the simple life...

the simple life... http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/ Sat, 19 Jul 2008 19:59:44 -0000 Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:01:58 -0000 the simple life... http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/logo http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com 100 100 rainbow last night it was storming so hard, the sky was super dark punctuated by occasional lightning and thunder. husband and i ran out for some thai because i simply did not have the energy to cook at home. afterwards, having had my fill of tom yum and sweet sticky rice with mangoes we drove home and saw a golden sky at 830 at night, as the sun was setting. as we neared our home, we saw a rainbow. my camera could not really capture the image but it was really a beautiful sight for sore http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/78/rainbow Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:01:58 -0000 waiting for the weekend i am totally exhausted...i had to call in sick for my 2nd job.  sometimes the mind is willing but the body is just not capable anymore of doing anything.  i've been pushing myself since may with my 11 hour workdays+house work+wedding related stress, i knew this was coming sooner or later.  can't wait for the http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/46/waiting_for_the_weekend Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:18:00 -0000 addis abeba in evanston, one of our fave cities to hang out in...ethiopian cuisine for http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/76/addis_abeba Wed, 9 Jul 2008 02:55:58 -0000 shower bridal shower at tita lizette's http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/75/shower Tue, 8 Jul 2008 23:33:03 -0000 july 4th weekend village of palatine july 4th fair...an excuse to eat fair food such as corn dogs, ribbon fries and funnel cake http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/74/july_4th_weekend Tue, 8 Jul 2008 23:27:05 -0000 end of june weekend sunny bouquet from rennie<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzSDAoKCpsAAHhmXu81"><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzSDAoKCpsAAHhmXu81/sunflower.jpg?et=l8zxoa%2C8n69xefN3iB4gNg&nmid=0" border="0"></a> sunflowers are one of my favorites :)<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzR5woKCpsAAHiWCNk1"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzR5woKCpsAAHiWCNk1/flowers.jpg?et=INCKPBSdkx%2Ba8l4XLlp6RQ&nmid=0" border="0"> st anne's in barrington for the last sunday service<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzRyQoKCpsAAHUoVI81"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzRyQoKCpsAAHUoVI81/st%20annes%20barrington.jpg?et=AJZMdipJRyghywjJWbITyQ&nmid=0" border="0"> garlicky mushroom quesadillas to go<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzRqgoKCpsAAGsTjE41"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzRqgoKCpsAAGsTjE41/mushroom%20quesadillas.jpg?et=CVNPShbXvFwdbXXwKp2cIw&nmid=0" border="0"> since I am a fan of Rick Bayless, I couldn't resist stopping by this Frontera Fresco location<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzRjAoKCpsAAGsTjEg1"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzRjAoKCpsAAGsTjEg1/frontera.jpg?et=wCniZGYVBLyov7kWZgWc8g&nmid=0" border="0"> this one was inside a Nordstrom in Oak Brook Mall<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzRbwoKCpsAAGsRhfg1"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzRbwoKCpsAAGsRhfg1/frontera%27s%20menu.jpg?et=4%2Bfe8oUxnwXHcU3CIFBcIg&nmid=0" border="0"> it's a bright spot where tired shoppers can make a quick stop and have something inexpensive but tasty to eat...everything on the menu was less than 10 bucks<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzRRgoKCpsAAGQrQW01"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzRRgoKCpsAAGQrQW01/frontera%201.jpg?et=sFyex5TSzyl88N8lFbC6JQ&nmid=0" border="0"> rennie checking out a mac vending machine selling ipods and iphones...what's next?  vending machines for laptops?<a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SGzRHgoKCpsAAGQqN6U1"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SGzRHgoKCpsAAGQqN6U1/checking%20out%20ipod%20vending%20machine.jpg?et=L1y8YJCPRXlH%2Csk%2CBSvw6g&nmid=0" border="0"> http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/45/end_of_june_weekend Thu, 3 Jul 2008 13:15:00 -0000 a beautiful tree <a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SF19YgoKCpsAAH8HfEw1"><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SF19YgoKCpsAAH8HfEw1/DSC06186.JPG?et=2o97ijPW5yMcYyb2hh6YwA&nmid=0" border="0"></a> This was the view from Kaye's window a few, few weeks ago during early spring.  The tree was breathtaking, my photo hardly does it justice.  There is also a ginkgo tree nearby(our backyard is a few steps away from a forest preserve).  Maybe I'll take a picture next time.  Just wanted to share this before I begin my busy weekend. http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/44/a_beautiful_tree Sat, 21 Jun 2008 22:14:00 -0000 my take on quiche <a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SFWnOAoKCpsAADiRaM01"><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SFWnOAoKCpsAADiRaM01/wedding%20invites%20003.jpg?et=tOWFP4H0nVTlUeKVjMgtCg&nmid=0" border="0"></a> bacon-asparagus-colby cheese quiche something easy to whip up if even if one is lacking in culinary skill, i've made it several times and it's quite fool proof... bake some bacon on a cookie sheet until crisp, drain fat and blot with paper towel bake store bought pie crust on pie plate for 15 minutes saute diced asparagus and onions in a little butter and season with salt and pepper to taste, you may use any vegetable you like, whatever's in season, i've used zucchini a lot beat eggs, i typically use 3 large eggs(you may use more egg whites if you prefer) with some shredded cheese(cheddar, parmesan, colby, muenster-anything you like) and add 1/2 cup milk or yogurt or sour cream layer veggies and bacon in pie crust, pour egg mix on top...top with more bacon and/or cheese if you prefer bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until set     http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/42/my_take_on_quiche Sun, 15 Jun 2008 23:34:00 -0000 home cooked meal <a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SFWlFwoKCpsAACB61hk1"><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SFWlFwoKCpsAACB61hk1/wedding%20invites%20012.jpg?et=mUK%2CuAz7Cd2MUbEbBLKoqA&nmid=0" border="0"></a> green mango, white onion and tomato relish with barrio fiesta bagoong <a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SFWk8QoKCpsAABX0L5Q1"></a><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SFWk8QoKCpsAABX0L5Q1/wedding%20invites%20013.jpg?et=DBocfzPv2iyu9rSeeIBY0w&nmid=0" border="0"> shrimp cooked in ginger infused sprite, garnished with chopped cilantro   with our extreme schedule these days, dining at home has become a luxury...husband and i carpool and by the time we get home, it's almost my bedtime...we happened upon some good looking shrimp at assi(never mind the "smallness" of the shrimp), the new korean market and here's what i did with it a simple pinoy home cooked meal...it was great with white rice, kulang na lang banana leaves to eat on :) http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/41/home_cooked_meal Sun, 15 Jun 2008 23:25:00 -0000 i'm back :)     <a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SFT4DgoKCpsAADgmKDg1"><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SFT4DgoKCpsAADgmKDg1/wedding%20invites%20020.jpg?et=Ig5Ondxd7gw%2C169hgf9d6Q&nmid=0" border="0"></a>                                  the motif is pink with a touch of matte gold   life's been so busy since may, juggling 11 hour work days and planning a wedding in another continent(am so grateful our families are doing the major work, thanks family!!!)  but am glad to say, everything's turning out well at the new workplace, husband and i are still doing well and....am finally done with the wedding invitations!  everything has been done by yours truly with some suggestions from husband. they turned out well, simple and elegant, just like i wanted.   aaahhhh...now to do the wedding favors :)    <a href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SFT36AoKCpsAADWrKJM1"><img class="alignmiddleb" src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SFT36AoKCpsAADWrKJM1/wedding%20invites%20019.jpg?et=qifaCZe%2CPHWsh2%2BT%2BShi6w&nmid=0" border="0"></a>       http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/40/im_back_ Sun, 15 Jun 2008 11:00:00 -0000 the dress i chose http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/72/the_dress_i_chose Sun, 18 May 2008 12:40:23 -0000 the rogue i'll miss my good old eclipse 2 door sportscar but i guess it is time to get a more family friendly http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/71/the_rogue Sat, 3 May 2008 12:22:34 -0000 pan de sal <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SBxTAQoKCpsAAGSjTjw1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SBxTAQoKCpsAAGSjTjw1/ready%20for%20dinner.JPG?et=BgEqbwmbxprEINQr57E6Wg&nmid=" border=0>ready</A> for dinner<IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SBxS3goKCpsAAD3UF2s1/after%20baking.JPG?et=sx8czQ54rdse%2BaXahbDtfA&nmid=" border=0>straight from the oven, smells so good<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SBxStgoKCpsAAEdDeug1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SBxStgoKCpsAAEdDeug1/dough.JPG?et=jGJE3XeDkLQguPBgfFmVVQ&nmid=" border=0>dough</A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SBxSlgoKCpsAAD36L@01"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SBxSlgoKCpsAAD36L@01/rising.JPG?et=5tXGBYuz3%2COca00ea25FHA&nmid=" border=0>risin</A>g<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/SBxScAoKCpsAAD3UFzw1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/SBxScAoKCpsAAD3UFzw1/pandesal%20making.JPG?et=P2F58fUKX1WcDRBcKWOK%2CQ&nmid=" border=0></A>pandesal mix I've always wanted to try making yeast bread at home.  I've always thought it would be a challenge what with the kneading and rising etc etc.  So when I saw a recipe on Marketman's site, I decided to try making pan de sal.  I loved the smell of baking bread in the kitchen.  The kneading part was not all that bad.  As for the rising, instead of waiting for hours, I used fast acting yeast which sped up the process.  The verdict?  Not bad for a first try.  We had some for dinner since I did this as soon as I got home from work.  Who liked it the most?  Cappy, our maltipoo.  Haha :) http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/39/pan_de_sal Sat, 3 May 2008 11:50:00 -0000 carbonara <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--zNAoKCpsAAALuYlA1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--zNAoKCpsAAALuYlA1/hubs.JPG?et=Prr0vAcutN6aNzM9XSEFLQ&nmid=" border=0> i</A> heard that an authentic carbonara is made with eggs and no cream...i decided to try this for dinner one day...<IMG class=alignmiddleb height=225 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--y9woKCpsAAGSmB1o1/plated.JPG?et=bMSIU%2BnAYrFXG8cbwI1rew&nmid=" width=274 border=0> plated carbonara fettucine with some basil<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--y0AoKCpsAAHMlIDc1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb height=225 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--y0AoKCpsAAHMlIDc1/grating%20cheese%202.JPG?et=fm16%2CrDYYlb%2Cus6ahLxqqA&nmid=" width=260 border=0> grating the parmesan<IMG class=alignmiddleb height=225 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--zdQoKCpsAAH6-Q001/eggs.JPG?et=YKlcRm%2BpS66TqcgFKr3rSQ&nmid=" width=269 border=0>mix</A> the eggs with grated cheese, add to just cooked pasta...the heat from the pasta is supposed to cook the eggs and give the dish a creamy texture<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--yrAoKCpsAAH@PWjA1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb height=193 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--yjwoKCpsAAH9dVLY1/buttering%20pasta.JPG?et=cipXZsVSeLXoXiiZcF6QmQ&nmid=" width=300 border=0>buttering</A> the cooked pasta...you may omit this step<IMG class=alignmiddleb height=225 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--yrAoKCpsAAH@PWjA1/carbonara.JPG?et=rc7GoCUh8q8G0vvxqrbUEg&nmid=" width=286 border=0> cooked crispy bacon was added after the egg mixture...prosciutto would have made the dish more italian but we did not have any on hand...yummy! http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/38/carbonara Fri, 11 Apr 2008 23:20:00 -0000 yummy scents in the bath :) <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--xRQoKCpsAAFts2VU1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--xRQoKCpsAAFts2VU1/DSC05939.JPG?et=o4kCugb769KOayScL9G8IA&nmid=" border=0> </A>these 3 products are in rotation in the shower:  bath and body works pumpkin pie paradise, dr. bronner's pure castille soap in almond and bath and body works chocolate chocolate chip...the scents are so yummy, they lift me up after a long day...yummy without the calories :) http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/37/yummy_scents_in_the_bath_ Fri, 11 Apr 2008 23:15:00 -0000 living area done! <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--vxgoKCpsAAE7ZzxQ1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--vxgoKCpsAAE7ZzxQ1/DSC05988.JPG?et=jSWZpD1UbkkKio%2CzWbcVXw&nmid=" border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--vpgoKCpsAAE7ZzxI1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--vpgoKCpsAAE7ZzxI1/DSC05984.JPG?et=T8naRJChXKxzgZUUf%2C1KmA&nmid=" border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--vggoKCpsAAEkCqX41"><IMG class=alignmiddleb height=241 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--vggoKCpsAAEkCqX41/DSC05976.JPG?et=AhakIoUj8Duvv%2BMlo9W9vQ&nmid=" width=194 border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R--vZgoKCpsAAFts2QQ1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R--vZgoKCpsAAFts2QQ1/DSC05978.JPG?et=Ay9StSx5kXGcSA8OC3rQ8g&nmid=" border=0></A>we finally finished painting the living area!  we settled for the color "wild artichoke" from martha stewart to go with the other "terra cotta" wall.  i must say it looks nice :) now i'm excited to shop for picture frames, mirrors and a sideboard! http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/36/living_area_done Fri, 11 Apr 2008 23:07:00 -0000 superdawg, chicago <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BGnQoKCpsAAHfDbv81"><IMG class=alignmiddleb height=235 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BGnQoKCpsAAHfDbv81/DSC05903.JPG?et=sdklBGTG5buQgtmWfkiUtA&nmid=" width=225 border=0> superdawg</A> is a must try chicago attraction.  open since 1948, their most popular product is the superdawg, which they say is made from pure beef, no fillers.  it is a drive in, and is most popular in the summer months, when people would drive-in in their classic cars.  <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BGRgoKCpsAAGuEPHU1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 163px" height=193 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BGRgoKCpsAAGuEPHU1/DSC05901.JPG?et=vzIEjvO%2BGAJ%2CAM6%2Cd0pbjA&nmid=" width=300 border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BF-QoKCpsAAHK4TqI1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 286px; HEIGHT: 180px" height=194 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BF-QoKCpsAAHK4TqI1/DSC05896.JPG?et=r6nJpHh5wmC2V2EovXL4xw&nmid=" width=300 border=0> park,</A> flip a switch and wait for an order taker to speak to you...<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BFxgoKCpsAAGjsF3w1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 280px; HEIGHT: 171px" height=194 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BFxgoKCpsAAGjsF3w1/DSC05907.JPG?et=VRIgfo3NLuFWGrWiObbYwA&nmid=" width=300 border=0> your</A> food will arrive on a tray which is hooked on to the window<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BFjAoKCpsAAGQeAzI1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 269px; HEIGHT: 185px" height=185 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BFjAoKCpsAAGQeAzI1/DSC05925.JPG?et=V7wbWRSIYqRKMBuPWAS8fA&nmid=" width=300 border=0> their</A> packaging had some interesting graphics and literature<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BFTgoKCpsAAGtCOOs1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BFTgoKCpsAAGtCOOs1/DSC05927.JPG?et=jyiV70NqMJB2zqvBHhcaQw&nmid=" border=0> husby</A> had a blak kow, which is a rootbeer float<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BFEAoKCpsAAGjsF0o1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 237px" height=198 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BFEAoKCpsAAGjsF0o1/DSC05929.JPG?et=hOVJtLBaB%2BCfF%2BaQabqtgA&nmid=" width=300 border=0> and</A> a superdawg chicago stye, which he said was really meaty<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BEowoKCpsAAGCk7mA1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BEowoKCpsAAGCk7mA1/DSC05912.JPG?et=yHas52%2BEw7lkjFs%2CbmCyNw&nmid=" border=0> i</A> had a superchic, a chicken breast fillet sandwich with grilled onions and super fries...nothing spectacular but quite filling, was unable to finish it<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BExgoKCpsAAFnKv141"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 256px; HEIGHT: 194px" height=194 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BExgoKCpsAAFnKv141/DSC05914.JPG?et=v8ueoZqs14jflg%2CUG3Japg&nmid=" width=300 border=0> husby</A>'s superdawg came with a whole pickle, a pickled green tomato slice and superfries<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R-BE5woKCpsAAF@r4YU1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 155px" height=195 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R-BE5woKCpsAAF@r4YU1/DSC05924.JPG?et=%2BM0UfFq9h6AOt0Wo9JzXXw&nmid=" width=300 border=0> </A>"maurie and flaurie", the hotdog mascots(and the names of the owners) stand on top of the building and are also shown here on the box...when you're don... http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/35/superdawg_chicago Mon, 31 Mar 2008 01:54:00 -0000 living area half finished! bamboo yellow on the entryway and powder room<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1ZegoKCpsAAHqvw4M1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1ZegoKCpsAAHqvw4M1/staircase.jpg?et=kNRjdtzNmnXFnofvsVFP0w&nmid=" border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1XnQoKCpsAAGqjkWM1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1XnQoKCpsAAGqjkWM1/bath.jpg?et=%2Cc6vH2AH3ltWxL8DIXCrZA&nmid=" border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1XJwoKCpsAAGQTb8o1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1XJwoKCpsAAGQTb8o1/to%20hall.jpg?et=wmOG4ZAtg53F9C90MUdE8g&nmid=" border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1XTAoKCpsAAGQTb881"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1XTAoKCpsAAGQTb881/couch%201.jpg?et=zt4ibX%2Bk4QKdv9KQt6y1DA&nmid=" border=0></A><A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1XewoKCpsAAGqij@g1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1XewoKCpsAAGqij@g1/dining%20side.jpg?et=MiaLhJEs9GMIg%2B8SEupqzg&nmid=" border=0></A>since i was off again on thursday, i decided to attack the living room wall...husband chose the color terra cotta from martha stewart collection...i'm not sure yet if i can live with this color because i mostly appreciate subtle tones ...we'll see :) we have cathedral ceilings so i only painted as high as i could reach standing on a barstool(not very high)...i think the color is very bold, i would say dramatic but still too dark for me...might have to pick a 3rd transition color(for kitchen and one wall of the living area) to bridge the gap between "bamboo"(a buttery yellow)and "terra cotta"...peeps, special mention to tita CL and cuzn claire(two very artistic individuals naks) if you're reading, what do you suggest?  a greenish-sage color perhaps?      http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/34/living_area_half_finished Fri, 28 Mar 2008 20:37:00 -0000 attempt at spareribs ala le ching <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1VCgoKCpsAAEPwRVc1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1VCgoKCpsAAEPwRVc1/dinner.jpg?et=nan3cBZiipUo85gyy25Uqw&nmid=" border=0></A>dinner<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1U6woKCpsAAEM@QqA1">...served with iced green tea<IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1U6woKCpsAAEM@QqA1/tea.jpg?et=tX2NCJUVPVSFvX0wfrdjsQ&nmid=" border=0></A>chili garlic sauce: made with store bought chili oil, fried garlic added...i take it with some tamari(japanese soy sauce) and lemon juice<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1UyAoKCpsAADyOLHc1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1UyAoKCpsAADyOLHc1/chili%20garlic%202.jpg?et=9j%2BLONXQoUG8uC%2Crhp5kIA&nmid=" border=0></A>the spare ribs were marinated in sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, pepper, minced garlic, i subbed some mirin for the rice wine coz we didn't have that at home, this was then steamed for an hour just until tender...ours was quite oily because i forgot to trim all visible fat from the meat before cooking...i don't eat pork anymore but husband said it was good...walang leftovers :)<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@1UXwoKCpsAADqIJs81"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@1UXwoKCpsAADqIJs81/pork%202.jpg?et=6OSHbxM50Dz5fAscABzsPQ&nmid=" border=0></A>if you're a foodie and have been to greenhills, then you must have tried le ching at least once in your life(it was not the neatest place when we used to visit during the '90s when i was a teen, i don't know about now)...i remember it for their noodle soups(beef brisket was my favorite), "hakao"(shrimp dumpling, another fave) and their famous chili garlic sauce(i've searched all over illinois, california and online but cannot find it or a recipe).... http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/33/attempt_at_spareribs_ala_le_ching Fri, 28 Mar 2008 20:20:00 -0000 what to do with leftover oatmeal <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@nAtAoKCpsAAEbKlUo1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 217px; HEIGHT: 173px" height=183 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@nAtAoKCpsAAEbKlUo1/pancake%20too.jpg?et=KNWiGjvzsyK%2BH9r2czZTiQ&nmid=" width=275 border=0> apple</A> cinnamon pancake<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@nAlAoKCpsAAEJSVsQ1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 223px; HEIGHT: 165px" height=165 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@nAlAoKCpsAAEJSVsQ1/baby%20cakes%202.jpg?et=5G7etI3V3KHvb9zsNJgGhQ&nmid=" width=264 border=0> mini</A> choco chip pancakes<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@nAbgoKCpsAAEY3cxs1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb style="WIDTH: 231px; HEIGHT: 165px" height=187 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@nAbgoKCpsAAEY3cxs1/choco%20chip%20batter.jpg?et=gQLcFaRSmTsNFV723tYSsw&nmid=" width=300 border=0> adding</A> choco chips t<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@nARgoKCpsAADr1DGU1"><IMG class=alignleft style="WIDTH: 158px; HEIGHT: 150px" height=204 src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@nARgoKCpsAADr1DGU1/apple%20batter.jpg?et=zcs0ZjINDVuDUMUbN2PAqQ&nmid=" width=266 border=0></A>o the batter   batter with chopped apples and cinnamon i know i  should consume more oatmeal for its health benefits.  but when i get tired of eating it the usual way, i make oatmeal  pancakes...just add milk or your choice of liquid, flour, sugar, baking powder and egg and cook on a buttered skillet.  i divided my batter into 2 bowls and added choco chips to one and chopped apples and cinnamon to the other(you can use any fruit you have on hand, i've tried bananas, peaches and mango).  you could do this to both cooked and uncooked oatmeal.  some recipes suggest soaking the uncooked oatmeal in milk to soften the grain.  this is a good way to get some fiber and whole grain into your child's diet(or yours).  when i make a big batch, i freeze the rest and just grab what i need in the morning for a quick breakfast.   http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/31/what_to_do_with_leftover_oatmeal Wed, 26 Mar 2008 03:16:00 -0000 lazy monday hubs and i were both off today...we decided to drive around and explore some neighboring chicago http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/70/lazy_monday Wed, 26 Mar 2008 03:10:15 -0000 painting <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@XdEAoKCpsAADl6uR41"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@XdEAoKCpsAADl6uR41/3.jpg?et=e4oJAb5g%2BPs3sv2B5Y%2BcXg&nmid=" border=0> </A>whew!  just finished painting our powder room :)  i've been wanting to change a few things at home.  after the long winter(which is still lingering because it snowed yesterday), i was looking forward to some spring decorating.  since we just got a new dining set a few days ago, a major change was not really in the budget.  so i decided to stop by ikea to see what's new.  i ended up getting a new runner for the dining table, placemats and some cushion covers all in a turquoisey/tealy color.  i also went home with a gallon of paint from martha stewart.  the color is called bamboo mat, a yellowish shade.  i've never painted anything except for artwork in my whole life.  surprisingly, it wasn't that difficult.  the roller brush made it easy to cover a lot of space in a short time.  i started at 9pm and was done by close to 11.  not bad for a first try at this thing :)  http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/30/painting Sun, 23 Mar 2008 04:30:00 -0000 korean takeout made onion asparagus crabmeat fried rice, had this with korean take out-fish cakes, hocks and some lychee sprite...lemon cake for http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/album/69/korean_takeout Sat, 22 Mar 2008 04:12:58 -0000 guacamole   guacamole fixins': cilantro, ripe hass avocados(i can tell they are ripe when the skin is loose), red spanish onion, tomatoes and lime<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@SCtAoKCpsAAGQR@WQ1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@SCtAoKCpsAAGQR@WQ1/guacamole%20fixins%27.JPG?et=fhKVniy2lN7mY5berzq4LA&nmid=" border=0></A> i never used to appreciate the culinary uses of avocado.  my mom used to make fresh avocado ice cream which i thought tasted horrible back then.  i guess when one "matures", his or her taste buds "mature" too haha.  i only started to like this fruit(is it a fruit or a veggie?)when i moved here and tried it in dishes other than avocado ice cream(i might have tried  it in guacamole at tia maria's).  here, i like it in guacamole or sometimes in sushi.  <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@SCjwoKCpsAAFmOv@k1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@SCjwoKCpsAAFmOv@k1/with%20chips.JPG?et=D%2Bc4N0lq20WD3%2CFUtDDwZA&nmid=" border=0></A> <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@SCWAoKCpsAAF877NU1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@SCWAoKCpsAAF877NU1/blackened%20tilapia.JPG?et=vk7xW6qT9NDRt8uxy%2CIneA&nmid=" border=0></A> we had it with some blackened tilapia and yellow rice yesterday for dinner... guacamole: combine chopped onion, tomatoes, cilantro and avocados in a bowl.  mash to desired consistency.  season with salt, pepper and lime juice. http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/29/guacamole Sat, 22 Mar 2008 03:51:00 -0000 what's in your easter basket? <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@R-KwoKCpsAACkWfv81"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@R-KwoKCpsAACkWfv81/easter%20goodies.JPG?et=tLTL6L391xHztQ0kEU5lLA&nmid=" border=0> we've</A> always celebrated easter with the customary egg hunt in manila...i remember my mom getting easter eggs from merced bakeshop back when plastic easter eggs were unknown...here in the states, kids dye hard boiled eggs in food color, in fact we just did that at school yesterday...<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@R-BwoKCpsAAB-HFzU1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@R-BwoKCpsAAB-HFzU1/wonka%20golden%20egg.JPG?et=9il9PnXIdEqx3QpdBOYb%2CQ&nmid=" border=0> willy</A> wonka golden egg<A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@R@5QoKCpsAABq4NxY1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@R@5QoKCpsAABq4NxY1/easter%20basket.JPG?et=WT9jCr3EeaIkp6OenfKkKA&nmid=" border=0> </A>these days, the only kid at home is hubby...so i made up a teeny easter basket for him complete with his favorite candy...willy wonka nerds, a dark chocolate rabbit, couldn't resist throwing in a container of bubble gum eggs and a coconut "nest"...cute! HAPPY EASTER!!! http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/28/whats_in_your_easter_basket Sat, 22 Mar 2008 03:36:00 -0000 green tea <A href="http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/photos/hi-res/upload/R@R7dgoKCpsAAF88d2k1"><IMG class=alignmiddleb src="http://images.aggyemendoza.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300x300/R@R7dgoKCpsAAF88d2k1/green%20tea.JPG?et=kdInUE5uk9HuyD7IcNAs5Q&nmid=" border=0> i</A> can't remember when i first had a taste of green tea.   probably as ice cream in one of the sushi restos in manila,  back when i lived there.  these days, i try to have at least a cup of the tea during breakfast.  supposedly, green tea has a multitude of health benefits, what with all the antioxidants and cathechins it contains.  for some people tea is an obsession, complete with the right "gear", precise steeping times and rituals.  tea shops are popping up all over the malls here.  as for me, i'm into genmai-cha at the moment.  i love the mix of roasted brown rice and green tea, it smells good too.  i know i'm just scratching the surface of the green tea world...today i got a box of hojicha-a roasted green tea.  can't wait to try it tomorrow for breakfast :) http://aggyemendoza.multiply.com/journal/item/27/green_tea_ Sat, 22 Mar 2008 03:21:00 -0000