Messages from Manila part three - weird and wonderful

I have to say I'm getting a little used to my surroundings... I'm getting used to having a driver, a maid and the food.  I'm used to the money and the TV stations and the ever present heat and humidity.   I'm not used to missing my family and I'm not used to not cooking, I'm craving those two things in my life, given they were only...

Planning... my 40th birthday party..

Well ours actually.... Just before I left, we went out to dinner at a new local Indian restaurant.  It's a bit tucked away and I must admit I wasn't expecting much (you know, local restaurants do have a rep for being not-so-great)... but we were blown away by the venue and the food and before leaving we'd booked the function room for...

The potential of 'Us'

Earlier this month I returned home for a few days - it was whirlwind to say the least but I visited the lovely Wolgan Valley Estate for a friend's wedding. It was small and intimate but done very beautifully and tastefully. The setting was picturesque and you could certainly feel the love in the room, for a couple who had many obstacles...

Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Oh I realise how much you have been having recipe withdrawals... because I'm having cooking withdrawals big time at the moment! I have set myself a challenge this week.  I am going find myself a new cookbook.  I am going to cook something from this cookbook.  I am going to share this with all of you.  This won't happen...

The rollercoaster weekend... in Melbourne

I know there's a very healthy rivalry with Sydney Melbourne, but honestly you are so charming.   Sydney is my part of my heart and who I am but I always love to visit Melbourne, and this trip to Melbourne was the most wonderful time I've ever had. And although it rained for the first two days, I forgive you Melbourne.   Nothing...