My simple yet divine ...

Marble Cake.

2012-02-07T10:57:00.000+08:00

Since last week, I have this sudden craving for Marble Cake. My mother used to make them, and I used to help separate the mixture into three and add the cocoa powder and colouring. When I checked my mom's recipe that I copied last week, I realised that the measurements were in oz!!! Only my mother has the old school weighing machine with the oz weight blocks. So, I had no choice but to google another recipe!

Last Saturday, I triedthis recipe. Took the risk and made double batch so that I could send to Momand MIL. The cake sorta caved in the middle, don't know why, but still iscrumbly and I thought nice just like how I remembered my mom used to make them.Give it a try, won't cha.

MySRF (self-raising flour) was bad, so I substituted it with the Superfine Flouradded with 2 tbsp of baking powder for each 225g of flour.

Here'sthe original recipe, I suggest you follow exactly:

Ingredients:

225gbutter, softened

225gcaster sugar

4eggs

225gself-raising flour

3tbsp milk

1tsp vanilla extract

2tbsp cocoa powder

Method:

1. Heat oven to180C/gas 160C/gas 4. Grease a 20cm cake tin and line the bottom with a circleof greaseproof paper. If you want to make life easy, simply put all theingredients (except the cocoa powder) into a food processor and whizz for 1-2mins until smooth. If you prefer to mix by hand, beat the butter and sugartogether, then add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.Fold through the flour, milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

2. Divide the mixture between 2 bowls. Stir thecocoa powder into the mixture in one of the bowls. Take 2 spoons and use themto dollop the chocolate and vanilla cake mixes into the tin alternately. Whenall the mixture has been used up (and if young kids are doing this, you'll needto ensure the base of the tin is fairly evenly covered), tap the bottom on yourwork surface to ensure that there aren't any air bubbles. Take a skewer andswirl it around the mixture in the tin a few times to create a marbled effect.

*** If youwish to have 3 colours, divide into 3 and add some red colouring to the 3rdbowl, and alternate the 3 mixtures when mixing into the cake tin.

3. Bake the cake for 45-55 mins until a skewerinserted into the centre comes out clean. Turn out onto a cooling rack andleave to cool. Will keep for 3 days in an airtight container or freeze for upto 3 months.

Recipe: BBC GoodFood

Kemensah Retreat.

2012-02-06T10:42:00.001+08:00

Last Chinese New Year break, we took the kids to the river nearby our place. I new about this place way in 2010 when the office had an away day at the ATV Park way in the Kg. Kemensah area. My SIL's family and my brother joined us too.

Someone thought, the sand by the river is as good as at the beach.

Loving it, didn't want to spoil his fun.

Since this was his first time seeing a river and it's bank obviously.

Yaya was too scared of the cold water.

Ultraman meets the icy cool river!

Snack break.

Yaya was here!

My brother who didn't bother to bring any extra clothes, (because he thought he won't be

tempted to get wet) was truly soaked, by the end of the afternoon.

Nap time.

Finally Zarif got out to have a bite to eat.

Nothing is more appetizing than eating by the water.

Nature at it's best.

Zaim too finally realised he's hungry.

Oh, soon enough it was time to go.

My vision of Reimagining Energy.

2012-02-03T09:00:00.000+08:00

With the hope of glamourand glory I dig deep into the dearth of my mobile memory to find an image takenrecently during our recent Chinese New Year celebration at work that would depict the theme of the PETRONAS CNY Photography contest.

Fortunately I captured animage during the Yee Sang tossing, amidst attempting to repeat the Chinesewishes as facilitated by the MC of the evening.

Yee Sang tossingapparently is a must during CNY celebrations. The action itself symbolizeswishing for another great year filled with abundance and prosperity.

But seeing a group offriends and family sharing a dish, tossing away (without any spills mind you!),I also think about unity! Aaaah... isn’t that worthy of a “PETRONAS TVC” like moment in it’s ownway???

Here’s my humble mobileshot, my one shot at popularity, fame and prosperity…

Title: Unity Energizes Prosperity

Category : Mobile

Welcoming the Golden Dragon – PETRONAS style.

2012-02-02T22:00:00.000+08:00

Any Malaysian would be nostranger to PETRONAS’ out of the box ad campaigns. So much so that each festiveseason, we would be looking forward to their TV commercials.

For the recent Chinese NewYear celebrations to usher in the year of the Golden Dragon, PETRONAS has produced some heart warming TV commercials that were shot in several countries.

If you missed them… checkthem out here:

CNY_TVC1 CNY_TVC2 CNY_TVC3 CNY_TVC4

“The TVC is meant to celebrate not just the Year ofthe Dragon, but the spirit of perseverance, adaptability and determination ascaptured in each of the stories it depicts. This energy is something that should inspire us all as we navigatethrough the challenges we face in life,” said PETRONAS’ Senior General Managerof Group Corporate Affairs Division Dato Mohammad Medan Abdullah during therecent PETRONAS CNY event that was held last Tuesday at Galeri PETRONAS.

In conjunction with that, PETRONAShas also collaborated with Leica Camera AG and organized a photography contestthemed “Reimagining Energy^TM “.

Toparticipate, all you need to do is to capture your CNY moments that bestreflect the spirit of “Reimagining Energy^TM“ and to submit your photos at PETRONAS’ Facebook page and stand a chance to win great prizes.

If you have absolutely noclue what kind of pictures to submit, here’s an idea as explained by Dato Mohammad Medan, “Energy is everywhere, in everything we do, andespecially at this time. It could be the excitement and the bonding during thereunion dinner, or it could be the hustle and bustle of shopping for anddecorating the home. It could even be a portrait of the wise grandfather of thefamily, or a picture of the lanterns that light up our cities”.

Sostart snapping people! Besides the promise of prizes, (if that does not enticeyou enough) what about the prospect of having your memorable shot being displayed andexhibited at Galeri PETRONAS? Hmmm, does that get you “energized” (no punintended here)?

Forbudding photographers out there, PETRONAS will also be conducting photographyworkshops at selected schools and colleges. This is to develop the skills of the younger generation, to express themselvesthrough photography.

The“Coming Home” TVC will air from 17^th January until 6^thFebruary2012. For more exciting surprises, the public may visit PETRONAS’ YouTube page.

December break.

2012-02-02T15:51:00.000+08:00

A week before Christmas, we went to Gold Coast for a short break. Here are some pictures to share.

During the flight to Brisbane, we were surprised with a Magnum Ice-Cream after the meal. Nice! Too bad Zaim was already asleep by then.

Later, Zaim was awake and ready to take on the game console with his brother!

Brisbane town.

SW.

We had loads of ice-cream during this trip.

Zaim loved this Viking ride, to our amazement. We got on this twice or was it three times???

We got on way too many roller-coasters! The timing was just lovely, weather was not too warm yet and the crowd was okay. Q'ing for rides were a breeze at all theme parks.

This ride here was in Dreamworld.

I went on it, stupidly enough! Crazy, don't think I'll go on this one again.

Told you we had ice-cream everywhere. Mine is always the Mint! L.O.V.E it!

Our last trip to Oz was before Zaim was born, this trip is to be fair to Zaim.

This time we took the 2 hr drive to the Australia Zoo a.k.a Steve Irwin Zoo at Beerwah.

The place just felt odd, Steve Irwin presence is felt everywhere in the zoo. Somehow it feels like he might just pop out from any corner of the zoo especially at the Crocoseum. If I felt that way, imagine the family.

We love you Steve!

Our ride there. Huge 8 seater people mover.

This time Nayli went up the Superman ride with hubby. I gave it a miss.

Zaim met his "favourite" superhero (among many...).

Tower of Terror... Jr version.

Queuing patiently...

This is the newly launched (in Dec 2011) Green Lantern ride that we missed.

Too many rides, too little time... sigh! (though it is rather scary! just a wee bit!)

When we had enough of the theme parks, we took the kids to another kinda park.

Another thing that we had too much of were the Cinnamon Donuts. Absolute addictive thing.

This is at Harbour town outlet, one of the two outlets that we went whilst we were there.

Crazy discounts and further markdowns due to the festive season.

Saying goodbye to our room on Christmas eve was difficult... especially for Zaim.

Due to this tub factor, obviously! (bath times lasted more than 30 minutes!!)

After checking out we went back to Peter's Fish Market nearby Sea World, thinking to get another round of delicious out of this world Fish and Chips that we had the day before. Unfortunately, they were not selling any cooked meals as it was Christmas Eve. Just check out the fresh items available...

Oh, Gold Coast... I think we want to come back here again in December (but what year???). Only if to have the Cinnamon Donuts and the Fish and Chips at Peter's Fish Market!

2012 school term.

2012-02-01T16:00:00.000+08:00

This year marks the beginning of the need for 3 sets of school shoes - 3 different sizes.

This is because my youngest has started schooling. He will be 4 in May hence, following his brother's footsteps, his days of lounging on the couch watching DisneyJr channel all day long is over!

He seemed ready that morning on the first day of school 5th January.

We were all excited plus rather saddened by the fact that our youngest has grown so much so quickly.

Picture of coolness here isn't it?

I thought with this stance, this means that he is way cool about schooling just like his siblings.

Until... he needs to enter his class.

I didn't have time to take a lot of pictures during the drama, but there's one here with the teacher trying to console him, holding on to him, as he was trying to escape and run out of the class.

By the time it was time to leave, he was okay and cool.

My little wombat!!!

Note: Until the time of posting, Zaim still insists on the father sending him to his class in the morning, every morning. The arrangement for the grandma to start sending him to school still has not materialise! Separation anxiety???

Laksa Johor - Ala Chef Wan

2011-12-08T22:10:00.000+08:00

My latest birthday treat was Chef Wan's - A Taste of Malaysia.

I love the recipes in this book.

Tried a few already and will continue to do so, one recipe at a time.

I've been trying to learn to cook Laksa Johor. As a second attempt, I tried Chef Wan's recipe.

I got a thumbs up from my family, my friends at work and even my mother!

My Laksa Johor - Ala Chef Wan.

Here's the recipe:

Gravy

Vegetable oil

Ginger

Shallots

Garlic

Dried prawns

Fish Curry powder

Prawns

Coconut Milk/Cream

Lemon grass

Galangal

Mackerel Fillet

( I used canned Tuna in water, it was a Monday working day after all -

who has the time to poach, debone and mince a whole fish!)

Dried sour fruit (asam gelugor)

Pounded roasted grated or desiccated coconut (kerisik)

Spaghetti

Kalamansi limes

Sambal Belacan

Red Chillies

Dried prawn paste (belacan)

Salt

Lime Juice

Garnish

Cucumber

Laksa leaves

Bean Sprouts

Onions

Long Beans

Method:

Combine ingredients for Sambal Belacan in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.(But of course pounding them silly with a pestle and mortar gives a thicker and less watery sambal belacan, authentic traditional way.)
Heat the oil in a heavy pot and fry the ginger, shallots, garlic and dried prawns until fragrant. Add the curry powder and fry for 2 minutes.
Add the prawns, coconut cream, lemongrass and galangal. Leave to simmer.
Add the mackerel and dried sour fruit and continue to simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the pounded grated coconut to the stock. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, dilute with hot water. ( I used prawn stock prepared by simmering the prawn shells in water earlier).
To serve, divide spaghetti into serving bowls. Garnish with the cucumber, laksa leaves, bean sprouts, onions and long beans.
Pour the sauce over the spaghetti, squeeze some lime on it and serve with sambal belacan on the side.

** I also added Torch Ginger Buds (bunga kantan) as garnish.

Wallaaaa... easy peasy lemon squeezy. If I can do this so can you.

I don't provide exact measurements (which are provided in the book by the way), because I tend to not follow them strictly. Good luck, happy cooking.

Cookbooks.

2011-12-06T02:00:00.000+08:00

Love them.

Love browsing through them.

Love reading them.

Love collecting them.

Love using them.

My cookbook shelf #01 which contains some celebrity cookbooks.

I tend to get them as birthday treats for myself on my birthdays.

Okay, so sometimes I don't necessarily wait for my birthday to treat myself.

Got a couple too from hubby on my birthday a few years back.

Cookbook shelf #02.

This shelf has recipe books from unknown cooks, from a friend's brother's vocational school, mini cook books, online recipes, my mother's recipes from her cooking/baking lessons, old books bought way back when I was studying at uni...

Notice the yellow folder on the very right? It contains loose sheets of recipes.

The full scape paper book in blue, well that contains my highly used recipes, either hand-written or pasted from online print outs. Precious! Have not gotten to beautifying it yet. Will get to it soon. Shall definitely blog about it, once I've done it.

So, if you have no idea what to get for me for my next birthday... now you do! :-D

Fahmi's wedding on 20112011.

2011-12-04T23:23:00.000+08:00

I attended my cousin's wedding a few weekends back - the solemnization ceremony was held on 20/11/2011. What a wonderful date, to be cherished forever... sigh! Fahmi... all I can say is if you mess up your Anniversary bro... hmmm I don't know what to say! :-)

Fahmi's big brother Faiz initiating the ceremony.

Azrina Puteri (a.k.a Myra).

Now please zoom in at what is on the Ustaz's lap?

None other than an iPad! The doa's and short sermon were recited by referring to the iPad.

Ladies and Gentlemen how utterly cool is that??? Need I say more?

The wedding was beautiful. Myra the lovely bride was a beautiful in white, lovely dress, and I really respect you for being able to sit in that one position for what must have been for-ever. Amazing fete!

Congratulations Fahmi and Myra may you both celebrate and revisit this moment

many many more years to come!

Oh by the way Fahmi is "the" Fahmi Fadzil on twitter @fahmi_fadzil ...

If it's Curry night...

2011-12-03T23:05:00.000+08:00

it usually means it's Chicken Curry.

and it usually means I wouldn't be cooking it!

Yeay.... off day, well not totally. I become more of the sous chef really.

I must make sure that all ingredients are laid out, and I have to make sure that all things

have been chopped by my assistant accordingly.

The executive chef shall then enter the kitchen to do his "thang"... to cook his Special Chicken Curry.

The sauteing of z shallots... with z right amount of spices.

Other ingredients all good to go.

Man at work.

Seriously cooking up a storm!

Just look at the amount of curry that went into the pot!

Personally... I wouldn't use that much, that's why I've been banned from cooking chicken curry

(and I am soooo upset! pfft!).

Taraaa... hubby's Chicken Curry... notice the feet! ~~I shall reserve my thoughts on those!~~

Your cooking is just fab! How about learning another dish dear???

Hari Anugerah Cemerlang 2011.

2011-12-01T21:49:00.001+08:00

During my schooling days it was called Speech Day or Prize Giving Day, now it has a more dignified and less materialistic name... Excellence Award Day! I like that, don't you? Well the children had theirs during the last week of term, both in the Sekolah Kebangsaan and the Sekolah Agama. We went to celebrate their achievement. It was Nayli's 4th year and Zarif's very first. Double joy for us parents to have them both up there receiving their certificates of excellence. Well done Nayli and Zarif, keep up the good work okay! We love you loads.

First it was at the primary school.

What's a "speech day" without speeches?

"Q"ing outside.

Each of the student's achievement was flagged up on screen!

We certainly didn't have that those days!!

Oh, by the way Zarif was top for the whole of Primary 1. :-)

Those in Primary 4 and above were robed for the big event.

Nayli came out super 3rd! Not bad at all girl!

Performances by these 4 boys, they had good voices and harmony. Just beautiful!

Nayli performed in the percussion band too.

Family shot, pity Zaim wasn't around. We didn't think he could handle all the waiting.

The next day was the Religious School Event.

Zarif was fabulous 1st again.

Nayli was outstanding 2nd in class.

We are very proud of the both of you.

Hugs and kisses, from Mama and Papa!!!

Terry Fox Run 2011

2011-11-13T20:00:00.000+08:00

This morning was the Terry Fox Run, an annual event that we would participate in, primarily because my office is a major sponsor, and staff are highly encouraged to join, in support of Cancer Research. With my mom who was diagnosed with Lymphoma about a year ago and losing a grandfather and cousin to the Big C, this event now is even more meaningful to our family. Kids enjoy the once a year 3-4 km walk/jog/run/stroller ride. It's all good family fun. This year it was held at Padang Merbok, KL which is around the Lake Gardens - National Monument Area.

We were there bright and early, somehow it was much easier to wake the kids up compared to the usual Sunday morning routine to attend swimming lessons that starts at about the same time. When we reached our Talisman tent, we got the usual goodies to fuel our run.

Bananas.

3 types of muffins - Chocolate, Vanilla & Strawberry.

It was blazing hot this morning even at 8:30 a.m.

Group picture before starting.

In the shade with Su, Azleen, G-Ha and kiddies.

Somehow either we were early or the organiser was late,

we had to wait quite awhile before actually running.

Things they do when bored!

I prefer taking loads of pictures... ha!ha!ha!

The turn out was good.

Somebody from the Canadian Embassy too.

The warm up session.

I've got the moves like Jagger... uhuh! sure! :-D

And off we went...

It was quite hard work pushing Zaim all the way... burn more calories that way...

yeah sure, burning the muffins that I had before the ~~run~~ walk and stroller pushing.

Look Nayli, it's the National Monument, stop for a picture girl!

Hot hot sun all the way! Way better than rain eh?

Towards the last 100m (or less) of the route, Zaim got off to actually run.

Woohoo, go Sonic!

(Yes, he is either Sonic the Hedgehog, Ultraman, Iron man, Batman...

which ever suits the occasion).

Phew, that was quite a run... ;-).

Catching our breath.

JT picking up a name for the Lucky Draw.

That's Ron A, our big guy who just joined us in October.Incidentally, it's his birthday today too, apparently I missed the birthday wish and cake cutting earlier. Happy Birthday Ron - we're both Scorpios! High 5!

On the way back to the car. My bookworm, actually brought his current read!

We had our brunch before we left.

Until next year!!!

Ribs & Caesar Salad tonight.

2011-11-12T14:46:00.001+08:00

For dinner tonight I decided to cook the ribs that we got from last weekend's Eid Al-Adha Korban. Just look at the size of the ribs! Unfortunately there were not much meat on it, but I decided to roast them anyhow.

Marinated with Smoky BBQ sauce, rosemary, black pepper and salt.

Par boiled some potatoes and toss them together with the ribs in the oven.

Found some leftover mushrooms and carrots in the fridge, added those to the roasting pan too.

As expected, the meat was very little, good thing I had some frozen baked pasta

and broccoli soup as side dishes.

Oh, and I made Caesar Salad for the first time ever!

I totally love San Francisco Coffee's Caesar Salad (why SFC particularly?, well simply because it's in my office building and it's a quick take away for my late lunches after gym). I found romaine lettuce (or cos lettuce) at the supermarket this morning, so I decided to try the dressing recipe that I found online sometime last week. I thought it turned out well, at least the kids loved it.

Caesar Salad Dressing

Ingredients:

3/4 cup mayonnaise or less

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 clove of garlic minced (1 used 2 cloves)

1/4 tsp salt

1/8 tsp pepper

1/2 C Parmesan Cheese ( I have no idea what this C meant, so I just added as much as I liked the taste)

1 tbsp of milk ( I also added as much as it felt right)

I also added a couple of squirts of mustard and a dash of olive oil

Method:

Mix all ingredients together and I blitzed with my trusty hand blender. Chill before serving.

Serve the lettuce chilled too, and throw in some home made croutons in the end before serving. Divine!

Source: Cook.com

Croutons

Ingredients:

A few pieces of bread.

Remove crusts, but I find that it's wasteful to do so, leave it in if you don't mind crusts.

Spread with garlic infused olive oil before dicing.

Roast in the oven or pan-fry without oil.

Leave to cool before serving.

***********

So how did my family enjoy the meal?

Like this.

And this...

This one just loves to be photographed!

11.11.11

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000+08:00

Whatever this date means to you, best wishes from me.

********

Every day is a new beginning.

Treat it that way.

Stay away from what might have been, and look at what can be.

Marsha Petrie Sue

Eid Al-Adha_the sacrifice.

2011-11-10T07:30:00.000+08:00

Please be warned that this post is not for the faint-hearted... honestly!

I was not at the "sacrificial" scene, but these images were captured by hubby on my behalf.

Zarif was there along with his uncle, cousins and grandfather, oh and an aunty.

He came back exclaiming that it was gruesome, though still quite interesting.

A 4 leaf clover? I think so.

The sacrificed beast.

May our sacrifice be accepted by the most Gracious... Ameen.

In the absence of a pool...

2011-11-09T16:38:00.000+08:00

...sprinklers are good enough!

Spritzer Dispenser - Simple Yet Divine

2011-11-01T08:49:00.001+08:00

Simply divine new Spritzer Mini Dispenser willensure that you shall obtain the best of spritzer bottled mineral wateranywhere with simply divine ease & convenience!

SpritzerGroup – the most integrated and largest bottled water producer in Malaysia is nowintroducing their largest pack size bottled water – in 6L and 9.5L ineco-friendly PET bottles.

Theirunique newly patented design with spill proof caps will ensure that it solvesall spilling issues on replacing the empty bottle. No spills & No hassle.Simple yet Divine!

With thisfeature in mind, Spritzer water dispenser makes the possibility of having goodquality bottled or mineral water much easier to be supplied be it for yourhome, office or hotel guestroom or even outdoor activities. Spritzer minidispenser will assure that you would have an easy and convenient supply ofhighest quality water from an independent source. We no longer need to worryabout any water filter malfunction or a water supply shortage, lack of waterpressure and any other troubles that could arise from the normal water filter.

I had theopportunity to “test drive” the Spritzer Water Dispenser at the comfort of myown home just recently.

SpritzerMini Dispenser – the contraption consists of only 2 items:

1) Thelightweight mini dispenser – which is a patented design that is easy formoving.

2) 9.5Leco-friendly PET bottles

Here is astep by step instruction of how I assembled this Spritzer Mini Dispenser myself.

I couldactually lift the 9.5L bottle up (that by the way is not a restrained andforced smile).

Lifting out the lightweight minidispenser from the box.

Out of the plastic packaging. (Yes, I can be quite detail when I want to!)

Simple lightweight contraption.

Pick a spot to place the SpritzerMini Dispenser.

Moving on to the bottled water -Peel off the sticker on the cap.

Like so…

There is a safety spill proof capunder the sticker seal. This will ensure that the bottle will be easilytransferred onto the dispenser.

All that is left to be done is to place the bottle onto the waitingdispenser

One can do so even while smiling at the camera

I am just making sure that I have placed it securely. You will know oncethat it is secured, the water will bubble up a little when the spill proof capis penetrated.

Mission completion -without fuss!

Now all that is left to be done is to pick your favourite glassto begin enjoying Spritzer!

Just to prove that it is even easy to be moved after assembly, Ieven lifted the dispenser and bottle to another part of my kitchen where it ismore accessible.

So, think no more if you are lookingfor a portable, lightweight mini dispenser.

Spritzer Mini Dispenser is now onlyavailable in Giant, Cold Storage & selected petrol kiosk.

Note: Spritzer advocates, "Not all bottled waters are thesame." For the protection of Spritzer customers and in line with the MalaysianFood Act and Regulation, Spritzer bottled waters are clearly distinguished bytheir caps - white for drinking water and assorted colored for natural mineralwater.

Please see below for: Spritzer 9.5L and 6L with mini dispenser series available in stores.

It's not too early to start...

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000+08:00

Crunch time.

2011-10-16T11:05:00.001+08:00

Next week is exam week in school, final year exams! So it's crunch weekend at home. Swimming lessons today has been cancelled so that the kids can start their revision early and have a whole day to focus, focus and focus.

Yesterday was not so bad.

Zarif spent sometime revising, finishing some exercise books.

Kakak decided to take a break first before actually sitting down for some serious revision.

Finally, she sat down and did some work.

Zaim busied himself with Disney Jr.com.

*********

Today however, motivation is at an all time low... sigh!

Is this a motivated pose?

How about this??? Errrkkk....

Hang in there kids, just one more week!

The game for ruffians played by gentlemen... I totally get it!

2011-10-15T08:00:00.000+08:00

I was rather worried early on in September when hubby warned me of what's coming between 9th September to 23rd October. There goes my weekends I thought, I'll be stuck at home unable to go anywhere as a family because of Rugby World Cup, hurrah! But then, I realised, it would be nearing the kids' school exam time, we are supposed to be staying in and ensure that they complete their homework and do a bit of revision, thought I'd prepare them early this year. Should be pretty good idea to be at home on weekends after all. So the rugby world began... this means we will try to complete errands in the morning to make sure we are in front of the telly by game time.

If you cannot beat them... watch rugby! Since I am stuck at home, and kids tend to busy themselves with homework, or rather avoiding homework, or playing computer I ended up at the couch accompanying hubby watch the early rugby matches, the potato chips were initially the major pulling factor really. By the 3rd week.... even I check out the official RWC website! Yup, hooked! So which team? It's kind of a given... if your second half studied at Dunedin, New Zealand. Uhuh! Okay... yes I have always known the existence of All Blacks, we've been married for over a decade now, how can I not know All Blacks by now. But I thought without Jonah Lomu... is it worth watching???

Until I was introduced to DC (hubby is still not over the fact that he is out of RWC, truthfully I think it's quite sad too), SBW, Slade, Kahui, Vito, Kaino, Nonu, Winnie the Pooh okay sorry Weepu (this guy sure can kick! next to DC and Sladey of course! oops, not to forget the young Cruden too) and how can I miss McCaw! After weeks of watching ABs play... other teams pale in comparison. All Blacks' ~~gorgeous players~~ play so well!!! Honestly, the fact that they look good while playing the game ~~and those tight tight jerseys...~~ , well it makes the 80 minutes even more exciting. I only watch England because I have a soft spot for the country and I like to see Wilkinson's stance before he kicks. Though I have to say, their black jersey... bad taste. Please stick to the original white why don't you.

As far as the game is concerned and how it's being played, it's difficult for me to explain how I almost get it. Almost! I don't get it totally still and it still amazes me how closely the referee scrutinize whatever that they do and try to achieve in a scrum. I still go... huh! When my hubby goes whoa!!! Now that's a good scrum! Okkkaeee!!!

I almost understand the game, really cause I know when to cheer (though, I did stupidly ask hubby, after a conversion what are we supposed to say? CONVERTED!!! (totally unscreamable word), it's not goal is it???) I understand the scoring system, the need of a try, the satisfaction of a converted try and the not to be proud of drop goals... but much needed penalty kicks when you're playing against team that are trying to play dirty. The players seem to respect the referee's decision and there's no drama and too many fake injuries like in soccer matches. I totally noticed this about rugby. Plus to earn those points... it's not just a matter of getting the ball in between the goal posts. Way more interesting than football. Right, enuff said. I leave it to the sports writers/reporters to explain the intricacies of the game, or just refer to the official RWC website for details or even Wikipedia of the dos and don'ts of Rugby.

However, what I want to share with you if you can appreciate it, this article that I read in our free daily paper that I also found accidentally online:What ruffians can learn from gentlemen. by Bob Holmes. I find it really amusing.

If you cannot appreciate that then ladies out there must be able to appreciate this article: Rugby World Cup: Top 10 World Cup Hunks (+ photos). in the nzherald and A ll Blacks players ratings: the hunk factor. Ha!ha!ha! Enjoy and don't miss the Semi-Finals this afternoon, you are not too late to catch the blokes in action.

For today's match, I'll be rooting for France (simply because I love their dark blue jersey, hope they'll be wearing that) but it's pretty tricky if Wales are considered the ABs of the Northern Hemisphere!!! Really? I dunno, I have missed Wales games so far. (as if I can tell!) Ha!ha!ha!

I am more looking forward for the Sunday match... All Blacks vs Wannabes ooops I mean the Wallabies.

The line up:
All Blacks: Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Richard Kahui, Aaron Cruden, Piri Weepu, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (c), Jerome Kaino, Brad Thorn, Sam Whitelock, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Ali Williams, Victor Vito, Andy Ellis, Stephen Donald, Sonny Bill Williams.

Wallabies: Well... we'll know on Sunday won't we?

Good Luck ABs... you can bet my Zaim will be doing the Hakka or is it the Kapa O Pango? with you guys before the start of the match! I'd download the video of Zaim doing the remix version of both combined, but the files too big, pity!

Zarif's khatam Quran.

2011-10-14T07:11:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday it was Zarif's big moment. It was his day of khatam Al-Quran. He actually completed reading the Quran a few months earlier, but the event to commemorate this was postponed until after the busy Eid month (read: my darling caterer friend wasn't willing to accommodate us then). Plus my mother has just recovered from an exhaustive chemo treatment and had just only gotten well enough to get back into daily her routine. Credit of course goes to my mother who has tirelessly been teaching Zarif to read ever since he was 4 plus. Nayli too completed reading the whole Quran for the very first time when she was 7, and my mother had a major do then too being her first grandchild and all. Here are some pictures from last Saturday.

My boy, cool and confident.

Wan (grandmother) in yellow hijab, watching proudly.

Is it chow time yet?

Oops... there they are! Yummy roasted lamb. For catering details, contact me!

Time to tuck in.

Wan, Mak Long and Zaim... no Zarif.

With Nayli and Zaim, still no Zarif!

Here he is with neighbour buddy Adin and his iPad.

The celebrated boy, enjoying his ribs.

Yummy! Boy do you deserve it! Well done, Zarif!!! We love you very much!

Aidilfitri 2011... still.

2011-10-13T23:13:00.000+08:00

It's been ages since I have blogged. I have been terribly busy at work... but amazingly it's been crazily busy at home too. Plus, the kids managed to hog the computers during those times that I feel like going online, but when the computers are free, I'm either in the kitchen, or just don't feel like blogging or unifi starts acting funny and these past few weeks I have also been sucked into the world of RWC (more about this soon... if I ever get the luxury to blog peacefully). I cannot go on and blog about this and that without revisiting the Hari Raya pictures that I never did manage to put up before. I shall let the pictures speak for themselves even though it isn't Wordless Wednesday...

1st Day of Hari Raya at Tok Mummy's.

My parents and brother joined us too.

Scenes at the kampung.

******

2nd day at home before raya visits.

Some shots while I try to get the timer to work.

Finally...cheese!!!

*****

Hari Raya Guests & Fireworks!!!

Hubby's cousins.

The adorable Mika.

All ready to go and play.

****

Girls' do with my girl-friends from school.

Friends forever...

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2011

2011-09-04T12:23:00.001+08:00

Selamat Hari Raya

Maaf Zahir Batin

from me and family.

May you have a blessed raya

with your loved ones.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-23T17:00:00.000+08:00

Something to hang at your door maybe?

Raya cookies project done.

2011-08-22T17:50:00.000+08:00

Every year I usually leave it to the pros to prepare Hari Raya cookies for me. I would have a few favourite suppliers of both cookies and cakes. This year I thought I should cut down on my orders cause usually I have to admit that the ordering and the collection of these cookies and cakes are the highlights after which these cookies are normally not finished even 2-3 months later. This year I vowed to myself to order only the minimum, only the absolute must have and some to give away to my mom and mother in-law. However, hubby requested that I make 2 of his favourite cookies. So, I did last weekend. I had to get it over and done with so that next weekend I am free. On Saturday I baked Chocolate Chip Cookies and on Sunday I made Almond Clusters. No recipe really, I just had the ingredients and just followed my instinct. Ha!ha!ha! Okay, so I did study some recipes I found online when I tried for the first time a while back, but now, I find that it's quite easy to prepare. So, I say my hari raya cookies project is done because I have no other plans to bake anymore cookies... though I did just buy Jam Tart presser on Sunday when I bought the paper cups for the Almond Clusters. Well, you never know...

Zarif was so tempted to lick the spatula... yes he was fasting, and has not missed a day yet.

Handy helpers.

Almond Clusters

Nayli and her Crazy Cookies

2011-08-21T18:12:00.000+08:00

One day in spite of being on sick leave from school, Nayli wanted to try out a recipe she found in a new activity book for girls. It was called Crazy Cookies, though it's just butter cookies, really.

After measuring the ingredients for her, I left her to do the rest pretty much except for the baking bit.

Sifting the flour.

Preparing the icing.

Her favourite part.

Trying out different types of cookie cutters.

Results.

Toppings on the icing as a final touch.

Well, her cookies turned out good and there's none left for Hari Raya! Good job Nayli!

Another chocolate chip cookie recipe?

2011-08-20T11:35:00.034+08:00

Really? Yeah, by now you would have thought you

already have THE chocolate chip cookie recipe that you'd use till... forever right? Well, yes that's what I thought when I first got a chocolate chip cookie recipe when I was in my teens. Another when everyone received this chain emails about Famous Amos Cookie Recipe years ago until.... I got Nigella's KITCHEN and tried her cookie recipe! And followed her suggestion to scoop with ice-cream scoops! I ended up with huge chunk of cookies that are just out of this world. So yes, this is my last chocolate chip cookie recipe ever! :-)

Ingredients:
150g unsalted butter
125g soft light brown sugar
100g caster sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 egg, fridge-cold
1 egg, yolk fridge-cold
300g flour
1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
1 X 326g packet milk chocolate morsels or chocolate chip

** I used Van Houten's chocolate buttons and chocolate chips
Imagine how chocolatey the cookies are!
** If you want the cookies to be less sweet, just reduce the sugar measurements a little.

Method:

Preheat the oven to 170 degrees celcius. Line a baking sheet with baking parchment.
Melt the butter and let it cool a bit. Put the brown and white sugars into a bowl, pour the slightly cooled, melted butter over them and beat together.
Beat in the vanilla, the cold egg and cold egg yolk until your mixture is light and creamy.
Slowly mix in the flour and bicarb until just blended, then fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop the cookie dough into an American quarter-cup measure or a 60ml ice cream scoop and drop onto the prepared baking sheet, plopping the cookies down about 8cm apart. You will need to make these in 2 batches keeping the bowl of cookie dough in the fridge between batches.
Bake for 15-17 minutes in the pre-heated oven, or until the edges are lightly toasted. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Here's the cookie jar that will not be full for long... once you fill it with these yummy cookies!

Maybe you can try this recipe for this Eid???

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T07:30:00.001+08:00

Baked Doughnuts

2011-08-12T12:28:00.001+08:00

Here's a simple recipe that I have used over and over again. Something that I got from one of the recipe books received during the Naturel Bento workshop that I attended (thanks to advertlets :-)). Do give it a go. Make double batches at least because I can assure you it will just disappear as soon as you serve it! I usually make 2 batches, serve 1 and freeze the other batch for a surprise tea time treat another day.

Ingredients:

50ml Naturel Blend Cooking Oil
2 large eggs
80 ml sour cream or plain yogurt
1tbsp lemon juice
120g self-raising flour
20g cocoa
1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
80g caster sugar
pinch of salt
Naturel Soft Margerine, to grease

STEP 1

Brush a 12-hole doughnut pan lightly with Naturel Soft Margarine and preheat oven to 160 degrees celcius. Beat Naturel Blend Cooking Oil, eggs, yoghurt and lemon juice together with a fork until well mixed.

STEP 2

Sift flour and bicarbonate of soda into a mixing bowl and stir in sugar and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the liquid ingredients (from STEP 1). Mix until well combined.

STEP 3

Spoon mixture into greased tins, filling only half-full and bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until well risen and a skewer inserted into doughnuts comes out clean. Remove from tin and cool on wire rack. If you wish, sprinkle the top lightly with some sifted icing sugar before serving.

** if you wish to freeze some, once cooled, place in containers and freeze immediately.

Enjoy!

Zarif's 1st Sports Day

2011-08-11T12:03:00.013+08:00

This is a belated entry of Zarif''s and Nayli's sports day that took place on June 25th. Nayli participated in the March Pass. Zarif in the telematch.

Can you see Nayli?

Zarif in line.

Picture with lil bro.

Zarif's classmate Zahir.

He is so adorable isn't he?

In action.

Well done Zarif!

Group picture.

Nayli with her buddies.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-10T07:56:00.000+08:00

Part of Iftar Menu for the family these past couple of days :-(

Divine Durians.

2011-08-08T11:58:00.001+08:00

So are you a durian lover? I have my phases with this King of Fruits. I used to be okay with them at one point of my life, then I went through a period when I thought it was too revolting. However, eversince married to a durian fan, I have to oblige and keep on having a wee bit of the fruit each time hubby brings home or we'd go our for a durian fiesta. Just the weekend before Ramadhan, we stayed over at his dad's who surprise surprise is also a durian fan. The whole lot of us went for a durian supper at SS2 PJ. We had what my friend call at the office, the "branded" durians which were the Musang King and the D101 as opposed to the normal durian kampung.

Yummy!

I had quite a lot of the durians even if I declare myself as not a fan, hi!hi!hi! Though not without hunting for a mint right after to freshen my breath and just to get rid of the awful after taste that really makes me avoid eating this fruit if I can.

Coconut Drink to cool the body down after the durian biznez!

Baby Sara was there too!

Are you a die hard durian lover or a "social eater" like moi! :-)

Divine or Dreadful - cooking with Chefel Flip N Cook

2011-08-07T11:29:00.004+08:00

Cooking has never been easier since I got this Flip "n" Cook Pan from Cosway. A friend asked me if I could get it for her since I live about 200m from a branch. Since I'm getting one for her I thought, I might as well get one for myself. Got it last week and I have been making a few iftar dishes with it.

Grilled Fish on Iftar Day 3.

Fried these Fish Fillets before Cooking them in Soy Sauce for Iftar Day 4.

and today for Iftar Day 6, I made these Spicy Clams.

It really does what the booklet cum recipe book that comes with it claims to do, cooks without splatter, though you need to be careful with the steam vent at the end. If you have plenty of liquid in the pan, do be careful when you flip it. Otherwise, this pan is just Divine.

Oh, by the way... do you wanna get this pan for yourself but don't know how. Well just leave your email address in the comment box if interested and I shall get in touch with you.

Iftar Day 2

2011-08-03T12:30:00.002+08:00

For the 2nd day yesterday, I made Curry Noodles (Mee Kari). I cheated because I used this ready made paste that I bought at the Pasat Tani from this lovely couple who sells all sorts of home made paste. Thank you for making cooking easier for me. I normally get the Curry Noodles and the Assam Laksa paste.

Hubby bought my favourite Singapore Rojak from the Ramadhan Bazaar.

And also our favourite Putu Piring, which he queued for a whole 15 minutes!

Thanks hubby dearest.

Now what's the dish for today then?

Iftar Day 1

2011-08-02T08:11:00.001+08:00

Ayam Percik - That's what I made for the 1st day of Ramadhan iftar yesteday.It also had mixed vegetable with mushroom soup to go with the rice.

What did you have for iftar yesterday?

Ramadhan greetings.

2011-08-01T17:45:00.019+08:00

Happy Ramadhan everyone!

At the office today, we were given a surprise gift in the form of dates in this cute package. It was personally distributed by our new Country Manager (top guy in the organisation). Nice touch eh? We like.

Hope you will have a wonderful and fulfilling month ahead.

Everyone sets their target at the beginning of Ramadhan... so I hope you will achieve yours if not surpasses it. Oooh, I do hope I get to achieve it too!!! Amen.

Irina's Mad Science Party

2011-07-28T07:55:00.001+08:00

The only thing that my kids love other than having their birthday party is attending a birthday party! When they heard about Irina's (my colleague's daughter) Mad Science party invitation, they were super excited. This was last Saturday yup, after the engagement. Hectic day eh?

Mad Scientist doing her thing.

Everyone was full of anticipation... including the parents I must say.

Oops, except for this big guy who was too tired to notice the mayhem around him.

Nayli volunteered happily.

Waiting for their turn to experiment.

L to R: Me, Nita, Madam Hostess herself - Maisura and Norlina.

Still in La-la-la Land.

Zarif volunteered for one thing after another.

Competition in progress.

They had to stop the little mad scientists for a bit to cut the birthday cake.

Happy 8th birthday Irina!

Stopping for a bite of the lovely macaroon topped cake.

Mas Scientist games resumed shortly after.

Wrapping the mummy game.

Pinatas.

The finale was cotton candy making time.

Zaim was only awake towards the end.

Sweet treats.

Lovely treats that we brought home.

An engagement party.

2011-07-26T10:37:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday was my cousin's engagement. The girl's family was just a 10 minutes drive from my place. The proceeding was short and simple. More of a get to know the family kinda thing. Memi (my cousin) was nowhere in sight, which I thought was very appropriate. Just to share some pictures.

The sirih junjung to accompany the engagement party from our side (the groom's family).

While waiting for others to arrive.

Our hantaran (gifts), all made by my talented crafty aunty (groom's mum).

Zaim, sitting patiently throughout the engagement "ceremony" with the distraction of

pre-packed raisins!

The hantaran (gifts) from the girl's family.

The ring - to officiate the engagement.

Congratulations Memi and Azura!

Azura and M-I-L to be.

Dek Na and Azura.

(Ehemm Memi, Azura sure does look a little like your sis!)

Lunch was then served.

Zarif, in case you can't recognize him.

2nd cousins playing together.

Zarif, Nayli and their Aunty Amal.

PETROSAINS

2011-07-20T07:56:00.000+08:00

I have been meaning to post this for ages. I have uploaded the pictures but I never found the time to write anything. But I guess, I will now use the Wordless Wednesday avenue to post pictures taken when I took the kids to PETROSAINS back in March... 2011! Well at least it wasn't 2010. So much for Wordless Wednesday...

Obviously this was not in PETROSAINS... right, I'll hush now.

Make-A-Wish fulfilled Hani Liyana's Wish.

2011-07-19T12:45:00.008+08:00

Make-A-Wish granted Yana's wish to become A Star for the day last weeked.

Yana performed as an opening act before Dreamgirls at Istana Budaya,

arriving in a Rolls Royce no less!

Stayed at KL Sentral Hilton and treated like "A Star".

The next day she was taken to Acquaria and finally treated to a Pool Party at the hotel.

How divine is that?

We were invited to the party... even more divine! :-)

Nayli, Zarif and the sleeping Zaim with the "celebrated" Star - Yana.

Azleen, a wonderful friend of 10+ years! A tireless, devoted and fashionista mom! We girls at the office are truly amazed by her energy and patience! Always effortlessly looking so well dressed, co-ordinated and upbeat even with all the challenges that she faces!

Yana dear, your Mum IS a SUPERSTAR!

Lovely baloons deco by Linda.

Guests were treated to Hilton's 5 star buffet. Yumm!

Pink theme for the Star.

The view below.

Party bags for the little guests.

Nayli and Zarif exploring the pool area.

The waterfall and kiddie pool were just sooo inviting!

Someone remained utterly clueless though, it must be the misty cool fan factor.

The Diva taking the "stage" once again.

G-Ha and Leen.

Nayli quickly warmed up to the lovely Ratu, G-Ha's daughter,

since they've met during many company events before.

Chummies.

Yana's energy is endless! Amazing!

Make-a-wish representative giving a short speech.

The pasta counter.

Mini magherita pizzas.

The one time Zarif has no problem eating - when it's at a new place.

Desserts.

Cupcake tier was so inviting, but that afternoon was too hot for me

to tuck in into anything sweet.

I did not miss this icy treat though.

Tom n Jerry cheese?

Ha!ha! Cake actually, cute eh?

Yana and Mum cutting the cake.

Thanks Leen for having us at Yana's party.

I hope Yana stays healthy and happy always. God Bless.

They are going to a new home.

2011-07-18T08:10:00.002+08:00

I finally did it, I am finally saying good bye, and shall be looking out for a new home for my hijabs! I have not been using them for quite sometime, eversince the evolution of hijab "styles". When I discovered the fuss free Syria Hijab, I quickly stopped using my Cotton Bawals and also the high maintenance "awning-ed" Lycra Hijab. I even gave away all my tiny brooches to my mum who refused to succumb to trend. Here's what I am letting go:

These...

these too.

these ones however... I am keeping for just in case cases...

Anybody interested? Actually I have a candidate...

The important thing is, they are going where they will be appreciated.

T forty two: Divine or Dreadful?

2011-07-16T11:21:00.004+08:00

Pic Source: T forty two - facebook wall

Last month, while browsing around BVII, we stumbled upon this cozy looking cafe. We decided to try the tea, a friend did recommend quite sometime back but at another location, so I thought since the name sounded familiar, it must be another of it's branch.

Pic Source: T forty two - facebook wall

Here's our tea set for two, but of course shared amongst the 4 of us (Zaim is "safely" asleep throughout tea time). The two kids of course dived for the sweet tiers. We skipped the foie gras coz even the smell of it, turned me off! I'm sorry, but as much as I love scones and cakes, give me banana fritters (goreng pisang, the ones sold by the road side or home made kind) and keropok lekor anytime for tea. These would only cost us a tiny fraction of what cost us here. However, for the experience, for the ambience, for the lovely China cups, for a cozy tea time or meal with your loved ones, why not... it is I have to say still a Simply Divine place to go.

The china used is so delicate. Not sure if it is really "the" Bone China, but whatever it is I'm glad we left that place without any broken China, faux or not! Phew!

We will come back here, but perhaps to try other main dishes.

Prices seemed reasonable, and the selection is quite good.

Verdict : Divine!

The day that both had a loose tooth.

2011-07-15T21:33:00.003+08:00

A while back, Nayli and Zarif have been telling me that they both had a loose tooth. Since they were not in pain, I have been stalling, simply because I just couldn't find the time to take them to the dentist! One time that we took them there, it was closed! Anyhow, finally I took them (after calling to make sure that they are still opened at 8 p.m!) to the nearby clinic. I love their service, because they open till 9 on weekdays. Furthermore, even though during each visit we tend to get a different doctor, majority of the doctors are so friendly and good with the kids. This time round, the doctor was probably in his early thirties. The kids were so noisy and chatty (probably anxious of what's looming ahead of them)! Good thing, the doctor was so patient and accomodating.

Here's the brother and sister, both after missing a tooth.

Zarif now has 3 missing teeth!

This was not Zarif's 1st time at the dentist, obviously, but he got nervous in the end.

Look who took the responsibility to calm his big brother.

What's next from GP?

2011-07-14T21:49:00.009+08:00

We all know about her singing on GLEE, there's no need to even discuss her acting career. I was already mightily impressed with her GOOP newsletter, and to add another feather to her hat, she has now even written a cookbook! Wow! Amazing. I keep forgetting to look for it each time I go to the bookstore, must look for it next time! Must! Must! Must! Have any of you out there gotten the book?

At long last...

2011-07-13T21:33:00.000+08:00

I finally found the urge to blog again. It has been so long since my last blog post. Well, to break the ice, I guess, I shall begin with the easiest post... a tried and tested recipe. I found this recipe last Sunday, since I thought I wanted to find a different banana cake recipe. The ones that I already have and tried before somehow just isn't that divine... so I googled for another. I came across this one, I didn't ponder much, just found it and tried it. The recipe is simple... yet divine!

A simpe yet divine: BANANA CAKE RECIPE

Ingredients:

1 cup white sugar
125g butter
3 ripe bananas
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups (185g) self-rising flour
2 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla essense
1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate soda

Method:

Pre-heat oven to 190 degrees C. Cream butter and sugar in a bowl until it turns a light colour. Gradually add beaten eggs one at a time. Mash banana in a bowl with vanilla essense. Mix bicarbonate of soda in a cup with the milk.
Add your mashed banana mixture into the creamed butter and sugar and mix until combined. Alternatively add your flour and your milk mix until just combined.
Pour mixture into a greased loaf tin and bake for 45 minutes at 190C or until the cake springs back from touch in the middle. Cool on cake rack.
Enjoy or share it with family and friends! :-)

Source: Googled from allrecipes.com

If you think you have nothing to give...

2011-06-14T09:28:00.000+08:00

You are wrong! I just read about 11 things you can give when you have nothing left to give! How wonderful is that? Read more here: Dumb little man - tips for life.

For a quick read, here are the 11 things:

Give a smile.
Give out good thoughts.
Give a kind word.
Give a cheerful disposition.
Give appreciation.
Give encouragement.
Give honour.
Give happiness.
Give of your time.
Give hope.
Give prayer.

Make sense huh! So, let's start giving.

I chose to look the other way

2011-05-11T20:48:00.000+08:00

I chose to look the other way

I could have saved a life that day,

but I chose to look the other way.

It wasn't that I didn't care, I had the time, and I was there.

But I didn't want to seem a fool, or argue over a safety rule

I knew he'd done the job before, if I called it wrong, he might get sore.

The chances didn't seem that bad,

I've done the same, he knew I had.

So I shook my head and walked on by,

he knew the risks as well as I.

He took the chance, I closed an eye, and with the act,

I let him die.

I could have saved a life that day, but I chose to look the other way.

Now every time I see his wife, I'll know I should have saved his life.

That guilt is something I must bear, but it isn't something you need to share.

If you see a risk that others take, that puts their health or life at stake.

The question asked, or thing you say,

could help them live another day.

If you see a risk and walk away,

then hope you never have to say,

I could have saved a life that day, but I chose to look the other way."

Don Merrell

***********************

I just came back from a two day safety awareness training. So the poem above was the last piece of material that was shared with us at the training. I thought that was a good poem to share with everyone out there. After two days of intensive training, I realised that yes, SAFETY should be our CORE VALUE! Safety is not a priority, as priority can change, however, if safety isn't a core value, it would truly affect our behaviour and our actions. More than 90% of incidents is due to unsafe acts and poort human behaviour.

So it is important that we should always take care of ourselves and look out for others.

Think Safe, Work Safe, Home Safe

Spinning time is here again.

2011-05-10T12:45:00.001+08:00

After spending so long working out on the cross-trainer machines, and diligently following My Super Sweet 16 or Teen Cribs on MTV while trying to workout a decent amount of sweat, I thought I'd give my Monday workout a change.

I spotted a couple of weeks back that the gym has placed a spinning bike outside the spinning studio next to the other machines. So, finally yesterday I remembered that I should get on the spinning bike again. I cannot remember the last time I was in a spinning class, must have easily been 4 years ago!

So, without a trainer, I had to come up with my own routines. Managed to find a great site that provides some information and some track suggestions... http://spinningmusic.wordpress.com/.

I thought I had a great workout. Must do it again with increased intensity next week. Here's my track list yesterday:

Warmup

If we ever meet again (Timbaland Ft. Katy Perry)

Climbs

Come on Eileen (Dexy's Midnight Runners)

Don't stop believin' (Glee's Lea Michele & Cory Monteith's version)

Sprints

Gonna Make You Sweat - Everybody Dance Now (C&C Music Factory feat. Freedom Williams)

Obsessed rmx (Mariah Carey Ft. Gucci Mane)

* I think I skipped Lifts/Jumps cause I have no clue what the routine should be for this one, (must read up more on this) and went straight to...

Lead/Single Lead

* It's suppose to be longish songs with a steady beat and are particularly suited to single leg training - I missed the single leg bit, but went ahead using A (yes, only one unfortunately) longish song which I found with

Don't Stop Till You Get Enough (Michael Jackson of course!)

Cooldown

I reduced the resistance and paced with

Virtual Insanity (Jamiroquai)

Whataya Want from Me (Adam Lambert)

Did some stretchings while listening to

Hands to heaven (Breathe)

and just managed (barely) to do sit ups on the exercise ball throughout

With You (Chris Brown)

So there, my workout regime yesterday. Got any track suggestions?

Mother's Day = Happy Birthday Mak

2011-05-09T12:55:00.003+08:00

Finally, I'm back. Baking and blogging again.

Gosh, I missed this.

I have not been blogging for so long!!!

I have not been baking for sooooo long!!!

I started baking again yesterday, on what was acknowledged by my children as MY DAY, a.k.a Mother's Day. No worries, I know it's an unusual thing to be slogging in the kitchen on mother's day. Mummies are supposed to get time off, but this is what I love doing, so on Mother's day, this mummy did what she likes! Plus, I was baking for my mother who is celebrating her birthday today and who will be going for another round of chemo treatment today, of all days!!! So, it was a quick double batch of RVCs yesterday afternoon for mak.

Zaim helped with the sprinkling! My little elf.

A wee bit blurry, sorry. I managed to make enough for mak and my mother in law.

Happy birthday Mak, I love you loads. No amount of cupcakes or blog updates can repay your love, devotion and sacrifice for me and your grandchildren!!! We love you.

GLEE - "Forget You" Full Performance feat. Gwyneth Paltrow!

2011-03-13T17:24:00.001+08:00