Christmas 2022

Merry Christmas 2022 to all and here are some of my favourite gift ideas.

Instead of buying yet another scented candle or tablecloth for your family and friends, why not think of those less fortunate and organise a hot dinner for a homeless person, donate to charity or support StreetSmart, an organisation that looks after the homeless and needy, helping to provide meals and accommodation to them.

I'm sure your favourite charity will appreciate your efforts and help.

Cunard British Film Festival 2022

The next film festival to hit our shores is the Cunard British Film Festival 2022.

Presented by Palace cinemas, the full program features a formidable line-up, celebrating the talents of Britain’s finest film makers and actors including Stephen Frears, Sally Hawkins, Emma Thompson, Bill Nighy and more.

This year is the festival's 10th anniversary and there will be exclusive premieres of highly anticipated films plus an abundance of dramas, documentaries and comedies.

Chinese New Year of the Tiger 2022

This year is the Chinese year of the Water Tiger, which starts on February 1, 2022, and ends on January 21, 2023.

A water tiger year occurs every 60 years and the Chinese zodiac has five elements, earth, water, fire, wood and metal.

Those born in 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938 are tiger people.

The 12 zodiac animals are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Each year is related to an animal sign according to a 12-year-cycle.

Mother's Day 2019

"No language can express the power and beauty and heroism of a mother's love," said Edward Chapin, whose mother loved him dearly.

When I think of my Mum, memories of an idyllic childhood caress me like the cool sea breezes of the beach she brought me to when I was a child growing up in Singapore.

If Mum said we were going to Marine Parade that afternoon I would wolf down my lunch, complete my homework speedily and look for my spade and bucket.

Easter 2018

Happy Easter to everyone!

Take a break from overdosing on hot cross buns and chocolate eggs and try this recipe from Australian Pork for your Easter Sunday dinner.

For more recipes go to www.pork.com.au

Roast pork leg with crackling, roasted vegetables and apple sauce

Serves 4

1.8-2kg pork leg roast, boneless, rind on

oil

salt

To serve

roasted potatoes, roasted carrots, roasted parsnip, roasted pumpkin, steamed beans, steamed broccoli

Apple sauce