I remember.

This past weekend i enjoyed spending time with my Aunt Sina Uiese. I haven't seen my Aunt Sina in about 10 years. Since my Grandma Pue's funeral to be exact. My family and i enjoyed and laughed as we recalled the memories with our loved ones.

I remember. 

All the recipes my uncle tried to teach me over the years. At one point i did know how to make pagipopo magically; however, time and distance has taken its toll on my baking skills. 

I remember.

My Dad was good at making masi samoa with the recipe passed down from Uncle Uiese. I remember those days we'd spend making large quantities of those bad boys. Everyone had a role in our baking warehouse. Brad and my dad were the master bakers slaving away at making the dough, my brother Elvin was the baker who was responsible over the oven aspect of it all. I was simply the tester and the cleaner upper. Those were the days.

I remember.

My Grandma would spend endless hours in the kitchen to feed the multitudes who craved her cooking. This was not limited to just family either but friends and neighbors alike. 

I remember.

I had a journal with the recipes I collected from my Uncle and Grandma. I do regret not taking better care of that journal, especially now that they have passed on. 

I remember.

This past weekend my Aunt Sina reminded me that we shouldn't leave this world and take our talents but we ought to share them. Which is the gift my Uncle and Grandma shared often and proudly. Thank you for the talent Aunty Sina, I am proud to say i tried your two recipes after you left. I am proud that i got to try it. I am sorry i messed up my puligi by leaving out an ingredient which my husband reminded me about. 

I'll never forget. I will perfect my baking skills! I am determined.