Category: Articles

Minimizing Estate Taxes

Hawai‘i’s estate tax exclusion remains at $5,490,000 per person, with tax rates as high as 20%. While this may seem like a high threshold, many Hawai‘i residents can exceed it quickly—especially when factoring in the value of a primary residence, inherited assets, life insurance proceeds, retirement accounts and investment portfolios.

Minimizing exposure to Hawai‘i’s estate tax should be a key part of your estate planning strategy. One of the most effective yet often over-looked tools is estate tax portability. This allows a surviving spouse to use the unused portion of the deceased spouse’s estate tax exclusion—potentially doubling the exclusion to $10,980,000. However, portability is not automatic. You must file a timely Hawai‘i estate tax return after the first spouse passes away, even if no tax is due at that time. Unfortunately, many families miss this opportunity because their advisors whether attorneys or CPAs—are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with the process and simply don’t file the return.

Failing to claim portability can result in a significant and unnecessary estate tax burden when the surviving spouse dies.

If you or your spouse have a combined estate nearing or exceeding Hawai‘i’s exclusion amount, now is the time to plan ahead and take full advantage of the available estate tax strategies.

YIM & YEMPUKU, LLLC–Estate Planning Attorneys
2054 S. Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96826
808-524-0251 | yimandyempukulaw.com

Hawai‘i’s estate tax exclusion remains at $5,490,000 per person, with tax rates as high as 20%. While this may seem like a high threshold, many Hawai‘i residents can exceed it quickly—especially when factoring in the value of a primary residence, inherited assets, life insurance proceeds, retirement accounts and investment portfolios. Minimizing exposure to Hawai‘i’s estate…
Is Travel on Your Retirement Agenda?

One of the great benefits of retirement is having the freedom to pursue new interests and hobbies at your leisure. For many, travel is at the top of their retirement bucket list. The key question is how to make sure your retirement savings can keep up with your travel ambitions. The following considerations can help you determine your answer:

Make travel a part of your retirement budget. Without the funds to pursue travel, you likely won’t get too far. As you plan for your living expenses, include travel as a line item in your retirement budget. Identify a portion of your monthly income to cover travel expenses before you hit the road.

Consider travel timing. Most retirees plan their biggest travel excursions in the early years of retirement, when health challenges may be fewer and stamina is greater. Therefore, your travel budget may represent a larger portion of your overall expenses in the first years of retirement. If this aligns with your travel vision, factor it into your retirement budgeting strategy.

Determine your travel style. To come up with a reasonable cost estimate, identify the types of traveling you would like to do. Are you more interested in short trips to nearby locations, mostly traveling by car? Do you plan to explore the country in an RV? Are you looking to visit foreign destinations on a regular basis? Your travel goals will tell you a lot about how much you are likely to spend, which should be reflected in your retirement plan.

Find ways to cut costs. It’s easy to face “sticker shock” when you travel. Expenses like food (usually eating out), lodging and transportation can add up quickly. If you plan to stay in one place for an extended period, look into renting a home or apartment rather than “hotel-ing” it. Try to eat like the locals by buying food at grocery stores and markets. Take the time to look for flight deals or make your automobile travel routes as efficient as possible. One of the perks of being retired is that you may have more flexibility than working people to lock in deals by traveling off-season or at other unpopular times.

Don’t overlook insurance needs. Travel insurance may be appropriate if you get sick or lose luggage on a trip. Medicare is not accepted outside the US, and even within the US, you want to be sure your health insurance has you covered in the states you’re visiting.

Look for discounts and rewards. Costs for some activities are reduced for seniors. Although discounts may be modest, every dollar counts. Check to see what discounted options are available through AAA, AARP or others. Pursue smart credit card strategies that help you earn rewards: free travel or cash back on purchases. If travel is in your plans when you leave the workforce, it’s key to go beyond dreaming and do some significant preparation. Use the time you have now to set specific goals and build savings that will help make your dreams a reality

MICHAEL W. K. YEE, CFP,® CFS,® CLTC, CRPC®
1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. 1100, Honolulu, HI 96814
808-952-1240 | michael.w.yee@ampf.com
ameripriseadvisors.com/michael.w.yee

Michael W. K. Yee, CFP®, CFS®, CLTC®, CRPCTM, is a Private Wealth Advisor/Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Honolulu, Hawaii. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 41 years. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP certification mark (with plaque design) in the U.S. Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.

©2026 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

One of the great benefits of retirement is having the freedom to pursue new interests and hobbies at your leisure. For many, travel is at the top of their retirement bucket list. The key question is how to make sure your retirement savings can keep up with your travel ambitions. The following considerations can help…
How to Avoid Caregiver’s Guilt

“Something bad will happen if I am not there.” It’s the familiar fear of caregivers everywhere. Caregivers often live under the constant pressure that their presence alone keeps disaster from striking. This deeply human belief can trap us in emotional chains and lead to exhaustion.

Many caregivers feel indispensable. “No one else helps. I’m the only one who really cares.” That conviction brings both pride and pain. It can create burnout and isolation. While some caregivers may be more attentive than others, awareness is not the same as control.

Professionals—nurses, aides and physicians—are taught an essential truth: Even with the best care, decline still happens. Family caregivers must learn the same lesson. Old age is fatal. Our role is not to save lives, but to make lives as safe, comfortable and anxiety-free as possible.

Accepting this truth eases guilt. The work, the stress and even the emotional strain remains, but perspective allows us to let go of the belief that everything depends on us.

Understanding ‘Guilt’

Real guilt results from knowingly doing harm. Most caregivers don’t do that. What we often feel is anxiety, sadness or regret , not guilt. Worrying about what happens when we take a break makes us human, not guilty. Unless you wear a cape, you cannot prevent every fall, illness or misstep.

Of course, there are times when guilt is appropriate—if we lose control, ignore a need or fail to act. But even then, guilt should lead to change: Seek help; share the load; adjust your caregiving plan. For most, guilt is misplaced and undeserved.

The Power of Respite

The cure for caregiver fatigue and misplaced guilt is respite—planned time away from caregiving. National caregiving organizations recognize it as essential to caregiver health. While paid respite care can be expensive, options exist, including professional in-home aides, short-term nursing home stays, trained volunteers, or trusted friends and family.

Tech tools such as lotsahelpinghands.com can help coordinate schedules and share responsibilities among your caregiving “team.” Even small breaks restore balance and perspective.

You cannot pour from an empty cup. Think of the man holding a bucket of water but dying of thirst because he’s afraid to set it down and take a drink. Don’t let misplaced guilt stop you from caring for yourself. Taking care of yourself is part of caring for your loved one.

Recognize what you can control, prepare for what you cannot and give yourself permission to rest. When you care for yourself, you return stronger, more patient and better able to continue giving care—with hope and without guilt.

THE CAREGIVER FOUNDATION (nonprofit)
926 3rd St., Pearl City, HI 96782
808-625-3782 | info@thecaregiverfoundation.org
thecaregiverfoundation.org

“Something bad will happen if I am not there.” It’s the familiar fear of caregivers everywhere. Caregivers often live under the constant pressure that their presence alone keeps disaster from striking. This deeply human belief can trap us in emotional chains and lead to exhaustion. Many caregivers feel indispensable. “No one else helps. I’m the…
Namaste Care for Dementia Patients

Namaste Care is a sensory-focused program for people with dementia living in a care home. It’s especially helpful for those in the later stages of dementia who may not be able to join in traditional activities due to a loss of abilities.

Facilities with a dedicated space that includes elements like mood lighting, fish tanks, lava lamps, essential oil diffusers and relaxing music have anecdotally been found helpful in creating a sense of calm and reducing agitation. Namaste Care guests may also receive a hand or foot massage, hydration and a snack.

The attention given to the sensory experience of the guest is what allows this modality to be accessible, even in later stages of dementia. Though more research is needed, many case studies have shown a reduction in anxiety after dementia patients attend a Namaste Care session. Sometimes the relaxation and calm may last well beyond their time in the Namaste Care room. As care home residents are often at risk for isolation, the Namaste Care program provides them an opportunity to experience a soothing touch and physical connection while engaging them in a meaningful activity.

MANOA COTTAGE KAIMUKI
748 Olokele Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816
808-800-4089 | info@manoacottage.com
manoacottage.com
Namaste Care guide online: tinyurl.com/CareGuideDownload

Namaste Care is a sensory-focused program for people with dementia living in a care home. It’s especially helpful for those in the later stages of dementia who may not be able to join in traditional activities due to a loss of abilities. Facilities with a dedicated space that includes elements like mood lighting, fish tanks,…
Caring is Sharing in a Group Setting

Maria no longer felt doubtful after her warm welcome at the pau hana gathering. Her dad recently moved into a care home, but she and her siblings had second thoughts about the move when he pleaded to go home. She spoke softly then smiled after other attendees shared their own stories. By the end of the hour together, Maria’s eyes sparkled with relief. She wasn’t alone after all. Relaxed, regular talk-story gatherings with caregiving team members are like a warm blanket for families who receive empathy, guidance and friendship to help cope with aging decisions, burnout or strained family relationships. These types of group meetings provide an opportunity for families to learn from each other so no one feels lost or alone when making life decisions.

Caregiving professionals can also offer support and valuable information. Storytelling and reflection can unify gathering attendees and remind us all to honor each other as energizers who lead their families’ rites of passage. Whether or not you are able to regularly attend structured meetings with your inner circle, we encourage you to follow through on your bucket lists for your own rest and relief, and share your stories with trusted people you can rely on for support.

CARING MANOA
Type II Expanded Adult Residential Care Home
2383 Beckwith St., Honolulu, HI 96822
808-850-5999 | info@caringmanoa.com
caringmanoa.com

Maria no longer felt doubtful after her warm welcome at the pau hana gathering. Her dad recently moved into a care home, but she and her siblings had second thoughts about the move when he pleaded to go home. She spoke softly then smiled after other attendees shared their own stories. By the end of…
Ask the Doctor: Physical Activity

In this ongoing column, Kaiser Permanente doctors will answer commonly asked questions.

When a new year rolls around, it always feels like a fresh start. So it’s the perfect opportunity to turn that positive energy into simple, healthy habits that keep you strong, steady and feeling good.

What are the best exercises for strength without overdoing it?

When we talk about “strength,” we mean staying strong and steady for everyday life—from getting up from a chair to playing with the grandkids. The best exercises are functional movements that help you stay strong and help ensure your independence.

The good news? You don’t need a gym or fancy equipment. Try simple moves such as chair squats, wall push-ups or standing leg lifts. Resistance bands work your muscles without putting pressure on your joints.

Living in Hawai‘i, there are plenty of fun ways to stay active. Dance hula to keep your core strong and your posture proud. Go for a walk at the beach or around the park with friends. Join a tai chi class or try water aerobics at your local pool.

Aim for two days a week of light strength training—using small weights (2 lbs. or less), resistance bands or wall push-ups—and mix in walking, jogging or swimming for heart health. Move a little every day and you’ll soon feel stronger and more balanced. Even a five-minute walk before or after meals makes a difference.

How do I know if I’m pushing too hard — or not enough?

Finding your balance with exercise is like paddling a canoe: Find your rhythm. Don’t sprint the whole way. The easiest way to check your effort is the talk test. If you can talk story with a friend while you’re walking, but can’t quite sing along with the radio, you’re in the sweet spot. If you’re gasping and can’t talk, it’s time to ease up. Pay attention to what your body’s telling you.

Feeling lightheaded, dizzy or having chest pain are red flags to stop and rest—or check in with your doctor. Even soreness that lasts for more than a couple of days is your body’s way of asking for a break. Take a day of rest and come back the next day when you’re feeling better. If you’re sore, try ice, topical creams or patches first—or acetaminophen. Check with your doctor before taking other types of pain relievers.

Think of exercise as a friendly conversation with your body. The goal is to find that steady rhythm.

The Bottom Line

New year health goals don’t mean reinventing your life—it’s about finding small, joyful ways to move more. Everyday activities can give you a solid workout. Sweeping the lānai and even cooking a big family meal keep your body moving. Go as slowly as you need to prevent falls and don’t lift objects heavier than you can handle.

Get your family and friends involved and it becomes an even healthier way to connect with others. When you share these moments with the people you love, you’re not only keeping your body active, you’re also strengthening those meaningful connections for the new year and all the years to come.

DR. SERENA LO, a Honolulu native, combines her love of science and helping others through medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Hawai‘i, John A. Burns School of Medicine and completed her residency in internal medicine at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle. Board certified in geriatric and internal medicine, Dr. Lo values teamwork and compassionate care—and enjoys mentoring students interested in becoming physicians. Kaiser Permanente will cover kidney health/diabetes in the next issue. If you have a medical question for the doctor, email: cynthia@generations808.com.

In this ongoing column, Kaiser Permanente doctors will answer commonly asked questions. When a new year rolls around, it always feels like a fresh start. So it’s the perfect opportunity to turn that positive energy into simple, healthy habits that keep you strong, steady and feeling good. What are the best exercises for strength without…
Maintain Balance in the New Year

As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on balance, building strength, stability and confidence through movement. For seniors, fitness isn’t just about exercise, it’s about maintaining independence, living fully and preventing falls. Nearly every senior worries about falling, and for good reason. Falls are a leading cause of injury, so maintaining good balance is important for older adults.

Test Your Balance

A quick self-test can highlight where you stand: Try balancing on one leg for 10 seconds. If it feels difficult, it may be time to add balance training into your routine. Simple activities, such as marching in place with knees lifted high, performing gentle step taps to the side (shift your weight onto one leg and tap the floor lightly with the other before returning it next to your planted foot) or standing on one leg while brushing your teeth can improve coordination, posture and core strength over time.

Build Up Your Strength

Brisk walking is great for the heart, but equally important is strength training to build muscle tone and bone density. Chair squats are a great practical exercise that strengthen the legs, hips and core while improving everyday functions like getting out of bed or on and off the toilet.

The Fear Factor

Fear of falling itself is a risk factor, often leading seniors to shorten their stride or avoid activities altogether. Over time, this restrictive behavior reduces both mobility and confidence. Instead of holding back, it’s important to keep challenging yourself safely with balance and strength activities designed to make you feel grounded and secure.

Consistency is Key

Consistency matters more than intensity. By weaving these exercises into daily routines, seniors can stay active, confident and independent in the year ahead.

GYMGUYZ Urban Honolulu
Home Personal Training & Mobile Fitness
808-638-2525
gymguyzurbanhonolulu@gymguyz.com
gymguyz.com

As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on balance, building strength, stability and confidence through movement. For seniors, fitness isn’t just about exercise, it’s about maintaining independence, living fully and preventing falls. Nearly every senior worries about falling, and for good reason. Falls are a leading cause of injury, so…
Guard Your Vision Against Glaucoma

Our eyesight is one of the most important ways we experience life, yet it’s easy to take it for granted. From noticing subtle changes in the sky over Mauna Kea to reading the expressions of your mo‘opuna, vision keeps us connected to the people and places we love. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, serving as a reminder to protect this vital sense.

According to information from Hawai‘i Pacific Health (HPH), glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually damage the optic nerve, affecting the pathway that carries visual information from the eyes to the brain. Glaucoma often develops silently. While elevated eye pressure is a common factor, glaucoma can occur even when pressure is within normal ranges. Left untreated, it slowly diminishes vision, often beginning with peripheral sight—the aspect of vision that helps us move safely through our surroundings. Glaucoma can cause vision loss long before any symptoms appear, making routine exams crucial for early detection.

An estimated 2% of adults over 40 in Hawai‘i have glaucoma and the risk grows with age, HPH says. Kūpuna with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of the disease should remain especially vigilant by scheduling regular eye exams.

Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, develops gradually and often shows no early warning signs. Peripheral vision may begin to fade before more noticeable changes occur. Many patients are unaware of glaucoma until measurable vision loss has already taken place, underscoring the importance of consistent screening.

Some forms, such as acute angle-closure glaucoma, can appear suddenly, HPH says. Eye pressure rises quickly and immediate medical attention is critical. Symptoms may include severe eye pain, redness or irritation, blurred vision or halos around lights and headaches or nausea. Angle-closure glaucoma is considered a medical emergency, as rapid pressure increases can damage the optic nerve within hours.

Local clinics advise that preventing glaucoma begins with regular, comprehensive eye exams. During these visits, doctors measure intraocular pressure, examine the optic nerve and test peripheral vision to detect early signs before significant vision loss occurs.

Adults over 60 are generally advised to schedule exams every one to two years, with more frequent visits for those at higher risk.

While there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and proper treatment can slow or even stop its progression. Options may include prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure, laser procedures to improve fluid drainage or surgery for advanced cases. Maintaining overall health also supports eye health—managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, staying active and avoiding smoking all contribute to preserving vision and independence.

Our eyesight is one of the most important ways we experience life, yet it’s easy to take it for granted. From noticing subtle changes in the sky over Mauna Kea to reading the expressions of your mo‘opuna, vision keeps us connected to the people and places we love. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, serving as…
Start the New Year With a Smile

The beginning of a new year is a great time to focus on your health. What better place to start than your smile? Many people don’t realize how closely oral health is connected to overall well-being, especially as we get older. Gum inflammation has been linked to serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s.

Oral health can also affect how we feel about ourselves. Many kūpuna report smiling less with their teeth because of dental issues, which can lead to lower self-esteem and even social withdrawal. The good news is that it’s never too late to start taking small steps that can make a big difference.

Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes and flossing once daily helps prevent gum disease. Regular dental checkups, ideally twice a year, allow problems to be caught and mitigated early. This proactive approach prevents issues from escalating into major crises.

Eating a healthy, low-sugar diet also supports strong teeth. If brushing isn’t possible, rinse with water after meals to help prevent cavities. And don’t forget to share a list of your medications with your dentist, since some may affect your oral health.

Support your smile and overall health!

HAWAII DENTAL SERVICE
Dr. Vinh Tran, DDS, Dental Director
808-529-9213
vinh.tran@hawaiidentalservice.com
HawaiiDentalService.com

The beginning of a new year is a great time to focus on your health. What better place to start than your smile? Many people don’t realize how closely oral health is connected to overall well-being, especially as we get older. Gum inflammation has been linked to serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and…
Meeting a Growing Need: Palliative Care

As Hawai‘i’s population ages rapidly, the need for compassionate, coordinated care for kūpuna living with serious illness is growing. Palliative care offers a vital solution providing relief from symptoms, emotional support and guidance for individuals and families navigating complex health challenges.

Unlike hospice care, which is reserved for end of-life support, palliative care can begin at diagnosis and continue alongside curative treatment. Its goal is to improve comfort, reduce stress and help patients maintain independence and dignity throughout their care journey.

Palliative care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team—nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers and care specialists—who address physical, emotional, spiritual and cultural needs.

It empowers patients to make informed decisions and focus on what matters most: spending time with loved ones and preserving the traditions that give life meaning.

With kūpuna expected to make up a quarter of Hawai‘i’s population by 2035, early access to palliative care is becoming essential. Palliative care enhances quality of life, supports caregivers and reduces unnecessary hospital visits. Families are encouraged to learn about palliative care options early, as more seniors choose to age in place.

NAVIAN HAWAIʻI
Jody Shiroma, Chief Growth Officer
808-302-4144 | jshiroma@navianhawaii.org
NavianHawaii.org

As Hawai‘i’s population ages rapidly, the need for compassionate, coordinated care for kūpuna living with serious illness is growing. Palliative care offers a vital solution providing relief from symptoms, emotional support and guidance for individuals and families navigating complex health challenges. Unlike hospice care, which is reserved for end of-life support, palliative care can begin…
Kaua‘i Libraries Offer Fun for Everyone!

Exciting, free events are happening at Hanapēpē and Līhu‘e Public Libraries on Kaua‘i! The public library is the place to be for all ages, keiki to kūpuna, say Līhu‘e Branch Manager Kristen Hillman and Branch Librarian Mindy Gipson.

Līhu‘e Public Library strives to offer programs that support the needs of library users of all ages. First Thursday Memory Catchers meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 4pm. The monthly meeting of the Kaua‘i Live Poets Society happens on the first Monday at 4:30pm. The Mom’s Support Group convenes every first Wednesday at 5:30pm. And the Early Literacy Center is for our youngest patrons.

The Coloring Cafe offers a low-key atmosphere where adults can create and converse. The Friends of Līhu‘e Library provides self-serve coffee. “Usually thought of as a children’s activity, coloring has recently been recognized for its potential mental and physical health benefits, especially for adults facing stress, anxiety and dementia,” says Kristen.

Hanapēpē Public Library, a community hub in Kaua‘i’s West Side, offers many free, fun activities for keiki, such as the Mokihana Berry Read-Aloud Club and Tunes, Tales and Twirls Keiki Storytime. Its adult events are also impressive, and above all, fun!

Hanapēpē Public Library Branch
Librarian Mindy Gipson poses with new library
locations signage in Olelo Hawai‘i
and English. Hanapēpē Public Library
celebrated its 75th anniversary with a 1950s-style
swing dance last February.

“We had a remarkable turnout for our monthly Game and Puzzle Night on the last Thursday of the month,” says Mindy. “Families and individuals are returning to connect with others in the community to play chess, bridge, work puzzles and create with Legos.”

A growing number of enthusiasts join together from 2 to 4pm for 4-Player Games: bridge on Tuesdays and mahjong on Wednesdays. The library has created the space for young adults and kūpuna alike to enjoy these brain-healthy games that provide a stimulating mental challenge. Game & Puzzle Nights are held the last Thursdays of the month from 5 to 7pm.

“We are very grateful to the Friends of the Hanapēpē Public Library who fund the purchase of card tables and other furnishings, plus literacy developmental toys, storytime props and musical instruments to support our children’s programs,” says Mindy. “They also fund refreshments for many of our special events. The friends meet weekly in our meeting room creating oshibana (pressed flower) cards and other crafts to fund- raise for the library.”

Learn more about Hawai‘i library events at tinyurl.com/HIPublicLibraryEventsCalendar.

HAWAI‘I STATE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Līhu‘e Public Library
4344 Hardy St., Lihue, HI 96766
808-241-3222 | kristen.hillman@librarieshawaii.org
librarieshawaii.org
Events Calendar:
tinyurl.com/HIPublicLibraryEventsCalendar

Exciting, free events are happening at Hanapēpē and Līhu‘e Public Libraries on Kaua‘i! The public library is the place to be for all ages, keiki to kūpuna, say Līhu‘e Branch Manager Kristen Hillman and Branch Librarian Mindy Gipson. Līhu‘e Public Library strives to offer programs that support the needs of library users of all ages.…
Papa’s Sapasui

When we were looking for a family dish to pair with our Samoan culture theme, the first person I thought of was one of my best friends, Fina Nepo. We’ve been friends for over 25 years and her family always has great food at their get-togethers. She is sharing one of their favorite meals with all of us! This family favorite was always made by Fina’s father, Salei Nepo (Papa).

Sapasui is the popular Samoan adaptation of Chinese chop suey. Even the name “sapasui” is a Samoanized version of “chop suey.” This saucy dish is a staple at Samoan family gatherings and feasts. Fina and her family enjoyed many sapasuis at big and small gatherings. I made it myself and my own family enjoyed it with rice, but Fina said they usually pair it with fa‘al ifu fa‘i (green bananas cooked with coconut milk).

Enjoy this wonderful Nepo family favorite!

Ingredients:
1 lb. boneless chicken, beef chuck or 2 cans of palm corned beef
2 tbsp. vegetable oil (for frying garlic, onion and ginger)
1 large onion
2–3 cloves garlic
1–2 tbsp. ginger
1/2 cup shoyu (may need to add more for flavor and color)
1 cup water or beef/chicken stock (use stock for more flavor)
1 package vermicelli or glass noodles
salt and pepper to taste
1 medium cabbage

Preparation:
Cut the meat chicken or beef chuck into bite-sized pieces. No need to cut the corned beef.
Chop or mince garlic and ginger. Chop onion.
Prepare noodles by following the instructions on the package. After draining, cut the noodles into 3- to 4-inch pieces.

Cooking Instructions:
1) Preheat a wok or pot over medium heat, then
add the oil.
2) Add garlic, onion, ginger and meat.
3) When almost halfway cooked, add the shoyu
and cook for 10 more minutes.
4) Keep stirring until the meat is almost fully
cooked. If using corned beef, reduce cooking time
to 30 minutes.
5) Add water—or stock for richer flavor.
6) Add noodles. Stir well. Simmer for 10 minutes.
7) Add more shoyu to taste.
8) Add chopped cabbage.
9) Stir, mixing all ingredients thoroughly. Turn
the heat to low and cook for another 10 minutes,
stirring occasionally to prevent the ingredients
from sticking to the pan.
Serve on a large platter or in a big bowl. Enjoy!
Prep & cook time: 45–60 minutes
Serves: 6–8 servings

Recipe by SALEI NEPO

Do you have a favorite recipe and story to share? For consideration, include a photo and mail them to Generations Recipe, PO Box 4213, Honolulu, HI 96812, or email them to Cynthia@generations808.com.

When we were looking for a family dish to pair with our Samoan culture theme, the first person I thought of was one of my best friends, Fina Nepo. We’ve been friends for over 25 years and her family always has great food at their get-togethers. She is sharing one of their favorite meals with…