Goodyear Singapore newsletter #6

By Cheryl Tay

Soon to be released, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF2 will be the brand's smallest and lightest interchangeable lens system camera. Compact digital cameras with lens that can be changed like those huge DSLR models are becoming trendy and more popular.

Slated for a debut in December 2010 with sales to start in January the next year, the GF-2 is a fine example of the above. It has a 12.1 megapixel live MOS sensor and an enclosure seven per cent lighter and nineteen per cent smaller than its predecessor, the LUMIX DMC-GF1.

Compatible with Panasonic's new 3D interchangeable lens - the LUMIX G 12/5mm/F12 - the GF-2 has HD video recording via AVCHD and JPEG Motion Recording. It also has a three-inch touch display which has a contrast AF format.

The Touch Q user interface system allows users to customise shortcuts with the most commonly used settings and an internal Dust Reduction helps to reduce risk of damaged images from dirt particles. The GF2 will be available in black, silver, white, and red colours with the following kit options: DMC-GF2C - 14mm F2.5 Lens Kit and DMC-GF2K - 14-42mm Zoom Lens Kit.

Pricing to be announced later.

FOODIE TRACK: Choupinette

Goodyear Singapore newsletter #6

By Cheryl Tay

After my trip to the countryside in France last October, I found myself craving for the savoury French breads and pastries that I ate there. Hence I started out on a search for a place in Singapore that can serve up a hearty French meal consisting of a whopping croque monsieur and a delectable slice of quiche. Within less than a week of my return, I found the perfect solution to my French withdrawal symptoms. With logo colours similar to the chic Paul Smith brand, Choupinette is a French café parked in a corner along Bukit Timah Road next to Coronation Plaza.

Meaning 'Sweetie Pie' in French language, Choupinette has been around since 2001 and run by owner Agnes Verrier who hails from Provence, France. Having brunch at Choupinette was a great way to start my lazy Sunday. Upon entering the store, be greeted with a wide assortment of over 30 freshly-baked breads nestled in rattan baskets and a long glass display with tempting cakes and pastries awaiting your selection.

Choosing to dine in the picturesque cafe, I had to exercise self-control as I wanted to order nearly everything on the dine-in menu. Some of the must-try dishes include the Eggs Benedictine (crispy toast with ham, topped with poached egg and creamy hollandaise sauce), Egg Royal, Lorraine Quiche, Le Croque-Monsieur (grilled sandwich with a choice of ham, chicken or eggplants with emmenthal cheese & bachamel sauce).

Sweet-toothed foodies would enjoy desserts like the Palais Royal, Millefeuille Framboise (crisps of biscuits with sweet raspberries and creamy custard in between its layers) or Tarte Aux Fraises (strawberry tart with a crumbly almond base).

Macaroons are available in 15 different flavours, such as chocolate, raspberry, strawberry, peach, passion fruit, orange, pear and hazelnut, some with chocolate gauche fillings. It was a rich meal (both in the flavourful and monetary aspect) but definitely worth every dollar you pay. In addition, if you want to enjoy Choupinette fresh in the comfort of your own home, you can always enquire about their catering services.

Choupinette
607 Bukit Timah Road
#01-01
Singapore 269708
Telephone: 6466 0613
Opening Hours:
Tuesdays - Fridays 0900 - 2200
Saturdays 0800 - 2200
Sundays 0800 - 1800
Closed on Mondays

I greatly apologise for the bad quality of the photo as I didn't have a camera on me and I only had my BB.

Heh, take it as a sneak peek of my newly-decorated car! It's so pretty now:)

Check out my desk at work - awesome right!