My CBDays

Day 1 - 07 Apr 2020

who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. - Psalm 103:5

After hearing live broadcast by PM Lee at 4pm last week, it was announced that we need to have a circuit breaker period so that infection transmission will now be under control. I do not know what to feel or what is coming ahead. It seems now it is darkness ahead. There is no more looking forward to plans anymore. All errands are now being prioritized and it has to go through screening through my brain as to what is more important. Thinking back to that day, I strongly believe that although it could have been prevented earlier, there is no right or wrong of Singapore government to start this control earlier or later. I believe they are doing their best. So all of us have to try our best too.

Circuit Breaker Period

Found some pork belly and made this dish with Japanese egg and rice. Simple dish that fills us especially during rainy days.

Circuit Breaker Period

Kids requested bikini sandwich, so I had to prepare 7 of them to keep in the fridge for them to cook it when they want. It is a simple dish but just have to make the preparations. Saute onions and mushrooms and blend them into a paste which can be spread unto the bread and top with sliced mozarella cheese. When needed, panfry with butter. That is all! Simple!

Circuit Breaker Period

Found some dried soba noodles in the pantry and since not much idea to cook, just whip up a cold soba with tempura prawns. It is a definite popular dish.

Day 2 - 08 Apr 2020

Do to others as you would have them do to you. - Luke 6:31

Still wondering what is the road ahead after 1 day. I believe many people, upon hearing the news will be devastated and wondering what will happen to their daily lives and how to survive if they are not working and getting their pay. But to me, I think in life, we actually need very little to survive. We can indulge in food that is expensive and rare at times, but at the end of the day, we just need just simple and little.

Decided to have a walk early like 5.30am. It is such a blessing to be able to spend the time to come at this time. We do not know how long we will be able to walk in this cooling wind of the morning. Let us just appreciate whatever we have now. Cherish the present!

Went to do some marketing. Somehow even when we should not hoard, there is this feeling like supplies at home are running thin. It is this invisible feel that makes people want to buy more than they should. And all thanks to this NTUC trolley organizer that I am able to stop using the plastic bags and get all my groceries in different bags.

Came back and saw this downstairs. They have blocked out the sitting area. I was wondering to myself "Is there a need to do this? Like can't people listen to instructions to just stay home?" Wonder why.

Kids helping to wrap dumplings. To them, it is not helping, it is more for fun that they are doing it as it is like Playdoh to them I guess. Nevertheless, I get my help and they get their play. Why not?

Today we had braised pork belly for lunch that I cooked last night, paired it up with some mee sua, Japanese egg and vegetables. It is a good mix of ingredients and also 1 dish.

Finished every one of them before we even can save them for dinner. And I am 1 dinner idea down.

Day 3 - 09 Apr 2020

“Who dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the Lord that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone[a] in the hand of Zerubbabel?” - Zechariah 4:10

5.30am is TOO early!! Have been missing alarms and trying to get myself up with the late nights I have been up till. Recently on Netflix, and there are so many documentaries to watch oh gosh! I am hooked on Cooked, FatSaltAcidHeat. They are shows that studies into the various raw factors that are in our foods and affecting how our foods turn out in this modern days.

Decided to start using my koji rice to make something called Shio Koji, basically using it as a ferment and add salt and water. Once fermented, it can be used as a breakdown of meats on many dishes. It will take a week and then once fermented, it can be stored in the fridge for future use. I love fermented food!

Even piano lessons can be online, how else can we not? I guess we should also have cooking and dancing lessons online so no one actually needs to get out of the house. The Internet can be two edged sword. We need to use them wisely. Excessive use of it can really damage the social skill of our future generations.

I am very thankful for our connection to the Internet as we are able to hold Home-based learning at home whenever there is a need to. In so many countries, there might not be enough connection or even speed to start the Internet, not to mention to be able to keep up with the learning. However, on the other side of the coin, they probably be able to play more without the need to go online for studies. That is also one part of growth.

With the reduction of going to the park for walks, I will need to find alternative ways to exercise. And this is what I have done before, Zumba at home. I like Zumba as the music range is more upbeat and it encompasses latin music and moves. Most importantly, I enjoy it and I sweat indirectly which is great!

I am utterly shocked that the school has a schedule for PE - Physical Education! I was wondering who is going to do it with them. But after few days of being cooped at home, I think it is really important for them to be wanting to move and sweat in this hot weather. If they do not sweat, they fall sick easily.

During my quiet times, and "don't know what to do" time, I will stare at the plants and study which one has grown, trying to remember each one of them. And similarly like kids, they grow differently at different times. One that grows faster might not be harvested earlier, given the same amount of light. We just got to know that every plant is different.

Day 4 - 10 Apr 2020

fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. - Hebrews 12:2

Good Friday - It would have been a holiday for the kids but I guess everyday is a holiday since it is like a lockdown. Whatever happens, we must be thankful for the everyday that we have. The gift of life to breathe and to be able to use our senses for daily works. To bless others when we have.

Circuit Breaker Period

Attended Good Friday morning service with the kids on the bed. From now on, live is the way to go. We are a-live!

Circuit Breaker Period

Long on my to do list, I have finally proofed my sourdough starter for almost a week now, playing with the flour and water and letting it develop. There is so much technicalities on this but many says it is an art to how it turns out. I used it to make my pizza dough for lunch.

Circuit Breaker Period

Yep and to not my surprise, it turns out to be sour. Yeah, it is sour dough.

Day 5 - 11 Apr 2020

Then I acknowledged my sin to you
    and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, “I will confess
    my transgressions to the Lord.”
And you forgave
    the guilt of my sin - Psalm 32:5

Good Friday - It would have been a holiday for the kids but I guess everyday is a holiday since it is like a lockdown. Whatever happens, we must be thankful for the everyday that we have. The gift of life to breathe and to be able to use our senses for daily works. To bless others when we have.

This cafe serves one of the best traditional coffee ever tasted. It also serves the best Kueh Kosui. A Nonya delicacy that is made from starch and gula melaka, in order to be able to order now, I will have to order a minimum or 20 pieces for the lady boss to put through the order. Now due to Covid, they have reduced customers buying food there and hence, not able to buy too much to sell. I bought 20 pieces and split among 4 families and gave some to service staff. Ahh it's a blessing again to be able to give.

Ingredients for dumplings
Prawns, minced meat, water chestnut, onions, carrots, spring onions
soya sauce, sesame oil, pepper

Precious was feeling funny and started drawing cartoony looks for a few of us. I look so old here oh gosh! I hope by the time Covid is over, I will look younger but looking at my kids, how do I achieve that?

Day 6 - 12 Apr 2020

So we say with confidence, 

“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.

    What can mere mortals do to me?” - Hebrews 13:6

It is Day 6, everything may seem gloomy and messy. Hearts are weary and minds are not focused. And I believe all this is planned and I see the benefits of being in this situation rather than harp on not being able to go out at all. Some people are not wearing masks and the numbers are going up. Singapore is struggling, but what can most of us do? Stay home.

Best Kueh Kosui I have ever tasted, I have tried buying from the market but it failed terribly.

Made some laksa paste and prepare more to keep for next round. Zac and Zann has been buying from school so I think it will be healthier to make it at home.

Another dish that I tried to make the sauce is this Provendale sauce that I put on the king grouper. It has a very unique taste and I am pretty sure it will make the dish special, not sure if it will be nice though. But it is definitely a new thing that I have learnt.

Day 7 - 13 Apr 2020

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. - Jeremiah 29:13

Well, let me own up now that today is 24th of April and I am actually filling up the previous days of the circuit breaker. So I am kinda not remembering what happened during the previous days. And I may have been too busy doing I don't know what, that I did not take photos.

While driving back from the park, I saw a rainbow! This is such a mood booster for this situation. It is a reminder that however heavy the rain is, there will always be a rainbow. And no rainbows will be seen if there is no rain at all. I am reminded once again to dance in the rain, with joy and experiencing every drop that falls. It is a blessing to have rain!

Order has arrived! Cocktail kick is fulfilled, the alcohol is going to satisfy! Woohoo!! Finally a bit of relaxation, to go with the food at home. Although I think it is too sweet, it is definitely something much better than beer.

The laksa paste has proven its worth. I like the taste of it. Today I am using prawn stock as the base, it makes the laksa thicker but the paste is made up of so many ingredients. It only makes sense if few portions are done one time.

Day 8 - 14 Apr 2020

“Do not keep talking so proudly
or let your mouth speak such arrogance,
for the Lord is a God who knows,
and by him deeds are weighed.
- 1 Samuel 2:3

Today is a rest day as I have realised there is no other photos I have taken today. Erm, I was probably too tired from doing so many things.

Day 9 - 15 Apr 2020

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.- Philippians 1:2

Taking from today's verse, we indeed have to be thankful for the grace of God for all our mistakes and the peace within ourselves to embrace the current situation. Without it, we will be lost and aimless in whatever we do, wondering what is our next step and the purpose in our life.

This is also another recipe that I love the most. Just made out of simple ingredients.

Trying to clear my freezer today. Found some meatballs that I have made some time ago. I want to go to the supermarket!

A very simple dish to eat the hard and bitter Kailan. When the leaves are being fried, they taste like Kale. And the price is like 3 times cheaper. Definitely better than taking potato chips.

Always relaxing to see how the plants grow and today I realise there is this bud that is growing at the top of this lavender plant. I wonder if it is a top student or a new flower.

Please grow fast so I can eat you.

Day 10 - 16 Apr 2020

Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue - John 12:42

Feeling healthy with this avocado recipe that used to take during breakfast some months ago... Same old ingredients, same good taste.

This is also another recipe that I love the most. Just made out of simple ingredients.

Zac can make an appetizing scrambled egg, how proud am I!

It is cookie time today! Yeah we are running out of breakfast ideas and this could probably be one of them.

Harvested some of the lettuce to go with my Kong Ba Bao, somehow feels healthier, brainwashed.

Zoe helped me in the cutting of egg tartshells. Another proud moment!

Day 11 - 17 Apr 2020

for,

“Who has known the mind of the Lord
    so as to instruct him?”[a]

But we have the mind of Christ. - 1 Corinthians 2:16b

It is another Friday ! Oh my gosh, time just flies! Do I have a lot of things to do such that I can forget what day is it again today?

So this where my provendale sauce is being used. I kind of like this dish.

  1. It makes used of my olives, capers, tomatoes.
  2. It has a unique taste.
  3. It looks nice in photos.

What more can I ask for? Life is to be simple.

I love the desiccated coconut in recipes! Same like Kueh Kosui. The coconut adds texture to the dish and brings a different flavour out. I added to my basmati rice with black rice that is usually rejected by the kids.

Day 12 - 18 Apr 2020

You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand. -Psalm 16:11

I believe by now, there are still a lot of people who are at a lost at what to do, worried about their career, thinking about what to feed their family with the limited resource that they have left. It is definitely tough on these groups of people, if both spouses have to stop their work, get a pay cut or even lose their jobs during this period of time. Trust that in time to come, everything will fall back to place and what is yours will be yours. It is crucial that we need to have joy and force it to be in our hearts, to give us the pleasures of feeling good and to feel blessed that we still have health to keep us going. Pray for strength to relieve ourselves from anxiety and worry today.

I am in love with her! Seeing her use a proper knife to cut makes me feel that she has grown so much and out of my hands.

I love the desiccated coconut in recipes! Same like Kueh Kosui. The coconut adds texture to the dish and brings a different flavour out. I added to my basmati rice with black rice that is usually rejected by the kids.

I love the desiccated coconut in recipes! Same like Kueh Kosui. The coconut adds texture to the dish and brings a different flavour out. I added to my basmati rice with black rice that is usually rejected by the kids.

Day 13 - 19 Apr 2020

Be strong, and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in his sight. -1 Chronicles 19:13

This virus is really catching everyone off their guards. Everyone is trying to catch the tail of it and it seems that it is such an invisible freak that is always running away faster than you can see it. Immunity is a very powerful thing on all of us. We need to build it day by day, month by month and all it takes it 1 sneeze to challenge it. Health is such a priceless thing that we, having to climb the corporate ladder and be running in the rat race, often overlook it and sacrifice ourselves at these times. And sadly, people only realize it when they are sick, or at no return. Why?

Feeling healthy with this avocado recipe that used to take during breakfast some months ago... Same old ingredients, same good taste.

Zac can make an appetizing scrambled egg, how proud am I!

Harvested some of the lettuce to go with my Kong Ba Bao, somehow feels healthier, brainwashed.

Day 14 - 20 Apr 2020

My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. -1 Corinthians 4:4

Many news about the world on Covid, the different races, nationality and type of humans that are under judgement. I don't think anyone has the right to judge but being humans, we are definitely quick to judge and comment, but slow to listen, which is undesirable.

Aglio Olio with capellini

Having homemade kosui that was done 2 days ago. It's a good recipe, just need to tweak it to make it better.

Got this idea from a friend who likes to decorate with flowers. And I did it following her design! Feels so nice just looking at it.

Day 15 - 21 Apr 2020

12 that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent.
    Lord my God, I will praise you forever. -Psalm 30:12

Very glad that today I made a meal out of unused ingredients that have been stocked up in my freezer for a long time.

  1. Soup stock packet that contains MSG that I would not use on a usual day, except to try how special the taste can be.
  2. Ramen noodles that is the last bunch
  3. Chicken breast that I do not know what else to do with it as it will be dry after cooking most of the time
  4. Ngoh hiang that is stored in the freezer for some time

Somehow after all the ingredients it turned out to be quite a pleasing taste to everyone's bud.

PM spoke today on TV about the latest updates on the Circuit Breaker.

Today's message:

Upon hearing the updated news of our Circuit Breaker, let us continue to pray for people from all walks of life especially those who are in danger of the virus while they have to work daily to maintain the basic necessities of Singapore.

We each do our part in staying home and staying safe. While the authorities focus now on foreign workers in Singapore to clamp down and bring us back to normal days.

Upon hearing the news, I was shocked for about 5 mins before I started to think positive of the situation that we will be in, that the circuit breaker will be extended for another 4 weeks. This period of time is so priceless that most of us would not have. And this means extra time that I am kept at home to help my kids manage their studies and that they are given more chances to be independent to keep to school schedules during the stipulated time.

Parents can take the chance to monitor the development of their kids and manage their anxiety better as they will not be able to escape to have gatherings with their friends. Cos when we look back on these circuit breaker days when we complain so much but yet this is so priceless.

We need to pray for those elderly in their nursing homes that they do not feel neglected during these times when their kids cannot visit them as often and openly as they want.

What doesn't break us, will make us stronger.

 

Beautiful scenery to view since I do not live near the park or forest. It relaxes me everytime I see them.

My mum texted me today and asked if I have masks. I saw this photo that she sent and I think she made this one. During this Covid, we are not able to see our parents and I think back on those days when I will hesitate to go back as I can be tired. Now is the time when we don't even the chance to do when we want to do it. Everyone just needs to stay put at home and wait for the rest to be over.

Ah there is a story behind this and if you are reading it, you will know it. Anyway, from tomorrow onwards, BBT not selling anymore! I am crying, weeping for this. I am sure a lot of students are crying over it. But telling myself real hard, this is not going to help my belly.

I can really see the difference of the mint when grown in soil versus water. Using hydroponics, the leaves are much fatter and livelier. They feel like they are swaying in the little wind that they experience. And that again reminds me to dance in the little rain that we have every now and then. Live in the present and cherish the moments!

Nail salons are all closed and there is no way of me doing my nails. I have slowly plucked out my gel nails. And I feel more relaxed now as I do not need to maintain it.

I love this gift and it is hard to come by, it takes a lot of effort, creativity, hard work, patience, persistence and diligence to achieve this today. Thanks Precious!

Lunch for the day, old dish, nothing much to rave about. This pic is to fill in the slot hahah

Freezer clearing lunch - saw ngoh hiang from 2 months ago, and since I don't have much ingredients for my noodles, I decided to add it to the menu.

惜福感恩

This means that we must always cherish our blessings and be thankful for them. I customized this door panel for my unit and had it engraved on it to remind myself always that we need to count our blessings. Always

Day 16 - 22 Apr 2020

19 Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” Immediately the tree withered. -Matthew 21:19

Today I started thinking about what I can actively be learning to do at home. Although I can be learning how to bake and cook, I cannot be baking a new thing everyday as I need people to eat. And sometimes when it does not turn out well, it would hurt if I were to just throw it away. So I started looking into SimplyPiano. It can be something that I can learn together with the kids. There does not seem to be much that they can do being stuck at home.

Zac was angry about some issues and I went in to play with him, found some joy in squeezing these squishes. It kinda releases stress.

Tried this recipe but the taste is not as good as I thought it will be. But every failure is a step towards success. If I cook more of this dish, I am sure it will improve.

Clear fridge again! Nice simple honey baked wings, requires 1 night of marination to taste better.

Day 17 - 23 Apr 2020

15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” -Matthew 16:15-16

Everything you do, it has to be a discipline and consistency has to be in effect. Nothing cannot be done and anything can be trained. I have started to learn how to do headstand, just taking small steps at a time. I am glad that I finally have the chance to really set my mind to do it.

My fitbit has not been working ever since my charger is damaged. I am so glad that now it has arrived and I can start my AIA Vitality again.

Bought these from NTUC Vivocity and they taste pretty fresh. I will buy them again. Their fishballs are good too. Hard to find these freshly being sold in supermarkets.

Zoe has started learning how to play the piano and I think this is a good app to keep them company and to do something more constructive than feeling bored and always asking for electronic devices.

I am starting to learn to do headstand. Pray that I can persist in doing this everyday.
Benefits of headstands
- Relieves Stress. ...
- Increases Focus. ...
- Improves Blood Flow To The Eyes. ...
- Increases Blood Flow To The Head And Scalp. ...
- Strengthens Shoulders And Arms. ...
- Improves Digestion. ...
- Helps To Flush Out The Adrenal Glands. ...
- Decreases Fluid Build-Up In The Legs, Ankles, And Feet.

Surprisingly, Zac has also started learning. Though I do not think much of it, I hope that he will learn something out of this.

I like it when the kids are independent and learn to do things by themselves. This is something that may need to take time to train in them. It takes effort and chances but it goes a long way.

Day 18 - 24 Apr 2020

Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path. -Psalm 119:105

Thank God for a brand new day, to be awaken with bright skies and hope for a good day to do well. Another day we survived and gained as a gift, we need to cherish what we all have today and make the best our of every opportunity. Thankful for healthy kids and household, protected under a roof that we will never would have appreciate without earning it.

Somehow I watched somewhere that there are many benefits from eating red amaranth and I was so shocked because I grew it without knowing them. So today we did a little harvest.

The kids love ban mian so much, and because of Covid, they are unable to go to their favourite coffeeshop for this. It is also very troublesome to arrange delivery as it will become soggy if to be delivered. So I cooked this dish for the kids to satisfy their urge.

Recently I have started to pick up piano lessons from this app called SimplyPiano. We can create 4 profiles, to be shared among the me and the 3 kids. And it is a step-by-step guide for learners to learn from the beginning to the end. Well, it is definitely something constructive for me and also what the kids like to play with when they are free. Better than what they are watching on Youtube. So yeah, I think it is a good investment for them to explore with.

After harvesting by Zoe, very satisfied with what she did. I think of all things, it is very entertaining to see her focus on the harvesting of the leaves, making sure that she does not cut the main stem, which will kill the plant and of course, get the scolding from me. Other than that, I just want her to feel that the little amount of vegetables that she is eating takes so much effort to grow. To me, it is all about the process.

Clear fridge for dinner! Nowadays really cook till I don't know what to cook. Just open the fridge and then cook whatever is there. I cannot think of more ! This is anyway a popular dish. And today there is a twist. Instead of the usual Farmland fries, I chose homemade fries that have to be soaked in cold water for a day before double frying it. Verdict: Acceptable

More importantly, we know what is going into these foods and what we are putting into our bodies.

Day 19 - 25 Apr 2020

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus -Romans 8:1

To love everyone to be equal is not easy and to forgive someone who trespasses you takes faith and courage. May we have the love for everyone I am in contact with, spread the love to them and make a difference in their lives.

 

Wanted to clear the fridge of prawns as I have ordered another 3kg of prawns from the fishmonger. Hence this dish is selected for the day.

Zoe is cutting up the ingredients for dinner tonight. Needs to have focus as she is using a dinner knife for it. Though there may be a chance of cutting herself, the cut will not be deep and it will teach her to be more careful in future when dealing with knives.

Today Precious drew a slightly sharper image of me. Definitely want to look as young as she drew.

Found a dented ping pong ball rolling around the house and decided to revive it to show the kids as an experiment that air expands within the ball that allows it to be inflated again.

My thai basil is growing too much, so today I decided to prune it to make a dish. Due to the small leaves, it will require a lot of leaves to make a dish. So I went to search and found Thai Basil Chicken.

Dinner for tonight - Thai Basil Chicken, I find it a refreshing change from the minced pork that we usually have. So this actually feels healthier and because of the capsicums, they look colourful.

Day 20 - 26 Apr 2020

David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. -1 Samuel 17:45

Treat our enemies with love, not only our neighbours. With love, we will be able to overcome all difficulties. Let us not make it worse by returning evil for evil. Today, I video called my family and we had a long chitchat about many things. Absence makes the heart fonder. Definitely.

Left: Exercising over Zoom, much better than Whatsapp Video. Lesser lags

Right: Decoration of Wagyu dish, life is beautiful with colours

Day 21 - 27 Apr 2020

Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.-
Psalm 37:4

Thank you for the start of a new bright day. It is getting tough to wake up and be energetic. We need to be consciously telling ourselves to do so in order not to spoil the day ahead. Just saw from gov.sg on tips to keep mental health, and I feel that there may be an increase in the number of people who are needing this attention. Harmony within the family unit is very important and especially at this time, where there will be nowhere else to go if someone is not at peace with another under the same roof.

Left: Flowering Hoya which was a cutting from the main plant. With patience and persistence, life will blossom!

Right: Pork rib prawn noodles for lunch today, bland! Eww!

Day 22 - 28 Apr 2020

Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. -1 Corinthians 8:1

Speaking with love to everyone around us builds people up, encourages them and let them have a good day ahead. We also want people to speak to us with love. It is therefore crucial that we love ourselves and build ourselves in love first at the start of the day, giving praise to the Lord for a renewed day. It is a gift.

Saw Zoe opening up this box of Lego and wondering if she can get it fixed by herself. It takes quite a bit of focus and persistence to fix as if it goes wrong, she will need to go back a few steps to continue completing the figure.

Very proud of her for completing fixing the figure!

A 3D drawing of the words "I love you" which is hard to see from here.

Day 23 - 29 Apr 2020

10 “Who dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the Lord that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone[a] in the hand of Zerubbabel?” -Zechariah 4:10

Make full use of each single day for constructive matters, even if it is just a small thing. Be consistent and persist in reading the Word, for it tells you every step of where to go in every situation.

Was thinking of clearing fridge today again and found crabmeat in the freezer, with some prawns and scallops. This is the kind of dish that will be warming to the soul!

Decided to take a good long walk today and was led to this place. Taking this photograph from an overhead bridge, I can feel the freshness of the air with these car-less roads. May we appreciate the beauty of walking instead of driving cars and do our best to save the environment.

With the closing of bubble tea stores due to enhanced Covid measures, we try to make bubble tea balls! It is such a simple recipe and nice.

Past Fort Canning Park and came to this place. It is such a beautiful place with the absence of a lot of working people. But I do see many people exercising as well, so spent some effort to avoid them.

This is what we get from brown sugar boba balls with fresh milk.

Life has never stopped here until Covid-19 is here. Sometimes a pandemic or anything harmful is just to get us out from our comfort zone and go experience a new challenge, go a new place, find a new adventure and discover for ourselves what there is out there.

Day 24 - 30 Apr 2020

19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. -1 Corinthians 6:19-20

 

Finally tried this dish with homemade curry roux with homemade garam masala. It was so frustrating that I could not find this spice in the supermarket. So I went ahead to search for it and blend them into 1 bottle. Quick and simple

It really takes some effort to think of new dishes recently as we have to eat every lunch and dinner. More often that not, we are already so filled during lunch and cannot even eat much during dinner. So we need to either be more creative to mix and match or we really need to squeeze in some quick recipes.

Made this for my neighbour who had a craving for it, and I found this simple butter cake recipe online in just 3 mins! Nowadays we have so many resources that we often overlook and took for granted. Very thankful for the resources we have in these days and we need to pray for wisdom to know how to use them.

She is always the sweetest one. Now folding clothes to be packed in the bag.

To Mummy with Love

After packing, it is cleaning time! Zoe cleans well and thorough, great helper!

Day 25 - 1 May 2020

13 No temptation[a] has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted[b] beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted,[c] he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. -1 Corinthians 10:13

Let us not be tempted with the desires of the modern world. We come with nothing and we leave with nothing.

Yesterday I had a very bad craving for Bak Gua, and I immediately went to search for the one I always buy. And it is available for delivery! Ordered it and here it comes today! That's about it for lunch!

Went for a walk today for about an hour and a half, it was a good and unpredictable walk. Sometimes not knowing where to go will challenge yourself to discover more than what you expect.

Decided to try this new dish that I have tried with another recipe long time ago. Kids love this dish and would eat lots when we buy back.

Day 26 - 2 May 2020

Show me the wonders of your great love,
    you who save by your right hand
    those who take refuge in you from their foes.
Keep me as the apple of your eye;
    hide me in the shadow of your wings -Psalm 17:7-8

 

Got a nice addition for our lunch by neighbour Corina who usually buys 60 of it for parties. And it is handmade on the spot! Nice small buns, to pop into the mouth for a quick fix

Today finally get to walk to the Singapore Flyer, but it is still too early to see the night lights. Everything is just a standstill and it is just sad for all the retails and the restaurants. But I am very thankful that we have such a beautiful and safe country to be in, and that we are supported in crisis like this to the best of the ability.

It is definitely satisfying to pluck your own veg that you have grown for about 3 weeks! The taste is not bitter at all and it is super fresh! Looking forward to growing more veg and eating healthy!

Beautiful salad colours for my dinner. Looking at these colours just reminds me of how wonderful life can be. We need to be excited about things that are happening in our life. If good things are happening, then we need to enjoy the moments. If bad things are happening, we need to be patient to wait for the better thing to come.

Day 27 - 3 May 2020

15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. -John 15:15

Today I learn another chord which is E minor and trying to remember the notes while playing more complicatedly. Trying hard also to get all 3 kids to practise on the piano. We had beef rendang for lunch instead of using chicken. Nah, kids prefer chicken for sure.

Day 28 - 4 May 2020

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. -James 1:2-3

Day 28 - 4 May 2020

Today I was sent an article about Aloysius Pang and realised that it has already been a year since he passed away. I could not believe my eyes as it feels like it was just last month that he has passed. I cannot imagine that it has already been a year and I was thinking back.

What have I achieved in this year? Have I become a better person? What are the new skills that I have learnt?

One thing for sure, I have become older by a year. Time is such a precious thing that we always take for granted. And it just ticks away without us knowing and it does not wait for us at all.

Lord, may we learn to appreciate time and especially Your time when it comes, be patient and wait upon you. Have the enduring faith and hope to continue our paths in our lives and lead a triumphant one. Lead us to the truth and guide us on Your word. Work the Holy Spirit in us, and let it flow through our mind with beautiful uplifting words of love and encouragement to everyone around us.

Simple lunch is always warming to the soul, no matter what we eat, it would have been boring to keep eating the same. No one can eat abalone everyday for a month. Life is better being simpler, or life is simpler being better.

What a contrast the sky can give u! If we often stop to look at what is happening around us, we will realise that things do change for the better. By shutting our mouths, we learn to listen. By slowing down, we learn to taste the prettiness of the sky where the sun sets every day. Which day will the sun not set, may I ask? But to ask, which is the day we lift up our heads to look for the setting sun?

While they have their porridge lunch, I made myself some pesto and topped it on top of the codfish. Took a pretty pic to show how we can make life happier.

On my way back, took this beautiful picture of the landmark that has changed name. Weather was very cooling and inviting for a longer walk. With no crowd, we can now feel at peace with all the pace that we want to be at. To slow down to take a closer look, to turn another small lane to find something new, to rekindle an old visit to the Substation. We learn to appreciate what we have been through and it brings back memories, great memories. Living our life like this is an art.

Day 29 - 5 May 2020

27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. -John 10:27

Every day I have set some exercises routine to follow, some tasks to accomplish and most importantly, to make sure the kids catch up their school academics and not fall too much behind when they return to school. I think for kids nowadays we are too concerned how they will be doing in their academics and then forgetting that they need time and space to develop their character as well. SPACE is very important. Everyone needs space. Period.

Found a packet of preserved mustard green in the fridge and wanted to clear it off, added some pork ribs to pressure cook and made it a salted veg soup.

For dinner, due to the lack of ideas and leftovers of mustard green and pork ribs, I mashed everything up as a paste to put unto ramen noodles. Zero waste and zero leftovers!

Told Zoe to set up the table and this is how she set it up. Just have to let her start from young.

Following the game "Squirmish", Zac wanted to make his own game cards with his own rules and exploring it with Microsoft Excel.

A healthy alternative to Macdonald's and deep-fried nuggets. Also another method of using chicken breasts

Day 30 - 6 May 2020

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” -John 21:15

Today is the start of vocal training exercises by Verba on Youtube. I chanced upon her few weeks ago and thought it might be helpful to me to just follow and also involve as she likes to sing as well. She can be quite discouraged when faced with difficulties alone so just need to take some time to go through with her. So I hope that I am able to be disciplined to follow the training for the next 7 days to finish up the practice.

  1. Face massage, especially at the jaw area - reduce sagging of the face muscles
  2. Vocal practice - training of voice, throat and range
  3. Harmony practice - helps in coordination of tunes when singing duo or more
  4. Piano practice - training of hand eye coordination and learning to hear melodies and chords
  5. Tummy training - strengthening of the tummy muscles
  6. Planks - strengthening of core muscles and the whole body
  7. Headstand - Balance coordination, endurance and improve blood circulation

Saw a video using the prata to make puffs. It was a SpringHome video but the one that I have is Chinatown. I am guessing they work the same since they are supposed to puff up anyway. So this is what I thought we can make for a meal today. To get the kids involved to have some autonomy in making their own dinner. And it turns out they love it so much they can even prepare it for breakfast themselves.

One part of the video is to use it to make a pizza and put toppings on top so Zac had fun with it.

Other than salt and pepper prawns, this cod is pan fried and then cooked in tomato sauce. Supposed to be a filling for the puff pastry,

While listening to Zann play the piano, I had my homemade kueh kosui. Nice

Day 31 - 7 May 2020

17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” -Romans 1:17

Father, please help me to stay in faith consistently, even when life gets crazy. Thank You for giving me strength to fight the doubts the enemy throws my way, and to move forward in faith today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Life can get crazy at times, and today is one of those days when you realise that although you are moving so fast, and yet you are far behind. So the thing is we have to move consistently everyday, and not stop moving, so that we do not need to move faster than we need to when the time comes.

Kids are so excited to bake their own puff again for lunch today so they made all kinds of shape and waited at the oven together. Nice to see them close-knitted.

I like this brand of noodles, as it is easy to prepare and fast whenever I run out of ideas as to what to cook. It comes with shallot oil flavour and mala oil flavour. Both are as good. As it is easier to make shallot oil flavour, I always buy the mala pack.

Kids are so excited to bake their own puff again for lunch today so they made all kinds of shape and waited at the oven together. Nice to see them close-knitted.

I like this brand of noodles, as it is easy to prepare and fast whenever I run out of ideas as to what to cook. It comes with shallot oil flavour and mala oil flavour. Both are as good. As it is easier to make shallot oil flavour, I always buy the mala pack.

I like this brand of noodles, as it is easy to prepare and fast whenever I run out of ideas as to what to cook. It comes with shallot oil flavour and mala oil flavour. Both are as good. As it is easier to make shallot oil flavour, I always buy the mala pack.

Kids are so excited to bake their own puff again for lunch today so they made all kinds of shape and waited at the oven together. Nice to see them close-knitted.

Day 32 - 8 May 2020

14 But I trust in you, Lord;
    I say, “You are my God.”
15 My times are in your hands;
    deliver me from the hands of my enemies,
    from those who pursue me. -Psalm 31:14-15

 

This brand is recommended by my neighbour and the dumplings are good. Their xiao long bao are great as well. 15 pcs in a pack and costs less than $10. Really a quick fix and inexpensive compared to going to the restaurants. Can have a nice meal in the comfort of my home.

Finally my taobao shipment arrived and I got my purchases. Above shown is a change of my laundry baskets and dish drainer area. Also a nice working kitchen for Zoe and she has been waiting patiently for this toy or almost a month. Really training her patience.

One of the best supper when getting hungry at that hour of the night. I will never change the brand. The taste is so good with added sesame oil and pepper. Also a drop of an egg will do the wonder.

Day 33 - 9 May 2020

44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. -Matthew 5:44-45

 

Went for a walk in the morning, great and windy day to be walking in the day around this time. Usually it is already sunny, thank God for the fine weather. Weather is so unpredictable and especially when I am taking public transport.

Bought  a slab of pork belly too small and made wantan noodles.

Simple dinner

Following Joanna Dong every week since she is performing live on FB. Called Jie Jie time, enjoyable to listen to with a glass of wine and some snacks.

Day 34 - 10 May 2020

16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. -Hebrews 4:16

Everyone needs some kind of help at a certain point in time. And when that comes, it requires meekness to admit the faults and ask for forgiveness. Repent and then do what is right again.

To all the noble mothers in the world, may you be blessed with many happy returns...Mummies are the best

Today is Mother's Day and it is a very different kind of celebration. First of all, there is not much of a celebration at home due to Circuit Breaker. For the past years, we will always go to Grandma's house to celebrate and have a feast. So this year, we did something different. We made cards and sent our wishes by the traditional way - SNAIL MAIL! The kids were told to design and write on their cards, and we walked to the post office in our masks to buy stamps, stick them on and post them in their letter boxes. Also, this year, since I am in the process of learning how to play the piano, I decided last minute to change the lyrics for Happy Birthday to suit the theme of Mother's Day. So it goes like this...

祝我妈妈快乐

祝我阿嫲快乐

祝天下全部妈妈

大家平安快乐!

I do not really show my affections to my mother and we show our affections through the traditional way like doing things or buying stuff. So through this, I hope that she gets the warmth and love from my kids as a gesture of my love and care. Pray for her that she will live her life healthy, be happy everyday and stay blessed with the abundance from us.

Day 35 - 11 May 2020

16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. -Hebrews 4:16

Today is a day of many things. For the past week have been memorising few verses.

  1. Psalms 119:130
    • The entrance to God's Word brings light and dispels darkness.
  2. Proverbs 15:11
    • A gentle word turns away wrath, a harsh word stirs up anger.
  3. 2 Corinthians 5:17
    • I am a new creation in Christ.
  4. Romans 8:1-2
    • Therefore there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the spirit that gives us life sets us free from the law of sin and death.
  5. Colossians 2:10
    • I am complete in Him, who is the head over all rule and authority of all earthly and angelic power

Pray that we gather the persistence and the discipline to continue reading the word of God to understand the truth.

Today is a day that many things were accomplished but at a slower pace. We had Chinese spelling until 3pm in the afternoon, can you imagine that? Gosh! And then there was not much time for anything else. These days, even when it is the circuit breaker and we cannot go anywhere else, it seems like there is neverending tasks to do at home.

But I am so thankful for this time! If I have to list down what my achievements are, it will be a long list!

Day 36 - 12 May 2020

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, -Colossians 1:3

Today's prayer:

Lord, we thank you for this precious time with you. We pray that whatever our worries are, we cast them upon you, we submit them to you and let you take care of them and we will wait patiently for good to be done. Pray that as we reach the start of a new year, may you draw us closer to You and the Holy spirit to work in us, as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Also praying for tomorrow to be a start to all good things to come smoothly our way.

 

Today, I had another Zoom exercise session with my sisters and we had much fun. It seems that although we have a lot of time at home, this is a very good time to know what we are spending our time on and making the best out of every minute that we have to improve ourselves. And once we have establish that habit, we will then have to fit in our working schedule the tasks that we do daily at home. Do not let the daily working lifestyle unbalance our living style.

Decided to have ramen tomorrow so have to cook the soup today and it took almost 10 hours of simmering with chicken bones, pork bones and pork trotter. And I didn't expect that 1 pork trotter is almost 1.5kg. Imagine being stepped on by the whole pig! So since I have some trotters, I will make another dish for myself - Vinegar Pork Trotters

Also in order to have a decent chashu ramen, need to have the chashu right? So time for some pork!

Recipe: Chashu

Recipe: Ramen stock

Pork trotter dish that is ready in less than an hour. The pressure cooker that I bought secondhand is really a worth deal! Glad that I made the decision to buy it, and it can easily break down many meats in a short time.

So since it is so fattening already, I might as well go with vegetables as a salad topping. Realized that the vinegar sauce tastes like balsamic vinegar, great discovery!

Day 37 - 13 May 2020

23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,
-Colossians 3:23

Today's prayer:

Lord, help me to be a better person to bless others, bringing glory to Your name.

Today IS A BUSY DAY. From 10am till 7pm, it is just moving! The schedule is just full to the max.

Cooking shark fin soup and storing it for future portions...

A nice great breakfast for tomorrow! Heat up and drink!

Today we are eating ramen!!! The chashu and the soy sauce eggs are delicious!

This is a healthy meal! The pork bone broth is so collagen-ny and although it has a lot of oil, they are all healthy fats.

Day 38 - 14 May 2020

29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! -Acts 5:29

Today's prayer:

Lord, help me to be a better person to bless others, bringing glory to Your name.

Today is our ramen day! So much of cooking the broth and the chashu and the eggs! It takes 2 days to whip up such a dish. I really hope it tastes good.

For Zac who does not like to eat that much meat, chashu is not the best topping for him. So all he needs are eggs and lots of vegetables. Great!

Day 39 - 15 May 2020

for he is the kind of person
    who is always thinking about the cost.[a]
“Eat and drink,” he says to you,
    but his heart is not with you.
-Proverbs 23:7

Today's prayer:

Father, I request for your help to clear my thoughts to be true, healthy and beautiful and most importantly, free of negativity. When we think negative, we become. When we think positive, we become. We become what we think of.

Thank you for the wisdom that I need to choose the healthy thoughts and the strength to replace them with Your truth. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Very proud of my hydroponics setup, even though it is pretty costly, but I think it is worth it considering the aesthetics and the technology. Every pipe and connector is hidden, even the electrical wires. And I can use a phone app to control the pump and light timings.

Some of the vegetables that I am growing: arugula, xiao bai cai, lettuce, mint, thai basil etc... can't wait to grow more

Day 40 - 16 May 2020

11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” -Exodus 4:11-12

Today's prayer:

Father, in this modern, I pray that you will continually keep my humble attitude in life. Thank you for working through me and not giving up on me even though I make mistakes. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A no-fail recipe for some beef with red wine and tomato sauce.
What I usually do is to just sear some beef cubes, saute onions in some oil and add some red wine. Once it is fragrant and the red wine has some sort of evaporated, I will add beef in and chopped tomatoes, with tomato paste. Add some water and pressure cook for 1-2 hours. It will be very soft and tender due to the pressure cooking. Once that is done, serve with al-dente noodles and it is good to go!

Day 41 - 17 May 2020

15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. -Hebrews 13:15

 

Day 42 - 18 May 2020

You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
-Psalm 16:11

This is one of the verses that I am supposed to remember. Happy to see this that we are all filled with joy in God's presence, when we are down and weak, we can entrust that in His hands and with patience, in His time, we will recover for greater things to come.

 

Day 43 - 19 May 2020

Create in me a pure heart, O God,
    and renew a steadfast spirit within me.-Psalm 51:10

Day 44 - 20 May 2020

Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say;
    I open my lips to speak what is right. -Proverbs 8:6

Day 45 - 21 May 2020

28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

29 “Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.

-Matthew 14:28-29

Day 46 - 22 May 2020

41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

-Matthew 26:41

Day 47 - 23 May 2020

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
     before you were born I set you apart;
     I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” -Jeremiah 1:5

Day 48 - 24 May 2020

Fear of man will prove to be a snare,
    but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.
-Proverbs 29:25

Day 49 - 25 May 2020

13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 3:13-14

Day 50 - 26 May 2020

18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. -Proverbs 16:18

Day 51 - 27 May 2020

19 But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! -Acts 4:19

Day 52 - 28 May 2020

He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. -Matthew 18:2-4

Day 53 - 29 May 2020

being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. -Philippians 1:6

Day 54 - 30 May 2020

28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
    I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge;
    I will tell of all your deeds.
 -Psalm 73:28

Day 55 - 31 May 2020

33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.
-1 Corinthians 14:33

Day 56 - 1 June 2020

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. -Romans 15:13

Day 57 - 2 June 2020

33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. -Matthew 12:33-34

Day 58 - 3 June 2020

13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. -Philippians 4:13

SINGAPORE'S VERY FIRST CIRCUIT BREAKER

All it takes is a little effort from every single one of us to make a big difference.

GIVE

Only when we have, we can give. Be blessed to bless.

SHARE

By sharing, we iterate what we have gone through correctly and wrongly and allow others to gain from our experiences.

LEARN

Making mistakes is a definite, we pick up from these and correct it.

YOURS SINCERELY writing from home

Chef: Christina Chan

Since I am now stay home chef for this month, I will have to come up with new recipes and dishes to try out. I am trying our my sourdough starter, Shio Koji using the Koji rice I have bought from 2019, new dishes popping out now and then.

Tutor: Christina Chan

It has been a long time since I have the time or rather want to have the time to watch over my kids' studies and work. Now that I am stay home, every minute is a tick tock and with HBL a.k.a. Home Based Learning, I will have the time to watch over their studies as it is pretty bad 🙁

Trainer: Christina Chan

Our kids are like little dogs, sounds cruel but they are. They are whatever and however we train them up to be. Just like how doctors' kids become doctors and teachers' kids become teachers. So we need to engage them in activities that can build their characters and values.

Gardener: Christina Chan

I have for the longest time want to grow my own vegetables. Move towards self sustainability. Thank God for the time to be able to experience in this. We try our best everyday.