~ Mag's Kitchen Garden ~

One more sleep ...

2011-04-18T11:48:00.000+10:00

Wow! I cannot believe that it's just one more sleep before I get to meet and hold my babies in my arms! It's been such a long time coming and I am so grateful that it's finally happening! The last 5 days have seen me rather tired and ravenous - yes, ravenous! I have been gorging on corn chips topped with cheese and salsa or anything "naughty". The babies are sure expanding a lot of energy, surely they must know something is up!

I received a call from the Obstetrician's room today informing me that we are to head to the hospital earlier tomorrow for the elective caesearean. Instead of 1:45pm, it will be 1:00pm. That means, I will be wheeled into the operating theatre fully-awaked at 3:00pm instead of 3:45pm and the babies will be born sometime after 3:15pm instead of 4:00pm! Wow! I am going to be a REAL mummy and will be my babies for the FIRST TIME!

I am so excited, grateful and relief that it's all coming together and happening in such an orderly manner.

Jared and I are so blessed to have such a wonderful marriage and great friendship with each other. We both know how deeply blessed we are with our miracle twins and will cherish them for the rest of our lives.

It's finally happening!

2011-04-13T08:35:00.000+10:00

The last two months of my pregnancy has been physically and psychologically challenging to state the least. As I admire my burgeoning body and marvel at its ability to nurture and grow two healthy beings, it comes as no surprise that my energy levels have also plummeted to support the the miracles as well as my poor battered body!

The sharp prolonged ache on the pelvis, on my private parts as well as my water goblet of a belly which measured 46 inches last weekend makes resting very challenging. Every change in position to prevent 'dead leg' or one of the many awful symptoms of being sedatory, takes CONSIDERED effort!

Yes, friends who are parents assure me that all this is NOTHING as compared to parenthood. Oh dear...

At the appointment with the Obstetrician more than a week ago, he had given us three dates for the caesarean to take place - Friday 15th April, Good Friday or Friday 29th April (The Royal Wedding). I expressed my concern for the first date because the babies will only be 36 weeks young. Obstetrician assured us that they are of good weight (in fact, I am carrying two full-size singletons!) and can be "taken out" if I want to. Geee...the offer is tempting however, I told him that I would prefer if we took the 'wait and see attitude' since we check in with him every week.

Who would have thought the week after the appointment was certainly the WORSE week of my pregnancy so far?! My ever present constipation returned with a vengence, my body temperature spiked (another pregnancy symptom), physically I was worse than ever...oh dear....

This week, we went back to the Obstetrician for our weekly Monday check-in and I told him that I CANNOT make it to the Royal Wedding! Then I went on to describe my psychotic and physical state. He then suggested next Tuesday, 19th April as D-Day. I smiled with relief. He then told me to hold my horses because he has to check availability at the hospital since it is the week of the Easter and Anzac Day long weekend...oh dear...

God answered my prayers - the hospital and the medical team are available! YEAH! I felt a sudden surge of hope and energy knowing that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I am still the same person - the person who likes to know what is happening and when it is happening. I need a plan!

Yesterday was a momentous day for me as I looked at the clock when it struck 1:45pm (next week on the 19th April - that's my check in time at the hospital), 3:45pm (that's when I will be in the operating theatre fully awake with Jared by my side and 12 other medical staff), 4:00pm (that's when our babies will be born and we will get to hold them in our arms).

Today is another momentous day for me because this time next week, not only will be I be 'new' mummy, it will also be my 33rd Birthday! Yes, isn't that simply perfect! The best Birthday, ever!

34 weeks, 7 days: Counting Down

2011-04-06T09:22:00.000+10:00

I underwent my last ultrasound scan at 34 weeks last Friday and all is well with the children. They are growing on track and combined weight is 9lbs 13oz! Yes, its quite amazing that I am carrying that amount of weight! We are please that they are of good sizes too! Our daughter weighs 5lbs 1oz (2.3kg) and our son weighs 4lbs 12oz (2.1kg).

On the following Monday, we saw the Obstetrician for our weekly check up and he assured us that all is well and then he dropped the bombshell:

Obstetrician

"You can have your babies next Friday (15th April at 36 weeks) if you like!"

(Speechless for a few seconds)

"Isn't that a bit too early?!"

Obstetrician

"Not at all.
They are a good size and that's the average timeframe Twins are being born. Since you have opted for elective Caesarean, you can choose.
It can be next Friday, Good Friday (only for emergency cases), or 29th April (that's your absolute last date)."

Ok. I plan to keep them in me for as long as possible so we play it by ear based on our weekly appointments?

Obstetrician

Yes. Let's do that. In the meanwhile, take this Indemnity Form home.
Read it thoroughly, sign it and bring it back next Monday when I see you.

Ok.

32 Weeks, 4 Days: A Never-Ending Rock Concert from Within

2011-03-21T16:54:00.000+10:00

Time seems to go by so slowly since there isn't much to do at home and perhaps I should just confess and state that I am in no mood to do anything more than the essential requirements. Day time television programming is drain on my intellect, the hordes of books on my bookcases have been re-read umpteen times are now very predictable, pre-recordered shows I have watched so many times I now know the dialogue, etc...

Sorry for the whinge. One thing for certain, I am very bless. Bless to not have to fulfill work obligations and a husband who does not berate me for doing little - in fact, he's been more than understanding and wonderful.

We saw the Obstetrician today for our routine fortnightly appointment and once again, it was rather uneventful. The usual complaint from me about being breatheless - the Dr smiled and told me that there's nothing he can do to fix that! Gee...thanks! hahahaha

Babies' heart rates check out fine and yes, I am doing well.

The never-ending Rock Concert from within my belly led by two lead 'drummers' more appropriately known as my children have been keeping me amused, uncomfortable, body temperature hot, inability to slumber at night and constantly breatheless.

Yes, it is annoyingly tough and amusing assuring all at the same time. One thing for certain, yes, I seem to enjoy using this term, I am grateful for them. Grateful that they are active & well.

I shall continue to count down and every night I am unable to slumber draws them a day closer to being born...I shall remind myself that.

30 weeks, 1 day: Sleepless in Brisbane

2011-03-04T16:45:00.001+10:00

Yippeee! I am very close to the finishing line, so to speak and haven't had a good night's sleep for the last 2 weeks. Must be mother nature's way of preparing me for motherhood.

It's been wonderous feeling the active movements of both children coupled with Braxton's Hicks - however, the hot and humid Autumn weather in Brisbane has been awful for all of us especially those of us who are pregnant. I am often breathless due to this and it is not a nice feeling.

I started putting together my toiletrie bag today which will go into the hospital bag - hopefully, I will get it all packed and ready by this weekend, just in case. I do not like not being prepared.

What I will have in my hospital bag

Toiletrie Bag containing travel sized items such as shampoo, conditioner, facial wash, toner, moisturiser, toothpaste, toothbrush and comb
Comfy button front pyjamas (easier for breast feeding)
Heaps of comfy underwear
Heaps of maternity pads
Heaps of breast pads
Bedroom sleepers
Comfy shoes for coming home
Outfit for coming home
Pens that work because there will be heaps of forms to fill in
A note pad so that I can record whatever that needs to be recordered
Two jumpsuits for the babies when they come home with us
Two pairs of hand mittens when they come home with us
2 blankets when they come home with us
2 swaddle blankets when they come home with us

Next Monday is my routine fortnightly appointment with the Obstetrician and prayfully, it will be yet another uneventful appointment where he tells us that all is well and that the physical discomforts I have been enduring are all part of the package we call 'Pregnancy'.

29 weeks of Gestation and 7 more weeks before birth!

2011-02-24T09:14:00.000+10:00

Yippeee!!! 29 weeks as of today and both babies are growing well and active! In fact, the boy is more active than the girl - perhaps, he's got my hyper gene afterall!

The 3D scans were very interesting because we can kinda make out their features - one thing for certain, they are both very cute, sport chubby cheeks and have long feet! The girl has gorgeous delicate features such as a define nose (like her dad) and the boy has a flat squishy chinese nose like mine!

Regardless, they are both healthy, active and well - all parents desire that.

When I asked the Obstetrician this weeks at our fortnightly appointment when he anticipates their arrival, he looks at me - looks at the chart and unceremoniously declares, "At 36 weeks!" I sat dumbfounded because I have always been of the view that 38 weeks is full-term for twins. Oh well, he knows what he's doing and so far, he has been SPOT ON with my progress.

Am I nervous about labour? Yes and No.

Yes because of the pain and the unknown however I am assured that the medical team will know what they re doing and I am afterall, giving birth at one of Brisbane's leading hospitals which prides itself on having all the mod cons and also I have been there on two separate occassions for other surgeries and both times, I have been so well looked after.

No because it is part of pregnancy and I have been looking forward to motherhood.

I believe all parents will attest that labour is the easy part, it is the nurturing and upbringing of the child or in this case, children that will be the hardest on so many levels and I am looking forward to it.

Please GOD, let me have easy children who will obey my every word!!!!

28 weeks and 2.2kgs worth of babies

2011-02-17T11:44:00.000+10:00

Valentine's Day this year was particularly special for us because we had an in-depth scan at 27 weeks 4 days.

Once again, it was marvellous to see our children on the screen - grateful for their growth and appreciate their active movements. This time, we had a much better look at their feet with toes (yes all 10 on each child) and their faces! Oh wow! They are so cute, chubby and absolutely perfect! Yes, I am biase and not ashame of it.

The icing on the cake was when the sonographer told us that our babies are the same size as singletons at this gestational age! Wow, just when I thought our babies are slightly smaller due to the compact size of my belly...each baby weighs 1.1kg~ there you have it, people, I am carrying 2.2kgs worth of babies in me...no wonder the fainting and breathelessness!

I love touching my belly, feeling their movements and having conversations with them. They are the absolutely sunshine of my life and I will do whatever I can to hold them in me for the next 10 weeks.

Thank you God for gifting us these miracles and also for creating science so that our dream for a family is possible. Amen.

27 weeks, 1 day and very sleepy

2011-02-11T11:52:00.000+10:00

Blind me! I cannot believe how tired I am. Actually, I can. I so desperately need a nap right now and wish I have a mattress underneath the table that I can crawl and lie on it.

My babies are zapping me of every remaining ounce of energy - they must need a lot to grow at the rate they are. My stomach feels like its permanently full and bloated due to its hardness. I am wadding like a slow moving duck and everything takes a little longer to accomplish with my burgeoning physical being especially in the digestion department. Yes, I am still terribly constipated and have been since the 4th week of pregnancy.

Despite that, I love touching my bump especially when the babies are active as they remind me of the immense honor and privilege of being their mummy. A role I've been wishing, hoping and praying earnestly for the past 4 years.

27 Weeks and Panting...

2011-02-10T11:33:00.000+10:00

Today marks the 27th week of gestation with our twins and it is becoming more of a physical struggle with each passing week (no surprises there!).

In fact, one such exhaustive episode took place yesterday (yes, the eve of the 27th week) on the morning train into the office. I was sitting on the train and had just passed the South Brisbane station when an unfamiliar discomfort took over - my hearing dimished, feeling physically unwell, breaking out in cold sweat, etc. I knew then and there that I was going to experience another fainting episode just like the one two weeks ago while lying in bed watching the Australian Open. I was so ill and uncomfortable that I was almost incline to press the red emergency button on the train which will result in delays on my train line as the train will have to stop, telling the male communter sitting across from me and witnessing the horror on his face, etc. I chose to do neither and instead breathed in and out, got up steadily on my feet when my train disembarked at Central Station where I walked up the hill very slowly to fill my lungs with 'fresh' air. To cut the long story short, I rang the boss who ran down the hill to meet and walk with me up to the office, rang the husband who picked me up an hour later and I spent the next 4 hours sleeping in bed and another 2 hours just lazing in bed because I was still not feeling up to it.

Tomorrow is my last day at work for the next 13 months and it is with mixed emotions that I leave work for now, I am also relief that I am able to do so because I really need the rest and 'operate' at a much slower pace.

26 Weeks (First Day of CNY): When will my baby rabbits be born?

2011-02-03T10:54:00.000+10:00

Today is a special day for us chinese because it's the first day of the Lunar Chinese New Year. Even though we don't celebrate it here in Brisbane like we would back in Singapore, this particular day holds much special meaning to us. It's the 26th week of gestation for both our babies.

I met with the Obstetrician earlier in the week and he used a doppler to check their heart-rate (which was music to my ears), it was during that visit that he told me that they have turned around (yet again). The so-called fist movements that I have been experiencing via my daughter is in fact, her head! My son's heart rate has also increased which signals increased activity. Oh, I love them both so much.

With each passing day, I am feeling the physical strain of pregnancy - the breathelessness, constipation (yes it does not seem to want to leave), crankiness (must be the heat + breathelessness), low energy level (there are two babies in me afterall), heart working harder (with +30% blood volume), etc. I am able to sleep without difficulty each night however sleep has become interrupted as I move to work out more comfortable positions to accomodate all three of us (excluding the husband and the cat).

Each passing day also signals the end of work for me. There's only 7 more working days before I go on maternity leave and it is with mixed feelings, naturally, since I have been here for 8 years!

As one chapter closes (for now - with work), another one is about to open with parenthood. I wonder if I will meet my babies in 10 weeks or 12 weeks time.

Will they have a full head of black hair, blonde hair or red hair?

Will they fart like their father (loud and proud)?

Will they have loud voices (like me)?

Will they look into my eyes with love and admiration (I will be)?

Will they know my voice and be comforted by it?

There are a few things I know for sure:

I will do whatever it takes to keep them incubating in me for as long as possible so long as it is for their best well-being

I love them with my entire being and will do everything and anything possible for them

I am head over heels in love with them and their father who has been my pillar of strength, inspiration, support...

25 weeks update and absolutely buggered!

2011-01-27T09:11:00.000+10:00

Today officially marks the start of the 25th week of gestation with my babies and I am feeling rather strained, physically.

For starters, I have been told that my blood volume has increased by 30%, no wonder, my heart is working harder as usual and hence, I am breatheless for a slightly longer period of time after walking up a slight hill towards my office.

To put it simply, I am feeling buggered. My energy levels from 4 weeks ago have certainly diminished today and find myself retiring to bed when I get home from work for about an hour before I am able to get dinner together. Wow! There must be a lot of activity happenin within me that I am unable to fathom, yet! This body of mine is incredible, to state the least!

Here I am in the office, about 12 days of work left before I retire and resume my place as full-time incubator...

I look forward to having my babies in my arms and start my new chapter as mummy..however, not too soon please. I would love them to grow in me for as long as possible, preferably till end April, with the hope that when I leave the hospital, they can come home with us.

24 weeks, 1 day

2011-01-21T10:52:00.001+10:00

Wow! Yesterday was the start of my 6th month and I continue to marvel at this miraculous development thriving within my body. There's certainly no denying that I am pregnant because I physically look it and trust me, I feel it!

I love checking out my pregnant belly whenever possible and am particularly in love with my children nestle in it. I still cannot believe I am a mother of twins! Two beautiful children that I have been dreaming, wishing and hoping for.

Thank you God for blessing me so abundantly.

23 weeks, 4 days

2011-01-17T13:38:00.001+10:00

Due to the unprecedented floods in Queensland last week, we were unable to go to the office from Wednesday to Friday. Coincidentally, IKEA sent us notification that the wardrobe organisers have arrived! Yipppeee...why not be productive since we are home-bound?

A fortnight earlier, we had purchased a white change table from the same place and have yet put it up. Armed with our newly acquired wardrobe organisers, we got down on our hands and knees (more so Jared) while I supervised (!!!) to assemble the flat packs.

Once they were assembled, I did what I do best - organisation! I have placed all the baby clothes that we have acquired from friends into their separate catergories (everyday, going out, winter, pjs, etc) - one 6 basket organiser for the boy and another one 6 basket organiser for the girl.

The next day, I spent a few hours at Carindale Shopping Centre checking out baby clothes and bought a few pieces for our daughter because the clothes we have been given so far are for boys. I was mindful not to go over-the-top because we know how fast they grow and we will also be receiving heaps more as times goes by.

We are well-please with what we have achieved thus far. Bit by bit, the nursery will stop resembling that of a bits-and-pieces room and one that will be comfortable and cosy for our children.

Last night while laying in bed with a book, our daughter did a most peculiar thing. She did a full on somersault because I could feel a hard limb against the upper abdomen! It's wonderful! Her first full on movement!

I love feeling the pokes from both my children and look forward to many more.

22 weeks, 4 days

2011-01-10T11:33:00.000+10:00

Another week, another milestone.

On the weekend, we attended a very informative Multiples Birth class conducted by a Midwife who has had 2 sets of twins (talk about credibility!) at the Mater Women's Hospital. It was a full class with at least 10 couples and the 3 hour long session could certainly be stretched out to 6 hours because there was just so much information!

It was lovely being in the same room with other couples who are expecting twins. Many of whom conceived via IVF and no doubt we all have been on a similar journey to get to where we are.

I have read much about breastfeeding two babies at once and it's great to be given a demonstration with a fully clothed midwife - it is definitely possible with the aid of a great feeding pillow that not only supports the mother's back and also enables her to have both children with her at the same time! We are so getting that pillow!

In addition to the practicals and strategies on coping with twins including avoiding eye contact with strangers in public places if you want to get the shopping over and done with to putting on easy listening music in the nursery so that babies are used to noises, we were also given a tour of the nursery.

It was a lovely floor that can take up to a maximum of 90 babies at any one time. It was heartening to see how personal those spaces or 'pods' are. They are about 8 cots to each pod and each cot has 2 recliners which allows mums and dads to spend time 'kangeroo cuddling' or feeding their baby(ies). I was teary a few times when I saw more hands-on the dads were! It's wonderful that hands-on parenting from dads are now a common sight and no longer a stigma like in the past.

Today, I went to see my Gestational Diabetes Doctor and she was very assuring and encouraging about my progress. I stepped on the scales and in the 8 weeks since I first saw her, I have put on 3kg. She is very please with that because as she rightfully pointed out. I am overweight pre-pregnancy - to have lost 6kg in first trimester and only put on 3kg so far, is NEUTRAL weight gain and absolutely perfect for someone like me. The babies are growing on track with their gestational age so all is good.

I am relief and very grateful. Bring on more pokes, babies!

21 weeks, 6 days

2011-01-05T14:37:00.000+10:00

Today is my last day of week 21 and so far it has been brilliant. I have felt pokes from both children and my daughter is certainly the more active child as oppose to my son who is quite content just laying still and conserving his energy. This was confirmed by the Obstetrician yesterday when I saw him for the routine monthly check up.

It never ceases to amaze me that I am nurturing two little beings in me and they are thriving! I feel so bless to be part of this journey and what a priviledge to be their mummy too!

My tummy is a tight little package and my weight gain has only been 2kg so far. When I voiced my concern to the Obstetrician, he teased me and said,

"How much bigger do you want to be? You are only 5 ft 1 inch.

Look at Crown Princess Mary of Denmark (who is due to give birth to twins this week), she's tall and her tummy is about your size!"

Okay, he's right, as usual. I shall stop worrying and continue to enjoy this pregnancy knowing that both my children are growing on track and that I am a healthy mummy to be.

20 Weeks 1 Day: Feeling the pokes from my daughter

2010-12-24T10:05:00.000+10:00

About two nights ago while watching some DVD movie at home, I felt a most peculiar albeit gentle poke on my right abdomen. Just as well I was sitting still or else, I would have missed it. I was speechless for a good 3 minutes with Jared none the wiser next to me. I encouraged it to poke again by pressing it gently and there it came again. After that, nothing. Cheeky little girl!

I've been looking forward to this magical moment. Many books as well as internet resources have stated that I will be feeling movements...like 2 weeks ago! Oh well, once again, every pregnancy is different and mine sure has defined most of the stereotypical symptoms!

Last night while lying in bed at 10:30pm, I felt the poke once again. This time there were a few more pokes! I was absolutely thrilled because I can feel it on my hand when I placed it next to the spot where it first took place. It was such a thrilling feeling! It kept me awake for another hour because I want it to happen again!!!

Oh my little girl. I love you so much. I look forward to more pokes from her and also her brother when he grows a little bigger (he's the smaller of the both of them).

I feel so bless. Poke Poke Poke...

19 weeks

2010-12-16T10:12:00.000+10:00

Officially, 19 weeks as of today. Yesterday, we underwent the 19th week Morphology Scan at Queensland Ultrasound for Women.

The Sonographer who was assigned to us had just returned from holidays and all their ultrasound machines have also been upgraded in her absence hence she struggled through the 2 hour scan for a variety of reasons. Therefore, the scans weren't brilliant this time.

We were slightly annoyed but patient and kind, as usual. We saw our developing children and they are well. All their organs are functioning well and they are active even though I have not felt the movements myself.

It was wonderful that there was nothing sinister and both babies are growing well according to their gestational ages. So far so good. Here are some 4D scans of both children for your viewing pleasure:

Our son with arms up around his face - his sleeping pose exactly like his dad!

Our daughter was very active during the scan - hence only a good shot of her beautifully developing ear which looks suspiciously like her dad's slightly crinkly ear!

Our daugher again - this time it looks like she's telling her to keep quiet!

It would appear that they have inherited some physical attributes from their dad however I am certainly they will inherit my great skin and beauty!

Our next scan will be held on my 27th week of pregnancy and it falls on Valentine's Day!

Another Wet Weekend in Brisbane

2010-12-13T12:11:00.000+10:00

It was yet another wet weekend in Brisbane so what does two parents-to-be do? Essentials Browsing for the Twins! (yet again)...

This weekend, we checked out more strollers and are impressed with the 'Baby Jogger' brand specifically its range in City Mini and City Select because:

They are lightweight (in the twin category) - even I can lift them!
They collapse flat in one swift motion - even I can do that!
They assemble in one swift motion - even I can do that!
They are rather stylish looking - we must look good too!

Then we checked out more cots and change tables, etc. My-oh-my, there are so many choices!

We have not bought anything as yet and will wait till January next year. I have a list of the essentials, here goes:

2 Cots plus 4 sets of bedding (2 sets for each) including flat sheets, cotton blanklets, woollen blankets

2 baby capsules for traveling in the car (to be rented from the Queensland Ambulance). This is suitable from newborns - 6 months of age

4 swaddle blankets (2 for each of them) to keep them nicely wrapped up

4 bath towels plus 4 face towels plus toiletries

1 bath support to be placed in large laundry tub for bath times

24 newborn clothes - combination of jumpsuits, tops, bottoms, mittens, socks, hats, singlets, etc

I change table stocked with 150 diapers (weekly), 2 bottles of wet ones, 2 bottles of lotion, 2 bottles of baby powder

4 plastic milk bottles for water

12 Cotton clothes for drapping over shoulders while burping

1 twin stroller

1 nappy bag for going out

Am I missing anything else?! My brain is losing it....

18 Weeks 1 Day

2010-12-10T15:39:00.000+10:00

Ahhhh...yes, I am going to gush about my babies and this pregnancy. I love them so much and they have been such a wonderful source of comfort, assurance, gratefulness and blessedness.

We are in the midst of working out what names to give them and who would have thought it would be this difficult or even contentious?! At the rate we are going, I wouldn't be surprise if they remain unnamed until we see their faces and check out their personalities!

The belly has continued to grow - some people tell me that I look small for my gestational age whereelse, I think I resemble a big watermelon! Oh well, so long as the doctors tell me that their growth are on track with their gestational age - I shall learn not to take comments about the lack of my size affect me any other way except in happiness and gratefulness that they are the right size!

We have also started checking out baby 'stuff' and there are so many on the market! I quite literally get a headache just thinking about it! LOL...one thing I know for certain is the importance of a safe cot with good quality mattress that is inline with the Australian Standards and car safety seats with the same safety accreditation. Other than that, everything else like clothes, toys, etc - I do not intend on spending too much money on because they grow out too quickly and seriously, babies couldn't care less what they wear!

Yes, I am quite a practical kind of a mum. I suppose having had to wait for 5 years has wisen me up! It's not the material posessions that make a family - it's the time, patience and love that makes a family, a true family.

We are so grateful to be gifted this opportunity.

All Clear!

2010-12-07T14:38:00.000+10:00

I went for a routine monthly appointment with the Obstetrician yesterday and he had received the full result from Mater Pathology following the Amnio test last week. It's all good! We knew from the initial call last week that all will be well however hearing it from our Obstetrician cemented that reality for us.

We are very, very grateful that both babies are developing well and healthy. The best news every parent desires and we are so grateful to be one of those parents.

Here's a collage of Ultrasounds and 4D scans taken at 12 and 16 weeks respectively:

Twin #1 at 12 weeks - gorgeous button nose and pouty lips

Twin #2 at 12 weeks - with legs up and mouth opened

Here is the both of them side by side at 12 weeks

Twin #1 with strong straight spine at 16 weeks

Twin #2 with strong straight spine at 16 weeks

4D ultrasound of Twin #1 at 16 weeks - shy and discreet as always

4D ultrasound of Twin #2 at 16 weeks - boisterous and
looks like he's praying

4D ultrasound of Twin #2 at 16 weeks - check out that handsome face and head of black hair!

17 weeks and GREAT news!

2010-12-02T13:39:00.000+10:00

I am officially 17 weeks or should I say, my babies are officially 17 weeks young.

After 5 weeks of wondering the 'what ifs' and contemplating heart-wrenching decisions, I underwent an Amnio with twin #2 (my boy) two days ago.

Today, 48 hours later, as promised, Dr Gregg who performed the procedure rang and delivered the kind of news that all parents want / need - he is perfectly formed and healthy (all the chromosomal numbers are perfect)! A deep sense of gratefulness and relief washed over me.

Words are simply inadequate in expressing the depth of my emotions.

I thank our Heavenly Father for holding my follicles -> embryos -> fetuses firmly in his hands so that they will continue their growth.

HE has gifted me so abundantly and I shall never ever take my children for granted. When the going gets tough, I will always recount the journey that I've been on and know deep down, how very bless and lucky both Jared and I are in being gifted parenthood.

We love both our children very dearly - look forward to their amazing development, embrace them in our arms when the time is ripe, love and support them through their journey through life.

Next scan: In 2 weeks time when they are 19 weeks young!

Last day of 16 weeks and full of Thanksgiving

2010-12-01T11:58:00.001+10:00

Wow! Today is my last day of the 16th week journey. It has been full of ups and downs - it has never been dull. Throughout this journey, I have been so blessed to have an intimate network of friends and family who have supported us unconditionally.

There's so much to be thankful for as this miraculous pregnancy commences its 17th week.

I am acutely aware of how very bless and lucky we are to be pregnant, let alone twins. There are so many couples out there who desire a family just like us and for many of them, this dream may not be fulfilled due to reasons beyond anyone's control. To them, I pray daily that their dream isn't too far away and that, they too will be bless with a family they can call their own. That they continue to have the courage and strength to continue / discontinue their journey with their marriages in tact.

Yesterday, we saw the babies at the scan which took over 2 hours. It was with a level of stress before we started because we have been carrying with us an 'unknown' for the last 4 weeks. However, when we saw how much they have grown, we were silent by their commitment to us and their well-being. Both have fully functional organs and one is in fact, a boy! It was a positive experience for all of us.

I underwent an Amniocentesis Test with the boy who may have an 'unknown' and my girlfriend, Bronwyn, held my hand through the procedure, which made it much easier. Before the Dr left us, he told us that his hunch tells him that all will be well with both babies.

It's the kind of assurance all parents want and desire to have. We will know preliminary results tomorrow and full results in about 8 days time.

In the meanwhile, we will continue our prayers for them to continue their growth so that we may be joined as one family next year!

We love them both dearly and we have all been blessed from the one above.

Huffing and Puffing...

2010-11-24T10:35:00.000+10:00

...with each step up the hill leading to my office! My-oh-my! I have taken to walking steadily and slowly while regulating my breathes as of a few weeks ago whenever I am walking in an incline fashion so that I am not huffing and puffing too much.

This morning, the pace was quickened because I was walking with a colleague and we were engaged in an animated conversation about toys. By the time, I got up to the foyer of our office building, I was in a mess. I was not perspiring or red in the face but rather, as you guessed it, huffing and puffing! hahahaha...

She apologied profusely for my discomfort as we had both clearly forgotten about the delicate condition I am in. Clearly, my lung capacity has decrease somewhat with two placentas feeding both my babies! Oh well, so long as they are fed and are happy! :)

I have also been told that pregnancy suits me! Well, thank you! The flush on my cheeks, the radiance of my skin, etc...ahhhhhh....

Update at 15 weeks 4 days

2010-11-22T16:01:00.000+10:00

The usual complains from fellow pregnant women include weight gain, cravings, etc.

Since I have none of the above two mentioned symptoms, mine is not exactly a complain and rather a perplexing one.

To date, I have lost 6kg, still averse to most foods and have no cravings whatsoever!

The Doctor assures me that as long as I am able to keep food and water down + keep up with all the vitamins, I am okay. I suppose as long as he says it's okay, it's okay with me and the babies.

I no longer live to eat...........and yes, constipation still abounds (not that you need to know).

Presenting the Bump at 14 weeks

2010-11-16T11:58:00.000+10:00

Numerous health developments have taken place in the last fortnight and some days are certainly easier than others. Well, life is never predictable at the best of times.

Besides the loving support of my darling husband, intimate network of friends, the other aspect that's been holding me together is my growing bump. It never ceases to conjour a myriad of emotions from within me.

I love making connection with our babies through touching of the bump and by conversing with them. They are with me everywhere I go and I feel so loved.

These photos were taken on the weekend when my babies were 14 weeks 2 days.

A glimpse into helplessness

2010-11-09T12:48:00.002+10:00

The dream of parenthood has been on our radar for the last four years. We had known right from the start that this journey would be a challenging one and nothing could have prepared us for what lies ahead. Fast forward four years and today, I am 14 weeks pregnant and very grateful. Right from the start, we made a pact that we want to know everything about this pregnancy – hopefully, more good than the not-so-good.

Last week I experienced a small glimpse into what it really means to feel helpless. It’s not about desire for control. It’s literally about helplessness that we are unable to do anything except wait and pray that all will be well in due course.

At 12 weeks, I underwent a Nuchal Translucency Test by choice, to ascertain if our twins were at any risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. The first half of the test done via a high tech scan was absolutely delightful. We saw both our children – at the right size, heartbeats sounded like galloping horses, one was sucking fingers of the left hand (I am left handed), the other kept shielding the face (just like Jared would), they were kicking, hiccupping, etc.

It is such a privilege to be able to witness their amazing growth all thanks to modern technology. Our hearts were aflutter with joy and relief. Then reality hit. Twin #2 has an enlarged bladder and a 1 in 71 chance of having Down syndrome. We were and still are grappling with this news.

Yesterday, we met with our Obstetrician who offered us the opportunity to explore our options, verbalise our concerns and values which led to our eventual decision. We understand that many couples have been in our position and have come out at the end, relief that all is well. We sure hope we are one of those many lucky and bless couples.

For us, the risk is much too high for us not to do anything about it. It would be highly unfair on the child and on us not to do anything and proceed to full-term with the knowledge that there may be a potential problem because if it is an undesirable outcome, there is no turning back from then on.

In coming to terms with the decision of undergoing Amniocentesis at 16 weeks and having been made fully aware of the risks involved including 1 in 200 chance of miscarriage, it is a single question that gave us the impetus to proceed and that is “What can we not live with?”

The image that comes to my mind straight away is that of a 70 year old man pushing the wheelchair of a physically and/or mentally disabled adult child aged 33. That is the mental picture I cannot live with. That is not the quality of life we want for our child, let alone the impact it will have on our marriage.

The Obstetrician then offered us the synopsis of a “normal” Down syndrome child (who goes to a normal school) and a “not so normal” Down syndrome Child (with multiple organ failures). I stopped him and explained that both Jared and I come from a family of educators and many of my closest friends are school principals so I am more than acutely aware of the reality of having a child with Down syndrome. The impact on the family is very real and it is for life. We are the ones who will have to live with it daily, not anyone else.

Our obstetrician nodded his head in agreement. His silence further re-affirmed our decision which has not been made lightly.

We hope for a favourable outcome which assures us that all is well so that we may breathe a little better and enjoy this miraculous pregnancy a little more. We love them both very dearly and like all parents, we just want to give them a good quality of life that affords them independence and the ability for them to live life to the full.

Another Milestone: 12 weeks 5 days

2010-11-02T14:16:00.002+10:00

Today, I was greeted by my nemesis - Constipation! I shall not go into too much details except to share with you that it was certainly not a good morning to be detained as we had a 7:45am appointment with the Queensland Ultrasound for Women. To cut a potentially disturbing story short, I was very comfortable by the time I had my all important appointment.

For the last few days, I have been wondering if this pregnancy is a figment of my imagination because the nausea has definitely abated (touch wood that it does not return with a vengence tonight!).

In we went to a large room with an even larger LCD screen hanging on the wall - it must have been at least 60 inch! The Sonographer was very friendly and assuring as she applied warm gel on my tummy and began manuveouring the thingy on my belly.

WOW! What we saw absolutely blew us away! The quality of the moving images were AMAZING! We saw our children.

They were very energetic - constantly moving and never staying still
One was sucking the finger on the left hand (I am left handed)
One was shielding his/her face with the hand (just like Jared)
Both with very strong heartbeats that sounded like galloping horses
One was hiccuping regularly!

The Sonographer took many images and checked many aspects of our children. We saw my placenta, ovaries, the blood distribution, ambilical cords, etc. It was absolutely AMAZING, to state the least.

As with this type of high tech scanning, there's also the other confronting aspect.

Twin #1 is growing very well.

Twin #2 is growing very well and has a complication with an enlarged bladder. We hope that it's just a case of him / her not emptying the bladder this morning and not something more sinister which can be detrimental to his/her well being.

The next is to see my Obstetrician for our 13th week scan next Monday to talk further with him about this and our next BIG scan is in 4 weeks time when I am 16 weeks pregnant to ascertain if this complication has abated.

I now understand what it means to feel helpless as a mother. There is nothing I can do to help Twin #2 except have words with him/her and also to keep a positive outlook - that's one of the best traits I can pass on to our children.

Before I conclude, I would like to offer the following prayer to me and also to all mothers:

Heavenly Father, creator of all things,

you have been pleased to enable

my husband and me to collaborate with you in conceiving our children.

Thank you for your gracious gift.

Help me to guard this new life carefully and do nothing to hurt them in anyway.

After our children's birth, let us lavish them with love and

bring them up in your love and service so that

they will become children of yours and inherit your kingdom.

Be with us, O Lord, in this greatest of tasks to comfort,

strengthen, calm and enlighten us. Amen.

Tickled Pink at 12 Weeks 2 Days

2010-10-30T11:17:00.000+10:00

The other day at work while rubbing my abdomen absentmindedly, I noticed that the scar (from a laparaoscopy operation a few years ago) on my belly button felt more pronounced. Curiosity got the better of me and I went into the Ladies' room to have a better look.

Upon closer inspection, the scar has certainly been pushed out! I smiled at the thought of this development and affectionately rubbed my abdomen that's nestling both babies.

All our bodies are different. For first time incubators like me, I have been told that most will only start showing at 16 weeks and for incubators who have given birth previously, it starts to show from 10 weeks onwards.

I suppose with twin and 2 gestational sacs, it comes as no surprise that mine have decided to show itself at 12 weeks. I am excited and thrilled!

Another Milestone: 12 weeks!

2010-10-28T09:36:00.000+10:00

Today officially marks my 12th week of pregnancy. I am deeply grateful for this and am feeling incredibly at peace. Perhaps this is what being surrendered means, afterall.

At this milestone, it is important for me to reflect on the dates that have led to this and also the dates for the future:

Thursday 19th August 2010 (9 days after our 7th Wedding Anniversary)

I was in hospital for a procedure call 'Egg Pick Up'

Friday 20th August 2010

Embryologist informed us that all follicles had fertilised (without any intervention required)

Tuesday 24th August 2010

Under the advisement of our gynaecologist, we took the risk and left the fertilised embryos in the dish for the maximum time of 5 days.
The outcome was 2 survived (out of 4 which were harvested) and have become blastocysts! Rated 4AA - the very best rating! They are absolutely perfect. Both embryologist and gynaecologist were impress with their quality. This is the best we've ever achieved.
We told the embryologist to put both back in to increase our chances.

Thursday 25th August 2010

Implantation started

Monday 30th August 2010

Implantation completed

Friday 3rd September 2010 (Jared's Birthday)

First beta. Basically if I peed on a stick, I would have known of the positive outcome.

Monday 6th September 2010

Pregnancy confirmed via blood test. HcG was 1732! Had a hunch then that I may be carrying twins

Thursday 28th October 2010

12 weeks pregnant!

From Wednesday 20th April 2011 (My Birthday) onwards

The twins will be born!

I continue each day with prayer that with God's grace that they will continue to grow so that we may meet them next year and experience parenthood.

The other night, Jared and I were having a conversation about this and he verbalised for the very first time that "We will never take them for granted, ever." A conviction that I have been holding dear to my heart since I knew of their conception. How very apt.

This is one of many reasons why I love him so much and for sharing the same values as I do. We are very grateful.

This Song Resonates with Me

2010-10-27T14:39:00.003+10:00

I literally wake up each morning counting my blessings. In fact, I have been abundantly blessed. I suppose that's why it's so important to overcome adversity and be at peace with whatever outcome it may be, even if takes awhile (months and even years) for it to sink in. Being at peace, is the key, for me.

Jared and I continue to marvel at the latest development in our married life. It has been four years in the making and yes, it's been a "long" journey however we are also acutely aware that there are many couples and even singles out there who have been trying for much "longer" - many have experienced parenthood and others may never experience parenthood. That's life and eventually one has to accept reality with the hope that it just isn't meant to be. A prospect that I am well aware of because I have struggled with this possibility for the last 4 years. It's absolutely heart-breaking.

At my fifth and last IVF cycle, I knew in my heart that my journey with infertility treatments were about to come to a end because it has been an arduous journey. I was starting to feel very strained (mentally, physically and emotionally) of disappointments and heartbreaks. I also knew back then that I will never regret on our decision to have embarked on this roller coaster of a journey even if we never conceived because it is our joint desire to have a family and know that we will regret for not having given it our all.

I am so grateful to my spouse for standing by me through it all, for giving me the strength and perspective to remain objective through this incredibly personal passage. He is the reason I keep persisting and the happiness he radiants these days makes it so worth it!

Today I am 11 weeks 6 days pregnant and it is my second pregnancy within a two year period. I am in a good place and feel much calmer with my current pregnancy as compared with the first (which resulted in a miscarriage at 7 weeks) because I have learnt that if it's meant to be, it will be and that I am not in control. Whatever will be, will be.

We continue to take each day in our stride and marvel at this miraculous development. Today, I came across this song and it brought tears of joy to my eyes:

Blessed by Elton John

Hey you, you're a child in my head
You haven't walked yet
Your first words have yet to be said
But I swear you'll be blessed

I know you're still just a dream
your eyes might be green
Or the bluest that I've ever seen
Anyway you'll be blessed

And you, you'll be blessed
You'll have the best
I promise you that
I'll pick a star from the sky
Pull your name from a hat
I promise you that, promise you that, promise you that
You'll be blessed

I need you before I'm too old
To have and to hold
To walk with you and watch you grow
And know that you're blessed

Morning Sickness?! Food Aversions?! Constipation?!

2010-10-27T09:49:00.000+10:00

One of the most common symptoms associated with being pregnant is morning sickness. Whoever came up with this term evidently has no clue about day or night because this so-called morning sickness lasts all day! To be precise, from the moment I wake up till I fall asleep from sheer exhaustion from battling with it.

As much as it is rather uncomfortable and annoying, I am grateful for this symptom because it assures me all that is well with the twins and I am merely experiencing the nagging nausea feeling and not spending time in the loo (which I can only imagine to be rather unpleasant).

The other first trimester symptom is Food Aversions. You know how women rave about having cravings? Well, mine is the reverse. No cravings whatsoever. In fact, I hate food. Those who know me, know that I live to eat and not eat to live. For now, I am certainly only eating to live. The list of food aversions continue to mount and some of them include:

Meat of all sorts such as lamb, beef, chicken, seafood, pork
Vegetables of most varieties such as broccoli, onions
Dairy such as cheese, milk, yoghurt and ice-cream (!!!)
Dried crackers which are meant to be good for curbing nausea
Anything too sour and too sweet

Yes I have been surviving on bland food that does not make me gag. Let's hope I will regain my appetite for good, delicious food soon.

The last and certainly not the least is Constipation. Why didn't anyone tell me how BAD it really gets?! It's absolutely over-the-top. Despite my best intentions in consuming 3 litres of water, drinking special drinks to induce digestion, etc...it has not blardy worked! In fact, I have been late for the train on a few mornings because I am literally STUCK on the loo. Sorry for the graphic description.

In fact, I don't even go daily because I have no time and energy to wait for it to unkink itself. I have to psych myself every three days! hahahahaha...my-oh-my!

Despite them, I will still put up with it because I love my twins!

The Kitchen Garden is taking a 'rest' because...

2010-10-25T15:31:00.000+10:00

...there's a life changing development in my life. Though it's still early weeks (11 weeks, 4 days to be exact) and since this blog is not frequented by many, I feel 'safe' to share this update here and wonder how many will actually read it. Is this a dare, you ask? Most certainly not.

For years, I have read blogs, status updates, heard and met up with numerous friends who have gone on to have a family. I often wonder "Will I ever be one of them?" Despite being blessed with a loving and stable marriage, I wasn't entirely certain that children will be on the cards for me, because I have never truely felt maternal. Does this make sense to you? Due to the lack of feeling maternal, I have also questioned if I am 'parent material'.

I suppose we will never truely know or understand that answer to this question until it happens or in our case, from our years of trying to have a family due to my infertility. I have had numerous conversations with myself and those dear to me about the possibility of me never becoming a mum and that this is something that I must accept so that I do not go through life having regrets.

To cut a very long story short about the fertility beginnings, I shall only give you an 'executive summary' of sorts which traces the ups and downs of our journey:

At 28, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
At 29, I started on a course of Clomid, oral medication to aid with ovulation. It did not work because I have very stubborn ovaries
Started FSH injections as part of AIH program (Artificial Insemination by Husband's Sperm). Attempted this 10 times and also underwent Lapaoscopy (to ascertain if there are any blockages (thank goodness, no so it's still those stubborn ovaries) and Ovarian Drilling (to losen the pearl like casing which surrounds my ovaries in the hope that with injections, I will ovulate)
At 31, we knew that IVF was the only way if we ever wanted biological children. In April, I underwent Ovarian Drilling for the second time and fell pregnant after my 2nd IVF attempt in October. Sadly, we found out it was a blighted ovum at 7 weeks. It was a very sad and dark time for us (for months, to be exact). I underwent a Suction Currett on the same day.
At 32 (this year), I underwent IVF again in the new Year. Twice in the first half of the year and we went away for a holiday (we've been on many vacations and have never been able to conceive naturally) in July. A month later, we attempted IVF for the 5th time.
This time, my gynaecologist decided to try a new protocol that was just approved to improve the quality of my follicles. This particular cycle was the most sore (after egg pick up) and most stressful (I rang the embryologist every single day for 5 days to ascertain how many fertilised follicles had survived, etc etc). On the day of transfer, the embryologist informed us that out of the 6 follicles harvested, 2 have survived and have gone on to grow into blastocysts with a perfect grading of 4AA. We did not hesitate and told the embryologist to "put them both back in" and 14 days later, the blood test confirmed that I am pregnant with HcG level of 1732! I had a hunch back then that I am carrying twins!

6th week scan

By this stage, I have been nauseated since 5th week and was feeling rather miserable if not assured. However, nothing's more assuring than the evidence on the scan.

We were so relief, please, daunted when this came on the screen! You can see a little shadow of a blob in the lower sac. Although we couldn't see a similar shadow in the higher sac, our gynaecologist assured us that her hunch tells her that there's another one in there.

You can imagine how happy and relief we were by this image and those assuring words. We cluthed this scan preciously in our hands and hope to see the other blob in our next scan in the following 2 weeks.

8th week scan

Back in the clinic, still feeling sick and have been averse to food since week 5.

Baby 1 - check out his / her growth in just two weeks!

Baby 2 - we can see you now!!!

The best part? We saw their flickering heartbeats! Gynaecologist also assured us that they are on track - right size, etc etc. We are simply over-the-moon grateful and delighted.

9th week scan

We see our Obstetrician for the first time. No scan pictures will be uploaded for this because the quality was absolutely appalling.

Nonethless, we saw them again and once again assured by their flickering heartbeats and that they are on track.

10th week

No scan but plenty of blood tests and glucose tolerance test.

11th week

No scan and found out that I am Vitamin D + Calcium deficient (no surprises since I am still averse to most food) and that I have Gestational Diabetes (was pre-warned back when I was 28 that I am certain to get this due to medical condition).

What next?

12th week, 4 days - I will undergo Nuchal Scan

13th week - Meet my Obstetrician for end of First Trimester scan plus referral to Dietician to manage gestational diabetes.

----

At this stage, we are very grateful and are taking each day in our stride.

Recipe: Pumpkin Soup with Ox Tail

2010-08-30T10:32:00.000+10:00

Last weekend, Woolworths was selling whole pumpkins for $2 and that's a BARGAIN! Naturally, I grabbed one for myself and it must weigh over 2kg and Ox Tail was on special too! I was one very happy gal and combined both of them into a most delicious soup!

It was so delish that we both had seconds straight away and trust me, it will take your breathe away.

Pumpkin Soup with Ox Tail serves 8

Ingredients

1kg ox tail

1kg pumpkin, skinned - cored - cut into chunks

2 large carrots, cut into chunks

2 celery stalks, cut into chunks

2 large tomatoes, cut into chunks

1 large brown onion, cut into chunks

1.5 litre of hot chicken stock

2 tbsps rock salt / to taste

In a large deep stainless steel pot, add all your ingredients and cook on high for 30 minutes with lid half covering the pot. Turn down to low and cook for the next 3 hours OR
In a large slow cooker, add all your ingredients and cook it on 'medium / auto' setting for the next 8 hours
Serve hot immediately on its own

Tip

This soup is great for freezing and is suitable for re-heating in the microwave

Drawer Organisation: No more mess!

2010-08-17T10:08:00.005+10:00

The drawers in the ensuite and kitchen have been driving me up the wall for years. Why? Because I can never find anything in them due to the mess and every time one opens / shuts those drawers, the contents tend to move!

Over the years, those drawers have becomes spaces for 'junk' or other unmentionables that one does not want to have to look at / deal with until last weekend...when I bought a roll of non-slip mat that can be cut into whatever size of shape I desire!

As I was too embarressed to take photos of what those drawers looked like 'before', please use your own imagination because I will only be showing you the 'after' results!

The Ensuite

This is my everyday drawer. See that light brown coloured mat with little holes? That's the non-slip mat which I have cut down to size (after cleaning my drawer with non-toxic cleaner).

Before: This drawer was filled with all sorts of crap from packets of facial cotton pads, numerous free sample of products and other unmentionables.

After: Only the daily essentials are in this drawer. With this mat, the contents no longer move! They stay in the same spot! I love that it's organise, clean and that I can see everything!

This is Jared's drawer which contains his essentials.

Before: It was filled with electronic products, boxes of clean ear buds and other unmentionables.

After: Only what he needs. I have thrown out so much stuff from both our drawers - about 4 plastic bags full of useless crap that we have not used in years and products that have expired!

This is my half of the "beauty" cabinet located next to the drawers.

Before: Oh my! I could never tell what was really in this space because of its depth. Yes, I removed a lot of stuff that I have not used and will never use.

After:There's only products and goods that I will use and they are organise according to its category!

The Kitchen

This is the third drawer and also previously known as the 'junk' drawer where bits and pieces of kitchen ware is randomly chucked in.

Before: It was an embarressment. Everything was stuck together - all the kitchenware were jammed together because there was so much!

After: Many items have been thrashed and only the essentials are kept. See, now we can see everything.

This is the fourth drawer and one that was thoroughly forgettable because...

Before: It contained everything that you see now PLUS heaps more crap like postcards, mobile phone chargers, etc. It was difficult to open and shut this drawer.

After:

It's no longer forgettable!

HAS THIS ORGANISATION INITIATIVE WORKED?

It has been 4 days and so far, so good!

Recipe: Roast Lamb with Roasted Vegetables

2010-08-13T10:23:00.000+10:00

There I was on Tuesday afternoon (10th August) feeling sorry for myself because it was our 7th wedding anniversary and the husband was sick for the second time in three weeks. Who enjoys being sick right? Still, I was annoyed that of all the days, the 'bug' had to nestle itself into his system on this particular day! How annoyingly inconsiderate!

Since I am 'stuck' at home on this day and it is afterall, my wedding anniversary, I was determine to have a bloody good meal!

After picking up DVDs at the local rental shop, I went next door to the butcher to check out what's on offer. Specifically, lamb. He only had 1 leg of lamb left on this day and it was 2kg! We cannot possibly have 2kg leg of lamb so he very kindly cut into down to 800g for us to enjoy!

If you don't already know - I love lamb. I love looking, touching, cooking and eating lamb. It has a unique and robust flavour that makes my insides jump with joy!

Here's my fuss-free Roast Lamb with Roasted Vegetables!

Roast Lamb with Roasted Vegetables serves 2

Ingredients

Part 1

2 potatoes, cut into quarters

1 medium sized sweet potato, cut into bite size chunks

1 red spanish onion, cut into quarters

3 medium carrots, cut into bite size lengths

6 cloves of garlic

Generous amount of salt and pepper

Olive Oil to coat all the vegetables

In a deep stainless steel bowl, combine all the ingredients and ensure that they are well-seasoned
On a baking tray, line the vegetables as seen above

Part 2

800g rolled loin leg of lamb (without the bone)

2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, cut into 3cm sticks

4 cloves of garlic, cut into slivers

Generous amount of salt and pepper

Olive Oil

Pre-heat the fan forced oven to 190C (for at least 20 mins)
Cut little slits all over the lamb and push in 1 rosemary stick and 1 garlic sliver. Season it generously with salt, pepper and olive oil
Place the lamb on top of the vegetables - this is very important as it allows 'air flow' for the bottom of the lamb and prevents it from stewing in its own juices during roasting
Cook in the oven for 1 hour 15 mins for well-cooked lamb. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before carving

Part 3

Serve up with sides of peas, broccoli and mandatory, MINT SAUCE!

Recipe: Pea and Ham Soup

2010-08-09T09:48:00.002+10:00

It was another cool and sunny winter's weekend here in Brisbane and that beckoned us early risers to get out and do something. We did just that. I took Jared out for a hearty hot breakfast on the waterfront at Manly before dropping him off at the Aero Club for a couple of hours - his 'boy time' and I went on my merry way.

While at the supermarket, I spotted some lovely smoked ham hock which is perfect for soup!

Pea and Ham Soup serves 6 - 8

Ingredients

2 kg smoked ham hock

1 white onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, chopped

400g cauliflower, broken into small florets

250g dried split green peas

250g frozen green peas

Water, enough to cover all the ingredients

Salt and Pepper

In a deep soup pot, add all the ingredients + water including salt and pepper to taste. Cook on high for 20 minutes and simmer on low for 1 hour
Remove the ham hock from the pot onto a another dish. Fork the meat (which will be falling apart), remove the skin and return the meat into the soup pot. Cook on low for another 20 minutes or until all the ingredients have softened. Add salt and pepper to taste
Serve immediately on its own or with crusty bread on the side

Tip

This is a great soup / meal that can be frozen in smaller batches for later consumption and is suitable for re-heating in the microwave

Recipe: Spaghetti with Ricotta, Spinach and Rocket

2010-08-05T08:50:00.002+10:00

On our way home last night, my better half told me that he did not desire any meat for dinner and on the menu for dinner was BBQ Rump with pan-fried squashed potatoes topped with shaved parmesan and steamed medley of vegetables. Great...now the test. What can I prepare that does not involve meat?

When we got home, I quickly jumped on the elliptical (my first cardio workout for the year - how awful am I?!) for 15 minutes - got to start slow and build it up by 10% every 3 days or else, I will give up very quickly.

Anyway, that was a side track and information that you didn't really need to know.

There I was standing in front of the refrigerator checking out the potential ingredients when I spotted the tub of low fat ricotta! An idea came to mind and that's how the following meal came to fruition.

Spaghetti with Ricotta, Spinach and Rocket serves 4 - 6

Ingredients

500g low fat Ricotta

100g spinach leaves

100g rocket leaves

Juice of 1 fresh lemon

4 sprigs of fresh thyme, just the leaves

Plenty of salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup Olive Oil

1 packet of spaghetti, cooked till al dente in salted water

1/2 cooking liquid from spaghetti

In a deep serving bowl, add ricotta, lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix well and taste. Add more salt and pepper if desired
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the ricotta mixture in the deep serving bowl. Mix well. Add the rest of the ingredients including the remaining olive oil and cooking liquid. Mix well
Serve immediately on its own

Tip

This is great as an accompaniment to a main meal such as grilled red meat

In 6 days...

2010-08-04T11:10:00.002+10:00

...we'll be celebrating our 7th Wedding Anniversary (this year also mark's our 10th year of 'exclusivity').

Reflecting on our journey thus far makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. We continue to enjoy a wonderful friendship, an even better marriage through ups and downs, support each other's endeavours and most importantly, kindness and love. That is not to say that we agree with each other all the time!

Here're some highlights of our lives so far, in dot point:

Met for the first time at the midnight premier of 'Star Wars I' in May 1999
Started dating in January 2000 and moved in together within months. Our first overseas holiday to New Zealand when I learnt to snow ski!
Long distance relationship in 2001 when I moved back to Singapore upon completion of degree. Bought our first home together later that year
Obtained my Aust PR in February 2002 and secured full-time employment in April
I started on a new job in March 2003 and was married in August 2003. Honeymoon in the South Island of New Zealand and the construction of our new home commenced in October
Sold our first home in January 2004 (which we very nearly paid off its mortgage in full) and moved into our newly constructed home in April. Celebrated our 1st Wedding Anniversary
Our 'addiction' for snow skiing and New Zealand (both the North and South Islands) saw us returning bi-annually / annually from 2005 - 2007 + annual trips back to Singapore to visit family (yes at least 2 international holidays annually!)
2008 was pretty much the same - worked hard and played harder!

Paid off the mortgage of our home in December 2009
I obtained my driver's licence (about time!) and will be celebrating our 7th Wedding Anniversary

Where to from here?

That we continue to enjoy and love each other's company while working hard, undergoing many of life's unpredictabilities and planning for annual vacations
That we will take 12 months off work in three year's time for our 'big' holiday to Europe / Caanda - why wait till we are near retirement to do that?!
That our families and dear friends continue to be healthy and happy

A Working Gal's Food Organisation 101

2010-08-02T09:44:00.001+10:00

From time to time, I've been asked how one is able to produce at least 20 meals a week and thought I'd share some of those tips with you. You may already have implemented them in your life - it would be lovely to hear affirming comments and also some of your tips too!

Tip 1: Shopping Seasonally

For those of us who live in countries with four seasons, we are incredibly blessed to be able to purchase the freshest produce at its optimum growing season, at competitive prices!

Tip 2: Knowing how much to buy

This is quite often rather trickly. Buy too much and one risks throwing out fresh produce at the end of the week (I hate this wasteful act). Over the years, I have learnt exactly how much to buy and it always brings me delight when there's hardly any fresh food left in the refrigerator by the end of the week!

Tip 3: Buying meat in bulk and freezing the rest

I am always on a look out for meat that is sold in larger quantities (e.g. a tray of 8 rump steaks instead of 2) because it is priced better, I am able to re-pack the "access" meat for other meals and they freeze well so long as you store them in zip lock bags and ensure that moisture does not get in!

Tip 4:
Preparing vegetables in advance

I am referring to vegetables that are hardy such as beans, broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. I tend to cut them up and store them in zip lock bags so that they are ready for cooking. Saves time during the week!

Tip 5: Freezing soups and stews for later use

Every fortnight, I tend to make large servings of soups and stews that are not cream / coconut based / have potatoes in them. They freeze very well and is easy to re-heat either over the stove or in the microwave. In this photo, I have a container filled with lamb meatballs in home-made sauce and in the other, Ox tail soup.

Tip 6: Making sandwiches in advance

I tend to make 2 days worth of sandwiches at a time which we have for lunch in the office. It's cheaper and healthier to bring food from home! Most people make their lunches after dinner or in the morning before they head out to work. It's too tedious! Do it in advance. Stick to ingredients that do not perish (e.g. tomatoes, cucumbers). These sandwiches shown here have avocado, ham and spinach.

Tip 7: Preparing healthy and quick snacks

Here's one of our favourite snacks to bring to work. Hard Boiled Egg. They are wrapped in cling film for hygiene and transfer purposes. Again, I have cooked several in advance so all we have to do is put 1 on our lunch bag. I always have a big bowl of fruit sitting on the dinning table so we also grab 1 fruit each day.

Here are my tips and I hope you have enjoyed reading them. What do you do?

Update from my Kitchen Garden (finally!)

2010-08-02T09:06:00.000+10:00

It's been awhile since I shared updates on my kitchen garden and it comes as no surprise that it has been neglected as we have been away plus being struck down with the viral plague, etc. However, I am now back on my feet and the weather is starting to warm up (too quickly for my liking).

About a month before we went away, I planted a selection of salad leaves and silver beet (even I wonder why I did that prior to being on holidays). Despite not watering / fertilising it, it has actually thrived on neglect!

What I need to do this weekend is to get on my hands and knees to get rid of those pesky weeds that have (almost) taken over the garden beds!

Recipe: Mushroom Risotto with Pancetta and Rocket

2010-08-02T08:53:00.001+10:00

The past weekend went according to plan - one of relaxation and of spending time at home. As I was standing in my fridge and wondering what to make for lunch, I spotted three ingredients. Mushroom - Pancetta - Rocket! I love them and thought I'd whip up comfort food for Sunday Lunch.

Mushroom Risotto with Pancetta and Rocket serves 4

Ingredients

1 cup of Arborio Rice

1 clove of garlic, minced finely

1 white onion, minced finely

5 medium sized fresh button mushrooms, sliced thinly

100g Rocket leaves

8 slices of pancetta, pan fry till crispy

1 litre of chicken stock

4 tbsps of Olive Oil

Salt and pepper to taste

In a deep pan over medium heat, add olive oil, onion and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds. Add Arborio rice and stir well for about 30 seconds. Add 1 ladel of chicken stock and stir well. Keep adding the stock every 15 seconds or so and until all the stock has been absorbed by the rice. This step will take approximately 20 - 25 minutes.
Add all the mushrooms and stir well until soften. Turn off the heat and add half the rocket leaves and stir well.
To serve, scope the risotto in a gorgeous bowl topped with pancetta and rocket leaves. Salt and pepper to taste.

Remembering my roots...

2010-07-26T11:35:00.000+10:00

I am often reminded that the best way to move forward in life is to call on my roots and to draw strength from my family and the generations past.

My grandparents from both sides of the family are immigrants to Singapore. I cannot imagine the sacrifices they have had to make in leaving their birth countries and giving it a good go in a foreign land. Their desperation and staunch determination for a better life would be the key drivers for this decision. Today, I know exactly how I have come to acquire those traits that have and will continue to see me through the waves of life. To them, I am eternally grateful.

Growing up as an only child, my parents ensured that I was harnessed with skills for survival in the big-bad-world beyond their 3 room HDB flat and imposed just enough constraints to ensure that I did not stray too far.

Assuring me of their support and acceptance in all the decisions I have chosen even if they don't agree with some of them must have been tough and necessary because they understand the need for me to make my own mistakes. Afterall, I am just as stubborn as they are!

Looking back on the holiday back to the country of my birth makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

I am full of admiration for my parents because they are constantly evolving and do not conform to the societal pressures, one bit.

Their beginnings like most people are very humble. They bought a HDB that they could afford and paid for it up front back in 1978 (no mortgage!) and decided to stop at one hence they were able to retire very early in life (one of the advantages of having a child).

This trip has been one of the best because we did not have a single argument (miracle!), listened without judgement and displayed actions that demonstrated love and full acceptance.

Even though we are a family separated by geographical locations, we continue to communicate weekly and I am grateful to have the means to spend time with them annually.

I am who I am because of them and the generations past. Their life experiences have given me the convictions required to move forward everytime I am being pushed back and to stand up tall everytime I am being knocked down. Thank you.

Post Holiday Blues

2010-07-23T19:59:00.000+10:00

It's the same old sinking feeling...post holiday blues! Getting back into reality mode has not been easy especially when:

the entire home shakes when the husband coughs like there's no tomorrow
one feels uninspired at the supermarket for the weekly grocery shopping
one is unable to sleep due to being overwhelmed with work deadlines
no one will fold and iron the clean laundry
the alarm clock rings its head off at 6:15am
one has to put up with 'slow' public transport
etc etc

On the flip side:

I enjoyed the holiday - giving back to myself and to those who matter to me
I have a secure career with variety that sustains my lifestyle and enables me to keep planning for holidays
I understand what a truely bless and varied life I lead

Review: TWG, Orchard Ion Singapore

2010-07-21T15:57:00.001+10:00

(Photo Supplied by TWG)

This is one place that will draw your attention when you eyes descends upon it. It's gorgeous and oh-so-chic!

The attentive staff dressed in their all whites patiently answers all questions pertaining to the extensive tea menu which spans some 8 pages (if my memory serves me right) and the cakes cabinet just makes me wish I had a hugh belly to stomach all in.

Tea is served in an elaborate gold pot with exquisite fine bone china. When we were there, the music was a tat too loud for conversation but the tea and especially the delectable macaroons made everything right.

The Macaroons are absolutely to-die-for. Give yourself a treat at TWG!

Review: The Marmalade Pantry, Orchard Ion Singapore

2010-07-21T15:49:00.000+10:00

One of the simplest pleasures in life when sharing an afternoon with one's best friend is without a doubt, High Tea.

We decided to check out this hip, modern and minimalistically decorated restarant located on the third level of one of Singapore's newest shopping malls.

We were greeted with gorgeous looking cupcakes covered with glass domes as we walked into the precinct and were seated in a lovely spot where we could people watch all day.

We decided with the High Tea menu which gave us the option to pick two cup cakes and it also comes with sandwiches, scones and choice of hot beverage.

The "Elvis" cup cake which I picked was RICH and oh-so-yummy and the "Apple" cup cake selected by my companion was what you would expect from an apple cup cake.

The sandwiches were petite and absolutely divine. The scones on the other hand were more like rock cakes and desperately dry.

Would I go there again? Probably not because there are so many choices in Singapore when it comes to dinning.

Eatery Review: Overeasy at One Fullerton Singapore

2010-07-16T11:07:00.000+10:00

My annual cousins' get together was held last night at Overeasy located at One Fullerton in Singapore.

This is located in a gorgeous location flanked by Marina Bay Sands, Marina Esplanade and the Fullerton. This is the main reason why this restaurant / bar was selected for our gathering.

Besides the brilliant views and wonderful company, Overeasy was a disappointment from an eatery point of view.

The service was appallingly slow and the waitress was absolutely ignorant about the menu (granted it was her first day and evidently she wasn't given any training and her inexperience showed because she had no idea what the soup of the day / burger of the month + what it came with / the "to-die-for" buger was, etc etc).

The quality of food was nothing to rave about either. Jared and another cousin ordered the " to-die-for" burger and both likens the Hungry Jack's Whopper is better than it! MY-OH-MY!

In conclusion, I will not be back there for the food or drinks and would preferring walking along One Fullerton to enjoy the view and go elsewhere for a good feed!

Hotel Review: Furama River Centre, Singapore

2010-07-15T11:30:00.000+10:00

There are two Furama Hotels in Singapore. One is located along Havelock Road and the other, which we are currently staying at is located on Eu Tong Sen Street in Chinatown.

We are staying here for five nights due to Jared's work commitments and it was organised by the company based in Singapore so we have no other choice.

Initially, I was rather apprehensive about this establishment due to the conflicting feedback on tripadvisor. However, on this occassion, I am please to be somewhat proven wrong.

What works

1. Location Location Location

It's right in the middle of Chinatown and Clark Quay with two MRT stations within 5 mins walk making it very handy to get anywhere on this island.

2. Prompt service by hotel staff

As soon as we arrived at the hotel, a staff member greeted us - took our bag - lead us to the reception area. When the reception staff learnt that Jared was booked under a special reservation for business, we were primptly led to a private area where we were seated across the staff who processed the accommodation. Despite the official check in time of 2:00pm, we were given an upgrade to a King Size bed on the executive level at 1:00pm.

3. Room is quiet, spacious and clean

We are staying on the 17th level and our room does not face Eu Tong Sen Street hence it is quiet. The room is spacious and the bathroom, generous.

What does not work

1. Level 6 - stinks, literally

This is the level that hotel guests have to walk through to get to the pool and we believe this is the smoking floor (even though it is a non-smoking hotel).

2. Breakfast Buffet is very average

The quality and range of food is average. The selection of cereals and fruits, rather basic and the buffet caters to the Asian taste buds (stir fry vegetables, fried rice, stir-fry vermicelli noodles, beef bacon, chinese congee) more so than western. I find myself sticking to toast and jam with an egg done sunny side up!

3. The outdoor Jacuzzi fizzles

Located next to the small and refreshing waters of the swimming pool, the jacuzzi fizzles with lack lustre jets.

Tips for Travellers

Request for an upgrade to a King Size bed (for spacious room on a higher floor), away from the lift lobby and that it faces away from Eu Tong Sen street (if you desire a restful and quiet night's rest).

Have breakfast elsewhere.

This is a good hotel without paying top dollar (our rate is SG$170 +++) and it's location is good - room rates in Singapore are exhorbitantly high.

Singapore: My personal Recommendations

2010-07-14T14:03:00.001+10:00

This time next week, I will be back in the familiar surrounds of the office and like holidays past, it will be as if I'd never left.

With that in mind, here's my take on what's been "worth checking out" in the 13 days I've been here so far:

For unique and good quality accessories, check out Mimco (an Australian Company) at Orchard Ion. I bought a stunning piece of chunky necklace yesterday. The normal retail price is S$430 and I bought it for S$199

For good quality sandwiches with delicious fillings, check out Cedele at Raffles City Shopping Centre (they have several branches and this is the only one I went to) and The Marmalade Pantry at Orchard Ion

For a stunning view of this island city with glimpses of Malaysia and Indonesia, you cannot go wrong with the Skypark at Marina Bay Sands. Priced at S$20 per person, it is well worth the visit. Bring along a bottle of water, wear a hat or carry an umbrella, to shield the sun rays off your face

For yummy and uniquely flavoured ice-creams (e.g. Mao Shan Wang aka top quality durian, Lychee Martini), check out Udders at Holland Village or West Mall

For those who crave for a bit of adrenalin thrill, check out Universal Studios on Sentosa Island. It's on a small scale hence one can never get lost and because they limit the number of visitors to this theme park each day, one never has to queue up too long for rides / shows. Well worth a visit to form your own opinion

For shopping centres that carry a good variety of labels, you will not be disappointed with Orchard Ion, Ngee Ann City and Vivocity

For delicious Nasi Padang in the comforts of air-conditioning, check out the stall at Food Republic at 313@Somerset

For a good variety of local cuisines outdoors, check out Lau Pa Sat

Cedele: My 'Saving Grace' in Singapore

2010-07-12T11:34:00.000+10:00

After my previous post about the over-sensory of food sights, smells and tastes, I found my 'saving grace' yesterday in the form of Cedele located at Raffles City.

It's a quaint little cafe that packs a lot of variety - they have a great selection of baked breads, sandwich filings, delicious cakes on display, soups, etc. What a gem of a find!

I have a bowl of Clam Chowder which was creamy and flavoursome + a sandwich of smoked turkey with mayoonaise, cranberry jam, lettuce and tomato. A smile was permanently plastered on my face from the moment I drank the soup and bit into the sandwich.

That will certainly not be my first visit and I intend on heading again in the next few days for another 'balance' to my palate!

*** After that taste balance which brought my palate back to basic, I had an enjoyable evening with friends over delicious Balinese Cuisine for dinner!

Taking a break from Food

2010-07-10T18:57:00.000+10:00

Food is one of the ways in which affection, culture, nourishment and togetherness is being conveyed. It comes as no surprise that whenever we are back on the island, we are indulged to the max. Today's our 9th day and I am officially raising the white flag at dinner time. The mere mention of food suggestions from mum sends shivers down my spine!

Allow me to share with you what we've had so far:

Nasi Padang (Malay cuisine with dish choices)
Ice Kachang
International Buffet
Japanese Bento Box with a large variety of sashimi, tempura, etc
Assam Fish and Prawns with pineapple
Crispy noodles topped with seafood
Lamb chops with three types of vegetables
Sticky Honey Chicken Wings
Mee Siam
Kaya Toast with soft boiled eggs (typical b'fast meal)
BBQ Chicken Wings
Mao Shan Wang Ice-cream from Udders (pungent durian ice-cream)
North Indian Food
Won Tan Noodles
Mango sago dessert
Mango, pomelo and coconut dessert
Lychee and Martini Ice-cream
Stir-fry rice vermicelli noodles with soft shell crab
Thai Mango Salad

I am officially sick of food and detests coming across as being ungrateful. However, my taste buds, tummy, nostrils and eyes need a break from all the food! It's very overwhelming - everywhere one goes, be it on public transport or walking from point A to point B, different food smells permeates through the air and some combinations are lethal! hahahahaha

Welcome to the land of feasting. Singapore.

Singapore so far...

2010-07-08T11:40:00.002+10:00

Today marks our 7th day in Singapore and much of our time has been spent with my parents. It has been great so far catching up with them, living with them and tucking into mum's home cooking!

I admire my parents on so many levels. They lead exciting and full lives, always putting others before themselves and are very giving and generous.

What have we done so far?

Orchard Road
We did a quick walk around in the new shopping malls and have come to the following conclusions:

There are way too many shopping centres located on Orchard Road
There's no point of difference in all the shopping centres as the same brand of retail stores keep popping up
Orchard Ion feels too claustrophobic and I prefer 313@Somerset
How many more 'Food Republic' Food Courts does Orchard Road require?!

Marina Bay Sands
I have shared my personal views on this establishment via my facebook profile

Resorts World Sentosa
Great destination for the family. Easy to navigate and oh-so-cheap to get to. $3 flat rate on the monorail from Vivo to Sentosa and back!

Universal Studios Singapore
I am glad we bought advanced tickets for this because it's practically sold out every single day. As compared to Universal Studios in LA, this is certainly much much smaller. However, that makes it incredibly easy to walk around - one cannot get lost, ever! Despite two roller coaster rides not in operation (which was very disappointing), we spent 6 hours exploring the park - going on 'The Mummy' Roller Coaster ride (twice), watched numerous shows (4D Shrek was brilliant), had a very cheap and yummy lunch at St Louis' and the many retail stores offer merchandise to suit everyone - we love the mugs and only bought 2 because of its weight!

Vivo Shopping Centre
I still love this shopping centre - it has everything I want and is only 20 minutes on the bus from my parents' home. They even have my favourite HK dessert - Honeymoon Desserts!

Shopping Update
So far, I have not bought anything other than the mugs from Universal Studios and a large bag of pop corn from Garretts for my parents.

I am disappointed with the quality of sales I have seen so far - a lot of 'junk' is being put out. For example, Zara. What's with the bad quality? I was so disappointed and asked a sales associate where the non-sale items are. They were just as blah! Oh well, at least I have not burnt a hole in my pocket!

What's happening today (Thurs)?
We will be heading to Marche for lunch before going our separate ways for a few hours. Jared will be checking out the sales at the numerous helicopter shops and I will be heading to Paragon and Tangs before heading back to my parents for dinner. (As we will be staying elsewhere next week, we are capitalising on our time with them as they work full time)

What's happening tomorrow (Fri)?

Quick lunch catch up with my dear friend of 25 years
Tea and catch up with another dear friend
Movie (the most recent Twilight) and dinner with my friend and our husbands

What's happening the day after tomorrow (Sat)?

Catch up with my ailing 84 year old grandmother
Dinner with 4 friends over Indonesian Food (Jared's favourite cuisine)

What's happening on Sunday?

Leisurely day with mum since dad's working
Pack our bags because we'll be moving to the hotel on Monday due to Jared's work commitments

1 more day...

2010-07-01T11:14:00.000+10:00

...it's 11:05am on Thursday and this time tomorrow, I will be on the aeroplane for an hour bound for the Lion City. What will I be doing? Most likely, watching my first movie - having a drink - not thinking about work (at all) - having the occassional chat with Jared, etc. It will be wonderful, I can feel it in my bones already!

Back to reality, I am in the office finishing up a few projects with the intention of leaving it all behind at 4:00pm. On my home way, I will head to the supermarket to pick up a few provisions for my parents at their request and then heading home to pack the luggage, cook the final dinner (for the next 19 days), clean the kitchen, ring for a taxi to take up to the airport tomorrow and hopefully, sleep without too much trouble!

3 more days ...

2010-06-29T10:09:00.001+10:00

... and no corporate commitments for the next 19 days!

Don't get me wrong. I do enjoy what I do, the team that surrounds me is brilliant and the company that has kept me in full time employment for the last 7.5 years is wonderful. Overall, I am a very bless and lucky woman.

Like many, I enjoy the chance to break the daily grind when opportunities presents itself. That may come in the form of a long weekend, annual holiday, weekend getaway, etc.

I fully intend to leave work behind on Thursday 1st July at 4:00pm including my iPhone (supplied and paid for by the company) and not look back. Yes, I am one of those lucky ones who does not bring 'corporate baggage' home after work or during a holiday. I have the ability to switch off the moment I step out and may I add, that comes with years of experience and the knowledge that the team back in the office is more than capable to hold the fort. Afterall, we are all dispensible.

There is still a fair bit to do on the domestic front and once again, I am grateful for the diligence of my husband who is very hands-on. He has mopped the entire house, cleaned all the bathrooms and toilets, set up automatic light timers for the various lamps around the home, bought another bag of cat food, set up three kitty litter trays, etc and has the washing machine working every 2 days - towels, bedsheets, etc. He's a miracle worker.

We are also eating out the fridge so there will not be any perishable products such as fresh fruit and vegetables when we leave on Friday morning. In the freezer, I have frozen 4 serves of '3 meat bolognaise drowned in Pinot Noir' for when we return home.

The cat will be looked after by the 11 year old next door. She did a great job last time and along with her mum, they have both agreed to feed the cat and clear the poops every second day. We are very bless and lucky to have neighbours who are willing to do that for us.

3 more days....come quickly please!!!

This makes me BOIL

2010-06-28T14:59:00.000+10:00

The following FB status update from a cousin I barely know made my blood boil:

"When one of my cousin congratulated me for being able to
secure a spot at SMU, I responded saying "It's no big deal".
After all what can SMU guarantee me.
Where's my penthouse and Audi?
To make things worse, SMU* has put me in a 40k deficit."

(*SMU = Singapore Management University)

WTF?! I read offensive statements like this from the "younger" cohort of human beings regularly and this particular one got me seething. Perhaps that's because he's my so-called cousin and it's personal somewhat.

Are they expecting life to be given to them on a silver platter? In this case, if "it's no big deal" - why then would you put yourself in a so called '40K deficit'? The arrogance and depth of impetinence offences me.

Wake up! There are no guarantees in life. Even our time on earth is not guaranteed so why would an educational institution anywhere in the world guarantee outcomes of a materialistic nature?

His attitude and objective of this undertaking is all wrong. Instead, he ought to be taken out of the comforts of his HDB home with mum and dad still looking after his daily needs - evidently National Service didn't instill any sense into him whatsoever and neither did the values of the working class!

In fact, he should partake in volunteer work in a less fortunate country for a period of time (minimum 6 months) to gain a heathy and mature perspective on life. Forget National Service - that approach is way too soft these days.

Why do "younger" human beings have such unrealistic expectations of life? What have we as a society done to encourage this? It's no wonder employers shun from employing the "young ones" because they have no stickability whatsoever.

Instead of asking what society can give them, they should be asking what they can give to society.

I am very disappointed ...

Exactly 7 more days to go...

2010-06-25T14:12:00.004+10:00

This time next week (current time 2:00pm QLD time), we will be in Changi Airport Terminal 3 (Singapore). I will go through the super quick electronic check in for Singapore passport holders while the husband queues up with the rest of the 'foreigners'. I take immense delight in seeing him being held up (on this occassion) while I have time to browse the Duty Free shop and even collect our bags! Yes, it does take awhile. As we push our luggage trolley towards the taxi rank, the onslaugh of humidity will knock us for six! No wonder women in Asia have good skin - they don't need moisturisers as they are perpetually in a steam room!

Since I am not there yet, I found time (yesterday) to accomplish an important task. To visit Louis Vuitton and to buy THAT BAG. Allow me to explain: I don't buy a bag for the sake of buying one. It has to rock me, it has to send my heart fluttering, it has to fulfill my practical requirements, etc. Alright, I shall stop here.

I stepped into 'heaven' for a mere 45 minutes - catching up with my SA (Sales Assistant), trying out various bags and scarfs to re-assure myself of my original choice.

Allow me to present to you: Alma MM in Epi Leather (part of the new 'Electrique' range). Photos from Louis Vuitton website. The shine on the leather makes it very difficult to photograph.

She measures 38.5cm x 28.5 cm x 18.5cm

Very generous interior.
It comes with a special Louis Vuitton cleaning cloth and
a lock to secure the bag fully!

I am in LVOE heaven!

Home is where my Heart is

2010-06-25T10:24:00.011+10:00

A few weekends ago, a friend asked my husband a seemingly innocent and poignant question - "where is home?" I assume most people would refer that to location of their physical home / country of residence, etc.

My husband's response completely melted my heart,

"Anywhere in the world so long as my spouse is by side."

Here is another example why I am deeply in love this man.

I have lived in this gorgeous country with abundance for 10 years and consider her to be my first (adoptive) home because I have been incredibly blessed and lucky to have been able to assimilate to her way of life, relatively easily and that's not to say that there weren't any bumps along the way. Those of us who have undertaken this journey are acutely aware of how it differs for the individual / family for a wide variety of reasons. Again, I am very bless and lucky.

Yes, the public transport network can be better however it has taught me time management and the time spent on the train / bus has enabled me to appreciate the variety of landscapes, marvel at mother nature, wake up 'properly' prior to getting into the office, calm down after an intense day in the office so that I don't bring 'work baggage' home and observe human behaviour at its best and not so desireable.

Yes, the operating hours of retail stores in the city on weekdays and sundays close at 6pm and in the suburbs, late night shopping occours on Thursdays where the shopping centres shut at 9pm. These operating hours may seem restrictive to others who live in cities which never sleeps however it has taught me that my free time should not be spent at shopping centres and the important of work/life balance involving family, friends or whatever one desires that does not include being in queues, fighting for carpark spots, etc.

Yes, it is quiet at night - no noisy neighbours (thank goodness), scarce traffic on the road (what a bonus), etc. This has taught me to slow down, breathe in and out, and the simple pleasures in life like making a cup of tea and settling down with a good book.

Yes, eating out is expensive even take away / fast food however we have great fresh produce in this country. It has taught me the importance of shopping seasonally and only once a week. Cooking is a joy as it enables me to rid my corporate life at the end of the day and bask in domestic bliss. It has also made me appreciate going out to a restaurant/ cafe once a week! In fact, it's a wonderful treat!

Here's what a typical weekday is like for me:

6:15am - Alarm goes off and one of us turns on the LCD in the bedroom

6:30am - We watch the morning news

6:40am - One of us fixes breakfast and brings it back to bed

7:00am - I am in the shower

7:15am - Grab my lunch & snacks from the fridge and drive to the train station

7:25am - Train arrives

8:20am - In my office with a big glass of water

4:15pm - Leave the office (if I don't have to work late!)

4:35pm - Train arrives

4:55pm - Train arrives at husband's office

5:00pm - We drive home

5:15pm - I start cooking dinner

5:45pm - Dinner is served

6:15pm - Kitchen gets cleaned and is closed for the night

6:30pm onwards - watch tv, read, surf the internet, on the telephone, etc

9:30pm - I am in bed reading a book

10:00pm - Lights' out and time for bedtime

Here's what a typical weekend is like for me:

6:30am - Rise and shine. One of us fixes breakfast usually Bacon & Eggs

7:30am - Shower and gets ready to drop husband off at the Aeroclub

7:45am - Husband's at the club and I drive to the supermarket

8:00am - I spend at least 45 mins doing the weekly shopping

9:00am - Put all the shopping away, starts cooking 3 meals for the following week + snacks that we bring to work and tidying of the home

12:00pm - Picks husband up from the club, heads home for lunch and do whatever we want at home / we may have friends over for lunch

5:00pm - Head out for a movie (that is worth watching) and dinner

9:00pm - Home, watch a little telly

10:30pm - Lights' out and time for bedtime

My life is simple and full - I love it the way it is.

Car Essential 101: Car Accident Emergency Kit

2010-06-23T10:50:00.006+10:00

Car accidents can happen anytime, anywhere to anyone when they least expect it. No one ever knows how they will react immediately after an accident and this couldn't be more true for us some three weeks ago.

Indulge me while I set the scene for you:

I was not driving instead I was being driven this particular morning to the train station by the husband
This is our very first accident and husband has never ever lost any points on his licence nor has he made any car insurance claims
It was a clear cool morning - no fog, no rain, etc
We were at the entrance of the parking area and there was a huge 4WD in front of us. We patiently waited for the driver in that car to get her spot. Her reverse lights came on and we couldn't reverse back because there was traffic. She persisted with her reverse and husband honked several times to get her attention but to no avail
'Bang!' We got out of the cars, no visible damage on her 4WD and there was damage to our front bumper
This is what really pissed me off: Husband who self-proclaims to be a 'organised virgo' cannot locate any paper / business card or pen to write down this driver's details. He opened every single compartment of his car and got more flustered by the second, I on the other hand remained very calm (we are good like that - we really balance each other in tense situations)
I got out of the car and took 2 photos on my iphone - the first with the woman standing next to her car which clearly captures the model and licence plate and the second with the damage on our front bumper
Husband finally found some scrap paper and a pen that was not dried up and got her to write down her details. This woman remained calm and apologetic. After details were exchanged, we all went out separate ways
When I got to the office, I emailed the photos to the husband for his records

Fast forward 3 weeks, insurance company can't locate her and the contact numbers provided led nowhere either. In fact, they rang me yesterday and asked if I were the driver(?!) so I told them very clearly and curtly that I am not and that if they so desired photographic evidence, I will willingly provide. They apologised and we hung up.

Husband undertook some investigative work to see if he can find alternative contact details - Google, Facebook, etc ...

This woman has a very unique name - so unique to the point where no one can pronounce it except her family, we think. Anyhow, there might be a break through, she may be working at a 'company' that I am familiar with and have a good working relationship with the boss. I have left a message for the boss and hope that she will be able to verify for me if this person is indeed an employee and that she drives this particular model of car which carries this particular number plate(I have no intention of dragging the boss into the picture now do I want to speak with this woman). We will then provide the phone number of this 'company' to the insurance company for their follow-up.

What has this taught me?
It's time to put together a Car Emergency Accident Kit (besides the ones that comes with the car like a spare tyre, tools to change one, first aid, etc):

A small canvas bag
Take a small canvas bag that is durable that can stay inside your vehicle at all times. Fill it with the items that will be listed below. Once you have filled it, find a permanent place in your vehicle where you can keep it so you will be ready in the event of an accident.

Checklist
The checklist is one of the most important things you will keep in your kit. Write down the most important things you need to check or ask immediately after an accident. 1) Check for injuries, call 000 if necessary; 2) Look at vehicle damage and determine whether it is a safe area to stay; 3) Take pictures of the accident scene before moving either vehicle 4) Don't say anything to the other driver (other than exchange of information) until police arrive; 5) Ask for driver's license, insurance and vehicle information. This checklist will provide a guideline to keeping your cool during a very stressful and sometimes scary time.

Basic Stationery that works!
Keep a pad of paper, a capped pen and a pencil in your bag at all times. Have the list of necessary information already filled out, with blanks next to them to be completed. Write down the following for the other party: Name, Driver's License Number, Address, Phone Number, Date of Birth, Their Insurance Name, Their Insurance Policy Number, Their Insurance Phone Number, License Plate Number, Make Model and Year of Vehicle, Color of Vehicle. Having this filled out in advance will save time and will keep you from forgetting all of the information you might need.

Take photographs
Take lots of pictures. A picture is really worth a thousand words in any accident. Try to take pictures before you leave the immediate area of the accident- take photos from the front, rear and both sides of each vehicle, as well as any pictures of the road in relation to the vehicles or any landmarks that stick out and make the exact point of impact easy to recognize. Also take pictures of street signs and lights from your vehicle's point of view as well as the other vehicle's point of view. This can help determine fault if the question ever comes up at a later time. Once you move your vehicles, take more pictures of the damages that were done, as well as of any injuries.

Flashlight
Keep a flashlight in your emergency kit just in case the accident happens at night. You want to be able to see if anything is leaking from your vehicle to determine whether or not it is a hazard to stay close, also you want to be able to examine yourself, passengers or others involved for injuries. Keep the flashlight in your first aid kit so you can have easy access to all emergency supplies that may also be necessary.

Emergency Contact Numbers
Keep a list of emergency phone numbers in your cell phone, in your glove compartment and in your emergency kit. You never know if part of your vehicle will be demolished, and you may not be able to tell people who to call in case of emergency. Keep a list of phone numbers including loved ones to be contacted, personal physician information and health insurance information (if you have insurance).

I will be putting it together this weekend while the husband attempts to put aside what he needs to bring on our holiday next week.

The Art of Packing and Unpacking for DINKS*

2010-06-22T12:36:00.012+10:00

Yes the countdown - 10 more days! This is especially annoying for those who are not going on a vacation in 10 days, anticipation for those who are going sometime soon and reminisce for those who have only very recently returned from one.

I am known for being an organised person both professionally and personally. For example, after checking into my hotel room, the following is carried out:

Unzip my suitcase
Place bag of toiletries on the vanity in the bathroom
Hang huge draw string laundry bag made of linen behind the bathroom door
Remove extra hangers from my suitcase
Hang up all my clothes according to colours (great for early morning starts)
Lingerie into the top drawer (bras on one side, panties on the other)
PJs and my small 'pouch' of accessories on the bottom drawer
Remove my shoes from the shoes' bag and place them in a straight line (if possible)
Place empty suitcase in the wardrobe (if it fits)
Place my book / reading material on the bedside table
Plug the mobile phone charger into the wall socket and connect my iphone
Plug the digital camera charger into another wall socket and re-charge the camera

Once all that is out of sight and out of mind, I am able to relax with a pot of tea.

Last night while assisting Jared with the laundry, I did what I have never done before and that is, pack 11 days before our vacation!

The earliest I would pack for a vacation is 48 hours prior or at least 5 days prior (if I am going on a snow ski holiday because there's so much stuff to bring). If it were for business, it would be 12 hours prior because I have mastered the art of packing for this purpose.

It took me all of five minutes to put together everything I need for this upcoming vacation! Yes, you read correct. Five minutes.

I attribute this to the Season. It's winter down here and scorching hot summer up there. Naturally, I have not been wearing much of my summer clothes so it was a very easy exercise of removing several short summer dresses, lycra pants (don't need much ironing), a few fancy tops, resort wear attire, etc.

All of them are now laid neatly on the bed of our guest bedroom to be packed into our one GIGANTIC bag next week. We tend to bring between the both of us:

1 gigantic bag - which 'houses' both our clothes, shoes, toiletries, etc
1 medium size cabin bag (which we bring on the plane) - which 'houses' a smaller size cabin bag that 'houses' comfy outfits for the aeroplane, an extra set of day clothes for each of us (in the case the gigantic bag goes to a different country) and reading materials

Those cabin bags comes in very handy during our vacations and I believe you know what I am talking about - shopping!!!!!

10 more days....I shall be a woman of leisure for the duration of my vacation because I've worked hard for it! :)

*DINKS = Double Income No Kids

12 more days to vacation

2010-06-20T12:37:00.000+10:00

It's time for my annual vacation and it comes as no surprise to many that in 12 days, I will be heading back to the country of my birth - Singapore. Eversince I made Australia my home some 10 years ago, it comes as no surprise that there's an unspoken expectation for me to catch up with my parents face-to-face annually (+ weekly phone calls + monthly remittance + extra $ on CNY and birthdays, etc). I am grateful that the flight time is only 8 hours hence it's affordable and not energy zapping as compared to others who live on the other side of the world.

Naturally, I am looking forward to catching up with family and friends. They have the ability to nourish me with their love and acceptance that sustains me until my next trip, really.

With vacation comes the lifestyle of a woman of leisure. As all my family and friends work during the day and can only catch up in the evenings (unless they have the day off on my account), my mornings are filled with laps at the swimming pool (so that I can eat, fit into my clothes and not resort to wearing the sarong on the return trip back to Aus) followed by leisurely local breakfast before heading out for the day.

When it comes to the variety of activities to do in Singapore, there isn't much for the picking except for food and shopping. In this respect, the choices are boundless. For this trip, I look forward to checking out the following:

Orchard Ion
Mandarin Gallery
313@Somerset
Marina Bay Sands Shopping Gallery
High Tea at The Fullerton
Buffet at the Tiffin Room, Raffles Hotel
Sentosa
Local eateries (e.g. Steamboat, Ramen, Kueh Chap, Chee Kway, Chai Tau Kway, Yong Tau Foo, dried Mee Pok with fishballs, Assam Fish Head, BBQ stingray on banana leaf, Pepper Crab, etc)
Mum's cooking, naturally

For now, I am happily 'eating out my fridge' so that I will not have any fresh food left in by the time we depart and I also have a few containers of meals that I have frozen when we return so that I don't have to drag myself to the supermarket on the same day as I get home.

Vacation, here I come!

Recipe: Leek-Cauliflower-Potato Soup

2010-06-16T11:52:00.001+10:00

After being away from home for five days and meeting with (close to) 400 people, you would be forgiven for thinking that I should be putting my feet up, cloistering myself at home and catching up on much deprived sleep! Well, that would be sensible. Since I am not that sensible, it would come as no surprise to the few of you who follow this blog that I found myself in the supermarket for my 'usual' weekly grocery shopping.

I shall not bore you with what I bought at the supermarket and instead focus on one of the positive outcomes from that visit.

Here's a soup that's so simple - even you can make it with one hand and one eye (no offence intended).

Leek-Potato-Cauliflower Soup serves 6

Ingredients

1 leek, sliced

1 cauliflower, cut into florets and retain the stems

3 big potatoes, peeled and chopped

3 cloves of garlic, whole

3 tbsps Chicken stock powder
300g low fat cream

Cold water, from the tap

Pepper to taste

In a deep stock pot, add all the ingredients at once (except the cream). Add water till it covers 3/4 of the vegetables. Cook on high and let it boil for at least 15 minutes. Simmer for an hour. Turn off the heat and stir in the cream
Using a hand held blender or food processor, blitz the soup until you are please with the consistency be it creamy or chunky. Serve hot with crusty bread or on its own

Bon Apetito!

Recipe: Moroccan Couscous Salad with Roasted Vegetables

2010-06-07T20:21:00.000+10:00

I love Middle Eastern flavours, sweetness of roasted vegetables and the salty & creamy textures of a feta. Hence my creation of this meal. It's great as a weekend meal on its own or as a side with your favourite grilled meats which was what we had on the weekend with 12 friends.

Moroccan CousCous Salad with Roasted Vegetables (serves many!!!)

Ingredients

500g couscous, follow cooking instructions on box

2 tbsps Masselles Brand Vegetable Stock

1 big eggplant, sliced into cubes

1 big sweet potato, sliced into cubes

1/2 pumpkin, sliced into cubes

1 pkt spinach leaves

1/2 jar sun dried tomatoes, drained of oil

1 pkt of feta cheese

MasterFoods Moroccan Spices

MasterFoods Rosemary and Salt Spices

Olive Oil

Instructions

Pre-heat oven to 180C for 20 minutes. In a deep bowl, combine cubed eggplants - sweet potatoes - sweet potato in Olive Oil, 2 tbsps Rosemary and Salt Spices and 6 tbsps Moroccan spices. Lay the vegetables in baking trays and roast them for 40 minutes
While vegetables are being cooked in the oven, prepare couscous according with instructions on back of box + recommended liquid (add vegetable stock). Set aside
In your serving bowl, mix all the ingredients together. Drizzle generously with olive oil.

Bon Apetito!

Recipe: 'Meat Falling off the Bone' Ox Tail Soup

2010-06-07T14:48:00.000+10:00

Soups are a brilliant meal to feed a family because it's easy to prepare, fills everyone up, nutritious and only 1 pot to wash up! Here's one of my family favourites that I whip up whenever the weather cools down and / or when I am doing too many times at the one time!

'Meat Falling off the Bone' Ox Tail Soup (serves 4)

Ingredients

1.5kg ox tail

1 Brown Onion

3 Carrots, cut into bite size pieces

3 celery sticks, cut into bite size pieces

2 big potatoes, cut into bite size pieces

4 sprigs of fresh thyme

2 tbsps Marselles Brand Vegetable Stock

1 can of lentils

Water to adequately cover all the bones and vegetables

Pepper to taste

Instructions

In a deep stock pot, place all the ingredients. Cook on high for at least 20 minutes and simmer for the next 2 hours. This meal is also suitable to be cooked in a crock pot.

Bon Apetito!

Recipe: Devilled Eggs

2010-06-07T14:41:00.000+10:00

I have no idea why this is named 'Devilled Eggs' because it is neither spicy nor difficult to prepare. However, this is one of my trusted nibbles / canapes for entertaining and it is a winner everytime. This is great for people of all ages except those who are dairy intolerant.

Devilled Eggs (makes 24)

Ingredients

14 Hard boiled eggs, shelled and sliced into half

1/2 cup of egg mayonnaise

3 tbsps curry powder

salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Slice all the hard boiled eggs into half, remove egg yolks into a separate deep bowl
In the bowl with egg yolks, add mayonnaise - curry powder - salt and pepper. Mix well
Lay all the hard boiled egg whites on a serving platter. Using fill the cavity with the egg yolk mixture with a teaspoon or pipping bag
Top the eggs with fresh chives (optional)

A Working Gal's Survivor Soup: Heart Beef and Barley Soup

2010-05-31T15:53:00.000+10:00

I am proud that I prepare all 99% of our meals each week and in order for me to achieve that while holding down a job full-time requires organisation.

I am not ashame to add that I love routine. My weekends are filled with household activities such as weekly grocery shopping, catching up tv shows that was recordered during the work week, reading, gardening, etc.

Grocery shopping can be a REAL chore especially after a long day at work, during peak hours, etc. Therefore, I do mine first thing on Saturday or Sunday morning (depending on which weekend-day I am actually at home and not away for work) when the supermarket opens.

As I've had over 10 years of experience in the area of food shopping, I am able to keep to our budget without having a shopping list. How do I know what I'm going to cook? It's all dependent on what's available / seasonal / special as in sale.

Last weekend as in yesterday, I made 3 different meals for the work week ahead and here's a simple meal that is guaranteed to noursh your family!

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup serves 6

Ingredients

600g Gravy Beef / Shin Beef, cut into bite sized pieces
1 white onion, cut into bite sized pieces

4 carrots, cut into bite sized pieces
1/2 cup barley

2 tbsps vegetable stock powder

4 sprigs of thyme

2 sprigs of rosemary

water

Pepper to taste

In a deep stock pot, place all the prepared ingredient. Add water to adequately cover all the meat and vegetables. Cook on high for 30 minutes and simmer on low for at least 2 hours
Served on its own, with rice or crusty bread on the side

Bon Apetito!

Recipe: Too Easy-Too Delicious Ox Tail Stew

2010-05-25T09:01:00.000+10:00

Too Easy - Too Delicious Ox Tail Stew serves 4

Ingredients

1.2kg Ox Tail

3 carrots, cut into bite sized pieces

3 sticks of celery, cut into bite sized pieces

2 tomatoes, cut into four each

1 white onion, cut into four

2 cloves garlic

12 sage leaves (3 tbsps dried sage)

6 sprigs of thyme (2 tbsps dried thyme)

2 tbsps vegetable stock powder

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (1 cup of red wine)

1 cup of water

2 tins of Heinz Big Red Tomato Soup *compulsory*

Turn the slow cooker aka Crock Pot on "High Mode" while you are preparing the ingredients
Place all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on "High" for at least four hours then turn it down to "Low" for two hours
Serve with crusty bed, ricem mashed potato or on its own

Tip

If you will not be home for the day, cook this on "Auto Mode" for 8 hours and you will have a meal ready to be served when you get home

Bon Apetito!

Ox Tail: One of my favourite cuts of meat

2010-05-24T15:56:00.000+10:00

Ox Tail or tail of beef is one of the most flavoursome of meats. Famous in a stew and soup, it makes a delicious meal that is also kind on the pocket!

I can often be found with at least 1kg of this, destined for my slow cooker. Some people are turn off by Ox Tail because of where it's located on the animal and / or by the time required to turn this beast of a tail into a meat-melting-off-the-bone texture.

Make time and slow cooker your best friends. I do.

Stews and soups are always best consumed 24 hours after they've been cooked so as to allow the flavours to develop.

With the professionalism of the slow cooker, I can make mine anytime - weekday or weekend.

If I am at home, I take the slow cooker onto "high" mode for 4 hours followed by "slow" mode for 2 hours to complete the process. If I am out of the home for the day (e.g. out shopping or at work), it's "auto" mode for 8 hours and I kid you not, it's like magic!

The aromas that greet you as you walk through your home is absolutely divine! I will dare you to not consume the meal on the same day.

I will post a recipe of my too simple and too delicious Ox Tail Stew tomorrow!

Congee Comfort

2010-05-24T15:13:00.000+10:00

Congee is a meal that I always associate with being unwell, cooler temps and a quick meal when one is not in the mood to cook.

Growing up, I would dread whenever mum made congee because my young taste butts prefered more exciting and flavoursome meals with heaps of salt & spice! However, times have certainly changed.

With each passing year, I find myself leaning towards congee for comfort. I love my congee. It's warm, nutritious, comforting and filling.

If you don't know how to cook congee, please find out for yourself especially if you are of Asian descent!

There are endless combinations with congee and here are some of my favourites:

Gai Chook topped with Yow Tiao(cantonese translated to english: Chicken Congee with deep fried fritters)
Pei Dan Chook (cantonese translated to english: Century Egg Congee) - yes the black egg that's supposedly being soaked in horse urine for 100 years. It's delish!
Gee Yok Chook (cantonese translated to english: Pork Congee) - minced pork balls in congee. Yumo!
Raw Sliced Fish Congee (raw sliced fish slices in congee - yum!)
Sweet Potato Congee (self explanatory)
Plain Congee with raw egg and soy sauce (yes, raw egg - yum!)
Plain Congee with Borvil / Vegemite (yes! Yes! Yes!)

What are your favourite combinations?

Delicious Marzipan Creations

2010-05-14T14:27:00.000+10:00

I was sent a series of stunning food creations made out of Marzipan and have picked out a few of my favourites to share with you. They look too good to be consumed!!!!

Quick and Tasty: Japanese Curry

2010-05-12T10:37:00.006+10:00

Whenever I am at a Food Court, I find myself gravitating towards the Japanese Food stall either for Sushi or Pork Jap Curry. They are both delicious, filling and hits the right spots in my tum!

One of my meal staples for home is Katsu Don either with Chicken or Pork. Yes, despite making it at home, I still have it when I am at the Food Court. Goes to show how much I love it!

I give you my word that this is so quick, tasty and afforable to make that it will become one of your meal staples too!

Those of us who cook regularly at home will have certain staples in our kitchen pantry. Amongst the various items in mine, are a packet of Panko and a few boxes S & B Golden Curry. They are my live savers!

Even though there're only the two of us, I tend to make meals for four so that we have enough to bring for lunch to work the next day.

Here's my recipe for Katsu Don and hope you will attempt it someday.

Chicken / Pork Japanese Curry serves 4

Ingredients

Preparing the meat

4 pieces of chicken breasts / pork chops, flatten with meat tenderiser tool

2 cups of panko, on a plate

2 cups of plain flour, on a separate plate

1 egg, lightly beaten, on a another plate

Salt and pepper (to marinate the meat with)

1 cup of vegetable oil
(or more depending on the size and depth of your fry pan)

Preparing the curry sauce

4 curry cubes
2 carrots, cut into bite sized pieces
2 potatoes, cut into bite sized pieces
1 onion, cut into bite sized pieces
1 tbsp vegetable oil

Hot water

Utensils required

1 plate to contain the meat that has been panko crumbed
1 shallow stainless steel fry pan (for shallow frying)

1 stainless steel small pot (for the curry sauce)

1 pair of tongs (to flip the meat while shallow frying)

1 spatula (for cooking the curry)

1. Preparing the sauce: In pot over medium heat, add the oil. When it's slightly smoking, add all the vegetables and brown them for 5 minutes. Add hot water to cover all the vegetables. When it is boiled, add curry cubes and add more water as it thickens until you are please with its consistency. Cook on high and simmer for 15 minutes or until vegetables are soft.

2. In your shallow fry pan, add the oil on medium high heat. While waiting for the heat to reach its temperature (you must do this if not, the meat will absorb too much oil), start on the following step which should take you less then 3 minutes so long as you have prepared all the components before hand as listed above in the 'ingredients' section.

3. Preparing the meat: Dip the flattened marinated meat pieces one at a time in egg, followed by flour and then panko crumbs. Set aside on clean plate.

4. Shallow fry the meat for 3 - 5 minutes on each side (depending on how flat your meat is). Once it is golden brown on both sides, place it on a clean plate with paper towels to absorb the oil.

5. Serve on a plate of rice, with meat on the side and drizzle over with the scumptious curry sauce. Bon Apetito!

LV Galleria + LV Artsy = ?

2010-05-11T10:10:00.004+10:00

Be warned that this is not a food related entry and I hear you asking, 'how does this and the other bag entry relate to this blog?' Well, I know that the title of this blog does not however this is my blog and there is more to me than just food and gardening. There you have it. :D

I learnt through one of my trusted sources that Louis Vuitton is launching a new 'hobo' style bag in June. In fact, you can go to your SA in your respective cities and reserve for one right now.

According to my source, the price will be similar to that of the Neverfull. Based on what I have seen, this new bag is more stylish and perhaps even safer than the Neverfull.

I would agree with the sentiment that this new bag is the bringing together of the Galleria and the Artsy. What do you think?

Presenting the new Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Delightful GM.

I have the Galleria and love it to bits for a whole host of reasons including its generous interior, design, adjustable straps, etc. I have also tried on the Artsy which, unfortunately, does not suit me. I feel constraint by it due to its short and rather uncomfortable strap that could not be adjusted.

I quite fancy the simplicity of this design with its "pipping" on the side to emphasize its shape and of particular interest, the two zippers!

Based on its price and classic lines, this will no doubt be selling like hot cakes. Is it the bag for me? I don't know. I need to check it out for myself and ascertain how it feels and looks on me before I can form an opinion.

What do you think of this bag?

Roasted Rolled Loin of Pork with CRACKLING!

2010-05-10T10:47:00.001+10:00

There are two particular comforting smells I love emitting from the oven. One is of freshly cooked bread and other one is roast pork. The smells are heavenly and my saliva ducts, uncontrollably wet with greed! If you haven't experienced that sensation, trust me, you must!

Here's my foolproof method of ensuring that you get crackling on your Rolled Loin of Pork everytime and yes, you must follow this strictly and no, you do not need any special training.

Roasted Rolled Loin of Pork with CRACKLING! serves 6

Tools Required

Fan-forced oven
Baking tray
Meat thermometer
Sharp knife

Paper Towels

Ingredients

1.7kg Rolled Loin of Pork

1 bunch of fresh rosemary

1 bunch of fresh sage

1/2 cup of Masterfood Brand Garlic Salt

1. Pre-heat your fan-forced oven to the highest temperature on the dial. Mine is 230C. Pre-heat the oven for at least 45 minutes. Yes, it must be scorchingly HOT!

2. Put your rolled loin of pork on the chopping block. Using your sharp knife, score the rind across in regular intervals (do not cut through the meat!). Using paper towels, pat the pork very dry (any hint of moisture and the pork rind will not crackle).

3. Stuff the loin with rosemary and sage. Sprinkle all the Garlic Salt over the rind generously. Patting it down firmly.

4. Insert meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loin. Place it into a baking tray (ensure that the baking tray has a "bed" or rosemary so that the pork does not get stuck to the tray during the cooking process).

5. Place it in the scorchingly HOT oven for at least 40 minutes. After that time, turn the oven down to 180C. Cook until the meat thermomether indicates that the pork is fully cooked. Remove from oven. Cover it slightly with a tea towel (so that steam can escape) and let is rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.

6. Serve with roasted vegetables (my favourites include pumpkin, potato, sweet potato, onion, garlic) and store bought apple sauce. Bon Apetito!

Quiche of Spinach, Ricotta, Cheddar and Feta

2010-05-10T10:17:00.000+10:00

One of my favourite past-times is to check out various food blogs to inspire me prior to the weekly visit to the supermarket. One of my favourite all-in-one meal is Quiche and I have never attempted making one, ever.

So here's my first attempt and I have to say that it's uber easy, yummy and great for the weekend!

Quiche of Spinach, Ricotta, Cheddar and Feta serves 6

Ingredients

1 + 1/4 sheet puff pastry, thawed at room temperature for 15 mins
250g spinach
250g ricotta
250g cream
150g cheddar
150g feta
4 eggs
Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a pie dish, spray generously with canola oil. Press puff pastry firmly on the base and the sides of the dish. Prick the base with fork. Blind bake for 15 minutes at 180C

2. In a deeep stainelss steel bowl, add all the ingredients. Mix well with spatula or fingers. Combine very well

3. Allow cooked pastry to rest on kitchen benchtop for 15 minutes. Add the mixture into the pie and fill only up to 3/4 full. Bake in oven for 40 minutes

4. Slice and served with side of salad. Bon Apetito!

Tip

Left-overs may be re-heated in the microwave the next day.

My Love Affair with Handbags

2010-05-06T16:03:00.003+10:00

My name is Magdalene and I am a Bag-a-holic.

This addiction started during my teenage years under the influence of my mum. She loves handbags and can always be found checking them in all sorts of places from retail to 'pasar malam' (outdoor night markets). However her taste and mine are very different and she used to buy me handbags because she loves me. Her display of affection was so frequent that I have two plastic containers full of handbags that I have never used and will never use! They were donated to charity last year because it was taking up too much valuable space in my linen cupboard.

During my 'spare' moments, I love checking out various handbag related blogs as it thoroughly takes my mind off reality, nourishes my soul and keeps me sane.

My taste in designer handbags begun in 2008 in the city of Bangkok. I went into the Gucci boutique and fell in love with a small bag. The euphoria of exploration and eventual purchase with me walking out with my very first designer bag nestled in its own dust bag, box and huge Gucci shopping bag is an experience that I will forever remember. It was S-A-T-I-S-F-Y-I-N-G, to state the least. I have acquired a few more Guccis since then.

My relationship with Louis Vuitton came about in 2008 (yes that was a particularly fantastic year) while taking a day off from Snow Skiing in Queenstown New Zealand. A Louis Vuitton boutique had recently opened and naturally, I walked in looking like the Masmallow Man with all my winter gear on and fell in love - head over heels with the Galleria in Monogram Canvas. From that day on, my life would never be the same again.

From then on, I have acquired a few more pieces and often purchase prior to my overseas holidays because I can claim 10% GST back from any Australian International Airports. It's so worth the wait!

I will be heading overseas in about 6 weeks time and have been to Louis Vuitton boutiques on the Gold Coast and Brisbane a couple of times to try on different bags. It's a really tough decision, ok? I think I have made my decision and here she is:

Alma MM in Epi Leather

She's absolutely gorgeous in a glossy finish, full leather, easy to maintain, generous & oh-so-practical interior and the rounded handles ideal for hand or elbow carry. I love her to bits!

Some may say that black is a boring colour. To me, it's a classic and I love the shape of the Alma. Most importantly, it's very easy to upkeep and the Epi leather is known for its durability.

I can't wait to cuddle her in my arms. Alma, wait for mummy. I will pick you up soon!

Flame Grilled Lamb on a bed of Autumn vegetables

2010-05-06T09:37:00.000+10:00

There's no denying in my household that we love our lamb and roasted vegetables. They have such distinctive flavours and when eaten together, makes our hearts flutter and sends us to a different planet. Here's a relatively quick meal that can be whipped up within the hour - great for a weeknight after work or a leisurely lunch on the weekend.

Flame Grilled Lamb on a Bed of Autumn Vegetables serves 4 main meals

Ingredients

4 lamb loin chops and 4 lamb rump steaks
190g fresh rocket and spinach leaves
1/4 pumpkin
1 sweet potato, cut into slices
2 red onions, cut into 6

1 cucumber, deseeded
150g sundried tomatoes
100g feta, crumble with fingers
4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 tbsps coriander powder
4 tbsps cumin powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Dressing (cook it over the stove until warm)

4 parts Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 parts Balsamic Vinegar
4 tbsps Thai Sweet Chilli Sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 sprig of rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1:
Using 2 separate mixing bowls, one contains sliced pumpkins, sweet potatoes and onions. Marinate it with Olive Oil, Coriander, Cumin, Salt and Pepper. Mix well. In the other bowl, add all the meat and marinate it with Rosemary, Garlic, Olive Oil, Salt and Pepper. Mix well.

Step 2:

Pre-heat oven to 180C and roast vegetables for 45 minutes.

15 minutes before the roast vegetables are done, pre-heat your BBQ on high for at least 5 minutes. Cook the meat for about 10 minutes for well-done and cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the meat.

Step 3:

While the vegetables are being cooked in the oven, start putting the fresh produce together on a platter. Start with the rocket and spinach, followed by sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4:

Add cucumber and add a layer of roasted pumpkins on top.

Step 5:

Add a layer of sweet potatoes and randomly place onions on top.

Step 6:

Serve the salad topped with a few pieces of meat and crumble feta. Generously drizzle with dressing. BON APETITO!

"Posh" Shepherd's Pie

2010-05-04T13:41:00.002+10:00

Inspired by the cooler temperatures and a husband's unrelenting request, I made Shepherd's pie for the first time in 5 years over the long weekend. It's not surprising that this recipe that I'm sharing with you is not the recipe from 5 years ago as my palate has evolved over the years with feasting!

"Traditional" Shepherd's pie does not have a pastry base and mine has because my husband loves puff pastry. We particularly enjoy the rich filling with red wine + pancetta - it's guaranteed to give you wings!

Be warn that this recipe takes time. Despite that, it is well worth the effort because of the praises that will be heaped upon you and of course, the enjoyment of tucking in!

"Posh" Shepherd's pie serves 6

Ingredients

600g beef mince

8 slices of pancetta, roughly torn

1 red onion, finely diced

1 celery stalk, finely diced

1 carrot, finely diced

1 clove garlic, finely diced

4 sprigs of fresh thyme

4 sprigs of fresh oregano

1/2 bottle of red wine (yes, 1/2 bottle!)

1/2 pkt of instant mash (yes, I do use it!)
mixed with hot water to resemble mash

Salt and pepper to taste

1 egg + 1 tbsp water, beaten together (egg wash for mash potato top)

1 instant puff pastry sheet, thawed for 10 mins on kitchen benchtop

Instructions

1. In a deep-ish stainless steel pan, spray pan with cooking spray. Add, pancetta, onion, celery, carrot, garlic, thyme and oregano. Brown them well. This will take approximately 10 minutes. Set aside.

2. In the same pan, brown beef mince. Ensure that you break it up as you cook so that the meat resembles mince and not clumps. This will take approximately 10 minutes.

3. Add the ingredients from step 1 into the pan of cooked beef mince. Add salt and pepper (to taste) and all the red wine. Bring it to boil and simmer on low heat with lid half covering the pan for 1.5 hours. Leave mixute to cool for at least 45 minutes.

4. In a pie dish, spray generously with cooking spray. Line the base and sides of pie dish with puff pastry. Press pastry firmly against the dish. Blind bake for 15 minutes at 200C. Set aside to cool.

5. Once the meat mixture is cool, add that to the pie dish. Top with mash and brush over with egg wash which will give the 'top' a lovely golden finish. Bake for 15 - 20 minutes at 200C.

6. Served immediately with side salad. Bon Apetito!

Tips
Left-overs may be kept in the refrigerator and not the freezer.
Re-heat in microwave without lid

Swiss Brown Mushroom and Barley Soup

2010-04-08T12:38:00.002+10:00

I was going through my recipe book collection on the weekend for soups specifically hearty vegetarian ones and came across this in the Australian Women's Weekly Low Fat Recipe Book. I have modified it slightly for my taste and can attest that it is a very simple, healthy and nutritious meal which is perfect since the weather is starting to turn just a little tat cooler.

The meal was so delicious that I had forgotten take any photographic evidence! Therefore, please excuse me this time and hope that you will try it some day.

Here's what you need:

Ingredients serves 4

200g Swiss Brown Mushrooms, quartered
2 cloves garlic, minced finely
2 carrots, sliced into small cubes
2 celery sticks, sliced into small cubes
1 brown onion, sliced finely
100g pearl barley
4 cups (1 litre) of Chicken Stock** - temperature hot
4 cups (1 litre) of extra water - temperature hot
2 tbsps soy sauce
2 tbsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Instructions

1. In a deep soup pot over medium heat - add mushrooms, garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, soy sauce and a little water. Cook till mushrooms are semi-soft. Remove from pot and set it aside.

2. In the same deep soup pot over medium heat - add onion, carrots, celery and 1 tbsp olive oil. Brown the vegetables for 5 minutes and add the cooked mushrooms back in the pot.

3. Add Chicken stock, barley and extra water into the pot. Cook on high and simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Serve it on its own or with crushy bread on the side.

** I use Massel for all my stocks (chicken, beef, vegetables) because it is tasty, free of MSG and all the stocks are made from vegetables. Yes, even the meat stock powders are made from vegetables. Therefore, this recipe is great for vegetarians too! If you are using Massel brand stock for this recipe, use 4 tbsps of stock powder and you won't need to add any salt to this soup / meal.

There's a change in the air

2010-04-07T09:47:00.006+10:00

Finally, the cooler mornings have started to descend upon us here in Brisbane. I love crisp mornings like this and am thrilled that it will stay till September, at the very least. Crisp mornings are best enjoyed in bed if you are a reluctant riser like me or with a nice cuppa tea under the outdoor patio while sniffing the fresh air and watching the lorikeets feast on native plants.

The other thing I love to do on mornings like this is to check out my kitchen garden (of course!). Come along and join me won't you?

The flourishing rows of yellow and orange Marigolds have been great deterents of pests to my garden.

Check out the Okra or otherwise known as 'Ladies' Fingers' - I have never seen them this huge in the stores!

Check out the Beetroot that's peeking through the earth! It has taken quite awhile for it to greet me. I wonder how long I can keep it in there...perhaps, I should find out?!

This is a little Truss Tomato still in its infancy. As we hardly get frost here, let's all hope they continue to grow through the cooler months so that I can enjoy plucking them instead of paying a small fortune for them at the stores!

Check them out! These marigolds are so bright! Don't they just make you smile?

Yes, that's parsley grown between each marigold plant. It's flourishing very well without much t.l.c. Grow some in your garden or in a pot - they are full of vitamin C!

Here's a cucumber. Yes, I am not kidding you. This is cucumber grown naturally without any human interference. Did I tell you that my Kitchen Garden is an organic one? Yes, no pesticides or insecticides have been used, ever!

Yes this is is yet another eggplant. It's by far my most productive produce, ever!

I was at home on this particularly day and had heaps on my mind when I heard a soft knock on my door. God sent me two little angels on this day to cheer me up!

They are my two all-time favourite little girls from next door. Absolute joy to be around - incredibly well behaved, loving and oh so cheeky. If I am ever bless to be a mum, I want to have children like them!

Oh and their parents manage a highly successful restaurant in Brisbane call "Blue Smoke". If you are a carnivore like me and crave for authentic American Smoke BBQ ribs and other delectables.

Blue Smoke BBQ

9/85 Merthyr Road, New Farm QLD 4005

Ph (07) 3358 1922

p.s. They did not pay me to mention this at all.

LOOK at what I DISCOVERED!

2010-03-29T09:05:00.001+10:00

I am a novice when it comes to vegetable gardening and last weekend, I was extremely excited (like a little girl in a toy shop full of Barbie Doll displays) to discover my very first cucumber amongst the climbing cucumber vines!

In addition to this wonderful discovery, I now know that how Okras (also known as Ladies' Fingers) grow too!

It's delightfully gratifying to see that with hardly any effort, all these ad hoc selection of seedlings have flourished under my negligence. Yes, that's the flower of an Okra. Isn't that just gorgeous?

I just had to harvest these gorgeous vegetables - they were literally screaming out to me to be picked! We had our cucumber last night in a salad and I dare say that it was the freshes, tastiest and crunchiest cucumber, ever.

The eggplants I will cook tonight and I do love them so! Bon Apetito!

Deluge of Rain = massive growth!

2010-03-07T17:34:00.002+10:00

It's an understatement that it's been Raining Cats and Dogs here in the state of Queensland. In fact, the total area of flooding equates to the size of the state of Victoria. Don't get me wrong, I am happy for the rain because our State needs it and so long I am indoors it doesn't bother me (too much) until 'cabin fever' sets in! Anyhow, with rain also comes massive growth! Here are some photos I've taken this weekend during the very brief moments when rain decided to take a break!

(from top to bottom: healthy & happy looking Oregano, lush Raddiccio and various other vegetables)

(from top to bottom: what a grogeous bright flower of Squash, more of those flowers coming through)

(from top to bottom: Big & spreading leaves of the Cucumber plant, rows of pests detering Marigolds)

(from top to bottom: Baby Eggplants, flowers of Eggplants)

Caprese Salad + side of fresh Figs topped with Maple Syrup

2010-02-28T13:03:00.000+10:00

My philosophy with food is simplicity using affordable seasonable produce. This is one of my Summer favourites and hope you will try it sometime.

Caprese Salad serves 2

3 Truss Tomatoes, sliced thickly (9 slices)
1 big ball of Mozarella, sliced thinly (9 slices)
9 freshly plucked Basil leaves
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper to taste
Mixed Olives in Italian dressing, bought from the Deli (optional)

On a wide platter, assemble all the ingredients and serve immediately. Serve with side of rice crackers!

Fresh Figs topped with Maple Syrup serves 2

3 fresh figs (12 slices)
4 tbsps Maple Syrup

On a small platter, arrange all the ingredients. Served immediately.