It has been 12 long years since my visit to Argiroupolis. I've always meant to go back one day. We have a farmers' market every Wednesday in town. I happened to see wild rabbit on offer so I decided to make Mrs Zografakis' version of Stifado. It's traditionally made with rabbit but I've used chicken before. It's a hearty stew served with freshly baked bread.
Cretan Stifado
Ingredients
1 wild rabbit or 1.3 kgs chicken
2 large onions, quartered
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
A glass of red wine
5 grated tomatoes (or dump in the processor or chopper)
pinch of sugar
1. Fry onion in olive oil until translucent. Add and brown the meat. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper and boil for 5 mins.
2. Pour in a glass of red wine and boil till it's cooked.
3. When it's cooked, add grated tomatoes and a pinch of sugar. Continue cooking with lid on until meat is tender.
My adventure in Argiroupolis
Monday, 29 March 2010
When I was 24, I decided it was high time I did my O.E - The Kiwi (New Zealand) term for "overseas experience" before I hit old age. To my surprise, my parents didn't look as excited as I was when I announced my plans. Well, you know how protective most parents are, particularly Asian parents or so I thought. Now that I'm a mom, I'm planning to lock L up and throw away the key AND her passport until she's 40. My poor parents. This was back in the days where global roaming and wi-fi were unheard of and no one carried laptops. I was a single woman traveller and loved heading off to unheard places. Thinking back, they must have been a nervous wreck until I finally got home - after I managed to get myself pickpocketed and lost all my money and passport. I think they were rather relieved when I finally got married and Steve had to come along to my "grand" backpacking adventures to "protect" me.
I spent two months exploring Greece. The most memorable experience by far has to be Argiroupolis in Crete. I read about it in Rough Guide and thought it'd be a neat place to visit. It was not a tourist destination and the place rarely gets any visitors. I hopped on the bus from Rethymno, along with the locals (I was the ONLY foreigner) and chickens, lots of them running up and down the bus. The landscape was rocky, jagged, dry, barren and mountainous. I learned that Argiroupolis was built on top of an ancient settlement called Lappa, a properous city of 10,000 inhabitants until it was destroyed by the Arabs in 828 A.D. In 1822, the new town was re-named Argiroupolis. Argiro (comes from the word Argiros) meaning silver" where according to the legend, people used to make silver and copper coins there. When I was there 12 years ago, the town had 450 inhabitants, 200 houses and 32 churches.
I came with the intention of staying a night and instead, I didn't leave until 5 days later. The Zografakis took me in and treated me like a family member. We talked, we laughed and most of all, we enjoyed each other's company. Mrs Eleftheria Zografakis taught me how to cook the local cuisine - stifadho (rabbit stew), tzatziki, different versions of Greek salad, meatballs with tomato sauce, stuffed tomatoes and capsicums, courgettes with eggs, courgette flowers with cheese, grilled chicken and souvlaki.
I was taken to archaeological sites only known to the locals. Apparently, I was the first foreigner to see the newly discovered catacombs. Mrs Zografakis treated me like her daughter. She was the only female carpenter in Europe. In fact, she was completely self taught, purely out of necessity. She built the house along with the beds, cupboards, tables and chairs! She looked after 4 daughters, managed the guesthouse, ran the restaurant, grocery store AND the orchard.
The locals decided I was a celebrity based on two facts. First of all, I'm Asian and dabbled in martial arts (in my younger days) so therefore, I must be the daughter of Bruce Lee. I'm the first and only person of Asian descent the entire village has ever seen. Secondly, I'm from New Zealand so I HAD to be a friend of Xena's (Lucy Lawless aka Xena was all the rage back then). I was papped everywhere I went and had to sign autographs for the kids. I decided I have no talent for being famous. I didn't know how to dress the part nor smile for the camera.
The principal of the local school invited me to teach and "perform" for the students. Their faces fell when they realized I 1) couldn't jump over a car 2) fly in the air nor 3) perform acrobatic acts in the air, of course - like Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee. When I finally ended my rather lackluster performance, a little girl ran up to Polly, my young interpreter. "I don't want her to leave", she whispered. Maria, the teacher asked if I could come back again next year. She made me promise her several times to send a postcard and photos when I returned home. I've never forgotten the warm welcome and immediate acceptance by the people of Argiroupolis.
The mealtimes were extremely interesting. It was different from what I was used to. Everyone talked loudly, joking, clamouring for food, arms flung in all directions and plate after plate piled with food were passed around simultaneously. It was like a marketplace. I loved it! For lunch, we had a tray of an entire lamb with the head attached (!), baked potatoes, preserved red peppers served with olive oil, vinegar, salt and chopped onions, courgette flowers filled with cheese and fried in batter, greek salad, artichokes with vinegar and olive oil, tzatziki and fried tender pork, accompanied by freshly baked bread and washed down with beer and coke. The dessert was a wonderfully sweet and juicy melon (a cross between rock and honeydrew melon). We started eating at 2pm and didn't finish until 9.30pm.
This family welcomed me with open arms and they've touched my life in more ways than one.
Please forgive the terrible photos. They were taken with a Ricoh point and shoot which my dad loaned to me and scanned using my cheap printer. The camera died a few times but a few whacks against the concrete would resurrect it. Oops, sorry Daddy, you weren't meant to know that.
I spent two months exploring Greece. The most memorable experience by far has to be Argiroupolis in Crete. I read about it in Rough Guide and thought it'd be a neat place to visit. It was not a tourist destination and the place rarely gets any visitors. I hopped on the bus from Rethymno, along with the locals (I was the ONLY foreigner) and chickens, lots of them running up and down the bus. The landscape was rocky, jagged, dry, barren and mountainous. I learned that Argiroupolis was built on top of an ancient settlement called Lappa, a properous city of 10,000 inhabitants until it was destroyed by the Arabs in 828 A.D. In 1822, the new town was re-named Argiroupolis. Argiro (comes from the word Argiros) meaning silver" where according to the legend, people used to make silver and copper coins there. When I was there 12 years ago, the town had 450 inhabitants, 200 houses and 32 churches.
I came with the intention of staying a night and instead, I didn't leave until 5 days later. The Zografakis took me in and treated me like a family member. We talked, we laughed and most of all, we enjoyed each other's company. Mrs Eleftheria Zografakis taught me how to cook the local cuisine - stifadho (rabbit stew), tzatziki, different versions of Greek salad, meatballs with tomato sauce, stuffed tomatoes and capsicums, courgettes with eggs, courgette flowers with cheese, grilled chicken and souvlaki.
I was taken to archaeological sites only known to the locals. Apparently, I was the first foreigner to see the newly discovered catacombs. Mrs Zografakis treated me like her daughter. She was the only female carpenter in Europe. In fact, she was completely self taught, purely out of necessity. She built the house along with the beds, cupboards, tables and chairs! She looked after 4 daughters, managed the guesthouse, ran the restaurant, grocery store AND the orchard.
The locals decided I was a celebrity based on two facts. First of all, I'm Asian and dabbled in martial arts (in my younger days) so therefore, I must be the daughter of Bruce Lee. I'm the first and only person of Asian descent the entire village has ever seen. Secondly, I'm from New Zealand so I HAD to be a friend of Xena's (Lucy Lawless aka Xena was all the rage back then). I was papped everywhere I went and had to sign autographs for the kids. I decided I have no talent for being famous. I didn't know how to dress the part nor smile for the camera.
The principal of the local school invited me to teach and "perform" for the students. Their faces fell when they realized I 1) couldn't jump over a car 2) fly in the air nor 3) perform acrobatic acts in the air, of course - like Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee. When I finally ended my rather lackluster performance, a little girl ran up to Polly, my young interpreter. "I don't want her to leave", she whispered. Maria, the teacher asked if I could come back again next year. She made me promise her several times to send a postcard and photos when I returned home. I've never forgotten the warm welcome and immediate acceptance by the people of Argiroupolis.
The mealtimes were extremely interesting. It was different from what I was used to. Everyone talked loudly, joking, clamouring for food, arms flung in all directions and plate after plate piled with food were passed around simultaneously. It was like a marketplace. I loved it! For lunch, we had a tray of an entire lamb with the head attached (!), baked potatoes, preserved red peppers served with olive oil, vinegar, salt and chopped onions, courgette flowers filled with cheese and fried in batter, greek salad, artichokes with vinegar and olive oil, tzatziki and fried tender pork, accompanied by freshly baked bread and washed down with beer and coke. The dessert was a wonderfully sweet and juicy melon (a cross between rock and honeydrew melon). We started eating at 2pm and didn't finish until 9.30pm.
This family welcomed me with open arms and they've touched my life in more ways than one.
Mr & Mrs Zografakis
Joanna Zografakis (the elder daughter) with her fiance
Mrs Zografakis making the courgette flower with cheese stuffing
The area provides water to the entire city of Rethymno. The water suddenly appeared when someone prayed for a cure. The person was miraculously healed and so did a lot of others. The water that flowed from the stream is crystal clear and clean. It actually tasted good.
This is a 2000 year old tree where 5 young virgin girls were murdered by the Turks. Their bodies were buried in the church nearby.
Please forgive the terrible photos. They were taken with a Ricoh point and shoot which my dad loaned to me and scanned using my cheap printer. The camera died a few times but a few whacks against the concrete would resurrect it. Oops, sorry Daddy, you weren't meant to know that.
A mother's influence
I found my tattered Word for Today booklet which I'd carried all the way from New Zealand two years ago. The messages sort of jumped out at me and in many ways, are profound to me at this stage of my life.
Mother's Day - Sunday May 11 2008: A mother's influence
"Direct your children onto the right path". Proverbs 22:6
When Harry and Ada Mae Day brought their first child Sandra home from the hospital, it was to a tiny ranch house without running water, electricity, or a school within driving distance. But they refused to let their surroundings limit them. His father's death had kept Harry from attending Stanford University but he never lost hope that his daughter would study there. Ada Mae subscribed to educational newspapers and magazines, home-schooled her daughter and later sent her to the best boarding schools in America.
One summer the entire family climbed to the dome of every state capitol est of the Mississippi. Sandra did attend Stanford, then law school, and eventually became the first woman Supreme Court justice in America. The day she was sworn in she donned her robes and took her place among the other justices. Then she locked eyes with her family, and the tears began.
Solomon said, "Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it" (Pr 22:6 NLT). What made Sandra Day O'Connor successful? Intelligence and ambition undoubtedly played a part. But much of the credit goes to a determined little woman sitting in a four-room clay house reading to her daughter for hour upon hour, and to parents who climbed the stairways of capitol domes alongside their children.
Chuck Swindoll says, "As significant as political, military, educational or religious figures may be, none compare to the impact made by mothers. Their words are never fully forgotten, their touch leaves an indelible impression...the memory of their presence lasts a lifetime. I ask you, who else has that kind of influence?"
Thank you, Mi for your love and sacrifice xxxxx
Mother's Day - Sunday May 11 2008: A mother's influence
"Direct your children onto the right path". Proverbs 22:6
When Harry and Ada Mae Day brought their first child Sandra home from the hospital, it was to a tiny ranch house without running water, electricity, or a school within driving distance. But they refused to let their surroundings limit them. His father's death had kept Harry from attending Stanford University but he never lost hope that his daughter would study there. Ada Mae subscribed to educational newspapers and magazines, home-schooled her daughter and later sent her to the best boarding schools in America.
One summer the entire family climbed to the dome of every state capitol est of the Mississippi. Sandra did attend Stanford, then law school, and eventually became the first woman Supreme Court justice in America. The day she was sworn in she donned her robes and took her place among the other justices. Then she locked eyes with her family, and the tears began.
Solomon said, "Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it" (Pr 22:6 NLT). What made Sandra Day O'Connor successful? Intelligence and ambition undoubtedly played a part. But much of the credit goes to a determined little woman sitting in a four-room clay house reading to her daughter for hour upon hour, and to parents who climbed the stairways of capitol domes alongside their children.
Chuck Swindoll says, "As significant as political, military, educational or religious figures may be, none compare to the impact made by mothers. Their words are never fully forgotten, their touch leaves an indelible impression...the memory of their presence lasts a lifetime. I ask you, who else has that kind of influence?"
Thank you, Mi for your love and sacrifice xxxxx
Primrose Bakery Cupcakes Part 2
Sunday, 28 March 2010
I was in London recently to catch up with my gorgeous girlfriend. The same hot-bod girlfriend whom I'm helping to makeover. I dragged her into Zara and got her to buy a gorgeous lilac dress, a much needed black trench coat and an ankle boot which made her long legs look even longer. Sorry guys, she's married.
Anyhow, we decided to check out Primrose Bakery and try their cupcakes. Hot girlfriend bought two - vanilla and chocolate. On my way back home, I knocked the cupcakes about and the vanilla had chocolate smears. I wasn't too impressed with the chocolate sponge but the cocoa buttercream was delicious. The vanilla cupcake was tasty but a little dry because it was about 2 days old before it got eaten. On the whole, they were surprisingly good.
Anyhow, we decided to check out Primrose Bakery and try their cupcakes. Hot girlfriend bought two - vanilla and chocolate. On my way back home, I knocked the cupcakes about and the vanilla had chocolate smears. I wasn't too impressed with the chocolate sponge but the cocoa buttercream was delicious. The vanilla cupcake was tasty but a little dry because it was about 2 days old before it got eaten. On the whole, they were surprisingly good.
Cath Kidston
The locals were delighted when Cath Kidston decided to set up shop on High St. I wasn't particularly enamored with the the kitschy but useful offerings until yesterday when I took a closer look. Each time I walk past the shop, it's bustling and doing a roaring business despite the downturn of the economy. Obviously, the smart lady's doing something right. I came home with these:
I'm forever looking for containers to store tea bags, cookies etc etc etc. So, I couldn't resist this
Spray Flower set of 4 containers £16
Since I'm constantly measuring bags, hats and clothes for my eBay shop, it's high time I get a proper measuring tape instead of a plastic flexi-ruler. It has a press button release and comes in a compact and cute size.
Mini dot measure tape £5
I've been looking for a camera bag to replace my well worn LowePro. A friend recommended Crumpler so I dashed off to John Lewis and purchased a Muffin Top 3000. Unfortunately it's too small to hold my camera and 2 lenses including filters, external flash, wallet, water bottle, journal, iPhone, sunglasses, inhaler, cosmetic pouch, a pack of tissues, L's stash of snacks and a book. Yes, I know. I carry everything AND the kitchen sink. I often ended up lugging a camera bag (actually, hubby does) and an additional handbag which is a pain. I could upgrade to a bigger Crumpler but I'm vain. I don't want my camera bag to look like a well, camera bag. So sue me.
I'm thinking of this Navy polka dot Saddle bag. It has lots of compartments and pockets and oilcloth makes it waterproof. It costs less than a Crumpler and is the perfect size for traveling. The only thing it lacks is the padded dividers.
Navy Polka Dot Saddle Bag £68
For more of Cath Kidston goodies, go to www.cathkidston.co.uk
I'm forever looking for containers to store tea bags, cookies etc etc etc. So, I couldn't resist this
Spray Flower set of 4 containers £16
Since I'm constantly measuring bags, hats and clothes for my eBay shop, it's high time I get a proper measuring tape instead of a plastic flexi-ruler. It has a press button release and comes in a compact and cute size.
Mini dot measure tape £5
I've been looking for a camera bag to replace my well worn LowePro. A friend recommended Crumpler so I dashed off to John Lewis and purchased a Muffin Top 3000. Unfortunately it's too small to hold my camera and 2 lenses including filters, external flash, wallet, water bottle, journal, iPhone, sunglasses, inhaler, cosmetic pouch, a pack of tissues, L's stash of snacks and a book. Yes, I know. I carry everything AND the kitchen sink. I often ended up lugging a camera bag (actually, hubby does) and an additional handbag which is a pain. I could upgrade to a bigger Crumpler but I'm vain. I don't want my camera bag to look like a well, camera bag. So sue me.
I'm thinking of this Navy polka dot Saddle bag. It has lots of compartments and pockets and oilcloth makes it waterproof. It costs less than a Crumpler and is the perfect size for traveling. The only thing it lacks is the padded dividers.
Navy Polka Dot Saddle Bag £68
For more of Cath Kidston goodies, go to www.cathkidston.co.uk
1 dress, 4 looks
Thursday, 25 March 2010
I've got these two girlfriends - Gorgeous, high cheekbones, flawless complexion, hourglass figure with waist smaller than my thigh. Furthermore, they're kind, generous and loyal to boot. I hate them. Just kidding. The only thing was they've been told that they needed to dress more professionally at work. If I had their looks and figure, I would be wearing Herve Leger bandage dresses everyday. Anyway, back to reality.
So when J and her hubby came to visit us last weekend, we played dress-up. Similar to the game my daughter plays everyday in school and at home except her costumes are some of the gaudiest, most garish and tacky outfits I've ever seen in my life. Yes, I bought most of them (sucker). And yes, she loves them all. There's just no accounting for taste nor negotiating with a 4 year old. Oops, I digress....
I was channeling Rachel Zoe so I pulled dress after dress for J. She tried out different outfits and combination until we found out what worked for her. She was rather shocked that nothing she had on cost more than £100 with the exception of accessories and shoes. We started off with a single dress - violet Gap dress. Cost? £24.99 at the sale. With one dress, I created 4 different looks for her.
LOOK 1
Gap violet dress £24.99, Gap merino wool cardigan £9.99 and vintage reversible Hermes belt
LOOK 2
Gap violet dress £24.99, Rag & Bone £100 (from Browns £700 down to £100), Christian Louboutin Prive heels
Look 3
For a more casual look, Gap violet dress £24.99, Chanel silk scarf, Guiseppe Zanotti flats
Look 4
Another casual look, Gap violet dress £24.99, Louis Vuitton Sprouse cashmere stole, MNG leather jacket £75, Uniqlo leggings £4. I cropped my Repetto black flats out of the photo because they looked so tatty.
The same combo will work perfectly with this dress and it can worn as a cocktail/going out dress. Comptoir des Cotonniers £40 (sale).
So when J and her hubby came to visit us last weekend, we played dress-up. Similar to the game my daughter plays everyday in school and at home except her costumes are some of the gaudiest, most garish and tacky outfits I've ever seen in my life. Yes, I bought most of them (sucker). And yes, she loves them all. There's just no accounting for taste nor negotiating with a 4 year old. Oops, I digress....
I was channeling Rachel Zoe so I pulled dress after dress for J. She tried out different outfits and combination until we found out what worked for her. She was rather shocked that nothing she had on cost more than £100 with the exception of accessories and shoes. We started off with a single dress - violet Gap dress. Cost? £24.99 at the sale. With one dress, I created 4 different looks for her.
LOOK 1
Gap violet dress £24.99, Gap merino wool cardigan £9.99 and vintage reversible Hermes belt
LOOK 2
Gap violet dress £24.99, Rag & Bone £100 (from Browns £700 down to £100), Christian Louboutin Prive heels
Look 3
For a more casual look, Gap violet dress £24.99, Chanel silk scarf, Guiseppe Zanotti flats
Look 4
Another casual look, Gap violet dress £24.99, Louis Vuitton Sprouse cashmere stole, MNG leather jacket £75, Uniqlo leggings £4. I cropped my Repetto black flats out of the photo because they looked so tatty.
The same combo will work perfectly with this dress and it can worn as a cocktail/going out dress. Comptoir des Cotonniers £40 (sale).
Spring is FINALLY here!
To me, daffodils = spring. It also means I don't have to look like the Michelin man each time I step out of my front door. Or trying to figure out how to push the stroller uphill on the icy pavement (good thigh and butt workout). Or trying to entertain the kids at home because it's too wet and cold outside (seriously, how many cookies can you bake or even worse, watch endless Wiggles repeats - cold spaghetti cold spaghetti, mashed banana, mashed banana). Or getting frostbite on my fingers because I've lost yet another pair of gloves (okay, I exaggerate but you get my drift).
My Wish List - if money grow on trees......
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Things I dream about.....
I'm a gadget girl but I wish these weren't so expensive.
1. Canon 70-200mm f4 IS USM L series lens
Takes insanely sharp and crisp photos. At £925, it should perform miracles too!
2. Canon 50mm f1.4 USM lens £298
Perfect for portrait and macro shots.
3. Canon 18-200mm EF-S f3.5-f5.6 IS lens £462
Nowhere near as sharp nor the colors as vibrant compared to 70-200mm lens but for the zoom, I'm willing to put up with its weaknesses. This will solve my problem of constantly needing to swap lenses.
4. Canon 5D II Mark Camera £1799
Amazing camera! I can always dream....
5. Hermes Cape Cod GM Watch
I've only ever worn one watch - a Tag Heur, the cheapest range. I'm no watch aficionado but this chic watch really appeals to this particular rocker chick wannabe
6. Samsung Netbook NC10
This is fast becoming a necessity so that Steve will leave my Macbook alone. Just the right size and weight for travels.
7. Vince Cropped Motorcycle Biker Leather jacket
I've lived in my olive MNG leather jacket for the last 6 years. If I could get a £1 for every person who'd asked where I bought it from, I would've easily afford the Balenciaga jacket. No one believed it was from MNG which at the time cost £60. I'd love to get a black version.
8. Panasonic LX3 Compact Camera £316
This is one of the best compact camera in the market. Performs better than Canon G11 which costs a hefty £280 more. It has a Leica lens and is comparable (in fact, it looks identical to) Leica D-Lux 4 but at £316, it sure is heck a lot cheaper than the red dot (£599). There are times when I'm plain tired of having to lug around my heavy DSLR and numerous lenses.
9. James Jeans Hunter Addiction
I've worn James Jeans for years - mostly bootleg and straight leg cuts. I've recommended the brand to friends and strangers after being complimented on many occasions. However, UK is cold and wet. So, I need a pair of jeans that I can tuck into my flat riding boots. These are so flattering and the stretch fabric makes it very comfortable. For ladies like moi who do not have a flat tummy, these are high rise so no more muffin top effect. Unfortunately, the retailers here seem to think it's OK to add a premium to the exorbitant prices of American made jeans. I'm a firm believer of NOT paying retail so until I get them at a heavy discount, this shall remain on my wish list.
I'm a gadget girl but I wish these weren't so expensive.
1. Canon 70-200mm f4 IS USM L series lens
Takes insanely sharp and crisp photos. At £925, it should perform miracles too!
2. Canon 50mm f1.4 USM lens £298
Perfect for portrait and macro shots.
3. Canon 18-200mm EF-S f3.5-f5.6 IS lens £462
Nowhere near as sharp nor the colors as vibrant compared to 70-200mm lens but for the zoom, I'm willing to put up with its weaknesses. This will solve my problem of constantly needing to swap lenses.
4. Canon 5D II Mark Camera £1799
Amazing camera! I can always dream....
5. Hermes Cape Cod GM Watch
I've only ever worn one watch - a Tag Heur, the cheapest range. I'm no watch aficionado but this chic watch really appeals to this particular rocker chick wannabe
6. Samsung Netbook NC10
This is fast becoming a necessity so that Steve will leave my Macbook alone. Just the right size and weight for travels.
7. Vince Cropped Motorcycle Biker Leather jacket
I've lived in my olive MNG leather jacket for the last 6 years. If I could get a £1 for every person who'd asked where I bought it from, I would've easily afford the Balenciaga jacket. No one believed it was from MNG which at the time cost £60. I'd love to get a black version.
8. Panasonic LX3 Compact Camera £316
This is one of the best compact camera in the market. Performs better than Canon G11 which costs a hefty £280 more. It has a Leica lens and is comparable (in fact, it looks identical to) Leica D-Lux 4 but at £316, it sure is heck a lot cheaper than the red dot (£599). There are times when I'm plain tired of having to lug around my heavy DSLR and numerous lenses.
9. James Jeans Hunter Addiction
I've worn James Jeans for years - mostly bootleg and straight leg cuts. I've recommended the brand to friends and strangers after being complimented on many occasions. However, UK is cold and wet. So, I need a pair of jeans that I can tuck into my flat riding boots. These are so flattering and the stretch fabric makes it very comfortable. For ladies like moi who do not have a flat tummy, these are high rise so no more muffin top effect. Unfortunately, the retailers here seem to think it's OK to add a premium to the exorbitant prices of American made jeans. I'm a firm believer of NOT paying retail so until I get them at a heavy discount, this shall remain on my wish list.
Seeing RED
Tuesday, 23 March 2010
Shopping for shoes isn't one of my favorite pastimes. When you have a pair of size 34 (or UK 1) feet, there's just no point looking at beautiful shoes since NO shop will stock shoes this small. To torture myself, I joined the masses and headed off to Harrods and Selfridges during the Boxing Day sale. It was almost painful seeing rows and rows of Jimmy Choo, Lanvin, Louboutin, Sergio Rossi heels/flats in every shape and form and knowing that I can't buy them. Meanwhile, dear younger sis is having the time of her life (she has normal sized feet) trying on these beauties.
I've put up with incredulous looks and snickers from sales associates. I politely decline to shop at the children's department. And no, I'm not kidding about my shoe size either. Years ago, I read somewhere that feet often grow 1-2 sizes during pregnancy. That was enough to convince me to start having kids. Yes, I can be that shallow. I patiently waited for my feet to swell and well, grow. 9 months later, I have no problems fitting into my old shoes. 4 years after my pregnancy, I'm still a size 34. Liar!
One can't imagine my relief when I discovered Repetto ballet flats. Their shoes are tiny! Size 35 equals to size 34. They mold to your feet and are incredibly comfortable. In additional, they're chic and goes with skinny jeans and dresses. For the last two years, I've been hankering for a pair of deep red flats. None were to be found in my size. When one popped on eBay.fr in MY size, I begged the seller to ship to the UK. Without much ado, here are my new long awaited flats.
I've put up with incredulous looks and snickers from sales associates. I politely decline to shop at the children's department. And no, I'm not kidding about my shoe size either. Years ago, I read somewhere that feet often grow 1-2 sizes during pregnancy. That was enough to convince me to start having kids. Yes, I can be that shallow. I patiently waited for my feet to swell and well, grow. 9 months later, I have no problems fitting into my old shoes. 4 years after my pregnancy, I'm still a size 34. Liar!
One can't imagine my relief when I discovered Repetto ballet flats. Their shoes are tiny! Size 35 equals to size 34. They mold to your feet and are incredibly comfortable. In additional, they're chic and goes with skinny jeans and dresses. For the last two years, I've been hankering for a pair of deep red flats. None were to be found in my size. When one popped on eBay.fr in MY size, I begged the seller to ship to the UK. Without much ado, here are my new long awaited flats.
Chocolate Cookies Recipe
Sunday, 21 March 2010
I felt the need for chocolate cookies so I hunted around for a good recipe. I'm usually not a big fan of Nigella but lately, I've found wonderful recipes in her books. As usual, I've adapted it slightly to suit my taste. So far, I've received nothing but rave reviews from friends and family. Right now I'm munching on a chocolate cookie while typing this......
Ingredients
125g dark chocolate, minimum 70% cocoa solids (my favorite is Lindt)
150g flour
30g cocoa, sieved
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
125g soft butter
75g light brown sugar
50g white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg, cold from the fridge
1. Preheat the oven to 170 C/gas mark 3. Melt the 125g dark chocolate either in the microwave or in the heatproof dish over a pan of simmering water.
2. Put the flour, cocoa, bicarbonate of soda and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream the butter and sugars in another bowl. Add the melted chocolate and mix together.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract and cold egg, and then mix in the dry ingredients.
5. Scoop out 12 equal sized mounds - an ice cream scoop and a palette knife are the best tools for the job. If you don't have an ice cream scoop, shape the dough into balls. Place over lined baking sheet about 6 cm apart. Do NOT flatten them.
6. Cook for 18 mins, testing with a cake tester (or toothpick or skewer) to make sure it comes out semi-clean and not wet with batter.
7. Leave to cool on baking sheet for 4-5 minutes.
Ingredients
125g dark chocolate, minimum 70% cocoa solids (my favorite is Lindt)
150g flour
30g cocoa, sieved
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
125g soft butter
75g light brown sugar
50g white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg, cold from the fridge
1. Preheat the oven to 170 C/gas mark 3. Melt the 125g dark chocolate either in the microwave or in the heatproof dish over a pan of simmering water.
2. Put the flour, cocoa, bicarbonate of soda and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream the butter and sugars in another bowl. Add the melted chocolate and mix together.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract and cold egg, and then mix in the dry ingredients.
5. Scoop out 12 equal sized mounds - an ice cream scoop and a palette knife are the best tools for the job. If you don't have an ice cream scoop, shape the dough into balls. Place over lined baking sheet about 6 cm apart. Do NOT flatten them.
6. Cook for 18 mins, testing with a cake tester (or toothpick or skewer) to make sure it comes out semi-clean and not wet with batter.
7. Leave to cool on baking sheet for 4-5 minutes.
Sugar Cookies on Lolly sticks
Friday, 19 March 2010
To make it appealing for kiddies, I decided to insert a lolly stick into each sugar cookie. They're easy to make, free of preservatives and artificial coloring and I can control the amount of sugar that goes into the dough. They were a big hit at L's birthday parties. The great thing about it is, both adults and kids love them. Even the husband who hates anything sweet keeps asking me if he can eat "just one more". This is the guy whom I have to force to try a slice of my chocolate cake!!!
The recipe is from Nigella's cookbook "Feast" though instead of standard icing, I used Royal icing instead. They're smoother and harden really well which is great if you just want to dump them all into a cookie jar.
Sugar Cookies (from Nigella Lawson's FEAST)
Makes 20-30 depending on the size of your cookie cutter
90g soft unsalted butter
100g caster sugar
1/2 tsp real vanilla extract
200g plain flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp fine salt
1. Preheat the oven to gas mark 4/160C
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until pale and moving towards moussiness, then beat in the egg and vanilla. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the butter and eggs, and mix gently but surely. If you think the finished mixture is too sticky to be rolled out, add more flour, but to so sparingly as too much will make the dough tough. Form into a ball, press down into a fat disc, wrap in clingfilm and rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
2. Sprinkle a suitable surface with flour, place the disc of dough on it and sprinkle a little more flour on top of that. Then roll out it out to a thickness of about 1/2 cm.
3. Cut out a shape, place it over greaseproof paper (easier to work with as you'll have to flip the cookie). Put a lolly stick down the middle and pinch a small piece of dough and smooth over the stick. Don't worry if it doesn't stick completely as it will flatten in the oven. Lift up the cookie along with the greaseproof paper and flip.
3. Bake for 8-12 mins, obviously it depends on the shape you're using and whether they're on the upper or lower shelf though you can swap them around after about 5 mins. When they're ready, expect them to be tinged a pronounced gold around the edges, they'll be softish still in the middle but will set while they cool. So remove them with a flat, preferably flexible spatula to a wire rack. When they're all fully cooled, you can get on with the icing.
For Royal Icing (I used half of this recipe which is more than enough)
3 egg whites
500g Icing sugar
Natural red coloring (beetroot)
1. Beat the egg whites until they peaked. Add icing sugar a little at a time to avoid a mess.
2. To thicken the paste, add more icing sugar, to thin it out, add water. For piping, you'll require a thicker paste and for flooding, thinner.
The recipe is from Nigella's cookbook "Feast" though instead of standard icing, I used Royal icing instead. They're smoother and harden really well which is great if you just want to dump them all into a cookie jar.
Sugar Cookies (from Nigella Lawson's FEAST)
Makes 20-30 depending on the size of your cookie cutter
90g soft unsalted butter
100g caster sugar
1/2 tsp real vanilla extract
200g plain flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp fine salt
1. Preheat the oven to gas mark 4/160C
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until pale and moving towards moussiness, then beat in the egg and vanilla. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the butter and eggs, and mix gently but surely. If you think the finished mixture is too sticky to be rolled out, add more flour, but to so sparingly as too much will make the dough tough. Form into a ball, press down into a fat disc, wrap in clingfilm and rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
2. Sprinkle a suitable surface with flour, place the disc of dough on it and sprinkle a little more flour on top of that. Then roll out it out to a thickness of about 1/2 cm.
3. Cut out a shape, place it over greaseproof paper (easier to work with as you'll have to flip the cookie). Put a lolly stick down the middle and pinch a small piece of dough and smooth over the stick. Don't worry if it doesn't stick completely as it will flatten in the oven. Lift up the cookie along with the greaseproof paper and flip.
3. Bake for 8-12 mins, obviously it depends on the shape you're using and whether they're on the upper or lower shelf though you can swap them around after about 5 mins. When they're ready, expect them to be tinged a pronounced gold around the edges, they'll be softish still in the middle but will set while they cool. So remove them with a flat, preferably flexible spatula to a wire rack. When they're all fully cooled, you can get on with the icing.
For Royal Icing (I used half of this recipe which is more than enough)
3 egg whites
500g Icing sugar
Natural red coloring (beetroot)
1. Beat the egg whites until they peaked. Add icing sugar a little at a time to avoid a mess.
2. To thicken the paste, add more icing sugar, to thin it out, add water. For piping, you'll require a thicker paste and for flooding, thinner.
Ballet
After a year of being harangued by a then 3 year old for ballet lessons, it took an additional 6 months on the waiting list (??!!!!) before she finally got her wish. Luckily, L seems to enjoy it A LOT. And I do mean A LOT.
So today, us parents were allowed in to watch our little ones "perform".
Instead of following her teacher's instructions, L decided to strike a pose. Note to self: ensure your pre-schooler is asleep before turning on America's Next Top Model.
So today, us parents were allowed in to watch our little ones "perform".
Instead of following her teacher's instructions, L decided to strike a pose. Note to self: ensure your pre-schooler is asleep before turning on America's Next Top Model.
Children's Footwear
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Ever since I've stopped working in a corporate environment, my beloved Manolos, Louboutins, Chanels and Choos have either been sold off or laid languishing in my wardrobe. The last time I've tried to walk in a pair of heels, the pain was beyond agonizing! So for now, it's either Havaiannas and Repetto flats for the warmer months or sheepskin Uggs that my sister bought for me and a pair of Hermes flat riding boots I managed to score for a low price at a dress agency in winter.
To satiate my shoe fetish, I turned to children footwear. I've spent months poring through various blogs, online stores (both in the UK and US) and anything and everything to do with the science behind developing shoes for tender feet. I've narrowed my favorite brands down to Pediped, Elephantito and BearFeet. Unfortunately, they all happened to be made by US based companies which meant extortionate shipping costs. I've managed to stock up thanks to my many American friends who are more than willing to forward them to me.
However, now that we've moved to the UK, these brands, with the exception of BearFeet are readily available and stocked by various online and brick and mortar stores. Their shoes are soft, pliable and flexible. Both Pediped and Elephantito were designed by mothers so their approach is practical and are, well, the answers to most moms' prayers.
I've ordered a pair of Pediped ballet flats. It took a year for L to grow out of her BearFeet shoes. Yes, she has tiny feet - like her mom.
These are great as they have a memory foam technology so the shoes mold to the child's feet. Secondly, the insole can be removed to get more wear out of the shoes when your child's feet grow. As for little boys, there are these options:
For more information, go to www.pediped.com
Elephantito makes just the cutest footwear with European inspired detailing. The shoes are handmade in Peru. I've bought a pair of silver Mary Janes for L with the softest leather ever.
And I love these two pairs. So adorable.
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There aren't many options for little boys. However, this is a great loafer for everyday wear. www.elephantito.com
I've spoken to and emailed a representative at Bear Feet but somehow communication is painfully slow and inconsistent. They're currently not stocked in the UK nor other parts of Europe. A shame as they make beautiful AND comfortable shoes. I've lost count the number of times we were stopped on the streets by strangers asking where we purchased these shoes from. My only complaint with their Bearlerina shoes is that without reinforced soles, they wear out too quickly.
Currently, www.childrensalon.com and www.rimbalzoo.co.uk offer international shipping.
To satiate my shoe fetish, I turned to children footwear. I've spent months poring through various blogs, online stores (both in the UK and US) and anything and everything to do with the science behind developing shoes for tender feet. I've narrowed my favorite brands down to Pediped, Elephantito and BearFeet. Unfortunately, they all happened to be made by US based companies which meant extortionate shipping costs. I've managed to stock up thanks to my many American friends who are more than willing to forward them to me.
However, now that we've moved to the UK, these brands, with the exception of BearFeet are readily available and stocked by various online and brick and mortar stores. Their shoes are soft, pliable and flexible. Both Pediped and Elephantito were designed by mothers so their approach is practical and are, well, the answers to most moms' prayers.
I've ordered a pair of Pediped ballet flats. It took a year for L to grow out of her BearFeet shoes. Yes, she has tiny feet - like her mom.
These are great as they have a memory foam technology so the shoes mold to the child's feet. Secondly, the insole can be removed to get more wear out of the shoes when your child's feet grow. As for little boys, there are these options:
For more information, go to www.pediped.com
Elephantito makes just the cutest footwear with European inspired detailing. The shoes are handmade in Peru. I've bought a pair of silver Mary Janes for L with the softest leather ever.
And I love these two pairs. So adorable.
There aren't many options for little boys. However, this is a great loafer for everyday wear. www.elephantito.com
I've spoken to and emailed a representative at Bear Feet but somehow communication is painfully slow and inconsistent. They're currently not stocked in the UK nor other parts of Europe. A shame as they make beautiful AND comfortable shoes. I've lost count the number of times we were stopped on the streets by strangers asking where we purchased these shoes from. My only complaint with their Bearlerina shoes is that without reinforced soles, they wear out too quickly.
Currently, www.childrensalon.com and www.rimbalzoo.co.uk offer international shipping.
The BEST Butter cake
Monday, 15 March 2010
Every now and then, I get a craving for a simple butter cake. One without any accoutrements to distract from the rich buttery and vanilla scented flavour. Here's a recipe from Tana Ramsey (wife of Gordon Ramsey) which I've adapted to suit my taste. I've used the same recipe for cupcakes and it turned out well. The cake is moist and has a lovely texture.
Ingredients
225g unsalted butter , softened
225g caster sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
225g self-raising flour
1. Heat oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4. Beat together the butter and sugar until pale and creamy, then add the eggs, one at a time, slowly mixing through. Sift in the flour, then add the lemon zest and mix until well combined. Line a loaf tin (8 x 21cm) with greaseproof paper, then spoon in the mixture and level the top with a spoon.
2. Bake for 45-50 mins until a thin skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Will keep in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Primrose Bakery Cupcakes
For L's birthday party, I decided to bake cupcakes. It's easier to hand each child a cupcake or put it in a takeaway box so there's less mess for everyone concerned. It was rather difficult to find sugarpaste decorations that deviate slightly from the norm. After what seemed like a lengthy search on eBay I found these:
I got the recipe from a book written by the founders of the famed Primrose Bakery in London. Here's their website: http://www.primrosebakery.org.uk/ I tweeked their recipe a little bit and didn't slap on as much icing as I'm sure the parents weren't going to be pleased seeing their kids bounced from wall to wall. These went down a treat as most of the kids (with the exception of mine) demolished their cupcakes within minutes.
Note: Their term "regular" actually means muffin sized cupcakes. If you're using "fairy" cupcake cases, you should get approximately 32-36. The texture is slightly more dense and not as moist as I'd hoped but has a wonderful buttery scent. I folded the flour in instead of beating as specified in the recipe.
Vanilla Cupcakes
110g unsalted butter, at room temperature
225g caster sugar, preferably golden
2 large eggs, free range or organic
150g self raising flour, sifted
125g plain flour, sifted
120ml semi-skimmed milk, at room temperature
1 tsp good quality vanilla extract
1. Preheat the oven to 160 C (fan)/180 C/350 F/gas mark 4 and line a 12 hole muffin tray or three 12 hole mini muffin trays with appropriate size cupcakes
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and smooth, which should take 3-5 mins using an electric hand mixer. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing for a few mins after each addition.
3. Combine the two flours, in a separate bowl. Put the milk in a jug and add the vanilla extract to it.
4. Add 1/3 of the flours to the creamed mixture and beat well. Pour in 1/3 of the milk and beat again. Repeat these steps until all the flour and milk have been added.
5. Carefully, spoon the mixture into the cupcake cases, filling them to about 2/3s full. Bake in the oven for about 25 mins (regular size) or 15 mins (mini size) until slightly raised and golden brown. To check they are cooked, insert a skewer int he centre of one of the cakes - it should come out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and leave the cakes in their tins for about 10 mins before carefully placing on a wire rack to cool. Once they're completely cool, ice the cupcakes with vanilla, chocolate or lime and coconut buttercream icing.
Vanilla Buttercream Icing
Makes enough to ice 15-20 regular or about 60 mini cupcakes
110g unsalted butter, at room temperature
60ml semi-skimmed milk, at room temperature
1 tsp good quality vanilla extract
500g icing sugar, sifted
few drops of food colouring (For pink, I used natural beetroot extract colouring)
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, milk, vanilla extract and half the icing sugar until smooth - this can take several minutes with an electric hand mixer. Gradually add the remainder of the icing sugar and beat again until the buttercream is smooth and creamy.
2. If you want to colour your buttercream, always start with one drop of colouring and beat thoroughly. This will be all you need to achieve a very pale pastel hue. Add carefully, drop by drop, and beat after each addition to build up to your desired shade.
Make sure you beat the buttercream again if it has been sitting there for more than 10 mins unused or you'll end up with lumpy buttercream like the above.
And some of the fairies, princesses and pirates at the party. Oh, and one Spiderman ;o)
I got the recipe from a book written by the founders of the famed Primrose Bakery in London. Here's their website: http://www.primrosebakery.org.uk/ I tweeked their recipe a little bit and didn't slap on as much icing as I'm sure the parents weren't going to be pleased seeing their kids bounced from wall to wall. These went down a treat as most of the kids (with the exception of mine) demolished their cupcakes within minutes.
Note: Their term "regular" actually means muffin sized cupcakes. If you're using "fairy" cupcake cases, you should get approximately 32-36. The texture is slightly more dense and not as moist as I'd hoped but has a wonderful buttery scent. I folded the flour in instead of beating as specified in the recipe.
Vanilla Cupcakes
110g unsalted butter, at room temperature
225g caster sugar, preferably golden
2 large eggs, free range or organic
150g self raising flour, sifted
125g plain flour, sifted
120ml semi-skimmed milk, at room temperature
1 tsp good quality vanilla extract
1. Preheat the oven to 160 C (fan)/180 C/350 F/gas mark 4 and line a 12 hole muffin tray or three 12 hole mini muffin trays with appropriate size cupcakes
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and smooth, which should take 3-5 mins using an electric hand mixer. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing for a few mins after each addition.
3. Combine the two flours, in a separate bowl. Put the milk in a jug and add the vanilla extract to it.
4. Add 1/3 of the flours to the creamed mixture and beat well. Pour in 1/3 of the milk and beat again. Repeat these steps until all the flour and milk have been added.
5. Carefully, spoon the mixture into the cupcake cases, filling them to about 2/3s full. Bake in the oven for about 25 mins (regular size) or 15 mins (mini size) until slightly raised and golden brown. To check they are cooked, insert a skewer int he centre of one of the cakes - it should come out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and leave the cakes in their tins for about 10 mins before carefully placing on a wire rack to cool. Once they're completely cool, ice the cupcakes with vanilla, chocolate or lime and coconut buttercream icing.
Vanilla Buttercream Icing
Makes enough to ice 15-20 regular or about 60 mini cupcakes
110g unsalted butter, at room temperature
60ml semi-skimmed milk, at room temperature
1 tsp good quality vanilla extract
500g icing sugar, sifted
few drops of food colouring (For pink, I used natural beetroot extract colouring)
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, milk, vanilla extract and half the icing sugar until smooth - this can take several minutes with an electric hand mixer. Gradually add the remainder of the icing sugar and beat again until the buttercream is smooth and creamy.
2. If you want to colour your buttercream, always start with one drop of colouring and beat thoroughly. This will be all you need to achieve a very pale pastel hue. Add carefully, drop by drop, and beat after each addition to build up to your desired shade.
Make sure you beat the buttercream again if it has been sitting there for more than 10 mins unused or you'll end up with lumpy buttercream like the above.And some of the fairies, princesses and pirates at the party. Oh, and one Spiderman ;o)
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