Kitchen Improvement Project - JUST GLIDE IT!

For years now, my pots and pans are pretty much stashed away in the storage cabinet after use. Not in the neatest way, might I add. When the one I want is right at the bottom, you can imagine how I'd have to first move away everything that's on top of it. Did I mention having to bend down on a daily basis for this pots and pans retrieving affair? WAIT, WHAT? You find this familiar too? That makes the two of us. **high 5**

A few weeks ago, I decided enough was enough. I should put a stop to this daily torture in the kitchen. As I was thinking of ideas, my eyes zoomed in on my spice carousel. It's a neat ensemble all right but I've always felt it's an eyesore I must get rid of some day. I could put a nice potted plant to jazz up the corner instead or simply free up the space. There is the Bekväm spice rack from Ikea which can be had for a song, I know. The problem is, Ikea is under construction in Canberra as we speak. It is slated to open only in Sept. Should I wait? Patience isn't my strongest suit. 

So, what's a wife to do?

I tossed around some ideas, putting on a look of desperation that emphasised how I would love a more organized pots and pans storage system and a suspended spice rack - PRONTO. My husband fished out his iPad, made some research and headed to the DIY store. He loves exploring home improvement ideas as a hobby, so my dire straits bounced him off the wall.

Fast forward to a few days later.

From this...

TAA-DAAA!

... to this!

I was expecting something very simple but I was blown away by this super cool pots and pans organizer. It's so neat and professionally done. My husband is meticulous like that. I AM EPIC ELATED! **happy dance**

We call it Just Glide It.

Lovingly designed, crafted and constructed by my husband from scratch.

Just Glide It - a smart storage solution which every kitchen needs

Made from sustainable prime wood and other materials, Just Glide It is an excellent pots and pans storage system, which is so neat, practical and stylish all at once. No more struggling for a utensil, no more mess. It is easy to fix and use, and even easier to love - a clever cabinet-grade solution that every proud home owner should have.

As for the spice rack, I'm a very happy bunny. 

The spice carousel was fine and innocent but I wanted something SUPER FINE which will also clear up the space in this corner for a decorative item or to put my utensils on when I'm cooking

A suspended rack means I can still have easy access to my spice bottles without them acting like an eyesore and taking up space unnecessarily

My neighbour loves the spice rack so much that he would like one for his kitchen as well. We're the sort of neighbours who look out for each other, so my husband is going to customise one for him as a gift. He was also highly impressed with Just Glide It. "It's sophisticated and very well made!" he said. As soon as his wife confirms her interest, he is going to place an order for one. Awesome possum!

Just Glide It is available for sale in Australia. To purchase or for more information, simply email us at justglideit@gmail.com. 

Just Glide It is proudly Australian owned and made.

Autumn Leaves Art for Preschoolers

Autumn in my yard

I heard a desperate scream when I walked past our storage area this morning. "I'm suffocating! Does anybody care?!"

I went to investigate.

It was the art storage drawers - bursting at their seams from the mighty stacks of art work done by Cookie since the time she was able to sit up. In numerical terms, it's three years' worth of doodling, finger painting, paintings with various objects, crafts and so on. Extrapolate that by a frequency of about two to three times a week of art activities both at home and at her playgroups and playschool.

I've been holding on to every single piece like a forlorn lover refusing to let go of her beau's hand. No wonder even the drawers are screaming. I clearly need to detox the storage spaces. Like, pronto.

 

Until then, here's to more art work.

If you live in a tropical climate, don't let the absence of autumn be a show stopper to try out this art project with your little one. It is one of my favourites for Cookie. It teaches her about colour combination and to colour within boundaries, as well trains her in fine motor skills and dexterity. It is so simple to do and looks stunning in the end. The best part is, it is rather hassle-free to put together and uses a piece of scrap which would otherwise end up in the bin.

THIS. Yes, this.

The humble toilet paper roll tube.

Grab a few of these tubes. Simply cut out rings of about 3cm each. Gently bend each ring into an oblong-like shape. Other things you would need: glue, a coloured paper (I used yellow), a white drawing paper, paints (in autumn colours eg red, orange, green) and paint brushes.

By looking at the following photo, I'm sure you will be able to figure out the steps to assemble the items for your little artist. So, I won't bore you with the details. Just remember to glue the petals (the oblong shaped pieces) onto the paper and give them some time to dry before painting.

TA-DA! The result of Cookie's hard work. From a humble beginning to a frame-worthy autumn art masterpiece :)

I would love to see the outcome of your little one's effort. Send me your photos via email at lovepgblog@gmail.com. I'll be delighted to put up their masterpieces in a future post.

Have fun!

{PROMOTION} What Men's Shoes Say About Them - According to Me

When Marilyn Monroe said, "Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world", she probably didn't believe that shoes make the man. Who can blame her? Unlike women who can never have too many shoes, shoes tend to be an afterthought for most men.

Guys, inhale deeply. Exhale.

Good.

Now, read on.

Researchers at the University of Kansas found that people were able to correctly judge a stranger's personality traits just by looking at the person's shoes.

BAM! Shoes are a source of first impressions, guys. They aren't a trivial fashion accessory as you thought they were. They communicate everything about you.

These shoes are made for talking. Part of my husband's shoe collection.

With that, I am going to give it a shot and read you like an open book based on your shoes. Then, you tell me if I have been spot on or missed the bull's eye.

Deal? DEAL.

Loafers

Image conscious and high maintenance. You take pride in personal grooming from head to toe and nail the smart casual look like no one can. In tune with the latest trends, your friends count on you for shopping and styling tips. You admire Cristiano Ronaldo for his sartorial splendour more than for his sporting talent.

Sandals

Discounting the fact that sandals are a practical footwear solution for the sweaty, tropical climate (still, not an excuse to wear only sandals for all occasions), you are nonchalant and feel comfortable in your own skin. You're laid-back and do not see why you should succumb to societal pressure.

Boat Shoes

You are a conservative guy who holds fast to family values and tradition. But that doesn't mean you aren't capable of making people laugh with your silly jokes; you do so when in the right company. You're versatile and well-read. In all that you do, including fashion, you choose comfort over everything else.

Brogues

These shoes are always a visual delight. As the wearer, you are traditional, stable, confident, dependable and self-conscious. The husband and father material. Very often, you dress stylishly and maintain a pulled-together look. You are knowledgeable about diverse topics. You are also a gentleman and a loyal friend who knows how to show yourself (and hopefully others) some respect.

** Brogues are my favourite. Read to the end. I have great news for you. **

Sneakers (the Converse kind)

Easy going, simple and low-key. You don't take yourself too seriously, are fun loving and get along well with everybody. You are young or young at heart and a cool mate to hang out with.

Utility Boots

You are either a real hiking enthusiast who extends your passion to your fashion or a guy who hasn't climbed a flight of stairs for a while but wants to look like a toughie. Seriously, we're going to the burger joint for a quick bite, do you really need to wear those shoes?

Crocs Classics

Uhm. I'll just let the pictures paint a thousand words for this one.

Well, how did I fare as a 'shoe psychic'? :)

Now that you know how much your shoes can say about you, it is time I bring you some GOOD NEWS.

You can now up your stylish factor and confidence level by a few notches easily with brogues. Yes, brogues! Didn't I tell you they're my favourite men's shoes?

Here's the thing. The good people at Sole Perfect have put together a winning formula to bring you premium quality men's shoes at a fraction of the high end boutique prices. The shoes are handcrafted from high quality European leather by skilled artisans. Sole Perfect is the sole distributor of FURANO shoes in Singapore.

Especially for my Love Pray Grow readers, 

Sole Perfect is giving 10% discount for all purchases 

made on their website/Facebook

from now until 30 June 2015. 

This offer is open to all Love Pray Grow readers 

in Singapore and internationally.

Ladies, you're wondering what good this is for you, I know. How about rewarding the man in your life with a great gift from Sole Perfect this Father's Day? Might I add, a meaningful gift which speaks volumes of his personality without even saying a word.

Shoes by Sole Perfect

To enjoy this special offer, just follow these simple steps:

1. Like Love Pray Grow on Facebook
(Click here to get to the page)

2. Like Sole Perfect on Facebook
(Click here to get to the page)

3. Shop online at www.soleperfect.sg (you will be directed to their Facebook page. Don't worry, that's where you get in touch with them and buy from)

4. Quote "lovepraygrow" when making payment

That's all you need to do.

If you have further questions, Sole Perfect will be happy to assist. Just get in touch with them on their Facebook page today.

With your new pair of stylish brogues from Sole Perfect, you will be letting your feet do the talking.

Good talking, that is.

17 Out-of-the-House Activities for 1 to 3 Year Olds

I spent the first decade of my life in a rustic community, affectionately known as 'kampong' in pre-modern Singapore. I count playing in the drain, climbing trees and exploring an abandoned ship by the sea shore as among my regular childhood activities. As the youngest of 10 children in the family, I was never without a playmate. There were also numerous childhood friends who were always game for spontaneous play right into dusk every day. We were young, wild and free not zombified by sophisticated gadgets which didn't exist then. In fact, the lack of material possessions pushed our creativity and sense of wonderment to infinity.

Unfortunately, the sylvan surroundings which was the canvas of my childhood is now long gone. It has paved the way for an ultra modern metropolis that Singapore is known for today. I hold my awesome childhood memories close to my heart like they are valuable treasures.

Singapore's ultra modern skyline at night

When Cookie was born, I wasn't sure what the temperate climate and surroundings of her birthplace Canberra, Australia would contribute to her childhood but I knew I wanted her to be in and with nature as much as she could. I came across a research evidence which said exposure to natural environment improves children's cognitive development by improving their awareness, reasoning and observational skills. I can't remember now from which source that information originated.

As it turned out, her three and a half years of childhood thus far has been no less thrilling than mine, perhaps even better. I couldn't be more delighted with God's beautiful creations that abundantly surround this place we call home.

In case you too are seeking ideas to fill the memory bank for your 1 to 3 year olds - inexpensively - here are 17 out-of-the-house activities to consider, which Cookie enjoys (and we enjoy doing them together as a family):

1. Exploring Nature

Cookie (left) and friends in their make-believe world as farmers tending to their bumper crop

From fallen acorns and fresh blossoms to mud, when in nature, Cookie will explore everything around her. I watch as her creativity flows. Enjoyment is evident on her face after each outing in nature, no matter how heavily soiled her clothes and shoes become in the aftermath.


2. Joyride to the Countryside

(Photo credit: Feel Grafix)

The nearest farmland and picturesque countryside is a mere 5 mins drive away from our house. The road also leads to a quaint village of less than 20 houses with a vintage 1950s gas service station and coffee shop to boot. Along the way, herds of cattle and sheep can be spotted grazing the meadows with majestic hills and mountains lining the background. I often do live commentaries for Cookie as she shoots endless questions on what she sees along the way.


3. Feeding Water Birds

Water birds eagerly obeying Cookie's instruction to gather for lunch

One of the most stunning pond and parks (to me) is located at our doorstep. Well, 2 minutes drive away, to be exact. The generous sized pond is home to numerous ducks, purple swamphens, black swans and geese. Cookie always looks forward to coming here and reminds us to bring pieces of bread so she could feed the water birds. She chases the ducks around the grass area and hears the goose let off an intimidating "hiss" when he isn't too pleased with not getting his share of the bread lunch.

4. Walking in the Park

Cookie soaking in nature's beauty at the park near our house  

This is our family's favourite activity. Walking in nature gives children a great opportunity to observe and learn, as they connect their senses to the environment. It is also a free and healthy activity which guarantees everyone a first class ticket to slumberland at night!


5. Riding Bicycle/Tri-Scooter

Cookie (right) and her best friend cycling at the park in front
of our house

When Daddy gave Cookie a bicycle for her 3rd birthday, she took to it like duck to water. It's amazing how cycling can boost children's confidence and physical strength. It is undoubtedly a fun activity that empowers them with the sense of independence they desire. 

6. Visiting Petting Zoos, Bird Aviaries and Farms

Cookie giving her favourite lamb a gentle stroke at the
petting zoo

I find these places to be more exciting than the bigger and more commercialised zoos. Children get to be up, close and personal with friends from the animal kingdom. They learn to feed the animals and overcome any fear they might have about them. Cookie never gives up on the chance to touch and give the animals gentle strokes. Very often, petting zoos exhibit for free at community events and during the school holidays. So, it's a winner for the wallet too!


7. Amusement Rides

Daddy and Cookie at Luna Park, Sydney

Every child desires a ride on the giant ferris wheel or merry-go-round. While they can be big on fun, amusement parks can also be impractical budget- and age-wise. I look for the kind which offers a wide selection of rides suitable for Cookie's age. You know how it is with big name attractions that charge astronomically but do not cater very much to preschoolers or younger. I avoid them until such time when Cookie is older.


8. Indoor and Outdoor Playground

Cookie climbed to the very top of this 5 metre high web
for the first time and unassisted. My heart raced to my throat!

Playgrounds, indoor or outdoor, and adventure parks offer children endless fun and thrill. Cookie's favourite at the playground is the swing. She always pleads with us to push her high "into the clouds". She also loves exploring obstacle courses like this giant cobweb, flying fox and wall climbing. 


9. Fruit Picking

Australia's "Cherry Capital" is located just 2 hours drive away from us. Cherry picking is one of our highlights in summer. Loads of delicious and succulent cherries to haul home, all freshly picked directly from the trees at the cherry farm. Cookie takes pride in those that she picks. She also helps to pick apricots and plums from our backyard trees in summer. From tree to tummy - it's truly organic. Fruit picking is also a teachable moment, as children can learn about the ecosystem, tree planting and life cycle.


10. Playing in the Snow

Cookie and Daddy having snow fun at Perisher Valley, NSW. 

Every winter, we look forward to a trip to the snow mountains, which is a short drive away from home. In addition to hours of fun, the surroundings make for a picture-perfect memento - no professional photography skills necessary, just a water-resistant camera will do. This is also the time to build as many Olafs as Cookie desires!


11.  Seaside & Swimming

(Photo credit: Sudocream)

There are no beaches where we live but a trip to the nearest coast takes only 2 hours by car. It is our must-do activity in summer. Soaking in the blue water, listening to the waves crashing and building sand castles are always fun for the whole family. Summer is also the time when Cookie will ask for repeated trips to the swimming pool. It is hard to reject such requests especially when the cold seasons here can plunge to below freezing point, leaving us with little hope for a dip in the water then. 

12. Library Activities

Cookie tuning in attentively during a reading session at the library

The benefits of reading are well known. Even though we read a wide variety of books at home everyday, I bring Cookie to the library every week for the reading and crafting programme as well as to borrow books. It is a good social activity which also trains children in listening and attention skills.

13. Joining Playgroups

Cookie at her weekly multicultural playgroup

Playgroups are a great place for children to socialise with peers of similar age as them. They also learn to follow a routine albeit informally (play, sing, read), which is an early training for preschool and beyond. Cookie attends 3 playgroup sessions every week, each with a different theme such as multicultural, backyard farm and sports, all of which she enjoys.


14. Ballet Lessons

Pink is the order of the day at Cookie's ballet class

Although I was actively involved in sports and music as a child and knew the direct benefits of such activities, I promised myself I would not jump on the bandwagon of signing up my child for every music and movement class including ballet at a very young age. But look at me now. Never say never. My main intention of enrolling her in ballet is to give her a head start on a leisure activity that will hopefully shape her into an all rounded individual. I am glad that Cookie adores going for her ballet lessons. She also shows potential in singing and has a good sense of rhythm.

15. Junior Gym

The more challenging the obstacles, the more Cookie enjoys

Cookie's sense of adventure continues in her weekly kinder gym. I enrolled her in this sporting activity as a means for her to follow a disciplined structure and be physically active in a fun and informal setting. It is also an activity which helps to build children's confidence and agility.

16. Grocery Shopping

(Photo credit: Brunch & Budget)

This is not possible all the time especially when I am rushing for time or when Cookie needs her afternoon nap. Otherwise, it is an educational trip where I get asked tons of questions such as "why are some food in the freezer, some on the shelves?" or "why do capsicums come in so many colours?" Admittedly, I do not always have the answer to all the questions. These days, she also relishes the chance of playing cashier at the self-checkout.

17. Movie at the Cinema

(Photo source: Pinterest)

A few weeks ago, I brought Cookie to watch "Shaun the Sheep The Movie" at the cinema for the first time. I had expected her to last for only the first 30 minutes, as "threenagers" are notoriously fidgety. To my surprise, she remained in her seat for the entire duration of the movie, asking if we could catch another one at the cinema soon. She enjoyed the big screen and surround audio. "It made me feel like a big girl," she confessed.

An Open Letter to My Mother

Dear Mum

Ever since dad taught us children how to pray, I’ve never let a day slip by without asking God to grant the both of you eternal love and mercy, which you both thoroughly deserve. Today is no different.

Even though your tireless devotion to the family is undoubted, I’ve never pondered deeply into it until I became a mother myself. I was pregnant with my first child at the same age as you were pregnant with me, your 10th. The scoreboard read 10:1 in your favour. I felt instantly defeated. Each time I struggle with the myriad of responsibilities that come with being a woman and feel tempted to complain, I think of you.

As a young mother, you lived in an era where water for domestic use must be collected daily from the well, disposable diapers were unheard of, washing machines were few and far between and you had none, oil lamps were used to light the darkness, and meals were manually prepared at home not helped by any sophisticated appliances, which now adorn our modern kitchens, sometimes uselessly. In short, everything that I do domestically now, you did them 10 times more and a lot harder then. So, how could I complain?

As a child, I listened to your captivating stories of how you pulled through trying times and I bore witness to some of them. You took everything in your stride with utmost faith that God would provide. Dad was the sole breadwinner while you stayed home to manage the domestic affairs of our very large family. By today’s standards, it seems like a mammoth task, which only the fittest could survive. Your marriage is the epitome of exceptional teamwork between two soulmates who not only complement each other perfectly but who also ride out the storm in solid unity. It wasn’t until I encountered a very rough patch in my life that you shared with me about the ups and downs of your own marriage. Above all, you never once hinted about stress but regarded everything as part and parcel of married life. You made me realise that my problems were so trivial and solvable, that I needed to toughen up. I wished for just 1% of your magnanimity and patience, which were the cornerstones of your successful and lasting union with Dad. Alas, my life story has been predestined and because of your relentless prayers, I am blessed.

Your world crumbled when Dad – the absolute love of your life and your rock – passed away. I was only 16 then and struggling with the huge blow myself. He was the wind beneath my wings. Even as you grieved, you were concerned that I was not too affected by the loss as to neglect my studies and well-being. You gave me one of Dad’s clothes, which he had worn before his passing, just so I could keep him close to me even if it was metaphorically. You reminded me of this Hadith and asked that I continue to pray for him:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 

“When a man dies, his good deeds come to an end, except three: 

ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge and 

a righteous offspring, who will pray for him.” (Muslim)

As I mature into an adult, I desired to emigrate and told you about my plan. You said very little and stared into space. I was so consumed by my own excitement that I didn’t realise how despondent you had become. Still, I felt you should be happy for me to start a new life in a new place, insisting on the common adage “to love is to let go”. I must admit that my mental frame then had been brainwashed by clichés. While battling your emotions, you gave me your blessings all the same.

Now that I am thousands of miles away from you, my heart cries each time you end our telephone conversation with “I love you and I pray everyday that you are in God’s care and protection always no matter where you are.” Your prayers are like soft, shady clouds under which I find solace. For that, I am incredibly lucky and forever grateful.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 

“Three supplications will not be rejected by Allah: 

the supplication of the parent for his/her child, 

the supplication of the one who is fasting, 

and the supplication of the traveler.” (Tirmidhi)

I treasure all the moments we had together. We both loved taking joy rides around town in my car, often stopping for meals at your favourite spots. You have always been extremely unassuming despite having a very famous media personality and multi-award winner for a son. I recall how a relative had been quite excited by the buzz of his popularity that she introduced you to people not by your name but by the fact that you were your son’s mother. You kept your cool and remained unfazed by the attention.

Words can’t express my gratitude to you for all that you have done for the family. I felt I still have some unfinished business with regard to providing care for you now that you are in your golden years and we are apart. I seek your forgiveness for all my shortcomings and wrongdoings, which are like the foam on the sea. May God guide me to serve you in the way He knows best and may He bless my siblings who have been watching over you.

Today, when I look at Cookie, I see you. She bears a resemblance to you which appears obvious in many of the photos I have taken of her. Her presence in my life makes me appreciate you even more. I have started telling her about God’s existence and generous mercy, and taught her prayers for filial piety, some of the numerous important values and lessons you and Dad had taught us very early in our childhood. These days, Cookie says with conviction that God is in her heart everywhere she goes. I look forward to teaching her Iqra’ in time to come. As a champion Quran reciter during your youth, you will be an easy inspiration for her.

I love you more than you know. Your place in my heart and in my life is irreplaceable. Thank you for showing me what selflessness, resilience, forbearance, humility, fairness and unconditional love are without even defining them verbally.

“My Lord! Bestow on my parents Your Mercy as they did bring bring me up when I was young.” (Quran 17:24)

Love
Your Daughter

7 Maternity Advices I Would Give to Myself

Her megawatt smile, flowy tresses, flawless make-up and pretty dresses as she waved graciously to the eager media camping outside the hospital looked very delightful.  All while perfectly balancing a newborn in her arms and having her doting prince charming of a husband by her side, in the recent case, just 10 hours after delivering her cute little girl.  As if born with a magical wand, she charmed her way through childbirth, making it seem like an effortless, painless and stylish process. Twice over.

If you haven't already guessed, I am talking about Kate Middleton.

As I've learnt, reality can be quite different when you aren't a Duchess and have no bevy of helpers to cater to your postnatal fancies. Throw in the fact that you have just relocated to a new country and are still unfamiliar with its healthcare protocol. You're also a first time mother-to-be with no access to help and support from immediate family and close friends who are thousands of miles away. That was me about three years ago. Fortunately, my husband had been such a great help throughout. The maternity and medical services where I lived were also nothing short of excellent. Like a premeditated plan, my then new neighbour next door was an experienced postnatal masseuse. Put all those together, I seemed to have my most basic maternity needs covered. Praises to God.

But still, if I could do it all over again and given my living arrangements, here's what I would advise myself to do:

1. Stay in the hospital for as long as you're allowed to 
As soon as I regained some strength from the rather long non-epidural natural labour the morning after, I asked the nurse when I could be discharged from the hospital. "Everything looks fine with you and baby. You can go home today, tomorrow or the day after... it's up to you, whenever you're ready," was her kind and reassuring reply. I chose to go home that afternoon, 12 hours after delivery. BIG MISTAKE. The avalanche of new responsibilities and demands of caring for a newborn start immediately when you get home. It left me with zilch opportunity to properly recover and rest from the major tiredness and pain of labour (of the birth kind).

2. Use all the available help and do not attempt to do everything on your own
I was offered help numerous times by the nurses in the ward. I didn't know what got into me when I decided to get up and shower all by myself, just 5 hours after delivering my baby, blood stained clothes notwithstanding. I saw stars and was lucky that I didn't pass out. Don't be a heroine. Get help.

3. Assign a maternity ward photographer
When you're battling a prolonged contraction and your husband is busy lending you his support because you have turned into an aggressive boxer (weird things happen in the maternity ward), taking selfies is the least of your and his concerns. Get a trusted someone to snap your significant moments, preferably discreetly too. You don't want a trigger happy paparazzi in the same room who will annoy and aggravate your pain. I am now living with regrets of not capturing my entire labour experience in photos and videos. You just can't rewind such moments once they're over.

4. Fly in a relative to provide care and support
I had underestimated the demands of becoming a new mother big time. I thought I could handle it together with my husband's help. Boy, was I wrong! As a new arrival without any close relations on site, I drained myself from the endless postnatal care, breastfeeding my newborn, domestic duties and lack of sleep. An extra pair of hands would have provided the relief I needed especially in the first couple of months.

5. Sleep, sleep, sleep!
By the grace of God, I had no problems with sleep neither did I suffer from any morning sickness nor complications throughout my pregnancy. I indulged in a lot of spiritual pursuits and reading, sometimes late into the night. Someone told me I should get all the sleep I could muster before baby came because it would be very elusive from then on. On hindsight, I should have listened to her.

6. Plan weekly meals and grocery shopping list
There are enough challenges with being a new mother, you wouldn't want the added burden of having to crack your head at what to make for lunch and dinner everyday. If eating store/restaurant bought food is not your thing compared to home cooked meals, it is best to plan your menu in advance and follow it. Better still, prepare meals in batches and freeze them for future use. Likewise for shopping list. Get it handy for your own reference or pass it to someone who could run the errand for you.

7. Get a haircut
It is true that a new haircut can do wonders to a person's mood and self-esteem. Do this just days before your due date. An easy-to-manage hairstyle will make life a little easier as you go about your new daily routine of feeding, changing diapers and everything that comes with motherhood. We might not have a royal prince for a husband or chic designer post maternity outfits like Kate does but we can at least add a feel-good factor to our own brand of motherhood - with a good haircut!

When Becoming a Mother Almost Didn't Happen To Me

A few weeks ago, I chatted with a young acquaintance who confessed, "The world is getting harsher. Economies will crumble into nothingness. I don't want to have children only to burden them with all this. But then again, I'm only 16."

That last sentence was a caveat. It halted me in my tracks from offering her an alternative perspective on motherhood, which I am privileged to enjoy at present. Indeed, our priorities change as we mature through life. Never say never.

Although I have always been interested in becoming a parent, as an ambitious 20-something, setting up a family wasn't high on my agenda then. I felt it was the phase of life where all focus should be on chasing my academic and career ambitions. I had a whole life ahead of me, motherhood could wait. Or so I thought.

A decade later, when I felt ready and it didn't happen, I grew increasingly impatient and antsy. It didn't help that the medical folks and literature I consulted sang the same tune: the chances of naturally conceiving a child diminish as a woman ages. It hit me loud and clear like an annoying siren that wouldn't cease to deafen. I blamed myself for delaying my own chances at reproduction. Amidst the panic and desperation, I prayed incessantly often waking up in the last third of the night for Tahajjud and other sunnah prayers, escalating my earnest supplications to the Almighty that He blessed me even if it's just with one offspring.

My prayer was finally answered, not in the way I wanted but in the manner I needed, for the Creator knows best. Suffice to say, I was put to a formidable and life changing test. A test that could either crush me into a complete failure or toughen me up to remain steadfast in my prayer and true to my motherhood ambition. I chose the latter and the rest as they say, is history.

To some people, conceiving a child comes easily, while to others it takes a considerable amount of effort, sometimes even having to overcome major obstacles to get there, like I did. Either way, I regard children as God's precious gift in more ways than one. Sure, I would love to have a few but for now I have been blessed with a little girl who I really adore. For that, I am eternally grateful to God. My life as a mother, nurturer, carer, teacher, supporter, adviser and more towards this little person has just begun three years ago. I pray daily for divine guidance that I will continue to excel in these roles just as how I have tried my best in my other previous capacities.

We all know that life isn't always smooth sailing and we don't always get to fulfill our heart's desire. What has kept me going every time is the belief that, "Verily, with every difficulty comes ease." (Quran 94:5).

On Being a SAHM: Sea Change

When I decided to exchange my corporate attire for the apron, spatula and dishwasher five years ago, I had two main plans in mind: 1) to hone my cooking skills and 2) to accelerate my way into motherhood.

The former was high on my bucket list but one which I didn't have much time to pursue before. The latter was a deep desire I've always had for my future. "No rushing into things. Take it easy," I heard myself advising me. Afterall, I had just relocated to a new country then and would logically need some time to adapt. However, when you're already quite far into your third decade of life, you don't really want to wait around that long, do you? Especially when your biological clock is racing against time. More about biological clock in the next post. In the meantime...

It is by no means an exaggeration when I say I did an extensive research on food and recipes to find my niche. I rang up my mother in Singapore constantly to ask for family recipes of comfort food I grew up eating, scoured the internet and YouTube for new recipes, bought and borrowed cook books by well known chefs, diligently collected free recipe flyers from magazines and supermarkets and tuned in to cooking programmes, which the Australian TV has many. Like my mother, I am a "pinch and throw" sort of cook who doesn't measure my ingredients precisely but I like it that way. I had fun with my kitchen experiements that cooking became a very enjoyable pursuit. Australia has some of the best fresh produce, which makes cooking even more pleasurable. I also went on to establish a food blog, My Cooking Affairs, which is a chronicle of my kitchen adventures. It has over 18,000 global visitors - not bad for a low profile blog. Since I became busy with raising my little precious, Cookie, the food blog has taken a back seat and is probably filled with virtual cobweb and dead spiders now. I must go and clean it up sometime.

I cook a wide variety of food - from Asian to western - for my little family, running through the nutritional content of each meal mentally. My husband often waxes lyrical about my home cooked meals to his family and friends. No, I didn't bribe him to do so neither did I intoxicate him with love potion in his food. Haha! He's a good sport who sets aside his inhibition, tweaks his western palate and tries everything I prepare. I am happy to declare that once an unadventurous eater who stuck mainly to breads, pies, roasted meat and dairy products, he can now take on the fiery Sambal (a spicy chilli-based Malay condiment) and regards Belacan (fermented shrimp paste which is central to Malay cooking) as a flavourful ingredient, among others. Currently, I am gathering inspirations for Cookie's lunch box for her weekly playschool. So, my kitchen adventure continues with food for little tummies and famously fussy eaters.

I believe cooking is an empowering skill. You get to decide what goes into your body thus you literally have a direct control over your diet and health. It is also one of the surefire ways to a man's heart, especially when done with a lot of passion. You know that one - "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach"? No love potion is necessary :)