Great book for learning to use GIMP

I've been using GIMP for a couple of years now, but very blindly, and because of that to perform only very rudimentary tasks like cropping pictures. So when I discovered the book/manual, Grokking the GIMP recently, I was very excited. Particularly since I found the book very well-written, and very enjoyable to read.

And... the book can be read for free online. Don't you just love free stuff?

I've written a review (with info on where to find the book online) and published it on hubpages:
A Novice's Review: Grokking the GIMP by Carey Bunks

Free software for resizing images for Facebook albums, blogs, websites, etc.

Recently, I was given a whole set of very large picture files for use in a powerpoint project. And I knew I should really resize them to a more suitable size, which had me searching for a good free software which will automatically resize all the pictures at one go.

What I ultimately decided on was Irfanview. There is a plethora of free software to resize pictures on the net, but what convinced me was the CNET editors' review which stated that it was a "longtime favourite" among their staff.
I downloaded it, and it worked like a charm for resizing the of pictures to the size I needed. I also used it to convert another batch of pictures to grayscale. I had to adjust a few pictures for contrast/brightness, but generally the results were quite good.

I can see myself using this quite a lot to resize photos taken with my digital camera before uploading to my Facebook albums. It usually takes quite a while for the pictures to finish uploading since I don't usually resize them, but with it being so easy to resize them as a batch...

Note: You can find "Batch conversion/rename" under the File menu.

Free Entry to Asian Civilisations Museum: 30-31 May 2009

My friend alerted me to this one.

Free Entry to the
Asian Civilisations Museum
on 30-31 May, 2009
from 9 am - 7 pm

Great opportunity to check out The Kangxi Emperor exhibition, which is well worth a visit for its interesting insights into the sophisticated systems used by the Emperor to govern his country.

They will also have special activities from 12 pm t0 5 pm. More details here:

http://www.acm.org.sg/exhibitions/eventdetail.asp?eventID=490

Value Buy: Honey (or Honey Bee) Mango from Thailand

If you're in Singapore, now's the time to buy mangoes if you love them.

The fabulous Honey Mangoes or Honey Bee Mangoes from Thailand are going for really reasonable prices, under $0.90 per mango in 'buy 2' or 'buy 3' deals (my mum found a $1.35 for 2 deal in a supermarket recently, but that's probably exceptional).

The best thing about this variety is that the flesh is sweet and smooth (not fibrous). And they taste great even when they're still firm and mostly green. This mango turns yellower as it ripens.

Small wonder then that shoppers have been snapping these mangoes up!

Best Acar Recipe!

My mum raves about my auntie's acar recipe. And now her son-in-law has put it up!


http://unclephilipsg.blogspot.com/2009/04/my-mother-in-laws-nonya-acar-recipe.html

And while you're at Uncle Phil's blog, check out his other posts. He himself is a really good cook, so it's worth checking out his various recipes as well!

Spice Garden at Fort Canning Park

"Bunga Rampai" is given as souvenirs to guests at traditional Malay weddings in Singapore. To make "bunga rampai", "sireh" (betel) leaves are filled with finely shredded "pandan" (Pandanus amaryllifolius) leaves, fragrant flowers (for example, "cempaka" flowers), and sprinkled with rosewater. These souvenirs symbolise wishes of beauty and well-being to the newlyweds. (Picture taken during walking visit around the Spice Garden organised by Fort Canning Park.)


I wrote a few weeks ago about a walk around the Spice Garden at Fort Canning Park, where participants had the opportunity to find out about some of the plants, herbs and spices used in traditional Malay cuisine. I enjoyed the Spice Garden so much that I thought it deserved a more complete write-up:
The-Spice-Garden-at-Fort-Canning-Park

Spa Infinity at Far East Shopping Centre (Singapore)

My friend gave me a great treat recently -- a session at Spa Infinity (this spa is in a building next to Wheelock Place) - since she got hold of a very good trial package. Imagine, $15 + GST per person for use of spa facilities, a 30-minute massage session, and some light snacks at their cafe. Good value, and though they do try to sell you additional items when you get there (we were asked if we were interested in using special essential oils blends for our massage, for an extra amount of money, of course), they're polite and pleasant even if you say no.

The spa opened its doors about half a year ago, so no signs of wear and tear in the facilities yet:
- separate locker room facilities for men and women. I of course didn't go into the male locker room, but I assume it's the same as the one for women, with a glass-walled steam bath, a jacuzzi hot pool, showers, toilets, changing booths, lockers.
- a cafe where they serve light snacks and drinks.
- a lounge with comfortable sofa seating and television area to relax in; also serves as a place where you can wait in comfort till you're called for your treatment.
- treatment rooms.

Verdict: This place is worth checking out. Relaxing ambience, above-average massage service, and with the economic downturn, you may just be able to get yourself a value-for-money package. What I also like: they use a credit point system, so even if you initially signed up for a package of massage sessions, you have the flexibility of using your points for a variety of other services (facials, hair removal, pedicure, manicure, etc.).

What wasn't so hot: The hot pool was too hot the day we went, but we were assured that they would monitor the water temperature more carefully in the future. And note that the cafeteria menu is basic, and the food is also average.

Prices start from $75 for a 45-minute massage. If you're game to sign up for a package, the price per session could go down quite considerably.

Tips:
(1) When choosing a spa, look at spas at locations most convenient to you (no point stressing yourself out getting there each time you want to de-stress!); and ask or watch out for trial packages.
(2) If you find yourself satisfied with your trial, don't be afraid to negotiate a package suited to your needs:
- you may want to ask for a smaller trial package, so that you can try a few more times to see if the services are consistently good, and if the spa really suits you.
- ask for better prices, and more extras.
(3) If there's something you don't want to make use of, do speak up. They may adjust the price accordingly, For example, at Spa Infinity, it may suit you better to opt for a package without the free-flow cafeteria food option.

Istana Open House, May 1 2009

The Istana (official residence of the President of Singapore) grounds are worth a visit. Lovely trees, flowers, and well-kept lawns make the Istana grounds a very relaxing day out for groups of friends or for families. My friends and I went last year, and loved exploring the grounds.

There's another open house is just a couple of days away, on Friday 1 May 2009.

Opening hours: 8.30 am - 6.00 pm
Admission to grounds is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents. Others pay $1 per person.

For more on the Open House (and other dates this year), check out the official Istana website:

http://www.istana.gov.sg/IstanaGrounds/OpenHouse/index.htm

Avocado Beauty Tip

So you've cut up the avocado to make your favourite sandwich or salad, do you throw the skin away? Don't!

Try rubbing the inside of the skin over your face and/or hands. Don't be surprised to find your skin smoother and more glowing :)

25 and 26 April 2009: Traditional Secrets to Well-Being

Last week, my friend and I ventured to Fort Canning Park for a guided walk through its Spice Gardens, and it was fascinating! They have such a wide variety of herbs and plants at the Spice Garden, with informative labels which explains more about the uses of the plant.

This coming weekend, there's another related workshop that's well worth going to, I think. A workshop where they will demonstrate some of the concoctions traditionally used by Malays to attain better health.

Traditional Secrets to Well-Being

Date & Time:
Saturday 25 Apr 09 (12.45pm) OR
Sunday 26 Apr 09 (1.30pm)

Venue:
Blackbox Theatre & Spice Garden, Fort Canning Park

Fee: Adults $5; Senior citizens and Students $2

For registration and more information,
email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg
or call 63321200/ 63321302

*Participants are advised to be dressed comfortably and to note that there will be a fair amount of walking

More details at:
http://nparks.eventshub.sg/ems_wb_Details.aspx?CalID=5&EventID=30649

A couple of interesting FREE NParks Events on 18 April 2009

D.I.Y Vertical Garden
Date: Saturday 18 Apr 09
Time: 3 pm – 4pm
Venue: HortPark, Fruit Room

For more information and registration:
http://nparks.eventshub.sg/ems_wb_Details.aspx?CalID=5&EventID=28417


-----------------------------------------------

Jemput! Rediscovering Plants in Malay Cuisine & Culture.

Date: Saturday 18 Apr 09
Time: 4pm (lasts approximately 1.5 hours)
Venue: Fort Canning Park

For more information and registration:
http://nparks.eventshub.sg/ems_wb_Details.aspx?CalID=5&EventID=28557

New Singapore Stamp Issue: Cinema Theatres of Yesteryear, March 20, 2009

Coming up on March 20, a glimpse of Singapore's cinema history from SingPost, through a set of stamps featuring some of the old "grand dames" of Singapore theatres:

- Cathay
- The Majestic
- Capitol Building
- Queens
- Rex

I'm definitely going to buy a set (or two). These days, I always love receiving anything with more unusual stamps - it happens so rarely now, with franking being in such wide use. So I like to do the same with any letters I mail out - add some of the more special stamps issued by the post office.

Pictures and more info at the SingPost site: Cinema Theatres of Yesteryear Info

Cafe Cartel After-9-pm half price cakes

I don't think I've mentioned this before but a few friends and I meet at Plaza Singapura quite often. And what do we do after dinner? Adjourn to Cafe Cartel, where they have a 50% discount on cakes after 9 pm. That works out to around $3 (inclusive of taxes, etc.) per slice. A comfy place to chat, at a price less than what you'd pay at a bakery. A good deal, really.

FREE EVENT: Fuku No Ne Ensemble, 29 March 2009

Another free event organised by the The Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation. I've been to a couple of previous events organised by them, and they certainly brought in top-notch musicians. Judging by that, this one should be worth going -- if you enjoy traditional music.

Concert: "Fuku No Ne Ensemble - Japanese Music Tradition and Innovation"
Date: 29 March, 2009 (Sun)
Time: 7:00pm
Admission: Free (Registration is required)
Venue: Victoria Concert Hall

Listen to a music sample and register for event at:
http://www.sg.emb-japan.go.jp/events_FUKUNONE1_29-3-09.html

Eating Out: Wonton Mee Recommendation

Foong Kee Coffee Shop
6 Keong Saik Road

Foong Kee is one of those places that I would unequivocally recommend for wonton noodles.

When I visited the stall, what I particularly liked about their noodles was that it was not sweet. For those who don’t know, they tend to put in sweet sauce into dry-tossed noodles here in Singapore. (Hmmm… come to think of it, maybe that’s why I’ve avoided wanton mee cooked outside for many years. I still have northern Malaysian food sensibilities which dictates that dry-tossed noodles must be salty).

And, even though I’m not the greatest fan of roasted pork or char siew, the stall’s specialities, I enjoyed eating the meats they served there. The skin of the roasted pork was really crispy. And the char siew was quite juicy (my friend bought some for me to take back for my mum to try, and she gave it the seal of approval - so it MUST be good). I have to say though that the meat I enjoyed the most was the roast duck, but only because I LOVE roast duck in the first place.

The friend who brought me there said that one of the secrets to their great-tasting roasted meat is that they are always fresh from the oven. And tasting the meats, I can believe that.

Check out this food review blog, which has all the details, and pictures as well: http://ieatishootipost.sg/2007/03/foong-kee-wanton-mee-wanton-mee.html


This post is adapted from an earlier post of mine here.

Indian Borage (Plectranthus ambroinicus) - Amazing Cough Remedy

This plant was first brought to our attention by a friend, as being great for persistent cough. Almost instant relief if you're suffering from cough and throat irritation. Just pluck a few leaves and chew them. The best part is that it's so easy to grow from a cutting.

Check out this excellent article if you want to know more: Indian Borage - a must-have in a herb garden. I learnt quite a bit from the article, like what the Indian Borage is used for, (other than for coughs). More importantly, I found out why the leaves of my plant are starting to curl and yellow (seems it's getting too much sun!). The article also gives useful tips on how to propagate the plant.

I've also collated information I found from sites and books in this article: Indian Borage


Useful references:

• Wee Yeow Chin, A Guide to Herbs and Spices (available in Singapore libraries).
• Wendy Hutton and Alberto Cassio, Handy Pocket Guide to Asian Herbs & Spices (Handy Pocket Guides)

Daiso, $2 Shop that's a Fun Browse

First, a disclaimer. I don't work for Daiso. It's just that it's one of my favourite places to wander around here in Singapore.

Billed as "Japan's No 1 ranking livingware supplier", it's a fantastic place for picking up gifts and gift packaging, craft supplies, materials for d-i-y projects, gardening stuff, stationery, and all kinds of household items - crockery, cleaning materials, containers, etc.

All at $2 per item, which in most cases represent really good value, since the quality is acceptable to great. (The items certainly do not look cheap; they look like they should be worth much more than $2)

What I really like about Daiso also: they sell intriguing Japanese items. When I go there, I often pick up something, and wonder... what on earth is this for? (Can't help it, I'm a nerd at heart). The descriptions are often in Japanese, so it's another challenge trying to figure it out from the pictures. One time I was there, I learnt that, apparently, the Japanese make use of little picks for labelling their lunch. Cute.

Branches:
My favourite Daiso branch is the one at IMM Jurong - it' the largest one. But nearer to the centre of Singapore, you'll also find Daiso at VivoCity (good selection, but narrow aisles make shopping not as comfortable as the one at IMM) and Plaza Singapura (the smallest one).

FREE EVENT: Walking Heritage Trails at National Library, 21 February 2009, From 10 am

International Tourist Guide Day Celebrates with Free Walking Heritage Trails
February 21, 2009 (Sat)
10 am - 5 pm
at The Plaza in National Library Building


As part of this year’s, International Tourist Guide Day, the Society of Tourist Guides will conduct three heritage walk tours free:

1. Roman Catholicism in Singapore
2. Fame, Faith and Fortune in Waterloo Street
3. Hainan Kopi Tales

The trails will start at 10.30am and will last for about 45 minutes.
Each trail will be conducted at every 15 minutes interval.

Registration open on 21 February 2009 from 10.00 am to 3.30 pm at the level 1, Plaza, National Library.

FREE EVENT: Harmonica Orchestra at Esplanade Concert Hall, 15 Feb 2009, 3 pm

If you've never been to a Beautiful Sunday event at the Esplanade, I encourage you to give it a try. I love the venue (Esplanade Concert Hall) which is just the right size, with very comfortable seating. And I find it relaxing to spend a Sunday afternoon listening to and appreciate the talent of local musicians.

Beautiful Sunday at the Esplanade:
"Classical & Light"

Hainan Hwee Kuan Harmonica Orchestra, Singapore
Free Concert

15 FEB 2009, SUN
Esplanade Concert Hall

3pm (60mins, no intermission)

Hainan Hwee Kuan Harmonica Orchestra will deliver a jaunty repertoire of favourites such as In A Persian Market, The Comedians’ Gallop and Fiddler on the Roof.

More details here

FREE EVENT: Frances Yip at Chinatown Point, Friday 13 Feb 2009, 1 pm

I'm probably showing my age here when I say this sounds interesting. The flyer says "be mesmerised by her nostalgic hits and witty on-stage banter", so I believe she's going to do a mini-concert. Hope so anyway. I haven't seen her sing/perform since I was a kid, and I'm really curious:

A Date with Diva Frances Yip
13 Feb, 2009 (Fri)
Chinatown Point
1-2 pm

Study shows Jurong turning into suburban property hotspot

Just got to mention this article because I would never have imagined Jurong being a "hotspot" when I first moved here some twelve or thirteen years ago. Back then, we decided to stay here because it was one of the cheapest areas in terms of rental. Now, of course, the situation's way different.

Study shows Jurong turning into suburban property hotspot
ChannelNewsAsia
5 February 2009

SINGAPORE: A study by real estate agency ERA has shown that the resale prices of Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats in Jurong appreciated faster than other suburban towns in Singapore.

The study covered three— to five—room, and executive flats in Jurong West, Tampines and Woodlands.

For rest of article, go here: Source

Gardening: Gravel at bottom of pot DOES NOT improve drainage

I was reading Stuart Robertson's Tips on Container Gardening and realised that I'd been doing something very wrong. Layering different types of soil in the same pot. Uh oh!



Robertson writes in the book: "Never use a layer of gravel or small stones in the bottom of a small container, " that it's a common misconception that it improves drainage.

Robertson explains that if the soil has several layers, when water reaches a transition between layers, it slows down, and accumulates until it's heavy enough to break through that layer. The surprising part? Even if the water is flowing from a more dense layer to a less dense one, it still slows down! So, if you put a layer of stones at the bottom of your pot, you may find a lot of water accumulating right where the roots are growing.

And if you're wondering what the rest of the book is like, I thought it's extremely useful for newbie gardeners (like me). Rather than emphasising pretty pictures, he provides lots of useful tips and helpful diagrams.

And, incidentally, if you live in a flat, I've found that books on "Container Gardening" can be really helpful in giving you ideas and tips on growing and keeping your plants healthy.

Dining at the new Jurong Point 2: What’s good what’s not

Dian Xiao Er
This restaurant strikes the right note immediately with the colourful mural at the entrance, leading into a rustic-looking space. But the best part must be the food. We tried their signature dish, Herbal Duck, choosing the one with Angelica herbs, the Mongolian Spare Ribs, and Yu Mak in Fermented Sauce, and really enjoyed everything they laid out for us.

OldTown White Coffee
On the other end of the scale, mum tried the curry mee there, and could not eat it. Tasted like curry powder added to water! The icky part? the fish cakes were stale. And the staff just kept quiet when she made these observations while paying. Teething problems? Maybe. My mum had tried the food at another branch in KL, and rather enjoyed it. (Additional comment: I met another KL-ite recently and she said the same thing, that OldTown White Coffee in KL is much better).

Jia Xiang Mee
Noodles from Sarawak, or so they say. Service was fast, and their signature dish, jia xiang mee, was tasty. Ingredients were also fresh, another plus. But $6+ for what is essentially a bowl of wanton mee? hmmm…

Lai Lai Casual Dining
A neighbour of ours warned us not to eat the mee sua at this one. And she said that if we were to go, just try the beef dishes. She was not impressed.

Zhou’s Kitchen
We took a look at their lunch buffet spread, and honestly, it all looked very tempting. Good value if you’ve got a good appetite and you enjoy Chinese food.