Hello spring sunshine!

I made assorted cupcakes to celebrate the arrival of our friends Curtis and Jennifer’s little Blake. The flavors were cocoa almond (Trader Joe’s answer to Nutella), tiramisu, and strawberry jam.

Our seed farm is looking good!

Brunch last Sunday at Kenny and Zuke’s. Salmon hash with poached eggs.

Mulder at a recent trip to Hondo Dog Park. Lately he has not been enjoying the park as much as before. After 10 minutes he stands by the door like this. I think he likes road trips more.

How was your weekend?

I found this recipe from The Best International Recipe cookbook but it is also
available at the Cook’s Illustrated website. I modified it slightly to suit our tastes.
Instead of soaking the bread, I topped each bowl with croutons just before serving.
I also substituted chicken broth for water. This stew hit the spot on a rainy
spring day.

Sauteed onions, carrots, kale, and tomatoes

Croutons sliced from a French baguette then toasted in the oven

Tuscan Bean Stew

Tiramisu cupcakes for dessert

I had a wonderful time visiting family and friends and looking forward to my next visit.

Here are some random pictures that I took with my Canon G12. I wanted to take my Nikon D90 but thought I would save space but maybe I should have. Somehow the G12 likes to use high ISO and the images are turning out grainy. Anyway, they still look good.

Coffee time with Stumptown Coffee and tiramisu cupcakes with Francis and Marie.

This may be the best way to make and eat tiramisu. You get a good balance of all the flavors.

Hanging out with Marcel’s dad Rejean, Jeeka, Marie, and Francis

A “special” family dinner of lumpia and pancit bihon.

With Marvin and Francis

We spent a couple of nights at Marvin’s house for a mini-vacation. This is our breakfast of longsilog and tocilog.

Karaoke night while trying not to fall asleep until 2 am

Watching EWF and Chicago Concert, drinking Margaritas

Relatives and friends  Tita Badette, Tito Bonnie, Tita Ellen, Tita Mia, Mom, Me, Tia Mer, and Tita Eva