The entirety of the GTA was met with the first major snowstorm of the season (and the year, for that matter) upon confronting on Monday. Any residual weekday blues were replaced with anxiety and awe - for either you calmly observed as a work-from-home-er (myself) or were already knee-deep and digging yourself out of the house.
In the face of a rippling blizzard, there were still some that took to the 401 for work and non-essential travel. It was ill-advised, and many were left stranded on the highway or trapped within snow banks.
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As the once grey skies began to dim, I could withstand a bread craving no more. Digging a path just wide enough for the wheels of my vehicle, I dashed out onto the partially ploughed streets, heart yearning for COBS.
The dangers had not been cleared away in their entirety, for while major streets had been mostly cleared, lanes were reduced tremendously and plaza parking lots remained inaccessible. Extra caution was exercised to navigate safely within the plaza and back onto arterials.
The dangers had not been cleared away in their entirety, for while major streets had been mostly cleared, lanes were reduced tremendously and plaza parking lots remained inaccessible. Extra caution was exercised to navigate safely within the plaza and back onto arterials.
A Country Grain Loaf, two Hot Cross Buns, and six-pack of Butter Tarts accompanied me for the ride. Though, the latter will likely never enter the household again: excessively sugary with the unnecessary addition of raisins, we deemed the palm-sized pieces edible, but far from enjoyable.
Witnessed the next day were glorious blue skies, as if the previous day's mayhem hadn't occurred at all.
I remained within, observing all from my ever-consistent, second-floor window.
I remained within, observing all from my ever-consistent, second-floor window.
The sole creation of the week was a second attempt at the Oat Fudge Bar.
Its constituents varied not vastly from the first, with the following adjustments made in the oat layer:
I had contemplated intensely about the egg, and whether it should be added whole or purely in white. Ultimately, I settled for the former, as troubleshooting is an iterative process. The batter was instantly thicker and tackier than before, resulting in a rather stiff mixture for spreading.
- Incorporation of one whole egg, in hopes of greater structural integrity
- Swapping of oil-butter mixture for melted butter
- Swapping of whole wheat and all-purpose flour blend to entirely all-purpose
- Addition of nutmeg
I had contemplated intensely about the egg, and whether it should be added whole or purely in white. Ultimately, I settled for the former, as troubleshooting is an iterative process. The batter was instantly thicker and tackier than before, resulting in a rather stiff mixture for spreading.
Once again, the brownie batter was poured on top, then more of the oat mixture was crumbled atop. Using the same parchment-lined loaf pan, Version 2 was subjected to 30 minutes of heat at 400 F.
It emerged golden at its surface with an unset, chocolatey centre. After letting cool completely, ten small squares were derived.
No longer was the resulting product friable and reeking of grease. That said, it was also no longer a "bar" by any general definition. The base layer was softer than its predecessor - spongy, cakey, and, frankly, too tall for classification as a bar. The satisfying crunch had disappeared, and with it the savoury touch contributed by coarse salt.
It emerged golden at its surface with an unset, chocolatey centre. After letting cool completely, ten small squares were derived.
No longer was the resulting product friable and reeking of grease. That said, it was also no longer a "bar" by any general definition. The base layer was softer than its predecessor - spongy, cakey, and, frankly, too tall for classification as a bar. The satisfying crunch had disappeared, and with it the savoury touch contributed by coarse salt.
Notwithstanding any of these remarks, the concoction was delicious. I'd gladly consume more, then return to the drawing board. The next iteration shall likely see, at a minimum, a 50:50 whole wheat and all-purpose flour mix, omission of nutmeg (too reminiscent of banana bread), and a single egg white.
Grievances surrounding the province-wide gelidity were perceived through various mediums, some comedic and others purely petulant in nature. The topic had barely surfaced throughout the work week, for my project team had been pummelled with sharp criticism from the client. Feedback had been harsh, but not illogical. It prompted stuttering, grouchy dispositions, and frustrations unleased unprofessionally onto their subordinates and support team - groups I unfortunately have memberships with.
Larry is a phenomenal companion during these times, offering not only coziness but a cheery smile and endless capacity for stories.
Meals of the week comprised of the standard multi-grain rice and frozen kale, supplemented with Beef Brisket Noodles from W̶o̶n̶t̶o̶n̶ ̶C̶h̶a̶i̶ Wonton Express.
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Pairings of recently acquired beer was also not uncommon.
Side Launch's Coffee Lager was disappointingly mediocre, evoking neither essences of vanilla nor coffee. On the other hand, Cameron's Wheat was interestingly fruity for an unfiltered brew, adopting a refreshing twist to the typically too-"bready" style.
Side Launch's Coffee Lager was disappointingly mediocre, evoking neither essences of vanilla nor coffee. On the other hand, Cameron's Wheat was interestingly fruity for an unfiltered brew, adopting a refreshing twist to the typically too-"bready" style.
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I had squealed with excitement - as much as one can while masked, in public, and in the presence of significantly older patrons - at spotting a raspberry rendition of my French favourite. Without hesitation, I swooped in for a six-pack of the 1664 Blanc Fruits Rouges. It was sampled that very evening.
Hue indicative of richly flavoured, berry-infused concoction, my anticipations were massive. But, as I had recalled too late, the higher the expectation, the greater the disappointment. Albeit the distinctly sweet aromas of berries filling the air, the difference in profile was subtle. Overly bubbly it was not, though neither was it potent. It could easily be depicted as a watered down variation of Ribena and Perrier, constructed by an amateur barista who hadn't yet familiarized oneself with ratio and proportion.
Hue indicative of richly flavoured, berry-infused concoction, my anticipations were massive. But, as I had recalled too late, the higher the expectation, the greater the disappointment. Albeit the distinctly sweet aromas of berries filling the air, the difference in profile was subtle. Overly bubbly it was not, though neither was it potent. It could easily be depicted as a watered down variation of Ribena and Perrier, constructed by an amateur barista who hadn't yet familiarized oneself with ratio and proportion.
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An observation I'd like to bring to light is the influx of purple tones in this year's fashion palette. I couldn't help but notice the vast range of violets adorning the Promotions folder in my inbox; from rich and royal to pretty periwinkle, the trend is unmistakable.
But when was I ever a Pantone devotee? Black is worn year-round with zero apologies.
But when was I ever a Pantone devotee? Black is worn year-round with zero apologies.
This past week also marked several comebacks, and enthralling ones at that. January 17th saw the lighthearted compilation of ASTRO's second subunit, Jinjin and Rocky. Peppy, comedic, and utterly ahjussi-esque, it was less to my liking than Bad Idea, but admittedly a concept suited towards ASTRO's main composers.
On my radar for the past few weeks was BamBam's second solo EP, "B", titled with Slow Mo and prefaced by Who Are You.
Set design and attire are once again fantasical and vibrant, yet the aura exceeded by Slow Mo offers great contrast to riBBon's upbeat tempo. A slow melody showcasing structured beats establishes a soothing tone and sense of cohesiveness with the album's other tracks, including the dark, contemporary Who Are You collaboration with Red Velvet's Seulgi.
Many have professed preference for his earlier album, though I stand ground that B is a more mature sound. It's the album I'd like most during early periods of the morning (think: brewing coffee in preparation for the upcoming work day) or at the conclusion of a strenous course of events to decompress. Most memorable for me is undeniably Let Me Let Love You. From an ahgase's perspective, it is the best form of consolation - a medium by which both gratitude and comfort can be transmitted, regardless of the recipient's position in time and space. As much as it serves to reassure, the track induces empowerment, strength to continue with confident strides forward.
With whimsy and multifaceted capabilities, BamBam has once again established himself as the most versatile of artists globally.
On my radar for the past few weeks was BamBam's second solo EP, "B", titled with Slow Mo and prefaced by Who Are You.
Set design and attire are once again fantasical and vibrant, yet the aura exceeded by Slow Mo offers great contrast to riBBon's upbeat tempo. A slow melody showcasing structured beats establishes a soothing tone and sense of cohesiveness with the album's other tracks, including the dark, contemporary Who Are You collaboration with Red Velvet's Seulgi.
Many have professed preference for his earlier album, though I stand ground that B is a more mature sound. It's the album I'd like most during early periods of the morning (think: brewing coffee in preparation for the upcoming work day) or at the conclusion of a strenous course of events to decompress. Most memorable for me is undeniably Let Me Let Love You. From an ahgase's perspective, it is the best form of consolation - a medium by which both gratitude and comfort can be transmitted, regardless of the recipient's position in time and space. As much as it serves to reassure, the track induces empowerment, strength to continue with confident strides forward.
With whimsy and multifaceted capabilities, BamBam has once again established himself as the most versatile of artists globally.
VICTON's Chronograph was another release I had been waiting for. Since What I Said, the group has been pursuing solo activities, with Sejun, Subin, and Byungchan making frequent appearances in the drama and webdrama world. Despite the excitement, I had a few reservations as well. Styling for the group is sometimes questionable, with excessive makeup and failure to highlight individual member's strengths. Chronograph has since exceeded my predictions and eased such woes.
The song is centred about time travel and incorporates just the right amount of charisma and neo-street influence. It is neither too dark nor too vivid, with an addictive chorus and comparatively complex choreography. With Seungwoo's absence, I found Sejun assigned to handle majority of the vocals alongside Seungsik. He has always fascinated me with his presence, but this comeback only furthered my appreciation and affection.
Grounds for differentiation from VICTON's previous releases extends beyond the alternate arrangement of vocal parts and into more group-oriented formations - a style demonstrated flawlessly by GOT7 countless times. Chronograph, in particular, gives subtle reminders of Look and Last Piece, prompting nostalgia and delight.
I shall declare Chronograph as my first choreography challenge upon ankle recovery!
The song is centred about time travel and incorporates just the right amount of charisma and neo-street influence. It is neither too dark nor too vivid, with an addictive chorus and comparatively complex choreography. With Seungwoo's absence, I found Sejun assigned to handle majority of the vocals alongside Seungsik. He has always fascinated me with his presence, but this comeback only furthered my appreciation and affection.
Grounds for differentiation from VICTON's previous releases extends beyond the alternate arrangement of vocal parts and into more group-oriented formations - a style demonstrated flawlessly by GOT7 countless times. Chronograph, in particular, gives subtle reminders of Look and Last Piece, prompting nostalgia and delight.
I shall declare Chronograph as my first choreography challenge upon ankle recovery!
Finally, on January 21st, is Mark's third solo track, My Life.
Frankly, I hadn't expected liking Last Breath as much as I did. I also didn't expect to enjoy My Life even more. The enunciation is precise and clear, and the lyrics truly hit home. Despite the chaos that swells on the daily, we ought be reflective for the actions executed. As much as it is important to be considerate, My Life reminds us that we should ultimately be living for ourselves, that no decision should be made without consideration of oneself and his or her happiness.
Frankly, I hadn't expected liking Last Breath as much as I did. I also didn't expect to enjoy My Life even more. The enunciation is precise and clear, and the lyrics truly hit home. Despite the chaos that swells on the daily, we ought be reflective for the actions executed. As much as it is important to be considerate, My Life reminds us that we should ultimately be living for ourselves, that no decision should be made without consideration of oneself and his or her happiness.
On the note of ankle and injuries, I opted to include a visit to M Cha Bar's Markham location after a mid-morning physio appointment.
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The third outpost to be tried, I can now confidently declare superiority of the original Vaughan bubble tea spot. While noticeably better than the Scarborough shop, the Roasted Oolong Milk Tea with Coffee Jelly was far too creamy. It led to issues in digestion, succeeded by unwarranted stomach discomfort. The Lemon Yakult, though, was a good combination of tartness and milkiness - ideal for appeasing embers from garlic- and gochukaru-laced sustenance.
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Lunch had assumed form of Bossam and Kalguku from Jin Myungdong. The portion had been intended for one, though easily fed two with a complimentary assortment of banchan, kimchi, and steamed white rice.
I found contentment in pairing the savoury kimchi with plump grains of starchy white rice, and again in the tender slices of bossam. For consumption could occur only within a vehicle - we are amidst lockdown restrictions after all - the "messier" items were left untouched. This included the condiments for bossam and kalguksu broth, which had been doubly sealed in a plastic bag fitted within a styrofoam container. The noodles, while springy, were coated in a peppery sheen. Later exploration of meal would unveil a bland, watery broth and stiff sticks of raw cucumber and carrot. Service amicability, or lack thereof, remained consistent with the tip-inclusive, dine-in adventure.
I found contentment in pairing the savoury kimchi with plump grains of starchy white rice, and again in the tender slices of bossam. For consumption could occur only within a vehicle - we are amidst lockdown restrictions after all - the "messier" items were left untouched. This included the condiments for bossam and kalguksu broth, which had been doubly sealed in a plastic bag fitted within a styrofoam container. The noodles, while springy, were coated in a peppery sheen. Later exploration of meal would unveil a bland, watery broth and stiff sticks of raw cucumber and carrot. Service amicability, or lack thereof, remained consistent with the tip-inclusive, dine-in adventure.
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We attempted other errands in the vicinity, being forced to rethink our route when washrooms were observed closed and certain entrances blocked to control retail capacity.
Weekend errands commenced around lunchtime.
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First came Home Depot, followed by a late lunch of McDonald's in the horribly congested parking lot of Parkway Mall.
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Up next was an unplanned but very necessary trip to McCall's, where I was informed of the warehouse's new rules prohibiting consumer purchases. The lady was kind enough to allow a one-time purchase of Surfin, however warned that pick-up orders would constitute the sole form of exchange going forward for independent, non-business-affiliated bakers.
The week has resulted in spurts of hot and cold gusts within my room, contributing to restless, nightmare-filled nights and, consequently, sleep deprivation.
Icy beverages are surely a rarity in the winter. But I am Canadian. Frappés are not off-limits simply because we've landed in subzero climate conditions
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