Saturday, March 28, 2009
Handmade in Portugal
Another addition to my Handmade in Portugal collection. This could be a salad bowl or a pasta bowl. I love this shade of green with the leaf details. It is still sitting on my kitchen counter, waiting for the right occasion to make its grand appearance.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Corned Beef Musubi Eating Contest
On a bright Saturday morning, Bryan and I had nothing to do. Actually, Bryan had to work and I had nothing to do. While I was going back and forth between the couch and the kitchen, the phone rang. I thought to myself, "Gosh, do I have to get my lazy butt off this comfortable couch, full of loving pillows and gentle softness? What could be better than what I am feeling now. Arrrgh! Fine, this better be good!" So I climbed off the couch and answered the phone. Bryan asked, "You wanna go Corned Beef Musibi Eating Contest at Walmart?" Chewing on my Granola (without oatmeal or cereal - total yummy deliciousness), I mumbled "yes" when all I could hear were "eating...Walmart."
We arrived at the contest just in time to see the actual eating without the intro and other junk. There were two females and maybe 22 guys. I was so bummed that they had a best female prize which I could've won if I had entered the contest. I can eat and I can eat fast, despite the painful after-meal heartburn. Anyway, the contest was eat 15 corned beef musubi in 5 minutes. Most contestants couldn't finish and only one person (the winner) ate 15. One of the female contestants ate 6 which was amazing considering her small size. We got to try samples after the contest and I am glad I didn't enter because the corned beef was tough! Regardless, we had a great time because we got to see our favorite Tony Solis in action. As you can see, I tried to take a photo of him but I got caught red-handed.
On a separate note, I totally love the song Summertime by New Kids on the Block. However, the music video completely ruins the love story I had in my mind when I first listened to the song. Grrr, why they gotta put dancing slutty females and pretend romance in the video for!
We arrived at the contest just in time to see the actual eating without the intro and other junk. There were two females and maybe 22 guys. I was so bummed that they had a best female prize which I could've won if I had entered the contest. I can eat and I can eat fast, despite the painful after-meal heartburn. Anyway, the contest was eat 15 corned beef musubi in 5 minutes. Most contestants couldn't finish and only one person (the winner) ate 15. One of the female contestants ate 6 which was amazing considering her small size. We got to try samples after the contest and I am glad I didn't enter because the corned beef was tough! Regardless, we had a great time because we got to see our favorite Tony Solis in action. As you can see, I tried to take a photo of him but I got caught red-handed.
On a separate note, I totally love the song Summertime by New Kids on the Block. However, the music video completely ruins the love story I had in my mind when I first listened to the song. Grrr, why they gotta put dancing slutty females and pretend romance in the video for!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Random Joy (Part 1)
I want to share with you some crazy stuff I saw over the past few weekends. They are a bit random but totally awesome fun! The first is a fluffy chicken standing next to a book called "Joy of Cooking". I saw this display in a kitchen. Maybe I should name this display, "The Joy of Cooking ... Chicken."
Next is a jukebox I saw stashed in the corner of a room. Ok, having a jukebox in the house is super cool and all your friends will be so jealous that you get to jam every night old school style. But I wouldn't stick the jukebox in the corner. If I had a jukebox, I would put it in the center of the living room, set up disco lights, and then yeah, get your groove on, choo-style :)
I LOVE sewing machines because they can do wonders for you - from fixing your hole-ly shirts to creating one-of-a-kine costumes (I am thinking a costume with a panda head, pig body, and turtle tail). I also like sinks, they keep your hands clean ... and everything else. Now, a sink with a sewing machine base, THAT'S INGENIOUS!
Last but not least, a wine cellar with a mural painted wall. I want to paint my entire house with a mural. Too bad I am not that talented. I just thought of something. Maybe the owners of this winer cellar should build lights out of wine bottles and make it shine a rainbow off the walls. Ooooo, beautiful thought.
So, here are some of my random joys. Hope you enjoyed them as much as I did.
Next is a jukebox I saw stashed in the corner of a room. Ok, having a jukebox in the house is super cool and all your friends will be so jealous that you get to jam every night old school style. But I wouldn't stick the jukebox in the corner. If I had a jukebox, I would put it in the center of the living room, set up disco lights, and then yeah, get your groove on, choo-style :)
I LOVE sewing machines because they can do wonders for you - from fixing your hole-ly shirts to creating one-of-a-kine costumes (I am thinking a costume with a panda head, pig body, and turtle tail). I also like sinks, they keep your hands clean ... and everything else. Now, a sink with a sewing machine base, THAT'S INGENIOUS!
Last but not least, a wine cellar with a mural painted wall. I want to paint my entire house with a mural. Too bad I am not that talented. I just thought of something. Maybe the owners of this winer cellar should build lights out of wine bottles and make it shine a rainbow off the walls. Ooooo, beautiful thought.
So, here are some of my random joys. Hope you enjoyed them as much as I did.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Aiea Loop Trail
As promised, here are my fabulous photos from the Aiea Loop Trail. This is one of my favorite hikes because it is a loop (if you have been on a 4 mile one-way hike, that's 8 miles round-trip, then you know loop hikes are awesome!), peaceful (rather secluded and quiet despite its proximity to the H3 highway), safe (you can walk without looking down and worrying about tripping or falling down a cliff), and interesting (slanted trees, sleepy hollow, colorful flowers). Our good friends came back from Baltimore and they invited us to go on this hike. Although it took us 4 hours to complete this hike, we had a wonderful time. We made up lyrics as we sang them, told jokes that no other would find funny, spread rumors about raspberry plants along the trail, and made up stories on trees eating people (wait, that was just me).
Here are some cool dead trees we saw along the trail. They are hollow, hence sleepy hollow. Well, they are not creepy ... just hollow wood and ... hollow wood reminds me of sleepy hollow for no reason at all. I am full of irrational thoughts, or BS for short.
How about these slanted trees shaped by the winds and the sun. When you look at them, don't you want to slant with them to blend in?
[left] Weird tree with a tumor. [Right] Mutualism is amazing. Bryan says the big tree is being strangled by the little. Why can't people think positively? Two plants can co-exist without killing each other, just like how Bryan and I can co-exist without me killing him.
Trees dancing along the trail. How is it that some trees just decide to go coo coo and grow all over the place?
Beautiful colorful flowers along the trail. Any idea what these plants are? Oh how I miss taking these shots.
Ryan and Bryan had this crazy idea to hike with a ginormous dead tree. What the heck, right? I think they were a little too tired to act rationally. So insane but incredibly hilarious.
Here are some cool dead trees we saw along the trail. They are hollow, hence sleepy hollow. Well, they are not creepy ... just hollow wood and ... hollow wood reminds me of sleepy hollow for no reason at all. I am full of irrational thoughts, or BS for short.
How about these slanted trees shaped by the winds and the sun. When you look at them, don't you want to slant with them to blend in?
[left] Weird tree with a tumor. [Right] Mutualism is amazing. Bryan says the big tree is being strangled by the little. Why can't people think positively? Two plants can co-exist without killing each other, just like how Bryan and I can co-exist without me killing him.
Trees dancing along the trail. How is it that some trees just decide to go coo coo and grow all over the place?
Beautiful colorful flowers along the trail. Any idea what these plants are? Oh how I miss taking these shots.
Ryan and Bryan had this crazy idea to hike with a ginormous dead tree. What the heck, right? I think they were a little too tired to act rationally. So insane but incredibly hilarious.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Zinc Saucier
I have some really fabulous photos to share from my amazing hike in the Aiea Loop Trail. But first, let me tell you about my crazy desire to be Zinc Saucier. For those of you who are not familiar with the term "Zinc Saucier", it is from the Futurama episode where Bender (a super cool robot) learns to be a great chef. He challenged Elzar to a cook-off in Iron Cook, and the secret ingredient was Soylent Green (LOL!) Bender won the iron cook challenge but he denied the title of Iron Cook and instead, took the title of "Zinc Saucier". He learned that the secret to perfect cooking is confidence. You gotta watch it, such a silly episode. Ok, totally off topic. One night, I cooked a three-course meal! We had Kubota squash and corn soup simmered for three hours. For main dish, I made garlic fried baby bak choi (Bryan's favorite), and stir-fry ground turkey with bell peppers topped with small pieces of Kubota squash separately fried in soy sauce and sugar. I got the Kubota squash from my work trip to Maui. The taro farmers were so nice to give me one and taught me how to cook it.
Another night, I made stuffed portabella mushrooms. We bought the portabella in Costco. I had previously made stuffed button mushrooms and they were so tasty. Then I thought, why not stuff a large mushroom! Then we would get three times the yummy-ness. I am a total genius :)
Zinc Saucier Choo. Thank you thank you [bow]~
Another night, I made stuffed portabella mushrooms. We bought the portabella in Costco. I had previously made stuffed button mushrooms and they were so tasty. Then I thought, why not stuff a large mushroom! Then we would get three times the yummy-ness. I am a total genius :)
Zinc Saucier Choo. Thank you thank you [bow]~
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Valentine's Day
We had a fabulous Valentine's Day this year! Thanks to my sweet HappyOblivion for making it such a beautiful and wonderful day, full of love and deliciousness. What? Eating again? You should know by now that when I say wonderful, food is always involved, either it be home-cooked or dining out. HappyOblivion took me to my favorite restaurant, Kincaid's, for an early-bird dinner to beat the crowd. By early-bird I mean 4:30PM. It was great because by the time we left, people were lining up outside the restaurant.
Their garlic bread is to die for! Soft toasted bread with melted garlic butter. As I was eating it, the butter dripped on my fingers. Ah, so ono!
For appetizer, we had the Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese. I actually forgot what it was called so I googled "some tomato and mozzarella dish thingy" and the caprese popped up. We intended to place one order of the caprese but two orders came. We didn't refuse the extra dish but we were a little uneasy about the extra costs. When the bill came, we found out all appetizers were half-off during early-bird so we were like, "Yay! let's eat more!" The mozzarella was spongy, drizzled with a tangy sauce that complimented the soft taste of the cheese.
HappyOblivion tried the Lemon Herb Crusted Mahimahi. As you can see, the food came just when the sun shined through the window. It was perfect lighting so I had to take a shot with my fabulous camera. Two pieces of perfectly cooked mahimahi with lightly grilled veggies and mashed potatoes at the bottom. You think this is great food, great photo...wait until you see the photo of my entree.
I had the Misoyaki Butterfish. All I can say is, the fish melted in my mouth. It was sooooo good I could it all day. But this photo...it captures the moment, the taste, and everything that comes with a perfect dinner and a memorable date. Thank you sweetie pie!
Their garlic bread is to die for! Soft toasted bread with melted garlic butter. As I was eating it, the butter dripped on my fingers. Ah, so ono!
For appetizer, we had the Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese. I actually forgot what it was called so I googled "some tomato and mozzarella dish thingy" and the caprese popped up. We intended to place one order of the caprese but two orders came. We didn't refuse the extra dish but we were a little uneasy about the extra costs. When the bill came, we found out all appetizers were half-off during early-bird so we were like, "Yay! let's eat more!" The mozzarella was spongy, drizzled with a tangy sauce that complimented the soft taste of the cheese.
HappyOblivion tried the Lemon Herb Crusted Mahimahi. As you can see, the food came just when the sun shined through the window. It was perfect lighting so I had to take a shot with my fabulous camera. Two pieces of perfectly cooked mahimahi with lightly grilled veggies and mashed potatoes at the bottom. You think this is great food, great photo...wait until you see the photo of my entree.
I had the Misoyaki Butterfish. All I can say is, the fish melted in my mouth. It was sooooo good I could it all day. But this photo...it captures the moment, the taste, and everything that comes with a perfect dinner and a memorable date. Thank you sweetie pie!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
New Friends in Maui
The past few months have been ridiculously crazy. I want so much to go back home and relive the amazing vacation I had this holiday season. Yet, we all know life is never that easy. So much to tell with so little energy I have. Accept my apologies as a ~sigh is all I can share at the moment. For I have no mind to think, no energy to write, no words to explain, and no will to express. I am just so very tired. Hopefully, I will be back to my normal crazy blogging self. In the meantime, allow me to introduce to you my friends from Maui. Below is a picture of a pig living on a taro farm. Not sure if he is a pet or dinner...
I almost stepped on this toad while I was mapping out the taro patches in Maui.
I almost stepped on this toad while I was mapping out the taro patches in Maui.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Punahou Carnival
If I were to leave Hawaii one day, one of the things I will definitely miss is the Punahou Carnival. Despite the crazy kids and the rain, I dare say it is the best carnival in Hawaii mostly because the food is good and cheap. My favorites are the teri burgers (no cheese), gyro, and malasada. The gyro is the best buy because it is only $3.50 when it normally costs $7 or more.
Their malasadas are so ono. With a hint of ginger and fully coated with sugar, every bite is crunchy and sweet. I could eat 10 of these if I didn't have to eat the other stuff.
Portugese bean soup would go on my faves if I don't have to wait 45 minutes for it. Same for the beef nachos which never have enough cheese. This year, I asked for extra cheese and still not enough. I wish they would give me a tub of cheese on the side.
Every year, it would rain and the kids would walk barefoot in the mud. Yeah, kinda disgusting and fun at the same time. This year, the weather was great, so great that it made the news! While we were standing in line for malasadas, we stared into the night at the beautiful moon. Not one of my best pictures but the night was bright.
We ate so much we had to walk around the school to help with digestion. At the children's area, there was a Duckleberry booth where kids catch rubber duckies with a net. I thought the booth name was kinda cute and the rubber duckies needed some celebrity shots before getting caught. Poor duckies.
Their malasadas are so ono. With a hint of ginger and fully coated with sugar, every bite is crunchy and sweet. I could eat 10 of these if I didn't have to eat the other stuff.
Portugese bean soup would go on my faves if I don't have to wait 45 minutes for it. Same for the beef nachos which never have enough cheese. This year, I asked for extra cheese and still not enough. I wish they would give me a tub of cheese on the side.
Every year, it would rain and the kids would walk barefoot in the mud. Yeah, kinda disgusting and fun at the same time. This year, the weather was great, so great that it made the news! While we were standing in line for malasadas, we stared into the night at the beautiful moon. Not one of my best pictures but the night was bright.
We ate so much we had to walk around the school to help with digestion. At the children's area, there was a Duckleberry booth where kids catch rubber duckies with a net. I thought the booth name was kinda cute and the rubber duckies needed some celebrity shots before getting caught. Poor duckies.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Food Tasting
Everyone loves great food. When the food is free, that's even better. In the past few weeks, we have been shopping around for a wedding reception site. One of our criteria is, no doubt, great delicious food. The location can have the most breathtaking scenery with super hi-tech equipment in the ballroom. But without good tasting food, sorry, no can do.
Today, Bryan and I went to a food tasting event at the Koolau Ballrooms. Since the menu is rather pricy, we wanted to make sure the food is really worth our every penny. For cold items, we had the Shrimp and Broccoli Salad, Italian Marinated Mushrooms, and Greek Salad. The Shrimp and Broccoli Salad was light and creamy, broccoli was crunchy, and the shrimp was fresh.
The Italian Marinated Mushrooms were a little on the salty side (says Bryan) but I love mushrooms too much to notice. The Greek Salad had big chunks of feta cheese and "real" olives, which Bryan loved. I like the citrus feel of the salad.
For entrees, we had Pot Roasted Shoulder of Beef, Macademia Nut Breaded Medallions of Chicken, and Mahimahi Local Style. While Bryan thought the beef was not tender enough, I really liked its texture and taste. The beef wasn't too salty, and I could chew it without hurting my sensitive gums. Our second favorite was the chicken. It was juicy, tender, and crunchy. I love the hint of citrus and the nutty-nous. The best dish was the Mahimahi, which was cooked to perfection. The lomi salad adds a local flavor to the dish.
For dessert, we had an Apricot Wedding Cake. After the first bite, Bryan said, "I could eat this the whole day." Honestly, I don't think I could eat that much cake but it was delicious. Overall, we give the food an A+.
Today, Bryan and I went to a food tasting event at the Koolau Ballrooms. Since the menu is rather pricy, we wanted to make sure the food is really worth our every penny. For cold items, we had the Shrimp and Broccoli Salad, Italian Marinated Mushrooms, and Greek Salad. The Shrimp and Broccoli Salad was light and creamy, broccoli was crunchy, and the shrimp was fresh.
The Italian Marinated Mushrooms were a little on the salty side (says Bryan) but I love mushrooms too much to notice. The Greek Salad had big chunks of feta cheese and "real" olives, which Bryan loved. I like the citrus feel of the salad.
For entrees, we had Pot Roasted Shoulder of Beef, Macademia Nut Breaded Medallions of Chicken, and Mahimahi Local Style. While Bryan thought the beef was not tender enough, I really liked its texture and taste. The beef wasn't too salty, and I could chew it without hurting my sensitive gums. Our second favorite was the chicken. It was juicy, tender, and crunchy. I love the hint of citrus and the nutty-nous. The best dish was the Mahimahi, which was cooked to perfection. The lomi salad adds a local flavor to the dish.
For dessert, we had an Apricot Wedding Cake. After the first bite, Bryan said, "I could eat this the whole day." Honestly, I don't think I could eat that much cake but it was delicious. Overall, we give the food an A+.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Checkin' in
I've been super busy since I came back from home. As most of you know already, I am finally engaged. Yay, whoohoo, congrats, yippideedoo, yippideeda! Ok ok, enough already. These past few weeks, my mind has been working really hard coming up with designs for the save-the-date card, invitation, program, thank you card, wedding favor, and the wedding website. I am also searching for wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and secure wedding websites where my guests can RSVP. Yes, we are going green so everything will be via the web...at least for the technologically advanced minds. On the weekends, HappyOblivion and I are looking for homes with our realtors and whenever we have time, we would visit different locations for the ceremony and reception. Then this week, I am busy making Jung for Chinese New Year's. I am very excited about everything but also very tired. At times, I just want to sit and do absolutely nothing. Regardless, I want to thank all my family and friends for offering to help. I am so grateful :)
On another note, I am happy to know that Kate Voegele is releasing a new album in Spring of this year. Yippeee! I heard her sing in the show, One Tree Hill, and just fell in love with her voice and her songs. I can't wait.
On another note, I am happy to know that Kate Voegele is releasing a new album in Spring of this year. Yippeee! I heard her sing in the show, One Tree Hill, and just fell in love with her voice and her songs. I can't wait.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Home Sweet Home
Why do I enjoy going home so much? Not only do I miss my friends and family, but there is one thing that nothing can ever replace...
At around 7PM, I wait impatiently upstairs for my mom to say, "Time to eat!" I walk back and forth between my room and the computer room, waiting ... When I hear her, my eyes widen and my tummy begins to talk. My mom would always say those words as she is bringing the first entree out from the kitchen. By the time she sets one dish on the dinner table, I am already in my seat, waiting to smell every dish as they come. Again, I am first to get the rice. As I open the rice cooker, I let the steam fog my glasses and warm my face. Ah, the smell of freshly cooked rice, very comforting. I fill my bowl with rice and return to my seat. As I pick up my chopsticks, I think to myself, "I am ready."
Mame's home cooking never disappoints. The word "delicious" doesn't do justice to her food. Every bite brings me back to the same spot, a very good spot - the feeling of home. This is the meaning of comfort food and it doesn't get better than that. Below is beef with cabbage stir fry. So simple and so wonderful. Nothing can replace this, and that is why I love going home.
I updated my turtle blog with more pictures of my turtles that I took from this past trip back home.
At around 7PM, I wait impatiently upstairs for my mom to say, "Time to eat!" I walk back and forth between my room and the computer room, waiting ... When I hear her, my eyes widen and my tummy begins to talk. My mom would always say those words as she is bringing the first entree out from the kitchen. By the time she sets one dish on the dinner table, I am already in my seat, waiting to smell every dish as they come. Again, I am first to get the rice. As I open the rice cooker, I let the steam fog my glasses and warm my face. Ah, the smell of freshly cooked rice, very comforting. I fill my bowl with rice and return to my seat. As I pick up my chopsticks, I think to myself, "I am ready."
Mame's home cooking never disappoints. The word "delicious" doesn't do justice to her food. Every bite brings me back to the same spot, a very good spot - the feeling of home. This is the meaning of comfort food and it doesn't get better than that. Below is beef with cabbage stir fry. So simple and so wonderful. Nothing can replace this, and that is why I love going home.
I updated my turtle blog with more pictures of my turtles that I took from this past trip back home.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
No Work
All week long, I was jealous that HappyOblivion had Friday off. Come Thursday night, my boss phoned me about the possibility of work being cancelled for Friday due to the high winds. I was like, "REALLY! There is a storm coming?" He said, "It is all over the news! There is a tropical depression and wind speeds could reach up to 30mph, with gusts 50-60 mph." I shouldn't get too excited because it had to be approved by the governor. Thirty minutes later, my other boss called and said, "No work tomorrow!" YES YES YES! All State employees, excepting the "essential" ones, were granted administrative leave for Friday, January 16th. I definitely am not an "essential" employee, so free day! I practically wasted my day cleaning house, washing plants, blogging, and shopping at the Rack. HappyOblivion bought more socks and I, after 2 weeks of searching for the perfect wallet, bought one yesterday! I bought a Harajuku wallet. Unlike the other Harajuku designs which are a little too colorful and immature, this one is black and white with rough sketches of a girl. It was the last one and I knew it had to be the one.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Baby Monkeys
Back in San Jose, one of the things I did most was chillin' with my best buds, my niece Ellyse and nephew Elliot. My niece is now 4 years old and my nephew is only 2. They both talk so much! Ellyse was always talking about her day, what she did, and what she wanted to do the rest of the day. She also asked me a bunch of questions about what I did, what I liked, and why I am in Hawaii. Elliot was curious about the new necklace my mom gave me. The necklace has a circular pendant and Elliot seemed to like it very much because everytime he saw me, he would ask for me to carry him, and then he would grab my pendant and say, "Yoon Goo Look", meaning "circular object". He was always asking questions and repeating them, making sure we were not lying to him. They are both so adorable.
I took so many pictures of them I had to pick the best ones and also merge them so I wouldn't be blogging about 20 photos in one post. The photo below was taken at their house during Ellyse's 4 year old birthday party. Before dinner, they were playing with the piano and dancing to the Christmas music. Gong Gong (my dad) and Elliot were the DJ's.
Cake time for Miss Ellyse the Princess. She requested a princess cake from my sister and she got one. Popo (my mom) and I went all over to search for princess items to decorate the cake. We ended up getting a Cinderella candle, carriage icing, and a princess tea set which she loved. My sister did a great job on the cake. It was light and not too sweet, perfect for those with 7 cavities and still craving for more sweets (that's me). You can see that Ellyse wore a Belle princess dress to celebrate her special day. She was so happy. Read more about the cake on my sister's blog.
The day before I left home, everyone came over for dinner. I commend my mom for cooking such a great dinner even with a little fever and cold. Lucky my sister came over to help. After dinner, I put Elliot right next to Gong Gong on the sofa in front of the TV. He didn't move for half an hour. He was watching Dirty Jobs the whole time. Everyone came over to poke him, pat him on the head, and talk to him. But, he did not blink, move, or talk. He was watching Mike Rowe doing some dirty manly jobs the whole time. He is so cute!
There you have it, my niece and nephew taking over the world, and our hearts. They put smiles on everyone :)
I took so many pictures of them I had to pick the best ones and also merge them so I wouldn't be blogging about 20 photos in one post. The photo below was taken at their house during Ellyse's 4 year old birthday party. Before dinner, they were playing with the piano and dancing to the Christmas music. Gong Gong (my dad) and Elliot were the DJ's.
Cake time for Miss Ellyse the Princess. She requested a princess cake from my sister and she got one. Popo (my mom) and I went all over to search for princess items to decorate the cake. We ended up getting a Cinderella candle, carriage icing, and a princess tea set which she loved. My sister did a great job on the cake. It was light and not too sweet, perfect for those with 7 cavities and still craving for more sweets (that's me). You can see that Ellyse wore a Belle princess dress to celebrate her special day. She was so happy. Read more about the cake on my sister's blog.
The day before I left home, everyone came over for dinner. I commend my mom for cooking such a great dinner even with a little fever and cold. Lucky my sister came over to help. After dinner, I put Elliot right next to Gong Gong on the sofa in front of the TV. He didn't move for half an hour. He was watching Dirty Jobs the whole time. Everyone came over to poke him, pat him on the head, and talk to him. But, he did not blink, move, or talk. He was watching Mike Rowe doing some dirty manly jobs the whole time. He is so cute!
There you have it, my niece and nephew taking over the world, and our hearts. They put smiles on everyone :)
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Farmer's Market
On the last day of our trip in Los Angeles, we visited Farmer's Market at 3rd and Fairfax. I loved the atmosphere and the feel of the place, very country-like. It was crowded, smelled great, food everywhere, shops with weird stuff, and people doing random things. While I struggled to squeeze my way in, I came across HappyOblivion's shop, "Bryan's BBQ", ha! (No, he doesn't have a shop.)
We stopped by a general store that sold gourmet ingredients. By the front door were 6 tubs of olives, all different variety. I saw Evian water for $6 because the bottle was specially design by Christian Lacroix. The most amazing was the coloful pasta stacked neatly on the shelf. I thought, "Maybe the colors make the pasta taste better!"
A little after noon, I was craving for sweet sweet crepes. I dunno why. So we stopped for a quick bite at The French Crepe Company. I ordered the La Chapon, which was made with cream of chestnut spread and whipped cream. My sister ordered the Crêpe Suzette, which was made with grand marnier, butter, and sugar. My parents ordered the Venezia panini sandwich made with goat cheese, sun-ripened tomato, black olive spread, and basil. They were all so delicious. I LOVED the chestnut crepe, so rich and creamy. Sorry, I ate it so fast I forgot to take a picture of the cream.
While everyone were finishing their food, I wandered around the market, looking for fruit stands. I love taking shots of fruit stands because they are so colorful, and colors make me happy :)
I wish we had more time to walk around Farmer's Market. Next time...
We stopped by a general store that sold gourmet ingredients. By the front door were 6 tubs of olives, all different variety. I saw Evian water for $6 because the bottle was specially design by Christian Lacroix. The most amazing was the coloful pasta stacked neatly on the shelf. I thought, "Maybe the colors make the pasta taste better!"
A little after noon, I was craving for sweet sweet crepes. I dunno why. So we stopped for a quick bite at The French Crepe Company. I ordered the La Chapon, which was made with cream of chestnut spread and whipped cream. My sister ordered the Crêpe Suzette, which was made with grand marnier, butter, and sugar. My parents ordered the Venezia panini sandwich made with goat cheese, sun-ripened tomato, black olive spread, and basil. They were all so delicious. I LOVED the chestnut crepe, so rich and creamy. Sorry, I ate it so fast I forgot to take a picture of the cream.
While everyone were finishing their food, I wandered around the market, looking for fruit stands. I love taking shots of fruit stands because they are so colorful, and colors make me happy :)
I wish we had more time to walk around Farmer's Market. Next time...
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Hong Kong Style Breakfast
My family and I took a trip to Los Angeles for 4 days. The purpose of this trip was to visit HappyOblivion's parents, but...outlet hopping was also on our to-do list :) I have never been to an outlet in LA. If I have, I certainly don't remember because either I didn't buy much and/or I didn't have any money. Now that I have a job, I saved up some to blow away.
We went to the outlet just before Palm Springs, 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, and Citadel Outlets in LA. We all expected expensive things in Santa Monica. However, we ended up buying the most there :) Speaking of purchases, my sisters bought me a Furla bag. I don't have any brand name bags for obvious reasons (in case you don't know, I am pake and I don't earn much). But a Furla bag for $60, originally $300. I have to say this, again, for the 500th time, "Wa, go Furla doy hou pang ah!" (English - The Furla bag is really cheap!) On the drive back from LA, my sister and I kept on repeating that phrase. So silly. Anywho, we really enjoyed shopping in Santa Monica. The beach was nice and the atmosphere was romantic. There were people singing on the streets, doing tricks, and dancing. One of the stores had cigar boxes for sale. I love cigar boxes because they are sort of antique and romantic.
I was excited about shopping because things were cheap. However, I was more interested in the food. When I was in Hong Kong, I ate so much good food. I don't quite remember what I ate but everything was delicious. In LA, we each had a Hong Kong style breakfast almost everyday. The breakfast came with macaroni and chicken, sausages, toast, and 2 eggs. The best part was the milk-tea-coffee drink. Milk tea is pretty common. But milk-tea-coffee is usually available in Hong Kong style restaurants, which are not so common.
Stay tuned for our trip to the famous Farmer's Market at 3rd and Fairfax.
We went to the outlet just before Palm Springs, 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, and Citadel Outlets in LA. We all expected expensive things in Santa Monica. However, we ended up buying the most there :) Speaking of purchases, my sisters bought me a Furla bag. I don't have any brand name bags for obvious reasons (in case you don't know, I am pake and I don't earn much). But a Furla bag for $60, originally $300. I have to say this, again, for the 500th time, "Wa, go Furla doy hou pang ah!" (English - The Furla bag is really cheap!) On the drive back from LA, my sister and I kept on repeating that phrase. So silly. Anywho, we really enjoyed shopping in Santa Monica. The beach was nice and the atmosphere was romantic. There were people singing on the streets, doing tricks, and dancing. One of the stores had cigar boxes for sale. I love cigar boxes because they are sort of antique and romantic.
I was excited about shopping because things were cheap. However, I was more interested in the food. When I was in Hong Kong, I ate so much good food. I don't quite remember what I ate but everything was delicious. In LA, we each had a Hong Kong style breakfast almost everyday. The breakfast came with macaroni and chicken, sausages, toast, and 2 eggs. The best part was the milk-tea-coffee drink. Milk tea is pretty common. But milk-tea-coffee is usually available in Hong Kong style restaurants, which are not so common.
Stay tuned for our trip to the famous Farmer's Market at 3rd and Fairfax.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Christmas Celebration
The day after I returned home, we had a gigantic dinner to celebrate Christmas and my two sisters' birthdays. There were lots of food! We had honey-roasted ham, yam, cranberry-orange sauce, vegetables, fish, and turkey. Although the turkey was a little undercooked in the middle, the seasoning was yummy! I also really enjoyed the fish, which was coated in batter and panko crumbs, then lightly pan-fried.
After dinner, my niece and nephew helped make madeleines for our LA trip the next day. They did a little "real" mixing before it became a game of who-can-throw-more-flour-on-the-carpet.
This year's birthday cake was beautiful. No, my sister didn't bake a cake for herself, which she shouldn't. She went and bought a cake that she loved and shared with everyone. It was a chocolate cake with winter theme decorations.
Mmm...I still like her cakes more :)
After dinner, my niece and nephew helped make madeleines for our LA trip the next day. They did a little "real" mixing before it became a game of who-can-throw-more-flour-on-the-carpet.
This year's birthday cake was beautiful. No, my sister didn't bake a cake for herself, which she shouldn't. She went and bought a cake that she loved and shared with everyone. It was a chocolate cake with winter theme decorations.
Mmm...I still like her cakes more :)
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Leaving on a jet plane
I figured I won't have much time to catchup on blogging once I return to Honolulu, so I decided to begin now since I have some time. HappyOblivion and I left Honolulu for home on the same day but different flights. He flew Delta to LA, and I flew Hawaiian to San Jose. We showed up at the airport 2 hours before his flight at 1:36PM. After checking in our baggage and going through the security gate, we met up in the Hawaiian Airlines Premier Club Lounge. We sat there until 1 and then I walked him to his gate. At 1:15, we heard a final call for HappyOblivion to board. We ran and ran and ran. It was AWESOME! After he boarded and on the way to my gate, which was a completely separate wing of the airport, I saw his name everywhere on the monitors. HappyOblivion was famous!
While his flight left early, mine was delayed half an hour. Grrr!
I just updated my Artsy Blog, so please check it out!
While his flight left early, mine was delayed half an hour. Grrr!
I just updated my Artsy Blog, so please check it out!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Bye bye la...
So long, farewell, la dee la dee doo... I am going on vacation for the next two weeks. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Before I sign off, I want to leave you with this picture that signifies a beautiful memory. Nope, not telling you what happened. Ooooo, the suspense is killing you, whoahahahahaha! Happy Holidays :)
Monday, December 22, 2008
What rocked my world
If you have been reading my Artsy Blog, then you know that I have just opened my own shop at Etsy.com. If you have an Etsy account, you can mark another shop or item as favorite simply by clicking "Add this seller/item to favorites". You can also see who "hearts" you or a specific item you are selling by clicking "See who hearts me". When I first opened my shop, my friend didn't want to open yet another internet account just to "heart" my Etsy shop. I completely understand because, what's the point of opening an account if you know you are not going to purchase or sell anything on Etsy? Instead, he did something that I think is very creative. He went to my "Who hearts me" page and post-it himself on the monitor. Then he took a picture of it with my camera.
I remember we had a discussion about certain words or phrases that make people very happy. For example, my mom would be delighted to hear that she sews like a professional. Or, my sister would put on a smile so large when people tell her to open her own bake shop because her cakes are so delicious. I asked him, "Do you know what rocks my world?" He tried but nothing he said made me especially happy. Well, I bet he will be happy to know that what he did in the photo TOTALLY KICKS AS%#$@!!!
I remember we had a discussion about certain words or phrases that make people very happy. For example, my mom would be delighted to hear that she sews like a professional. Or, my sister would put on a smile so large when people tell her to open her own bake shop because her cakes are so delicious. I asked him, "Do you know what rocks my world?" He tried but nothing he said made me especially happy. Well, I bet he will be happy to know that what he did in the photo TOTALLY KICKS AS%#$@!!!