Teddy's Bigger Burger

We often seize the opportunity to visit Teddy's Bigger Burger whenever we're in Hawaii Kai. Reasonable prices, big portions, and great french fries and of course, delicious burgers are reasons to frequent this small but not small in taste hamburger chain.

Blueberry Muffin

You know how sometimes an accident produces a product even better than the intended outcome. Well, this was NOT the case. A beginning baker is advised to read the recipe not once but sometimes twice and even three times. I swear I did, but I mistakenly read softened for melted and it made all the difference. These muffins were not light and fluffy, instead dense and doughy, like mochi. Disaster!

Thanksgiving-Hana Hou!

Not only are Mom and Pops great cooks, they are such great hosts, something I hope to be one day. I'm so thankful for generosity of the Gruzinskys and the delicious foods Pops always prepares, especially his macaroni salad with a unique blend of macaroni, sugar, white vinegar, and mayonaise. I love love love this dish that I've been trying to recreate in my own home but with no success...yet.

Thanksgiving

If you pause to think, you'll give cause to thank. My childhood involved sharing of toys and many birthday get togethers and sometimes fights. Our get togethers involved tons of food and nothing has changed. I'm so thankful for growing up with so many cousins and that our children get to do the same.

Pumpkin Roll

Thanksgiving. The perfect occasion for 2 competing pumpkin rolls. Libby's in one corner, Katie Lee's in the other. The results of the taste test? Everyone agreed that the Libby's recipe was good but Katie Lee's was the winner. The blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg complimented the lightness of the pumpkin cake; the rich cream cheese filling was divine.

Lemon Bar

A bag full of Meyer lemons, compliments of Doreen is the only encouragement I need to whip a batch of Martha's lemon bars. There were so many lemons that I omitted the lime juice and zest, with sweet and tangy results! A cold glass of fresh squeezed lemonade put me into citrus overload.

Happy Birthday Madison!

Fun shapes for Madison's fun 1st birthday party at the Ala Moana Hotel.

Dave's Ice Cream

A little bit pricey but oh so creamy and delicious! I haven't been to Dave's in years. What the hell...it was Friday and I deserved a sweet treat! Scott and I used to visit this ice creamery at least once a week when we were dating until my mom started telling me my bottom was expanding.

Thai Village

If you're looking for delicious, home style Thai cooking, head to Thai Village in Waipio. Unlimited servings of chopped peanuts for pad thai, generous portions, and friendly, efficient service make this place a new favorite.

Dance Island Ballet

I proudly sat in the audience and watched my little girl perform the "Good Ship Lollipop." It was a fun and frivolous number that followed more serious performances. What was even cuter were the sailor costumes. Uncle Jimmy was reminded of his sailor days in the US Navy.

Bonzer Front

I just had to check out the place where Collette found a vintage muumuu. Inventory included reasonably priced clothes, accessories and an espresso bar. A cute and stylish store with an inviting patio to enjoy your mimosa.

Cafe Haleiwa

Fast, friendly service at Cafe Haleiwa has made this one of the most popular places on the North Shore for breakfast. Locals and tourists alike flock to this cute, down to earth restaurant known for its banana pancakes. I needed something more substantial so, Anna and I devoured a Portuguese sausage, spinach and mushroom omelette and I helped her with her pancakes.

Happy Halloween

You're never too old to dress up, join friends, and celebrate Halloween. Everyone got into the spirit, including Stephanie who had the best costume-box jelly fish.

Happy Birthday Leila

Beautiful birthday wishes for a beautiful girl and her parents. A princess themed party with awesome food catered by Diamond Head Grill and games and decor organized by planner Linda. Pumpkins are essential for an October party but these were something else.