dole it out

It's funny how sometimes when you witness something, how a flood of emotions are triggered, bringing back a moment of time in the past.  


Yesterday I saw a video of an elderly woman, a school bus monitor, being bullied (outright, harassed!) by elementary school children.  Yes, elementary school (12 and 13 year olds, not high school).  I'm not sure if I am more naively shocked at the language that these children used or the fact that they could be so brazenly cruel to an elderly person. (the video is here...warning, it is quite disturbing) 


This video brought me back to a time when I was in elementary school, when I was taunted  because of my ethnicity.  I remember one incident that haunts me, still today, when a boy who was a couple of years older than me decided to use my head as a punching bag, when I sat in front of him on the school bus. 


I can't help but wonder how one childhood moment can shape (or scar) the way I feel about certain things with my children today.  Although my children do not take the school bus (for logistical reasons), I think deep down inside I was secretly glad that they were out of the boundaries for school busing.  I always imagined that what happened to me would happen to them.  


Conversely, I try to ensure that my own children are conscientious of other children in their classroom, ensuring that they are sensitive to the differences of others, and to respect those differences.  I try to model respectful behaviour, and never ever tolerate spiteful and cruel behaviour.  


I don't know if children in today's society are really taught that.  With the feeling of entitlement, along with the technological abilities to humiliate someone at such a broad scale, I think now more than ever, as parents we need to really teach the youth of today that you treat others how you want to be treated, whether it's online, or in person. That those actions can haunt you or someone else for the rest of their lives (and haunt you years later if it's on the internet). 


I'm still trying to navigate the "right" way to teach my children about society and relationships with others...I sometimes find myself trying to figure that out myself!  However, one thing for sure, I will make sure they learn that if you spew garbage, that you will get garbage in return.   If you behave respectfully and honourably, you will be treated that same way.  If you're going to dole it out, you better accept the same in return.


Hopefully, with the heat in these first few days of summer, I hope this season, the only thing I have to worry about them doling out, is a cold treat like this.   

Pineapple Dole Whip

(adapted from Group Recipes)

This turned out more like a cross between ice cream and sorbet.  The taste was very similar to the original Pineapple Dole Whip (at Disney) but the texture was a little more icy.  An ice cream maker would definitely make this more creamy.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of finely chopped pineapple and 2 tbsp. of pineapple juice (or two 20oz cans of DOLE crushed pineapple) 
• 2 tbsp. lemon juice
• 2 tbsp. lime juice
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup organic sugar (powdered/icing sugar would do well too).
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped

Directions:

• Dice fresh or drain canned pineapple: reserve 2 tbsp. juice. Set aside.
• Place pineapple, lemon juice, lime juice, sugar and reserved pineapple juice in blender (or use an immersion blender), and blend until smooth.
• Pour into two 1-quart freezer zipped bags. 
• Store bags flat in freezer. 
• Freeze 1 1/2 hours or until slushy.
• Stir pineapple slush gently into whipped cream until slightly blended in large bowl.
• Return into the ziplock bag and place in the freezer until completely frozen, about 1 hour.
• Cut one corner of the ziplock bag, and "pipe" the frozen treat into bowls, for that "swirl" effect.

Serve

a toast to tonga

I read in news headline that the King of Tonga recently passed away, and was buried in a state ceremony yesterday. I know what you're thinking...the King of who-what-where???  And why am I telling you this?


Well, let me explain further.  This news headline of the King's passing caught my eye because (and this is going to sound really strange), it was the second time I've even heard of this unique word, "Tonga" this month (the first time was few weeks back where we tried the famous "Tonga Toast" on our March Break vacation...it's amazing!).  Of course, I was curious to learn about what "Tonga" really is?

Tonga – officially the Kingdom of Tonga  is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean about one-third of the way from New Zealand to Hawaii.


"With over 170 islands, only 40 inhabited, Tonga is untouched and largely undiscovered. That means it’s a holiday destination where you can still encounter a world as nature intended. Un-spoilt by big resort complexes and modern development, Tonga remains as close to authentic Polynesia as you’ll find. In fact, with its sheltered beauty and cultural authenticity, the Kingdom of Tonga is often described as the ‘jewel in the pacific’.." {source}

{source: The Official Site of Tonga Tourism}

Researching a bit further, I read in a Huffington Post article, that the "King had made some radical changes to his country.  John Key, the Prime Minister of neighbouring country, New Zealand, released a statement saying 'He believed that the monarchy was an instrument of change and can truly be seen as the architect of evolving democracy in Tonga. This will be his enduring legacy,' Key said."


It looks like a beautiful place to visit...a place that's authentic and untouched by the highly commercialized tourism industry...this place seems as friendly and open as it's former King.  It just might be a new place to add to my bucket list of destinations. So, in honour of this beautiful island, and the passing of their beloved King...I made this Tonga Toast.  I'm not sure when I'll get the chance to visit the Kingdom of Tonga, but at least I get to re-visit the amazing "Tonga" that we were first introduced to in Florida.

I've adapted this recipe so it's not deep fried.  I used a cast iron skillet instead, and approached this recipe like it was french toast.  The bread quickly absorbs the egg/milk mixture and it's unnecessary to deep fry this...just "grill" on a cast iron skillet with a little butter.

Tonga Toast Recipe 
(from the Kona Cafe Polynesian Resort)

{adapted from: Allears.net}

Ingredients:

• 4 slices sourdough bread, cut 1 1/2 inches thick (the freshly baked one at Whole Foods is fabulous for this!)
• 1 organic banana
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup organic milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tbsp. butter 
• maple syrup (optional)

Directions:

• Cut a 1-inch pocket in one side of each bread slice. 
• Peel and cut banana in half crosswise, then split each piece lengthwise. 
• Stuff two pieces of banana in each pocket of bread; set aside. 
• Mix sugar and cinnamon; set aside. 
• Mix together well the egg, milk and vanilla.
• Heat about 4 inches of oil in a pan to 350º F. 
• Dip stuffed bread into egg/milk mixture and let it soak a few seconds to let penetrate bread. 
• Grill bread on both sides until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. 
• Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and serve with maple syrup (optional)

Enjoy!

be our guest

One of the places we've always wanted to visit was Bora Bora in the French Polynesian islands (it was on our list for our honeymoon, but timing didn't quite work out).

Since Disney is all about fantasy, we booked our stay at the Polynesian resort and were curious to see what Disney's interpretation of French Polynesian was.  (and since we're not going to Bora Bora just yet, we might as well get "taste of it" here...well that was my argument).  

French Polynesia, also known as “Tahiti and Her Islands,” encompasses volcanic islands of great beauty and tiny atolls scattered across the eastern South Pacific Ocean, distant from all civilisation. These idyllic islands have captured the imagination of the world since the very first European explorers arrived on these sunny shores in the 18th century. {source}

I think the Polynesian resort captured the essence of the islands, with the lush tropical trees surrounding resort, the volcano inspired pool area, and the waterfalls throughout the guest areas.


Our second choice was the Grand Floridian...we got to visit this lovely resort while we had breakfast at the 1900 Park Fare (the Mad Hatter Tea party breakfast with the Alice in Wonderland characters).  It definitely felt more upscale (I think my husband would have preferred to stay here instead), but I thought it suited the honeymooners and seniors that visited Disney...I couldn't imagine the kids "flip flopping" through the lobby from the beach to the room!  Definitely a place to consider if we return with teenagers...

Disney's Polynesian resort had a relaxing island feel to it, which the kids found very appealing since most of their fondest vacation memories were at the beach.   

Although the rooms didn't quite reflect the exotic nature of the exterior, you couldn't beat the location (it was about 10 minutes away from Magic Kingdom via monorail, ferry or bus!). The staff was very friendly, and always greeted us with "Aloha"...we felt very comfortable and relaxed, and always felt like a pampered guest.

The kids said this was "just like a beach resort !!! ", and the Polynesia was a great choice for a family with young kids.  Hopefully one day we will visit the real Polynesian islands...and truly feel like welcomed guests like we did at Disney.

when you wish upon a star

 

With the marketing machine heavily geared towards princesses at Disney, I was a little worried that our son would find the experience a little boring (yes, I was worried that Disney would be boring!)....and other than the thrilling rides, he'd tire of the "themes" (he's a little too old for "The Cars" phenomenon).


Of course, my worries were unfounded as both he and his sister enjoyed these more  adventurous, slightly educational and science-based activities...still loads of fun, but not so "fairy tale" focused.

Safari's at Animal Kingdom

Pirates of the Caribbean

Toy Story Mania

Space Mountain and Mission: Earth 

 The Festival of the Lion King show at Animal Kingdom

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

Star Tours (Star Wars) at Hollywood Studios

 Lights, Motor, Action Extreme Stunt Show

Simulated flying (the popular "Soarin'" ride) and spaceship flying at Epcot Centre

And of course, there's the plethora of fireworks and light shows.  

I think our son liked Epcot and Hollywood Studios the best, where they both had plenty of fast rides, and the best fireworks and light shows.  "Fantasmic" at Hollywood Studios was spectacular, and probably our favourite. Illuminations at Epcot was beautiful too.  

I think Disney World has so much to offer...and he was never bored (they even had a dragon in the Electric Water Parade, viewed from our hotel balcony!) ...the smiles on their faces were more than we can wish for.

Epcot's Nine Dragons Restaurant Honey Sesame Chicken

(recipe adapted from the book, Cooking with Mickey and the Disney Chefs)

The recipe in the book asks to cut the chicken into strips (like chicken fingers), but I thought this would be nice as chicken breasts.  We're not the biggest fan of fried foods, so I oven-baked this chicken instead, using Panko crumbs (Japanese bread crumbs, found on the same shelf as bread crumbs), and added apricot jam to bring dimension to the sauce.  The soy sauce in the marinade with the sesame oil adds enough salt content, so you don’t need to add any additional salt in this recipe.  


Ingredients

4-6 chicken breasts.


Marinade

• 2 tsp. sesame oil
• 2 tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 tbsp. chopped garlic.

Batter

• ¾ cup bread crumbs
• ¾ cup Panko crumbs

Honey Apricot Sauce

• 3 tbsp. honey
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp. ketchup
• 1 tbsp. white vinegar
• 2 tbsp. apricot jam.
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Preparation

• Preheat the oven at 400degrees.
• Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl, add chicken then toss to coat.  Let stand for 10 minutes.
• Mix the bread crumbs & Panko crumbs in a separate bowl, and when the chicken is done with the marinade, coat with the crumbs.
• Place on a baking sheet, and into the oven.
• Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• While the chicken is baking, mix the sauce and heat in a pan (I used a cast iron skillet), until mixture bubbles.
• Place cooked chicken gently into sauce, to coat.
• Serve immediately.

Enjoy this out of world experience!

bippity boppity boo

I know there’s been a lot of talk about how the next generation of girls are so Princess–obsessed, that there has been a lot of worry about how the media is influencing the self image of our generation of little girls.  Books and articles try to show how Disney has created spoiled little princesses (and yes, I don’t particularly like how tween Disney stars model a certain kind of disrespect to their TV parents, male or female).  And how Cinderella and Snow White enforce the helpless image of Princesses in distress needing a Prince to save the day.

Having both a son and a daughter, I can see how the media targets them very specifically.  And no other place appears to “define” gender more than Disney.  Pretty glittery princess gowns and sparkly castles for the girls. And fighting warriors to protect your nation as a jedi or pirate for the boys.

However, our little girl still loves Cinderella, so before her lunch (a coveted, 6 month reservation for seating at the Cinderella's Royal Table in the Magic Kingdom Castle)  we hesitantly booked the equally popular Bippity Boppity Boutique for a princess makeover for TheG (yes, this also must be pre-booked 6 months in advance). While she was being made over to look like Cinderella, TheB was made over to look like a knight.

I really was reluctant and almost cancelled this makeover, as I wasn’t sure if I wanted to reinforce the notion that being a princess would make you happy.  And as parents, leading up to Disney, we ensured that both children had similar exposures and experiences to the real world around us, and reminded them that Disney was just a fantasy world.

Well, we went forward with the makeover plans as I was told that this is apparently a once in a lifetime opportunity, so after dressing our daughter up in her princess costume, then being treated to having her nails painted, makeup applied (which was ghastly and was removed afterwards) and having her hair done in her choosing (with limited choices), the chair was finally spun around to surprise our daughter with her transformation in the mirror.  


She almost started to cry.

She said she "wanted to look normal".  She was okay with the dress, liked the nail polish (it was pale) and the lip gloss.  Although she enjoyed the attention (and thought it was neat that they paid just as much attention to her brother as with her)...at the end of the day, she felt the most beautiful when she was being herself. Not some tarted-up, whispery voiced "image" of what beautiful is.

She understood the notion that we were together in a make-believe place, where princesses aren’t real (and she would often ask why all the princesses spoke "so funny", like Mickey Mouse).  She understood that while you're visiting this magical theme park, you can temporarily be transported into a story, like in the movies.  But just like the fairy tale, there is an end. 

So after having lunch in the Castle (she wanted remain in her dress and crown "costume" when she greeted Cinderella), she quickly took off the makeup, let her hair down, and picked up her wand...

...and bippity boppity boo, TheG was back to normal, and was the real, fun loving, strong girl again, in a real world, understanding the difference between reality…and fantasy.

And we couldn't be more proud of her choices.

Cheddar Breakfast Potatoes
(adapted from "Cooking with Mickey and the Chefs of Walt Disney World" cookbook)

Not for the faint of heart or for those watching their waistlines.  It was on the menu at the Cinderella castle and was something that would appeal to everyone...OTHER than dainty princesses. 

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded potatoes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp. parmesan
• 2 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. pepper

Preparation

• Place shredded potatoes in mixing bowl.
• Add shredded cheese, heavy cream, sour cream, and salt and pepper.
• Mix until evenly mixed.
• Place in greased baking dish and bake for 350degrees for 35 minutes
• Top with remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and return to oven for 10 minutes. or until cheese is melted and started to brown.

Makes 6-8 servings.


Enjoy with gusto!

the wonderful world of disney

                               

We’ve just come back from 8 wonderful days of amazing experiences at Disney World.  The kids couldn’t be happier, and my husband had the opportunity to witness first hand, the miracle of Disney’s well-oiled machine (it was his first visit).

For me, what I found amazing this time around (I’ve been here twice; once as a child and once as an adult on a pre-paid-planned business trip) was the ability to book almost everything in advance, so all you do is simply arrive at the airport, and all the administrative “work” is taken care of, so we can focus as a family to really enjoy every magical moment while we were in Disney.

We stayed at the relaxing, tropical inspired Polynesian Resort, which brought the South Pacific to us (one of the places we considered for our honeymoon).  From our room, we had views over the Seven Seas Lagoon...we could see the Magic Kingdom Castle and the famous Wishes Fireworks from our balcony!

When we were at our hotel at night, this was what we saw every time from our balcony...
Tahiti Room 3018 for those who want to book a similar room!

An invaluable resource was a website/blog, http://yourfirstvisit.net/. Written by a Disney expert, the site charted which weeks were busiest, most expensive, had the best forecasted weather, which rides would likely have the most crowds and which restaurants that have the most positive reviews...and charted schedules based on that information.  We booked ALL our restaurants and mapped out our daily attraction plans, about 6 months before we arrived. Since we booked our restaurants so far in advance, we had some of the best seats at the restaurants.  Most with window views to Magic Kingdom's Wishes Fireworks.  Two great restaurants with fabulous views were Ohana and Crystal Palace.

The book, "The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney 2012" (thanks, Nellie for lending us your copy!), showed us which rides to take and which ones to avoid.  We were able to make strategic choices with which rides/shows to enjoy first, which ones to "Fastpass", and which ones to avoid.  This way we were able to make the best of our time, and went on every single major ride or attraction.  We were never in line for more than 15 minutes.  Especially for the most thrilling rides like Space Mountain, Rock N' Roller coaster, and The Tower of Terror.

A 13 story high ride that "drops" in the dark.
My thrill seeking kids loved it (even my little girl!)...my husband, well...not so much!

It has become an art to “do Disney”, and scheduling which parks, shows and restaurants you want to see in advance made it easy for us to see all the best that Disney had to offer (I think the last time I did so much planning was for our wedding!).   With the ability to preplan everything online, it was amazing to be able to enjoy our family vacation with relatively so much ease. 

This is the ferry boat that goes directly to the Magic Kingdom from the Polynesian/TTC centre.

And with everything running so smoothly, it really was the wonderful world of Disney.

Simple Ways to Plan for Disney World

Planning in advance made our life at Disney just a little easier.  Here’s some links and references for those planning a Disney World trip...

A great reference book...don't go to Disney without reading it first: "The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, 2012"

A great website that had great charts for scheduling your days: http://yourfirstvisit.net/

Keep track of your hotel reservations, and check into your hotel 10 days prior to arrival for a fast check in once you arrive: Disney Plan

Make all your restaurant and show reservations: Disney Dining & Reservations

If you don't take a lot of photos (unlike me...I took about 2500 pics on this trip!), use their onsite photographers who will professionally capture moments, so you can enjoy at the end of your trip, all the photos on a CD: Disney PhotoPass


Enjoy!