tungtunghouse

Wedding Details at Berkeley

2011-07-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

As soon as I walked into the hotel room and saw Sheryl's shoes and garter, I immediately knew purple was the main color theme in her wedding.

While Sheryl and her bridesmaids were busy getting ready for the big day, I, as a photographer, was focusing on capturing the things they have prepared for the wedding.

The ceremony and lunch buffet were held at Berkeley. There was a small Japanese teahouse in the facility which I loved. The wooden deck and the surrounding plants were my favorites.

It was a bright hot sunny day. It was so sunny day that I had to use the maximum 1/4000 shutter speed on my camera when taking pictures outdoor. The tricky part was where the ceremony took place because there were two extreme lighting situations, shady and bright light, in the same area. Getting accurate exposures was a challenge.

I love looking at details. Paying attention to details in a wedding is necessary because these “personal touch” tell me the style and personalities of the wedding couple. Each couple (and their friends) put their efforts to make the wedding unique and personal; therefore, every single detail plays an important role in a wedding.

There were a lot of nice and meaningful touch at Sheryl and Ken’s wedding. I especially liked the “thumb painting”. I think it was such a fun idea!

Special thanks to JeZa for asking me to be their associate photographer. It was a precious real-life experience. I had a great time photographing Sheryl and Ken's wedding. I wish the newly wedded couple have a wonderful married life together!

SR Workshop at City Hall

2011-06-30T23:49:00.000-07:00

Another "live shoot" session from Scott Robert Photography Workshop was held today at the City Hall. Living in the Bay Area for years and I've never been to the City Hall, but suddenly I got to come here twice within a week. It is one of the most famous locations for couple to get marry. That's why we had a model wearing a gown for students to practice wedding photos in this beautiful historic building.

Unlike the previous live shoot sessions, where everyone broke into groups, grabbed a model and started shooting on their own right away; this time Scott really spent the time to demonstrate and show us how to find a shooting spot, how to pose, and shared his thinking process. I really liked this; it was very helpful.

Another big thanks to my friends, HS and JeZa in the SR community, who were so kind to share their techniques during the session. I decided to put aside all the technical skills and just focused on the very basic and yet the most importance basic, which is "seeing the light". Finding a good light source is not as easy as you think. And make good use of it is even harder!

No flash was used during this session because I just wanted to practice on finding the "right" light. Somehow I am always attracted to black and white images. I like their artistic feel and the mood that comes from the simple monotone images. These two images are not grayscale images, but they are closed to monotone. I like the mood I set for these photos and I like the cleanliness. The simpler the better.

Model: Casey
Wardrobe Stylist: Zabrina

Pre-Wedding at City Hall

2011-06-23T23:33:00.000-07:00

This was my first pre-wedding photo session. Technology it shouldn't be called a pre-wedding since the couple, Vivi and Phil, are already married just a week before the shooting day. This session was a post-wedding session because they wanted to take a few more photographs with the gown on. Therefore, I wasn't too nervous about it because it was a pretty causal session. But it was still a real photo shoot with real client in a wedding gown!

Thanks to JeZa, I got to meet this beautiful couple and help out at this photo session. And for the first time, I got to do photo shooting in this beautiful city hall too. I had fun working in this session. Once again, congratulations to this newly wedded couple, Vivi and Phil!

Triple Chocolate Cookies

2011-06-18T22:58:00.000-07:00

Talking about cookies, chocolate cookies is always my favorite. It is same to my friend, BH. She loves chocolate cookies and wanted me to make her some. Since I was dying to try this recipe I got from America's Test Kitchen, one of my favorite cooking shows on TV, it would be perfect that she volunteered be my guinea pig.

Ingredients:
3oz. unsweetened chocolate
1.5 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
7 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tsp coffee powder
2 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1.5 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Put the unsweetened chocolate, bittersweet chocolate chips, and unsalted butter in double boiler and melt until smooth and glossy. Takes about 5 minutes. Then set it aside and let cool slightly.

Mix the coffee powder and the vanilla extract together in a small bowl until dissolve.

Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl.

In the electrical mixer, beat the eggs with the sugar with medium-high speed for 4 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and pale colored. Add the coffee mixture and mix for 20 seconds. Pour in the chocolate mixture and mix with low speed for 30 seconds.

Use a spatula and fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the flour mixture. Fold in gently with the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in room temperature for 30 minutes.

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Use a tablespoon and scoop out the cookie dough and place on parchment with two inches apart. Place the baking sheets (one in middle rack and one at the bottom) in a 350 degree F oven and bake for 11 to 16 minutes. After 5 minutes, switch the position of the baking sheets.
The cookies will look under-baked, but don't worry. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before serving.

The chocolate cookies was quite yummy, just a tiny bit too sweet for my taste. And the chocolate flavor is very strong and complex. However, they weren't as chewy as we would expect. Next time I would find another chewy cookies recipe and try again.

SR Workshop at Palace of Fine Art

2011-05-26T23:54:00.000-07:00

A new series of Scott Robert Photography Workshop kicked off on a Wednesday before the Memorial Holiday weekend. Since I missed the first half of the series last year, it was good for me to start the series from the beginning again.

This year series has a different structure from last year. Instead of a full day workshop on either Friday or Saturday, each workshop is now split into two weekdays. Lecture is held on Wednesday night and on location live shoot on Thursday late afternoon. Both take place in the city. This way it won't conflict with the students who have to do wedding or engagement photo shoot on the weekends. But for me, it is a little hassle to drive to the city two days in a roll. The gas and toll are expensive these days. Also I think splitting the lecture and live shoot into two days feel a little loose, kind of losing the momentum. But after all, the most importance is to learn.

The first live shoot was took place at the Palace of Fine Art. It was so cold! Everyone was freezing. As usually, I didn't take many pictures and I needed time to warm up before shooting. So I hang out with other lifers and observed how they take pictures and posing the models.

At the end, I only took a few shoots. I like how some of the pictures turned out. The soft golden sunlight hit on the model's face and body really creates beautiful effect!

Portland Trip Part 2: Attractions

2011-05-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

Besides great food, Portland has many beautiful places for tourists, especially first time visitors. One of my favorites was the Saturday Market. Regardless of its name, Saturday market opens on both Saturday and Sunday. It is an art and craft fair where you can find a lot of handmade art and crafts from local artists.

Portland Aerial Tram wasn't really a tourist attraction (at least not yet) because there was nothing around but office building and a hospital/medical school. So if you came here, don't expect to see any shopping plaza, restaurants or shops nearby. For what I saw, the tram served more as a local transportation uphill and downhill for the people who work in the hospital and the office building.

The only thing to see was the scenic view when took the tram ride up the hill. The ride only took about five minutes. We ended up wandering around the patio area in the medical school, which was quite a nice view. The weather in Portland can be tricky. One minute it can be pouring, and then becomes sunny all of a sudden. So bring an umbrella and rain coat when you are out.

My other favorite place in Portland was the Japanese Garden, located in the Washington Park. We chose to come here on a weekday to avoid the crowd. After we got off the bus #63, there was a short walk uphill or take their free shuttle, if you prefer, to the main entrance of the garden. The admission was $9.50 per person.

I love this garden and I think it is way better than the one in Golden Gate Park. This Japanese Garden is beautifully designed and it has tons of plants to see, and yet the place is not too big that can worn you out. I appreciate their rule of prohibit the use of cell phone in the garden. So everyone can enjoy this beautiful environment peacefully and quietly.

Portland was a great option for a short weekend getaway. If we could find any cheap tickets again, I will definitely visit this lovely little city again.

Portland Trip Part 1: Food

2011-05-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

This is my first time visiting Portland and as soon as I arrived, I am in love with this little city. It is small and has easy access to most of the tourist attractions, either by foot or public transportation (free in the downtown area). Portland has no sale tax, which is great for shopping. It is really a tourist friendly city!

After settled down at the hotel, we headed out to Urban Farmer Restaurant in downtown. A friend suggested us to try their Happy Hour because of their good food and reasonable price. So we decided to give it a try. But we found out that their happy hour menu changes frequently. What we saw was different from what my friend mentioned and also different from their website too. It was a bummer that something we wanted to try were not available.

We ordered the seasonal soup ($3), fried short ribs ($5), salmon tartar ($6), beef slider ($5), and Pacific oyster, Champagne mignonette ($2 ea). The soup was a little salty and the texture was a bit too thick for me. The fried short ribs was just alright... I wasn't crazy about the batter they used. The oysters were fresh but they were so tiny that my tongue almost couldn't catch it! The best were the salmon tartar and the beef slider. These two were a must try.

What I liked most about Urban Farmer is the interior decor and the ambiance. It is beautifully design and people can choose to sit either inside the restaurant area or out in the lobby where they have different kinds of sofas and have curtain hang around your sitting area. Urban Farmer is right in the heart of Portland downtown, it is a pretty good place to stop by for a mid-day snacks.

After happy hour, we just chilled out and walked around the downtown area.

On the next day morning, we went to a place called Mother's Bistro & Bar. It has tons of great reviews on Yelp and it is famous for its brunch. It was Sunday and the place was packed! To cut down the waiting time, we decided to sit at the bar instead of the table. I actually kind of like sitting at the bar because it was easier to order food and get the waitresses' attention.

We had the Smoothie of the Day ($4.95), which was mixed with strawberries, blue berries, mango, banana, and had no added sugar. It tasted very fresh! We ordered the Dungeness Crab Cake Egg Benedict ($14.95) and Smoked Salmon Scramble ($11.95). Both were super yummy. The pouched egg was perfectly cooked with the runny yolk inside. The scramble egg was tasty. However, it didn't have much salmon inside. The overall price of the food was a little high in Portland's standard. But comparing to the Bay Area, it was very reasonable, especially the portion was so large that kept us full almost of whole day!

At night, we went to a nice restaurant called South Park Seafood Grill & Wine Bar for a late dinner. We ordered the Pacific Oysters ($13 per half dozen), Braised Carlton Pork Belly Frisee ($8), Manila Clams ($9), and Farmers Connection ($26) for entree. All the food we had were super yummy! The oysters were very fresh with a hint of salt water taste. I just hoped they were a little bigger. The pork belly was crunchy and airy on the outside. Unfortunately it was a tiny bit too dry on the inside. The clams were heavenly! They were so GOOD (even the sauce) that we had two orders of it. When we finished the clams, I didn't want to waste the sauce, so I kept dipping the bread with it.

Since I always have fish for entree, I am pretty picky about how the fish is cooked. Many restaurants I have tried before have overcooked the fish. So I have to specifically tell the waiter "please do not overcook my fish." At this restaurant, I didn't have to do this because the chef has done a brilliant job. I ordered the Farmer Connection with Escolar, which is a thick and buttery fish. Cooking a thick-cut fillet is not an easy job. The chef cooked it perfectly, outside was crunchy and the center was juicy and delicious.

*Note: Unfortunately after the trip, we found out from a friend that Escolar is not a safe fish to eat. It has some kind of oil that our body cannot digest and it is not good for our health. From now on, I have to be really careful about what type of fish they are serving, even at a fancy nice restaurant.

If you've never tried the authentic Belgium waffle, you've got to come to
Waffle Window, a cute little waffle place on Hawthorne Blvd with some nice shops and boutiques around. Just like it is named, food was ordered at the window outside the restaurant. If you prefer to dine in, they have a little corner that they shared with another restaurant.

Their waffles were SUPER GOOD! My savory Farm Fusion ($4) was so tasty. The spinach, egg, and tomatoes was a perfect combination. The new Spring Fling ($4) was more a regular sweet waffle with fresh strawberries. But with a kick of the rose whipped cream, it was pretty delicious too. I also tried my friend's Spicy Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno waffle ($4.5). Wow, the jalapeno was spicy! If you can take the heat, it is another yummy choice.

The portion size was not big, but it was perfect for brunch because it wouldn't make you bloated. Great waffles with reasonable price. I definitely heart this place and am dying to come back to try more!

花膠二參潤肺容顔湯

2011-05-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

6小片花膠
12g 漳洲銀耳
36g 淮山
36g 百合
20g 大海竹
12粒圓肉
13g 南杏
13g 北杏
1枝花旗參
13g 太子參
3粒蜜棗
1片陳皮

Baby Verity Newborn Session

2011-04-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

恭喜, 恭喜! 恭喜譚家又有喜! 感激你們再一次邀請我做攝影師, 替baby Verity 拍照。她非常可愛又容易照顧。拍攝期間大部份時間是睡覺, 沒有扭計亦沒有哭。看見她那睡著時甜甜的樣子, 真的很窩心! 真的十分期待看見她學爬的模樣!

Congratulations to the Tams family! And thank you again for hiring me to do baby Verity’s newborn session. She was a such a cute and easy baby to work with since she was sleeping almost the entire session! No complaints and no cries! I had fun taking pictures of her and I think she is absolutely adorable! I can’t wait to see her start crawling!

拍攝尾聲, 我嘗試新東西。背景舖上了一張新買的銀灰色布。出來效果很有趣, 有一點像影樓相片的效果。下次我又多一個藉口去買布了!

Towards the end of the session, I wanted to try something new. Instead of using white background, I lay out a dark-grayish fabric that I got from Joann store. The photos turned out to be a surprise. They almost looked like they were taken from a studio. Now, I am one more reason for fabric shopping!

Two Socks at Once

2011-03-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my knitting teacher, Rosalyn Jung, for offering me and my friend AH a free knitting class at her house. She taught us how to knit "two socks at once" with two circular needles. This technique is much better and easier than knitting one sock at a time using five double point needles because we all hate the "second sock syndrome!"

Materials:
Sensations Soles & More wool blend sock yarn, 2 skeins
Two 24" circular needles, size 3
Stitch markers
tapestry needle

First, with two circular needles, I cast on using the Judy Becker Magic Cast On method.

I cast on 8 stitches for one toe with one skein of yarn. Then cast on another 8 sts for the second toe with another skein of yarn. Both toes were cast on on the same circular needles.

Round 1: Knit. (In the middle of a row of the toe, place a strung of two removable markers on the right needle. Use different color markers, one to indicate plain knit round, another to indicate an increase round.)

Knit the stitches (both toes) on the top needle. Turn the needles, and prepare to knit the stitches on the bottom needle. Here, knit the first stitch as regular, then knit the rest of the stitches by going through the back loop. This untwist only happens on this round.

Round 2: On the first toe, k1, M1L (lift up the "ladder", going through the "ladder" from the front using the left needle, then knit the back loop), knit until 1 st remain, M1R (lift up the "ladder", going through the ladder from the back using the left needle, then knit the front loop), k1. Do the same for another toe. Pull the back needle, so it will be in the way when working on the front needle.

Round 3: knit. Repeat round 2 and 3. until there are 28 stitches on half of each toe.

When the toes are done, there are 28 sts on each half of the sock. The total number of stitch for the circumference of the each sock is 56 sts.

Then I started to knit the pattern for the instep. I picked an easy pattern on a book called Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch. It is a four-stitch elongated corded ribbing that matches my stitch number of 56.

I knitted the instep for about 7.5 inches, then started to do the short row heel (on the sole stitches only):

Row 1 (RS): Knit until 2 sts remain. Put yarn in front. Slip the next st purl wise onto the right needle. Put the yarn back, then slip that slipped stitch back to the left needle. Place a marker on left needle. Turn the work.

Row 2 (WS): Purl until 2 sts remain. Put yarn in back. Slip the next st purl wise onto the right needle. Put the yarn in front, then slip that slipped stitch back to the left needle. Place a marker on left needle. Turn the work.

Row 3 (RS): Knit until the stitch before the last wrapped stitch, which is the one before the marker. Put yarn in front. Slip the next st purl wise onto the right needle. Put the yarn back, then slip that slipped stitch back to the left needle. Place a marker on left needle. Turn the work.

Row 4 (WS): Purl until the stitch before the last wrapped stitch, which is the one before the marker. Put the yarn in front, then slip that slipped stitch back to the left needle. Place a marker on left needle. Turn the work.

Repeat row 3 and 4.

I ended the WS row with ten stitches left in between both markers.

The stitches left in between both markers should be an even number, especially when you're going to do the gasset.

Then I started to increase the stitches by "unwrapping the wrapped stitches":

Row 1 (RS): Knit to the first wrapped stitch. Remove the marker. Slip that wrapped stitch purl wise onto the right needle. Put up the wrap with the left needle. Then slip the slipped stitch back to the left needle and knit that stitch with the wrap together. Then put yarn in front. Slip the next st purl wise onto the right needle. Put the yarn back, then slip that slipped stitch back to the left needle. Place a marker back on the left needle. Turn the work.

Row 2 (WS): Purl to the first wrapped stitch. Remove the marker. Slip that wrapped stitch purl wise onto the right needle. Put up the wrap with the left needle. Then slip the slipped stitch back to the left needle and knit that stitch with the wrap together. Then put yarn in back. Slip the next st purl wise onto the right needle. Put the yarn in front, then slip that slipped stitch back to the left needle. Place a marker back on the left needle. Turn the work.

Repeat row 1 and 2.

After row 1 and 2, there should be two wraps to pick up!

On the last stitch on RS, knit that last stitch. Turn the work to WS and work until the last stitch. Then purl that last stitch.

The short row heel should be done with working yarn on the right side of the WS of the sole. If not, just do one more row to move the yarn.

Here, I continued to work with the same elongated ribbing pattern on the leg (same pattern on the whole circumference) until I reached my desired length of 7 inches. Since the pattern is already a k2p2 ribbing, I didn't do an additional ribbing for the finishing. But if you do a different pattern such as lacing, you should do a k2 p2 ribbing for about one inch before you bind off.

Finally, I finished the socks with Jeny Staiman's Surprizingly Stretchy Bind Off.

I found this video on YouTube and Cat Bordhi demonstrates this technique very well. It is very helpful except she is left handed. With yarns holding on the left, it is a little confusing to me. When I watched the videos on YouTube, I was surprised to find out there were many people knit it this way. Anyway, this stretchy bind off technique is pretty amazing and useful.

Before you start the first stitch, make a reverse YO with the right needle (which means make a loop clockwise with the working yarn). Then k1 on the left needle. (You should now have two stitches on the right needle.) On the right needle, pass the first YO stitch over the second stitch and off the needle. (You now have only one stitch on the right needle.) Make a reverse YO again, and k1 on the left needle. (Now you have three stitches on the right needle.) On the right needle, pass both first and second stitches together over the third stitch. (You now have only one stitch on the right needle.)

Now, for the purl stitch, make a regular YO on the right needle (which means make a loop counterclockwise with the working yarn). On the right needle, pass both first and second stitches together over the third stitch. Make a YO again, and p1 on the left needle. On the right needle, pass both first and second stitches together over the third stitch. (After passing over the stitches, you should always have only one stitch on the right needle.)

Repeat second step for knit stitches and third step for the purl stitches until one stitch is left on the first sock. Put that last stitch on a lockable marker. Work the same on the second sock. When there is one last stitch on the second sock, knit it with the first stitch of the other half round.

At last, cut the tail and leave about 5-6 inches of yarn. Based on the video, I realized that I have to sew in the tail to the next stitch that is closest to the last stitch. Then pull tight. Continued to hide the tail by sewing into the following stitches.

Wa la! The socks are done!!!

..........................................................................................................

My teacher mentioned to us that there was another bind on technique called Elizabeth Zimmermann's Sewn Bind Off. Here is the video that shows you how to do it.

肉蓯蓉巴戟杜仲湯

2011-03-28T18:04:00.000-07:00

50g 肉蓯蓉
32g 巴戟
30g 熟地
30g 杜仲
45g 圓肉
40g 杞子
50g 淮山
1片陳皮
5 quarts 水
2 to 3 lbs 瘦肉

Baked Pork Chop with Rice

2011-03-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

茄汁焗洋葱豬扒飯

茄汁焗洋葱豬扒飯可算是港式西餐代表之一。差不多每位香港人也曾經吃過至少一次。從前我在香港生活時比較喜歡吃雞和牛, 所以這道菜並不是我的首選。但自我戒吃牛肉之後, 豬肉便成為其代替品。

我已經很久沒吃茄汁焗洋葱豬扒飯, 亦從未試過在家做。我沒有參考任何食譜, 只憑著兒時記憶, 第一次嘗試在家番做這個餸。竟想不到岀來效果相當不錯。老公和我也覺得賣相和味道跟港式餐廳的非常相近啊!

Baked pork chop with rice and tomato sauce is one of the classic dishes in Hong Kong style Western cuisine. All people from Hong Kong must have eaten it at least once in their life time. It wasn't my favorite dish when I was still living in Hong Kong because I liked beef and chicken more than pork. But ever since I stop eating beef, pork becomes an substitute.

I haven't eaten this dish for a very long time and I've never made it at home. Without following any recipes, just based on my childhood memory, I replicated this dish for the first time. Surprisingly, it turned out great. Both my hubby and I thought the look and the taste were pretty closed the ones we ate in Hong Kong!

Ingredients:
2 cups rice, cooked
1 egg, beaten
4 pork chops, bone in
fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
1 yellow onion, sliced
3 oz tomato paste
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp corn starch
2 tbsp canola oil
light soy sauce
salt
sugar
ground white pepper
ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Pound the pork chops to tender the meat. Marinade them with corn starch, light soy sauce, salt and ground white pepper for at least 30 minutes.

In a large skillet with medium heat, stir-fry the rice and the egg together. Toss well until the rice is coated with the egg and turn golden yellow. Put the fried rice in a large baking dish and set aside.

In the same skillet with canola oil, pan-fry the pork chop with medium high heat. Do not flip until one side is completely golden brown. When both sides are golden brown and fully cooked, takes about 8 minutes, put the pork chops over the fried rice.

Put the onions in the skillet and cook them until transparent, almost caramelized. Add the tomato paste. While stirring, pour in the chicken broth slowly. Stop until the sauce turns into a right consistency, not too thick and not too thin. Season with salt, sugar, and ground black pepper. Pour the sauce over the pork chops. Place the mozzarella cheese on top. Put the baking dish on a large baking sheet. Broil it in oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melt and the sauce is lightly golden. When served, scoop some rice, a pork chop and some sauce onto a plate and garnish with some cooked green veggies.

渺小

2011-03-14T23:59:00.000-07:00

每晚臨睡前習慣花數分鐘到 Facebook 翻看一下, 那夜也不例外。但看到的不再是一堆堆有趣資訊或無聊個人更新狀況, 而是一宗亥人的新聞… 日本仙台發生9級大地震! 事隔數天, 電視和網上不斷報導地震的慘況、播出相關的照片和錄影片段, 看到這些畫面實在令人非常心痛!

從來人類也是敵不過大自然的嬲怒。儘管科學發展一日千里, 人類想盡辦法去預測天災的來臨, 可惜我們仍然無法逃避。看到一次又一次的天災, 令我感覺到人的無助、渺小!

很多人也習慣自我放大, 我也不例外。很多時候不自覺地把自身煩惱放得過大。尤其是在不快樂的時候, 悲怨的情緖蓋過一切, 往往令我忘記感恩已擁有的東西。在我情緖低落、感到困惑之時, 突然被這個無情的災難喚醒! 警惕自己比起那些被地震海嘯摧毀家庭、生命的災民, 我的煩惱和痛苦是那麼微不足道!

至少… 我還健康地活著!

Every night before going to bed, I like to spend a few minutes browsing through Facebook. It was no exception that night. But instead of the interesting information and meaningless status updates, I saw a terrible news... a 9 magnitude earthquake strikes Sendai Japan with a 30-feet tsunami. Over these several days, enormous amounts of news updates, photographs and videos were broadcast on television and internet. It is a heart-breaking disaster in the human history!

Humans have been trying real hard to fight against nature, but never succeeded. Even though our technology is so advance nowadays, we can never prevent nor predict a natural disaster from coming. Every time I see a catastrophe on the news, it makes me realized how insignificantly small and helpless we humans are.

Like many other people, I can be self-centered sometimes. I focus on my own pain and sadness, especially when I am unhappy. This depression covers everything, and often makes me forget to appreciate and cherish what I already have. Now I'm suddenly awaken by this tragic disaster, making me to realize how lucky I already am. Comparing to the victims who lost their homes and loved ones in the earthquakes and tsunami, my own problems and worries become so tiny and trifling!

At least... I am still healthily alive!

My First Official Maternity Session

2011-03-08T21:12:00.000-08:00

孕婦攝影在美國是十分流行和普遍, 只因大份部夫婦, 尤其產婦, 都希望可以用相片留住他們人生中這個重要的時刻。感謝我的朋友 ST, 邀請我為她拍攝孕婦相片。

拍攝日期是她預產期前三星期。當她告訴我她的首兩名小孩是早產, 所以她有預感這個嬰兒也會提早出世時, 我們唯有希望這個嬰兒盡量留待完成拍攝後才來臨。她從前兩次懷孕也沒有特地拍攝「大肚相」, 她真的不想錯過今次機會啊! 在拍攝當日前一晚, 我竟然夢到在我們影相期間她穿了羊水作動了, 我要立刻送她到醫院。真是非常可怕啊! 幸好這些並沒有發生, 拍攝順利完成!

我們主要在她家中拍攝, 這樣她便不用為兩名孩子分心。首先, 第一件事是為她挑選衣服。我特別要求她穿裙子, 因為我相信效果出來會比穿衫褲更好。於是她翻看衣櫃, 終於找到唯一一條仍然合身的裙子。雖然這條藍色吊帶裙不是孕婦裙, 但她穿得十分漂亮啊! 我們更為她丈夫找到一件顏色合襯的恤衫呢!

趁著兩名小孩午睡, 我為她拍了一些單人照和與丈夫的合照。我盡量告訴他們我的想法和構圖, 及教他們如何擺姿勢。我要很小心, 除了不能叫她做一些太麻煩的動作外, 亦要照顧週到, 不能令她太操勞, 畢竟她是懷了37週身孕的孕婦啊! 所有相片也只採用了我最喜愛的光源 - 自然光。它可以令照片看來更自然和柔和。但畢竟我是第一次操刀拍攝大肚相, 有很多地方仍有待改進。但總括來說, 我很喜歡這些相片出來的效果, 希望我的顧客亦同樣滿意!

Taking maternity photos is very common in the U.S. Many couples, especially the wives, want to capture this precious moment in their life. Thanks to my friend, ST, for hiring me as her photographer to capture this special moment of her life.

The session date was scheduled only three weeks before her due date. When she told me she suspected the baby would come early because her other two kids were early too, we were crossing our fingers hoping the baby wouldn't come before the session day. It was because this was her first maternity session too. she didn't take any official maternity photos with her first two kids, so she didn't want to miss this opportunity! The night before the shooting day, I had a dream about her water broke during our session and I had to rush her to the hospital. It was scary! Luckily, it didn't happen. The actual shooting day went smoothly!

The photography session was mainly took place at her home during morning when her two toddlers were at school and during their nap time in the afternoon. So there was less distraction for her. I started the session by helping her to pick the outfit. I requested her to wear a dress because I believed it would look better for belly shots. She then showed me her one and only dress that would still fit her. Although this blue dress was not a prenatal dress, it looked great on her! And we even found a matching color shirt for her hubby too!

We did some solo shots as well as some couple shots. I told them what I had in mind for the compositions and showed them how to pose. Since she was 37 weeks pregnant, I had to be careful with her and make sure she was comfortable with all the poses. All pictures were done with my favorite lighting - natural light. It makes the photographs very natural with soft tone. Since this was my first official maternity photography session, there were things still needed to be improved. But overall, I really like how the pictures turned out, and I hope my clients love them too!

面具

2011-03-07T15:42:00.000-08:00

當初聽到王宛之這首《面具》時, 已經十分喜歡, 只因她柔揚的歌聲及動聽的旋律。這陣子再翻聽這歌, 更別有一番滋味…

Fillens Vol.9 (March Issue)

2011-03-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

第九期(三月號) Fillens 女性網上攝影雜誌已經出版! 請到 Fillens 網站瀏覽。除了很多靚相外, 我特別喜歡今期的封面故事。封面主角 Toby Wong 是 UNiART 女性攝影課程導師, 師承人像攝影大師葉青霖。文章講述她的一段心碎的經歷、如何走過死蔭幽谷、如何克服心裡最大的創傷、及在崩潰之後又如何在攝影世界中重建過來。故事感人, 她的堅毅令人十分佩服。

今期我繼續幫 Fillens 做校對。另外我亦是「女子攝影。女子生活」的一份子, 在專欄第58及59頁內刊登了我在年頭往加拿大多倫多時拍攝的雪地相片。此外，Fillens 由下一期(六月號)開始改版為雙月刊，有關詳情請留意今期網上雜誌及 Fillens Facebook Fan Page 的公佈。希望大家能繼續支持 Fillens，支持女子攝影!

Seaweed Salad

2011-02-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

This seaweed salad is an inspiration from Sumiya, one of my favorite Japanese Izakaya restaurants in the Bay Area. I order it every time I go to the restaurant. After a few times trying it, I decided to replicate it at home. The salad itself was not very hard to make, but it was very time-consuming since I had to soak the konbu /dashima (昆布), white tremella fuciformis mushroom (雪耳), and black auricularia mushroom (雲耳) ahead of time, boiled and chopped them. Then tossed everything with some green salad mix.

It was the vinaigrette dressing that needed some experiments. My version of the dressing didn't taste exactly like the one from the restaurant. But it was very close. I used the Japanese ingredients like mirin and ponzo sauce, then mixed with water, sugar, and pepper.

I love all kinds of seaweed. They are delicious and have interesting texture. Most importance of all, they are very good for our health!

Mango, Corn and Garbanzo Beans Salad

2011-02-23T17:55:00.000-08:00

I adapted this recipe from my favorite Food Network chef, Giada De Laurentiis. Her recipes are user friendly and easy to follow, except sometimes her ingredients are quite expensive. Her dishes are delicious, lighter and healthier comparing to many other chefs in Food Network. I took out some of her ingredients because my hubby doesn't like bell peppers and beans very much. This is one of my favorite salads, it is light and refreshing. It is great for a side dish too.

Ingredients for the salad:
1 can corn, rinsed and drained
1 can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
3 ripe mangoes, peeled, seeded, and dice into 1/4-inch pieces
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Ingredients for the vinaigrette:
juice and zest of one lemon
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp ground cumin
extra-virgin olive oil
kosher salt
freshly ground black pepper

First, pour the drained corns onto a large pan. No oil is needed. With medium heat, cook the corn until lightly brown. Toss occasionally. Take about 3-5 minutes. Do the same for the garbanzo beans. Mix together the corn, garbanzo beans, diced mango, and chopped basil leaves in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and cumin. Slowly add the oil, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss well. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Toss again before serving.

石斛養肝湯

2011-02-20T17:54:00.000-08:00

30pc 石斛30粒
35g 紫丹參
18g 天麻
35g 麥冬
30g 杞子
30g 女貞子
5 to 6 quarts water 水
2 to 3 lbs boneless skinless lean pork 瘦肉

先把石斛沖洗, 用少許清水浸過夜或最少三小時. 瘦肉切件飛水, 然後把所有材料洗淨放入大煲內煲二小時。

此湯有養肝明目、平肝熄風、活血通脈之功效。對用眼過度、工作過勞者有護肝作用。

Stitch West

2011-02-19T23:06:00.000-08:00

今天去了一個每年舉辦一次、名為 Stitch West 的展銷會。它可算是個愛編織人仕的天堂, 因為你可以在這裡找到一切有關編織的東西, 由毛冷、編織用具、至珠仔、花樣、書本, 甚至編織課程, 應有盡有。兩年前第一次參觀, 看得我眼花瞭亂, 況且當時的我只是初學者, 所以並沒有買任何毛冷或編織用品, 反而是買了一些製氈呢的小玩意 (但至今仍未試過)。到現在, 我對編織的認識加深了, 亦找到自己喜歡做的編織品, 所以便買了一些適合的毛冷。其實這個展銷會賣的貨品並不便宜, 更不會有任何優惠, 但因為可以在一處地方看到和買到所以編織用品, 確實是非常方便! 難怪太部人都買到一袋二袋!

Today I went to a "knitters' heaven" called Stitch West. It is 4-days knitting expo that held annually. In the expo, you can find everything about knitting, from yarns, knitting supplies and accessories, to beads, patterns, books, and even knitting and crochet classes. My first time went to Stitch West was two years ago. Back then, I was just starting to knit, so I didn't really buy anything except some felting tools (which I still haven't used!) Two years later, I now have a better idea what I like about knitting, so I know what to look for. Therefore, I did spend some money this time. Honestly, the stuffs in Stitch West were not cheap! Don't expect to get better deals here than in the stores. But it was convenient to see everything and get what you want under one roof. No wonder many visitors had bought a handful of stuffs!

我很喜歡看毛冷, 愛用手觸摸它、感覺它的柔軟 (尤其是那些我買不起的)! 今次我終於買下一些手染毛冷, 因為它們實在太美了。這裡有很多攤檔都售賣手染毛冷, 價錢由$25至$100以上不等。我買的這個淺灰綠色和紅、米、灰混合的是$35一束 (560碼)。這個 Miss Babs 牌子有很多不同顏色的手染毛冷… 如果能買下所有就好了。

I love looking at yarns, touch them and feel them (especially those I cannot afford!) I couldn't resist to get some hand-dyed yarns this time because they were so beautiful. There were many booths selling hand-dyed yarns, prices ranged from $25 to over $100. I got one skein of green and one skein with mixture of red, cream, and gray, each was $35 (560 yards) from Miss Babs. There were so many colors to choose from... I wish I could get them all.

因為我現在也喜歡織襪, 所以也有看一些幼身的毛冷。但它們頗貴, 一束也至少$25。而它只夠織一雙襪子, 織出來的可算是一雙昂貴的襪子啊! 但最後我也忍不住買了兩束, 深紅色和灰藍色的。

Since I am into knitting socks now, I also looked for fingering weight yarns. They were pretty expensive too. One skein was $25 and I could only knit one pair of socks with it. That would be one expensive pair of socks! At the end, I couldn't resist to get two skeins... dark red and gray blue.

另外, 我也買了一些歐洲造的羊毛冷, 適合用作任何編織品。我總共花了二百多元, 真是大出血! 雖然我未有具體構思怎樣用這些毛冷, 但我知道用它們來編織一些「溫暖牌」給我的家人, 他們一定會很高興!

I also bought some nice European wool and merino yarns, which were perfect for anything. I ended up spending over $200 in Stitch West, OMG! Although I haven't decided exactly what to do with these yarns, I know if I make something special for my beloved family, they will be very happy!

川貝無花果海底椰湯

2011-02-17T16:45:00.000-08:00

這個川貝無花果海底椰湯很適合秋冬時份飲用, 對喉嚨很滋潤, 味道亦非常清甜! 正! 做法很簡單, 先把瘦肉飛水, 然後將所有材料放入水內煲滾, 用大火煲一小時, 再較中火煲一個半小時便成。

This soup, made with chuan bei mu and sea coconut shreds, is perfect for autumn and winter. It has a mild sweet taste and especially good for our throat. The prep is so easy. Just wash and clean all ingredients, and put them into a large soup pot. Boil in high heat for an hour, then in medium heat for another hour and a half. Season with a tiny bit of salt when served.

Ingredients:
30g chuan bei mu 川貝母
25g south almonds 南杏
25g north almonds 北杏
40g sea coconut shreds 海底椰
6 dried fig 無花果
1 piece of dried tangerine peel 陳皮
3 organic fuji apples, peeled and cut into pieces 有機富士蘋果
2 to 3 lbs skinless boneless lean pork 瘦肉
5 quarts (20 cups) water 清水

花旗參石斛湯

2011-02-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

我愛飲湯, 所以平日我也喜歡煲不同的湯水。唯一可惜的是這裡的藥材和海味比不上香港和加拿大的正宗和優質, 所以每次「出埠」也會入貨。剛剛去完多倫多, 我便在當地一間相熟的店舖買一些藥材回家。這個花旗參石斛湯是參考雜誌後再自己改良而成的。味道很好而且有益健康, 多喝有保健的功效啊!

I love drinking soup and I make soup almost every week. Unfortunately, some of the Chinese herbs here are not as good quality as the ones from Hong Kong and Canada. Therefore, I always buy herbs every time I travel to those places. During my last visit to Toronto, I went to a reliable Chinese herbs store and got a whole bunch of nice quality herbs. This American ginseng and dendrobium soup is adopted from a recipe in a magazine. I added a few other ingredients and turned it into a yummy and healthy Chinese soup.

Ingredients:
2 to 3 lbs skinless boneless lean pork 瘦肉
two American ginseng 花旗參
30 pieces dendrobium 石斛
1 piece dried tangerine peel 陳皮
40g dried longan 龍眼肉
50g dried sea bamboo 大海竹
27g dried wolfberry seeds 杞子
45g Ophiopogon japonicus 麥冬
5 quarts (20 cups) water 清水

把花旗參和石斛用水沖淨, 再用少許清水浸泡一晚或最少三小時備用。把瘦肉切成約三吋大的小塊, 冲水洗淨後再汞水。把其餘材料清洗一下, 然後把所有材料(連同浸花旗參和石斛的水)放入大煲內煲滾。用大火滾三十分鐘後, 把花旗參取出, 切片再放回煲內。把湯再用中火煲多三小時便成。

Wash the American ginseng and the dendrobium, then soak in a bowl of water overnight or at least 3 hours. Cut the lean pork into 3-inches pieces, clean in running water, then blanch in boiling water for a couple water. Wash all other ingredients and put everything (including the water that the ginseng and dendrobium was soak in) into a large pot. Boil in high heat for 30 minutes, slice the ginseng into small pieces and put them back into the soup. Boil the soup in medium heat for another 3 hours. Season with a tiny bit of salt when served.

*石斛 (Dendrobium nobile Lindl) 為蘭科多年生草本。以莖（全草）入藥。味甘, 性微寒。歸胃、腎經, 是重要的常用中藥, 《神農本草經》將其列為上品。有養陰益胃, 生津止渴的功效; 主治口乾煩渴, 補虛, 除痹下氣, 補五臟虛勞, 強陰益精, 補腎益力, 壯筋骨; 既能治病, 又能補益, 溫、寒兼可應用的特點。

芝麻湯圓

2011-02-13T23:09:00.000-08:00

在各式各樣的中式甜品當中, 芝麻湯圓是其中一款我最喜愛的。我喜歡咬它煙韌的外皮和黑芝麻蓉擁進口腔的感覺。

很久以前, 在一次電視節目中看到這個湯圓食譜, 從此便没有再買急凍湯圓又或是吃街外的了! 做法雖然簡單, 但不知怎地我無論怎搓也搓不出圓形, 揉出來的湯圓總是像四方形。相反, 老公竟然是搓湯圓高手。他可以把湯圓搓得圓碌碌(即使是粒粒大小不一)兼皮薄餡靚。所以每次都是他負責搓, 而我就負責煮湯圓和煲薑湯呢!

Black sesame ball is one of my favorites among all the Chinese desserts. I love its soft chewy texture and how the black sesame runs into my mouth. Oh, it is delicious!

I saw this recipe on a TV program long time ago. Since then, we never bought the frozen kind nor had this dessert in restaurants. The recipe is pretty easy, but unfortunately I am not good at kneading the dough into round balls. Mine came out in cube shapes all the time! Surprisingly, my hubby is very good in making this dessert. He can knead the sesame balls in perfect round shapes with thin dough, even though sometimes the size of the balls is not consistent. We work as a team for this yummy dessert, he kneads the balls and I make the sweet ginger soup!

Ingredients for Black Sesame Balls in Sweet Ginger Soup:

For the dough 湯圓皮材料:
250g glutinous rice flour 糯米粉
little bit of water 水適量
1 tbsp corn starch 鷹粟粉
2 drops of Canola or vegetable oil 油

For the black sesame paste 芝麻蓉材料:
two packs black sesame paste, Tor Tor brand 多多芝麻糊
1 tbsp corn starch 鷹粟粉
1 tbsp water 水

For the sweet ginger soup 薑湯材料:
4-5 slices of peeled ginger 去皮薑片
1.5 block of brown cane sugar 片糖
8 cups water 水

SR Workshop at Fort Mason

2011-02-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

Model: Jacquelyn Walker
Wardrobe Stylist: Zabrina Deng

Last week I went to another Scott Robert photography workshop. The topic was marketing 101. Scott gave us many statistic numbers about wedding photography. It was interesting and informative. At the end of the lecture, he showed us a ten-minutes audio clip of "The Story About Rocky". Although I am not a big fan of Sylvester Stallone nor Rocky, I did find this story pretty amazing. I especially love the part about his dog!

In the second part of the workshop, students will break into small groups of 4 to 5 people. I was in a group with another female student JJ and our model was Jacque. She is a sweet friendly girl who has done modeling for four years already. She is good at taking directions from photographers and posing on her own. I like working with her a lot.

After going to the SR workshops for the third time, I now get a better idea how he runs the workshops. He teaches things about the photography industry (wedding in particular), what photographers should know and gives the students suggestions. If you are going into the wedding photography industry, that will be helpful. But if you are like me, hoping to learn hands-on photography techniques, his workshops may not be the right one for you.

I found that it was hard for me to learn actual techniques by just plainly observation behind Scott while he was photographing the models. He rarely explained what and why he was doing. I prefer teachers who give demonstrations and explanations. Therefore, I rather be in the group with other students because I can learn more from them. I am not saying Scott is not a good teacher. In fact, he is a great speaker, and a good mentor for some students. But it is hard for me to adjust to his teaching style and certainly not very beneficial to me. Also, I think he prefers to mingle with the students who he knows better and who he thinks have the potential to go into wedding photography. And obviously I am not one of them. Like what he said in the lecture, I may not have the right mentality for this industry or I simply don't want it enough to make it happen!

南乳炆粗齋

2011-02-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

近年不知何解有個習慣, 總喜歡在年初一煮齋。但我絕不是因為拜神拜佛才在初一十五吃齋, 要知道如果真的有心不要殺生平日也可茹素, 不一定要初一十五才做, 所以我認為那些只在初一十五吃素的人實在有點虚偽。平日的我如果不想吃肉, 多數會選擇吃沙律, 因為比較清淡和方便。所以炆一煲中式齋也只有在年初一才會做。

至於為甚麼叫粗齋其實我也不清楚, 難道齋也有粗幼之分? 還是它指的是「粗茶淡飯」的「粗」? 但我相信炆粗齋是沒有一定的材料, 喜歡下什麼便什麼。我這個南乳炆粗齋做法很簡單, 用少許油爆香薑片、蒜粒、南乳和柱候醬。加入材料(枝竹、豆泡、金針、雲耳、菇菇、粉絲和發菜)和兩細粒冰糖, 少許草菇蠔油, 加水蓋過材料。蓋上蓋用中火炆一個半小時便成。炆一大煲, 足夠我們吃幾餐啊!

說起發菜, 記得自十年前為了環保, 我和老公吃了最後一次魚翅之後便再也沒有吃過。其實採發菜也是極之不環保, 所以我們決定吃完今次奶奶帶來的發菜之後便不會再吃了。雖然我不是一個素食者, 亦未有決心放棄所有美味肉類和海鮮。但暴弑頻危動物的確過份。我希望大家也可以放下什麼「節日宴客要有翅食才有身份有面子不失禮」又或是「發財發菜」之類的荒謬無稽習族, 放棄暴弑動物, 為環保出一分力。

又愛又恨蘿蔔糕

2011-02-02T22:05:00.000-08:00

轉眼又到農曆年, 又是時候做些一年一度的賀年食品。其中蘿蔔糕是我認為比較多工序又最難掌握得好的, 況且完成之後又多工具要洗, 所以我並不太享受它的製作過程。但因為實在喜歡吃蘿蔔糕, 對它真的又愛又恨。今年我並沒有依足上年寫下的食譜, 只是隨心的去製作, 但味道反而比上年的更好。可惜我還不太懂怎樣去揀好的蘿蔔, 亦未能掌握蘿蔔和餿料的比例。於我的標準, 它仍未能「見得人」啊!

花膠一品窩

2011-02-02T19:44:00.000-08:00

年三十晚跟老公二人在家做節。因為是團年飯, 所以除了有蝦有雞和菜之外, 還特地煮了一味比較「隆重」的一品窩。從前也試過用花膠煲湯或燉糖水, 但炆花膠還是頭一次, 想不到竟然非常簡易。我很喜歡吃花膠, 愛它那軟軟滑滑的質感。其實一品窩並沒有什麼特定的材料, 隨自己喜歡的口味。而我便用了花膠、乾瑤柱、鮮冬菇和長紹菜。

先把花膠和乾瑤柱洗淨, 然後分別用清水浸一晚。待乾瑤柱軟身後、用手去掉小硬塊, 乾瑤柱與浸過的水一同備用。煲一小窩水, 加入葱段和五至六片薑, 煲滾成薑葱水。加入浸軟了的花膠, 蓋上蓋關火焗至水冷卻, 然後取出花膠待用。在瓦煲內把數塊薑片和少許蒜粒用油爆香, 加入鮮菇煮一會。把花膠平均舖在瓦煲內, 然後加入乾瑤柱。再倒入用少許蠔油和雞湯開成的醬汁, 及少許冰糖。蓋上蓋用中火炆半小時左右。期間在另一鑊用少許油和蒜粒把長紹菜略煮至半熟。待花膠炆至半小時後, 把紹菜放進瓦煲內, 再炆多十五分鐘便成。

魚肚原名花膠, 是中國著名四大補品: 鮑、參、翅、肚中的肚, 因富有膠質而著稱, 所以又叫花膠。從中醫角度, 花膠極有滋補食療作用, 有豐富的膠質及蛋白質, 尤其對女士更有益呢!

選擇要點: 花膠首要有厚度, 煲起不腥不潺和不溶化, 食落稔滑又爽口, 才算極品。花膠分「公」和「母」, 粵語稱「公」和「乸」, 以花膠公較貴。花膠公較耐水, 在烹調後較結實, 不會因受熱而溶化。而花膠乸則煲後較易溶化, 即行內所謂「瀉身」。花膠公呈長形人字紋, 肚身較厚而邊薄, 表面會有兩條凸顯的長坑紋。花膠乸則呈圓闊橫紋, 厚度平均。由於花膠愈大塊, 價錢會愈貴, 故市面出現一些像球拍形狀的花膠出售。據業內人士稱, 這種花膠多是由多塊平價及薄身的花膠浸透後再加工壓制而成的, 素質參差, 一般消費者難以肉眼判斷其原材料的優劣。

Toronto Trip 2010: What I Shot

2011-01-13T22:13:00.000-08:00

多倫多之旅 2010: 有乜影



在天寒地凍的多倫多還有什麼比影雪景更好呢?! 所以在有相機及天氣許可的情況下, 我都會走出屋外影影相。剛剛下完大雪的環境是最美的。每間屋頂都舖了厚厚的白雪, 非常漂亮。在積雪點綴下的枯葉和亁花亦有不一樣的美態。我最喜歡大力的踏在像棉花一樣的雪地上, 留下一個個深深的腳印。

Nothing better than photographing snow in the freezing cold Toronto. A thick layer of snow on the rooftops makes a beautiful scene. I love the dried plants embellished with the snow. I also like making deep footprints on cotton-like snowy floor.

這天難得放晴, 可以看到藍天白雲。我們走到附近的湖泊拍照。整個湖面已結冰, 再加上被白雪覆蓋著, 已分不清那裡是湖水那裡是陸地。我們看見一根根像香腸的植物, 樣子很趣怪啊! 我蠻喜歡這些相片帶著冷冷的、憂憂的淺藍色調, 很襯我啊!

Sunny day finally came and letting us to see the beautiful blue sky. So we went photographing at a nearby lake. The whole lake was frozen and covered with snow, it was hard to tell where the edge of the lake was. By the lakeside, there were some funny looking plants looked like sausages. I really like how these pictures turned out with a light cool blue tone.

其實在多倫多的兩星期, 拿相機外岀拍照的日子不多。很多時看到車外閃過漂亮的景色都無法用相機拍下。極其量只是透過車窗拍快照, 又或是把車停在路邊, 盡快的影數張, 所以相片出來的效果並不是最理想的。

Actually I didn't take many photographs with my two-weeks stay in Toronto. A lot of times when I sat in the car and saw some nice scenes, I wished I could capture them in my camera. Sometimes I took snapshots through the windshield or parked the car on the side and shot some pictures quickly. Therefore the pictures didn't come out very nice.

Toronto Trip 2010: Where We Went

2011-01-12T22:23:00.000-08:00

多倫多之旅 2010: 去咗邊



其實今趟已是第四次來多倫多, 很多旅遊景點早已去過。況且天寒地凍, 根本提不起勁作任何戶外活動。不過仍然有一處地方是百到不厭, 它就是在市中心的 The Distillery District。它是由一個舊啤酒厰改建而成、集餐廳、畫廊、商店於一身的地區。

This was my forth time coming to Toronto and I have already been to most of the tourist attractions. Among them, The Distillery District is one of my favorite places to visit. It is an area located in downtown Toronto, with art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

這裡仍保留著當年的歷史建築物和紅磚街道。一磚一木、每一粒生了銹的螺絲和鐵門及曾經用來運載啤酒的大木桶都令我很感興趣。

I admired the brick-lined streets and the historical Victorian industrial buildings. I adored every detail preserved in the area such as, the red brick wall, rusty bolts and doors, and the old wooden barrels.

此外, 還有一些畫廊和藝術工作室也很值得參觀。可惜在聖誕新年時份, 很多工作室也休息了。這裡亦有數間年輕時裝設計師在這裡設立店舗, 售賣自己的品牌。價格雖不便宜, 但勝在款式獨特新穎, 不容易在一般商場買得到。

There are some art galleries and studios in the District. Unfortunately a lot of them were closed during my visit. There are also some boutiques where independent fashion designers sell their clothes. The clothes were nice and a little pricey, but they are unique and stylish that you cannot find in common shopping malls.

在室外放了一座很大的新型藝術品和一棵很高的聖誕樹。連同街道上和樓層外的聖誕燈飾, 相信入夜後一定很漂亮。可惜實在太大風太寒冷, 而我們亦要趕往另一處, 所以我們未等及黃昏便要離開了。

There were a huge Christmas tree and a giant sculpture outside. All buildings were decorated with Christmas lights. I am sure it will be very beautiful but freezing cold at night, so we decided to leave before dusk.

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接著我們來到位於多倫多市中心的 CN Tower。以往來到多倫多只是遠眺 CN Tower, 今次是頭一趟真正入內參觀。走出停車場, 在行人隧道內便被這個火車軌畫面吸引著, 如果可以置身其中拍照便好了! 來到 CN Tower正門外, 原本想多拍些照片, 但站在刺骨的寒風下不夠五分鐘, 感覺血管開始僵硬、手腳麻痺, 唯有立刻衝入大厦內暖身!

Before dusk, we arrived at the CN Tower located in downtown area. We have never been here before, this was our time time visiting the Toronto's landmark. As soon as I stepped outside the park garage and entered into the tunnel, I was attracted by this view of railroads. It will be fun if I could take pictures in these railroads. We finally got to the main entrance. I was hoping to take more pictures outside the CN Tower, but I couldn't stand the freezing weather for more than five minutes. It felt like my blood vessel began to freeze and my hands and feet were numb! Forget about the pictures, I ran back inside immediately!

在乘電梯進入 CN Tower 頂層之前, 每位遊客都要經過這個好像被大風筒吹一吹的安全檢測機。

Everyone has to pass this security scanning machine before taking the elevator up to the top floor.

在多倫多最高地標 CN Tower 頂樓的「360旋轉餐廳」吃晚飯慶祝聖誕新年是今次的重點。在上一篇網誌我已介紹過這裡的食物, 現在便說說它的真正賣點。這裡樓高超過1,151 公尺, 可以盡覽多倫多市。如果天氣好的話, 景色真的十分美麗。

The highlight of the trip was having dinner at the 360 Restaurant located at the top of CN Tower. I have talked about their food in my last post, so now let me tell you its real selling point. The restaurant is located more than 1,151 feet above the ground, providing a stunning view of the Toronto city. It has the best view of Toronto if the weather allowed.

晚飯後我們可免費到瞭望台參觀。在瞭望台的一處有用玻璃做的地板, 讓人們可以看到腳下離地超過一千公尺的街道, 感覺蠻刺激! 如果你不怕變「雪條」的話, 更可以走到室外, 感受一下千尺高空零度以下的震撼。我們很勇的試過了, 真的難捱得令人窒息!

We got free admission to observation deck after dinner. There is an area where the floor is made of clear glass. People can see the streets underneath their feet, that is pretty exciting! If you're not afraid of being frozen like a popsicle, you can even go outside and experience the coldness below zero degree above thousand feet in the sky. We tried! It was really a "breathe taking" experience!

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一天趁著沒有下雪, 便和老公走到在多倫多市東面在安大略湖旁的 RC Harris Waterhouse。它是一座棄置了的食水化淡廠。由於天氣關係, 人影也沒有。只見到一位女士帶著兩隻小狗在運動。其中一隻小狗更跟著我們身後不走, 不知是牠想逗我們玩, 還是想找吃的。我見牠樣子可愛便替牠拍了幅特寫。其實在夏天, 這裡應該是一處拍照的好地方。但可惜現在超級寒冷, 在湖邊風又大, 沒拍了多久我們便趕著上車了。

One day, hubby and I went to RC Harris Waterhouse located by the Ontario Lake in the east side of Toronto. It is an abandon water treatment plant. There was no one there except a women with her two dogs. One of her dogs kept following us, very funny! This place should be a nice photography location in the Summer. But it is too cold to take pictures here in the Winter!

我很喜歡這一帶的房子, 每間外觀都不同, 很「外國」 feel, 亦可擁有湖邊風光, 好正啊! 之後我們開車到了附近的一間小咖啡店。喝著熱騰騰的咖啡才感覺到絲絲暖意。

I like the houses in this area. The exterior design is different and it has beautiful lake view! We then headed to a nearby cafe. A cup of hot coffee was a must to warm my body up to the normal temperature.

在戶外太冷不能拍照, 唯有回程時在車內拍, 就連街邊垃圾筒也不放過!

It was too cold to take pictures outdoor, so I had to take snap shots inside the car on my way back home. I captured the street view, buses, even the trash can!

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這天和老公乘地鐵出市中心。這裡地鐵雖比不上日本的那麼整潔, 但仍不失方便。比起三藩市的 BART 好得多了! 沿路上當然不會放過有趣的指示牌和海報啦!

Today hubby and I took subway to downtown. Although the subway trains in Toronto were not as clean and neat as the ones in Japan, they were way better than BART in San Francisco. I love taking pictures of interesting signs and advertisement.

去旅行又怎能不參觀當地的美術館! 今次我們選了在市中心新落成的 TIFF Bell Lightbox。它是專為電影藝術而成立的美術館。我們的目的是為了欣賞著名導演及繪畫大師 Tim Burton 的作品展覽。

Visiting museums is always in our travel plan. This time, we picked the newly built TIFF Bell Lightbox, which is a museum focusing on cinematic art. We came here for the artwork exhibition of Tim Burton.

你可能不熟悉 Tim Burton 的名字, 但一定不會忘記他曾創作和執導的影片, 如早期的《Edward Scissorhands》 (1990), 《The Nightmare Before Christmas》 (1993), 《Charlie and the Chocolate Factory》 (2005), 《Sweeney Todd》 (2007), 和近期的《Alice in Wonderland》 (2010)等等。作品多不勝數, 而且題材獨特。而大部份電影也會起用他的愛將 Johnny Depp 做男主角。在展覽內看到他由兒時至今所創作的手繪作品, 大膽而富有創意, 畫功細緻精湛, 令人眼界大開! 可惜展覽場地不准拍照, 能拍的只有在大堂的巨型作品。

Even though you may not familiar with the name of Tim Burton, I bet you will remember his movies like Edward Scissorhands (1990), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), Sweeney Todd (2007), and Alice in Wonderland (2010) etc. His movies are unique and full of creativity. And he likes to use his favorite actor, Johnny Depp, in most of his movies. This exhibition showcased many of his artwork from childhood to present. The illustrations are wild and creative, the drawing techniques are impressive! Unfortunately photography was not allowed in the exhibition except the giant sculpture in the lobby.

就連美術館內的餐室的報置和食物也用了 Tim Burton 的作品做主題, 很有趣啊!

Even the cafes and restaurants in the museum use Tim Burton as a theme. Interesting!

Toronto Trip 2010: What We Ate

2011-01-11T21:30:00.000-08:00

多倫多之旅 2010: 食咗乜



下機當晚我們在「皇后名粥」用膳, 叫了一桌子菜。有蠔豉菜亁瘦肉粥 (加幣$5.25)、香茜魚片粥 (加幣$4.99)、燒鴨义燒雙拼 (加幣$9.75)、柱候牛腩 (加幣$4.95)、生炒臘味糯米飯 (加幣$5.99)、酥炸蟹拑 (加幣$5.75)、炸鮮蝦雲吞 (加幣$5.25)、及我至愛的牛脷酥 (加幣$1.60)。所有東西都非常美味。我尤其喜愛那些粥, 又綿又滑又足料。牛脷酥香脆鬆化, 比香港的更好吃。至於那碟生炒臘味糯米飯亦炒得極之惹味, 糥米軟硬適中。好味道啊!

We started our vacation with an impressive dinner at Congee Queen. We had dried oyster, vegetable and lean pork congee (CAD $5.25), fish congee (CAD $4.99), roasted duck and BBQ pork with honey combo (CAD $9.75), Chu-Hau beef brisket (CAD $4.95), stir-fried sticky rice (CAD $5.99), deep-fried crab claws (CAD $5.75), deep-fried shrimp wontons (CAD $5.25), and my be-loved deep-fried sweet cruller (CAD $1.60). All the food was really good. I especially loved the congee, soft and smooth with lots of ingredients. The deep-fried sweet cruller was crispy and delicious, even better than the ones I had in Hong Kong. And the stir-fried sticky rice was really tasty, the sticky rice was made perfectly. Oh so yummy!!!

在多倫多最高地標 CN Tower 頂樓的「360旋轉餐廳」晚飯慶祝聖誕新年可算是重點。我們選了每位六十八元的定價晚餐, 有兩道頭盤、主菜及甜品, 每道菜有兩至三個選擇。我選了意式南瓜粒麵包片作頭盤, 但麵包太硬… 我覺得媽媽弄的好吃得多。老公的頭盤鴨肉三味頗特別, 而且味道不錯。

Dinner at the 360 Restaurant at the top of the CN Tower was the highlight of the trip. We've never been here before, so trying their prix fixe dinner (CAD $68) seems to be the right way to go. Each course had two to three selections to choose from. For the first course, we picked chicken mole sweet corn polenta tart and roasted squash bruschetta with toasted hazelnut pesto. The chicken mole was alright. The bruschetta was too hard... I think my mom makes a much better bruschetta. For appetizer, hubby had the King Cole duck three ways (duck prosciutto, duck galantine and duck rillette beamsville sour cherry chutney, with fennel mustard), which was unique and tasty. The duck galantine was particularily good with the bread. I ordered the smoked Atlantic salmon with caper berries and pumpernickel bread. Both appetizers were pretty good.

老公的主菜是加拿大AAA級牛前胸的上等肋肉, 他說很有牛肉味, 很鬆軟, 入口即溶。而我的煎紅點鮭魚卻有點失望, 煮得過熟, 魚肉有些亁。甜品有南瓜芝士蛋糕配雪糕和肉桂布甸配糖蕉和雪糕。但由於每道菜也頗大碟, 甜品未上我們已經非常飽, 所以只嚐了少少甜品, 味道一般。其實這裡的食物水準和味道並不特出, 沒有太大驚喜。在 1,151 公尺上眺望多倫多市才是它的主要賣點。

For the main course, hubby chose the slow roasted aged Canadian AAA prime rib of beef and he loved it. The beef was tender and so soft that it melt in his mouth. I had the pan seared fillet of Arctic Char, which was a disappointment. The fish was overcooked and dry. For dessert, we had the pumpkin cheesecake with butternut squash ice cream and cinnamon raisin brioche pudding with caramelized bananas and rum raisin ice cream. The portion of every dish was pretty big. We were all very full before the dessert came. So we only ate a little bit of the dessert. The food overall was average, not everything tasted good. But what our money worth was the stunning view of Toronto from 1,151 feet.

我們試過的另一間中菜餐館叫「陸羽飯店」。雖然內部裝修比較殘舊, 而且地方狹窄, 但門庭若市, 老闆及侍應們忙得團團轉。我們叫了梅子鴨、冬菇滑雞煲仔飯、豉汁蒸蠔、蒸鱔。其中我認為最好吃的要算是那個香噴噴的巨型煲仔飯, 在嚴寒的冬天吃最適合不過!

Another restaurant we tried is called 「陸羽飯店」. Although the ambiance was quite old and space was narrow, this place was super busy and crowded. We ordered plum duck, clay pot rice with chicken and mushrooms, steamed fresh oysters with black bean sauce, steamed eel with special house sauce. Among them, I liked the giant clay pot rice the most. It was heavenly in the freezing cold winter!

接著便是每次來多倫多也會幫襯的「強記雞粥」。以店舖名字來看, 它的粥品理應是最好。可是我今趟再嚐過後, 卻認為不外如是。它的潮式蠔仔粥更是有點揾笨! 大窩內全都是湯水, 只有少許稀飯, 配料亦缺少。至於那碟忘了落單、叫我們等了半小時有多的椒鹽雞膝竟然是涼的。幸好, 白灼豬肚尖及梅菜蒸肉片都非常可口。其實強記侍應的服務只是一般, 食物水準不平均之餘亦開始下降。真不明白為何還是大排長龍!

Next is the Keung's Delight, which was famous for its chicken congee. We dine here every time we go to Toronto. Unfortunately, this time we realized that their congee wasn't that good at all. Their Chow-Chau style fresh oyster congee was a big disappointment. More than 2/3 was just liquid with very few ingredients. It was a total rip-off! We waited for more than half an hour for the deep-fried chicken knuckles and it came cold. The best dishes of the night was the steamed pork with preserved veggie. The pork was so soft and it melt in my mouth. The pig stomach tip was yummy too. But it was pricey with a small portion. Honestly, I don't think this restaurant has good customer service. I don't know why it is always so crowded.

上海菜可算是中菜中出名的地方菜。朋友說「上海新天地」的上海菜很正宗, 所以帶我們來試試。其實我不是太喜愛上海菜, 因為多數食物也很油很濃味。但我卻鍾愛當中的一款食物, 就是東坡肉。肥肉入口即溶, 美味到不能形容。可是實在太不健康, 所以還是少吃為妙!

According to our friends and family, Skyland De Shanghai seems to be one of the best Shanghai restaurant in Toronto. To me, Shanghai food is not my favorite cuisine, as their dishes are too oily and heavy. However, there is one tasty dish that I cannot resist. It is the braised pork belly. The pork belly is so delicious and melt in the mouth. But it is not healthy, so I can't eat that often.

吃點心是廣東傳統, 亦是中國人家庭在節日或週末的傳統家庭活動。所以當我們在一月一日來到「名門金宴」吃點心, 已預算到要排長龍等位。幸好我們不用等太久便有位了。首次來到「名門金宴」, 它是由一所古老維多利亞式歷史建築物改裝而成。從前是一所西餐廳, 現在仍保留著西式的裝修和燈飾。每款點心也非常精緻, 而且味道一流, 當然價錢亦比普通點心貴一些囉!

Eating dim sum is a tradition Canton style. It is also a Chinese tradition for family gathering on weekends or occasions. Therefore, we were expected to wait in line to get a table on a New Year's Day afternoon. Luckily we didn't have to wait too long. Casa Imperial Fine Chinese Cuisine is a fine dining Chinese restaurant transformed from a historical Victorian building, which used to be a Western restaurant. Therefore its interior decoration and light fixtures are still in Western style. The dim sum dishes were impressive and outstanding, that's why the pricing was a little higher than regular dim sum places!

每次來多倫多都要來「龍騰金閣」, 為的只是它的蛋散! 除了香港之外, 這裡是唯一地方可以吃到蛋散。如果你們知道那裡有, 請通知我!

Every time we go to Toronto, we have to eat at Dragon Dynasty, only because of their deep fried braided sweet doughnut. This braided doughnut is very hard to find now. Besides HK, Dragon Dynasty is the only place I know that still makes it. Please let me know if you find out other places!

多倫多有很多粥鋪。當中有以「皇后」命名的, 自然會找到叫「皇帝」的! 這間「粥皇」是我們一位來自加拿大的朋友推介, 所以我們千辛萬苦也要來試試。卻發現它跟我們想像有點出入。這裡不像「皇后名粥」般有著摩登的裝修, 相反它是一所舊式店子。就連侍應和客人也是清一色上了年紀的人! 但食物尚算是不錯, 潮式蠔仔粥足料又好味, 剩腸粉亦很滑!

There are so many different congee restaurants in Toronto. If there is one called Congee Queen, of course there will be one named Congee King! Before our trip, our friend, who is from Canada, highly recommended us to try Congee King. But when we got here, we found out it was a little different than what we expected. Unlike Congee Queen I mentioned above, Congee King is an old style Chinese restaurant with an out-dated interior decor. Even the people who worked here and the customers were elderly! However, the food wasn't too bad. My Chow-Chau style oyster congee was pretty authentic and tasty. The plain steamed rice noodle roll was very smooth and soft.

一天, 我們偶然在「大都會商場」發現這間台灣小店, 以售賣台式飲料為主。我們在這裡買了兩杯熱燒仙草配紅豆、芋頭和薏仁, 每杯只需四元。原以為普通杯子, 誰不知送來才知道是一大湯碗, 真的嚇了一跳。而且味道極好, 那些芋頭粒又“粉”又香! 現在想起也令我唾涎! 之後我們特地去嚐嚐它的晚餐, 味道亦很好。下次來多倫多, 一定要再來這裡!

One day, we found this little Taiwanese cafe inside the Metro Square. We got two hot mung bean jelly drinks with red bean, taro, and barley. At first, we thought they were came in a regular cup. But then we were shocked to see the waitress gave us two big bowls. The portion was huge and it was only CAD $4 each. The mung bean drinks was really delicious and the taro was so good with the drinks! It makes me drool only by thinking of it! So we went back again for dinner and were surprised to find out their set dinners were pretty tasty too. For sure, this little cafe will be in my Toronto's go-back list.

這是一間叫「味全」的茶餐廳。老實說, 它的食物只是麻麻, 沒有什麼特別, 甚至比從前更差, 但勝在非常經濟, 所以便成為姐夫的飯堂和經常流連的地方。他是「味全」的常客, 跟老闆和所有侍應也混得很熟。基本上, 每次到任何一間茶餐廳, 我和老公都會吃我們至愛的“奶油多”。老公更要叮囑侍應“多煉奶吖, 唔該!”

Mei Twun is an average little Hong Kong style restaurant. Their food didn't taste very good, but they were very affordable. My brother-in-law is their regular customer and he developed a pretty good relationship with the owner and the workers here. And for hubby and I, every time we go to this type of Hong Kong style restaurant, we have to order our favorite, toast with butter and condensed milk! Hubby loves it so much!

最後我要特別推介 Tim Hortons。它是在加拿大有名的連鎖咖啡店。它的 cafe mocha 及 french vanilla 咖啡非常好喝。另外我亦喜歡它比較細小的杯子, 份量剛好, 不用拿著杯子四處逛。我認為 Tim Hortons 比 Starbucks 更好, 如果它在灣區有分店便好了!

Last but not least, I have to talk about Tim Hortons. It is a popular chained coffee store in Canada. Their cafe mocha and french vanilla coffee were so good! I like how they offer small cup sizes, which are perfect for break time and we didn't have to holding the cup while walking around. I think Tim Hortons is much better than Starbucks. I really wish they will open some here in the Bay Area...

每次來到多倫多都會吃中菜為多, 尤其是港式食物, 道地又好味道, 好像返到香港一樣。就連在唐人商場 food court 內的普通小舖也很有水準, 在這裡灣區吃到的根本不比上。所以在這兩星期, 我們每一餐都在外吃, 飽到捧著肚子才回家啊!

Chinese cuisine, especially Hong Kong style Chinese food, is what we usually eat in Toronto. They are authentic and taste way better than here in San Francisco Bay Area. You can find decent Chinese food anywhere, even at the food courts in local Chinese malls. During our two-weeks stay, we dined out every single day, day and night!

Toronto: Last Trip in 2010

2011-01-10T22:24:00.000-08:00

在我們計劃去拉斯維加斯之時, 並沒有想過在聖誕和新年期間會再去旅行。誰不知老公說有一些年假一定要在年尾前放, 於是我們便決定在拉斯維加斯返來之後一星期再去另一處地方玩玩。原本打算去西雅圖之類近近地的地方, 後來在網上發現有特價機票去加拿大多倫多, 一張來回機票原價起碼要美金四百五十元, 現在減至三百三十元。由於平價機票好像股市一樣, 大上大落, 而且要把握時機, 於是我們便立即買下機票, 決定到多倫多探望老公家姐一家。

When we were planning our Las Vegas trip, we didn't think we would be going away again for another vacation during Christmas. But when hubby found out he had to take some more vacation days off before year end, we began to plan another trip. At first we were thinking about Seattle or Portland, somewhere close by. But then we found a great online deal to Toronto, Canada. One round trip air ticket was only US$330, which normally cost over $450. Discount air tickets just like stock, they fluctuate and prices change everyday. So within minutes, we decided to visit my hubby's sister and her family in Toronto during Christmas and New Year.

Las Vegas Luxury Vacation 2010 (Day 4)

2010-12-22T10:09:00.001-08:00

It's our last day in Vegas. Before we checked out, our friends stopped by to check on our luxury hotel room and they loved it. I loved it too! I sure will miss it very much!

We then went to Monta Noodle House again. Yes, second time in this trip. This showed how much we liked their ramen! We also tried their gyoza, which was pretty good too. I was so tempted to try their pork belly bowl, but I ate so much in the last few days. So may be next time... hee hee!

After lunch, we went casino hopping with our friends. Hubby and I are not gamblers and we usually spend less than $40 on slot machines. But we exceeded our max in this trip. We "donated" around $100 in the Wheel of Fortune and Gold Fish slot machines. It's all because of you, KK! Ha Ha!!!

We then went to see the Nathan Burton Comedy and Magic Show at Flamingo. Nathan Burton is a magician who was "made famous" by a well-known TV show "America's Got Talent."

The show ticket generally costs $34, but they often give out free tickets for the balcony seats. And that was what we got! Unfortunately I was not impressed by his magic tricks. I know it is not fair to compare him with the world-class magician David Copperfield. But most of Nathan's magics involved elaborate boxes, which were pretty lamed and amateur. Besides magic, his guest performer, Michael Holley, did some juggling and balancing act and it was a total failure. I've seen similar act before by many other performers and they have done it successfully or even better. So Mr. Holley, you definitely need to practice more! The front row audiences risked their life watching you! The interaction with the audiences by another guest performer, Jeff Civillico, was my favorite part of the show. It was funny and entertained. I laughed the whole time! Overall I enjoyed the show, especially we didn't have to pay a dime!

Our luxury Las Vegas trip ended with a prix fixe dinner at RM Seafood. The dinner included a glass of champagne, a fresh oyster for a starter ($3.75), a choice of Fuji apple salad ($15) or Rick’s white clam chowder ($12) for appetizer, a choice of RM Style “Cioppino” ($36, calamarata pasta, mussels, clams, king crab, shrimp, and seasonal fish) or pan roasted free range chicken ($25) for main course, and 4 flavors of ice cream and sorbet served blind ($4.50). The total value of the dinner for two was over $115, but we got a great deal from Travel Zoo for only $89 (tax and gratuity were not included). The food was excellent, especially the Cioppino! The plate was filled with fresh delicious seafood and I love the bold yummy spicy flavors!

While the dinner was tasty and great; however, the service was not so good. Our waiter was friendly and nice at the beginning, but after the starter, his service dropped way down. Not only it was so hard to find him during our dinner, his face was not pleasant when he served. Even though he knew that we had a flight to catch and promised us he would keep an eye out for our food, our main course came late and we had to wait another 30 minutes for our ice cream. The timing of the food was horrible. Our waiter didn't even apologize for our wait!

Our three nights Vegas trip turned out to be a luxury vacation. We ended up spending a lot more money than we've expected. But we did have a great time!

Las Vegas Luxury Vacation 2010 (Day 3)

2010-12-18T23:38:00.000-08:00

It was raining everyday since we got here. It was a bummer that I couldn't take any outdoor photographs...

At lunch, hubby and I went to Border Grill. The restaurant is owned by a celebrity chef, Susan Feniger, who appeared on Top Chef Masters on Bravo TV. We used another Restaurant.com coupon ($25 off with purchased of $50 or more) and we got to try out some great dishes.

The meal started with a basket of nacho chips with four different salsa. We ordered a pepper crusted steak salad with shrimps ($22, grilled sirloin steak, heirloom tomatoes, roasted tinkerbell peppers, avocado, blue cheese, spring greens, grapefruit jalapeño vinaigrette, guacamole, and black beans on a giant grilled flour tortilla), grilled fish tacos ($19, cucumber citrus slaw, guacamole, black beans, red and green rice), three glasses of sparkling white peach lemonade ($5, $2.50 refill), and a 2-scoops of mango and pear sherbet ($5). Hubby's salad was excellent! My fish tacos were a little bland, but the sides were good. The peach lemonade was so yummy that we ordered three glasses! Overall I was very pleased with their food and service. We would definitely come back for more!

After lunch, we went to check out the new Cosmopolitan Hotel Casino in the City Center, which just opened a few days ago. The ambiance and decorations were glamorous. However, I think the interior space is a little too tight and the ceiling height is definitely not high enough. One of the highlighted designs in the casino is The Chandelier. It is an area decorated with thousands of crystals.

Another area we liked was the designer furniture and games area. We also checked out the outdoor Pool District. It looked pretty cool.

We then headed to Craftsteak at MGM Grand for dinner. It is a high-end steak house that runs by an award-winning chef, Tom Colicchio. We ordered their Fall tasting menu which included appetizers (salad of roasted beets and pickled egg, warm goat cheese with red cabbage and saba, diver sea scallops with shaved fennel and lemon), main course of prime beef flat iron and roasted fillet mignon with sauce bordelaise, side dishes (roasted brussels sprouts with smoked bacon, butternut squash with sage, and sauteed shitake mushroom). Although I stop eating beef for a long time, I couldn't resist to try a tiny bite of the flat iron and the fillet mignon. The meat was really juicy and so soft that it just melt in my mouth. The scallops were perfectly cooked and super delicious. All the side dishes were excellent and in decent portion for five of us.

The tasting menu included the desserts of Chef's selection (cinnamon monkey bread, vanilla bean cheesecake, chocolate ganache cake... and some I didn't know the names.) All the food for just $85 per person (tax and gratuity are not included). The services was out of the world. We had three waiters served us and the food arrived our table in perfect timing. Although the dinner was a little pricey for my standard, I have to agree with my hubby that the food and service did worth it.

Las Vegas Luxury Vacation 2010 (Day 2)

2010-12-17T23:34:00.000-08:00

Nothing better than ending and starting a day with a stunning view on 28th floor! I really really loved my room here at Encore!

In the morning, hubby and I headed down to the hotel lobby and wandered around the casino and shops. I really like the interior design in Wynn and Encore. The black, gold, and red color theme is elegant and modern.

I like the red they used here; it is a little darker than a sharp bright red. The ambiance is comfortable and trendy. Sometimes it made me feel like we were celebrating the Chinese New Year. Hubby and I also love the mosaic tiles on the walls and floors. (May be we could make a mosaic wall in our home!)

It's lunch time! Our friend KK suggested Monta Noodle House. It has pretty good reviews on Yelp. The two thin slices of pork, the ramen and the broth were very tasty. The price was affordable. I was happy about this little ramen shop and it definitely made it into my "must go in Vegas" list.

After lunch, hubby and I went shopping at the premium outlet. It was pouring rain, but there were still many people shopping in this outdoor outlet mall. The sales tax in Vegas is a little cheaper than California, so we did find some good stuff here.

At night, we went to Dae Jang Keum Korean BBQ & Tofu Restaurant for dinner. We ate here last time when we were in Vegas and it was so good that we decided to come back again. Same as last time, we ordered the Love set dinner, which included beef brisket, pork loin, chicken, unlimited refillable side salad and kim chi side dishes, steamed egg custard, tofu soup, and soda or soju beer. All these food for just $50. The service was attentive and friendly. It is definitely one of my favorite Korean restaurants.

With a full tummy, we went back to our hotel for the Le Rêve show. This was our second time seeing this show and we found out that they have changed the costumes and arrangement. I would say there were some pros and cons. We sat at the middle section this time, so we could see the overhead lighting better. However, we preferred to sit in the front rows like last time because we had better view of the performers. Also I didn't like they added some dancers around the main act in some scenes because they created distractions and blocked my sight. Overall it was still a good show and we enjoyed it.

I left my camera in the hotel room because I knew it didn't allow photography during the show. So like most people, we took photos with our phones before and after the show. The stage was beautifully designed! I love it!

Las Vegas Luxury Vacation 2010 (Day 1)

2010-12-16T23:02:00.000-08:00

Months ago, we received a package deal from Encore Wynn Hotel & Casino in Vegas. We were offered a 3-nights package for only $349, which included a free upgrade to a King Suite and two Le Rêve show tickets. It was a very good deal because only the show tickets would cost over $250. When I called the hotel and booked the room, I found out there were taxes and resort fees I had to pay. The total charge of the 3-nights accommodation came up to $460. Yet it was still a very good price for a luxury king suite. So when we found out our friends KK and her husband SL were going to Vegas in December, we decided to join them.

We arrived Vegas around noon and it was too early to check in, so we went to lunch at RM Seafood, which is owned by Rick Moonen, a celebrity chef who was in the Top Chef: Las Vegas competition.

We used a Restaurant.com coupon ($10 off when purchased $20 or more) and we ordered a Catfish Sloppy Joe with sliced pickles, peppers and onions, and french fries ($15) and a Adam’s Fish Sandwich with wedge fries ($16). Hubby also tried a glass of peach cocktail ($12). Hubby liked his Catfish Sloppy Joe very much. The rich sweet and spicy sauce was pretty tasty and unique. Compared to his, my fish sandwich was on the light side. The fish was perfectly cooked, crispy on the batter and juicy inside. I liked it!

We checked in at the hotel at around 3:30pm. The hotel staff first gave us a room on 21st floor facing the golf course, but the room keys didn't work. After spending more than half an hour waiting in the hallway and back and forth calling the front desk figuring out the problems, I went down to the front desk and complained. So she apologized and upgraded us to 28th floor with a Strip view. Yay!

There were some features we loved, such as the electric control panel for drapes, sheers, and all the lighting in the room, a 360 degree TV, a bathroom TV, and the comfortable down king bed. The most stunning part in the room is, of course, the ceiling-to-floor window overlooking the Strip. Since Encore is not located in the heart of the Strip, we could not see too many casinos buildings. But this was the best view we could get based on the location.

At night, we went to see the Terry Fator and His Cast of Thousands at Mirage. If you watched America's Got Talent, you'll know who Terry Fator is. And if you're into ventriloquists, I'm sure you'll enjoy the show like us. I was very impressed by his skills (singing, acting, performing, and of course the ventriloquism) and I think he is one of the best winners in America's Got Talent history.

Besides his amazing ventriloquism and impersonation skills, Terry is also pretty good in singing and song writing too. I love his song, Horses in Heaven, he wrote about a kid with leukemia. It was very touching that tears almost dropped down on my cheeks. He also said he will donate all the profits made from this song to St. Jude's Hospital. That's very kind of him. The only part I didn't like about the show was his new wife wearing those sexy costumes standing on the stage to show off her boobs. I think that was cheap-looking and low-class.

After the show, we went to have late night snack at Ichiza, our favorite Japanese Izakaya restaurant in Vegas. Since we don't usually eat this late at night, we only ordered a few light dishes and salads. Both salmon skin salad and seaweed salad were pretty good. The chicken cartilage (soft knee bone) and hamachi kama were my favorites. The worst dish was hubby's grilled beef tongue. He said they were not tendered and very hard to chew.

十年前的夢

2010-12-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

我沒有寫日記的習慣, 只有在旅行時才會把行程和逸事記底為留念, 又或是有一些突發事件我也會記錄下來。前陣子當我整理書櫃時, 在雜物裡發現一本舊記事簿。幸好我在棄掉任何東西之前都會把它翻閲一遍, 確定沒有重要東西在內才會扔掉。就在我檢查那本舊記事簿時, 發現了一篇我在2000年4月15日早上7時半寫下的文字, 它記錄了一個十年前令我刻骨銘心的夢... 一個在十年後我差點遺忘了的夢...

『自婆婆十二月去世以來, 昨晚第一次夢見婆婆。非常清澈, 非常深刻, 非常激動…

夢境一開始感覺到自己在一房間內, 看見婆婆很焦急的對我說: 「欠個銀… 入唔到去!」於是我很自然地伸手進自己袋裡找, 發現有一堆銀仔。它們就好像歡樂天地的token一樣, 有兩個大, 其餘都是小的。心裡知道婆婆應該是要大的銀仔, 但是為了以防萬一, 我便將所有銀仔交進婆婆手裡。當時婆婆的樣子仍然是在殮房一樣, 在殯儀館一樣, 躺在一張好像是牀的東西, 有一塊白布舖在身上, 另外有一條白巾把頭包著, 臉是黑黑的。當她跟我說話時, 她的頭好像是提起來的, 眼睛是睜開的。但當她接過我的銀仔後, 她便把眼睛合上, 頭也軟下來。一切都靜下來… 我便知道她走了… 我坐在她身旁等着, 萬一她再回來也可以找到我。我面向着她的頭頂, 看到她的頭是灰灰黑黑的。好像越來越黑, 而且黑得有點凹下去, 就像開始腐化一樣。我心裡又驚怕又焦急, 突然我看見一個男子, 好像是我的朋友。我認識他嗎? 卻又不肯定! 他對我說:「走吧, 不用等了!」於是我便開始轉身走...

夢仍然繼續... 知道自己跟大姨姨和細姨姨正在下樓梯, 環境全是白色的。在轉彎角看見婆婆正坐着等我, 於是我飛奔到她跟前。她對我們說: 「好多人... 要排隊。」她的樣子很美麗, 白白淨淨帶點口紅, 完全不像在殯儀館的樣子。她臉子胖胖的, 有很多頭髪, 身穿旗袍及一件冷外套, 咀角掛著微微笑。她說:「最衰啲頭髪唔靚!」我看見她有很多頭髪, 只是看來好像被風吹亂了一點。接著細姨姨說:「唔使擔心, 現在我們看到的不是真的。到時就會好靚啦!」婆婆聽到又微微一笑, 很甜的樣子。她的樣子好像跟大殮的大相片一樣, 只是衣服顏色不同。我感覺到她心情很好, 時常微微笑。本來我想問她有沒有看見公公, 但又害怕她萬一仍未有見到公公而不開心, 所以便沒有問。我緊緊的抱著婆婆, 然後聽見不知是大姨姨還是細姨姨笑笑說:「妳睇妳個孫幾掛住/錫妳!」接着我便哭了出來! 大哭一聲下便醒了... 』

Fillens Vol.8 (December Issue)

2010-12-02T15:45:00.000-08:00

第八期(十二月號) Fillens 女性網上攝影雜誌已經出版，歡迎到 Fillens 網站瀏覽。今期的主題是「暖」, 但其實在一眾長期會員的版頁上都不一定限於主題內。所以我並沒有投稿一些切合主題的相片。今期 Fillens 創辦人 Jenny 選了我的三張花花相片, 但它們的顏色好像比原相深沉了一點啊!

由今期開始我被邀請成為 Fillens 智囊團的一份子, 幫手做校對的工作。以往我做的版面設計工作都需要有人專門做校對, 因為當設計師花長時間在文件上, 雙眼對文字和篇幅都開始麻目, 有時會看漏了錯字及其他錯誤。所以需要其他人用「新鮮」的雙眼去校對。而我既然答應幫手, 定必不會馬虎了事。收到稿子便立即花了數小時從頭到尾每隻字都看清楚, 有時不肯定是否錯字時便上網查看, 對自己的中文亦有幫助呢!

絶版八寶袋

2010-11-29T17:17:00.000-08:00

記得自己曾經說過不會再縫製這款袋, 因為袋身太大及工序繁多, 很花時間。但後來得知母親對這個大袋很感興趣, 於是便決定為她再縫製一個。今次我用了顏色比較簡單沉實的布料,更特地加了兩個內袋。連同外面的六個袋隔, 共有八個袋隔。可以放很多很多東西, 真是名附其實的八寶袋! 希望母親會喜歡!

I remember I said to myself that I would not make this big tote again because the size is too big and it has too many steps, very time-consuming. But when my mother showed interest in this bag, I decided to make it again for her. This time, I used a more subtle color fabric. I also added two interior pockets. Together with the six compartments on the outside, this tote has eight pockets. It can hold everything you can think of! Hope my mother will like it and find it useful!

SR Workshop at Ardenwood Farm

2010-11-15T12:23:00.000-08:00

今趟是我第二次參加這個人像及閃燈攝影班。記得首次參加時, 由於不認識人又不清楚 workshop 的運作, 所以非常緊張 (其實今次仍然有些緊張, 我想往後我仍會感到一樣), 到後來好像甚麽也學不到。感覺氣餒, 浪費了金錢之餘, 亦開始懷疑自己應否繼續。最大考慮是我投資一畢金錢後, 它可以幫到我甚麽呢? 要知道數千元不是小數目啊! 但最後我都決定交了學費成為永久會員, 希望這些課程可以為我帶來一些好改變。

This was my second time attending Scott Robert's workshop to learn flash photography. In my first workshop, I was so nervous (I still was the second time, probably will be nervous again next time) because I didn't know anyone and didn't know what to expect. At the end, I felt like I've learned nothing. I was quite frustrated and felt like I've wasted the money. I began to wonder if I should continue. My biggest concern was how this could help me after I invested the money. But at the end, I still decided to pay the big bucks and became a lifetime membership of Scott's mentoring workshop and hope this will make a change.

成為永久會員後, 我可以無限次參加 Scott 在這裡辦的攝影班。因此我這次亦少了一點壓力。攝影班在早上九時開始。一大清早, 學生已到齊及互相打招呼和閒談。大部份學生都是攝影班的永久會員, 參加攝影班已經一段時間, 早已互相認識。而我自問並不善於交際亦不太懂認識新朋友, 在這類情況和場合都令我有點不自在。其實我已經很努力去改善自己的交際手法, 亦知道參加這個攝影班多少也可以有點幫助 (甚至強迫性)。於是我偷偷深呯吸一口氣, 然後主動跟別人談話...

As a "lifer", I can attend as many of Scott's SF workshops I want; therefore, I felt less pressure at my second workshop. The workshop started at 9 a.m. on a Saturday. Before the lecture, people mingled together and chatted. Most of the students have been attended this mentoring program for quite some time, so they've already known each other pretty well. I felt insecure in situation like this 'cos I am not very good at making new friends and I always feel uncomfortable around big group of people. I am trying really hard to improve my social skill and I know coming to the workshops will help me (or force me in some way). So, I secretly took a deep breathe and started talking to other students...

其中 Corey 和 Linda 很友善。不單只讓我隨她們一顆兒吃午飯, 還讓我加入她們當天的攝影組。外置閃燈攝影是一門很有用亦很難掌握得好的學問。懂得如何擺姿勢及取角度亦是攝影者應有的技術。當我自己一人對著鏡子擺姿勢是一點也不難。可是不知怎地, 當有其他人在場或要告訴模特兒怎去擺姿勢時, 我腦海便會變得一片空白!!

Corey and Linda were very kind to me. Not only they kept me company at lunch, they were also my group-mates during the shooting session. Working with off camera flash is a new world to me. It is a complicate but very useful technique that takes time to master. Posing is another skill that a photographer definitely needs to have. When I do poses in front of a mirror... alone, it is quite easy and natural. But somehow, when I am working with the models in front of other people, my mind just goes blank!!

在上次的攝影班, 我只拍了一張相片。今次, 我有機會多影一些照片。下面兩張相片都沒有加上電腦效果。右的是沒有用閃燈, 左的是用了。之後的一張是用電腦修圖之後的完成品。

In my first workshop, I took only one picture. This time, I had opportunity to take a few more. The below two pictures didn't have any Photoshop adjustment. The right one is no flash, the left one is with off-camera flash. The bottom one is edited with Photoshop.

Model: Crystal, Utsukushii Elegance
Wardrobe Stylist: Zabrina Deng
Makeup: Regarding Makeup
Hair: Visual Image Salon

Model: Kalie, Edgy Chic
Wardrobe Stylist: Zabrina Deng
Makeup: Regarding Makeup
Hair: Visual Image Salon

以下是一些幕後花絮。所有學生的攝影年資都比我長、技術比我好。坦白說我真的感到有點害怕, 尤其是看到他們拿著昂貴的攝影器材、很專業的樣子! 幸好, 他們大都很友善。

Here are some behind-the-scenes photos. Every student in the workshop has more experience in photography than me. Honestly, I am a little intimidated especially most of them are using expensive gears and work like a pro! Fortunately, they are nice and friendly people.

身為這個攝影班的新丁, 很多時也會感到有點不自在。尤其是看到他們已是一個大家庭時, 自己卻好像格格不入的。導師跟其他學生都非常熟落, 而學生們亦好像很感激這位良師。但自己卻跟導師一點交流也沒有, 有時甚至懷疑他是否知道我是誰。

Since I am the newest member in Scott's workshop, I do feel a little strange; especially when seeing everyone else in the "SR family" chats and laughs with each other, I feel like I don't really fit in. Scott and other students are very close, and students seem to be very thankful to Scott as a mentor. Unfortunately, I am still out of the circle and cannot benefit anything from his mentoring. Scott and I didn't have much communication or interaction in the last two workshops, sometimes I wonder if he knows who I am.

最後我想在此多謝與我同一攝影組的 Corey, Linda, 及 Diane。感謝學生長 Stephen, Junshien, 及 Sarah 的幫助, 尤其是 Sarah, 除了介紹 Kelly Moore bag 之外, 更幫我解釋閃燈問題。是你們給我鎮定, 令我可以放心學習。多謝兩位模特兒 Kalie 和 Crystal。亦多謝晚飯坐在我兩旁的 Henry 和 Crystal, 帶給我很多歡樂。最後多謝 Scott, Zabrina, 及 Jeremy 為攝影班付出的努力。我希望可以有機會真正成為你們大家庭的一份子。

Finally, I have to say thank you to my group-mates, Corey, Linda, and Diane for helping me out during the shoot. Thank you to the leaders Stephen, Junshien, and Sarah for your guidance; special thanks to Sarah, for introducing me the Kelly Moore bag and helping me with the flash! You all made me feel comfortable in this workshop. It was a much better experience than the first one. Thank you to the beautiful models, Kalie and Crystal. It's a great pleasure working with you two. Thanks to Henry and Crystal for making my first dinner with SR family a fun and memorable experience. Last but not least, big thanks to Scott, Zabrina, and Jeremy for your hard work in putting together the workshop. I hope I can become part of the SR family in the future.

P.S. To those who finished reading this post, I appreciate your time and let me share my experience and emotion with you.

Tote Bags: Two-tone Series

2010-11-10T11:39:00.000-08:00

呵! 呵! 呵! 我設計的第一個揹袋系列終於完成了! 這個名為「兩色組合」的系列, 設計簡單而帶有一份簡約的時代感, 共有黑、啡、藍、紅、深藍及淺綠六個顏色可供選擇。

YES YES YES!!! My first tote bag collection is finally done! I am calling this collection "two-tone series". The design is simple, with a modern and contemporary look. There are six colors to choose from: black, brown, blue, red, navy, and light green.

跟我以往造的袋一樣, 這些揹袋有內層襯裡布及易熔夾布, 令袋身可以堅固耐用。有兩個內袋, 可放錢包和手機。另有扣鎖匙的小鐵扣。我再加上磁石扭, 那麼這個揹袋便更加實用了。

Like other bags I've made before, these bags are lined and added interfacing for extra durability. There are two interior pockets for wallet and mobile phone, and a metal hook for keys. I've also added a magnetic snap closure to make this bag more functional.

為了製造自己的小小品牌, 每個袋都有一個標籤, 寫著:「Handmade by tungtunghouse」。由於成本關係, 我沒有選用大多數衣物用的紡織標籤。我只設計了一個簡單的灰黑色字標籤, 然後交給在網上找到的印標籤服務, 她把我的設計印在緞料上。雖然標籤不算很精美, 但價錢便宜, 而且可洗又不會退色, 算是不錯!

For branding purpose, each bag has my own label saying "Handmade by tungtunghouse". To keep the cost down, I didn't use real woven labels that you normally see in most garments. Instead I designed this simple one-color label and sent it to an online printing service. She then printed my design on a satin fabric. Although it is not a fancy label, the cost is low and it can be washed and color won't fade. So it is a good alternative over those pricey woven labels!

下一步, 我會在 Etsy 開設自己的網上店舖。當然我並不打算以售賣這些袋為生。我只想享受製造手作仔的樂趣。如果有人欣賞及購買, 將會令我喜出望外和給我額外的鼓勵!

My next step is to set up an Etsy store and sell these bags. Obviously I am not trying to make a living out of these bags. All I want is to have fun making handmade crafts. If someone out there like and buy my stuff, that will be a sweet bonus and encouragement to me~

Angry Pumpkin

2010-10-29T22:59:00.000-07:00

去年, 老公雕了我們的第一個萬聖節南瓜。今年我放棄傳統的“恐怖”主題, 替老公找了一個非常“憤怒”的圖案! 對! 就是Angry Birds! 它是近期熱爆的手機遊戲。我和老公都十分喜愛這個遊戲, 差不多每晚臨睡前都要玩一玩呢!

Last year hubby carved our first Halloween pumpkin. This year I found him, not an usual "scary" pattern, but a very "angry" one! Yes, the Angry Birds! It is from the most famous mobile phone game. We love Angry Birds and play it on our phones almost every night before bed.

每年萬聖節前, 老公公司都會有一個小型雕南瓜比賽。今年老公花了兩小時完成這個 "Angry" 南瓜, 贏了這次比賽!

Ever year hubby's office has a little pumpkin carving contest. He spent two hours carving this Angry Birds and won the contest!

後記: 今年萬聖節我決定不派糖菓。何解? 因為往年買了的糖菓(M&Ms), 未到萬聖節當天我已忍不住吃了一半! 今年我實在不能再讓這事發生了。所以... 小朋友們, 不好意思了, 今年我們不會應門啊 ;-)

P.S. This year Halloween, I've decided not to give out any candies. Why? It is because in the past years when I got the candies (M&Ms), I ended up eating half of it! That's really bad and I am not going to let this happen again. So... sorry kids, we won't answer our door on Halloween ;-)

It's a hawk

2010-10-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

清晨時份被怪聲弄醒, 心想又不知是那些討厭的白鴿在叫… 老公在牀上拍打牆壁, 叫聲停了一會之後又再來。我終於忍不住起牀查看。打開露台窗簾一看...

We were woken up by some weird noise in early morning, I was wondering if they were some annoying pigeons. Hubby tried banging on the wall to make them fly away. The noise stopped for a short while, then came back. So I finally got up and checked. I opened up the balcony curtain and saw...

今次己經是第三次見到大鷹站在我露台上。經上一次近距離觀看和拍照後, 老公有一位對鷹頗有硏究的同事說這隻尾部呈錝紅色羽毛的是叫「隼」。雖然牠體型沒有鷹那般大, 但亦有威猛的殺傷力, 真的不能小觀牠啊!

This was the third time I saw this big eagle standing on my balcony. Last time I was able to shoot some pictures from a close distance. I showed those pictures to my hubby and his friends. One of his coworkers, who has some knowledge about eagles, said this species is called red hawk because it has brownish red feathers on the body especially on the tail. Although it is not as large as other species of eagles, it still has very sharp claws and extremely dangerous! You definitely need to be cautious!

SR Workshop at Refuge Headquarter

2010-10-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

人像及閃燈攝影班

由拍自己的食物到花花草草大自然的照片, 一直以來我只鍾愛用天然光。除了覺得它出來的效果比較自然之外, 最重要的是因為我根本對閃光燈一無所知。但我知道閃光燈其實很有用, 尤其是外置閃光燈。如果掌握得好, 它絕對是攝影中不可缺少的工具。至於影人像嘛… 對我來說是又愛又怕。但如果想將攝影這個興趣變成可以賺錢的工作, 影人像是比較快和普遍。

所以我考慮了很久, 終於在上星期鼓起勇氣參加了一個 Fillens 友人介紹的一天人像及閃燈攝影班。我說鼓起勇氣並沒有誇張。首先是因為學費並不便宜, 我要想清楚自己是否真的喜歡拍人像照片。再者我曾懷疑導師的攝影風格是否適合自己, 因為他大部份照片商業味比較濃, 有些更加入很多電腦效果; 而我就比較喜歡自然和簡約。但由於導師的攝影技術的確是不容置疑, 而自己亦真的需要向專業攝影師學習拍攝人像和應用閃光燈的技巧, 所以便參加了他的攝影班。

攝影班的頭兩小時, 導師向我們講解擺姿勢的技巧。如果被拍者可以擺一個好姿勢, 會令相片層次感増加, 更加好看。但並不是每個人都可以像專業模特兒一樣擺出一舉手一投足都好看的姿勢, 所以責任便落在攝影師身上。除了要懂得拍攝技術外, 攝影師還要懂得教人擺姿勢。在短短兩小時中, 我眼界大開, 對「姿勢」這門看似簡單其實不易的學問認識加深了不少!

之後我們開車到户外進行實習。相約了七八對夫婦和情侶當模特兒讓學生分組拍照。而我和另一女士同樣是首次參加這個班便全程跟著導師, 看他怎樣教別人擺姿勢。我們依他吩咐, 幫他打燈。但只看到他拍的相片很好, 至於如何調教閃燈, 他並沒有詳細講解。當一小時… 两小時過去, 導師仍然自顧自興奮地拍照, 我和身旁的同學互相對望, 大家心裡開始有點著急, 何時才輪到我們拍呢? 來到日落時份, 我終於忍不住, 主動向導師要求讓我嘗試操刀。第一次用閃燈, 真的無從入手, 要試拍數張才調教到以下比較滿意的效果。

之後導師說他想到一個主意, 叫別人跟著擺姿勢。正當我以為他讓我繼續拍攝, 發覺他原來是想自己拍! 我唯有把儀器交還給他。當下我是很失望。本以為這次實習, 導師會讓我拍攝, 然後從旁指導。但他竟跟我争著拍, 真令我摸不著頭腦! 對我來說我比較喜歡的教學方式是讓學生親身嘗試, 然後導師在旁指導。總結來說, 雖然我對應用閃燈依然是一頭霧水, 但學了很多擺姿勢的技巧。

後記: 在這裡是很難找到這類實習型的攝影班, 而這位導師的學生都似乎非常欣賞和敬佩他, 雖然我在第一堂完全領略不到箇中的吸引力, 但我想當中一定有些原因可以令這位導師那麼受學生歡迎。所以經友人的猶說及在沒有其他選擇的情況下, 我終於豪花了一畢可觀費用成為了這位導師的終生會員, 可以無限次參加他在這裡辦的攝影班(一年有八班)。希望在往後的日子能學到更多人像及閃燈攝影技巧, 然後把它變成生財工具!

First Official Family Photo Shoot: The Hoglan Family

2010-09-20T13:24:00.001-07:00

某日, 一位只見過兩次的朋友問我可否替她拍一些家庭照, 讓她能夠以照片作為她父親的生日禮物。她告訴我她非常喜歡我的作品及風格, 我非常高興。當我向她坦白說攝影是我的興趣和我從未試過正式替人家影家庭照時, 她並沒介意。於是她及她家人便正式成為我第一個家庭照的對象!

照片攝於一個公園行人徑及鄰近的葡萄園內, 我尤其喜愛行人徑旁的兩幢棄置舊屋! 說真的, 我其實感到有點緊張。畢竟是首次替陌生人拍照。拍人像照難, 替陌生人拍人像照更難。而對我來說, 其中最難的是擺姿勢! 我不想他們呆呆的排排企的像普通照片一樣。我希望姿勢可以簡單而特別, 但仍然感覺自然。所以當我拿著相機時, 腦子不停的轉動, 希望想出一些合適的姿勢。真是蠻頭痛的啊! 很多人在鏡頭前會緊張及動作生硬, 有些人又會過份造作。所以出來的效果未必是拍攝者所想像一樣。幸好, 今次我的拍攝對像很自然 (除卻他們在很多照片上眨了眼! 哈哈!)。當我說:「前兩步… 右一些… 左一些…」時, 他們都盡力配合。

One day, a friend KH, who we met only a couple times, called me and asked me if I could take some family pictures for her, so she can use them as a gift for her father's birthday. I am really glad that she told me that she like my photography and style a lot. But I had to be honest with her that photography is my hobby and I haven't done any family shoot professionally. Luckily, she was fine with it and there, the Holgan family became my first official family photo shoot!

The photos were taken at a nearby vineyard and trail, which I love especially there were two old abandon buildings in the location! Honestly, I was quite nervous because it's my first time taking photos for people who I haven't met before. And the hardest thing I encountered during the photo shoot was posing! I don't want them to just standing side by side like regular photos. I want the arrangement to be simple but unique, and they still look natural in the photographs. So my mind kept spinning and trying to figure out some good poses for them. Well, it wasn't easy at all. A lot of people get nervous in front of the camera and can't pose for the photographer. Or some will act very exaggerate. Therefore, the result doesn't come out exactly what the photographer sees in his/her mind. Luckily the Holgans are very nice and natural in front of the camera (Oops! Besides the men had their eyes closed in many of the pictures. Ha ha!). They cooperated with me and didn't say a word when I asked them "two steps closer... a little more to your right... to your left..."

以下是一些姊弟照。兩位都很懂得笑, 非常上鏡。

Here are the pictures of the sister and brother. Both of them are very photogenic and able to smile beautifully in front of the camera.

這些是小妺妺分別跟父母和舅父的合照。我喜歡相中人有點互動性, 所以特別愛小妺妺被她舅父抱起的一張。喜歡它的構圖、光線和帶出來的感覺。

拍攝小孩是很難的, 而且要有無比耐性。無論他們有多可愛, 對著陌生人都會害羞, 尤其是拿著大相機的陌生人! 經驗告訴我要給他們時間去“熱身”及盡量跟他們玩耍。再者, 千萬不要強迫他們去配合。拍攝者的其中一個惡夢是小孩在拍攝過程裡從頭哭到尾!

The followings are the pictures when the parents and uncle interacted with miss little J. My favorite one among these three is the one when uncle G pick her up. I love the composition, the lighting, and the feel of it.

Taking pictures of kids is very hard and requires tons of patience. No matter how cute the kids are, they are most likely to be shy in front of a stranger, especially a stranger with a big camera! So what I learned from experience is to allow some warm up time and keep playing with them. Moreover, don't force them to do anything they don't want. A crying kid in the photo shoot is absolutely one of photographer's nightmares!

當小孩心情好和感到舒服, 自然會對你笑!

When the kids feel comfortable and "in the mood", they will smile at you!

之後我們去到葡萄園拍攝。正確來說是我們把車停在路邊, 然後偷偷走入葡萄園。因我從未擅自進入任何地方, 所以感到好像探險一樣。

After the trail, we stopped by a local vineyard for some more pictures. To be exact, what we did was stopped our car on the side of the road and snuck into a vineyard. I haven't snuck into anywhere before, so it was quite adventurous for me.

友人說丈夫不懂得笑。她的朋友常取笑他即使笑, 樣子也很兇惡。但在這張相, 他卻笑得很不錯啊!

KH told me her hubby doesn't know how to smile and her friends always say he looked mad in the pictures even though he was already smiling. Well, he smiled pretty nice in this picture!

來到尾聲, 小妺妺摘了花朶放在頭上, 又摘了數粒葡萄玩, 心情頓時愉快起來! 這位可愛的小妺妺只有三歲, 能夠在拍攝期間全程合作真的不容易呢!

Miss J finally became very relax and happy after having a flower on her head and picking her own grapes! She actually behaved very well during the whole time. This sweetie pie is only 3! I am very impressed!

在此感謝這家人給我機會為他們拍攝家庭照。希望他們跟我同樣的享受拍攝過程和喜歡出來的照片。

Thanks to the Hoglan family for the opportunity. I hope you guys enjoy the photo shoot as much as I do and like the photographs.

超級巨聲林欣彤

2010-09-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

看了今屆的超級巨聲, 雖然並沒有每一集都追看, 但我跟很多人一樣對其中一位參賽者林欣彤起了注意。聽了幾次已認定這小妮子一定會勝岀。不是因為流傳TVB已內定, 而是覺得她唱歌真的不錯。無可否認, 她確是有點吐字不清、技術還有很大的進步空間, 正如夏詔聲評判說她仍未真正「開聲」。但這不要緊, 因她甚有潛質。況且她只是剛剛廿歲出頭, 時間多的是。最令我讚歎的不是她的歌唱技巧, 而是她對歌曲感情的投入, 真正可以觸動聽眾, 讓人感動。我想說的是技巧可以訓練, 但感情投入未必人人會, 就算有老師教也未必懂。就算投入了也未必能夠感染聽眾, 但年紀輕輕的林欣彤有這個天份, 有這種「穿透力」!

林欣彤很聰明, 很懂得選唱適合自己的歌, 而且大部份歌也拿挰得很好。她現在已經算是「一砲而紅」, 在網上人氣得不得了。超級巨聲己為她打開一道大門, 令她可以踏上實現夢想之路。作為香港人, 我也希望香港樂壇可以進步, 提携多些真正懂得唱歌的歌手, 而不是盲目去「捧」人, 有把口拿著咪便稱之為歌星!

如果你不知道林欣彤是誰? 可以看看以下她的參賽片段。由比賽早期至尾聲, 可以看到她的進步。特別推介 A.I.N.Y.

If I ain't got you

心動

You make me want to fall in love

愛請問怎麼走

A.I.N.Y.

Can you feel the love tonight + A Moment Like This Ending pt2 足本版

My First Designed Tote

2010-09-10T23:57:00.000-07:00

又一個揹袋! 但這個袋對我是非常特別, 因為它是我的設計! 對啊, 我並沒有靠紙樣, 只是憑空想出來的設計。

我設計了這個簡單對比的兩色組合, 令它有一份簡約的時代感。用上跟剛剛做好的花花大袋同類型的布料, 加上易熔夾布和內層的襯裡布, 袋身可以比較堅固耐用, 卻依然感覺柔軟和容易携帶。另外我加了兩個內袋, 一個放錢包一個可放手機。再配上可扣鎖匙的小鐵扣, 這個揹袋便更加實用了。

Another tote bag! But this one is so special to me because it is my design. Yes, I designed and made this tote without following a pattern.

I came up with this contrasted two-tone design with two simple colors to give it a modern and contemporary look. I used the same kind of fabric that I used for the big floral tote I've just made. With the interfacing and lining, the bag has a good sturdy body but still feel soft and comfortable to carry around. I want this tote to be useful. So I made two interior compartments, one for a wallet and the other for mobile phone. I also added a metal bucket for keys.

因為這個是我首次沒有靠紙樣或老師指導而做出來的揹袋, 當中亦有困難之處。從畫設計繪圖、尺碼, 到剪布及縫合工序, 每一個步驟我都非常小心, 希望不會出錯。有些步驟更要自己去理解(不知道我的做法是否正確)。前後共花了一個星期去完成。雖然我手腳慢, 但看到揹袋可以成功做出來, 我感到非常開心和滿足。

我會繼續把其他設計完成, 之後會一併把它們放上網賣。希望介時會有人幫襯 ^_^

Since this was my first tote made from scratch without teacher or pattern's instructions, it was not an easy job. From sketching the designs, thinking about all the measurements, to cutting out the fabrics and configuring everything together, I had to be very careful not to make any mistakes. I had to figure out some steps on my own (not sure if they are done the right way). It took me on and off a week to get this done. Although it is not very time-efficient, I have to say I am very satisfied and happy when it is done.

I will continue to work on other designs, after that I will try to sell them online. Hopefully somebody will buy them ^_^

A Huge Floral Tote

2010-09-05T13:46:00.001-07:00

花花大袋

終於可以再次返到縫紉班。今次是依照 McCalls 紙樣造一個揹袋。原本老師只是打算教我們做一個正正方方比較容易的款式, 但我和另外一位同學都喜歡這個款。於是老師便滿足我們的要求。

坦白說, 這個揹袋做法比我想像中複雜。對這個新手的我在剛剛做的時候真有點吃力。它需要很多步驟, 比較花時間。不單只每張紙樣也要在摺處剪兩次, 就連易熔夾布和內層的襯裡布也要。剪好所有紙樣, 要續塊把易熔夾布燙在面布上, 然後跟著指示把所有布塊縫起來。最後, 我還縫上兩粒大啪鈕在袋口。

總共花了差不多十多二十小時, 揹袋才完成。令我嗟異的是它的尺碼。我想不到它竟然會這麼大... 大得可以連一個一歲小孩也放得下! 哈哈! 當然這個揹袋可以有更好的用途, 例如作BB用品袋或是環保購物袋等等。

後記: 這個揹袋需要約兩碼半的布和易熔夾布、及一碼半的內層襯裡布。我用了一些質地好和比較耐用的棉布, 每碼要US$10。所以它的成本並不便宜。我覺得這個袋不錯, 如果可以細少少更好呢!

I finally got back to sewing and took another sewing class last week. It was a trendy tote class that followed a McCalls pattern. Originally we were only to make a regular style tote with lining, but me and the other classmate wanted to try something different, so the teacher taught us to do this style.

Honestly, this tote was much more complicated than I expected. As a beginner, the steps were a little overwhelming for me at first. It has many steps and very time consuming. Not only I had to "cut 2 on fold" on every piece of fabric, I also had to do the same on the fusible interfacing and the lining. After finishing all the cutting, I ironed the fusible interfacing onto the fabric, then sewed the pieces together step by step. At last, I sewed two snap-on buttons on the opening.

After hours of labor, the tote was finally done. I was surprised by its size. I didn't expect it would be this big... it is big enough to fit a one-year-old! Ha ha! Of course this tote has better usage, it will work well as a baby bag or grocery shopping bag etc.

P.S. This tote requires about 2.5 yards of fabric and interfacing, with another 1.5 yards of fabric for lining. I used a pretty durable home decor fabric which cost $9.99 per yard. So the total material cost for this bag is not cheap. I like this tote, but if it was a little smaller even better!

Fillens Vol.7 (September Issue)

2010-09-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

很快三個月又過去了, 女性網上攝影雜誌 Fillens 第七期(九月號)經已出版! 今期的封面主角是 “蘇文郁攝影同學會會長” Maseedis Kay。雖然我從未聽過這個攝影同學會, 更加不清楚它的性質。但單單看這位會長所拍的相片便知她的攝影技術一流, 令我眼界大開。

今期的特別專題是「城市·故事」, 其實這個專題對我是甚有難度。對我來說城市和故事跟人是劃不開。我很少拍城市照片。因為當走進城市當中拍照, 難免會把路人攝於相片內。而每當有陌生人出現在鏡頭前, 在鏡頭後的我便會緊張起來。很怕路人會不喜歡, 甚至破口大罵。並不是我忌人憂天, 我曾經很多次在街上拍照, 看見途人顯得不太自然, 有些更立即避開鏡頭。很多店舖或建築樓房亦以私人地方理由而拒絕拍攝。我甚至試過被人指著罵, 警告我不准再拍。從此我對拍攝公眾地方和人也有些陰影。我不喜歡偷拍, 因為這是非常自私和不尊重別人的行為。我寧可放棄拍照機會, 也不想令人家不安, 自已手騰腳震之餘, 相片效果也不會好到哪裡, 看見也不會開心! 所以你可能會發覺我的相片很少會出現人, 即使有也多是背影。

一如以往, 今期刊登了很多會員的優秀作品, 當中不乏用人物作主角。看見這些有「故事」的相片, 心中既佩服又羡慕。但我相信攝影者的性格跟相片有著莫大關係。沒有這種性格是拍不到這類型的作品, 勉強模仿也沒有靈魂。所以我還是覺得拍攝大自然、景物的特寫和抽象的構圖比較得心應手。

Camped here... again

2010-09-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

在這兩年我和老公也會在夏季時份露營最少兩次。可是今年夏天有很多節目, 所以今次露營好可能是今年的唯一一次。時隔一年, 再次選擇來到這裡, 除了空氣清新之外, 因為我喜歡海邊, 感覺很舒服。記得往年這裡非常寒冷, 我穿得厚厚仍冷得全身發抖, 入夜後便要躱在營內, 無法好好享受。幸好這天天氣不錯, 沒有刮大風。暖暖的日光照射著, 令我們可以舒舒服服地走動。

黃昏時份, 老公陪我走到沙灘上拍照。正當放好腳架才知道忘記了帶連接相機的零件, 害得老公白白浪費氣力幫我揹著重重的腳架… 而我唯有希望相片不會出現手震的情況。

這裡海邊時常會有一大羣雀鳥聚集, 數目多得驚人。如果想試試幾百隻甚至過千隻雀鳥在頭頂飛過的震撼, 那你一定要來這裡。

轉眼已到「黃金時份」, 落日把沙灘和海水映照成一片金黃, 非常美麗! 難怪這個海灘以日落來命名。

當太陽隨隨落下, 在雲層消失之時, 天色開始泛起一片紅霞。海灘頓時披上一片柔柔的紫藍, 十分吸引。這正是一個我非常喜歡的意境。我不停的按下快門, 每堆海薻、每個足印、甚至浪潮退後的泡泡也不放過!

第二天, 鳥兒未唱歌我已起牀了。在戶外睡覺當然比不上自己睡牀那麼舒適, 所以每次露營我也會很早起來。由於上次來的時候朋友拍了一張晨霧中的生菜田相片, 很美麗。所我一早已計劃清晨到營地後面的農地拍照。

雖然天已亮透, 但大大的月亮仍掛在天空上。大部份人也未醒來。我獨自靜靜的走過營地, 來到農田一看... 怎麼生菜全變了草莓?! 亦因為天氣比較暖, 所以沒有霧。看不到心目中想好的畫面, 頓時有點失望。幸好失望的感覺只是一閃而過。呼吸著清新的空氣, 聽著農民在遠處哼著歌, 一切還是很美好的...

接著我走到營後高處眺望無人的海灘, 心裡很享受那份寧靜和諧的感覺。在享受的同時當然不忘拍攝我愛的花花草草。這裡雖然沒有顏色鮮艷、燦爛奪目的花朶, 但這些平平無奇、毫不起眼的野花野草沒有經過人工化的修飾, 正好代表大自然, 是最值得欣賞和珍惜。

在生了銹的鐡鑭上, 看見一些幼細的蜘蛛網上掛滿露珠。然後看見一隻全身透明的小蜘蛛, 我忍不住想問牠:「整日在這裡被海風吹著, 你不冷嗎?」換了平日在家看見蜘蛛也毛管動, 但我卻覺得這隻小蜘蛛蠻可愛呢!

昨天老公在海灘上拾到這個完整無缺的沙錢 (sand dollar)。牠是屬於海膽類, 生活在潮間帶或潮下帶的沙灘表面或埋在沙內，甚至分佈至水深3000米的海床。由於其棲息處及外形多呈圓盤狀，彷如一個銀幣，因而得名。我不太喜歡貝殼, 但對沙錢卻是情有獨鍾。在這個滿佈雀鳥的海灘要找到一個完整沙錢的機會很微, 因為雀鳥會很快地把沙錢易脆的外殼咬破去吃裡面的肉。今次老公跟著一隻鳥兒覓食, 當牠在浪邊找到沙錢時, 老公要快一步才能把完整無缺的沙錢拿到手呢!

來中午, 我們的朋友終於到逹。吃過簡單的午餐後, 我們便到附近逛逛。雖然天晴, 但開始刮大風, 氣溫轉冷。到達沙灘旁風更大得令人走不動。看見友人的小狗被風吹的樣子, 很有趣。令我想起洗髮水廣告的女主角!

我帶他們來到草莓田, 看到大羣墨西哥工人在工作。當我拍下第一張相片時, 有一個工人叫嚷:「No photo!」然後他們竟然不壞好意的向我走來。我立即跟友人離開, 心想他們可能是黑市勞工才這麼害怕被人拍到!

終於來到「重頭戲」, 燒烤晚餐! 今次我嘗試做不同類型的串燒, 有羊肉、牛肉、豬腩肉、蝦和雞中翼。全部都用上不同的醃料。另外還有兩個配菜和甜品, 足足花了兩天來預備呢!

吃著串燒, 望著落霞, 享受這優美的大自然… 相信這是最能讓老公放下電腦、拋開繁忙的工作, 好好的鬆一口氣。

縱使是同一地方、同一環境、甚至抱著相同目的和心情, 但總會有些東西不同。於我而言最不同當然是手中那部相機和進步了的攝影技術。翻看上年寫的 Camping at Sunset State Beach 網誌, 發覺相片原來不是太見得人啊!

Clearance

2010-08-04T21:53:00.000-07:00

如果你每天也要煮飯給老公或子女吃, 那你一定像我一樣曾經為餸菜而煩惱。每次到超市, 望著那些食物, 我也有一絲絲懊惱。不想每星期也買同一樣的食物、做同一樣的餸菜。我盡可能也希望為老公預備不同新鮮、美味而又健康的餸菜。當沒有靈感時, 我會上網找食譜或到圖書館找書。閒時也會嘗試一些新菜式轉轉口味。有時更會把雪櫃的「存貨」胡亂的煮一些「新派菜」。

這天正因為要為家裡食物櫃來一個大清倉 (朋友常取笑我的食物存貨多得一個月不出街也不會餓死), 所以便泡製了這碟亞枝竹菇菇蕃茄意粉。洒上新鮮蕃茜碎和烤至脆卜卜的杏仁片, 味道更加一流!

If you have to cook for your husband or children everyday, then you may be like me, sometimes run out of cooking idea. When I do grocery shopping, I sometimes get frustrated looking at those food. I don't want to buy the same ingredients and make the same dishes every week. I want to make food for my hubby that are fresh, healthy and tasty. When I run out of ideas, I search recipes online from my favorite websites, or I borrow books from library. I also like to try different cuisines. Sometimes I use whatever ingredients I have at home to create some "fusion" food.

Like today, I had to do a clearance in my fridge and pantry (my friends often make fun of me saying I have so much food in the storage that we won't be starved even we don't go out for one month), I made this pasta with artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Sprinkle with fresh Italian parsley and roasted crispy slivered almond made the taste even better!

「眼挑針」救星

2010-08-03T13:22:00.000-07:00

一向鼻敏感並不嚴重的我, 今年卻被它折磨得很辛苦。每晚睡覺至半夜便開始發作, 鼻子痕癢、打噴嚏兼流鼻涕, 直至起牀後差不多十一時左右才有好轉。老公時常勸告我要用鼻敏感噴劑, 但我卻因為不想吃太多藥而拒絕。直至上星期五敏感症越趨嚴重, 連眼睛也變得痕癢。在一時情急下, 用手去擦了眼睛。結果… 第二天醒來, 左眼開始腫起來! 我看見又紅又腫的眼皮便心知不妙, 這是生「眼挑針」的徵狀!

記得小時候我時常生「眼挑針」, 祖母一定煲夏枯草。只要有一碗熱騰騰的夏枯草湯, 讓它的蒸氣給眼睛來一個「夏枯草 Spa」, 之後再喝下夏枯草湯便會把「眼挑針」醫好。雖然我不知道夏枯草的真正療效, 更加不能肯定為何它的蒸氣能夠醫治「眼挑針」, 但這個方法對我是萬試萬靈!

於是在星期六我立即煲了一大鍋夏枯草菊花湯。一面煲一面把臉孔放在鍋邊, 好讓眼睛吸收所有蒸氣。然後再飲下一大碗, 相管齊下! 可是在星期日早上醒來, 眼皮不單只沒有好轉, 還比之前更加紅腫。那「針」亦開始明顯! 老爺奶奶說夏枯草湯只能在生「眼挑針」初期才能發揮功效, 但當眼皮小瘡已形成, 古老做法便要用消毒後的針把「眼挑針」刺穿才會好的。聽得我心裡非常害怕。從來我生「眼挑針」也只會喝夏枯草湯, 記憶中我未試過要用針刺, 我現在亦當然不會試! 但如果真的不好, 我不知道西醫會怎樣「對付」我, 是草草了事的叫我用消炎藥膏還是大陣丈的叫我開刀呢? 整個週末左眼又痛又癢, 頭又痛、哮喘又發作, 心情壞透了!

幸好星期一起來, 眼皮消腫了很多, 那小瘡也消失了。我絕對相信那是一大鍋夏枯草湯的功勞! 現在左眼漸漸回復正常, 而我亦聽從老公吩咐開始定時用鼻敏感噴劑, 鼻子也舒服多了…

Chicken Wings with Rose Wine

2010-07-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

玖瑰露酒煮雞翼

近期我流行用酒煮不同菜式。繼早幾日用了日本清酒煮蜆, 今天我又有新嘗試。參考了雜誌的介紹之後再誤打誤撞便做了這個玖瑰露酒煮雞翼。平日做中菜也會用紹興酒, 但玖瑰露酒卻是第一次。其實很早前已想試用, 所以在唐人超市買了一瓶好的玖瑰露酒。很喜歡它傳統胡籚形的瓶子, 但花了很久才能把它打開。打開之後立即嗅到濃濃的玖瑰花香和酒香, 一點也沒有紹興酒的辛辣味。

Recently I love using wine in my cooking. After making clams in sake a few days ago, I've tried a new dish today. I created this chicken wings with rose wine with some creativity and an inspiration from a magazine. I normally use Shaoxing wine in my Chinese cooking, but I've never tried Chinese rose wine before. However I wanted to try using rose wine for quite some time, so I bought a nice one in a Chinese market. I loved its traditional melon-shape bottle design, but it took me long time to open it. Once I opened it, I immediately smelled a scent of rose. It has a sweeten floral scent, which smells much better than the Shaoxing wine.

Ingredients 材料:
2.5 lbs middle joint chicken wings 兩磅半中雞翼
1 red onion, diced 紅洋葱一個, 切碎粒
6 garlic cloves, diced 六粒蒜頭, 切碎
3 tbsp Chinese rose wine, recommend Golden Clock brand 三湯匙玖瑰露酒, 建議用金鐘商標

Marinade Sauce 醃料:
4 tbsp dark soy sauce 四湯匙老抽
4 tbsp low sodium light soy sauce 四湯匙低鹽生抽
2 tbsp brown sugar 二湯匙黃糖
1 cup chicken stock 一杯清雞湯

先把雞翼洗淨瀝亁。在一大碗中加入醃料攪勻, 放入雞翼醃一小時。燒熱鍋下少許油把紅洋葱粒和蒜頭爆香。加入雞翼煎至兩面金黃。再倒入一半份量的醃料, 蓋上蓋用中慢火煮十五至二十分鐘至雞翼淋透。再洒上玖瑰露酒煮多五分鐘便成。這個菜做法非常簡單, 而且帶有陣陣玖瑰酒香, 味道很不錯啊!

First, clean and pad-dry the chicken wings. In a large bowl, mix all the marinade sauce ingredients together. Make sure there is no lumps in the brown sugar. Add the wings and marinade for at least one hour. In a large pot with medium high heat, sauteed the red onion and garlic with tiny bit of oil. Then pan-fry the wings until golden brown on both sides. Pour half of the marinade sauce in, cover the lid and cook in medium-low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until the wings are tendered. Add the rose wine and cook for another 5 minutes. Serve immediately. This dish is super easy to make. It has a hint of rose scent and tastes very good!

Clams in Sake

2010-07-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

清酒煮蜆

Sake 是用白米和清水精製而成的日本清酒。很多國家民族也會用自己的酒作為烹飪材料。日本人也一樣, 他們用清酒作烹飪已有長久歷史。但對於我來說, 用清酒煮餸還是頭一趟。

昨天我在外國超市買了兩磅紐西蘭蜆, 但把蜆放在雪櫃至今天晚上才煮。在雪櫃雪了一天的蜆依然非常新鮮, 蜆殼不停地在舞動。通常如果在唐人市場買的蜆一定要浸在鹽水吐沙。但外國商店賣的不一樣, 不單只外貎比較新鮮和漂亮, 而且非常清潔。我只需把蜆用清水洗一遍便行。另外我們為了這味菜, 特地買了一瓶不錯的日本清酒, 既可用作煮食又可品嚐。

首先下少許油, 用中猛火把蒜粒和黃橙燈籠椒粒放入預熱的大鍋中爆香。加入蜆, 然後蓋上蓋煮數分鐘。接著倒入3/4杯日本清酒, 蓋上蓋再煮數分鐘至蜆剛剛打開。將蜆倒在大碟上, 把留汁在鍋中。把1/4杯麵粉邊攪邊加進汁內, 用大火煮至汁開始變杰, 然後淋在蜆上便成。

作為新嘗試, 這碟清酒煮蜆算是成功。雖然有部份蜆有一點點過熟, 但味道相當不錯! 我和老公也很喜歡吃蜆, 他更要求我下次再煮多些呢!

Sake (pronounced "sa:kei", NOT "sa:ki" nor "sa:key") is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from rice and crystal-clear water. In many cultures, people like to use their wine in cooking. Japanese people are the same. They have used sake in their cooking for years. But for me, this was my first time using sake in cooking.

Yesterday I bought two pounds of New Zealand clams from Costco, and stored them in refrigerator overnight. Even after a day, the clams were still very fresh. Unlike the clams from Chinese markets which required to soak in salt water for an hour or so to let them spit out the dirt, clams from western markets are usually better looking and super clean and fresh. All I needed to do was to rinse them in runny water for a couple of minutes. For cooking and drinking purpose, we also bought a bottle of nice sake for this dish.

First, sauteed some minced garlic with yellow and orange bell peppers in a large pot with medium high heat. Add the clams, cover the lid for a few minutes. Then pour in 3/4 cups of sake, cover the lid and cook for another few minutes until the clams just open. Put the clams on a large shallow plate and leave the liquid in the pot. In high heat, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour in the liquid until the sauce is a little thicken. Pour the sauce onto the clams and serve immediately.

For a first timer, I think this dish is a success. Although the clams were tiny bit overcooked, the taste was perfect! Hubby and I love clams. He even asked me to make more the next day!

今夜煙花不太燦爛

2010-07-04T23:39:00.000-07:00

從小到大也十分喜歡看煙花。記得小時侯每逢農曆新年的維港煙花會, 媽媽也會帶我到她朋友家或是酒店房間內近距離欣賞煙花盛會, 那種對眼睛和耳朶的觀感刺激和震憾到現在還瀝瀝在目。即使來到美國, 我也盡可能在國慶節晚上現場觀看煙花。這兒各個城市也會有自己的小型煙花表演, 而著名的大城市辦的自然比較大型。但因為近年經濟不景氣, 很多地方也減少開支。我住的城巿也不例外, 今年放的煙花比往年更少更短…

經過數年前煙花表演後塞車的恐怖經歷, 今年我們把車子泊在較遠的地方。寧可徒步行遠一點也不願被困在場地附近的停車場而走不動! 我和老公特地帶同椅子早兩小時來到草地上, 覇了頭位預備看九時半的煙花表演。我安好腳架和相機, 一切準備就緒。第一次用單反相機捕光拍攝煙花, 心情竟然有點興奮! 雖然這裡的煙花表演比香港的遜色很多, 但相片出來比預期好, 少了令人目眩的燦爛, 卻多了一點令人舒服的清雅!

黃石公園巴士團總結篇

2010-06-19T22:36:00.000-07:00

寫這篇網誌時正值無禮導遊的港聞鬧得熱烘烘。相比起在新聞短片上看到的那位態度甚為惡劣的導遊, 我們今次旅行團的導遊頓時變得和藹可親。這裡有法例監管, 客人隨時可以投訴, 甚至控告! 所以導遊們不會太過份。另一原因是這裡任何工作都有最低工資。真不明白香港這個繁榮社會, 竞然還有無底薪的工作! 而職員的個人操守及修養也是重要因素, 不滿意工作可以選擇不做, 但發洩在無辜的客人身上是非常不專業的行為。

這次參加黃石公園巴士團七天之旅是一個有驚有喜、有怒有樂的體驗。在這個旅程當中我拍了過千張相片, 花了很多時間去整理。一些朋友, 尤其是疼錫我的家人看到相片後都讚不絕口, 更誇獎的說相片美得像明信片一樣。我雖然開心但亦有點奇怪。我旅行一向甚少買明信片, 要買也只會選擇一些攝影手法較為特別和平常人不可以拍攝的角度, 例如高空拍攝或景物的特寫, 很少會選擇風景題材的。我不太喜歡明信片, 因為它們很多都是用最便宜的光面咭紙和印刷粗劣, 設計及製作一點也不精美。另外最重要的原因是攝影手法, 我總覺得明信片上的相片只會很公式化的把旅遊地標拍攝下來。當然攝影師可能用上專業的攝影技術, 但相片出來感覺很生硬, 一點感情也沒有。除了美之外, 我喜歡有「感情」的相片, 能夠觸動別人的相片。可以是拍攝手法、相片的意境、構圖、和用色等等。這些必須靠攝影者獨有的觸覺和創意去發揮。在學習攝影技巧之同時, 我希望我拍的照片可以做到這一點。

自迷上攝影後, 我雖不至於攀山涉水去捕足最佳拍照角度, 但亦開始體會到攝影師為照片背後付出的努力和誠意。我現在除了更加懂得欣賞照片外, 對攝影者更多一份尊重和讚賞。不久之前看過一些攝影書籍, 提及人們很多時欣賞美麗相片之餘卻忽略了攝影師為照片背後付出的辛勞。他們往往認為只要有一些昂貴的攝影器材便能像擁有「魔術手」般拍攝出令人讚嘆的佳作。他們不知道攝影師可能花了很多心機時間甚至體力, 拍很多張相片才能得出一張滿意的。即使是著名專業攝影師, 也可能會拍一百張照片只得數張能成功被選用。而我這個新手當然不會「百發百中」。在這過千張相片中, 只有少部份可以「見得人」。而這少部份當中我最喜歡的只有以下數張。雖然它們可能跟明信片相差甚遠, 相中甚至沒有一眼便能辨認的旅遊地標, 攝影技術亦有待改進, 但是它們是我今趟旅行最令我滿意的作品。你們認為如何?

黃石公園巴士團第七天: 終於自由

2010-06-11T23:56:00.000-07:00

好不容易來到巴士團的最後一天, 我們一家終於可以提早離團。對於可以「重獲自由」, 我們深感興奮。但是我將要身兼導遊司機兩職, 所以要打醒十二分精神。

一切照原定計劃, 我和舅父在旅行團的集合時間來到候車處。待導遊和司機整理好各團友的行李後, 我便告訴導遊我們有另外計劃, 不會隨隊出發。他便問我是否留在雷諾玩。我並沒有多作解釋, 只簡單回應是的。於是他告訴我酒店退房時間。接著我當著導遊和司機面前把預先放在兩個信封的小費交給他們二人。導遊道謝後更客氣的祝我們玩得開心。其實我們已作好最壞打算, 如果導遊態度惡劣及對我發難, 舅父便充當我的保鏢。但他並沒有表現不妥, 我們鬆了一口氣。如果他打從第一天開始便有這樣良好友善的態度, 相信信封內的小費會多一些。不過要不是舅父舅母心軟, 我根本不打算給任何小費呢!

我們吃過早餐便往機場的租車公司。老公早已替我在網上預訂了一輛汽車及導航儀噐, 好讓我不會迷路。花了差不多一小時才弄清楚文件、拿到車匙。於早上九時多, 我們正式展開自由行之旅!

哈哈! 開車不久已經好像迷路了。舅父在旁急於硏究導航儀噐的運作, 而我就利用體內些微的方向感和第六感去決定行車路向。來到山頂再詢問途人, 確定方向正確才放下心。我們沿著431公路跨過山頭向太浩湖進發。途中看見遊客查詢中心, 立即入內取到一張大地圖。當沒有老公在旁的時候, 我們還是習慣用原始的地圖多一些。

太浩湖 (Lake Tahoe) 位於美國加州和內華達州的邊界, 海拔6,225英呎(1,899公尺), 面積150.68平方公里，水深1,645英呎(514公尺)。是全美第二大的高山淡水湖, 僅次於俄勒岡州的火山口湖 (Crater Lake, Oregon)。太浩湖約在二百萬年前的冰河時期形成, 四周圍著山脈, 湖水清澈艷麗, 是著名的旅遊度假區。

我們沿著太浩湖旁邊開車邊欣賞風景。依著地圖來到第一個風景點: 洞窟石 (Cave Rock)。醉人的美景及清新的空氣, 令人心曠神怡。

離開內華達州, 進入加州的南太浩湖市中心已經是午飯時候了。舅父利用導航儀噐找出附近餐廳。由於沒辦法上網查詢那所餐廳比較好吃, 我們只能隨便挑一間。我們連日來吃了多次快餐, 已經有些快餐恐懼症了, 所以便立即決定吃日本菜。走進了裝修比較簡陋的 Sato 日本餐廳。儘管那些不是傳統的日式寿司和定食, 而且味道只是一般, 但至少有些「飯氣」, 我們都感到很滿足。

接著來到在太浩湖非常著名的綠寶灣 (Emerald Bay)。我們在山上的觀景台向下望, 可以看到灣岸邊由寶藍至翠綠色的湖水, 非常漂亮。

過了太浩湖南端, 我們沿著湖邊北上。經過 Inspiration Point 及 Meeks Bay。每當看到美麗的風景, 我們便停在路邊拍照。我們更穿過湖邊的房屋來到私人碼頭旁拍照, 看見那些豪華度假屋和遊艇帆船, 真是羨刹旁人!

遊畢大半個太浩湖己經是下午四時多, 我再開車兼塞車約兩個小時後才到逹沙加緬度的舊城區 (Old Sacramento)。這兒的樓房建築好像電影中的西部牛仔區, 甚具懷舊氣色。相比起太浩湖區, 這裡氣溫炎熱很多。我們泊好車便立即衝入雪糕店買了四杯大雪糕消暑。邊吃邊逛, 非常寫意。城內有一列在假日時仍會開動的舊火車, 遊客可付錢一嚐坐舊火車的滋味。街道上有很多特色商店, 而我們最喜歡的就是專賣用鹽水製的糖果店。途中看見玩射擊的店舖, 表弟當然不會錯過。

我們選擇了一間在河邊, 叫 Rio City Cafe 的美國餐廳吃晚飯。它從前是貨倉, 現在改建成餐廳, 但仍保留著房子的外牆。餐廳價錢雖然不算便宜, 但食物美味兼服務一流。

晚飯後己差不多九時多, 我再開車送舅母到她的親戚家。可能是整個星期也沒睡好, 一路上我已經非常疲倦, 但仍勉強睜大眼睛駕著車子在公路上飛馳。現在想起真有點危險啊! 安全到達家裡己經是零晨了。我累得說話也無力, 感覺好像有兩塊鉛石壓在眼皮上。舅父更取笑我的雙眼累得只剩下一線! 真的啊! 我的視覺早已變得模糊, 視力好像只剩下一乘呢! 我立即梳洗, 然後躺在牀上大昏迷… 七天旅程正式完結!

黃石公園巴士團第六天: 四位鄉里

2010-06-10T23:51:00.000-07:00

來到第六天, 行程已接近尾聲。今天主要是回程往西走, 途中並沒有什麼吸引的景點。但導遊很「苦心」的安排了兩處地方讓我們觀光, 更用「賣大包益街坊」的語氣說:「是免費的, 不收分文!」那我們是否要感動流涕呢!

第一站是在愛達荷州(Twin Falls, Idaho)的 I. B. Perrine Bridge。它横跨蛇河 (Snake River) 埉谷上, 有1,500英呎長(457米)和486英呎高(148米)。始建於1927年, 是當時世界上最高的橋。但後來因為工程維修, 原來的橋樑已拆毀。現在看到的是1976年建成的。這條橋著名的原因是因為它是美國唯一一座建築物讓人們玩 BASE jumping 而不用許可証的。 B.A.S.E. 是四種不同地方的簡寫: 建築物 (Building), 天線 (Antenna), 橋 (Span), 及懸崖峭壁 (Earth)。 BASE jumping 是一種高空跳傘運動, 人們從以上四種高處地方跳下, 然後用特製的降落傘滑翔到地面。

原本導遊希望可以帶我們到這裡看人跳橋, 可惜今天吹大風, 人影也沒一個! 我們只好隨意的拍了數張照片。

來到索索尼瀑布 Shoshone Falls。它在蛇河上, 有212英呎高 (64.7米)。比著名的尼亞加拉大瀑布還要高36英呎 (10.97米), 但當然總面積卻小很多。

我和舅母一下車便打算向唯一的觀景台走去。突然聽見舅父在後面叫我們跟他往另一方向走。原來這裡還有其他的觀景台。我們穿過小路來到另一個觀景台。從這裡可以看到瀑布的正面, 是個拍照的好地方。舅父說他在巴士上已望到這裡, 不用跟其他團友擠在那邊, 確實要記舅父一功! 影了一會, 看見「睡公主」跟著過來, 醒目啊!

吃過很久沒吃的麥當勞魚柳包後繼續上路, 餘下的就只有漫長而沉悶的車程。為打發時間, 導遊在講解明天最後的行程。他說明天會遊太浩湖, 但不建議我們自費乘船遊湖。他喋喋不休的勸告團友不要浪費, 花美金$46元乘船遊湖兩小時絕對不値。跟以往賣力的推銷手法來個大相反, 相信除了因為他不想等團友兩小時之外, 沒有回佣是重要原因呢! 但他說什麼和明天有什麼行程也再與我們無關, 因為我們明天要離隊, 自己去玩了! 「Yay!」心中响著歡呼的聲音。

好不容易, 巴士終於到達在內華達州雷諾市的 Nugget Casino & Hotel。這是一座舊式的賭場酒店, 跟新的賭場酒店區距離很遠。所以眾人只好留在這裡消遣。導遊向每位成人免費派發一張$5賭錢咭。另外每個房間也可得到一張$3餐券, 在酒店內任何一所餐廳也通用。「睡公主」走來問我:「你們會賭錢嗎?」我一時摸不著頭腦答道:「或者會啦!」然後她爽快地把她手中的$5賭錢咭送給我。我來不及道謝, 她已經拿著行李上房了。

安頓行李之後, 輕輕鬆鬆的和家人在酒店內「巡視」一下到哪間餐廳吃晚飯。發現大部份團友都選擇吃自助餐, 亦有小部份人吃一些簡單的中式和西式快餐。我們當然不會跟他們一樣。來到一所高級牛扒餐廳門口, 表弟已經兩眼發光。可能他並沒有注意到餐牌上的$$$價錢。然後我看見舅父瞄一瞄表弟, 再反一反眼。我立即拍拍表弟說:「真是貴了一些, 不如再看看其他餐廳? 況且你已經吃了很多次牛扒了…」生性乖巧的表弟並沒有流露一絲失望和不滿的表情。

最後我們決定在 Orozko 餐廳嚐一嚐未試過的西班牙菜。相信在這裡一定不會碰見任何團友, 因為他們不會吃得這樣「豪」。我們叫了鹿肉做頭盤, 主菜有西班牙海鮮飯。舅父和表弟叫了 Prime Rib 和肉眼扒。可能是氣氛太好的關係, 舅父更自爆一個冼為人知的秘密。在N年前當舅父舅母還在拍拖時, 舅父花了幾百元(是他當時一個月薪水的三份之一)請舅母吃了一頓浪漫的燭光晚餐, 那「赤赤痛」的感覺至今還記憶猶新! 舅母微笑著說:「我當時唔知係咁貴。嘩! 記到依家! 睇黎真係好肉痛喎!」舅父立即說:「梗係!」然後問我:「如果你老公花三份之一個月糧食一餐, 你會點?!」看見舅父認真又可愛的表情, 我和表弟不禁哈哈大笑!

享受完一頓豐富美味又愉快的晚餐後, 我們向老虎機進發。坐在一座五仙老虎機前, 硏究了很久也弄不清如何使用那些賭錢咭。一位相信已經打量我們四位「大鄉里」多時的侍應終於走上前來教我們, 他熱心地指示我們如何使用那些賭錢咭和怎樣下注。然後站在旁邊觀賞我們怎樣手忙腳亂戰戰兢兢的下注。最烏龍是我們竟然忘記了老虎機內的錢而走開了! 幸好侍應叫著我們。原來賭錢咭不可以儲錢, 一定要玩完老虎機內的錢才可。

接著舅父開始沒耐性, 他大膽走到一元老虎機面前, 結果不用十秒便輸了整張$5賭錢咭。原來他很睏呢, 他想盡快玩完然後回房休息。於是我們便叫他先上房睡覺。剩下我和舅母表弟三個「大鄉里」逛來逛去, 尋找「理想」的五仙老虎機。終於找到大富翁樣子的老虎機, 發現「騎呢怪」一家也在。憑著他們目無表情兼帶點「燶」的臉孔, 可推算到他們應該輸光了。

待他們走開, 我們像「霸地盤」般衝上前坐在椅上, 開始緊慎下注。未成年的表弟是最興奮的一個, 他又想玩又怕被管理員捉到。每次按掣時也先四處張望, 那樣子真好笑。我想告訴他其實賭場天花板上有很多監察器可以看到客人的一舉一動, 他越望越令人懷疑啊! 不久我們便想出玩老虎機的策略, 便是每赢一次便 cash out 一次。赢五十仙又 cash out, 赢十仙又 cash out。目標是利用剩下的兩張$5賭錢咭赢到真實的五元。結果不負所望, 表弟拿著一大疊 cash out 紙, 看似很多錢, 用計算機一算, 其實只有$5.07! 哈哈! 不過這是無本生利啊! 接著我們三位「鄉里」高高興興的回房休息。