Monday, March 31, 2014

Bagel #A-Spice-A-Day#90

My husband  brought this piece of bagel from work and my daughter and I   sliced it in half, toast it in the  oven and  ate it with Wow Butter, it was yummy!  A bagel is a bread product  that is  traditionally shaped by hand into the form of a ring from yeasted wheat dough, roughly hand-sized, which is first boiled for a short time in water and then baked.  It is  dense, chewy, and with a doughy interior with a browned and sometimes crisp exterior.
A Spice  A Day#90
March 31, 2014
  • Today is the first day of State  Testing from my children's school so they woke up a bit early and went to school early.  I thought for sure that my son won't be able to go because he was fevered last night.  I  think that he was stressed out about the test so  I talked to him and said that he did great last year and after that, he was okay.
  • I prepared steak, steamed broccoli and rice for dinner.
  • We went for a walk  and took Bolt with us.  Mr. Burrito rode his bike but the three of us walked.

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Cheesy Potato Bread #A-Spice-A-Day#89

 For some reason,  I am not very enthusiastic  to cook during weekend because most of  the times, we do errands  or I am  doing my  weekend cleaning so whatever is there to   make easily, that's what I prepare.  Like  baking potato breads with cheese and pepperoni toppings.
A Spice A Day#89
March 30, 2014

  • I did  an initial  Spring cleaning at our basement after I vacuumed our carpet  on the first floor. 
  • Our son has been having the anxiety about the State  testing this week and I think that has contributed to  him not feeling well over the weekend.  He was  fevered when he woke up and was sleeping the whole day today.  I fed him   soup tonight and gave him  a bath and he felt a bit better.  Hopefully he would be okay tomorrow when he wakes up.

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Simple Friday Dinner #A-Spice-A-Day#88

 This is our dinner  last Friday.  I baked some  breaded fish, steamed some veggies, baked some yellow potatoes, and  toast some potato buns.  
A Spice A Day #88
March 29, 2014

  • Ms. Burrito had her piano lesson today as he missed it last night due to the talent show.  Her teacher was very proud of her for winning  first place.
  • We visited  Dad after Ms. Burrito's piano lesson then we dropped by at the store to grab some groceries on the way home. 
  • When we came back, I started doing laundry.  I am still waiting for the last batch to dry then I will crash out.

Friday, March 28, 2014

Meatballs, Sausage, Etc. #A-Spice-A-Day#87

During the Festival of Nation that was recently concluded here in Weirton, there were food booths that sells different kinds of foods.  Filipinos always have their own food though, they always bring  different Pinoy foods for their participants.
A Spice A Day #87
March 28, 2014

  • The kids  enjoy their  FREE dress today instead of   Monday.  They get to enjoy a FREE dress day at the end of each month but because they are going to have  the State testing  next week, they have to come to school in uniform.
  • Daughter is participating to the  Kinsley S. Ard Memorial Talent show  tonight.  She is going to  play "The Hunters"  on piano.  It was her first  experience  joining a talent show and she won first place for the  Elementary category, way to go Anak!
  • Okay, time to get up my sit and  get ready to pick up my kids from school.  See you all later.

Experience The The Holi Celebration While Travelling India


Holi is one of the most vibrant, beautiful festivals on the entire planet. As the Hindu acknowledgement of winter's end, it's a colourful celebration fitting with the onset of Spring. The adventures begin every year on the final day of the lunar month Phalguna, marked by a full moon. In 2014, that's March 17th.



An international affair


Hindus around the world get into the spirit of Holi season. Wherever there's a Hindu community, you'll discover that some kind of party is going on. Proceedings usually begin the night before, with massive bonfires, prayers and social gatherings. However, the action really gets going the next day when the colours come out. Basically, revellers spend twenty-four hours greeting each other with the words 'Happy Holi' before throwing bright liquids and powders everywhere. By the late afternoon, pretty much everybody resembles a rainbow.



Celebrating in India


Even though Holi parties happen in thousands of locations, it's fair to say that you haven't really experienced it thoroughly until you've done it in India. That's not only because the large crowds and passionate followers of the Hindu religion give the event epic proportions, it's also because rules and regulations aren't so strict. People of all ages - from children to parents to grandparents - use the opportunity to go a little wild. It's one of the few days on which India's otherwise marked social divisions break down (to an extent).


Apart from the colour-throwing, Holi is also about getting together with family and friends. Many people decorate their homes, organise gatherings with loved ones, exchange presents and prepare delicious feasts. If you're really lucky, you might even be invited to join the celebrations at a local home.


Watching a city transform


To get right to the heart of Holi, as it manifests in India, consider staying in New Delhi. It's just incredible to watch the usually hectic routines of every day urban living transform into a magical, multi-coloured festival. The entire city seems to turn into a carnival ground.

In addition to the local rituals, there are organised events. These vary from all-day and all-night dance parties run by celebrity DJs, to beachside camping affairs featuring acoustic and electronic acts, to restaurants offering set menus and live music, to special Holi buffets organised specifically for international tourists.

Plus, if you really want to see the local action in detail, it's possible to join a special Holi tour. This will take you to hidden corners of the city that you wouldn't normally see - places like Karol Bagh and Haus Khaz. It'll also provide an education in the history, myths and rituals that comprise the fabric of the Holi celebration.



Finding accommodation


If you're planning a vacation to New Delhi in March, it's crucial to remember that Holi is a really busy time of year. In fact, many tourists head to India just for the occasion. Be sure to book accommodation in advance to avoid getting caught out. There's nothing worse than jumping off the plane after a long flight and not knowing where to go or which tout to trust.


The Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Hotel is highly recommended, especially given that five-star luxury is much more affordable in India than it is at home. You'll find spacious rooms, a fully-equipped gymnasium, onsite dining facilities and pools. It's the perfect place to enjoy a little peace after a day spent in Holi celebration chaos. So, why not treat yourself? (And be assured of a hot, clean shower when the time comes to wash all that crazy colour away?)

Thursday, March 27, 2014

First Meal as a Citizen #A-Spice-A-Day#86

This is a long over due post.  I am so behind with  my posting our  family's event's, I just don't have enough time to  blog anymore.  But anyhow, these photos were taken at Eat n' Park after  my citizenship oath on January the 10th.  This is my very first meal as a Citizen of the country yay.

Our son  loves to goof off in front of the camera, I can't get any good pictures of him anymore these days.
We love going to Eat n' Park because it has the homey feel and the  employees are really friendly.  It is also a non-smoking restaurant here in the area so we love it.  They serve fresh fruits and vegetables that they  grow in their   green house, so over all I love   that they focus on serving healthy meals in a healthy environment.
A Spice A Day #86
March 27, 2014
  • Today is my  late brother's birthday.  He could have been 43 years old today.  He died five years ago from a fatal motorcycle accident.  I am still in the process of healing the pain of losing him.  Him and I grew up together so we were very close, it was really hard for me to accept that he was gone but it's the fact that I have to accept.  Wherever you are Manoy, you will always be remembered.
  • We went to Weirton High Campus for Ms. Burrito's  rehearsal for the talent show tomorrow.  Goodluck Bunting!

A Guide to Cooking the Perfect Steak

Everyone loves a good steak. This quality meat is a real treat cooked at home, but sometimes getting the cooking times right can be tricky. You need to take real care of your steak and be cautious when cooking, as an extra few minutes in the pan can cook the steak more than you prefer. In this guide, you’ll learn how to cook the perfect steak; whether you’re simply cooking for yourself, for a partner, or a dinner party. You’re bound to impress everyone! Let’s get started:

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Preparing Your Steaks

The preparation of your fillet steak doesn’t just start when you’ve placed them in the pan. You need to start preparing a little while before you plan on cooking them. You should remove your steaks from their vacuum bag, place them on a plate, and leave them in the fridge for 2 hours before you begin to cook. If you’ve frozen the steaks, remember to give them plenty of time to defrost! Remove the steaks from the fridge about half an hour before cooking so they are at room temperature when they’re ready to go in the pan.

Heating the Pan

Before you cook your steaks, your pan needs to be very hot with a small amount of olive oil in it. Rather than using the grill, use a griddle or frying pan for the best effect. When you think your pan is hot enough, place your steaks in the pan carefully and be careful of any hot oil spitting at you.

How Do You Like Your Steak?

How long you cook the steaks for totally depends on how well done you like them to be. Each side needs to be cooked, but you should minimise the time you handle the steak so try to turn it as little as possible. You also need to give your steak a couple of minutes to rest before serving, on a rack under some tin foil in a warm place is best. The following timings are based on a 1 inch thick steak, if yours is any thicker you’ll need to adjust the time accordingly. 

Blue

If you like your steak blue, sear it for 1-2 minutes on each side and let it rest for 6 minutes.

Rare

Sear your steak for 2 and a half minute each side and rest it for 5 minutes.

Medium Rare

Sear your steak for 3-4 minutes on each side and leave to rest for 4 minutes.

Medium

Sear your steak for 4 minutes on each side and rest for 3 minutes.

Medium Well

Sear your steak for 5 minutes each side and leave to rest for 2 minutes.

Well Done

Sear your steak for 6 minutes each side and rest for 1 minute. 

Remember to adjust your timings based on the thickness of your steak, and to get your pan as hot as you dare to get it! To further impress your partner or guests, you could even make a homemade steak sauce from ketchup, onion, garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and mustard. Good luck!

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Lemonhead Lemon Candies #A-Spice-A-Day#85

My kids got this  as a treat but they never really  eat it, they said it is too sour for them.  So I  put it in a glass bowl, set it in front of my computer and  chew on it when I am working on something lol.  It was actually good. 
A Spcie A Day#85
March 26, 2014

  • I brought my kids' hot lunch in school since it was my volunteer duty as well.
  • I had to came back home after the  first  lunch service because  I did not  pack my  son's gym clothes.  Well, it was because the teacher sent out a note that there would be no gym because  of the station of the cross.  My son told me last night that he should bring it just in case but I said not to because of the note from the teacher.  I should have listened to him, sigh.
  • I came back home after lunch and went to church to attend  the Station of the Cross.  My daughter played piano for the song Kumbaya.  
  • Thanks Marie for the lift!
  • Me and my son did his timeline project.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Potato Salad #A-Spice-A-Day#84

I was so occupied with what was going back home with my family that I wasn't able to update this blog, whew. Anyway, potato salad is one of my husband favorite side dish. Well, he likes any dish with potatoes anyway.

A Spice A Day#84
March 25, 2014

  • It is so cold outside.  Winter is not  ready to leave just yet.
  • I was able to   talk to my sister finally and I am glad that  she is out of danger  already.  The infection went to her blood and glad that  it was treated immediately.  It might have cost a lot but it's worth every  penny spent.  

Monday, March 24, 2014

Ice Cream with Almondina Biscuit #A-Spice-A-Day#83

I miss having the Almondina for snacks.  I love crunchy snacks even though sometimes it poked  my gums but I love to munch on them.  I will look for this in the store next time.  It's really good to eat with ice cream.  
A Spice A Day #83
March 24, 2014

  • It is bitter cold this morning.  It got down to 13 degrees last night, glad we  brought our bunny back inside the house.
  • My kids had cold lunch today.  I prepared three different lunches for my kids and hubby.
  • My stomach cramp is killing me right now.

Eat Your Way to Happy Thoughts: 4 Endorphin-Filled Foods

 Feeling sluggish? A little down? We’ve all been there. As human beings, it is not uncommon to be suddenly overwhelmed by an unexplainable sense of anxiety. Shaking the feelings of glumness and emptiness can be hard, but there are ways to lighten your mood. Exercise and increased human interaction are both recognised mood boosters, but did you know that you can eat your way to happiness? When certain foods are consumed, endorphins – those lovely little chemicals that cause euphoria – are released into the body, effectively altering your temperament. Below you’ll find just four foods that have been known to brighten even the darkest of days.

Chocolate

Do you experience strong chocolate cravings? The delicious taste of chocolate alleviates anything from stress to mood swings; it contains phenethylamine, which encourages the production of endorphins and serotonin, and caffeine, a well-known energy booster. Serotonin is a chemical compound that acts as a neurotransmitter and is vital for bodily functions such as sleeping, eating, temperature regulation; low levels of serotonin have also been associated with depression. Choose chocolate varieties that have high levels of cocoa and remember, while it is easy to reach for that block of chocolate every time life gets a little hard, everything should be consumed in moderation.

Chillies

Our bodies produce endorphins in response to certain triggers, such as pain, stress or fear. From accidentally eating a jalapeno to mistakenly identifying wasabi, we are all aware of just how painful spicy food can be. Capsaicin, a chemical compound that is found in chillies causes a burning sensation where it is released. To counter this intense, painful feeling, the body then produces endorphins, inundating the affected area; now you know why you can’t get enough of that spicy, Indian food!

Turkey

Turkey meat is yet another food that can help lift you out of the doldrums. Along with other animal proteins, turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that has been linked to increased levels of endorphins and serotonin. The debate continues over whether it causes sleepiness; turkey meat is usually served with other heavy foods such as roast potatoes, so it’s hard to know which is the main culprit.

Bananas

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, don’t want to get addicted to chocolate and don’t eat meat, fear not. There are other food sources that will have you feeling chipper and healthier in no time. Bananas are a great source of Vitamin B, potassium, fibre and tryptophan. They relieve stress, increase energy levels, help with digestion and are easy to eat on-the-go. Unsurprisingly, many athletes and personal trainers are big fans of this tasty fruit.
Of course, a sustained, happy lifestyle is only achieved through a combination of factors, such as healthy eating and exercise. If you feel as though you are experiencing depressive thoughts and emotions, consider talking to a close friend or seeking the help of a professional counselling service, such asTalking Minds. Please feel free to share your thoughts on this article by commenting below.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Submarine Setting #A-Spice-A-Day#82

If you have been inside a submarine, you are familiar with this type of arrangement. This was in a very old submarine, I think the modern sub has new setting for sure.
Photos were taken inside the USS Requinn in Pittsburgh during our   short  adventure at Carnegie Science Center.
A Spice A Day #82
March 23, 2014

  • I was able to talk to my mother   overseas.  I finally had a deeper understanding what had happened to my sister.  She is  staying with her for now while my sister is still weak.  I talked  to my Mom for about two  hours almost.
  • Hubby and  daughter took Bolt for a walk.  We brought our bunny, Wubzy, inside again because it is below freezing outside.  It's 17 degrees and it's Spring already, whew.
  • Alrighty time to skidaddle and  go to lalalaland as I have to get up early tomorrow.  Thanks for leaving  your trail.

Saturday, March 22, 2014

River View Cafe #A-Spice-A-Day#81

DINING at the Carnegie Science Center is not a problem because there is  the River View Café that  offers casual, relaxed dining with a cafeteria-type line and help yourself seating.  You can enjoy sandwiches, soup, salads, hot entrees, desserts and snacks.   There are also nice northside restaurant nearby if you want something more substantial.  The restaurant in downtown Pittsburgh us  about 3/4 mile away via the the Fort Duquesne Bridge, which has a pedestrian walkway if you feel like walking.
I had chili that day, hubby had calzone, and the kids had pizza.  Below are some Photo opps after our bellies were filled hehehe.
A Spice A Day #81
March 22, 2014
  • Hubby went to my FIL so he could drive him to the Barber shop./  MY daughter went with him.  They also  went to the  hardware and grocery store while Mr. Burrito stayed with me.
  • I busied myself doing my weekend cleaning and organizing.
  • We went for a walk, no dogs this time.  The kids rode their bikes  while hubby and I walked.  I did  a short run but  could not   bear the cold, it was hard on my chest.

Friday, March 21, 2014

Shamrock Cookie #A-Spice-A-Day#80

My husband came home last weekend with few of this Shamrock cookies. He said that the company who installed their new vending machine brought so many of this at their office so he got some for the kids. Surprisingly, the kids did not touch it. They said that cookie is one thing that they gave up with for Lent.  I did not want it to go to waste so I ate it.  It wasn't bad, it is very pasty though.  
A Spice A Day #80
March 21, 2014

  • Glad that my sister is now out of danger, he got out from the hospital.  The boyfriend helped out with the hospital bill as I can only send 10k of 22k that she needs for the bill.  I sent her all our extra  just  few days ago for her school expenses so  I was really on a thin budget.  Now am broke wahhhh.
  • It's snowing heavily right now.  I can't believe snow still lingers sigh.

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Cheesy Skillets Dinner Kit #A-Spice-A-Day#79

I make sure to get this kind of dinner kit when we go to the grocery store because sometimes it comes in handy when you have to whip up something quick.  I made this when we came home from Pittsburgh sometimes last month.  We were suppose to drop by at the restaurant but the kids were so exhausted that they wanted to go home so this is what I prepared as they were hungry.
A Spice A Day #79
March 20, 2014

  • I wasn't feeling  well when I woke up and it kept dragging on  all through out the day.  I think it's because of lack of sleep.  I wasn't able to get done with my laundry until almost 1 am last night
  • I made tinolang manok for dinner.
  • Later tonight, I learned that my sister was hospitalized due to  UTI.  She needs 22 thousand pesos and that's roughly 500 bucks.  I wish I am rich  so I can  just send it  right away. Nobody will help her but us so we have to come up how to raise that amount.  March is getting a toll on me, financially and emotionally.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Quiznos Cravings #A-Spice-A-Day#78

After my husband and I's mini date  the day before Christmas last year, Quiznos became one of our favorites when it comes to sub sandwiches.  We introduced it to our kids they  each have a favorite there.  My daughter love their soup while my son love the flatbread sandwich.
 Quiznos is a  little nook perfect to  fill your empty  stomach after   a tiring day shopping at the mall.  I prefer their sandwiches over burgers from other  food chain.  My son was in the groove to dance when we went  at Quiznos.  We were laughing while watching him.      This is my favorite from their sub sandwiches.  It's spicy and sdelicious!  Now I am craving for one lol.
A Spice A Day #78
March 19, 2014

  • Today was my last day of book fair volunteer duty.  I left at the library   at nine to attend the mass.  IT's  the first grade's  St. Day today, their saint is  St. Patrick.  After the mass, I went back to the library then came home.
  • I started the laundry when I got home.
  • My husband requested for a sauteed mung beans so that's what I cooked for dinner.  

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Burned Pizza #A-Spice-A-Day#77

I made two pan of pizza with  bell pepper, pepperoni, tomatoes, onions, and  cheese toppings.
The plan was to wrap one of them and put it in the freezer so I can bake it when we crave for some pizza. The problem was, I burned the first pan so I had to bake the second one lol.  It wasn't burn all the way though, it was just the cheese that got over baked but the rest was fine.
I actually preferred the toasty one and the dogs loved it as well.
I did not want to serve  the burned one to my lovelies so I bake the other one.  I literally  sit in front of the oven to make sure I don't burn it lol.  Hubby and the kids said it was excellent!
A Spice A Day #77
March 18, 2014

  • My daughter told me  that the Librarian in school asked if I could help during the book fair so I went and helped the other Moms during the first shift.  Ms. Burrito wanted to shop  alone for her books so I came home after my son's class have  gone book-shopping.
  • I had a meeting with my son's  teacher  after class.  He said something that the teacher think was shocking.  I was  really hurt of how  she described my son because it wasn't like him to do that but I agree with her that issues like that should be addressed right away.  Hubby and I talked to our son and he promised it won't happen again.  She wanted  me to come last Friday but Ms. Burrito forgot to tell me about her message, she remembered  it when we were eating dinner already  so it was  eating me up all weekend.  Then I went  last Monday hoping that I can talk to her but she said for me to come back today which added an agonizing day for me.  Glad it's all over.  It wasn't really that serious but every little thing that  has to do with my kids, I worry about it.  I take it very seriously because I want the best for them.  I want them to grow up to be respectful individuals.

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Bon Appetit!

This blog does not focus on food only but also include different kinds of spices that affects our lives. So hang in here and explore the world of fun with us. Please bear in mind that little bit of this and a little dash of that makes a Sumptuous Life!