Result: Rich, not to sweet, moist and sticky, these are all the characteristic of a Grade “A” Brownie. Oh, and a hint of orange is a nice touch!

My only advice on this one: use quality ingredients for the chocolate and the coco powder, 2 very important things in the recipe. And to follow the recipe as precise as possible, in another word, ditch your diet plan for this one and do not cut down on the measurement for the butter used here.

As a fan of brownie, my job is not complete till I suggest you some ways of serving your brownie. You can be creative and take brownie as a dessert for your guest- just serve warm with some vanilla ice cream. Also, cutting them into smaller pieces works well as a cocktail party serving with some cream and a tooth pick. Lastly, sandwich 2 slabs together with some chocolate mousse in the middle and top to make it as a cake, it will surely give a pleasant shock (if not an instant heart attack) for a loved one on her birthday.

Now, it’s time to fill up those cookie jars.

Bestest chocolate brownies

Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 12 slices

200gm or 1 cup good quality chocolate - dark (preferably 70% Cocoa)
200gm or 1 cup butter
4 large eggs
Zest of 1 orange
100gm or ¾ cup Plan flour
1tsp Baking powder
50gm or ½ cup Coco powder (good quality)
170gm or ¾ cup sugar
100gm or half cup walnuts roughly chopped
1tsp salt

Method:
Start by placing chocolate & butter in a bowl and melt over simmering water.

Then in another bowl add eggs, sugar & zest and whisk (with a WHISK not a fork), until pale.

Next mix together flour, coco, salt, baking powder then sift* all ingredients.

Once chocolate and butter has melted, take off and cool for 5 minutes. Next whish in the egg mixture then fold in the flour mixture.

Lastly add in the walnuts.

Place in cake tin of your choice, lined first with baking paper and bake for around 15 – 20 minutes on 180°c oven.

Not to over cook, use a wooden skewer and skewer the center of the brownie, when you remove you should be able to see that the skewer is brown from the brownie, if skewer comes out clean, that would mean its over cooked.

*In general, a sieve separates unwanted elements from you ingredients using a tool such as a mesh, net or other filtration or distillation methods, but it is also used for classification of powders by particle size, or for size measurement as an analytical technique. The word “sift” derives from this term. A strainer is a type of sieve typically associated with separating liquids from solids.

I haven’t been to Bangsar Shopping Complex much since they renovated the new wing and still is renovating the old wing even though it used to be a favorite hang out especially the old Austin Chase Cafe . So when I had to arrange a lunch appointment in that vicinity, my mind immediately search for  a familiar name, BSC (my fond abbreviation) but of course for a quaint lunch will be at House +Co. I live in a time warp, I know there has been a face lift to the whole complex but I  am totally unaware of the  any renovations done to the shops, so imagine my utter surprise when I finally found my way up to the third floor, where the “new” House + Co is, well housed.

The third floor (the new wing) has been totally renovated, it now boasts of  a Japanese Restaurant, a Chinese restaurant called Imperial Palace and a very much vamped up and amped up House +Co.  House +Co,  is now no longer your quaint hide in the corner cafe playing stepsister to their extensive and expensive homewares. The homewares has a taken a back seat in the new storyline, and behold Cinderella, ella , ella eh eh…transformed into a princess!  It has its own little “moat’ (a small neverending pool, which is cause of great aggravation to some customers as the flowing water is very subtle almost still and in the dim lightin, it looks just like very shiny reflective tiles right  next to the “al fresco-ed” tables. It seems that on average 5 customers would step into the “moat”  everyday. Actually one even threatened to sue the restaurant whilst I was there, but I suspect that was a save face remark, after he could not clear the jump across.

Decor, at House + Co, still clean.The main room-big marble bar and quaint white tables with chairs and comfy long couch sets the tone immediately. Like a house , there are many rooms, on the left of the main and only entrance , one can see tables with divan chairs , tucked in a corner, it was full of people who seem to be in some business discussion or other; further in- separated from the main room would be the kitchen and display of homewares. Next to it, a big and long table that acts like  a  dining table and some customers were seen sitting there with their laptops having some sort of discussion.

Foods, they still have their famed nasi lemak and Nyonya Curry Laksa (RM21). But I must say the Nyonya  Curry Laksa was a bit of a let down. The pear avocado salad (RM23), absolutely delicious and garner them some brownie points. But the real clincher was the kendondong fruit juice(RM14). Kendondong by the way is a real sour hard local fruit, which tastes not unlike an apple. But crushed and blended with ice into a juice, it is near divine. There are not many places that one can get this.The last Nyonya restaurant that had this drink inDamansara Jaya gave up after a while because their blender caved in , at least that was what they told me. After  numerous disappointed trips I was left wanting. Now I have  found it at House + Co, and they do it so well too! Two thumbs up for not sending out diluted juice.

Next the pineapple and banana sandwich on toasted ciabata (RM19) is also a winner for me, but the plum layer cake (RM3.50) although delicious was not outstanding as it taste not unlike  the Indonesian layer cake .

Okay, I confess I had to make two trips to chow down so much food, one at lunch hour and another at tea time.The second meeting was deliberately arranged there so that I could get more photos.

What is the damage to the pocket at House + Co? This is not your daily lunch place unless you don’t mind spending at least RM35 on a  meal daily. But it is certainly a great place to hang out with your girlfriends and have tea or luncheon dates whenever. It is also very conducive for business meetings as they have amenities like free WIFI ( this should be no brainer actually), and it quiet and elegant for  a good discussion. There is an element of coziness with the decor, something about  throw cushions  and pots and pans I guess, but there is still a certain formality to it , probably because there is no clutter and it is rather clean lines and no frills.

The only setback, service still needs to be worked on. The staff seems eithe ro overzealous in clearing of glasses or seems confused about bringing the number of plates when two people are sharing, but otherwise , I see into my crystalball, many more visits there.

If you have straight hair and you want sleekness

Apply styling lotion to damp ends and work it through with a wide-tooth comb.

Flip head upside down and aim dryer at the roots. Get hair three quarter dry, then divide hair into four or five sections and secure with clips.

Start with a back section and using a large, round brush, dry hair from roots to ends, moving brush and hairdryer (with nozzle attached) downward together.

Work a pea-size amount of a shine-enhancing gloss thorough hair, from ends to roots. Run a flatiron down top layers.

If you have straight hair and you want volume

Smooth in a dab of texturizer to towel-dried roots.

Lift hair with fingers and focus dryer at roots from 6″ away.

When hair is nearly dry, spritz roots with volumizing spray. Rolling hair forward around face with medium-size brush, blow-dry a bit more.

Wrap hair around large rollers and pin. For a natural look, leave hair around face alone. Aim dryer at rollers; spritz with more spray. Remove rollers. Flip head upside down and shake.

If you have curly hair and you want soft waves

Prep wet hair with a tiny amount of styling lotion at roots. To control frizz, work in a pea-size amount of serum or smoothening balm mid-strand down to ends.

Pin down any natural waves near your face before starting on rest of hair. Place a diffuser on your dryer, set it on low (warm or hot) and dry.

While drying, use your fingers to comb through hair, and pull some pieces at the ends to loosen and elongate curls. When dry, gently shake your head form side to side and lightly push curls into place with fingers.

If you have curly hair and you want sleek, straight hair

Apply straightening balm to damp locks, then blow-dry face-framing hair with a nozzle. Use a round brush to pull hair taut.

Next, work on sides, clipping hair from top out of the way. Run brush over each layer while drying from roots to ends.

Roll ends under with brush and dry. Pull top strands down front with brush to dry.

Coax hair back to the sides to dry. Last, brush your hair for sleekness. You could also apply a heat-protector, then smooth down small sections with a flatiron.

Blowing Tips

Straight hair

Don’t use conditioner on roots and rinse thoroughly

Don’t blow dry super wet hair because it’s fragile and likely to break. Towel-dry until hair feels damp.

Don’t dry against direction of hair growth. Angle nozzle towards ends for smoothness.

Don’t be a flat top. Do use volumizing spray on roots; lift hair away from scalp when drying.

Don’t overwork fine hair. It will flop if handled too much.

Curly hair

Don’t shampoo daily; rinse and use an oil-free conditioner instead to help control flyways.

Don’t try to blow-dry hair straight unless you’ve got at least 45 minutes. It’s a disaster to only do they front and not the back.

Don’t pull hard on hair when blowing straight (it can break). Glide brush and dryer from root to end. Repeat.

Don’t flip head over to blow-dry. It makes curls balloon.

Picture credits to: Marie Claire, Allure, In Style, OSalon, Mis Quince Mag

Expect a palette of vibrant and edgy pieces which mixes a preppy East Coast vibe with punky sensibilities for a result that is decidedly spirited and youthful in appeal.

“When designing Poppy I really wanted to explore who the Coach woman could be,” said Reed Krakoff, President and Executive Creative Director. “With its bright colors, prints, sequins, and new fabrics, Poppy is a natural extension of the brand while simultaneously proving to be an exciting draw for new customers and age groups.”

Here’s a variety of fresh silhouettes, vibrant colors, and a broader price range to this playful and confident collection of handbags and accessories. There’s even a new Poppy logo which is inspired by notebook graffiti and evokes a playful energy that rings throughout the collection.

The Spotlight Shoulder Bag

Pop C Appliqu’e

Dato’ Sri Dr Ng Yen Yen and back of Datuk Danny Ooi

Yep, Pavilion has done it again, they have launched the tallest crystal fountain a day before Mega Sales on the auspicious 4th July 2009. This is in line with the Pavilion vision of being a world class retail landmark which they won the won an international Fiabci award as “World’s Best Retail Centre” recently. They are also working closely with Tourism Malaysia to  make Malaysia, a major tourist attraction.

The Pavillion Crystal Fountain was designed by Pavilion KL, and was constructed in China using Liuli crystal in collaboration with Liuligongfang-an expert in artistic glassware. Standing at a towering 3.6m , with three bowls of different sizes smallest bowl at diameter of 2.05m , 2.87m and biggest bowl at 3.57m;each weighing 0.5 tonne , 1 tonne to 2.o tonnes respectively. It is impressive.

The designed features the “Bloom of the Hibiscus” the national flower of Malaysia, a symbol of opulence, passion and progression. The three bowls represent Malaysia’s multiracial culture living harmoniously and its ascending design signifies the growing aspirations of the people.

Malaysian Drum Symphony

The water which flows out from every direction is an endless source of blessings and prosperity to bestow luminous wealth upon the nation and the city. It is the reflection of our Prime Minister’s “1 Malaysia” vision. Standing at 3.6m and 6m width in total it recognized as the Tallest Liuli Crystal Fountain in Malaysia” by the Malaysian Book of Records.

The fountain was officially “launched ” by Dato’ Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, who in her usual dynamic fashion took the crowd consisting of Malaysian and tourists to some patriotic moments with her speech. She likened the Pavilion fountain to Trevi Fountain and Four River Fountain of Rome.  Besides giving due recognition to Pavilion for their good work and  latest achievements , she also recognized the press from 54  representations including from  China. Then together with Datuk Danny Ng, Founder of Malaysia Book Of Records who presented the prestigious  certificate to Yg. Bernagahgia Tan Sri datuk Seri Zainol bin Mahmood , the Chairman of Urusniaga Cemerlang Sdn. Bhd. and Datin Cindy Lim , Deputy Chairman of Pavilion Malaysia.

Then the fountain was launched and guests and watchers by were given coins to throw in the fountain to make their wishes! I wondered aloud if the wishes come true-er or faster of bigger if thrown in the biggest or highest bowl. But I figured I was lucky enough that Pavilion was generously giving a coin to throw, because I had  none on me that day. So I got my wishing fountain coin and  with a thought and  a wish, I threw my coin in- may it come true.  Abundance after all is in the mind!

fountain lit uppretty lass making her wish

Top Heavy

Look for:

What you need to do is draw the attention downward, away from your top half. The best way is to wear skirts with prints or go ahead try bright colours; or you can also team up your skirt with eye-catching shoes. Full skirts also work well on you and you even get to feel comfy in them.

S’nob Patterned Full Skirt

ASOS Lace Overlay Full Skirt

Darling Ditsy Laced Trim Tie Waist Skirt

Avoid:

Stay away from tapered styles which will just emphasize your bust. Avoid belts as these will only highlight your heavy top.

Full Hips

Look for:

If you are heavy on the bottom half, all you need to do is draw attention to your top half instead. Stick to dark toned skirts that are fitted or flared. A-line skirts are your best bet. Light and floaty fabrics will soften your figure without adding on pounds.

Banana Republic Denim A-line skirt

Classiques Entier Broken Mini Stripe A-line skirt

Sleek A-line skirt - Silky coal Banana Republic womens skirt

Avoid:

Don’t go for skirts that are full at the waist. Short styles will just call for attention to your problem areas.

Boyish Figure

Look for:

A flip skirt will give you a more shapely appearance. Pair it with a patterned or contrasting coloured top. A floaty, bias cut that grazes the knee will also look good on you. Go for patterns and colours.  Pleats and gypsy skirts will also add extra volume to your figure.

Oscar De La Renta Pleated Ikat Skirt

Kenneth Cole Reaction Flip Skirt

Oscar De La Renta Brocade ruffle skirt

Avoid:

Stay away from black as it will not do anything to for your body. Also, never go for those long, shapeless styles that don’t hug your curves.

Don’t forget to complete your look with the right top with accessories like belts, scarfs & jewellery for a stand-out & unique style.

Picture credits to: Asos, Net-a-Porter, This Next, Kaboodle

Now here’s an idea, Lancome is showing you  how to keep in touch with friends and stay young and beautiful while you  are it! Don’t wait email as many friends as possible  TODAY!!! Only until the 7th July 2009….

Charles and Keith up to 50% discount from 4th to 23rd August 2009 in their leading stores!

So with my new found discovery which came about because I happen to attend some talks and workshops on skin care like the Biotherm swanky Wave Bus- made me realized how bad my skin care regiment is and how I have neglected my skin. But like all good things, it never rains but it pours. Suddenly a whole new world opened up, my mind is  deluged with all kinds of moisturizers and hydrating gels that are out there that it fused out -I got confused. My mind had frozen with the information overload.

So I decided to get some clarifications and asked a couple of industry experts what is the difference between hydrating  and moisturizing, Biotherm’s Trainer Vanessa  and Eunice Phang and Clinique’s  Senior Product Manager, Christine

Biotherm Aquasource for Oil Free for Combination Skin

1) What is difference between hydrating and moisturizing?

EunicePhang: moisturizer is the umbrella term for skincare to provide moisture (a balance, healthy layer of hydro-lipidic film on the epidermis) to skin. Moisturizers come in various texture to suit different skin needs, such as the hydrating gels for oily skin that prefers a light gel-like texture. While cream moisturizer are for dryer skin.

Christine: Hydrating gels are more for giving the skin “water content”, to plump up the skin. Example would be like from a raisin to grape. Skin would look healthier and feels more comfortable instantly. This product is more suitable for someone whose skin is dehydrated.

Clinique’s Moisture Surge

2) When should someone use a hydrating and when to use moisturizers?

Eunice Phang: this depends on the users individual needs, hydrating gel is used if the person has dry & dehydrated skin and has superficial fine lines (sign of dehydrated skin). While richer creams which contains more lipid are needed if the skin appear scaly and dry.

Christine: Moisturizers works to improve skin texture (example of rough to smooth skin) and to build and strengthen back the skin’s moisture barrier. As we age, also due to stress and UV rays, the moisture barrier breaks down. An intact moisture barrier is important as it keeps moisture in and irritants out. This products is good for someone who is concern with dryness.

3) What is difference between gel and lotion?

Eunice Phang: the difference is the texture. Gel is lighter, lotion such as the Milky Lotion that Biotherm has in the whitening and age fitness range has a fluid, milky texture for people who likes moisturizer that are not too creamy and sticky.

Christine: Moisturizers and hydrators can come in different textures – gel, lotion, cream (in order of thickness). Gels would absorb faster compare to cream.

4) What are some common problems when used wrongly either one?

Eunice Phang: if the moisturizer is too rich, it will lead to break out as the skin receive extra sebum that may not be needed. Meanwhile, if the moisturizer is not rich enough, there will be no efficiency on the skin. Hence skin consultation is very important to determine your skinâ€^TMs specific need and helping you pick the right moisturizer.

Christine: When wrongly used, common skin problems could include tiny or major breakouts, and skin feels uncomfortable.

5) How should one go about choosing the right hydrating gel or moisturizing cream/lotion /gel?

Eunice Phang: getting a professional consultation and skin test is the best way in determining the suitable moisturizer for maximum efficiency. Else, different skin type has different preferences: such as oily skin to use a non-greasy hydrating gel.

Christine: Go for a skin consultation to find out your skin condition to see which texture is more suitable. It would depend on your skin condition (oily / dry / combination), skin concern (dehydrated, dryness) and your texture preference.

6) If there is one product you think someone should absolutely have which is it …

Eunice Phang: there is no ONE product to pick but must be a complete 3 steps range. So to pick a range, I would choose one for hydration as it is the root to healthy skin. The Biotherm Aquasource range is highly recommended as everyone needs hydration to their skin, environmental factors such as dry weather and air conditioning, all these leads to loss of hydration and moisture. As well the Aquasource range comes in different texture suitable for different skin type: mattifying gel for oily skin, fresh gel moisturizer for normal/combi skin and a richer cream for dry skin.

Christine: The one product that everybody should have is Clinique Moisture Surge, a thirst quencher, which is ideal for all skin type. A skin lacking in water is precursor to other skin problems from lines, freckles and premature aging. This moisturizer can be applied on top of you regular moisturizer to enhance the moisture absorption, and for immediate pick up, it can be applied as a 5 minute mask.

Product Review: I have been for the past month trying both products  on my face as I have a combination skin, oily on the Tzone.I alternate between Biotherm’s Aquasource for day and night with copper minerals for hydration with mattifying effect and in between during the day I would just pat a small dollop of Clinique’s Moisture Surge over my make up of the day around noon time with clean fingers of course. I had my reservations about putting on the moisture surge in the beginning for fear of breakouts after all, aren’t we suppose to clean our face first before applying any skin care? But I just had to try it, because the claim is that it is an instant pick me up and the beauty consultants have all reassured me YES, I can put it over make up , so I did and I must say, so far so good. No break outs even as I usually touch up over it with SPF 25  compact powder for immediate sunblock effect.

I must say my skin feels and looks more plump. Skin is not so oily in the first  part of the day and fine lines previously known as laugh lines, near my mouth has been reduced looking plumper.  And skin is only slightly oilier in the afternoon and evenings compared to usual but applying the Moisture Surge is now a cooling experience exactly like a thirst quencher…so guess who is having the last laugh!!

Picture credit:www.sxc.hu