The Kitchen of ... The Chef's Wife

Achacha - Our New Discovery

2012-01-29T09:45:00.000+11:00

Our casual stroll in our local flea market yesterday led us to a new discovery - a new fruit that we have not seen nor tasted before .... apparently its called Achacha.

A quick look in google revealed this ...

Origin

The Achacha is highly prized, having been cultivated for centuries in domestic orchards in the tropical Amazon Basin of Bolivia. Difficult to grow, it has not been commercialised internationally until now

Taste

Delicious, refreshing, exotic, tangy, effervescent . . . no wonder the name translates as "honey kiss"!

It is refreshing to eat, at ambient temperature, when served cold or even frozen. There is a fine balance between its sweetness and its acidity, creating a unique taste sensation. It has exotic appeal similar to the mangosteen, longan, rambutan and lychee. The Achacha is a cousin of the mangosteen which is known as the "queen of tropical fruit" throughout Asia.

check this site for more info about this fruit.

Not only was the fruit refreshing, but as the bag mentioned (click on the image to enlarge it), even the skin has a use and can also be consumed - now thats plus one point on the frugal side hahaha.

I was not sure on how the kids will react to this new fruit but I was surprised that they loved it ... so much so that they want to consume the entire content of the bag in one sitting ... but then again, our kids love their fruits and veggies anyway so nothing to doubt in there, is it.

I would watch out for this new fruit again when we go out ... its really nice actually.

Sun & Sand in our Backyard

2012-01-28T15:08:00.000+11:00

Its finally nice to see the kids outside and enjoying our backyard. Its been an unforgiving week for us in terms of the weather. We have a few plans that didn't pan out the way we wanted it to be just because mother nature decided that its alright to bring in the rain right smack bang in the middle of summer....

But hang on a minute, what summer am I talking about? 2011/12 summer is unlike the others that we have (or we have gotten used to) where we swelter in the above 40C weather and complain till we almost drop ... this summer has seen more rain that spring itself.

So can you blame me when I get excited when the kids are out playing in our backyard (away from the telly and away from making so much mess in our lounge room that almost resembles a daycare centre due to gazillions of toys spread around)?

Finally some sun today, so since I needed to go to our local hardware store for some batteries (our smoke alarm has been driving me nuts as its been beeping relentlessly to remind us that its battery needs changing), I decided to grab a couple of sacks of beach sand as well so they can finally use the sandpit that I got them from a clearance down at Target.

They were good and stayed there for a good hour or so which was fantastic for me so I can catch up on the cleaning and tidying up (which sometimes I question myself on why I even bother as they will be a mess again as soon as the kids gets in hahaha).

Anyway, hoping for a clear and summer weather soon - or so should I still hope for a warm weather? Just asking ....

George ★ Izzie

2012-01-27T20:32:00.001+11:00

Look what I've got in the mail today. Thanks again to Kidspot, I received this designer wipes case and headband package from George ★ Izzie.

The story behind this new business was very intriguing ... read on.

George Izzie has evolved from a perceived need in the rural community. We, Peita and Jane, met at a mother's group after the birth of our daughters Georgie and Isabelle.
Living beyond a large town centre it is quite difficult to have access to a wider range of attractive and unique clothes for young children. We are trying to fill this need with our versatile range of fresh and easy to wear dresses, skirts, shirts, baby needs and accessories.
We have been able to source unusual and beautiful fabrics which show our designs to perfection. All our clothes are handmade in Australia and are of very high quality workmanship.
It is our aim to provide a simple online service to make shopping at home for your own children's needs as well as beautiful gifts for friends as easy and convenient as possible.

Say no to boring wipes case because the creative mummas at George ★ Izzie had just jazzed it up and made it one funky item that any hip mum can keep in their bags or purse. Who would even think that it contains some good ol' wipes. Just like any mum, wipes and hand sanitizers are a must in my handbag especially when we have the kids out and about with us. No one can be over protective of their children and I'd rather be clean than sorry when they get sick from all the germs and dust bunnies bearing diseases out there. These unique, hip and funky case will always be with me.

As for their headbands, they have gorgeous fabrics that are funky and modern and very apt for today's new generation of kiddies and because this was started by mums, they know whats best for their littlies and will only use great materials that will not hurt their sensitive skin and precious heads.

Even our teener loved the scarf headband (which is one of their best seller) that she got the blue one while the littlemissy got the pink reversible one, just like having two headband in one fantastic - just goes to show that you don't have to be a toddler or a little missy to enjoy their products.

Head down to their site and check out their interesting and funky items.

Bonding Time

2012-01-25T21:20:00.000+11:00

Today was an interesting day ... unplanned but interesting nonetheless.

My two boys bonded over capes, clippers and scissors as they take on their ever growing hair and headed for a short cut (no pun intended).

Look at my two boys after they emerged from the hair salon - sooo handsome. So while we were waiting for the boys, us girls decided to do some grocery shopping. They met us inside the shop and continued shopping on. Look at our little princess enjoying the shoulder ride from dad as always.

After lunch, it was the girl's turn to do some bonding time (minus our pretty Hannah girl).

And what better way to spend our bonding time than to go shopping for accessories.

And these were some of the loots that our teenager Kat brough home. She was so excited and happy - not just about the accessories but the fact that I have allowed her to buy some make-up for herself - after some talking with her conservative dad. Well, it is just a simple mineral powder foundation and a simple sheer blush on anyway.

Such a great day for everyone indeed and I also got some goodies for the little ones when I got home too so all is happy (well, I obnly bought one for myself but as long as everyone else was happy, thats all that matters)

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T19:04:00.000+11:00

Oh yeah!

Family Picnic Get Together

2012-01-21T17:02:00.000+11:00

We braved the unforgiving weather and marched in the middle of a sudden strong storm just to attend my FIL George and MIL Teresa's family get together down at the 'Gong today.

We felt blessed to have each other and the family together. Despite a rather not so good start, the sun showed up even for a while so the kids were able to enjoy abit of those sunshine. Barbis never tasted so much better than when spent with the family.

Thanks to my SIL Kris for also organizing this and BIL Jon for being in charge of the barbi. FIL George could not contain his happiness seeing most of the member of his family and of course his grand kids.

"At my age, you find happiness not on any material things but in simple things in life like your family and grandkids" were the exact words that he said as we part ways to go home (we had to go home earlier than everyone else as mrK still has work later today).

Despite our short appearance, we were delighted to see mrK's auntie and uncle as well who withered the rain just to make it to this gathering. They would have had long and interesting conversations with one another but a promise to have another get together any time soon sufficed it for the time being.

Thanks mum, thanks dad and everyone else in our picnic get together and hope to have these soon.

Its Our Very Own Pizza Night

2012-01-20T21:15:00.000+11:00

What could be better than a hearty home cooked meal ... oh wait, a meal done with everyone involved to make it - that's what makes a home cooked meal much more better - and that's what we did tonight - making our own pizza for dinner (as suggested by misterthree).

I did our own pizza base too which was sooo easy and it came out so right and soft on the inside too

(recipe below).

So after gathering all the things that we want for our pizza ...

... my three handy chef was rearing to go and cook for us.

Everyone wants to get their hands on making it - even the youngest one wants to be part of the action and joins in.

Had to be the controller because they all want everything dump in there hahaha.

Now here it is after the kids decided they want heap loads of cheese ...

And the pizza was gone just like that ... yummm and we all loved it, even daddy chef loved our homemade pizza.

Anyway, here is the recipe for the:

Super Easy Pizza Dough

2 cups plain flour

8g dry yeast

1 tsp caster sugar

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp olive oil

3/4 cup warm water

* Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl and mix well

* Add the warm water and olive oil and mix to a soft dough

* Knead on a floured surface until soft and pliable

* Return to the mixing bowl and cover with a cling wrap and leave in a warm spot for 30 minutes and by then it should double in size

--> it wasn't that warm that night so I turned the oven to the lowest for around 15 minutes then turned it off then left the bowl with the dough inside with the oven door open just to create a warm spot

* When it has risen 'punch' down the dough to remove air bubbles

* Remove from the bowl and knead again for another minute

* Roll out the dough to desired size and then add your favourite toppings

Enjoy!

Freebies: Alvin and the Chipmunks 3 Chipwrecked

2012-01-19T03:26:00.000+11:00

We wee yet again a gracious recipient of a family pass thanks to Kidspot to see Alvin the Chipmunks 3 Chipwrecked yesterday and boy the kids had fun (so did the adult hahaha).

;

Its nice to have family day out every now and then. It is our bonding time with one another despite the hectic life we have, but most of all we are grateful for freebies that makes things possible for us.

More movie day/nights for the K household soon.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T22:08:00.000+11:00

My Little Hannah is Now in Preschool

2012-01-16T23:54:00.000+11:00

I can't believe it, it seemed just yesterday when I was in the hospital bed giving birth to my babies - feeling the pain and the excitement at the same time for this new life - and look at them now, almost growing their wings and slowly getting their independence. I traded my corporate life for domesticity and for that I am very grateful and happy.

I can truly say that these babies of mine grew under my wings.

Last night as I prepare their preschool bags, I can't help but be abit teary eyed at how fast things have gone, how time had just flew us past, and at how things are now and here we are ....

My little girl, the princess of the family and our baby at that, is now going to preschool just like her big brother. Did I see any hesitation, did I suspect any anxiety, have I seen any trace of weakness? Not with our little Hannah ... but most probably in her mum :(

She woke up as per usual, not fully knowing what lies ahead. She was not aware why her mum was abit anxious and daunted for what was to come. Little Hannah was all bubbly and happy and was just so excited.

As soon as we walked inside her room, she went straight on some toys piled on the floor. There was no formal exchange of greetings with her new friend but you can see that there was this immediate understanding between the two. It seemed that mrK and I vanished or dissolved in the oblivion and there was not even a bye from my little girl. I'm both happy and sad.

I had to break her away from her new interest, as mum was not ready to give her up for a pile of toys or a new little stranger in her new routine. I was with my baby girl day and night for 32 months and it all just comes to this - oh no it wont hahaha.

But at the end of it all, I am happy that I made her into this confident happy little girl that she is. She is not timid like others nor was she shy. Yes, she might speak softly but she is not afraid to speak her mind - that's my girl! We left her in her Cupid room fully knowing that she will be alright and not have any separation anxiety (more like its the mum having it) and confident that the teachers will greatly look after our precious little girl.

Our little man was the same, eager to reconnect with the friends that he had and perhaps get to know new ones. He was enthusiastic to share his story of the holidays and the places we've been and just being his usual talkative self. Sunshine room welcomed our little man.

As I stepped out of the preschool with mrK, there was a gamut of differing emotions, I don't know whether I should cry or be happy that my littlies may not be little for long. That my babies are slowly growing and slowly having some routine without mum. If this is me when I bid them adieu in preschool, I could not picture myself nor find words to describe my emotions once they both go to big school. For now, I am just glad that this ordeal is just once a week, so let it rest and let the next week have its own worries .... haaay.

My Version of Spanakopita (Spinach and Feta Cheese Pie)

2012-01-13T17:17:00.000+11:00

While doing my fortnightly fruit and veggie shopping from my fav green grocer, I chance upon a big bunch of spinach for just .99c and immediately Spanakopita came to mind. Spanakopita is a traditional Greek spinach or silver beet pie with cheese and herbs, enveloped by crispy, flaky filo pastry. This was our lunch today and I thought of sharing this easy to make meal with you guys.

And before my Greek inlaws would bash my unauthentic way of cooking this Greek staple food, let me say that I sort of experimented and prepared it like I would a lasagna - filo pastry - spinach mixture - filo pastry method.

Ingredients:

1.5 kg baby spinach (or silverbeet)

2 tbs chopped dill

250g feta cheese, crumbled

150g ricotta cheese ( I used low fat just for health reason)

3 tbs Parmesan cheese

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1/2 tsp grated nutmeg

1 box of filo pastry

120g butter, melted

1 onion, finely chopped

1 bunch shallots (spring onions), finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil

How to:

Heat oil in a fry pan, then add onion,and garlic and let it caramelised for abit. Then add chopped spinach and half the dill. (I used the stalk as well so I cooked the stalk first before putting in the leaves part). Cook, stirring, over low heat for a couple of minutes or until spinach has wilted. Drain in a colander and let it cool. Then combine the cooked spinach with the ricotta and the crumbled feta and parmessan cheeses, eggs, nutmeg, salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush a 2 1/2-litre baking dish with butter. Lay one sheet of filo on base and sides and brush with butter. Repeat with 5 more sheets. Spread cheese mixture over top. Cover with remaining filo, brushing each sheet with butter. Trim excess pastry with kitchen scissors and tuck edges into sides of dish. Brush top with butter and score in diamond patterns. (this is the traditional way but as I said I did mine quite different today - just like a lasagna style)

Bake for 45 minutes or until golden. Rest for 10 minutes. Warm remaining butter, add remaining dill and, when serving, pour over sliced spanakopita.

Enjoy!

Alvin and the Chipmunks 3: Chipwrecked

2012-01-11T19:48:00.000+11:00

Thanks to Kidspot, we will be having another movie day to see Alvin and the Chipmunks 3: Chipwrecked.

As soon as I mentioned that mum won this, they have been asking if the mailman had delivered it. Thank goodness that it did today so we will be scheduling another movie time with the family. The kids have been a chipmunk lovers ever since they saw the first one and I am sure that they will love another chipmunk movies.

Thanks Kidspot and Twentieth Century Fox for this great treat.

Zechy's Little Cars & Trucks Bag

2011-12-21T19:53:00.000+11:00

Our little boy owns tons of those little trucks and cars and everywhere I go in the house, I tend to pick one up as they are everywhere. The organized mum came out of me and decided to make him a storage bag for all his hotwheels toys so when he is finished playing with them, there is only one place to put them all.

This was an under an hour project and I didn't even made any template or follow any pattern, just whipped them up as I go (so pardon if some of my instructions may seem vague).

I started out by selecting two pieces of fabrics. One would be for the outside of the bag and another to serve as the lining. I rummage through my offcut fabrics and found a long strip measuring 60cm long by 20cm wide.

Take the two fabrics and place the two fabric's right side together and pin them.

Then I placed a wadding (or batting or fillers) on top but leaving around about two inches on each sides. Pin the wadding on to the fabrics. I decided to put some wadding on the bag to give it abit of a protection just in case it gets squashed or thrown somehow somewhere, so a little padding will help abit to protect his precious cars. This part is optional.

Then I sewed each side using a zigzag stitch much like using an over locker to a hem. Then turn the material inside out so the wadding was sandwiched between the two fabrics.

Then I made a small fold on the short side of the fabric then sew it nearest to the edge. Don't worry if there are excess fabrics after you sew it as we will fold it again later.

Then finally fold it the second time around, using the same line of sewing from the first one awhile ago (see above). This will serve a purpose later. Do the same to the other end.

Then with the liner facing you (and the fabric for the outside is inside at this stage), sew the long end of the bag much like in the picture above stopping just right at the bottom of the top folded end. Do the same on the other end. After sewing the side, turn it inside out.

Using a ribbon or in my case a soft twill mini rope, I threaded it along the casing (the portion that we sew awhile ago). I placed a sticky tape on one end of the twill mini rope then pierced a safety pin on it, then thread it around the entire top of the bag. Pull the bag away from the direction of the rope or ribbon so it gathers - this is how we close this bag, then knot it so it stays in place.

Had to burn both end bit so it doesn't fray.

There you go, you now have a simple bag. I just shared the basics of how to make a bag so if you wish to make a bigger one, then go ahead. Or perhaps you want to alter certain things - its all up to you.

The happy owner who was very pleased with mum's handy work. I am glad that our little man liked it and now calls it "my cars bag". I promised our little girl that she too will have one sewn for her barbie dolls clothes and her other accessories soon.

A Super Moist Banana Bread

2011-12-21T17:50:00.001+11:00

Now that the price of banana is back to normal (last seen at woolies at 99c/kg) so what best way to enjoy this humble yet very nutritious fruit than to make some nice yummy things with it ... just like what I did this afternoon - made the most moist banana bread ever.

Ingredients:

2 cups plain flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup butter (115g)

1 cup sugar

1/2 tsp salt

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

4 tbsp sour cream

4 large overripe bananas

To Make:

Preheat oven to 350F (180C)

Sift and mix all dry ingredients (excluding the sugar)

Cream the butter then gradually add the sugar until they are pale and fluffy

Mix in the eggs (one at a time), then the vanilla extract then the sour cream until well blended

Remove from the mixer then fold the flour to the butter mixture

Once the flour is mixed through, add the mashed bananas

Place in a baking pan and bake for 45 minutes or when the toothpick comes out clean when you poke it in the middle

After removing from the oven, let it cool down in a wire rack.

Slice and enjoy. I smeared some cream cheese to the kid's little slices but it is yummy on its own and it was really so soft and moist and I am sure you will enjoy it with some hot coffee or hot chocolate.

Mango Ice Candy Anyone?

2011-12-17T19:12:00.001+11:00

Anyone growing up in the Philippines would definitely have a recollection of this well loved summer treat called ice candy (Pinoy version of an ice block). When we were little I remembered my very entrepreneurial mum making them in various flavours and selling them and they can really sell like hot pancakes especially during the very hot summer weather.

I wanted to make this ice blocks for my kids and share with them some good ol' memories of me growing up in the Philippines, so when my sister went for her vacation a couple of months ago, one of my request was for her to bring me some of these ice candy plastic bags so I can make heaps for my kiddies.

We have a very ripe calypso mango on the kitchen bench that's asking to be turned into something special so what better way to use this than make mango ice candy. I took the flesh and mashed it, doesn't have to be in a puree consistency as I want some chunks of flesh in my ice candy.

Next, I added some fruit juice to it. If I have more mangoes then I would have done it differently but I just made do with the only mango left. From memory, mum would spoon the flesh of some sweet ripe mangoes then add mango juice and condense milk together in a blender but I am veering away from too many sweet things for the kiddies so this was what I came up with.

I used the ice candy plastic bag that my sister brought for me but if you can also use an ice block moulds (bought heaps of these when it was on special at woolies at just $1 for 4pcs).

Then, using a funnel, I ladled the mango mixture into the plastic bag but make sure you mix the mango mixture first before you scoop it in the plastic bag so all the flesh gets evenly distributed and not left sitting at the bottom. I left some space on top of the plastic bag so I can twist and knot the end. Mum used to say that a good way to bag the ice candy is when the bag is tight but not busting and the knot is tight leaving the bag firm and not floppy.

Tadaa, here was the finished mixture ready to be placed in the freezer and to be enjoyed tomorrow.

This mango ice candy has not even set and I am already thinking of making some other flavours like coconut, watermelon perhaps and I might even try apple later.

The possibilities are endless so let your imagination make you do something special this summer time.

Hannah's Little Bun Clip

2011-12-11T23:46:00.001+11:00

Last night I decided to bring down the hem of one of littlemissy's dress because she has been the ever growing princess (the lenght was actually still abit ok but mum just wants her little girl to be in long dress and not knee lenght ones). While I was at it and since the sewing machine has already been taken out, I decided to make the most of it and decided to do an extra job ( aka to punish myself more hahaha - we are talking past midnight at around this time of me thinking of more things to make).

Anyhoo, I thought it would be great to add an accessory that will match the little girl's dress.

It took me awhile to rummage through my fabric stash as I have made this dress over a year ago and was not sure if there were still remnants for me to work on.

I was in luck - there was around about a little over a quarter of a meter left which is more than enough for my project - a flower hair clip made of the same fabric. Oh, and I decided to make a 10minute scrunchie to go with it too ... ah the things that I decide to do along the way.

Here was how I made it.

First, cut a couple of circles from your desired fabric - this depends on how big or how small you want the "petals" will be. I used a circle that was roughly around about 10 cm in diameter. The number of circles that you will cut will also be dependent on whether you want the "petals" to be close together or abit apart. Then taking each circle, cut them in half.

With the right side together, sew the half circle's edge leaving the straight part open. Then turn it inside out. From this, you have a choice of either run a long running stitch on the straight side of the circle using your sewing machine...

... But I realized that sewing a running stitch by hand was an easier alternative. Gather the bottom so it would like something like a "petal" then sew both ends together.

Do this process to all your circles then put them all together as how you wish them to look like after. You will have to adjust the distance of the petals while you sew them together. After I made this, I realized that the middle part doesn't look that pretty, so I just decided to grab a small piece of fabric then fold it to a certain shape enough to cover the middle part of the flower that I made.

Another option at this stage is to get a big button and hot glue it in the middle but I could not be bothered to find my hot glue to I added the fabric instead. Another option is to make another set of petals and put it on the first one to make two layers of flowers then glue some felt in the middle to cover it but since it was already around about 1am at that time, I just made do with what I have and fast.

Tadaa, the hair clip is finished. It only took me less than an hour from start to finish to make this. As you can see I added a button in the middle just so it doesn't look bland or simple but you can make your own version ( by sewing the button into the fabric it attached into the petals), just play around whichever would make your creation stand out. Pardon the button not being in the middle - too doozy and tired to change it when I realized that it was abit wonky.

You will notice that the back doesn't look good when you make your own, as you can see the stitches that we made from connecting the "petals" together. So to hide it, I just got a small piece of the fabric and stitched it over it. It also served as an anchor to my alligator clip. Again, another option is to hot glue your clip on the fabric or you may use that strip but before you close one end, insert a hair tie or hair elastic to it.

This was our little Hannah this morning before going to our Sunday service, loving her new hair accessory. The big brother wants to be in the picture too so here were the two of them this morning.

Because this was sooo easy to make, I am thinking of making a bigger version for the big sister too. Ahhh the joys of having girls in the house. As soon as I get a fabric appropriate for our little man's dress shirt - he will be the next recipient of mum's project.

What's In the Box Charlie?

2011-12-08T21:22:00.001+11:00

What a treat! Two days in a row that the postman arrived bearing (free) gifts for us.

I have been greatly anticipating the contents of this box for a couple of weeks now.

This is a gift courtesy of Kidspot (yes, again).

Zechy and Hannah knows Little Charlie Bear very well as it is one of their favourite show to watch in the morning and knowing this, I know they will be very delighted to see their gifts.

Since the parcel arrived after lunch and the kids were already having their nap, I patiently waited until they got up so I could surprised them.

These pics were what transpired from the time they opened the box to how they have come to loved their new pal - Little Charlie (I think I was more excited than the kids hahaha)

Mum loved these toys. They enhance the children's imagination - because from this they learn from exploration and creative play and encourages them to express themselves. At the back of the box it says: "Charlie loves pretending, because pretending means he uses his imagination."

The kids didn't waste time in exploring their new found pals and for mum, this is priceless.

Have a look at how much they loved their new pal. Thanks Kidspot for this timely present.

In behalf of Zechy and Hannah, we say our big thank you for all these and needless to say they both loved it to bits.

Thank You Snapfish & Kidspot

2011-12-07T17:25:00.001+11:00

Guess what was delivered today to the K household ... the photoblock that we got for free made by Snapfish and was a freebie that we got from Kidspot.

I have not ordered any of these sort before although I have seen heaps of them from other people's home or even in the shops in a much bigger scale.

We need to give a reviews actually after we receive our freebie and they seemed alright for me but here is abit of what I think of the whole experience.

The process of ordering the photoblock met abit of a hiccup in the beginning but was immediately addressed and rectified so pretty much overall it was just a straightforward process. I sort of cheated abit and made a collage instead of downloading one photo - only because I just could not make up my mind on which to print - in our case, there was always someone missing (to take the photo) so I might as well have two (or in this case more) in one.

The photoblock arrived immediately, after two working days from the time of finishing the process. When it arrived, you can see that it was packaged well - bubble wrapped and in a sturdy box.

When I opened to inspect my photoblock, it looked alright, although I was abit disappointed that the photo was cut instead of minimizing the size. You see, I also placed a scripture on bottom left side of the picture and the words were cut so much so that if someone is not familiar with the said scripture then they would not make out what the message was.

Also, on the top right side of the photo, my dear son nearly didn't made it to the frame and when I returned to the original collage that I made, I made sure that there were enough room on all sides.

Its a good product to start with, maybe they just need to tweak a few things in the future.

The other kidspot members have said their reviews and perhaps they can take these views to make it a better product in the future.

Nonetheless, the K family is grateful that they were given the chance to try this.

The photoblock sits nicely in the lounge in our buffet and hutch together with the other pictures that I made before.

Thanks Snapfish and Kidspot.

Surprise! Surprise!

2011-12-05T23:24:00.001+11:00

A strong knock on the door before midday last Saturday was a surprise indeed. One, I didn't know that AusPost delivers on the weekend, but what was more surprising was that MrK jumped in front of the door to answer it... away from his beloved computer hahaha.

Pretty much the reason for this was that this was his surprise for me, apparently.

I was in the middle of finishing cooking lunch when this box arrived and when MrK brought this in the kitchen and opened it on the kitchen bench, he gave me a kiss and said its for me, just for being so sweet (hmmm) .... now that was so sweet.

He recognized that I am not much of a red or white drinker, yet I enjoy a good sip of sweet wines like the Rosè so having 6 bottles to my disposal was just exciting.

I reckon this asks for a special occasion - perhaps invite people over for a barbi or something to bring to some one's house when we get invited for dinner.

Nonetheless, this is a very sweet gesture from hubby and I am loving it.

Thanks heaps Babe :)

Another Pretty Dress for a Pretty Little Girl

2011-12-04T18:26:00.001+11:00

Yesterday, I decided to try out one of the four patterns that I bought from YouCanMakeThis and I am so pleased that I started with this one as it was fairly easy to make. I reckon even a novice can make this dress in less than 3 hours from start to finish as that was how easy this can be made.

This was the dress right after it was finished and I am so happy with the outcome. Very easy to make and sew and does not require so much skills. Good thing that I still have some pretty good fabrics in my stash so I was able to immediately tackle the project.

And here is the proud owner of that pretty dress. I know it will be a biased comment, but I reckon she looks pretty in these (so is with other clothes that I make for her).

Then, mum realized that the little girl was not wearing the right shoes for the dress so immediately we changed it to your favourite Barbie sandals ... now that's better, it looked more suited for this simple pretty dress.

We did receive a couple of compliments on this dress when the little girl wore this to our Sunday service today and from the looks of it (it being fairly easy to make) I may be making more of these dresses now that summer is here.

More Sewing Projects On My To-Do List

2011-12-02T16:33:00.001+11:00

I have once again bought some patterns from my favourite sewing site YouCanMakeThis for our little princess but this time, I made sure that I have a project for the little man as well just to be fair.

It's been awhile since I bought some patterns from them and since there was an ongoing discount, I thought of availing them - some patterns are just going for $5 instead of $10.

What is so good about their e-books/ sewing patterns is that it gives the sewer a step by step instructions that also comes with pictures on every single steps so even a novice sewer can follow it.

So why not try your hands on these projects for your littlies and be proud of the projects that you make.

Might make a quick one over the weekend as I have heaps of stashed fabrics just waiting to be used.

My Little Girl with Her Singlet & Skirt

2011-12-01T22:47:00.000+11:00

This was the little girl in action wearing what mum made for her yesterday (or should I say last night). Too bad she didn't stay in this outfit for long, the weather was abit cold and windy but I am sure it will be worn for longer than the time I spent taking this photo :)

On Tuesday, we are invited for a play date with the other kids in the congregation and we hope for a sunny day so the kids will enjoy their time together.

Singlet & Skirt = Best Summer Combo

2011-11-30T23:37:00.000+11:00

Love this new project that I made for the little princess today.

After a long hiatus from my ever reliable Brother (my sewing machine that is), I was itching to make a project - even a simple one and an idea came to me when while rearranging the little girl's tallboy, I saw her plain white singlets that were brought by my sister from overseas that were just asking for some makeover.

The weather is heating up and after packing their winter clothes to make way for their spring and summer outfits, I knew this is the best season to showcase some of my sewing projects.

This was how it all started ... plain and white! This is shouting 'jazz me up' or 'makeover needed' so I had to think quick on what to do.

I decided to freehand a cupcake as this is one of Hannah's favourite snackie ... and besides who would not find a cupcake cute.

So with contrasting fabrics from my stash, I traced the template that I made to the fabrics.

I held it against the singlet that I am jazzing up so I would have an idea on how it would roughly look like when it's finish and if it needs some embelishings, in this case, I decided to add some buttons to look like sprinkles.

Place the cut fabric against a fusible interfacing and trace it.

Once you have the fabric and the fusible interfacing together, get a hot iron and press them together. Since the fabric that I used was lightweight, the fusible interfacing gives it abit of a support (so it does not fray) when you are sewing together and attaching it to your project. This process is also known as appliqueing which I didnt realized that it was just an easy process - or I suppose it depends on the design.

Once you have somehow set where your applique will stay, set your machine to the zigzag mode or perhaps I will leave it to you on what kind of stitch you will use to attach your applique to your garment.

I used a fine zigzag (#2) but as I said, you can choose whatever type of stitch you want to use as long as your applique stays in the garment you are putting it on (and yes, you can see a magic tape there, I just dont want it to move so I played it safe).

Once the applique has been stitched to the singlet that I am jazzing up, I hand sewn the buttons as an added embelishment .... that's it! You officially made your first applique project!

I decided that it would be great to make a simple skirt to go along with the singlet to make it a set so using the same fabric that I used for the cupcake applique, I just made a simple rectangle skirt which I jotted down in my sewing notebook but I forgot to take the source from where I got it so I apologize in advance if I can't make any acknowledgement to the owner of this idea.

There are two parts to this skirt project, the main skirt part and then the bottom border part.

Note - the measurements below is for my two year old princess, so make some adjustment to the measurement that will suit your little one, but you get the idea on how to make this simple skirt.

Main skirt piece: cut 2 rectangles 9″ x 16″

Bottom border piece: cut 2 rectangles 4.5″ x 16″

Mark your main skirt piece by placing the first line 3/4″ from the top of the main piece and the second line 2″ down from first line.

Using your hot iron, fold your edge to the first line, iron, and then fold again to the second line.

This will serve as the elastic casing later on for the waistband.

Then take the border bottom pieces and pinned them to the bottom of the main skirt piece (right sides of the respective fabric facing each other).

Then sew these pieces together (use 1/2″ seam so there is enough fabric to topstitch later) and finished the edges (again, I used the zigzag stitch to finish the edge as I dont have an overlocker)

You can click on the pictures to enlarge it for further details.

Open up the skirt pieces and iron the seam upward toward the top of the skirt. Place both skirt pieces right sides together and pin the sides together (unfolding the waistband casing) then sew 1/2" from the edge so there is enough fabric to topstitch later. Do this on both sides.

Fold the bottom of the skirt up 1/4″, twice, to form the bottom hem then sew them as close to the edge of the fold as possible.

Now that the hem is done, let us go to the waistband. Refold the waistband that we did earlier using the folds that we have already ironed. Sew as close to the edge as possible but leave a gap on the bottom part of the waistband as this is where we will insert the elastic. I used a 1" garter or elastic as I find that this is the best size for the little princess' rather than the thin ones as they sometimes tend to twist.

To insert the elastic, place a safety pin on one side of the elastic and pass it thru the waistband casing that we did earlier. Once both end meets, sew them by hand together then close the gap that we left. Distribute the gather on the waistband to balance it out.

Tadaaa ... now this is a project that even you will be proud of and Im sure your little princess will love wearing. I made the skirt short as it is meant to be a summer outfit but you can play around with the measurement to suit the lenght that you wish for your little princess.

MrK reckons it is short but I said that this is more like a play skirt rather than a going out one.

Now that I know I can make some applique, I think I would buy those plain shirts from now on so I can personalize it for our little girl.

Next project would be either a car or an airplane applique for the little man ... if only I know how to make a shorts.

Healthy Lunch: Extra Lean Herbed Beef Sausage with Sauteed Swiss Brown Mushroom and Garlic and Lemon Rissoni

2011-11-28T15:04:00.001+11:00

As you may have learned (for those that visits our blog often), that mrK and I have ventured into living healthy and has been regularly (and religiously) going to the gym to address some of our nagging physical problems. Aside from doing workouts, we also sort of steered our eating habits to a more leaner healthy way and that includes the kids' meals as well.

So perhaps I will share to you some of the meals that I think would be a healthy option for those who wants to loose some wobblies or even those that just wants to start eating healthy meals.

Today's lunch was quite an easy one to prepare.

I bought an extra lean beef sausage - knowing that it is extra lean means we rid off the meat with unnecessary fat contents thus giving us a better meat in return. Now that we have the protein all sorted out for you, so we move to your carb source - we have rissoni in the cupboard so I used that and just slightly sauteed it in garlic (after cooking it in boilling water of course), small amount of extra virgin olive oil and splash it with some lemon right after taking it from the pan (small amount of salt and pepper to season it).

For our veggies, we have the mushroom but you can easily replace this with some steamed green vegetables for a balance diet.

And in any form of eating, we have to remember moderation as well. For my lunch, I just had half a cup of rissoni and 1/3 cup of the cooked mushroom and perhaps 60g of the sausage (I didn't finish the two pieces) and that would be enough to satisfy your hunger for lunch.

Skipping meals is not a good way of loosing weight too as it is just putting some strains to your body and making your metabolism even slower as there is nothing to burn for your activities for the day.

Eat three full meal and two snacks each day and top it up with heaps of water especially in this warm weather.

Hope I have inspired you on this first edition of eating healthy.

Our Midnight Ordeal

2011-11-27T22:43:00.000+11:00

This has been the only reminder of our midnight ordeal last night.

And this was where we were (Campbelltown Hospital) from 11:25pm of the Saturday night until this afternoon just after 3pm.

Our poor Zechy enduring a painful procedure of putting in a cannula on his left arm - actually this was the second attempt - the pediatric doctor tried it first on his right arm but due to his wiggling and sudden movements, they had to give up on that side and proceeded on the other arm, which left his right one bruised but other than that was fine (he just does not want anyone touching it - perhaps it is still tender)

It is not that visible in this photo but he has heaps of petechial rashes all over his face, all over his ears and under them, on his eyelids and under eye area and some on his chin and neck. These small red spots or rashes was the whole reason why I had to immediately rush him to the emergency department of our local hospital.

As I have no knowledge of what have caused this nor have any indications of what it may result to - I wasted no time and grabbed the car key and just brought with me a spare blanket and a pair of socks just in case my little man feels cold while waiting to be seen.

I am glad that just as I was about to walked out of the door, mrK was there coming home from work, so I was glad to have him with me in this situation.

As a mum and looking at your little one being in pain, I was hoping that I have the power to take that pain away from my little man and let me just handle it for him - unfortunately it was not like how we want it.

I am proud of my little Zechy though, how brave he was while in the emergency department and enduring two tries of putting in that cannula in his arm. Though he seemed sad in here ...

... a few minutes later, we see our usual bubba boy bouncing back to his usual self - smilling and even singing while waiting for other procedures to be done.

While we were in the pediatric department of the emergency, mum again panicked as the nurse that was looking after him placed some more gadgets on my little man - the nurse was just actually wanting to get a better and precise heart rate report as she apparently detected an irregular heart rhythm but this sinus arrhythmia was dismissed by the attending pediatric doctor as he reckons its quite ordinary with kids his age and should not be of any concern in regards to his condition.

And this was our little man an hour before we were discharged - the usual happy boy that he is and even sharing his bed with his little sister who thinks it was a novelty being in the hospital because of the food and the telly that is in the room.

We are just so happy that nothing severe caused this petechial rashes to our little man and the doctors have just put it as viral infection. His blood analysis and urine tests all came out normal so that was very reassuring for us.

Now, he is the same as before, bubbly, active and as always being the big annoying person to his little sister.

Nice to have our usual bubba boy back.

Goodbye Spring Hello Summer

2011-11-26T18:50:00.001+11:00

Finally, the sun appeared on the last weekend of Spring. After having to endure over a week long of cold and wet weather, we were finally blessed with such a glorious day.

So today, daddy decided to put together the kid's cubby house so they can have their time playing outside again after being couped inside the house for so long (and also gave mum the chance to do their mountain of laundry)

So after their afternoon nap, the kids went straight in our backyard to play outside - something that they just have surely missed for a while due to the wet weather.

They even held their first tea party outside - actually eating their afternoon snacks using their teacups and play utensils that we bought them last week.

Ahhh, the beauty of child's play and their innocence - its a blessing.

Thank you Jehovah God for the wonderful breezy weather outside, the sunshine and the kid's laughter - it just affirms your wonderful glory and tender mercy always.

Filipino Style Beef Picadillo

2011-11-23T16:48:00.001+11:00

Today has been a very cold, gloomy and rainy day - been like this for a couple of days now and what better way to spend a day like this than having one (of my many) Filipino comfort food on hand.

I remembered my mum cooking this, the aromatic smell of freshly sauteed garlic and onion and the stewing red bull capsicum permeates our small kitchen, inviting enough to make you stay in the kitchen and wait for this food to finish cooking - and that was how I learned to cook this yummy food from my mum - by staying in the kitchen and remembering how it was done.

To make the Beef Picadillo, you need the following:

1 kg of minced / ground beef

2 large or 3 medium potatoes finely cubed

1 -2 medium carrots finely cubed

2 medium bull horn red capsicum / red bell pepper

1/2 cup olives (optional) - whole or sliced

3/4 cup sultanas / raisins

1 medium onion finely sliced

3 cloves garlic finely chopped

2-3 bay leaves

1 1/2 cups tomato puree

1 1/2 cups beef broth or just water

salt and pepper

3 tbsp olive oil

To cook it:

Heat oil in saucepan.

Saute the onion for a minute or two until it becomes transparent and aromatic.

Add the garlic and continue sauteing for another minute or two.

Add the minced beef and leave it to brown. Mash the minced beef so it will not be clumpy.

Once the beef is browned, add the potatoes and mix well with the beef for a couple of minutes.

Then add the remaining ingredients - capsicum, carrots, sultanas, tomato puree, broth/water, bay leaves and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Taste and add seasoning according to your taste.

How easy was that! Enjoy this with a warm boiled rice and you are good to go!

Our two littlies enjoyed it so much that their lunch was finish in no time and so did my ever discerning mrK... another loved dish for the K family.

3M Scotch Restickable Mounting Tab

2011-11-19T11:54:00.001+11:00

This was part of yesterday's mail. Being a member of Kidspot, not only do we get heaps of advice about child rearing, cooking and even fun things to do with the family, we also get the chance to receive items and participate in reviews in relations to what we receive.

Yesterday, I got my 3M Restickable Tabs and I immediately put it to use today by using it at the back of the chores calendar of our teener Kat. I love it, not only will it save me heaps of sticky tapes but as it says in the package - it can be used repeatedly and when the stickables starts to fade - just washed it and its ready for use again. I tried to remove the tabs from the back of the paper to see if it is going to ruin the paper but it didn't and because it is clear, it will not leave marks on it.

I tried sticking it on our painted wall - I had a bad experience about another restickable that peeled the paint on our wall so I have to ever so slowly remove it - which was a pain to do as obviously I do not have time for mundane things like this. 3M Scotch Restickable passed the test on our wall with flying colour.

No more magnets, tapes and tacks because Scotch Restickable Mounting tab ls allow you to gang, decorate, secure and personalize LIGHTWEIGHT photos and mementos without leaving tell-tale marks behind your walls and surface.

The Scotch Restickable mounting range come in clear tabs which is also great for when you want your decor to be secured discreetly, and after repeated use all Scotch Restickable Mounting products can be washed and used again and again. they can also be removed from walls and surfaces cleanly and are even safe for use on your photos.

Beef Salpicao (Salpicado)

2011-11-10T11:06:00.000+11:00

I have always been intrigued by this dish called Beef Salpicao. It seemed alot of people seemed to be having this as one of their favourite so I decided to check in internet and see how it is made. I wad amazed at how many version this dish can have - cubed beef, finely sliced beef, chunky style - with paprica, without it etc but I thought I'd start with the simple version.

Beef Salpicao is a Filipino dish of Spanish or Portuguese influence. It’s beef tenderloin cut into small pieces or strips and marinated in olive oil and sauteed with garlic..lots of garlic! Really simple and easy and so quick to cook just allot some time for marinating. I like to serve this with our favorite side - steamed basmati rice.

Prepare the marinate. First I would like to apologize as I didn't measure these ingredients as I just do calculations according to the 750g beef. I am assuming that I placed 1/2c olive oil, 8 cloves garlic finely chopped (if you love garlic, then by all means add some more), salt and pepper.

If you bought a whole cut beef, cut them into strips but you can also have it in cubes if you wish but I thought the marinade would infuse better if I have it in strips. Combine the beef with the marinade and leave it infusing overnight.

Heat about 2 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat and saute some finely chopped cloves of garlic, you can add more garlic if you want to. When it gets fragrant and starts to brown, add the beef mixture ( beef including the marinade). Turn heat to high and continue cooking beef while stirring until browned and the liquid part of the marinade is gone. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

How easy is that. Serve it while it is hot with some steamed rice on the side.

Try it and see if this would be one of your favourite after.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Home Made Playdough (No Cooking Required)

2011-11-09T17:20:00.000+11:00

Playdough (aka Play-doh) is one of the timeless piece of item that kids of all ages have enjoyed and are still enjoying to this day. Despite the emergence of hi tech gadgets and expensive toys, playdough can still be seen played by heaps of kids - mine included. I used to just buy them in this little jars they come in for our kids to play with but its just becoming more and more expensive.

After a trip to the house of one of our friend Miss E (who happens to be a preschool teacher) over the weekend I am convinced that I will be making our own playdough in the future after she made some for my kids to play with while they were in their house.

What you Need:

1 cup plain flour

2 tbsp Cream of Tartar

1/2 cup salt

1 cup boilling water

1 tbsp cooking oil

various clours of food colouring

It is so easy. Just combine all the dry ingredients then pour the hot water. It is handy to have a spatula with you as the dough may be hard to handle because of the hot water that was added. If its already possible to habndle, knead the mixture until all the ingredients come together.

I rolled the dough mixture in a log and then divided them to how many colours I will be making.

I took one portion of the dough and using the back of the glass container that I used awhile ago, placed a couple of drops of the food colouring. Then I folded the edge so the colour would be inside.

Just a reminder that the food colouring can stain your bench tops so it's a good idea to work on a surface that would not discolour like the back of this glass container. Also use disposable plastic gloves while mixing the colour to the dough if you don't wish to have a rainbow of colours in your hand. Knead the colour into the dough until you get the colour that you wish.

Tadaaa ... here it is now. Didn't know it was so easy to make

If you wish to make other colours - check this chart out.

Zechy was so happy to test drive mum's creation (Hannah was still having a nap at this time) ... just have to remind him not to mix all the colours together as what they did last weekend and it didn't look anywhere near this visually appealing afterwards - more like those poo that they make hahhaha.

Have a go and surprise your kids. A good way of giving them something to do during the day.

Its a Curly Day

2011-11-04T16:26:00.000+11:00

Hooray, its Friday signaling the start of the weekend ... no assignment to think of yet so our teener Kat and I decided to do some bonding moments together ... girly girly style.

Yep, what else can we do but do some beautifying of some sort. Armed with the new curler that we bought for Kat, we decided to do our hairs and try some hairstyles.

After this, I decided to add a new title to my already long list of tasks that I do - I'm officially a hair dresser now as well hahaha. Now bad for less than fifteen minutes of work hey.

Taught Kat how to do it on her own so she can do her curls in the morning before going to school. I bought this curlers for her as she has been wanting to do some curlings on her long hair and this I think is the best one so it won't leave any damage to her hair and it is very easy to use as well and easy to set so good for the on the go teener all the time.

Im thinking of curling little Hannah's hair later but that is if she keeps still hahaha.

Enjoy your weekend everyone.

Taking Fitness First

2011-11-03T21:47:00.000+11:00

After pondering on the matter and weighing the pros and cons (more pros I tell you), mrK and I decided to jump in the band wagons of getting fit. We have done some rounds on all the gyms in our area but we were sold to attending this gym. They have great amenities inside and the facilities are all that we want. They have different classes to that run on varying times of the day and night.

We signed up last week and we have attended one class every day since and it was fun - hard but fun.

A few times that we come home and woke up feeling sore all over but as they say no pain no gain or in our case - no loss hahaha.

This was mrK and I after a hard night workout and will continue to have hard work as soon as we set a specific date with our personal trainers.

Some people asked why, when we are not fat anyway but going to the gym are not just for people who are overweight I reckon, but its more showing that you are respecting yourself

and looking after it.

I am aiming to loose around about 8-10kg as I am in my highest weight post pregnancy at the moment tipping the scale at ... at ... hmmm do I need to say .... ok, I'm 55kg at the moment and with a small frame of 152cm. My BMI (Body Mass Index) still says I am on the healthy category but I took it upon myself to join mrK as he is in the "obese" line gathering it from the infos to attain his BMI.

Its basically weight loss and toning that we wish to achieve so hoping our PT (personal trainer) will help us achieve that goal.

So far we have attended Body Pump, Body Attack, Body Step, Body Balance, Cycling, RPM classes and is still finding time to attend Zumba, Thump Boxing, Boxing, Yoga, Body Combat and Abs, Butts & Thigh classes in the coming weeks - we signed up for a year's worth of membership anyway so I am definite that we will have a day to get them.

So here's hoping to a lean mean fighting machine come summer time.

Back to the Drawing Board

2011-10-31T17:30:00.000+11:00

I thought I can completely ignore the call of my Brother, but I can not deny that it will always be there, in our room, in a corner just waiting to be tapped. I'm talking about my Brother sewing machine that is.

Last night I was sewing till the wee hours of the following morning I was hard on making my seven year old niece Stephanie this simple summer dress. It is good that I still have a good number of stashed fabric in my sewing box. These were some of my hoardings whenever I see fabrics that were on special. I have around about 5 meters of this fabric and was thinking of making identical tops for us three girls (Kat, Hannah and I) so come summer time we have something of the same - not that we intend to wear it at the same time though.

I hope you like your present from Auntie Ji Tephy and maybe next time, I will make something different for you.

Raising an Eyebrow

2011-10-30T12:00:00.000+11:00

BEFORE

AFTER

After being critical about her growing bushy eyebrow and after not withstanding plucking just like what I do with mine, I decided to just bring our teenager Kat to our local salon to once and for all trim her source of insecurity.

I did forewarned her that it will not be pleasant and that some form of pain will be experienced, but she reckons she can endure the temporary pain of this procedure in exchange for a decent eyebrow which some of her friends in school like to make fun of. The following are the pictures I took as she lied there and endured the whole ordeal as evident in some of her facial expression hahaha. Such a brave girl indeed ....

Here was the face of a relieved teenager after her first ever eyebrow waxing. Her forehead and eyebrow area was very red after it was done (sorry it was not fully captured on the picture) but she was happy about the result so I'm a happy mum. I did said that she needs to maintain it by plucking those growing ones, but she said, she would rather go back to the salon for another waxing session.

The joys of being a teenager ... our next stop is her hair ... to colour or permed or not... hmmm

The Sound of Laughter

2011-10-27T01:04:00.000+11:00

The Sound of Laughter

Author: Connie Brockman

The sound of laughter and carefree days,
of treasures found as children play.
What joy, what fun, in a simple way,
the wonderful sight of a childhood day.

Our Daughters - Our Treasures

2011-10-21T17:18:00.000+11:00

Littlemisstwo has always been my shadow wherever I go and what ever I do, but more so when it comes to me putting my makeup on whenever we go out. She is curious and inquisitive about so many things and when it comes to mum's cosmetics, she pays more attention to it. She looks at me as if studying my every move and seeing what comes next. Needless to say, being a girl, she loves pretty things. So this afternoon, after the conservative dad went to work, our little girl had a teenee weenee make-over from mum. Well, I just dabbed a tiny bit of eye shadow on her eyelid and a lipstain on her lips. She was so excited to see herself in the mirror and pranced around showing it off to her big sister and big brother as if she has come of age with this things on her face.

It was so cute to see her excitement - the same excitements I saw over ten years ago when I did something like this to her big sister. Oh girls.

;

Look at the two princesses of the house who adore each other ... I was so mesmerized with this pic after I took it, that I decided to put a poem that would somehow describe what they are to us ... our two precious girls.

Our daughters brings sunshine to brighten our day.
Our daughters brings joy through their loving ways.
Our daughters are blessings that comes from above.
A special and beautiful treasures to love.

They are little bit of sunshine,
They are our smiles to light our days,
They will steal your heart and
keep it with their warm endearing ways,
They are our precious daughters,
With a sweetness from above
Who filled our years with laughter
and our lives with lots of love.

We thank Jehovah God for our precious Hannah Elisse & Katarina Louise.

Canberra's National Zoo & Aquarium

2011-10-20T16:39:00.000+11:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

So while in Canberra, I thought it would be best to explore the area more and see what our nation's capital can offer. I actually researched what we can possibly do over there before we even went on this short holiday so we can maximize the time and for our three kiddies to enjoy our stay.

Last year, aside from seeing the Floriade a couple of times, we were able to go to Questacon and a couple of museums as well which the kids thoroughly enjoyed, so for this year, I want something different and obviously would veer away from where we have been before.

I am glad that I came across this site that gave me numerous ideas on activities that a family with kids can enjoy.

There were heaps to do yet so little time - from ice skating to go karting to even big pool activities, there are heaps that can cater from the young ones and the young once.

Because of our very limited time, I decided that it would be best to just spend our late morning to afternoon before heading home, to go to the National Zoo and Aquarium as I am sure that the kids will enjoy exploring the variety of land animals and marine animals in one area.

It was a very exhausting day but we are glad that our three kiddies had a great time.

There are heaps more that a family can do in Canberra from the list of activities that I found on this site so maybe the next time we go back to ACT, we know what else to do.

Plan some time with you and your young ones (or young once) and enjoy the scenery, our nation's capital can offer.

Canberra's Floriade 2011

2011-10-19T18:24:00.000+11:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

After being invited to return to Canberra via a generous offer from the management of Rydges Hotel, who can resist seeing the nation's capital once more. Though it was a very short overnight stay, we made the most of the time. We left home rather late as we attended our Sunday service first then headed off immediately after that. We didn't even have a proper sit down lunch with the family but rather decided to take our meal inside the car while dad drives (good thing dad made us pizza so that's easy). So as soon as we got to the hotel, we just placed our luggages in the room and immediately headed to the Floriade which coincidentally was on its last day so since time was ticking and since we've been there last year, we decided to head to the market first and got ourselves our fav teas and curry blends before heading to see the wonderful flowers.The kids saw the ferris wheel and teapot and teacups ride but the public announcement echoed signaling the last half hour for the patrons to enjoy the place so unfortunately the kid's request was turned down bringing one sulky little boy screaming (I think you can even see in one picture how he felt about this decision hahaha).Tomorrow is a big day as we decided that before going home that we pass by another interesting place. Go check the next entry.Thanks Canberra for yet another gorgeous feel of Spring with your wonderful blooms and thank goodness for such a glorious weather. See you in the next couple of years ...

Cakes ... Cupcakes ... Cookies by SweetHomeParties

2011-10-14T19:19:00.001+11:00

Digital slideshow generated with Smilebox

Cupcakes, it has become popular in the last couple of years, so much so that it looks like it has taken a new world. Who does now know what this dainty, lovely looking little cakes are.

The ghastly confections have overtaken chocolates and flowers as a gifting idea and perhaps even the traditional wedding or special occasion cakes has took a turn to make way for the more popular alternative that we know now - the cupcakes.

The cupcake craze has taken us all by storm and it is not just for kids anymore. I must admit I use to make these lovely muffin cake as a treat for my kids or as a lunch box fillers adding their favourite fruits or sweets but now it has evolved to a wider sense so much that there are even designer cupcakes out there that can cost as much as $15 a piece. But, a friend of mine Ms Joy, decided to take the plunge and have joined the bandwagon of people making these enjoyable and delectable treat. What sets them apart though, is their creativity and of course the flavours of their cupcakes. SweetHomeParties offers that and more. Have a look at the attention to details - a labour of love from the maker indeed. So for whatever occasion or if you just want to put some sweetness to an already sweet story then head down to her site and see what you two together can create.

Picnic - Backyard Style

2011-10-12T15:12:00.000+11:00

The weather is getting right for playing outside and utilizing the backyard for more great fun adventures and that was what my two littlies did today. Right after their morning swimming class, they decided to run wild in our backyard while mum was thinking of what to cook for lunch.

And by the time they asked for something to eat, I thought they would find it a novelty to have some sort of picnic in our backyard so out with their small table and chairs which proved to be a great idea as they were able to finish their left over pancakes from this morning's brekky.

I am glad that our home has an ample space for the kids to play and have a good run around.

We have a big rectangular trampoline that the kids loving jumping on, the kids have their little cubby house (and fingers cross another one - made out of pine and looks like a miniature house) where they play pretend and we have the swing and the hammock for added fun and adventures.

Not to mention the gazillion outdoor toys that we have inherited from other people (which we are so grateful for) so what more can these kids ask for ... oh yeah, more playmates to play with as the kids say.

Hope you are enjoying spring as much as we do and looking forward to summer soon.

Can't wait!

My Chicken Lollipop

2011-10-11T22:25:00.000+11:00

I don't know when or where I have learned to make these yummy treat but perhaps I learned it from eating several times from the chinese restaurants where I see them being served often. The other night, I decided to make them as our kids loves chicken in whatever shape or form as long as they know it is chicken so a light bulb moment came (aside from the fact that I don't know what to cook that they have not eaten yet) and so this came about in their dinner plates.

I believe chicken lollipops are an hors d'oeuvre or plainly known as appetisers. This is made from the middle (and sometimes inner) segments of chicken wings which is one of the most economical (inexpensive) cut from the chicken.

Though it takes some time and effort to prepare, it will be all so worth it when you see your kids devour them in an instant - which all mums wants to see.

Anyway, this was how I made this.

First, cut the wings into two parts, one would be the drumette (left side of the second pic) and the other would be the wingette. We will be using the drumette part for this recipe. Don't worry we still have a use for the wingette, I have cut the tip and fry the wingette saving the tip for when I would make a chicken broth so nothing is going to waste.

Now with a paring knife or a cleaver or just your ordinary knife, cut the skin around the cartilage area and you may even need to cut through a couple of sinews and tendons. Then scrape down the meat so the meat forms a nice round ball at the end. I would like to remind caution when making this part as we are working on a small portion of meat and it could be slippery at times so please be watchful of your hand and your clever or knife while doing this process please.

Do the procedure to all your drumettes. Now that the meat rest at the bottom, you can do whatever you wish from this stage on really. You can marinate your chicken lollipop with things that you fancy. Bbq sauce and honey perhaps or hot tabasco sauce and some italian herbs, or maybe some yoghurt and curry paste ... the possibilities are endless and unlimited so why not experiment and see what flavours you can come up after.

For me, I just made it abit plain and simple. I dipped my chicken in some beaten eggs then rolled it in some seasoned crumbs (chicken salt and ground pepper) then deep fried it.

Tadaaa, this was our dinner the other night. I had it with some creamy mash potato and some blanched asparagus. The kids ate them just as is but I added some sweet chili sauce on my chicken and it was a treat. Yes, it is abit tedious and it requires some time and effort but once you get the hang of it, it will be easy to do. This is not just great for a meal, you may want to bring your creation to one of your gathering and see what others says about your effort.

As I always say in cooking, do not limit yourself with what the recipe requires, sometimes its best to step out of the square and do some experiments and add a little of "you" in your cooking.

How about trying it over the weekend and see what others think of it.

Enjoy!

Spring is Flowers and Blooms

2011-10-08T19:47:00.002+11:00

Woke up early this morning so I can check out our local Trash & Treasure. You see, that's where I buy most of my plants which cost less if not half the price of going to the shop where a small pot of simple flowering plant cost around about $5 on average.

Have a look at this! This is the reason why I have to get more plants. This has been my ongoing project ever since the tree stump was gone and its roots poisoned and eventually disintegrated into the ground. After doing heaps of weeding and removing half of the dirt, I saw the potential in this small spot. I do not want to waste such a great space and I want it to tie in with the other small garden that I helped nourished - the one near our letterbox, so I immediately made some plans. I think its nice and rewarding to see a space that used to be dull and lifeless come to life because of patience and nurturing just like the other small garden that we have at the back.

An hour and a half of toiling (in the rain) and this was my reward. The plants are not that mature yet so I have given them enough room to grow and I am sure come next spring time, it will be blossoming pretty flowers of red, yellow, pink and white.

Now, this is no longer a wasted space. It now ties in with the other small garden in the front of it and given a couple more months, it too will shine.

Its so rewarding seeing how our lavender bloomed and the fragrance it emits as soon as you walk up the driveway. A year ago, they were my tiny babies but have a look at how much they have grown - just like my real babies. Ah, now its time to relax and enjoy some time admiring my little handy works ... tomorrow I'm tackling some tomato plants as the newest addition to the backyard. I want to take the opportunity good climate of spring when foliage grows to its maturity and shows its beauty. Thank goodness I am not that bad in gardening.

Monkeying Around

2011-10-07T23:39:00.000+11:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

School Holiday spells fun not just for our teener Kat but for all the kids in this household because that means that there would be more chance of going out, more chance of being outside but most of all a great chance of some nice treats from either mum and dad.

Yesterday, the whole family enjoyed a great time down at Monkey Mania. Yes, its abit busy and there were more kids than usual but its school holiday and we all expected that.

Even dad had a great time "monkeying" around with his three kids while mum (as usual) stayed on the side line and was the designated happy snapper for the event.

Have a look at how much fun we had.

Song Used: Best Friend Forever

Bye Sydney Hello Manila

2011-10-04T20:47:00.000+11:00

This morning we gave a great send off to my sister Teng as she heads back home to Manila for a five weeks holiday to see her pretty one and to catch up with family and friends but most of all to have a great time just relaxing. Everyone that knows my sister would attest to how workaholic she can be and for her to have this long of a vacation is a feat in itself so we wish her all the great time over there and hopefully she doesn't forget our pasalubongs hahaha (luggage weight permits).

It seemed like she will be gone for good from the looks of us at the airport but these bunch of close friends will endure sleepless nights and no sleep from work just to wave her bye and for that close friendship we are all grateful to have ... when you are away from home - these loyal and loving friends stands as your family and we are so grateful for them.

Enjoy your well earned break sis and see you in five weeks time.

Loving our Oreo Cupcakes

2011-10-01T20:51:00.003+10:00

I have been thinking of what to bake today as I have not been doing so for awhile now. So while the kids were having their naps I decided that an Oreo cupcake sounds interesting. Besides, after hoarding 7 boxes of Oreo - both Chocolate Cream and the Classic variety (those that has 15 bikkies in a box) for just .99c a pop, I thought it is sinful to just devour it in one sitting just on its own (which I had done on one box already - bad). I surveyed the net for the easiest one and this was what I found. The recipe said that it will yield 24 cupcakes but I was able to bake two normal muffin tray - so thats 24 regular sizes and 24 tiny ones easy so this recipe is quite generous.

Hope you enjoy making them as much as my kiddies loved them after they had their nap.

Oreo CupcakesYield: 24 cupcakes

Ingredients:

For the cupcake:2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
12 tbsp. unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
2 tsp. vanilla extract
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups buttermilk, at room temperature

For the frosting:
1 3/4 cups plus 2 tbsp. whipping cream (chilled)
3 tbsp. powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
6 tbsp. Oreo cookie crumbs

Directions:

To make the cupcakes, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (180C). Line two cupcake pans with paper liners. I saw in one of the other oreo cupcake recipe that they placed half an oreo with the cream on top to the bottom of the cupcake liner so I sort of thought of making the same too. Though, I had another tray with just the cupcake liners and nothing in it.

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt then set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add the brown sugar and continue beating until fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until all the dry ingredients have been incorporated, being careful not to over mix.

Divide the batter between the prepared cupcake liners. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 18-20 minutes. Transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack and let cool to room temperature.

To prepare the frosting, in the clean bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until the whipped cream holds stiff peaks. Gently fold in the cookie crumbs with a spatula.

Scoop the mixture into a pastry bag and pipe frosting decoratively on top of the cupcakes.

Here is how it looked like with the Oreo down at the bottom. It softened and the cream filling adds to the sweetness of the very soft cupcake.

And look at the bottom of the cupcake - it really is an Oreo cupcake :)

Don't forget the old adage, 'waste not, want not' so enlist the help of your little ones in 'cleaning up'.

Just be prepared for the mess that they will leave behind, either on their faces or on the furnitures where they wipe their hands and face hahaha.

But most of all, remember why you did this in the first place, because you want your littlies to be happy ... so just breathe in and breathe out about the mess and join them in enjoying your labour of love. Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Source: adapted from Dinner with Danielle

Taken here

Another Blissful Anniversary Babe

2011-09-30T01:46:00.000+10:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

To my lovely husband Kon, I know that you are aware of how much I love you and I show that through my actions and never a day would pass without me saying them but I thought I'd make a video (yes, you should know me by now, cheesy as it may be, I still made one hahaha) just to remind you a glimpse of how things have been for us for this year, and for that I am truly blessed and grateful. Yes, we have gone through trials and dodged some challenges along the way yet despite all these things thrown at us, we still stand here united and still going strong.

I am thankful for you as a husband and I am grateful for you as a father to our kids.

Let us keep this relationship strong with the help of Jehovah God.

That being said, let me share to you a song that I grew up hearing and somehow loved. Now, I can truly dedicate it to someone special like you. The meanings speaks of what I feel for you babe.

I love you and I thank you for another blissful married life with you.

NOW THAT I HAVE YOU

All my life it seemed
That something had been missing
I didn`t know what to do
Days would pass me by
Each as lonely as the other
Until I met you

REFRAIN:
You opened the door
And let the sunshine in
My life will never be the same again
CHORUS:
Now that I have you
Everything just seems so right
Now that I have you I`m alive
You are the song that I`ll be
Singing my whole life through
I`m living in a brighter world
Now that I have you
Looking ahead I see
The two of us together
I`ll never let you go
You`re so dear to me
And it isn`t any wonder
Why I love you so

REFRAIN:
You opened the door
And let the sunshine in
My life will never be the same again
CHORUS:
Now that I have you
Everything just seems so right
Now that I have you I`m alive
You are the song that I`ll be
Singing my whole life through
I`m living in a brighter world
Now that I have you

BRIDGE:
I feel this love is real I see it in your eyes
You take my hand and I understand
You are mine
You are mine

CHORUS:
Now that I have you Everything just seems so right
Now that I have you I`m alive
You are the song that I`ll be
Singing my whole life through
I`m living in a brighter world
Now that I have you

Sung by The Company

Our Short Family Weekend Holiday

2011-09-28T14:42:00.000+10:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

This was one short vacation that was worth remembering. For this year, MrK and I decided to celebrate our anniversary with the view to also bring the kids to the beach afterwards, so we booked a hotel that would suit what we aimed for. Our previous anniversaries were normally spent us two on a fine dining expedition, but this year we did that and more - because the kids get to have their own celebration too ... to celebrate the new season of Spring and more sunshine after being cooped up at home from the cold winter days!I must admit, we thought our small vacation was ruined by the uncooperative weather. We left home and it was so dark and gloomy and rainy like it will never stop.We reached our destination, North Wollongong, and it seemed promising. The rain had stopped and though there were still dark clouds on the horizon, it was not as threatening as when we were on our way. MrK and I celebrated our anniversary - though cold and windy outside, it was warm and romantic inside the restaurant and we both enjoyed the night.The following morning and the the two more after that, the kids loved the beach, the sun and the ocean - though it was still cold for a dip but the sun was there and the kids enjoyed making sand castles and even had the time to make friends.It was a remarkable short 3days 2nights weekend getaway but it was so worth it. As soon as we got home, the weather reverted back to its gloomy self but we didn't care, we just loved the time we spend outside together.

Proud of You

2011-09-22T02:19:00.000+10:00

Look at what was handed to us as soon as she got the chance - a merit certificate that any parent would be proud of. Our eldest was beaming with joy and excitement when she showed us what was given to her yesterday from school.

Who would not be, when your efforts were recognized and this achievement was scaled not just from the statistics from school but this achievement was tallied nationwide.

I asked her how many other students got these kinds of awards and she said only three in her year level.

NAPLAN or National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy commenced in Australian schools in 2008. Every year, all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are assessed on the same days using national tests in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation) and Numeracy.

She started out abit on the low scale but she vowed to redeem herself in the coming year - and true to her word, she did. We are so proud of all the efforts you have been making Kat and daddy and I are truly grateful that you held on to that promise. We have high hopes for you in the future and we know you wont let us down.

The world is your oyster as they say so conquer them and prove your worth to people who have placed doubts on you.

Well done Kat! Let's talk about your treat later hahaha.

More Splashings After Their Swimming Class

2011-09-21T01:57:00.000+10:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

Usually our Wednesday mornings are spent with the little one's having their swimming class. Today, being the last day for the term, I decided to ask MrK to be with our little Hannah in her class for a change. Dad and bub loved the time after class while I looked on to see how our little man was doing. After Zechy's class, the two joined forces to play with dad and it was all fun for these three and thru my mobile phone, I was able to capture some of those smiles and laughters and mucking arounds.
More daddy and mummy and kids moments as we savour the school holiday when big sister Kat can join in.

A Sweet Thought

2011-09-19T10:35:00.000+10:00

A knock on the door yesterday midday showed our elderly next door neighbour Gail returning a glass container and carrying something wrapped in a brown paper. She said thanks for the marmalade that I gave her a couple of weeks ago, then she said she brought something for me to say thanks. I was flattered.

Look at those pretty orchids. She said she picked them up from her garden at the back (she grows roses and other sweet smelling flowers on her front yard).

What a sweet gesture from our next door neighbour. Just goes to show that it pays to not only know your neighbours but also to have a good relationship with them. These days, people are so busy with their own lives, its rare that they would give their time to get to know their neighbours. You don't have to know the whole neighbourhood but at least get to know those near to you.

I remembered when we were getting our home insurance, one of the question was if we know our neighbours as apparently it is nice to do that so that we can look after each other when one is away on a holiday or away from home for a long period of time,

Do you know your next door neighbour? If not, maybe start with a simple wave with a smile then a hello then maybe later on have a bit of a conversation when you see them in their driveway or perhaps a step closer would be to share something with them. Whatever it would be, it is nice to get to know your neighbours.

Making My First Red Velvet Cupcakes

2011-09-18T20:49:00.000+10:00

I have always been intrigued when I first heard this so called Red Velvet cake - it seemed something intricate and special that I decided to investigate some more on the internet and found heaps of ways of making this special cupcake. I thought of making this for my sister's party that happened yesterday. I have chosen a recipe that's easy and with a video that accompanied it, made it easier for me to see how each process were made.

I didn't capture how I made mine in video but as always, I make sure that I take photos for each and every step so those who are just starting to bake will not feel daunted in making it.

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups (125 grams) sifted cake flour

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoons (10 grams) regular or Dutch-processed cocoa powder

1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature

3/4 cups (150 grams) granulated white sugar

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk

1 tablespoon liquid red food coloring

1/2 teaspoon white distilled vinegar

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup (60 grams) confectioners' (icing or powdered) sugar, sifted

2/3 cup (160 ml) cold heavy whipping cream (double cream) (35-40% butterfat)

First, preheat the oven to 175C (350F) then line the muffin tray with cupcake liners.

Then in a large bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt together and set aside.

Then mix the wet ingredients - the buttermilk and the red food colouring together and set that aside as well.

Then beat the butter until creamy and smooth. Add the sugar until it turns light and fluffy ( I used caster sugar so it easily gets dissolved and not gritty). Beat for a couple of minutes on high speed.

Then add the egg making sure that it is not out of the fridge but rather on room temperature. Add the vanilla extract and beat even further.

With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture beginning and ending with the flour mixture.

Then after everything is mixed, get a small cup and combine the vinegar and baking soda together. Allow the mixture to fizz and then quickly fold into the cake batter (don't ask me why but I theorize that this will help make the cupcake soft and moist - and worry this wont leave a sour or vinegary aftertaste)

Working quickly, divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups you prepared earlier. The recipe calls for the tops to be smoothen out but I didn't do this but it came out flat and smooth just as well. Bake these in the oven for 18 - 23 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean when you insert it in the middle.

To make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

Add the vanilla extract and continue beating until it becomes soft and smooth and abit fluffy.

Then add the confectionery sugar or also known as icing sugar gradually then continue beating still. Then using the whisk attachment, gradually add the heavy cream and whip until the frosting is thick enough to pipe. Sometimes it may turn abit runny (some cream cheese are not as thick as other brands) so just add more sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

This was the cupcake before I piped the frosting ... yes, it seemed something is missing and looks so flat.

Look at the difference a frosting makes. It now looks inviting, sumptuous and you would just love to grab one and eat it.

I didn't realize that making this red velvet cupcake is so much fun to make not to mention so easy to do. Now I think I would be making more of these when we are invited to some gathering.

Try it and see how you would go.

Source is here

Hooray for Spring 2011

2011-09-15T22:53:00.003+10:00

Thank goodness for the glorious day just like today and the laughter from my precious babies and the great time spent with my hubby. Though we live simply, these are some of the things that make everyday rewarding and the love of the family never fails to always warm the heart.

Forgive our little princess for donning just her training pants and her favourite (not going anywhere without) wellingtons/gumboots. Our misstwo is in the process of toilet training and since its a warm day, I let her out in our backyard with just that.

Hoping for more glorious days like today.... summer, we can't wait for your arrival.

Together @ Tuesday

2011-09-15T22:05:00.001+10:00

Of the days of the week, we get giddy when Tuesday comes around. This means getting together with my sister and our good friend Ms G and Ms T and of course Mr J.

Last Tuesday was just an ordinary day but an anticipated one. Had heaps of catching up with one another eager to know whats been happening with each one from the last time that we were complete together. Endless stories exchange, laughter echoed inside the home, some disappointments shared but there were happy hugs in between. Its an ordinary laid back day that they just decided to ring in and order a pizza for lunch so we can continue with sharing so many things with each other and to finalize things for the weekend's bigger get together.

Thanks Ms T, Mr J, Ms G and of course to my sister for another great get together on Tuesday.

Today's Lunch: Spinach and Ricotta Arancini with Salad

2011-09-11T16:48:00.000+10:00

MrK saved me from thinking of what to cook for today's lunch. Last night, he brought ten delightful golden pieces of this Spinach and Ricotta Arancini courtesy of Carlo who mrK works with in the restaurant.

For anyone who is not familiar of this Italian dish arancini, these are fried rice balls coated with breadcrumbs said to have originated in Sicily in the 10th century. Arancini are usually filled with various combinations bursting with flavour. I have been introduced to this fare just a couple of years ago and would still get excited every time mrK makes them or brings them home from their restaurant.

Since I have not done this personally, I thought I'd share a recipe of the same kind that I found on the net (saves you from going through them).

Ingredients:

1 pound (450 g) rice
1 pound (450 g) spinach
1/4 pound (110 g) freshly grated Parmigiano or aged Caciocavallo
2/3 pound (300 g) ricotta, put through a wire mesh strainer
5 eggs
A packet of saffron (optional), dissolved in hot water
Breadcrumbs
Flour
Salt
Oil for frying

Preparation:

Clean the spinach, wash it well, and blanch it quickly in the water that stays stuck to the leaves; when it is well wilted remove it from the fire, and as soon as it has cooled enough that you can handle it, squeeze out most of the moisture and chop it. Combine it with the ricotta and a handful of the cheese.

Boil the rice until it reaches the al dente stage in abundant lightly salted water. Drain it and transfer it to a bowl. Season it with the remaining cheese, 2 eggs lightly beaten, and the saffron if you're using it. Mix well and let the mixture cool.

To make an arancino, take a heaping tablespoon of rice and flatten it out against the palm of your hand, cupping your palm to make a hollow. Fill the hollow with a tablespoon of the ricotta mixture and cover the filling with a little more rice, shaping the ball into an orange shape. Roll the arancino in flour and repeat the process, until all is used up.

Beat the remaining eggs, seasoning them with a pinch of salt, and dredge the arancini in them. Roll them in breadcrumbs and fry them until golden in hot oil. Drain them well and serve them either hot or warm.

Yield: 4 servings arancini di riso filled with ricotta.

This is not the only variety of arancini, in fact if you have some leftover risotto, then this is the best rehash of the said left over meal with the new twist, just like having another meal then you can just add any herbs that you wish in there and perhaps cheese that you wish to incorporate in your "creation". Do not be afraid of experimenting, this was how I learned things so gather your courage and armed with your taste buds and your sense of smell, I am sure you can create another masterpiece. Try this one and let me know how it turned out.

Snack Time: Pop Tarts

2011-09-10T23:10:00.002+10:00

I haven't been making any baking lately so I thought I'd do something that's not a hard baking rather something of an easy peasy snackie for the kids after they had their afternoon nap. Its something that anyone can whip up in minutes which I think is good when you ran out of idea on what to give them. This one is an inspiration from what we know as pop tarts so this is my take on that.

So basically just grab whatever spread you like or something that you want to put in your tart. The kids love their nutella and another is their strawberry jam. You can put cheese in there too or perhaps if you want to be more creative, why not ham and cheese - basically whatever you fancy.

Then grab a sheet of shortcrust pastry. Cut them in your desired size. This was my first sheet and after realizing that they are rather big, my second and succeeding sheets were divided into twelve to make little parcels later.

As I said earlier, it was as easy as can be. Place a dollop or your favourite jam or smear your favourite finger licking nutella chocolate spread on each cut piece of pastry sheet then seal the edges my pressing a fork on all the sides.

Place them in a greased tray and bake them at 180C for 10 - 12 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Just be careful with the jam as they tend to run on the side of the tarts if they are not properly sealed.

Told you it was easy peasy. The kids had them for their snackie with their usual yakult. Our teener requested for me to bake some more tomorrow so she can have them for school. Might make heaps for when the kids asks for something to eat - but this time I am thinking of putting cheese on them.

Yumm yumm in a hurry!

I Won! I Won!

2011-09-10T07:00:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Kidspot for scoring these two great prize from one of their father's day competition. I bagged myself a great read - The Fat Paddler by Sean Smith. Horrific car accidents, the Bali bombing, too many sausages ... Sean Smith survived them all. This is one man’s story of his journey back to health and fitness and recapturing his passion for life.

Then another great treat was this boxfull of cookies / biscuits which are a great coffee partner - they are from Lisa of Cookie Dough. We got a few of each - mud pie (seriously rich Dutch cocoa cookie iced with milk and dark chocolate dipped in natural coloured sprinkles), chocolate hero (a decadent, fudge style cookie crammed full of white , dark and milk chocolate chunks with a sweet raisin twist) bahamas ( juicy peach chunks, creamy white chocolate and dreamy coconut in a soft style cookie).

Though we didn't get her big elvis (lashings of peanut butter, crunchy peanuts and heavenly chocolate. rich, irresistible and a real crowd pleaser) or the lemon date (zing of fresh lemon zest blended with sweet, sticky dates. a creamy and fruity soft style cookie) or pear-licious (sweet pear, crunchy hazelnuts and rich dark chocolate in a delicious soft style cookies), I am sure it is as divine as the ones we received. MrK liked it so much that he was asking me where we can buy more so I said I will ask Lisa as we both loved it in our coffee at night.

Again thanks Kidspot for spoilling us and MrK last father's day :)

Eating Out @ Asadal (Parramatta)

2011-09-09T15:03:00.001+10:00

It has been a tradition for the K family to eat out at the end of our 3-day District Convention and this year, we decided to grab a Korean / Japanese feast. Since we were already in the Homebush area, we thought Parramatta was the best place to go. Asadal came out as one of the good place for our need (had to check eatability for this) and we were not disappointed.

For our entree - or not really, just the first few foods that came out, we had the adamame (boiled green soybeans), the soft shelled crab salad and the takoyaki (deep fried octopus dumplings served with tonkatsu sauce, mayonnaise and dried bonito shavings).

Then we had gyoza (deep fried dumplings in special soy sauce), volcano sushi rolls (grilled salmon, cooked tuna, avocado, flying fish roe with cheese and other special sauce) which was sumptuous and very filling.

We ordered an extra bowl of Chicken Teri Don (chicken terriyaki on a bed of rice) for our teener Kat as she has been having a great big appetite - growing teener for you.

Then finally we ordered a medium serving of sushi and sashimi mix plate just to settle our already contented tummy. It was a delish combination of foods and even our littlies joined in the chaos of eating.

We thank Jehovah God for continuously blessing us with good health, a happy family and of course the ability (and the means) to eat out every now and then. Thankful for the chance to taste various foods and enjoying the times with the family.

Now, we need to think what tickles our palate for next year.

2011 Jehovah's Witness Convention: Let God's Kingdom Come

2011-09-07T22:08:00.000+10:00

Violence, immorality, and global warming, along with oil spills and other environmental disasters -- all these problems have led concerned people to ask,

WILL HUMANS RUIN THIS EARTH?

This was one of the major discourse discussed in our three day District Convention 02-04 September 2011 held at Acer Arena. Hundreds of congregations gathered from around Sydney and even as far flung as the North, Central and South Coast of New South Wales. An annual event that every one is excited to attend. It all gave us an opportunity to be with our brothers and sisters and together to be refreshed and renewed spiritually.

The theme "Let God's Kingdom Come!" gave us a glimpse on how this planet of ours will soon be transformed into a paradise and how we can qualify to live there.

The three day convention were full of encouragement and warnings but most of all things that will benefit our spiritual survival because the Faithful and Discreet Slaves filled us with food at the right time.

The first day - Friday, Matthew 4:17 was aptly highlighted where it says - From that time on Jesus commenced preaching and saying: "Repent, YOU people, for "The Kingdom of the Heavens Has Drawn Near"

The second day - Saturday, Matthew 6:33 encourages us to "Keep on Seeking First the Kingdom and His Righteousness"

The same day where we welcomed 80 newly baptized brothers and sisters who have
made a conscious decision to live their lives according to what the Bible teach and accepted Jehovah God in their hearts.

The third day - Sunday we appreciated the admonition found in 2 Peter 1:11 where it says "There Will Be Richly Supplied to You the Entrance Into the Everlasting Kingdom"

It has been a very fruitful three day event and even the kids appreciated the drama that was prepared by the brothers which is a very timely and apt scenario for our family, it touched on Young Ones - Be Discreet and Wise where it tackled the problems and difficulties that our young ones encounter in our present day and what and how they can face them.

We have recorded the whole event and the family would be reviewing them soon, we were not able to take notes as we have two small kids that needed our attention most of the time but they were fairly good sitting for almost the whole day listening to various talks so I'm so proud of them.

Welcoming our Pretty Princess - Chloe

2011-09-02T21:57:00.003+10:00

I am proud to announce the arrival of my pretty niece Angel Nicole or Chloe as we fondly call her from when she was in her mum's tummy. Born on 01 September 2011 at 1435. Very ecstatic (and exhausted) mum Arlene went on to have an emergency CS to deliver her precious princess but nothing compares to the sight of this greatest blessing. My brother daddy Darwin is the ever excited one taking photos and updating everyone thru the photos that he has taken.

To my brother and sister-in-law, congratulations on your gorgeous and so pretty little bub and we hope to see you all in the near future. Grab hold of each day with your little princess as time goes so fast and before you know it, she will be crawling and walking. Enjoy each day and treasure them for our kids gives us so many things to look forward to in life. It will not be an easy task especially to new parents like you but with support from each other and heaps of understanding and love, things will be ok. Yes, there will lots of sleepless nights but you two have to take turn in looking after this precious little bundle of joy. It is expensive to raise a child too, so be prepared. From the looks of it, she is another princess waiting to be pampered by both Lolos and Lolas from both side.

Looking forward to more pics as the day pass by. Arlene, take care and praying for your immediate recovery. I have been there, twice in fact so just take things easy - you have heaps of willing and able carers so grab the chance while they are still in the volunteer mode hahaha. Reserve your much needed energy into feeding and looking after baby Chloe because from now on she will be looking up to you and depending on you for most things.

Love you all guys and keep those photos coming.

Anniversary 2011 Celebration Booked!

2011-08-30T17:59:00.000+10:00

In a couple of weeks, we will be enjoying this glorious place - filled with lots of sunshine, sea and sand! I have already booked our anniversary getaway (with the whole family of course) and will be staying here for some much needed R & R.

Have a look at that inviting sight as soon as you wake up from a very comfy bed - something that we can view on the privacy of our own balcony. Amazing!

Looking forward to MrK and I's food adventure ... as usual our favourite seafood fares will be in the list and including so much more ... degustation here we come.

But most of all, this getaway is a celebration of the year that just past - though there were challenges that we have to overcome, though there were problems that we need to solve, hurdles that we need to pass, things that we need to change - we are grateful for them because it's what makes this relationship strong and from these obstacles we learn to lean on each other for strength and wisdom.

I am grateful for Jehovah God for continuously blessing our family - we may not be blessed materially but we make the most of what we have and enjoy our times together and for that I am gratefull because it's all that matter and sharing our special moments are priceless.

I can't wait to spend the glorious spring time with my loving husband and our precious kids as we celebrate another blessed year together.

I LOVE YOU BABE and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY.

Weekend with Good Friend Melissa & Kids

2011-08-29T19:19:00.000+10:00

The kids and I had a great weekend. Our Saturday was spent with our good friend miss M and her kids Jacob and Emily. Six hours just breezed thru and before we know it, its five o'clock and we all need to pack up and head home. We all had a great time that both miss M and I decided to make this a regular once a month routine. Monkey Mania proved to be yet again another great place to meet up and bring the kids on a lazy weekend. Hope to have another meet up next month miss M and your lovely kids because my kids loved spending time with them.

Making My Kumquat Marmalade

2011-08-24T00:12:00.001+10:00

There is a long standing idiom that says 'If you are given lemons make lemonade', well in my case I was given a bagful of kumquat by a good friend and as much as I am not that knowledgeable about this fruit, I took the challenge to make something out of it - thus making kumquat marmalade came to mind.

As if the challenges of motherhood and its daily hectic schedule was not enough for me, I took on something that I have never done before - making a jam or a marmalade. But I love challenges and this is one thing that I will not let pass. My late nights were spent rummaging thru the various sites on the internet for an easy way to make a kumquat marmalade and I got biits and pieces from different sites.

I was not aware of this humble fruit up until over five years ago when I happen to see them in my favourite green grocer. I was abit intrigued thinking that it might be like the calamansi that I used to know and love from my country, but I was proven wrong when I had a taste of it. Surely its from the citrus family but for some peculiar way, its skin seemed to be abit sweeter than its flesh inside.

I have heard of citrus fruits being turned into jams or marmalade so I thought I could do the same with this bagful weighing over a kilo.

So without further chit chats, I will share to you how I have made my very first marmalade.

First I washed the kumquats in lukewarm running water just to get rid of anything on its skin.

Then I take a thin slice off the end of each kumquat then slice it in half lengthwise. Don't forget to remove the seeds out - it would be handy when we slice it later.

Then with a sharp paring knife, thinly sliced each kumquats crosswise. It would be a good idea to use a small sharp knife otherwise you will just mangle the fruit and frustration might ensue in the process. Just a warning that this process is abit tedious and my 1.2kg of kumquats took me an hour and forty five minutes.

Place your finely sliced kumquats in a in a large nonreactive bowl - preferably a plastic or glass bowl as we are dealing with acidic fruit in here. My once 1.2kg fruit became 975 gms after slicing the end bits and removing the seeds.

Layer the fruit and sugar alternatively until all the fruits are covered in sugar. I don't want to make an overly sweet marmalade that I did not follow the ratio of the sugar to fruit by some sites but made it just around about the 3/4 of the weight of the fruit to sugar but nothing over that. So with 975 gms kumquat, I used 730 gms of white sugar. Caster sugar is not really necessary, its just that its the only white sugar that we have in the cupboard.

Cover the mixture and refrigerate. If you are around and you can turn the fruit then it would be a good idea to mix them every now and then. Leave this mixture for 12 hours.

The 12 hour seeping time elapsed at midnight last night, so while waiting I prepared my jar. We don't keep glass bottles in the house as we throw them in the recycling so now that I needed some, I had to buy them from the shop. Anyway, I thoroughly cleaned the glass jars with warm soapy water then sterilized it using our steamer for around about 15 minutes then let it sit there to dry.

This is how the sugar and kumquat mixture would look like after 12 hours. A bit gooey already but we still need to cook this.

In a hot pot boil 3 cups of liquid. I used 2 cups orange juice and one cup water. One site recommended this to add flavour to the mixture but you can use straight water if you wish. Let that come to a boil then place your fruits in the pot until it comes to a rolling boil again uncovered. Then lower the heat so it would just be simmering. Simmer it for an hour or until you reached the kind of consistency that you wish for your marmalade (just keep taking some and cool it down in a small saucer just to gauge how much longer you want your marmalade consistency to be)

Remove the pan from the heat immediately once the gel point is reached. Let stand for about 5 minutes, then stir gently to distribute the fruit. Ladle the mixture into your clean jars. I let it sit uncovered in their jar because mrK reckons that it will sweat so I left it until they cool down.

I decided to add a little personal touch so I made a simple label to go with my marmalade. I am giving a jar to my FIL and MIL so I thought I'd make some little keepsake with it.

My first attempt in making marmalade was a success and it passed the discerning palate of both mrK and our teener that she even left a note on the bench top to show her approval before she headed to school.

This will be the first of many more jammings and marmalading in the future when fruits will be in abundance. Check this space in the future.

Just Too Cute ...

2011-08-20T19:16:00.000+10:00

I quickly snapped a picture of my two year old Hannah Elisse when she presented me with her drawing - apparently a rendition of his big brother Zechy. I see a few things wrong with this picture like the excess legs or how she didnt drew a body perhaps but does this bother me - not one bit because her picture is just perfect and I must admit way too cute hahaha.

Great job Hannah girl, and I like the way you hold your pen, you grasp it just like any older kid would. Maybe you will one day become an artist, who knows but for now, mum is just proud of her little girl.

Goats Meat Curry

2011-08-20T14:44:00.000+10:00

I am out of my league today but I took on the challenge. What was I talking about? Well, you see for the first time I decided to cook goat meat which is not only my first time but the first time to taste one in a long long time.

I remembered eating goat meat (chevon) when I was young - five or six years old perhaps in the province north of the Philippines where my dad originated. Back then, I remembered them roasting it then making it into a stew by putting their vegetables and their herbs and seasoning . I remember the taste very vaguely but I know they have a distinct flavour which is unlike a beef or pork, but it was nice and flavoursome.

When I saw the goat meat (chevon) in the shop, I find it at that time a novelty to see something different (not just beef, chicken or lamb), then when I got home, I chucked it in the freezer without any plans (thus the date being over the prescribed best before but knowing that when you freeze the meat that prolongs its life, that was just what I did.)

Last night, I took the meat from the freezer to thaw in preparation for today's lunch, still without the slightest idea on what I will do with it until I opened the pantry this morning and our curry blends stared at me, then an idea came to mind - why not make a curry out of it. I dont want it to be too spicy so I combined a regular curry powder with that of our rendang curry blend (this one is abit hot so I just added it for abit of a punch and intensify the other ,mild curry powder).

So what I did was just to saute a rather big onion onto a pot with some hot oil and let the onion cooked until it became transparent. I then added the curry powders together and cooked it together with the onion. The aroma that permeated our kitchen was divine.

Then brown the goat meat (chevon) for five or more minutes letting the meat render its fat or sweating it so its flavour comes out. I then covered it and let it brown some more for around about 10 minutes.

Then I added two tins of coconut cream and let it come to a boil by covering it. Then lowered the heat to medium low and let it simmer for 35 minutes covered.

After simmering it, I added the carrots and potatoes which is cut rather chunky. I let it simmer some more until the carrots and the potatoes are cooked - around about 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes and assuring that the potatoes and the carrots are cooked, I added some fish sauce (but you can use salt) to season it. Then just before serving, topped it with some chopped coriander (but this is optional if you are not a fan of coriander).

Best served with some steaming boiled rice.

That's our lunch for today, simple and easy but very tasty. I am happy that the whole family embraced my new adventure in cooking and it seemed to work because the kids ate their lunch quite quickly and mrK have no complains about it at all ... one of my friend from facebook recommended to have it in caldereta - a Filipino kind of stew which I think I might try next time but for now, just happy to introduce something new to the clan.