Hangi and Prince William Visit

We learnt all kinds of methods of cooking, such as boiling, stir frying, deep frying, steaming, brewing, baking...Today i leanrn something new: Hangi!

A hangi (pronounced 'hungee') is a traditional New Zealand Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven that dates back to pre-European times.

Hangi, which means 'supply of life', are normally dug by Maori ira tane (men) as the Maori Wahine (women) aren't allowed to take part in the preparation.

To 'lay a hangi' involves digging a pit in the ground, heating stones in the pit with a large fire, placing baskets of food on top of the stones, and covering everything with earth for several hours before uncovering the hangi.

Nowadays a hangi is most likely to be prepared using modern materials.

Today is the Prince William second day visit in New Zealand. I wanted to go out to get a glimpse of the dashing royal, but forgot about this idea when lots of things turn up to think and settle...It was such a welcoming for this Prince Charming! All the news are circulating about his daily activities. Of course, William could not miss the hangi food!

New Year Eve

First time in my life, my new year is without my family around.

1st of January, it is my dear youngest sister's birthday. This year, I have nothing for you, dear. This year, I did not deliver the birthday song for you with my sweetest voice.

In the click of the midnight, I was still in the restaurant. In the dim light, wiping some cutleries. All the youngsters' cheers for new year are audible. We have some chips, as dinner. Toasting, greeting each other a happy new year.

On the way back home, there are a lot of merry ppl with bottles in hands, walking either in group or couples. Everyone of them, once passing by, greeting you a happy new year, some even come over to give u a hug! That's the scene in my place.

Reaching home, i was totally beat up, too exhausted. Turned to sleep after a quick bath. Goodbye 2009.