Meijo's Joy

Not as easy as it looks...Near failed... heart sausage sunny side up!

2013-05-17T14:15:00.002+08:00

How hard can it be to make a sunny side up egg

and a sausage for breakfast?

Well, I nearly failed it!

No, I'm not kidding you...it the picture Jojo me that kidding me...

It's "MISLEAD" me that it easy enough for kids to make it!

This is the one I'm talking about...

A sunny side up framed with heart shaped sausage.

source

It don't have any instruction...

So, I "assume" that it should be slice the sausage in half,

leave a bit uncut at one end...bead it around and 'pinned' with a toothpick...

placed into the pan and crack an egg into the hollow heart shape, right?

NO and Nope! The sausage got 'split' at the uncut 'end' and even I pinned

both ends with 'toothpick's it still not staying in the right shape and got 'tilted' too!

(I know, how can I describe a 'process' that easy into a DISASTER?)

And the helpful tips from the source...select the sausage that's more softer

so it would shape easily...Oh dear, I bought my sausages from frozen dept!!!

Anyway, with my lack of patience and experience (luckily Jojo and Mei Mei

were beside me, they so look forward for the result...if not...I could have

swallow those sausages raw!) I get a little help with a tools.

A round easy fried mold

Yup...that's save all the toothpicks and the tilted problem.

How you like that...make a heart shape from a round mold!

...and it's works! Easy Peasy!

(this one...I cut the sausage into quaters...4 long strips

so the egg is kind of 'overflowed' Mei Mei prefers less sausage!)

(This is not a sunny side up...Jojo prefers the yolk to be fully done!)

Well, as long it works and they finished their breakfast...

Have a nice day, dear!

Love

MeiJo's 10 Top Rated Bento : Feb ~ April 2013

2013-05-11T23:50:00.000+08:00

Our 'judges' have listed their favorite bentos for Feb~April.

Here they are in random order!

(p/s : Mom need to take note that these bento sets

should be prepared at least 2 times within a month!)

Layered mini pancakes with chocolate and peanuts butter.

Stir fried nuggets in sweet n sour sauce served with nori and rice.

Sushi rice balls in animal shapes.

(Mom take note : try to make smiling faces if possible!)

Fried rice in bear shape.

(Mom take note : Please improve the 'eyes' please!)

Super soft honey pancakes

(Mom take note : These are the best and softest pancake ever...

Please make sure you able to remake the same quality!)

Almost look and taste like store bought sushi

(Mom take note : Please remember how the chef at the Sushi bar make it...)

Cookies cutter bread pieces...

(Mom take note : Can we have other shapes like alphabets so

I can spell words and eat them at the same time?)

(Comment for Mom : My class teacher saw me having this bento at the canteen today,

she said you are a A+ mom, but she didn't sign any star on the bento box!)

Ring Doughnut stuffed with blackcurrant jam and chocolate sauce.

(Mom take note : These are too sweet mom, but I like it)

Tomatoes rice with crab filament, stir fried meat and egg.

(Comment for mom : My favorite, please double up the size next time - Jojo)

#10

(Comments for Mom : My friends and I have some tough time

discussing about this one...What animal is this, mom? A chick or a puppy?

Anyway, more chocolate chips please!)

That's how I score for Feb ~ April's bento.

Oh dear! What's next in May?

See you again and thanks for drop by.

Love and hugs

sharing these at

Have you tried fried cauliflower with cheese powder?

2013-05-11T23:11:00.000+08:00

I know this is not the first time I share about fried cauliflower...

but have you tried adding some cheese powder into the flour mixture?

It's super duper delicious good

(This is Mei Mei and Jojo comments)

They already have cauliflower with crab filament fried

on Monday, Wednesday and Friday's bento...

but still want me to repeat.

This is one of their favoritesbento set for school.

My friends asked me what's is the best bento?

Well, the best bento is those that came home clean and empty for me!

So...Now it's time to get back to the kitchen...

see you.

Love

Mother's Day Gift : A small gift with lots of thought...

2013-05-11T22:49:00.003+08:00

When comes to giving gift the person you care so much...

it's always very tough!

source

Why?

Because there's always so many ideas but not one that is good enough.

But do remember, it is not the gift but the thoughts that's count

As always...I started to hunt for the 'perfect' gift months earlier...

Well, I didn't managed to find any 'perfect' one yet...but I did found this lovely...

A bottle of nail polish of my mom favorite color.

A bit coral, clear and peachy...

(That's the way she always describe it!)

This is no THE Mother' Day gift...

but I know she would be glad to have it!

I was actually planed to pass to her today...

No wrapping... just in the same paper bag the store wrapped for me when I bought it...

Then, I saw Mich's post about "Faux Antique Perfume Bottles"

That's really tickles my fingers to do something with the little bottle.

Here is what I use...

Glue gun, some lace, some pearl string, a little ribbon flower I made earlier

(link here for the ribbon flower tutorial) and double side tape.

I started with wrapping the side of the bottle with the double side tape

Cut a small piece of lace just enough to wrap it around the side of the bottle

Glue the pearl string around the cap

At last, top my tiny little ribbon rose on it.

It's actually only took a few minutes, since I already have everything on hand.

But I believe... this little small 'touch up'...

able to convey my thoughts to her...

But always remember, don't wait until Mother's day to show your love,

shower her with your care and thoughts...every mom appreciate it...

even it is just a phone call or a cards...

Oh! Of course hot steamy cup cake would even better!

(Ha! That's just me... Hint : for Mei Mei and Jojo)

Loves to all the moms in the world!

Happy Mother's Day...

Actually I hate to say 'day'...why just a 'day'...
you deserve the whole world and more than just a 'day'.
Let's celebrate mother's love...every'day'.

Love Love Love
PC

What you do when the weather is hot and your car is like an oven?

2013-05-10T23:41:00.000+08:00

I'm not sure about you...

But I ...

I make the best of it...

In fact... I made YOGURT!!!

Tadaaa!!!

My very first homemade yogurt!!!

Not 100% 'home'made...( I'll explain below)

but...truly 100% made by me!

I just stumble upon few website that explained we can

actually make our own yogurt at home...

without using yogurt maker with just 2 simple ingredients.

OMG! Why no one post this in the blog parties?

Where am I?

(I know, you all probably already know and

might already made dozens of yogurts...years ago!)

So, should I made it...

It's easy, cheap, healthy and DELICIOUS!!!

Definitely MUST DO!

I'm not going to tell you the procedure...

I found some very helpful ones from below...

Check them out...

Livelonger

Foolproof Crockpot Greek Yogurt

Well, I followed all their procedure and tips.

I use the stove to heat the milk - Yes

I add some powdered milk - Yes

The ONLY different...

(Which explain why I said not 100% HOME-made?)

I didn't use an oven or cooler or warmer....

I left them in my CAR for the culturing process!

I actually prepared the mixture at 11.00am and

keep it in my car with a thick jacket covered...

Keep them there from 11.00a.m to 12 midnight...

(Yup, I didn't use the car that day..and it's still warm

when I opened the car's door to take out the yogurt)

Then, I put them in the fridge ...

and I have PERFECT thick and creamy yogurt for breakfast!

I didn't add sugar during cooking. So, I add some honey,

muesli and dried cranberries.

Hmm...Yummy!

So, hot weather is not totally bad at all? Right?

Love

6 refashion ideas to make your old jeans... more fun to wear!

2013-05-03T17:32:00.003+08:00

Hi, again!

Sorry for such a long silence....

Everything is super duper fine here...

I just got 'caught' up with some new 'routines'

As part of my this year new year resolution...

I'm now 'taking out' some of my blogging times...for my 'physical' and 'spiritual' wellness!!!

So far...It has been 2 months ... successfully control my diet,

Have 'proper' breakfast' before 9am in the morning

(previously, I prepared everything, and just took the 'left over' from the kids!!!, Yup!)

Have a 40 minutes session with Tracy Anderson

I love her exercise especially her - arm routines.

Try to have a short 30 minutes nap in the afternoon

At least a nice and quiet bubble every 2-3 days....

( to wash away all my stress!!!)

Take a short walk with my hubby after dinner...

(and let the kids clean the dishes for me!!!)

go to bed before 11pm every night

(I know... but I can't help to check my FB and blog before sleep!!)

So, how about you all who are sitting in front of the screen?

Did you do anything for 'YOURSELF' today?

Well, you should and you deserve it, dear!

Ok! Since, I'm already here...

I want to share with you my recent 'project's

Recently, I'm a bit 'crazy' about jeans....

but, instead of buying a new pair....I decided to do some 'update' with my old ones...

Here are some ideas I have in mind...

#1 ) Dangle Fringe

It's always fun to wear something that dangle...don't you agree?

#2) Lace and pearls

For the waist line...

Or...at the side?

Add caption

Hmm... or for a new pocket?

If you have more lace...

You can turn the front into a 'skirt' too!

Don't worry if you leaf over lace is too short...

it look perfect ...in half way too!

3) Seam up with some cute floral strips

4) If you are good with bleach...

using some bleach pen...I think I can achieve this one and

it definitely make my 'carrot' shape look slimmer!

I would prefer darker color for my waist line and but...

5) S equine... Perfect and Glamour

6) If you happened to have some nice embroidery from old pillow

or garment....they definitely a good choice too!

What do you think?

I'm working with #1 and some lace stuff...

I'll post once I get it done.

See you again.

Love
PC

In love with bear...for breakfast!

2013-02-25T22:21:00.003+08:00

I always fond of bear since I was a kid

I have dozens of toy bears,

from miniature to gigantic ones.

Bears make me 'beary' happy.

So, today I want to share with you a easy quick beary breakfast

my girls and I love.

A happy breakfast to start a new day.

Wish your days are full of joys and sweet things too!

Love

PC * MeiMei * Jojo

School's bento updates

2013-02-25T22:09:00.002+08:00

Hi! It have been almost 2 months since

the girls went back to school.

And about my 'school's bento' project?

Yup! It's still going strong!

Never miss a day yet! Yeah!

Mei Mei and Jojo got themselves a new bento box.

I know...I promise myself not to buy them any new lunch box since I already

have dozens in my shelves...but these two are too cute to miss.

I got these two for about RM5 (USD1.60)

both is double layers.

The first day back to school after Chinese New Year break.

Well, I'm too busy to cook up the bento,

so, I headed to the local wet market early in the morning

to grab some local Malay's morning snack for today bento.

And here is want I got...

Bread wrapped sausage and cheese

Roti Jala wrapped curry potato

Steam chocolate cake

Custard puff

Each for RM0.30 (USD 0.10)

Jojo always have bigger appetite than Mei Mei...

So, I make some sushi rice balls with some crab filaments and omelette.

So, here is today's bento

Thanks for drop by, my dear.

Love

Tying the knot on Valentine's Day

2013-02-14T21:10:00.003+08:00

After years of 'searching' and 'choosing'...

my dear only little sis is finally

making that 'important' choice of life...

to end her single life...

and start to share her future life adventure...

with her 5 years old boyfriend...who actually her ex-school mate during high school.

Over year of searching high and low

up and down...

who knows? Mr. Right is actually just beside her...

and he's there beside her since the very beginning!

I guess other than the new couple, my papa and mama are just as happy and 'relieved'

to know their daughter is finally in 'a good hand'.

In Malaysia, all couples who intend to get marry need to go to

a certified marriage registrar for Registration of Marriage.

After that, they will proceed to the wedding ceremony as per

their family tradition. For Chinese like us there will be

tea drinking ceremony and a big dinner to invite all the relatives and friends!

Now, here is the new couple...

A new beginning...on Valentine's day!

Like the sky, like winds, and like sweet flowing waters

may your love always continue to exist.

Dear sis, wish you a very happy married life.

Love

Easy blow paint art for Chinese New Year decor...

2013-02-05T22:35:00.001+08:00

I am so proud...

Really ...really proud....

By dripping, splashing, blowing

My girls make this today...

There is no special skill, technique or secret...

all are just combining dripping, splashing and blow paint

So fun, easy and fast.

You must try it to believe it!

Trust me...

You just need a big piece of white paper
poster color of black, pink and red.

Happy Chinese New Year

Love

PC Mei Mei Jojo

Kids craft - beaded bongsai tree

2013-01-24T22:29:00.000+08:00

The Chinese New Year is getting close...

(This year...CNY falls on 10th of Feb 2013)

I'm busy cleaning and clearing the house.

Jojo and Mei Mei are sort of free...

They are running and playing around the house when I WAS HOUSEKEEPING!!!

and this make me SICK!

So, when I found some packs of old beads...and strays of craft wire...

I remember a nice DIY I saw in the Pinterest...

via

(Check out the link for the detail step by step DIY.)

I think this is beautiful piece of arts.

So, I took a piece of rock and tie up the wire...and pass it to the girls...

This is what they accomplished after I finished cleaning the first and second floor...

(about an hour ....)

I don't want a tall tree...so I bend a bit at the bottom to make it 'bongsai' like.

Jojo and Mei Mei are so proud of their 'creation'

The best 'product' their did in 2013 so far...

They hold the tree in hands and waited their father at the car porch at the evening...

Can't wait to show off...

Thanks for drop by.

Love and cheers always!

Stay cool and blog on.

Mei Mei

Jojo

5 minutes + zero cost - 'Fix' a torn cushion cover!

2013-01-24T00:40:00.000+08:00

Well, no matter how sweet and innocent my two little girls look to you...

they could be 'devils' at some times.

No? You don't believe me?

Look what they done to my 5 years old sofa ...

I don't know how they did it...bite it? ...scratch it?

(and I have no other pet in the house...or out the house...)

I love the sofa cover very much, and since it was 5 years old since I last

bought it...it was hard to get the same fabric for redo.

I have been hunting high and low for a matching fabric but

nothing comes close to it's original color, pattern or fabric texture.

And the worse part is...even though I get the right fabric...

I'm not confident at all I been able to do such a fine job to

sew a new cover...the particular one that torn is a "L" shape cushion...

making a normal 'square' one already challedge my sewing skill, I'm afraid!

Before thinking of sewing a new one...

I have tried to sew the broken yarn together with some matching thread...

and I end up..sew the cushion and the cover together!!!

And the torn looks even worse!

After weeks for 'struggling'...

(My hubby keeps reminding to get it repair before the coming Chinese New Year!)

Today...A 'beautiful' and 'desperate' idea poped into my mind when

I was tidying my hubby's old T-shirts in the living room.

Yes, old T-shirt are always so handy!

I cut the old "XL" size t-shirt from side to side at the armhole.
(Sorry, I didn't snap the photo when I was cutting...I never thought it will work that well!)

keeps the body and slipped it into the torn cushion...

Yup, I did that!

and it fit just PERFECT!!!

Not convince???

See it for yourself!

I keep the hem edge fit and close to the torn area so it would easily flipped up when sitting on it.

And I cut another one with dark red color to cover the other cushion

just want to make it as the color strips is actually a 'pattern'.

Why weird 'orange' and 'red'?

It just match with the Chinese New Year favorite color!

Warning : This is just a temporary solution.

I still need to think of a more proper manner...

just want to 'cheat' some times...

What do you think?

Pass or Fail?

Idea to keep or discard?

In the mean time...

Shhh.... don't tell anyone ...especially my mother or my mom-in-law

what under the cover...Okay?

Gotta go...

Still lots of cleaning and housekeeping to rush

before Chinese New Year.

Have a nice week!

Love

There are 'bears' in my bento!!! Easy Bear Bento...

2013-01-22T22:40:00.002+08:00

Jojo is always fond of teddy bears...

and recently she really in love with a "rilakkuma"

source

She has been showing me all these cute bentos with bears since day 1 I start to prepare

bento for them...but...so sadly...I'm so not 'prepare' to make them!

Those bentos are for 'high level' bento's mama!!!

I can't even shaped a sushi rolls right!!!

But...today...I managed to make some 'bears' in lunch box for the girls!

I got the idea when I found that I forgot to buy bread last night...and

this morning I was leave with 2 pieces of bread...the top and the bottom slice.

Well, normally... the kids would have them...even though they are not burn or hard...

they would 'reserved' those for the birds...

But when I was about to put those pieces into the birds feeds plate...

I notice the pretty brownish color of the bread when look quite similar with the 'rilakkuma' things...

So, I was thinking..why waste?

With some sausage, cheese, chicken nuggests, chocolate chips, nori on hands.

I made these ...

The ears - slice the sausage and cut into half.

(pin it with a angel hair pasta - this is safer that a tooth pick!)

The eyes - chocolates chips

The face - Cheese - cut out with a container cap.

(I press the round cap into oval before pressing!)

The nose - hands cut nori

The bread - cut out with small container I bought the other day

Sandwich a piece of chicken nuggets in between...

add some mayos and tomatoes.

Done!!!

This is what they bring to school today.

Meijo's rating : Super 5 stars with bonus!!!

Mei Mei comments :

"I wish the bears have more 'eyes'...can you give me 'extra eyes' next time?"

(eyes = chocolate chips)

Hmmm...more eyes??? That must be a monster then?

So...monster in a lunch box next time?

See you again.

Love

Bento challenge week 2 Thursday & Friday

2013-01-22T22:04:00.002+08:00

Hi! It's easy to start on something...but it could be hard to 'continue'...

Making bento every school days...is not easy...

To all the moms who prepared lunch for your kids to school everyday...

I give you all....all the stars I see from the sky!!!

You all are THE GREATES!!!!

So here comes what I did for the last two days of last week...

For Thursday

Tuna in mayos on potato chips!

Yes, I actual 'pack' chips for the kids!!!

with some rice balls and panda biscuits.

Meijo's ratings - 4 stars

Comments :"More chips..more chips...but without toppings will be best!!!"

For Friday

A little initiative to cook today

I make some fried noodles and egg rolls.

And extra tomato sauce.

With a mini custard cake and mango puddings.

Meijo's rating : 5 stars

Comments : "Everything is just yummy and right! Make this again next time"

Yesssss.... a good comments to end the week.

Nothing can make me happier.

but I'm try not to repeat the same menu...

Hmmm....I guess I have another 'idea' coming for next week.

Hint?

....t..e...d...d...y......

Love

Cheap and useful bento's tools to make your lunch box "WOW"

2013-01-22T21:44:00.001+08:00

Thanks for coming by again...

After a week of 'struggling' with my kids' school bento (packed lunch)...

with no so 'consistent' performance...

This week, I started to get 'more prepared'.

I buy some 'tools' to make the bento look more fun and joyful to eat.

Bento 's tools #1

A pack of cookies cutter of various shapes.

Pack of 10 pieces for RM2.40 from local mini market.

Bento's tools # 2

Cute washi tapes and your kids favarite character's sticker

This is not about the food in the bento...

but washi tape is a fun n easy way to make your kids look forward

for they meal even before seeing the content!

Mei Mei love 'Hello Kitty'...but a genuine 'Hello Kitty' bento box

can be VERY COSTLY...and it may not come in the size we need.

Bento's tools # 3

Cute fruit pick (fork pick)

A pack of 12 pieces for RM2.40 from Mr. DIY

Bento's tools # 4

Small containers to keep small biscuit or candies.

and can fit into the lunchbox.

4 pieces in a set for RM2.50 also from Mr. DIY.

Bento's tools # 5

Small pudding mould

only RM 0.80 from local grocery stall

I choose green color to make the food in bento look more fresh and greeny.

Bento's tool #6

Bento box!

I didn't buy bento box for Mei Mei and Jojo.

Infact, I already have quite a lot of food containers in my shelves...

Where they came from?

I don't know about other guy...

But...whenever I ask my hubby to get me something from the grocery...

like tooth paste..soaps...cookies...cooking oil...etc..

He always purchased the ones that come with free gifts!!!

And most of them are food containers...of course..

there are also mugs...bowls...small towels...(one slap on my forehead!)

Sometimes, he even bought more than I ask for...because the free gifts come

in multi colors or versions...(another one slap on my forehead!)

See you again...

I'll be posting my 'this week bentos ratings' soon.

Cheers!!!

Love

Bento challenge week #2 : Wednesday

2013-01-17T13:56:00.000+08:00

Now, I think I'm getting mad about bento preparation...

Every night before sleep...I'll check the fridge to see

what I can prepare for bento the next day.

So, today ... I'm cooking some cauliflower with sausages!

boil some cauliflower for a minute

skewer with some cut sausage

not too long or big...just a big size

coat with some cheese batter ...

(cheese powder + flour + pepper + salt)

and fried.

So, this is what the kids having for today.

(apple slices, cherry tomatoes, cauliflower and sausage fried and steam custard bun)

and a small container with some mayos and tomatoes.

As you can see...I add some 'colour' into the bento recently...

the fruit pick..the greeny bowl...

I' ll shall with you about the supplies I use for the bento in next post.

Hurray! I 'passed' another 'bento day'.

Did you make any bento recently?

Come and drop you link at my comment bar...

I would really appreciate for more ideas!

See you again.

Love

Bento Challenge ...Week2 : Tuesday

2013-01-17T07:44:00.001+08:00

I wake up a little bit earlier this morning,

Today Mei Mei and Jojo have physical lesson...

Which means they will be more hungry than usual.

So, I prepare something more 'fulfeeling' for them.

This is what for today.

content : some nuggets, prawn rice balls wrap with nori,

jelly sandwich with ham and some cherry tomatoes.

The ham is cut into star shape with the help of the cookies cutter

rice balls wrap in nori...first attempt...a bit ugly...but yummy!

(I lay a spoonful of rice on slice of nori on a plastic sheet..

place the prawn on top and using the plastic sheet ...squezze and turn the rice into ball shape...

This is faster than the normal roll and cut sushi...with no tools!)

What about the rating by Meijo?

"Mom! All my friends with sit around me to watch me open my lunch box...

and they will say "Ahhhhhh!!!!!"

Well, I consider that as a compliment with 4 stars and above!

See you again tomorrow!

I have another new 'idea' in mind now!

Love

Bento challenge...week #2- Monday

2013-01-16T21:25:00.001+08:00

This bento's thing is really add some pressure into my daily routines.

I never know preparing bento will occupied so much time and most of all ... the 'brain work'.

I don't mean the preparing time (cooking time)...

What I mean is the time it take to figure out what to prepare for the next day!!!

Oh my!... This is hard.

I did try to look through the bento ideas from Google image bank...

but...they all... all...are so cute...especially those in bear shapes...

but NOT REALISTIC for me!

You must be kidding me...There are REAL moms that

REALLY prepare these type of bento for their kids!!!!!!

I think I need to attend a SPECIAL CLASS even about

making the bear 'EYES' 'EARS'......

Ok...let's come back to the REAL world.

Evey morning, I prepare breakfast for the kids...

and after breakfast I started to prepare lunch...

and now after prepare lunch...I need to prepare 'bento' for them to bring to school...

which is after lunch...

I don't want to spend my whole morning in the kitchen!!!

I need a fast and easy..yet healthy and 'acceptable' 'proper' bento!!!

So... this is what I did for today.

It's a simple and light one because today the school ends earlier

they will just a short tea break

content : A cup of yogurt, a pack of tomato stick and a peanut butter sandwich with 'surprise'!

So, what's the suprise?

I spread the bread with some peanut butter ...

Add in some 'secret' ingredient'

(Soft gummies)

Cut the gummies into small pieces...

I 'sealed' the side by pressing with a knife.

Use a cookies cutter to 'emboss' on the top.

Now, you have a super surprise peanut butter sandwich fit for a princess!

Have a nice and cool day!

Continue the chores as always...

but with a happy whistle song!

(Yes, just like Cinderalla...)

Love

Bento...Bento...Bento...for school!

2013-01-15T23:38:00.001+08:00

I'm a lazy mom...and a lousy cook...

and not very creative in dealing with food!

That's why...I hardly prepare 'bento' (lunch pack) for Jojo

when she starts to go to primary school.

But this year, since Mei Mei is joining Jojo to school...

and after judging the food sale in their school canteen...

I think, I would like to challenge myself to be a 'better' mom this year...

-by prepare some 'mother-love-bento' for the girls to bring to school...

so, they can have some fun when they are eating together during the breaks.

Day # 1...Bento # 1...close to failed!

The first day for school...even though I've try my best to make all the perfect...

there always something 'weird' happens.

Such as...

1. The rice cooker went down suddenly...

2. The lunch is late...

3. Mei Mei and Jojo mixed up their uniform...
4. Mei Mei misplaced her name tag...
(all first years were given name tag for easier identification)

So... my last minutes bento...

all the packet snacks I can find on hand...

A pack of tomato sticks, panda's biscuit and buns with sausage.

rated by MeiJo : 1 star ( forgot to put mayonnaise in the bun...too dry)

Day#2...Bento #2

A pack of cheese biscuit, jelly cups, bread with peanut butter, slice of cheese,

potatoes crackers and papaya.

Rate by Meijo : 2 stars ( too little, nothing leave after 1st break)

Day# 3 ...Bento #3

In order to get better score...

I used some deco tape to 'lighten' up the lunch box

Some 'snow ball' biscuits, puddings, sausage in 'heart' shape,

1 peanut butter and chocolate sandwich and 1 ham sandwich.

(use a Mickey cookies cutter to make a cut out on the bread)

Rate by Meijo : rate 3 stars (due to the pretty lunch box!)

Day#4 ... Bento #4

Fried tomato rice with some nori, peanut butter and jelly sandwich,

cup of sweet corn and chopped apples (not in the picture).

and I actually 'cook' for this bento!!!

Rate by Meijo : 5 stars with bonus!!!

(comment... extra tomato sauce please next time!)

Yeah! Finally....

Day #5 - Last bento of the school's first week!

... share with you next week!

Now...how do you pack sauce for bento?

How you ensure the fruits wouldn't be watery when keep in bento?

How you make sure the bento would overturn and the food inside wouldn't mess up?

Still lot to learn, please bear with me...

I believe I will still stuck with this 'bento' topics on my next post...

Bye-bye and smile always.

Keep those temper down.

Love

joining at the parties below

First day at school...

2013-01-10T22:51:00.000+08:00

Oh, dear. I've been missing for quite sometimes. Please forgive me...but if you happened to be a mom...especially and SAHM...you will definitely understand. School holidays ...Christmas holidays...New Year holidays....are meant for kids...teenagers...singles...dads...but definitely not for moms...those are the busiest moments of the whole years. Because at those days...the cooking...washing...cleaning...are EVEN MORE and NEVER ENDS!!!

So, wish you all a great new year....2013!!! Which ends all the 'end of the world' stories!!!.. Hmm, wonder what 'date' will they come up next?

So, what 'BIG' happening at my corner of the world? Well, it definitely is "BACK TO SCHOOL"!

This year, Mei Mei turns 7 years old and she is joining Jojo

to attend primary school. Jojo is in Primary Yr 3 this year.

Jojo is rather excited for her first day back to school. Why? At her school all the Yr 1 ~ Yr 3

are in the afternoon session ( school starts at 1pm and ends at 6.25pm)

While all Yr 4 ~Yr 6 are in the morning session (school start at 7.30am and ends at 1pm)

So....that means...she is among the SENIORs in school this year.

For the first 3 days in school...the parents are allow to come into the school compound to 'accompany' their children during the whole school time. In Malaysia... the culture is...

the parents will stand and peep into the classroom where they kids are and check on them every now and then...to see if the kids are "comfortable" ...

WEIRD? It do look weird! Do you have this thing happening at your place?

Well...there are some minorities of kids who still holding on their parents hands and

would allow them to leave the class... yes, it happens...every year...this scene repeat...Luckily,

Mei Mei is not in that group.

This year... there are also 10 classes open for the Yr 1 students. There about 33~ 35 students per class. I'm not sure if this is consider 'BIG' or 'small'... anyway ...the are about 4 Chinese primary around the neighborhood...and this school is considered as the one with the largest numbers of students. Mei Mei is lucky to be able to meet a few of her kinder garden classmates in the same class, so she don't really feel lonely. Actually, she begin running and hooping around in class after the first 5 minutes.

Since Mei Mei is alright with the class and school. I don't want to join the 'stand and spy into the classroom' group...So, I take a walk around the school and check out the canteen....

Well, unlike the one you see in Japan or U.S., most the school canteens here are not indoor...it's more like a big hall without wall or door. Equip with only fans, washing basins, long table and long benches. But I'm not worry... the break time is quite short. There are 2 break times, the first break is 15 minutes and the second is 10 minutes. So, when the break time bell rang, the kids 'flew' into the canteen...'grab' the food... within 3 minutes...all gone into other activities...(playing and chatting with friends at the field or under the tree...or other rest area.)

Here is Malaysia. The school don't prepare food for the kids. There are counters in the canteen which rented out to outsider to sale food there. The students can choose to buy the food there or bring their own 'bento'.

Let's check out the food...

There are small quantities and varieties of fruits...(mostly guava, papaya, pineapple)

sale in small packets for RM 0.40 to RM0.80.

Some steam Dim Sum...pricing from RM0.50 to RM2.00.

Fruit juice and Chocolate milk (Milo ice) price from RM0.50 ~ RM1.00

Some fried snacks...drumettes, fish ball, wan tan RM 0.30 ~ RM1.20

All sort of noodles and rice

some snacks too...

All the food and price is not too bad... but I observed there is not much 'order' during the food ordering and paying. There are not queue bars and none of the students do that. They come like a 'storm'. And it's quite a havoc during the break time.

I 'supervise' Mei Mei around the canteen for the first 3 days. This is the first time she 'spend'. I only give her coins as I see some of the seller in the counter forget to give change to the students when they pay with notes. I advise Mei Mei try to give exact amount during paying. With a little purse full of coins... I can see this young lady is really excited to spend!

So, what's the first day at school like at your place?

If you write about it, do drop your link at the comment bar...

I will definitely want to know!

Well... I sign off here...as this post seem too long...

come back again...

Join my journey in preparing 'bento' (lunch pack) for the girls.

Love

Sharing this special day with

Prayers for you...

2012-12-18T08:05:00.001+08:00

It's seem like a decades ago

I last bought a newspaper and read it.

Why?

Because I hate bad news

The front page, the next and the next...

Always with shocking news...

shocking and bad news...

An accident...

A tragedy...

A war...

No matter how hard we pray

Tragedy will still happened...

It get worst and keeps repeat...

This time...it happened in Connecticut

I don't like to write a sad post like this

I hate sad topic...but

I just want to let all those affect by this tragedy...

Even though, I'm so far away...

The news still break my heart...

Others always said...

Mothers always get over react and over worry about small things...

This is because Mothers know...

The world is full of possibilities...

bad and unlucky possibilites...

When will Mother stops worry?

When the day...

The front page of the newspaper...

is sharing something good!

Prayers for Connecticut...

Prayers for all Mothers...

Prayers for our children who walk out the door step...

into the world full of possibilities.

We pray...that you will come back home everytime, eveyday...

with a smiling face

and most important...safely.

That's all matters.

Nothing more...

Nothing less.

Love

Pray

Easy 'A' to'C'...just learn how to wear your bra!!!

2012-12-16T11:12:00.002+08:00

This is not my usual 'craft' topic...
but a quick tip to shape up...
too good not to share this tip!

Actually, I never really bother about my 'cup size'
(it's too 'tiny' to be noticed...even myself! If you want to know...

I'll classified myself as ...super 'A' group!!!)

When I was young... this size seems 'convenient' and 'suitable' for

my skinny body... or may I say...at least 'they' look 'balance'!

But...when aged and my body starts to grow....er...'wider'...'chubby'?

I think I need to 'upgrade' them just a little bit!

But...the problem is...

#1 I hate and doubt about medication...

#2 I'm too busy... and lazy for exercise...unless you can recommend me something

quick and effortless

(Yes... it's only I have a fairy god mother by my side!)

#3 Diet?... 'They' are the first part to get 'smaller'

#4 Super push up bra...Yes, I have some of those...

I look good....or...acceptable on the first 'wear'

(about close to 'B'...better if I 'tuck' in my tummy!!!

and hold my breath... but my eyes... keep 'popping' out...

like the 'squirrel' in the anime in Ice Age movies

but after few washes....

Ok! Ok! I get it....

Stop blah...blah...blah....

(You click on this post because you need to have

your 'cup' upgrade ASAP as you have a dinner wear hanging on your closet

and you really need your 'cup' to 'stand out' tonight!!!

Now... The solution!

Just learn the right way to wear your current bra!

Check out the tutorial in the video below...

( Yes... it's slow to download...but I guarantee you...It REALLY worth watching!!!

Don't worry...this is not an ad...it would link you to some 'endless' product review or whatever!!!

(the tutorial is in foreign language...but you will able to figure it out with the actions seen)

#1 A bra with under wire
with push up pad

# 2Bend down and tuck in all your 'properties' before hooked the bra.

# 3Don't forget to push in the 'side flabs' into the cups

# 4 Adjust the bra strap to secure and lift up the 'properties'.

#5 Watch the hand movement in shaping the both sides. What a magic touch!

Before and After

Well...it really works for me!
Super easy and low effort!

Hope this tip helps you too!

Love

PC

A Super Cute Anime you and your girls should not miss!

2012-12-15T23:37:00.002+08:00

Sorry for such a long silence.... but I've been...pretty...~~busy~~...lazy!

Forgive my absent...but I've a very good reason...

The girls and I got 'hooked' by something else other than craft projects...

It all started some days ago when I accidental found a anime series in Youtube

yumeiro patissiere

Hard to believe... huh? I don't believe it either,

I have always able to avoid myself from watching long series...

I hate the idea of wasting all the time in front of the TV.

I prefer my girls to 'work' with their hands and mind,

or 'run, be silly and sweats or mess'...rather that stuck on the sofa!

But ... this anime... it really really worth it!

I absolutely "APPROVED" and strongly suggested to all ...

Why?

#1 It has quite a motivation plot which told a story about a young girl

with great passion with dessert and her journey to achieve a great patissiere

with one objective...to bake a dessert that may pleased everyone heart!

#2 A very friendly and easy to understand plot. Very suitable to young children.

(And for mom too...especially those to love to make and bake!)

#3 Very detail about the dessert and how to make, what ingredient use...

can really make you want to rush into the kitchen and try new way

of making dessert and cakes!

# 4Teach the value of friendship and and love. (There is a little bit

of romance but no kissing scene...100% safe!)

#5 And all the character all so cute and funny too!

#6 Since the version we watch is in japanese (with english subtitle)... so. Jojo and Mei Mei

is starting to catch up the language as well! Bonus!

Please give us another week...We promise to return with more fun, easy and cheap projects!

Love Love Love

Sayonara for now!

PC * Jojo * Mei Mei

Something that touch my heart today...and make me think...

2012-11-27T20:36:00.001+08:00

When I was housekeeping this morning...
a piece of this dropped out from my old diary...

...

Children Chapter IV by Khalil Gibran

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you, yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts.

For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.
You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as he loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.

or may I say it in my own thought...

My children are not me...

They may look like me or act like me sometimes...

(when they act like big mama at home!)

They may be with me now

Save and sound ...

in their pink play room.

Smiles ang gigles...

But sooner or later...they will leave ...

and fly to their own nest.

I may shower them with love

wrap them with kisses

but I should never expect they would return the same

I may share them my opinion, my thought...

a little reminder or a warning stare...
but

if they never take them seriously...
I still need to be patience...

Too caring can be hardzardous...

especially for sensitive mom like me...

I don't mind if they will be too busy to visit me then...

I wouldn't remind them how much I miss them...

but I believe I will be looking out the window on every 'special' day

(new year, birthday, school holiday, mother's day...)

hoping to see... they show up sometimes

with a grin that tell me...

they are happy with they life

and they have someone who love and treasure them

just like the way I did.

Love
PC - Mama

Extend the 'life' of an outgrown dress....or

2012-11-01T21:33:00.000+08:00

Do your kids have the 'over attached' to their favorite dress problem?
Yes, mine do!

Part 1 : Background

I bought Jojo and Mei Mei a few polyester "Princess Dresses"

years back when I visited Bangkok, Thailand.

Those dresses had been their favorites ever since.

One of the reason is the polyester material is definitely comfortable

to wear in the hot and humid weather we have here.

(and of course...princess print!!! Who don't wish to be a princess everyday?)

Since then, I can see them wearing it nearly every alternate day

or as soon as I washed and stored into their wardrobe.

Sometimes, I have to remind them to try other outfits as I don't

wish the 'outsiders' to misunderstood that I (the mom) didn't prepare the kidsothers new outfits.

Or...just to prevent the questions like...

"Oh dear!...Did your mom have any other dress for you, little girl?"

"Didn't you just wore that the last time you visited here?"

"Is that the only dress your mom bought you, poor thing!"

Well, do you have this problem of

"Your kids are over attach to their favorite dress"

and you really need a way to 'solve' this crazy "obsession"?

Part 2 : The Rule

Now, as those dress become 'smaller' and 'shorter'...
from a dress to a 'blouse'...and still the 'strong relationship' goes on....Urghhhhhhh!!!
(I have to asked the girls not to wear them when outings...only as housedress...or house blouse!)

Part 3 : Review the situation

One thing about polyester garments...they don't really get faded...hairy...torn...easily...
other than 'shrunk' over the years...they still look quite new.

Part 4 : The Opportunity

So, as the girls started outgrown them...Now, it's my chance to 'separate' them...
Of course... this is not easy...

Part 5 : THE SOLUTION!!!

Keep their favorite dress close to them...
and just as useful as before...

This is what I did...

I turn those dresses into these 'huggies pillow'.

Part 5 : The method
1. Turn the dress inside out.

2. Lay the dress flat at the side seam.

3. Trim away the sleeve and the neckline.
I make the top a bit round at the corner so it would comfortable to hug.
(but..some kids love the corners...if you know what I mean...)

4. I use the sewing machine to 'seal' the top opening
and the bottom opening as well... just leave about one inch to insert the cotton batting.

5. The the dress right side out and insert the cotton batting.

6. Seal the opening. Done!

Part 6 : The Happy Ending

Now, they bring this 'huggies' into the car when outings...
up to bed when sleeping...into the garden during tea breaks....
Yes, the 'strong relationship' goes on...
and even more love and care. Like a new companion!
But I don't mind...
as long as they started to 'accept' other new dresses for a change.

Problem solved!

So, that's what I did today!
What do you think?

Have a nice weekend!

Love
PC