Life of Larisa or LOL

February Foto Challenge

2012-01-31T18:19:00.000-08:00

...yes, you read that correctly. Me. The one who only uses her iPhone to capture life's brilliant moments. Me. The one who has a bad eye for what will photograph well. Me. The one who tends to have a shaky hand and therefore blurry photos. Me. The one who is beyond excited for this little challenge. Each day in February (so tomorrow), I will have to take a photo from a list I have been given from my friend Tobi. Thank goodness February is the short month. Each day, I'll take my pre-determined photo and each day I will write a little post about it here. Yay. I don't have to come up with February topics...it has been decided. Thank you Tobi. To get things started, I'll end this post with a photo entitled "Gabe In A Dress". Thank you Tutu.

Goodnight Moon The Shop

2012-01-26T17:03:00.000-08:00

...you know when I find something good that I like, I always have to share. Here is my latest find via Tobi. Admittedly, I have not used my Kindle as much as I would have thought...still buying books in their natural state. BUT, when I do take a trip or finish reading all the books in my "to read" stack, I do intend to use my Kindle like I eat dessert...so, a lot. Thus, I need a cute Kindle carrying case. Luckily I know just the gal with cute taste and an obsession for reading just like me. Thanks to our friendship that is super techie these days (really does help to bridge the distance gap), I saw another version of my super cute Kindle case on Instagram. I was smitten. I had to order one of my very own right away. So I did. It's a short love story really. Saw it. Loved it. Ordered it. Got it. Still loving it. You too can fall in love at goodnightmoontheshop on Etsy.

Happy Birthday Isom

2012-01-17T17:41:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday to the dad that likes to coordinate with Zach...

Happy birthday to the dad who is not squeamish about hospitals and operating rooms...

Happy birthday to the world traveler...this was Thailand...

Happy birthday to a world class daddy for Gabe...

Happy birthday to the husband who humors me in going out to eat...weekly...

Happy birthday to the beach goer...

Happy birthday to my pleasant, easy going friend...

Happy birthday to you whether we are in the same place or not...can't wait to celebrate with you when you return from this trip and add to the collection of photos and memories. Happy birthday to my favorite husband.

Perfect Coconut Muffins

2012-01-17T17:24:00.000-08:00

...can also be perfect coconut cupcakes. Just add frosting and sprinkles. I enjoy baking projects...you might have noticed. I especially enjoy baking when I need to take my mind off Isom being away on business. I even more especially enjoy baking (like that good grammar?) when the ingredients some how include coconut. These muffins are on the top ten muffin list. Perfect degree of moistness. Perfect texture. Perfect snack. Perfect breakfast. Perfect dessert. Perfect taste. Thus, the perfect coconut muffin. And they are perfectly photogenic.

Good Housekeeping's Fudgy Brownies

2012-01-16T11:46:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for the library. There's no way I'd have room in my house for all of the great recipe books out there. Like the proud hoarder of books that I am, I would obviously want them all. I look at the library as my storage unit, holding all my books for when I need them...once or twice a year. Today marks Isom's birthday eve, a day off from school for Gabe, and the observance of Martin Luther King Jr's birthday. Obviously we took this opportunity to bake brownies. From scratch. We melted our butter (stove top, no microwave). We melted our semi sweet and unsweetened chocolate (also stove top). We mixed our eggs, sugar, vanilla, flour and salt together. We greased our pan. We waited anxiously for the ingredients to magically meld into a delicious mid morning dessert. After exactly thirty minutes at 375, our fudgy brownies were ready. After a few minutes of cooling, we cut into the pan and discovered a perfect batch of brownies. Gabe enjoyed it so much he thought we should save some for Isom...sweet, but I'm thinking three week old brownies won't be so perfect anymore. I guess, *sigh*, I...we will be forced to eat them all up before they go bad. This recipe was fun and easy. I just wish brownies were more photogenic, like a cupcake.

Zach Eats Solid Food

2012-01-15T10:37:00.000-08:00

...and I take the most boring pictures of the big event that you can imagine. I also discover that I have got to start taking pictures with an actual camera and not my iPhone. Even I am realizing how ridiculous it is to have the second child's life moments captured solely on a phone. After the previous post, it's hard to look at any picture that isn't superb. I'll try to manage though. This is when having your own personal photographer would definitely come in handy. We recently took Zach for his four month well baby check up. We learned that he is a whopping 20 pounds. A lengthy 27 inches. And ready to try something other than breast milk for nourishment. Enter rice cereal...and breast milk. A winning combination. A sticky, slightly messy combination. Although you wouldn't know it based on these pictures. Zach maintained a relatively clean face and high chair for his first solid food feeding. There was one spoonful that made it to his hair and his eye (thanks big brother for "helping" to feed baby brother). Other than that, it was a rather incident free feeding. We have fed Zach his version of Cream of Wheat two more times since the initial first feeding and it looks like...he LOVES food. Where in the world did he get that trait from?

Photos Of The Babes

2012-01-15T10:17:00.001-08:00

There aren't many places where you can be poolside with friends in January. I feel lucky that I live in a place where you can. I also feel lucky to have great friends...especially ones so skilled in the art of photography. These pictures aren't from a professional photo shoot but I feel like they are. They are spectacular. I love them. And of course I had to share them. Thanks to Malia for the fun impromptu pool play date. Thanks to Mai Ly for capturing a Hawaiian afternoon in the sun on film. I hope you enjoy these pictures of the boys as much as I do. When I look at these photos, I am reminded of all that's good in my life right now...and it's a lot.

Cookie Pops

2012-01-15T10:05:00.000-08:00

...fun with cookie dough on a stick. Lately I have been taking baking inspiration from Pillsbury. That fat dough boy has some good ideas. A cookie on a stick is one of them. You too can be the master of the eight year old set when you mix up your favorite sugar cookie recipe (everyone has one), roll the dough into small sugary balls and insert a Popsicle stick. Once your cookies have baked and cooled, you add your favorite frosting (homemade or store bought), sprinkle sprinkles and the only cookie that doesn't get your hands dirty has been created. It was a fun last baking project before Isom's trip to Japan. And now I know what treat I'll be baking up for Valentine's Day---pink hearts on a stick.

Pinterest Post

2012-01-05T18:19:00.000-08:00

I have been spending a substantial amount of online time on Pinterest. I can't explain why it is so addicting. I can't explain why every idea on there seems like the best idea you have ever heard of or seen in your entire life. Here is one of them. For New Year's Eve, the menu was pupus and desserts. For our part, we decided to make a Greek Yogurt dip with Pita bread for dipping (the pupu) and bite sized caramel apples (the dessert). The photo above was the Pinterest inspiration. The photo below was our take on it. Both dip and dessert turned out terrific...you can tell by the happy party goers below...

Enter The Dragon

2012-01-04T18:01:00.000-08:00

...the year of the dragon that is. My year...every twelve years anyway. I'm excited to start this new year off. Although I already haven't done a good job of keeping up with my blog in the new year. Here four days have already passed by and I am just now getting around to writing a post. I'm hoping for more of a daily regimen...my exercise for my fingers. I have not troubled myself with making, keeping, or breaking any resolutions (unless you count the goal of trying to blog more frequently). I have however, been thinking about fun ways to incorporate a theme to my baking/blogging for each month. For example, January could be all about brownies. All baking in January would be some sort of brownie inspired creation and post...February could be all about muffins. You see where I'm going with this. We'll see if it actually happens. In the meantime, since I last set fingertips to keys, we have been entertaining ourselves with holiday fun and food. I think I gained ten pounds in eggnog weight alone. Oh well, I had a blast incorporating eggnog into almost every beverage I consumed over the past month. Here's a few photos of the boys...they may have changed lots in the sixteen days since I last posted. Wink.

Holiday Lights

2011-12-19T14:25:00.000-08:00

The most wonderful time of the year means getting to walk around at night outside of my house wearing my PJ's. Yep, that's me and the boys, out and about looking at Mililani Christmas Lights, in my comfy Old Navy pajamas. Truly the most wonderful time of the year---lights and PJ's. Luckily we don't have to drive too far to be amazed. We put up Christmas lights ourselves, but are clearly outdone by the neighborhood a few streets over. One day (one can only hope), we too will pay an outrageous electric bill during the month of December and have visitors in their PJ's come look at our lights. Gabe's favorite stop on the lights tour had Christmas villages (he is definitely Tutu's great grand) and a train. I lucked out with a Hello Kitty themed house. Isom and Zach weren't impressed with a theme but enjoyed the lights all the same...and the happy expressions the lights brought to me and Gabe's faces. Hope you have a holly jolly Christmas~

Pumpkin Caramel Crunch

2011-12-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

I don't know how much credit for this baking project I can actually claim. It was my idea and I started it, but Isom ended up finishing things off (motherhood called)...the putting together of it anyway. I did all oven portions, mixing and stirring portions, and licking the bowl portions. You be the judge. At any rate, it turned out to be a tasty little holiday dessert. Pumpkin, cream cheese, caramel, and almonds. You just can't go wrong...except that I wish I'd made it for Thanksgiving. I'm now inspired to create another version...starring red velvet, cream cheese, and pecans. I'll let you know how that turns out...

GOAL!

2011-12-19T13:57:00.001-08:00

Scored by Gabe. And an assist. And several "almost" goals. A perfect (and muddy) way to end his first season of soccer (soccer when he was three doesn't count). Gabe almost didn't play his final game due to the torrential downpour of rain---hindering both sight and cleanliness---the field was a mud pit. Gabe, being the illogical eight year old that he is, was not interested in getting dirty...yet not interested in cleaning his room or taking showers. Go figure. Halfway through the game I think he realized his goal of not getting muddy was not going to happen, and he really went for it. He earned another medal (tallest member in the league...ha, ha), received his certificate, and the knowledge that he could score a goal with a little effort...and a little mud. Looking forward to next season...he'll be better, bigger, and the games will be closer to home. Less traffic and driving makes the goals all the sweeter.

Teamwork Medal Winner

2011-12-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

...is Gabe. For soccer. If we gave out teamwork medals at home, he would be out of luck. As he told me on Sunday, "laundry is the worst thing a kid can be made to do". But, at least he is putting forth effort out on the soccer field. This past Saturday he was the lucky recipient of the Teamwork Medal. How does one go about receiving such an esteemed honor? Kick the ball to your teammate. And he did. And he almost scored a goal. We count all the tiny victories here. He is definitely getting the hang of the game more and more with each week's practice. There are only two weeks left for this season and he is already talking about "when he plays next season". Music to my ears. I thought he'd never be interested in anything other than Legos. Here's the proud medal winner. We're proud too...

Rock And Roll

2011-12-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

...OVER! Zachary turned 14 weeks this past Sunday and today, right before no one's eyes, he rolled over. That's right, I missed it. His first big milestone and I was getting a snack from the kitchen. We had just walked in the door from after school pick up and the what seems like daily trip to Wal-mart. It's an exciting life we lead here. We enjoyed a fun morning of Dairy Queen Pumpkin Blizzard and Hui. A typical Tuesday. When we got home, Gabe was out the door to check the mail, and I was foraging...for a granola bar. Zach has a bed of sorts in front of the Christmas tree (don't all babies?) so, I placed him nicely on his back so I could grab my own after school snack. I wasn't gone one minute and upon my return to the living room, he was smiling away...on his tummy. Yay! I guess this is how Isom feels, not seeing the actual event but knowing that it happened. He has yet to repeat the maneuver, but I'm confident we will be snapping photos galore in the coming days and weeks of our new king of rock and roll over.

The Other Rocker

2011-12-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

What you see before you is a homemade guitar. I would say that Gabe was seeking some extra attention...he knows I'm a sucker for a boy playing a guitar, or in Zach's case, a boy wearing guitar themed clothes. But, this is actually the product of a lot of hard work for a school project. A third grade project on varying pitch and sound. Wow. Third grade was worksheets and copying assignments down from the chalkboard for me. Gabe wrote and then typed a one page speech on how his guitar was created. I'm amazed. I'm amazed there was even a finished product. I'm amazed that the same Gabe who when working on this guitar with me, said he "didn't know how to use scissors...or a glue stick". When dad stepped in (because that comment BLEW MY MIND) to help, the two emerged from the garage with this masterpiece...having used screws, bungee cords, duct tape, scrap wood, and the saw! What? You can't use scissors but you can use a saw (totally supervised of course)?! So, Gabe the musician (and now obviously the carpenter) created a super duper deluxe guitar. YouTube videos to come...I'm sure.

Shameless Plug...

2011-11-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

I'm in love with this new outfit of Zach's. Okay, outfit might be stretching it...onesie. I have to share. As usual, the picture is sub standard, but if you click here, you can go to the website where other cuteness can be found. Better pictures there. I guess that's why I don't get paid the big bucks, I can spread the word, but my advertising photo skills are lacking. No matter. Still a cute onesie. And still a cute baby. Thanks to my mommy friend Summer for sharing this rocking onesie with us. We love it. Consider this the thank you note?

Flavors Of The Season

2011-11-26T20:18:00.000-08:00

...include pumpkin, gingerbread, peppermint, eggnog...and chocolate. Uh, anything sweet I guess. I had a lot to be thankful this year. Other than a new bouncy baby boy, the old bouncy boy, and the older bouncy boy we call Isom, there was a bounty of delicious foods to enjoy this Thanksgiving. Who says you need a turkey to get your fill? I live with three, so no need to eat any. I love this time of year as much for the music, movies, and the giving spirit...but really for the food and beverage that only come around once a year---that is what puts me in the mood for gift giving, tree trimming, and carol singing. This past week was chock full of specialty flavored items...

Gingerbread pudding topped with whipped cream (thanks Jello)...

Chocolate covered Ritz Crackers (thanks Tobi)...

Pilgrim Hat Cookie Dessert (thanks Lena)...

Eggnog muffins...we enjoyed these for Thanksgiving breakfast (and the day after...and the day after). This is the BEST muffin recipe I have ever made. The brown sugar and pecan crumble on top pushed it into the creme de la creme of holiday muffin treats...

Cranberry Bliss Bar (thanks Starbucks)...

Gingersnap Cookies (thanks Isom)...

Homemade Apple Pie (thanks Anna)...

Thanksgiving Carb Spread (thanks Pommerenks)...

Mini and Mama Pumpkin Bundt Cakes (thanks Martha Stewart...and me)...

Hope everyone enjoyed their day of thanks as much as we did. Thanks for continuing to read about my journeys in baking, eating, and parenting. As a special "thanks", I want to include my new favorite holiday recipe. Happy baking and happy holidays~

Eggnog Spice Muffins:

Batter:

2 cups all purpose flour

1 tbs baking powder

2/3 cup granulated sugar

3/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1 large egg, beaten

5 tbs butter (melted)

3/4 cup eggnog (not homemade...the commercial stuff folks)

1/2 cup dark rum or brandy (I used good old Malibu)

Topping:

2 tbs butter melted

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar

1/4 cup all purpose flour

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Position rack in the center of the oven.

Pre-heat to 375.

In a large bowl, blend together the flour, baking powder, sugar, nutmeg.

In a medium bowl, beat the egg, butter, eggnog, rum until smooth.

Combine the two mixtures, blending until the dry is just moistened.

Spoon the mix into prepared muffin cups about three quarters full.

For the topping, in a small bowl blend together all topping ingredients.

Sprinkle topping over the top of the muffins.

Bake for 20 minutes.

Let cool.

EAT THE HECK OUT OF YOUR BEST BATCH OF MUFFINS...EVER.

Thanksgiving...in Hawaii

2011-11-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

...will consist of warm weather (and my UGGS). Friends. Eggnog. Cranberry Bliss Bar. No school. No work. Christmas music. Christmas decorations. A baby! You may have noticed I left out the turkey part. What was once a fowl feast is now a dessert feast. I don't eat meat and I don't change for Thanksgiving. There will be plenty of carbs to load up on! We are excited to spend our day, first at home enjoying The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and later--eating, playing games, and taking pictures with our friends. I'm sure we will come home full, happy, and tired. Here's a preview of one turkey...

Whoopie Pies and Twinkie Style Cupcakes

2011-11-21T19:13:00.000-08:00

The recipients of these two treats were Isom's co-workers. And Gabe and I. We always have to try what we bake. We have been walking extra these days to help balance it out. Like cake pops, whoopie pies seem to be the new en vogue sweet treat. So I had to try my hand at making some. They turned out great looking, but for me the cake texture that comprises the sandwich portion is irritating in Hawaii's humidity...it sticks to your fingers. For those who don't mind literal finger licking good, no problem. But I would prefer to be able to just pop the treat in my mouth...no licking of sticky fingers necessary. The second of the nostalgia treats was a vanilla creme filled cupcake that inadvertently ended up tasting just like a Twinkie. In the course of a week, I have successfully embraced three baking fads---the whoopie, the faux Twinkie, and the cake pop. Hopefully, I can embrace the "get moving" exercise fad too...

Peppermint Cake Pops

2011-11-21T18:58:00.000-08:00

The cake pop guinea pig, otherwise known as Gabe, has been on pins and needles awaiting his peppermint cake pop. This baking project was a two day event. No wonder he kept asking "are the cake pops finished yet?" over and over and OVER again. This is what happens when time is divided between home improvements, eight year old soccer games, general sleep deprivation, and a twelve week old baby. All excuses as to why a normal couple hour baking project was a two day baking event, aside, it was a fun and tasty experiment. I first encountered the cake pop phenomenon at my local Starbucks. They have three flavors to (and now four with the addition of the holiday peppermint) choose from. I like them all. I'd like to see a red velvet and an eggnog version soon (Starbucks are you taking note?). I never dreamed I could re-create this small treat on my own. I did and I'm delighted about it. My mind is racing with all the flavor and special occasion combinations---the possibilities truly are endless. I may have found my new "cupcake". I just love the portability, bite size-ness, and let's not forget cuteness. Coming soon to a party near you...

Starbucks Splurge

2011-11-18T16:30:00.001-08:00

At first I thought this was my "Happiness Is" post. Starbucks, happiness, happiness, Starbucks. Same, same. Every year I get super excited about what holiday things they will have in store. And every year I am not disappointed. Some of this years delights include peppermint cake pops (OMG), Gingerbread biscotti (dip it in your eggnog latte...heaven), Snowman cookie (fun for the kids), and this year they thought ahead by providing a cake pop kit...oh and let's not forget the kid size personal cup with holiday theme and changing colored straw! Fun for kids and kids at heart. I will be making the cake pops shortly and sharing about that in a future blog post. Stay tuned. Baby not included with retail items at your local Starbucks. Isn't he cute though?

Breaking Dawn

2011-11-18T16:12:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged about a movie in awhile. This one is actually worth it...in my Twilight fan opinion. Not even a new baby kept me away...well, it prevented me from the midnight show, but this morning I woke up ready for the challenge---and it wasn't. Zach was very well behaved. His first Twilight event (other than in utero and the DVDathon we had shortly after he was born). Of course I enjoyed part one of the last movie for the Twilight saga. Who doesn't like a wedding, a honeymoon, and a baby? There's some wolf on wolf action, some wolf on vampire action, along with some good laughs, fashion, and cinematography. I haven't read the book in quite some time so it was actually extra enjoyable not to spend the whole movie comparing it to the book. I'm sure they left things out. I'm sure they added a few things in, but for me it was just visual enjoyment. The theater was packed and I was happy that Zach didn't disrupt any of the other parents playing hooky, I mean movie goers. After all the complaints I make about other kids and movie goers, I couldn't be THAT mom who had the screaming baby in the inappropriate movie. I only regret that I was impatient and left the theater two minutes too early...stay past the credits folks, there is a secret scene. Now, I'm counting down the days til part two...

FairyCakes

2011-11-14T18:54:00.001-08:00

...stole my idea! Okay, what I wish was my idea. It's a bakery...on wheels. Cute purple wheels. Genius. They drive to different island locations each week...keeping folks updated via Twitter and Facebook. You can email in a pre-order or just show up to the various locations to pig out. FairyCakes is of the go big or stay home mentality for their whoopie pies. They are monstrous---in both size and flavor. Gabe and I shared them for days. Red Velvet, Pumpkin, Orange Dream, Hazelnut, Peanut Butter...and they even threw in two cupcakes for free since it was Veteran's Day. And I would consider myself a veteran of cake eating. So, while the real Veteran (Isom) had to work, me and the boys enjoyed cakes of all sorts---big, small, free, chocolate, delicious. It was a good day to be off and enjoy cake...and salute Veterans of all sorts--big, small...

Thanks for all you do, your sacrifices near and far so that I may have freedom at home...to indulge in cake.

Happiness Is...

2011-11-14T18:37:00.000-08:00

The new Coldplay CD...

Big brother goofing off with little brother's toys...

Little brother staring in amazement at big brother...

Mini pumpkin bundt cakes from Barnes and Noble Cafe...

Starbucks K-Cups for our Keurig...

A handsome baby boy named Zach...

Off The Wall

2011-11-14T17:35:00.001-08:00

...the restaurant, not the album (although that is good too). I attended my third girls only outing since baby was born on Saturday. It's hard to get out of the house to leave Zach (no problem leaving the other two), but once out, it is invigorating to take a shower, dress with purpose, turn the radio up, drive a little faster, and eat at a grown up restaurant. The girls have been super at meeting at restaurants not too far from home, so if needed, I'm only fifteen minutes away from nursing the baby. Our first outing post baby was to Assagio's in Mililani---an old standby that is predictable and delicious. For our most recent outing however, we were a little less predictable--we went "off the wall" and ate at what appeared to be a "hole in the wall". After spending a couple of hours enjoying the BEST seared ahi (other than Isom's recipe of course) I have ever had, and trying a chocolate mystery dessert, I decided that it wasn't a hole in the wall after all. It was fine dining without the usual fine dining decor...or waitresses. We did have to make reservations but there were no fancy table linens, no polished silverware, or classical music playing in the background. College football on several strategically placed flat screen T.V.s served as our ambiance. But who needs typical fancy pants restaurant standards when the chef in the back is cooking up Top Chef styled local Asian cuisine? I am already envisioning taking Isom there for our first post baby date. For flavor, originality, and low key atmosphere---Off The Wall is my vote for Pearl Kai fine dining...leave your suit at home and enjoy five star quality food while watching the game in your jeans and t-shirt.

Brotherly Love

2011-11-07T17:38:00.000-08:00

They say there's no love like a mothers, especially for her son(s), but I have to tell you that brotherly love is pretty spectacular as well. I can honestly say I had no idea of how my heart would be melted by seeing the sight of Zach looking up (literally) to Gabe and Gabe adoring Zach--even if it is from an uncomfortably close perspective--every chance he gets. These two are shaping up to be best buds. I'm thrilled to be the one to capture it in pictures...even if it is crappy little iPhone pictures. Maybe Santa will bring me a new digital (very compact) camera.

'Tis The Season

2011-11-07T12:19:00.000-08:00

...to purchase warm winter boots. I have not fallen and hit my head. I know I live in Hawaii where the climate is warm. And I am not planning a trip to the mainland anytime soon either. But, after borrowing my friend's UGGS for Halloween (more on that later), I decided I had to have a pair for myself. Even if they only see the inside of my house with my daily ensemble of sweat shorts and baby spit up t-shirts, they are worth it. Just like my first red cup (yay holiday Starbucks time) of the season was worth the inflated (over four dollars) price for coffee. Some things you just do because it's the season---pumpkin cupcakes, peppermint mocha's, eggnog lattes, UGG boots in Hawaii. You see what I mean. I'm sorry everyone can't enjoy the comfort that my new boots and a Starbucks latte can bring, but maybe a small dose of happiness from the pictures?

Do These Stripes...

2011-11-07T12:02:00.000-08:00

...make me look fat?! Well, yes, yes they do. There's no other way baby boy can look at ten weeks old. His latest trick? Sitting up...well, kinda. Good thing our couch pillows are so fluffy. Much like the baby. For a few minutes at a time, Zach can sit on the couch like the big folks and watch t.v. High aspirations. He has also been working on his tummy time. He looks like a beach ball flying. Round middle with arms and legs flailing while grunting. But he is not unhappy about it, so each day we amuse ourselves by placing him on his toy mat for tummy time. Zach is also a great travel companion. Yesterday we spent several hours out of the house, on the road, touring Sea Life Park, grabbing eggnog milkshakes from Jack in the Box...typical Sunday in November outings. All this with barely a peep of distress...well, maybe a complaint or two...from the eight year old.

Baby, Brownies, Baking

2011-10-25T18:26:00.001-07:00

...and the award for worst brownie ever (and possibly worst picture ever) goes to...me. Maybe I'm being overly critical? After all, I still ate two. But, I won't be a contestant on Top Chef Just Desserts anytime soon. Today was a BUST. This morning was supposed to be my Halloween inspired Hui morning, but it ended up being the Hui that never was. Zach was still dressed as Mr. Bones though. Morbidly cute. To try to help turn the day around, I decided to bake. The first problem I encountered with that plan, no bundt pan. I was all set to bake a delicious treat (coconut chocolate bundt cake from the Coconut Cookbook I grabbed at the library last week), and realized that I don't actually have a bundt pan. I swear I did. On to baking back up plan---chocolate, coconut, ginger brownies. I had all the ingredients on hand, only a 30 minute cook time, and no bundt pan required. Should have been a piece of...well, brownie! I melted my chocolate and butter, got out my ingredients, was shocked I had enough eggs (since it required a whopping five), and was generally pleased as punch with myself since I realized I had never baked brownies that didn't come from a box before (and even then, they never turn out quite right for me). But then, I discovered those pesky flour bugs in my all purpose flour bin. Gross out. Wasteful. I threw out two entire bags of what could/should have been perfectly good flour. Since I had already begun mixing egg and sugar, I went with the only other flour I had (no flour bugs I promise)...almond flour. Entering new baking territory, I could hardly wait to try the finished product. The finished product that tasted great (the trio of ginger, chocolate, and coconut is almost as divine as the original trinity---the father, the son, and the holy ghost) but was lacking in certain textural advantages. The top layer, a brownie. Definitely. The middle layer, gooey. Definitely. The bottom...still trying to figure that one out. Gabe enjoyed it, but his culinary tastes are based in the land of chicken nuggets, cheese pizza, and peanut butter and jelly...

When Isom gets home, I guess he can be the final say on whether or not these brownies are destined for my belly...or the trash.

Eight Years and Eight Weeks

2011-10-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

Here's what eight looks like at our house. Eight year old boys have a silly streak. Mine does anyway. At eight, Gabe is full of bizarre, random thoughts. He is filled with stories from his day that are taken out of context and sound weird to the parental ear. Eight year old Gabe is sassy too, and has already decided Isom and I are complete morons. It's only okay because at eight, Gabe is loving and kind to his little brother...who is also eight...weeks. The large age gap that I spent many sleepless nights worrying about has turned out to be a mostly good thing (a few things are awkward and take some adjusting). It's nice to see the big eight caring for the little eight. Eight week old boys are a little fussy, but it's because they now know exactly what they want. Me. Momma. All day, everyday. Good thing I'm able to stay at home. At eight weeks, Zach is the exact opposite of his big brother in every way. Gabe would scream at bath time. Zach loves it. Gabe could be soothed by and loved all music---even our off tune, off pitch singing. Zach could care less what tunes we play. Gabe was an "enthusiastic" baby. Zach is more low key. But the two versions of eight work together nicely and the balance in our house is good...for now. They won't ever be the same in years and weeks again so I'm enjoying the fact that I can say I have two boys that are eight.

Flat Tire

2011-10-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

Bet you didn't know I am married to a hunky mechanic. I didn't either. I discovered that I was on Saturday. Me and the boys were on our way to Yogur Story again (yes twice in one week) when suddenly I see the car turn down a seedy side street that is NOT the side street Yogur Story is on. "Flat tire" Isom announced. You are joking. My car always gets flat tires. I guess I should be glad Isom was with me to change said flat tire, but honestly I was irritated our wonderful waffle breakfast was now being delayed. A nursing mom gets hungry!Knowing that changing the tire might take a few minutes, I decided to amuse myself by taking various photos of our surroundings...and the hunky mechanic. First, in front of us and behind us were our car. Seriously. A blue Honda Fit (exactly like mine) was parked directly in front of us. A white Honda Fit (exactly like Isom's) was parked directly behind us. Next, there was a very low budget bar (0pen and packed with patrons by the way at 9:30 a.m.) mere feet away from the front of the car. A gently used (ha, ha) pillow sat directly beside our car. And Isom was even offered a "Jesus Saves" flier from a very cordial man halfway into the tire change...he did not however, offer to help him change the tire. Darn. I guess Jesus saves but he doesn't change flat tires. Above Isom is inspecting the tire for damage...none was found...still it was flat. Hmm. Fifteen minutes, one Jesus solicitation, and two dirty hands later, Isom successfully changed our front passenger tire. He saved our lives. Just in time too. Driving in on our donut tire, we arrived before the Saturday rush for the delectable Oreo "West Hollywood" waffle breakfast.

Yogur Story

2011-10-14T19:15:00.001-07:00

It's a weird name, I'll concede to that. But, in this case, weird is good. Weird is actually better than good. It's waffletastic. I'm almost afraid to get excited about this new restaurant find. First, it seems too good to be true---they serve good, giant cups of coffee, they serve breakfast, they serve brunch, they serve pupus and have a bar, it has modern decor, they have friendly service, they have free parking. Second, the last place I loved this much turned out to have a junk owner, slow service, overpriced food, and left a bitter taste in my mouth. You see why I might feel reluctant to put all my taste buds in one basket. I'm going to try to be an optimist in this situation however. Yesterday, on the eve of National Dessert Day, Tutu, Lehua, and I enjoyed the most fantastic breakfast. It could be that I am just over my homemade breakfast of toast with strawberry preserves or it could be that this place truly is delicious. Again, going for optimism, so it's truly delicious. I ordered the Dulce De Leche Waffles. Yes. I'll type it again for even more effect. Dulce De Leche Waffles. Let that sink in. It was what all waffles aspire to be. I'd even aspire to be this. Mystery sweet syrup, candied banana, whip cream with raspberry, pecans, covering a thick Belgian style waffle?! Am I dreaming? No, fully awake. A waffle lover, foodie, breakfast connoisseurs perfect flavor combination. I'd eat it everyday if I didn't think I'd suddenly go into a sugar coma. I'm dying to take the boys there so I can try the other romantic flavors of waffle. I say romantic because I am in love. The last thing I was this excited about was my new baby...

Toto And Zach

2011-10-10T17:16:00.000-07:00

It's not a typo...not in my title...on my mother-in-law's Facebook comment, yes. Tutu as we call her or Toto as my mother-in-law types it. Either way, Tutu and Zach laid eyes on each other last week Tuesday and it has been love at first sight ever since...on both their parts. We have been enjoying a wonderful visit with my grandma (Zach's great grandma). It has been perfect timing with Gabe's fall break from school. We have spent the past few days admiring baby Z, eating good grub, enjoying a daily beer, and hanging out. Baby Z has now experienced the Hale Koa, the Yardhouse, the Hard Rock Cafe, and the Hale Ikena...all from the comforts of his car seat. He has successfully slept his way through all our family meals out. What a good baby! The eight year old on the other hand is having some behavioral issues, or maybe it just seems all the worse in comparison to the perfect, none talking baby. Gabe was also once a perfect non-talking baby too and I am wondering where that perfect baby went...and wondering when the current perfect baby will no longer be so perfect. Here's hoping it lasts a little longer this time around. Here's what Tutu (or Toto whichever you prefer) has been enjoying...oh, and me too.

National Coffee Day

2011-09-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

Since I can only post pictures of my baby lately, in honor of National Coffee Day or what really should be National Starbucks Day, I deliver to you a baby montage (both baby in size and baby in content) of Starbucks goodness. Coffee Day started out with the aroma of my husband... brewing up his cup of Joe via our Keurig this morning. I followed suit as I knew I wouldn't (unfortunately) be making it into a Starbucks myself today. Instead, I was too busy sipping on my morning java and posing baby Z with random Starbucks paraphernalia. I might be suffering from an unfortunate combination of over-caffeination and stir craziness. My apologies...but please enjoy.

Four Weeks

2011-09-27T19:22:00.000-07:00

...and two days. By the time tomorrow arrives, Zach will officially be one month old. At one month he is 13.2 pounds. He is just getting over a mild case of baby acne. He has cradle cap...of the eyebrows. He has maintained his blond locks. He has captured our hearts even more. On his four week "birthday" we celebrated by taking our first full family outing to...Starbucks. It was a momentous occasion. Baby Z did great...he slept the entire time. I guess coffee isn't that exciting to him yet. The rest of the clan enjoyed a much needed break from breakfast at the house. We even ventured, baby and all, to Longs Drugs. His four week birthday would not have been complete without a stop at my old work. Plenty of oohs and ahhs and we even found Baby Z's Halloween costume. Once we had returned home from our "birthday" adventures, we were greeted by our friends the Schultz's, recently returned from their trip to Italy...and a first birthday party, so our four week old rocker got to spend the evening with a fairy princess. Doesn't get much better than that.

Long Day At The Office

2011-09-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

...for Zach. It's hard work trying not to poop out of the side of your diaper. Even harder work trying not to spit up on your cute onesie. We are now in week three of "life on the outside". Zach is a trooper. He is enduring a cranky mom who has been low on sleep, a dad that continues to scratch his face with his beard/goatee, and a big brother who has no concept of personal space. If it were me, I'd be crying or fussing every minute, but not Zach. He is a cruiser...maintaining that Virgo sense of adaptability at every turn...completely opposite of Gabe, the Leo. It is so interesting to see the differences (and a few similarities) between Gabe and Zach...although, I'm sure some of this is a bit pre-mature. I guess, age, as much as personality as something to do with their behavioral/personality differences. It's hard to believe that almost a month has gone by...I haven't baked (pre-made frozen goods don't count), gone out with the ladies, seen a movie (in the theaters), or even read a book...and yet, I am happy.

Zachary's First Bath

2011-09-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, I do have two kids. Two boys in fact. It might seem that I only have one right now...Zach. All of my waking (and even not waking) hours are spent doing things for and thinking about him...all the while still thinking of the older one, better known as Gabe. I have to remind myself that it's fair. I was madly in love with Gabe when he was this new too. In fact, madly in love with him until he was able to talk...then it was just love, no longer madly. Smile. I suppose it will be the same for Zach as well. Madly in love until he talks. For now, you will all have to endure the endless posts of all his "firsts". It's like the 500 cupcake recipe posts I have been doing for the past two years, but instead, now it's a non-edible cupcake named Zach. 500 posts of Zach or something close to it. Are you ready for posts that cute? Here is post number one (well, technically number three if you count the previous two) of all the many "firsts" Zach (and I) will have this next year. Zach's first bath was last night. It probably should have been a day or two earlier since that was when he lost his umbilical cord, but call me crazy, I just wanted to hold on to his newborn scent for a few extra days----sweat, pee, poop, and all. The first bath was a two person job...one to bathe and one to take pictures (although from the looks of these two sad iPhone photos, maybe it was really a one person job). Zach seemed to enjoy the warm water. He didn't cry or fuss, just looked up at us with his big blue eyes in wonder---what is this feeling? It's called clean. A few minutes in the tub on the kitchen counter, a few scrubs with the washcloth from dad, and he was ready to be wrapped in the cutest baby bathrobe. Diaper free and snuggling with mommy before a mini massage with coco butter baby lotion. Everyone should be this lucky. We would all sleep well with that kind of first class treatment. Smelling good enough to eat, relaxed in PJ's and a clean diaper...Zach let out the biggest, stinkiest, loudest poop. And that was that for the first bath.

Thankful, Grateful, Full

2011-09-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

Thankful to all the friends and family that have called, emailed, texted, Facebooked, Tweeted, Blogged, stopped by (especially those with sweets) with food, mailed cards, sent gifts, had our family (now suddenly grown to four) in your thoughts. Grateful for all the visits received at the hospital and now at home. Full from all the delicious Starbucks treats, pastas, desserts, dishes made for us so we can spend more time gazing at and adoring our new addition. We appreciate all the love and help we have received over the past seventeen (already?!) days. Here's the Zach visitors hall of fame...

In Between Diapers And Feedings

2011-09-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

...I have found the time to accomplish watching up to season three of one of the best shows no longer on T.V.---Friday Night Lights, and stare endlessly at Zachary, otherwise known as "one-eyed Zach. He loves to make lots of facial expressions and looks like he will be a "hand talker" (just like his momma). Zach has already reached his first milestone, he "lost" his umbilical cord stump (for lack of a better, more medical term). The day before his two week birthday, I was

preparing to nurse him, and noticed I could see a belly button instead of the black, yucky old thing that had been a part of him since birth. Hooray, we can finally bathe the poop and pee machine! Zach's two week check-up went well.

He didn't fuss and we learned that at two weeks (which, if he were like his big brother, would be my 42nd week of pregnancy) he weighed exactly what big brother Gabe weighed at birth---a whopping 11.2 lbs.

The nurses thought I was there for his two MONTH check-up. Any concerns I had about him gaining weight solely on breast milk, were immediately wiped away. I am now off of my pain medication and seeing my new parenting world more clearly. Zach is still a little cherub and rarely cries. I'm able, when not recovering from my c-section, nursing, napping, or snacking to do a few things around the house. Two weeks in and I must say, this little boy is delightful.

Baby Zachary Has Arrived

2011-09-06T12:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a little over a week since I delivered Zach and almost a week since being discharged from the hospital. I've really learned in that short period of time, that every kid is different...from delivery to personality to looks. This little guy made his appearance on time. On his due date. I'm hoping this speaks to his punctuality in all life situations. We couldn't be happier to introduce Zachary Benjamin Majors to the world.

Although he didn't beat big brother on the weight or length categories, he is still a big boy. Weighing in at 10 lbs 1.7 ounces and measuring 21.65 inches, we met Zach under the lights of an operating room.

It was not my ideal birth plan, but we made it! From the moment they put him on my chest, it was love at first sight. He is sweet, curious, calm, beautiful, darling. A truly great spirit.He already has adoring fans from across the U.S., the three biggest ones being myself, Isom, and Gabe. Enjoy the snapshots...I am so excited to introduce you to the cutest baby in the world. He's even better in person...

Baby Z In Utero

2011-08-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

I'm becoming more and more restless, especially as two mom friends that were due after me, have already had their babies. Each day seems longer and longer. I feel like the days are at least 32 hours long instead of the standard 24. But, yesterday made things a little more bearable since Isom and I got to see Baby Z via ultra sound. I'm due this Sunday but at my last doctor's appointment on Tuesday, there was a little question about the size of this big boy. My doctor ordered an ultra sound for me to have Baby Z measured and estimate his weight, check on my fluids, and of course see the cutest baby in the world! I won't be giving away the estimated weight just yet but I will say that

1) the ultra sound tech had a funny look on her face when seeing the actual size of Baby Z (a look that said, wow, I feel sorry for you)

2) she also said my uterus is a trooper (guess it's fighting a battle against these big babies I keep having)

3) the head and stomach measurements for Baby Z were off the charts, meaning their equipment doesn't measure babies that big!

It was quite the reassuring appointment. Sarcasm.

But, I am focusing on the positives. At least we know for sure he is a boy (Gabe was still skeptical). We know for sure he has cute chubby cheeks! And we know for sure he is...well nourished. Now if we could just see him in person...sometime before Christmas would be nice.

Back To Larry's

2011-08-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

Now the bad name is growing on me. Larry's Bakery was hit up once again on my way to Target (again) today. The reason for the Target trip, sunglasses. Walked right out of there and totally forgot to even look at the sunglasses aisle. I can't wait for my brain to return. The pre-Target pit stop was lucrative though. I tried the coconut half moon and the butter mochi with cream cheese from Larry's. Both were good...but especially the mochi, which of course I don't have a picture of. I used to stop at Blimpie's for a sweet pepper sandwich (and other veggies and cheese) every time I went to Target (somehow I always need to make a weekly Target run). It was a great tradition. But now, sigh, Blimpie's has been closed. Good thing there's Larry's. I see a new tradition in the making...

Last Week Of Pregnancy

2011-08-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

...well, hopefully. I started out week 39 by going to the Ice Palace. Yes, the ice skating rink. Not to skate (although I really wanted to), but to celebrate Mia's 8th birthday. Yes, as one of the birthday twins, her birthday is actually in July, but wise beyond her years, she decided to have her party later...one, to be able to invite school friends, and two, well, duh, to celebrate twice! My kind of party planning. Since I was not skating, Isom filled in for me. So, at least I got to be amused (he actually did a great job and didn't even fall). And happily, the same can be said for Gabe (I had pregnancy induced paranoia of broken limbs prior to the birthday party). For a kid growing up in Hawaii, having only seen snow about two times in his life, he does pretty well at ice skating...and drinking hot cocoa. The ice capades were topped off with the mandatory kid birthday pizza and cupcakes and I couldn't help but think what a perfect party combination the skating and food were...so maybe in six months, when (hopefully) I'm not pregnant anymore (it feels like I'm never giving birth), I can follow in the eight year olds footsteps and have my birthday party at Ice Palace/Pizza Hut too.

The New Side Street

2011-08-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

Where you can enjoy two desserts...after you've had some edamame, spinach salad, pork chops (well, the other ladies did), calamari, and tofu. My last ladies night out before becoming a mom of two boys. It was my last super! A great last super. The old Side Street (or the Ala Moana location) is the seediest, dirtiest, craziest looking place to eat food. But, it was good food, so the surroundings didn't matter. The new Side Street has married their signature good food with an atmosphere I am more used to dining in. Our service was good, the restaurant was busy, and us girls could let our hair down, be loud, take our time, and eat plate after plate of their family style spiced to perfection food. Too bad dessert isn't a labor inducer...I would have had this baby months ago...

Larry's Bakery

2011-08-16T23:43:00.000-07:00

I must get this out there right away. WORST name for a bakery ever. Sorry. The name does not conjure up images of delicious aromatic baked goods. In fact, the name Larry makes me think of an Auto parts place, a mechanic. But, I had the most delicious blueberry Danish, so I guess the name isn't all that important...and it is actually quite memorable. Who can forget "Larry's Bakery"?! It is located in an industrial part of town near the Salt Lake Target store (perk...shopping after). There is limited parking but if you go mid morning like I did, it's not a problem. The original reason for trekking to Larry's with Lena was to try out their cupcakes. Their cupcakes weren't quite ready yet so I "settled" for a Danish. No complaints here and an excuse to go back. Although their blog doesn't appear to have been updated since 2009, you can still click here to see the adorable cupcake bouquets they make for special occasions (like delivering a baby at Kaiser...wink). Next time you're picking up some Target deals, stop into Larry's...the bakery, not the auto parts place.

Newspaper Nail Art

2011-08-16T23:27:00.000-07:00

I've been playing around with different combinations of fun colors and sparkles and crackles and shatters for my nails. I like to change things up (much to Isom's dismay...he hates the smell) about once a week. This week, I discovered two new things---one was Pinterest (thanks Danielle and Tobi) and the other was this nail technique...on Pinterest. So, here's the directions for all you DIYers.

Step 1. paint nails a neutral base color (I used white)

Step 2. after base color drys, dip in alcohol (I used rubbing, but the Pinterest suggestion was Vodka...drink and do your nails!)

Step 3. take a strip of newspaper and press on the still damp nail (This step reminded me of all the temporary tattoos Gabe has had me apply over the years)

Step 4. a fun nail that has words/print on it (Doubly good for me...words and nails!)

The look is endless, every time you do it, it will turn out differently. Next time, I'm trying color newspaper print...like the comics. This is also a great mom/daughter project...I've decided to spare Gabe from this "crazy mommy" activity.

Citrus Yogurt Muffins

2011-08-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

Even if I didn't like the taste of these, which I did, I would try to find a way to bake these muffins more often...they smell heavenly. Clean. Cool. Refreshing. Tasty. This recipe called for a triple citrus combo. Lemon, lime, and orange zest. Mixed with non-fat plain yogurt and your typical other muffin ingredients and you have yourself the perfect summer muffin to go with your tea or coffee. There are just certain aromas and flavors that scream sunshine and these muffins fit the bill. I had to send them off with Isom to work today before I devoured the rest of the container. The addition of the yogurt helps make them soft and crumbly, like a really good scone. They aren't anything fancy to look at, but your taste buds can't see. And it was nice to bake something that required no frosting.

Fire And Ice Cupcakes

2011-08-15T20:28:00.000-07:00

...for Bella and Edward's (yes, fictional characters from the Twilight saga) wedding anniversary of course! This just proves further that the last weeks of pregnancy equal crazy. I love both the Twilight books and movies, but never thought I would have the opportunity to attend a party to celebrate two of the characters getting married...and to bake cupcakes for that party. Thanks to another Twi-hard mom friend, I secured an exclusive invite to the event. And what an event. I thought I loved a good theme...this hostess has me beat...by a long shot. It was fun and silly to gather with the other ladies to play Twilight themed Bunco, cut Bella and Edward's wedding cake, play a little Twilight trivia for prizes, re-watch Twilight, and talk story with folks who are similarly obsessed. It was a great distraction from being 38 weeks pregnant. And some great dessert eating. And the perfect venue for me to wear my "Edward's Baby" Twilight maternity shirt. And not a bad way to spend my Saturday night.

The Change-Up

2011-08-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Freaky Friday meets Wife Swap (I know it's guys, not chics in the movie). I also know it's not the best concept for a movie, but it had two of my favorite actors, so I was able to gloss over the ridiculous pee in a fountain and switch lives with my best friend premise. Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds--great comedy duo. The Change-Up takes place in my hometown---Atlanta. Except, I didn't even recognize it! That is a sad commentary. I really must make it home one of these days. I was so happy to be in a non-kid movie yesterday. I didn't even need to indulge in popcorn and Reese's Pieces. I was also spared (for once) from obnoxious seat kickers. All of these factors made for a funny and enjoyable movie experience. Take one uptight lawyer family man (Jason Bateman) and one out of work, slacker, pot smoking, womanizing loser (Ryan Reynolds) and let them lead each others lives for a week or so, and this is the movie. No tricky CGI. No over the top action/adventure. Just some nudity and cussing...but they are completely reasonable to the plot of the movie. I laughed out loud several times and even teared up a couple times too...which I'm really hoping will subside once this pregnancy is over. No Oscar nods for this film, but pure entertainment that both you and the hubby could enjoy. And although Reynolds is not wearing a superhero spandex outfit for this film, he is still delightful in jeans and a little too tight t-shirts. I like a simple kind of guy anyway. You may consider who you'd like to "change-up" with after watching this movie. At almost 38 weeks of pregnancy, I'm ready to do the "change-up" with ANYBODY...that's not pregnant.

No Egg Chocolate Cupcakes

2011-08-11T11:36:00.000-07:00

Cupcakes without eggs? It's possible. I'd been wanting to try this recipe for awhile, but there was no occasion and no cherry cola...yes, that is the oddball ingredient for these super soft and delicious cupcakes. Cherry coke and a can of condensed milk (which I'd much rather drink than regular milk). Both the occasion and the cherry soda presented themselves yesterday. Isom announced there would be a work potluck today and no one had signed up for dessert. I had no idea that Cherry Coke no longer came in a single serving bottle here on Oahu. Maybe you can find it elsewhere? I have been unsuccessful. So, there's the grossly pregnant chic buying a 12 pack of Cherry Coke at Safeway yesterday (which I guess is better than a carton of cigarettes? A fifth of Jack?)...thanks Gabe for loading in the cart for mom. With my ingredients now in possession, the no egg cupcakes were ready to be made. Too bad it was a million degrees when we got home. We took a pause to do homework. Which turned into crying and some yelling (you can imagine who did what). As the sun went down, homework woes turned to "what's for dinner" woes. I opted out and made Isom create every one's culinary favorite---grilled cheese, while I proceeded with the cupcakes...topping them off this morning with a dollop of Nutella (my new favorite frosting substitute) and white sprinkles for some flare. Hopefully Isom's office is enjoying each chocolaty bite right now as I type.

The "Sweetest" Day

2011-08-09T18:04:00.000-07:00

...other than giving birth of course, could be today. Originally today was supposed to be spent poolside. Instead, it was an adventure in real life Candyland (you know the little kid board game). I guess it was actually more like Bakeland, but...

Starting off the sweet parade was a new Mango flavor cupcake from Hokulani Bakeshop in Restaurant Row. Rated M for MMMMMM. The frosting was the best part.

The next stop was Let Them Eat Cupcakes in Chinatown. German chocolate cake

with coconut and nuts and oooh, rated G for Good God it was Great. Both the cake and the topping were delicious. The third stop was supposed to be Cake Couture in Downtown but the directions we received and the parking situation were bad so we had to forgo. Rated F for Failed to Deliver. We (my Bakeland playing partner) are flexible, so we moved right along to donuts.

A Creme Brulee donut from Regal Bakery by the Airport. A little too burnt creme for me, but the cake donut was pretty close to perfect. Rated B for Better Than Your Typical Lunch Choice.

Since we had surpassed the amount of sugar that should be legal for one person in a day, I thought our Bakeland adventure was coming to a close. Oh, wait, one more stop. A new place. Uncharted territory for me. A cookie place!

I didn't actually eat anything here but I did grab a bag "for the boys" (sweet of me) to try later. I decided to not feel guilty about the "sweetest" day because technically I split everything...just because the person I split things with can't talk and is in my belly...well, that's just not the point.

Tobi, This Is All Your Fault

2011-08-09T00:15:00.000-07:00

...that I am now addicted to one more app on my iPhone! But, seriously, thank you. I feel like a real photographer! Try not to laugh and blow anything out of your nose or mouth. I have discovered Instagram thanks to a recommendation from one of my favorite fellow bloggers (scroll down the side of the main page to check her out). So, since I have so much "spare" time waiting for this basketball in my belly to fall out, I have spent the better part of the last week taking pictures just so I can see what fun things I can do to them via Instagram. If you have an iPhone, I highly recommend the free app. But don't get mad at me, I warned you...it's addicting. So, thanks Tobi...I think. You'll notice I am taking more photos of people than food...small victory. Here are a couple of my fun before and after shots...

Smurfed

2011-08-08T23:56:00.000-07:00

The only good thing worth mentioning about this weekend? Taking Gabe to see the Smurfs Movie. It's always interesting, sometimes scary, to see what can become of your old childhood memories. Every Saturday when I was growing up, could be characterized by PJ's and Saturday morning cartoons. Pillsbury biscuits with molasses for breakfast, and the day was complete...well, at least the early morning anyway. Saturdays were also dance class day. But, back to the movie. My general rule about live action and animated movies is that they are bad. This movie worked though. There were a few bad CGI moments but hey, I can't do that stuff, so I better not be too critical. The plot was reasonable, and I was happy with the Smurfs that were chosen as the "stars" of the movie. Neil Patrick Harris (oh Doogie) was a welcome addition to the modernized version of these classic little blue guys. Although I have been unsuccessful in getting Gabe interested in watching old episodes on DVD and Netflix, he really enjoyed the movie. It was as they say, Smurftastic. A Smurfin good time. A Smurfy Saturday at the movies.

25 Days

2011-08-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

If I weren't so pregnant, I would be doing a dance. It is August. The month I am due. I no longer have to say, next month, in a few months...I can say THIS MONTH...well, that is if this baby wants to cooperate. I know babies are rarely born on their due dates but I have to hang on to the date or I won't be able to get through these next three weeks. I think we are ready. I hope we are ready. The baby room is ready. The baby clothes are ready. Gabe is ready. The pressure is on for Zachary. He has been kicking and wiggling around despite what has to be a very tight space. My appetite has somewhat returned...just in time to gain extra weight at the end. My memory has disappeared. My common sense has flown out the window. And my tear ducts look for an excuse to shed a few hormonal tears. I am experiencing back pain and sleepless, multiple bathroom filled nights but all of these are just signs that I am in the home stretch. In less than one months time, less time than it takes to break a habit (that's 28 days), less time than my organic milk from Costco will expire, I could be trying to type a blog entry while holding a new born baby boy. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

First Day Of Third Grade

2011-08-02T11:48:00.001-07:00

...for Gabe, not me. The report? He did great. Maybe it's his new haircut? There was an underlying current of anxiety all summer about what third grade would be like (mostly from him...but some from me). I know we've only survived the first day, but that can really set the tone for the rest of the year. His teacher seems strict but warm. Welcoming but down to business. And she is organized. Can't tell you how much I love that. It's a good match for the eight year old boy. When asked what he thought of her, Gabe summed up "Well, I heard her yell today, and I'm used to that!" (while glancing at me). Isom and I both escorted the little prince to his new class located in the portables outside the regular school classrooms. Escorted him all the way to the front row. His teacher must have been spying on us...she already knew this was the appropriate place for the little rascal! If it weren't for Isom, I would have totally forgotten to get even this not so great first day photo...I was too busy being sad that my new eight year old was embarking into the upper grades of elementary school. Good thing we've got another little rascal on the way...I won't be sad like this again until that one goes to kindergarten...in another five years! Ack!

Eight Is Great

2011-07-31T14:15:00.001-07:00

I wish I could say seven was heaven...but it was filled with many challenges. Among them potty humor, lying, and sassy talk. But we came out okay and I have high hopes for eight. It rhymes with great, it must be a good age right? Yesterday we celebrated Gabe's last birthday as an only child. I must admit, I was a little sad. Good thing he was just goofy enough to distract me from tearing up too much. In this house, each birthday somehow gets a theme. This year was all about Star Wars. He was excited to wear his Star Wars t-shirt and Jeidi birthday badge. If I was the least bit creative, I would have turned his waffles (the homemade pancakes were a fail) into some sort of Jeidi ship. Instead, I made his smiley face look like a flower. Gabe was gracious about it. On the eight year olds birthday eve I made him Star Wars cupcakes (peanut butter and chocolate with Nutella). Isom took the day off and we drove to Gabe's favorite beach---Waimea. If it weren't raining almost the whole time, I would have pictures of that, but...you'll just have to imagine (the boys happily playing in the ocean waves and rain and me huddled under the umbrella, avoiding drops of rain while Facebooking on my iPhone). Our dearest Mai Ly took a birthday cake order months ago and created a fantastic cake homage to Star Wars for our young Jeidi. The cake too was chocolate and peanut butter (it is his favorite flavor combination). It was a fabulous addition to the birthday. All presents received were either wrapped with or contained some sort of Star Wars paraphernalia. Of course Gabe was thrilled. Thanks to everyone who sent, mailed, delivered goodies to him...he was a very happy boy yesterday. Gabe's birthday would not be complete without family pizza dinner with his birthday twin Mia. Never mind that today is actually her birthday, not yesterday like Gabe. They were all smiles as they unwrapped Hello Kitty (for her) and Star Wars (for him) presents. And let's not forget the third cake in two days...the Baskin-Robbins ice cream cake (since it was a shared endeavor, it wasn't chocolate and peanut butter...mint chocolate chip). Eight is starting off great.

Too Bad Zach Doesn't Need A Toilet

2011-07-29T23:44:00.000-07:00

...otherwise, I'd totally get this for him! I got a really good laugh out of this when I was reading Rolling Stone today at the beach. Is this what rock stars pee in? A regular chair might be cute. But something about a guitar toilet...

This is a whole new meaning to musical toots.

Vanilla Cupcakes

2011-07-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

...on a budget...in survival mode? I don't know how to describe it except I was impressed yet again with the math, measurement, and baking skills...of a 9 year old. Gabe and I shared the company of Sarah's girls yesterday. They played outside, jumped on the trampoline, ran errands with me...and decided they wanted to bake cupcakes...from scratch. This would be perfectly acceptable behavior...in the confines of my own kitchen, with my own baking supplies, and some prep time. I wasn't sure I could bake on the fly at someone else's house in someone else's kitchen. We managed however. Thanks to the iPhone---I looked up a vanilla cupcake recipe on joyofbaking.com. And miraculously enough, Sarah had all the ingredients necessary for whipping up the batch of cupcakes. You might be hard pressed to find coordinating ingredients to anything, if you were to just pop over with the kids and expect to bake at my house (despite or in spite of all the baking I've been known to do). A little butter borrowed from the girls grandma who lives downstairs, and we were all set. In my current condition, standing in the kitchen is no good. So, I did an experiment. I dictated the ingredients, tools, and instructions to the eldest kid (as the 7 year old birthday twins Mia and Gabe had tired of this method...I think they enjoy the eating part of baking) while sitting down in the dining room. So, I essentially did nothing. Here's the results...

There were limited decorating supplies but the kids made d0. They tasted just great.

Monkey Butt

2011-07-26T16:37:00.001-07:00

I don't know how I'm going to contain myself from only posting pictures of cute baby boy outfits from now on. This morning Gabe and I have been putzing around the house, taking care of little odds and ends...you know all the important things that have to happen in order for baby to arrive and be okay in our house? Things such as all the white dishes being properly organized on one shelf, the freezer organized according to food groups...it's insanity around here. One of the tasks was also de-tagging (word?) the adorable new clothes Zachary received at the baby shower. I made sure all the size tags, hangers, plastic thingamabobs were all gone and ready for the clothes to be washed. And of course as this task was taking place, lots of oohing and ahhing and picturing a mini me Gabe wearing the hundreds of rocker onesies we apparently now own. It was a fun morning...but, here is the one I had to

take a picture of immediately...it's a monkey face...on the butt of the baby pants! Monkey Butt! This seems like a good nick name for the baby.

Last Week The Hands

2011-07-25T12:51:00.001-07:00

...and this week the feet. I promise not to make iPhone pictures of my pregnant feet a regular occurrence. I must be breaking all sorts of social norms and what should probably be laws with this one. No one needs to see my feet, let alone the swollen pregnant feet...BUT, the rock star pedicure had to be displayed. Since I couldn't reach to paint my toes to match the theme of my baby shower, I paid to have them done professionally. Yes, this means I stood on my swollen pregnant feet for four hours in the fitting room of Old Navy in order to then turn around and use that money earned for my rock pedicure. Makes perfect sense right? I am super pleased with them. I had the idea that I could make my fingernails look equally cute...big Family Feud X (input sound effects here). At least I didn't have to stand on my swollen pregnant hands to earn money for this manicure I gave myself.

Rock A Bye Baby Shower

2011-07-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

This is what I walked into Julie's house and saw. AMAZING. There were so many hands in making sure my shower for baby Zachary went smoothly. The cupcake part? Lehua. This post will probably be more pictures than text, but I'll just say now that I had a rockin time. I knew I was happy with the rock star theme before, but the shower reinforced it... Baby Z might be mistaken for Axl Rose or Slash with this onesie.

And even though Clifford isn't playing the guitar, he definitely fits with the color scheme. One of the many beautiful, plush baby blankets Zachary was so lucky to have hand made for him.

Now you know what I look like at a concert. I made my shirt...altered a man's concert tee with cutting at the neckline and adding fun safety pin embellishments on the side. Nothing gets by Gabe in this house. His quote as I was leaving, "Did you have to cut the shirt to make room for that belly?!". No Gabe, but thanks for asking.

Zebra pillow for Zach's room. .The rockin gang. Please note we were hot and waiting for a seven year old to take our picture...so we are all a little crazy and restless looking.

My fabulous Old Navy co-workers. Wish more of them could have been a part of the day...but someone had to hold down the fort...I mean there was a sale going on...and aren't they being sued by Kim Kardashian? Someone had to stay behind to deal with all that! They've seen me through the last nine months...from the announcement to today's protruding belly. What an adventure.

Taking a break to chat and EAT. Caesar Salad with a secret dressing, pesto Shrimp pasta salad with sun dried tomatoes, Red Velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. Food fit for a rocker or a really pregnant chic. Kind of the same right?

Thanks doesn't even begin to cover it, but will have to do for now. Rocking day. Rocking friends. Rocking food. Rocking games. Rocking venue. Rocking gifts. Rocking baby on the way.

Before This Pregnancy Is Over

2011-07-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

...I better get a picture of the pregnant belly posted. Funny how last pregnancy, I had a running chronology of each month, practically each week, of pictures of the expanding belly. This time it just didn't seem like a fun thing to photograph. But, here it is, week 34. Almost in the home stretch...pardon the pun. Good thing Isom took the picture a few days ago...the belly looks ENORMOUS to me today...not picture worthy, more like gawk worthy.

Winnie The Pooh

2011-07-15T23:26:00.000-07:00

I guess you are never too old for some "hunny" and a cute snugly bear. I was worried that Gabe (other than me as his escort) might be the oldest kid in the theater. But, no. The couple, as in man and woman in their thirties, sitting in front of us had no kids...they were on a Pooh date. Pretty cute. But not as cute as me and my date. This movie is more like an episode on t.v. By normal movie standards, this one is pretty short, but it wasn't lacking in wonderful animation, songs, and classic story telling. The real kids in the theater were laughing and giggling non-stop. A whole new generation of loyal Pooh fans began in that theater today. It's hard to believe that a movie starring an owl, a pig, a tiger, and a sad, sad donkey makes for the perfect date movie with your spouse, your kid, or a friend. Guess, that's why we all love Pooh. I recommend all ages seeing this movie...and bringing some "hunny" with you...you're gonna crave it by the end of the hour.

Bad Teacher

2011-07-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

...was a bad movie. I was suckered. By the previews anyway. There were some seriously funny commercials associated with this movie. Too bad all those hilarious commercials were the only good parts of the movie. It was weird seeing Justin Timberlake as a nerd. How can the guy who "brought sexy back" play a weirdo nerd successfully? And Jason Segel, we get it...you are habitually the underdog who gets the girl. Move on. The movie had potential to be Hangover good, but it missed the mark due to poor casting---despite marketable stars such as Cameron Diaz. The only thing worse than Bad Teacher will be Bad Teacher Two. If you just need a cool place to sit for two hours though, I guess this movie will do, but you could always just go see Ryan Reynolds suited up in his Green Lantern outfit.

Repeats Are Best

2011-07-14T18:02:00.001-07:00

Right? I mean you don't turn the t.v. off when that old episode of "I Love Lucy" comes on...or it's the fifteenth time you've seen the episode of Friends---the one where "they were on a break". So, it can't hurt to return to favorite island spots. Repeat. Besides, this was the first time going to Regal Bakery with Danica and Mia. And this time I remembered to take a picture of the kids inside the donut. It had to be done. If there's a hole, gotta stick the kids in it. Our next stop was the Byodo Temple in Kaneohe. Again, been there done that, but this time we saw more black swans (picture omitted) and the biggest gathering of Koi fish...maybe ever. It was bordering on ridiculous...and disgusting. The kids fed the fish, got bitten by mosquitoes (a summer rite of passage), and discovered wasps. Science education! Our tiniest companion had fun too. Looking forward to repeating this repeat.

Sometimes

2011-07-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

...you just need a $6 milkshake, a free ride on the trolley, a few hours to yourself, to watch a bad movie, to scream at the top of your lungs. Okay, so three out of five...better than zero out of five. Math camp for Gabe has been the best (almost) three days of the summer. Gabe, who was dreading going has been enjoying himself...and math, the subject he is great at but supposedly hates. After camp each day we have been trying to do something fun and refreshing. Refreshing because summer in Hawaii is hot...not Phoenix hot (I know you are suffering too Grandma!), but summer in Hawaii, 34 weeks pregnant...is EXTRA hot. I was very happy for the wind whipping through my hair and sticky clothes on the trolley yesterday. I was even happier for the deluxe strawberry chocolate shake that Gabe and I shared after riding the trolley. Fun and refreshing mission accomplished. I'm so happy Gabe isn't "too big" to go on my dorky adventures. I guess you're never too big for milkshakes...and the free piece of chocolate he somehow obtained at Godiva.

Zachary's Crib

2011-07-11T13:11:00.001-07:00

If B list celebrities can get away with a camera from MTV following them around their "crib" while they display the contents of their fridge on national television, then I can continuously post weird angled iPhone pictures of the progress on baby Z's room..."crib". Here it is. The "crib". The room he will hopefully love. The room he will poop the most in. The room he will cry out in the middle of the night in. The room we will rock him to sleep in. The room we will read stories and listen to music with him in. A few finishing touches are all it needs...that and a baby.

My Messy Trifle

2011-07-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

I know I'm not "original", but I did NOT consult a recipe for this festive fourth of July treat. I thought of the colors red, white, and blue and how I had yet to use my Pampered Chef Trifle bowl. And here we have it. Red Velvet cake, White Cool Whip, and Blue Blueberries. It was a good mix of deluxe dense cake and light airy cream with a dose of healthy antioxidant fruit to top it off. It's also really quick and easy to whip up...especially when your husband takes pity on your lazy pregnant state and helps by mixing up the batter. So, maybe the title to the post should be amended to "our messy trifle". Either way, it was a delicious messy trifle showcased at our friends kick back holiday BBQ.

Nails Of The Week

2011-07-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

I have to showcase the nails now while I can. Before I know it, baby Z will be here and the nails will have to go. So, like my many trips to the movie theater, I am enjoying it while it lasts. I recently purchased the OPI shatter in turquoise (okay, busted, Isom purchased it for me) and I had to try it with my current favorite under coat color---silver. As that novelty wore off (the tips chipped from work) I decided on another new color from OPI---the sparkle purple from the new Serena Williams line. It's hard to even say which is my favorite. It's like trying to decide what slice of pizza is the best. What cupcake is sweetest. What book to read next. It is a toss up since it's all good.

Baking Hello Kitty's Face

2011-07-11T12:44:00.000-07:00

These girls are future bakers. I'm pretty impressed with how well their first Hello Kitty cake turned out. I was only there for guidance (and pulling the big Hello Kitty cake face out of the oven). They did an amazing job of helping their "auntie" decorate Hello Kitty's face. Gabe gave a valiant effort, but was preoccupied with Lego men and Lego battles to be too much help when it came to creating this Hello Kitty masterpiece. He was sure to be around when it came time to eat her face though. It was a fun Friday afternoon activity. I hadn't baked anything in awhile and I knew the seven and nine year old girls would appreciate baking and Hello Kitty as much as me. Next time, we are excited to try out my Hello Kitty cupcake stencils...

Unplugged For A Week

2011-07-11T12:39:00.001-07:00

...and if you believe that, well...

I tried anyway. My version of unplugged. I did not turn my computer on once this past week and I didn't break out into hives or anything. So, it is possible to somewhat take technology out of my life. The trouble is, I have this cool thing called the iPhone...and iPad...

But, I did no blogging, no Moms In Hawaii posting, limited Facebook posting, and no responding to emails. What did I learn? That people probably think I'm a jerk for not replying to them this past week! I'm not, I just could not muster the energy to open my laptop and do the extremely hard task of pushing the button to turn it on. Instead, I've been spending the days floating in the pool, reading my Sookie Stackhouse series, looking longingly at my laptop, and painting my nails. Not much different huh? And here I thought I was really doing something.

Monte Carlo

2011-07-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

...was no substitute for Transformers 3. We spent all day trying to decide if it would be appropriate to take Gabe to see the third installment of the movie based on one of his favorite toys. We finally decide to go...and oops, I forgot it was opening weekend. A holiday weekend. There was a line around the outside of the building. No problem, they must be waiting for something else. We made our way to the trusty Fandango ticket dispenser and proceeded to get our tickets. SOLD OUT! And the only thing left? Monte Carlo. I didn't mind too much but I did feel bad for Isom and Gabe...it was deja vu from dragging them to see Prom all over again. They were the other two guys in the theater. It wasn't a bad movie...or a good movie. It was a Selena Gomez version of Parent Trap---two of her, some tricky camera work, some European cities mayhem (and by mayhem, I mean a botched Polo match, a few fallen mopeds...). It's a perfect pre-teen movie. Little girls twelve and under will fall in love with the beautiful dresses and romantic story line. I was just happy to sit in the A/C again.

I Really Want

2011-07-03T17:50:00.000-07:00

...Hello Kitty to be unisex or at least a little more masculine. I really want this poster in baby Z's room...but...

since it was strongly suggested I should not buy these cute HK shoes for baby Z, I'm thinking the HK rocker poster is a no go too. But it's so cute!

From Nails To Donuts

2011-07-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

...it's a patriotic themed weekend. I can't partake in my typical Red, White, and BREW (of either the coffee or beer variety) so, I have to show my patriotism through food creations and nail creations. The idea for the sprinkles on the donuts came from my trip earlier in the week to Regal Bakery...they are professionals, so of course mine was a little less, how shall we put it...beautiful than theirs. The taste was still sweet and there were no complaints from the kids. I had not contemplated how much the Karo Syrup (used to let the blue and red sprinkles stick) would "melt"...the plate looked like an art project after we gobbled up the donuts. As for the nails, I didn't expect to be doing my nails so shortly after having had them done professionally two weeks ago, but, I was excited to try my hand at blending three colors and using my new OPI sparkle (not to be confused with the OPI shatter). The re-created nails turned out better than the donut re-creation...but both were fun to attempt. Happy Patriotic, Firework, No Work, No School weekend.

Ricado's

2011-06-27T17:07:00.000-07:00

I didn't leave out the second "R" in the title. This place really is Ricado's. I laugh every time because I can hear Isom saying it in a crazy way. This was the location of our impromptu date night. I guess this is what you get with impromptu...as Isom put it, the "Zippy's of Italian restaurants"...for those who aren't familiar with Zippy's, this is NOT a compliment. I should probably stop here and say that our food wasn't totally bad. My shrimp was actually really nicely prepared. But the rest, it was just okay. With Assagio's practically in our backyard, it's hard to go out for mediocre Italian food. Plus our waitress was a weirdy. I can't even put my finger on it...just like the restaurant, but something about the whole experience was a little off. Maybe I never got over the fact that I have never heard of the Italian name "Ricado" and was miffed that they couldn't name their restaurant properly. I had the Shrimp Primavera with "brown" broccoli. Isom had the Eggplant Parmigiana with lemon sauce (what?). For our appetizers we enjoyed zucchini that had been bathed in garlic and butter. And for dessert, the world's smallest, hardest (could not be cut with the fork provided for eating it with) Cannoli's filled with what was clearly Nestle Tollhouse chocolate chips. I was of course appreciative of the recommendation to dine here (Isom's co-worker seems to love it), but it's doubtful we will be back. I can serve hard dessert and brown broccoli at home.

Zoo Summer Concert

2011-06-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

Apparently I'll do anything that is cheap and anything involving music...like risking me, the unborn child, and Gabe's life to walk across the street. I'll start off with the negative (since that's my favorite thing to point out these days) and I'll let you know in advance that it does have a happy ending. I'm always interested in trying new things. I'm always interested in getting out of the house to keep from going crazy with summer cabin fever. When my friend mentioned checking out the Honolulu Zoo's Summer Concert Series, I jumped at the opportunity. We packed a nice picnic dinner, left the house a good two and a half hours prior to the start of the concert, had quarters for parking, a fully charged phone for picture taking...we were all set. And then we sat in traffic for over an hour to arrive at the zoo. And then we drove around for almost another hour looking for parking near the zoo. And then pregnancy attitude kicked in and I started getting very cranky. Our parking spot was about a mile away. Gabe was very sweet to help me carry all our picnic gear. Bless his heart for trying to make a bad situation better. And then we tried to cross the street. That's when a big speeding Bus tried running us over! Apparently the cross walk, the flashing WALK signal, my pregnant belly, and my child were not enough for him to think he had to slow down or even stop for us. I was floored. Well, actually, I really almost was. Good thing I have maternal reflex instincts. I stopped myself and pulled Gabe back just in time for...another vehicle to try to follow suit with the Bus. And that's when a big, loud expletive came flying from my mouth. Maternal instinct. We did end up making it to the concert. A children's ukulele festival of sorts. My poor friends had to deal with a sweaty, hot, cranky mess though. We decided (officially and unofficially) that maybe next summer would be a better time to resume the $3 concert quest.

Cars 2

2011-06-27T16:29:00.001-07:00

Summer is half way over and I have finally taken Gabe to a kid friendly movie. At least I got around to it eventually. After spending a morning getting pelted by the world's finest sand in Lanikai and dodging Portuguese Man of War, we decided to spend the afternoon at a less stressful, less sunny venue. It has been five years since the first Cars movie. I think it was one of the first movies I took Gabe to see. We liked it and for a year at least, he had a whole lot of Cars paraphernalia---lunch box, t-shirts, water bottles, wallet, toys. You name it, he had it. I see that the marketing is just as bad this time around too. Luckily we are somewhat out growing that stage. But not enough to pass the movie by. Packed with adventure, action, and some light "car on car" violence, this movie had a well thought out plot, depth of characters (considering it was an animated flick), and that special mix of that Pixar has perfected of laughter for the kids and entertainment for the adults. Waiting another five years for the third installment will be a little too long though, so for now, we can just have a few laughs at Tow Mater's expense.

J.J. Dolans

2011-06-27T15:57:00.000-07:00

Finally had the opportunity to eat pizza at the self proclaimed Irish Pub with New York Pizza from two guys in Chinatown. I'll have to go back, but not for the usual reason of loving it so much. I want to give it a second chance because our waitress was terrible. I should have known not to trust someone to get my order right that had big, bright, pink, flashing light lips on her t-shirt. Our pizza (which was just okay) took an hour to arrive at our table. First it took only a few minutes, but it was NOT our pizza so...we waited and waited and waited some more. While waiting we enjoyed the atmosphere (it is a great little pub) and a below average Caprese Salad and Calamari. I'm going to say it was an off night. I wanted it to be so much better. Maybe when I'm not feeling so critical (a.k.a pregnant), I will have a different, more positive take on the pints and pizza experience that others have praised J. J. Dolans for. Until then...I'm sticking to non-Chinatown pizza venues.

Regal Bakery

2011-06-27T15:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes its confusing on whether or not you should be thankful for someone informing you about a sweet treat or not. I need to be eating donuts like I need a hole in my head, but now that I know this place exists...well, you know I had to try it. I had the lucky excuse of pregnancy and it being Lena's birthday (so what it's really tomorrow). This morning we went on a donut adventure. Two kids in tow, we drove from our neck of the woods to down by the airport. It was worth it. The ladies inside the small bakery were cute and kind and their donuts sweet. I ordered a dozen, a variety of flavors such as Mac nut Guava, Coconut, Heath Bar Crunch, Buttermilk, Powdered, Strawberry, Blueberry, Orange, Cinnamon, FROSTED FLAKES! What a genius mix. There are picnic tables out front and a lovely Wyland whale painting on the building directly across the street, so we enjoyed art and donuts on a gorgeous summer morning. Good thing I don't work around there...I might start to resemble the shape of the food.

Mr. Popper's Penguins

2011-06-22T12:32:00.001-07:00

So it was the third movie we saw in one week...at the actual movie theater. It is a nice alternative to getting sunburned at the beach. I don't usually like movies with animals as co-stars. Animals are not actors to me. However, this movie (based on a children's book as I understand) was better than most movies starring animals. Maybe I only like penguins with their cute little black and white suits. Who knows. The story line was cute and appropriate for both adults and kids (I'm redeeming myself from the Super8 mishap). The movie featured comic genius Jim Carrey (who toned it down and wasn't so overly Jim Carrey, a.k.a obnoxious) and screen legend Angela Lansbury...who apparently can't get away from solving mysteries. I would recommend this movie as an alternate to the Judy Moody flick. Popper's Penguins are amusing, cute, lovable, and cool---it was a refreshing way to spend a hot summer afternoon---wishing I were a penguin.

Epic Fail

2011-06-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

Look, the picture doesn't even make it look the least bit appetizing. There were several problems with this beverage/treat. One, the line at the drive thru was too long, so by the time I received this supposed McFlurry, it was ice cream soup...not a thick, shake like dessert. Problem two, I was short changed...literally. They gave me two dollars in change instead of three. Problem three, I thought there were Rolos in here! I couldn't decipher any...in the ROLO McFlurry. Problem four, left unsatisfied. I think I'll just stick to the fries at McDonald's. Even if they are cold and greasy, they still aren't half bad. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the sad Rolo McFlurry.

Dole Whip

2011-06-22T11:59:00.001-07:00

I think I've forgotten what a person smiling in a photo should look like. Since I'm always trying to get a good shot of food, the person possibly holding the food has become secondary. At least that was true with this photo. Gabe and I met our friends for a morning of train riding, Koi feeding (the price went up to a whopping 50 cents), and infamous Dole Whip. The train ride was nice---not to hot. Our friend lost her slipper (was later retrieved by nice workers on a golf cart), and we enjoyed typically unseen views of the Waianae mountain range...no ice cream sitting on the mountains, so no photo). The Koi feeding was short lived as a Wahiawa rain shower began blasting our backs. We took cover at a table by the food. Perfect. The kids enjoyed a snack from home and unfortunately our friends took off---feeling under the weather. Gabe and I took this opportunity to indulge in a shared waffle cone treat of ice cool delicious Dole Whip. I couldn't remember the last time I'd had one...or shared one.

My Gym Cupcakes

2011-06-20T21:02:00.001-07:00

...better known as Safeway cupcakes. But wait, just last week I had the worst cupcake ever...and it was from Safeway. These brightly frosted birthday cupcakes were however...good! Thank goodness. No one wants a dry cupcake ruining the four year olds birthday party. Which was pretty awesome. We had never been to My Gym because, well, my kid is seven. He is past the roll on mats, tumbling, play with parachute phase. Or not. He had the best time at this birthday party. He was the biggest, not the oldest, kid there. And still, he sang the songs, watched the puppet show, played freeze tag, climbed in the ball pit---the works. I was so happy to see him being such a kid (as an only child---for now--- sometimes he seems to get lumped in and lost with all the adults). The Safeway cupcakes ended up being...the icing on the days cake. Happy birthday to our friend Solomon...his four year old zest was contagious.

Rocky Road Pie

2011-06-20T20:48:00.001-07:00

Somehow it seems Father's Day was for me...this was our dessert! You may have heard me mention that I don't like Rocky Road. I don't. Well, the ice cream. The Starbucks rocky road cake pop is pretty tasty but it's not ice cream and it's small. I like chocolate. I like ice cream. I like nuts. I like marshmallows. Somehow the combination seems like the worst idea ever for ice cream...but last night after attempting to have Father's Day dinner at Outback (fail), CPK (double fail), and finally ending up at Big City Diner, their Father's Day dessert special sounded like something I needed to try. I strategically maneuvered around the marshmallows (the part of rocky road I feel should be left out) and thoroughly enjoyed my, I mean Isom's Father's Day dessert. It wasn't an eventful Father's Day this year, but with dessert like this and hand made mugs like this (pictured below), I think Isom knows how much he is appreciated and loved. Happy day after Father's Day...next year will be double the fun.

Nailed It

2011-06-16T21:40:00.001-07:00

The only nails that have been on my mind lately have been the ones possibly sticking out on our stairs (or what were our stairs), ready to stick into my swollen pregnant feet. With construction all around, I was feeling the need to make something, anything, look extra fancy. I'd been holding onto a gift certificate for a manicure/pedicure from my birthday for quite some time. Today, I finally used it. I was the only person there! Peace, quiet, massage chair, and my nails done? Unreal. Next door to the nail place there is a favorite Thai restaurant of ours...so after my nails were sparkling and shining, I enjoyed Thai ice cream...and did I mention I got to hold my friend's new baby girl in my arms this morning? It was a terrific day to be me.

Safeway Unsavory Selection

2011-06-16T00:10:00.000-07:00

Well, it finally happened. I ate a cupcake I did NOT like. Try not to spit your food out on the screen. Today Gabe and I found ourselves in town at a nicer Safeway than our little Mililani Safeway. Our Mililani Safeway offers free, hard, stale cookies to any and all kids whose parents will allow them to take one (yes, that's me). Our Mililani Safeway offers donuts, cheesecakes, and a small selection of pretty cheesy cakes...no beautifully crafted gourmet cupcakes. Now you see why I was forced to try one of the fancy cupcakes at the town Safeway. I decided to taste an "island inspired" cupcake. This translates to pineapple. I didn't realize it was cardboard inspired as well. It was a simple and cute looking cupcake, it just tasted like garbage. If I was hosting an Oscar the Grouch themed party, this would be perfectly acceptable. But, today I was just hoping to have a little sweet treat. Instead, it was more like a feet treat. I didn't even eat the whole thing. I committed cupcake waste. But, Safeway is the true criminal...for serving up day old, flavorless cupcakes. I'm kinda glad our Mililani Safeway can't claim these.

Judy Moody Vs. Super 8

2011-06-15T23:48:00.000-07:00

I wanted Judy Moody (we'll just call it that since the entire title is ridiculously long) to be a much cuter film than it was. I spent the majority of the time wanting to reach through the screen and brush that little red heads hair. Judy Moody is a quality piece of work---if an eight year old wrote, directed, and filmed it. But, I get the feeling that wasn't the case. Gabe loved it. It was made for his ultra silly sense (well, I think NO sense of humor) of humor. He really thought it was the best...so good thing we saw Super 8 the day before so he could have some idea of what a GOOD movie is all about. I can't let his taste in movies be Judy Moody...I will feel I have failed as a parent. Super 8 was a whole lot of not appropriate, but it reminded me so much of great Spielberg movies of the past, that I lapsed in parental judgment for two hours and decided a few four letter words, as long as I covered Gabe's eyes during certain scenes, was totally acceptable. We can blame pregnancy brain and the fact that we are going on three weeks straight of me and Gabe one on one time, on this lapse in judgment. I still stand by the fact that Super 8 was a great movie! And that Elle Fanning, Dakota's sister, a MUCH better actress. If you are wondering what movie to take the kiddos to this summer---your options so far are bored to tears lame-0 eight year old humor comedy with bad hair OR the coolest suspense thriller that pays homage to such great films as Goonies, E.T., and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. It's tough to decide what kind of mom to be sometimes...the shield them from all things negative, gory, scary, and bad kind or the kick ass fun one who might expose them to their first PG-13 experience...at age 7 and three quarters.

Baja Sunday

2011-06-12T20:59:00.001-07:00

One of both me and Isom's favorite meals is fish tacos. Thankfully, Isom is an expert fish maker. His blackened ahi beats any Hawaii restaurant. His blackened catfish brings me back to the South. Even ordinary salmon is turned into a culinary delight at his hands. Today, we had what I'd like to be the first of many Baja Sundays. Fish tacos and mocktails (cocktails come September). Light, refreshing, crisp, tangy, spicy. I could eat this meal every week, so why not every Sunday. Let's hope my tastes don't change after baby is born, because then I hope to eat three tacos instead of two...I literally did not have the room for more than two today...one baby and two fish tacos is my limit.

Baby Steps

2011-06-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

Leave Isom alone for more than two hours, and this is what you can come home to. He greeted me with "I have good news, and I have bad news." I can't remember what the good news was. The stairs are walkable again, but really, how many surprises does a pregnant lady need? I say the answer is NONE. As we await the arrival of baby steps from Zachary, we are making baby steps of progress on finishing our house. Isom has turned our ode to all things '70s town house into a modern, homey space...the road...stairs...to get there are just some times, well, much like a pregnant lady climbing a ladder.

Baby Z The Rock n Roller

2011-06-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

First there must be inspiration. Once I realized we would be welcoming a new baby boy in August, the first thing I started thinking/dreaming about? How to decorate the nursery. From the beginning I knew I wanted a color scheme of red, black, and white. And then, the second inspiration hit... A rock inspired theme. No pressure or anything for the baby to be the next great rock guitarist. Many have questioned my colors and my seemingly adult theme, but my excitement can't be swayed...or rocked. Slowly, the pieces are coming together. With punches of color as seen in the pillows. Iconic rock pieces such as the always popular lava lamp. Framed John Lennon concert poster, framed Blondie and other albums (yes albums), and a concert t-shirt baby blanket...nothing rocks more. Except for maybe baby Z. Who we have decided we will name Zachary. Zachary Majors...a pretty rocking name for who we know will be a rocking kid.

Foodie

2011-06-11T21:59:00.000-07:00

...many might say I'm NOT since I don't even eat meat. BUT according to this definition from slashfood.com: "someone who has an ardent or refined interest in food.", I would say I am. I have a HUGE refined interest in Taco Flavored Doritos, Little Debbie Zebra Cakes, Nature Valley Granola Thins, and Nutella (the things that have been making my tummy happy these days). While I love a good meal out on the town made with organic veggies, and French sauces, paired with fine wine, I also love a good old bean burrito from taco bell. A true foodie should be able to appreciate all foods right? Here's to my Doritos...and granola thins. Thanks Alison for sending me the chips and Isom for buying not one, but two boxes of the granola treat from Costco for me. Food is love...and I'm feeling loved.

Ukulele Songs

2011-06-06T20:46:00.001-07:00

Some obsessions are from birth, others begin in childhood, high school, or are new found. The Eddie Vedder/Pearl Jam obsession has been going on since about 1992. It's had years to change and cultivate and grow with the many people I've been since I was a sophomore in high school. Mostly the obsession is due to the combination of good music, good lyrics, and highly soulful voice of Eddie Vedder. This seems a perfectly healthy obsession to have. When I was alerted of the availability of his latest solo album at STARBUCKS via text from the other EV obsessed (Sarah), I pretty much knew that I'd be taking a trip to Starbucks today, whether I was "thirsty" or not. It just so happened I was able to try a new flavor of Frappuccino and pick up the new CD with Hawaii roots (the best kind). While Ukulele Songs is a clear departure from any heavy guitar riffed rock anthems of his past, it is an album that folks of any age and background can enjoy and appreciate. It's just nice. My only complaint (there's always one) was first thinking, okay hoping, that all the songs might be remakes (substituting ukulele) of old Pearl Jam songs. There was one such song---track one "Can't Help" but the rest appear to be new projects...very well done projects. So, as I listen, I am inspired to walk along the beach, pick up an ukulele myself, and maybe learn to surf. At any rate, you done good Mr. Vedder.

One Minute S'mores

2011-06-06T20:33:00.001-07:00

No more campfire needed. I know the broiler is no big discovery, but since making the magnificent marshmallow milkshake, I've had it in my mind to make s'mores by toasting the marshmallows in the broiler...thus one minute s'mores. Gabe helped by placing our marshmallows on the baking sheet. I spread Nutella on our graham crackers and then Gabe set the timer on my iPhone. One minute later I was pulling the most perfectly toasted marshmallows out of the oven. I placed the freshly broiled marshmallow on top of the Nutella covered graham cracker and Gabe and I had the perfect "passed my glucose test today snack". He suggested we eat our one minute s'mores on the back porch and I couldn't help but agree. So, with a little Eddie Vedder Ukulele Songs in the background, we enjoyed our summer snack in the summer breeze outside on the lanai, barefoot and happy.

Honolulu Burger Company

2011-06-04T21:16:00.000-07:00

This is a place that could make me want to eat meat again. The veggie burger I had yesterday was succulent. I almost felt like I was eating meat...had to lift up my taro bun a couple times to make sure. This was my first time using GROUPON and my first time trying the Honolulu Burger Company. I think I have discovered the perfect marriage...using coupons to try new places. A discount, just in case it's not to my liking. But, HBC was. I also had their fries which along with my burger, were some of the best I've had...the only one in recent memory that is comparable are the fries and veggie burger from The Counter. I will return for the ahi sandwich, a shake, and their version of sweet potato fries...GROUPON or not.

The Hangover 2

2011-06-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

Summer of comedy. First Bridesmaids, and now The Hangover Part 2. And yes, it is as funny as the first. It might even be funnier, just for the fact that you know these characters from the first movie. I don't want to spoil too much from the movie, but I will say that two supporting characters from the first movie do make appearances again in this movie---you'll have to go to see who. The trio of the careful Dentist, the hot married teacher, and fat Jesus are all back (minus a baby...plus a monkey) and up to no good. This time around the boys find themselves in Thailand with no memory of their debauchery from the night before...and that is where the adventure begins. Throw in some gross out moments, some Russian bad guys, some over the top nudity, and you've got yourself another hangover. I do think they will be pushing it to do a third installment, but I love these movies so much, you'll probably find me sitting in for part 3...

Magnificent Marshmallow Milkshakes

2011-06-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

...and alliteration too. Thank you Danielle, Facebook, and ValSoCal blog. It was a perfect trinity of these three elements that led to my discovery of this easy, delicious sweet treat. And now, all I can think about is all the different ways to make other fabulously fresh flavored milkshakes. The ingredients for yesterdays milkshake masterpiece were ice cream, milk, and toasted marshmallows (which for some reason I had never dreamed of simply placing in the oven on a baking sheet and broiling). I learned several things from making these milkshakes yesterday:

1. my husband of 11 years does NOT like milkshakes and we may no longer be compatible

2. milkshakes are easy and fun to make

3. I love marshmallow milkshakes

4. it takes 1 min to toast the perfect marshmallow (s'mores just got a whole lot easier)

5. my iPhone pictures are worse than I thought (Danielle took a milkshake iPhone photo that turned out super cute!)

6. despite the bazillion cups/mugs I have (if you've been to my house and seen the Starbucks collection you know it's no exaggeration), there was still nothing suitable enough to match the cuteness of the marshmallow shake...I'll be working on straw and cupware for the next big milkshake project

Anyway, for more cute ideas, check out Danielle's blog and ValSocal's blog. Blog Bliss.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

2011-06-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

I didn't think I would like the fourth installment of this mega franchise. I am not a huge fan of sequels (except for Twilight stuff) to begin with and by the time you get to four? Forget it! But, I was surprised. Maybe because it is so adventuresome and based on nothing more than a ride at Disney, it has the freedom to wander and maintain interesting characters---whether they are dead or alive. I was surprised at how unimpressed with the Hawaii footage I was. It was a well done movie---acting, directing, cinematography, but it could have been on a movie set for the little bit of Hawaii presence there seemed to be. Gabe enjoyed the swashbuckling. I enjoyed Johnny Depp, Keith Richards cameo, and the humor. Penelope Cruz was not bad either. It is a long movie, over two hours, but we both stayed awake and didn't even have popcorn and candy as an excuse. Tonight I may need to go back and re-watch the first three. Aargh, I'm in pirate mode.

Teddy Bear Museum

2011-05-31T20:08:00.001-07:00

As a parent, I don't feel obligated to enjoy or even pretend to like all the places I have to go or things I have to see because of my child. For example, I'm not going to pretend that this crazy Teddy Bear Museum in Waikiki was the highlight of the weekend. It was not. In fact, it was rather like walking through a school project (on a limited budget) as opposed to a corporate funded exhibit. But, sometimes as parents, we make sacrifices. Sacrifice our time, our wallets, our sleep, our sanity... This place was so weird. Of course I still made Isom take pictures though. Gotta document everything...especially the weird! Essentially the Teddy Bear Museum is a self guided tour of poorly dressed Teddy Bears in bizarre situations. I suppose it is mildly amusing, but very random. At least Gabe enjoyed himself, we killed some time before our true destination (dinner at Hard Rock), and a few cute pictures came out of it. Oh yeah, and I have now seen an Elvis concert performed by bears. Try at your own risk. See if you can bear it.

11th Anniversary

2011-05-31T19:45:00.001-07:00

Steel. That's the gift you are supposed to give/receive on an 11th anniversary. Well, I'd say staying in a luxury hotel made of steel will suffice. After sixteen weeks of watching the Celebrity Apprentice on Sunday nights, it also seemed fitting that our steel hotel of choice was the Trump Hotel in Waikiki. Isom booked our two night staycation and I made plans for Gabe to spend the night with friends. I bought a new dress ($10 at Ross!) and suggested we eat at the swanky steakhouse at the bottom of the Trump Hotel, BLT. Our plan was coming together. I must say that Isom goes all out every year to make sure our anniversary is something memorable, special, extravagant. We spend the rest of our year living a pretty average life, but when it comes to celebrating the day we got married, it is no holds barred. A quality I love...appreciating what's really important. Each year our anniversary, like our marriage, has just gotten better and better. This year really trumped them all--both our anniversary and this past year. I can't remember a time when we were happier---with Isom's new job enabling him to be home an entire year, baby on the way, Gabe growing into the cutest young man, and our home coming together, it was definitely a year to celebrate. Like Isom, the Trump Hotel is a kick back, relaxing place. And they both smell good too. The blue ocean view reminded me of Isom's eyes. The master bedroom reminded me of his simple style. The attention to quality and detail is not unlike the attention he gives to me. So, although I have compared my husband to a hotel, let's remember it's a hotel known for the highest quality everything, fine dining, beautiful views, and a lifestyle fit for the rich and famous...not really bad things to be compared to. Love ya...happy anniversary. You're not fired...yet.