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Mind-Blowing Facts About Valentine’s Day

It may only come once a year, but Valentine’s Day is one of the most celebrated holidays around the world! How did it become so popular? From its dark origins to its romantic twists, here are seven interesting facts about Valentine’s Day.

#1: FROM YOUR VALENTINE

Amidst the wide array of historical theories as to why Valentine’s Day came about, many people have accepted one theory. There was a time when men were not allowed to marry. Emperor Claudius II forbade couples to marry during wartime. However, Bishop Valentine’s passionate heart was against his wishes. He performed numerous secret weddings. As you may have guessed, he was jailed and executed.

The last letter he wrote was for the jailer’s daughter and he signed it with the words: “from your Valentine”. The rest is history!

#2: BOX OF CHOCOLATES

One of my favorite movie characters was quoted saying: “life is like a box of chocolates, you will never know what you are going to get.” In the uncertainty of life, you can count of chocolates being greatly sold during Valentine’s Day. When did this tradition started?

The giving of boxes of chocolates started in the 19th century by Richard Cadbury. The name sounds familiar, right? Coming from a British family who manufactured chocolates, Richard used a new technique to create a variety of products. He sold chocolates as a part of this beloved holiday.

In Singapore, different types of chocoholics can delight on this list of the best chocolates in town!

#3: MAKING BIG BUCKS

Valentine’s Day is considered as a marketing event in almost all parts of the world. In America alone, people spend an estimate of US$18.2 billion a year on this holiday.

What’s more? Men seem to spend more money than women. Should we step up our game, ladies? Kidding aside, you may use this opportunity to offer deals that cater to couples.

#4: ICONIC SWEETHEART CANDIES

Sweetheart candies or heart-shaped candies with adorable texts have been a staple in the aisles of many grocery stores every February 14th. The iconic chalky dessert started out as lozenges.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Pharmacist and inventor Oliver Chase created a machine that would quickly create lozenges. He later switched his product to candies known as the Necco Wafers. In 1866, his brother came up with the idea of printing messages on the candies. Afterwards, he made it heart-shaped to appeal to the couples during Valentine’s Day. Once again, the rest is history!

#5: CUPID’S BOW AND ARROW

For centuries, the diaper-clad baby with adorable wings and a set of bow and arrow has been associated with Valentine’s Day. Before Cupid got its name, he was known as Eros. Eros is derived from the ancient Greeks’ mythology – the God of Love.

His arrows are interesting! Said arrows have meanings – one was made for love and one was made for hate. These were designed to manipulate the emotions of his targets. The Romans soon adopted the story and Eros or Cupid gained the childlike appearance he is known for today.

#6: RISE OF CONTRACEPTIVES

Love can be expressed in many ways. It comes as no surprise that many choose to express it through intimacy. In February, condom sales seem to rise up. Around Valentine’s Day, sales are almost 20% to 30% higher in America alone. What comes next is the apparent rise of self-administered pregnancy tests. These tests are sold more in March than any other month.

#7: ANTI-VALENTINE’S DAY EVENTS

Who says that February 14th should only be celebrated by couples? Singletons do not have to stay at home to have during this time. You can surf the net to hang out at the best places in Singapore. Make sure you bring your favorite guy or gal pals along as you attend the following Anti-Valentine’s Day events.

A. VALENTINE VENDETTA 2019

Do not feel sad about being alone on Valentine’s Day as you can surround yourself with a group of energetic people at Valentine Vendetta. Running for 8 years now, Valentine Vendetta aims to provide an array of exciting activities and fun games to encourage social interaction. What’s more? Lucky guests can win up to S$2,500 or a trip to The Farm at San Benito in Manila. Tickets are sold at S$25 and are inclusive of a drink.

WHEN: FEBRUARY 14th at 6:30 PM onward

B. ANTI-VALENTINE’S VALENTINE’S DAY @ HUSTLE CO

Skip the sight of mushy couples exchanging gifts by heading to Hustle Co. A bar nestled at Tanjong Pagar can give you the haven you need in a time like this. Single ladies and men can enjoy S$6.90 craft beers and affordable dinner items. Anti-Valentine’s Valentine’s Day sounds like great event for all the singles out there!

WHEN: FEBRUARY 14th at 9:00 AM onward

Image Credits: pixabay.com

As you can see, Valentine’s Day was not always celebrated with a box of chocolates and heart-shaped candies! Things go deeper than that.

Sources: 1 & 2

KonMari’s Guide To Sparking Joy In Your Desk

From a best-selling author to a Netflix superstar, cleaning queen Marie Kondo has an efficient way of de-cluttering your own house and your workplace desk.

Her KonMari method is so powerful that most of her clients never turn back! When practiced regularly, the results become everlasting.

STEP 1: TOSS OR KEEP

With an honest outlook, select an item from your desk. Hold this item and ask yourself this question: “Does it spark joy in your life?” If your answer is affirmative, keep the item. Items that hold a special place in your heart, items that brighten your day through the toughest days, and items that make you smile are worth keeping.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

If your answer is “no” then, please get rid of the item. State your gratitude towards the item before tossing it away. Remember, it served its purpose to help you in your career. Do the same process for every item on your desk.

STEP 2: PHYSICAL CLEANSING

Marie Kondo believes that you must set a clean slate for all the items that spark joy in your life. After all, your desk is dirtier than you may think!

According to Microbiologist Charles Gerba, the average desk has more bacteria than an average toilet. It is important to disinfect your desk or working space with paper towels, wet wipes, rubbing alcohol, or disinfectant spray.

STEP 3: DIGITAL CLEANSING

Aside from the physical arrangement of your items, Marie Kondo has a way of cleansing your work inbox. She recommends limiting the creation of folders.

Afterwards, go through your email or Facebook inbox swiftly and completely in a single sitting. Rather than checking your inbox throughout the day, she prefers to get things done as quickly as possible.

STEP 4: HERE OR THERE

The last step is to assign a designated place for all the items that spark joy. She loves putting items in boxes or baskets! For instance, you may store your clips, tapes, and other stationary materials in a small box. Put this box inside your drawer. The idea is to put things out of your sight.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The most important thing to remember is to keep your desk permanently organized! In time, repeated behavior will become a habit. Thus, cleaning your desk will be second nature for you.

Sources:1 &2

The Varying Types Of Work Leaves In Singapore

I recently came across with an article featuring a story of a Malaysian employee. He applied for a leave as his mother will be undergoing surgery. To his shock and dismay, his leave was rejected as it was deemed “not too serious”.

Early this year, my mother underwent a surgery and I never tried applying for a leave. The thought of having my sister as her companion was enough for me. If my sister was not present, I would immediately apply for a work leave. However, will it be granted?

Let us take a look at some of the work leaves available in Singapore!

Government-Paid Paternity Leave (GPPL)

Gone are the days when fathers are looked down upon! The GPPL grants working and self-employed fathers the right to enjoy the paternity leave benefits. This is to support the shared paternal responsibility when raising a child.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

By default, your paternity leave must be taken in one continuous period within 16 weeks from your child’s date of birth. It can only be taken flexibly, if the mutual agreement between you and the employer states so. The paternity leave, capped at S$2,500 per week, is fully paid by the Singapore government.

Government-Paid Maternity Leave (GPML)

It is understandable that there are differences between the paternity and maternity leave. When it comes to the later, you can start your leave 4 weeks before the delivery date. By default, your maternity leave must be taken within 12 months from your child’s date of birth.

The Singapore government will pay for the 9th to 16th week of your maternity leave for your 1st and 2nd child. The payment is capped at S$10,000 per 4 weeks or a total of S$20,000 per child order.

Emergency Half-day Leave

Say that your too sick to function, but you still went to work. Even if you leave in the middle of your shift, any leave you take will be considered as a full-day leave.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

However, your employer may consider it as an emergency half-day leave following your contract. Check with the Human Resources department or your employer whether the company grants half-day leaves or not.

Annual Leave

In accordance to the Employment Act, you are entitled to paid annual leave for up to 14 days. If you have worked for an employer for at least three months and less than a year, you will be eligible for a prorated annual leave. The year of service will dictate the days of your leave. For instance, you will get to enjoy 7 days of annual leave in your first year of service. If you have served the company for 8 years and beyond, you will be entitled to 14 days of annual leave.

Marriage or Grievance Leave

There is no statutory entitlement for marriage or grievance leave. These types of leave depend on the contract or mutual agreement between you and your employer. Otherwise, you may treat it as an unpaid leave.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Approach your employer for the leave application procedures!

Sources: 1 &2

Surefire Ways To Survive A New Job

New year, new job! Congratulations on acquiring a new position. You have your budding career ahead of you!

Are you feeling excited or nervous? It may be exciting to begin a new phase of your career, but it can also be nerve-wracking to start from scratch! Review the following tips to ensure your smooth transition.

DO A PHYSICAL TOUR OF THE WORKPLACE

From drafting your resignation to completing your unfinished projects, you need to carefully plan out your departure. The same amount of careful consideration must be poured out to your arrival.

Upon arriving to your new workplace, notice the key locations and the overall environment. Where are the pantries, toilets, conference rooms, and so on. Find a place of solitude where you can retreat every once in a while. Remember to schedule small breaks in between your tasks to walk around the office. More importantly, ask for some lunch recommendations.

DO NOT IGNORE THEIR CULTURE

Aside from being qualified for the position, the hiring manager chose you because he or she deems you to be a great fit for the company. I remember when my supervisor told me that she strategically put my desk beside a co-worker due to my background in Psychology. She believes that I can help resolve some of my co-worker’s inner conflicts. I learned about her strategy after a year of interacting with my co-worker. It worked out for the best.

Catch onto the workplace culture and bring something to the table. If your department goes out to lunch every Friday, join them. Is your office looking for volunteers to help organize an upcoming event? Do sign up! Send the message that you are a good team player by respecting the unspoken rules and engaging in their social activities.

DO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS STRATEGICALLY

It is understandable that you will have a lot to catch up on as a new employee. So, use your time wisely. Rather than sitting silently on a corner after a meeting, ask your peers about the tricks of the trade.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Keeping quiet will not establish a good impression! However, listening actively and asking smart questions will.

DO NOT FORGET TO ASK SOME QUESTIONS

In spite of having years of experience and significant educational background, you can never know the answer to everything. Many marketing and advertising executives agree that new employees make a mistake of not asking questions. No one expects you to know it all in one or two days! Do not be afraid to ask your supervisor or co-workers on the processes as well as their expectations of you.

Requesting clarification entails that you are eager to get things right! While you do not want to bother others with endless requests for assistance, most people will be happy to help.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The bottom-line is: “do not stress yourself too much”. No one expects you to get it right in the first few weeks! Ask questions, if necessary.

Sources: 1 & 2

Top 5 Places to Get the Best Pineapple Tarts and Cookies in Singapore

Top 5 Places to Get the Best Pineapple Tarts and Cookies in Singapore:

Pineapple tarts are a standout amongst the most famous Chinese New Year delectable delights for pretty much every family staying in Singapore considers must-have festive delicacies amid this happy season. Be it as balls, rolls or open-faced tarts, everybody likes to appreciate this rich, creamy and sweet treats.

With the joyful festive merry season around the corner, we all might gear up tight for a significant shopping and sourcing delightful treats for Chinese New Year. Moreover, when it comes to sweet treats it’s for sure you can’t miss Pineapple tarts and Cookies!

Here’s a rundown with the Top 05 Places to Get the Best Pineapple Tarts and Cookies in Singapore, with taste as the main consideration. Indeed, some may cost somewhat more than others. Regardless of whether it is tied in with getting pineapple tarts for your family, for your visitors over for the merry season, or just for your own eating delight, you can discover pineapple tarts which take into account your preferences.

CNY Goodies & Yummy Pineapple Tarts in Singapore

When you are in search for best pineapple tarts in Singapore, the best recipe by Bing Liang’s high-quality handmade pineapple tarts and cookies will bowl you over with their ultimate heart-melting buttery texture and flakiness layer all over them. Their pineapple jam filling is purely handmade unlike most of the bakers who use to make pineapple tarts with readymade jam. Bing Liang Bakery in Singapore offering the mouth-watering delights and providing ultimate baked cookies to an immense number of Singaporeans, who are a huge fan of Bing Liang’s one of a kind recipes.

So, with huge varieties of pineapple tarts and cookies by Bing Liang, how can you resist to relish these mind-blowing creations? If you still didn’t buy your pineapple tarts this Chinese New Year, Look no further head over to cnygoodies.sg by Bing Liang and enjoy the delicious tarts this New Year season.

Glory

The traditional love for bona fide Peranakan authentic food is the thing that propelled the Chin family to share their most loved recipes at Glory since the year 1979. Glory offers five sorts of pineapple tarts – traditional delight, large tarts, golden glow, apple shape and pineapple shape. A 650g of apple shape pineapple tarts has a cost of around $20. Other than pineapple tarts, Glory offer clients merry treats and snacks, for example, green pea cookies, almond treats, bean stew custard crackers and agar in states of goldfish and rabbit. So, check out today the perfect blend of sour and sweet flavors by Glory, Singapore.

Amethyst Pastry & Cakes

Throughout the years, Amethyst Pastry and Cakes has made two signature festive delights, their popular cheese pineapple tarts available for you every Lunar New Year and their Hainanese mooncakes which you can get by the mid of each Mid-Autumn Festival, that has charmed Singaporeans. Since the year 2000, they have consistently enhanced their pineapple tart unique recipes and presented new things over their regular top picks. Their conventional pineapple balls go at $24 for around 36 balls while their pineapple cheese balls go at $26. Amethyst offers other Lunar New Year cakes, such as Love Letters, Prawn Roll, Sugee Cookies and so on.

Joyus Pastries

Since many years, Joyus has maintained their belief that, each tart and each cookie is crafted using conventional recipes that passed down from age to age. Its modest beginnings began as an unattractive setup and Joyus is pleased to have developed to become one of our top picks when it comes to finding the top CNY pineapple tarts in Singapore. They confidently believe that regular, high-quality freshness is all important, they select just the best ingredients and meticulously carefully created pineapple fillings. They take each step just to satisfy their clientele desires with their utmost delicious tarts & cookies along with dedicated customer service. So, they can be your favorite place this new year to buy pineapple tart and cookies.

Le Café Confectionery & Pastry

Le Café is one of Singapore’s most established and best cake shops since its foundation in 1949. Thus, it’s nothing unexpected that they are all around perceived for their quality and novel taste of their items. Their determinations are 100% created by handmade and contain no pork or grease. Le Café is additionally the first to present round pineapple tarts otherwise known as Gold Ball tarts! The soggy pineapple filling is encased in their rich, buttery cake. So, A bite to that yummy tart gives 100% delight. So, try the all-new form of Pineapple tarts this CNY and fill your festive season with sweet delights.

Hope you have enjoyed reading about Top 05 Places to Get the Best Pineapple Tarts and Cookies in Singapore! If you know some other places to get the best pineapple tarts in Singapore, then, let us know in the comment box below!

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