Musings of Mom2Four

Food Show And Chinese Cuisine

2012-01-23T01:06:00.000-08:00

The other day, my children and I watched some wonderful authentic cooking which was telecasted on one of our favourite food channel.Watching the program took me to several places and to a totally different culture.A culture which reveres in upholding customs and traditions. More so it let me virtually wander across to the land which prides on the great wall and much more.Furthermore just discussing views and opinions about their food can get your taste buds tantalized.
Chinese cooking sketches back since times gone by and now have become more and more popular in other parts of the world.The Chinese pride themselves on eating an extensive range of foods. Chinese dishes are often prepared in bite-sized pieces, to make it easy for picking and shoving into the mouth.They also love to use chopsticks at the table. Traditional Chinese cuisine is also based on opposites balancing hot with cold, pickled with fresh and spicy with mild. They also take pleasure in eating exotic stuff. Many would go out of the way to taste some extraordinary speclalities like snakes,insects and bugs. Well!Well! Count me out please! I‘vd rather have the pleasure of watching them creeping and crawling in and out of a mud –splattered backyard than savor them 'barbecued' and in my platter all oozing with sauces and dressings.

Food shows are a motivation for foodies like me.They help us cultivate different skills and techniques in the kitchen and in our cooking styles. Learning to cook food other than our staple foods is itself a great achievement .Years ago ,as a young girl, I used to watch a cooking show called Yan Can cook,a program hosted by a young Chinese foodie/chef who did a lot of humorous acts while demonstrating his gastronomic know-hows.I loved watching him cook delicious meals (the usual kind of food –not the exotic type). This show was very popular in most homes because of his exclusivity: cooking and performing comic acts.At the end of the show he would sign off with his ever famous line 'If Yan can cook, so can you.’.That one liner, I believe, was in some way the motivation behind my interest in cookery.However only after I got married I put my skills into practice.Initially, I had tried a few of the simple dishes this master chef had presented on the show, but regretfully the dishes never really reached up to mark or came anywhere close to them.All the same I never gave up.Learning through trial and error, I somehow managed to pass the experimental tests ( the judges through out have been my children and hubby).I am regretful that I never mastered Chinese cooking but in spite of everything, I am still grateful for that ‘cooking show', which paved the way significantly in arousing my interest in cooking.And from being an edgy cook with a great deal of kitchen disasters,I can now pompously say I have gained some confidence and occasionally serve delectable food to my guests at home.

Ahh!! I see the glimmer in my children’s eyes, an optical expression I often witness when I make an assurance.Yes! I did promise them to spend more time reviving Chinese delights from the food channel.

Chinese Food In Saudi Arabia

Prawns coated in batter and fried

Fried Noodles

Chicken Corn Soup

There Is No Green In My Tea

2012-01-10T02:24:00.000-08:00

While the rest of the world got engaged in some sort of entertainment heralding the new year,it was celebrated very quietly in this part of the world.There wasn’t any major jubilation like lighting fire crackers and merry making in public places.Possibly people over here enjoyed the new year in the comfort of their homes.As I looked forward to ushering in the new year,I also visualized a year full of goodness.I so want this year to be according to what I am hoping for.I look forward to at least some or a few of those materialized.As with each year,I fervently look ahead to shed a few pounds off my system. At my age I am not interested in reducing weight for appearances sake,my weight loss goal is more of an insurance,an investmest for good health.Perhaps to grow old without major illnesses related to being over-weight.However putting them to practice is a hard task.Any magazines,newspapers or just scraps and clippings on how to lose those extra pounds,is read with great interest and appreciation.I even watched a few previous episodes of 'The Biggest Loser".

A few times earlier I had stumbled upon many articles which have revealed sweet success on weight loss.But the one to catch my attention was my favourite digest, which carried a small feature on how drinking green tea can reduce weight and also how essential it is for health benefits.This immediately aroused my curiosity.Heavily relying on that short snippet,I opened a packet of green tea which I already had at home .As a matter of fact, I got so restless and infuriated that I was ready to give up even before starting this ‘green tea ‘weight loss’ program.I was thoroughly exasperated waiting for the tea to brew and bring out the strong flavor in it.I thought it was taking a considerable time.There wasn't any colour in that instant to indicate the tea was well brewed.Little did I know that ‘green tea’ is a kind of specialty and even with all it’s favourable qualities,it would n’t turn my cup of tea green. By the time I realized this,my tea had gone cold…

New Year Greetings

2012-01-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year..May this new year bring you peace, joy and happiness .And may glad tidings come your way...

Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties.
Helen Keller

Beauty Pagaent Of A Different Kind

2011-12-20T21:35:00.000-08:00

The other day an extraordinary article in the local newspaper caught my attention and it appeared truly incredible.Perhaps I was intrigued by the title that I read it immediately. According to the paper, a beauty contest has been scheduled to be hosted here in Saudi Arabia. 'What!' 'A beauty contest ! Here in Saudi Arabia!' That was my first reaction when reading that particular subject.But reading further I came to understand that this pageant is of a different kind.

Those participating, are from all corners of the Arabian peninsula.These contestants from all over the GCC countries will be vying for the prized crown or could it be a head dress or a headband? Maybe who knows? All these would-be contestants are obviously natural beauties..Nevertheless I am still pondering how they might be judged.Will they be judged simply for their beauty or for their overall intelligence or how they would carry themselves on the ramp ??The lucky winner will not only wear the crown but will be showered with bundles of notes.If given an opportunity to attend this one-of-a-kind event,which definitely will be celebrated with much pomp and pageantry,I will without any hesitation join the fun. I am on the edge of my seat in anticipation to witness this exceptional beauty pagent purely for the reason that they are four-legged. I have heard of cats and dogs being crowned but camels?? Oh yes ! you heard me correct!

On further researching about this interesting event,I came to know that the event is on going and will continue for the next couple of weeks.More than 13,000 camels from Saudi Arabia,the UAE and other Gulf Arab countries have been flocked inside a huge enclosed area,for the region’s largest camel beauty contest.This spectacular event is being held in the North of Saudi Arabia.A panel comprising camel connoisseurs will chose three winners at the final day of the event..

As enthusiastic as I am about this whole event , I am a little disappointed I am not even a bystander at this Kingdom's first ever beauty pageant for the ships of the desert.In any case I am depending on my reliable source ,the internet for future updates.Before signing off,here’s me cheering… the impending winners, Hip Hip Hurrah!!

Picture source-internet

An Inspirational Quote

2011-12-13T01:05:00.000-08:00

“Trees are poems the earth writes upon the sky.We fell them down and turn them into paper that we may record our emptiness.”
-Khalil Gibran-

Drowned In A Sea Of Books

2011-12-03T13:38:00.000-08:00

The book cupboard needed some dusting, cleaning and some methodical arranging. So I decided to concentrate on the effort do it right away.It so happens that every time the cupboard gets a revamp,the first few days the books would look perfectly composed and collected,making it so appealing to the eye. Then again when I take a peek after awhile I find them as if they had just returned from the war zone: worn out and tortured with a few or a couple of pages missing and out of context. While in this state, they go unnoticed and unattended for days.They remain in this unorganized and disorderly manner until this kind soul does something to restore the sparkle in them. Nevertheless the books are not at fault, it’s the folks at home, including self, who hold responsible to some extent.

Read, read and read, that’s what we have been encouraging the children right through. Although they love reading, they do not show a deep sense of responsibility when it comes to taking care of them.Lately I have noticed the children scrounge books from the cupboard and when they are done reading,the books are haphazardly left all over the place.It becomes tedious and takes much of the time hunting for them. I don't forget to look for them under the bed, in between blankets or for that matter every nook and corner of the house.It is beyond belief when I find a couple of them bruised and buried under the sofa seats and covers.

The book,my ten year old borrowed from the school library recently,is missing. It would n’t be possible to find it straight away as it has been misplaced at home.Probably this thin volume is secreted somewhere among the clutter in the boys room: drowned in a sea of books or obscured by the empty cartons my son refuses to part with.Another assumption, I deem fit to reflect on, according to earlier experiences could perhaps be the lost book found its' way into the laundry basket and had been forced to go all the way to the laundry room.Well masked by the dirty clothes, it could have easily passed through this ‘security mama’s’ eye balls without a hitch whatsoever.Thanks to the missing book, I have got some additional work; rechecking the grimy clothes before hauling them into the washer.

Nonetheless,the Librarian ran out of patience sooner than expected and my son had to compensate with another old classic. It wouldn’t be surprising when out of the blues,I find the book shrouded inside one of the empty cereal boxes.

I remind the children an umpteenth time, once they finish reading, the books should go back to where it belonged. Besides, my advice to them constantly is that books should be handled with care and treated with respect, as if they were like warm and cozy friends.It came like a bolt of lightening when my youngster said. ‘Like Friends? No wonder! Mom leaves books on kitchen counters, drawers and on top of the microwave.’ ‘To make them feel warm and cozy?’ Ahem, ahem.. I was thunderstruck!

Oh yes indeed! These recipe books, scraps and clippings from magazines and newspapers come to my aid in case of an emergency. For most of the time I rely on them to rescue me when ever the children throw a new culinary challenge at me.I couldn’t argue any further. They have all observed me huffing and puffing in and out of the kitchen, perhaps with a spatula,a ladle or even the rolling pin in hand, reaching out desperately for the books in the kitchen drawers and later, absent-mindedly, leaving them on top of the refrigerator, counter tops and anything that can hold a book.‘What! Inside the onion box! Who’s kidding!’

While still taken aback by my son’s witty remarks, I remembered a luscious quote from a great philosopher,“Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few others to be chewed and digested.”

Power Of Punctuation

2011-11-23T01:58:00.000-08:00

Punctuation marks are ciphers that point out the structure and the meaning of written language.In written English,punctuation is very important so as to make it more comprehensible the meaning of a sentence. In order words, punctuation helps the reader to understand the written text easily.Words and stories have to to be arranged in proper order for the reader to sufficiently grasp the story.Without properly punctuating a story, the reader would n’t understand what you are trying to convey. I have created a picture blog depicting the popular text ‘woman without her man is nothing’ See how punctuation can also totally change the meaning of a text.

Of Tell-a-Tale And Fairy-Tales

2011-11-12T14:33:00.000-08:00

Eid has come and gone. And with it the whole ambiance changed as well. I wholeheartedly welcome this change but wondering how I am going to cope the colder days ahead. Already the festivity mood has vanished into thin air despite the fact that the holidays are still on. My children will get back to school this Saturday. Till then, its hubbub everyday with all four, staggering for the television or the computer. And what more with the arrival of the latest thingy by name of play station 3, the children cannot differentiate day and night and if they had eaten their meals or not. How ever I have come to a decision that once school reopens, this newest gizmo will be veiled for awhile in a probable attempt to divert the children’s attention more toward school activities.

With the four at home, noise and clamor is an everyday thing. They have found ways and means to bring the house upside down. It‘s like we are celebrating Halloween here. Recently they scared the guts out of me with an eerie music they played on and off via their latest gizmo. And mind you, top of all this, there’s the high-pitched blaring that takes place in between regular intervals. Mine vs theirs. The only favourable outcome I have achieved so far from this screeching is my vocals cords have all toned up, though sadly not too good to put into use in a singing competition. Nonetheless this hullabaloo generated by my children on a daily basis has not changed my attitude towards them at all. My heart grows fonder day after day and my love for them deeper.

The children having a break from school has a positive side too. There is plenty of quality time that's being spent with each other and this - bonding, brings us much closer. As much as they create a mayhem, children also bring into our lives lots of fun, laughter and happiness.

The other day, extremely astounded, my seven year old came to me and said ‘Mom! I think she’s going to marry a frog.'

My first reaction was a surprised, 'What! Who?' Although quite amused at this, I kept asking him how sure was he with his announcement. Then he went on ‘I am sure Mom. I heard her telling someone on the phone. Go, ask her.'
'Yes! Yes! Go ask her,' prompted my ten-year-old in an encouraging manner. Even though I found this outlandish, I thought it would be better if I got an explanation from my daughter so as to clear any doubts and alleviate all forms of suspicions from the perplexed two.

I was laughing my wits off when I heard my daughter very coolly say 'Oh that! My friend and I were talking about Walt Disneys’ The Princess and the Frog.'
'Marry a frog? What was he thinking! It happens only in Fairy Tales!'

Oh ! Dear Me! Why wasn’t I thinking?

(image source courtesy internet)

Remember This Too Shall Pass

2011-11-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

Reflecting on the views of Richard Carlson, the writer who penned simple solutions on how to keep daily responsibilities and household chaos from taking over your life in one of the many ’Don’t sweat the small stuff ‘, books , made me realize and acknowledge how motivational his ideas were and how inspiring he was as a writer,author,speaker and a family man.He has shared with his readers his perception of how to handle household chaos in a very easy and comprehensive manner. No doubt the book is full of immeasurable facts and encouragement on every reasonable topic from how to manage stress to coping difficulties and managing the house without sweating the small stuff. He has high lighted the importance of family values in every point of view. And each chapter has been written under different topics relating to our home, environment and those near and dear.

He is one of my favourite writers of the modern times. A motivational speaker who rose to fame with his ‘Dont Sweat The Small stuff series .It was quite by chance during a visit to the bookstore that I happened to stumble upon this book.And by the time I finished reading I had become an ardent fan.With his straightforward opinions on how to tackle life’s obstacles,challenges, other negative emotions and also the many little things that infuriate us at the slightest provocation,he has encouraged us to think optimistically. He has elaborated that these are barricades that could be maneuvered tactfully in our quest for peace, happiness and love .

Although I have read this book an umpteenth time., I keep turning to it for moral support whenever I need to defy my unbalanced state of mind, presumably when I am at my weakest every month.

Adapting some of his opinions that he set forth in his writing and putting them to practice has enabled me to accomplish my daily household chores in a stable mind-set which otherwise was impossible.Especially during weekdays- In the mornings ( this is the time the commotion begins) when everyone is in a hurry to go about their business: to school, workplace leaving behind the thoroughly exhausted self to clean-up the aftermath of the big mad rush.

Here is a quote from the book that changed the whole outlook dealing with the hustle and the bustle, ‘The best and the most effective way to maintain a grateful spirit and keep yourself from being overwhelmed is to remember that all things –even the hard things –will pass.’

Am I glad! I now get about my daily household tasks with an upbeat approach..

Time And Tide Wait For None

2011-10-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have the tendency to put off things that should be dealt with right away. By postponing the task for another day, I found that things have got amassed and the task, mind-numbing .Like for instance clearing my emails that have gone beyond a thousand. That does n't mean I have a thousand friends sending me mails everyday. My two boys recently became members of an online game site and pleaded with me to sign in for their newsletter and from that day onwards,my inbox has been piling with mails, mails that keep coming from Aliens,Robots and Farm animals. Then there are the spammers who send dubious mails trying all sorts of tactics to convince me into believing something about winning a lottery or that I have been bequeathed with a fortune from a relative whom I have never heard of.Do I fall for those !No way..Somehow or the other, spam mails have found their way into my inbox,turning my mail box into a junk box. A boxful of doubt and uncertainty. Hence it’s obvious, I find it difficult to put together the good and dispose the bad mails. Now just imagine how cluttered my inbox is with all those mails hoarded.

Nevertheless, without any further consideration, I planned to do something, at least check the mails sent by real people.Unwaveringly,I acted fast. Avoiding another wasteful moment, I hurriedly ran through my mails.What a surprise! Most of the mails looked like they had come from outer space .I too seemed to be caught floating into space. However after a while, a few stars caught my attention. The ones I suppose came from this planet. This one I am sharing with you is exemplary.It swiftly brought me back to earth.

It reads something like this..".Now I know why I am gaining weight.It’s because of the shampoo I am using when showering .The label on the bottle says ‘for extra volume and body’. Therefore I have decided to use washing liquid ,for the label in that bottle is encouraging.It says ‘dissolves fat that is otherwise difficult to remove’.

Now do you think I did what I had to do ..No! Perhaps another time..For I am still in the process of unraveling the treasures sent by real people and yet again have postponed clearing my mail box.

A Taste Of My Creation

2011-10-09T02:43:00.000-07:00

It’s not in any way an ipod or an ipad or an iphone ,It’s just that ipickled...

The world is still in mourning over the death of the Apple genius Steve jobs and at the same time it is heartfelt to read so many eulogies from all over the world accredited to this mastermind of the apple products,

However here at home, I was beyond awe and felt like celebrating when I saw an acclamation fastened by my younger daughter on one of the bottled jars, which according to her was in appreciation for the pickles that I had created .

See what I mean.. nothing to do with apples right?

Made with a pinch of this and a dash of that

Pamper The Taste Buds

2011-10-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

How we eat is just as crucial as what we eat. That is what I learnt a few days ago while reading an attention-grabbing feature in the Readers Digest. It got me deeply absorbed in the interesting explanation on how we all have a propensity to be imprecise on the aspect of eating. This is typically experienced during the festive season when we find ourselves in the midst of a throng of people. At a gathering we could finish a whole plate of food while our concentration is focused entirely on the conversation and not on our meal. And then we stare at our empty plate in doubt wondering if we had really eaten it. Given that our attention was more towards the conversation, we were not aware what was shoved into our mouth. As a result we will be consuming more calories. On the other hand, if we eat with awareness we are more likely to enjoy the food with a minimum amount of calories.

Moreover I was amazed ,reading further into the article, which elaborated how to draw out maximum pleasure from the food we eat. Take this for instance, when eating a piece of chocolate, pay attention to the flavors and the texture and take note how they transform as the chocolate melts in the mouth. Even after the chocolate has been ingested our taste buds just mull over the sweet essence that take place in the next few minutes.

On the whole, this particular magazine feature taught me to be mindful of what I eat and pay close attention to my meal by using all of my senses , whilst observing the combination of the beautiful colors, the different textures and the extensive assortment that assemble in my plate. And prior to pushing a morsel hurriedly down my throat ,I am encouraged to take a few seconds to inhale intensely the aromas released from the food, appreciate and enjoy the moment. With that perception sharply penetrated in my mind, I succumb to my plate of delicacies.

A Good Read

2011-09-20T14:58:00.000-07:00

I love books.They keep me entertained when I am bored.There's nothing like a good book which makes me feel quite relaxed and thoroughly contended. Recently I added a few more to my library.This book which I am raving about in particular, kept me spellbound throughout my reading session.It is based on a true story with full of suspense and drama.This is a story of one woman's struggle to gain freedom from the clutches of the one person whom she thought the world of.And how she endures the pain and torture in a country far,far, away from her home. Even though I enjoyed the authors vivid narration, I still wished she hadn't dragged religion into it or insulted the culture..I am sure it would have been a totally different picture had she learned to adapt to her new life style with love,admiration and respect.

Inspirational Blog Award

2011-09-12T04:33:00.000-07:00

I sincerely appreciate my blogging pal Moon for her kind gesture passing onto me this award .I got to know her through her amazing blog 'Themoonsmile2' which is bounded with ambiance and warmth.The stories about her family which she narrates in her blogging are very interesting and impressive.I am touched by her kindness .Thank you my Friend!

And with the award ,I have to answer the few questions tagged.

What makes you laugh,smile or giggle?

My childrens' anecdotes.

What are the dreams for the future?

To see my children guided in the right direction.

If you are to go on a cruise where would it be and why?

I'll probably decline the offer to go cruising.I am afraid of the ocean....

How would you spend your vacation time and with whom?

Spending quality and quantity time with my family.

If given a choice what life would you choose? Your life now or the past?

My life now..

Is there something you wished before when you were young but you did n't get it

Cannot think of any..

Have you been in a situation where you might have given up but still you chose to move on..

This is a tough one..Can we move on to the next question please?

Is there someone in your life who has been your source of strength and inspiration?

The ordinary people doing the extraordinary....

Here are some deserving blogs that I wish to tag this award

CloudNine

Abby's Cooking Kitchen

From My In Box

Please pass this on..

Copy and paste the award on your site and copy the link of the person who gave you the award.

Then answer the tag questions!

Nominate any blogs you feel deserve it.

When Things Go Wrong As They Sometimes Will...

2011-09-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

This Ramadan, I was strong-willed to make good use of the month. Besides the extra prayers that I was offering to the Almighty in appreciation for the bountiful resources and blessings that he has had showered on all of us: me, you and everyone. I was also determined to make use of Ramadan - which also relates to fasting, to reduce some of those extra fat from my body. A strategy was firmly set to do some exercises, to burn off those huge amount of calories that was going to be shoveled into my mouth at the time of breaking the fast. With great strength of mind (so I thought) I wrote down in my notepad the list of items ‘to do’ that would help me keep in shape. And the first entry in the list was ‘eat less fried food’. Did I abide by my rules? I didn’t think so. The foremost reason was due to the food that I kept preparing for the family to feast at the end of each fast (iftar) which was a daily occurrence during sunset. While preparing the food for iftar, I would be persistent which food would be shoved into my mouth and which wouldnt. But all those became momentary, when I sat with the rest of my family to break our fast. Who wouldn't take pleasure in eating the 'hot hot’ samosas, and the mouth-watering crispy pastries or the spicy rice porridge that bubbled in the pot. I just couldn’t resist. And the plan to do some ‘work out’ didn't go well either: the mere thought of running on the treadmill made me go weak at the knees.

Happy Eid

2011-08-30T11:38:00.000-07:00

Wishing all my Muslim readers a joyous Eid-Ul-Fitr. This is a happy occasion which is celebrated just after the ending of Ramadan.

Ramadan In Saudi Arabia

2011-08-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

I haven’t been updating my blog recently. It’s Ramadan, the month of fasting. The month where we tend to pray more and ask the Al mighty for forgiveness. Muslims all over the world abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk. This act is obligatory towards all muslims irrespective of caste whether rich or poor. Every day, right through this month, millions of people who are fasting, do exactly the same thing, when the call for magreb prayer (sun set prayer) is heard. Families gather around the table to break their fast. Only after the initial consumption of dates and water that the other meals are served. During this month the rich do a lot of charitable work. According to a local newspaper, the Saudi Gazette, a million worshippers are served everyday, with – yogurt, dates, and Saudi coffee for iftar (breaking of fast). More than 10,000 citizens and local residents bring the food into the mosque on small carts. Zamzam water is distributed to the congregation from water coolers. Zamzam is the name of the sacred well in the holy city that supply the water to billions of people. For worshippers from across the globe, to break their fast in the two holiest mosques in Saudi Arabia is a great experience. They are fortunate to experience this one of a kind moment.

Photo source: Arab News

Muslims across the globe break their fast with dates (fruit grown on palm trees)

A Trip To The Tea Country

2011-08-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

The Tea Country is the most picturesque location of Sri Lanka with spectacular views of mountain ranges and narrow valleys, meandering roads and waterfalls. During our recent summer vacation, we had the opportunity of staying in a bungalow which was nestled amongst tea bushes, overlooking the Castlereagh reservoir. The beautiful Rivendell bungalow is set upon the crest of the tea plantations. The cool climatic condition was an added windfall to all of us who were trying to get away from the humidity in the capital city.The magnificent view from the bungalow’s balcony was breathtaking. The setting in the vicinity is naturally embedded. The sight of tea bushes, waterfalls and a reservoir was refreshing and revitalizing.The whole ambiance in this location was a complete change. I think, for the first time in many years, we were breathing pure, fresh and clean air. This getaway was a great experience. We spent three lovely days here, with new things to explore and experience.We carry with us beautiful memories of Rivendell.

Tea plantation - Sri Lanka (Ceylon) is known for producing quality tea

The food served here was traditional rice and curry. In Sri Lanka, almost all the vegetables are cooked with spices and coconut milk.I got to indulge in some favourites too.‘Mallum’ green leaves minced and eaten as a salad .I loved the sweet and spicy taste of red beets, which was finely cut into julienne.Mouth watering Thallana Battu (Thai eggplant) was cooked with a lot of spices and fiery condiments.

Have A Break! Have A Cool Summer!

2011-07-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially here! ( Picture illustrated by my daughter)

How Children Interpret

2011-07-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

Children need not have to watch an adult movie on television or "grown-up" only channels to grasp the concept of violence. They learn it anyway watching their favourite cartoons on the kids' channels!
The other day, my older son, who will be seven later this year, was deeply engrossed in his world of drawing. While admiring his artistic creations, my eyes caught the attention of a specific one; this particular picture enthralled me. To me, it depicted something like a NASA Space Shuttle landing safely on Earth.
However, driven by curiosity, I asked my son to tell me the beautiful story he had just put on paper. I was flabbergasted when I heard his interpretation.
The picture which looked like a Space Shuttle was indeed a 'Missile', which according to my son was launched from outer space and that the aliens were waging a war against the Earth. I thought his imagination was running helter-skelter.
Gathering some patience, I calmly questioned him as to how he got the concept of the aliens destroying or attacking the earth. I just gaped, when he, in his childish innocence, said, "I watched it on Cartoon Network."
As parents, we have to play the role of a 'Teacher', especially the mother, whom the child spends most of the day with'.
If you think your child is watching too much television (even if it's a kids' cartoon programme) or watching channels which you think are not suitable for his age, try to divert his attention somewhere else, like; reading, writing, drawing/painting, (which did work quite marvellously, with my four "Fond Of The Television" children).
Exposing children to all kinds of violence on television, be it the war, the killings/shootings taking places in schools in other countries, violent protests on the streets and even the children's cartoons with the wrong message, can subsequently carry a negative impact on the growing young minds. With this type of adverse effect, they will lack the social skills to interact with their peers. Some children learn to mimic improper and violent actions of some cartoon characters and develop unhealthy attitudes like being arrogant and aggressive.
Our duty is to teach the children positive attitudes in life from their tender age, instil good habits and good behaviour into them, and mould them to be good human beings in their later years.
Nonetheless, we should set restrictions and guide them to watch appropriate television programmes and channels. Being too harsh or punishing them severely for watching inappropriate programmes, will only aggravate the situation. We should also bear in mind that under such circumstances, always try different options to fix the problem; not mix and mess it.
It is our responsibility to spend 'quality' time with our loved ones, bonding and sharing special moments with them, so that 'quantity' time in front of the television is reduced. We should also learn to relax with our children (away from the TV room), take them outdoors sometimes and have time to give ears to their voices however much, insignificant it may sound. And, I, as a mother, learnt a lesson as well, from my son's drawing. I learnt to value his opinion.

( This is my article which was published in a newspaper magazine)

My son's cyber painting

To Father With Love

2011-06-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

A Heartfelt Gratitude

He, undoubtedly, will be glad to read this, as his choice of preference is reading. She, I pray, although no longer amongst us, is protected in the land of the peaceful with plenty of God’s mercy and love. My appreciation I’ve shown them, many a time, in many ways, but in this instance, I choose to do so, in a very different manner, due to the untimely circumstance. It is said that ‘action speaks louder than words’, but when loved ones are far away, it is words that would speak a thousand thoughts; thus , this initiative to pen my gratefulness in black and white... for two awe-inspiring beings, , who gave me the vigour and the audacity to walk this amazing journey…

They filled my childhood with their unconditional love and evenly showered it, amongst eight. They instilled onto us, values like compassion, kindness, and love, of which an immeasurable amount thrived in their hearts and which we subsequently inherited…

At some stage during the adolescent years when the pangs of guilt hit me, for not being up to their expectation, they put me right back on trail with their constant support and comfort. It was to her, I ran, whenever I needed a shoulder to lean on. That, his enthusiasm for reading, and his obvious passion for writing, paved the way and developed my interest significantly in this continuum, which I regard as as my favourite pastime. Their astuteness that guided me and my siblings, moulded us into what we are today, unpretentious adults.

Their inspiration helped me endeavour my hopes and pursue my dreams, (though some of it was fairytale fantasy.) When onto a new threshold I stepped, I put into practice a number of their guiding principles to cope with the complications and challenges of life. While handling my responsibility herein, I acquired a better sense of understanding her role as a woman and everything that she balanced with it, the task she, effortlessly and unselfishly occupied…

At times when darkness overshadowed, I did not fret, as they taught me to endure patience and bear them with a non-judgmental attitude. I let go of the pessimism that would sometimes grip me and moved toward the positive as we were often reminded that this journey is only once…I am indebted to them eternally, for heading me in the right direction, a path acquainted with their incalculable values....

Today…I send this gift, an endowment of words, enveloped with love and admiration…for this wonderful being … my father.
And for her, my mother… whom I miss dearly, whose sweet memories I cherish forever - in the course of my prayers I offer to god, I ask him to send her to heaven…

Happy Father's Day!

From A Devoted Daughter

( This is my article published in a newspaper magazine.This is in appreciation of both my parents.With sweet remembrance of my dear Mother who is no longer with us,I take this opportunity on this special day, to wish my Dad many more years of good health and an abundance of blessings from the Almighty.)

Consumer Rights

2011-06-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

As habitual, I turned to the online edition of my native country’s newspaper, for local news . While reading,I was drawn towards an article which I thought was creditable.It was a worthy act taken by Sri lanka's Health Ministry ,who has directed food manufacturers throughout the nation to take care when printing the date of production,the date of expiry and the ingredients used on the food and drink labels, which will be in effect from July.
From now on, manufacturers will have to strictly abide by the new regulations imposed by the Ministry when selling their manufactured goods.

The Health Ministry has also cautioned the public to keep vigilant on the sale of unhygienic and outdated canned food items and various soft drink products sold by supermarkets, groceries and other food outlets. This move will in fact make the consumers more watchful of what they purchase from the supermarkets or the grocers.They should take extra care to always check labels for the production and expiry dates. In addition,they must make it a point to read the labeled ingredients ,so that they will know if that particular product is good or harmful to them..They now have the right to report to relevant authorities any sale of unhygienic or outdated food stuffs in the supermarket. This step will also make the traders think twice about selling cheap and unhygenic food items with the intent of making quick cash.The risk of falling sick eating food which is outdated or unhygienic,is on a greater altitude, so consumers too should treat this warning as an eye opener .

E-Coli Is Back

2011-06-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

Cucumbers exported from Spain to Germany have been contaminated with the E-coli bacteria, that’s what I have been reading lately.Now this gives me the goose bumps.This is the only vegetable my children eat without a fuss.They love it in their salad . This is freaking me out. After this disturbing news, I kept checking my refrigerator compartment to ensure there were no traces of dirt or dirty particles embedded in my stored cucumbers .I wash them well ,all of the vegetables. ‘Please conserve water ,don’t waste’ ,everyone cries! But how can we think of using water sparingly in a situation like this. As it is ,I wash and scrub these vegetables thoroughly if I use them in salads. It is alarming however to watch the food enthusiasts demonstrate on television their culinary know hows and cooking their favourite vegetables or meat, straight from the packet to the pan.When do they wash the vegetables or meat? How ever much they say the vegetables are hygienic, We got to wash them in clean running water once we bring it home from the grocers and just before cooking them.I remember ,there was this outbreak of E-coli in spinach leaves,a couple of years ago, We being miles away from the affected places stopped eating Spinach through fear. Now it’s back again ,this time tainting the cucumber the ones grown in Spain.
E.coli is short for Escherichia coli - a bacteria (germ) that causes severe cramps and diarrhea. Certain strains of E. coli, possibly create lethal toxins. Food poisoning by E. coli is usually caused by undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk and juice, raw fruits and vegetables , feces of infected people, and contaminated water. It also causes serious and life-threatening complications .The illness varies considerably;it can be fatal, particularly to the young and the elderly . This bacteria lives in the digestive tracts of animals and humans and most are typically harmless. They help our body break down and digest food. Nonetheless, some strains of E. coli can be very harmful and lead to grave infections that can make us sick quickly.

Something To Reflect Upon

2011-05-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

This was an email forward that was sent to me.This is a story of a father explaining to his child the challenges that she may have to deal with , passing through life's journey.

Happy Reading!

Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?

A daughter complained to her father about her life and how things have been so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and she wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed that just as one problem was solved another arose.

Her father, a chef, took her to the kitchen, filled three pots with water and placed the fire on high. Soon the three pots came to a boil. In one he placed carrots, in the other he placed eggs, and the last he placed ground coffee beans. He let them sit and boil, without saying a word.

The daughter sucked her teeth and impatiently wondered what he was trying to do. She had problems, and he was making this strange concoction. In half an hour he walked over to the stove and turned down the fire. He pulled the carrots out and placed them in the bowl. He pulled the eggs out and placed them in the bowl. Then he ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.
Turning to her he asked. “Darling what do you see?

“Smartly, she replied. “Carrots, eggs, and coffee.

He brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. He then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, he asked her to sip the coffee. Her face frowned from the strength of the coffee.

Humbly, she asked. “What does it mean Father?”

He explained. “Each of them faced the same adversity, 212 degrees of boiling water. However each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. But after going through boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg was fragile. A thin outer shell protected a liquid center. But after sitting through the boiling water, it’s inside became hardened. The coffee beans are unique however. After they were in the boiling water, it became stronger and richer.

Which are you, he asked his daughter? When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?

Are you the carrot that seems hard, but with the smallest amount of pain, adversity, or heat you wilt and become soft with no strength.

Are you the egg, which starts off with a malleable heart? A fluid spirit. But after a death, a divorce, an accident you became hardened and stiff. Your shell looks the same, but you are so bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and heart, internally.

Or are you like the coffee bean? The bean does not get its peak flavor and robust until it reaches 212 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water gets the hottest, it just tastes better.

When things are worst, you get better. When people talk the most, your praises increase. When the hour is the darkest, trials are there greatest, your worship elevates to another level. How do you handle adversity?

Mother's Musings

Cleaning The Clutter In Us

Watermelon- Summer's Delight

2011-05-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

Watermelon is the typical fruit to quench the parching throat on a hot summer afternoon.The juice of watermelon protects the skin from the sun. It also clears and cleanses the skin keeping it healthy and glowing.Watermelons are know to have originated in Africa,tracing it’s origins to the Kalahari deserts. It is noteworthy to mention here,that many centuries ago,watermelons were placed in tombs of the Egyptian kings to nourish them after life.(reference-woman’s magazine). Hence from Egypt, water melons spread along the Mediterranean sea by way of trade .It is a common summer crop and is widely cultivated throughout the world today.There are a variety of water melons produced each year.It consists of 93 per cent water.One or two servings of water melon a day is recommended as it is a multi vitamin fruit and contains Vitamin A B6 and C and also potassium and Iron.A variety of recipes can be prepared with this succulent fruit .Many love to indulge in the delightful deserts made with this luscious fruit. During summer when it is the peak time for tourism in many countries chefs around the world display their gastronomic skills, displaying carved fruits and vegetables to the amazement of their guests and visitors.Also others with a flair for art come out with innovative ideas and carve beautiful creations out of watermelons.This giant fruit takes a prominent place in my kitchen during Summer..

For easy cleaning –Place an old sheet of newspaper on the kitchen counter when you cut water melon.This is an easy way to discard the residue.

More on water melons- Farmers In Japan Creates Square-Shaped Watermelons