About Me
- Claire Bear
- i have always been fascinated with the moon and the stars... usually a clown yet really deep... i am responsible but i break rules sometimes... a cry baby yet unbreakable... all I ever dreamed of is to see an apple tree, play hockey, own an island and go on a cruise... lastly, I'm a bagaholic, a reader and a movie buff.
Sharing True Love's Kiss at White Island, Camiguin
Links
Friday, September 19, 2008
I have this friend from the States who kept on telling me to read this Best Seller book for some time now but I never got to buy the book. And then, in one episode of Oprah, it was featured and of course the author himself was there, Mitch Albom. The book was made into a movie already and some parts of it were also shown in the show. It was that Oprah episode that pushed me to buy the book right away the next day. Luckily, the bookstore was on a one-month sale so I got it for a cheaper price.
I have always been a bookworm just like my mom. She has this wide collection of pocketbooks which she started collecting at Grade 5 and she has like hundreds of it, she actually had a pocketbook library in our old house. I can still remember when I was still in high school, we'd race reading her books and that's when I totally ruined my eyesight. Sigh.. When I got married, she gave all of her books to me, but unlike before, I haven't had the time to read any of them anymore.
Good thing that someone led me back to reading, my friend Reverie and Oprah. Reverie wanted me to read this book as I already lost my mom 3 years ago and according to her, this book is all about losing your mom and how you can give just about anything just to have one more day with her. I read and finished the book in 4 hours and I was glad I bought it. The story wasn't actually relatable to my relationship with my mom but it was moving and I would recommend it to those who haven't lost their moms yet so you could change whatever bad relationship you may have with her, before the time comes that you lose her forever.
The book inspired and taught me though on how to become a better and more loving mom to my child. I have realized as well that I have yet to experience more challenges in raising my kid that I should handle with much care so she may become a brilliant individual. One wrong move and it could damage her forever. Motherhood is such a beautiful thing but it is never easy. Nevertheless, nothing could ever defeat or weaken a mother's love. And that's what this book is all about.
"Never tell a child that something is hard...and never, NEVER, this child!"
- This is my favorite line in the book.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Che and I had lunch together again today. She wanted to buy cinnamon for Gian at Anniepie and since it's located in Ecoland, we decided to eat at the newly opened kabab resto which is also nearby, the Khash Persian Kabab. By the way, Khash Persian Kabab is the old kabab diner fronting Ateneo's Jacinto gate. They already transferred at Ecoland Drive at a bigger place, near the PhilHealth office. As usual, we ordered our favorite beef kabab with extra cheese of course. Lunch was great!After lunch, we passed by Annipie, which is just a tiny foodshop along Quimpo Boulevard, just beside Ecoland Terminal. It is my first time to be purchasing their cinnamon which, according to Che, in taste, can be equalled with the famous Cinnabon, much more cheaper though. Upon entry, you can already see this huge poster where all their uniquely flavored cinnamons are showcased. Just by looking at the pictures, you'd be left mouth-watering.
I ordered 1 niners box, 5 of the Caramel Crunch and 4 of the Choco Mocha. Each bun costs Php 27.00 so a niners box totals to Php 243.00. Their packaging is also nice. They would also give you a cup of syrup which you can drizzle on your cinnamon buns before pytting them in the microwave. You can definitely make a loved-one happy if you'd bring them some of these sinfully delicious buns which also smell really, really good.
In the office, I ate one and chose the Caramel Crunch. I gave the rest to my officemates. I drizzled lots of the syrup on top and put it in the microwave. The first bite confirmed how truly delicious it was. Super! The caramel wasn't too sweet, it was just right. And the bun was really soft, warning though, you shouldn't put it in the microwave for a long time cause it might turn hard. Maybe for just a minute or two and should be in really low heat.
My frist Anniepie Cinnamon experience was satisfying. Another favorite in the making.
Yesterday, Che dropped me a yahoo message and asked if I could accompany her for lunch as she was crying and had to go out their office to calm down. She fetched me from our office and decided where to dine. We spent quite some time to decide and then she remembered our favorite lunch date meal before, when we were still working together. Then, every payday, we'd treat ourselves to a descent meal and we always go to Blue Post Lanang and eat our very favorite Christopher Ribs.
Christopher Ribs is one of Blue Post's value but worth it meals. It's a very tender, grilled pork spare ribs with a very delicious BBQ sauce. It already has a big serving of rice and achara as side dish. A very delicious soup is also served with it as starter. All for only Php 100.00 only and it's very well plated, if I may add. The serving is more than enough to make anyone on a diet vomit after eating. As for me, whose diet is always forgotten, I always enjoy eating this meal without feeling any guilt after.
Aside from the yummy Christopher Ribs, I like so much as well the ambiance of the resto as it never is too crowded especially during lunch time and the dim lights makes it even more appealing to me. Can't wait for my next Christopher Ribs.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
I am just proud to be a Dabawenyo!
Last Monday, I watched The Beat at Q TV and they were featuring the most progressive and elite cities of the country but in that episode, they were only featuring those cities on their side of the country. They based their episode on the latest result of the Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking.
And according to the list, Davao was hailed the 3rd most progressive and elite city in the country. Bacolod grabbed the first spot while Makati is on the second. I just can't help but feel proud for Davao, feel proud for Dabawenyos.
Mabuhay and Davao!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Pia and I are just crazy with pizza especially when it's from Pizza Hut. Then, we always order the Meat Lovers pizza with sausage in the edge but now, our favorite is their newest Sausage Pop N' Dip. I just enjoy eat
ing the pops with the sausage in it and the garlic sprinkles makes it even more scrumptious because of the very appetizing smell. Plus, the cheese dip makes it even more enjoyable to eat. For the pizza flavor, we're now addicted to Bacon Cheeseburger cause it's both cheesy and meaty. Just how we love our pizza. Now, the best part is since Pia doesn't like the pops so much, she'd rather eat the pizza, I get to have more of the pops. ^_^ Aside from the pizza, Pia also love their mango smoothie and I love their super tender, spicy buffalo wings.
Anyway, Pizza Hut has always been pricey but every dining experience there is always worth our every buck. And may I just add that their service is really excellent.
Last Saturday night, after a trip to the grocery, Pia declared she's hungry already and that she wanted to eat her very favorite siomai. I thought any siomai will do so I held her hand and walked towards Chowking which was the nearest resto that time but she changed direction and kept on pulling me heading to Mandarin. I said to myself, "Oh okay, so Mandarin's siomai's her favorite." That I should take note.
Once a waitress attended to us, she immediately ordered 1 pork siomai and fried rice and surprisingly, she said she'd just have water. That's a first. She usually grabs the menu and just point to anything she thinks is delicious. That time, I didn't bother ask her why the change...buti na yon at nang makatipid. ^_^
I ordered Curry Shrimp with Vegetables Rice and Humba Rice for Dennis. I usually order Crispy Spring Rolls and Buko Salad but I wasn't that much hungry at the time so I passed on it. I also usually order their Avocado Shake which is another favorite of mine but ordered Four Seasons instead.
Mandarin Tea Garden has always been one of our favorite dimsum-rice toppings resto. Their food is so tasty, fastly served, hot from the kitchen and cooked right where you could see their chefs do it. Another plus for Mandarin is their super hot sauce. We just love it! No Mandarin dining be complete without their hot sauce.
True to just what I described, our orders came within just minutes, so we digged in right away. Pia was obviously enjoying her siomai and we were enjoying our orders as well. Another plus plus for Mandarin by the way is that their prices are quite cheap. For that dinner, we just paid a total of Php 266.00. Very tasty food for a very low price and that's all it takes to keep us coming back.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Sometimes, kids just say things unexpected from them and I've had a taste of these from my little girl, Sophia. She just utter words which are inappropriate for what she is trying to say and it just makes me laugh listening to her.
There was this one time when I was cooking and she was busily playing with her dolls in our living room. I caught her watching me, observing me in a way, but I didn't mind her that time. And then she told me:
Pia: Mommy, sabi ni Teacher Fretzy, children should help in the household chores daw.
Me: Okay, tomorrow, you wash our clothes ha. (kidding her)
Pia: Okay, I'll help ate.
Me: No, you wash them all by yourself. Di ba sabi mo sabi ni Teacher Fretzy, you should help.
Pia: Oo nga, ang sabi nya, HELP!
There was this one time also when I got home from work. She usually meets me at the door and give me a big kiss and hug. But that night, it was different, she excitedly opened the door for me and said, "Hello Stepmother!"
Last Sunday, we were at Maa and she thought we were going to pass by GAP since she's familiar with the road already (something about her which I find amazing, she's really good with directions.) I assumed she was really hoping we'd pass it by cause after some waiting, she asked me "Mommy, bakit di pa natin nakita yong carabao na may tattoo?" (Kasi di ba ang carabao sa GAP may nakatatak na GAP sa bandang puwet? She thought it was a tattoo.)
Lastly, late night conversations with Pia are always the best. We'd talk just about anything. She'd ask me what my dreams are, I'd ask her what's hers. I talk to her like an adult and I always enjoy every conversation we have. One night, she was thinking really deep, and I asked her what's wrong and she just said, "Mommy, pwede bang palitan na natin bukas ang name ko? Pwede bang iba na naman? Pwede Cinderella?"
These are just some of her funny lines. Innocent, senseless but sometimes, it also makes me think and say "oo nga naman."
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Last night, on our way home, we passed by this grilling station along Vinzon St. in Obrero. It was the first time we saw it open since it only opens at 11 AM and we usually pass it by early mornings. And since we didn't know what food our helper prepared for dinner, we decided to try and buy some at the station. 
It is just a small restaurant amidst houses and warehouses in a not so busy street of Obrero. However, when we went inside, there were actual diners having a peaceful meal and Tsinoys were also coming in. So I guess many know about this place. As we were checking their menu, I got a glimpse of their billboard which said that their house specialty is Honey Glazed Chicken and for only Php 150.00. And according to waiter Mory, whom I know from Rabio, the serving could feed a group of 3 already. So that's what we decided to ord
er and added 2 orders of longanisa for Pia as she likes chorizos.
er and added 2 orders of longanisa for Pia as she likes chorizos. While they were grilling our orders, and they were grilling it fresh by the way which is a plus, I noticed that they have these lineup of pastries as well. Some cookies of all sorts were packed in 5s all worth Php 60.00 each. In their fridge were these beautifyfully-baked mini cupcakes of different sorts also. They had choco marble, banana muffins, huge macaroons, and more. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to memorize all their names. I didn't buy and try one though but this Tsinoy girl ordered a whole lot and while it was being boxed, she was picking one of each kind and ate them and she was obviously enjoying each bite so I guess they were delicious.
Grilling time didn't take much time as well, in less that 20 minutes, our orders were already neatly packed in foil with atsara as side dish to it. Now, after tasting the food, what I liked best about their spare ribs was that it was tender enough so you won't need to bite to the bone just so you could eat more of its meat. You can simply just your hands to release it from the ribs. It was also grilled just right, not overly done, not rare, just how I like it. But I would also have to say that the taste was not quite what I expected because it wasn't that "sarap to the bones" thing at all. But I guess, people have different preferences when it comes to their "inihaws."
Anyway, the station opens from 11AM and only until 9PM. It's located Vinzon St. and nearing Dacudao Avenue. For reservations or orders, call them at #224-0388.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
I was watching Without a Trace last night on C/S at RPN when one commercial caught my attention. I thought it was some testimony about a product but it was actually a feature on one of the great talents discovered in the show Britain's Got Talent. This man is a mobile phone seller and at first, I say this without any offense intended, I really thought that he was a"special child."
I really didn't have an idea what the ad was about so I was on my move to switch the channel, but on the next scene, he was already placing himself on the stage so I took a moment to see what he was about to do. The jurors, with Simon Powell in it, were asking first with some questions. Paul said he was going to sing the Opera, which is a difficult song I presumed, since one of the judges gave a questioning smile. And then Simon gave him a go to start.
The song's intro was a bit long and he was just standing in front without any movement at all, I really thought he was about to faint due to nervousness. And then he sang.....
I had goosebumps all over me!!! Apparently, the Opera is a song for tenors and he sung it with so much brilliance. I was tearing up while listening to him, I just can't stop myself. It was really touching, even the audience were crying. One of the jurors also cried. His performance was unforgettable...unexpected. While listening to him, I can't help but stop breathing every time a high note is being hit, wondering if he'd nail it. And he nailed all of it. Until now, I'm still not over the feeling he brought on me last night. Imagine, he was just a phone seller and now, he's already touring the world for concerts.
Have a taste of his performance by clicking on the link below:
Friday, September 5, 2008
This morning, right after logging in my yahoo messenger, Paula was excitingly telling me to click the link of her YM status which directed me to a blog about a Davao-made Indie film titled "The Thank You Girls." She said she saw the trailer that morning and it was hilarious and most importantly, 80% of the film was taken in Davao. I read the blog ang checked out the trailer and indeed, it'll be one heck of a laught trip and I just can't wait to watch the entire film.
The Thank You Girls, is a homosexuality-themed film, written and directed by Charliebebs Gohetia, that tells about gay beauty contestant veterans from Davao City who got tired of losing beauty competitions there. These queens of the backstage decide to travel to Cagayan de Oro City in hopes of conquering the grandest competition of beauty, personality and brains in the province. They are so confident that they will conquer the competition as they are city dwellers and that gays in the province will never stand a chance against them. Are they correct in assuming such or will they go home in tears?
The movie uses Bisaya/Cebuano as its primary language combined with variations of gay lingo but there are subtitles, of course. It also introduces very catchy and witty lines, in English and in local swardspeak. Take these lines as an example:
"Question: Another question for you Ms. Adora Gracia. For you, define darkness.
Answer: Well, that is a very enlightening question indeed. And if I were to define darkness, it’s sitting right beside me."
"If God knows, God knows!"
"Ako and babaeng bawal hawakan dahil baka di mo na kayang bitawan. Ako ang babaeng inosente sa tingin pero hayop ang dating."
This one's my personal favorite:
"I may never be a real woman, I may never be a real sister, I may never be a real mother but who knows, I may be your long lost father."
The Thank You Girls is Produced by Brooklyn Park Pictures in cooperation with Bicycle Picutres and Alchemy of Vision and Lights. For those who do not know, Alchemy of Vision and Lights is a Davao-based film and television production company who has done a lot of contribution already in promoting Davao through films. More and more of these works will boost even more Davao's economy and tourism.
According to sources, The Thank You Girls will have its premiere here in Davao on Monday, September 8 and the regular showing will be on Wednesday, September 10. For a teaser, just click on the link below.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x64mfi_the-thank-you-girls-teaser_shortfilms
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Now tell me if you agree with me....Don't they just look alike?
I could just bet that if I'm going to send this to a celeberity look-alike photo contest, I'd simply win. I can still remember when Lyra and I are still working together, I always tell her that whenever I see Megan Young on TV, she reminds me of her. And I'm pretty sure she likes it everytime I say that. ^_^ Anyway, tonight as I was checking out Lyra's avatar on yahoo, I searched for a picture of Megan as well, paste them together and thus this post. I simply wanted to share to my readers my thoughts on both ladies.
By the way, I created a poll "Do Megan and Lyra Look Alike?" for this post so do not forget to vote before you leave my site. ^_^ Cheers!!!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
In less than a year, too many babies were born whom I adore so much. Born from my friends and siblings, these cuddly babies are really close to my heart, like they are my own. Good thing since I have decided I won't be having one of my own anymore, at least they're here to satisfy my fancy on caring for babies as I really miss doing so. This is a parade of my loved and adored newborn babies.
This is Sean Nathan Borja, turning 1 year old this November. He is my officemate's (Ben) first born son who often visits our office so I always get the chance to cuddle him. He recently went to our house cause according to his parents, he likes airplanes, and since we live nearby the airport runway, it was his chance to see a moving airplane real close. But the moment he arrived at our place, he drifted to sleep so when the first airplane took off, he missed his chance. No other planes flew after that. Next time I guess, baby Sean. You are always welcome to come to our house, no worries, you'll always have our laundry basket to play with.
This is Janus Clark Guarino, my best friend Irene's first born son. Born last January 3, 2008 and I was his first visitor. Of course, I drove to Tagum just to see him. The last time I saw him though was during his baptism last February and now he's all grown up. Just knowing that he's growing healthy and obviously, a happy baby, is what's important to me though. 
This is Isabel Nichole Rochefort, my sister's second born and first baby girl. I haven't seen her ever since she was born last April as she lives in New York but seeing her pictures is more than enough. I just love my nieces and nephew. I just can't wait to see you baby Isabel. I simply adore her big eyes. Love you, love you.
This is Jessica Nichole Calcena, my good friend Ate Doris' first born baby girl (ambot lang pud kaha kon modungag pa sya isa). Born last June, she's turning to be a very healthy, chubby 3 month old. We had lunch today and according to her mom, it was a wonder that she's awake because she usually sleeps during daytime. While we were enjoying our lunch, she was enjoying her moment at the couch as well. I can't get enough of her dimple. 
This is Joaquin Hendrik Sebastian, another best friend's first born. He was born at Mount Alvernia, Singapore last June 20 and according to his dad, he will be a future rakista. Never got to see him as well but in due time, I will. Such a cutie baby with his really charming smile. 
Finally, my bro's second born, Cindy, who was just born 2 weeks ago. And since they live in Isulan so I still didn't have the chance to see and cuddle her. But then again, she'll grow up fast and then we could have our "lablab" moments already. I can't wait to see you baby Cindy. 
I had lunch with Ate Doris today at Kangaroo Coffee Company located at Tionko Avenue fronting Sunburst Chic
ken. She was inviting me for how many times already to try this cafe since it's one of the newest here in Davao. Today was our chance, good thing she didn't have work because of USA's Labor Day.
Anyway, we headed straight to the cafe after she fetched me from the office. Luckily, it wasn't at all that crowdy and so we didn't have a hard time looking for a parking spot. The place ain't that big but my first impression was it was really clean but not scenty though. Since it was a self-service cafe (I never really liked self-service restos), we searched for something interesting to order in their wall menu. Now, my second impression would be, it's too pricey! Very expensive, really.
Anyway, I ordered Baked Penne, a creamy red sauced penne pasta with lots of c
heese at Php 140.00 and a 
slice of New York Cheese Cake at Pho 135. I had four seasons juice to go with it. All in all, my orders amounted to a total of Php 333. I enjoyed my pasta cause it was really creamy, but I did not even finish 1/4 of my New York Cheese Cake. It was fluffy, airy and not so good-tasting. Oh well, I guess I'll have to try their other pastries if there's anything I'd like.
By the way, if you're interested to taste one of the most expensive coffee in the world, you might as well try their Kape Balos which is their Civet coffee (Kopi Luwak), the type coming from Alamid's poops. But then again, it's worth Php 300 a cup (eh kaya nga most expensive.)
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