Minal ‘Aidin Wal-Faizin

After fasting for  30days during Ramadan, the new moon of Syawal has dawned on all Muslims around the world. Both of us would like to wish our families in Malaysia and all Muslims everywhere Happy Eid, Syawal 1430. May our sacrifices be accepted by Allah.

I called my parents to wish them and ask for forgiveness for whatever wrong that I might have done. Then spoke to my sister who was busy in the kitchen preparing for our relatives and visitors who usually turned up after the morning festive prayers. I could hear my 5 nephews and a niece having fun in the background. Oh, how I wish I was there…

I made rendang (dried beef curry) to be eaten with pulut  kuning  (yellow steamed glutinious rice) as our celebratory meal, a first attempt. I’m pleased to say that it turned out just like my mother used to make. She’ll be so proud :-).

I’ve just finished making wajik, another first for my colleagues at work. This is a traditional Malay sweet dish. It’s cooling at the moment and fingers crossed it will turn out ok. But they wouldn’t know, right…

We spent the day relaxing at our favourite playground. The natives were having a lie-in. The main island was equally divided by lapwings, Canada Geese and terns. All enjoying the warm sunshine.

We were very lucky when we spotted this beautiful pair of Common Snipes feeding in front of us. Aren’t they gorgeous? They were so well camouflaged among the reed beds.

 

I took a day off on Friday.  We went to Bradgate Park to see what the natives there are up to.  I’m glad we went cos the male deer  antlers have grown, but not yet in their full splendour. They were just lazing around, feeding and sleeping. All getting ready for the rutting season which will be in October.

Looking at these massive antlers, you just don’t want to get close. But they are everywhere in the park. It was quite scary cos people bring their dogs, unleashed. Hmm…

We planned to come here every month to observe their behaviour. I couldn’t wait to hear and see the cracking of antler against antler, the musty smell and the bellowing. All those male testosterones waiting to be unleashed. Couldn’t wait for this autumn spectacular :-)