sayonara, so long, adieu, adios, au revoir, auf wiedersehen, bye

This morning I sat down at my computer to blog and I couldn't think of a thing to say. That's been increasingly the case over the last month or two...it appears, sadly, I've lost the will to blog.

Life is busy, busy these days. I've started to take on a bit more work (one of my current projects is setting up a website for my business www.barecommunications.com.au - nothing there yet, but soon will be!), have a few voluntary roles on the go, as well as the usual demands of motherhood. And I figure that when something I began for the sheer enjoyment (this blog) starts to feel like an obligation, it's time to ask why I'm doing it...so, I'm taking a break.

I want to thank you, dear readers, for coming along on this ride and sharing your opinions along the way. I have absolutely loved sharing a little bit of myself with you and I honestly would have gone a little bit barmy over the last six months if not for you. And who knows? I could be back in a month...or a year...or maybe not at all.

Take care...and if you want to keep in touch, you can always find me on twitter (@bugmum) or drop me a line at domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com

Amanda
xox

Spring is here!

Spring. A poem by Robert McCracken

Today is the day when bold kites fly,
When cumulus clouds roar across the sky.
When robins return, when children cheer,
When light rain beckons spring to appear.

Today is the day when daffodils bloom,
Which children pick to fill the room,
Today is the day when grasses green,
When leaves burst forth for spring to be seen.

It's been a loooooong winter but Spring is FINALLY here. My favourite season...the mere mention of September is enough to put some bounce in my step. I love the sunshine, the blue skies, the blooming bulbs...ah, sweet Spring.

What does Spring mean to you?

Favourite Recipes: Chocolate Chip Brownies

This week's favourite recipe comes from one of my favourite people - my lovely friend, Rachel. She swears these Chocolate Chip Brownies are so easy and scrummy straight from the oven, or frozen and reheated...or any other way that takes your fancy! Mmmm...chocolatey goodness...

what you need
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 cup plain flour
1/3 cup cocoa
2/3 cup brown sugar
2/3 cup white sugar
1 cup chocolate chips
1 tspn vanilla
2/3 cup vege oil (to make these treats a little lower in fat, Rachel used a tub of pureed apple plus a little bit of oil - around 1/3 cup of each)
3 eggs

what to do

1. The best thing about this recipe is that all you need to do is throw everything in a bowl and mix it up.
2. Then spray and line a 20 x 30cm tray and bake for 25-30mins at 170C. Make sure you watch your oven, though, as these brownies are definitely better undercooked rather than overcooked.
3. Eat. Rub tummy. Yum.
   

Want to share your favourite recipe? Send it to domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com

Fashion Smashion: Brights

If they're not already, sunglasses are about to become your can't-live-without accessory for summer - if only to look at the frocks! Acid brights are HUGE at the moment, with saturated hues spotted on many fashion-forward celebs.Will you embrace the rainbow?

Above left: Jessica Stroup in a cute, flowy micro mini and to-die-for shoes
Above right: Beyonce forgets the old 'take one thing off before you leave the house' rule

Above left: Jennifer Morrison wows in a tangerine number
Above right: This violet stunner almost distracted me from thinking how badly I want to give Posh a Quarter Pounder.


Above left: Christina Applegate plays it safe by pairing retro hot pink with a sensible black skirt and shoes.
Above right: Nicky Hilton. The horror.

Above left: A detailed neckline and tricky heels add interest to Maria Menounos' bright red swing dress.
Above right: Renee Zellweger on her way to arm wrestle Madonna for the title of buffest celebrity.

Source: Instyle

What Amanda can't live without...

This week, we find out what Amanda can't live without. No, not me, but my darling friend with the same name. We met about four years ago when, in one of the best moves of my career, I recruited her to work with me. She is not only ridiculously smart and talented, but is gorgeous to boot, with a heart the size of Ayers Rock.

I love her to bits, and you will too - here's what she can't live without.

1. Nalle—We adopted our beautiful Husky from Mikulov Siberians just over a year ago. When she arrived at Mikulov she had pneumonia, had severe fly bites on her ears and tails, and her coat was matted from months of neglect. She is now in full health and enjoys bossing us around immensely.
2. Music—I love music of all varieties. I don’t discriminate at all, in fact just last week, I found myself uttering the words “I don’t quite know how to say this, but I think I need Miley Cyrus...”
3. Faith—I regularly reflect on the fact that I always seem to land in the right spot at the right time. So when I say ‘Faith’ I’m not necessarily saying religion. I just have faith that, in life, things will always work out for the best.
4. My family—where to start? My parents gave up so much to make sure that I got the best education, and start in life. And my sister is my hero. None of them like having their photos taken, so excuse my imagery...
5. Exercise—I went through a really crazy gym junkie period, during which a girlfriend and I would do ‘three hours of power’ including running, weights and yoga. Nowadays I’m happy to get a jog in every now and again and play netball twice a week.
6. Being a housewife—OK so I’m not one yet, but I love cleaning, cooking, gardening and sewing (someone else can keep the ironing). I was born in the wrong decade. I’d have made a brilliant Stepford Wife.
7. My partner—He is my rock.
8. Travel—I have the itchiest feet. I want to go everywhere. I am happiest when I have my backpack on and I’m checking in for a long distance flight.
9. My sisters—my urban family, the women around me who inspire me on a daily basis. You know who you are the ones who tell me when to pull my head in, what not to wear and who regularly lead me astray—go on—twist my rubber arm.

If you want to share what you can't live without, just email me at domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com

What's your Best Restaurant?

It's that time of year again! Australian Gourmet Traveller has just unveiled their pick of restaurants from around the country and Sydney's Quay restaurant has won the top gong for the second year running.

There was a time when my lovely husband and I used to delight in doing the rounds of the latest foodie hotspots...these days, though, we're more likely to pick something low key and local.

There are a lot of the usual suspects on Gourmet's list of three-hat restaurants...we've been to four of the nine Sydney hotspots and they all deserve their place. Without a doubt, the most amazing dining experience I've ever had was at Tetsuya's...everything (food, wine, service, ambience) was sublime and truly unique.

BUT. What about the other great restaurants out there which don't have million dollar fitouts or harbour views but still have great food? C'mon, share your absolute favourite place to eat...

Favourite Recipe: Potato Bake & Crumbed Chicken

Last week, I invited readers to share their favourite recipes in a new weekly segment...and first up is Carly-Grace, with her Potato Bake and Crumbed Chicken. Perfect comfort food!

If you'd like to share your favourite recipe, it's as simple as sending me an email to domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com. You can also send a photo, and even a short blurb telling me what you like so much about your dish. In the meantime, though, give Carly's a whirl!

what you need
crumbed chicken:
500g of chicken breast (preferably pre-diced)
breadcrumbs
flour
2-3 eggs
milk
oil (canola or veggie oil)

potato bake
4-5 large potatoes
1 sweet potato
1 onion (optional)
Grated tasty cheese
Four rashers of bacon, diced
300 ml thickened cream

what to do

crumbed chicken

1. If chicken breast isnt pre-diced, cut into small cubes [you can judge the size - anywhere from a bouncy ball size to golf ball is generally good].
2. Crack eggs in a bowl and mix with some milk.
3. Put flour into a bowl - I find it easier to cover the chicken by using hands - and place chicken into flour. Give pieces a good dusting and remove excess flour.
   
4. Dip chicken into egg, ensuring all surfaces are covered, and into a bowl of breadcrumbs.
   
5. Put oil in pan on medium heat.
   
6. Place all the chicken in the pan, and cook until you can see browning underneath. Turn and cook until both sides are golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towel and serve with potato bake (below).
   

potato bake

1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees C
   
2. Peel and cut potatoes and sweet potatoes into cubes approx 1.5cm
   
3. Dice onion.
4. Layer a casserole dish with the potatoes, sweet potatoes and onion. Pour cream over.
   
5. Place in oven for 30-40 minutes.
6. Sprinkle grated cheese and diced bacon over the top
   
7. Return to oven until the cheese has melted. A great alternative is under the grill.
8. Remove from and stand for 2-5 minutes.
9. Serve with crumbed chicken (above). Enjoy!
   

They're baaaaack...

Oh yes, indeedy...the 80s power shoulder is back with a vengeance and I, for one, love it. Why? Well, anything that makes my waist look smaller and takes the attention away from my large-ish arse is a winner for me.

What's your verdict? Who does it best, and will you be pulling out the shoulder pads this season?

Above left: Diane Kruger's feathered fancy;
Above right: Michelle Monaghan goes for razor sharp shoulders

Above left: Posh does the extended cap shoulder;
Above right: Rachel McAdams channels Linda Evans from Dynasty

Above left: Diane Kruger is nice in nude tones;
Above right: Charlize Theron takes a more casual approach.

Source: Instyle

What Chantelle can't live without...

Chantelle's Fat Mum Slim blog was one of the first I discovered when I entered the blogosphere. Its beautiful images and whimsical writing had me hooked from that first visit and it remains one of my favourite reads. She is also a talented photographer and creative soul - make sure you visit her gorgeous little Etsy shop!

But I digress. Without any further ado, it is my absolute pleasure to present the nine things Chantelle simply can't live without.

1. Anything sweet. I have a sweet tooth, and I'm not afraid to admit it. I love chocolate, cakes, puddings... I'll take the sweetness in any way, shape, form I can get it. Cupcakes are particularly cute. They'll do!
2. My family. My little family {Shane + Lacey}, as well as my other family {Ma, Jen, Sah + Tim). I love them all so so much and feel so grateful to have them in my life.
3. Flowers. I love them so much. Nature makes the most beautiful art with flowers.
4. The beach. Since moving to Sydney I've always lived and worked near the water. Being near the water feels like home now.
5. I'm Sex and the City obsessed. I could {and have} watch it all weekend. I just never get sick of it. I didn't watch it when it was on TV, I only caught onto it later. I have the series on DVD and love watching reruns on Foxtel.
6. I'm a little magazine addicted too. My favourite is Frankie magazine. I get so excited when it hits the shelves. I wish it came out more often.
7. Sushi! I love it so much, especially when it involved avocado and salmon. Thankfully Shane and Lacey love it too. And it's healthy too {most of the time}.
8. Polaroids. I have hundreds {perhaps thousands} of them. I display a select few on my wall. I wish they weren't going extinct, or so expensive.
9. Manicures and Pedicures. They're indulgent, yes. But they're my little haven. My little me time. Where no one talks to me and it's all about me. And just me.

An oldie but a goodie

I was talking to someone about distraction today and recommended the "Look, an Eagle!" approach...got a strange look in return. Anyhoooo, that made me think of this classic John West ad - still one of my absolute faves.

What's your favourite ad of all time?

Favourite Recipes: Neil Perry's Lasagne

Welcome to the first instalment of this new segment: Favourite Recipes. Most of the recipes I share on this blog are ones I like to cook over and over again, so you've probably already seen a lot of my faves...but here's a newie to the list.

I've sung the praises of Neil Perry many times. I've cooked many of his dishes and am yet to have a fail; and last night's effort was no exception. Here is the recipe for Neil's Best Ever Lasagne from his wonderful Good Food cookbook.

Is it the best lasagne I've ever had? Hmmm...I think Stephanie Alexander's recipe may just have the edge. BUT it's simple and relatively quick...and, for me, that scores extra points. It's a tasty, fantastic dish for the whole family...give it a go!

Oh, and if you'd like to share your Favourite Recipe, email domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com

Serves 6

Ingredients
9 lasagne sheets
500g fresh mozzarella- torn
100g freshly grated parmesan

Meat sauce
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 onion- finely chopped
6 garlic cloves - finely chopped
300g pork mince
300g veal mince
sea salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tsp. plain (all-purpose) flour
2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
pinch of caster sugar
700ml tomato passata
400g tinned diced tomatoes
1 large handful basil leaves

bechamel sauce
50g unsalted butter
2 tbsp. plain flour
600ml milk
sea salt and freshly ground pepper

what to do

1. Take a 23 x 29 x 7 cm lasagne dish.Preheat the oven to 190 degrees.
2. For the meat sauce, heat the oil in a large heavy-based frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, but not browned. Add the garlic and cook till fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add both of the meats and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon for about 4 minutes, or until the meat loses its raw colour but has not browned. Add the flour and cook, stirring for 2 minutes, then pour in the vinegar and stir occasionally till it has almost evaporated.
4. Add the sugar and passata and diced tomatoes and allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it reduces and has started to thicken slightly. Season. Stir through the basil leaves and set the sauce aside.
5. To make the bechamel, melt the butter in a saucepan over low-medium heat. Add the flour to the butter and stir constantly over the heat, for 1 - 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the milk all at once, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Return the pan to the heat and continue to whisk constantly, until the sauce boils and thickens. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper.
6. To asemble, spread one quarter of the meat sauce at the bottom of the lasagne dish. Place 3 of the lasagne sheets over the sauce. Spread another quarter of the sauce over the lasagne, followed by 1/3 of the mozarella. Continue to layer the lasagne sheets, sauce and mozarella two more times. Pour the bechamel over the final layer of mozzarella, then sprinkle evenly with the parmesan.
7. Cook the lasagne for 30 minutes, or until the cheese has browned and the sauce is bubbling. Remove the lasagne from the oven and let it stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
8. Serve with a simple green salad...enjoy!

Burlesque for Babies...

Hey, if it's good enough for Dita von Teese, why not your toddler? Don't you know nipple tassles are the baby accessory du jour?

That's right. Hot on the heels of the Cotton On "They Shake Me" baby romper storm, comes this classy little number from TwistedTwee.

Spotted by Sociological Images, the tee is designed for children between 0-4 and is described as "something for evening".

I don't know about you, but I prefer kids' night attire to be more flannelette than floozy.

Fashion Smashion: giving the cold shoulder

Oh, how I adore the one-shoulder look. Back in the day, before my upper arms began to resemble ricotta, it was one of my favourite looks.

These days I look for sleeves that reach to at least my elbow. But it doesn't hurt to dream...

Tell me, which is your favourite cold-shouldered frock? For me? It's a toss up between Demi and Pene...but then I do love Diane...

Above left: Demi Moore; Above right: Katherine Heigl

Above left: Penelope Cruz; Above right: Amy Adams

Above left: Diane Kruger; Above right: Rhianna

Source: Instyle

Masterchef challenge ends...and a new segment begins

Well, I think the Masterchef Home Mystery Box Challenge has done its dash - only Amy and I thought about it this week (and neither of us actually made a dish with the chosen ingredients!)

Amy 'virtually' whipped up a bowl of comforting lamb stew and I found this yummy recipe for Lamb Burgers with Feta and Tomato on Taste.com.au. - haven't tried it, but have put it on my list of dishes to try...if you'd like to give it a whirl, just click on the link.

But the end of the Masterchef challenge doesn't mean my food obsession is over...not by a long shot. I'd actually like to invite you all to share your favourite recipes on the blog in a new weekly segment.

Just send your recipe, a photo and details of why it is your favourite recipe to domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com - perhaps we can all find some new favourites!

Sometimes, what's mine is...er...mine

When you become a mother that alone time you used to have - whether a little or a lot - is reduced to pretty much nothing. And, for stay-at-home-mums (SAHMs), that place where you went to be you - usually work - is gone, too. So, to find something that is yours', and yours' alone is special.

Some time ago, I 'met' online a lovely group of people who regularly comment on my favourite blog, MamaMia. Over the last little while we have shared triumphs and tears. We've trusted each other with fears and frustrations. They're not strangers - just friends I haven't met yet. And next Saturday, I'll finally say hi to them in 'real life' when we get together for drinks in Sydney.

I talk to Drew about them like I talk about my local friends. He probably wouldn't know their names, but he'd recognise the funny columnist with the gay-straight husband; or the accountant who fell down the stairs in her new studded Nicola Finetti boots; or the brave ex-criminal lawyer who is fighting to save her best friend from cancer.

And when I say "I'll be saying hi...", that's what I mean. It's my first solo trip away in over three years and I'm looking forward to sleeping in on Sunday morning as much as I am hitting the town the night before.

While some partners might wonder why they're not invited to come along, that's not the case with Drew. He's encouraged me to go, told me to get myself a new outfit; he's not threatened in the least. He understands that, these days, I have so little that is truly mine and mine alone... and how I adore him for it.

What do you do, 0r where do you go, to find something that is truly yours'?

What Katrina can't live without...

This week, we find out what Katrina can't live without. She is one special mama. We spent six weeks together in hospital, both on bed rest with our second beautiful babies. We were each others' company, shoulder to cry on, and person to laugh with. I would have gone insane without her. These are the nine key things that keep her going...

1. My Boys - From the moment I met each one of the three men in my life I was blown away and instantly in love. They bring me laughter, hugs, tears and best of all unconditional love!
2. A rainy day - nothing better then curling up on the couch with a cuppa and watching the rain.
3. Dessert - sticky date pudding , chocolate tart , pastries mmmmm I could go on
4. Singing in the car - Yep it's just what I do, it makes me feel happy and I now have Charlie singing along with me! (Pink is a favourite)
5. White wine - A few favourites: Mt Trio Semillon Sauvignon and Voyager Estate Chenin Blanc, great wines from the Margaret River - reminds me of the great holiday my mum, sister Lea and Charlie and I took.
6. Books - Love stories, crime, autobiographies and trash ( Jackie Collins)...I love how you can be transported into another world and lose yourself in the story!
7. Mum and Dad - Always loving and supportive, fun and created many happy childhood and adult memories. Their divorce broke my heart.
8. Greys Anatomy - Can't miss , must watch , McDreamy, McSteamy ahhhhhhh...
9. Girlfriends - What would I do without them? I am so lucky to have beautiful caring friends and not a day goes by that I don't have contact with one of them.

How old do you think this woman is?

25? 35? 45? Alas, no.

That's little Ali Lohan, sister of Lindsay...and she is the ripe old age of 15.

Source: dlisted.com

Fashion Smashion: Prints

Well, from the look of Hollywood's latest offerings, we're in for a colourful summer! Prints - whether they be florals, checks or retro prints - are being seen on many a celeb (with some wearing them more successfully than others!)

Above left: Fergie dresses up a vibrant playsuit with loads of bling and a serious tote.
Above right: Beyonce shows off killer pins in a tartan short set and sky-high heels.

Above left: Rhianna takes florals from feminine to fierce with the addition of lace-up ankle boots.
Above right: Sienna Miller is the picture of girlish innocence in this conservative print...we know better though, don't we?

My pick? Beyonce by a landslide. Tartan is soooooooooooo not my usual cup of tea but she looks absolutely AMAZING. I want those legs, if nothing else...

Masterchef Week 3 - a winner and a new challenge!

A bit of a quiet week on the Masterchef challenge front but that didn't stop some scrummy meals being produced.

Ingredient chooser, Ally from ACTinglikeamama, produced a two meal extravaganza of Huevos Rancheros with Lemon Pud for dessert. Visit her blog for all the details...and the recipes!

Amy from The Tea Party has just started a new blog called The Food Files which is dedicated to all things edible...nom nom nom and she whipped up a fab Chorizo and Feta Omelette.

Me? I took to Taste.com.au and found a wonderful Garlic and Chorizo Prawns recipe...simple but packed with flavour. I'd serve them with an easy peasy dessert of Meringues with fresh strawberries.

So, the winner this week (technically, by default but no less deserved) is Amy! So, for Week 3 of the Masterchef Home Mystery Box Challenge, she has picked 10 ingredients that are easily accessible and budget friendly.

1. lamb mince
2. fresh thyme (dried is OK)
3. ground chilli
4. ground cumin
5. potatoes
6. carrots
7. lemon
8. red onion
9. mint
10. natural (or Greek) yoghurt

Personally, my mouth is watering already. Need a reminder of the rules? See here and comment back by Saturday morning!

A piercing question

When I was about seven years' old, my best friend had her ears pierced. She had blonde hair, blue eyes and wore what I thought were the coolest sleepers I'd ever seen. I desperately wanted to look like her.

Clearly, I needed my ears piereced, too.Hoping for an easy agreement, I approached my mum, who gave the time-honoured "Ask your father."Crap.

So, I steeled myself. My dad was (still is) an intimidating man. Very strict. VERY old-fashioned. But I asked. And was (inevitably) refused.

"Not until you're 16," came the answer...and then came the longest nine years of my life, or so it felt at the time! Oh, how I resented my father for that inexplicable decision. I was one of a handful of high-school age girls who had naked ears. Clip-ons hurt and looked plain stupid. I felt I'd never be cool enough.

Finally, the day of my sweet sixteen dawned and you could not get me in that ear piercing chair fast enough. Of course, it wasn't the life-changing experience I'd anticipated, but at last I felt like...well, I guess a bit like a woman.

So, I've been thinking about when is the right age for my girls to have theirs' done...because there is no way in hell I will make them wait like I had to. But neither do I want them to be wandering around in earrings before they're really appropriate.

I'm opening up to the floor - what do you think is the 'right' age for girls (or boys) to pierce their ears?

What Mel can't live without...

This week, we find out what the lovely Mel from Sparsely Kate can't live without. An aspiring screenwriter and fellow Canberra chick (yay!) her blog is honest, open and warm - just like her! Check out her life essentials...

1. Ok. The first one is obviously Cheese and mushie pizza. Preferably wood-fired. Good pizza is the food of the Gods. The end.
2. Floral, pretty prints. I love floral designs on anything, especially undies! There is something so girly and pretty about tiny little flowers on beauitul material. I don't sew but can't go past a sewing shop to look at all the lovely patterns.
3. Persuasion - by Jane Austen. To me, this book is about longing and feeling unnoticed but having something wonderful happen eventually. It's about hope. I'm actually in love with everything Jane Austen. When I read her, I feel like I'm meeting people who have been gone a very long time, but that I would still recognise. I also feel very affectionate towards the memory of Jane - I think she was a woman with a fabulous sense of humour and so insightful and witty.
4. Heavy metal and hard rock. I walk around the block to Metallica on my ipod and play the Foo Fighters to soothe and calm me. I have always loved heavy metal and the sexy dirty men who play it :))
5. Male actors. I get crushes on actors all the time. My latest infatuation was with Rob Pattinson after seeing him in Twilight, but before him there was James McAvoy from Becoming Jane, Penelope and Starter for Ten -all favourite movies of mine.
6. Tim from The Office. I would marry a man just like Tim - he's so completely lovable.
7. Sparsely kate butterfly icon. I love this because it represents my blog and I love my blog because I've made more friends than I could hope for and it's given me an insight into so many different points of view. I think most bloggers are compassionate and deep thinkers!
8. Tasmania. The best trip of my life was going to Tassie last January. I got tears in my eyes as the island came into view from the ship - I just felt like I was coming home, even though I know not a soul from there! I so much look forward to going back. This photo was me at Port Arthur.
9. I am loving the Sookie Stack house series. The way Charlaine Harris writes is wonderful, it is pure escapism. Sex and bloodlust. Go sexy Bill!to make herself a lady of mystery...
   

Fashion Smashion: Ladies in Red

If US fashion is anything to go by, the colour red is going to be HUGE here come warmer weather. Bold blocks of brilliant shades of scarlet are showing up on celebs everywhere - from the shopping strip to the red carpet.

Here are six of the best and worst Ladies in Red. Who gets your yay and who your nay?

Above left: Ali Larter and her ribcage
Above right: Penelope Cruz and her carry-on luggage
(they lost her bags and this is all she had to wear to a premiere...pretty good effort, no?)

Above left: Amy Adams in a very tight dress and some cool, if somewhat clunky, black shoes.
Above right: Ciara in...well, a lot of red satin...and a lot of boobs.

Above left: Taylor Momsen in red ruffles. Still freaks me out that she's just turned 16.
Above right: Cate Blanchett. Love her. She could wear a kit kat wrapper and I'd still love her.

Images: Instyle and e-online

Things that make you go arrrrrrgghhhh!

It's no secret that I love cooking. My time in the kitchen is cheap therapy...the methodical chopping and measuring, the stirring and, finally, tasting the end result...it's 'alone' time I relish.

I'm a teensy bit embarrassed to admit that - when I have time, at least - I'm one of those anal prep people who gets everything ready and sitting in little white bowls so it's all ready for me to cook with. So, I get quite distressed when anyone messes with my stuff.

Cue my lovely husband. He takes great delight in invading my kitchen and stealing bits from my perfectly weighed and measured ingredients. It. Drives. Me. Absolutely. Bananas.

Unfortunately, he knows this and thinks it's hilarious...so continues to do it. Also on the 'arrrghhh' scale, but further down, is his insistence on tasting things from the pot before I serve it. I get all twitchy just thinking about it. Lucky, I love him to bits so put up with it...

So, time to share...what is the most irksome thing your lovely partner does? Feel free to comment anonymously if confessing will come back to bite...

Masterchef Challenge Week 2

Last night, I revealed I wussed out on declaring a winner in the first ever Masterchef Mystery Box Challenge and, instead, Olivia drew Ally's name from a hat as the lucky namer of the next 10 ingredients! Here are her picks and a little bit of background to her choices...

I have been craving a lot of Mexican inspired food recently so you can probably see a bit of a theme with these ingredients [Ally's pregnant with bub no 2] but I have tried to not go too overboard. Have also had an unnatural addiction to strawberries so would love to see if anyone does anything special with them!

1. Chorizo (sausage)
2. Fetta
3. Avocado
4. Wine
5. Eggs
6. Peas
7. Lemon
8. Strawberries
9. Chives
10. Butter

Th The rules

Fo As a reminder, the idea is to use the 10 key ingredients and basic products from your pantry (we're a little bit more flexible than the real Masterchef with these 'extra' ingredients, so don't feel too restricted) to produce a gorgeous meal. You don't need to use ALL the Mystery Box ingredients, but a good percentage of them.

By Saturday lunchtime, comment and link back to your photo/recipe details - or, if you don't have a blog, just comment letting everyone know what you've whipped up. Ally will decide a winner and that person will get to pick next week's Mystery Box key ingredients. Your time starts now!

Masterchef Challenge 1: too close to call

A great response to the very first Masterchef challenge...for the record, I cooked Chicken Involtini with Garlic, Sage and Prosciutto on celeriac puree. Thought I had green beans but didn't, so it's just a sad looking colourless main.

I had a dilemma, though...we all seemed to be on a similar page (check out the yummy creations below) so I found it really, really hard to pick a winner! So, in the end, Olivia picked a name from a hat...and the person who gets to choose the 10 ingredients for the next Mystery Box challenge is Ally from ACTinglikeamama!

Ally, send me an email at domesticgoddessonlplates@gmail.com and we'll get started on the next challenge!

The Creations

Elissa whipped up Chicken Breast wrapped in Prosciutto severed with Garlic Potatoes and steamed Green Beans.

Ingrid said she'd "go down the comfort food route and make potato and celeriac bake with sage, garlic, cream, butter and chicken stock. She would blanch the green beans and serve them on the side with crispy prosciutto crumbled over.

Ally from ACTing Like a Mama proposed what I'm calling Chicken Parcels with pesto, brie, sage and prosciutto, served with crispy garlic potatoes and fresh steamed beans.

And last, but not least, Amy from The Tea Party served up Chicken Saltimbocca, served with a garlic potato & celeriac mash and steamed green beans.

One year today...

One year today, almost to the minute, I was ringing my husband telling him to get to the hospital quick smart, as we were about to have a baby. Miss Sophia Rose Baker was about to make her debut into the world, 10 weeks early.

What a year it has been! A rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. Far too much time spent in hospital. And a heart full of love for such a sweet, sweet little girl.

Our darling Sophia, you have brought such sunshine to our lives...how could we have ever thought our family was complete with just three? We love you to absolute bits and are so proud of you, our feisty little princess.

Happy Birthday, baby girl!