tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224874832024-03-18T20:13:09.740-07:00Filipino DessertIndulging my sweet toothGen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.comBlogger180125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-44549428561321087302009-05-19T15:22:00.001-07:002009-05-20T13:20:58.517-07:00Charice Pempengco on OprahSo we know Charice, a young talented Filipino singer, sang on Oprah yesterday. Her performance was outstanding and emotional. As I listened closely to the lyrics of her song, I thought her "A Note to God" is a religious/faith song. I would describe it as quite similar to Jamie Rivera's "Heal Our Land." I was not surprise by her song choice as Filipinos would more than often sing religious/faith songs for Catholic Charismatic Church. I was touched and moved by her song. I believe so was the audience and Oprah. A couple of women were standing in the audience when she was singing. Charice even shed some tears while hitting high notes. Oprah, watching her audience, shed a tear as well. After she sang, Oprah had the chance to ask her what she felt when she was singing her song. Coming from Philippines from a middle class background, I was expecting from her a passion to relieve poverty and violence in her country and around the world. As someone who rose from middle class status in third world country to fame and riches, I thought she would be able to compare her life then and now and be able to express compassion for her fellow countrymen and to promote alleviation of poverty and violence in her country and around the world. I thought she would bring awareness to third world poverty and violence. I thought she would be a spokesperson for a non government organization to help others and so forth. But I was wrong. She replied with innocence that she was excited to release her first album and everybody had the chance to hear her new song. While watching her, I burst into a sneer. I was fooled. Charice was expressing some teenage mentality of self centeredness like other teenagers, which is normal. It's ok to think about yourself. It's ok to be excited about your new album. She was just being a teenager. But next time a little PR would not hurt. You know, talk like you're in a beauty pageant even if you don't really feel compassion for the poor or want to end violence around the world. Pretend. Say that you want to. Make people believe you want to. You'll sell more albums that way.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHmtsf1TQbsB4p7qP3SFPvzBLwSYoOZc1CLW8zlsZepa4AGI9cmUTrGicac1vHI3IZY141iqOJaKPGCn5yrWRkyVpwHO7USwchX6zcRMnW-xAc2AJb2ZO9budIaSBHZbjXoo0/s1600-h/220px-Charice_pempengco.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHmtsf1TQbsB4p7qP3SFPvzBLwSYoOZc1CLW8zlsZepa4AGI9cmUTrGicac1vHI3IZY141iqOJaKPGCn5yrWRkyVpwHO7USwchX6zcRMnW-xAc2AJb2ZO9budIaSBHZbjXoo0/s320/220px-Charice_pempengco.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338001953704857154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Picture from Wikipedia, "Charice Pempenco"</span><br /></div>I still love Charice. She is talented. I have not seen anybody cry and hit high notes at the same time. However, she's a teenager and she'll change over the years. She'll become more seasoned and prepared to face the camera. If she listens to what Oprah would have to say in response to her teenage mentality-me first- comment, she will keep her feet planted on the ground even if she is wearing Manolos. Maybe one day she would be a spokesperson to end poverty in third world country.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-14519363900288437042009-05-04T14:42:00.000-07:002009-05-04T14:46:39.012-07:00Black Forest Ice Cream Cake<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-BTkG_eGgLbm26p_waviaApsSN7liQiNWwLyeUkHkoo3fHK742-IdR6UplxGyCX8jnYg3erWWm6_DbK5ujFc8t7Ut_iB11ce8ui7JxPsXlps9Btu3PXtvQtYhy1J2uf41JpT6/s1600-h/P4220615.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-BTkG_eGgLbm26p_waviaApsSN7liQiNWwLyeUkHkoo3fHK742-IdR6UplxGyCX8jnYg3erWWm6_DbK5ujFc8t7Ut_iB11ce8ui7JxPsXlps9Btu3PXtvQtYhy1J2uf41JpT6/s320/P4220615.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332087994335415522" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVp-2oswBoJmRkzfYs4c73HEWNM5PAHvK5vbTsEC6EpCgG-q8Ihhfv_1GnQdd4GPOrbl3YOF_hDLD0XexMNrSovI68Hm6POhkjYddWYZaNWiv7hfSq_Mrq1evh2PgjeafWPoh9/s1600-h/P4220612.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVp-2oswBoJmRkzfYs4c73HEWNM5PAHvK5vbTsEC6EpCgG-q8Ihhfv_1GnQdd4GPOrbl3YOF_hDLD0XexMNrSovI68Hm6POhkjYddWYZaNWiv7hfSq_Mrq1evh2PgjeafWPoh9/s320/P4220612.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332087986982077346" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGG06uyxDBAlFzHg1a6HqyJNL3vNF5eSkl_aDUVy8GG2lJQJg4OE_4DIFU2QqM6DFKlv3-OBORJgETAvcmVtP7CtlZwsw3OCbCVwxDYKjxNZDEYE37-gvgs5HaUqFuMY4OURSr/s1600-h/P4220618.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGG06uyxDBAlFzHg1a6HqyJNL3vNF5eSkl_aDUVy8GG2lJQJg4OE_4DIFU2QqM6DFKlv3-OBORJgETAvcmVtP7CtlZwsw3OCbCVwxDYKjxNZDEYE37-gvgs5HaUqFuMY4OURSr/s320/P4220618.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332087995962096018" border="0" /></a>Mmmm... Black Forest Ice Cream Cake... No words can describe this dessert. I think I'm gonna have seconds.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-72256170381008480452009-05-04T14:36:00.000-07:002009-05-04T14:41:16.813-07:00Lit, Litercy, or Literacy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVX3stx6tnKMVGmmbJZm1PeQ63FnyHqAjrzQMt8UkemgAtbpCt7591Nezm3AweXLiW4v-2Vy_WoIvlgSFioH_4cEyqlE55U2G3R-zFTcMSJwN5aDxsrzNE_W9s_WBGQ4JnZPyN/s1600-h/P5021125.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVX3stx6tnKMVGmmbJZm1PeQ63FnyHqAjrzQMt8UkemgAtbpCt7591Nezm3AweXLiW4v-2Vy_WoIvlgSFioH_4cEyqlE55U2G3R-zFTcMSJwN5aDxsrzNE_W9s_WBGQ4JnZPyN/s320/P5021125.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332086630572672770" border="0" /></a>Another reason why California students are not academically prepared for college.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-76111166382985546142009-03-17T15:42:00.000-07:002009-03-17T15:51:22.576-07:00Reflection on my reflection on Love in the Time of CholeraI wonder how many people have copied my <a href="http://filipinodessert.blogspot.com/2007/12/my-first-book-critique-online.html">book report</a> on <u>Love in the Time of Cholera</u> and submitted it to their teacher and got a decent grade? Maybe I am being too conceited. How many people have read it without reading the whole book? I have to say that the book is amazing. Do not just settle for a book report online. Read the whole book and you will fall in love with the book and with the characters in the book.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-7526760517513850292009-03-17T15:16:00.000-07:002009-03-17T15:58:05.898-07:00Leche Flan, Caramel Custard, or Flan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3051103-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3051103-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The most delicious dessert of them all is <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span>, caramel custard, or flan. Again <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span> is another dessert that I thought was originally Filipino but is not. (I mentioned in my entry on <a href="http://filipinodessert.blogspot.com/2009/03/champurado.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">champurado</span></a> that some Filipino desserts did not originate in Philippines.) Nevertheless, caramel custard is one of the most favored desserts in international cooking. It is easy to make and it is a suitable ending to <a href="http://filipinodessert.blogspot.com/2008/11/mechado.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">mechado</span></a> or any meal.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3051105-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3051105-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Upon making <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span>, I realize that addition of egg whites gives air bubbles in the flan, causing holes compared to <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span> made with purely egg yolks. However, I am concern about cholesterol level in my household and I would like to keep my dishes/desserts as healthy as possible without compromising calories, some fat, some sweetness, and taste. So the addition of egg whites makes a healthier version of <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span>. Usually, I make <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span> in an oblong dish or <span style="font-style: italic;">llanera</span>. However, I want to make individual portion for easy serving. Believe me, it was gone in a second! Also, I want to add some flair to the usual egg and milk mixture. So, Irish Creme adds a kick to the original <span style="font-style: italic;">leche flan</span> recipe. Irish Creme already goes well with milk and the taste of alchohol dissipates after baking the flan. What is left is concoction of cinnamon, nutmeg, and blend of Irish Creme without the alcohol. Mi familia loved it!<br /><br />Use 6 custard molds<br /><br />Caramel Sauce:<br />1/2 c brown sugar<br />1 tb water<br />Heat until sugar is melted and divide between six custard mold. Wait until sugar hardens before adding egg mixture.<br /><br />Egg mixture:<br />1 can evaporated milk<br />1/3 sugar<br />2 tsp. vanilla<br />1/8 tsp. salt.<br />4 tb Bailey's Irish Creme<br />4 eggs<br />1/4 tsp. cinnamon<br />1/8 tsp nutmeg<br />Heat milk, sugar, vanilla, salt, Irish Creme. Do not let it curdle. Mix remaining ingredients in a big bowl. Add milk to egg mixture and divide between six custard mold with caramel. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Place custard molds in a pan with boiling water to similate steam and bake for 40-50 minutes. Remove from water and refrigerate.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-55056636424251610972009-03-16T14:13:00.000-07:002009-03-16T23:18:24.474-07:00Champurado<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3041100-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3041100-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I hear many people allude to globalization emerging with the advent of technology. With the invention of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Internet</span> and computers, people are connected with each other around the globe and able to share information, objects, emotions, and food. In the United States, when it comes to food, it is as if only recently has many Americans expanded their taste palate. Fifteen years ago when I arrived in California, Mexican food means burrito from Taco Bell, Chinese food equals fried rice, Filipino food is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">adobo</span> and only a few have tasted Indian food. There were few Filipino markets in Bay Area selling staple food such as rice, fish, <span style="font-style: italic;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">sinigang</span> mix in a sachet. In those stores, it was not difficult to find sticky rice or <span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">malagkit</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">na</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">bigas</span></span>. For this reason, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">champurado</span> has always been in my kitchen in California. <span style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3041101-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3041101-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Champurado</span> is a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Filipino</span> dessert that unfortunately was not originally developed in Philippines. I learn that we share <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">champurado</span> with Mexican foodies. I was driving one day in the pockets of Los Angeles and I saw a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">taqueria</span> with a huge banner that says "hot <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">champurado</span> for breakfast served here." I was shook by surprise and I had to actually pull over as I was not wearing my glasses to make sure I read the sign correctly. It turned out that I did not misread. By <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">gullie</span>, I was disappointed to find that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">champurado</span> is not authentically Filipino. Though I could not trace back to the beginnings of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">champurado</span>, I know that somewhere along Spanish colonization, Arab, Chinese, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">India</span>, Malay migration, and Japanese invasion, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">champurado</span> arrived in Philippines as a dessert/breakfast. This leads me to another question: Who said globalization just started? Globalization started a long time ago. Philippines and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">champurado</span> are a manifestation of globalization that existed hundred of years ago. Although computers were not existent, many people from different nations have arrived in Philippines to trade goods in a fashion modernly stated as "<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">up rise</span> of globalization." With them, they brought <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">champurado</span>--sticky rice cooked in water with dutch processed cocoa powder, sugar, and milk. A modern version of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">champurado</span> included in my recipe has 1 tsp of vanilla and cinnamon for dusting. In my short trip in Los Angeles, I learn that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">champurado</span> is not originally Filipino and I learn to share what I thought was originally mine as a Filipino with other cultures who have brought <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">champurado</span> hundred of years ago in Philippines.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-31473957010024255602009-03-12T12:58:00.000-07:002009-03-12T13:39:13.532-07:00Cranberry Banana Pecan Bread<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3111111-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3111111-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I'm not a big fan of cranberry. When cranberry is incorporated into bread or cake, I'll eat it. I'll also drink cranberry juice. I find cranberry tangy and sour for a tiny piece of fruit as small as an <span style="font-style: italic;">aratilis</span>. When I found Rose Levy Beranhaum's recipe for Cranberry Banana Walnut Quick Bread, I had to try it for two reasons. I learn from making Rosy's recipe on <span style="font-style: italic;">The Bread Bible</span> that she is a very good baker. I have tried many of her recipes such as Brioche, Challah, Royal Irish Soda Bread and Cranberry Banana Walnut Quick Bread is not far from what I had expected. Although this recipe is not originally her creation, I love it. After letting the bread sit for more than 12 hours, the cranberries have macerated and have mellowed its tanginess. The other reason is I want to use a big bulk of cranberries in my freezer. I want to make something out of a big bag of cranberries. I need to make bread for tomorrow and I decide to incorporate cranberries into my bread. I have two notes here. The only ingredient that I do not have available when making this bread is walnut. I substitute pecan for walnuts. I like pecans in banana bread and brownies and I want to try it with this bread. Perhaps if walnut can be substituted, cranberries can be substituted as well. It might be difficult to find cranberries in Philippines but as I have mentioned earlier these cranberries look like, although do not taste like <span style="font-style: italic;">aratilis.</span> Why not? When your kids are hanging around the park and they bring home 2 cups of <span style="font-style: italic;">aratilis</span>, make <span style="font-style: italic;">Aratilis</span> Banana Pecan Bread. I know if I were in my house in Novaliches I would certainly try it.<br /><br />Cranberry Banana Pecan Bread<br />Adapted from Rose Levy Beranhaum's <span style="font-style: italic;">The Bread Bible<br /></span><br />2 cups minus 1 tb all purpose flour<br />1 tsp baking soda<br />1 tsp salt<br />4 tb butter, soft<br />1 c brown sugar<br />2 brown eggs<br />1 large very ripe banana<br />3 tb sour cream<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br />2 c cranberries<br />1 c pecans toasted<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3111112-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P3111112-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter, sugar, then add eggs, banana, sour cream, vanilla. Add flour mixture and beat until incorporated. Add cranberries and pecans. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake for 45-55 minutes.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-19008810301776406642009-03-11T14:14:00.000-07:002009-03-17T15:56:08.614-07:00Solvang I<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280351-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280351-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Ok kids, I am not in Denmark. This is Solvang, Ca is where you would find a Danish community that is true to her roots. From highway 101, you would have to drive 30 miles east. It is about 2 1/2 hours from Los Angeles. Solvang is so beautiful with patches of pastoral land, an existing mission, and a tourist attraction community. People are so friendly!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280350-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280350-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>In Solvang, everything is so colorful and artistic. Look at this chair made by a local artist, quietly tucked in a corner.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280338-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280338-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>They have the best danish pastries. It so de-lish-cious!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280339-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2280339-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Here, they serve beer for breakfast. How awesome is that! I would love to move here. It so relaxing and so country.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-57786138664604146482009-03-10T12:14:00.000-07:002009-03-10T12:43:18.599-07:00Orange you glad you're home?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBJYAIVXdqVo8DUyrpXglooJxUq5JaMh8RUw_kPrJhOAeVDH4wN4qvz-YWMq31O5Sqqfc0kp5lPyPM0wyGv2cec7iB7tW9caEWzCxJbarw4f95su-ik7J4aTbrJvjh2wvOR4C/s1600-h/P3090015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBJYAIVXdqVo8DUyrpXglooJxUq5JaMh8RUw_kPrJhOAeVDH4wN4qvz-YWMq31O5Sqqfc0kp5lPyPM0wyGv2cec7iB7tW9caEWzCxJbarw4f95su-ik7J4aTbrJvjh2wvOR4C/s320/P3090015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311640387110565506" border="0" /></a>Orange, naranje, or sunkist--as I remember Filipinos call it, referring to a sticker which identifies the type of orange--I want lots of it. I feel so lousy today; I cant even get up from bed. My head throbs as if a giant is squeezing my head to fit in a small purse. My nose sniffs sinusitis in the cavity of my head. My ears can hear nothing; they are clogged like a bathroom full of hair. My stomach churns and turns; it has injected the flu. So give me orange, lots of orange, and water, lots of water while I get better to face tomorrow half filled with sorrow.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSnsAyn6tY_gjOVbfnzjmmeJU0lauisWr-E20LETQuIHRn7IearT7yfgXYk1Tef5AyMX8VhkpMQy46YAhIrSLGXEpXVpA_mslW_vNvD-5rPPwnKb_rjvUzN5mMlvEaPlwRJ6An/s1600-h/P3090017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSnsAyn6tY_gjOVbfnzjmmeJU0lauisWr-E20LETQuIHRn7IearT7yfgXYk1Tef5AyMX8VhkpMQy46YAhIrSLGXEpXVpA_mslW_vNvD-5rPPwnKb_rjvUzN5mMlvEaPlwRJ6An/s320/P3090017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311640379278711906" border="0" /></a>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-1363781278252981812009-03-06T14:02:00.000-08:002009-03-06T14:29:11.951-08:00San Gabriel Mission III<span style="">More pictures around San Gabriel Mission. Below is a theater that has been around for a long time. At one point, officials shut down the theater. When the community complained they did not have any source of entertainment for the people, they allowed the use of building for theater production and plays. The front of the building is beautiful. I like the bells on the tower and the fountain in front of the building. The inside of the building has a elegantly structured foyer. <br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2200028-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2200028-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The cemetery is adjacent to the Mission. There are two. One is where christianized Native Americans were buried. Below is a Catholic Cemetery. On the day I took pictures, the clouds were rolling and gray. (It actually rained that afternoon.) The cloudy weather was an element to make this picture seem so gloomy as if someone was just buried. In addition, although Los Angeles County has a reputation of having only one season that is summer and temperature that stays in 80 degrees F, this picture is a testament that in Los Angeles season changes.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190486-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190486-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190476-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190476-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2200017-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2200017-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Would you play hide n seek here in the dark?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190479-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190479-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-29267476608752695642009-03-05T16:23:00.000-08:002009-03-10T12:32:51.896-07:00Suman<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281090-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281090-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />If there is a name for returning Filipino citizens to Philippines, "balikbayan," should there also be a name for returning Filipino American citizens to America? Should they be called "balikbayan" in America? I may never be able to answer that, but if there is one thing I like about balikbayans in America it is bringing "pasalubong" or gifts.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281087-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281087-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>My fave pasalubong is food. Nothing can beat Filipino desserts such as suman or sticky rice dessert. When my granduncle came back, he brought with him suman of different kinds. Although suman varies from region to region, one staple ingredient in suman is sticky rice. Without sticky rice, suman would not be suman. In my granduncle's province, suman is cooked with coconut milk, brown sugar, and coconut oil. This variety is wrapped in banana leaf. When I bite into it, I can taste each ingredient. The rice has mellowed its flavor and has absorbed the brown sugar and coconut milk that it does not taste like rice anymore. A good suman has a rich coconut milk flavor.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281089-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281089-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>When you decide to bring suman with you back to America, buy freshly cooked suman, preferably cooked the day of your departure. Upon returning to America, store in freezer for upto 3 months. To reheat, steam on stove or place in the microwave with a cup of water to stimulate steam.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281088-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2281088-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-57627353686922822142009-03-04T11:40:00.000-08:002009-03-06T14:29:27.453-08:00San Gabriel Mission II<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>I have no words on Wednesday, but I have a quiet post that gabs a thousand words.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190452.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190452.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190447.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190447.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190477-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190477-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2200016.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2200016.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-89417434323762298542009-03-02T13:18:00.000-08:002009-03-02T13:33:50.586-08:00First Sunday of LentOn the first Sunday of Lent, I was moved by the homily yesterday. The priest encouraged us to act upon our mission as children of God. Lent is the time to make a full commitment to God. The time is now when God is convicting hearts of individuals who are ready to listen. Three pointers made are: what am I giving up?, what are my prayer lists? and what changes am I going to manifest? On these, while sitting on a pew, I thought I have to give up laying safety cushions around me so I can place my full dependence on God, which increases my faith and develops my spirituality. I am praying for people around me that some may find jobs to support and feed their families, that some may find peace in God, and that others may discover joy in the community of faith. I want to change a habit of neglecting the poor, homeless, and hungry. When I see a homeless person on the street, I will remember to buy them food/spare some change. The homily brings me to a different level of spirituality. I am enabled to serve others, encouraged to pray for others, and empowered to bless others.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-18096575177285448972009-03-02T12:11:00.000-08:002009-03-02T13:06:02.021-08:00Sweet potato omelet on a Bagel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUsNpleDg9LAtEtcueaWbxnhskSjZTIZzo8BDstNnbUdlHjR3zBKQZuyHKZaNTzZduLKDiStQq_AIMCqunC9GXYe4Bw4eMstZpRk328CiSjj6BaW1VZZxcqhvdPnX57Rrjwe_/s1600-h/P2251085.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUsNpleDg9LAtEtcueaWbxnhskSjZTIZzo8BDstNnbUdlHjR3zBKQZuyHKZaNTzZduLKDiStQq_AIMCqunC9GXYe4Bw4eMstZpRk328CiSjj6BaW1VZZxcqhvdPnX57Rrjwe_/s320/P2251085.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308698012608300258" border="0" /></a>Sweet potato omelet is a variation of potato omelet or tortillas de patatas. My first instinct was to eat sweet potato omelet as a tapa. I had it all planned. I was going to prepare the ingredients, cook them, and serve on a plate sliced bite sized and I was going to eat sweet potato omelet just as it was with no bagel or anything. However, I could not control my stomach making so much noises and whining to be fulled to its maximum potential, so I took a bagel and toasted it and sandwiched sweet potato omelet in the middle. It was filling!<br />I have a new favorite food now. With or without bagel, sweet potato omelet is so good. The sweetness of sweet potato complements the tanginess and spice of cooked red onions. After making sweet potato omelet, I have turned my back against tortillas de patatas, which I used to love as a kid. With the development of sweet potato omelet, tortillas de patatas is so bland and boring. I have been eating it for as long as I remember. I want something new and tasteful and I got it.<br />Sweet potato omelet is so easy to make and diced sweet potatoes cooks faster than I thought--3 minutes at least. I learned that marinating cooked sweet potatoes and cooked red onions into scrambled eggs builds the flavor of omelet. I was munching on some nuts while waiting for the marinate.<br /><br />Sweet Potato Omelet<br />2 small size sweet potatoes diced<br />1/2 onion diced<br />2 free range brown eggs<br />1 tb water<br />olive oil<br />salt and pepper<br />Toasted bagel<br /><br />Scramble eggs and water and add salt and pepper. Fry sweet potatoes, incorporate into scrambled eggs. Sautee onion and incorporate into scrambled eggs. Mix. Let stand 15 minutes and cook. Sandwiched in toasted bagel and feed hungry stomach.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2251084-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2251084-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-20865442868596261272009-02-24T23:47:00.000-08:002009-03-06T14:29:41.987-08:00San Gabriel Mission I<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190003.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I love Missions. Part of living in California is familiarity with California Missions. When I lived in San Gabriel, I have always wanted to visit the Mission. Being busy with grad school, I had not had the chance to stop by and indulge the beauty of California history manifested through huge churches, cemeteries, living quarters, farms built together to support a community. Some of California Missions existed as hospitals, taking care of wounded soldiers fighting Spaniards off California. Missions were churches also; priests baptized American Indians into Christianity otherwise they were doomed as enemies, even demon possessed. When American Indians conceded, they became slaves of priests; those who refused were killed. (Does Christianity condone murder? How about if they have weapons of mass destruction? hmmm....) Inside a mission were markets where skilled men traded goods with buyers. Some had libraries, albeit books were expensive, to support the haughty and comfortable lifestyle of priests. Missions served many purposes. Today, missions are churches, wedding venues, historical sites, and cemeteries.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190455.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190455.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190001-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190001-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190473.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190473.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190456.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/P2190456.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-69348966479830695262009-02-18T23:22:00.000-08:002009-02-20T12:30:03.639-08:00Arroz Caldo de Pollo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VPY0wcpzq5_Cu0i9-XHtn52My6vY2BeofQ41K-F_zPbF7iYCHWyVfboyBgmZHucHA6jS0x9xtC5AaZ_c872lyTyDBI-S0kJlu1KLQx-jJPbP3Qyk2rEYkFnjeISPh3VJT9sQ/s1600-h/P2180008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VPY0wcpzq5_Cu0i9-XHtn52My6vY2BeofQ41K-F_zPbF7iYCHWyVfboyBgmZHucHA6jS0x9xtC5AaZ_c872lyTyDBI-S0kJlu1KLQx-jJPbP3Qyk2rEYkFnjeISPh3VJT9sQ/s320/P2180008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410753165091234" border="0" /></a><br />I like cooking arroz caldo especially with chicken. In winter months when it is 40 degrees F outside and the wind is blowing 15 miles per hour, it is nice to cozy up in front of the tv and eat a bowl of arroz caldo de pollo. Since I moved to Northern California, I have been making arroz caldo de pollo. I would take my food lay it on a coffee table, I would wrap myself in an afgan, turn on the tv, get comfortable, then I would take my hot bowl of arroz caldo and eat away.<br /><br />I make arroz caldo in the winter because it warms and fills me. The hot caldo or broth is sufficient enough for me to stand the cold. After I finish eating my bowl of arroz caldo, I feel hot inside and start to sweat a little bit. I look forward to making arroz caldo to reenact that feeling of warm and sweat--something that does not come often in winter months in Northern California.<br /><br />My version of arroz caldo de pollo is also filling. I put everything in it--carbohydrates in rice, protein in chicken, vegetables in peas. It is very simple and easy to make. So cozy up in winter months and make arroz caldo de pollo.<br /><br />Arroz Caldo de Pollo<br />2 chicken breast cut into 1" slices<br />8 garlic cloves (I love garlic!)<br />1 red onion<br />salt<br />pepper<br />bay leaf<br />sprig of rosemary<br />1 c rice (I use jasmine and brown rice)<br />4-5 c chicken broth<br />olive oil<br /><br />Saute onion and garlic in olive oil. Add a pinch of salt to sweat onion and garlic. Remove from pan and set aside.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0PFezhXHR0Q2weH_YkSu5Qbo_jYYBV5zxittet159hk_J54volZjBQlyaiM5FFaMjuu7V8dyuIiE-VjlJe3Q11qiVfskF_nxU3DDm_VX3mVq0Hz76Mxp3Ltg_NrCgrai35E4/s1600-h/P2180002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0PFezhXHR0Q2weH_YkSu5Qbo_jYYBV5zxittet159hk_J54volZjBQlyaiM5FFaMjuu7V8dyuIiE-VjlJe3Q11qiVfskF_nxU3DDm_VX3mVq0Hz76Mxp3Ltg_NrCgrai35E4/s320/P2180002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410294735893874" border="0" /></a><br />Salt and pepper chicken. Brown chicken in the same pan. Remove and set aside. Add more olive oil if needed. Cook rice in olive oil as if browning rice. Wait for the rice to achieve an opaque color.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViMl89cIX63EA2e5EaFl74-kIBNIKo7KdvSRKhjnr5eYtV1EtrfBJwPYdT7aoYar0ooxGinEHglxjde4xoV6_6cauPDm0_t6sIX5D_K5hMAeYv6guYRrsrgPuZVwTq9CMj3uv/s1600-h/P2180003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViMl89cIX63EA2e5EaFl74-kIBNIKo7KdvSRKhjnr5eYtV1EtrfBJwPYdT7aoYar0ooxGinEHglxjde4xoV6_6cauPDm0_t6sIX5D_K5hMAeYv6guYRrsrgPuZVwTq9CMj3uv/s320/P2180003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410294751944866" border="0" /></a>When rice is opaque in color add chicken broth and wait for a slow boil. Add peas. Season with salt and pepper.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxSLeSM1l2Iam3kPEi-S0cMdSAiIAgRzyCW44k8YWmZbjE-hlExVmjzUgVqxlac0nEdkOZMfMkP5JErX_23sClORnIJaGqQhbRGgLkGxL6BhZfpbFHwf6sbppKWTTp8PXXcri/s1600-h/P2180005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxSLeSM1l2Iam3kPEi-S0cMdSAiIAgRzyCW44k8YWmZbjE-hlExVmjzUgVqxlac0nEdkOZMfMkP5JErX_23sClORnIJaGqQhbRGgLkGxL6BhZfpbFHwf6sbppKWTTp8PXXcri/s320/P2180005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410301874258802" border="0" /></a>At this time turn down the heat to low and let rice cook for 15 minutes. Half way through return chicken, onion, and garlic into pan and let everything cook together. Stir the bottom so rice would not settle and stick in the bottom and that good brown stuff gets incorporated into the broth. Voila! I am eating my arroz caldo de pollo while watching American Idol.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZU5x2Fo3s-5vEaCdfvC0dt9nq7Hu7hFOlUBrOakUjWdmCxPXkj-RAuPE_zCJG-s5zIvXIEgj3u5eBNIr70_1qoDcJ3KBZP8Mz0hTQRSGINBiB0SsW49RHMPkegds5ubXb5IW/s1600-h/P2180010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZU5x2Fo3s-5vEaCdfvC0dt9nq7Hu7hFOlUBrOakUjWdmCxPXkj-RAuPE_zCJG-s5zIvXIEgj3u5eBNIr70_1qoDcJ3KBZP8Mz0hTQRSGINBiB0SsW49RHMPkegds5ubXb5IW/s320/P2180010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410761154333714" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIl4j27BlJaQQ4JwwKRy_tz0wOkMLWFLNkMTJ9JSioO8jwtTCbeJoWO2LHpC1EnjYnwvIQnCLOlkm_C76YT-yusEsY4vlNfhy65qU5hiMhNGD34JHtW-q1rnlKYF65U8byjIjr/s1600-h/P2180012.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIl4j27BlJaQQ4JwwKRy_tz0wOkMLWFLNkMTJ9JSioO8jwtTCbeJoWO2LHpC1EnjYnwvIQnCLOlkm_C76YT-yusEsY4vlNfhy65qU5hiMhNGD34JHtW-q1rnlKYF65U8byjIjr/s320/P2180012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410764394835122" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VPY0wcpzq5_Cu0i9-XHtn52My6vY2BeofQ41K-F_zPbF7iYCHWyVfboyBgmZHucHA6jS0x9xtC5AaZ_c872lyTyDBI-S0kJlu1KLQx-jJPbP3Qyk2rEYkFnjeISPh3VJT9sQ/s1600-h/P2180008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VPY0wcpzq5_Cu0i9-XHtn52My6vY2BeofQ41K-F_zPbF7iYCHWyVfboyBgmZHucHA6jS0x9xtC5AaZ_c872lyTyDBI-S0kJlu1KLQx-jJPbP3Qyk2rEYkFnjeISPh3VJT9sQ/s320/P2180008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410753165091234" border="0" /></a>Would you like to try this recipe? Let me know if you like this variation.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-47368938768246153162009-02-16T12:56:00.000-08:002009-02-16T13:47:08.030-08:00Thrift Shop FindsI remember hot summer afternoons in Philippines when I was a child. It was 90 degrees outside on a full blast humidity of 85%. My thick course hair was uncontrollable. I was wearing cotton shirts and shorts with a glass of cold orange powdered Tang. My grandmother was sitting across from me sewing a torn pants. She came back from her island of Marinduque and brought an orange metallic tumbler. It was an antique tumbler from her younger days in circa 1930's. It was the only piece left after a so called friend stole all her dinnerware in 1960's, absent mindedly forgetting one tumbler on the sidebed. It was the only tumbler left, a piece that reminds my grandmother of her youthful days--those days when she could afford fine dinnerware.<br /><br />20 years later in California, I was having a conversation with my mother about antiques. She brought up her family's stolen dinnerware. She mentioned how they were beautiful and grand like no other kind. She expressed her sadness on how they lost a big collection of antique dinnerware, which would probably survive all these years knowing how my grandmother is so meticulous, careful, and cautious with her things.<br /><br />2 years ago, my mother went to Philippines and took with her this beautiful tumbler as a reminder of her younger days and her love for antiques.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh053TRZuuqhqEendKqW3mB8ibDybl8qtzOOgDvos3HxD1vV5JoArXumIFIsiln40XS3QGlAInFZOzQuDEwnv17IYjyvYdzrO_gZxOFbyns6a3JxAJYUW6nlK3GfZxSu7AcT4Bi/s1600-h/P2151065.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh053TRZuuqhqEendKqW3mB8ibDybl8qtzOOgDvos3HxD1vV5JoArXumIFIsiln40XS3QGlAInFZOzQuDEwnv17IYjyvYdzrO_gZxOFbyns6a3JxAJYUW6nlK3GfZxSu7AcT4Bi/s320/P2151065.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303507809961486738" border="0" /></a><blockquote>Do you see why my grandmother and my mother are so in love with this tumbler and their collection of dinnerware? The detail on this glass is exquisite with fine glass etching and extraordinary triple grape leaves handles. The lip of the tumbler has a wave so is the bottom. (I have always wondered how they drank with this cup.) When sunlight hits the tumbler, it reflects a metallic sheen with different colors of the rainbow. This glass is opaque for it has been sitting away from sunlight for 80 years!</blockquote><br /></div><br />2 days ago, I was browsing thrift shops and I was not expecting to find a serving bowl that matches this tumbler. Of course, this tumbler was made in Philippines with a different make and model but the resemblance is present. I bumped into this serving bowl, which I paid for a reasonable price of $30.00.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXmdftUwvf93AS25dlUv0YKjTDbV0TiQ8j4TRyfqKbRsHGz7KfOW32EMal8fFShC3gU4msH9H92O-U7k98jpz7l_1e5GcPE1nSY0Xv8IzNktZSuQ_8aJxxnDaK__tMrZKIDglo/s1600-h/P2151068.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXmdftUwvf93AS25dlUv0YKjTDbV0TiQ8j4TRyfqKbRsHGz7KfOW32EMal8fFShC3gU4msH9H92O-U7k98jpz7l_1e5GcPE1nSY0Xv8IzNktZSuQ_8aJxxnDaK__tMrZKIDglo/s320/P2151068.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303508965447890018" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_WCA72lYdcFSqc_l0EXgAe7Bm-vQEFY9ucTFGnHK_v014PohcCucVVaK633n-QGw0KloOQB6QzgnR7BOEyMKSUaBmupbG1GDS7iM_ntinxP72pJfyYAW_OSPSiELpj2rJtnX/s1600-h/P2151069.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_WCA72lYdcFSqc_l0EXgAe7Bm-vQEFY9ucTFGnHK_v014PohcCucVVaK633n-QGw0KloOQB6QzgnR7BOEyMKSUaBmupbG1GDS7iM_ntinxP72pJfyYAW_OSPSiELpj2rJtnX/s320/P2151069.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303509686732945874" border="0" /></a><br /></div>The color and opacity is definitely similar. However, when I turn the bowl upside down, I could not find the same grape vine design, but I fell in love with it just as my grandmother and my mother fell in love with the orange tumbler. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxdHqcbmEsWM5aDqwfOeyZiYn4lA74JztWMGsKUdlIC5Mn3mLI3NXlAaK_IZeV-4TyAoeNlIrPo6uFNvkcu5oMDygyxoyC827WfWK807knW2-go0iQ7I8Y0NRWR4XgHA8Qnvo/s1600-h/P2151070.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxdHqcbmEsWM5aDqwfOeyZiYn4lA74JztWMGsKUdlIC5Mn3mLI3NXlAaK_IZeV-4TyAoeNlIrPo6uFNvkcu5oMDygyxoyC827WfWK807knW2-go0iQ7I8Y0NRWR4XgHA8Qnvo/s320/P2151070.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303509690243336530" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">To Good Will employees I hope this marked price will come off!</span></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeF-lsXKyBSVetb8v80eMpoRcMgJho1SlEjQb8869cbSzykJ8SIQ8cWHB72-WfTkEXzvutioUSPr_plvrsX5iSjnM-xkNijbEVeZac3uKl5smOv2fJI1-V9ng56PoAx1g1noTs/s1600-h/P2151071.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeF-lsXKyBSVetb8v80eMpoRcMgJho1SlEjQb8869cbSzykJ8SIQ8cWHB72-WfTkEXzvutioUSPr_plvrsX5iSjnM-xkNijbEVeZac3uKl5smOv2fJI1-V9ng56PoAx1g1noTs/s320/P2151071.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303509693896301922" border="0" /></a><br /></div>This is the smaller bowl I found with the same wave pattern or pinched pattern, which I got for $20.00. They are both from the same year circa 1930's. The design has leaves and flowers but not like the tumbler above.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NXpl0mOu04_oUNUzfOWJ7HxMcgErL3TUX4xE-ZdLcQ6tZEn-sRFQ7XrG1NI1sOxurPdiGKXFjNMjQr8mgHNzvpnFXBdJvoQlJMP4FcyMVkRJTOwytatBmSzgJsX0pA3mCa_6/s1600-h/P2151072.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NXpl0mOu04_oUNUzfOWJ7HxMcgErL3TUX4xE-ZdLcQ6tZEn-sRFQ7XrG1NI1sOxurPdiGKXFjNMjQr8mgHNzvpnFXBdJvoQlJMP4FcyMVkRJTOwytatBmSzgJsX0pA3mCa_6/s320/P2151072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303509697123651250" border="0" /></a>Here they are together--an orange collection of the beginning of my antique hunting for 1930's dinnerware. So my collection shall begin. I can see how my grandmother and my mother fell in love with orange dinnerware. It is all about the opacity of the glass, etching and design, metallic glow, and memories that come with it.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-72828418823849747422009-02-16T12:54:00.000-08:002009-02-16T12:56:52.370-08:00Im backHello, anybody out there? So, I have been back from vacation but have been absent from the blogging world. Now, I am all yours, babe.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-81851387310510925612008-12-16T20:52:00.000-08:002008-12-16T20:53:47.187-08:00Enjoy your ChristmasI'll be on vacation. Merry Christmas!!!Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-53478004392384540962008-12-12T13:06:00.000-08:002008-12-12T13:16:04.117-08:00Christmas without candy canes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/PC080003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 399px; height: 530px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/PC080003.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Christmas is here. We have the whole house decorated. Two years ago, we got tired of vacuuming around the pine tree for dry needles, so we bought a fake tree. It looks alright although it lacks the smell of evergreen. So, spray some evergreen oil in the living room to imitate the scent. It won't hurt you. Notice the candy canes on the tree. It has been a tradition since we migrated to U.S. It has been a part of my Christmas. My bros art project makes its way on the tree every year for 13 years now. Whatever you're doing this weekend, enjoy yourself, your family, your Christmas.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-13971823578286521742008-12-10T13:40:00.000-08:002008-12-10T13:47:59.520-08:00December Highs and Lows<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4hjMMxjbPOKGFdt2KiPeKzx46UrlpTJKM7-8rNWSf6v4vqdm4_s8Dzfu3ZSBHhQLh7vBxT6Px7ye_H8S4DRQQDlkF7ZHYtpTSZ3PGg_4S3Q_hOod1SMSiT4pCH-CLQyPSoLwg/s1600-h/PB130865.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4hjMMxjbPOKGFdt2KiPeKzx46UrlpTJKM7-8rNWSf6v4vqdm4_s8Dzfu3ZSBHhQLh7vBxT6Px7ye_H8S4DRQQDlkF7ZHYtpTSZ3PGg_4S3Q_hOod1SMSiT4pCH-CLQyPSoLwg/s320/PB130865.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278279756200258242" border="0" /></a><br />It surely looks a lot like December. The other day the temperature did not even go beyond 45 degrees F with a low of 40 degrees. Only five degrees above from the low, I was wearing three layers of clothes at home with my heater on. Oh, how I wish I live in SoCal right now. But for now, NorCal will do. This is the view from my backyard. Some leaves have fallen. Blue skies are mostly gray. Sometimes, the sun peaks out from the thick clouds.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-59385146624184559632008-12-08T13:03:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:58:36.887-08:00Flaky, Buttery, and Sweet EnsaimadaWhere I live, ensaimada is hard to find unless I step inside Goldilocks bakery or a Filipino store that carries Goldilocks bake products. Bakery ensaimada is like a sponge cake with cheese, butter, and sugar on top, wrap individually in a cellophane with a logo. This is what ensaimada looks like to me. I am familiar with another version of ensaimada, Mulach ensaimada, which my friends brought from Canada. Mulach ensaimada is more tastier, probably more eggs and butter than Goldilocks ensaimada.<br /><br />On a post on traditional ensaimada by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.marketmanila.com/archives/lasang-pinoy-7-ensaimada-part-ii-the-recipe">Marketmanila</a> and an episode from Jose Made in Spain, I pondered upon my recollection of eating original ensaimada if I had any. I remember my mom used to bring me ensaimada as pasalubong (to go food). This ensaimada is like bread but flaky. Ensaimada is well browned on the outside with a hard crust, smothered in margarine, sugar, and cheese.<br /><br />Last week I tried to imitate traditional ensaimada. I am happy with the turn out. I got the taste right. The texture is much flakier than expected due to folding and rolling of the dough and addition of cold butter. This recipe is a combination of ensaimada and croissant. It is buttery but not too airy like croissant. One ensaimada is filling and a good portion for breakfast.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58hxS79zbXaqHZPcvz_oiOhndq0vbOZvNQ4dSOE7aY2wie11U4BQ2_iUg97bWEnuRU4q2JuWWHzY0-2zI-QqMm2LH0NxSddMUZl3_eikEyFFl3zXi9nTQtxfoJXmi8A5kp9mw/s1600-h/PB260909.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58hxS79zbXaqHZPcvz_oiOhndq0vbOZvNQ4dSOE7aY2wie11U4BQ2_iUg97bWEnuRU4q2JuWWHzY0-2zI-QqMm2LH0NxSddMUZl3_eikEyFFl3zXi9nTQtxfoJXmi8A5kp9mw/s320/PB260909.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277542340986801906" border="0" /></a><br />I began proofing the yeast for this recipe the day before I baked it. If I were to time how long to make ensaimada, I would say at least 20 hours. I did not rush the process after all baking is a premeditative method of art. I proofed yeast in 70 degrees F temperature. When I left my kitchen and turned off the heater, I put the oven in warm for a few minutes and continued proofing the dough inside the warm oven. The temperature inside the oven was between 80-90 degrees F. The warmer the temperature the faster the dough rises. Warm is better than cold.<br /><br />About the ingredients, I used whole wheat flour and all purpose flour in this recipe. I have been using whole wheat flour when baking because its healthy and good for the body. Some say to use 7/8 c of whole wheat flour for every cup of all purpose flour. Others say the substitution is 1 is to 1. How much to use and substitute is upon the baker's discretion. The addition of sugar in this recipe leaves the dough with a slight sweet taste but not overpowering other ingredients such as eggs and milk. Also, I used lots of cold butter to produce flaky texture and buttery taste. Cold butter in the oven creates pockets inside the dough that retains its shape as it bakes, creating flaky texture. Lots of butter gives unforgettable rich taste of croissant like bread.<br /><br />Aside from the above credits, I also studied Joy of Cooking. I owe baking techniques from this wonderful book.<br /><br />Here's what I developed:<br /><br />2 1/4 tsp. yeast<br />1/3 c. warm water 100 F<br /><br />Let stand five minutes until yeast has expanded.<br /><br />Add 3/4 c. all purpose flour<br /><br />Let rise for 6 hours at approximately 70-80 degrees F.<br /><br />Add and mix for 5 minutes:<br />1 3/4 c whole wheat flour<br />3 eggs<br />3 tb sugar<br />2 tb milk<br />1 tsp salt<br /><br />When consistency slowly pulls away from the bowl knead for 7 minutes with a dough hook or 15 minutes by hand. ( I kneaded by hand just for the experience.)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY2ThYLe6j7ILTHrJSo_qaT6j_vU62WIzrSYWozrWKDrAXA9YNk_lDdjK_zbHsRtP47lRALyKTFKMfbTuswDL1hxuwN5a3ZXZvxYRnoROyk6wa9UTCFrYE6JVKQe2nlTWpTs5/s1600-h/PB200905.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY2ThYLe6j7ILTHrJSo_qaT6j_vU62WIzrSYWozrWKDrAXA9YNk_lDdjK_zbHsRtP47lRALyKTFKMfbTuswDL1hxuwN5a3ZXZvxYRnoROyk6wa9UTCFrYE6JVKQe2nlTWpTs5/s320/PB200905.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277542300579891810" border="0" /></a>Then transfer to an oiled bowl and let proof for 1-4 hours or until doubled in size.<br />Add 12 tb cold butter in cubes. Remember to use cold butter so ensaimada turns out flaky. Try to retain the shape of cubed butter. Like I mentioned, solid cubed butter produces pockets for flaky crust. So butter would not melt, put in fridge for 6-9 hours. To shape the dough, roll like a log about 20 inches long and 1 inch diameter and into a spiral with spaces in between each turn. Place on greased baking sheet and let rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour and cover with plastic wrap. Make sure room temperature is within 70-80 degrees, you don't want to melt the butter just yet. (picture below taken after 1 hour resting period.) Remove plastic before baking.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXtOFGPlhwNKIVrdCbL67306klfndZGBycst8CaO7Kb7AhJUq9nhhFBFiqmIIGPZYOF9xfaKaAvxJeFMtGJKsufMfXhhOJvHpXgdnyTE-IX2dmx8vAYBd-5-rMOHaXcGFzbZu/s1600-h/PB260906.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXtOFGPlhwNKIVrdCbL67306klfndZGBycst8CaO7Kb7AhJUq9nhhFBFiqmIIGPZYOF9xfaKaAvxJeFMtGJKsufMfXhhOJvHpXgdnyTE-IX2dmx8vAYBd-5-rMOHaXcGFzbZu/s320/PB260906.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277542318593305874" border="0" /></a><br />Bake in preheated 375 degree F oven for 20 minutes.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSL6i1IKSILLzRm5887aK3qOQlgvuIjGQCLuAXa4Z-ajj1s-igqhxW3dMU9y_NNyzgn6sLshN5L3f8-QUAs2h42fT5g3fIUS19vY36vKn1PW1IZxs_S2NXPU-Kux_pYLHLnkUe/s1600-h/PB260907.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSL6i1IKSILLzRm5887aK3qOQlgvuIjGQCLuAXa4Z-ajj1s-igqhxW3dMU9y_NNyzgn6sLshN5L3f8-QUAs2h42fT5g3fIUS19vY36vKn1PW1IZxs_S2NXPU-Kux_pYLHLnkUe/s320/PB260907.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277542326658368594" border="0" /></a>I would say that they were pretty squished in here. I did not realize how much space they needed to rise after I shaped them into spirals. So leave a lot of room for yeast expanding.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnbFNI5rdH8u76RftxOedGdnrP3hTO4EqUwcJL9C5tyyEQZQ0uHc3py-b7XivaOTsdmXCbEmKtmsTxK_80Wbvx_NzZKLqrOmpK-lUUjRpTOeZcVCQhVecMaLFIhRF-IXrO7vf/s1600-h/PB260908.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnbFNI5rdH8u76RftxOedGdnrP3hTO4EqUwcJL9C5tyyEQZQ0uHc3py-b7XivaOTsdmXCbEmKtmsTxK_80Wbvx_NzZKLqrOmpK-lUUjRpTOeZcVCQhVecMaLFIhRF-IXrO7vf/s320/PB260908.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277542328951297618" border="0" /></a>I skipped the cheese only because I feel this recipe is too rich in butter and sugar that I could omit the addition of another dairy. If I were to make this recipe diet friendly, I would reduce the amount of butter into 6 tbsp and add 3 tb veg/olive oil, however compromising the texture of ensaimada but not totally omitting butter. I would not spread butter and sprinkle sugar on top of the baked product. I like this recipe and I think I'll bake it again using low fat recipe.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-10226854878725687502008-12-06T11:39:00.000-08:002008-12-06T12:13:52.994-08:00FalalalalaChristmas is here and its better this year. On Thanksgiving weekend, we put up our Christmas lights, trees, decorations, wreaths, nativity scenes, and almost everything stored in the garage. Thanksgiving week sets off the holiday as I blogged here a few weeks ago. I'm no longer waiting for the Christmas spirit; it is already here. Although in this economy the malls are not as packed as it were a few years ago, there are people shopping for Christmas gifts and decorations nevertheless.<br /><br />I also noticed the commercialization of Christmas on t.v. There are more commercials on toys and video games, ipod, x-box, wii, dolls, toys for toddlers, educational toys. In my observation, commercials on toys and video games are more existent on Saturday mornings when kids watch cartoons. However, I watch toys commercials even on prime time t.v. when adults are watching and kids are in bed. The psychology of commercialization here is toy companies want parents to know that video games, ipod, dolls are available in stores or online. Whatever little Jane wants for Christmas, she can have. Parents don't have to disappoint their kids.<br /><br />My other observation is the collectiveness of families exemplified through x-box games and wii commercials. Have you seen these commercials? Dad and mom are playing video games with their kids. Families are spending time together. What extracurricular activities--like soccer games, choir practices, basketball practices, tutoring, piano lessons, tap dancing--have done in families in the past, isolating each member from each other due to schedule conflicts, x-box and wii are bringing together. What a concept! This is what the church should aim! (More on that on next post)--togetherness of families.<br /><br />Needless to say Christmas is here. It is evident in t.v. commercials, in neighborhoods, in communities, in cities, in America. Despite of economic failure, we are blessed to celebrate Christmas this year. In my opinion, I like Christmas this year; I don't have too much or too little. Christmas is just right!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/PB290954-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 367px; height: 289px;" src="http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h71/genabille/PB290954-2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Happy weekend!Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-86473432752988536712008-12-05T01:23:00.000-08:002008-12-06T12:21:44.806-08:00First Ladies: Imelda and MichelleWhat is this fascination with Michelle Obama's suit for Inauguration Day? Why do we worry about what she would wear instead of concerning how she will be as a first lady? When I saw the headlines on Yahoo! News I just had to read the full story. (<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ynews/20081204/pl_ynews/ynews_pl176_1">Click this to view full story</a>) I became curious. What is her style? What kind of suits does she wear? Where does she get her outfits?<br /><br />I cannot undermine Imelda Marcos reputation as the most lavish first lady ever known. Her collection of shoes is vast, counting to 5400. To sell her shoes could probably solve some road problems in Philippines. Her shoes could probably pay for a new hospital for the poor or could provide educational enrichment for struggling public school system.<br /><br />Moreover, Imelda Marcos did not come from wealthy family. Although she is a descent of Spanish blood, which makes her third generation mestiza, she did not grow up in extravagant lifestyle. When she became the first lady of Philippines, she defined herself as a luxurious high powered individual, who went on shoe shopping spree while her husband reconstructed Philippine government.<br /><br />So I do wonder again. Why do we worry about what first ladies wear on Inauguration Day? Thinking again about Michelle Obama, shouldn't we worry about what she will do when she become first lady or how she will be as a first lady? Shouldn't we wonder how she would define herself when she becomes first lady? As a word of caution, if we keep putting pressure on her to wear fashionable suits, aren't we acting as catalysts to define herself as a fashionista?<br /><br /><br />...just a thought<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3KSb3swtGhrjV6JknPGwETrYGNWK5uTD-JHq6A_QWJ9q2lmbUOD3g6Rlu0G9tpJoogCm7X8najfoKocoewnD_3nlomARmze65OJcPkNW9GYQO8mylNd4U1cIGQpGWZweS0Q3/s1600-h/shoe.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 284px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3KSb3swtGhrjV6JknPGwETrYGNWK5uTD-JHq6A_QWJ9q2lmbUOD3g6Rlu0G9tpJoogCm7X8najfoKocoewnD_3nlomARmze65OJcPkNW9GYQO8mylNd4U1cIGQpGWZweS0Q3/s320/shoe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276774533585138386" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Picture from <a href="http://www.bestwomenstyle.com/2007/07/19/paris-hilton-petro-zillia-princesa-pump-shoes/">bestwomenstyle.com</a></span><br /></div>Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22487483.post-20872893299270042672008-12-04T14:46:00.000-08:002008-12-04T15:05:32.224-08:00Fun Stuff To MakeI have been searching online for fun stuff to do like crafts and arts. I like handmade ornaments posted on <a href="http://www.bhg.com/">Better Homes and Gardens</a>. First one I like is the <a href="http://www.bhg.com/holidays/christmas/ornaments/easy-christmas-ornaments/?page=7">Ribbon Candy Twist Ornaments.</a> I am thinking of using fruit rolls instead of ribbons and marshmallows instead of pearl. After making the ornament, kids or adults have a choice of eating it or hanging it on a tree.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0csqxJNqtTBp3-x6nz4v4zpBGEkAfJ2GC_axeR3R2pR5OE6Gqx8Jy_RwNC4deIfBQBVRRk1BUWrLgj4nMiyS6aSarkVuh647v3aQNRYyKHC7aaMb9DKpyLK7LXF2fsseovIL/s1600-h/ribbon.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0csqxJNqtTBp3-x6nz4v4zpBGEkAfJ2GC_axeR3R2pR5OE6Gqx8Jy_RwNC4deIfBQBVRRk1BUWrLgj4nMiyS6aSarkVuh647v3aQNRYyKHC7aaMb9DKpyLK7LXF2fsseovIL/s200/ribbon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276070782380807410" border="0" /></a>The second I like is <a href="http://www.bhg.com/holidays/christmas/ornaments/easy-christmas-ornaments/?page=1">Poinsettia Ornament.</a> I like the variation of colors on the flower; it starts from dark red to light red and the green contrast pops out. This project can also be done with paper instead of felt, which can be costly if doing as a group project for kids. If done with paper, kids can write their names and date on the back. This can also be laminated to protect paper from tearing. Year after year, they will remember this cute project. Parents can see how much their kids have grown over the years.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8niXhtQQroJvIlcZBXBswqR_cKsNyqijP84T62gapTePxECrIj1REbyf5CSEiTyH4WUB_vDE78YWtB02istC6cUqqoZZ7HUe_DgIO5AttyUbiZr0fArWNJzfiiV35VdWoTfv/s1600-h/poinse.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8niXhtQQroJvIlcZBXBswqR_cKsNyqijP84T62gapTePxECrIj1REbyf5CSEiTyH4WUB_vDE78YWtB02istC6cUqqoZZ7HUe_DgIO5AttyUbiZr0fArWNJzfiiV35VdWoTfv/s200/poinse.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276073685236624658" border="0" /></a><br />Great stuff to do for Christmas. I like doing crafts with kids where they unleash their creativity and fine tune their motor skills using their hands and sharpening their capabilities to make projects.Gen A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04580774237171187472noreply@blogger.com0