The pansit guisado (Chinese-style Filipino noodles) is a very customary birthday grub for Filipino families. Our superstitious grandparents believe it symbolizes (and spawns) good health and long life. It is usually paired with a deep-fried dish, like lumpiang shanghai (Filipino ground pork spring rolls) or, even more popular with kids, fried chicken.
Tonight, I served this very simple yet very comforting birthday meal to celebrate the Second Year Anniversary of my Smoking Cessation. I am turning 31 this year and I have smoked for 17 years. That's more than half of my life! Two years, I believe, is a remarkable achievement in itself.
Happy 2nd Rebirth-day, Lungs!
