Living This Life

Hello February!

2012-02-09T04:09:00.000+07:00

Chinese New Year Feast

2012-02-01T11:59:00.000+07:00

My mom picking bok choy from her garden.

Sugar coated ginger, lotus seeds and root, carrot, coconut candies, peanut and seasame square bars and watermelon seeds.

Bok choy being sauteed

My sister Lisa mixing the chow mein, yummy!

Steam fish with ginger and chive sauce

Sliced roasted duck with sauteed boy choy

Steamed minced chicken dumplings

Steam Chinese pork buns

It was all delicious but my favorite was the egg rolls, chow mien and the steam fish.

In Sunny Los Angeles

2012-01-29T11:32:00.000+07:00

Waiting at Bangkok's International Airport (Suvarnabhumi) to board our flight.

Tessa's first time meeting with Grandma and Grandpa

My sister virtually send this cake to us through Facebook, thanks sis!

Hello! We've arrived in L.A. five days ago and Tessa did really well during the flight. As I was a bit uptight about the ear popping thing. The air hostess told us to rest assure if she doesn't have a cold she won't have a problem. Even Tessa got a bassinet but didn't like it and she stayed in our arms during most of the flight. We didn't mind as she was kept us warm. Since we arrived, it's been visiting and helping with Bruce's side of the family and showing Tessa off:) It's been great so far despite the sickness that his family is going through at this time.
I have to say it's so good to be blogging again. Last night was the first better nights of sleep that I've had in the last six weeks. I think I'm over jet leg and getting used to waking up every two hours or so to nurse.
Now I have the energy to upload pictures, read blogs and just not logging in to check Facebook. I really do miss this part of this blog world here! Also, looking forward to be blogging more often even if I didn't bring my own laptop, I have easy access to the computer. Tomorrow, we hit the road to north to visit my family. My sister has a cake waiting for us, oh I can't wait to have a few slices of it!!
Alright, I'm going to log off and go pack. Thank you so much for your prayers and see you in up in the valley!

Look Who's Ready To Travel

2012-01-13T22:40:00.000+07:00

My precious Tessa is almost a month old. Today she got her long waited passport and her birth certificate. She's an American citizen and I'm a bit jealous!

Due to family sickness we are going to America a bit earlier as planned. We'll be leaving in eleven days and we can't wait to see our families and friends. Also, to eat some In-N-Out hamburgers and my sister's home cooking. Though I'm not looking forward to the cold weather, at least there's no snow in California. I don't think I have much winter clothes at all. That's why I like spring and summer in the States. Winter clothes when traveling can be bulky to pack.

Anyways, I hope you have a nice relaxed weekend!

Travels of 2011

2012-01-07T19:59:00.000+07:00

As I was organizing my travel photos I came to the conclusion that I won't be able to give a post of its own of each place that we've been too. I've picked out a few highlights of some of the places if you like to see. Hope you enjoy it!

Khao Yai: we went for a one night camp about three hours northeast of Bangkok. This is part of the view of the campsite next to ours. The deers aren't afraid of you here. Next time we'll stay more than one night. The next day on our way out we stopped at one of the waterfalls that's called Hell's Waterfall. The hike there as you get close to reaching the waterfall was like really steep. So imagine us coming back up.

Southern California:

While we went home to help take care of Bruce's family, my sister and her husband came down to visit. She also bought tons of food for us. Then we took them out to try Ethiopian (it was their first time trying) at our favorite restaurant down in Fairfex. And did the tourist thing in Hollywood, Santa Monica and had Thai food for dinner at Saladeng Song in Pasadena. In my opinion, the best Thai food and really enjoyed the soop nor mai (bamboo salad). I had my first try of the original flavor of Pinkberry yogurt icecream? Thank you sister for convincing me to try it!

Old Town Julien:

A nice weekend getaway that's about a couple hours not to far from San Diego. Whenever we can, I like to visit old towns. This is more of a mining town and the food is, let's just say not good. But we did enjoy driving around the back roads. Especially when Bruce got up close to a rattle snake!

Hurray for Friday of 2012!

2012-01-06T12:14:00.000+07:00

I hope the first week of the new year has been wonderful. As for me, I am counting my blessings everyday. And so thankful to be living this amazing life with another new creature:) Even if she seems to be waking up every hour last night. I'm doing quiet well now as long as I have my daily showers, (yes, twice as it's hot here in Bangkok), hair combed and tided up, have a well balanced breakfast and quiet time with God. Not in that particular order.

Speaking of quiet time or meditation with the Lord is what I want to be doing for as long as I live on this earth. Oh, how I need too! I love how I can have a warm relationship with Jesus who really cares to help with living your life with passion and purpose. This 2012 I would like to be more focused on what the Lord has for me, especially being a mother. And everything else that make this life full.

Have a great restful weekend!

Ending 2011

2011-12-31T15:24:00.001+07:00

Wow, what a year it has been! Also, I'm sure you can relate to, 'it went to fast' for the most part. Like Tessa's 17 days old. And me, 36, that's years old!

The last couple of months have been a challenging one. Not just with having a baby but with moving two times due to the flood and the our place of renting didn't get cleaned up in time for us to move back in. And being new parents. I certainly had to let the tears flow freely.

Yesterday, Bruce made my day as it was my birthday. I don't make a big deal out of it and just ask to get me a Starbucks decaf Americano and a banana chocolate chip muffin. He came back with not just that but with a couple magazines of People and Hello! Something that seems so normal before seem so wonderfully lifting. A way to end the year:)

Hope you all have a great new year!!

Carrot cake, marble, red velvet and brownie cupcakes from Pandora shop. I like them as they are small.

And here's Miss Tessa, she likes this sleeping position, just like she's on vacation, lol!

Our Tessa Rose

2011-12-21T14:14:00.000+07:00

On 15th of December we welcomed our Tessa into this world at 9.08am, 8lbs. 6ounces and 20.86 inches long. Praise God she's healthy and that things went well and I'm surprisingly recovering very fast from the c-section. When we came back to hotel from the hospital, the people at the hotel was amazed that I was already walking, of course slowly.
Now, just taking the time to get to know her and give her all the love and hugs she needs.

Proud dad and Tessa on her first day.

Home from the hospital.

Winter Wind

2011-12-03T21:32:00.001+07:00

Tonight we went out to another of Mexican food. Yeah, I'm on a Mexican kick here as you can see. It was just so unusually pleasant as I felt the winter wind this morning. Not in Bangkok. I thought to myself that it's going to be a good night out as in dining in the open air. I'm quite sure that is the very first time eating out at night without sweating. I ordered beef fajita and it tasted ok as I think I'm coming down with a cold.

Here's an update on our house: Bruce has been going to check every now and then to clean out as much as possible.

Thanks Imli for your help! This was last week, by then the parking lots have dried out.

Two days ago, Bruce went back to more cleaning. Well, guess what he found? He's thinking that it's about a 7 feet long python. It's just coiling under a plastic tarp in front of our porch! Three workers came and help him take the snake out. Thank God that Bruce didn't get bitten and he fled back as fast as he can to our service apartment!

Have a great weekend folks!

Hello December!

2011-12-01T22:26:00.001+07:00

Another new month friends, but this one's more exciting as we'll get to see our baby girl soon. Also, celebrating the birth of our Savior.

I'm going to go back briefly to last month:

We're still in a service apartment month two down in Sukumvit. Great restaurants and nearby malls. We found out this evening that our place has electricity and tap water, yay! Even with all the cleaning it won't be clean enough for us to move back in right away.

One of my best friends, Sarah J. and her family visited us and we had Mexican food at Los Cabos for Thanksgiving. With plans for roast turkey in our place out the window and into the flood waters:) we are still very thankful that we got to spend it with them. I miss them already.
Although we weren't so big on turkey, Bruce did find like a deli like in one of the malls that had slices of turkey and the works, just for the fun of it.

A short getaway to Chonburi province where there's a nice beach at Sattahip. Also, for Bruce and I and the baby to take pictures together which we hardly do. So here's one of them:)I have more pictures but this is what I can do for now. If you like, just click one of the pictures and it will take you to my Flickr page to see more pictures there. I really do miss blogging, so I know I keep saying it but, hopefully more posts to come. Good night.

Bon Chon Chicken

2011-11-04T23:49:00.000+07:00

Oh how time flies even with the flood still rising! Yeah, it's not fun hearing about it almost 24/7. So watch the news to get enough of what's going on and turn it off.

This afternoon Bruce took me out to this new chicken wing place, well for us. It's in Thong Lor Soi 13 in a small strip mall and got a lot of ravings for the best American chicken wings in town. The skin was fried paper thin, perfectly crispy. That being said, it's should be a once in awhile outing as it's uber tasty and not so good on the heart:)
I ordered the spicy sauce and Bruce had the soy garlic sauce coating and it came with pickled daikon, yummy. We preferred the spicy sauce as it's not vinegary spicy like in some parts of America and agreed that Coke should be the choice of drink as my plum soda didn't really quench my thirst with that spiciness in your mouth. My side order was kimchi coleslaw which wasn't my favorite. Bruce got sticky rice with his which would is perfect. The additional side order was clear mushroom soup which was so good. I decided to try the soy milk ice cream with roasted sesame seed topping. It was so blaze and a bit on the sesame flavor. If you're looking for the best American wings, this is the place.
*Update: there's a branch in Los Angles too, woohoo!

Can't Escape Halloween

2011-10-31T22:20:00.001+07:00

At the newest mall, Terminal 21 on BTS Asoke.

Out Of The Flood

2011-10-25T23:09:00.004+07:00

The last few days we're gathering our little possessions of what we had in about 10 minutes. Then put them in our two carry on bags and had the boat evacuated us out of our condos. The electricity was cut and we couldn't spend another night soaking wet with sweat and frogs croaking all night long. We slept on the floor of the the church we attend for two nights. I realized that I need a real mattress.

Now we're able to find a reasonable service apartment near the hospital where I'll be delivering. Close enough if the floods make it this way, I'll be whipped to the delivery room. OK, it seems that we are going through the hardest thing ever when there are many people who have it worst than we do during this time of crisis.

This afternoon, we went out for lunch and later we got groceries. There wasn't a single drinking water bottle left on the biggest mall ever. We got juices, milk and bought four big water bottles from our apartment. I was telling a friend how I get to drink French mineral water but there's none of that either! I'm still thankful and God will provide. In Ephesians 5:20- Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lords Jesus Christ.

Here are some pictures but it's not to feel pity for us but we are safe. Sorry for the quality of the first two pictures as they were taken from my cell phone.

It was pretty low around the corner from our place but when we get to the main gate it was waist deep.

Update

2011-10-19T22:51:00.002+07:00

Sorry for the quietness and it's almost been two weeks since I last posted! Just let me update you quickly what's been going on around:

~ decluttering around the house, sorting through baby stuff that friends have been giving by the bags! And more are coming!
~ decluttering my FB page
~ lots of cooking; tonight was pulled pork sandwiches. Thanks to my sis for the recipe!
~ keeping up with the news about the flooding in Thailand. News from a friend who works at the drinking water company said it might flood in our area soon, yikes!
~ Bruce middle knuckle got a small crack after a fall from his bike as the dogs were chasing him. Dogs didn't attack him, thank God he's doing better.
~ been resting and napping more in between all this
~ we get little vistors like this, yes, that's Bruce hand all wrapped up from the fall

That's all for tonight folks and see you tomorrow!

Floods in Bangkok, Homemade Soy Milk and Ginger Crinkles

2011-10-09T23:20:00.000+07:00

The flood has not hit where we live. And we live right in front of the water company canal. So 30 minutes ago it was raining hard and right now the rain is subsiding with lighting and thunder. When I looked outside to the canal with a few more days of raining it could get flooded. Last night our neighbor called ready to bring sandbags to block our front patio. I believe we are safe but people are worried and scared and stocking up food supplies. It's the worst flood in 50 years. Photos are from Bangkok Post and other sources. Do keep the flood victims in your thoughts and prayers and help as much as you can by donating to any of organizations that you trust.

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After an early start to church as we werecollecting donations for the flood victims, we came home around 2.30 and I tooka nap till 5pm. Felt more tired to cook soup so we ordered for a pizza delivery.Yeah, four hours of not eating had me zapped.

Then I got some energy, started to makehomemade soy milk. I soaked the soy beans last night, rinsed with new water andadd about 6 glasses with the beans, blended it really fine, pour through acheesecloth, squeeze all the milk as much as you can, throw away the blendedsoy beans, put the soy milk in a double pot to boil, (so I don't have to standthere stirring and so it will not get it burnt) but did stir it occasionally.About 30 minutes later add sugar (I added brown sugar) to to your taste and you got fresh soymilk!

If you buy it from outside, you'll get to choose what you want to add in your milk like: cooked kidney beans, barley, soaked basil seeds and many more. I mostly like my soy milk plain but sometimes add some dark herb jelly in it.

My sister sent me a link of what preggy women should eat. Of course, I would go for something sweet first :) And since husband don't want anything with pumpkin in it the ginger crinkle cookies looked good. I’m glad the recipe asked for ¾ cups of roasted wheat germJ Made a batch and had with soy milk, yum! It looks like gingersnaps but tastes lighter but heartier.

Oh My! Apple Pie!

2011-10-07T22:21:00.001+07:00

Most blogs I read has posts of some kind of baking with apples or pumpkin. This week I decided to bribe Bruce to clean the guest room that's full of baby stuff for apple pie. Well not really bribing, he wanted to help and that meant he cleaned it all by himself, so last night I rewarded him with dessert. It works:)

I found this recipe and hesitated as it didn't ask for cinnamon and nutmeg in it. I read the review, everybody's raving about it. When I mixed the sliced apples (I had two Granny Smith and four small sweet apples) with the butter sugar sauce it tasted like caramel apples! I just wanted to eat right there. Next time I would add less sugar in it as the sweet apples made it sweeter after baking. Today I two small slices and I don't usually like apple pie but this is by far the best ever, in my humble opinion:) By the way, the big piece with vanilla ice cream is Bruce's.

My next baking would be something with pumpkin? Any suggestions beside pumpkin cinnamon rolls as I made a batch of regular whole wheat cinnamon rolls last week.

Cheers to happy baking!

Amphawa Floating Market Tours

2011-10-06T22:35:00.001+07:00

This traveling post is a continued tour when my sister and brother in law came to visit us in January of this year. It's the last post after we went to Ayuthaya, the former capital of Thailand.

We wanted to explore more of downtown and the outskirts of Bangkok. So I arranged a tour through the Trip Advisor comments on an excellent tour guide we should hire. I think we intimidate her so she was OK. I know, I could've got it cheaper to get our own taxi and give the details to the driver. But since I wanted to a tourist, again for once, hahaha. The tour included: the Mae Klong Train Market, local ceramic shop, Bung Kung Temple and Ampawa floating market. Our interests was mainly the train and floating market.

On our way to our destination, we had a bowl of the best sliced roast pork and dumpling noodles shop near the Mae Klong Train Track Market. We had to stop for a mid morning snack right? To bad I don't remember the name of this place.

Here's me, even if I wasn't ready for the pose, standing on the train track market. The train would go by and all the vendors have to be ready and get the stuff they are selling off and take the covers down before the train come through. Then take it all out again. We didn't wait to see that as it was getting warmer so we proceed to the our next destination.

Then we stopped at a local ceramic shop that's been there for years. We got to see how it's being made, and you shop. We came out buying a vase and other nick knacks.

We headed to a local temple that one of the shrine has a tree overgrown on it.

The guys goofing off fighting among themselves or the figures.

Finally like by 4pm we got the Amphawa, walked around quite a bit with the crowds and seeing so many different shops selling to about everything to junk, cute cafes and home stays. And we stopped to have Thai ice lemon tea, without sugar please. It still came with sugar. The girl said she didn't put sugar in it. I told her to tasted it and she got annoyed so she didn't charge me for it.

A lady frying an omelet.

We sat in front of these two main ladies one handing som tam to the buyers.

I don't think you can spot us, can you? About the food, mediocre. We had pork satay, som tam, pat thai and squid egg pancake with savory sauce. After eating there I kind of lost my appetite. It's so commercialized but still a nice experience of the many floating markets around Thailand.

Being Thankful

2011-10-05T21:13:00.000+07:00

image source

Anne Frank, a teenager (13-15years old) and in hiding from the Nazi's. A lot of times we want to see the big picture of beauty but not the smallest simple ones. And being thankful for it.

~ a good homemade Indian chicken curry added with cauliflower and pumpkin

~ scented candles

~ comfortable couch and enough throw pillows to rest my achy pregnant body

~ simply trusting that God is control of all things

~ giving smiles to strangers even if they don't smile back

~ the feel and smell of books

~ trees along our condo compound

Psalms 9:1- I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.

How's your day so far? Let's be thankful not just today but always.

Sunday: Chicken Tortilla Soup With Cornbread

2011-10-02T21:32:00.000+07:00

Yesterday evening we got back safe and sound to Bangkok! It's nice to be back home in your own bed even with the wonderful boutique hotels that my husband spoiled me with. I should stay put and not do any more flying now by doctor's order. I get a lot of of that from the doctor, no coffee, no walking to much, NO coffee, yes I hear ya. But, there was 'no cooking'! Of course not.

So this brings me this so tasty chicken tortilla soup minus the tortilla that we didn't have on hand. The cornbread balances out the spiciness of the soup which was perfect. This was my first time making this soup and got the recipe from here. I left out hominy as we didn't have any and the rest of the toppings but added cheddar cheese instead, also added cumin powder, taco seasoning, chili powder, left over grilled chicken mostly leg parts and chicken stock to my taste. It serves 8 but we ate half of it.

Our neighbor gave us her homemade local dessert of boiled banana in coconut milk and cream. I'm beginning to like this dessert again as I haven't had it for a long long time.

Been Away

2011-09-30T08:25:00.001+07:00

Hello there! I have forgotten that we needed to pick up our visas until husband told me we have to pack. Oh, I knew we were going sometime this week but forgot what day. Anyway, we got our 1 year visa, praise the Lord! We were supposed to go further up north but with the floods coming in and other sudden change of plans we had to stay another night in Chiangmai. We are off to Chiangrai with a night there then fly back to Bangkok on Saturday afternoon. If you remember, pray for our safe travel on the road and our flight, thanks!

Sunday: Simple Laotian Pumpkin Mushroom Soup

2011-09-25T22:09:00.000+07:00

Thanks to a friend in Laos who kindly reminded me to post something new and my sister who liked her status on Facebook. Anyway, I'm sure I'm not the only who dislikes the new feature on FB, yeah? Yep, I have a love/dislike relationship with FB now.

The last few days I was caught up with the crisis of other people being effected by the flood in Northern Thailand which our church had gather funds, donate necessary things to distribute. Then there was the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that hit the northern state in India, Sikkim, and including the district we used to live in Siliguri. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are rebuilding their lives and houses that's been destroyed.

Isn't that all a part of living this life.
But this verse in Hebrews 12:8 "Therefore, receiving a Kingdom that can't be shaken, let us have grace, through which we serve God acceptably, with reverence and awe,"

One day when we're with Jesus in His Kingdom it's unshakable, that's peace!

Anyway, we have to live on right? And continue with this Sunday Soup thing which I made for dinner. So simple and healthy. This soup was mentioned from a friend to a friend who made it for her in Vientiane. How she oooohhed and ahhhhed about it. I think the secret is the lemon basil leaves that you put in at the end. Following is the recipe and I just eyeball everything.

Eyeball how much water you put in for your pork stock with pork ribs, throw in slightly
crushed green chili, garlic and shallots, boil about five more minutes. Then put in sliced
pumpkin and mushroom, boil for another 8 minutes, tasted to season with chicken granules, salt or
fish sauce. Lastly, throw in lemon basil, bai mang rak in Thai or bai ee tu in Lao. This soup is a main dish and we ate it with rice.

Had watermelon and papaya for dessert and yes, this is how I eat it when I don't have to share, lol!

I hope to put up my previous travel posts that I have in draft in between other regular posts.

Lately....

2011-09-14T21:37:00.002+07:00

I've been digging my homemade carrot cake. Not an appeasing picture but it was the best that I've baked in a long time:) Even Bruce's not a big fan he liked it. The walnuts, pineapple, carrots and the dairy that comes with the frosting has all of my daily nutrition, lol!
We finally got to meet up with my younger brother last Sunday who's been here in Bangkok for a training. He works as a tour guide in Laos and one of the travel agency in Bangkok wants him to be a tour leader throughout Thailand and Laos! I only got to lead in Laos but not Thailand. I think I wouldn't be able to handle Thailand back then to be honest. Really, I had accompanied one tour group as a trainee from the northern provinces then to Bangkok. I was ready to be back in the quiet and cosy Vientiane! Cheers to you Soun for the next big step!!

And here's me 23 weeks in our 'front yard'. Oh my, I need to work out!

Obviously, you can see the new blog facelift:) This background really is me right now; bohemian and colorful Indianish. I have been nostalgically thinking about India when I was going through my old pictures on the computer before it crashed. Now that it's all fixed I won't bore you with the details.
Anyway, I might even give another it another facelift the next day. But I doubt it as I have other things to do like getting myself to read the manual of my new camera that I haven't touched since the last two months.

This will be it for now as I try to get some sleep. Good night.

Breakfast Delivery

2011-09-03T09:38:00.001+07:00

This morning, my neighbor rang the doorbell at about 7.30 and bought us food. In the bag was two stir fried noodles and one fresh bamboo shoot soup. I love bamboo soup! Totally comfort food during the monsoon season. Just yesterday him and his wife came to visit. They also bought organic guavas and limes for us. Yay, for more vitamin C and I'm so thankful for their kindness!

My breakfast of bamboo shoot soup (kheng knot mai) with pumpkin, squash, with two different kind of mushrooms and with herbs of lemon basil and another green herb that is very pungent but don't know the name. I had this soup with brown rice and one guava.
Tonight I'm making Indian fish curry and cabbage salad. Although, I don't think I'm up to making homemade chapatis but have it with brown rice instead.

For those of you living in the good ole USA have a great labor Day weekend!

Yay, I finally know how to put pictures up at almost 2AM!

2011-09-03T01:53:00.001+07:00

A couple of random pictures.Sarah (in blue), Lod and I had 2 bowls of noodles each. Look how small they are! Oh, good times in Luangprabang!

My two sister in laws preparing dinner in Vientiane. Bruce loves the huge sticky rice basket that I'm holding.

I can go to sleep now. Good morning!

Testing iPad for Blogger

2011-09-02T22:24:00.001+07:00

My laptop seems to be doing OK as it downloaded 2 of the 87 updates. But for the future, I'm getting my nose in on Bruce's iPad which was a generous gift from his sister. Thank you R!
Now, what I'm trying to for the last two days is figuring out how to blog my posts from here. There's just several apps that you need to download some for free and some not, to get this working especially to post pictures as that's important to me. But for the photos I still have no idea!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Bangkok

Laptop down

2011-08-31T21:18:00.001+07:00

Internet up, laptop down. Not the end of the world that's for sure. It's nice to go back and put my ipod to use:). Can't post any photos but this will have to for now.

Baked Chocolate Pudding

2011-08-29T22:02:00.002+07:00

*update: with recipe below

I'm not going to apologized for posting more food photos. As I have the time to catch up on reading blogs, especially blogs about food that I couldn't get myself to read for the last four months, have me drooling. Yes, I'm feeling my normal self, have faster internet and can actually use the computer for a long amount of time without feeling nauseous, yay! So, I've also caught up on replying a pile of messages both on FB and Yahoo while watching the movie Friday Night Lights, send some pictures that my sister stopped asking me about, well most of them. Did a little decluttering on my computer as I got more distracted by more blogs!

Anyway, yes, I'm gettting to the baked chocolate pudding. It's not an award for my hard work but for the craving. For my birthday, I was given this cookbook barefoot contessa: back to the basics by Ina Garten from my sister, um, two years ago? I know, it's been that long! And it's the only thing that stuck out at me tonight was this pudding cake. It's so decadent and I'm sure it's because of the 1 cup melted butter that it called for:) It didn't form a crust like hers but still it was yummmmy! I'm going to sleep happy, good night!

Here's the recipe:

Baked Chocolate Pudding

barefoot contessa back to the basics

Serves 6

2 sticks unsalted butter, plus extra for buttering the dish

4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature

2 cups sugar ( I put in 1 1/2 cups)

1/4 cup good cocoa powder

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean (I used liquid vanilla)

1 tablespoon framboise liqueur, opt (I didn't use as I didn't have any)

Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Lightly butter a 2 quart (9x12 inch) oval baking dish. Melt the buter and set aside to cool.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (I used a hand mixer), beat the eggs and sugar on medium-high speed for 5 to 10 minutes, until very thick and light yellow. Meanwhile, sift the cocoa powder and flour together and set aside.

When egg and sugar mixture is ready, lower the speed to low and add the vanilla seeds, framboise (if using), and the cocoa powder and flour mixture. Mix only until combined. With the mixer sitll on low, slowly pour in the cooled butter and mix again just until combined.

Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared dish and place it in a larger baking pan. Add enough of the hottest tap water to the pan to come halfway up the side of the dish and bake exactly for one hour. A cake tester inserted 2 inches from the side will come out three-quarters clean. The center will appear very under-baked; this dessert is between a brownie and a pudding. Allow to cool and serve with vanilla ice cream.

Note: this dessert can be made up to 3 days in advance. Wrap well, refrigerate, and bring to room temperature before serving.

Enjoy!!

Sunday Soup and Salad Dinner

2011-08-28T19:55:00.001+07:00

About two weeks ago I discussed with Bruce that we should have a simple homemade soup (of any kind) for dinner on Sunday. Not that I have been cooking up a storm but as it seems that after church we seem to have a heavier lunch. I was inspired by Soupapolooza who I discovered in the Bon Apetite magazine of last year, known for making soup for her friends on Sunday. So, tonight we invited our neighbor who happens to be my Bible study teacher and her friend to come over for minced pork wanton soup. She bought salad which was just wonderful as I love her salad dressing with apple cider vinegar. Of course, it was loaded with all the veggies that I needed. Also, the pineapple slices made it even tastier. I did set my heart on making homemade shrimp wanton soup but bought at the weekend market this morning as I didn't the recipe from the little sister on time. Dessert was orange slices as most of the Thais are not big on baked sweets.

For those who are on the East Coast with hurricane Irene brewing in leaving about 3 million people without electricity. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Vacationing in Silom/Bangrak, Bangkok

2011-08-27T19:13:00.002+07:00

I told a friend that we were vacationing in Silom/ Bangrak area after Koh Chang and she laughed at me saying' you're in Bangkok and why stay in that area?' 1) we got a deal at Lebua at State Tower Hotel 2) don't know much about Silom Road accept it's *Bangkok's financial district and sometimes known as the Wall Street of Bangkok with all its numerous bangs in the area. It's busy, chaotic and vibrant. Also, you get to know a bit of history too. We surely enjoyed our stay and I don't want to be staying in Sala Dang area again.

*information credit to Cape + Kantary Magazine

On one of those days, we both shared our traditional afternoon tea set at the Oriental Hotel. I was excited to try the clotted cream but bummed to find out that they don't make it anymore. I had Assam and Bruce had Darjeeling tea. I especially tenjoyed the petite sandwiches and not so much of the sweets. Even Princess Diana had tea at this hotel. It was expensive but once in a lifetime thing, you know. Unless, if we have visitors and they want to pay for us:)

After we finished our tea we headed out on a short walk towards the Chao Praya River. This Catholic Church to the left, *Assumtion Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Bangkok built in 1821. The French and Italian-inspired architecture was damaged during World War ll and renovated in 1941. Entering the cathedral is prohibited, but Catholic wedding sevices are still held on Saturdays.

You can see our hotel with the dome on top. There's also a Catholic school there and kids were out with to many cars so we walked back towards our hotel. We entered a very high class painting shop which I don't remember but loved the paintings of Thai life. Then I was a bit tired and we headed back to our hotel to rest.

We went back to our hotel about 4.30pm and sure enough the rain clouds start rolling in and it rained pretty hard that night. When we checked in our hotel, which is fantastic, we had to sign a waiver that it is our responsibility if we jump off our balcony. Look how tall our balcony was!

We then wanted to go check out the mosted talk about views of bars and restuarants on 64th floor. It was still raining when we got there and couldn't go out to see the view but we both sat at Distil Bar to have our non-alcholic cocktail of a refreshing lynchee mixed with mint. Refreshing indeed! For dinner we feasted on Indian food at the hotel restaurant.

The next day we went back to one of the best restaurant /boutique called Mazzaro on Soi Shangrila Hotel. It has Thai and Italian food and the decor is mainly with paintings on canvas. I didn't bother to take pictures of the place as I was only in the mood for more food:) Bruce found it the other night when we were in a search for a basic chocolate cake. I had already given up and didn't want to go across the street as he was checking out the menu. He signaled for me to cross over so I reluctantly walked over and Bruce told me they have warm brownies with vanilla ice cream. OK, we went in. I ordered the tiramisu as that's what the waiter recommended. I was not disappointed! Look at the presentation! Also, it was I think out of this world and they didnt' skimp on the ingredients.

So lunch it was on our last day: for appetizer we had fried calamari. The batter was just perfect!

Bruce had Capricciosa pizza which was basically ham, sliced olives and mushrooms. Another simple perfect dish. I wanted to try a new kind of pasta and had Arrabbiata pasta. The sauce had a kick to it. Yum! Flickr is giving me a hard time of uploading the picutre. Here's the picture of our desserts from the other night! Another restaurant I would go back to in the future. We are so thankful for friends and family for the gifts that made it possible for us to do these things.

Not Quite A Vacation Read

2011-08-23T16:57:00.002+07:00

I wanted to read this book for sometime so when we're were in downtown Bangkok last I finally picked it up. It's not a light book to read and some parts I just want to skip as it's pretty graphic. If you didn't know, Jaycee was kidnapped at 11 years old and been held captive under her kidnapper who raped and used her for 18 years. She survived. I read this in a day and half and I felt sick and I supposed those who read it felt the same. But for a non-fiction reader like me, this is a book you got to read even when it's not all lovey doffy. Any books you recommend reading?

Our Own Fun Food Tour

2011-08-22T02:57:00.000+07:00

On our extended vacation in Bangkok we decided to do a food tour. We read in a magazine that we could do with an organized tour group that cost each 950baht ( almost 32 US dollars) each but skipped the idea as it was almost 3 hours of it and with A LOT of walking. Also, we were in the Bangrak Juction area that the tour would be walking in so out we go on our own. For an Asian like me, I already know these foods but I'm always on the hunt for comparisons. We started at 1pm as we were still a bit full from our breakfast not that we were eating everything in site but we ate late too.

Anyway, we first started with Vietnamese style fried spring rolls. The Vietnamese style comes with greens of lettuce, basil and mint that you can wrap up the sliced rolls and dip in the sauce. I tell you and Bruce agrees with me, it was the most bland fried spring rolls that we ever tasted. 80baht total with our Thai lemon iced teas.

The next was in the same side of the street a Muslim Restaurant that we had the baked chicken rice. We had have this lots of times but it's nice to eat in different restuarants. Although, it was doubled the price of what we would pay, 60 baht each where we pay 30 baht at our local market. The cucumber and chili relish on the side was well balanced with the mild chicken and rice. I didn't have the sweet green sauce and the other curry like sauce either. But I did tasted the curry sauce and it was a tad tart. 120baht total (4US dollars) By the time we got to the famous roast duck and rice place, I was getting a bit full. I ordered the shrimp wanton soup as it was bit smaller and Bruce ordered the sliced roasted duck with sauce on rice. Forgive me as I don't remember the name of this place! But it's opposite of Bangrak Market. Bruce liked his dish as I thought the sauce was a bit sweet for my taste. He then ate the rest of my soup too. 82baht ($2.73) total with bottled water and ice. We were to full to have any desserts and of course, since it's our own tour we agreed on getting a foot massage! I had a pedi spa instead and it was just so relaxing. After that I wanted a nap so we went back to our hotel and rested. For dinner we wanted something light and a bowl of noodle soup would be just right. This soup with it's scorching clear hot broth was so simple and delicious. We each ordered a big bowl of sliced cooked loin pork, blanched morning glory and bean sprouts. It was dining al fresco on the streets of Bangkok. We went back the next night as it was that good. 80baht ($2.66)

We'll continue to cook more local food once we're home too. So more local dishes post to come:)

Anniversary and Baby Bumb Pictures

2011-08-15T15:53:00.007+07:00

We had the forest and beach to ourselves. Dessert at an Irish Paddy's Pub: Bruce had apple crumble with custard and I had sticky toffee pudding with warm butterscotch sauce and vanilla ice cream. OK, this is my 4th time trying to put pictures for this post. I had it all laid out with captions then when posted it came out with all this html thing!! Anyway, here's the shorter version and I'm getting hungry. We'll be continuing our vacation in downtown Bangkok so see you back next week!!

Nachos, Pizza and Vacation

2011-08-07T19:02:00.001+07:00

So it's been mainly Bruce who's using the oven these days, lol! Some good beef nachos and I made pizza the other day. Yep, that's our back yard and a bit messy. The reason I don't go out there much as you can see the walkway gets wet when it rains hard.

Early tomorrow morning we take a flight to Trat Province and then a ferry to Koh Chang (Elephant Island) for our anniversary. We've been there before and that it seems the shortest way to get to a nicer beach than Hua Hin. Then back to Bangkok to stay in a hotel that Bruce booked for us. We're looking forward for this much needed vacation. Well, now we're going back to our place to pack now. See you when I get back!!

Happy August!

2011-08-01T15:36:00.002+07:00

I don't know about you but I had a restful weekend with movies, stuff my face full of beef nachos, Sukodu for me and Angry Birds for Bruce. Also, feeling the love of our church family every weekend (some we see more than just Sundays) even with all of problems we face, they can still smile and give you a firm grip on your arms besides a hug here. Yes, Christ does give you true peace.

We've been having more of rainstorms and what can you say when it's the monsoon season. So on Mondays, we usually go out to run errands, well Bruce that is. I'm at a very cozy cafe which has the fastest internet. Actually, we've been here for about 5 hours but I think we ordered enough food and beverages to give them business. We still don't have one in our home.

Anyway, I like August as it's vacation time for us and our anniversary, yay! Let's just say I'm trying to get excited for traveling which has been off for some time now. So do you have any travel plans in August?

And..some pics

2011-07-29T17:45:00.002+07:00

Our front porch

Living and dining room that leads to part of our kitchen

Last week we had church family come for our house dedication. It was short and a good time of fellowship and of course...food! A couple of ladies made our favorite northern style noodles. It was really sweet of them to do all the cooking for me as I was just oh so tired:) I'm so thankful!

Sorry if the pics are not that great but at least you got to see a glimse of our new place. Since I got my new oven I haven't been out to our 'back yard' to cook or bake anything. It's either too windy or raining when I want to start cooking. We have two electric burners inside the kitchen so just heat up what friends cook for us. Yeah, so nothing exciting on the cooking part hopefully that will pick up soon..hehehe. Have a great weekend!

A Quick Update

2011-07-11T19:49:00.001+07:00

Hi there friends! Ah, I know it's been to long of not posting. Really I haven't had the motivation to do so in my first trimester. I feel like it's changing now but not to much. I can read a post or two without being queasy. Also, I have the urge to cook and bake more, yay! Does no bake cookies count, hehehe. My new oven will come in two days that I can't wait but not the cooking outside. Yeah, we moved to a new place which is more cozy, more space when the baby arrives and inviting. More on the new place once I have more time on the internet:)

Anyway, wanted to update you that I'm still here in the blog world and hopefully more posts to come!

While I Have The Energy To Cook

2011-06-01T17:56:00.000+07:00

This evening I cooked two main dishes, one is canned sardines in tomatoe sauce which is the Southeast Asian version of canned tuna. The other day I was craving for sardines as I can make this dish as spicy and loads of herbs as I want it to be. So while making tonight's dinner of beef stew I just went ahead and made this for tomorrow's lunch. Yes, for saving time! How's your Wednesday going so far?

Churn Baby Churn

2011-05-31T19:59:00.000+07:00

Yep, all that stomach churning that I mentioned little did I know it was churning a baby! It wasn't just the churning but flipping anxiety, slight depression and heartburn made it clear. Anyway, most Asian friends I know wouldn't spill the beans about a nine week pregnancy but I will! How do I feel? Well, shocked but hopefully it will sink in. I'm thankful to God for creating this little being inside me. Also, I'm not a very sentimental person.
I'm doing better but just don't want to be in the kitchen at all so it's mostly whatever there is and fast food. Hope that will change soon although I made homemade rice noodle soup tonight.
I got to confees that it wasn't the internet's fault that I didn't blog but I couldn't get myself to blog as the thought of taking pictures or blogging, same as for drinking coffee or using my once favorite mug made me gag, yeah strange huh? That's all of the biggest news I have so far. Take care friends!

Home

2011-05-18T14:51:00.001+07:00

Thank you for your prayers as after a 16 1/2 hours non stop flight we made it home safe and sound including all of our luggages. Bruce finally got the skillet in somewhere so I'm glad it made it with us this time. When we got home at around 7.30am, we unpacked and went to get breakfast which was dinner for us of tom yum goong, papaya salad, fried whole sea bass, pad thai and rice. Yes, I was happy!! Then we got some groceries so when we got home we felt all groggy and slept for the next five hours. Got up and I had yogurt and went right back to sleep and woke up this morning at 5am!

Today so far it's been ok with the jet lag but my stomach is a bit funny still. I hope I can do more postings as the internet permits but until then have a great day everyone!

Next Stop Bangkok

2011-05-15T06:02:00.000+07:00

Hello hello! Sorry for being this long of an absence but I'm having this churning in my stomach for the last three weeks. And I'm sure the coffee doesn't help either:) Maybe I just want to be back 'home' really bad and I've been craving all the som tums, you know, all the delicious spicy foods! I can't look at anymore pastas, hamburgers, fries, etc. Also, it might be the dreaded 'last' good-byes too...
Anyway, we're sort of packed as Bruce is repacking our last luggage down to 10lbs. lighter. Just have to leave that last Sur La Table skillet back. Don't you hate that? It was left back the last time we were here and I totally forgot about it. We leave tomorrow, oh dear.
So, if we make it back I'll be posting from the other side of the ocean. Pray that we have a safe trip back, thanks:)

This was my first time seeing an upside down tomato plant that my father in law planted. Only in America:)

A Pause

2011-05-03T10:07:00.000+07:00

What a day! After a long six hours at the hospital with Bruce's sister's checkup being not good news, feeling feverish and the news about the death of Bin Laden everywhere I walk, my brain is fried. We're going away to an old town further down So Cal this Wednesday which will be nice little break.
But now I'm all for an early night. Good night!

Catching Up With Pictures

2011-04-27T10:30:00.000+07:00

Been busy and having so much fun celebrating Easter with Bruce's side of the family. It's such a blessing to be able to enjoy the laughters, playing games, eating of course, drinking real coffee ( for the young) and not decaff (for the elders), lol, dyeing eggs for the first time in a long long time for me and most of all jst being with each other.
Today has been a long day at the hospital for a family member of ours. But I continue to blessed by her as she keep on being postive on her life despite the pain. She knows her goal as when she gets to heaven there will be no more pain or tears. I'm suposed to be the encourager right? But she encourages me! So count your blessings friends:) I will leave you here with pictures of the last few days so enjoy. It will be another busy week with taking care of family and then my sister and her husband will come down to visit us for more little adventures. Have a great week!

We stopped at the Missions Inn in Riverside, CA to visit Casey's Cupcakes to sample her cupcakes. Appearently she won the Cupcake Wars show. I didn't watch the show but other family members did so they want to stop by. I got the carrot cake cupcake but it was way to sweet for me.

Love the flowers and lemon tree out in Bruce's parents patio!

What fun with egg conffeti!

Easter dinner

After Easter drive for some Asian comfort food, pho and French ice coffee with condensed milk, oh la
la!

Blessed And Sun Kissed In Laguna Beach

2011-04-23T13:44:00.000+07:00

The last three days have been AMAZING! I was so wrong about Laguna Beach and now want to stay longer. If you've seen Santa Barbara, Del Mar and San Diego beaches it's nothing like Laguna Beach. I'm not an artsy kind of person but strolling through the main drag of Laguna you'll pass different art galleries that will take your breath away with their brilliant paintings. It was just so fun to look and drool at a painting which cost only $30,000! It's America you can dream right?!

I didn't take a lot of pictures as I was enjoying each moment and still trying to work my new camera. We had lots of walks along the park and the cliffs which one evening we saw a baby bunny so hungry that he was eating the rose petals as fast as he could, so cute! It was wonderful to see those God giving moments. Really, I stand in awe of HIS creation! Today was the last day and it couldn't have been more beautiful as we sat on the beach to soak up the sun, played in the water a bit (it was cold!), had lunch at one of Ruth and Terry's favorite restaurant called the Beach House which you get the view of the ocean. Ruth and I ordered the half a pound of their speciality hamburger which had avacados in it. Delish!

Then we walked around the main drag for ice cream and sat in the park to enjoy it and soak up some more vitamin D:) I'm really impressed with how well kept the park is. It's definetly a family/dog friendly park also you can do a lot of people watching:) But one thing was the parking or maybe it's Friday as there's more people that you have to park your car a long way as it's hard to find parking space. We would definetly make this trip again in the future as it's only an hour drive from where we're staying. Also, will not forget my beach dresses next time! Tomorrow after breakfast we'll drive back home and pick up pies for our Easter get together with more family.

Our own simple breakfast in our room

We had their very satisfying sun dried tomato soup. It was delish!

What A Week It Has Been!

2011-04-19T23:40:00.001+07:00

I'm back in LA to a day full of sunshine and to the next of gloomy foggy day. Anyway, I'm sure you're tired of how unstable the weather has been. My week in the valley with my family has been full of laughter, crazy shopping and non stop doing something in the kitchen, no surprises there for my sister, lol! Yes, it went by way to fast when you're faving fun. As it was mom's birthday and the Lao Boun Bee Mai (New Year) week so we got to do a little party for her but we didn't get to play the new year as they had yard being done. It's the same as the Thai Songkran where they throw water at eachother. To bad as I of thinking water balloons,way more fun:) Also, I got reunited with my bff from junior high after 20+ years, crazy to think it was that long ago!! I'm sure some of the picture deserves it's own post so I'm going to put them all up:) We're off to Laguna Beach tomorrow for four days with Bruce's sister and her husband. Hope you all have a great week!

Lisa made Vietnamese bahn mi sandwiches as it was our favorite growing up, yum yum!

Oysters for my mom

Chocolate covered stawberries

Birthday flowers for our mom

A simple but elegant birthday dinner for our mom.

Seafood pesto up close so delish, thanks Lisa!

Jon being silly while Lisa puts melted chocolate in the souffles

The ladies after dinner

Vanilla and red velvet cupcakes for mom the next day, oh my!

Beef Lettuce Wrap

2011-04-13T11:54:00.000+07:00

There's no doubt that visiting my sister that she'll be putting process food on the table for you to eat. Everything is made fresh and from scratch. I tasted her lip smacking Caesar's salad and fresh croutons that she whipped up for her Jon for lunch while I wanted beef wrap. She made that for us ladies, yeah, you just order what you want, lol! We had mouth fulls of wraps with spicy peanut sauce. It's the same sauce that you dip your spring rolls in. You personalized your lettuce wraps with thin noodles, cucumbers, tomatoes, mint, cinatro, spring onions, peanuts and how much beef you put. Also, you can't be shy eating your wrap as it's bigger than your mouth, hahaha. Thanks for the laughter and satisfying lunch, Lisa!

In The Valley With My Family

2011-04-11T12:21:00.002+07:00

Lisa and Jon happy with their In-N-Out hamburgers

My mom and I sitting down to a feast she and Lisa made for me: fried pork ribs, spicy cucumber salad, baked fish, another fish dish and sticky rice, so yummy. Thank you!

This morning Lisa and Jon drove down about 3 hours from the valley to pick me up to stay with them for the week. After the church service, we went to get In-N-Out hamburgers as the church had a picnic but some of us didn't get to sign up for hot dogs. Which was OK with me as the hamburgers was so good! It was another sunny day and we stayed for an hour then we hit the road up the valley. It took longer to get back as there was a bit of traffic jam but it was a great time to catch up with Lisa and Jon. They introduced me to some great music which I haven't heard and will need to update my playlist for sure. Now who wouldn't like music that they can dance to?

It's great to see my mom and their new addition to the family, Daisy. She's a mix breed Lab and so hyper. Well, all Labs are hyper right? I'm sure I'll get to know her more with this week:) Bruce will be coming this Friday to pick me up and I'm missing him already....still so grateful to be able to be my side of the family. Have a great week everyone as I know I will!

A Great Day At L.A. Farmer's Market

2011-04-09T12:25:00.002+07:00

Usually it isn't this clear ever in L.A.

So happy that the weather turned out to be a wonderful sunny day as we planned this day trip to the Farmer's Market. We decided to invite Bruce's sister Ruth on an outing with. She was more than happy as she also needed to get out of the house after weeks of chemo. The last time we went was a year ago and I remember it was on a weekend and it was packed. Being a Friday, I thought it would be packed but not until later in the afternoon. We had a mid morning snack of coffee and a doughnut that I shared with Bruce. I didn't finished my half as it was filled with cream and happy that I saved my appetite for Ethiopian food. We chatted awhile as we soaked up our vitamin D for the day.
Then we walked around and bought some fresh produce as French beans, blueberries, plums, spinach and other stuff for dinner. I saw that they sold chicken feet too, yay! No, I didn't get them as I'll have to wait till I get to my sister's place next week:) It was just so refreshing to see all the colors of the veggies and fruits. WE continued in a French market place which I had to restrain myself of not getting to much stuff which at the end I didn't get anything. I loved the different pasta colors:) Then we ended our walk at Sur La Table where Bruce bought a popcorn maker. I just looked and drooled, ha! I was just hungry, hehehe. We were so ready for Ethiopian food for lunch so we head down to the same restaurant that we went to last year called Messob. We didn't have to wait to long to get our food this time as there was a big group that came right after us and I'm sure they got everything made beforehand. It was delish as usual! After the meal Bruce and I wanted to try Ethiopian tea which was basically black tea with a hint of cloves drank without milk. We were all so satisfied with the meal that we decided to buy some injera bread and berbere spice to take home so we can make it at home soon. When we got home I got proceeded to get dinner ready. I made pork chops, scalloped potatoes, boiled green beans and salad. A happy and content day it was to end it with a home cooked meal with your family. I'm so thankful.

Hello From Sunny California!

2011-04-06T12:30:00.001+07:00

In southern Cali that is. I arrived last night at 9.30pm and everything went smoothly from the flight out Bangkok to the US immigration and to the long line out from the custom scanning. It was great to see my husband waiting for me then we got home at 10.30pm. When we got home Bruce made me a cup of decaf coffee, had some chips as I was hungry. Then I got so tired and went straight to bed right after that till 6am this morning.

I'm wired after a day of going out to breakfast, dropped in to say hello to Bruce's parents, going to Barnes and Noble bookstore, lunch at a tasty Japanese joint call Sansai and camera shopping. I dropped my other camera and Canon was on a great sale. OK, I did took a short nap around 4pm which I probably shouldn't but needed the engery to help cook dinner for Bruce's parents. I'm glad it was a light dinner of pan seared salmon, sauteed asparagus, boiled potatoes and salad. As I repeat my day I'm hungry and sleepy at the same time as I'm trying to finish this post. So, going to log off and get some zzzzzzz's. Good night folks!

Ready for April

2011-04-01T17:19:00.001+07:00

And for a chocolate danish with afternoon tea after a morning of errands.

Yes, April came fast but I'm ready for it. Ready to have quality time with Bruce and all of our family. In just a few days I'll be on a plane to L.A.! Oh, so excited!! I really don't have a lot to pack as I'm going to bring things that I couldn't bring back last time we were there. Oh, the dusting and sweeping I'm not looking forward to before I go but it needs to be done. As for food, I don't bother cooking for myself except for breakfast that consists of eggs, oatmeal and yogurt. Although, I'm itching to be baking again as it's been a while since I've baked something. Right now lemons and carrots are on my mind. Oh, I have to mention that today the weather got warmer, yay! OK, I'm off to find myself some dinner. Before I go I have to throw a some more pictures of my super cute nephew:) Auntie misses you, Oudomsinh!!

More nap times with auntie and as soon as Oudomsinh wakes up he wants to eat. Yes, he likes baguettes!

Me Time

2011-03-29T22:15:00.000+07:00

My nephew with his mom, my sil.

Simple Lao salad with boiled egg yolk dressing. Yum!

After getting my US visa this morning I went to get a medi/pedi at one of my favorite salons. Then I decided to get a massage which was what I needed. Even with the rain and cold weather it lifted my spirit. Also, it was pleasant to have lunch by myself of melted tuna sandwich, coffee and dessert of nanimo bar at Joma Bakery. Of course, I had to call my husband even though it was midnight his time but he wanted to know how my interview went at the US embassy. He knows I don't like embassies:) I miss him so it will be only one more week until I see him. Yes, we'll be staying in the States for about a month and a half to be able to help out Bruce's parents, yes, spend time with family. I'm sure we'll be going out for short trips here and there.

I had all the afternoon to myself but it was too cold for me to stay out so going home to be with my cute nephew was way better. He's so jolly and alert to be around and I think I tired him out so he fell asleep for an hour in my arms. What a cute mut! Ended the evening with a bowl of pho and drinking lots of Irish tea. Much needed with this cold weather. Sorry how I keep saying how cold the weather is, it's just not normal at this time of the year. Good night!

Saturday Scrabble

2011-03-27T20:48:00.000+07:00

Last night after a dinner of papaya salad, crispy chicken skin ( my fav!) and a pork dish my friends wanted to learn how to play Scrabble to better their English. Well, their time was hogging the dictionaries! We didn't finish the game as it was getting very late. Also, I was tired too, but boy, we're they competative!

Today I'm fighting a cold as the weather has suddenly changed into a gloomy windy cold day. It's expected for another three days of it. Well, I'm going to Laos tomorrow for three days to apply for my visa to the USofA. There's been a lot going on so I really need the rest that's if, I can with my family. I would appreciate your prayers for safe travels, thanks. So I'm off to pack!

Flood And A Day of Cancellation

2011-03-23T21:55:00.000+07:00

At about 5am this morning there was lightening and thunder so loud that I kind of got annoyed. Then came the rain, hard. It should be just the mango showers to get the mango blossoms going and producing the juicy mangos. But this? About an hour our front street was flooded and it's still hasn't gone down and it's 9.26pm!Well, let just say about an inch. The weather has been wierd lately and just about four days ago it was freezing, 60F/17C(to me). The first time ever since we've been here.
Anyway, the internet guys came by but couldn't put the line since our street was flooded. Right now, I'm using an unsecured wireless. It seems to be OK since I'm not doing any online banking or shopping. Unlike the guy up in the picture I cancelled my dentist appointment for the second time and stayed in studying and reading my Bible. A friend came over and we talked and snacked on prunes and apples. I had hardly any food but it seems that she likes prunes, lol! Well, that's my Wednesday! How was yours?

M.I.A

2011-03-13T19:08:00.001+07:00

Hello fellow bloggers! I do apologized for not updating but my internet was down. Some days I could only get on for about 10 minutes and some days nothing. Sure I can go to the internet cafe but it's been pretty hectic. Right now I'm quickly writing and get this up before it disconnect again. I miss reading on what's happening in your life right now. But most of all my heart and prayers goes out to those affected by the tsunami in Japan.

Also, Bruce has left two days ago to the States to help out his sister and dad who both has cancer. Right now, I'm doing pretty well on my own but knowing it's the Lord's will for him to be there with his parents and being a blessing to them as by Bruce being there helps them tremendously.

Hopefully, I can get this internet sorted out this week so until then take care!

It Seems Forever

2011-02-24T22:00:00.001+07:00

This morning we met our friends in downtown Bangkok to get some juicy hamburgers at Home Run Cafe. It was good not to have spicy papaya salad for once in the last four days. Yes, my stomach was saying it had enough of it. Then Bruce and I went to Emporium Mall to watch The King's Speech, oh my word! I think Colin Firth is going to win the Oscars for sure. Although, at first I wanted Jesse Eisenburg in The Social Network to win and they are both great. We'll just have to see this Monday morning for us here in Thailand. So we decided to have a light dinner of beef laab for Bruce and fish noodles for me. Then my brain kind of got foggy.

A light dinner of noodles made from fish in tom yum flavor broth with other meaty things like sliced liver and different kinds of meatballs.

Anyway, it just seems forever that we got to come out to this area. Also, these days since Valentine's day I've not cooked anything new let alone eat a fresh salad and my fridge have never been so bare. I did at least get to cook an Indian chickpea curry and homemade whole wheat chapatis. It's just getting Thai fast food from the neighborhood vendors or nearest restaurants. So, the next week I'll need to reorganized my schedule for some good ole home cooking. I do miss it...sigh.

Did I tell you that we're going camping in Khao Yai area? It's only for one night and we're going tomorrow afternoon. It's going to be interesting as I've never done real camping before. I do feel that I don't want to do anything tomorrow as I'm feeling to tired. Gee, I'm getting old! So good night dear ones and have a great weekend!!!!

Lately...

2011-02-21T17:36:00.001+07:00

Another week flew by so fast..I'm sure you're thinking the same. Sorry for being low key here on the blog front. There's been so many things happening and I found myself being back at home every night and just want to go to sleep! But I can't just do that without having to read a chapter of a book or check emails or read a blog or two right? Last week has some stress and some excitement in it too. But more on the exciting part as I've found a women's Bible study that I can finally attend as I'm really picky of which ones I go to. Right now, we're studying the book of 2 Kings, oh I love me some challenge! And we end it with a potluck lunch together, oh yeah. OK, here's some more lately's...

* this afternoon was the first day that I heard really loud thunder

* my husband telling me, why haven't I took him to Makro (Thai version of Sam's or Costo) before? Been here almost 3 years and today was his first time, really?

* tried a new cafe/restraurant call Three Mangos and getting out of my comfort taste of food and trying new eats like a salad of spicy pak wan (a name of a leafy green call sweet greens) with tuna flakes. Love it as it had some thinly sliced lemongrass, shallots and other herbs that makes not to powerful to eat on its own. Sorry for the blur guess I was hungry.

* enjoying the evening weather, checking out a bird's nest on the side of our house. Look who I found! Talk about contentment there.

* watched The Couples Retreat, our first movie on TV together in weeks. It made me laugh so I guess I liked it. Can't wait for The King's Speech sometime this week.

Would love to stay here longer but have to cook an Indain vegetarian curry for dinner and chapatis. So hope you all have a great week ahead!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T14:04:00.001+07:00

Scoozi's spicy salami pizza, red velvet cupcakes (which Lisa bought as a gift for us, thank you!)and will be watching The Cinderella Man.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!! It's just another day here except for the ads and lots of shops selling red stuffed red bears in different sizes. Also, it's to commercialized and the flowers are super expensive so I told Bruce no flowers or anything for me. Instead, he made me breakfast of French toast from our stale bread and bacon. We were thinking of going out for a movie, The King's Speech, again, the malls would be crowded and after our BBQ yesterday, we opted for staying in instead.

Since the weather was pleasantly cool-ish and overcast we thought a BBQ would be nice. Which it was but it took forever for the coals to burn it somehow made us a bit impatient. I sliced a loaf of baguette out with cheese and butter and a plate of sliced papaya and pineapple to hold us through until half of the meat was cooked. We had delicious pork ribs, chicken kabobs, shrimp, corn and veggies. Not all the asparagus, garlic and cherry tomatoes got grilled but that's OK. We realized that even the weather was breezy cool but we didn't have enough light to eat outside on the grass. So we took everything in and eat inside. One thing I was so happy about was to cook rice, yes!

Ayuthaya- Former Capital of Thailand

2011-02-10T21:10:00.002+07:00

We took this tour last month when Lisa and Jon were visiting. When we got back from Laos, we decided to take a day tour to Ayutthaya. The former capital of Thailand [1350-1767] was just a mere an hour and a half away from us. It was more of a half day tour, really, I was perfectly OK with it. When we got there we went directly for the elephant kraal ( elephant roundups) as it felt pretty warm at mid morning. Again, I've done this before and would be content with a ten minute ride. Also, I felt a bit sorry for the elephants:( But the sister insisted that we do a full hour. We got a kick out of their elephant taking a leak along the way! By the look of the tour, I thought we were going to be walking through dirt roads and thick forest like trees to see the destroyed temples but sadly it's all concrete. Our fees contribute to the caring of the elephants. After the ride, the guys bought bananas to fed the elephants. Then Lisa and Jon got to take a picture with a two month old tiger, forgot its name! But he's a cutie and worth paying about $2USD to take pictures and play with him.

Of course, we were hungry but decided to go see this tree root that over grown and not cover the head of a buddha image. I was thinking of something huge like near Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Why do I keep assuming? The picture below is the entrance to one of the main temple ruin.

We found this local Muslim restaurant in the guide book saying one of the best of bake chicken rice that the Muslims are famous for. They ran out of the chicken so my sister and I had the rice and fried mackeral fish. It was different but I'd prefer the chicken. I also ordered the ox tail soup which to me was a bit tangy but very flavorful. Then my sister tried the grilled meatballs and kabob roll not pictured. All good except the kabob had to much sweet sauce in it?

The guide book also told us that Ayuthaya is popular for the Muslim sweet roti sai mai (silk thread). Now I'm thinking (more assuming) of the thin dough that's been slapped on the counter top, fried and sweeten with condensed milk. Nope, the filling is made from the person stretching the palm sugar into thread like consistency then with that done, rolled up with a soft crepe. I have to have muscles for this kind of stretching and something I'm going to pass on trying in the kitchen, lol! The light green color thread and crepe is the pandanus herb flavor. This was an interesting discovery of different types of roti. We bought three bags to give one to our driver and the rest was for dessert after an Italian dinner.

So far on touring different provinces of Thailand this has been my least favorite one. Well, there's 66 more to explore!

Superbowl at Home Run Bar and Grill Bangkok

2011-02-08T22:03:00.002+07:00

I'm not a fan of football at all but being married to Bruce means watching sports. And getting up at 4am to cheer for the Packers. It was a great atmosphere at the Home Run Bar which we love their hamburgers as well. Their breakfast menu was small and the Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast sandwich was so good! I won a lucky draw of free hamburger a week for the whole year, yay!! Of course we didn't get the commercials and had to watch repeats of the next big hockey game and Red Bull. But I liked the half time with Black Eye Peas:) We later bought our friends the Noskers and their two adorable kids, who were getting some business done so we took them here for dinner of hamburgers and cheesecake which I shared with Bruce.
Well I'm going to get my beauty sleep. Good night!

Le Weekend

2011-02-06T18:58:00.005+07:00

Chinese New Year (Thursday 3rd) has gone by too quickly and not like last year, I didn't have the energy to host so I didn't do anything. But we got invited to a birthday dinner that's an hour north from us, Pratum Thani Province, so I had some yummy roast duck and some other delicious dishes too. It was a very pleasant evening dinner along a canal.

On Saturday, after Bible study our friend Mon made her famous steamed farm chicken with spicy dipping sauce. It was good but it could've marinated longer but we were starving so no pictures of the cooked chick:)

Sunday was delivery pizza dinner and spicy chicken wings, popcorn and a movie DidYou Hear About the Morgans on TV.

It will be an early night as we're getting up early, 4.30am..eek, to watch the Super Bowl Party at a hamburger joint at Home Run Bar and Grill in Sukumvit area. We took my sister and Jon there and they agree it has the best hamburgers...um..after a long grumpy morning...hahhaha. Anyway, I heard they have a good breakfast menu too so I'll let you know.

One of my best friend's, Sarah L's football team are the Packers so we're cheering for them. Let's go Packers!!!!!!!! How was your weekend?

Lazy Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta Dinner

2011-02-02T20:32:00.002+07:00

Recipe at Mediterrasian.com

So it's mid week I haven't got all of the 'little things' done yet. The thank you cards are on their way (which means they are done just in the process of sending them), yes, pictures burned on a cd, thanks for your patience, Sarah L (since last year and forgot to send with the sister). There are other little things that should have been done a loooooong time ago. I might get myself the Best Procastinator Award, if there such a thing, hahaha.
Anyway, eat pasta! Make it extra healthy by boiling whole wheat spaghetti if you want. But white pasta is what I like and have one hand:) It took me all 15 minutes to make this dish. Oh, and homemade popcorn by the husband because he wants to. I hope your mid week is going well. Good night!

Little Happenings

2011-01-31T23:06:00.001+07:00

Decorations for the Chinese New Year outside of Siam Paragon Mall.

My apologies for not posting the last week. Coming back from vacation, you know, still had the vacation mood or just the blues about saying goodbye to Jon and Lisa, but had get back to the mundane thing also the little things that sits there that needed to get done. Despite all of that you have to spice it up with some homemade green curry! By the way, they made it home safe and sound and can't wait to see them in the States next year.

Today we went out to town to the mall, Siam Paragon to be precise to meet friends from Laos. They are on their way to the States for a vacation so it was wonderful to meet their two daughters who the second one is only two months old. I got their oldest who's two years old, Tizah, A Little Fart book! I think I'd enjoyed it more than her, hahahaha!! It was a very short visit but we'll probably get to see them again on Wednesday. After that, Bruce and I walked to Central World, another huge mall that I've not been to for a long, long time even before the red shirt protesting started and burned part of it down. Guess what we went there for? A cookbook of course! A very late Christmas present from Bruce:) And The Kite Runner was on sale so got that one too. Will read this one before reading the A Thousand Slendid Suns. Anyone read these books yet?

We came back to Siam Paragon to try the restaurant call the Coffee Beans by Dao. It's to fancy smanchy for me and heard good reviews. I just had their salad of grilled chicken breast with spicy Italian vinagriette which was pretty good but nothing really special. I ordered iced coffee and knew from the taste that it was instant coffee. I asked the waiter and he told me that it's made from instant. I mean aren't you suppose to serve fresh brewed coffee for that price! He told that they only serve hot if made from fresh ground coffee. Oh my!?! Bruce had spaghetti and meatballs but the sauce tasted way to sweet. The waiter asked me if the coffee tasted bad, I said you should detailed in the menu that it's instant so I was anticipated real coffee. He just smiled:) Anyway, I learned that next time I should ask what kind of coffee they use to serve next time in any restaurant. OK, before you think I'm a foodie snob I'm pretty easy to please, I'm disappointed that Dao didn't but I finally tried it!

I'm so ready for February! Another new month to experient on new restuarants, cafes, visiting new places, meeting new people and adventures in the kitchen. What are you ready for in February?

Whirlpooling On The Mighty Mekong River

2011-01-24T20:16:00.000+07:00

Tom yum fish, fish laab and I think fish curry? I think the best was cucumber salad and stir fried veggies. You gotta have sticky rice and the guys ordered pork fried rice which was terrible.

Lunch along the Ou river

I don't like boats so that's how it felt like when on the rice barge type of boats. Even if I've done it so many times in the past. But it's a beautiful ride on one of the biggest river of the world. That morning we continue on our main tour after one of the tour agency canceled our boat trip to the Tham Ting Caves or Pak Ou as it didn't have the exact six people that it requires for the boat to leave. One of Lisa's friend went and negotiated with the main boat pier for a whole boat for the price of what we would've of paid with the tour agency. I know, I should know these things but I've been out of the tour business for a long time.
Anyway, it took about an hour and half upsteam as it was a bit of a small rice barge boat. It had very comfortable individual car seats to what use to be wooden chairs or benches. When we got to the front of the limestone caves, we didn't want to get down and climb up to the caves. We had the boat driver stop in front of the cave so Lisa and Jon can take their picture in front of it. There's two caves as the lower cave was dicovered by a hermit traveling and found this place as a rest stop now it house more than 1,000 Bhudda images. And the second is a longer walk up the stairs to one moldy bat poop cave that has more ruin images which in my opinion is not even worth it. I was a bit disappointed the last time I was there a year and half ago how run down the place have been after all the fees that they've been collecting. There used to be a beautiful wooden house style with picnic tables but it's gone now.

Then we went across the river for lunch as we got nearer to the other side you can see the green color Ou river emerging into the brownish Mekong river which was really neat. We had lunch in one of the restuarants to the right as there were a lot of people eating there. The food wasn't that great but we were hungry as usual! On our way down on the boat the current was much stronger at one point I thought we were going to flip. Yeah, we you're afraid of the water that's what goes through your mind even if it wasn't that bad. We were going to stop at one village where they make mulberry papers but it was closed. At the end of the day, my throat was a bit sore as we were talking and laughing so loud over the boat's noisy engine. I was glad to be back in LP.

Saturday Southern Sea Bass Curry

2011-01-22T22:34:00.002+07:00

Photo credit: Amazon

Bruce gave me this cookbook for Christmas, wait, I'll take that back. He gave it to himself as he liked it and I was eyeing another book, ha ha! Anyway, we wanted to eat something light and spicy but this was something a bit of labor intensive, like pounding lemongrass, galangal, wild ginger, garlic, shrimp paste and chili's to make the curry paste but worth it. We liked it as it wasn't too rich from the coconut milk and the sweetness of the fresh sliced carrots and cucumber balanced out the spiciness. Oh, did I tell you the iced soy milk did help as well. David Thompson knows what he's doing.

It's been a great long holiday so today is our last of uninterrupted Saturday as Lisa and Jon left for L.A. yesterday. They arrived home safe and sound. I'm still organizing my kitchen now that we got new shelves and a aluminum pantry, yay! Can you believe that January is almost over?! I've already felt some disappointments with some of our plans for this year but let's still give it a cheers to life. At least Manchester United is playing really well tonight! I hope you have a great weekend!!

And Off To Luangprabang We Go

2011-01-21T16:35:00.000+07:00

Lisa, our nephew Oudomsin and I at the domestic airport in Vientiane

Poor guy was sick as his mother had food poisoning but both had the strength to see us off at the airport.

When we got to Luangprabang (LP) my sister felt a bit better and all she needed was some hot noodle soup at our favorite shop near the post office and Joma Bakery.

We took it easy and just chilled out at Saffron Espresso Caffe along the bank of the Mekong river. At some point I thought I was somewhere in Europe such as Brugge of how un Lao LP as become in a charming and romantic kind of way with all the cafes, river and of course, the baguettes! For dinner we went to one of my sister's friend's house for pizza and salad. It was a great vibe as the youngster reminisces about the good old days and looking at their early 90's pictures.

The next day it we got a van to take us to Khuangsi waterfall about 30 km south of LP. It's the most popular day trip for tourists and locals alike. While we were waiting for the others to arrive Lisa and her friend Noy entertained us with some kung kicks. Poor Bruce sitting in trying to get some peace and quiet but we were just laughing so loud that people were curious what we were up to. Could be to much coffee. Our first stop was to buy some grilled chicken and fish, sticky rice and oranges for our picnic.

Village life a farmer with a buffalo ploughing rice fields as we ascend to the waterfall area. When we reached the entrance we had to buy tickets to get in, there are dozens of souvineir and food shops where we ordered our drink of choice, papaya salads and other sweets for our picnic. Instead of walking up directly up the main point of the Khuangsi waterfall we diverted our hike to a hiking trail through the forest where we went pass the home to Asiatic black bears (moon bears) and sun bears. Free The Bears Sancturary is a company that rescues the bears from poachers. The company also raise cubs who's left motherless too. Honestly, we walked right pass it as everybody was getting hungry ( so no pictures of the cute healthy fluffy bears ) and grab the fist table near the lower pool for our picnic. Ahh, so beautiful and tranquil. The water is a turquise color with the clear sky reflecting down from it. I could live here being surrounded with lush trees. Love it when we can eat with our hands and don't have to worry about utensils then just wash our hands in the cool water. I'm glad I didn't have to fight for the fish eyeballs, yummy! After lunch we continue our hike and took lots of pictures along the way.

In the middle along the hike you'll see more people jumping off the rope for a swim. Of course, we weren't interested as it was pretty cold for us. When we got to the main part it was breath taking! I say this all the time whenever I'm there! You can continue on the hike to the very top but we just stop right here for more pictures.

Then it was time to go and my sister bought wild bananas at one of the stalls. What a sweet way to end our day trip!

Besides the two kung fu kick pictures the rest are from the Bimats, thank you guys!

Vientiane Travels

2011-01-20T01:00:00.002+07:00

Victory Monument like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris with Lao arts mixed in. It was built with left over cement from the Americans building a runway in 1969.

My sister and I agreed that Vientiane has changed a lot the last 10 years. We kept saying how we like the olden days better. I guess that's what you say when you get older? The more new paved roads (with funding from Japan, Thailand and Sweden) the more cars there seems to be with hardly any parking space. And the constructions of new ugly hotels (like the enormous one on the bank of the Mekong river by China) and guesthouses, it never ends. If it wasn't for my family and friends living in Vientiane I wouldn't stay longer than two days. Wait, I'll take that back as I'll stay longer for Vietnamese food!
On the first day we had to stop to eat pho some where along the way. Of course, the bowl was triple the size of what you get in Thailand. Bruce and Jon got a jumbo size bowl of pho! Then it was off to the fresh market to buy food to make for dinner with the family.
The second day we did the main tourist attraction like the Victory Monument. We walked all the way to the top and did a bit of shopping while on our way down as they have shops on all three floors. I especially love the opium pots near the wooden pigs:) Russian dolls anyone?

Bruce with his jumbo bowl of pho! Hey, look at the picture above the number 1, the picture is of the retired professional Thai tennis player Paradorn Srichaphan. I had to googled him up for his name, hehehehe. A few more Thai celebrities have come to eat here. This pho shop is near the black stupa (that dahm) near the American Embassy.

Buddha Park or Wat Xieng Khuan is rundown park with Hindu and Buddhist stulptures that are dated back in 1958. There's another park that was built by the same shaman in Nong Khai, Thailand. We were there for about an hour as it was getting hot. Then we proceeded to the Morning Market (open all day from 8am-5pm) to do a bit of shopping and had our lunch there.

The next couple of days was visiting more of my sister's old friends, my friends and just spending time with my new nephew. Of course, more eating and one of the best in my opinion has been the banh cuon, Vietnamese dumplings filled with minced pork and herbs for breakfast. I just love the fried shallots, dipping sauce and cold pork cuts. OK, everything about it! I always go to the same lady who has her shop in front of the old Bouasavan theatre that's been there selling for the last 17 years.

Menu du jour: Lamb kabob

Lunch at one of my favorite French restaurant La Terrasse that also serves Lao and other European dishes. I love their desserts of chocolate mousse, caramel flan and tiramisu. My sister had their simple chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream...yummy! Oh and excellent baguettes!!

On the last night my sister was to sick to come out to Kua Lao Restaurant for dinner. Yes, it was a bit on the expensive side and catered to tourists but still the flavor is authentically local. It bought back memories of my tour guiding days where I would have dinner with my American or British tour groups. It also has traditional Lao dances which my niece loved and asked for an outfit like the ladies dancing.

Duck laap and purple sticky rice. I love the rose carving out of pumpkin!

My niece Fasai who's loves sticky rice. Isn't she adorable?! One of my goals is to go visit my niece and nephew more often this year. Time is precious to let them grow without me right?

After dinner our families went over to the hotel where we were staying to say good bye to Lisa and Jon. They and my one of my sister in law had food poisoning the night before. They didn't stay long as we had a early flight to catch to Luangprabang. Writing this post makes me want to jump on the night bus to Vientiane to be with my family..sigh.

Buying Fresh Greens Are Therapeutic For Me

2011-01-19T23:02:00.000+07:00

I like my sticky rice baskets and bamboo placemats:)

My appetite has been weird lately. Maybe I'm still full from all the eatings from my travels? Mind you, I'm still sorting out pictures but to my surprise I didn't take to many as some days you just want to absorb the moment you have. Anyway, that's why I don't have posts of my travels..yet.
But this evening, the husband invitated our friend Mark for dinner as he helped put up shelves in our kitchen. Yes we have shelves now, yay! Bruce wanted beef salad (call laap or larb but rhyms with mop:) as it's suposed to be made for tomorrow with my sister. She changed her mind and I was being reluctant to cook because I didn't have an appetite. I somehow felt I was missing the fresh vegetable market so I decided to take a walk which is about 10 minutes from our house to the local market. On my way I met my neighbor and I chatted with her for a bit. She was surprised that I walked so I told her how lazy she was to take her bike to get her dinner, haha. Once I got to the vegetable stalls I was excited to see the greens all laid out for you to pick. Especially when you can pick any 3 small bunch for 10 baht! I went over board as I know I'll be using them for the next couple of days.

Three different types of small aubergines, sliced cucumbers, long beans and chilis to be eaten with the beef salad.

Pan seared sirloin and flank steak, sliced and seasoned with lime juice, roasted ground rice, chili powder, fish sauce and tossed with bean sprouts, mint leaves and chopped cilantro, spring onions and Chinese herb. Oh so fresh! This is the Laotian way of making laap, let's say, from the south of Laos. It sure is comfort food for me. Here in Thailand you get slighty the same call 'nam tok' with lots of sliced shallots and a tad sweeter which is fine for me but husband prefers it this way:) I also made chicken soup which didn't get pictured as the guys were hungry. But it was like tom kai ka sans the coconut milk. Very aromatic and it increased my appetite for sure! Dessert was a square of dark chocolate with Irish Barry's Tea, a gift from my sister...ahhhhh.

Martha Stewart Farmer's Market in Bangkok

2011-01-16T20:50:00.001+07:00

Lisa and Jon flew to Krabi (southern coast of Thailand) this morning so we had some time to check out The Farmer's Market. I was so anticipating for this since Friday. I read Tee's blog before going as she mentioned how empty it was and hoping it would be much more happening over the weekend. When we got there I was a bit disappointed and pictured it would be like the one in Fairfax (California) Farmer's Market, the biggest that I've been to. It didn't match up of how much it was being advertised for the crafts, vegetables, food, etc. from all over the country when I saw only two stalls for the veggies. So the place was much more empty and some of the stalls weren't open even when we arrived there at 11.15am.
Anyway, I did enjoyed the baker section where I bought some cupcake holders and heart sprinkles, 3 floor cusions from Terra Cotta stall and some strawberry jam for gifts made from Chiang Rai (northern Thailand). We were there for less than an hour. One owner of the stalls told me that there will be more in the future, sure hope so.

Thanks to Lisa that I know it's tamatillo next to the strawberries. Of course, it's smaller here and a bit sweeter in taste than the ones in California.

We also enjoyed the long walk from Sala Daeng as the weather was breezy and cool. Which it will probably be burning hot tomorrow. The next week will be posts from our trips to northern Laos and central Thailand. So stay tuned for more pictures and I hope everyone had a great weekend!

P.S.
Seriously, I don't want to see or think of food for the next week, lol!!

Chez Lisa

2011-01-14T10:20:00.001+07:00

Breakfast of pastries, toasted crossiant with harvati cheese, omelette and ham, fresh papaya, pineapple and dragon fruit.

The last two nights my sister Lisa took over my kitchen which was wonderful as all the food she made was so fresh, simple and delicious. We bought fresh red grouper, giant prawns and pancetta for the main dishes. So the first night from the red grouper she made fish tacos with creamy yogurt chipole sauce and spicy tamatillo. Even though the corn tortillas was a bit dry but all very tasty.
Then the second night the appetizer was bruschetta, taosted goat cheese with bacon, so yummy! The main dish: farfalle pasta with the giant prawns with a simple toss with sauteed pancetta, garlic, cherry tomatoes and anchovies. Then you throw in fresh mozzarella and garnished with basil leaves. We made salad with homemade vinaigrette but honestly, since the pasta was so good I was satisfied:) Even though it was quite challenging in my kitchen, thank you Lisa! The adventure continues!

French Influence

2011-01-12T22:16:00.001+07:00

The rue of our hotel Saykham in Luangprabang

My favorite salad of toasted sliced baguette with goat cheese and bacon with a simple vinaigrette

While visiting this charming northern province of Luangprabang, now the UNESCO World Heritage city. I can't help but think of our country of Laos was once a French colony 200 years ago. I don't have hard feelings towards the French as they left some great coffee and baguettes with pates behind. Also lots of beautiful colonial houses which is being renovated by the French, of course. We had a little bit of France! Bruce and I love to come up here after visiting families in Vientiane. This was Lisa and Jon's first time so it was great seeing my sister having a grand time with her old friends. Yes, I felt younger:)

We've arrived back in Thailand last night. Today, we took it easy and chilled out at our house. My sister was itching to cook so she made us homemade fish tacos. It was a spicy evening indeed, love it!!

In Vientiane, Laos

2011-01-05T14:39:00.003+07:00

From the oldest to the youngest: Me, Soun, Sak and Lisa at the Buddha Park

We flew to Laos the next day after Lisa and Jon arrived in Bangkok. Since then it's been wonderful to see my side of the family in Vientiane (capital of Laos), holding my nephew, seeing my niece anticipating her gifts and candies. It's been almost a decade since my sister has been back and to have all four siblings together. The first day we got to Vientiane, we went to the market since it's both of our love to go there as we basically grew up around the this market when our mom had a shop selling shoes. So we went straight to buy some fresh produce for our first Lao dinner together.

Below: fresh jicama all piled up are my favorite winter vegetable snack

Med/ped at your service. Don't you love the service you can get in front of your shop?

Slicing lemongrass then pounding them in a mortal to stuff inside of the fish for flavor when grilling them

Soaked sticky rice reading to steam. You got to have sticky rice as it's the main staple in Lao culture.

Steaming the sticky rice in a pot with bamboo basket

My sil Touk slicing raw green papaya for papaya salad, oh yeah!

Grilling pork ribs and fish

The spead: the green and sliced veggies are to be eaten with the grilled fish, pork ribs, papaya salad (it's a bit dark as we put crab paste in it), sticky rice and fermented noodles.

Also, we've been eating my sister's favorite food like noodles with crispy pork skin , rice porridge and Vietnamese pork wraps to say a few. We also had a great lunch at a French restaurant today with my friends. Of course, the weather's a bit to warm for my sister but pretty cool for me. But when you go for shopping you tend to forget about it:)

They're Here!

2011-01-02T09:06:00.000+07:00

They arrived safe and sound this morning so let the fun begin!!

2011-01-01T22:40:00.001+07:00

Last night we had a quiet celebration just chilling out and watched 3 movies. King Aurthur for the guys, Sweet Home Alabama in Thai and then Monte Cristo. We were so mellow that we realized it was past midnight! Wished everyone a happy new year with texting with our phones and we all dispersed saying goodbye and hello to 2011.

This morning was so cool that I had socks and a light sweater on, nice! Then we went out for lunch to a nearby restaurant and it was like a ghost town. Also, we had Starbucks to ourselves! Even with having coffee I was sleepy so came home and took a long nap. Now getting the last minute clean up done and tomorrow morning leave for the airport by 5.30am. I don't think I'll be sleeping early tonight, oh well, will catch up on sleep when in Vientiane.

Pot roast in my new Staub pot that I got for my birthday! OK, I didn't have button mushroom so I put in cremini. I won't ever again substitute it again. It was strong and gave it a whole different taste.

My friend Mon hiding

Tonight's dinner was leftover chicken caccatoire from my birthday. I don't think I can think about food for the next few days. Wait, Vietnamese food will change that..hahaha!

Oh, it's 10.40pm and I'm going to clean the bathroom and go to sleep. Good night!!

4 Things

2010-12-31T10:28:00.003+07:00

Kalee @ Une Vie Chic tagged me a week ago but just got around into doing it. What I liked about Kalee's blog is that she gets you, at least me, to savor life by enjoying the little pleasures each day. Where serving your homemade food on your best china plates, if you have them. Why wait till the holidays? Saving money to buy quality things that you enjoy and not just everything that will clutter your life or break your bank.
At first, I was a bit nervous about a tag, let's just say any tag..hehhe. I will start the new year by answering more questions about ME:) That's 40 things about me! Thanks Kalee!

4 Shows I Watch:
I'm not a big TV person but when I do watch it's a show here and there:
- The Amazing Race
- The French Short Film channel
- Oprah Show (especially the giving shows)
- Tonight Show with Jay Leno

4 Things I'm Passionate About:
- eating healthy balance food
- my faith in Jesus Christ
- living simply rich with less
- my loving family

4 Phrases or Words I Say Alot:
- ummm
- oy tai (Lao word for 'oh my dead')
- really?
- Honey! mostly to my husband:)

4 Things I Have Learned From The Past:
There's alot but don't think about it so,
- it's perfectly OK for not pleasing everyone, really, they won't die!
- learned that I CAN take a shower in 3 minutes
- when having Asians over for a meal to always have a dish to have it with rice, trust me:)
- that you don't need a high degree to learn how to talk to people

4 Things I Did Yesterday:
- had a quiet morning and late afternoon to myself while husband and our friends went out to watch The Tourist
- took a long nap
- cleaned a bit
- cooked pot roast in my new staub pot I got for my birthday for new year's eve dinner!
(obvisiously in that order)

4 Things I'd Like To Go:
This one's hard as I want to go everywhere!
- Scotland (yeah, have to go to Scotland first on this list as husband's castle is there, umm is clan:))
- Ireland
- Prague
- Italy

4 Things I'm Looking Forward To:
- seeing my sister and her husband early tomorrow morning!
- having some Vietnamese food in Vientiane, Laos
- our Europe trip with one of my best friend this summer
- getting to hold my new nephew in a couple of days

4 Things I Love About Winter:
- in some parts of Asia winter means lots of green and fresh produce at the market as it's the end of monsoon season
- reading Little House on The Prairie series
- being warm and cozy in your abode
- it's hard as winter in Asia isn't that exciting: some days are humid and muggy so there goes about 'what i love about winter'!

4 Things On My Wish List:
- that my Mom can have the time to visit me in Thailand (yeah, taking care of two Lab dogaughers is a lot of work)
- that my dad could stop drinking and get his act together
- that people will have a broader mind to see that there's more to this life than keeping up with the Jones, having a pity party for YOURself because things don't turn out the way YOU want it to be and blaming others because they made YOU a sorry butt, really?

4 Bloggers that I'm tagging:
I would love to know you better but don't you feel pressure about doing this tag:)

Tina @ Still Looking For a Dream

Karrie @ Esprit de la Vie

Tee @ Passports and Postcards

Lauren @ Giant Scoops of Joy

Cheers to 2011!

35!

2010-12-30T23:15:00.000+07:00

I'm not sad turning this age as I'm blessed to have lived to 35 years old. So thankful to my Savior that have given me this far! The bouquet is from my sweet husband:)

Where's My Energy?

2010-12-29T21:21:00.000+07:00

Aren't my 'angels' cute?

The weather this morning was so cool about 20C? The evening was so pleasant so just made me a pot of homemade rice noodle soup. It did give my appetite a boost but I'm still so mellow feeling. After the Christmas program at church two nights left me feeling mentally drained. It was the first ever for me to be responsible for the kids program. It all went well lefting me breaking out on my face. I never had these huge of a zit in my life, OK enough about that. My wonderful husband put our Christmas tree and other stuff away, cleaned the whole house besides the bathroom. I can take one small room...hehehe. With some of the kids coming this late afternoon to make chocolate chip cookies for their school party, meeting friends from India tonight, a birthday party (ahem) tomorrow I"m going to have a quiet New Years Eve just the two us so I can have all the energy with my sister, yeah!

A warm sight for me:)

Rice noodle with pork and in Thailand it's known as guay tio yuan. I topped it off with cold soy milk, oh it was so good! Off to make cookies now!

Our Christmas Lunch

2010-12-25T23:07:00.000+07:00

So here I was trying to warm the ham up in the oven while peeling the potatoes we heard a big BOOM! The electricity went out and it's 12.30 and lunch will be late. Anyway, the guys went out to see if there's anyone to come and fix the electricity line. Just a block away, our friend Mark found a pigeon that was a bit blown up with the lines down! I'll just spare you that picture.

Instead, here's our simple Christmas dinner of: green beans with bistro mustard vinaigrette, mashed potatoes, pork gravy, baked ham slices, soft rolls and a deliciously smooth Italian wine. Dessert: chocolate pie with homemade whipped cream.

We have a big program at church tomorrow so that means all day. I'm so glad that I can really spend this quite time at home remembering what Christmas is really about. Thank you Jesus!

I'm One of Those

2010-12-24T09:05:00.000+07:00

Shopping:
Yes, I hate to say it but we did go Christmas shopping..like two days before Christmas. Also, because I don't really like to shop for myself and others..eek, through out the year here I am hustling to try to buy myself a shirt that I need for my trip to Laos. Add that to trying to get something for my super cute niece and new nephew that I've not seen for a year and a half. So I'm going to do something that most Asians do that seems tacky to my American husband, give cash. It's really easier I tell you:)

Birthday between holidays:
With the bustle and hustle of getting ready for Christmas (even if I keep it simple) then it's my birthday and the New Year! Yes, by New Year's Eve like every other year I sleep early.

Have a very Merry Christmas friends and family!

Le Week-end

2010-12-20T22:59:00.000+07:00

On Saturday, I invited my Sunday School kids to our home so we can decorate sugar cookies together. Well, they did all of it as Bruce and I got to do one each! They had a blast rolling out the dough, pressing the cookie cutters into the dough, mixing the icings and iced the cookies. I don't think they like eating when they were done as it was way to sweet for them. So they started eating the plain cookies but they were still hyper:) It was fun seeing them enjoying applying the icing even if there was only three colors of red, green and white. Then I brought out the mini chocolate chips they jumped with some more excitement. Yeah, I'm still pooped and that was two days ago.

Thanks babe for making batches of cookie dough and baking the cookies for the kids. Bruce made the snowman for me:)

My Time Capsule

2010-12-17T23:00:00.003+07:00

I love Flickr! So it sends me a my twice a month time capsule. Yeah, what pictures I've downloaded in the site it takes me back in time. Like a year ago that's all:) I'm no techno geek but I like this kind of stuff..sometimes. A year ago today..well..a year and five days I was in Santa Barbara, California with my family. Fun times! Anyway, my sister Lisa and her husband Jon are visiting us in January, yay!! Can't wait for the craziness she will bring:P

Lisa and Mom in Santa Barbara shopping area and Starbucks, you gotta have Starbucks:)

Doesn't she look so chic? Can't wait to see you sister!

Chilling Out

2010-12-16T21:44:00.000+07:00

At Starbucks in the Chiangmai Central Plaza. Our plans are for foot massages then dinner of Mexican food at Miguel's. Have a great evening friends!

Baked Salmon and Some Tea Mixing

2010-12-15T22:42:00.000+07:00

Besides just pan searing the seasoned salmon (usually salt and pepper) then squeezed lime on it I like I usually do. Tonight I tried Kalee's baked salmon spread with Maille's Dijon mustard. She's right about slicing the onion rings paper thin slices as it came out a bit crunchy. Which I didn't mind but husband don't usually like onions. I did sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt and pepper before baking. We loved it and definetly a keeper! It was a light dinner with sauteed asparagus and baked pumpkin which didn't bake in time. It was eating dessert for me as the pumpkin was sweet and nutty.
Later, Bruce mixed the teas that I bought from India. The mix of 60% Assam tea and 40% Darjeeling tea. Oh, it's an absolute divine mixture so I made myself some masala tea with whole spices. Ahh..
Tomorrow we fly early in the morning to Chiangmai for our last leg of our 1 year work visas. As much as I like Chiangmai, I'm getting a bit tired of flying up there. Then again, when I think I can get great Mexican food at Miguel's I really really don't mind:)

Sunday Chicken Fried Rice

2010-12-12T22:57:00.000+07:00

It's 10.38pm and I'm wired! Is it the anticipation of the husband arriving tomorrow morning at 5am or is it the masala chai and coffee. I think it's all the combination of the above:) Bruce did texted me that he had a delicious piece of pumpking pie so not making that now. He did say he'll love me even more if I make him coffee cake, whatever, lol!
Anyway, for a quick and healthy dinner I made myself chicken fried rice with lots of dices vegetables of green pepper, carrots, green beans, spring onions and one egg. Also, a Thai friend gave me advice about not making fried rice soggy with eggs which when I do it does turn out soggy when putting the eggs in! So, when I sauteed my chicken well enough with salt I put in the diced vegetables, sautee it a little bit more (depending how soft you want your veggies) and kind of move it aside the pan, cracked the egg and let it sit less than a minute. Then you slowly scramble it and deciding how firm or soft you want it mix it with the veggies and put the cold rice in. Add a few drops of soy and oyster sauce, stir, taste and your done! I know, it's these little tricks I should have known a long time ago but...you know, I don't pay enough attention to make it right. Then I'm giddy with excitement, haha! OK, now I'm off to prepare coffee cake! Woohoo, my husband's coming home!!

India Pictures

2010-12-12T22:18:00.000+07:00

It's a lovely Sunday afternoon as I'm having a mug of masala chai with leftover toast from this morning, listening to Christmas music, cathcing up on reading blogs and now blogging myself. I went through my India pictures and now just choosing which ones to posts. India trip wasn't a trip to go to new places, get the right angle or light of pictures but to visit friends and people I came to know when we were living in there. Especially one of my best friends and her family in Assam. Still I had to take pictures, of course! Once I landed in Kolkata I felt like I never left, it still feels like home. I didn't know the day that I flew it was Air Asia's first flight to Kolkata. It was dirt cheap as I told my friends they all got excited and said how it was cheaper to fly to Bangkok than within India. So when we arrived in Kolkata the airline workers was welcoming us with beautiful garlands. The security for not allowing taking pictures while you wait in the long line for immigration was ridiculous. Why did we go through all that security check for? Anyway, the lady was not happy as I took this picture after the security officer told her not to take pictures. I'm bad. Lots of pictures ahead, enjoy!

My first cup of evening tea

Morning cup of Indian coffee with the sun rising

I had to visit Bhidan market in Siliguri as it's the one I went to for five years!

I didn't get to go to Darjeeling even though it's three hours away from Siliguri so got mysekf 1kg. of loose Darjeeling tea to mix with Assam tea. Good stuff!

Having afternoon tea at our former landlady this was before one of her sons bought some spicy paneer puffs.

Here's me at one of the fruit stalls I frequent buy from.

Cow dung patties drying for fuel

Gee, I tend to spend a lot at the market! My former house helper invited me for lunch and we went buy fresh produce together.

Weighing the potatoes

Our former house helper, Hema, in the process of making chicken curry. I think she makes the best!

Old and new friends having dinner at the Orchid Restaurant

On my plate: aloo gobi, butter chicken masala, dahl makhani (creamy black lentils), butter naan and chicken tandoori. All yummy! I had sweet lassi to drink.

You do want some Christmas atmosphere in the warm and dusty city of Siliguri

A monkey just roaming in the neighborhood, yikes!

Pressure cooker cooking

Assam sunset

A very dear friend Asang

This is my best friend Sarah's apartment and this is their balcony. Yeah, it's like a jail with all the bars but when you saw the monkey roaming around I'll take the bars!

Me and her adorable kids, Abigail and Aosari

A girl's day out! Her husband stayed home to watch the kids so we can go shopping and get a spa medi/pedi. It was fab! Hey this girl drives her car in India..in India!

Coffee and cake before shopping although the cake was spoiled and they gave us a new piece.

I love those toesies:)

Her husband Imli made his version of Thai noodle soup for dinner which was lip smackinglicious with lots of veggies, shredded chicken and shrimp!

It was a great trip and enjoyed every minute of it. I didn't have an emotional good bye as I know we'll see each other and the country of India...later in the future:)

Back Home

2010-12-10T23:48:00.000+07:00

I'm back safe and sound, oh, it's soo good to be back! It took me about 20 minutes to unpack which is a big progress on my side as I tend to leave it around for days. Made myself coffee, put Christmas music on, texted my husband as he's up north in a conference, checked email, downloaded pictures, chatted with my sister on skype and just finished talking with the husband. He'll be home Monday morning so I plan to surprise him with pumpkin pie:)

OK, got to get some sleep, drink lots of water and keep house. I'll have some pictures up soon. Have a great weekend folks!

In Rainy Cold Kolkata

2010-12-08T20:55:00.000+07:00

I had a blast with my one of best friends in Assam. We got to get a spa pedicure and medicure, you know, one of those things that we don't expect it to be as good. I was falling asleep! It was that relaxing even they keep asking if I want more coffee. Love their sevice! Then we went to get a couple Christmas presents for her kids at one of the 'malls'. Good times. But I'm not sad as we plan to meet her family will be in Bangkok in less than six months, yay!

As the plane landed, I didn't expect it to rain in Kolkata. Does it have to rain when I just got the most amazing pedicure ever? And walking on the wet streets of Kolkata? Also, the rain made it even colder! I don't even have a sweater but just a couple of thin scraves and a pashmina. Yeah, so I'm staying on Sudder Street the main tourist part of town. I went to a restaurant call The Blue Sky Cafe that I first came to India ten years ago and it still tastes good. But they have expanded their menus with Italian and Thai. I think I'll stick to the local dishes, well sort of. I got warm with hot cofffee, a bowl of hot and sour chicken soup, dry fry noodles with chicken and veggies. I ended with sweet lassi. Yummy!

I'll spend the last two days in Kolkata to do a bit of shopping, go to the Oxford bookstore to get me a good Indian cookbook, drink more sweet lassi and get me some good Bengali fish curry and eggrolls. Also, I'm kind of all ready to be back home as I'm missing my honey. But when I get back, he'll be up north for a conference and won't see eachother for another three days. OK, I'm going to head back to the hotel as I'm sitting near the entrance door so it's cold. Good night!

I'm Here!

2010-12-02T19:42:00.000+07:00

Yesterday I arrived safe and sound in Siliguri, India. I was up since 5am but didn't get to sleep until midnight. Catched up with friends that I'm staying at, lots of laughter, lots of milky tea and ended with watching Leap Year.
Today was spent buying kurtas (Indian top), going through the vegetable and fruit market to buy some plums and kiwi ( yeah, they sell them now!) catching up with more friends for at our favorite Chinese restaurant, bought some Darjeeling tea and a visit to our former landowner and their two sons, where we rented their place for five years. She was so happy that I came by that she kept speaking Hindi non stop. Ah, I don't know that much Hindi from the start. But she kept feeding me spiced paneer puffs and other goodies. It was a great day, I'm pooped. I want to post some pictures but as you know it's pretty difficult as I don't have my laptop with me. Anyway, I'm off to have dinner and more tea!

Bangkok: Khao San Road At Night

2010-11-29T22:30:00.001+07:00

Seth (the birthday boy), Mon, me and Dash

Since it was one of our friend's birthday we took the plunge to take the air conditioning bus for a night out to Khao San Road. Surprisingly, this road popular for backpackers, bars and pub, lots of food carts of pad Thai noodles catering to locals and tourists wasn't as busy even on Sunday night. We four haven't been out during the night so we were happy that it was a pleasant night. By the time we got there and walked on the main road we were so hungry. So we didn't realized the restaurant we choose, The Macaroni Club, was all tourists. We had crab curry which is my favorite, stir fry clams with roasted chili sauce, tom yum squid, steamed sea bass in lemon sauce and fried spring rolls were so blaze! Bruce ordered pad sa eww (fried thick noodles with pork)which he really enjoyed. But we were disappointed with ours:(

After dinner, we walked around and came to where the locals ate with some nice live band in the background. That's where we should have been! Oh well, next time. Then we decided to call it a night when we walked to hail a taxi we stopped to take pictures on the main street. Sorry, I forgot the name of the street and the monument we took pictures at. The trees and light posts were all decorated with lights in preparation for the King's birthday on December 5th. Then we began being silly in the taxi that we look like a bunch of drunkards :P It was a fun night out!

INDIA, Here I Come!

2010-11-27T23:19:00.000+07:00

While we were out in Bangkok I picked up my Indian visa. I didn't want to mentioned it since I last posted about getting any visas as it's nerve wracking for me. Let me explain. When I first applied for my visa to America to get married the consulate told me that even though my visa was issued to me, I could still get denied by the immigration officer when I arrive at LAX. Great. It was not a pleasant flight thinking 19hrs then having not being able to enter the country.

When I applied for a visa for Japan in Los Angeles I was denied as I came in the USA on a tourist visa. Therefore I have to go back to Laos and applied in my country. But I was on the way to India from America so I thought a three stop in Japan would be nice to visit my relatives. And Laos was in between Japan and India, go figure. Dont't think that being married to an American automatically makes me an American citizen. Yes, I used to live in the US for ten years but my parents left without applying for US citizenships but came back to Laos as refugee status. Anyway, I'm not in a hurry to be applying for one. Even though I've been back to the States for five times I still get light headed every time I go and apply. Yeah, embassies or consulat are not for me.

So I'll be on the plane in four more days! My wonderful husband gracious let me go alone even though the plan was that he would go to. It's a long story why he can't go. The original plan I was to go by myself then he got a bit...jealous..then booked a flight to go with me. Now he's so disappointed that he can't go. It will be my first trip alone and apart for ten days in our eight years of marriage. Actually twice, Bruce had to leave to the States for two weeks to have his passport renewed when it got stolen in India.
I have been wanting to visit my girlfriend in the state of Assam since a year ago when she came to Thailand. I'll go to visit some friends in Siliguri, West Bengal where we used to live for six years. After that fly to Assam then have a couple of days by myself in Kolkata formerly Calcutta. I love Kolkata! It has been an escape to the big city when we lived in Siliguri. Our friends would be amazed that we would choose Kolkata to spend our Christmas vacations, oh yeah. Besides the curries I'm looking forward to some great Indian Chinese food and momos!

For now, I'll be busy buying last minute gifts for friends and cooking what my husband is requesting like, this stir fry shrimp with snow peas, young corn and asparagus with rice. But on the lists are: granola, baked ziti, tuna casserole and doro wat. OK,

Our Unusual Thanksgiving Lunch

2010-11-26T16:59:00.015+07:00

For Thanksgiving, we stayed at the Landmark Hotel in the heart of Bangkok. Our buffet lunch was great as they had moist roast turkey and delicious ham. Although the stuffing was a bit tasteless, yam and bread? Then I had a small piece of their steamed sea bass. What we didnt' know was they brought a complimentary platter of mixed steamed seafood and fois gras. That was really generous of them but we didn't want it. I just wanted my turkey and I loved the free refill of fruit punch.

Different of petite desserts: financie, pear tart, green apple macaroon, blueberry cheesecake and caramel flan. The flan was by all the best!

Poor Bruce, who waited for the pumpkin pie only to know that it tasted like baby food. The waitress came out apologically as we were waiting for about ten minutes and gave him three slices. It was basically pureed pumpkin tart with no spices not even cinnamon. Bruce misses your pumpkin pie, Lisa! Later that evening we shared brownies with caramel sauce and vanilla bean ice cream at the Huntsman pub at the basement of the hotel. Anything with caramel is the best for me!

Our view from our room: the tallest building in Bangkok is the Baiyoke Tower II to the left and best transportation over traffic is the BTS sky train, in my opinion, as I don't preffer the subway. We haven't been up the Baiyoke Tower yet and waiting for my sister and bil who's coming to visit us in January.

The next day, Bruce wanted to try a new hamburger place for lunch call the Home Run Bar & Grill run by an American guy who loves sports especially baseball, obvisiously. It was somewhere on Sukumvit Soi 31. After we did a bit of Christmas shopping, we walked to the very end of the street still no Home Run. We finally went back and asked a guard and he said to turn right of the hotel where the Prime Minister is staying, OK. We thought of giving up but Bruce saw the small sign, finally! My legs were slightly shaking as I was hungry and hot.

Happy Bruce with his hamburger! The restaurant was pretty simple, spacious and a place where you can watch American sports, some which you can't get on regulart cable. So we got to watch a replay of American football, Detroit vs New England for a bit. Anyway, be going back there for sure.

Thankful For..

2010-11-25T21:47:00.000+07:00

~ a great loving husband who graciously put us at a hotel for 2 nights at a hotel in downtown Bangkok

~ not just on this day that I'm thankful, for the Catholic family who sponsored us refugee family to the USA in 1979, I was 4 years old

~ wonderful food on our table

~ an awesome family

~ a wonderful church family (here in Thailand and back in the US of A)

~ most of all my faith in Jesus Christ, no fear of bad karma, bad luck or superstitions but I have a great future in Him alone

There are lots more on my list but I'm going to enjoy my time with love. Happy a great Thangsgivings!!!

Welcome To My Table

2010-11-21T22:36:00.000+07:00

Even if it's delivery salami pizza for a Sunday night. But I'm giddy with excitement just to make a new salad dressing ( for me it is as I'm sure you've been making this one before) gently tossing it with sliced green apple, chopped walnuts and mixed greens of butter lettuce and red oak lettuce. It's really that simple to make the husband happy:)

Fall Apple Salad
Adapted from Cooking Light

Combine 1 T red wine vinegar, 1 1/2 t honey, 1 t Dijon mustard ( I had regular mustard), 1/4 t cracked black pepper, 1/8 t salt, and 1 minced garlic clove in a large bowl; gradually whisk in 2 T extra-virgin olive oil.
Add 2 cups torn butter lettuce, 1 cup sliced endive, 1 cup torn radicchio, and 1 cup thinly sliced apples (about 1 small apple); toss gently to coat. Yield: 4 servings.

Had a small cup of hot chocolate for dessert and won the game of Scrabble, yes. Now I'm sleepy, good night!

The Soup Is On!

2010-11-20T22:40:00.000+07:00

I'm not going to apologized as the last few posts consists of food and sweets. Also, that putting up the Christmas tree, oh deer:) But then getting a package of food magazines ( October and November issues of Bon Appetit, Taste of Home and Women's Day) from my sweet mil doesn't help either. Funny while living in India it consist of candies, cake and brownie mixes, package of soup and pasta mixes. OK, I still do sausage country mixes for my homemade biscuits. But to think of it, we've come really far to change our eating habits from all those package to a lot more fresh whole foods. Also, I blame all the food blogs who are whipping up some delish food or just a simple 'ole soup!

So this afternoon after I made another batch of apple tart, I had a big mug of tea and devoured all the magazines and got all excited of making a pot of soup, chicken vegetables and dumplings just for the two of us. It turned out really tasty even if I didn't follow it to the T, because of it's rich broth (and the raux mixture, oh yeah, butter!) but for next time I would put more thyme as I like more herbs. I was just taking my time so didn't realized it was almost 7pm! Yeah, we eat early like at 6pm most nights so I kind of overmixed my dumpling. It came out a bit densed but still enjoyed it, if I say so myself, lol!

Relaxing to Susan Boyle's Christmas album and drinking Earl Grey tea, so soothing. OK, and a small slice of the apple tart:) I'm taking all the relaxing time I can get as the next week will be pretty busy. Hope you're having a relaxing weekend!

Late Night Baking

2010-11-16T18:13:00.000+07:00

Remember the apple tart that was a flop from last week? Well, I think you can see that I'm determine to give it another try. This time with mangoes as you can get them year round here. What also got me kicking was the frangipane, the French almond paste that is used in the mouth watering pastries from Pim's Foodie Guidebook. And the tarts are baking at 10.26pm, to be precise. I've got the kettle on and it will be eaten with hot tea. Just heard that Prince William j and Kate just got engaged, woo hoo!

Frangipane spread- I could just eat that alone, it's that good!

Egg wash and end with some natural sugar sprinkles on the crust

The first tart tasted a bit blaze so I put some apricot jam on top..mmmm..exquisite:)

Now that's a flaky crust, perfect. My confidence is gaining at making pie/tart dough. I'm thinking of pop tarts now. I need sleep!

Tomato Bacon Sauce With Penne

2010-11-14T22:04:00.002+07:00

Ah, finally a Sunday that I really want to make at least something simple. Like this sauce as it just keeps you in the humid kitchen not more than an hour. For the first time I got to try fresh oregano and it smells so wonderful! I found the recipe here and I have to say it's definetly a keeper, thanks Bel'Occhio'! She's got quite a few French recipes which I'm looking at in between writing this post. Not to mention other interesting posts about chic French decors, childhood stories when she began cooking with her dad and her love for Paris, yes, well obvisiously .

Yes, we ate it watching The Oprah farewell premiere, we just got the show not that I watch much of her. After that we watched the movie G.I Joe and another tv show Hawaii Five-O while we enjoyed having cinnamon rolls and tea for dessert. It was a very relaxed Sunday evening. How was yours?

So What That Our Tree Is Up

2010-11-13T21:56:00.002+07:00

Oh, it's Saturday already! For Thanksgiving we'll be staying in a hotel in Bangkok and have their buffet dinner. We found one it seems to have the best dinner as we didnt' want to cook the turkey or celebrated with others. That way we'll have some time alone before going to India for the first two weeks of December . So we decided to put the tree out. This morning, Bruce cleaned the house, got the Christmas tree out and began setting it up. I came back from the market and felt so festive! Our friends came over for dinner for homemade rice noodle soup and they marveled at the tree's skirt! Of course, no presents yet.

Last year my sister gave this ornament to me from Sur la Table. Cute!

I did make my tart but it was a flop. Didn't put the rolled out dough on the sheet before putting the filling in. It ripped while I transferred it. What was I thinking! I baked it and ate the apple slices instead:) I liked it better than the apple pie filling.

This is a random picture but I'll throw it in here as it amused me. These are recycled cans they served our drinks in at a hole in the wall restaurant in China Town! Of course, I love the beer cans, lol!

Yeah, it doesn't take much to amused me;) Have a great weekend!

All Spiced Up

2010-11-07T22:54:00.001+07:00

When I saw molasses in the grocery store I grabbed it quickly. I've never tried molasses before so even last year while in the States side I was going to try it but forgot to. It will definetly be on my list along with Irish Kerrygold butter next time. Anyway, after dinner I baked gingersnaps using this recipe and substitute unsalted butter for shortening. It turned out perfect! Although, I might put a bit more ground cloves in as I like them spicier. I tried half of a cookie with my masala chai and got kind of wired up so I went to make cinnamon rolls. I love cinnamon rolls and I added whole wheat flour, too! This is the first time that the dough turned out really well since baking in India. The thing is that we're going up north tomorrow, that is Chiang Mai for business so I'm giving more than half of it away.

Fresh from the oven

Shared with Bruce. I miss you Sarah L.!

When I get back and hopefully have more time, I would like to try new recipes. I have a tart in mind. What are you baking these days?

Simple Saturday Joys

2010-11-06T22:32:00.000+07:00

This morning Bruce made waffles. He was so happy that it turned out perfect this time. Seeing your man having a kiddish smile while having his waffles is simly joyful to me. It was a low key day which was a nice change. Made Ethiopian chicken stew (doro wat) for dinner and had with pita bread. It keeps getting better each time I make it. I'm sure it's the butter as I seem to add a bit more each time:) Now having Earl Grey tea before bed. Content. Yes.
I read this at a fellow blogger and just fell in love with quotes like this. I hope you have a simple unhectic Saturday.

The Simple Joys

They miss so much who do not know
The simple joys of long ago.
The quiet hour, the easy pace,
A path to walk, a day to face.
A small white flower, a bird that sings,
The Happiness in the little things.
The patience for a task, well done,
The gift of rest at set of sun.
The thankful heart, the lift of care,
A friend nearby, a time of prayer.
How much they miss who do not know
The simple joys found long ago.
~Amy Perrin~

A Spontaneity Trip To The 100 Year Old Market

2010-11-06T22:07:00.000+07:00

It's almost the second week of November! Been busy busy but you can be a bit spontanious when it comes to taking a day trip even if your day started at 4am! One friend's son is graduating so it was taking pictures first thing in the morning. Oh my! I don't know how many poses in front of 'congradulations' signs we took, it seems to last forever. We finished taking pictures by 8am and then went for noodles for breakfast....
After all that commotion we got plenty of time in our hands for the day. My friend Mon told us about this famous coffee shop that serves traditional coffee at this old market. I'm all for coffee! We four ladies took off to a 100 year old market town. It's about 2 hours drive south west of Bangkok. Not all the shops were open as it gets busy only on the weekends. I think it was worth it even hitting traffic on the way.

Quote from the Bangkok Post:

Lining the banks of Prawet Burirom Canal are rows of two-storey wooden houses straddling tambon Teppharat in Chachoengsao and tambon Klong Suan in Samut Prakan. The roots of this riverside community date to the reign of King Rama V when boats were the main mode of transportation and Klong Suan was a stopover for travellers heading to Bangkok. The canal-side community boasted a market where you could purchase everything from farm commodities to items of daily use and even opium. Today the importance of river transportation may have diminished, confined mainly to serve the purpose of tourism, but the 100-year-old market is drawing an increasing number of people with its old-world charm.

Klong Suan will dazzle you with its old shophouses and stalls selling a variety of tasty traditional food like tom yam noodles, sweet Thai sausage and pot-stewed duck to desserts made from coconut, quaint old utensils and ancient tin toys. A symbol fitting of the market is a 71-year-old coffee shop, Pae Lee, laid out with a few single round tables and stools. The shop takes its name from its owner, a genial elderly person with a ready smile for his patrons. Sipping a freshly brewed cup of coffee amidst this antique decor and ambience made me feel as if I'd been transported back in time. The most touching aspect of this community, however, is not the ambience nor the well-maintained buildings or their architecture, but it is the residents' traditional way of life that remains largely untouched by the march of time.
Every day local residents walk to the market to sell, buy or trade in items of daily use. Tourists or no tourists, it operates at a pace of its own. The calm and simple lifestyle of residents never fail to impress city slickers and to old-timers visiting the community, Klong Suan brings flashing back memories from their childhood.
If you wish to escape the intensity and chaos of city life, go to Klong Suan and you will discover that peace and tranquility can be found closer to home than you ever thought.

Walking pass backyards lined with ceramic water tanks.

Inside the market area

Grilled bananas

There's Pae Lee (pae means grandfather in Chinese) coming out to greet us

Rice crackers, chiffon cake, fried grain rings (very traditional snack) and chiffon cupcakes

Pae Lee get a lot of publicity

Obvisiously I'm not in the picture, Youi, Mon and Nuan. I ordered traditional ice coffee 'oh leang'. It was so strong but so good! I asked Pae Lee if I could buy some of his coffee. He gladly came out with them in bags. Yes, he proudly roasted them himself.

The chiffon cupcake were to die for!

We ended our day with typical duck soup and stewed duck. All delish!

Shops along the klong (canal).

On our way back we took the express way and it took us less than an hour. We got back at around 2.30pmNot bad for a Friday trip:)

Saturday Night Southern Thai Food And Apple Pie

2010-10-30T17:25:00.111+07:00

This was the first time that we really had a person from the South who cooked us real Southern food, sort of, Mon kind of watered down the chilis as she made the dishes. She was still not convinced that Bruce and Mark likes to eat super spicy food. I tell you though that the dishes has its own unique pugent smell and tastes like dry shrimp paste chili sauce and this lima bean like that smells so strong it can blow you away but taste like heaven. There was lots of fresh and boiled veggies so the dishes were very light.

Sa taw bean sauteed with mackeral pieces

Shrimp paste chili sauce to have it with slightly fried tuna fish and fresh veggies

Nuan and Mon cooking up in my kitchen

Fried tuna fish and sliced cabbages

The other dishes which I don't remember the names but all delish!

I made apple pie for dessert as I know it would make the husband happy:) The crust came out buttery and flaky even if it was a bit difficult to handle.

I had this two days later and it was still yummy.

Thanks Mon for a lovely dinner!

Northern Travels: Mae Salong

2010-10-28T22:51:00.001+07:00

On our way to Mae Salong town we stopped at a hot spring to boil some eggs. I've visited a hot spring before but never got the time to really boil me some eggs. The eggs were boiled in 7 minutes. It was a good mid morning snack:) Then we stopped at a tea factory to taste, maybe 7 different kinds of oolong tea. The Chinese moved to Mae Salong in the 50's and brought the tea plants from Taiwan. We had lunch in the center of Mae Salong where I had my first black chicken herbal soup. Yeah, the meat tastes the same! It's a small little town that mainly consists of shops like China town, hence all the Chinese and other ethnic groups up there.

Chinese buns 'maantao' is the main staple, in the middle is the black chicken soup, stewed pork legs, stir fry squash sprouts, minced pork with chilis and pickled mustard leaves and rice.

Close up of the black chicken meat

Outfit of an Akha hilltribe

A short walk along the the main street of markets and shops. Don't you like Bruce's man bag? We got that as gift from one of the Akha church.

Bought some small purses around these shops and then a local TV crew interviewed Youi on tourism.

Tea sets

We continued with our drive up to a church where we will last stay at. Along the road the locals have coffee plantations and cherry orchards which replace opium cultivation.

Coffee beans

Cherry orchards and coffee trees

It's OK to sleep like the locals (like sharing it with three other people) when you had an amazing day.