Popcorn, the New Ice Cream

Over the weekend I attended a dear friends hens party. I was asked if I could contribute by making a dessert of some kind so, I decided on some pretty choc cupcakes and caramel popcorn choc tops. Now cupcakes are cupcakes but the caramel popcorn choc tops were fabulous! These would be a fantastic addition to any kids party and they taste delicious! They were so easy to make.

...So that when he is old he will not depart from it

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.  You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.  You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:6-9

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

Every step of motherhood is both daunting and exciting. Its a constant mental [and physical] challenge that you somehow manage to conquer every single time! Its an ongoing challenge and... an ongoing reward.

It starts with taking a pregnancy test off the store shelf and as you walk to the check out, you can't even put your finger on how your feeling. Then its seeing those little positive lines and your heart skips a beat. Your now forced to imagine your future, the rest of your lifetime with a son or daughter. How will I love and nurture this child? What kind of parent will I be? Will I be good enough? Am I going to miss not having children? Am I cut out for motherhood? Can we live on one wage? How is a baby going to change my relationship with my husband? Could I possibly love someone else as much as I love my husband? And most importantly, can I raise this little heartbeat within me to know Jesus as their saviour, so that when he is old he shall not depart from it?

Throughout pregnancy there are countless thoughts and emotions you go through, just trying to imagine a life you've never lived before. But what I struggled with most during pregnancy was the evident labour and childbirth. It caused much anxiety and it scared me to the bone. That challenge conquered! In the last weeks and days God gave me the most amazing feeling of confidence and strength. But now that I had Rupert safe in my arms I was faced with the next challenge. Recovery. After a 14 hour natural labour with no drugs and an episiotomy my body was exhausted, in pain and somewhat traumatised. 7 weeks on and I'm still dealing with the recovery. At times in tears with pain and frustration, so frustrated that after getting over one pain along came another, and it just doesn't seem to end. But nevertheless I'm conquering these challenges of painful events.

The above are all evident challenges that will be overcome. But what about my sons spiritual growth? How will I conquer this challenge? How can I be certain that Rupert will follow the ways of the Lord? How do I ingrain but not Bible bash, teach but not force? We gave our son life, and every life has a beginning but it hasn't an end. I can't make, choose or determine the decisions Rupert will make when he is older but, while he is young enough to be impressionable and influenced by us we are to make the most of it. We should lead by example and teach him the truths and stories of the Bible, and that we are in need of Jesus saving grace. We must pray for Rupert and walk in faith that, he too will follow Christ and have a personal relationship with Jesus his Saviour.  

Homemade

I love my homemade sausage rolls, the recipe taken from ABC Delicious Quick Smart Cook Book. They are quick, easy and not too expensive to make! Great for a snack, side, or even a meal if you don't cut them into small lengths and leave them long. You can customise the flavour with different spices, pastes, or a different type of sausage mince. 

Whats for Dinner?

With the new addition of Rupert in our lives and the absence of my wage, our family has stepped into a new chapter of our lives. Our family has changed [for the better], our budget has changed... our lifestyle is now different to that of our previous.

So, lets start with whats for dinner.

How can I shop cost effectively for groceries? Which meals are most cost effective? And how can I keep it healthy, delicious and exciting?

When we both worked full time I found it difficult (or inconvenient, lack of desire rather) to make the time to do proper grocery shops and to cook regular healthy meals. I usually cooked the same few meals on a regular basis. Spag bol, apricot chicken, schnitzel ect. Whatever was quick an easy! And then on other nights we might resort to supporting our local fish and chip shop, or maccas.

I've started with a budget of $200 a month excluding perishables such as milk and fruit and vege. It's been 14 days since I did the monthly shop and we're not doing too badly. I've probably spent about $20 over the past 2 weeks on additional groceries. At the end of the 4 weeks I will evaluate how well the $200 was spent and whether I had to make many additional small shops within the month. And remembering to create a shopping list along the way so, that when I get to the next monthly shop I won't leave anything out (to prevent additional small shops).  I brainstorm and source all the meals I want to cook within the month before doing the shopping, so that I can be prepared with all ingredients.

Now for the meals. What have I been cooking? I've decided to expand my repertoire/menu and try new recipes or new variations of recipes I already use. This months cooking recipes I have sourced from the taste.com website. Let me give you bit of a commentary of a few recipes I've tried at late.

Thai kangaroo salad with crisp-fried garlic - Kangaroo is my favourite selection of meat as its cheap (comparatively) and very healthy for you. It's 98% fat free, high in iron, high in protein, low saturated fat, gluten free and most of all  its delicious! This dish was quick and easy however its supposed to serve 4... not so. Matty and I only got one meal for 2 and we were still hungry so, next time it would be best served with garlic, herb or focaccia bread. Otherwise it was very nice and had a refreshing taste. Click on the link to view the recipe.

Spanish tuna pasta bake - This was a great recipe. We managed to stretch it out to 4 meals for 2! But that doesn't allow for seconds or massive portions. I've decided this is cost effective, yummy and easy to make.

Sweet and sour pork - now for something asian. This dish tasted good but felt like a bit of work. I didn't enjoy the process of deep frying, it was messy. And it's also not the healthiest of dishes. You can get about 3 meals for 2 out of this recipe.

So there you go... thats what was for dinner.

Let's Get This Blog Rolling!

So, it's been a very long time since I did anything with this blog and I'm going to give it another shot.

...

Back in December I finished up at work and commenced maternity leave. Our baby was due in mid February and I wanted a couple of months to nest and prepare for the big journey my husband and I were about to embark on.

I was a little concerned that I might miss work and get just a little bit bored being at home. Despite my deepest desires to be the 1950's housewife and mother! I like structure and routine and, the consistency that it gives me in life. And of course the security of a wage. I wasn't sure that it would remain without my job outside the home. But it did. I loved every minute of being at home and being able to put a good dinner on the table. Not being forever tired and exhausted from a full days work. I discovered myself to be a happier person and enjoying my days far more. I loved having the time to read my Bible, make new curtains and quilts. I knitted and decorated and enjoyed having a clean home. I did what I was always too busy or too tired to do.

No doubt your wondering what I think now, after having a baby. Do I still enjoy being at home? Do I still have the time to do the things I listed in the above paragraph? And do I now think that my job at work is easier? Well yes, being a mother is exhausting and no I don't have as much time on my hands as I did before Rupert. However, it's a lifestyle I've adjusted to and love living. Do I think going to work was easier? Yes I do but its also more stressful and not as enjoyable or rewarding. I love that even after a sleepless night of crying, feeding and changing nappies that, I can embrace, hold and cherish every moment of my sons life. Their need to have you as their naturing mother... it greets you every minute of the day!

Now, I might not have adjusted quite as well if it wasn't for my dear friend Naomi giving me a certain book. The book titled 'On Becoming Baby Wise'. As I mentioned earlier, I like structure and routine and this book follows a 'parent directed feeding' method [a routine]. A method that helps me plan my day and the hours in that day. There are of course days where things don't go to plan but on the whole it generally works. I highly recommend the book and, like anything you customise to what suits your family. Another book I recommend is 'Calm Baby, Confident Mum'. This book written by Simone Boswell who is a mother that follows the 'parent directed feeding' method. She's not a nurse or doctor ect. but a mother who writes from her personal experience.

Anyway, signing off now but before I do I have a blog written specifically to my son Rupert. Its made up of daily notes and letters containing little things that he and I might have done that day. Click here to follow 'Letters to My Son'.

I'm Back and This Time I'm a Mother

Hi to all you readers,

Well here I am after about 7 months of not a single post... or update of my pregnancy/baby progress. But now that I am here, I can tell you that my husband and I have safely brought our son Rupert Ming Liang into the world.

We were blessed with a safe and complication free birth. Rupert was born naturally with no drug assistance after a 14 hour labour. He weighed 3.05kg and was 49cm in length. A very precious gift from God. Click here to follow my blog titled Letters to My Son written for Rupert.

Rupert Ming Liang Fong - 6 days old.

Theres a Heartbeat From Within

For those who haven't already heard, here is an online announcement... that Matthew and I will be expecting the arrival of our first child in February 2012.

So watch this space for updates!

A Very Quick Update

Now let me bring you all up to date from my last post made in November. In a very simple and straight to the point format:

• Dec - xmas spent in Darwin
• Jan - Not a whole lot
• Feb - Bridesmaid to close friend cat
• Mar - I turned 22 and flew to melb whilst Matty was on a business trip for 3 weeks
• April - 2 week holiday in Adelaide for cousin Emily's wedding
• May - We attended Matty's Graduation Ceremony
• June - Matty turned 23 and I won a 40" TV
• July - we bought a bold red lounge!

Welcome to "Wives in Aprons"

"Welcome to "Wives in Aprons".

For some time now I have wanted to write a newsletter encouraging young women. Although I have boldly targeted married women in the title it is however, open to all women, of all ages. Women with old fashioned values, living in modern society. Women today more often then not have a working career outside the home. Suit by day and apron by night.
 And while there is nothing wrong with a professional career, I would not be honest if I didn't say I lack in the apron department. Is it so wrong to want a home cooked meal every night, crisply ironed clothes and not a speck of dust on the shelves?

Womanhood today is a balancing act and something I can't seem to master. And I know this because I am more often washing my work uniforms then my aprons. I want to encourage women to embrace their house duties as well as their career. Post your favourite recipes, cooking failures, sewing projects, send in a pic of the mold growing in your fridge or of your favourite heels.

Stay tuned for more on the newsletter... and consider if you would be interested in submitting an article."

Our 1st Year Anniversary

The 21st November, last Sunday Matty and I celebrated our 1st wedding anniversary.

Escaping Darwin for the weekend was how I pictured it however, it was to be BAU and no flights were to be booked. We were staying in Darwin for a concert that Matty was performing in with the DSO (Darwin Symphony Orchestra).

So Sunday morning my husband brought me pancakes in bed and an origami paper rose that he crafted himself. Paper is the first anniversary gift for anyone who wasn't aware. And then... Standing in the doorway stood Matty wearing a guitar!!! So for those that have seen the movie "Valentines Day", it's a scene you may be able to recall. Hehe umm don't think too hard on that one. He sings "I love you baby and if quite alright I need you baby..."

Moving on now...

We had fish n chips by the beach for lunch followed by a lazy afternoon at home.

Then 5pm came and I was told to get ready, and to make sure I wore something nice. So in the car we drove, destination unknown. Matty parked the car at Lee Point where I could spot his parents decorating a little table overlooking the water. We were somewhat early or maybe they were late? But his parents did leave as they saw us approaching. Oh it was so cute! Lois had made chocolate dipped strawberries which were so yummy! The setting was just beautiful. It was there that Matty slipped an eternity ring on my finger, my bridal set now complete.

Finally, the evening ended after having dinner at "Pee Wees" restaurant.

It was a fabulous 1st anniversary and we look forward to many more. I love you Matty!

A Table for Two... compliments of the in-laws.

Yummy choc coated strawberries.

6 Months Later

So here I am again... with much shorter and darker hair... and a little slack I have been in keeping an up to date blog. So I'll give you all a little summary of the last six months as Mrs Fong, and also of the wonderful Mr Fong.

Lets start in the kitchen. As a seamstress and not a cook, things in my kitchen are not all it should be. Flopping Pavlovas, smoked apricot chicken, broken glass, frozen pies and slimy lettuce often get the better of me. It was better being single and eating rice and toast every night, being married means I have to feed a husband. My menu lists of apricot chicken, spag bol, curried snags, stir fry, and 2min noodles. Oh and of cause Matty's fav... meat pies!

So like my menu I don't really have anything exciting to write about being in the kitchen however, my spotty retro apron does brighten up my cooking experiences.

Married life is FANTASTIC and so much FUN. Matty is a wonderful friend and husband (even though his folding is a little off centre ) and we've had the best of times discovering each others weird and wonderful habits! I'm told I leave too many drinking glasses lying around and that I too often want my feet rubbed. But I can't work out why Matty has to store his daily vitamins behind the kitchen tap? And I don't like it when chairs aren't pushed in and he dislikes having old, off and mouldy food in the fridge. But we do love waking up together every morning.

In May just gone we experienced our first time apart since being married. I spent 4 days in Fiji on a work conference and 4 days was long enough.

Fiji is a lovely place with not much to see besides the beach however, its people are what make it such a friendly place to visit. Everyone is very relaxed and work on what they like to call "Fiji time" and to be honest, I'm not sure its time at all! The food is very bland and consists of manly boiled chicken. With another stamp in the passport my visit to Fiji was a pleasant one. 

Finally, June brought us to our mid year holiday together in Singapore. My eldest brother Jacob and his lovely wife Shirley live in Singapore and I suppose that would explain why it is my most visited overseas country. For the week we were there we visited museums, traditional markets, its huge shopping centres and the newly built Universal Studios. The highlight of the trip as always would be its abundance of local foods from its many different cultures. Our mid year holiday scores an 8/10.

...Married life so far.

The Honeymoon

Hey there! Here I am again with a second post, I feel like I have achieved something!

Anyway I am home alone today, that is until I start work at 4pm. I was also home yesterday and when my husband got home late in the afternoon, I told him that if he were to leave me home alone again that he should give me a baby to look after lol! NO... we are not having kids anytime soon!
On the other hand I have a beautiful black cat named Dolly. She is so precious and I really believe that she was sent by God to comfort me when I lived alone and out of home.

Dolly is about 8 months old now and she has become the baby in our new little family. The only disappointment is that when Matty moved in she formed a greater attachment to him, he was now her favorite person. It may have been the result of Matty talking cat language and the constant "meow" conversations in the kitchen. However I believe Dolly felt a strong connection with Matty because he was hairy like herself!

Anyway... the honeymoon!!

Well we spent 7 relaxing days in Bali and we did nothing but laze around the hotel and eat good food for little money! We also did some shopping, can't go to Bali and not pick up a Rolex or 2!
The weather was beautiful and the locals were hard core sales people.

And that's all I feel like writing today so I am sorry to cut the story short but I'm going to sign off here. Afternoon everyone.

The Bungalow we stayed in for a week.

Embracing Married Life

So, this is my first post... and I'm going to start with telling you about my new life as a wife and proud mother of a black cat!

Two and a half years ago I became a committed girlfriend. 14 months later I became a diamond wearing fiance`. And just 3 months ago I became the privileged wife of Matthew Fong and my name has never been easier to write!

Matty and I married on 21st November '09 and it was the most WONDERFUL day of my life! Although being a wet season wedding, we were blessed to not get washed away by any monsoonal rains. However the weather was still very humid and hot which did have an affect on my make-up! Matty, his Best man Stuart (his brother) and groomsman Luke were like peanuts roasting in an oven of a 3 piece suit, what were they thinking? On the other hand I was very pleased to have my maid of honor Cat and bridesmaid Kathleen (Matty's sister)wear cute strapless, knee length dresses. I'm proud to say that I made the girls dresses as well as my own white strapless gown. My dear mother was a great help in finishing off the hand stitching that by the last few days, I did not want to do!

Cat is my best friend and she was an amazing maid of honor (MOH). Most MOH's are that particular friend that you allocate a ton of jobs to however, I was a very... hmmm whats the word? I was an independent bride-to-be and I preferred to do everything myself. I made the invites, the dresses, the table centers and the name cards. I picked the flowers, chose the colours... and drove my MOH crazy with no delegated jobs! I did little delegating but unknown to cat she was my emotional strength throughout the entire lead up to the event. I didn't need a maid of honor to run my errands, I needed my maid of honor to be my friend... and that is exactly what Cat is.

Oh, and by the way... Cat organised the most AWESOME hens party ever!!! And despite the turn out, wearing hot pink zebra stockings and a tutu could not have been as epic if it weren't spent with Kathleen, Anna and Cat! RIP Jessica's Hens Party!

Now your all prob wondering about the giant UFO on my head in the pictures... don't ask cos I LOVE my bridal UFO! I have so much to write about when it comes to my wedding but for now I'm going to sign off here... Night all.