CHOCOLATE AND SPICE

16/3/2013 AM

Today's the day of the wedding. Was I excited at the prospect of become a mother-in-law? Of course, I am excited and happy for the occasion.  But to me it is just another name to call me.  I am still the same person- maybe my "burden" is lighter now that he has someone to take care of him.  As I welcome Eunice to my family, I pray that God be with them always.

We were left to do our own things this morning. We decided to take it easy and go for breakfast while waiting  for the arrival of my nephew Wai Kit and Hye Jung from Melbourne.

 Saw this lovely cafe opposite our hotel.

Chocolate flutes window display.

Elegant interiors and comfy  chairs makes it a relaxing morning breakfast.

 My Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon on waffle- yummy!.

 May's healthy breakfast - granola with  yogurt and berries compote- creamy thick yogurt.

Can only take picture of these delectable cakes- too full after the breakfast for dessert!

 These are at A$3.20 each!

We took a short walk through the Darling Harbour.

Passed the Chinese Garden. The garden was designed on the principle of yin and yang- water and mountains (rocks). Entrance cost A$5.00.

Wai Kit had arrived by then and joined us after refreshing themselves at our hotel as they were unable to check into their hotel at this early hour. 

We went together to the Paddy's Market.

 There are more stalls selling the Australian souvenirs, clothing etc than fresh food. May got some t-shirts for the kiddies back home.

The fresh foods produce can only be found at the back of the market.

I find the fresh foods here are cheaper than back home (without the conversion of course) and they are big and fresh.

 Aromatics spices- this stall seems very popular.

I cannot resist and bought some dukkah, morocan seasoning, mediterranean seasoning and sumac.

After browsing around, it is time for a quick lunch. Decided to go for Jeremy's recommendation for Ramen at Gumshara at the Harbour Plaza.

Traditional Japanese Ramen  

Again, I have forgotten how big the portions are here.

 Springy noodles - but the portion is just too big and we could not finish the whole bowl.

Thick tonkotsu broth made the Japanese way - using fresh pork bones and water.  The richness of the soup comes from the marrow of the bones and it is said to contain a lot of collagen (very good for our skin!). At least we finished the broth. 

After lunch, it is time for Wai Kit  to check into their hotel while both of us went back to our hotel for a siesta -it has been a hot morning! 

Got to look good for  the BIG EVENT tonight!