Ely1

As for the the fur: Use Shed-X shampoo available at pet stores, and FURminator brush! Works amazingly well!! http://www.furminator.com/ It's ridiculously priced at S$129 at PLC, but you get it from Amazon at less than US$20. Indoor cat food helps too with the shedding and furballs, so you might want to invest in a premium dry food like Wellness, Innova, Orijen, Artemis. Pass on all that overpriced Royal Canin, Science Diet crap that basically is filled with by-products and corn which cats are allergic to. I buy all my pet stuff from doggyfriend.com.sg which is much cheaper than PLC, with a better rewards system and they deliver at the timing of your choice! Isabelle is quite easy to deal with. Hope this helps - Ely

DIY: From eBay: (US$12.99 w/free US shipping) and put into Ikea baskets: - Ely

LOL! Prozac, anyone? Definitely a scratch post - see if your cats are wall or floor scratchers. Cardboard scratchers work best for cats who scratch on the floor, and sisal posts for wall scratchers. One of the best ways to deter a cat from marking/scratching is to use a Off! Spray that's available at most pet shops. They work immediately, and you can also try sticking aluminium foil though not exactly the prettiest option. (Cats hate the sound and texture of foil) You don't need to make your place a crazy cat lady's home, here's some ideas on how to incorporate scratchers and yet not compromise on style. If you're willing to pay... The Calypso Cat Scratcher is gorgeous: Skiitch is a work of art: There are DIY alternatives, which I plan to incorporate into my home too, but Bondi is a floor scratcher so I'll just get another Bergan Turbo Scratcher for him (he loooovves this toy), as he will also happily use any form of rough mat (think coarse Welcome mats, or car floor mats - cut and mount onto left over laminates or photo frames for the same effect at a fraction of the cost!): Turbo Scratcher (I buy it off Amazon): -cont'd

I could not have said it better, RB. Sis Mae is that, and so much more. Very warm in person, so generous with her time and help, and a classy lass to boot! Hardly much younger than you - I'm 33 this year. Thank you for your very kind wishes I'd like to think The Husband and I are a team and hopefully our shortcomings and strengths only complement each other. It's the similarities that helps a couple get along, but the differences are what makes it interesting! An sightful comment about the compliments (though very humbly and gratefully received) - I am rather self-conscious (being a Virgo, I'm my biggest critique but a close American friend once remarked that it is my best and worst trait - as I will never succumb to conceit and yet so self-critical to the point of being stupidly insecure). But you phrased it beautifully, thank you Would definitely use more highlighter for the glowy effect~ - Ely

Oh Sis Mae, You hardly look Aunty - more like a tai-tai! Classy cougar imo (no need Ah Pek) Was actually referring to how strangers call me Aunty, when I used to be "Miss" (Xiao Jie) or "Lil Sis" (Xiao Mei). That really jolted me into the realisation of my mid-thirties! Sadness. - Ely

Hi Adidaem, Was really nice meeting you yesterday - we had a lot to chat about, and it was fun talking about all that online shopping You're so easy to get along with too Will ask The Husband to take a look at these pics and to give you his very technical advice *zones out*. And I agree with Sleek - sure cannot afford Miele?!?! You are the Duchess of All Things Branded! As for your wardrobe, I'd suggest you store the winter clothing on the shelves above the wardrobe if you have space constraints, unless you travel to cooler climates often of course. Or have them in the other bedrooms' wardrobes. A point to note about the light in the wardrobe - we have the same thing, but we had to install more T5s on the bottom rungs. Shelves are okay for a single T5, but once you hang clothes on the top rung, the bottoms will hardly be illuminated. And if you're like me, with lots of black/grey - it can be really tough trying to pick out which pair of black pants out of the 25 you want to wear. We now live with some obvious trunking (ugh) but that's our lack of foresight and besides, the clothes cover the trunking well enough. - Ely

LOL yes! Fast like The Flash! Going back to get more - I love them! I was also looking at the tiered metal baskets and shelves but everything is so expensive there. Think I also got the wrong broom holder? Thought it was the one from HWS which I got, but now it seems it's supposed to be some kind of pull-out system from Home Plus (or something)? Can't really remember. - Ely

Haha, HUGE not in the fat-sense. There's a reason why I so politely squirmed into the back seat you know Yeah, I was surprised how late it was when I got home, and still chuckling about how you were standing at Parkway waiting to meet someone else! We had a great time last night too - simultaneously holding several conversations at once. Can't wait to meet your lovely Virgo wife, and your kids. I miss the days when I was referred to as "little sis"~ And good on you for getting Whatsapp! Finally, the laggard has hopped on the bandwagon. - Aunty Ely

It wasn't the mummy part I was refering to. Just you, as a person And AIYOH, can you guys stop exaggerating the "captivation"!! RT-ers are going to have some false impression that I'm some head-turner or worse, Venus-incarnate or some kind of seductress! AHHH!!! It's just that I'm very fair lah! - Ely

Wow, sleek, we do have many things in common! I'm a night owl too (which explains the dark eye rings~) - I just love the night and find that it's my most productive, which is how I instinctively got into US/EU/AU guilds. Also, have two rescue cats with me which are un-adoptable so I kept them. Like you, I tried Rescue Remedy, Richard's Organics and Feliway but nothing worked. He's now almost 4 yrs old and he's mellowed some. Still a very unpredictable cat, but much easier to live with after we allowed him to roam. The female who's almost 5 yrs old still hisses at me, and doesn't allow anyone but my younger brother (who is away in Australia) to touch her. Both of them were rescued as kittens but exhibited the traits early enough for me to keep them instead. I would hate that they go to someone who wouldn't practice the same kind of patience and kindness like you, sleek, and would eventually put them down or abandon them. Like I was telling Seth, I'm extremely honest about the kittens I foster, and should any seem un-adoptable (temperament/health issues), I keep them. So, Seth, you're perfectly assured that I won't allow a crazy OCD cat to be rehomed I also adoption videos so potential adopters can see how they behave, play, without having to visit them in person. It gives a much better idea of what the kitten is like instead of a pretty picture and embellished write-up. - Ely

Sethho: Here's the infamous and hilarious Guide to Cats: Enjoy! - Ely

Am glad you like it Friends78! Hope it smells nice too Thanks for the encouragement, will definitely keep everyone updated once I get to finally move in! YAY! LOL! Captivating? The Husband is smirking~ Thank you for such a surprising compliment - Ely

Sorry we were unable to make it to your place, Friends78. We had the electrician at the house working on the tripped lights and in fact were so late to May Dream's, that we left the electrician there to finish up. He is 100% trustworthy so we didn't mind. It was still wonderful meeting you and your husband later on. You're very funny! Shared some great laughs with you I hope my tiny, tiny little token made up for our absence at your place - Ely

Yep, think mine is next in line I'll keep everyone posted. Was also great meeting RB last night for drinks - HUGE ang moh guy who had me in stitches telling me his experience with a Thai massage. Too funny. RB is great to get along with, superbly funny, and an incredibly sweet guy. - Ely

Cats are one of those pets that do not require a companion. In fact, many of them prefer being the only cat. I've had cats who simply could not assimilate into a multi-cat home despite all my efforts, and had to be rehomed to a single-cat household. I always tell potential adopters this when they mention how long they'd be away from home - cats are the easiest to maintain with no housebreaking needed at all. I've never had a single cat make a mistake, not even a 3 week old kitten. It only takes ONE "demo" for them to get it. Cats sleep 85% of the day, with 5% for playing, 5% eating and 5% grooming. They really don't need you at all, except during that 5% playing, and that too is by invitation only (interactive toys like laser pointers, wands etc). Most are happy just to sit at your feet while you watch TV, meow when it's dinner time, and greet you when you come home. No fuss. Ha! Cool avatar. I played on Blackrock, but my guild is mostly Americans, Europeans and Australians. Played with selected Singaporeans during DAoC - uber. I managed to play GW during their closed beta - very fun. Was an elementalist then. You might find this funny Anytime, sethho. S$380 for a dining light seems reasonable. Let me know how else I can help

Awwww, May Dream, you are toooooo kind. Honestly don't think I'm *such* a stunner. You know, it's funny how my mom tells me everyday how ugly I am ! My mom is one person I know who's closest to a saint but she can be brutually honest, to the point of being critical. I usually just make some intelligible noise or joke that my looks come from her and Dad. Btw, we all witnessed a teeny preview of that Deh Power, and it seriously takes some skill. I'm still waiting for that script from you, complete with accompanying gestures and facial gestures, like: {despondent face} Where am I going to live if you're not done in time? {gracefully stamps foot} This cannot be happening! {kawaii pondering} Hmm, let's see. {pretty pout} Suai Ke, I'm sure you can do it for me right? Afterall you're so capable - if anyone can do it, it would be you! (higher pitch plead} Please? Pleeaassse? {flutter eyelashes} Come on, I buy you cakes later k? {sweet coy smile} - Ely

Welcome to RT, Sethho and Ader! Looking forward to your updates Yes, May Dream's place is definitely fun! Love her bedroom to bits - it's so spacious and cozy! And I'll second May Dream's opinion of Sleek - she's such a nice person - real, and genuine. <3 I think May Dream has opened her home to tons of RT-ers here, and that says so much about her warm, giving nature. - Ely

Aww, such kind words from you, Sleek Don't worry about the pets, I'll have them crated and put in the room. Perhaps Maxey may even help your older one get over his phobia - Maxey is super sweet I'll let you know about the potato sack, will wear one Monday k? (it's btw, in fashion again - recycling and saving the planet and all that~): - Ely

Hi Setho, Thank you for dropping by and your kind comments. Bondi is indeed TWBC (The World's Best Cat) and his temperament is unparalled. There is a local breeder I can refer you to, if you're interested in a British Shorthair. She's female, with great lines, very typey and cost less than what you'd get for an "Australian import" from a local pet shop. Sorry, my personal belief system is against pet shops as they are primarily puppy/kitten mills. Don't take my harsh judgement too personally - I rescue animals all the time and they're wonderful and deserve a forever home, I just won't support pet farms. You'd be horrified to know the truth behind their breeding tactics (which often give rise to a multitude of health/temperament issues) and when you pay a premium for an "import", understand that the pet does not come with a pedigree. It simply means a backyard breeder in Australia exported their equally poorly-bred animals to Singapore. If you can, I'd always suggest adopting. I rescue cats periodically, so let me know if you're interested. I'm very honest in my assessment of all the kittens I foster and rehome, and would enforce a two-week trial to see if the kitty is suitable for you. If there's anything you don't like, return the cat to me - no questions asked, and it will be placed up for adoption again. I can honestly say, in my years of fostering, that I've never had a single complaint, much lest a return Here are previous kittens I fostered: Haha about the girl gamer bit! Gamers are often surprised when they meet me in real life. Both my brothers and I are a "triumvirate", with the younger brother being the most skilled player (DPS whore). Older brother is almost always magic-based, with focus on crowd control, while I'm the support hybird - buffs/de-buffing, secondary heals & dps (usually DOTs). This was my avatar on the boards: I've stopped gaming for quite a bit now, but still look out for new betas/releases. None of the new games can really compete with the skill-ability of Dark Age of Camelot. WoW was fun, but it's hugely a time-sink and basically biased towards the 24-hr farmers (best gear = win), their PvP system is also very disorganised as I like running with regular groups that know exactly what they're doing and how. It's a chemistry you build with fellow stellar gamers for the p0wnage moments I got the majority of my lights from lightings.com.sg - they're reasonably priced and very reliable. Floor and desk lamps were all bought online. Several other places RT-ers suggest are Chan Huat, Chelsea Lighting (in Jurong I believe), Palace of Lights (Balestier). Have a stroll along Jln Besar where a lot of lighting shops are and don't "settle" for something. Lights create such an ambience that I believe you should get whichever really catches your fancy. MY ID dislikes all my lights but I don't really care since I'm the one living with them I think May Dream mentioned that it's usually pricier if you shop with your ID so I'd suggest that you shop around yourself. Just buy things you love, and it'll all fall together nicely. Hope this helps - Ely

Sure patsy, I'll take some photos next time I'm at the place. House is quite a mess but next weekend *should* be okay if you want to drop by? I'll upload the pics by then and you can see if you need to come see them in person - Ely

Heya Sleek, Really enjoyed meeting you today too - you are such a down-to-earth, genuine person with no artificiality at all - which is quite a rarity in our society. Your boy is simply adorable! Do keep in touch, and remember, you and your kids are welcome to our place when it's ready anytime Lol! No more perving - I wear jeans and t-shirts all the time now with hair pulled back and no makeup. Not much to perv at - Ely

Thank you soooo much, May Dream, for having us over at your place today. Was really fun meeting everyone and making some firm friends Your place is lovely (my favourite being your bedroom), and it's amusing how everyone was so intrigued by your alkaline water and your water test! All of you are such a sweet bunch - super cute friends78 & partner, pixie Marshy, Duchess Adidaem, easy-going boyblunder, Ugene & lovely partner, knownothing (omg you're a guy!), heartwarmingly-genuine sleek (with your cute as a button kid), classy Mae (that photo in ST did not do you any justice at all), surprisingly-quiet csingeu & gorgeous wife. Again, thank you May Dream, for organising this wonderful meet of RT-ers. We had such a great time Would love to return the favor next month <3 Ely

eBay Tips (taken from previous reply to El LoCo - recyling is good k~) If there isn't an exact brand you're looking for, try using different search terms on eBay. People list their items differently so search terms like "kitchen tap" and "kitchen faucet" and "kitchen mixer" might all give different results. Narrow your search by listing Price lowest, or Ending Soonest; if clothing etc, narrow under size and condition:new etc. This would help going through thousands of results. Sometimes, I go on both eBay.com.sg and eBay.com to look for the same items as there might be local products or Asian ones, which gives better shipping rates. Also try changing postal location from United States to SGP and check rates that way. If the seller allows worldwide shipping, ask them, on the item's page, how much shipping would cost and how they charge for combined shipping. You may find it more worthwhile to buy several items from one seller instead with combined shipping. Always leave (truthful) feedback so that sellers will be inclined to leave feedback for you. This will give you certain standing among sellers (some sellers will not sell to those with 0 rating, or less than 10 transactions - it differs with everyone - so read carefully and email them first). The same goes for eBay sellers - if their rating is poor (anything less than 99% is a warning sign to me), read their feedback before deciding if you want to go ahead. I've found that avoiding those with poor feedback really helps. That said, if you find the product unsatisfactory, contact the seller first - they normally will accomodate all requests for exchange/refund because they cannot afford negative feedback. Negative feedback will hinder your account's limitations so pay on time. Many sellers also provide tracking, so you can simply track your item via "Won/Purchased" tab. Don't be afraid to make offers. In this case, you can probably start with GBP 0.85. You are allowed to make up to 3 offers/counter-offers, but if the 3 offers are declined by the seller, you will not be eligible to purchase it, so make sure your offer is reasonable! PayPal insures your transactions, so if there's a dispute that the seller won't take responsibility for even after opening a case on eBay, escalate the case to a claim - PayPal will investigate the matter and refund your purchase if it's in your favour. For Amazon, always read the reviews and scroll through what other people buy instead - sometimes you find something better. Amazon also records what you're searching and would give recommendations. Set up an account with them (it's all free) and you can have as many shipping addresses as you like - use your consignment address, home address and office address and you can simply select which address you want your items shipped to. Everything gets calculated at the end, after you select the credit card you want to use, so you can review the shipping and total cost before confirming the order. I, then, compare the item with Lowest Price + shipping on eBay, with that on Amazon.com, and Borderlinx's cost calculator and vPost's calculator with promos, and decide which to go for. Amazon lists product weight and dimensions so you can use that to calculator shipping charges from the various consignment merchants. I have the eBay app on my iPhone so I know when I'm outbid and can bid and pay wherever I have connection! If you like an item but the bid is too high and notice that the seller has several in inventory or relists them after each sale, stalk the item for weeks even and persist on bidding within your budget. You'd eventually get it at the price you want Sometimes the stalking helps, I use the watch list (up to 200 items can be watched) and keep track of what the going rate for the item is. It's also a lot about timing. If the listing on ebay.com ends at Singapore PM time, you'll have a better chance of not being counter-bidded. I also include personal notes to eBayers, telling them I use a consignment merchant and that while I understand they strive for customer excellence by ensuring the item gets to be flawless, it would be really help save some extra shipping money should they considerately use minimal but adequate packing, as well as the smallest box. They usually are more than happy to oblige. - Ely

vPost 1) Register here. Guide on how to start shopping with vPost. 2) vPost has a base charge of $13.40 (USA), S$16 (Japan), S$23 (Europe). Rates listed here. Use their cost calculator to check for shipping charges in order to make comparisons with other consignment merchants. However, they only consolidate your items for only 2 weeks before you pay a $10 holding fee (per item, per week). 3) In order to faciliate quick updating of your invoices to vPost, do make sure you bold and highlight the necessary fields for faster processing. I also label all my Invoices for quick reference. Forward your invoices to the correct vPost email according to country. For USA shipments: invusa@vpost.com.sg For UK shipments: inveurope@vpost.com.sg For Japan shipments: invjapan@vpost.com.sg Example of my forwarded PayPal invoices: 4) vPost's customer service can be reached via Online Form or through custsvcs@singpost.com (keke). 5) vPost's promo codes can be found here. Key in the promo code during payment before confirmation. Unlike Borderlinx, you're unable to choose and select which parcels you want delivered first (or to split them up to avoid the tax), what I have done is write an email, then a follow-up phone call, and got them to discard a parcel which I felt the shipping charge was not worth it. They discarded the item and updated my shipping invoice within one day. 6) List of prohibited items. - Ely

Borderlinx 1) Register here. To view a demo on how it's done, watch this. You'd require a Citibank card (NOT for purchases) but for the payment of the shipping. 2) Borderlinx uses DHL and is generally quicker than vPost. Shipping takes about 3 days after payment is made. Their hours are a little flexible too, but do direct your items to the office (if the company culture is okay with this) to ensure delivery everytime if you're not home. 3) Check the cost calculator by keying in the item's dimensions and weight. If you're unsure of the dimensions, run a search on Amazon. For example, if I want to buy the Merry Pet Washstand from eBay: and they only included the product's assembled dimension, Amazon will list the package's dimensions: . Key the values in for an estimate cost of shipping. 4) Choose Flexiship if you wish to consolidate your items (Borderlinx will hold your items for one month for free), and this way, you also get to choose to split them up into batches in order to avoid tax (total cost of S$400). 5) Should some items be listed with an asterisk (*), Borderlinx may also send an email informing you that the correct value of the item was not indictated. You CAN choose to ignore it if it's in your favour (under-valued), or if it's over-valued - For example, listing Star Wars Prequel Trilogy as US$60 instead of the paid amount of US$28, send an email to csrep@borderlinx.com - Example: You can cut/paste from the PayPal invoice or forward the invoice (they are not particular at all). Make sure you include the Merhant Ref No. that is indicated on your Borderlinx page with the coordinating item. If many items are over-valued by Borderlinx, it can quickly add up to S$400 so make sure you verify the actual value. Bold and highlight the important fields so they can process it faster. Updating of the value usually takes one business day. 6) Use the online chat assistance whenever you have queries. The wait time is usually a few seconds and have your Borderlinx number ready, as well as the Shipper's Ref No if you're enquiring about a particular item. Take down the Chat Reference No. in your email correspondence to them. 7) Borderlinx promo codes can be found updated on their Twitter page daily (shipping discounts or discounts on different brands/items). Other shipping discounts collated from all over the world are found here. 8) During delivery, always check the number of parcels they hand you. They're labelled "1/9, 4/9, 8/9 parcels" indicating there are a total of 9, so make sure you count all 9 before you let the delivery guy leave. I cannot tell you the number of times they missed a parcel, or accidentally gave me another person's. Usually a quick call to DHL will resolve this (unless your parcel has been misdelivered to someone else...) and DHL will have the parcel returned to you within the day. 9) List of prohibited items. - Ely