A Day in My Shoes

I have been away for quite a while these days. I wonder where has my blogging mojo disappeared to, oh, I do miss my old glory days of blogging. Forgive me for I have been very very very occupied with work and planning the wedding (What else, right?)

I have to admit, I have a lot on my plate these days. Life has got too hectic and at times, chaotic. I’ve been sharing more of my life on my private Instagram account. In my opinion, Twitter and Instagram definitely killed my blogging mojo. Another reason for my decreasing interest in blogging is privacy issue. Maybe I perasan (A malay word to describe a vain or paranoid person, depending on the context) too much that somewhere out there, I am being stalked. Whoa. I value my personal life so much these days, I am kinda reluctant to share it with the world.

Maybe I care too much about other people’s opinion. Well, this is my blog and if those people don’t like it, well, hard cheese. So, anyway, here are some quick updates in the life of me… In pictures of course:

A sneak preview of our pre-wedding photo shoot. Credits to Fazli Taufek

Oh dear. Pre-wedding photo shoot is harder than I thought. Believe it or not, I am very camera shy. When someone else takes a photo of me, I am always awkward looking and stiff. Thank you Fazli Taufek for being so patient with us.

DIY facial treatment. I have yet to find a suitable place to get my bridal spa done.

I’ve been told by my relatives I should go for bridal spa. Apparently, I need a whole lot of massaging (To burst all the unwanted stubborn fat and firm any areas that ought to be pointing and sticking out like the bum and boobs for instant), scrubs (To get rid of unwanted impurities and make me very fair), steam, bath and facials (Dark under circles, uneven skin tones, puffy eyes, zits etc) in order to be the perfect trophy bride for the wedding. Honestly, this does not bother me at all but when I really give it a good thinking, I feel obligated to look perfect. *In denial*

Still in the process of getting the right design for the invitation card

I am absolutely frustrated with the printing industry in Kuching. The amount they charge for a decent looking luxury-ish card is absolutely daylight robbery. Excuse me, RM15 for a lousy card? My arse. Without a doubt, the invitation card shouldn’t cost too much. Shouldn’t be too fancy. But hey, everyone’s a critic! It is hard to please people and Aslan and I are quite tired. If those critics provide some sort of help, we wouldn’t mind the comments. But, as usual, talk only mah. *Rolls eyes* We found a good printing company in Kuching and we are still tweaking the invitation card here and there.

Another issue that irks us very much is our choice of color. For the wedding reception, we’ve chosen red as the theme. And the comments came rolling in the moment we chose red for the invitation card (So it will match the wedding theme).

“Red… Isn’t that too Chinese?”

Goodness. Up to now, I don’t know how to react to such remark. It is ridiculous. Red reflects passion. It is luxurious. Prosperous. Full of energy and youth. What’s wrong with choosing red? Just because we’re Malay, doesn’t mean we have to stick to ‘Malay’ color such as green or brown. That’s plain racist. Meh. At least we didn’t choose any neon colors for the wedding, that would be a grand sight! Hahaha.

I am 85% confident that I will achieve the almost perfect bridal body. Taken during the Easter weekend in Singapore

I’ve been pushing myself more in terms of dieting/exercising after finding out I have two freaking months left before the big day arrives. I have my reasons why I want to lose more weight. First of all, it is not about vanity. I mean, looking good is part of losing weight. The real deal is health. You see, after the wedding, Aslan and I intend to start a family as soon as we can. (Frankly, kinda weird to be discussing about my ovaries online… Hahaha) My ideal weight is 73kg while my current weight is 83kg.

Some people would argue that at the height of 177cm, my weight is actually decent but I beg to differ. I am still overweight. One day, when I am expecting a baby, I predict that I will gain at least 10kg (Or more but I hope not!) and that 10kg will be a hell of a bitch to get rid off unless I do something about it now. Therefore, if my weight were to be 75kg at time of pregnancy, after birth, I would be around 83-85kg. Besides, an ideal weight plus BMI will ensure both safety for mother and child.

I work out underwater, y’all. Just kidding lah.

I wish I could be more hardworking but the most I do is jogging and well, lifting weights (Or what I call shopping for groceries… Hahaha. Just kidding!)

Still busy with choosing things for the bridal room. Almost done.

Our future love nest is finally taking shape and we are very happy with the renovation. The only thing left is furniture shopping. The hard part is not over yet! Been going around so many furniture stores and ohhhhhh, where do they sell awesome resort theme furniture in Kuching??? So sad. Wish us lots of luck!

Anyway, will blog more soon, I have so many things to settle before jetting off for a friend’s wedding this weekend.

Love,
E.

P/S: I am thinking of changing my domain to something more me. I am getting tired of the Borneo Girl. Another sign of aging, I suppose? Boohoo…

3 comments

March 17, 2013

Asian Fare at Puzzle, Pullman Kuching

If If you are a fan of Asian food, Puzzle Cafe at Pullman Hotel Kuching has something for you! Their dinner buffet offers a variety of Asian dishes from Japanese, Korean to Taiwanese and a bit of local affair. Not forgetting desserts!

For starters, you are spoiled with the likes of salads, soups and cold and warm appetizers.

Octopus Salad

Tuna Salad

Meat Loaf Terrine

Marinated Jellyfish

Chicken Platter Salad

Smoked Duck Breast

Lamb Meat Slice

Seafood Terrine

A lot of sauce to choose from to give your dishes that extra boom

If you are still not full from all that, go on and check out the main course!

Fish Teriyaki

Beef Meat Slice

Salad bar

Stir fried spicy squid

Beef Bulbogi

Duck with Goma Antari Sauce

Salmon Teriyaki

Japanese Fried Rice

Stir fried french beans

Vegetables with braised beef tendon

Baked Salted Prawn

Soft shell crab tempura

Chicken Rice

A variety of noodles; soba, udon etc

Taiwanese Beef Noodles

Wanton

Mixed tempura

On demand tepanyaki

Dim Sum

To think that’s it, wait until you see the desserts!

Cupcakes

Home made ice cream

Biscuits

Fresh local fruits

Chocolate muffin

Red bean porridge

Hot barley

Chocolate Fondue Fountain!

Definitely full like a python after this buffet spread!

For more information or reservation:

Pullman Hotel Kuching,
1A Jalan Mathies,
93100, Kuching, Sarawak,
Malaysia.
93100 Kuching, Malaysia

Tel. (+60)82/222888
Fax. (+60)82/222999
Email: H6332@accor.com

Website: http://www.pullmankuching.com

1 comment

March 14, 2013

Of Honeymoon(s)

After every congratulations regarding the upcoming nuptial, the first thing family/friend would ask is, “So, where’s the honeymoon going to be?”

I think that question is expected. Before the engagement, the question was, “When are you two getting hitched?” After the wedding, I bet people will be asking “Pregnant, yet?” After kids, “Any plans for more kids?” and more questions relating to the children after that. From this, I can say that people’s expectations are completely too high.

If money was not an issue, Aslan and I would have spent ten days or more just doing completely nothing at the beautiful and heavenly island of Bora Bora in Tahiti.

Ah, this is the life. Just lazing around under the sun and enjoying the gorgeous views of what Mother Earth has to offer in Bora Bora.

Anyway, Aslan and I have chosen a few destinations for the honeymoon. We both have different views of what makes a honeymoon. Hence, our honeymoon destinations feature a wide variety of activities to cater to our needs.

The reason why we have a couple of destinations instead of one is due to the fact we both want to see the world before we settle down and have a family (Or tied down to work).

Ten days after the wedding, we will leave Kuching for somewhere down under for a couple of days. A short honeymoon thanks to Air Asia’s promo seats! What would we do without budget airlines?

On the second day of Raya Aidilfitri, we will fly to halfway around the world for the second part of the honeymoon and our third wedding reception with Aslan’s mum’s family.

From there, will fly to another country across the pond to continue the third and epic part of our honeymoon. It will be a mixture of city and island life. Oh, I can’t hardly wait!

Lastly, before heading home, the last part of our honeymoon, in the land of K-Pop and Kimchi (Among other things).

After typing all this, I must be crazy for dreaming up all these things. Hahaha.

Seriously loves, Aslan and I are not 100% sure about our honeymoon destinations. You will just have to wait and see!

Love,
E.

2 comments

March 11, 2013

Kuching Station

One thing I miss about Miri is their epic Nasi Lalapan. It is something like the famous Ayam Penyet but the sambal is more hardcore spicy. So spicy, it is freaking good.

When I found out Nasi Lalapan is Kuching Station’s speciality, I was over the moon happy!

Located just opposite The Hills Mall, Kuching Station is a casual dining venue with good comfort food.

A cute silhouette of a cat between Kuching and Station. How cute is that?

Clean open air seating

Photos of a variety of Nasi Lalapan decorate the payment counter area

The main star of Nasi Lalapan dish is the sambal. The sambal determines everything. I’ve been told they have toned down the spiciness of their sambal. Apparently, Kuching folks can’t handle the original level of spiciness. Honestly, I’ve tried Nasi Lalapan in Miri and I cried whilst having it. It was pure tears of joy, despite the burning pain on my tongue. Hahaha.

Anyway, even with the less spicy version, it is still spicy enough to make you dance around on your sit as you wait for your new order of cold drink.

Nasi Lalapan Ayam (Chicken)

Nasi Lalapan Daging (Beef)

Nasi Lalapan Burung Puyoh (Quail)

Kuching Station use the best and organic ingredients in their Nasi Lalapan dishes. The beef and chicken are fried well and yet not too dry and that retains the flavor. The veges are lovely, not overly cooked. The sambal is divine!

Being a vegetarian whom occasional takes seafood, I am thankful for Nasi Lalapan. Why? Apart from beef and chicken, they have a variety of seafood option!

Nasi Lalapan Ikan Bawal

Nasi Lalapan Ikan Tongkol

Nasi Lalapan Ikan Keli

If you are not adventurous enough to try the Nasi Lalapan due to the spicy sambal (But if you don’t try, you will never know!), Kuching Station has other meals to offer such as Nasi Lemak and Roti Canai to name a few.

The craziest dessert trend these days is Pisang Goreng Cheese with Ice Cream and well, Kuching Station’s version does not disappoint!

Available in small or large!

All Mirians out there who miss home, do check out Kuching Station’s Nasi Lalapan dishes, there are the closest thing to Miri! Everyone else, challenge your tastebuds to something new!

Love,
E.

3 comments

March 9, 2013

The Baking Itch

I realized I have completely abandoned my blog due to my hectic schedule. I have got a few interesting entries coming up soon, so stay tuned.

For now, I will share a cupcake recipe sweet tooths everywhere will enjoy; Crunchie Cupcake.

I love Cadbury’s Crunchie. If you don’t have a clue what that is, let me enlighten you (However I am pretty sure you guys are very familiar with this chocolate bar). Crunchie is basically honeycomb bar thinly covered in chocolate.

Crunchie goodies and yet my teeth aches a bit at this sight. Oh well, once a while, this sweet treat is alright.

Crunchie reminds me of the sweet days I call childhood. Once in a while, my dad would treat me to a bar of Crunchie every time he finishes work. His small gesture meant a lot to me. Crunchie at that time was pricey and the fact that my dad, who earned little that time, bothered to buy me one. In a way, his way of telling me he loves me. Then again, how can one ever measure love with a bar of chocolate? Anyway, you get my point lah.

This recipe is easy but I am quite disappoint how the frosting didn’t turn out well. I used Hummingbird Bakery vanilla cupcake as a base and then simply add in chopped crunchies into it. Of course, I cut down the amount of sugar so that it would not be overpowerly sweet.

Vanilla cupcake:

Mix flour (120g), sugar (100g), baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoon), a pinch of salt and butter (40g)

Once you achieve a sandy consistency, gradually pour half the milk (60ml/120ml) and beat until the milk is well incorporated.

In a separate bowl, mix one egg, vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon) and remaining milk before pouring it into the first mixture. Continue beating until mixture is smooth.

Chop two bars of Crunchie (50g per bar) and slowly mix into the mixture. You can also add one tablespoon of honey to the mixture.

I enjoyed chopping the Crunchie bars, the honey chocolate smell filled the kitchen, oh so heavenly!

Spoon the mixture into paper cases until two thirds full and bake in the preheated oven (170c) for 15-20 minutes.

Before

After

Chocolate frosting:

Beat the icing sugar (300g), butter (100g) and cocoa powder (40g) on slow speed until well mixed.

Slowly add milk (3 tablespoon) to mixture and beat for at least five minutes until light and fluffy.

(I found out why my chocolate frosting was a bit too runny, I used 40 g of butter instead of 100g, doh!!!)

Cupcakes can be garnished with chopped Crunchie. Serve with a smile and oh, life will be sweet!

The end product, the frosting could be better but oh well, flawed cupcakes taste better anyway.

Love,
E.

2 comments

February 27, 2013

Krabi

My 26th birthday was quite a special occasion. Aslan flew me to the moon and back. Well, honestly, I wouldn’t have enjoyed the trip if it was really the moon but it was somewhere nice and by the sea. Krabi, Thailand.

It was a total surprise. He only told me about it once we reached LCCT. I was asking him why weren’t we waiting for the cab to the city and then he showed me the ticket. Meh. Luckily, he did tell me to pack some swimsuits and dresses. Phew.

Some highlights from my Krabi escapade:

I love Thai cuisines and in Krabi, the food is good but expensive.

Papaya Salad with Chicken Wings

Prawn Pad Thai

At our hotel restaurant… Good Thai food but oh so pricey. Average RM45 per person for lunch. Meh.

Behind me is the hotel we stayed at, Anyavee Thubkaek Beach.

The resort we chose is nice but a bit far from the touristy town of Ao Nang. Therefore, when it comes to food and shopping, a bit limited but if you are here for relaxing, not that bad. The view of the beach is amazing though. The Hong islands look majestic!

Working while holidaying. Oh yeah… Hahaha.

Posing near the altar where we eloped here in Thailand. Just kidding. :p

Yours truly in ‘capturing photo for Instagram’ action

How Krabi got its name: Lots of crabs on the beach. Hehehe.

Pre-Valentine pose. Love birds, y’all

Hong Islands

Aslan brought me on the four islands tour. It is a nice tour but I wish there was less people. Sad to see how these beautiful islands are being polluted due to overcrowding of tourists. Hope they manage this tourism industry very well, especially in taking care of mother nature.

Hair blowing in the wind, speed boating around the four islands is nice but a bit bumpy. Trust me.

Beautiful place, unfortunately, too crowded for my liking.

Clear water, you can see the fishes!

I finished one whole book throughout the tour. That’s what I call a nice holiday. Wouldn’t be perfect without a good book in hand!

Some of the crowd…

Without the crowds, such a magnificent place. Is this how Maldives is like or even better? I can only imagine.

I’d like to imagine I was in Hawaii…

Chicken Island.

Since the water was so polluted, I didn’t bother snorkeling.

A floating cafe!

Poda Island: Very packed!

With all the caucasian tourists, doesn’t look like we’re in Asia anymore, does it?

After one whole day of island hopping, I got a birthday surprise from the hotel management!

The next day, we went to Thai Charm Cooking School. We learned how to prepare and cook Tom Yang Gung, Papaya Salad, Pad Thai, Green Curry Paste, Green Curry and Sticky Rice with Mango. Such a fun class and our teacher, Cook, is so friendly and funny. Aslan and I are now certified Thai chefs!

Before class began… A smile and a pose!

Aslan showing off his skills.

Apparently I don’t need to learn how to cook… That’s what I’ve been told lah.

Smile and pose before we eat what we’ve cooked

Prawn Pad Thai by yours truly

Papaya Salad

Prawn Tom Yam

Vegetarian Green Curry

Sticky Rice with Mango

I had such a wonderful time in Thailand, always have and always will, I am really thankful for such lovely birthday gift too. Aslan, you truly make me feel special. I love you!

That’s all from me!

Love,
E.

1 comment

February 20, 2013

Kopi O Corner, Kubah Ria

Operating since 1992, this is Kopi O Corner’s third branch. The first branch situated at Satok (Next to MARA building just nearby St Joseph’s primary school) while the second latest branch is at Kota Samarahan, just directly in front of UNIMAS.

A digital menu to add a bit of modern detail in the decoration and of course for the ease of the customers

Being in the food industry is not easy. Therefore, 21 years is definitely an achievement. Kopi O Corner newest branch at Kubah Ria is still the same style of dining, casual eating of comfort and good food. Kopi O Corner has a wide variety of food to offer and today I had the chance to try some new menu.

Nasi Goreng Ikan Terubok Masin

This dish is a favorite of Rapik’s. A simple but healthy meal, the salted Terubok fish does goes well with the midin fried rice. The sambal takes the whole thing to a new level. Need I say more? If I am not mistaken, the style of the fried rice is aruk, or fried dry, meaning less oil or sometimes, none at all.

Mee Kampua

This dish is a very popular dish in Sibu. There was a time when it actually make headlines in the newspaper because of a certain political group. Kopi O Corner’s take on this epic dish is not bad. Perhaps I am not accustomed to Kopi O Corner definition of the dish but it is worth the try if you are looking for something new to try.

Bakso Ayam

Another simple but whole meal. This Indonesia dish may look ordinary but paired with the right amount of sweet soy sauce, chili and vinegar, it will knock your socks off. Nothing is as delicious as simple food.

Mee Jawa Kambing

The owner of this homegrown franchise, Norlia insists on coming up with new and yet delicious dishes. So, after thinking long and hard about it, she finally came up with this epic dish, Mee Jawa Kambing. The lamb is so tender (According to Aslan) and it adds more flavor to the already flavorful Mee Jawa. If did take meat, I’d have this every time I go here. Too good!

Nasi Ikan Terbang

The Flying Fish rice. As lyrical as the name sound, this is a very simple dish that requires a special device to cook it. It is basically battered tillapia fish served with sambal and rice.

Siomaw Bandung

I like this dish very much. Simple but filling. Steamed cabbage, potato, chicken meatballs and fish balls topped with peanut gravy. Almost like gado-gado lah.

Apart from these dishes, Kopi O Corner also have their nasi campur selection and other dishes like Nasi Ayam Bakar and their most popular dish, Prata Roll.

Nasi Ayam Bakar Kopi O Corner

According to Aslan, the chicken is well marinated and tasted good. Looking at this picture, I am quite tempted to stop being vegetarian. Hahaha.

Prata Roll

Available in either beef, chicken or sardine, this dish is actually a rolled filled roti canai topped with three sauces and plus, it looks pretty too. Hehehe.

I always welcome new recipes, it never fails to excite my taste buds. Furthermore, it adds more variety to Kuching food.

Cheers to the next branch, Kopi O Corner!

Love,
E.

3 comments

February 14, 2013

26

I turned twenty-six today at a very magical place with the one I love most. I couldn’t ask for more.

Ineffable happiness.

Happy Valentine’s day to you!

Love,
E

February 7, 2013

Kafe Rumah Hijau, Kuching

Dining in a homely spot is truly special but when the food you eat makes you feel good, now, that is truly divine. I’ve always been a fan of Kafe Rumah Hijau at Rubber Road. It is such a cosy restaurant and the food is totally hands down, one of the best in Kuching.

Whether you are a fan of Nasi Ayam Penyet, roti (bread) in all of its variety or desserts, Kafe Rumah Hijau is the place to go.

I only find out that they have extended the opening hours at night. They are now open for business from 6pm-11pm. Last time, they were only open from 9am-5pm. So, this is a revelation, indeed!

However, except for roti, their menus for morning, evening and desserts differ according to availability. Don’t worry though, their food will always be top notch and well, if you have a certain favorite dish, just remember the important days!

So, here are the highlights of what Kafe Rumah Hijau has to offer to foodies everywhere…

Desserts:

I like to start with something sweet first. Salina Md Salleh, both owner and executive chef for Kafe Rumah Hijau, prepares all the desserts by herself using the best ingredients and better yet, freshly made everyday. It is hard to pick a favorite, they are all lovely.

Cadbury Chocolate Cake

This cake reminds me of the sinful chocolate cake in the movie version of Roald Dahl’s Matilda in which, one of the kid was forced to eat a whole chocolate cake because he stole the principal’s cake. Don’t get me wrong though, this is a praise because as a child, every time I watch Matilda, that scene will break my heart because I’d like to go through the same punishment too. The things I would do for a chocolate cake… Hahaha.

If you are absolutely clueless on what am I talking about, kindly view the video below.

Oreo Cheesecake

I like my cheesecake and when there is Oreo, it is such a perfect matrimony. Kafe Rumah Hijau’s version of this popular dessert is delicious and not too creamy, which is good.

Horlick Cheesecake

A new favorite of mine. Then again, I am in love with Horlick, so this does not count. Absolutely original, I must say. Do give it a try when it is available in store.

Cakes galore!

Without the help of my friends, I would have had the Bruce moment too. Oh God, moderation! (Although this does not necessarily works during a food tasting)

Main dish:

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: Nasi Ulam Ayam Percik
Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: Nasi Briyani
All time favorite: Nasi Ayam Penyet

Nasi Ayam Penyet

Before my vegetarian days, Nasi Ayam Penyet is a favorite of mine. It is a very simple dish consisting of white rice, steamed/boiled vegetables with dipping and a very tender fried chicken top with a more delish garnish. Gah.

Morning menu:

Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng
Nasi Lemak Ayam Penyet
Rojak India
Mee Kari
Laksa Penang
Mee Goreng Ayam

Mee Kari with Fried Chicken

This is my favorite dish (Now I take it minus the chicken) because it is not as fattening compared to Mee Jawa. Hehehe.

Evening menu:

Nasi Mandhi Ayam
Nasi Mandhi Kambing
Nasi Lemak
Bakso Daging
Bubur Ayam
Tom Yam Ayam
Kuay Tiaw Seafood

Nasi Mandhi Ayam

Nasi Mandhi Ayam is the Arabic inspired version of the Nasi Briyani. Chicken is well marinated and almost honey glazed.

Drinks:

Kafe Rumah Hijau has an extensive list of drinks but these three are what I think are unique and delicious.

Horlick+Milo, Teh C Peng Kafe Rumah Hijau and Teh Tarik Halia

If I were to list out all of their roti menu from canai, thosei, tisu, boom etc, it will be really long. Here are just some of the popular dishes from their Roti menu.

Roti Boom Garlic Cheese

It is actually deep fried canai with garlic and cheese. So good, it made me forgot about my diet. Drat.

Roti Boom Banana, Chocolate and Cheese

Once you try this, your world will never be the same again.

Murtabak ayam

Roti Tampal Telur

Muglay Ayam

If you want something different, the Muglay Ayam is nice. It is actually deep fried murtabak. Very popular dish too.

Dessert Thosei!

And finally…

Giant Roti Tissue!

It is crispy and chewy at the same time. And oh, the combination of butter and sugar is so good. Gah.

Kafe Rumah Hijau is still a favorite of mine even after all these years. I have good news for you Kafe Rumah Hijau enthusiasts… But I can’t announce it just yet. Have to wait and see!

Love,
E.

1 comment

February 6, 2013

Happiness is a Plastic Card

Look what I got in the mail today?

Sereni & Shentel ‘s Loyalty Program!

*Screams like a little girl*

I can’t hardly wait the next surprise from Sereni & Shentel! Oh, they have gone such a long way and I am super proud of them. My idols!

This is how we all should do business, entrepreneurs out there, take note and strive for success!

Love,
E.

2 comments

A Day in My Shoes

April 14, 2013

61 Days and Counting

March 17, 2013

Asian Fare at Puzzle, Pullman Kuching

March 14, 2013

Of Honeymoon(s)

March 11, 2013

Kuching Station

March 9, 2013

The Baking Itch

February 27, 2013

Krabi

February 20, 2013

Kopi O Corner, Kubah Ria

February 14, 2013

26

February 7, 2013

Kafe Rumah Hijau, Kuching

February 6, 2013

Happiness is a Plastic Card

Follow “A Day in My Shoes”