at a fraction the price of Tweezerman.

    I now keep the Tweezerman as a backup.

    Do you use a Tweezerman to pluck your brow hair or do you use a regular pair of tweezers from a beauty supplies store?

    Enjoy.