Chiffon cake!
Seriously never ever thought I'd bake this. It was tasty! Really.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Bellevue (16May'09)
Bellevue (pronounced as bell view) - the 5th largest city in Washington sprawling with high-rise office buildings, shops and department stores. One way to reach this city from Seattle is to cross Lake Washington via the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge - the world's longest floating bridge (1.4miles).
Yap, its shopping day today - something we have not been doing for some time. But not before enjoying a hearty and tasty breakfast at a restaurant close to where we live - Portage Bay Cafe, well known for its organic breakfast and luscious spread at the fruit bar. Delicious!
On the way to the bus stop, we bumped into a street fair taking place at University district. Bought a CD from this performing band who was playing some folk songs with their tribal instruments. Pretty good.
Finally to Bellevue we go, took a photo of this world-famous floating bridge from the bus.
After exploring the city surroundings we went to Bellevue Square - the largest shopping mall in the States with over 200 stores. I really liked this place alot - it reminded me of the malls back home. It has almost everything under one roof, and a cineplex opposite.
We were so happy that we decided to experience our first movie adventure in US with the latest show "Angels and Demons". Also got a popcorn to go with, happy again 'cos its coated with butter! Just love it!
"Is it free seating?", I asked (on purpose) as we were making our way to the cinema.
"Yes!", I'll never forget the usher's big eyes and bewildered look when she replied.
We grinned secretly to ourselves.
Even though we were 15 minutes early, the cinema was already packed with people, some reserving seats for their friends yet to come. We settled ourselves at the 5th row from the front, knowing for sure we will get strained eyes and stiff necks after the show. The popcorn was gone before the show started.
We had skipped lunch earlier due to the heavy breakfast we had. After the show, we decided to hang out at "Cheesecake factory" for a light supper and to sample their famous cheesecake.
It was 10:50pm when we left and headed for the bus stop. Half an hour later, no bus in sight. We were wondering if we had missed the last bus, tried to use our mobiles to access the bus website for the schedule. Unfortunately the page refused to load.
We were contemplating taking the next action - either checking in to the nearby Hyatt hotel or getting a cab home, which will set us back by $30-$50. At this time, another bus stopped by and we took the chance to ask about the service we were waiting for.
"The last service has passed, its no longer running", confirmed the bus driver.
"Where do you go?" I asked.
"I go just a couple of blocks more, but not to Seattle." Our hearts sank.
"What you could do, is go down to the transit center and take bus #550 coming at 11:45pm, to downtown Seattle, where you could catch the next bus - I don't know what bus to get you back to U-district, you need to check again", advised the kind driver.
We thanked the driver profusely, grateful and anxious to get home. With full speed, we raced about 5 blocks to the transit center and looked at the schedule posted at the bus stop just outside the transit center.
"Shucks! We missed the bus!", CH exclaimed.
"Hur? We did?", I looked around and saw a bus stopping by the roadside a few feet from us. Its 550! I shouted to CH, we both ran towards and boarded it.
"Where are you going?", asked the driver.
"Downtown Seattle"
"Wrong bus, take from bay 2 at the transit center"
We headed towards the center, CH looked at the schedule again, and realized he looked at the wrong one earlier. We were still in time ! Heng ah (lucky), we exclaimed, heaving sighs of relief!
Boy, were we so glad to be able to get back, all thanks to the friendly bus drivers.
What an adventure today!
Yap, its shopping day today - something we have not been doing for some time. But not before enjoying a hearty and tasty breakfast at a restaurant close to where we live - Portage Bay Cafe, well known for its organic breakfast and luscious spread at the fruit bar. Delicious!
On the way to the bus stop, we bumped into a street fair taking place at University district. Bought a CD from this performing band who was playing some folk songs with their tribal instruments. Pretty good.
Finally to Bellevue we go, took a photo of this world-famous floating bridge from the bus.
After exploring the city surroundings we went to Bellevue Square - the largest shopping mall in the States with over 200 stores. I really liked this place alot - it reminded me of the malls back home. It has almost everything under one roof, and a cineplex opposite.
We were so happy that we decided to experience our first movie adventure in US with the latest show "Angels and Demons". Also got a popcorn to go with, happy again 'cos its coated with butter! Just love it!
"Is it free seating?", I asked (on purpose) as we were making our way to the cinema.
"Yes!", I'll never forget the usher's big eyes and bewildered look when she replied.
We grinned secretly to ourselves.
Even though we were 15 minutes early, the cinema was already packed with people, some reserving seats for their friends yet to come. We settled ourselves at the 5th row from the front, knowing for sure we will get strained eyes and stiff necks after the show. The popcorn was gone before the show started.
We had skipped lunch earlier due to the heavy breakfast we had. After the show, we decided to hang out at "Cheesecake factory" for a light supper and to sample their famous cheesecake.
It was 10:50pm when we left and headed for the bus stop. Half an hour later, no bus in sight. We were wondering if we had missed the last bus, tried to use our mobiles to access the bus website for the schedule. Unfortunately the page refused to load.
We were contemplating taking the next action - either checking in to the nearby Hyatt hotel or getting a cab home, which will set us back by $30-$50. At this time, another bus stopped by and we took the chance to ask about the service we were waiting for.
"The last service has passed, its no longer running", confirmed the bus driver.
"Where do you go?" I asked.
"I go just a couple of blocks more, but not to Seattle." Our hearts sank.
"What you could do, is go down to the transit center and take bus #550 coming at 11:45pm, to downtown Seattle, where you could catch the next bus - I don't know what bus to get you back to U-district, you need to check again", advised the kind driver.
We thanked the driver profusely, grateful and anxious to get home. With full speed, we raced about 5 blocks to the transit center and looked at the schedule posted at the bus stop just outside the transit center.
"Shucks! We missed the bus!", CH exclaimed.
"Hur? We did?", I looked around and saw a bus stopping by the roadside a few feet from us. Its 550! I shouted to CH, we both ran towards and boarded it.
"Where are you going?", asked the driver.
"Downtown Seattle"
"Wrong bus, take from bay 2 at the transit center"
We headed towards the center, CH looked at the schedule again, and realized he looked at the wrong one earlier. We were still in time ! Heng ah (lucky), we exclaimed, heaving sighs of relief!
Boy, were we so glad to be able to get back, all thanks to the friendly bus drivers.
What an adventure today!
Bike to Work Day (15May'09)
May is National bike month and Friday (15May'09) is bike to work day - when bikers ditch their vehicles in place of bikes for commute to work. On this day, there are several commute stations for riders to pick up free schwag, snacks, maps, etc.
I was very keen to join this event but CH wasn't interested. I decided to make up by joining their "bike to work after party" instead, held in a nearby neighborhood where I could bike to. (CH was working, too bad)
Glad I came. There were leftover freebies like water bottles, bike headlights we could use. The place was bustling with many bikers soaking in the fun.
Bluringly I took part in one of the games, without knowing what it is all about. I was issued a sticker with a number on it to paste on my shirt. So I went to the booth where many were lining up.
A girl just standing next to me exclaimed: "Hey you got the same number as me!".
With that she turned to her mother standing beside her and said "Hey mum! She's got my number!"
I was baffled. Hur? Is there a mistake somewhere? Why are they giving duplicates?
"So what do I do?" I asked her.
"Just stick around with me", was the cool reply.
It slowly dawned on me that this is all part of the game. Every participant is given a number and is supposed to find someone who has the same number. Then both will line up at the game booth to claim their prize - a pair of woolen socks. Sweet.
Game booth - gamers with visible green stickers for others to find them
Conference bike again!
Someone "marketing" this cart
Pledge to undrive (I like this!)
Finally, a minibike contest! It was really hilarious!
I was very keen to join this event but CH wasn't interested. I decided to make up by joining their "bike to work after party" instead, held in a nearby neighborhood where I could bike to. (CH was working, too bad)
Glad I came. There were leftover freebies like water bottles, bike headlights we could use. The place was bustling with many bikers soaking in the fun.
Bluringly I took part in one of the games, without knowing what it is all about. I was issued a sticker with a number on it to paste on my shirt. So I went to the booth where many were lining up.
A girl just standing next to me exclaimed: "Hey you got the same number as me!".
With that she turned to her mother standing beside her and said "Hey mum! She's got my number!"
I was baffled. Hur? Is there a mistake somewhere? Why are they giving duplicates?
"So what do I do?" I asked her.
"Just stick around with me", was the cool reply.
It slowly dawned on me that this is all part of the game. Every participant is given a number and is supposed to find someone who has the same number. Then both will line up at the game booth to claim their prize - a pair of woolen socks. Sweet.
Game booth - gamers with visible green stickers for others to find them
Conference bike again!
Someone "marketing" this cart
Pledge to undrive (I like this!)
Finally, a minibike contest! It was really hilarious!
Alki Beach (10May'09)
We had decided to bike to Alki Beach a week ago. We have been hearing the locals hype about this beautiful place alot. Really. I guess we shouldn't miss this place then. So off we go, on our two-wheelers, as always.
I was quite excited about the whole ride, being our first to explore the west side of Seattle. We will ride to the mid-west neighborhood - Fremont, cross the Fremont bridge, then to Magnolia - another neighborhood, after which will be Elliot Bay, then downtown ! Estatic would be the right word to describe. Imagine riding through Orchard Road! Well, you get the idea.
A big surprise we had was Elliot Bay. It was so beautiful, with a south view displaying the city landscape and skyscrapers, and north boasting the mighty Mount Olympia to boot. We kicked ourselves (well, literally) for not visiting this place earlier. How could we have missed?
CH decided its time to have lunch, so we rested our bikes against the benches, while enjoying the scenery.
We finally reached Alki beach. It was not as happening as Golden Park we visited yesterday. Maybe due to the gloomy weather today? But the restaurants along the shores were crowded with people. Oh ya, its Mothers' Day! No wonder. We had a bite at a nearby fish n chips eatery, strolled along the beach, and headed back, just in time before the rain caught up with us.
I was quite excited about the whole ride, being our first to explore the west side of Seattle. We will ride to the mid-west neighborhood - Fremont, cross the Fremont bridge, then to Magnolia - another neighborhood, after which will be Elliot Bay, then downtown ! Estatic would be the right word to describe. Imagine riding through Orchard Road! Well, you get the idea.
A big surprise we had was Elliot Bay. It was so beautiful, with a south view displaying the city landscape and skyscrapers, and north boasting the mighty Mount Olympia to boot. We kicked ourselves (well, literally) for not visiting this place earlier. How could we have missed?
CH decided its time to have lunch, so we rested our bikes against the benches, while enjoying the scenery.
We finally reached Alki beach. It was not as happening as Golden Park we visited yesterday. Maybe due to the gloomy weather today? But the restaurants along the shores were crowded with people. Oh ya, its Mothers' Day! No wonder. We had a bite at a nearby fish n chips eatery, strolled along the beach, and headed back, just in time before the rain caught up with us.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Golden Park Gardens (9May'09)
Decided to visit one of the beach parks to catch the sunset today. This time, we left our bikes at home, to conserve our energies for the next day trip to Alki Beach. After completing our groceries, we hastily checked the bus schedule, and off we go.
The nearest bus stop was some distance from the beach - we trekked through several stairs down and a forest, before reaching.
The nearest bus stop was some distance from the beach - we trekked through several stairs down and a forest, before reaching.
The beach in this park reminds me of East Coast Park back home, though smaller. There were several groups of families and friends gathering on the beach for barbeque dinner, playing frisbee or beach volleyball. Its been so long since we had a beach barbeque. How we envy them.
We found a nice place - a piece of log to watch the sunset, had our tea break, and chit-chatted, while people-watching - a hobby we've recently "inherited" from the locals. Its been a long time since we sit around doing nothing, slowly taking in the happenings around us, relaxing in the nice breeze warmed slightly by the sun rays.
We didn't catch the sunset, it was getting too cold for us. Next time, perhaps.
The nearest bus stop was some distance from the beach - we trekked through several stairs down and a forest, before reaching.
The nearest bus stop was some distance from the beach - we trekked through several stairs down and a forest, before reaching.
The beach in this park reminds me of East Coast Park back home, though smaller. There were several groups of families and friends gathering on the beach for barbeque dinner, playing frisbee or beach volleyball. Its been so long since we had a beach barbeque. How we envy them.
We found a nice place - a piece of log to watch the sunset, had our tea break, and chit-chatted, while people-watching - a hobby we've recently "inherited" from the locals. Its been a long time since we sit around doing nothing, slowly taking in the happenings around us, relaxing in the nice breeze warmed slightly by the sun rays.
We didn't catch the sunset, it was getting too cold for us. Next time, perhaps.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Discovery Park (3May'09)
We are going to Discovery Park today! Situated at the West part of Seattle, our route goes through the Chittenden locks (again!), up a hill, and that's it!
Discovery Park hosts Seattle's largest bluff-top reserve. The local guidebook says there are sweeping vistas, chances to watch nesting bald eagles (again! We didn't get to see any last week at Seward Park) and study nature. It has 4 miles of road for bicycling and an 1881 lighthouse (oldest in the area). Sounds impressive hur?
Before we reached the park, we were kind of misled by the road sign and made a wrong turn into an army camp! Tanks, barracks were everywhere. Uh oh...fearing for our lives, we scurried back and headed towards the opposite direction.
Reached the entrance of the park, great, now where's the visitor center? We need a map of the area, so we could get to the beach for our lunch (Yes! you guessed it! Its picnic again!) There was a sign directing hikers to the center, but none for bikers. And we are not allowed to ride on trails used by hikers. Asked some passer-bys for directions, and was told "to go right to the end where you should turn left when there's a chance to". Uh? Thanks anyway.
We rode uphill, gave up, dismounted, pushed our bikes. Not sure when, but we finally saw some roads on the left. On a side note: This park actually houses military buildings surviving from the park's days as a Army fort, so we have to be real careful not to run into unauthorized territory.
We got onto our bikes, turn left, and yes! The saying again : what goes up must come down. So we went for a free wheeley falley ride downhill. That compensated for our nasty uphill ride earlier. We finally reached the center, but the only map available is pasted on the door. No free ones I guess. By this time, CH was getting kind of grumpy (which usually happens when he's hungry). We had to forgo our nice picnic by the beach and find some grass patch to settle down for our meals.
Enjoying the scenery during our picnic
With energies recharged, we continued our ride, this time to the much-acclaimed lighthouse. Boy, as the guidebook warned, its extremely easy to lose your way here. we could see why: no signs were provided at crossroads. Seriously, this park is in dire need of more signs, especially for bikers. One wrong path and several steps to be retraced. Worse when it turned hilly, so one wrong downhill = one tedious uphill back.
I seemed to hear our cursing and swearing echoing in the park each time we made a wrong turn. It was close to evening when we finally reached the beach, and lighthouse.
The lighthouse is out of bounds to the public, but some folks still found their way in. Otherwise my picture would be perfect.
Slowly we made our way back, @#$@! as we pushed our bikes uphill. We will be back, as trekkers to explore the trail which loops around the region.
Our reward before we headed home:
Discovery Park hosts Seattle's largest bluff-top reserve. The local guidebook says there are sweeping vistas, chances to watch nesting bald eagles (again! We didn't get to see any last week at Seward Park) and study nature. It has 4 miles of road for bicycling and an 1881 lighthouse (oldest in the area). Sounds impressive hur?
Before we reached the park, we were kind of misled by the road sign and made a wrong turn into an army camp! Tanks, barracks were everywhere. Uh oh...fearing for our lives, we scurried back and headed towards the opposite direction.
Reached the entrance of the park, great, now where's the visitor center? We need a map of the area, so we could get to the beach for our lunch (Yes! you guessed it! Its picnic again!) There was a sign directing hikers to the center, but none for bikers. And we are not allowed to ride on trails used by hikers. Asked some passer-bys for directions, and was told "to go right to the end where you should turn left when there's a chance to". Uh? Thanks anyway.
We rode uphill, gave up, dismounted, pushed our bikes. Not sure when, but we finally saw some roads on the left. On a side note: This park actually houses military buildings surviving from the park's days as a Army fort, so we have to be real careful not to run into unauthorized territory.
We got onto our bikes, turn left, and yes! The saying again : what goes up must come down. So we went for a free wheeley falley ride downhill. That compensated for our nasty uphill ride earlier. We finally reached the center, but the only map available is pasted on the door. No free ones I guess. By this time, CH was getting kind of grumpy (which usually happens when he's hungry). We had to forgo our nice picnic by the beach and find some grass patch to settle down for our meals.
Enjoying the scenery during our picnic
With energies recharged, we continued our ride, this time to the much-acclaimed lighthouse. Boy, as the guidebook warned, its extremely easy to lose your way here. we could see why: no signs were provided at crossroads. Seriously, this park is in dire need of more signs, especially for bikers. One wrong path and several steps to be retraced. Worse when it turned hilly, so one wrong downhill = one tedious uphill back.
I seemed to hear our cursing and swearing echoing in the park each time we made a wrong turn. It was close to evening when we finally reached the beach, and lighthouse.
The lighthouse is out of bounds to the public, but some folks still found their way in. Otherwise my picture would be perfect.
Slowly we made our way back, @#$@! as we pushed our bikes uphill. We will be back, as trekkers to explore the trail which loops around the region.
Our reward before we headed home:
Monday, May 4, 2009
Malay Satay Hut
Its the first Saturday of the month - the local bike club Spokespeople organizes monthly group rides to nearby neighborhood on this day. We planned to join, but due to some installation work to be done in our apartment, we could not make it. So we were kinda feeling restless and grumpy, watching "Time Warp" on Discovery, unclear what to do next.
"Fine, lets do our grocery then, and save some energy for our ride tomorrow," CH decided.
"OK, since its going to be evening, we can check out Malay Satay Hut!", I quipped.
This is the closest to home food I could find in Seattle. We went there few weeks ago for lunch, but it was closed.
Hastily completed our grocery shopping, we walked over to the restaurant (Yap, its situated in International District aka Chinatown). Ok, the interior decor looks like a Malay hut, somewhat. The waiter/waitress who served us were from Malaysia. Great, food to the test now.
We ordered Penang Char Kuay Teow (槟城炒果条), Pork rib with rice (排骨王) and Bo Bo Cha Cha dessert (sweet potato and yam in sweet soup).
"I'm sorry, we only serve Bo Bo Cha Cha during summer", said the waitress.
"How about Chendol?" I asked.
"I need to check with the chef. If its not available, what would be your other choice?"
Feeling somewhat disappointed, we opted for Avocado shake as the last choice.
And we got it. Consolation was there is gula melaka (brown sugar) in it! My favourite! Yum yum.
Our verdict:
Not authentic at all! Not even close. We will give it a last chance by checking its other branch at Redmond, said to be better. What a big letdown!
"Fine, lets do our grocery then, and save some energy for our ride tomorrow," CH decided.
"OK, since its going to be evening, we can check out Malay Satay Hut!", I quipped.
This is the closest to home food I could find in Seattle. We went there few weeks ago for lunch, but it was closed.
Hastily completed our grocery shopping, we walked over to the restaurant (Yap, its situated in International District aka Chinatown). Ok, the interior decor looks like a Malay hut, somewhat. The waiter/waitress who served us were from Malaysia. Great, food to the test now.
We ordered Penang Char Kuay Teow (槟城炒果条), Pork rib with rice (排骨王) and Bo Bo Cha Cha dessert (sweet potato and yam in sweet soup).
"I'm sorry, we only serve Bo Bo Cha Cha during summer", said the waitress.
"How about Chendol?" I asked.
"I need to check with the chef. If its not available, what would be your other choice?"
Feeling somewhat disappointed, we opted for Avocado shake as the last choice.
And we got it. Consolation was there is gula melaka (brown sugar) in it! My favourite! Yum yum.
Our verdict:
Not authentic at all! Not even close. We will give it a last chance by checking its other branch at Redmond, said to be better. What a big letdown!
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