Square Pound Cake

As I was reading Ms Jaworski's headnotes for this pound cake, I became curious as to how it would turn out. The recipe uses the 'quick method' in which the dry ingredients are dumped into the mixer first, followed by the butter and  liquid ingredients, then beaten until combined.  I am  familiar with the 'creaming method' in which the butter is beaten first before adding the rest of the ingredients. I have used it often  and I always liked the results. With the 'quick' method, the cake tasted just as good but the crumbs were softer and more tender. I'm glad I learned something helpful. I could do more at work if I follow the easy way. Ha!

A Vegetable Tray For Thai Cooking Class

Watermelon carving

How much skills and patience are needed to carve a fruit so intricately? I wonder. This watermelon carving was the center of a vegetable tray used during Thai cooking class at the resort. Another handiwork of the resort's sous chef. Since joining the team, the vast majority of the kitchen staff have taken some time to learn and even improve their carving skills. Some can now carve roses out of carrots and potatoes. It's a time- consuming activity but seeing the result is rewarding.

Koh Tao and Koh NangYuan Hopping

God is great! Just when I felt so bored of my routine, a good friend asked me to join the private trip to Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan she had arranged for her Chinese guests. I was hesitant to go, knowing that we were going on a  speedboat. I was on a smaller motorboat to Koh Phi Phi four years back and it wasn't a good experience. Don't get me wrong. The captain of the boat did a good job but driving it in big waves scared the life out of me. (Truth is  I   have a dislike for anything that goes or runs so fast. Period.)

Fast forward to that day, I had finally agreed to go. The  tour operator picked  us all up. It was half past nine. Kind of late but it's a private charter tour so we were in no rush. I chose the back seat, facing the vast ocean. I wouldn't want to feel the strong jolt just in case we had a bumpy ride.

A Meal That Fell Short of My Expectations

I had the privilege to visit Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan with a friend and some wealthy Chinese she was touring around. All expenses  were shouldered by her guests. What a blessing!  We didn't bring any sustenance as we were told there were a couple restaurants on the island. While my friend, a female guest and I enjoyed the first few hours partying on the boat, the others went into the water to do some snorkeling. Lunch time came we were all famished! The captain of the boat they rented was kind enough to give us 2 options. We could eat on the island or tour the next island first, then food later on the way back to Samui. We all agreed to have our lunch first. He drove us to a decent looking restaurant. I anticipated to eat something nice on that trip.  The restaurant only has set menu and with a fixed price. When I looked at the menu, I knew exactly what I would get.

Marshmallow Pops

Here's a better way to transform your plain, white marshmallows into colorful and attractive treats for your guests.  Marshmallow on a stick is easy to make. All you need to do is stick the skewer into marshmallow then dip it halfway into melted chocolate. Shake off excess coating and garnish top with cake sprinkles. Chill until the chocolate hardens. A few simple steps to a creative look.