Unconditional Love

Hi Everyone,

        It's been a while since I wrote on this space. With so much changing in my life the last couple of years, I've been thrown into a roller coaster of emotions and events. Nevertheless, I like to share some of my experiences with you all, especially those that are significant to most humans (and animals) on this planet. So as the title read, I'd like to talk about Unconditional Love - a deep and intense emotion that most of us still like to fantasise about but perhaps, consciously or unconsciously, no longer practise or believe in. Before I continue, I'd like to dedicate this article to my family especially my parents (Acong and Maria Ailie), auntie Alin and uncle Konsen. Don't ask why they have such unusual names... I'm so glad that I love my name considering how strange some of the names in our family are.

        Unconditional Love.... How many of us really know the meaning of the phrase? It is simply the text book definitions of Unconditional and Love. Unconditional means absolute, no exception. Love means a deep intense affection, fondness for something or someone. That makes the definition of Unconditional Love to be a deep affection/fondness for something/someone that is absolute with no exceptions. Just a couple of days ago I happened to come across The Notebook playing on TV. Although I'd occasionally watch some romantic comedy, I could never stand an overly romantic movie. I remember falling asleep for about half an hour during my first time watching this supposedly-amazing-movie. So, no I didn't continue watching it again this time. However, since we're on such a topic, I must admit that The Notebook pretty much shows what Unconditional Love means.

        Now, how many of us could love in that way? I'm sure most of us have experienced such intense affection for something/someone which we call Love... But how many of us have witnessed betrayal of loved one happen over such petty things as a few drinks or because of greed for material possessions? And how many of us have hatefully sworn upon those we love when they hurt us? Of course, it's normal to be angry when those we love don't return our affections as we expect it. Even parents would expect something of their children when they show their love. I'm sure most of us have had to be a certain way or meet certain conditions to get our parents to help put a deposit on that first home we really want or pay for that dream wedding or anything else we may need. However, after experiencing many betrayals and troubles caused by some of the closest people in my life, I've experienced the most amazing feeling of Unconditional Love this weekend. 

        Although I know my parents still see me as a smart, kind, level headed wonderful person, a part of me has been feeling guilty for having grown up as an adult with completely different lifestyles and mindset to those of my parents. I mean... how many parents wouldn't be sad with the fact that their child can no longer communicate fully and deeply with them due to language barrier. It even sounds silly when I say it. Yet, with the threats of sickness, pain, and financial ruins hanging over our heads, my family pulled together to solve all of our problems in the most considerate selfless way possible. None of our different lifestyles and expectations in life matter. They all pull together to achieve one common goal, that is to provide support and help for every one to achieve the life that they want in their own way. Yes, I meant having my parents losing sleeps to find solutions to help me achieve my dreams even if that means missing me thousand of kilometres away for the rest of their life and having me live a life with completely different style to what they believe in. Having my auntie and uncle putting their resources together to get the solutions that support who I am. All these after I rejected their unbelievably wonderful idea, just so I could follow my heart. They're doing everything they could so I can live my life the way I want it to be and for who I really am. This is what Unconditional Love feel like; having people who really care about nothing else but my feelings. I feel such huge gratitude that it's humbling and it brings tears to my eyes.

        I hope this article restores hopes in all of us to believe and even practise Unconditional Love again in this life. This might be the answer to peace on earth because Unconditional Love means agree to disagree, accepting others for who they are, compromising to find the best way that works for everyone, taking care of each other physically and especially emotionally, believing in kindness, appreciation, gratitude, compassion, forgiving easily, giving effortlessly...

Coffee Warehouse Cafe & Deli

Hi Everyone,

        It's been a while since I visited this space and shared my thoughts and experience with you all. As humans, we are regularly visited by life events; the good and the not-so-good ones. In recent time, a small wonderful part of my life just disappeared like dust blown away without traces. So I was going through a bit of an internal process. Hence why I have been keeping my latest experiences to myself to focus on clearing my heart and my thoughts.

        Anyway, lets start with something relax yet comforting... On a relax Saturday evening, I was taken by a friend to Coffee Warehouse Cafe & Deli which is located on busy parramatta road in Homebush among the old shops and second hand car dealerships. It doesn't sound like the most glamorous spot, is it?! I've noticed this place ever since it was open. I always assumed that it is a deli that specialises in gourmet coffees and serves lunch or takeaways. I never would've thought of going there for dinner. When my friend suggested it, I was reluctant. However, since it's coming from a long term friend of mine, I trusted her judgement. 

        They have a good menu of traditional Italian dishes. We decided to get the Risotto ai Funghi and Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. The risotto is basically mushroom and truffle risotto with grated parmesan. Sounds very simple, doesn't it? Yet, impressive flavours. The mushroom was cooked so well it's tender while still maintaining its slightly chewy texture. The truffle flavour is clear yet subtle. The spaghetti was satisfying. I tasted freshness and clean flavour with each ingredients from the olive oil, sutble yet wonderful garlic flavour, to the extra chicken I requested that is tender and supple. The clean taste of each ingredient shines through beautifully and blend together wonderfully in every dish. 

        Of course, we had to have the coffee after dinner. I went for slightly unconventional option of Coconut Coffee. My friend went for a more traditional choice. Needless to say, the coffee is smooth and flavoursome. The coconut flavour in my coffee beverage is clear yet suttle. The evening turns from reluctance to a happy satisfied feeling that I'd love to repeat in the near future when I feel like a relax evening with beautiful dinner in a convenient suburban diner.

Bangkok Bites - Bondi Beach

Hello Everyone,

         I'm sure you're all excited about another short week as I am. Since I've kept myself very busy, it might be a good chance for me to spend some time with my cats as they're getting stressed out with separation anxiety since barely having me sit on the couch to cuddle and play with them. So, before I get into the leisure and pleasure mode I'd like to share my recent experience in the food exploration mission. 

      Last weekend, I found myself across the bridge on the other side Sydney - an area that I hardly spend time in, Bondi. Just as it has always been, Bondi is still a relax suburb full of tourists in board shorts and singlet - some are half naked even in this chilly weather... When I got there, both myself and my date were up for comfort food. There were a few good choices like a popular pies diner, a middle eastern feast, an Indian restaurant, and many other cafes, restaurants, and diners to fulfil any cravings.

        Since my date is a local in the area and knowing a little bit of his taste, I trusted him to pick a place that fits the description of 'comforting and satisfying hot food' that I gave him. He hit the nail on the head. We decided to go for some Thai at Bangkok Bites. The restaurant reflects the "Street" feeling that they promote on their website. The spacious restaurant is filled inside and out. Lucky they still had a table for two. Considering how busy they were, the service was reasonably quick and friendly. 

        As we were sitting down going through the extensive menu that they have, I noticed how massive the portions are at Bangkok Bites. Surprisingly as well, they are not licensed and therefore, serve no alcohol at the restaurant. We ended up picking up a bottle of wine to accompany our meals. Adding to my surprise is the fact that such a big restaurant full of tourists and locals accepts only cash payments. I'm not sure if my date got the joke when I teased him if he had enough cash for our dinner..!

        Considering the mains look more appealing to us and the massive serving at this restaurant, we decided to go straight to mains. We ordered Massaman Lamb Shanks and Bangkok Dangerous (Seafood). It was a short wait of about 10 minutes before we got our meals. With the open kitchen, the view of a group of chefs and cooks using their hands so well to create good food will keep you excited about what's coming.

        The Massaman Lamb Shanks is served in a massive plate filled all the way to the edge with two sizable lamb shanks, potatoes, and generous amount of massaman curry sauce. The lamb was so tender it was falling off the bones. The potatoes were creamy yet still hold its texture even though it was flooded by the curry sauce. The sweetness of the coconut cream mix with massaman curry spices creates a smooth, creamy, mild, yet flavoursome dish. It may not be the best looking dish, but it surely is one of the most comforting...

        As for me, I'm always intrigued by dishes that dare your taste bud. The Bangkok Dangerous is classified as 'Exotic Bites' at the restaurant. It is supposed to be a very hot and spicy seafood dish. Although I am a heavy chili eater, I don't believe this dish is that hot since I couldn't taste any chili hotness in it. Normally that means other people might taste medium hotness. Regardless of the hotness, it is an exciting dish. Fresh vegetables and plum seafood stir fried in a mix of galangal, kaffir limes leaves, lemon grass, chili and green peppercorn. It was a dance of flavour hits in your mouth, all clearly defined and perfectly balanced.

        The dishes hit the mark with my request of comforting and satisfying meal. With the bar set high in regards to the food scene in the east side of Sydney it will be my turn to show case the quality of the food scene on my side of the harbour bridge. As to my date... an easy going guy with a sweet vibe and a good conversation complement the wonderful food. Tho... As much as I love a guy who loves his food, I was impressed by the fact that someone who's such a big eater can manage to maintain a killer abs - leaner than those of Hugh Jackman and Chris Hemsworth in Thor. I may not have to give up a sexy set of abs on a man for the love of food after all...

Commitment vs Selfishness

Hi Everyone,

        What a miserable weather for the weekend... It's windy, wet, and cold. It's the perfect time to just relax at home in front of the fireplace with a nice glass of red after a relaxing massage. A perfect chance for me to sleep in too - something I haven't got to do very often recently... Before I jump into bed and enjoy myself, I thought I'd talk about a topic that has caught my intention in the last week or so; Commitment vs Selfishness.

        Yes, it's a word feared by many, especially the male population. About a week ago or so, I read an article that hit the headlines on news websites, TV channels, and radio stations. A mother who tells the world that she regrets ever having her children. When I heard about it, I was appalled. How could a mother say that to the world knowing her children would read her words everywhere? Funnily enough, after reading the full article with her interview, I have to say that a part of me admire her honesty and, surprisingly, her commitment to her children.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2303588/The-mother-says-having-children-biggest-regret-life.html

        Now, if any of you haven't read the full article, I suggest you do. Basically, she admitted that she's never been a maternal person who crave to be a mother like many women do. However, she declares her unconditional love for her children and her amazingly strong commitment to care for them. For everything she does in life, she always put her children first. Her children have never been left to the care of strangers, such as child care workers. Wait! before you all yell at me, let me clarify that I am not judging people who decide to take their children to child care. I completely understand that some people do not have much choice. As I've declared myself in this blog, I'll always be open and honest. While saying that, I respect everyone's choices as I am a firm believer that society needs to be more acceptable of differences that exist around them.

        What I gathered from this article is the fact that this woman is so committed to her husband and children - a very rare characteristic of today's society especially in western world. I'm sure most of you have met someone who is the sweetest person and seems to be the perfect romantic partner only to be broken hearted when they walk away the moment the word "Commitment" slips into conversations. This "fear of commitment" epidemic can also be witnessed from the increase in divorce rates, the cases of abused children, etc. Sure, there are divorces due to genuine reasons such as adultery, abuse, etc but it's not what I'm discussing in this particular post. Unfortunately, even for those who declare their commitment to something or someone, the meaning of the word has been undermined. The moment something (that looks) better knocks on their door or someone (who seems) better comes along, most people use "Unhappiness" as an excuse to walk away. Sound familiar..? What about the saying "The grass is always greener on the other side"?

        In a recent class of the spiritual course I've been attending recently, we're taught complete self-love and creating happiness within. It means that we need no external factors or other people to be happy. Of course, independence and self sufficiency are the ultimate ways of being. I mean how good does it feel to know that your ups and downs are all in your own hands? Well, sure life often throws you surprises - good and bad. I'm talking about making every decision for whatever life throws at you without consideration for anyone else's feelings or interests. Then when someone comes along, we often refuse to compromise. But what if this independence and self-sufficiency become lack of compromise, sensitivity towards others, and it often becomes selfishness..?

        Relationships, whether it be with your parents, friends, co-workers, or romantic partners, involve two or more parties. Do we remind ourselves enough that there are no two people in this world who's 100% alike or compatible? Do we remember often enough that efforts are actually consideration for other people's feelings and needs? That compromise equals genuine love? Have we been skewed by the unrealistic (fantasy) expectations that relationships should just work well and things will just be wonderful without much efforts if two (or more) people are born to be connected? Selfishness (or any lack-of-efforts and no-compromise attitudes) of ours often causes heartaches and loss of connections to loved ones. Commitment, on the other hand, keeps strong bond with those who mean a lot to us. So, is commitment really that scary? Or is commitment actually a declaration of love and affections that creates happiness between people?

Ce Ci Korean Restaurant and Monthly Recipe

Hi All,

        I thought I got back in the groove with my routines. Me being me, I decided to pick up more routines and here I am tripping over my schedules again. Finally, I manage to get some time to write again. I never thought I would ever write before. It surprises me how I start missing it after only a week of not writing.

        Anyway, on a recent Sunday evening I caught up with a friend for a relaxing dinner. We decided to browse around Strathfield since we haven’t dined in the area for a while. As most of you who are familiar with the area would know, Korean restaurants fill all the main streets of Strathfield – all around the station and beyond. After browsing around, we took a pick at Ce Ci Korean Restaurant. Since the entree menu is not much more than Korean pancakes and omelette, we got straight onto the main menu.

        We shared Fried Rice, Stir Fried Squid with chili sauce, and Stir Fried Beef with vegetables. It was plenty of food. The fried rice was full of flavours yet mild enough to accompany the rich stir fried squid. The mild garlic flavour, spices, and crunchy vegetables are comforting. The squid was cooked well, soft yet still crunchy. The chili sauce base was slightly nutty and sweet with spicy onion pieces. The stir fried beef was slightly disappointing. It has very simple flavours with clear sauce base and the sweet taste that doesn't complement the slightly dry beef slices.

        All in all, we were satisfied from the two dishes and managed to make the stir fried beef a complementing dish. For the price that Ce Ci Korean Restaurant charges, the food and service were satisfying enough especially for a weekday take away or Sunday lazy dinner.

        For those of you who's expanding your horizons into healthy cooking that is also yummy and exciting, you must try my new recipe for this month on the right side of this page. With hardly any calories, very low in fat, and full of flavours, you will love the fresh crunchy vegetables with exciting flavours combination of basil, coriander, and mint. Then it's all topped with punchy, sweet, slightly nutty, and citrus dressing. The pork is grilled on the BBQ until tender and aromatic. 

 

Happiness and Gratitude

Hi All,

        I finally get in the groove of life. Although my main job currently requires long hours, it helps keep me motivated every morning to get up and go. The people I work with are also great. I only hope that success and blessings are upon this place for all of our sakes. As those closest to me know, I'm at my best when I'm at my busiest - not necessarily just with work but with social life and even romance. I also recently got myself a cute brand new car that makes me smile every time I look at it. For other people, I can understand how my life would look pretty wonderful at the moment. Since I don't feel the same way, I feel pretty guilty.. Can you be blamed for feeling unhappy just because there are other people who want what you have but aren't blessed to have them?

        After reading quite a few books, articles, and talking to both psychologists and spiritual teachers, the question still remain. What's real happiness? I'm talking about that feeling of deep peace and comfort in every aspect of your life knowing you're loved and that everything is good... I used to think that women whose goals are to settle down and have a family sound pretty sad. Especially the fact that a lot of these women are smart independent career women. I'm absolutely a traditionalist but I'm also ambitious in nature. I wanted more than just a simple life -  and no, I'm not talking about materials achievements only. However after such roller coaster rides in my young age, a simple life is the best I could ask for...

         Until last year, I never thought I could be so unhappy in life. Yes yes... I get down - sometimes really down!, I get tired, sad, and blah blah blah... mostly when life gets tough. However, I always just get back up and be energetic when life takes a beautiful turn. So, how could I suddenly be awaken to the fact that I'm living a life that is way off my dreams and plans since I was a teenage girl? A life I know very clearly that I want.

        Many people will look at my life and tell me I'm ungrateful for being sad. I understand why... And believe me, I thank God every day for my lovely cats (not so lively right now as I'm writing this because they're attacking each other and I'm running around to stop them after typing every third word). I thank God every day for my jobs, I smile every time I see how cute my car is, and for every other miracles I've received in my life. I'm happy with my home in a humble cottage style house and working for a family business instead of a big corporation. Of course, I'd be miserables without all the things I have in my life at the moment...

        However, I can't force myself to be content living a life where the most important aspects of my dreams and wishes are not present in my life. Ironically, this feeling of discontentment happens after experiencing opposite ends of life. One end where I was living a great life of walking into a beauty parlour anytime I feel like, enjoying fine dining and expensive handbags. The other end where I could barely afford a roof over my head, treatment for illness and had to leave on milk and chicken bones instead of cuts of meat for protein. Most people would think after such experiences, one would do everything they could to get the flashy life back and intact. Yet for me, a job with lower salary but great environment feels like a big blessing and friendships and romance are wishes come true. Without any money life is miserable but without all these intangibles and non-materials things, life feels pretty bloody empty...

        Now just for reflection purpose, I'd like to tell the story of a woman who called a radio station because she can't decide whether to stay or to leave her bankrupt husband. She feels strongly that she wants to leave because "I didn't sign up for this. I fell in love with him because of his ambition and success." Most people would start to think that it might be her husband's depression that drives her away. That is until she kept repeating the fact that she didn't sign up for a life in a rented house, driving second hand car, and working as a receptionist. The fact that her financially difficult childhood made her vow to marry someone who will provide fancy living with first class travels, top designer handbags, a house at one of Australia's most expensive streets, and a firework show for their child's fifth birthday. 

        I found myself swearing at her while driving to work listening to this radio segment. I was so angry of how ungrateful she's of having her husband and family. Instead, she's considering the fact that with her good look she still can find another rich man. Then I stopped and thought; what if she really is unhappy with her life? Don't get me wrong, I still think she's absolutely shallow and would not want to befriend anyone like that. I wouldn't be able to trust someone like that to begin with... I just want to point out the fact that, perhaps happiness isn't necessarily something you can just create. Gratitude on the other hand, is a completely conscious choice to say 'Thank You' for all the blessings of things you have (aware of) in your life.

        

        

Friday Night at Sushi Roll

Happy Easter Everyone,

        Finally we're at the end of this beautiful Easter long weekend. I hope you all kept busy socialising or just taking the time to relax and enjoy some 'me time'. As for me, I am now looking for dance classes to shed the round muffin top I've gained in the last couple of weeks. It's always easier to shed the fat with an activity you enjoy instead of trying to stop yourself from indulging in the food you love so much. I wonder how many hours of dance classes I'll have to attend if I do become a famous food critic one day indulging in food adventures every evening. Hmm... I often wonder what people dream of in the their spare time-if they have any. A perfect life to me is a life in which I wake up every morning to the smile of my loved one, motivated to attend my day job making stories and analysis out of numbers and giving advices that drive people to their success - might sounds boring to some of you reading this... Followed by an evening of food adventures, whether it be cooking or trying a new dining experience and sharing it with loved ones. What's your perfect life? Dreams and future wishes are what keep life interesting and keep the motivations and excitements in all of us.
        Anyway, on a recent Friday evening my girl friend and I went for a quick light dinner at Sushi Roll World Square before going to a bar for relaxing drinks. Since it was a little late for dinner service, we decided to go for the sushi instead of a la carte menu. Even then, we had to order a couple of them because the sushi chefs weren't making any more fresh batches for the train by the time we sat down so there were only a few different dishes going around. We got the Eel roll, Santa roll, Dragon Roll, Grilled Salmon roll, and Creamed Potatoes roll. The Eel roll is your standard sushi rice stuffed with Japanese white cheese and sliced cucumber with grilled Eel on top. The Eel was tender with good flavours of soy sauce and slightly sweet. The cheese was slightly salty with thick creamy texture. Together, the components make quite a rich sushi dish.  The Santa roll is sushi rice stuffed with a slice of salmon and avocado topped with fresh salmon, sliced spanish onion, and drizzled lightly with japanese mayonaise. The creaminess of the avocado and mayonaise combined with the pieces of salmon was cut through by the punch of thinly sliced onions. Probably the best dish we ordered that evening.

       The Dragon roll is sushi rice stuffed with deep fried soft shell crab and thinly sliced cucumber topped with avocado slice and grilled Eel. It was a tasty dish, however, the slightly sweet soy sauce flavour of the fish combined with the creaminess of avocado almost covered the taste and texture of the soft shell crab. Without the crispy texture of the soft shell crab and the view of the crab legs sticking out, you might confuse it with the Eel roll. The Grilled Salmon roll is also pretty similar. Salmon was grilled perfectly, topped with pickled radish, and seasoned with soy sauce and again, slightly sweet. After finishing all the three dishes with grilled fish we found it difficult to distinguish the flavours except for the notable slightly sweet soy sauce flavour on all each of these dishes. The Creamed Potatoes roll is a great companion to the intense soy sauce flavours we got of the other dishes. The creamed potatoes were deep fried with thin bread crumbs coating. It is simple and light in taste yet comforting.

        Overall, we were quite happy with the dishes. It is of better quality than some of the other chain sushi train restaurants. It's also very reasonably priced for their portion size and a cleaner and healthier option for quick dinner comparing to most other fast food places.  It would have been better if we could taste the flavour of each component of each dish instead of feeling like having a full main a la carte dish of the three grilled-fish-based sushis we had at Sushi Roll.