Fudge…A tasteful delicacy that delights every sweet tooth and brings your taste buds to life.

Today’s post is not about fudge I am afraid, but rather a bit of bitter-sweet realism and optimism.

Reality 

About two weeks ago I was unfortunately a target at a local atm. Four men followed me into the local garage, distracted me and took my card without me seeing. By the time I got home 5 minutes later to block my card on the banking app and to call the bank, R1000 had already been drawn out of my account.

I was in total shock as this has never happened to me before and it happened so quick. I am always cautious when it comes to drawing money, but how can you prepare for something like this? Well with the festive season around the corner theft, muggings and hijackings are on the rise. Once bitten twice the wiser I’d say. From my experience I did some research and compiled a short list on how you can protect yourself and your belongings this festive season, or where you can go to for help:

At the ATM:

• When you approach the atm ensure that no one is following you. If someone is then rather refrain from drawing money until they are gone.
• Do not use ATM’s where the card slot, keypad or screen has been tampered with.
• Do not insert your card if the screen layout is not familiar to you.
• Cover your pin and keep an eye on your card at all times.
• If someone taps you on the shoulder or tries to speak to you, just ignore them.
• Do not let anyone assist you at the ATM.
• Do not share or show your password to anyone.
• If you feel threatened and if possible call for help.
• Phone your bank immediately with the numbers provided on the ATM. If you have your phone then block your card through your banking app.
• When applying for a new bank card, change your PIN.
• Lower your daily withdrawal limit on your card if possible. This will limit the amount of money drawn out of your account, if this happens to you.

I also reported the matter to my local police station.

Please be safe this festive season.

Fudgalicious!

This article was a mash up of bitter and sweet content, but at the end of the day nothing beats the sweetness of good ol homemade fudge. So because you are amazing here is the recipe I use for yummy homemade fudge:

Ingredients: 

• 1 x 397g tin condensed milk
• 500ml sugar
• 25ml golden syrup
• 40ml water
• 60g butter
• 5ml vanilla

Method:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a heavy saucepan.
2. Stir over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Remove dry crystals from side of saucepan with a wet pastry brush. Do not boil.
3. Bring to boil and allow to boil very slowly for 20-25 minutes with constant stirring.
4. Test readiness by dropping a little mixture into cold water. When it reaches the soft ball stage it is ready.
5. Remove from stove. Beat in vanilla until the mixture is thick and creamy.
6. Pour into 25cm x 38cm greased baking tray.
7. Mark into squares. Allow to set and cool.

I would love to hear what your favourite tasty treats are, so please leave me a comment or drop me an email.

When you’re a kid, you’re not as corrupted by the world at large. You’re not corrupted by prejudices. You’re much more open-minded. Much more interested in the world around you. ‘Sweet Tooth’ is about the world returning to that kind of place.

– Jeff Lemire

Remember life is a whimsical journey, live it to the fullest and don’t give a fudge about what anyone says.

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