Matchbox Wisdom

I Heart Japan

Japan never disappoints. There's always something good. So good you wish you stay longer and have more Yen. Japan can be bizarre or peaceful and zen; dirty in ways but mostly clean; fantastic food whether or not you deal with a vending machine; and needless to elaborate, the good, GOOD shopping.

It's been years since I last visited Japan in Tokyo. I wanted very much to return ever since but sadly it's not as easy said than done. This time I went to Nagoya, on a work flight. Layover's only 28hrs but oh man, enough Yen spent and food consumed.

I left Nagoya with bags full of made-in-Japan products, an O-Mamori (protection charm) from Osu Kannon Temple, tummy full of Katsu Kare, Ramen, Gyudon, Tako-Yaki and green tea.

Photos are here. Thanks to Karen for taking many pictures of me.... and my new Forever Friends brollie from flatmate!

Cooking Fun

Since I put up the last post I shall shamelessly direct you to a mini gallery of food pictures. Food I prepared over the last year. Some others were not as lucky to survive the photo taking and were consumed prematurely.

The joy of cooking is amplified when food is shared, even more satisfying when achieved good tasty results. I believe everyone can cook, doesn't have to serve a ballroom of fine-palette guests - the Thai lady I remember at a Sukhumvit roadside makes excellent food. Whether served in fine Chinaware or styrofoam takeout boxes, food is food - and great tastes hath no limits!

So, are you cooking yet?

Chocolate Base Mini Cupcakes

I made cupcakes for the first time today and am quite pleased with the result. Once I master the basics I shall move on to cupcakes with decorative colourful toppings (you know the kind that looks so pretty it doesn't matter if it tastes good?)

But these taste pretty darn good despite using less sugar and low fat cheese :)

They look so cute as they rise, guarantee to put a smile on your face!

The May(be) Time of the Year

It's May. Last year this time there were big changes. I was busy packing and making arrangements to leave Singapore for Dubai.

This May is exciting too. I have good destinations coming up and (hopefully) a fat bonus to look forward to... Oh my calendar's updated. I have been so lucky with rosters this whole year, I shall not complain come June when I have to be on reserve.