Tonights scenario....
My two girls decided this afternoon they want to sleep over at grandma and granddads place.
So no kids - check.
Supper already cooked and house tidy - check.
Now just for me to crack open a bottle of red and sit back and watch anything but disney junior - check.
Phone rings.
Its Alex. I freeze.
There's a fire in the tunnel. Everyone is out and no one is hurt. Firemen are inside. Won't be home early. No let me rephrase that....' I'll be back late.'
Crap. What am I to do all alone with me wee self?
Just my luck!
15 August 2012
Kitchen designs
The kitchen design file is bulging at the seams but making this decision is not an easy one.
Light cupboard/black granite?
Dark cupboards/light granite?
I've always wanted white/cream cupboards and the black matte zimbabwe granite. Pictures from many moons ago were clipped and placed in a file for that 'some day' all show the same kind of style or desired feel.
Now the time is here. Time to bite the bullet.
Its decision time and anyone who knows me, knows that for the life of me I can't decide.
I know what I don't want and I'll have no shame in letting everyone know. But when it come to saying 'I'll take that' leaves me feeling dizzy, sweaty and in a foul mood.
During our summer vacation we visited 3 kitchen cupboard manufacturers.
Firstly we weren't supposed to be deciding on this already but as we found out we'll be moving back to France next year July, we figured we may as well get it done.
The plan was..... light coloured cupboards/black granite. But during the last visit we spied the most beautiful light grey granite and it threw us both into a dizzy fit.
So the search was on for a dark cupboard to set off this beautiful counter top.
Found. Done and dusted. Deposit down and our plan is to go back in December while they fit the kitchen. Now as it is me and as usual i always ask, what if?? Alex doesn't want to hear a word of it. He sees it coming and I think this whole building the house has pushed him over the edge.
I just don't want to regret it, I mean heck, I can't just go out and buy another kitchen? Can I?
So what would you do white with black or dark gray with light tops?
Light cupboard/black granite?
Dark cupboards/light granite?
I've always wanted white/cream cupboards and the black matte zimbabwe granite. Pictures from many moons ago were clipped and placed in a file for that 'some day' all show the same kind of style or desired feel.
Now the time is here. Time to bite the bullet.
Its decision time and anyone who knows me, knows that for the life of me I can't decide.
I know what I don't want and I'll have no shame in letting everyone know. But when it come to saying 'I'll take that' leaves me feeling dizzy, sweaty and in a foul mood.
During our summer vacation we visited 3 kitchen cupboard manufacturers.
Firstly we weren't supposed to be deciding on this already but as we found out we'll be moving back to France next year July, we figured we may as well get it done.
The plan was..... light coloured cupboards/black granite. But during the last visit we spied the most beautiful light grey granite and it threw us both into a dizzy fit.
So the search was on for a dark cupboard to set off this beautiful counter top.
Found. Done and dusted. Deposit down and our plan is to go back in December while they fit the kitchen. Now as it is me and as usual i always ask, what if?? Alex doesn't want to hear a word of it. He sees it coming and I think this whole building the house has pushed him over the edge.
I just don't want to regret it, I mean heck, I can't just go out and buy another kitchen? Can I?
So what would you do white with black or dark gray with light tops?
Above is a photo of the girls in the part of the kitchen where the cupboards will be and an island in the middle.
7 August 2012
Dreams and their meanings.
Do you believe that our dreams have a significant meaning?
Reflections of our thoughts and feelings from the day before.
What did you dream about last night??
Reflections of our thoughts and feelings from the day before.
What did you dream about last night??
29 May 2012
Holidays are fast approaching.
When you have kids who attend school, whether it be in a French or any other european school for that matter, July and August rhyme with school holidays!!
There's the hype that leads up to it - just like with any vacation. Things you have to do and things you really want to do.
My girls are already counting down the days until we're leaving on a jet plane.
This year, I've decided that we are going sight seeing. We are going to soak up all things french and wallow in it.
Who says France, says cheese and wine.
Cheese is really something I miss. I remember the days when I would take the 'croute' off the brie. Now you can forget that!!
Here in Hong Kong, I frequent the tiny display of cheese at City Super to satisfy out cravings. I feel it tastes so much better here in Hong Kong - that is because its not something we have after every meal.So more of buying our cheese at tiny speciality cheese shops tucked away in the cobbled streets of Carcassonne.
I want to visit more brocante and vide greniers.
During summer in France as you enter any little village - they have signs with dates of local brocante and vide grenier.
A brocante is a market where second hand goods are sold. You can find a rare gem, but also a lot of crap!
A vide grenier , translated empty attic, is just that. The folk of the village empty their attics, sheds and houses and sell whatever they don't want.
I'm always saying, 'ah lets stop there', but to my dismay, hubby hates the things. He calls them 'fouille merde' which means looking through sh%$%t.
Yes, he's french and he does a have way with words!!
So this year, I vow to take the car, kids if they want and go and visit a few of our neighbouring markets - I can't wait.
I also want to take the girls to Toulouse. Visit the cathedrals, maybe have a picnic along the Garonne. We lived in Toulouse for 3 years it is a beautiful place and who doesn't like a walk along the canal du midi or violet sweets.
Of course they'll be visits to our 'pied-a-terre'. Our home, that is still ongoing. The kitchen needs to be fitted, all the walls and ceiling need to be painted, a railing needs to be designed and made by the local 'ferronier d'art' for our staircase, the tiles need to be sealed, window frames need to be sealed.
Gee the list could go out.
Building a house is like a big mouth that just keeps on gulping and gulping. There is always something that just pops up and you have to fork out. Everything has come to a standstill and the funds have run dry. Yip, true as Bob. This house building malarkey has taken its toll on our bank balance!!
So we'll be sealing the tiles and window frames. Hubby and his dad will lay the parquet in the bedrooms. And that will proberly be all we'll have time for as we have a short 3 weeks holiday. Girls will be able to potter in the garden, we'll bbq and picnic and hopefully these will be memories they'll cherish as they get older.
They'll be feeding chickens, going to the boulangerie, making jams and relaxing after a hard day working on the house next to the pool with a chilled rose wine. Star gazing and little ones falling asleep on chaise longues after a fun-filled day.
Here are a few images to whet your appetite.
Happy days!!
There's the hype that leads up to it - just like with any vacation. Things you have to do and things you really want to do.
My girls are already counting down the days until we're leaving on a jet plane.
This year, I've decided that we are going sight seeing. We are going to soak up all things french and wallow in it.
Who says France, says cheese and wine.
Cheese is really something I miss. I remember the days when I would take the 'croute' off the brie. Now you can forget that!!
Here in Hong Kong, I frequent the tiny display of cheese at City Super to satisfy out cravings. I feel it tastes so much better here in Hong Kong - that is because its not something we have after every meal.So more of buying our cheese at tiny speciality cheese shops tucked away in the cobbled streets of Carcassonne.
I want to visit more brocante and vide greniers.
During summer in France as you enter any little village - they have signs with dates of local brocante and vide grenier.
A brocante is a market where second hand goods are sold. You can find a rare gem, but also a lot of crap!
A vide grenier , translated empty attic, is just that. The folk of the village empty their attics, sheds and houses and sell whatever they don't want.
I'm always saying, 'ah lets stop there', but to my dismay, hubby hates the things. He calls them 'fouille merde' which means looking through sh%$%t.
Yes, he's french and he does a have way with words!!
So this year, I vow to take the car, kids if they want and go and visit a few of our neighbouring markets - I can't wait.
I also want to take the girls to Toulouse. Visit the cathedrals, maybe have a picnic along the Garonne. We lived in Toulouse for 3 years it is a beautiful place and who doesn't like a walk along the canal du midi or violet sweets.
Of course they'll be visits to our 'pied-a-terre'. Our home, that is still ongoing. The kitchen needs to be fitted, all the walls and ceiling need to be painted, a railing needs to be designed and made by the local 'ferronier d'art' for our staircase, the tiles need to be sealed, window frames need to be sealed.
Gee the list could go out.
Building a house is like a big mouth that just keeps on gulping and gulping. There is always something that just pops up and you have to fork out. Everything has come to a standstill and the funds have run dry. Yip, true as Bob. This house building malarkey has taken its toll on our bank balance!!
So we'll be sealing the tiles and window frames. Hubby and his dad will lay the parquet in the bedrooms. And that will proberly be all we'll have time for as we have a short 3 weeks holiday. Girls will be able to potter in the garden, we'll bbq and picnic and hopefully these will be memories they'll cherish as they get older.
They'll be feeding chickens, going to the boulangerie, making jams and relaxing after a hard day working on the house next to the pool with a chilled rose wine. Star gazing and little ones falling asleep on chaise longues after a fun-filled day.
Happy days!!
28 May 2012
Wet Market
A what? you ask.
A wet market.
Its exactly that....a market that is very wet.
Wet markets are found all around Hong Kong. It's a fresh food market selling fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and seafood. We also find the fresh noodle guy with his dumpling wrappers and noodles in all shapes and sizes.
Water is used extensively in these markets - the floors are soaking wet so remember not to wear your flip flops and white trousers. The water is used to keep the fruit and veg fresh, the fish and seafood alive - clams squirt at you from every angle and beware of the odd fish or two that goes AWOL and last but not least to keep everything a wet market kind of clean!
But be warned these markets are definately not for the squeamish.
I'd been craving squid - or calamari - if that makes you feel better. So off to the market I trot!
I must admit that I went to the same market twice the week before but I just couldn't go through with it. After walking around looking for the blackest beady eyed squid I saw quite a few things that had me clicking my heels and darting for the stairs.
But today I was determined to just go in and get the god damned squid.
Of course you go to places like these 'sans enfant'. I can only imagine the looks and things Olivia would say if I took her to a place like this. Its already a stressful situation add to that the moans and groans of one child and the excessive need to touch everything of another and you'll come running out of there sans enfant.
So I had my blinders on and I braced the wet market with one thing to find - squid. My blinders must have failed at one stage because I saw a lady empty a bag full of frogs onto a chopping board, pick up a cleaver and as she lifted her arm (no gentle gestes here) I turned away and upped my already fast paced walk to high speed.
I walked all the way around, inspecting the eyes until finally I say the brightest beady black eyes. This stall was swarming with people. I guess that's an easy indicator of the freshest fish.
I pointed to what I wanted and how many. She asked in what I understood if she had to clean them? I replied no because the sooner I got out of there the better.
I didn't want to see any more cleaver lifting.
A kind lady next to me asked ' Do you know how to clean them?' I answered no, but I wanted to try. She replied 'You should let her clean them, if you don't do it properly it will be really messy'. Well I was willing to chance the mess. The locals were looking at me as if I was crazy - why the hell doesn't she get them cleaned here??? Mind you, by now I'm starting to question my own sanity about still standing about in puddles of water, fish guts and heaven knows what else!!!
My squid was placed in a red plastic bag, I paid the whole 56 HKD for 5 beautiful squid and I was so out of there.
As Gordon Ramsey would say..... SQUID - DONE!!!!
In my case, shopping for squid - Done!!!
At home hubby jumped on board without me even having to ask - bonus. He started to clean these beauties. I had to tell him about the quill of cartilage - which I ended up pulling out. Not a lot of mess to my relief and it was quite a relaxing time, the two of us together in the tiny kitchen.
I fried them whole (this way they didn't dry out) with a good drizzle of olive oil, crushed garlic and a squirt of fresh lemon juice. A sprinkling of Maldon and the squid was done.
The little tentacles turned a lovely shade of pink and we enjoyed it all with a crisp, green salad.
A wet market.
Wet markets are found all around Hong Kong. It's a fresh food market selling fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and seafood. We also find the fresh noodle guy with his dumpling wrappers and noodles in all shapes and sizes.
Water is used extensively in these markets - the floors are soaking wet so remember not to wear your flip flops and white trousers. The water is used to keep the fruit and veg fresh, the fish and seafood alive - clams squirt at you from every angle and beware of the odd fish or two that goes AWOL and last but not least to keep everything a wet market kind of clean!
But be warned these markets are definately not for the squeamish.
I'd been craving squid - or calamari - if that makes you feel better. So off to the market I trot!
I must admit that I went to the same market twice the week before but I just couldn't go through with it. After walking around looking for the blackest beady eyed squid I saw quite a few things that had me clicking my heels and darting for the stairs.
But today I was determined to just go in and get the god damned squid.
Of course you go to places like these 'sans enfant'. I can only imagine the looks and things Olivia would say if I took her to a place like this. Its already a stressful situation add to that the moans and groans of one child and the excessive need to touch everything of another and you'll come running out of there sans enfant.
So I had my blinders on and I braced the wet market with one thing to find - squid. My blinders must have failed at one stage because I saw a lady empty a bag full of frogs onto a chopping board, pick up a cleaver and as she lifted her arm (no gentle gestes here) I turned away and upped my already fast paced walk to high speed.
I walked all the way around, inspecting the eyes until finally I say the brightest beady black eyes. This stall was swarming with people. I guess that's an easy indicator of the freshest fish.
I pointed to what I wanted and how many. She asked in what I understood if she had to clean them? I replied no because the sooner I got out of there the better.
I didn't want to see any more cleaver lifting.
A kind lady next to me asked ' Do you know how to clean them?' I answered no, but I wanted to try. She replied 'You should let her clean them, if you don't do it properly it will be really messy'. Well I was willing to chance the mess. The locals were looking at me as if I was crazy - why the hell doesn't she get them cleaned here??? Mind you, by now I'm starting to question my own sanity about still standing about in puddles of water, fish guts and heaven knows what else!!!
My squid was placed in a red plastic bag, I paid the whole 56 HKD for 5 beautiful squid and I was so out of there.
As Gordon Ramsey would say..... SQUID - DONE!!!!
In my case, shopping for squid - Done!!!
At home hubby jumped on board without me even having to ask - bonus. He started to clean these beauties. I had to tell him about the quill of cartilage - which I ended up pulling out. Not a lot of mess to my relief and it was quite a relaxing time, the two of us together in the tiny kitchen.
I fried them whole (this way they didn't dry out) with a good drizzle of olive oil, crushed garlic and a squirt of fresh lemon juice. A sprinkling of Maldon and the squid was done.
The little tentacles turned a lovely shade of pink and we enjoyed it all with a crisp, green salad.
23 May 2012
Tiny hands and chinese dumplings.
The past week-end we, well I decided to make some chinese dumplings with the help of Olivia and Mathilde.
We kept them simple and kid-friendly. Filled with ground organic pork, chopped cabbage, carrots, spring onions, ginger and garlic. To that mixture we added organic soya sauce, a drizzle of sunflower oil and a generous pinch of salt.
Olivia is quite the dumpling folder. I was quite impressed.
Mathilde on the other hand still needs practice!
The dumpling wrappers were bought on a recent trip to the Aberdeen wet market. More on this outing will follow.
I boiled them but they are equally delicious steamed or fried (pot sticker style).
Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Thank you Olivia for all those perfectly sealed little dumplings!!
15 May 2012
Fresh pineapple granita.
I love a good granita. And boy is this pineapple one a GOOD one.
When we lived in France, many moons ago, I would often make a ruby grapefruit granita. It was the most delicate pink colour and looked ever so pretty!!
Not only were the delicate, pink crystals pretty to look at but they were a regal to eat.
Cold and refreshing just what you need when the mercury begins to rise.
Here we have an abundance of fresh, sweet pineapples. But lately my girls are on a pineapple overload. I decided to try something new to tease their taste buds and get them eating them again.
My grapefruit granita came to mind, so I decided to give it a shot with the ever so ripe pineapples I had sitting in the fruit bowl.
This granita is not only a beautiful yellow but it is bursting with flavour, you'll be running back for more. I think a grown up version with a good shot vodka or malibu could be nice (very nice) too.
I started with 2 pineapples which I peeled and cubed. I ate the middle pieces of the pineapples - I couldn't resist.
I then whizzed it in the food processor until I was left with a pineapple foam. If you have a juice extractor, you could use this and skip the sieving process
I strained the pineapple mixture by pressing it with the back of a spoon through a sieve. You see, I have a husband who detests anything with fibres in. If it was just for me, I think I would just skip this step because the fibres were really minimum - but I'm sure it was enough to leave my hubby gagging.
That took all of a few minutes.
I then made a small quantity of sugar syrup. I just eyed the quantities. I ended up with about 3 Tbsp of syrup which I mixed into the strained pineapple juice.
Place in the freezer and remove to mix with a fork ever 30 minutes or so until you have beautiful golden crystals
8 May 2012
Don't say what mama says.
Yesterday while doing our shopping with Mathilde seated in the seat of the trolley, I stumped my toe. I proceeded to say 'OH shit' at the banging of the toe but mostly because of the chore that grocery shopping really is and the bang only added to the agony of it.
I made a dash for the check-out as the queue was literally non-existant.
While we stood in our line waiting, a little boy had started to cry and shout. Mathilde shouted at the top of her voice ' Oh shit, he's crying' and repeated this a good 3 times.
This is one of those famous times as a parent you just want to creep away and never have to show your face again.
I tried to get her to be quiet and told her that she must not say that, but as we all know the more we say no, the more they find it funny and the louder they shout it!!
I don't know. She had her naughty, cheeky little face and it was as if she could feel it made me so uneasy so of course, she continued.
'Oh shit, I want those sweets'
'Oh shit we have to get a taxi'
Finally, I coaxed her with a pain au chocolat and that silenced her little mouth, to one mamas relief!!
I made a dash for the check-out as the queue was literally non-existant.
While we stood in our line waiting, a little boy had started to cry and shout. Mathilde shouted at the top of her voice ' Oh shit, he's crying' and repeated this a good 3 times.
This is one of those famous times as a parent you just want to creep away and never have to show your face again.
I tried to get her to be quiet and told her that she must not say that, but as we all know the more we say no, the more they find it funny and the louder they shout it!!
I don't know. She had her naughty, cheeky little face and it was as if she could feel it made me so uneasy so of course, she continued.
'Oh shit, I want those sweets'
'Oh shit we have to get a taxi'
Finally, I coaxed her with a pain au chocolat and that silenced her little mouth, to one mamas relief!!
6 May 2012
France has voted.....
Yes, the presidential election has come and gone and France now has a new president.
For the people on Hong Kong Island, voting took place at the French International School of Hong Kong.
Alex headed off with Olivia who wanted to see how the whole voting process 'worked'. At the moment they are learning all about the French Republic and what happens during the voting process.
I'm not French so I'm not allowed to vote in the Presidential elections.
After he voted, he came back to pick up Mathilde and myself and we headed out to Stanley.
The girls played at the newly revamped Stanley Plaza but it was so sunny and hot, places were quickly traded to enjoy a berry smoothy in a shaded nearby restaurant.
We then braved the crowds and pushed through the market street. Girls got a remote controlled helicopter which I'm sure will supply endless fun and ducking at home.
After all that navigating through the crowds, we decided to head to Chez Patrick for lunch.
I ordered the cheese platter with fig fois gras. I was dubious as I wasn't quite sure how the fois gras would taste. But when the plate arrived and we tasted it, it was delicious. The cheese was ' a point' and oozing every bit of goodness!!
Alex took some coq au vin and the girls had steak with chips - frites- and steamed vegetables. Before their food arrived they'd attacked the baguette and butter. Olivia then traded the butter for fois gras. Mathilde still didn't want to touch the stuff!!
It was complete chaos in the restaurant. No let me rephrase that. It was a Sunday lunch time, so families with kids and dogs in tow.
The restaurant grew rowdier and rowdier. Little boys were screaming because parents had brought them in from outside where they were free to run and scoot until their hearts content and now their parents wanted them to sit in a chair and what....eat!!
One little boy was hell bent on getting his scooter and leaving this joint. He went for his scooter about twenty times and tried each time to sneak past his parents. Each time the scooter was placed on the floor and he was shoved back into his chair. Like I said only to repeat this gesture about twenty more times - nerves of steel I tell you us parents need.
We looked on amusingly as for once our two were well behaved and were keeping each other entertained. Two of Mathildes friends from school were also there. So after a few mouthfuls of meat and chips they sat down on the floor, played and kept each other entertained therefore letting the twins parents enjoy their lunch. And everyone was happy - well almost everyone. The women in front of us was still chasing after her son and his scooter!
For the people on Hong Kong Island, voting took place at the French International School of Hong Kong.
Alex headed off with Olivia who wanted to see how the whole voting process 'worked'. At the moment they are learning all about the French Republic and what happens during the voting process.
I'm not French so I'm not allowed to vote in the Presidential elections.
After he voted, he came back to pick up Mathilde and myself and we headed out to Stanley.
The girls played at the newly revamped Stanley Plaza but it was so sunny and hot, places were quickly traded to enjoy a berry smoothy in a shaded nearby restaurant.
We then braved the crowds and pushed through the market street. Girls got a remote controlled helicopter which I'm sure will supply endless fun and ducking at home.
After all that navigating through the crowds, we decided to head to Chez Patrick for lunch.
I ordered the cheese platter with fig fois gras. I was dubious as I wasn't quite sure how the fois gras would taste. But when the plate arrived and we tasted it, it was delicious. The cheese was ' a point' and oozing every bit of goodness!!
Alex took some coq au vin and the girls had steak with chips - frites- and steamed vegetables. Before their food arrived they'd attacked the baguette and butter. Olivia then traded the butter for fois gras. Mathilde still didn't want to touch the stuff!!
It was complete chaos in the restaurant. No let me rephrase that. It was a Sunday lunch time, so families with kids and dogs in tow.
The restaurant grew rowdier and rowdier. Little boys were screaming because parents had brought them in from outside where they were free to run and scoot until their hearts content and now their parents wanted them to sit in a chair and what....eat!!
One little boy was hell bent on getting his scooter and leaving this joint. He went for his scooter about twenty times and tried each time to sneak past his parents. Each time the scooter was placed on the floor and he was shoved back into his chair. Like I said only to repeat this gesture about twenty more times - nerves of steel I tell you us parents need.
We looked on amusingly as for once our two were well behaved and were keeping each other entertained. Two of Mathildes friends from school were also there. So after a few mouthfuls of meat and chips they sat down on the floor, played and kept each other entertained therefore letting the twins parents enjoy their lunch. And everyone was happy - well almost everyone. The women in front of us was still chasing after her son and his scooter!
Chum Hom Kok beach
Tuesday was the 1st of May and with that brings a welcome break.
Because the weather has been so unpredictable over the last few days, we decided to plan a day out and see what happened.
Doing a bbq in Hong Kong is no easy task. If you're lucky enough, you can fling open your door and light up the barbi.
But like the majority of people here, we have no such luxury.
So its off to the beach. The car is packed because heaven forbid you forget a necessity!!.
We planned to meet up with friends and spend a relaxing day. We arrived at Chum Hom Kok which is normally a quiet beach just before Stanley. There's a monstrous amount of stairs to go down to get to this little piece of paradise. Add to that the sweltering heat and everything but the kitchen sink in our bags and as you can guess, we were off to a good start.
The girls were complaining.... too many stairs, too many bugs, too hot!!! So yes, any parent can only imagine!!
A sigh of relief when we finally made it to the beach. We quickly grabbed a bbq spot because anyone who has done this before in Hong Kong knows that the bbq pits disappear fast and today was no exception.
I'd told our friends about this beach because every time we have been, its been quiet with not too many people. But today it was crammed packed!! But then again driving back home we pass 2 other beaches and each one was just as full.
The guys set up the fire. What is it with men and a bbq?? I know mine rarely sets foot in the kitchen but give them an open fire and a grill and they are all over it. Anyway, no complaining here.
Cocktails on hand - yes, albeit in a plastic cup. We caught up, girls were smothered in suncream and let loose on the beach.
Sausages and chicken to keep the little ones happy and whole squid which was cooked to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon along with a whole snapper. It was delicious.
We built sandcastles, looked for shells, tried to save the little plastic fish that was washed out to sea, chatted, laughed and got really, really hot.
All in all a great day at Chum Hom Kok.
Because the weather has been so unpredictable over the last few days, we decided to plan a day out and see what happened.
Doing a bbq in Hong Kong is no easy task. If you're lucky enough, you can fling open your door and light up the barbi.
But like the majority of people here, we have no such luxury.
So its off to the beach. The car is packed because heaven forbid you forget a necessity!!.
We planned to meet up with friends and spend a relaxing day. We arrived at Chum Hom Kok which is normally a quiet beach just before Stanley. There's a monstrous amount of stairs to go down to get to this little piece of paradise. Add to that the sweltering heat and everything but the kitchen sink in our bags and as you can guess, we were off to a good start.
The girls were complaining.... too many stairs, too many bugs, too hot!!! So yes, any parent can only imagine!!
A sigh of relief when we finally made it to the beach. We quickly grabbed a bbq spot because anyone who has done this before in Hong Kong knows that the bbq pits disappear fast and today was no exception.
I'd told our friends about this beach because every time we have been, its been quiet with not too many people. But today it was crammed packed!! But then again driving back home we pass 2 other beaches and each one was just as full.
The guys set up the fire. What is it with men and a bbq?? I know mine rarely sets foot in the kitchen but give them an open fire and a grill and they are all over it. Anyway, no complaining here.
Cocktails on hand - yes, albeit in a plastic cup. We caught up, girls were smothered in suncream and let loose on the beach.
Sausages and chicken to keep the little ones happy and whole squid which was cooked to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon along with a whole snapper. It was delicious.
We built sandcastles, looked for shells, tried to save the little plastic fish that was washed out to sea, chatted, laughed and got really, really hot.
27 April 2012
Rain Rain Go Away!!
The weather lately here in Hong Kong has been fowl.
Sure its 27 -28 degrees but the wind and rain that comes with these temperatures makes it just down right miserable!
Rain here can creep up on you and before you know it, your flat is turned into a dark almost apocalyptic like zone with grey/green undertones.
Since living here, we've all grown accustomed to the hot humid weather Hong Kong has to offer. Hell even summer trips to France have us whipping out the mismatched gloves and jumpers.
While the family is splashing happily in the pool, my girls are dressed in woolies and complaining of the cold. Returning back to a european climate is going to take some getting used to.
Trying to get a taxi is almost next to impossible when the heavens open, so remember to always have an umbrella. I just love how when you really need a taxi to take your drenched body home, they are almost always 'out of service'.
So this week-end being a long one, yes my girls are off school yet again, we'll have to come up with things to keep them occupied and me sane!!
One thing that keeps my little Mathilde happy in this rainy weather is the endless supply of puddles that are left outside. Unfortunately the guardians and gardeners of our residence are less impressed with the muddy battlefield that's left after most of the kids have finished splashing.
Sure its 27 -28 degrees but the wind and rain that comes with these temperatures makes it just down right miserable!
Rain here can creep up on you and before you know it, your flat is turned into a dark almost apocalyptic like zone with grey/green undertones.
Since living here, we've all grown accustomed to the hot humid weather Hong Kong has to offer. Hell even summer trips to France have us whipping out the mismatched gloves and jumpers.
While the family is splashing happily in the pool, my girls are dressed in woolies and complaining of the cold. Returning back to a european climate is going to take some getting used to.
Trying to get a taxi is almost next to impossible when the heavens open, so remember to always have an umbrella. I just love how when you really need a taxi to take your drenched body home, they are almost always 'out of service'.
So this week-end being a long one, yes my girls are off school yet again, we'll have to come up with things to keep them occupied and me sane!!
One thing that keeps my little Mathilde happy in this rainy weather is the endless supply of puddles that are left outside. Unfortunately the guardians and gardeners of our residence are less impressed with the muddy battlefield that's left after most of the kids have finished splashing.
26 April 2012
Are You Seriously Asking Me That? Seriously?
My sister sent me this link.
It is so funny and so sad because for me this was my Olivia down to T.
Are You Seriously Asking Me That? Seriously?
It is so funny and so sad because for me this was my Olivia down to T.
Are You Seriously Asking Me That? Seriously?
12 April 2012
But mama, it's a synonym!!!
This morning Mathilde - who is 3 - said something what sounded like fright. So I said 'who got a fright?' She said no, raised her voice and said the same word again.
So I asked who had a fight?
She replied no, applied herself, smiled and said fart!!
That very word set Olivia off!! She was using that word in every way she could - this had them both shrieking with laughter.
I don't know if any of you know Pororo the little penguin? Mathilde watches it on Playhouse disney. I think its a Korean cartoon and in one of the episodes one of the characters 'Farts' yes they even use this word. I mean for a kids cartoon..... really!!
I laughed about it, Olivia noted that it made me laugh, so of course my two little girls love to say it.
I shouted from the kitchen that I didn't want them to use that word and urged them to use another.
Olivia was quick to reply ' but mama it's just a synonym'
And that was the end of that discussion.
So I asked who had a fight?
She replied no, applied herself, smiled and said fart!!
That very word set Olivia off!! She was using that word in every way she could - this had them both shrieking with laughter.
I don't know if any of you know Pororo the little penguin? Mathilde watches it on Playhouse disney. I think its a Korean cartoon and in one of the episodes one of the characters 'Farts' yes they even use this word. I mean for a kids cartoon..... really!!
I laughed about it, Olivia noted that it made me laugh, so of course my two little girls love to say it.
I shouted from the kitchen that I didn't want them to use that word and urged them to use another.
Olivia was quick to reply ' but mama it's just a synonym'
And that was the end of that discussion.
9 April 2012
Chocolate, Thailand, easter bunnies, cocktails, sunsets, laughs!
And thats only the beginning of April!
Happy Easter to all!!
We're back from our fabulous holiday.
We're relaxed and ready to take on the rest of the school year. Mind you, we've only been back a few days and I already feel the mile high pile of ironing breathing down my neck. The house needs cleaning and organising so I'm already feeling a tad over whelmed.
The girls are still on holiday for another week, so this week it's dentist and eye checkups - they are going to love me for that! Atleast they always come away with a gift when they get back from the dentist. No toothbrush or tacky tooth sticker here. They get disney princess bags and pencil cases, making any trip to the dentist well worthwhile for them!
The past week-end we made madeleines - which disappeared as soon as they came out of the oven. Little and not so little hands grabbed them from the madeleine tins. Dusted with icing sugar, they make a delicious anytime treat. And even though the food in Thailand was good, its always comforting to come home and have home cooked meals.
Now you see them....
Now you don't!!!
Madeleines are dainty little scalloped cakes that are found in France. I made little lemon ones that disappeared with two mouthfuls.
I have 2 metal trays of 12 back in France - I just love madeleine tins.
These cute little round ones were bought here in Hong Kong at a Japanese store.
My parents joined us on Easter Sunday for lunch and the ever so anticipated easter egg hunt.
We made our own little cornflake and rice choco covered birds nests, with jelly bean eggs.
And we even spotted the easter bunny!!
What more could one want!
29 March 2012
Bags are packed
And I have my very, ever so sexy compression stockings. Oh Dear Bejeesus!! And they are white. At the clinic, thats all they had. Mind you, camel or white they are still stockings that aren't "tres sexy".
The nurse was really friendly as she measured my legs. She said that I will proberly just need one of the normal sizes because if you have a different shape or size leg to the so called norm, they can make a pair especially for you. Now who's lucky to have a pair of compression stockings made especially for them and fit like a glove, uumm sausage casing!
I got mine from the Mathilda Medical Centre in Central and they are latex free. I've tried them and they feel OK, so lets hope all will be alright. My dr said that normally for short haul, we shouldn't have any problems.
Atleast now I know what to look out for. So any cramp or pain is going to have me totally paranoid.
The bags are cram packed. The girls have managed to get what ever they could into them.
Oh well, half the fun is in the packing and preparing the cases so I just let them get on with it. At least someone can have fun doing it!
I-pods and dsi is charged to hopefully keep them quite and occupied at some point.
As long as the essentials are in.
Mathildes blanket - check, camera-check, sunscreen-check and bikinis-check.
So here's to spending some quality time with my girls and my hubby, good food and just relaxing and not having to worry about a thing!!
Thailand here we come!!
The nurse was really friendly as she measured my legs. She said that I will proberly just need one of the normal sizes because if you have a different shape or size leg to the so called norm, they can make a pair especially for you. Now who's lucky to have a pair of compression stockings made especially for them and fit like a glove, uumm sausage casing!
I got mine from the Mathilda Medical Centre in Central and they are latex free. I've tried them and they feel OK, so lets hope all will be alright. My dr said that normally for short haul, we shouldn't have any problems.
Atleast now I know what to look out for. So any cramp or pain is going to have me totally paranoid.
The bags are cram packed. The girls have managed to get what ever they could into them.
Oh well, half the fun is in the packing and preparing the cases so I just let them get on with it. At least someone can have fun doing it!
I-pods and dsi is charged to hopefully keep them quite and occupied at some point.
As long as the essentials are in.
Mathildes blanket - check, camera-check, sunscreen-check and bikinis-check.
So here's to spending some quality time with my girls and my hubby, good food and just relaxing and not having to worry about a thing!!
Thailand here we come!!
Winnie the Pooh
Anyone with kids has probery watched Winnie the Pooh - a few hundred times at least.
When Olivia was about 2 years old,she was a Pooh bear fan. DVD's, teddies you name it. Everything was PB.
She has now long gone out grown these DVD's and Mathilde has never really been all that interested in the little bear who loves honey, until recently that is.
This week I dug to the back of the DVD drawer and pulled out all the PB movies determined to get my little Mathilde to sit through at least a few minutes - I mean seriously who doesn't like pooh? Yes, Ok I have a special place in my heart for Winnie the Pooh.
We started with Pooh's Heffalump movie.
She was engrossed. I loved watching her little face act out all the emotions that she went through with Roo and Lumpy. Her eyes lit up, she loved watching Roo and Lumpy run and play.
Ah, now I remember why I love them so much.
Olivia got home so we followed with Springtime with Roo then again the Heffalump movie.
Olivia, who hasn't watched these dvd's in donkeys years was hooked. I had the two of them living each and every move and emotion.
When Olivia was about 2 years old,she was a Pooh bear fan. DVD's, teddies you name it. Everything was PB.
She has now long gone out grown these DVD's and Mathilde has never really been all that interested in the little bear who loves honey, until recently that is.
This week I dug to the back of the DVD drawer and pulled out all the PB movies determined to get my little Mathilde to sit through at least a few minutes - I mean seriously who doesn't like pooh? Yes, Ok I have a special place in my heart for Winnie the Pooh.
We started with Pooh's Heffalump movie.
She was engrossed. I loved watching her little face act out all the emotions that she went through with Roo and Lumpy. Her eyes lit up, she loved watching Roo and Lumpy run and play.
Ah, now I remember why I love them so much.
Olivia got home so we followed with Springtime with Roo then again the Heffalump movie.
Olivia, who hasn't watched these dvd's in donkeys years was hooked. I had the two of them living each and every move and emotion.
26 March 2012
The count down.
Three days and counting!
End of March is finally here which means that we'll be jetting off to Thailand for a week.
This break will do us all the world of good.
Clear our minds and make the months after more bearable.
After much bending and twisting of my husbands arm to take a few days off so I could arrange this get-a-way, he finally gave in.
Just last night he said that he's so happy that I talked him in to taking time off as he really needs this break!
So here's hoping that next time he won't need persuading!!
The girls are really excited. Hell, so am I.
No cooking, cleaning, wondering what to make.
BLISS!!
Lazy days, sun, cocktails on beautiful beaches and having hubby all to myself with no phone.
Of course the girls want to take all their worldly possessions, so I'll have to pack and lock the cases before they get back from school.
Roll on Friday.
End of March is finally here which means that we'll be jetting off to Thailand for a week.
This break will do us all the world of good.
Clear our minds and make the months after more bearable.
After much bending and twisting of my husbands arm to take a few days off so I could arrange this get-a-way, he finally gave in.
Just last night he said that he's so happy that I talked him in to taking time off as he really needs this break!
So here's hoping that next time he won't need persuading!!
The girls are really excited. Hell, so am I.
No cooking, cleaning, wondering what to make.
BLISS!!
Lazy days, sun, cocktails on beautiful beaches and having hubby all to myself with no phone.
Of course the girls want to take all their worldly possessions, so I'll have to pack and lock the cases before they get back from school.
Roll on Friday.
20 March 2012
Childs play
What to cook for the kids is a question that is always on my lips! We want something that wholesome and good for them and at the same time something they will actually eat.
When it comes to food and eating, my girls are like chalk and cheese.
Luckily my eldest, Olivia has out grown her picky stage and is generally a good eater and appreciates good food.
Mathilde on the other hand has always loved her grub and has been a pleasure to feed and watch as she uum and yums as the food goes down.
The past week I've made this chinese dish twice packed with different vegetables and served with udon noodles.
Eating with chopsticks, somehow makes everything a whole lot tastier even though it does take a bit longer.
They have these plastic chopsticks that are attached at the top therefore making it easier for them to manipulate giving them a thrill when they realise they can eat with sticks.
I want to send one lucky reader one pair of these kid friendly chopsticks. Your kids will love trying to eat their food with them.
All you have to do is tell me whats your kids favourite food. I'll let you know who gets them next week Monday.
When it comes to food and eating, my girls are like chalk and cheese.
Luckily my eldest, Olivia has out grown her picky stage and is generally a good eater and appreciates good food.
Mathilde on the other hand has always loved her grub and has been a pleasure to feed and watch as she uum and yums as the food goes down.
The past week I've made this chinese dish twice packed with different vegetables and served with udon noodles.
Eating with chopsticks, somehow makes everything a whole lot tastier even though it does take a bit longer.
They have these plastic chopsticks that are attached at the top therefore making it easier for them to manipulate giving them a thrill when they realise they can eat with sticks.
I want to send one lucky reader one pair of these kid friendly chopsticks. Your kids will love trying to eat their food with them.
All you have to do is tell me whats your kids favourite food. I'll let you know who gets them next week Monday.
Pea and feta fritters.
I made these little beauties bursting with green goodness.
I had help from the trusted, helpful little chef, Mathilde. She loves cooking. Both of my girls do.
These were delicious. Olivia devoured them.
Mathilde was reluctant.
As much as she had fun making them, when it came to eating them, that was another story.
She loves flapjacks, peas and feta on there own but with it all being mixed together, she was so not having it.
The recipe called for basil. I had none so substituted it for a handful of fresh mint.
Ah, peas and mint a sublime combination.
Made into bite size portions, these would make a great aperitif.
The recipe is from a blog called A baby called Max
Green fritters
1 and a half cups of frozen peas (cooked)
1 and a half cups of self raising flour
3 spring onions finely chopped
75g feta cheese, crumbled
2 large eggs
a handful of mint , chopped
1/4 cup of milk.
Beat eggs and milk. Mix in flour and then rest of ingredients. Heat a pan and drop dollops of the mixture and leave to cook.
Bon appetite !!
I had help from the trusted, helpful little chef, Mathilde. She loves cooking. Both of my girls do.
These were delicious. Olivia devoured them.
Mathilde was reluctant.
As much as she had fun making them, when it came to eating them, that was another story.
She loves flapjacks, peas and feta on there own but with it all being mixed together, she was so not having it.
The recipe called for basil. I had none so substituted it for a handful of fresh mint.
Ah, peas and mint a sublime combination.
Made into bite size portions, these would make a great aperitif.
The recipe is from a blog called A baby called Max
Green fritters
1 and a half cups of frozen peas (cooked)
1 and a half cups of self raising flour
3 spring onions finely chopped
75g feta cheese, crumbled
2 large eggs
a handful of mint , chopped
1/4 cup of milk.
Beat eggs and milk. Mix in flour and then rest of ingredients. Heat a pan and drop dollops of the mixture and leave to cook.
Bon appetite !!
12 March 2012
Conjuncti - what?
Here we go again, off to our true and trusted paed.
Mathilde woke up with yellow, gunky eyes this morning. She could still open them so I guess thats a good sign. Followed by what sounded like an allergy caused cough - yes, I do consider myself quite the expert after 6 years of this malarky!!
We arrived on time and had a little wait, just enough to have a weigh in.
Confirmed, she has all of the above, so we collect all the meds that go with it. The pharmacist always jokes about how much I contribute to their well being and always invites my girls into the back and gives them a stash of sweeties. I think she tries to compensate a little to make me feel better about leaving a hugh amount each time.
I don't mind.
Their dr is always there, always takes the time and is a great doctor.
Moving to a new country every few years, this is always my number one priority - find a good doctor. If you don't and you have kids, you're officially screwed and your life won't get any easier.
Also no long cues at the pharmacy with a sick kid in tow. Here in Hong Kong the doctors office give you the meds directly. They have a pharmacist and she deals with you one on one. Ah pure bliss.
In the waiting room when we came out there was another little girl with red, swollen eyes. My guess.... a really bad conjunctivitis. Poor thing, she kept rubbing and rubbing. Luckily we've dodged this one.
I find that with Mathilde I'll quite easily let things ride out a bit. Not like with Olivia, I was at Dr Ranchod (her dr in south africa) every other week.
But some things are worth nipping in the bud. Luckily us mamas with our few years of experience and knowing our kids know when its time to get them to the dr!
Mathilde woke up with yellow, gunky eyes this morning. She could still open them so I guess thats a good sign. Followed by what sounded like an allergy caused cough - yes, I do consider myself quite the expert after 6 years of this malarky!!
We arrived on time and had a little wait, just enough to have a weigh in.
Confirmed, she has all of the above, so we collect all the meds that go with it. The pharmacist always jokes about how much I contribute to their well being and always invites my girls into the back and gives them a stash of sweeties. I think she tries to compensate a little to make me feel better about leaving a hugh amount each time.
I don't mind.
Their dr is always there, always takes the time and is a great doctor.
Moving to a new country every few years, this is always my number one priority - find a good doctor. If you don't and you have kids, you're officially screwed and your life won't get any easier.
Also no long cues at the pharmacy with a sick kid in tow. Here in Hong Kong the doctors office give you the meds directly. They have a pharmacist and she deals with you one on one. Ah pure bliss.
In the waiting room when we came out there was another little girl with red, swollen eyes. My guess.... a really bad conjunctivitis. Poor thing, she kept rubbing and rubbing. Luckily we've dodged this one.
I find that with Mathilde I'll quite easily let things ride out a bit. Not like with Olivia, I was at Dr Ranchod (her dr in south africa) every other week.
But some things are worth nipping in the bud. Luckily us mamas with our few years of experience and knowing our kids know when its time to get them to the dr!
6 March 2012
My little girl is destined to be on stage.
This morning she was standing in the lounge holding the flashlight on top of her head. She had drawn the curtains so it was quite dark. She called me and said she wanted the light to shine down on her and make a circle on the floor.
Who knows, a little star in the making??
5 March 2012
Pitter patter!!
We've always wanted three children. Well, since I was pregnant, I knew I wanted more and hubby has always wanted more.
When everyone is happy and heathy, its easy to get caught up in the ok, lets do it, moment. And the same goes for when everyone is sick and you're doing the night shift making sure fevers are down. And you think 'hell no!! No more'
Olivia, who is our first was a fairly easy baby. We lived in Switzerland and being away from family and friends and hubby only getting home late, it was just the two of us. Although she was easy going, I remember, on more days than one that as soon as hubby came through the door, I'd literally plop her into his arms and breathe a sigh of relief. Its physically and emotionally draining being the only one doing it all from morning 'til night.
It was hard. There's no doubt about it. No sugar coating here. Sure we all love our new borns but no-one prepares you for what you're about to go through.
Yes, there's the cute smiles, first girgles, all the milestone - check.
But with that comes the other so-called 'joys' of parenthood.
Sleepless nights, feeding every hour or so.
Nappy changing in the middle of the night and if you're lucky, whole pj changing because poo has either leaked from the legs or shot right up their backs.
Having breakfast for lunch and dinner well, yes dinner.
Consider yourself lucky to get a wash, brush your teeth and hair and out of your pj's before 12 o'clock.
Being able to go to the loo whenever you want and alone, the alone part gets worse as they get older!
Sore, leaking boobs.
Sleepless nights.
Feeling like a zombie during the day and did I mention complete lack of sleep, yip, I think I did. But that is what did me in! The lack of sleep.
But then we go and do it all again.
Yes, we do.
And..... I will.
We had Mathilde, our second when Olivia had just turned 4.
Before that, I, WE DID NOT FEEL READY!!!
Having a second baby was nothing like the first. You're calmer and cooler. You already have your routine with the older one. She goes off to school, baby gets dragged along to school, extra curricular activities, birthday parties you name it. You've been through the trips to the er, high fever and you try to deal with them in a calmer manner. No more rushing off to the paed for everything little thing.
As my mom so eloquently puts it.... she gets dragged up.
She was super easy, or maybe I just wasn't fretting so much.
Olivia has always been a great big sister and loves her little Mathilde. I was really worried about how she would react to her.
We always worry if the eldest will accept the new addition, if they'll feel left out?
That morning Alex went to get her to bring her to the hospital to see her little baby sister . She was mesmerised and asked all the usual questions, not many of them baby related. Whats that in your hand ( the drip ), why is she always asleep, when will you be home?
She then looked at me and said OK, we can go now! I said no your sister has to come with us. She replied ' No, she can just stay here'.
Well after that we thought we were in for a real trying time but.....no, not at all.
They get a long like a house on fire but sometimes, like with all siblings I have to step in and keep the roaring fire under control. Just keep the coals going and no flaring up!!
When Mathilde was smaller, we said we would try for another brother or sister a little earlier this time, seeing that it wasn't 'so' bad and all. It was surprisingly easy.
Easy in the sense of dealing with two children as opposed to one. Don't get me wrong, being a parent is by no ways easy. I have days where I just want to run away and scream!! But that's another topic.
The thing is, I know that this one will proberly be our last.
So the thought and excitement of maybe never being able to say ' Ok lets make a baby' , feeling pregnant and going through the pregnancy and actually bringing your little baby into the world again, to me, is a pretty sad and grim feeling.
The moment they are born and put onto your tummy for them to scamper up is just amazing. Tears of joy and the immense love you feel is just indescribable.
And then there's your partner.
Mine was amazing. He was so in control and calmed me many a time. I couldn't have done it without him! Sure its not him who has to get that wee one out, but then again we all we know that. But him being present and there for you makes all the difference!!
So yes, baby fever has officially struck the Leclercs!! Even the girls are talking about having a baby in the house.
Its all so exciting, don't you think??
When everyone is happy and heathy, its easy to get caught up in the ok, lets do it, moment. And the same goes for when everyone is sick and you're doing the night shift making sure fevers are down. And you think 'hell no!! No more'
Olivia, who is our first was a fairly easy baby. We lived in Switzerland and being away from family and friends and hubby only getting home late, it was just the two of us. Although she was easy going, I remember, on more days than one that as soon as hubby came through the door, I'd literally plop her into his arms and breathe a sigh of relief. Its physically and emotionally draining being the only one doing it all from morning 'til night.
It was hard. There's no doubt about it. No sugar coating here. Sure we all love our new borns but no-one prepares you for what you're about to go through.
Yes, there's the cute smiles, first girgles, all the milestone - check.
But with that comes the other so-called 'joys' of parenthood.
Sleepless nights, feeding every hour or so.
Nappy changing in the middle of the night and if you're lucky, whole pj changing because poo has either leaked from the legs or shot right up their backs.
Having breakfast for lunch and dinner well, yes dinner.
Consider yourself lucky to get a wash, brush your teeth and hair and out of your pj's before 12 o'clock.
Being able to go to the loo whenever you want and alone, the alone part gets worse as they get older!
Sore, leaking boobs.
Sleepless nights.
Feeling like a zombie during the day and did I mention complete lack of sleep, yip, I think I did. But that is what did me in! The lack of sleep.
But then we go and do it all again.
Yes, we do.
And..... I will.
We had Mathilde, our second when Olivia had just turned 4.
Before that, I, WE DID NOT FEEL READY!!!
Having a second baby was nothing like the first. You're calmer and cooler. You already have your routine with the older one. She goes off to school, baby gets dragged along to school, extra curricular activities, birthday parties you name it. You've been through the trips to the er, high fever and you try to deal with them in a calmer manner. No more rushing off to the paed for everything little thing.
As my mom so eloquently puts it.... she gets dragged up.
She was super easy, or maybe I just wasn't fretting so much.
Olivia has always been a great big sister and loves her little Mathilde. I was really worried about how she would react to her.
We always worry if the eldest will accept the new addition, if they'll feel left out?
That morning Alex went to get her to bring her to the hospital to see her little baby sister . She was mesmerised and asked all the usual questions, not many of them baby related. Whats that in your hand ( the drip ), why is she always asleep, when will you be home?
She then looked at me and said OK, we can go now! I said no your sister has to come with us. She replied ' No, she can just stay here'.
Well after that we thought we were in for a real trying time but.....no, not at all.
They get a long like a house on fire but sometimes, like with all siblings I have to step in and keep the roaring fire under control. Just keep the coals going and no flaring up!!
When Mathilde was smaller, we said we would try for another brother or sister a little earlier this time, seeing that it wasn't 'so' bad and all. It was surprisingly easy.
Easy in the sense of dealing with two children as opposed to one. Don't get me wrong, being a parent is by no ways easy. I have days where I just want to run away and scream!! But that's another topic.
The thing is, I know that this one will proberly be our last.
So the thought and excitement of maybe never being able to say ' Ok lets make a baby' , feeling pregnant and going through the pregnancy and actually bringing your little baby into the world again, to me, is a pretty sad and grim feeling.
The moment they are born and put onto your tummy for them to scamper up is just amazing. Tears of joy and the immense love you feel is just indescribable.
And then there's your partner.
Mine was amazing. He was so in control and calmed me many a time. I couldn't have done it without him! Sure its not him who has to get that wee one out, but then again we all we know that. But him being present and there for you makes all the difference!!
So yes, baby fever has officially struck the Leclercs!! Even the girls are talking about having a baby in the house.
Its all so exciting, don't you think??
27 February 2012
Times are changing.
My little girl is growing up.
There's no doubt about it.
Sure there's been the tell tale signs.....
Reading her books all by herself. Writing letters to her friends all by herself.
Listening to her music and singing and dancing.
Listening to our adult conversations, taking it all in and laughing at our jokes.
Today she put a poster of Justin Bieber that she found in his CD box , on her bedroom wall. She then went on to say that she wants all her scooby-doo, sponge bob and art off her wall and wants Justin posters everywhere, even on the ceiling!!
I remember my first music crush, do you? Mine was George Michael in Wham! Ah I was completely gaga over him. Just like she is over Justin. Only, I had him on tape and would listen to him with my bright red Sony walkman - do you remember those???
Or we would take our 'ghetto blaster' outside (if we had batteries in it) and we'd rehearse and then put on our show while our parents sat in what we thought awe! Now I know only too well how they actually felt.
But there is a cute side.
Mathilde puts on a zip-up jumper, pulls up the hood, crosses her arms and looks like a little gangster while swaying from side to side.
Olivia mimics his every move and I must say does a great job.
So all these are the tell tale signs that she's growing up and dragging my little Mathilde a long with her.
There's no doubt about it.
Sure there's been the tell tale signs.....
Reading her books all by herself. Writing letters to her friends all by herself.
Listening to her music and singing and dancing.
Listening to our adult conversations, taking it all in and laughing at our jokes.
Today she put a poster of Justin Bieber that she found in his CD box , on her bedroom wall. She then went on to say that she wants all her scooby-doo, sponge bob and art off her wall and wants Justin posters everywhere, even on the ceiling!!
I remember my first music crush, do you? Mine was George Michael in Wham! Ah I was completely gaga over him. Just like she is over Justin. Only, I had him on tape and would listen to him with my bright red Sony walkman - do you remember those???
Or we would take our 'ghetto blaster' outside (if we had batteries in it) and we'd rehearse and then put on our show while our parents sat in what we thought awe! Now I know only too well how they actually felt.
But there is a cute side.
Mathilde puts on a zip-up jumper, pulls up the hood, crosses her arms and looks like a little gangster while swaying from side to side.
Olivia mimics his every move and I must say does a great job.
So all these are the tell tale signs that she's growing up and dragging my little Mathilde a long with her.
23 February 2012
Keeping it real!!
Last week had me up at Olivia's school as she had a drs checkup. She didn't take her school bus because by the time she'd get home, we wouldn't have the time to go back into Central.
So to her delight, I had to meet her at her school gates.
Now in South Africa, Id take her every morning to the French School in Morningside. Here, to my relief, she hops on the school bus at our residence. At first I was reluctant about sending her on a bus but it is really well organised. In each bus there is a bus mother who see's to the younger kids, makes sure all seat belts are fastened and just makes sure that all behave on the ride to school.
After tasting the 'school bus route', it will be hard going back to moaning kids in the back seat. Millions of questions, asking for whatever they just dropped on the floor, needing to pee....I could go on.
So yes, hurray for school buses!!
I get to her school and approach the gates. I'm not the only English parent but you can spot the French parents a mile off. Jeans, ballerinas, t-shirt and jumper swung over the shoulders. Greet with the infamous bise and chit chat with a bit of air blowing and puffing!!
Then this lady literally 'pops' out of no-where. Between all the frenchies, helpers and mamas like myself who look totally peeved about having to wait at the gate with the joys to tackle yet another week-end with kids.
She's all smiles and then starts waving and shouting hello. Oh crap and yes, she was english!!
Her kids finally made it through the gate with some kind of goodie bag. She was talking so loud and was really a bit too much! Like 'oh yummy, whats that? Show mommy? You are so lucky. Lets get to the car so we can look inside and you can eat it all up. Its going to be so much fun.'
I'm like what the hell just happened??? Its already mid-term, your kids are older than 3 and for sure not their fist day at school, so there's definately no need for all this hoopla!
Come on people, we don't need this crap!!
We all know how it really is in the car with two siblings.
I want what she has and not what I have.
But the other wants what she has only to annoy the other one.
Tears. Laughs. Shrieks. And way too many MAMAs!!
Mine fell on the floor and I need it now.
On top of all this, horrendous traffic.
The i-pod earphones aren't long enough and one wants one song and of course the other wants a different one.
Olivia pulls the earphones just to nag her sister.
They have to just fight over the i-pod as there's no way we'll add Justin Bieber blaring out of the speakers into this already crazy and brain numbing situation.
So again, all bow to the beloved school bus!!!
So to her delight, I had to meet her at her school gates.
Now in South Africa, Id take her every morning to the French School in Morningside. Here, to my relief, she hops on the school bus at our residence. At first I was reluctant about sending her on a bus but it is really well organised. In each bus there is a bus mother who see's to the younger kids, makes sure all seat belts are fastened and just makes sure that all behave on the ride to school.
After tasting the 'school bus route', it will be hard going back to moaning kids in the back seat. Millions of questions, asking for whatever they just dropped on the floor, needing to pee....I could go on.
So yes, hurray for school buses!!
I get to her school and approach the gates. I'm not the only English parent but you can spot the French parents a mile off. Jeans, ballerinas, t-shirt and jumper swung over the shoulders. Greet with the infamous bise and chit chat with a bit of air blowing and puffing!!
Then this lady literally 'pops' out of no-where. Between all the frenchies, helpers and mamas like myself who look totally peeved about having to wait at the gate with the joys to tackle yet another week-end with kids.
She's all smiles and then starts waving and shouting hello. Oh crap and yes, she was english!!
Her kids finally made it through the gate with some kind of goodie bag. She was talking so loud and was really a bit too much! Like 'oh yummy, whats that? Show mommy? You are so lucky. Lets get to the car so we can look inside and you can eat it all up. Its going to be so much fun.'
I'm like what the hell just happened??? Its already mid-term, your kids are older than 3 and for sure not their fist day at school, so there's definately no need for all this hoopla!
Come on people, we don't need this crap!!
We all know how it really is in the car with two siblings.
I want what she has and not what I have.
But the other wants what she has only to annoy the other one.
Tears. Laughs. Shrieks. And way too many MAMAs!!
Mine fell on the floor and I need it now.
On top of all this, horrendous traffic.
The i-pod earphones aren't long enough and one wants one song and of course the other wants a different one.
Olivia pulls the earphones just to nag her sister.
They have to just fight over the i-pod as there's no way we'll add Justin Bieber blaring out of the speakers into this already crazy and brain numbing situation.
So again, all bow to the beloved school bus!!!
17 February 2012
Being a mama is so not for sissies!!!
Warning this post is not for the faint hearted eg, if you don't already have kids, therefore never been subject to most of these yuckies, turn away now!
Rushing into ER with puke bag in one hand and a grumpy babe in the other, snotty noses and the never ending production of green, white or clear flying snot. Vomiting. Diarrhea and vomiting.
Need I say more?
I'm just going to touch on childhood and all the ailments that hail with it. Oh boy is there some hailing!!
Kids and all the goriness that comes with them or ... them with it?
Firstly, the 'ailments' always start on a week-end, early evening (just to get you all hot and bothered for a rough night ) or during public holidays where your otherwise loving (because of how you contribute to her well-being) paed, is on holiday.
Lucky for me, I have her cell number, direct dial and incase of emergencies, she can calm my nerves and then see to my little girls.
Not so long ago, on a public holiday of course, Alex called to me from the bathroom 'Mathilde a des vers!!!
'Mathilde has worms!!
Me, rushing to the bathroom 'What, are you serious?'
As I got to the bathroom, he shoved the removable part of her pot towards me and there I saw them.
Wriggling, thin, thread-like white worms.
WTF? Get a grip!!
Mathilde is totally horrified at our discovery and has a worried look on her face. Seeing my mortified look when I looked at those little buggers proberly didn't help.
It's a Public holiday so I can't rush off to my paed in shining armour to fend of these nasties. So its off to the Canossa hospital (where we are regulars ), the nuns great us with a smile and tell say they remember us and how the little one has grown.
I think , well she would be growing more if she didn't have these gross little things doing the jig in her little belly!!
The dr asked 'so how can I help today?' He's proberly expecting the ever so common, coughing and fever, but no, not this little patient.
She has worms!
His eyes widened, yes, they widened!!
Him : 'How do you know?'
I was thinking, well there's no easy way of putting this, so just get it out.
Me : " I saw them when she went to the toilet"
He asked if she had the itchy bum syndrome, which she didn't.
So my new take on this is don't always wait for an itchy bum to check their poo.
No restless nights and no complaining of a sore tummy. None at all.
So after giving him a brief description of what I saw, his conclusion was..... pinworms.
Apparently not something they see often, but quite common. Kids scratch their bums, the eggs go under their nails and then they spread from dirty little hand to dirty little hand.
I'd never seen them before and I must admit they sent me into a tizz!!
I asked him to prescribe meds for the whole family.
At home, it was strip all beds, dressing gowns and any clothes that had been in touch with Mathilde's little tushy and put them on a very hot wash with some tea tree essential oils.
One week later, I went to her doctor to ask her about the worms and if I should use the other tablet the dr gave for a week later. She advised me to hold on the tablet as they are quite strong and if not needed, its better not to take.
So every other day, I make her use her pot and not the big toilet so that, well you know what.....
And so far, so good!!
Like I said, nerves of steel and a stomach of steel to go with them. That to me these are the quintessential qualities needed for us mamas.
Rushing into ER with puke bag in one hand and a grumpy babe in the other, snotty noses and the never ending production of green, white or clear flying snot. Vomiting. Diarrhea and vomiting.
Need I say more?
I'm just going to touch on childhood and all the ailments that hail with it. Oh boy is there some hailing!!
Kids and all the goriness that comes with them or ... them with it?
Firstly, the 'ailments' always start on a week-end, early evening (just to get you all hot and bothered for a rough night ) or during public holidays where your otherwise loving (because of how you contribute to her well-being) paed, is on holiday.
Lucky for me, I have her cell number, direct dial and incase of emergencies, she can calm my nerves and then see to my little girls.
Not so long ago, on a public holiday of course, Alex called to me from the bathroom 'Mathilde a des vers!!!
'Mathilde has worms!!
Me, rushing to the bathroom 'What, are you serious?'
As I got to the bathroom, he shoved the removable part of her pot towards me and there I saw them.
Wriggling, thin, thread-like white worms.
WTF? Get a grip!!
Mathilde is totally horrified at our discovery and has a worried look on her face. Seeing my mortified look when I looked at those little buggers proberly didn't help.
It's a Public holiday so I can't rush off to my paed in shining armour to fend of these nasties. So its off to the Canossa hospital (where we are regulars ), the nuns great us with a smile and tell say they remember us and how the little one has grown.
I think , well she would be growing more if she didn't have these gross little things doing the jig in her little belly!!
The dr asked 'so how can I help today?' He's proberly expecting the ever so common, coughing and fever, but no, not this little patient.
She has worms!
His eyes widened, yes, they widened!!
Him : 'How do you know?'
I was thinking, well there's no easy way of putting this, so just get it out.
Me : " I saw them when she went to the toilet"
He asked if she had the itchy bum syndrome, which she didn't.
So my new take on this is don't always wait for an itchy bum to check their poo.
No restless nights and no complaining of a sore tummy. None at all.
So after giving him a brief description of what I saw, his conclusion was..... pinworms.
Apparently not something they see often, but quite common. Kids scratch their bums, the eggs go under their nails and then they spread from dirty little hand to dirty little hand.
I'd never seen them before and I must admit they sent me into a tizz!!
I asked him to prescribe meds for the whole family.
At home, it was strip all beds, dressing gowns and any clothes that had been in touch with Mathilde's little tushy and put them on a very hot wash with some tea tree essential oils.
One week later, I went to her doctor to ask her about the worms and if I should use the other tablet the dr gave for a week later. She advised me to hold on the tablet as they are quite strong and if not needed, its better not to take.
So every other day, I make her use her pot and not the big toilet so that, well you know what.....
And so far, so good!!
Like I said, nerves of steel and a stomach of steel to go with them. That to me these are the quintessential qualities needed for us mamas.
14 February 2012
Chocolate dipped marshmallows.
I love quick and easy treats that have a wow effect, and these little beauties have just that!!
I first made a batch of these for Mathildes 3rd birthday party because, quite frankly, the food table was lacking something that tiny, sticky hands would gravitate to. And boy, did these nab attention!!
These hit the spot and were so easy.
So, when Mathildes school asked the girls to bring a sweet treat and the boys a savory for a recent party, I knew exactly what to make.
Just dip the marshmallows into melted chocolate and top with whatever takes your fancy!
He loves me, he loves me not.
Yes, its that time of year again.
You either love it or loathe it. For some it holds bitter sweet memories of past love affairs and for others, it comes with the thrill of a new love, new feelings.
When I was a little girl, the shops would fill with red hearts, plastic roses, teddy bears and chocolates.
I always wanted to be someones valentine. No one in particular (until a certain age of course), I just wanted someone to surprise me!
I waited eagerly for the dreaded V day, only to be let down with a great, big THUD! Sure, love isn't easy and for me, it by hell wasn't going to get any easier.
I remember coming home one day, sad and totally discouraged that I hadn't got a valentines gift, therefore no-one loved me!
My dad went out and bought my sister and myself one of those plastic roses (that you found at CNA) that I Oh so wanted and which for me (at that time, I was about 9 years old) was the biggest valentines gesture ever. A red heart pillow and valentine chocolates.
For me, thats why dads are little girls heros. He made us feel special. He was and still is always present and will always do whatever they can to make their children feel truly loved.
Even if it means buying them a bit of plastic and chocolate!
Later in life, I never really cared for Valentines day. But that is all to do with bad choices and how I always steered towards the bad boy when honestly all he does is treat you like crap. All the heartache and things that went on during my final two years of high school turned me into a cynical person. I didn't trust any guys and just kept an eye out for myself, after all, no one else was looking out for me.
Its then that I met Alex. He is the complete opposite of any one I'd ever dated. But behind my wall that I'd built, he was the kind of person I enjoyed being around.
He calmed me, he soothed me.
I drove him crazy (not in a good way).
But we (he) stuck it (me) out and in the end, I could just be myself.
I could be Stacey.
There were times when I felt I had to push him away because maybe I would get hurt. I was scared.
I was nasty.
I hurt him.
I hurt me.
Luckily, he knew me.
I didn't have to protect myself. He showed me that this would be fine. That we would be fine. That he wouldn't hurt me.
It was good.
He was good.
For our first valentines day together, he'd arranged and enormous vase of roses and a beautiful necklace. We were living in Lesotho at the time, so this was no easy task and required a lot of thought and for me, a lot of love to actually take the time to do this for me. Sure we were young, crazy and in love but not everyone does this for their other half. Not everyone takes the time to think about their other half's feelings.
After years pass, its easy for a relationship to lose its spark or its "je ne sais quoi!!"
Its easy to just take each others feelings and doings for granted. We need to acknowledge each other and the things we do.
Its not easy. Add to the equation kids, work and housework and you have a recipe for disaster if you don't take your partners feeling into consideration.
Yesterday, my little Olivia got a Valentine card from her best friend Kyle. She loves him something terrible. When I checked the post box yesterday and I saw his envelope, it warmed my heart. I knew it would warm hers!!!
Love yourself, don't be too hard on yourself and if any of you have a guy that just treats you like crap....move on. We are all worth it and shouldn't settle for someone who treats us like sh$t.
So tonight for dessert , I'm making Alex an apple croustade. No fuss and no chocolate.
Throughout the year we always turn to choco cakes as they are the absolute favourite of Olivia, Mathilde and myself. He rarely has a look in, so today, this is especially for him.
There's nothing more simple.
Puff pastry, a homemade apple compote (left a little chunky), sugar and an egg wash. Bake in preheated oven (220 degrees C) until golden, crispy and oozing sexiness!!
You either love it or loathe it. For some it holds bitter sweet memories of past love affairs and for others, it comes with the thrill of a new love, new feelings.
When I was a little girl, the shops would fill with red hearts, plastic roses, teddy bears and chocolates.
I always wanted to be someones valentine. No one in particular (until a certain age of course), I just wanted someone to surprise me!
I waited eagerly for the dreaded V day, only to be let down with a great, big THUD! Sure, love isn't easy and for me, it by hell wasn't going to get any easier.
I remember coming home one day, sad and totally discouraged that I hadn't got a valentines gift, therefore no-one loved me!
My dad went out and bought my sister and myself one of those plastic roses (that you found at CNA) that I Oh so wanted and which for me (at that time, I was about 9 years old) was the biggest valentines gesture ever. A red heart pillow and valentine chocolates.
For me, thats why dads are little girls heros. He made us feel special. He was and still is always present and will always do whatever they can to make their children feel truly loved.
Even if it means buying them a bit of plastic and chocolate!
Later in life, I never really cared for Valentines day. But that is all to do with bad choices and how I always steered towards the bad boy when honestly all he does is treat you like crap. All the heartache and things that went on during my final two years of high school turned me into a cynical person. I didn't trust any guys and just kept an eye out for myself, after all, no one else was looking out for me.
Its then that I met Alex. He is the complete opposite of any one I'd ever dated. But behind my wall that I'd built, he was the kind of person I enjoyed being around.
He calmed me, he soothed me.
I drove him crazy (not in a good way).
But we (he) stuck it (me) out and in the end, I could just be myself.
I could be Stacey.
There were times when I felt I had to push him away because maybe I would get hurt. I was scared.
I was nasty.
I hurt him.
I hurt me.
Luckily, he knew me.
I didn't have to protect myself. He showed me that this would be fine. That we would be fine. That he wouldn't hurt me.
It was good.
He was good.
For our first valentines day together, he'd arranged and enormous vase of roses and a beautiful necklace. We were living in Lesotho at the time, so this was no easy task and required a lot of thought and for me, a lot of love to actually take the time to do this for me. Sure we were young, crazy and in love but not everyone does this for their other half. Not everyone takes the time to think about their other half's feelings.
After years pass, its easy for a relationship to lose its spark or its "je ne sais quoi!!"
Its easy to just take each others feelings and doings for granted. We need to acknowledge each other and the things we do.
Its not easy. Add to the equation kids, work and housework and you have a recipe for disaster if you don't take your partners feeling into consideration.
Yesterday, my little Olivia got a Valentine card from her best friend Kyle. She loves him something terrible. When I checked the post box yesterday and I saw his envelope, it warmed my heart. I knew it would warm hers!!!
Love yourself, don't be too hard on yourself and if any of you have a guy that just treats you like crap....move on. We are all worth it and shouldn't settle for someone who treats us like sh$t.
So tonight for dessert , I'm making Alex an apple croustade. No fuss and no chocolate.
Throughout the year we always turn to choco cakes as they are the absolute favourite of Olivia, Mathilde and myself. He rarely has a look in, so today, this is especially for him.
There's nothing more simple.
Puff pastry, a homemade apple compote (left a little chunky), sugar and an egg wash. Bake in preheated oven (220 degrees C) until golden, crispy and oozing sexiness!!
He came home with an enormous bunch of pick and mix flowers to make a bouquet 'tres rustique'. But after Mathildes coughing episode last night, they'll have to continue their sejour on our balcony.
8 February 2012
Kung Hei Fat Choi!
Happy Chinese New Year of the Dragon!!
Just when you think the end of the year celebrations are over, we are hit with yet another.
Luckily for us, it doesn't involve rushing around thinking of gifts and going out to buy them (phew, the bank balance has time to recover).
But this holiday is a MEGA celebration for the chinese.
Bonus for us, as we have almost a whole week off work :)
But as usual, when you use the words 'off work and holiday' in the same sentence as 'have kids', we usually end up with words like ..... fever, neurofen, doctor, sleepless nights, coughing, hearing mama every 10 seconds and the list goes on.
What seems to be the norm for Chinese New Year, the weather was rotten and really cold. A record 7 degrees. Hong Kong hasn't seen temperatures like this in 16 years. Hats, scarves,gloves and coats were dug out of drawers and put to good use.
We took time out to go and watch the 25 minutes fireworks display. But because of the lack of wind and extremely humid air, not much could be seen as a smoke cloud accumulated and hid the bright colours against the Hong Kong skyline. After that we headed back to Belair with 2 sleepy little girls.
Here's a little bit about Chinese New Year.
In China , its also known as the spring festival as it marks the end of the winter season.
People here splurge on presents, decorations and lets not forget, food.
Red and gold is everywhere.
Plum blossoms are found in almost every buildings lobby and are decorated with little packets inscribed with well-wishes. These symbolise good luck.
Just when you think the end of the year celebrations are over, we are hit with yet another.
Luckily for us, it doesn't involve rushing around thinking of gifts and going out to buy them (phew, the bank balance has time to recover).
But this holiday is a MEGA celebration for the chinese.
Bonus for us, as we have almost a whole week off work :)
But as usual, when you use the words 'off work and holiday' in the same sentence as 'have kids', we usually end up with words like ..... fever, neurofen, doctor, sleepless nights, coughing, hearing mama every 10 seconds and the list goes on.
What seems to be the norm for Chinese New Year, the weather was rotten and really cold. A record 7 degrees. Hong Kong hasn't seen temperatures like this in 16 years. Hats, scarves,gloves and coats were dug out of drawers and put to good use.
We took time out to go and watch the 25 minutes fireworks display. But because of the lack of wind and extremely humid air, not much could be seen as a smoke cloud accumulated and hid the bright colours against the Hong Kong skyline. After that we headed back to Belair with 2 sleepy little girls.
Here's a little bit about Chinese New Year.
In China , its also known as the spring festival as it marks the end of the winter season.
People here splurge on presents, decorations and lets not forget, food.
Red and gold is everywhere.
Plum blossoms are found in almost every buildings lobby and are decorated with little packets inscribed with well-wishes. These symbolise good luck.
Let not forget the little kumquat bushes which are everywhere.
Doors and windows are decorated with paper cutouts and inscriptions of wealth, health,prosperity and longevity.
According to the chinese myths and legends, the beginning of the Chinese New Year started with the fight against the Nian.
On the first day of the New Year, Nian would come down from the mountains and feed off villagers and their livestock.
The villagers would lock their doors and place food outside to protect themselves. One day, a child was wearing red and scared the Nian away. Since then the colour red was used to warn off the Nian. Firecrackers were lit and loud gonging on drums were also used to keep the Nian at bay.
So every year for the Chinese New Year, red lanterns, scrolls and decorations are hung to ward off bad luck.
In our residence, they put on the traditional lion dance. After the dance, the lion goes to each lobby where he goes around and then 'eats' the pack of leek, carrot and celery that's been hung from the entrance. Only to 'spit' it out. Apparently if you catch the leaves, you'll have good luck for the rest of the year.
These people were amazing. So young but ever so talented.
Lets not forget the Lai see or little red envelopes. These hold an even number amount of money. Traditionally they are handed out to children and young, single people.
We give to the concierge and anyone who helps out when they see me struggling along with 2 kids, pushchair and shopping bags - tipping up the pushchair :)
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