Chocolate Cookies

Chewy chocolatey cookies attempted with healthier choices. Because C is for Cookies, as is for Calories :P



Mixture A:
2 cups plain flour (subsituted 1 cup with organic wholemeal flour)
2/3 cup cocoa powder (this is nice. never substitute cocoa)
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mixture B:
1 cup butter, softened (I used 3/4 cup)
1 1/2 cup white sugar (used 1 cup in my recipe for semi sweetness)
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Toppings:
2 cups chocolate chips (in this case 1 1/2 chocolate bar smashed into bits)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (I used a lone neglected pack of almond flakes instead)

Mmm... Mmm... Melaka!

Seizing the long weekend in September, we went to Malacca. About 3 hours north of the dot by car. I've not been to East Malaysia so I can't compare, but Malacca has to be my favourite state in Peninsula Malaysia (next to Penang, for gastronomical reasons). I like that it stands out from the rest with its Peranakan heritage.

For 3 days we savoured traditional Nonya delights, popular Malaysian hawker fare, never-before Satay in communal gravy, had one two many Chendols. We amused ourselves nightly at the singing contest that was held at the famous Jonker stage in remembrance of a certain 30's Chinese singer Zhou Xuan.

We stayed at a lovely guesthouse by the river right behind Jonker Street called Heeren House. Will try to book Puri next time.

Photo album here. We're planning to go again.

Caught and Candid

Saffi likes to wallow in the middle of your paperwork


Oscar greets residents with a half stomach crunch, then goes back to sleep


Elliot plays with pink (well, used to be. Now brownish like it's got ran over by a truck. A few trucks.) bunny in bed

I've Been Razzled and Dazzled

London is getting colder. It is autumn, I haven't seen any sight resembling its beauty - just wet, cold, winter-transitioning climate.

One such Friday a few of us decided to head out to Leicester Square and catch a musical. We went for Chicago this time, one I've been meaning to watch. Discounted, 30pounds for one of Cambridge Theatre's beat seats. I'm happy as a bird despite the rainy evening.

The story circles around feisty showgirls Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, set in the 20s Chicago where big bands holler and scandals loom. A witty sizzling tale of men, women, cheating, murder, and fame. The UK cast were brilliant, and I especially adore the voice of Linzi Hately who played the demanding role of Roxie.

It was a captivating 2hr 20min. Though there were no massive props and wardrobe changes, I didn't feel that the musical was anything less of a gripping and highly entertaining performance.

The official UK site.

Human Pillow

Sometimes I get pins and needles because I let my cat sleep on various parts of my body. Mostly a foot, or a hand.

Below: she took the opportunity when I was reading a magazine in bed.

Saffi, All Stressed Up

There was a major renovation last month in the apartment right above mine. Anyone suffered such an experience would know that you're lucky to have survived it sane, and without loss of hearing - permanently, at least.

If cats hear noises 8 times louder, you can imagine the agony all 3 cats at home had to endure for many days. They all scurry around finding places to hide.

Pictured here, Saffi hid under the duvet in an attempt to mask out drilling noises. As I peeped, she looked nothing but wide awake and frus. When noise subsided/ during lunch time she came out and slept like a log. Sometimes you see her wondering around the flat, looking up at the ceiling where the drilling was taking place.

Poor thing... I hope she's caught up with all that sleep debt since.

"So sharp, you won't feel a thing..."