The Diary of Joni & Anya

Puppy love

2012-01-30T13:10:00.000+08:00

Something for the memory box.

The longest match ever

2012-01-30T09:14:00.000+08:00

It lasted for 5 hours and 53 minutes. It was epic. Anya & I took turns shouting "C'mon!", "Let's go", "You can do it!", "Awww!", "Noooo!", "YES!" throughout.

It was riveting to watch the match with Anya, who surprisingly became passionately involved this year.

The girl even made a poster. Delightful.

We were glued to the tv, apparently along with 2.4 million viewers who stayed up until about 1:40am. And lucky for us, it was all worth it. The Serbian won. Hurray!

Here's the championship shot.

You're the greatest Novak!

source

And here's a special kiss.

We love the Australian Open!

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And for the record, it WAS the longest Grand Slam final match in history.

How hard is it to make a pot?

2012-01-27T16:56:00.000+08:00

Very much, I tell you.

Anya & I spent one afternoon with this pottery wheel.

It took almost an hour before we finally figured out 1. the right texture of the clay 2. the correct way of holding the clay 3. shaping the clay while on the wheel.

It was very challenging. A test of patience to be precise. I almost skipped making dinner as I was in the zone and want to have something to show.

And after several attempts, this was the best I can do. It just kept on collapsing.

I should have used more clay.

I was aiming on making miniature clay pots, which were popular toys back in the Philippines. I remember when Anya was but weeks old, one of my aunt brought a whole set as a "welcome to the world" gift. Funny but very thoughtful.

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The husband couldn't help but try. And for some reason, he finished his within 20 minutes. Whatever!

Here are the finished products. Decorated by Anya of course.

L: husband R: mine

Were you a fan of that scene in Ghost?

P.S. Join in my latest giveaway to win a Take 2 game.

Book cover woes

2012-01-27T12:25:00.000+08:00

It's back to school!

She'll be in grade 4 next week. Time flies so fast!

We picked up her "book list" a few days ago and started labeling them. If you need school labels, iron on and more, you can order from here.

Don't forget to label the caps!

I am finding it hard to cover her books with the adhesive plastic. I used to do mine with a different type, non-adhesive (which is hard to find here). I needed some instructions.

I'm sure I'll getter better by the time Anya's in high school. I'm still getting bubbles.

Trapped by Skylanders

2012-01-25T14:46:00.002+08:00

Maybe it's my fault for not doing sufficient research before giving "Santa" the go ahead signal. But it was what Anya and most kids I know really, really wanted to find under the tree with their name on it last Christmas.

Lucky for Anya, Santa heeded her wish.

If only I knew it was the gift that keeps on asking.

Skylanders is a video game available in Wii, NDS, PS3. The basic pack comes with a Portal of Power and three character figures. You place the character you want in your game on the portal (which is connected to say the PS3). Here's the gimmick: you need more characters not necessarily to finish the game but to enjoy it more as you get to unlock more quests.

It only took a couple of days before Anya was asking for another character (costs about $20+ a pop). And come Boxing Day, none can be found on the shelves or at local online shops. And as much as we were on a tight budget, I hate to see the game get chucked altogether. So what's the last resort? Ebay of course. And as expected, the prices of those items located here have skyrocketed due to demand. It was actually cheaper to buy from a seller in the US.

It all felt preposterous really. Spending more on an already expensive game. I felt trapped.

But Anya was on her good behavior most of the school break. And she waited patiently for the parcel to arrived.

Watch the saga unfold.

Undeniably a brilliant business scheme.

And to be fair, the game is good. Even the husband plays it.

But too bad for the kids with cash-strapped parents.

How much do you dread seeing the phrase "Collect Them All!"?

Where to go this week?

2012-01-23T14:00:00.000+08:00

It's the final leg of the school holidays for Victorian students! And in case you still have the capacity and energy to take the kids somewhere fun to enjoy these final days, then here are some places to go:

1. Australian Open. If you are a fan or you are wanting to push your kids to embrace tennis, then go ahead and grab a ticket. Even a ground pass is enough to give the kids a unique insight about the game. There are also face painting and activities galore that will keep the family entertained and busy.

2. Adventure Park. This was perhaps the most exciting place we've been this summer. Packed full of rides and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Located in Geelong, it is but an hour away from Melbourne. But trust me, the drive is all worth it.

3. Funfields. If you reside in Melbourne's North, then this is the nearest place to get wet n wild. Toboggan, water slides, wacky waters and thrilling rides are waiting for you in this park located at Whittlesea. It can be quite busy on weekends though so make sure you bring a big bag of patience for the long queue.

4. Upmarket. If you are the lucky ones who have kids or pre-teens who happen to enjoy shopping, then check out this latest weekend. Held at the Middle Park Primary School near Albert Park, this event boasts of carefully curated stall holders selling unique and innovative products for the home and more. Starts Feb.4.

5. Altona Beach. This year was our first time to visit this beach and so far is Anya's favorite as it was great for boogie boarding. It was a very convenient as the water is near the road and I need not push the wheelchair a long distance.

6. Frankston Sand Scultptures. Theme for this year is Toytopia so there is no doubt the kids will be delighted at this exhibit. Be amazed by the intricate details of the sculptures. And when you're done, feel free to hit the beach and make your own art from sand.

Don't forget to slip, slop and slap!

How's your summer so far?

Life by Dr. Seuss

2012-01-19T07:57:00.001+08:00

Are you a fan of his books?

I've only read his writings 5 years ago when Anya told me about it. I heard of him of course, but sadly, it was not part of our curriculum when I was in school. So I did not bother.

But you know how they say, you sometimes find the things you need at the right time.

Have you read this piece? I'm thinking this may perhaps be the simplest but best guide to living.

And I hope someone handed it to me during my graduation.

On another note, the video above was taken at the Burning Man Festival held at the Nevada Desert. Yet another festival I wish I could attend someday.

Take 2! The Game (a giveaway)

2012-01-17T13:01:00.001+08:00

Do you love word games? Then heads up! Coz I got a giveaway for all you logophiles out there or anyone just wanting something fresh to play with the family.

The kind people from Communicado sent us Take 2. A Scrabble variant that combines the fun and race of competitive card games with the brain teasing power of crosswords. It was perfect timing as we have almost exhausted all forms of entertainment now that we're at the last leg of the school break.

Take 2 can be played by anyone regardless of spelling and vocabulary levels. It was the perfect game to complement the Spelling exercises I have been subjecting Anya to this past weeks.

The husband readily opened the box upon seeing the word "game" and declared well, a game night. The box contains 120 tiles.

The rules are simple.

Make words using 8 letter tiles which you fashion into a crossword. Person to use up all her tiles say "Take 2!" which signals to all players to take 2 more tiles from the center. Again, everyone attempts to use all of the tiles they have to make words. This goes on until there are no more tiles in the center. The winner is the person who has no unused tiles or has the lowest total score of unused tiles. See a better explanation of the rules here. Or better yet, try the game online here!

Game developer, Martin Rodenberg said that the idea for the game came one night with a group of friends playing a well known word based board game. “We wanted to have a faster option that meant more time enjoying the game and less time checking the rules and waiting for a turn”.

And it was quite simple and fast which, I honestly prefer as I get bored easy and hate it when games drag on for hours. In just 20 minutes, Anya declared herself the winner . Notice the husband sulking. Such a sore loser.

The game box is compact and small enough to take with you on holidays or sleepovers. Quite versatile as you only need a flat surface to play it on - the floor, the table, or in our case, the bed (which is almost flat).

The game can be purchased online here and will only costs you $37.50 including shipping (within Australia). Cheaper than bringing the kids to the movies (which inevitably includes a bill at the snack bar). Plus, it's a good regimen to check and improve everyone's spelling & vocabulary. Also a good gift idea and is fitting for small gathering of family and friends. Spark the competitive spirit!

And for the fun bit, I have one Take 2 game to give away to a loyal reader. Ends Feb 1, 2012. T&C here.

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the concierge baker

2012-01-15T12:56:00.077+08:00

My two hungry hippos requested I make sticky date pudding one night. Like at 9pm. The grocer was still open (and just a few blocks down) so I drove there, feeling like a moron as I walked the empty aisles looking for a jar of cream for the pudding sauce.

It was the perfect time to whine and complain. I could have said NO. But on this night, the husband had his lucky stars. Because I didn't mind at all.

And fact is, the husband was asking for the dessert since early that day. But as it was the weekend, I was busy with the Kardashians and the Real Housewives of B. Hills. I ignored his pleas. That is until later in the evening.

It was not a healthy choice.

Ta-da!

Best served with ice cream and caramel sauce.

No wonder we are what we weigh now.

Did you do something special for your loved ones recently?

it's the tennis again

2012-01-13T15:59:00.000+08:00

Are you excited? Coz the Australian Open begins on Monday! Got to prep myself for the long nights watching the matches.

I will still be rooting for the same guy, of course. My husband in dreamland.

He's number 1 in the ranks now you know. And isn't he dreamy?

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Do you follow the tennis?

just because it 's Friday the 13th

2012-01-13T07:12:00.001+08:00

I feel like I have to share something thrilling...

I was in love with the idea of vampires since a friend introduced me to Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles. And I hate how the idea got saturated when Twilight came. Suddenly, everyone loves 'em creatures!

But I still prefer Rice's kind. I'm team Lestat.

Do you have a favorite type?

It's Flog YoBlog day people!

How to draw a Gorilla

2012-01-12T12:56:00.000+08:00

Following a film viewing of The Rise of the Planet of the Apes (yes, we waited until it was available to rent on DVD), Anya apparently took it upon herself to draw a gorilla. Which is a type of great apes. I noticed her attempt one day, sprawled on her study table. A colored gorilla. Because the usual is boring, she said.

I gave her this how-to book for Christmas as she enjoys drawing and hopes to be a Tim Burton someday.

Do you like drawing? Are you any good at it?

Make popsicles instantly!

2012-01-11T07:31:00.000+08:00

We received a Zoku Quick Pop Maker last Christmas and opened it just a few days ago after all the hullabaloo of the season settled down.

I rarely feed Anya ice cream and other frozen delights. Got to keep her sugar intake in check for the sake of maintaining her weight and thus, her legs. But of course that does not stop her from begging for some, especially this summer. Thank goodness for this Christmas gift.

Because now, I can make popsicles on demand and control the ingredients.

So far, we have made mango and rock melon flavors. I liquified fresh fruits to make the juice, with no added no sugar (sounds like an ad). And the result is a lot better and healthier than those sold at the freezer section.

Just place the Zoku base in the freezer for 24 hours. Take it out of the fridge, place the re-usable pop sticks and pour juice. You'll have a popsicle to hand over to your eager child in about 9 minutes. Way cooler than using molds!

Growing up as a kid in a tropical country, my mum always made sure our freezer is stacked with "ice candy". She or my aunt will regularly make different flavors from whichever fruit is in season. I particularly love coconut and mango.

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But because the plastic casing is hard to find here, I had no choice but to use popsicle molds. But as I said, the Zoku is way better and cooler.

How do you keep cool this summer?

setting the tone for 2012

2012-01-10T09:17:00.009+08:00

2011 was a huge and busy year for this blog.

Anya and I received many opportunities to showcase products, give lots of giveaways, do cooking videos and even craft activities. We were invited to join in exciting events. On top of which were the Roar N Snore in Melbourne Zoo and our recent stint at Adventure Park Geelong. So a big thank you to all the PR people we have worked with and most especially to our kind and loyal readers!

On the home front, 2011 arrived full of promises but ended up with a thud (or a dud). Yet I am grateful Anya's surgery had no complications and the husband arrived back home safe from Brazil. Many mistakes were made and lessons learned (so I hope) that is why I was quick to quit 2011 and start the new year RIGHT.

My resolutions? Here are some specifics that come to mind...

To exercise more. Eat moderately. Be more organized. Be extra patient. Be more FRUGAL and PRUDENT.
I'm setting tiny goals like making sure that by February, I only drink water AND ban midnight snacks like this salmon & scrambled egg on toast which the MasterChef made at bedtime (no more please!).

I also want our affordable mini-adventures back. Anya & I used to go places & attend events when we lived in the city. Museums, festivals, free exhibitions. We were wheelchairing around (you get the picture right?) anywhere that's accessible! We missed out on a lot of wonderful happenings last year because 1. zero budget 2. too lazy to drive 3. will rather sleep in.

On January 1, we dragged our sleepy bodies to a beach we've never been (Altona). I'd say that's a good start.

To set the tone and my mindset, I decided to join in the One Word linky from who else? Maxabella Loves. Find a word to focus for the year. And after some pondering, I landed on OPTIMISTIC.

Because that is one thing I've lost in my journey. The jar of hope.

Not that I am a walking billboard of despair. Just almost. So I'm stopping myself before I turn into something worst.

So yes Joni, things will be better. Your dreams of grandeur will materialize. You can BE better. You just need to have faith in thy self and in the process.

Because you used to be like that. You must believe that the power is within you. Unleash the positive energy NOW!!!

Am I sounding like a sci-fi movie yet?

Anyway.

Let's all think positive everyone!

And don't just wish that 2012 will be a great year. Let's make it so.

She's into Havoc Denim

2012-01-09T12:20:00.000+08:00

It takes a lot of coaxing to make Anya wear "girly" clothing like frilly dresses. She prefers tomboy chic. And is most comfortable with plain cotton shirt and tights.

Whenever we do our shopping, she often wanders to the boys section instead of the girls area.

So when Porter Novelli asked if we'd like to road test some items from Havoc Denim line, I checked out the look book first. And replied with a "yes". Because the items are right up Anya's alley.

She was sent the Havoc Denim cuff shorts which she wore happily at a Christmas party where she sang some carols along with other children.

She received a couple of compliments about her pants that day from friends for the distinct style and asked what brand it is. Told them Havoc Denim is an Australian brand and is notable for fun, stylish and quality denim items for kids aged 2-14 .

This cropped pair is just perfect for the warm summer weather and works with almost any top Anya owns.

It fit her perfectly (she's a size 12), no need for a belt (which she finds annoying). I especially love the detailed stitching at the back, inner sides and front pockets. Havoc Denim items are hand finished, can you believe it? And they follow a 3 stage wash which is why their pants are all soft and comfy compared to other brands. Now I'm realizing why Anya hates wearing denim jeans and yet seem to be all OK with this pair from Havoc Denim.

I threw it the wash and it came out looking as good and new as it arrived. Because you know how some clothes' feel change right away? So all is good! I am sure you'll be seeing a lot of this red pair in our summer photos.

Visit Havoc Denim to check out their distinct and high quality and reasonably priced children's clothing. Their summer stock is now on!

Is your girl into tomboy chic too?

he's good in the kitchen

2012-01-04T09:00:00.000+08:00

Our friends recently bestowed on the husband a "masterchef" plaque. Just a fun way to end the year. And he's giddy with pride. (I got the "Most Creative" award, thank you).

And he rightfully deserves it because he may not be great anywhere else, but he definitely knows his way in the kitchen.

Like one day, we had an impromptu three course meal at home. He just concocts whatever is in the fridge & pantry. And most of the time his experiments results in better tasting dish than when he follows a recipe.

Tofu.

Pasta.

Lobster tail.

And in a recent get together with friends, he prepared these lovelies.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Scallops

Aesthetically appealing yeah? And scrumptious too.

And not to be defeated, I made something for the holidays too.

Stuffing ala Gordon Ramsey. With pistacchios & apricots.

I made turkey too but it did not look as nice as these but was tasty nonetheless. I just have to mention that because I am no idiot in the kitchen. And I want that plaque next year.

Are you an aspiring masterchef too?

P.S.
Join in my first giveaway for the year. Summer Fun Passes at Adventure Park Geelong.

Adventure Park is THE Summer Destination

2012-01-04T07:48:00.005+08:00

*Update: I have 2 Summer Passes to give away (worth $74.99 each)!!!! Just let me know at the comment section below or at our Facebook page which ride in Adventure Park Geelong you are most excited to try. A winner will be chosen on January 15. Passes valid until end of April. Winner will have 48 hours to respond with details otherwise I will do a re-draw. Courtesy of PNM.

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If you have a limited budget but still wanting the family to enjoy the holidays and warm summer weather, then head to Geelong for an affordable but fun-filled day at the Adventure Park.

We were invited along with a handful of other bloggers to literally test the waters of this summer park. I've seen the ads but never actually thought to visit it as we live an hour and a half away. I hate going to places that turn out to be not worth the long drive. But because it is the holidays and husband is available (to assist & carry Anya when necessary), I accepted the invite.

And boy was I patting myself on the shoulder all day for perhaps the best family day out of the year.

We had a blast! It was as Anya put it, a fight-free day and all three of us were all smiles. A rarity.

The weather (thank God) turned out warm and the skies were all bright and cheerful. And the place was very wheelchair-friendly!

The place jammed-pack with activities for all ages - from toddlers to adult. We were overwhelmed & excited!

There was Bonito's Bay meant for the kids and kids at heart as surprisingly, many adults were at it too and enjoying the occasional bucket pouring spectacle.

We also tried the Canoes at the river. Other water activities available are the paddle boats and aqua bikes. There were many staff to assist and look out for any troubled paddlers and occasionally, give a warning call to those mucking around. The park do take safety seriously and I love it!

Anya loved the River Torrent Lazy River best. She was almost in tears when we told her it was time to go (we left past 5pm). She was wanting another round and finally got off her tube when she made us promise we'll return.

Again, so many park staff making sure everyone is safe and abiding by the rules. Husband dropped his eyeglasses and a staff found it within 30 secs. Excellent!

The husband was all for the Aqua Racer. A massively tall slide that Anya wanted to have a go but I said maybe next time when she's taller and stronger and have better control.

The queue at the Go Kart took about 20 minutes but husband was delighted nonetheless.

I enjoyed the Archery and lucky there were not much people wanting to try so we arched those bows until our arms cried "no more". No bull's eye for any of us though.

We also hit the mini golf which to me was nothing but mini as it had 16 holes to conquer. Anya & husband played the delightful course.

I chickened out on the Gold Rush Rapids and Wild West Canyon when I reached the top. Father and daughter did two rounds. Amazing. (photos to follow as I am yet to take the water proof camera roll to the shop).

The food did not disappoint too. For $13 we got a Combo Meal which includes a whopping burger, fries and drink. Much better than what we get at fast food joints really. And the meal sufficed our hunger pangs for the day. It took about 10 minutes for the food to be served though.

Alternatively, you can bring your own food and have a barbecue.

What made the experience extra special was the VIP Cabana where you can lounge around while keeping an eye on the kids (located at Bonito's Bay) It also doubled as a change room for us. The rent is good for a maximum of 6 people and comes with a supply of ice and 6 bottled water. A good deal and proves convenient when you need to take a break from all the fun.

So yes, our family do recommend Adventure Park Geelong as a must visit destination this Summer. A big thanks to Porter Novelli & Adventure Park Geelong for this awesome day! We are already planning to return with a group of friends soon.

Entrance fee is only $36 per adult, $28 for kids under 1.2m tall and kids under .90m are FREE. They even offer concessions. See all the details here.

*Update: I have 2 Summer Passes to giveaway (worth $74.99 each)!!!! Just let me know at the comment section below or at our Facebook page which ride in adventure Park you are most excited to try. A winner will be chosen on January 15. Passes valid until end of April. Winner will have 48 hours to respond with details otherwise I will do a re-draw. T&C here.

what the school holidays is looking like

2011-12-27T11:18:00.000+08:00

Numerous hours of dancing! Thanks to the magic of wii and Just Dance.

At least it is "exercise".

The girl found the game in her Christmas stocking today. Santa's first and last stocking filler this season.

Don't you just appreciate how technology has improved tremendously? Allowing those physically challenged like Anya to have a go, even if it is just simulated.

She loves it and now wishes for an Xbox Kinect on her birthday next year.

Best Christmas ever.. at least for Anya

2011-12-25T00:07:00.001+08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!

We stayed up until midnight and had the traditional noche buena. Then opened our presents after. (Thank you!)

Anya had the best reaction ever upon receiving the Skylanders game from "Santa".

She couldn't contain her joy and tears.

The girl had to be consoled.

It was epic.

I am hitting myself for failing to record the moment. Ugh!

Hoping yours was as joy-filled as Anya's!

What's this place?

2011-12-23T11:12:00.002+08:00

In the center lies this huge creature that reminds me of Haruki Murakami characters.

But apparently was sculpted by Melbourne artist Alexander Knox.

There is even an aquarium.

And a meerkat display.

This giant Christmas tree with most probably Santa's chair.

And a sushi place which Anya was perhaps most delighted by.

And lastly, a Hoyt's Cinema!

Where else? The new Royal Children's Hospital!

Consultation rooms (at least that in Orthotics) are now more spacious than ever, equipped with a tv to make waiting more tolerable.

The building is refreshing and very modern in terms of aesthetics. And parking is now a breeze! Just be wary of the hiked fees.

Have you been to the new RCH?

Melbourne Christmas

2011-12-21T15:58:00.000+08:00

We were off to the city today to pick up & fit Anya's new leg braces. I thought we'd drive in early to try to catch Santa in the City Square.

May I say, the Christmas forest theme the city went for this year was very impressive. Or maybe I'm just happy to find a convenient and free photo session with Father Christmas.

We only queued for a few minutes then it was Anya's turn for the shot with the Santa with a lopsided beard.

I am sure she whispered "Skylanders" to Santa's ear.

More fun Christmas photos before we headed to the RCH.

We even brought Kiko along.

Are you starting to feel the Christmas spirit yet?

Skinnygirl me!

2011-12-20T11:50:00.001+08:00

Any Bethenny Frankel fans out there? Because the Skinnygirl has landed.

I have no qualms admitting that for a while I got hooked on reality shows such as Bethenny's and Rachel Zoe and The Kardashians. Perhaps my brain has turned mushy but whose isn't nowadays?

Anyway, I have been waiting for Bethenny's products to arrive here in Australia to see if the hype is real. So I was happy to see the bottles a few days ago and made a mental note to grab it for the holidays.

Let me say that I rarely drink alcohol. It's a fact. I'm for iced tea and lemon lime bitters at parties. The last time I recall getting drunk was at a business trip in Bangkok a decade ago from drinking one too many servings of margarita. I threw my guts out in the toilet of a sushi bar after. Good times!

But margarita remains the only drink I truly enjoy.

So there, the Skinny Girl Cosmo & Margarita are now on liquor shelves. Selling point is the 100 calories per 4 oz serving so you can forget the guilt. Retails for about $26. For your information.

What drink will you be serving for the holidays?

Christmas in a Box from Coles

2011-12-20T09:14:00.000+08:00

I was about to leave yesterday to head to my nearest Coles store (>10Km away) to grab a pudding for our Christmas celebration when the postman met me at the door with a package.

Surprise!

A Christmas feast in a box!

Apparently, I am part of the I Test for Coles program and just need to provide feedback on these Christmas treats.

To be honest, I have been impressed with Coles products this year. There has been a noticeable improvement not only in their stores but with their online presence. I often frequent the Coles recipes page every time I'm feeling uninspired and wanting something quick yet affordable to whip up for the family. The Rigatoni has become a favorite & is made at least every fortnight at our home. Curiously though, I found that the ingredients to this recipe if bought somewhere else do not result to a great tasting dish. That is why I really hope a Coles opens nearby soon or else I'll keeping driving >10km.

Visit Coles Christmas Magic page for ideas to serve at your table this festive season. Or if you just want to ogle at Curtis Stone.

What's cooking at your house for the holidays?

Have you heard of ENJO?

2011-12-19T10:58:00.000+08:00

If not, then watch this and you'll be surprised and amazed by how effective Enjo cleaning products work.

I have never heard of Enjo but I have read a lot about how microfibre has changed the cleaning process for the better. I have also been trying my best to rid the home of toxic chemicals by preferring to buy "all natural" and "non toxic cleaners". But I admit that there are times when I doubt their effectivity and just hope that they clean as they claim. So when Enjo asked if I want to road test their non-toxic and revolutionary cleaning cloths, I eagerly said yes because, I am all for making housework efficient AND effective.

So a few days ago, I received this:

The Fruit and Veg Cloth ($16) which is very convenient especially for those who are always in a rush and forgets to wash their fruit before popping them in their bags. I found it quite handy for Anya who has a "fruit snack" at school. The prickly side of the cloth removes pesticides, fertilizers, bacteria, dirt and dust. So you can be sure that you are really having a Healthy Snack.

I also tried the All Purpose Cloth which is a better option than the kitchen sponge or in my case the "old hand towel". You wet it, wring then wipe. It rids your kitchen of bacteria and is machine washable. It cleaned well when I used it on my kitchen top, the splash back, the sink and the cabinets without using any "cleaning sprays".

So if you are like me who is tired of buying kitchen sponges and doubts the effectivity of kitchen wipes or cloth, then this is a good solution. This product's durability will save you $ in the long term because it does not need frequent replacing nor other cleaning solutions/sprays. It cleans effectively by itself.

So I do recommend the Enjo products (at least the ones I received) because it performed much better than I expected. So much so that I am eyeing the kitchen glove.

Enjo products are available through their network of consultants only. If you are keen, then you can host a demo at your home and earn Hostess Rewards and get the products you need for free or cheaper.

Have you heard of Enjo before? Are you using non-toxic cleaners at your home?

Yes, I have a Wish List too!

2011-12-15T06:45:00.005+08:00

Are you done with your Christmas list? I'm almost with only a handful to go.

I went the lazy route this time, bought all the kids in my list the same thing in one shop and did the rest online. A lot of unpleasant events happened the past week which include the microwave and coffee maker breaking down. Then me and Anya getting sick. We're both better now and the microwave is back home from the repair shop. Warm leftovers again hurray!

Anyway, I had some extra time yesterday before I did the school run. So I thought I'd do an exercise that I rarely do because it usually ends up with frustration & disappointment. But what better time to day dream and list down things that are nice to have (and not be judged doing so) than this Christmas season, yes?

All I really want is a Villa & Hut cabinet for the home before the year ends. But should I suddenly find a real Santa who will grant a wish or two, then I'd happily tell him to pick from this list. Preferably the top most.

1. Holiday. I don't only want this but NEED this. My mum offered to fly me & Anya this break to MNL but silly me for refusing because the husband will be left alone (new job, no leave). Regret is what I get for being unselfish.

Anyway, I torture myself by subscribing to Expedia and other airline newsletters hoping fares will one day be within my reach. Fares to Europe via Emirates once dipped to $1200 for early birds. Check out these fares to LA from $1,200 and visit what Anya refers to as the REAL Disneyland.

2. Neverfull. And while at it (daydreaming, I mean), wouldn't it be fancy to travel with these luxury bags? I have my fair share of LV but if I get to pick something then I'll add this just because it's roomy.

3. iPhone 4S. If only just for Siri. And the fact that husband and I may be the only ones without a touch phone. Plus this hilarious clip made me think of the possibilities. Must see!

4. Logitech Speaker Stand. We don't have a radio at home. Nor a CD player. But we have an iPad that we share between us three. So the convenience of this stand is attractive as I can take it with me to the kitchen and Anya can take it to her room for her singing along with LMFAO time.

5. Steve Jobs autobiography. I have a couple of books to finish including The Passage and The Help and I want this to be next in line.

6. Vidal Sassoon Big Hair. I've always wanted big hair because I am not blessed with thick hair. So when I saw the ad, I thought this may just do the trick.

7. Belt bag. I've lost mine and now am having trouble finding a place to tuck in the house keys/phone whenever I do my walk. I am yet to look around at Sports shop for a suitable design.

8. Homedics Massager. We have the Homedics neck massager that Anya uses the most because you know how iGadgets can strain the neck muscles right? But I need more because one of the occupational hazards of being on home duties is back stress. Regular remedial massages are costly so I think this is the best alternative.

That's all I can think of for now. I didn't even made it to 10! I'm simple that way.

What's on your I want list?