Wen-Chia Tsai Parker

Teacher, Author, Illustrator, Designer and Architect

Author Archives: wenchia


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Fresh Homemade Apple Jam from my tree ;-)

I picked a bunch of tree ripe red apples from my garden tree.  So many of them were bruised by the wind or lightly chewed by squirrels so I decided the best way to save them was to make fresh apple jam.  The recipe is very easy, just clean and chop apples, add fresh squeezed lemon juiceI and organic sugar to taste.  I used only the juice of one lemon since my tree gives me such large juicy lemons, and about 2 tablespoons of brown organic sugarcane sugar.  Bring to a gentle boil for about 10-12 minutes mix well and store in a glass jar/ air tight container in the fridge.  Enjoy! Don’t forget to compost your apple peels and cores 😉

Apple trees can thrive in Los Angeles when the right varieties are chosen and properly planted. Because LA has a mild, Mediterranean climate with short winters, success depends on selecting low-chill varieties such as Anna, Dorsett Golden, Fuji, Gala, and Ein Shemer, which require fewer hours of cold temperatures to produce fruit. Planting is best done in early spring or late fall, choosing a sunny spot with well-draining, loamy soil, and ensuring the tree receives 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. While apple trees are somewhat drought-tolerant, they do need regular irrigation and benefit from cross-pollination with compatible varieties planted nearby. In Los Angeles, both dwarf and semi-dwarf apple trees are popular for home gardens due to their manageable size and productivity. With proper care and variety selection, LA gardeners can enjoy crisp, homegrown apples even in the city’s warm climate.


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Beans and Tamatillos in my Summer Garden

Come, check out some of my favorite summer planting: beans harvested in my garden, as well as delicious tomatillos, also known as gooseberries. Benefits of Eating Broad Beans Broad beans are a nutritional powerhouse. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegetarians and those looking to add more protein to their diet. A single cup of cooked broad beans contains around 13 grams of protein and 9 grams of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer. These beans are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, and vitamins B and C. Incorporating broad beans into your meals can benefit bone health, brain function, and the immune system, while their high fiber content may help lower cholesterol and support heart health. Additionally, broad beans contain antioxidants and plant compounds that may help protect against certain diseases. For example, they are a natural source of levodopa and their antioxidants may play a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Benefits of Eating Tomatillo Tomatillos, often called Mexican husk tomatoes, are low in calories but high in dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, niacin, potassium, and manganese. The presence of antioxidant phytochemicals, such as withanolides, gives tomatillos anti-cancer and antibacterial properties. Including tomatillos in your diet can help boost immunity, support heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, improve vision, and aid in weight management due to their high fiber and low fat content. Tomatillos are also known for their ability to support healthy digestion and provide energy, thanks to their niacin content. Their vitamin C content helps in the production of white blood cells, strengthening the body’s natural defenses against disease. Origins of Broad Beans and Tomatillo Broad Beans Broad beans (Vicia faba) have a rich history as one of the earliest cultivated legumes. Archaeological evidence suggests they were domesticated in the Mediterranean and Near East regions around 10,000 years ago, making them a staple in ancient agricultural societies. Despite their long history, the wild ancestor of the broad bean remains a mystery, as no truly wild populations have been found. It is believed that broad beans may have originated directly in cultivation, possibly from a now-extinct wild relative in the Levant or Mediterranean basin. In the home garden, broad beans are valued for their early harvest and ease of cultivation. They can be sown in early spring and grow well in most temperate climates, thriving in well-drained soil and sunny locations. Their upright growth habit makes them suitable for small spaces, raised beds, or even large containers, and they enrich the soil with nitrogen, benefiting other plants grown nearby. Tomatillo Tomatillos (Physalis philadelphica) are native to Central America and were first domesticated by the Aztecs in central Mexico around 800 BCE. Archaeological finds in the Tehuacán Valley of Mexico show evidence of tomatillo consumption as early as 900 BCE, and the plant was a staple for both the Mayans and Aztecs. Tomatillos are closely related to cape gooseberries and are known for their distinctive papery husks. In the home garden, tomatillos are easy to grow but require space, as the plants can become quite large and sprawling. They thrive in full sun with well-drained, rich soil. Tomatillos are productive and resilient, making them a rewarding addition to gardens. Growing both broad beans and tomatillos in your home garden not only provides you with fresh, nutritious produce but also connects you to a rich agricultural heritage stretching back thousands of years. These plants are both accessible for gardeners and offer a wealth of health benefits when included in your diet.


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Anniversary getaway to Huntington Beach Hilton Waterfront Resort

Happy pre-anniversary! We decided to do a getaway to the Hilton Hotel in Huntington Beach aka the Waterfront Beach Resort for 2 days! We drove down from Los Angeles along the PCH, Pacific Coast Highway and enjoyed two days of fun in the sun! We explored the beach area, the pier and main street of Huntington Beach! We had a great time and best of all we used our Hilton Honor points so it was definitely budget friendly. We had a beautiful ocean front view of the Pacific Ocean and enjoyed the California sunset. We also had a some great cali fresh meals! This little getaway mid week was such a treat! Huntington Beach, California, known as “Surf City USA,” is a vibrant seaside city in Orange County celebrated for its long stretch of sandy beaches, mild climate, and world-renowned surfing conditions. The city boasts approximately 10 miles of uninterrupted coastline along the Pacific Ocean, drawing millions of visitors annually to its iconic Huntington Beach Pier, lively downtown, and numerous recreational amenities. Huntington Beach is also noted for its strong beach culture. With a population of nearly 200,000, it offers residents and visitors a mix of outdoor activities, excellent weather, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle, making it a central hub for Southern California tourism and surf culture. #california #beach #calilove #ocean #vacation #budgettravel Feel free to follow us as we continue to post our adventures and fun together. My you tube channel at @wenchiat


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Picking Summer Fruits Apples & Peaches

Apple and peach trees have rich and ancient histories, originating thousands of years ago in Asia. Apples are believed to have first been domesticated in the mountains of Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan, while peaches trace their roots to China, where they were cultivated as early as 2000 BCE. Over centuries, both fruits spread westward along trade routes and became staples in orchards across Europe and the Americas. In Southern California, the warm days and cool nights create ideal conditions for many low-chill varieties of apples and peaches to thrive. Planting these trees not only provides delicious, homegrown fruit but also supports local biodiversity, encourages sustainable gardening, and enhances backyard landscapes with their beautiful blossoms and seasonal harvests.

While it might seem natural to grow apple and peach trees from the seeds inside their fruit, doing so rarely produces the same quality or type of fruit as the parent tree. This is because both apples and peaches are genetically diverse and do not grow true to seed—the resulting trees often bear fruit that is very different in taste, texture, or quality. Instead, Home growers rely on grafting, a horticultural technique that joins a branch or bud from a desired fruit variety onto a hardy rootstock. This ensures the new tree will produce consistent, reliable fruit identical to the original cultivar. Grafting also allows for better disease resistance, improved growth, and earlier fruit production, making it the preferred method for propagating apple and peach trees.

Apples and peaches are incredibly versatile fruits with a wide range of culinary and practical uses. Apples can be enjoyed fresh, juiced, or cooked into pies, crisps, and sauces, and their firm texture makes them ideal for baking and preserving. They’re also commonly dried for snacks or fermented into cider and vinegar. Peaches, with their juicy sweetness, are perfect for eating fresh off the tree, blending into smoothies, or baking into cobblers and tarts. They can also be canned, made into jam, or grilled for a savory-sweet twist. Beyond the kitchen, both fruits are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them nutritious staples in a healthy diet.


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Soothing Chamomile, harvesting flowers & buds for homemade herbal tea

I love a soothing cup of chamomile tea before I go to bed or in the late afternoon. Even better is when you grow your own chamomile you know that it’s organic and it’s so easy to harvest and smells absolutely amazing. Here’s a little informational guide on how to make your own chamomile tea and the benefits of it. Chamomile flower, derived from the Asteraceae family, is widely used to make chamomile tea, a popular herbal infusion known for its calming and health-promoting properties. Chamomile tea contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, which act as antioxidants, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Drinking chamomile tea may offer several benefits, including improving sleep quality due to its mild sedative effects, aiding digestion by soothing stomach discomfort and reducing symptoms like acid reflux and bloating, and supporting heart health by potentially lowering the risk of heart disease. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects, which can help reduce menstrual discomfort and promote relaxation. Additionally, chamomile may boost the immune system and provide some protection against certain cancers. However, people with allergies to pollen should be cautious, as chamomile may trigger allergic reactions. Overall, chamomile tea is a gentle, natural remedy that has been used since ancient times to support wellness and relaxation. #Composting, #GardenCompost, #DIYComposting, #CompostTips, #WormComposting, #Vermicomposting, #LazyComposting, #CompostBin, #OrganicGardening, #GardeningForBeginners, #HotComposting, #SustainableGardening, #EcoFriendlyGardening, #HomeGardening, #UrbanGardening, #SoilHealth #PlantNutrition, #GardenHacks, #FallGardening, #ZeroWaste, #MomLife, #GardeningWithKids, #FamilyGardening, #KidsInTheGarden, #GardeningMoms, #SustainableLiving, #EcoFriendly, #ZeroWasteLiving, #GreenParenting, #NatureLovers #rooftopgarden #guava #herbs #fruitbearingplant #fruittrees #fruitrees #greenparenting #ecofriendly #gardeningtips, #rooftopplants #reducecarbonfootprint, #rooftopplants, #ZeroWaste, #MomLife, #GardeningWithKids, #FamilyGardening, #KidsInTheGarden, #GardeningMoms, #SustainableLiving, #EcoFriendly, #ZeroWasteLiving, #GreenParenting, #NatureLovers

Check out more videos on my youtube channel @wenchiat


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Planting Basil in my Garden

I’m planting some beautiful fresh Thai basil in my garden from stems that I purchased from a farmers market. These beautiful stems are easy to root to propagate to make new plants to grow into full basil plants that can be harvested and use in all sorts of delicious food. In this video, I show how easy it is to plant basil into pots and in directly into the soil in my garden. Thai basil, scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora, is a staple herb in Southeast Asian cuisines. It is easily recognizable by its striking purple stems, small and narrow bright green leaves with serrated edges, and clusters of pink-purple flowers that bloom in late summer. Cousins to the sweet basil; Thai basil has a robust, spicy-sweet flavor profile with pronounced notes of anise and licorice, making it highly prized for its ability to withstand high cooking temperatures and infuse dishes with bold, aromatic complexity. Commonly used in dishes such as Thai curries, Vietnamese phở, and stir-fries, Thai basil is valued for both its culinary versatility and its nutritional benefits, including high levels of vitamins A and K. Its sturdy leaves and stems are all edible, and the plant is often grown as an annual in temperate climates, thriving in warm, sunny conditions. This plant is very easy to grow in the warm temperatures of SoCal as long as it gets enough water. Enjoy the fragrant and beauty of Thai Basil in your garden and home cooking! #Composting, #GardenCompost, #DIYComposting, #CompostTips, #WormComposting, #Vermicomposting, #LazyComposting, #CompostBin, #OrganicGardening, #GardeningForBeginners, #HotComposting, #SustainableGardening, #EcoFriendlyGardening, #HomeGardening, #UrbanGardening, #SoilHealth #PlantNutrition, #GardenHacks, #FallGardening, #ZeroWaste, #MomLife, #GardeningWithKids, #FamilyGardening, #KidsInTheGarden, #GardeningMoms, #SustainableLiving, #EcoFriendly, #ZeroWasteLiving, #GreenParenting, #NatureLovers #rooftopgarden #guava #herbs #fruitbearingplant #fruittrees #fruitrees #greenparenting #ecofriendly #gardeningtips, #rooftopplants #reducecarbonfootprint, #rooftopplants, #ZeroWaste, #MomLife, #GardeningWithKids, #FamilyGardening, #KidsInTheGarden, #GardeningMoms, #SustainableLiving, #EcoFriendly, #ZeroWasteLiving, #GreenParenting, #NatureLovers #basil #greenlove #herbs #cookingwithlove #plants


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Making Taiwanese Pickled Cabbage Easy & Yummy & inexpensive healthy side dish DIY ;-)

Making super yummy tasty pickled cabbage side dish from NY Times cooking recipe: Especially extra tasty using the Taiwanese variety of cabbage!

https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1026314-yamitsuki-addictive-cabbage

Health Benefits of Eating Pickled Cabbage Nutrient-Rich and Low-Calorie Pickled cabbage is packed with essential nutrients. It is rich in vitamin C (even more than fresh cabbage), B-complex vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, and folic acid It is very low in calories (about 20 calories per 100 grams), making it a great addition to weight management diets. Probiotics and Gut Health Cabbage is a natural source of probiotics—beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora. These probiotics aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and can help prevent or reduce digestive issues like diarrhea and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. Immune System Support The combination of probiotics, vitamin C, and iron in pickled cabbage helps strengthen the immune system. Probiotics support gut health, which is closely linked to immune function, while vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant. Regular consumption may reduce the risk of infections such as the common cold and urinary tract infections. Potential Cancer Protection Cabbage contains antioxidants and plant compounds that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon, liver, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. The fermentation process can create additional compounds that suppress the growth of precancerous cells. Studies have shown a significant reduction in breast cancer risk among women who regularly consume pickled cabbage. Heart Health The fiber and probiotics in pickled cabbage may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, contributing to better heart health. It is also a rare plant source of vitamin K2, which may help prevent calcium deposits in arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease. Digestive and Detoxification Benefits The lactic acid produced during fermentation cleanses the digestive tract of harmful bacteria, aiding in detoxification. Both insoluble and soluble fibers in cabbage support regular bowel movements and provide fuel for beneficial gut bacteria.


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Monstera Deliciosa in my home & garden

I love my Monstera plants, and I love the entire pothos plant family! Just a small branch, leaf cutting can be propagated to grow into a beautiful lush new plant to enjoy for years to come! Monstera plants thrive both indoors and outdoors in Southern California, thanks to the region’s mild climate and USDA hardiness zone 10+ conditions. Indoors, monstera prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept away from intense, direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 85°F, with moderate to high humidity-conditions that can be maintained by misting the leaves or using a humidifier. Well-draining, organic-rich soil is essential, and watering should occur when the top inch of soil feels dry, avoiding both overwatering and drought stress. Outdoors, monstera can be grown year-round in Southern California, provided it is placed in dappled sunlight or partial shade, such as under a tree canopy or on a covered patio, to mimic its native rainforest environment and prevent sunburn. While monstera can tolerate brief dips to around 50°F, it is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors or protected during rare cold snaps. Whether grown inside or out, providing a climbing structure like a moss pole or trellis encourages healthy, upright growth and larger leaves. With these care practices, monstera can flourish as a striking tropical accent in Southern California homes and gardens.

Propagating Monstera plants is widely regarded as easy and beginner-friendly, making it a popular choice for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts. The most common and straightforward methods include water propagation, soil propagation, and air layering. Water propagation is particularly favored for its simplicity and the ability to observe root development directly: simply take a cutting with at least one node, place it in a jar of water with the node submerged, and keep it in bright, indirect light-roots typically start to form within a few weeks. Soil propagation is similarly easy: plant a node-bearing cutting in moist, well-draining soil, keep it warm and well-lit, and roots will develop in a few weeks as well. Air layering is another effective method, especially for larger plants, as it allows roots to form on the stem while still attached to the parent plant before being separated and potted.  Monstera propagation is so rewarding and highly successful allowing you to expand your collection and share new baby plants with friends and family!  Aloha and I’m happy to share the joy of monsters from my home to yours! DM me if you would like a cutting to propagate yourself! kidscancompost.com


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Making Avocado toast with local ingredients!

I love making this for a quick and healthy breakfast! When I add fresh local ingredients and rustic country bread its even better! Add what ever fresh herbs you have in season from your garden making the best Avocado toast to a nutrient-dense meal that offers a variety of health benefits; The combination of whole grain bread and avocado provides a rich source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol and support cardiovascular health. Avocados are also packed with dietary fiber, aiding digestion and helping you feel fuller for longer, which may assist with weight management. Additionally, avocado toast delivers a spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals-including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and B vitamins-along with antioxidants that support immune function and overall wellness. Compared to traditional toast toppings like butter or jam, avocado offers a lower-carb, more satiating option without added sugars, making it a smart choice for sustained energy throughout the day.


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1st time in Cancun at Westin Lagunamar Resort

We stayed for a week at the Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa, Cancun for a week during Spring Break 2025.  We love the location and the view of the Caribbean ocean!  

The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa, Cancun is an upscale beachfront resort located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The property features 580 modern villas, each equipped with a fully furnished kitchen or kitchenette, washer and dryer, and a private balcony with ocean views, making it ideal for families and longer stays. Guests enjoy direct access to a white-sand beach, multiple infinity-edge pools with waterslides, a kids’ club, mini-golf, tennis courts, and a well-equipped fitness center. On-site dining includes several restaurants and bars, along with a market and outdoor grills for self-catering. Unlike many Cancun hotels, it is not all-inclusive, allowing guests more flexibility in dining and activities. The resort is eco-certified and caters to both families and couples seeking a relaxing, amenity-rich getaway close to La Isla Shopping Mall.

We used our Marriott Vacation club points for the week stay and it was a great value.  We enjoyed the spacious room and cooked a few simple meals in our room, like scrambled eggs and ramen noodles and sandwiches.  The bed was very comfortable and the staff was friendly and helpful.  The downside was that room service was not included since we were not there for a full week, you have to book 7 nights to have a room tidy.  There is a washer and dryer in the unit so it was easy to do a load or two for our towels and clothes.  The food and drinks at the resort was pretty good and prices were about 20 to 30% less than what we usually pay in LA and Hawaii.  Also they gave us a discount card that we used at a few restaurants within walking distance in the area.  Also it was a short walk to a supermarket and xoxo convenience store that had great prices on fruit, snacks and beer.  Most exciting was how cheap the eggs were! Only about 30 pesos which is about $1.50.  The beach was a beautiful long stretch of white sand and clear crystal blue water, so it was easy to swim and relax and go for beach walks! We would love to go back to Cancun again and explore the neighboring towns!