Mum's Birthday Dinner

Mum turns 79 today. She's doing so well for her age. Physically she has had her share of ailments, even crises once or twice, but she looks a lot younger than 79. We put it down to her calm and loving disposition. Mum is simply the nicest person I know.

So I decided to do something special for her birthday, although perhaps I should have waited until the big 8-0. Not to worry, I can always try to top it next year.

We've had a few family issues throughout 2016, largely health-related and largely to do with my two brothers. They're both in an ok place at the moment though, and will be joining us tonight, along with my sister, so Mum will be thrilled to have us all together. Here's a look at what I'm putting together...

A little ambitious perhaps? Well not really, I did the BKT yesterday and my wife prepared the chicken and Hakka Mee, while my brother is doing the prawn dish. The duck is bought cooked, so I really only have three dishes - all stir-fried - to do today.

OK, so that was yesterday. Chilling out this morning, feeling the effects of a late night and too much booze/smokes. Had a good one though, the meal was fantastic. Far too much food, particularly as not everyone ate. Not mentioning names, but won't be inviting certain people back to my table again in a hurry. But everyone else thoroughly enjoyed it, and there was enough leftover to feed us for a good few days.

My personal favourite was the bah kut teh. Rich and fatty, but utterly delicious. Beautiful blend of pork, garlic, dark soy, Chinese herbs and veggies. God it was good. All the other dishes were too, but that one was a stand-out. Thanks to everyone who contributed, family get-togethers are precious.