I made these recently for a party because it's just not me to show up at potluck parties with something store-bought, unless the host specifically asks for chips and dips. My opinion is that if a party is worth attending, then it should be worth spending some time preparing for. Some women prepare by doing up their hair, colouring their faces, getting dressed only to change into another, and lastly choosing the right heels and accessories to go with the look. I spend my time making sure the food tastes decent, looks presentable and then pack them in a fuss-free manner. Ideally I should be able to leave the party hands-free (use good-looking disposables), and the host shouldn't have much trouble cleaning up after the party. Did I mention that I only bring enough not to have any leftovers? ;-)

In terms of food preparation, I have these learning points to share with you:

1. Never completely ignore the recipes recommended by manufacturers on their product packaging. The recipes serve as a good guide for first-timers, and allows one to improvise on subsequently.
2. Keep a pack of Pepperidge Farm puff pastry sheets in the freezer. Along with Pilsbury's pie crusts, these have become my pantry staples. There are usually two of each at any time. You can make sweet or savoury tarts and pies whenever you feel like, just as long as you have fruits or ham and cheese in the fridge.
3. Plan ahead so that you can save time effortlessly. For example, if you want to use the puff pastry tomorrow, you should move them from the freezer to the fridge tonight. Then, tomorrow, if you want to use the puff pastry for lunch, take it out from the fridge after breakfast.

Here's my version of ham and cheese wheels, inspired by the recipe given by Pepperidge on their puff pastry packaging.

I find it somewhat disturbing but can't quite explain it. When we think about teachers and students, it is only natural to assume the teacher provides guidance and care for his students. In the context of Singapore's education system (for 2010 at least!), a teacher's role is best summed up in three words: lead, care, inspire. So on the same basis, we move out of the classroom to the pastures: shepherds and sheep. Pretty much the same, no?

Of course NOT!!

The shepherd's pie says it all. I'd love to elaborate on how the ministry of education in Singapore deals with "shepherds" who make pies out of their lambs but let's leave that for another day. But a little clarification on the difference between shepherd's pie and cottage pie: the former is with lamb, the latter with beef. Pictures don't tell much but if you have both dishes sitting in front of you, surely you can smell them apart.

If you're making this for the first time, just remind yourself this simple arithmetic: