In the new snake year ahead, Charmaine Sheh (佘詩曼) does not seek more fortune or fame, but wants to settle down with her family while perfecting the radish cake her late grandmother used to make. Ever since the Miss Hong Kong pageant in 1997, Charmaine has never slowed down her pace. In recent years, she has even moved her career up north, keeping herself busy as ever. It is no secret then, that the hardworking Charmaine has amassed a great fortune for herself, including real estate property worth more than tens of millions (HKD). Now that she has ventured to mainland China for acting opportunities, she intends to do the same for her property acquisition. However, she is also on the lookout for the ultimate house in Hong Kong. She said, “I am looking for a big 3-story house so that my brother, my sister-in-law and my mother can stay with me together. This has always been my wish. I hope it can be fulfilled this year!” Traditional Girl At Heart Perhaps it is the time spent with family this Lunar New Year holiday that caused Charmaine to be sentimental. It was a rare treat this year for her to be able to have a long break during this time of the year. As such, she was able to partake in the elaborate holiday preparations, including stepping into the kitchen to prepare New Year delicacies such as radish cake. “My grandmother used to be in charge of making the radish cakes. I was a small girl then and had no interest to inherit my grandmother’s secret recipe. When my grandmother passed away, my mother took over the duty. If I don’t learn now, my grandmother’s secret recipe will be gone!” Charmaine added emotionally, “It’s usually this time of the year when I would miss my grandmother a lot. When she was busy preparing the New Year snacks, she would not allow us to go into the kitchen and make a mess as that is inauspicious. My family is traditional and superstitious like this. I hope our family traditions can be passed on.” When the topic of family was brought up, no doubt 38-year-old Charmaine will be asked of her own family planning. She exclaimed, “Wait till I find the right partner! I would like to have children but the pregnancy days are not easy so I always say mothers are great!” Back to TVB Recently, Eric Tsang (曾志偉) has been using his favor cards, getting many veteran A-listers such as Andy Lau (劉德華) and Jacky Cheung (張學友) back to TVB due to the impending rivalry with new television stations. Charmaine does not strike off the possibility that she may return at the same time. She said, “Of course this is a great opportunity to work with TV Kings such as Tony Leung Ka Fai (梁家輝 ). However, it’s really up to TVB’s arrangement. And besides good costars, a good script is a must for me too!”
