TAOTAO TASI

Empanada

2011-09-12T14:26:00.003+10:00

Chamorro style sardine empanada....so pika hot it makes
your mouth salivate just smelling it!

Can you smell it?

Burgers @ Hyatt

2011-08-23T11:03:00.005+10:00

May I take your order?

My Family was in the mood for burgers, so we went to Hyatt and had an angus burger and a mahi burger. This is the Mahi burger:

My husband ordered the Angus burger.

Both my kids ordered the Mahi-burger. Here is my son enjoying it!

I ordered the spaghetti bolongese. It was okay, I just have to say I expected more for Hyatt. This seemed like it came out of my kitchen, so either my cooking has improved or Hyatt has cut back on its taste and flavor of its spaghetti bolongese. For $14 a plate, I would rather order something else.

My niece's boyfriend Jeff was our waiter. Well, not exactly, but we are glad he was there.

I made this last week. It is called apigigi. Apigigi is young coconut grilled in banana leaves. This is delicious! I can just smell it right now!

We had BBQ lemai (Breadfruit). The outside is charred because it was thrown directly on hot flames. This is delicious with some butter and sugar.

Visit to Family, 2011

2011-04-27T14:47:00.004+10:00

I visited my sister, in Salem, Oregon last week. Here are the wonderful photos from that trip.

HI

2010-10-25T10:40:00.002+10:00

Hafa Adai my friends. It has been a while since I updated my blog. Life's been busy. Raising two teenagers is a task enough, let along the daily hustle and bustle that life throws at you. My baby girl turns 11years old tomorrow, and I do not know yet what kind of cake I am going to bake for her.

Okay, gotta go, but I will update the blog and add photo's soon.

2009-11-17T10:12:00.002+10:00

Hafa Adai Bloggers!!
I have not ignored my blog, I just have not had much time to update it! I wish there was a mobile blog site to which I can upload photos, similar to what I do on facebook. Anyway, all is well here on Saipan, except that the political arena is getting hotter than ever! so intense...

In my world of food, I made banana cake last night, along with some fried banana's (madoya). I have baked, but sort of cut down on baking these past few weeks, but now that my housekeeper is back, I plan on getting back to my daily baking routines, since I don't have to wash the dishes.. :)

Okay, I will update this blog again soon. Stay safe everyone!

2009-11-10T10:36:00.000+10:00

Happy Cultural Heritage Day

2009-10-12T13:00:00.002+10:00

The CNMI celebrates Cultural Heritage Day today, October 12, 2009 while the rest of the world celebrate Columbus day. Go figure.

I am at home, with the kids and hubby. I made pot roast this morning and served it for lunch (simmered for like 6 hours, so it was nice and tender). I am making my first attempt at a italian dessert called penna cotta. In fact, one of the reasons why I like to go to Giovanni's at the Hyatt is for this dessert. It is so delicate but yet delicious. I cant wait to see how it turns out. Now, two things could happen when you make a delicious dessert that your family and friends like
1) your friends and family will continue to ask you to make the dessert
2) you will go broke continually buying ingredients... go figure..

LOL

Anyway, I will post more later. Take care CNMI and to my fellow bloggers!

Fresh Baked sweet bread

2009-08-10T13:20:00.004+10:00

Thanks to my good friend Donna and the recipe she gave me, I made sweet bread AGAIN last night, it is just so heartwarming to smell freshly baked bread, baking at your house, the aromatic smell is better than any spray bottle you can buy!!! LOL..

On Saturday, I made a toffee bar, oh my goodness, this is also insanely delicious.... topped with walnuts, almonds and pecans, this was also quite on the expensive side, but I think well worth it!!

Then it was chocolate cake. We were doing some work around the house and I felt that the workers helping me needed a great big chocolate cake to boost their energy, and they were so thrilled!

Okay, for the finale, I made KAHLUA PIE last night. My husband was all over this pie, oh my goodness!!! It is a cream pie and homemade cookie crusts. I wish I made more as I had to ration my sister when she came over last night!! I will make more next time, it is just that all my baking ingredients are taking a toll on my baking budget, or my budget for that matter!

2009-08-04T14:18:00.000+10:00

Sunday BBQ

2009-07-27T16:32:00.005+10:00

I JUST LOVE MY FAMILY... I love how everyone always gathers at the farm on Sundays!

The best part, FOOD! There is always more than enough barbecue for everyone.

Good food, good company, what more can I ask for... LOL

GRAB A PLATE AND FORK AND DIG IN... enjoy!

BBQ Pork ribs

mmm' mmm good..

ham

Shrimp tempura (chamorro style) they are like shrimp fritters with mixed vegetable, fried till brown and crispy.. YUMMY

Chicken Aroscaldo (similar to rice porridge, but tastier!)

Burgers, farm style..LOL

AND YOUNG COCONUT... I AM ALWAYS EXTRA HAPPY WHEN THERE IS YOUNG COCONUT TO DRINK AND EAT AFTER....

Cream cake with fruit topping

2009-07-27T16:24:00.002+10:00

Homemade cake topped with fresh cream and berries.... it was delicious....

All Berried out...

2009-07-27T16:09:00.004+10:00

All berried out.....

I am so glad that a new store on island has brought in fresh fruits at a reasonable price. Well, either the strawberries are reasonably priced, or it is just in season in the mainland therefore the prices have dropped. A quart of strawberries could cost you about $9.00 US DOLLARS. I refuse to pay so much! I did but fresh strawberries, blueberries and cherries (Quart and pint sizes for under $25.00 still pricier than the mainland, but about half the price on other markets on island!) So what does a girl do with all these fruits? PARFAIT...

Fish, cookies and coconuts!!

2009-07-27T10:41:00.003+10:00

My nephew went fishing on Saturday, and he caught a bluebanded surgeonfish, which is my favorite! Scientific name is Acanthurus lineatus locally called hiyok!! ("y" is pronounced as a "z")

This nice Japanese lady (one of my mom's customers at her marine sports counter) offered me a Japanese cookie....it was delicious!

And coconuts....... we had the guys grab some coconuts from the coconut trees!!

Wednesday Night Baking part III

2009-07-23T09:02:00.003+10:00

Okay, this is the last installment of my "Wednesday Night Baking"
I made "sweet bread" the recipe came from my friend Donna! Thanks Donna! The bread was indeed soft and oh my goodness, I think just the aroma of bread baking in your oven was so sweet, it was therapeautical. Donna's recipes are always fullproof and I cant wait to get more of her recipes, (hint, hint, hint Donna!!) I love baking!!!

Waiting for the dough to rise...

mmm-mmm-good.. fresh baked bread!

Wednesday Night Baking part II

2009-07-23T08:57:00.003+10:00

Here is my part II of what I made last night....

I was busy, as the cake was baking (see Wednesday Night baking below), I made a batch of cookies and a batch of chamorro style "rosketi" they are a drier version of shortbread...

This batch was special, and was made for my hubby... as he was working the next day. Since he works on the boat all day (he is a USCGS Marine Merchant/technical word for US Coast Guard Boat captain...LOL) I send him to work with a quart size ziplock bag full of goodies, for his snacking pleasure.... winkz!

Wednesday Night Baking.....

2009-07-23T08:43:00.004+10:00

I don't know what it was, but I was in the mood for some baking again last night (yeah, when am I not in the mood?) The wierd thing is my hubby was also waiting, for the cake and bread to be done. I made this delicious cake last night, it has pecans and coconut and is so moist it is sinfully delicious. This is what I will bring on the next party I go to... I am so excited! My sister Bobbie gave me the recipe, I am so glad she found it!

You can see how moist the cake was, it was so delicious!!!

Thank you "SIS" for this wonderful cake recipe...

Cookies, Cookies, and more cookies

2009-07-21T09:51:00.004+10:00

My famous "male" chocoloate chip cookie (male cookie=has nuts!!LMAO)female cookies - no nuts.. lol
all wrapped up and look peeerrrrtttyyy ! I stopped bringing cookies on platters/cookie baskets or trays because there are so many flies for afternoon gatherings. I have started wrapping them individually, they look cute and are delicious too...

Chocolate-white chips cookie, yes with nuts

My aunt sent me another 50lbs of chocolates, white chocolate, semisweet chocolate, milk chocolate, cream cheese, marscapone cheese, colby jack cheese, cheddar cheese, you name it!! I was happy with the packages and started baking right away....

Managaha

2009-07-20T10:02:00.004+10:00

San Pedro Fiesta, June 2009

2009-07-20T09:46:00.003+10:00

2009-07-20T09:35:00.003+10:00

It has been raining silly on Saipan, raining so much it is unbelievable.
So, the perfect dinner on a rainy night is a bowl of noodles and some delicious broth.

Cinnamon rolls anyone?

2009-06-29T09:58:00.003+10:00

Oh my goodness, my house smelled SO good when these were baking in the oven....
Even my neighbors came by to visit...ha ha ha.. returning something that has been borrowed for so long, I forgot we actually owned it..LOL

CINNAMON ROLLS ANYONE?!

I can just smell the sweet aroma just looking at the photos, hope you can smell it too!!

Lunch for the week..

2009-06-18T15:31:00.001+10:00

ENJOY!!

Bulalo

2009-06-17T09:18:00.002+10:00

This is called 'bulalo soup in filipino,

or katdun' tolang in chamorro.

It is insanely delicious, and the marrow in the center is the best part! I saw Mario Batilo (spelled correctly?) cook this on one of the Iron chef competitions (the ingredient was rice). It looked so delicious. Plus we have had rain, rain and more rain on our small island, and my facebook friends have recommended this for dinner... YUMMY!!

Dinner with my hubby

2009-06-13T16:19:00.002+10:00

My son was at Grandma's and my daughter spent the night at my Uncle's house...

so...my hubby and I went out to dinner...ALONE.. it was nice...

We had seafood spaghetti at Cappriciossa... I love that place ~!

I especially love their pumpkin pie, but unfortunately, my pie last night was not as tasty as expected, the crust was soggy and the pie was so small and thin, it was not worth $6.00

MHS Graduates

2009-06-11T19:03:00.003+10:00

My cousin, Kalani giving her graduation speech!

My niece, Esperlyn... CONGRATS girl!

My niece, Anferlyn.... CONGRAT's girl!!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Aeh... everyone got new sandals.....LMAO.. I could not resist...

Lunch

2009-06-11T18:59:00.002+10:00

We had lunch at Coral Ocean Point, it was okay, since I wasn't paying. If it were my choice, I would spend $2 more and go to an all you can eat buffet like PIC or even Grand's AOI.

But the company is good, so the food was good.

Kagman High School~~ Graduate

2009-06-11T18:52:00.003+10:00

The other day, we celebrated my cousin Christine's graduation.... Congrat's Grad..

It was also my grandma's 75th birthday? 70+something....

2009-06-08T15:19:00.002+10:00

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPS....

I do not know how to make donuts, or doughnuts! So I do not have a recipe to share.

I do however know how to make beignets, which is similar in texture and taste.

At any rate, it was raining this morning, and nothing like some good 'ole Galaxy donuts to go with my cup of coffee.... it was delicious!

Oh my gosh, I need to get to the gym.....LOL

Do you spring roll?

2009-06-03T16:53:00.001+10:00

Sunday

2009-06-03T16:37:00.003+10:00

Sorry guys, it has been busy at work. Here are some photos from Sunday at the farm. We stayed till past midnight, it was a great fun filled laughter evening.

2009-06-02T09:38:00.000+10:00

Shrimp sashimi

2009-06-02T09:36:00.001+10:00

I do not know what they call this small fresh baby shrimp (imported from Japan)....

It is so delicious with some soy sauce and wasabi.

I miss Krispy Kreme

2009-05-29T22:25:00.002+10:00

Oh my, watching food network, and they are talking about Krispy Kreme... yikes, haven't had one in years!!!

Do you Biscotti?

2009-05-27T14:49:00.004+10:00

I made chocolate almond biscotti the other day.... DELICIOUS

2009-05-22T08:31:00.001+10:00

Fast break Rum Cake...., and fast break oatmeal choco chip cookie!! I say fast break because I woke up late this morning and then had to whip something up real quick. I did not pay too much attention to the plating! Anyway, enjoy!

Do you cream puff?

2009-05-20T17:04:00.003+10:00

I made these delicious cream puffs,
and oh my what a treat!

I made cream' de patisierre' but I guess I always like my cream puffs with some chocolate pudding!! it just adds that dose of chocolate, and for me, I gotta have my chocs...

Okay, now that I have you droolin' over cream puffs.. I have to distract you and post a photo of my son Me'Mong's catch from Sunday. I have been so busy at work, I just have a ton of photos that need to be uploaded but just dont find the time, I am too tired when I get home!
YEEHAH.. for e'e' season...and yes, he caught alot on that day. He gave some to my grandma, and then the rest, he gave to the beer drinkers in the familia, for their chesa...

taste of the Marianas

2009-05-18T12:11:00.002+10:00

Roast pig.... island style.....

Taste of the Marianas, Saturday, May 09

Baby sitting...

2009-05-18T12:05:00.002+10:00

My daughter and I enjoyed Baby sitting on Sunday!

He is the happiest boy ever! He is always smiling and giggling, and such an angel to baby sit!

We can't wait to take him again next Saturday......

SASHIMI

2009-05-13T10:16:00.003+10:00

My brother went trolling yesterday, and we got to eat some FRESH sashimi last night! YUMMY!
Grab your finadeni and dig in....

Monday's baking

2009-05-13T09:55:00.003+10:00

I made five platters of desserts to bring to a cousin's SURPRISE birthday party on Monday!

Lemon poppy seed loaf...x 3

ANGEL CAKE...x2

BLACK TIE Cupcakes (creamcheese in center)

Mother's Day at the farm...

2009-05-12T09:45:00.008+10:00

Mother's Day 2009

4 GENERATIONS...

Mother's Day at the farm....

Lanchera style....
My mom's brothers..
COFFEE from Japan
ICED COFFEE...Yummy...

My mom was playing with her rice~ she made a rice lady below..

My hubby giving my grandma a mother's day kiss..

Then, my cousin did the same...

2009-05-12T09:29:00.004+10:00

My son, Me'Mong throwing his cast net. Cast Net's or locally called Talaya, are regulated here, they must be registered. So, yes, My son has a license. He is only 13 but he pretty much thought himself how to throw the net. The fish caught are called e'e and you know it is e'e time when the termites are out.......

Boat Ride..

taste of the Marianas

2009-05-12T09:15:00.003+10:00

Taste of the Marianas

2009-05-12T08:43:00.004+10:00

May is CNMI Tourism Month...

It is also Mes' Manamko (Senior Citizen month)

Every Saturday in May, the local Visitor's Authority spearheads a food festival..

Good Food, Good Entertainment, GREAT PRICES..

My cousin Kalani, and her boyfriend Mark...

Anytime you have good food and beer, you get SMILES

See... I told you so..

Me and my hubby

Saturdays are for Baking..Part 2

2009-05-12T08:00:00.006+10:00

When I started baking, I always used box. However, I have transitioned into making all my cakes, cookies, cupcakes, pies (even pie crusts), breads, etc from scratch. BUT, when I heard that a local wholesale company was selling cake mixes at 70% off (Near date expiration, like 60 days from now) I bought several cases. I knew that I would bake all of those in about two weeks time, so I went and bought them. I was pretty glad I did, because not only did I bring a ton of sweets to the many parties this weekend, I also gave every neighbor on the block a tray of goodies... and did not brake the bank!!!

My daughter, Kiki

My niece, Akari

The girls made the cookies, and I made the rest...
We had a great time...

Korean Beef Soup

2009-05-12T07:50:00.003+10:00

Spicy and Hot, Hot and Spicy.. YUM!!

2009-05-08T11:05:00.003+10:00

CONQUER my fear of heights!!

Flying at an altititude of 700feet, with NO doors on a heli.....oh my!

I did manage to get some nice areal photos of Managaha, a Marine Conservation Area (Sanctuary) NO FISHING ALLOWED!

We went around the island so I can take necessary photos, the crew in the back, well they are actually GUNNERS for USFWS and the local USFWS, all in the name of ERADICATION!
This heli jumpsuit gave me like 10 extra pounds....

(sure, sure, sure, with all the baking, I am just blaming it on the suit! HE HE HE)

Last Night

2009-05-07T08:22:00.002+10:00

Do you Roll?

2009-05-06T12:19:00.003+10:00

Chocoloate Roll.
Homemade, from scratch! No flour, just eggs, cocoa powder, butter and sugar!

And the best part, some fresh whipped cream... YUMMY

Saturday Life

2009-05-06T11:59:00.006+10:00

Sand Art anyone?

My son
My son (left) and my nephew (right)

My daughter (driver), & my nephew

It's PLAYTIME........

Do you Fruit?

2009-05-06T11:49:00.002+10:00

Fruits Galore!
Local mango, watermelon, atis, banana's,

it is all in season....... YUMMY!

Do you BBQ stick?

2009-05-06T09:55:00.001+10:00

House for Rent

2009-05-06T09:53:00.001+10:00

Do you know anyone looking for a 3 bedroom house for rent? The master bath has a jacuzzi.

email me at: marianneteregeyo@gmail.com for more photos.

Monday Night Dinner

2009-05-05T11:08:00.004+10:00

Yesterday, we went attended the "First Monday" mass at the Chalan Kanoa Cemetary, in honor of my beloved father. We also celebrated the 1st death anniversary of our beloved family friend +Grande Nonan. Grande was killed last year by an alleged drunk driver. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go to Grande and his family. After the cemetary mass, we went to dinner at Mistue' Restaurant. I like the japanese noodles they have, because they are delcious and good on the wallet. I always order the Zaru soba, or cold noodles. YUMM-O. Look on for more:

My baby....
My mom...

Uncle Bill, he just got back on island last Sunday!!

My brother Lawrence and his wife Evelyn

My hubby and our baby...

The rest of the crew...

Saturdays are for Baking!

2009-05-04T09:12:00.008+10:00

RE-bake, part II...

Sunday's are also for baking...

(too many parties this weekend, seems like my oven was constantly on when I was home....)

Family Times.........

2009-05-04T09:00:00.000+10:00

FOOD, FOOD, and more FOOD!

We had a gathering at my Uncle's house last Saturday May 02, 2009.
The food is always delicious..... so grab your plate and fork and come dig in!

BBQ ribs..YUMMY
BBQ Chicken, double yummy!
island style "katdun pika"
Crabmeat salad
papaya salad
All smiles after a plateful of goodies...
my grandma

Uncle Leo picking spme breadfruit....

Party coordinator, Uncle Jack

Auntie Gloria, and Auntie Arlene CAT FIGHT....

PEACE time...

Friday Night's Dinner

2009-05-04T08:56:00.001+10:00

2009-05-04T08:08:00.001+10:00

Friday's Lunch

2009-05-04T07:57:00.004+10:00

Friday's lunch...

We went to the Fiesta Resort's Chambre bar, but it was packed, so we ended up walking across the street to the Japanese Restaurant. since I did not really like the texture of the rice, I will not name the restaurant. (I am pretty picky with my rice, I do not like it too wet and I do not like it too dry either, in between is just perfect for me... But the texture on this rice was not to my liking, I only ate half of the roll below). BUT, the food in general was good.

FRIDAY

2009-05-01T08:32:00.001+10:00

Photo of the day:

Rossette

2009-04-30T07:58:00.002+10:00

Do you like Rosette(s)?

Hi! I made Rosette's this morning!

They are a mouthful of JOY!

Who could resist some deep fried batter, then sprinkled with some cinnamon and sugar?

Chocolate Jelly Roll and Beignets

2009-04-29T11:29:00.002+10:00

Last night, I made chocolate jelly roll....oh so delicious!

I still do not have my camera, but I will get one this week, I promise. Anyway, here is a photo I took off of the internet of the chocolate jelly roll. Unfortunately, my jelly roll looked more like photo # 2 below.

My daughter said it was too creamy, but my sister said it was delicious!!! ofcourse I thought it was delicious...

This morning, I made beignets, again, what I made looked more like photo #2, but they were sprinkled with powdered sugar.......yumm-o!

Fiesta time...

2009-04-27T09:15:00.002+10:00

San Vicente Ferrer Fiesta was this past Saturday, April 25. My family always donates tuna and mahi, sometimes it is turned into fishballs (similar to meatballs but fish instead) and sometimes they donate pacific blue marlin for sashimi. Depending on what my brother, my husband and my cousin catch. Anyway, this year, we also had the help of some fishermen who caught 150 lbs of reef fish...

Check out the photos:

We also always do the 'atkus' / arch. It is where the fiesta procession will pass.

I thought I had a photo of San Vicente Ferrer, but I guess I did not

My son was busy drawing... suprising because he is usually out and about..

Eskabeche

and more eskabeche

2009-04-22T08:02:00.002+10:00

TODAY is EARTH DAY
Everyday should be earthday......
Do your part!

2009-04-21T08:52:00.003+10:00

I have been busy baking last week for my aunt's novena in honor of patron saint San Vicente Ferrer. I always enjoy baking, but ofcourse, I am still bummed that I cant take photo's. If only my sony mavica can upload the photo(s) that would be great! Hint hint, anyone know how?

Anyway, the church of San Vicente

San Vicente Ferrer Fiesta is this weekend,

Saturday, April 25, 2009

3:00 pm, San Vicente Church

everyone is invited..

2009-04-13T12:08:00.002+10:00

What makes me happy........
1) Family
2) SALE prices this past weekend.....
3) Work
4) Sunday brunch
5) no more power outages
6) solar lights
7) accrued annual leave

What makes me sad...........
1) no camera yet!!
2) mortgages and student loans.. LOL

This past weekend, we celebrated Easter Sunday at the farm. My mom's side of the family planned a gathering at the beach, but in the end, it was difficult to transport all the tables, the barbecue grills, the kids and the chow to the beach. Plus, we knew that the beach would be super crowded as it was also payday weekend for government employees. We brought 8 dozens of eggs (hard boil and plastic) and had three kids hunt for eggs. My daughter was the eldest of the three, and she probably enjoyed it most.

I have my eye on this really nice camera at sherwood, it costs about $699, I am hesitatant to buy anything else because I am saving up for that camera.

University of Guam is supposed to be on island giving presentations on FA and other UOG benefits to students. I want to finish up my master(s) degree, never really planned on attending UOG, but since it is so close by to Saipan, I just "might". MIGHT! is the keyword, we will see what happens. You see, in a small island, and most especially a political island, degree(s) do not really matter. I have three degree(s) and I am making less than what I used to make when I only had my Ph.D (Plain High-school Diploma) LOL.. politics.... gotta love it!!!!

Here is a special message to my family in Oregon~~~ I miss you all~~~~

Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T09:41:00.002+10:00

HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY TO YOU ALL....

Now that we have been renewed, let us find peace throughout the year.

Take care of your family and friends, and bake them up a really good treat today...

2009-04-08T20:42:00.000+10:00

Thursday, April 09, 2009 is

HOLY Thursday

Sam Choy's

2009-04-08T20:38:00.003+10:00

While in Guam, I enjoyed all the delicious food that the restaurant(s) serve up. Outback, TGI Friday's, Chilli's, Ruby Tuesday's... yumm-o! Here are some photos of Guam. Ofcourse, I do not have a camera yet........... if you remember a previous post, an aunt of mine was going to send me a camera,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, hopefully that happens soon.............. he he he.. just kidding. I will survive!

Photo from: http://www.samchoy.com/restaurants_guam.html

Ecosystem Approach

2009-04-08T20:29:00.002+10:00

Sorry for the delay in posting, work has been quite busy. Actually, so has my oven! This past week, I went to Guam for a ecosystem approach meeting. It was nice to meet with our counter parts throughout the rest of the Pacific Region.

13 Years

2009-03-28T11:25:00.001+10:00

Our oldest son (only son) turns "13" today! WOW! What a milestone, he is now officially in the "teen zone". It comes with all the famous "teenage" attitudes too. Today, he wanted a small barbecue for him and two other friends, plus he wants to take them along on jet ski rides and possibly banana boat rides. I made some red rice, and will be barbecuing some short ribs for them today. Wow, our boy is 13! I can't believe it, I am so old. Ofcourse my husband says and feels he is not getting older, but reality hits today...... Our daughter is now 9 and will be ten in October, wow, we ARE getting old.

2009-03-26T18:54:00.002+10:00

Good Luck to all the Marriage Encounter Participants at the Saipan Grand Hotel this weekend!
My husband and I were encountered last spring, and I tell you, it was a truly wonderful experience. Since then, I have been trying to recruit family members to go, but the funniest thing they say is that their marriage is strong! Always one of the most wrong impressions people could respond to. The encounter allows couple to grow together, and all I can say is it is enriching for a married couple.

Hmm.. other events this weekend,

Red Cross Walkathon... anyone want to pledge?

Oh yeah, and the biggest event so far,

MY SON is turning 13 on Saturday!
Holy Cow----where did the time go?

13 "teen" know it all years......

been there, done that...

COOKIES

2009-03-12T10:56:00.002+10:00

Cookies!

I made cookies yesterday,

and they were all for Ray

I made cookies last night,

and they dissappeared out of sight

I made cookies this morning

now it is getting boring,

I want to make cream pies,

banana cream pie, chocolate pies, OH MY!

I want to take a vacation

but have no destination

I want to pay off my student loans

and perhaps get a new cell phone

I want to make cookies tonight

oh what would it be?

chocolate chips or cherry jubillee

snickerdoodles or peanuty

what would it be?

I want to make cookies tonight

2009-03-09T09:39:00.002+10:00

Sunday, March 08 was my dad's birthday.

I say "was" because my dad passed away in 2007.

It is also the First Year Anniversary of the unveiling of his monument at the Grotto.

We spent a whole day, barbecuing and just having a wonderful picnic at the Grotto.

I don't have photos myself, but I'll ask for some from family members that did take photos... hint, hint hint. :)

I also made some banana cake (4 trays), 1 better than sex cake (who ever named this cake is seriously lacking excitement behind those doors..LOL!), and 2 rum cakes. My poor rum cakes, my sister had an eye on them, she attempted to stash one of the cakes for herself.. LOL.. (yeah my rum cakes are that gooooooooooddddd!!!LOL) I promised to make one for her lastnight, and I did. I delivered a beautiful rosette style rum cake to her last night!

Happy Belated Birthday Dad, we love you and miss you so much!!!

Weekend

2009-03-09T09:27:00.003+10:00

BAKING.......BAKING.......and more BAKING,

but no camera to show off all the goodies I made this weekend.

Now, speaking about GOODIES....... THIS I WANT TO TRY....

Hi all my friends and familia in the mainland, Can you please send me a pack of these?

he he he..

2009-03-05T07:50:00.002+10:00

"Reverse Chocolate Chip Cookies"

I made reverse chocolate chip cookies. I got the picture and the recipe from http://www.recipezaar.com/Reverse-Chocolate-Chip-Cookies-153701

It is so delicious. I have about 6 more bags of white chocolate chips,

so I am using them sparingly.

On the workfront, busier and crazier than ever!

Several arrest have been made, several grant comments and reports are due, and oh my I need to have a staff meeting, the last one we had has been over a month!

I need to go out and refill all my vending machines these weekend,

but on top of that I also need to bake...bake...bake..... what can I say. I still do not have a camera to take photos of my wonderful creations, but soon, hopefully sooner than later.

Take care all! Come back again!

2009-03-02T16:28:00.003+10:00

This weekend, I went to the farm and enjoyed some good barbecue lunch at my aunt/uncle's farm, almost all of my mom's brothers were there and their families, so it was nice to sit down, and enjoy some island cooking with family...... I am up for that!! lol I brought my vitamix blender and my kitchen aid so that I can make some cappucino shakes, and some pearl shakes for me' familia.. the kitchen aid was so that I can make fresh whipped cream... trust me, I had to whip it myself because not only did it taste better than store bought, it was definately alot cheaper to make whip cream for 30 shakes than to purchase whipped cream from the stores.!

I also went to my sister Tina's house last night for another barbecue. I brought some fresh baked chocolate chip cookies, and it was a hit, perhaps because it was was still piping hot. I live within 5 minutes from my sister Tina's house, therefore I just grabbed the cookie tray from the oven and went straight to her place. I also wanted to show off my new non-stick cooking mat.

GOOD NEWS!!!! I got the long awaited item from ebay. I will take photos (whenever I actually have a camera) and then show you all. It is a ronco pasta maker, actually and honestly, this is my third pasta maker that I have purchased. I lost the parts to both other pasta makers, long story, but I know that I will definately guard all the parts for this new one, this time. HELLO FRESH PASTA.... I actually use it for making homemade local pastries, like guzuria and rosketi.

Today, I went to lunch with my hubby at AOI at the Grand Hotel, delicious! They have a new texmex treat and it is yummy...always a plus.. PLUS I like how the waiters greet you with a strong "HAFA ADAI" instead of the arashia-mase' which is a Japanese greeting for welcome. I think we need to start reviving our local words for welcome, hi, how are you, etc..

so, in short "HAFA ADAI"

Well, today is the first Monday of the month, so I am going to mass at the cemetary tonight. Also, just incase you did not know, my uncle, Father Jesse is offering 11:45am mass (lunchtime mass) at San Jose church every weekday, this is for lent season only.

Oh, and another good food place, I have tried the "eat fresh/healthy lunch" promo at Fiesta hotel, for $5.99 it is worth the price, but you have to like veggies. I also frequent that place for lunch almost daily.

OKAY GOTTA GO, enjoy the day.

2009-02-25T16:05:00.002+10:00

Today is Ash Wednesday. I totally forgot about it, therefore we did not go to mass this morning. We will go this evening though. Ash Wednesday is the first day of lent, and catholics attend mass so the ashes can be administered to them. It also means this is the first day of fasting, for us catholics. Therefore, no meat for tonight, and no meat every Friday.

Gotta go, see you at mass tonight, if you are going!

Ola..Ola..and more Ola

2009-02-24T11:05:00.002+10:00

I was hoping to make some homemade reeses candie last night. You know the kind with chocolate and peanut butter in between. I found this super delicious and easy recipe online, "BUT" as you guessed it, we did not get home till about 10pm. After going to the store to buy some meats (I hate how the meats are packaged here on island, I miss the big selection of Angus certified meats in the mainland) and then eating dinner at a Chinese place, we got home LATE.

Oh well, it is in the plans for tonight. I already can taste it.... yumm-o!

So, in the life of a working mom, all is going well. Seems like everyday there is a bill that needs to be paid! When will it be over? LOL........ work has been going okay, busy but not dead busy... *wink ;) * perhaps I may jinx it and then it become super busy again in the next hour. Actually I do have a ton of stuff to do, work never ends around here, but then again, that is why it is called WORK.. LOL

In the homefront, I can't wait for Thursday night dinner. Thursday's are a special treat for us now as we will have dinner at my grandma's. It is always nice to sit down with your extended family over some delicous island food. That's me, I love being around my family. Whenever I get a phone call about a gathering, I am there. It is nice growing up in a small island and being able to just share alot of moments with your extended family.

My hubby has not had a day off in like 1 month straight, so I gave him strict instructions to make sure he takes the day off this Sunday.... I want to go to BRUNCH with him and our kids. Hopefully my mom will come along, but that will certainly depend.

What makes me happy:
1) My family...
2) My appeal with the Labor department to continue employing my maintenance staff was upheld and the denial oveturned..WOOHOO
3) I have 45 lbs of chocolate chips at home.......... who wouldn't be happy about that?! LOL
4) I will make reeses peanut butter cups at home tonight, I am stoked!

What makes me sad:
1) The item I ordered from ebay on Jan 11 still has not arrived..... :(
2) I am still broke.......... two mortgages, what was I thinking?
3) Still no camera........

2009-02-22T20:12:00.003+10:00

I got my box of chocolates!!!!!! My auntie Bernie from Guam really wasn't kidding when she said she would send me some chocolates! I have a whole box full of chocolate chips. 40 packages total of chocolate chips, plus 10 packages of the kisses for baking, and 10 packs of cream cheese....... Guess what I did with the chocolate chips???? The first thing I did was to make a reverse chocolate chip cookie, and my hubby loved it!!!! You see, everytime I go to Joeten, I stare at the white chocolate chip and then just dont buy it. It costs $7.95 for a small bag (which probably will net me about 2 cups of white chocolate chips) that is an insane amount for chocolate chips!!!

So, baking is what I did today, and baking is what I will do tomorrow! I love this therapy!! I am so glad my husband does not complain about the CUC bill that he ends up paying, I know he sure loves eating all the delicous treats my daughter and I create for him.......... :)

So, this ends our weekend, and tomorrow begins another work week :( I sure do wish it was a holiday tomorrow, so I can bake some more..!!

Thanks Auntie Bernie from Guam for all the chocolate you sent!!! YOU ROCK!

Saturday

2009-02-21T11:54:00.005+10:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you just want to hang out and stick to your family like GLUE?? LOL.. well' it is one of those days for me! We call it "bomb" instead of "bond"! Wierd huh? So, I call my sister and say to her, hey do you want to BOMB today? LOL sounds like I am inviting her to a race of #2, at the toilet bowl.......... eeeeuuuuuwwww.. Just kidding.

Anyway, I am on my way out to pick her up, nothing really planned, but I was thinking of a trip to Santa Lourdes and perhaps JOETEN... No other options here really, I need to drive down to Joeten and get cream.. there are not that many stores that have cream on island, so instead of getting down every other store to check for cream, I just drive all the way down and get the cream that I need........ the cream will be for making homemade ice cream tonight...... I mention ice cream to my sister and then she says she wants ice cream at Scoops.....I told her okay, I will bring her to scoops, but I will get my ice cream at Big Dipper... I like to support local and the wife of Big Dipper is LOCAL, plus they support me because they have my vending machines in there.... Anyway, till next blog..

YEAY........ It's Friday!!!

2009-02-20T11:38:00.003+10:00

Woohoo......... It is Friday!

What makes me happy:
1) I am getting over my flu
2) My Auntie will be sending me 50lbs of chocolate chips (white chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, bittersweet chocolate chips, peanut butter chocolate chips) plus some cream cheese and other baking goodies early tomorrow morning! I am stoked. Get Ready, Get Set, Bake!
3) I have been seing an increase of tourists walking around the Garapan district area. YEAY!
4) And ALWAYS HAPPY about my Familia... I love them!

What makes me sad:
1) 1 item I bought from ebay last month has not arrived!
2) I don't have a camera
3) Rain and wind these past few weeks, come on Sun, where are you?
4) Austerity holidays in the news again.
5) Power Outages in Kagman are becomming more frequent

Okay, that's it for now.......... ENJOY the WEEKEND.

Tonight, Father Jesse is having a movie night at the San Jose Social hall. It is free and everyone is invited, it will be a catholic movie, and refreshments will be sold. I have made some cupcakes and cookies but I will be making beignets just before movie time so that it would be piping hot and fresh too......

2009-02-18T09:32:00.002+10:00

My aunt said she will give me her camera, woohoo! Soon as I receive it in the mail, I will post some photos!

I have been busy baking. This morning I made a "chamorro cake", with raisins. I got the recipe from another auntie of mine. I left it in the oven this morning, I can't wait t try it when we get home tonight. I did notice that the recipe called for 3 sticks of butter and 2 cups of sugar, I was suprised because it was alot of butter and alot of sugar!!!!!!!! But, let's see if it is worth every bite!!

My daughter has been sick, and I caught the flu bug that she has. I did not bake this entire three day (President's Day) weekend. I have tons of ingredients that I can use to whip up almost any recipe, but I was so sick like a dead dog this past Sat, Sun and Mon that I just laid in bed.

I still don't feel to good, but I am working today.

UPDATES

2009-02-08T16:35:00.002+10:00

Hafa Adai.... In the past few weeks (or perhaps months) I have been so busy both at work and home. Several weeks ago we prayed the rosary and went to mass for nine days straight, all to honor my beloved father on his second year of untimely passing. I have been busy bringing some delicous treats to the rosary such as cookies, cakes and beignets... I think beignets are my new favorite thing to cook, you see I go through this phase. This past Christmas I was so into baking "geyo tarts" they are so delicous but also quite costly.

I am also super busy at work, come to think of it, I just cant remember when I am not as busy. End of year reports, confiscations, arrests, etc, oh my...

Home, I am thinking of moving out of our Kagman home and moving back to our San Vicente house. My tennant will be moving out in April, so I need to convince my husband that moving would be the right thing for us now, especially since it will be so close to my grandma's house.

On the homefront I have been busy baking, baking and more baking. Have not really cooked at home as there are so many family gatherings I hardly cook dinner anymore. In fact, today is a bit rewarding because we ate breakfast and lunch at home...woohoo

Well, this is just a bit of an update, still do not have a camera....

HAFA ADAI

2009-01-20T08:24:00.004+10:00

Hi Everyone!!! I am still here... I used to update my blog daily, but I have no camera right now!
Actually, I have two of these:
It is a Sony Mavica, but I do not have the line to upload the photo's to my camera, so I don't even bother. I did go out on Sunday and went shopping for a camera, but I did not find something that I liked... I think I am being too picky..

Anyway, I am also super busy at work!! I have been doing alot of baking lately, from tart's, pies, cakes, rosketi, cookies, etc. Everytime I plate something up, I think about taking a picture, and it is killing me to not show you, my delicious creations... Soon, though, very soon.

Now for the homefront, and stuff that has been bothering me lately. I work for the CNMI Government, we used to have a booming economy back in the day (oh, how we all miss those days!LOL). Tourism and Garment Manufacturing were the main hubs of the economy. Now, all the factories have closed down and the tourism market isn't that hot either. So, with a reduction in revenue comes some cost cutting measures. Last week we were told there was a good news and bad news, the good news is that you get a day off every Friday, and the bad news is that it was unpaid! Oh my, 416 hours less on my paycheck per year! not sure I can afford that with all my student loans, my kids in private school, my kids private lessons (Japanese, Piano, Guitar, Drums, Violin). Oh my, not sure I can afford all those and afford to have food on the table. What would I sacrifice? definetly not any of my kids lessons. My son is only 12 and he can read Japanese, my daughter is following right behind him. My daughter played the piano at the 10pm Christmas mass so that made me super proud. I thought to myself, I can't do that, I can't take them out of their lesson's, I just can't. I would rather give up my car and continue to pay all their tuitions and ride in rusty 'ol junk car that does not belong to the bank.. I can't do that.

What do we do? not sure.. perhaps this is where part time jobs start sounding more like a possibility. I have been called to work for NMC part time, like to teach every Saturday, but I turned it down, because of my day job. But hey, looks like my day job won't earn me enough money anymore, so I better check on other options...

WoW, I never thought that Saipan would be in such a bad shape! I mean, the poor economy reflected on everyone this past Christmas. You see, I am a catholic, and for about 11 years now, we have been bringing around the Baby Jesus house to house in the villages of Dandan and San Vicente. Some people would offer light snacks for the kids that follow the nino house to house, but this year, I would say there were only about 5 houses that did this. It was not the big fancy houses, the houses with the lexus parked in front, it was more of the small houses that try to make everything work.. you can see that they have a neatly manicured lawn, but you can also see that there house is so empty of material things but full of LOVE and LIFE. They were so giving, despite what they had or the hard times they were also going through. Amazing huh, amazing how different scenarios of everyday life can just send your mind in a whirlwind of thoughts. I also noticed that alot of the trashcans were empty, not overfilling with torn up gift wraps or gift boxes. There weren't that many parties around the island either, and there definately weren't that many fireworks.

So, this post of just an update is now turning to a long write up. I guess I had alot to think about this weekend, just too many things going on. Perhaps there will be hope... Perhaps something will change... Perhaps...

2009-01-06T07:53:00.002+10:00

Hi All,
I am still here! I just have not had any chance to post any photos, but purchasing a camera is in process... My hubby gave me some Christmas money to get a nice camera, but I just do not know exactly what kind of camera to purchase. I want a really nice camera that would produce crystal clear pictures day or NIGHT. My previous camera was not good for evening photos, but perhaps some of you would be willing to share some tips on what is the best camera.

I just wanted to update this blog, as it has been a while, and several of you have emailed me about updating my blog.

SOON, we will get photos up here.... SOON.

Felis Pasgua

2008-12-22T08:43:00.003+10:00

Every morning I have been waking up at 4am, sometimes even earlier like 2am or 3am to get ready for mass. In the islands, mass is said at 5am at every church on island (exept the Cathederal starts at 4am and 6am) nine days leading to Christmas. These are called "Aguinaldo" mass. For as long as I can remember, my family would pick one morning to cook and provide food for the hundreds that attend mass. We would have lots of goodies like fried rice, scrambled eggs, corned beef and cabbage saute, boiled eggs, ham, etc... This year, our parish priest (Pale Rey' Rosal) decided to make things easier on the community and that families no longer had to provide food for one entire morning. Instead, the parish leaders divided up groups of the parish (such as CCD students, Neocatechuminist, Altar Servers, Nino groups, etc). Ofcourse anyone else is welcome to come and attend.

I have been busy baking and bringing goodies from my kitchen to share with others! I enjoy baking! I have brought some sticky buns, bread, velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, banana bread, bananas, etc, etc, etc. Last night, I made some rosketi, YUMMY! I wish I had my camera. My camera broke several weeks ago, and I know what I am getting for Christmas!

Anyway, I just wanted to update and write about what's been going on lately.

I miss the holiday season in the mainland, I really missed the Black Friday sale after Thanksgiving! I really miss all the goodness and cheer of the holidays. Oh well, we should be thankful for what we have.

Merry Christmas to all! and Keep Christ in CHRISTmas.

Sticky Buns....

2008-12-15T09:26:00.002+10:00

No, I am not talking about these "Sticky buns"

I am talking about these STICKY BUNS...
D*E*L*I*C*I*O*U*S

My camera is broken, so these photos are from the internet, but you can imagine the smell and

the aroma of these delicous morsels baking in the oven! YUMM-O!
My kids and I devoured two pans of sticky buns Sunday afternoon!
If you want to try and make it, here is the link to the recipe:
http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/RecipeDisplay?RID=25

I also made some dinner rolls! Yummy!

Tropical Storm Advisory

2008-12-11T09:12:00.001+10:00

http://metocph.nmci.navy.mil/jtwc/warnings/wp2708.gif

from the NOAA National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Office (WFO) in Tiyan GuamTropical Depression 27W Moving Closer to Guam(the initial advisory was issued at 2 am CHST Thursday (11 am EST Wednesday)
A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Guam.
A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Rota.
At 5 am CHST (Chamarro Standard Time) Thursday (2 pm EST Wednesday), or 1900Z, the center of Tropical Depression 27W, visible on Guam WSR-88D Doppler radar, was located near latitude 12.3 degrees north and longitude 148.4 degrees east. This is about 260 miles east-southeast of Guam, 250 miles east-southeast of Rota, 265 miles southeast of Tinian, and 265 miles southeast of Saipan.
Tropical Depression 27W is moving west at 17 mph. This general motion is forecast to continue over the next 24 hours.
Maximum sustained winds are 30 mph. Tropical depression 27W is forecast to slowly intensify over the next 24 hours and may become a Tropical Storm late this afternoon or tonight.
The track graphic below is from the U.S. Navy Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) in Pearl Harbor Hawaii

updates

2008-12-08T16:30:00.003+10:00

Hi folks... I apologize for not updating my blog, I have been doing alot of baking lately, especially since it is my auntie's novena for Santa Maria.... "BUT" the day we did the imu my camera broke!! I am thinking about getting another camera, but not too sure which one to get.... any ideas?

As I type this, I have cupcakes in the oven, and some island style coconut rum cakes waiting their turn to go in the oven.

Life has been good, but very busy. My work is so busy, but I love it anyway.

I also signed up for a gift swap this Christmas, I think it should be good!

Till next time again....

Underground Oven

2008-12-01T10:29:00.003+10:00

Ti leaves from around the house are used to trap steam and help cook food faster. They are also used to wrap food, chicken laolao, pork laolao, etc.

The basalt rocks that were used to help cook the pig leg.

Banana leaves

This is the pit

Cooking food undergound. The dirt is all covered with the leaves.

The food is also wrapped in the same vegetation (banana, ti leaves).

Turkey Day!

2008-11-27T17:05:00.002+10:00

Happy Turkey Day...
Today is THANKSGIVING!
For those of my readers that are from the mainland, we are one day ahead, and have already eaten our turkey!

Happy Turkey Day... to my beloved dad... We are always thinking of you!
In happy news...

My mom's brother Nick, got married at the Catholic Church today!
There is alot to be thankful for..

And most especially PARTY TONIGHT... which means, FOOD, FOOD and more FOOD!

Cacao

2008-11-25T12:01:00.001+10:00

This is cacao from Saipan! It was displayed at one of the local vendors on the Saturday market last weekend. My grandmother also has some cacao plants, perhaps I will try and make chocolates before the end of the year.c

Banana galore

2008-11-25T11:45:00.002+10:00

It is banana's galore again at home! I made another batch of banana cake this weekend! A total of 12 loaves! Ofcourse, when you live on an island, you must give your neighbors, your grandma, your sister/brother, etc!

Death

2008-11-23T15:50:00.002+10:00

Our family pet passed away last week Wednesday. He was perfectly fine just minutes before. Kiku would usually come and greet me at the gate as I get home. He looked fine, and never could I or my family would have figured out that we were going to loose Kiku that night. I got home, he looked fine. I did my usual routine like check my backyard garden, and then the next thing I knew I was rushing Kiku to the veterinarian.

My children love animals. Kiku is a member of our family. He is a awesome dog. He plays with the kids and watches them out in the yard. I can't understand what happened. I can't understand why he left. I can't understand!

Claiming his remains at the vet the next day was terribly hard. Still going around the house and not seeing him is difficult too. Kiku is my husband's dog, and he was a really really good dog.

Kiku, we love and miss you boy! Say hi to my dad up in heaven for us.

One of those weeks..

2008-11-18T15:27:00.002+10:00

We are super busy at work this week, well every week!

Question: If busy is the norm, then is super busy, super normal?!

LOL.. OMG, I can hardly see my desktop with all the paper work!

So stressed out!! I need to "out the stress!"

maybe I need a

Maybe...

Anyway, I made banana bread again this morning! My kitchen is like banana central! OMG, I have so much banana, banana bread, banana cake, fried banana, maybe I will make some banana shakes tomorrow morning, should be healthy! Any ideas? Some people do banana shake with Orange Juice, some make shakes with milk.. which do you prefer?

2008-11-17T10:13:00.003+10:00

I am a member of the foodie blog roll, and I saw one of the other members post an idea of swapping gifts for Christmas..... I think this would be fun! I usually have readers visit my blog every now and then from around the world!

Would any of you be interested in a Christmas Swap? If so, email me your name, and mailing address to: rayrian@aol.com

I will swap names and email them out to those that respond. The limit would be set at $30, higher if you like. This would make it easier for folks to exchange gifts from around the world!

I know for me, I would much prefer a gift for my kids, from around the world, small things like stocking stuffers, etc.

Deadline to respond to this would be Monday, November 24. Let's all spread the Christmas cheer!!

Something's Fishy

2008-11-17T08:02:00.004+10:00

I have been craving some really good "DEEP FRIED FISH".

I went to the market and bought some fresh reef fish, went home, cleaned it up and then fried it!

Without a deep fryer, I can't say that I deep fried it. I like my fish crispy on the outside and really tender on the inside!

There is just something fishy about fish!!!

But this fishy...was good!!

Hot rice, spicy hot finadeni', some kimchee and I was having a really good lunch

Friday Lunch....

2008-11-14T14:27:00.007+10:00

Today's lunch was at Cappricciossa! I always love eating at Cappricciossa!
The service is always consistently good.

Lunch with my Mom,
Auntie Brenda and the Governor of the CNMI!

Auntie Brenda and Governor Fitial

This is one of the best pumpkin pie's on island!
Here is the critic side of this food blog: sometimes I get a pumpkin pie with fresh crust and sometimes the crust is a bit soggy. Either way, it is still yummy.

This is the dessert I mentioned in a previous blog, "Fritori'.

Meat sauce spaghetti. This is the special lunch, so it came with garlic bread. However, I prefer my usual order of seafood spaghetti!

Rosemary Chicken

Ceasar Salad

CHEESE....WOOOHOOO.....

From left to right: My darling mom "Ki" and my loving Auntie Brenda

From left to right: Uncle Bill and myself. We were trying to make silly faces!
I think Uncle Bill wins the prize on this one! LOL

From left to right: Myself, First Lady Josie Fitial, and Uncle Bill

Well, it turned out to be a really good lunch! I always love going to Cappricciossa, and this time the food was great, the company was even better and I got to eat two desserts in one sitting!!! (Fritori and pumpkin pie!)
woohoo.. I am a happy camper!

On a side note: Weight Watchers, here I come! LOL

Lunch on Thursday

2008-11-14T11:14:00.003+10:00

Raymond and I went to Diamond Chinese Restaurant for lunch on Thursday. I go there for two reasons:
1) The food is served lightning fast,
2) The service is good
3) Lunch is ridiculously cheap! $4/lunch order includes soup and rice!
4) I had to refill my gumball machines that are located inside the restaurant.
(Wow, that is 4 reasons!)

Crabmeat corn soup

Crispy fried chicken wings (something about the way the texture is of these chicken wings, I think they use corn starch instead of flour, or something because the texture is very light!)
Sweet and sour pork

Beef Brocolli