Jade and Gold

Imaginary Friend

2012-02-03T16:58:00.001Z

Kina Grannis's opening act - Imaginary Friend

My favourite song from his set : I Knew This Would Be Love

Kina Grannis in concert!

2012-02-02T10:06:00.000Z

Kina Grannis at King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow!
She's got such an amazing voice and is so pretty in real life, ♥.
Definately worth seeing her in concert if you get the chance!

Happy Year of the Dragon

2012-01-23T18:50:00.000Z

Happy Chinese New Year, 恭喜发财!

(img via Mousehunt)

words of wisdom

2012-01-20T15:04:00.001Z

“It’s not where you take things from, but where you take them to”.
Godard

The Tiger Chinese New Year Shuffle

2012-01-18T23:30:00.000Z

Made me laugh! Loved the mouth mimicking and butt shaking, :D

Keep Calm Gallery

2012-01-12T10:22:00.003Z

Such great prints via the Keep Calm Gallery, totally on the birthday wishlist!

New Year Surprise

2012-01-04T17:24:00.001Z

What would be your first thoughts upon recieving a dragon and white powder in the post from Japan?! Yakuza drug smuggling fail? Haha, fortunately they turned out to be gifts from Mokumeganeya - our lovely Japanese wedding ring makers. The white powder turned out to be for cleaning jewellery, lol!

Together with the fortune dragon, it was instead a lovely New Year surprise.

Happy Hogmany 2011

2011-12-31T12:14:00.001Z

Edit: Found a fantastic video to end the year with.

Oh, the Places You'll Go at burning man 2011.
A brilliant combination of childhood memories and always looking forward, enjoy!

---

One of my favourite lists to read, as the year comes to a close, are the "Best of the year" songs.

Some are over-played records of the year while others are (to me), quite obscure and rubbish, haha.

But I do like that this song made to the top in most lists and it was through media such as YouTube and the internet that she became an almost instant sensation - such are the digital days we live in.

R.I.P

2011-12-23T18:47:00.001Z

My beloved Uncle Bong, it breaks my heart to have you leave. Too early, too soon.
But I'm glad u're no longer in pain, rest well and truely in peace.
I will miss your laughter, your kindness and how you made Australia such a dear place for me.
I love you.

A lovely title

2011-12-22T15:40:00.000Z

Isn't "The Perfectly Imperfect Home" such a lovely title?

It's such a great attitude to have towards one's home, the quest of interior decorating and for oneself...

to keep striving to be better yet loving it all the same. On my wishlist, ♥!

(img via)

Finding the Christmas Spirit

2011-12-21T21:15:00.000Z

Finding the Christmas Spirit proves hard to do when u have an exam 5 days before the 25th,

hard not to be disappointed when the exam was more difficult than expected,

and harder when family members aren't in good health but
Thank God for music that brings cheer and fond memories of happy childhood days.

Hurriane Bawbag

2011-12-08T22:49:00.001Z

Monday - Snow

Tuesday and Wednesday - Hail

Thursday - Hurriane Bawbag.

Scotland - your weather truly blows one away.

Whole Foods Glasgow

2011-11-29T20:48:00.001Z

The flyer introducing, 'Whole Foods Glasgow' came through the door about a month ago and I was so excited to see and welcome a Whole Foods outside London (the first one) and actually accessible to me!

So today, H and I paid the store a visit and it was amazing. The architecure and interior are well-designed, the food is fresh and beautifully presented, the staff are helpful - my only wish is items were cheaper, haha!
The fish counters and meat counters are so very impressive, great selection of various cuts and the produce looked so fresh.
The vegetables are pampered and kept refreshed by a fine mist every few mintues by in-build jet sprays above the display.
The chocolate section - to die for! Hello Montezuma's Chocolate - perfect when there isn't a store in Glasgow.
There was even a beauty section which sold Dr. Bronner's Organic Castile Soaps (in liquid and bar formats), Faith in Nature products, REN products, Neal's Yard and even Weleda - I was so very impressive to see all these brands altogether. While you can purchase Faith in Nature and Weleda in specialist stores in Glasgow, I could not find Dr. Bronners to buy locally until now.

There was also a variety of items that we had not seen before, like DIY Nut Butter machines... which unfortunately did not work very well for us but nonetheless I look forward to tasting it.

(Img via The Glasgow Food Blog)

The Giffnock Store is located at 124-134 Fenwick Road, Glasgow, UK G46 6XN and has free parking.

I can't wait to go back for lunch there and try out the bakery and sandwich section!

Japan #06: Architecture

2011-11-01T18:08:00.001Z

Japan #05: Food

2011-10-28T18:48:00.000+01:00

Jo-chan said, 'When in Japan, you must try their okonomiyaki!". Following her advice and the recommendation of Matsu-san (our wonderful hostel guide), we found the most quiant Japanese restaurant where you could D-I-Y your own okonomiyaki or have the lovely lady (pictured) cook for you. Seizing this opportunity, we ordered okonomiyaki, yakisoba and azuki pancake puffs. Who knew azuki in a pancake could taste so heavenly - smooth, not too sweet and not too oily. I would totally return here to eat in an heartbeat!

Japan #04: KiddyLand

2011-10-27T19:55:00.001+01:00

The overdue posts from my Japan trip...

Kiddyland = Kawaii overload!!!

And I loved every minute of it, haha.

Especially, Snoopy Town where I bought Snoopy rice flake toppings and a Kiki bento box. (the other biscuits were a birthday gift from Snoopy! In return, I wrote him a birthday note for his pin-up board.)

google reader love

2011-10-16T10:51:00.001+01:00

Some days, I love my google reader/ Internet.

It makes me realise that there's so much out there that I've not seen,

that there's so much beauty in the world, man-made or not,

and that ultimately, the World is so much bigger than me.

Scotland love anime 2011

2011-10-15T11:25:00.000+01:00

Other highlights were Hotarubi no Mori e,

a letter to MoMo,

and Arrietty,

Scotland loves anime 2011 - Colourful

2011-10-12T20:26:00.000+01:00

When I first saw the Scotland loves Anime 2011 advertisement, I seriously did not imagine that the festival would get such an impressive line-up with so many European premieres, so many kudos to the organisers!

Having Jonathan Clements give a brief introduction about each movie and its directors was a nice old-school touch, especially in a converted theatre turned moviehouse, and gave so much more insight about the anime industry and its workings.

Probably my favourtie movie from the festival. Made me wonder why Hollywood gets all the glory and money when an anime about suicide can make such a subtle but powerful statement about family and friendship on one's life.

5 years of lo♥e

2011-10-01T18:41:00.000+01:00

Celebrating 5 years of lo♥e with lots of cream and a foggy drive in Fife.

Organic Veggie Box No.1

2011-09-30T18:30:00.000+01:00

After a year of deliberation, we finally decided to and try out organic vegtables boxes. Here is our first box from Grow Wild that arrived on Friday afternoon, filled with vegtables (leeks, lettuce, chinese leaf, kale, brocooli, carrots & onions ) and fruits (apples, bananas, grapes & a grapefruit). Green and organic!

Plastic spoons for thought

2011-09-27T00:03:00.001+01:00

Poster that made me think, especially after I considered buying a new phone, a new router and even switching to a new mobile network, in awake of all the technological issues that we had been facing in the last two weeks. It was only today, thank God, that we resolved all the wifi and mobile signal connectivity problems. Less items for the landfill and decreased blood pressure for me. Next time, I should try harder to search for my inner 'Make do and Mend' spirit, instead of kicking the router in rage, :P

Sesame Street: G

2011-09-23T17:25:00.002+01:00

Sesame Street + Glee = GENIUS

Hope it makes your friday too!

Tunes for the weekend - Bubble

2011-09-09T18:58:00.001+01:00

Oh my, what a melody and such stunning animation.
Smitten.

L-list #06

2011-08-29T17:14:00.001+01:00

I've always wanted a Kay Bojesen monkey, and now I realise there's more, *swoon*!

[via Emmas blogg]

An awesome free template, Paper City Paris! Some people are too cool and generous!
[via Made by Joel]

Great advice, which resonated greatly with me. I'm not sure when exactly but maybe in art school, that I became obsessed with this absurd idea of being original. However, all it did was hinder and frustrate me artistically as I tried not to steal but none of my ideas were sufficiently original or brilliant. But recently, as I was reflecting, it hit me that all my considered 'greatest artworks' were all ideas stolen, adapted, fused and/or merged. So perhaps my frozen artistic development is due to the ceasing of stealing and copying of other artist's works... and in order to rectify this wrong, I should come out with a copycat series where I copy works and steal ideas of inspiration art works to start growing again.

[via austinkloen]

scribble

2011-08-27T17:26:00.000+01:00

the pains of being here, there and yet, nowhere.

the knowledge of wanting but unable of having.

to exchange a decision but afraid of the come what may.

Humor for a Monday

2011-08-22T07:07:00.000+01:00

move, eat, learn

2011-08-21T08:44:00.000+01:00

An amazing series of short films that capture the beauty and joys of traveling, ♥♥♥!

A word of caution: Viewing of these videos will give you the travel bug.

Post thoughts

2011-08-17T05:08:00.003+01:00

As quickly as the holiday started, it's now come to an end.

Don't worry, there'll be more photos coming up soon (once my bro returns, =P )

Though the trip to Tokyo has made certain things clear...

No. 1: If I could repeat my life again... I would have gone to poly, learnt japanese and trained up to be a cad-monkey. Then, I would go to japan to complete my architectural degree.

I still can't get over how the Japanese design their buildings. The concepts are simple, functional, revelant to its site yet complex and beautiful in its detailing. Such an awesome combination and labour of love.

No. 2: The dynamic nature and efficiency of big cities inspire me to dream big.

Glasgow, in comparison, is a sleepy hole and what irks me is most of the inhabitants remind me of the frog who lived in a well, refusing to see or accept the world beyond its walls. I cannot see myself living there for life without becoming fat, depressed or even both.

No. 3: I need to improve my Japanese, immensely!

And a special thanks to Elf, for helping make my trip such an easy one. =)

Japan #03: Happy Birthday Snoopy!

2011-08-10T18:59:00.003+01:00

As learnt from Kiddy Land ( which proved to me that Japan does small well and cute, amazingly well ), it's my favourite beagle's birthday, hooray!

Japan #02: Unearthed treasures

2011-08-09T12:24:00.002+01:00

Unearthed treasures from the japanese supermarket! These koalas are a childhood favourite of mine and my sisters but I never knew Lotte made them in Creme brûlée flavour!

Japan #01: Greetings from Tokyo!

2011-08-09T12:23:00.001+01:00

One of the first posters that greeted us at Hanada Airport

Save the Date!

2011-07-30T12:06:00.000+01:00

Wedding Planning Progress Report

Reception Venue: done!

Save the date: done!
Here's the final design. It's a team effort by the both of us, incorporating
a brilliant letterpress effect tutorial by Pulgly Pixel, thank you!

Wedding Dress: Checked out 3 boutiques on Wednesday. Will write more about it soon but need to decide on one boutique and design soon, exciting times!

Thanks L

2011-06-20T16:52:00.010+01:00

for the very yummy Banana & Walnut cupcakes!

Easter 2011

2011-06-19T17:21:00.002+01:00

God moves in a mysterious way

2011-06-15T23:12:00.001+01:00

God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never-failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs
And works His sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy and shall break
In blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense.
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own Interpreter,
And He will make it plain.

Design

2011-06-07T15:46:00.000+01:00

Uni's out for summer!

In the meantime, we're getting on with wedding preparation and I'm currently designing our save the date cards, here's a little preview:

I'm so uber excited of how design is going to turn out, keep tuned!

Jamie's Italian

2011-05-13T22:18:00.003+01:00

Thanks to help from iphone + blogger = visual twitter, I am now blogging live from a iphone near you,

How freakin exciting!!!

Here's some foodie photos from lunch at Jamie's Italian, celebrating the end of the end-of-year exams!
Fried calamari starter followed by Squid-ink Angel Hair Pasta

My current happy song

2011-04-22T22:14:00.002+01:00

I know it's not the best of songs. But lately for some reason, everytime I hear this songs, it just reminds me of that night of being back home, being surrounded by family, being semi-drunk and singing along and it was moments of contented happiness.

Such a simple memory yet it gives me strength to smile on shitty days, :)

Ji Lee: 99%

2011-04-15T19:29:00.000+01:00

Ji Lee: The Transformative Power of Personal Projects from 99% on Vimeo.

I really like and am challenged by his quote, "Time is a concept which can be stretched", especially when I use the lack of time as a constant excuse.

Tune for the weekend

2011-03-19T17:12:00.000Z

Sounds for the weekend and sounds just like a perfect weekend, :)

This week...

2011-03-11T15:19:00.003Z

Embracing new technology, finally!

Celebrating returns with posh chocolate,

and praying for Japan.

(img via)

cny 11

2011-02-17T15:44:00.001Z

Waiting for the dragons, 2011

There's nothing like a new camera to celebrate the blessed Chinese New Year just passed and ressurrect the old blog.

La Tete en friche

2011-02-09T11:55:00.000Z

La Tete en friche, My Afternoons with Margueritte

An heartwarming movie which beautifully encapsulates gentleness, love and humor.

Google Demo Slam

2011-01-06T21:50:00.004Z

I wish my presentations were as cool as this.

2011 Owl Calender Freebie!

2010-12-31T08:36:00.003Z

Owl Lover 2011 Calender from the blog, My Owl Barn is such an amazing find.

It features more than 12 images of pretty owls by various artists and the best bit is

you can customise which picture suits the month of your choice and download it for free!

Such a cool concept and such generosity, I can't wait to change my calender now!

[Thanks and via Decor8]

birthday wisdom

2010-12-30T12:41:00.001Z

Some wise words for the birthday chicks, WenYi & Jin

♥♥♥

[via Papier Mache - a gorgeous Australian magazine ]

In the baking spirit

2010-12-23T23:01:00.001Z

If I do not have the Christmas spirit, I definitely have the baking spirit!

This week alone, a gooey chocolate, prune and armagnac cake was baked,

followed by the Chocolate and Zucchini's le gâteau Piège

and now to mark Christmas Eve's Eve : the Gingerbread Baking Bonazza!


Our Gingerbread Festive Tree

Special thanks to L & Elne for the butter, icing and lots of fun!

L-list #05

2010-11-17T18:00:00.000Z

Like/Love List... inspired by chilly autumn days

nothing design group: 'calendar with vase'

[via designboom]


hand-crafted wallpaper

[via owen glidersleeve]

Stephanie Martin's Mangier

[via swissmiss]

115th anniversary of the X-Ray

2010-11-08T16:39:00.000Z

I'm starting to become a little obsessed with google doodles (if not noticeable, haha)

but what a brilliant way in promoting World Radiography Day!

Hokusai google wave

2010-10-31T17:54:00.000Z

Spotted on Google Japan, for Katsushika Hokusai's 250th anniversity.

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Sorry for the non-existent updates, it's a combination of lack of time due to uni and a dead camera!

Uni days once again

2010-09-20T19:50:00.000+01:00

Uni has officially started and it's already so much more intense that I expected!
Eeks! So was pretty thankful to find a lovely chilled out song to help calm the nerves

Baa...

2010-09-07T08:58:00.000+01:00

or Hahaa...

Pre-theatre? Actually, mostly theatre.

2010-08-30T00:44:00.001+01:00

Our anniversary begins on a long grey road. It starts somewhere in the west of the Northern lands that summer has forgotten (aka Scotland) and inexorably winds deeper into the warmer climes of the South. The little silver car’s engine thrums along the road as its wheels eat up mile after mile, at first through a rain blurred landscape which shifts gradually to the haze of dusty industrialised cities and the verdant warm English farmland. Each passing hour becomes more temperate than the last as the little car faithfully draws us ever closer to the ancient countryside that surrounds Windsor castle until, eventually; we arrive in the little village of Bray, home of the Fat Duck.
Rows of tiny single story cottages (each unique and quaint) line the narrow high street, which is decorated in merry explosions of summer flowers and interspaced by local boutiques and small shops. Bray captures the air of once-upon-a-time England and we amble through its nearly deserted streets savouring the delicious stillness. The sun wanes and dips, washing the squat white buildings in smooth honey coloured light and, as the evening draws onwards, it feels like we are moving backwards to a bygone era.
With not a little satisfaction we spot the iconic iron duck styled cutlery hanging from a surprisingly ordinary white façade. The sign, as we head towards it, heralds the end of the long journey and the beginning of an altogether stranger adventure. Unconsciously holding our breaths we push open the heavy wooden door and step across the threshold …

      … Into a quietly efficient restaurant. Both the French waiter’s attire and the circular table cloths are pristine and starched. The interior is much as you would see in any cottage eatery, with white washed walls, dark wooden beams and splashes of tasteful ornamentation. Yet overall the space radiates the startling plainness of an untouched canvas.
      We are greeted warmly enough by a sharply dressed man of indeterminate age, whom we assume to be the head waiter and, with little preamble, shown to our table-for-two by the window. The window sports a view, through thin gauze, of the street outside where we amuse ourselves by watching other diners arrive and pose, as we did, for photos under the iron sign. As we are commenting on one particularly under dressed patron, buoying her way across the street, a waitress appears seemingly out of nowhere.
      “Is thees zee first time aht zee Fat Duck?’ she asks with a knowing look. There is a momentary pause as our brains struggle to digest the idea that some individuals would dine here more than once in a life time.
      “Um.. Yes” I reply, uncertain if this is an acceptable answer.
      “Ah good!” she says, somewhat reassuring us, with a big smile, “You ah in for eh treat!” With that vague threat she takes our drink orders and shows us the menu.
       Bound in thick dark leather and cleverly constructed with interlaced wooden strips to flip open from the left or from the right, it feels more like a piece of antique furniture than a menu. We carefully crack it open, and allow our minds to gorge on beautifully embossed pages and the courses described inside. I can’t help but feel a little intimidated and whisper furtive oohs and ahs of anticipation.
      Another French waiter appears out of nowhere (this seems to be a hallmark of the waiting staff in the Fat Duck) and, as he places freshly pressed pear juice on the table, asks, “What do you expect from zee Fat Duck?” We tell him about the food and the drama of the TV series and that we hope to have fun and enjoy good food. He nods and explains that many diners assume that it will be all about serious food and will be stiff and severe because of the triple Michelin star reputation. He is keen to impress upon us that this is very much not the case but is in fact, in his own words, “all about zee fun”.
      Surprisingly, he’s right.

LIME GROVE - Nitrogen Poached Green Tea and Lime Mousse
A waitress wheels out liquid nitrogen, effervescing in an insulated copper bucket. She squeezes a blob of egg white foam into the nitrogen where it skitters about on the surface for a few seconds before she fishes out and dusts it with a light puff of green tea powder. The waitress prompts us to pop the whole thing in our mouths and, as we are distracted by the startlingly cool sensation of frozen mouse disappearing on the tongue, she surreptitiously sprays citrus perfume in the air. A palate cleanser that is delightfully fresh and original, which evokes the feeling of spring.

RED CABBAGE GAZPACHO – with Pommery Grain Mustard Ice Cream
The single forlorn quenelle of mustard ice cream sits lost in the middle of a very large soup plate. Smaller than the end of your pinkie finger it hits somewhat above its weight in flavour. Swimming in the shamelessly pink and intensely concentrated cold red cabbage soup, delicately poured by a waiter at the table, this starter dish can only be described as the gastronomification of Ruby Wax – small, colourful and very feisty. (Sorry Ruby!)

JELLY OF QUAIL, CRAYFISH CREAM AND PEA PUREE- with Chicken Liver Parfait, Oak Moss and Truffle Toast
“You might want to get your camera ready” warns the waitress as she places a wooden tray filled with moss in the centre of our table. We notice a pair of suspicious objects nestling in the moss which, on closer inspection, are little plastic cases curiously labelled ‘Fat Duck Films’. We are instructed to extract the thin strips from the cases and place them in our mouths. Looking at each other, our eyes widen in mirrored appreciation as the woody essence of the Oak forest, infused in the films, slowly diffuses all around our mouths. The waiter pours a liquid into the moss tray from a black cast iron teapot and our expressions of pleasure turn to pure wonderment.

An eerie mist rises from the moss and eddies lazily around the cutlery and food, eventually spilling over the edges of the table in a soft ghostly blanket. Perfectly setting the mood for the lovely smoky and earthy flavours of the actual dish we’re beginning to get that it is all about the fun.

SNAIL PORRIDGE – with Jabugo Ham, Shaved Fennel
Growing up, I made sure that I was never associated to the strange fat boy who ate slugs, which I think every British primary school probably has. So I’m secretly amused by the irony when the waiting staff present us this next playful scene.

Enter Waiter #1 and waiter #2 who stand beside the table. Hands are poised over the lids covering the dishes.

Waiter #1 (looks at waiter #2): “I zink zee rain is very heavily zis evening.”
Waiter #2: “Why I zink you are correct! Chef will be very happy!”
Waiter #1: “Yes, he always likes it. He can get zem fresh from zee garden”
Waiter #2: “Very fresh indeed, yes! What iz it?”

Both pause for dramatic effect then, with flourish, reveal the contents of the bowls

Both waiters in unison (with evil grins): “SNAIL PORRIDGE! BON APETIT!”

We are assured that this starter has not just been dug out of the garden and, despite over achieving its goal of appearing to be a snail pooled in its own slime, it is quite enjoyable. Yes, there are real (cooked) molluscan entities submerged in the green risotto and yes, it has the grassy taste of a meadow after a rainstorm and no, we are not suspicious at all. Honest.

ROAST FOIE GRAS - Gooseberry, Braised Konbu and Crab Biscuit
Meditate if you will, on savouring the luxurious sensation of the best chocolate you can possibly imagine, melting very slowly on your tongue and exquisitely trickling down your throat. If you are picturing this then you are probably now smiling blissfully and you’re eyes are unconsciously closed to better linger on the experience. That is exactly how we feel after enjoying this heart-stoppingly rich starter.
Popping one of the segments of foie gras in the mouth whole immediately rewards the palate with warm melting goodness cut through with salty explosions of fishy konbu and the crunch of wafer thin biscuits made from crab extract. As lumps of goose fat go they have never tasted so good. And in my defence, if my cardiologist ever asks, I shamelessly devoured all three pieces but they were really, really small.

MOCK TURTLE SOUP (c.1850) - "Mad Hatter Tea"
I get the impression that they have tried so hard with the story of this dish that they have forgotten to make it taste as good as it narrates. Starting strong with the usual theatre and attention to detail, we’re presented lovely silver embossed cards detailing the history of the dish and its link with the tale of Alice in Wonderland. Once we have got our imagination in order we’re each given freeze dried stock, moulded to resemble the pocket watches of Victorian times, and coated in gleaming gold leaf. Following the story of Alice in Wonderland, we too are instructed to dunk our ‘watches’ in a teapot (filled with hot water) which, unlike Alice, results in a beautiful gold flecked broth for the mock turtle meat soup.
Not bad but slightly underwhelming on taste, I finish this dish feeling that the star of the show isn’t the food but the concept and whimsical story underlying it.

"SOUND OF THE SEA"
How to react when someone plonks a giant seashell in front of you at diner? At the Fat Duck one does not, as childhood wisdom would have one naturally do, put it to your ear and hope to hear the echo of your own body sounds that faintly resembles the sea. Rather you unravel the iPod Nano headphones concealed inside it, place these in your ears and listen to a record of the seaside with its occasional seagull and crashing waves.

While soothed by this we’re treated to what looks like a miniature model of a beach (replete with sand, foam, fish and various bits of debris) but is all deliciously edible. To describe it as sashimi dish of mackerel, halibut and yellow fin tuna would be technically correct if artfully deficient. The sand is made of flavoured tapioca mixed with miniature crispy deep fried baby eels and decorated with saphire, light coloured konbu, other types of seaweed and other tiny details. The foam, made from dashi stock, smells and tastes salty and it is all meticulously assembled on a sand filled glass and wood block.

This dish engages, and is enjoyed by, all five senses in a way that rarely occurs while dining. As I dine I clearly remember long gone vacations swimming in the warm waters of the Spanish coast or aimless walks along the sea fronts of nameless west coast villages during the summer holidays. It is a total success as an evocation and immersive experience of the seaside. My only criticism would be that at the end it is all a bit salty - but that is probably the point.

SALMON POACHED IN LIQUORICE - Artichoke, Vanilla Mayonnaise and Golden Trout Roe
Oops! Sorry for the slightly masticated state of the salmon in the photograph. By this stage ‘zee fun’ has taken over and we get a little carried away.
Anyways the description and photo tells you everything you need to know so excuse us while we go back to enjoying all these wonderful ingredients. Mwhahahahaha!

POWDERED ANJOU PIGEON (c.1720) - Blood Pudding, Potted Umbles, Spelt and Pickles
‘Mmmm. Some unrecognised ingredients in this one’ I muse to myself while doing honours to the thick slices of pigeon breast and smothering them in the congealed pool of sinister blood pudding. The meaty richness is balanced in flavour by the zing and sweetness of little pickled onions which are covered in wondrously light and tasty foam, and balanced in texture by what look like giant crunchy quavers. There is also a side bowl of brown mystery mush ringed with what rather prosaically resemble sugar puffs.
      In hindsight, not dissimilar to dismembered heads mounted on pikes outside an old city gallows, the sight of the tiny twin halves of pigeon heart delicately placed in the middle of the mystery mush which, coinciding with the unusual act of entirely separating it from the rest of the dish in a bowl, should have screamed to me certain pointed warnings. While ingeniously relishing the cuteness of the word ‘umbles’ I ask what these are.
      “It iz ah very old fashioned English word for eh…”
There is a moments hesitation, then, “what do you call it… Offal?”
      This, as you would correctly surmise, greatly upsets me. Not because it is pigeon organs, but because I pride myself on being of discerning Vietnamese peasant stock and thus appreciating the taste of good offal. However I find that the umbles offend not just my pride, and despite forcefully finishing the bowl I decide that those with an inclination for the blue variety of steak would have nothing to complain about while enjoying the juicy rare pigeon and pudding, but even they would baulk at the ripeness of the potted umbles.

      But all is not lost as we’re entertained by the guest at the next table who repeatedly, and with mounting volume, declares that he absolutely LOVES it and though he is roaring drunk the four waiting staff sent to accommodate him are smooth, professional and courteous, minimising the disruption to other diners effortlessly. Although I swear we see, just for the merest fraction of a second, one of the waiters roll his eyes heavenward.

Hot and Iced Tea
Contained in the elegant yet innocuous glass of lightly sweetened earl grey is an experience that makes even the most reserved guest smile. Some smile at the surprise; some with amusement at their own puzzlement; yet most just out of pure delight.
      We are told to simply drink it ‘just as it is’. Cautiously we oblige and are rewarded with a completely alien sensation in the mouth, a sort of tactile illusion. Simultaneously one side on the tongue is treated to tinglingly cold tea and the other side is messaged with mellow warm tea. We take an identical second puzzled sip, then a third and forth and fifth until sadly the magic is over.
      Turning the glass in hand, like a volunteer invited to confirm that the magician’s hat is indeed empty, we inquire on how it is done but the waitress shrugs telling us it would not be magic if she told us. Like most good magic tricks the deception is simple but as any good magician knows the first rule of illusion is that you never tell the mark how it’s done.
      Of course that doesn’t stop us from having days of fun, trying to work it out.

TAFFETY TART (c.1660) - Caramelised Apple, Fennel, Rose and Candied Lemon
Words fail to describe our delicious plight. The creation placed in front of us is almost too mesmerising to eat, adorned with dazzling crystallized rose petals and delicate flowers made from petite slivers of fennel and glistening maroon sorbet. Eventually we succumb and reluctantly lay waste to the carefully balanced layers of caramelized apple, soft cheese and candied lemon that is separated by parchment thin sheets of pastry.
Our taste buds are greeted with a symphony of fruit flavours. The intense berry sorbet is curiously complimented by the kick of fennel seeds hidden underneath it and candied citrus around it. The rose petals and pastry sheets crumble and snap satisfyingly on the plate and on the palate, and even the soft cheese is unexpectedly infused with rose water. I eat it in progressively smaller portions in an attempt to prolong my rapture but the inevitable happens far too soon. A tart that the chastest of men would be willingly seduced by again and again.

THE "BFG" - Kirsch Ice Cream and the smell of the Black Forest
I’m truly glad we had not looked at ‘reviews’ of the restaurant. We loved the anticipation, surprise and novelty element of each dish because throughout the entire meal we had no idea what was in store beside its menu title and short description.
However in hindsight, this was the only dish that I regret not having more details about. The deceptively simple monolith of cocoa cloaks a truly complex and ingenious construction of gateau layers that I only now belatedly appreciate the craftsmanship of. I regret the discarding of the cherry stem made from an edible vanilla pod and my ignorance of the many other details that make this dish a permanent feature in the Fat Duck’s menu. So, other than spraying ‘smell of the black forest’ at each other, for once there is no drama; indeed there is no need for it. There is just cake. And it is Good.

WHISK(E)Y WINE GUMS
Never let it be said that the Duck is not politically correct. Indeed their clever resolution to the highly contentious issue of the correct spelling of the great Celtic beverage is both diplomatic and amusing. Nevertheless I suspect that Scottish, Irish and English nationalists alike would be aghast at the mischievous inclusion of the Tennessee made Jack Daniels. Were it not for the twinned distractions of the charming presentation of jelly bottles on a framed map of Scotland and the novelty of the regionally distinctive flavours of each whisky gum, then I’m sure fists, bagpipes and kilts would be flying. Thankfully the only quarrel we have is which region’s flavour to try first.

"LIKE A KID IN A SWEET SHOP"
The fun doesn’t stop even as we pay and head back home, jealously clutching our stripy paper bags, full of perfumed card and sweet trophies. But despite our excitement we are good little boys and girls, so we remember our schooldays admonishments to share, and make a point of stopping on the way home to split of our loot with family, before finally trundling back to the North.
For a week we drool over the stash, marvelling at the childhood details and playfulness of some of the sweets; like the white chocolate playing card; or the apple pie flavoured toffee with edible wrapper; or the toy packet of coconut ‘tobacco’, but eventually we commit them to our stomachs and to our memories. Indeed, it would not be too much of an exaggeration to suggest that Mr William Wonka would be a bit envious.

A month later I am still given odd looks by the occasional passer by, as I am caught smiling in reminiscence about the evening’s adventure. Was it worth it? What do you think?

(written by KH)

Baby Highland Coo

2010-08-23T17:51:00.000+01:00

Baby Hairy Coo at the Royal Highland Show 2010

Sweet weekend

2010-08-20T17:57:00.002+01:00

Sweet stand at the Royal Highland Show 2010

Cooking with Dog

2010-08-11T15:26:00.003+01:00

Over the weekend, I introduced Hai to my favourite YouTube cooking channel: Cooking with Dog

that showcases how to make Japanese dishes by the lady (on the right ) alongside the host, Francis,
a English-speaking, 'narrating' poodle with an accent! If that doesn't make you laugh, maybe their banner would:

Inspired, hungry and amused, we made Mapo Tofu and Dorayaki!

No photos as our Sony Cyber-shot has kick the bucket, -.-

~"Good luck in the Kitchen"~

Wedding Inspiration Blogs: Part 1

2010-08-07T14:05:00.001+01:00

Summer School Physics is done and dusted, yay! And my offical acceptance letter arrived in the post this week, double yay! After months of deliberating and planning, my career change is taking shape - exciting!

Another thing that has got me smiling and excited is: Wedding Planning!

Thanks to the internet, there are so many wedding inspiration blogs and resources out there, filled with much talent, beauty, joy, creativity and love. Here are some of my favourites, so far and in no particular order:


100 Layer Cake

Style Me Pretty


The Wedding Chicks

Once Wed

our Labor of Love

Something old, something new

My only criticism from a non-american, is that the majority are based in America

but they still provide great eye candy, ideas and inspiration nonetheless.

φύσις

2010-07-22T23:02:00.000+01:00

I'm currently attending Summer School Physics (an entry requirement)

so the blog is going to be quiet for 2 more weeks!

We don't see things as THEY are, we see things as WE are

2010-07-15T11:15:00.001+01:00

A distinguished art critic was studying an exquisite painting by the Italian Renaissance master Filippino Lippi. He stood in London’s National Gallery gazing at the fifteenth century depiction of Mary holding the infant Jesus on her lap, with saints Dominic and Jerome kneeling nearby. But the painting troubled him. There could be no doubting Lippi’s skill, his use of colour or composition. But the proportions of the picture were slightly wrong: The hills in the background seemed exaggerated, as if they might topple out of the frame at any minute onto the gallery’s polished floor. The two kneeling saints looked awkward and uncomfortable.

Robert Cumming was not the first to criticise Lippi’s work for its poor perspective, but he may well be the last to do so, because at that moment he had a revelation. It suddenly occurred to him that the problem might be his. The painting he was analyzing with clinical objectivity was not just another piece of religious art hanging in a gallery alongside other comparative works. It had never been intended to come anywhere near a gallery. Lippi’s painting had been commissioned to hang in a place of prayer.

Self-consciously, the dignified art critic in the public gallery dropped to his knees before the painting. Suddenly he saw what generations of art critics had missed. From his newfound position of humility, Robert Cumming found himself gazing up at a perfectly proportioned piece. The foreground had moved naturally to the background, while the saints seemed settled – their awkwardness, like the painting itself, having turned to grace. Mary now looked intently and kindly directly at him as he knelt at her feet between saints Jerome and Dominic.

It was not the perspective of the painting that had been wrong all these years – it was the perspective of the people looking at it. Robert Cumming on bended knee had found a beauty that Robert Cumming the proud art critic could not. All these years, the joke had been upon the succession of experts standing, studying, and analysing instead of kneeling humbly in prayer.

[via Pete Greig, The Vision and the Vow, pp.17–18] [via HTB]

Growing Non-Magic Mushrooms the Ardnamushroom Way!

2010-07-11T21:05:00.002+01:00

With some trepidation the Mushroom Kit is cracked open to reveal what, we are assured on the side of the box, is a specially prepared artificial 'log' made from wood shavings but resembles a Tree Ent with Bubonic plague. Ugly!

The 'log' is lovingly placed in a specialized 90% humidity chamber (a.k.a. a water filled tray in a clingfilm covered cardboard box) and left for 5 days for it's first 'flush'.

So we waited and waited. And then as if by magic...

Our ugly log had finally transformed into a beautiful erm.... Yummy Mushroom Bonanza!

Rr

2010-06-30T23:49:00.000+01:00

One of the signs that you're not at art school anymore is that one finds

magazine covers designed by Rob Ryan in the waste bin, how shocking!

Being the papercut + rob ryan fan that I am, I couldn't help but rescue the magazine.

It was right on top of the rubbish pile and clean so I quickly fished it out

and ran away before anyone could recognise me!

But now, I get to hang this lovely cover on my wall, yay!

(via)

26.06.2010

2010-06-28T20:32:00.000+01:00

at loch dunn...

L-list #04

2010-06-22T18:18:00.001+01:00

Such gorgeous and creative styling from the new book, Paper + Craft

I need to get myself a copy asap!

[via] [img via]

---

folded goodness: origami jewellery

[via]
---

Tim Knol - When I Am King (HD) from SubmarineChannel on Vimeo.

Ldn #03.10

2010-06-21T17:20:00.002+01:00

75p find from the Japan Centre!
nom nom nom

---

My favourite part of V&A's 1:1 - Architects Build Small Spaces Exhibition
Beetle's House by Terunobu Fujimori

---

And only too happy to discover... Rob Ryan for Roger La Borde cards!

[img via]
---

Ldn: 12/6 -16/6

2010-06-17T21:38:00.003+01:00

Random meetings, friends, family, surprise finds, pinic in HH park

delightful exhibit, baking, high tea, duck, yum cha

London lo♥e

[img via The Royal Parks]

MH v2

2010-06-08T12:40:00.001+01:00

Farewell Mousehunt (v.2)... and onwards, Longtail!

Victoria Sandwich

2010-06-02T16:40:00.000+01:00

Recipe

(see Victoria Sandwich)

2010 Summer

2010-05-27T15:39:00.000+01:00

Happy Friday Pacman!

2010-05-21T18:46:00.002+01:00

Did you know that Pacman is 30 years old? And that you can actually play the Google logo?!

How insanely cool!

Arthur's seat

2010-05-19T14:09:00.001+01:00

When the sun shines (in scotland) , go climb a hill!

Happy Monday

2010-05-17T11:37:00.000+01:00

All Mondays should begin with a smile like this!

Campeltown #03

2010-05-14T20:10:00.001+01:00

me+SH

2010-05-05T15:44:00.000+01:00

Some of my sketches made it into print in April's issue of me+SH publication as seen here!

Yay, :)

Thanks Audrey for the head's up!

Campbeltown #02

2010-05-03T15:42:00.000+01:00

Old boathouse

Springtime in Campeltown #01

2010-05-02T15:53:00.001+01:00

Spring flowers in Campbeltown, a quiet little Scottish seaside town.

Loving the vibrant colours and textures,

the rosebush (below) reminded me of Alice in Wonderful!

L-list #03

2010-04-22T15:21:00.003+01:00

Origami Bats Font = AWESOME!

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SANAA 'cat hugging' wrist design for Alessi Watches
---

T.shelf System to display

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Offers

2010-04-09T22:53:00.003+01:00

The offers are in... and it's 2 out of 3 since

Edinburgh decided to offer me a different course instead.

Between Aberdeen and Glasgow,

my heart's pretty set on staying still.

I'm tired from the last few year's moving from flats, cities, countries and continents

that settling into a home would be a simple luxury.

It would be less hassle for Hai too, not having to uproot him from his flat or work.

And finally having the flat to ourselves,

it would be far too big a shame not to enjoy

our new pyrolytic oven, the new toilet lino and the work-in-progress:
study with guestroom
where, this vase (via Design*Sponge) needs to belong!

Thank You for your amazing grace!

life list

2010-04-08T23:15:00.002+01:00

There was once a project on my google reader which

featured an artist who photographed every item she/he own.

Mostly featured were clothes, a visible inventory.

But I really like and can't forgot the idea of listing out life,

can intangibles be documented?
---
Any thoughts people?

O happy day

2010-04-01T10:33:00.014+01:00

Back in Glasgow, after another week of visiting my nephew

and it's a blue skies and sunshine day
-
My uncle's surgery went well, thank God.
&
Hai's got the Easter weekend off,
yay!

⎝⏠⏝⏠⎠

Prague: Spotted #03

2010-03-23T21:54:00.000Z

A little bird who lived in a ~~hole~~ mouth...

Prague: Spotted #02

2010-03-22T21:48:00.000Z

Czech gingerbread welcoming the arrival of spring!

Prague: Spotted #01

2010-03-21T21:44:00.000Z

A delightful curtain whose print and pattern reflected the city.

Prague: Eat #02

2010-03-19T17:27:00.000Z

Prague: Eat #01

2010-03-18T08:37:00.001Z

A most munch-worthy snack, we found in Prague!

Staroceske trdlo aka Old-Bohemian muff is made by wrapping dough around a steel rolling pin,

baking it over open flames then rolling it in sugar, vanilla, crushed almonds and cinnamon.

Emitting the most fragrant of smells,

it tastes as yummy as it looks & more!

Sweet, crunchy and best of all, warm.

Me needs more!

Happy St Paddy

2010-03-17T21:06:00.002Z

Here's wishing everyone a Happy Saint Patrick's Day...

from Prague! ;P

In front of the Tančící dům, or also known as the Dancing House
designed by architect Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry.

Numbers 6:24-26

2010-03-16T18:22:00.003Z

‘The Lord bless you and keep you;

the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace.’

[via]

Something for the weekend

2010-03-13T15:39:00.002Z

This 70 Million video, by Hold Your Horses! made me smile

as I remembered all those art history lessons and museum trips

and all the art school peeps I shared this with,

knowing that they'll enjoy it more than any Gaga vid!

70 Million by Hold Your Horses ! from L'Ogre on Vimeo.

Apple souffle

2010-03-12T15:07:00.001Z

What I came home to...

---

'2 person world', the term in Mandarin translates into.

In reality, it's peaceful, happy bliss.

Brighton

2010-03-10T14:28:00.000Z

away

2010-02-26T23:15:00.000Z

I'm offski again, for 5 days...

Brighton, London, Chester then back up to jolly old Scotland!

Spotted!

2010-02-25T02:30:00.000Z

While driving in the Yorkshire Dales, we saw a whole variety of animals...

wild ducks swimming in streams, a live rabbit sitting on the road (!)

lots of sheep, some horses but the best one spotted was... a Shetland Pony!

I even got close enough to pet it!!! ♥♥♥!

Wensleydale creamery

2010-02-24T14:01:00.009Z

We brought Nadia out for a meal last month at one of my favourite Glaswegian eateries:
the House for an Art Lover restaurant, located in Bellahouston Park.

For dessert, Hai had his usual choice of the cheeseboard selection.

I’m not the biggest fan of cheese, but Hai insisted that I take a nibble of one of the cheeses and it was amazing!!!
Soft, creamy and flavoured with a hint of sweetness, we were totally blown away by this mysterious, delicious cheese!

Before leaving, we questioned the waiter on the name and whereabouts of this cheese and it turned out to be
Abbot’s Gold: a chedder mixed with sweet caramelised onion from the Wensleydale creamery
(yes, of which that makes the Wensleydale of Wallace and Gromit fame!)

So on the way home from my sister's, we took a little detour into the Yorkshire Dales
in seach for cheese and this is what we found:

Cheese tasting heaven!

They had all sorts: Wensleydale cheese, Blue cheese, Pineapple cheese, Ginger cheese!

We ended up taking home 2 blocks of Abbot's Gold and a smoked blue cheese.
Now, just some for crackers and a pot of tea! Oh, Gromit?

Saturday Night Action

2010-02-21T10:06:00.003Z

Saturday Night Actionat the Lang household, -.-

Thankfully, Hai isn't in this photo cuz he was cooking dinner!

CNY 2010

2010-02-20T18:11:00.003Z

Welcoming the new (lunar) year...

with lots of milk and my wee nephew!

♥

Heart of the Tiger

2010-02-14T11:09:00.004Z

♥ Happy Chinese New Year & Happy Valentine's Day! ♥

London #02.10: V&A

2010-02-11T16:42:00.006Z

In the courtyard of the V&A,
one of my favourite museums in London.

A digital installation, part of the Decode exhibition
sits gently upon the shallow waters like an waterbug
its multiple eyes follow you as you move around it,

watching you as you watch it

Pity the photos aren't of great quality,
I only had my PnS on me and had to keep moving cuz
once you stop moving, it loses interest and you fade off the screen!

London #01.10

2010-02-10T15:40:00.002Z

Using my birthday as an excuse, we went down to London to catch up with friends and family, to check out the musuems, the shops and to feast!

Using the brilliant World Foodie Guide, we had too many restaurants to choose from,
but finally decided on Mangal Ocakabasi for kebabs!

They were generously-sized and yummy kebabs... nom nom nom!

♥

Make

2010-02-03T21:52:00.004Z

After a day of consumerism,
it stuck me that my concept of art is

the priceless joy of making, creating, producing -
it doesn't necessarily have to be original,
sometimes fleeting, sometimes permanent
ideas taking form.

[ quote via swissmiss via Alex Giron ]

25

2010-02-01T10:01:00.001Z

In the big smoke to celebrate turning 25th!
Back in a week so watch this space,
x