This week was a pleasant departure from the usual kitchen duties as I savored a variety of delightful dishes without having to slog in the kitchen. With food from hubby’s kitchen gracing our table almost every day, the burden of cooking was significantly lightened. In addition, Sherilyn, was home for a few days as her lecturers opted for online classes, giving us the delightful opportunity to enjoy her cooking.
Food from Catermate – French beans sauteed with turmeric, fried mackeral with fermented soy beans and shallots, and chicken Kuzi.From Catermate – Garoupa fish head curry with lots of veggies.Lunch for Cass – chicken braised with potatoes, sweet and sour fish, sauteed broccoli with carrots (all from Catermate); airfried Shimeji mushrooms with garlic prepped by Sherilyn.
Sherilyn’s cooking took the spotlight this week, and we were more than happy to be her enthusiastic taste testers once again. She has not cooked for a long time due to her busyness, first in her part-time job and now, in college. On one occasion, she cooked our favorite dish of air-fried shimeji mushrooms, proving that you don’t need complex recipes for a delicious meal. The mushrooms were seasoned with olive oil, black pepper, celery salt, and chopped garlic.
Two days ago, she transformed a humble box of Campbell’s beef broth and a mountain of yellow onions into a pot of delightful French Onion soup, topped with cheese and toasted baguette.
Delightful French onion soup. This is labour intensive as it involves a lot of work from peeling and chopping the onions to caramelizing the onions (she did this step in the Thermomix), boiling the caramelized onions with the beef broth and finally broiling the soup with cheese and toasted baguette in the oven.Onion soup with toasted wholemeal bread fingers. I love this pink Le Creuset plate in heart shape.Airfried crispy bread fingers
On my part, I decided to step into the kitchen on Monday and cook up a heartwarming dish of pumpkin and roast pork bones porridge. There’s something deeply satisfying about preparing a simple yet nourishing porridge. Even the finicky hubby liked it and ate a big bowl of porridge.
Comforting pork ribs and pumpkin porridge.
For me, a break from the kitchen can be a welcome relief, especially in the sweltering heat. It’s a chance to enjoy not only the food itself but also the freedom from the relentless demands of meal preparation and the aftermath of cooking from moping the floor to wiping down the stove, washing, drying, and keeping the dishes.
Alycia returned home from a friend’s birthday party, panic evident in her voice the moment she stepped into the house. She had unwittingly smashed her iPad that’s not even 6 months old with her friend’s car door. When I saw the damage, I felt my heart shatter, just like the iPad.
OUCH!! Badly shattered LCD. My heart is just as shattered 😫
Alycia relies on her iPad for her university studies, making it an essential tool for her. With a broken iPad, we faced two choices: either invest in a new one which costs almost RM3k, or bear the cost of repair. Either way, it was an unexpected financial burden that we had to address promptly.
We turned to hubby’s friend, who runs a computer repair shop, for a professional assessment. The verdict? The repair would set us back RM1,100, with a reasonable 6-month warranty. While it was reassuring to know that the damage could be fixed, it wasn’t a budget-friendly solution. Nevertheless, we decided to go ahead with the repair as it was still cheaper than investing in a brand-new iPad.
Eyeing New Expenses: Sherilyn’s Eyeglasses
As if the iPad fiasco wasn’t enough, a day earlier, Sherilyn approached me with another unforeseen expense… on top of all her medical and physiotherapy expenses incurred as a result of injuring her foot. The frame of her eyeglasses had met an unfortunate fate – it was irreparably broken. The only viable solution was to invest in a new frame, which came with a price tag of at least RM300.
They say that raising children takes a village, and I really think that it also takes a considerable amount of money to raise each child. With three daughters, we often find ourselves navigating a financial rollercoaster, with each twist and turn revealing new expenses, every single month 🥲
Haru did it again. She killed another lizard last night when all of us were in slumberland and the lizard came out to hunt for food. Ever since we had Haru 2.5 years ago, lizards were fewer in the house. Haru’s lizard hunting skill has improved significantly recently and she now never fails to kill these reptile that come out at night when the house is dark and quiet.
While I appreciate Haru keeping our house free from pests, I do however abhor cleaning up after her hunting mess. And Haru always kills these lizards at night. So when I wake up at 5.30 in the morning, the first that I have to do is to remove the lizard’s remains on the kitchen floor, which is something that is revolting and not for those with a faint heart.
While the lizard’s body was on the floor, the bits of broken tail was on the counter top, behind the cup drainer shelf. I am guessing that Haru must have chased after the poor lizard and tortured it to death 😖
Can you see how much work it is for me to clean up the kitchen with each lizard hunting?
No wonder Haru kept jumping up the counter top and went behind the kettle this morning, in search of something. She has never done this before. She must have played catching with the poor fella on the counter top before torturing it to death. I had to sanitize the entire kitchen this morning!
I also just noticed that the gas knob was slightly turned on – check out the knob on the right side. Haru must have swiped the knob during her lizard-chase. Thank God she didn’t set herself on fire.
Sherilyn’s health has been a significant focus of attention recently due to a foot injury suffered three weeks ago. This week we’ve seen a small victory in her ongoing battle against the injured foot. The swelling on her left foot has receded somewhat, and she doesn’t need the crutches to walk around anymore. However, she is still hobbling and walking very slowly. She says she walks like a penguin now. It’s been a relief to see her regain her mobility albeit slowly, enabling her to head to college for a test on Wednesday.
Sherilyn’s educational path has led her to embark on a journey into the challenging world of architecture. The dedication she has exhibited towards her studies is remarkable, but it has also raised some concerns about her well-being.
In the past few days, Sherilyn’s laptop has become her constant companion. As soon as she returns from college, she dives headfirst into her assignments. Her intense focus has led her to lose track of time, forgetting essential elements like hydration, meals, and even rest. I have to keep reminding her to eat her meals, and fruits, drink enough water, shower, and sleep. I don’t know if she even slept the past three days as she was rushing out several assignments for submission.
The sight of Sherilyn’s unrelenting dedication to her studies has left me contemplating the balance between academic aspirations and personal well-being. It’s natural to be concerned about her health and the toll her rigorous schedule may be taking.
I still wonder if Sherilyn’s chosen path aligns with her overall well-being. While her zeal for learning is admirable, it’s equally essential to maintain a balance that nurtures both her academic journey and her health. This is just the tip of the iceberg as she’s only pursuing a Foundation course now. When she dives into the real essence of architectural studies next year, things will only get harder and assignments will be more complicated.
I’ll continue to support Sherilyn’s educational aspirations, offering guidance on finding that equilibrium that fosters a successful and sustainable academic career. I hope that Sherilyn will somehow find the right harmony in her academic journey and well-being while cherishing her health first.
Another simple meal that I cooked for the girls – spinach noodles with braised minced pork and broccoli.A big pot of vegetable soup (carrots, sweet potato, sweet corn, big onions, tomatoes and celery), chicken feet, and chicken drumsticks enough for two days.
Pregnancy is a remarkable journey marked by various stages, each with its own set of challenges and joys. Celebrating these stages creates wonderful memories and helps expectant parents connect with the miracle of life growing within. Here are ways to celebrate every stage of pregnancy:
Announcing the Pregnancy
The initial announcement of pregnancy is a momentous occasion. Many couples choose to celebrate this stage by organizing a creative and heartfelt reveal to share the news with family and friends. Whether it’s a simple dinner announcement or an elaborate event, the joy of sharing the news becomes a cherished memory.
First Trimester
Though often accompanied by morning sickness and fatigue, the first trimester is a period of excitement and anticipation. Celebrate this stage by taking a romantic weekend getaway, capturing a creative pregnancy announcement photoshoot, or having a quiet dinner to discuss baby names and nursery ideas. This is also the time you will have your first scan. If you go to a pregnancy clinic London has, you could have this between 6 and 9 weeks and then another one between weeks 10 and 11 if you can’t get enough of seeing your little one on-screen or want peace of mind that all is going well. Make sure to celebrate each scan you go to.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is often considered the most enjoyable period of pregnancy. Celebrate the growing belly with a maternity photoshoot, host a baby shower organized by friends or family, or indulge in a babymoon—a relaxing vacation before the baby arrives. This stage is perfect for setting up the nursery and attending prenatal classes together.
Third Trimester
The third trimester is the final stretch before the baby’s arrival. Celebrate by having a meaningful and spiritual gathering with close friends and family, celebrating the mother’s journey into motherhood. Plan a pampering spa day, complete with prenatal massages and facials, to relax and rejuvenate before the big day.
Preparing for Labor
Preparing for labor can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Attend childbirth education classes together, practice relaxation techniques such as prenatal yoga and meditation, and create a birth plan that aligns with your preferences. Celebrate the impending arrival by decorating the nursery, assembling the crib, and organizing baby essentials.
Labor and Delivery
The moment of labor and delivery is perhaps the most profound experience in pregnancy. Celebrate this stage by creating a calming birthing environment. Play soothing music, diffuse essential oils, and surround yourself with supportive individuals. Consider having a birth photographer capture the raw and emotional moments, preserving them for a lifetime.
Welcoming the Newborn
After the baby arrives, celebrate the new chapter in your lives as parents. Have a welcome home celebration, even if it’s just a small gathering with close family. Capture the baby’s first moments through a newborn photoshoot and create a baby journal to document milestones and memories.
Postpartum Period
The postpartum period is a time of adjustment and bonding. Celebrate this stage by cherishing quiet moments with the baby, taking leisurely walks as a family, and accepting help from friends and family. Host a meet-and-greet for loved ones to meet the new addition, creating a supportive circle around the growing family.
In conclusion, celebrating every stage of pregnancy not only strengthens the bond between partners but also creates a tapestry of beautiful memories. It’s a time to acknowledge the strength and resilience of the expectant parents and the incredible journey they are embarking upon. Each stage, with its challenges and triumphs, contributes to the unique story of bringing a new life into the world.
With no improvement on Sherilyn’s injured left foot, we went back to SJMC last Friday. We first went back to the A&E Dept, saw the doctor on duty and got referred to an orthopedic surgeon.
The orthopedic took a look at Sherilyn’s foot and after asking her some questions, told us that an MRI wasn’t really necessary yet. All that was needed was for Sherilyn to rest her foot, which meant that she had no choice but to take a one-to-two week-break from going to college. The doctor was confident that the swelling will subside and the foot will take its time to heal with proper rest. She has to prop her foot up to restrict too much blood from flowing to the ankle.
Sherilyn was prescribed with another 5 days of anti-swelling medication, a topical gel and a foot splint/brace. The splint has to be worn when she walks.
We spent almost 6 hours at SJMC. It would have been much longer if we took the government hospital route. The damage this time was over RM700. I hope our insurer will approve the bulk of the bills incurred. But the foot splint that costs almost RM300 is not covered.
At the A&E department. Both Sherilyn and Cass have low blood pressure, just like me. This explains why Sherilyn always complains of seeing black whenever she stands up from a squatting position 😵💫We waited for over an hour at the Rehab Centre to see a therapist and to purchase a foot splint.The therapist teaching Sherilyn how to wear the foot splint.Lunch at The Chicken Rice Shop at SJMC. There aren’t many options for food at SJMC, unlike Sunway Medical Center and Pantai Medical Center.The food was meh…. 😑
I got home with pins and needles on both my hands as a result of gripping on the wheelchair handles for too long. The repetitive motion of clutching on the handles for hours triggered the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome on my hands 😪
Gardening has a way of teaching us valuable life lessons. It’s a journey of nurturing, patience, and resilience, and it’s a journey that I embarked on when I acquired a small pot of Prosperity Flower about eight years ago from a fund-raising event at my church. This unassuming plant, with its vibrant pink flowers, has been a symbol of hope and perseverance in my life.
I remember the day I brought my Prosperity Flower home from church. It was Cass who chose the plant among all the plants and items on sale that morning. It was a modest acquisition, a tiny plant with just a handful of leaves and, notably, no flowers. But it was the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Over the years, it graced Cass and me with stunning pink blossoms that never failed to bring joy to our hearts.
As with any journey, there were hurdles to overcome. My beloved Prosperity Flower began to show signs of distress. Its leaves started to curl inwards, wither, and eventually drop. The plant was fighting an unidentified disease, and my heart ached each time I witnessed its struggle. My MIL took drastic measures, pruning the plant until only a small branch remained. She also initiated a transplant to another pot, hoping to save what was left.
Throughout the pandemic, the plant was very ill with leaves that would grow and then sadly curled inwards and withered. She stopped bearing her vibrant pink flowers. She mirrored the challenges and uncertainties we all faced during those difficult times. It was as if my beloved Prosperity Flower felt our struggles and pain.
But then came a turning point. One day, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I added organic fertilizer to all my potted plants and herbs on the condo balcony, including the beleaguered Prosperity Flower. I meticulously fed my green companions with kitchen scraps like fruit peels, tea leaves, rice water, and eggshells. I also upped the watering frequency to two or three times a day.
And then, the magic happened. My plant started to grow more leaves and the disease seemed to have been healed. The leaves no longer turn inward and wither. The organic fertilizer resuscitated the Prosperity Flower and other plants that were lacklustre.
A week ago, I noticed tiny flower buds beginning to sprout on the Prosperity Flower. My heart danced with excitement. Cass was excited too. Today, those buds blossomed into vibrant pink flowers once more. It was a moment of triumph, not just for my little plant, but for me as a new gardener.
I almost gave up on my Prosperity Flower when all that was left was just a short trunk and a branch no longer than 10cm with no leaves, no flowers and devoid of life. Luckily I gave her a second chance to prove herself.
Not only did my Prosperity Flower resurrect after I fed it with organic fertilizer, all the other plants that I fed fertilizer with suddenly grew beautifully. The pandan plant gifted to us by my mil’s friend doubled up in size with beautiful green aromatic leaves. I was elated. I have really underestimated what the food of life aka fertilizer can do to plants.
My journey with the Prosperity Flower has shown me that plants, like humans, require tender loving care, nourishment, and consistent support. They respond to our efforts and thrive when we are diligent in tending to their needs. It’s an allegory for life itself, where resilience and nurturing can lead to beautiful outcomes.
As I watch the baby pink blossoms each time I walk into my balcony, I’m reminded that life is filled with ups and downs. Just as the Prosperity Flower rebounds from adversity and an almost hopeless state of salvation, so can we. I’ve also discovered that I’m developing a newfound passion for gardening. The wish for a larger balcony to cultivate more edible plants, and vibrant flowers is now on my mind 🥀 🌺🎍 🪴
Today is Day 13 since Sherilyn injured her foot while doing an Architecture Site Analysis at a park. After a week on oral meds to reduce swelling and two sessions of physiotherapy, there’s been no sight of any improvement. It’s gotten worse. The foot is still swollen and she complains that it’s still very painful.
When she went for physiotherapy yesterday, the therapist advised Sherilyn to go back to the doctor (MO at the A&E) who first attended to her to get a referral to see an orthopedic doctor.
So we’ll be going back to SJMC tomorrow morning. If an MRI is recommended, Sherilyn will most likely be warded for a day and hopefully we can get our insurer to pay for it. An MRI done privately ain’t cheap and if Sherilyn needs admission, the bill will be in the thousands.
It’s going to be a long day at the hospital tomorrow. And Cass will have to settle her lunch herself when she comes home from school as there’ll be no one at home. I really dread spending hours on end at the hospital. Well, at least SJMC is a 5-star hospital and I can have my meals there or enjoy a cuppa at a cafe. And I get to sit down. At HKL (Urology & Nephrology Unit), it’s a totally different scenario and most times, Cass and I had to stand for half a day in a crowded hallway to wait for her turn to see the doctor.
It’s the monsoon season now and on most evenings, we have been getting thunderstorms, flash floods, and strong winds. I was just about to leave my house at 6.30 p.m. to go for a jog outside but the skies started to turn grey and it started to pour again. Bummer! But Cass went ahead and headed to the gym. I have never given it a thought on whether it’s safe to use gym equipment that is plugged into the wall power socket but today it suddenly dawned on me – is it safe to use gym equipment during a thunderstorm?
Can you get electrocuted while jogging on a treadmill or working out on other gym machines when lightning is striking outside? Let’s dive into this electrifying topic to understand the risks and safety measures.
Lightning and Electrical Conductivity
Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. It’s important to remember that lightning seeks the path of least resistance, and metal objects, water, and electrical conductors offer low-resistance pathways for electrical currents. Therefore, if lightning were to strike your home, it could potentially follow these pathways.
The Risks Associated with Gym Equipment
Most modern gyms are equipped with a variety of electrical devices, including treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, and weightlifting equipment. These machines are often plugged into electrical outlets. While gym equipment itself is not inherently dangerous during a thunderstorm, the fact that it’s connected to the electrical grid raises concerns.
The Real Risk: Power Surges
The primary risk associated with using gym equipment during a thunderstorm is not electrocution but rather power surges. Lightning strikes can cause electrical surges that travel through power lines and into buildings. If your gym equipment is plugged in and the lightning strike causes a power surge, it can potentially damage the equipment. This is why many gyms invest in surge protectors to safeguard their expensive machinery.
Safety Precautions: What You Can Do
Unplug the Equipment: The safest option during a thunderstorm is to unplug all gym equipment from electrical outlets. This eliminates the risk of damage from power surges. If you’re using equipment at home, take the same precautions.
Use Surge Protectors: Invest in surge protectors for your home gym. These devices can help divert excess voltage and protect your equipment from damage during electrical surges.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for your gym equipment. They may provide specific recommendations for safety during electrical storms.
While the chances of being electrocuted while using gym equipment during a thunderstorm are minimal, the risk of equipment damage from power surges is real. The same goes for using the computer during thunderstorms. My desktop computer (motherboard) was totally wrecked during a bad thunderstorm a few years ago and I had to replace it with a new unit.
To ensure your safety and protect your fitness investment, it’s wise to follow safety precautions such as unplugging equipment or using surge protectors. If you go to a gym, it’s advisable to skip this routine during a thunderstorm and wait until the lightning and storm stop.
It’s exactly a week since Sherilyn fell into a concealed hole on the ground at a park while doing an architectural site analysis of the park located near her college. The lateral ankle sprain that she sustained was pretty bad. The entire left foot was so swollen that it looked like a balloon filled to the brim with water and about to explode. She had to take medicines to reduce the swelling and inflammation for a week.
But nothing will stop this gung-ho girl from moving about. The next day, despite my advice against her attending a music fest in her college, she still went – hobbling while holding on to a pair of crutches. One foot had sneakers on and the other had slipper.
And the following Monday, Sherilyn went to college. I was very worried about how she’d get up and down the stairs with a laptop in her backpack on her back while hobbling with crutches. But she managed to do it, albeit with a lot of difficulties. When she came home, she told me that she couldn’t feel both her palms as she overused them on the handle of the crutches. The injured foot was still very bloated and she said she felt pulsating sensations. The medicines also caused her gastric pain and she had to skip college for two days.
As for me, I’ve been Sherilyn’s personal maid the past week. I cook her food, bring the food to her, bring the dirty dishes to the wet kitchen and then wash them, serve her drinks, cut fruits for her (and repeatedly nag her to eat them), open the door for her when she comes home, then pull a couple of wet wipes for her to wipe her crutches, hand her dry tissues to dry the crutches before she hobbles inside.
Sherilyn’s very swollen foot.
Sherilyn went for a session of physiotherapy on Friday and will go for another session next Monday. I hope the bills incurred on the physiotherapy will be claimable from our insurance company as they’re pretty costly.
Sherilyn will have to take a hiatus from dancing for at least 2-3 months for her foot to heal completely. This girl is very prone to injuries on her feet and ankles. She’s had three X-rays done on her feet since she was 11 years old caused by falls and multiple falls / lateral ankle sprains that didn’t require X-ray but needed phsyiotherapy or acupuncture and blood letting. As she’s a dare devil, headstrong and impulsive by nature, she’s very prone to accidents since she was a toddler. And because of that, I got an accident insurance for her since she was a year old 🙄
People say that life has its own mysterious ways of communicating with us through subtle signs and whispers of intuition. I have this peculiar connection – one that involves my eyelids which have the uncanny ability to forewarn me of impending misfortunes, especially when it concerns myself and the well-being of my loved ones. Call it superstition or intuition, but when my eyelids twitch, I can’t help but worry, and my maternal instincts kick into high gear.
For nearly three weeks, my right eyelid had been delivering an unsettling message, one that stirred my maternal instincts and heightened my awareness. It twitched persistently, a subtle but undeniable signal that something was amiss. Each day, I couldn’t shake the feeling of impending trouble, prompting me to caution my daughters and myself to exercise extra care in our daily routines.
This morning at around 9 a.m., I received a call from Sherilyn. My heart skipped a beat as I heard her voice, for I had a premonition that my eyelids had been trying to convey. She had fallen into a hole in the park while conducting an architectural site analysis of the park located near her college. An area in the park had holes in the ground and tall weeds were concealing the holes.
Sherilyn, along with four of her team members, had been visiting the park multiple times, gathering data and insights for their assignments. Today was different, as they had scheduled an early morning visit to collect data. As she walked through a grassy area with tall weeds, disaster struck. Hidden amidst the foliage were several concealed holes, and Sherilyn, unable to spot the holes, fell into one, twisted her ankle, and landed in agonizing pain. She had a lateral ankle sprain.
Her classmate who drove them to the park promptly drove her to the nearest private hospital, SJMC to receive medical attention without delay. The entire group stood by her side, offering their assistance and solace until her dad arrived at the hospital.
An X-ray was performed, and we received a moment of relief as we learned that there was no fracture. However, the doctor noted soft tissue injuries and the possibility of a torn ligament. Although the doctor suggested an MRI for a more comprehensive assessment, hubs decided to bring Sherilyn to his trusted physiotherapist first, as the absence of a fracture eased our immediate concerns.
Swollen ankle
Hubs was super relief that there was no fracture on Sherilyn’s legs and no hospitalization was needed. Just last month, Sherilyn was hospitalized for a day for a bad attack of hives and he had to pay the hospital several thousand Ringgit upon her discharge. The amount was only reimbursed to him more than a month later by our insurance company, with me chasing our insurance agent persistently.
Sherilyn is now using crutches to move around in the house. Her grandaunt bought the crutches a few years ago when she had a fall and fractured her leg. While Sherilyn sits comfortably on the couch with her leg propped up on a cushion, I am like her personal servant attending to her every need. Every half an hour, she asks me to bring her fresh ice packs from the freezer each time the one that she’s using turns to room temperature. I serve her food, bring her dirty dishes to the kitchen and wash them, and even serve her water and fruits; like she’s a queen!
My eyelids, though annoying whenever they twitch persistently, continue to be my silent messenger, offering forewarnings that I can’t fully comprehend. But they remind me of the importance of vigilance and prepare me mentally for the unforeseen.
There’s a unique magic that old songs from the mid-80s to the early 90s hold for me. For me, they are more than just tunes; they are a time machine that whisks me back to the cherished memories of my teenage years. These songs have an uncanny ability to stir emotions, evoke nostalgia, and transport me to a bygone era when life was simpler, less stressful, and dreams were limitless.
These timeless melodies which are often played on the radio station Lite FM around 9 PM and onwards create a bittersweet tug-of-war between the urge to stay awake and the comforting embrace of slumber. They transport me back in time, making me long to relive the carefree days of my teenage years.
The clock ticks past 10 PM, signaling bedtime, yet the allure of these old favorites keeps me awake. Lite FM becomes a haven where the songs I grew up with come alive once more. Despite the heaviness of my eyelids, I can’t resist the temptation to stay up just a little longer to savor the music that fills the airwaves, just to relive the good old days for a little while.
As the songs from my teenage years fill the living room, they carry me on a journey back to a simpler era in Ipoh. It’s as if I can see the faces of my classmates, my parents, my brothers, and my house in Ipoh, relive the laughter that once echoed in my teenage hangouts, and feel the rush of emotions that accompanied my first crush.
Listening to these songs can be a bittersweet experience. They conjure up a longing, a desire to turn back the clock and relive those precious years. To once again navigate the maze of adolescence, experiencing the heartaches, joys, and discoveries that shaped the person I’ve become.
For many, the mid-80s to early-90s were defined by iconic artists like Steven Bishop, Air Supply (my top favorite until today), Peter Cetera, Richard Marx, Tommy Page, New Kids On The Block, among others. Their music was the soundtrack of my youth, and their voices continue to enchant me, stirring emotions that are as vivid today as they were then. The lyrics and melodies of their songs have an enduring quality that transcends time.
Air Supply, my forever favorite singers.
As the night deepens and sleep beckons, I eventually tear myself away from the melodies that have held me captive at my desk, next to the radio. With the last notes of my favorite songs lingering in my mind, I finally surrender to slumber and can’t wait to turn on the radio again the next morning.
Our usual Sunday routine involves Cass going to Pavillion Bukit Jalil early in the morning for figure skating practice. Her classes are on Friday but she goes to the skating rink on Sunday to practise. We then fetch her back at noon. Next, hubs will go on a food hunt to explore new cafes and restaurants. This past Sunday, we discovered a hidden gem that left our taste buds dancing with delight – Ah Ma Jia Café.
Nestled next to Pavillion Bukit Jalil, Ah Ma Jia, which translates to “grandma’s house” in Mandarin, promises to serve up traditional dishes reminiscent of the comforting meals your grandma would lovingly prepare.
Ah Ma Jia is a new cafe with double-decked seats, similar to Lhong Tou Café in Yaowarat, Bangkok that’s famed for their double-decker seating.
Photo credit – Ah Ma Jia FacebookPhoto credit – Ah Ma Jia Facebook
One of the things that immediately won us over was the extensive menu. From the moment we perused the choices, we knew we were in for a treat. The dishes spanned a wide array of flavors, each with a hint of nostalgia and a dash of authenticity. And the best part was the prices were all very reasonable.
For our Sunday lunch, we decided to indulge in a feast of our favorite dishes:
Bubur Cha Cha: This delightful dessert, made with thick coconut milk and a variety of sweet potatoes and tapioca, was an absolute hit. It was a bowl of creamy heaven that left me craving for more; I ordered two bowls! This is my favorite ‘tong sui’ as I am a sucker for anything with coconut milk.
Curry Laksa: Ah Ma Jia’s curry laksa was a flavor explosion. The curry broth was rich and intense, and each bite was a symphony of spices and flavors.
Chinese Sausage and Pork Lard Rice: Topped with a perfectly fried egg, this dish offered a tantalizing combination of yumminess from the fried Chinese sausage and crispy pork lard. A must-have dish for pork lovers.
Siam Laksa: The Siam laksa was a fragrant and spicy delight with lip-smacking thick broth.
Yam Cake: The yam cake was a savory indulgence, with a generous amount of aromatic ingredients within.
The adults shared a pot of refreshing flower tea, which comprised of chrysanthemum flowers, lemon and stalks of lemongrass.
Stir-fried Rolled Up Chee Cheong Fun: This dish is a unique twist to the traditional CCF, where the chef stir-fried the rolled noodles with cabbage, eggs, carrots, etc. It was very flavorful and surprisingly, we finished the entire plate.
Cantonese Fried Mee Sua: Cass chose this noodle dish. It’s a comforting noodle dish with smooth egg sauce and a variety of ingredients such as prawns, fish cake, ham slices, cabbage and carrot strips.
Coconut Milk Shake: Cassandra’s choice, this refreshing drink was a delightful blend of creamy coconut goodness, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Snow Fungus Tong Sui: Hubby’s choice. A sweet and soothing dessert that provided a sweet ending to his meal.
While Alycia and Sherilyn couldn’t join us for lunch, we got them takeaway spaghetti with grilled chicken and braised pork belly rice, ensuring that they too could savor the delicious food of Ah Ma Jia. The braised pork belly dish was superb, just the way I like it with tender pork in a flavorful sauce. The spaghetti noodles were a tad dry though, according to Alycia but the grilled chicken was delicious.
Ah Ma Jia Café truly captures the essence of home-cooked nostalgia. The affordable prices and prompt service were the icing on the cake. This café is a culinary gem that we will cherish and definitely revisit to explore the rest of the menu. I’ll order Bubur Cha Cha again, for sure 😋
Ah Ma Jia
Address: * within walking distance from Pavilion Bukit Jalil N-13-1 , Jalan Persiaran Jalil 3 , Bukit Jalil City, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur. Opening hours: 11AM – 7PM (closed on Mondays)
My husband is a gourmand in every sense of the word. He’s the kind of person who doesn’t just eat to live; he lives to eat. While some people splurge on clothes, cars or dream of globetrotting adventures, my husband’s heart and wallet are devoted to one thing – food. He’s incredibly generous when it comes to indulging in exquisite culinary experiences, and together, we embark on food hunts that are nothing short of delightful.
Our most recent culinary escapade led us to a charming new café along Old Klang Road in Kuala Lumpur, a hidden gem called SunSan Bake. Nestled in a hidden slope off Old Klang Road, SunSan Bake is housed in a cozy refurbished bungalow. This café is a haven for brunch enthusiasts and coffee connoisseurs alike.
SunSan Bake is a bakery café by day and casual dining restaurant by night.
Outside the bungalow is a pristine, green lawn and a smattering of trees and wild reeds that create a green environment. There’s a zen garden path with gravel and pebbles. Once inside, there’s plenty of natural light, thanks to plenty of French windows. What I like about a café that’s brightly lit up with natural light is that my photos will turn out beautifully, without needing much editing.
SunSan is renowned for its Western fusion cuisine and specialty coffee. What sets it apart is the dedication of its baristas, who are true artisans in the craft of hand-brewed coffee. Every cup is expertly crafted to perfection, ensuring a memorable coffee experience for patrons. For filter brews, they offer two options: “competition” beans as well as seasonal filter coffees.
Game to try the Black Truffle Shiopan? It’s made with black truffle butter, white truffle oil, bamboo charcoal and smoked Maldon salt. The shape and color can be suggestive of something else though, 💩 😂
Our visit to SunSan began with the tantalizing display of pastries next to the entrance, each arranged like a work of art in a gallery. The attention to detail was undeniable, and it was clear that this place aims to be a gallery of edible works of art.
Sunsan Bake menu
For our breakfast, my husband opted for the Sunshine Breakfast set, a delightful spread that came at RM36. The plate featured a harmonious blend of flavors, including eggs, sausage, ham, grilled portobello mushroom, a handful of raw greens and a slice of toasted artisanal bread. It was a hearty breakfast that left him thoroughly satisfied. To accompany his meal, he chose a Flat White coffee (RM15).
Sunshine Breakfast set, RM36
To satisfy our sweet tooth, we couldn’t resist trying the cempedak pandan cake, priced at RM20. The cake was a revelation, with the tropical flavors of cempedak and the aromatic essence of pandan creating a harmonious and unforgettable dessert.
Cempedak Pandan cake, RM20Flat white, RM15
As for me, I had already eaten breakfast at home and wasn’t particularly hungry, but I couldn’t resist trying the cake and hubby’s breakfast set.
SunSan Bake proved to be a delightful discovery, and we left with the promise to return and explore more of their menu. We were charmed not only by the delectable food but also by the café’s commitment to creating a welcoming space where food truly becomes art.
Often times, appearances can be deceiving, especially when it comes to food. While I was away in Ipoh with Cass recently, Sherilyn whipped up a batch of chocolate chip cookie dough and left it in the fridge. When I returned, the first thing that caught my eye in the fridge was a tray of chilled cookie dough. To put it bluntly, it didn’t look appetizing at all. In fact, it bore a striking resemblance to something far less palatable – let’s just say it resembled poop 💩
The color and even the texture of the dough left much to be desired. However, as the saying goes, “Never judge a cookie by its dough!” And I was about to witness a transformation.
With a sense of curiosity and a dash of skepticism, I watched as Sherilyn baked the “poop-like” cookie dough in the oven. When the cookies emerged from the oven, they looked nothing like the unappetizing dough I had seen earlier. Instead, they were golden brown, adorned with gooey chocolate chips, and exuded a delightful aroma of butter and chocolate. And they looked like cookies from some fancy cafes.
The true magic happened when I took a bite. These cookies were a revelation! They were chocolaty, rich, and had the perfect balance of sweetness. It was as though the unassuming dough had undergone a magical transformation in the oven.
These don’t look appetizing eh? But they do 🤤. Sorry, there are no photos of the baked cookies to show as I had forgotten to snap the pix and someone ate them all before I remembered about snapping the pix.
Sherilyn shared these cookies with her colleagues at the café and saved some for Cass and me. The consensus was unanimous – these cookies were a triumph. So, never judge a cookie by its dough and always be open to culinary surprises!
When it comes to choosing bridesmaid dresses that exude elegance and timeless beauty, velvet has emerged as one of the top choices for modern brides. The allure of velvet bridesmaid dresses is undeniable, with their rich, soft, shiny texture and versatility that complements various wedding themes.
Let’s explore why velvet dresses are a go-to choice for bridesmaids.
1. Elegance Personified
Velvet is synonymous with opulence and sophistication. The lush, soft texture of velvet bridesmaid dresses instantly elevates the entire bridal party’s look, making a statement of refined elegance. Whether you’re planning a classic, vintage, or modern wedding, velvet seamlessly fits into any theme, enhancing the overall ambiance with its regal charm.
Velvet’s natural sheen adds a touch of glamour to bridesmaid attire. The fabric beautifully catches and reflects light, creating a stunning effect that complements the bride’s gown while allowing bridesmaids to shine in their own right. Velvet bridesmaid dresses are especially breathtaking in evening and winter weddings when they catch the warm glow of candles and fairy lights.
One of the most significant advantages of choosing velvet bridesmaid dresses is their timeless appeal. Unlike trendy fabrics that may lose their charm over time, velvet remains a classic choice that transcends seasons and fashion eras. Your bridesmaids will look back on your wedding photos and still appreciate the elegance of their beautiful velvet gowns.
For brides seeking beautiful and affordable velvet bridesmaid dresses, look no further than Yelure.com. Yelure offers a wide range of exquisite velvet dresses that cater to various preferences and budgets. What sets Yelure.com apart is its commitment to customization. Bridesmaid dresses at Yelure.com are available in any size and can even be custom-sized to ensure a perfect fit for every member of your bridal party.
At Yelure.com, you’ll find velvet bridesmaid dresses in a plethora of sweet colors, allowing you to choose the shade that best complements your wedding color palette. Whether you envision deep burgundy, regal navy, or romantic blush, Yelure.com has a spectrum of options to match your style.
When it comes to selecting bridesmaid dresses that epitomize elegance, shine with glamour, stand the test of time, and fit within your budget, velvet is the way to go. Discover the stunning collection of velvet bridesmaid dresses available at Yelure.com and make your bridal party shine with luxurious elegance on your special day. Elevate your wedding with the regal allure of Velvet Bridesmaid Dresses from Yelure.com.
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