Monday, February 25, 2008

I am a RAT!


The Rat

Being born a Rat is nothing to be ashamed of. In China, the Rat is respected and considered a courageous, enterprising person. It is deemed an honor to be born in the Year of the Rat and it is considered a privilege to be associated with a Rat. Rats know exactly where to find solutions and can take care of themselves and others without problems. They use their instinctive sense of observation to help others in times of need and are among the most fit of all the Animal signs to survive most any situation.

Years of the Rat
First in the cycle, Rat Years begin the sequence and recur every twelfth year. The Chinese New Year does not fall on a specific date, so it is essential to check the calendar to find the exact date on which each Rat year actually begins.

The Sign of the Rat
Being born under this sign determines many talents, as well as other characteristics that may not be so commendable. Rats are very lively and need a lot of mental and physical stimulation. They can be calm and perceptive, but sometimes their brains can cause a mental restlessness, tempting them to take on too much, only to discover they are unable to meet their commitments. Rats are blessed with one of the best intellects going. Add to their intelligence a curiosity and a bright imagination, and they seem as sharp as a needle.

The sign of the Rat is the first sign in the cycle giving Rat people exude great leadership qualities and are good at taking the lead. They don't mind a lot of responsibility and they demonstrate a strong presence that other people respect. For those with the Rat nature, status and monetary satisfaction are the greatest motivation.

RAT FACTS:
People born in the Year of the Rat share certain characteristics. The Rat sign is an abbreviated way of characterizing that individual's personality. Following are features associated with the sign of the Rat. First in order, Chinese name-SHU, sign of charm
Hour-11pm-12:59am Month-December
Western Counterpart-Sagittarius

CHARACTERISTICS
Smart, Magnetic, Well-liked, Affable, Quick-witted, Surreptitious, Selfish, Protective, Calculating

THE WATER RAT 1912 AND 1972
Being guided by the Water element means these Rats have a knack for influencing people. With their strong intellectual powers and great insight, they are also great puzzle solvers. They are quick to understand others and are incredibly practical people. Rats apply their talents to their everyday lives, making them obliging, generous and compassionate to other people. Generally, they are liked and respected by everyone. Like all Rats, however, they can be determined to seek their own gain, and will not mind using these talents to achieve it - though generally without losing anyone's respect in doing so.

Health and home
RAT HEALTH
The affect of the sign of the Rat is energetic, and demonstrates enough endurance to fight most any sickness. Yet, all Rats tend to be tense, full of nervous energy, petulant and prone to stress. Rats also harbor a bit of aggression; yet, they are usually able to control it. Yoga would benefit Rats by calming their aggressive natures and helping them manage stress.

AT HOME WITH THE RAT

Rats make good homemakers who are always willing to do household chores. Rats are not usually interested in keeping up with the times, and it doesn't matter to them whether or not their furnishings are in style. What does matter is that their home is a refuge expressing warmth, comfort and vogue. Light blue is their color of choice for home decor. Because this is a sign of acquisition, the Rat person's house is presumably bursting with various knick-knacks collected over the years. Most Rats are cheerful, domesticated individuals who find happiness at home with their family.

Career and finance
THE RAT ON THE JOB
The Chinese say others should always listen to the advice of the Rat. Because of their intellect and observatory powers, Rat people possess prudence and perception. They can anticipate problems, and are always able to see the big picture. They can hone in on issues at hand and make measurable judgments. These skills, combined with their sense of aspiration also make them clever operators. Status, money, title, and recognition are important to the Rat. They have keen senses of observation that allow them to foresee upcoming business opportunities as well as potential occupational problems. The Rat makes a better boss than an employee and, although motivated, they can be pinned down by routines. Rats work better in flexible situations where they can be freely creative.

MONEY AND THE RAT
Cunning and thrifty, Rats have a knack with money and are apt to save for rainy days. When capable, the Rat is a great money saver, and in strapped times he knows how to make something out of nothing or how to turn make things advantageous for himself. Although few Rats suffer financially, the Chinese have a proverb: They who pile up grain hoards have much to lose.

RAT CAREERS
Those born in the Year of the Rat also share the same kinds of goals and objectives in life. The occupations best suited for the Rat are listed below:

RATS MAKE EXCELLENT:
Writers, Broadcasters, Actors, Advisors, Counselors, Lawyers, Politicians, Designers, Engineers, Managers, Directors, Administrators, Entrepreneurs, Musicians, Stand-up Comedians, Researchers, Historians, Race Car Drivers

CONGENIAL BUSINESS PARTNERS
Whether Rats are compatible with their business partners depends on whether their signs are harmonious or antagonistic to those of their partners. Considering the congruity of their own characters and the characters of their business colleagues can also be very useful.
Leisurely activities and pleasures
LIKES AND DISLIKES
Since Rats are born under the same Animal sign, they often share likes and dislikes. Following are similar likes and dislikes of the Rats personality:
Rats Like:
Color Preference: Light-Blue
Gems and Stones: Diamond, Amethyst, Garnet
Suitable Gifts: car accessories, art books, gym memberships, geographical maps
Hobbies and Pastimes: Interior design, playing basketball, crafts, painting
Rats' Dislike: Doing without things they want, strict time keeping, any routines, being at the end of the line

THE RAT VACATION
Travel delights the Rat personality and ignites his curiosity. Sunbathing is not the ideal way for a Rat to spend his vacation. Rats are adventurers. They want to explore, examine, visit and party during their time off. They want to try new foods, find new sights and experience the culture of the area they are visiting. And, of course, if they can come home with an exotic souvenir to add to their collection their vacation will have been an instant success.

FRIENDS AND ENEMIES
Generally friendly and sociable, the Rat is one of the extroverts of the Animal Zodiac. Often, the Rat is lively and genial, and has a special gift for easing the minds of others. It is not surprising that Rats have a lot of friends. They are great speakers and intriguing conversationalists, and can generally find something to say on just about any topic or subject. Of course, there is always that renowned Rat lure that allows them to charm the pants off of people! To the people they love, Rats can be amazingly charitable, popular and supportive, and will go out of their way to be certain their loved ones are content. On the other hand, if the Rat does not like someone, he is considered fair game and can be used to achieve any and all of the Rat's desires. At the end of the day, though, the Rat is a loyal friend and will be there for his companions through thick and thin.

Compatible Friends: Dragons and Monkeys
Mortal Enemy: Horses

Lovers and partners

Rats are beautiful people with magnetic personalities. The Rat himself can't help but notice the admiration he receives from others. If the Chinese say there are few poor Rats, there are an even fewer number who are not sexually stimulating- especially as young people. Rat people are romantic, and are always happier to have someone to share with.

RAT ENRAPTURE
One of the Rat's greatest assets is his charm. Rats can melt hearts with their smiles. Add that to their coquettish personalities and you can easily see how they conquer the hearts of others. And, since Rats love to go out, they have plenty of chances to meet potential suitors or future partners. An annoying quirk of some Rats is they have a difficult time severing ties with former lovers. Obviously, this can pose potential conflicts for the Rat and his new lover and can even endanger his ability to develop new relationships. When the Rat finally settles down with Mr. or Ms. Right, he will find a sincere satisfaction in the intimacy of the partnership.

A RAT'S PARTNER
Although Rats like to be in the driver's seat, they do need partners who can keep up with their active lifestyles. Chinese horoscopes are very specific about which partnerships have the potential to be successful in love and in business. Yet, though destiny can point us in the right direction, we must still make efforts to maintain loving relationships. Following is a brief description of how a Rat will affect a relationship with other Animal signs.

PARTNERS IN LOVE
Rat*Rat
This is a prosperous partnership, especially in a business atmosphere. These two are bound to compete!
Rat*Ox
Very sexually enticing, yet likely to fail at marriage.
Rat*Tiger
Potential for great companionship, but you will have some major disputes.
Rat*Rabbit
Rats think Rabbits are boring. Rabbits love to be out and about. You will only frustrate each other.
Rat*Dragon
A solid, caring partnership. You value each other and get along very well.
Rat*Snake
Work on your differences and you could learn something form each other.
Rat*Horse
Don't even think about it.
Rat*Sheep
If you both try hard and make great efforts, you will survive.
Rat*Monkey
You share similar goals and will make a great match.
Rat*Rooster
It's just not worth it, there are too many conflicts.
Rat*Dog
Rats think Dogs are tiresome, but you have the potential to be a good match for each other.
Rat*Pig
Uphill, downhill, uphill, you love each other intensely, but keep an eye on your checkbooks!

LEONINE RAT
The Leonine Rat is a mystical personality, dynamic and responsive. In addition to enthusiasm, high ethical standards and wise decision-making guarantee this Rat will be successful.

For the full details of your being a RAT, please click on:
http://www.usbridalguide.com/special/chinesehoroscopes/Rat.htm

John and Yoko is a No-no.

The only restaurant in GB5 that is always full. People waiting in line just to dine here and I am not sure why.

Mitzi and Mary Anne's birthday dinner was held here last week, same time as Jun Escario and Avatar opening and after a few hi's and hello's at the event, Janina and I headed off to John and Yoko for our bday gang. The waiters seem to know what they are doing, not taking down our orders. Impressive since we were 6 and the place was full but the orders of 2 girls came 10 minutes before the other 2 dishes arrived. So the food came in trickles and we all couldn't enjoy eating at the same time. The last 2 orders came after another 10 minutes which in my book was already a bad sign. There was also a forgotten order and when it arrived, it was the wrong one so Mitzi decided to cancel it. We couldn't wait to get out of there so we could have our dessert elsewhere.

Apart from the service, the food was nothing super special. Sure, it was reasonable but I still ended up wondering what the hype is all about. Not really seeing myself going back but I do hope that people who have tried it had better dining experience than us and for those who are going to try it out soon, may the force be with you.
Thank you for the great company, plenty of laughs and the photo opt Mitzi and Mary Anne!! Happy Birthday!

The gang, Dorothy Neri, Janina Hoschka, Mitzi de Guzman.

Mary Anne Tai, Carol Ip and yours truly.

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Revisiting Tagaytay Highlands.



The last time I was in Tagaytay Highlands was about...hmm....gosh...I can't seem to remember...

You know what? Let me start it this way...

It has been a long time since I was last in Tagaytay Highlands and since we have visitors from Germany and France, it seemed to be the perfect time to see the place the Dizon's were so often at when it was newly opened.

It is still quite nice. Maybe a little worn down..the wood are starting to rot a little and the library is smelling moldy but the garden is still beautiful and the pool very much inviting. They also renovated the restaurants on the Clubhouse which was really in need of one.

Although, somehow, it felt different. There were very few people enjoying the facilities. It used to be filled with life. Kids running around screaming with their yaya's following them. People in their best Sunday afternoon clothes laughing and telling their co-members how rich they are and teeners with their cameras and cellphones were also missing. It seemed lonely and if they don't do anything to invite members to spend their weekends here, I see the fall of this super high end, exclusive Club.

I say, if you are a member or know anyone that is, take the hour drive out of Manila and see the still breathtaking Tagaytay Highlands.















Tuesday, February 19, 2008

The Cafe Juanita Experience.

I know, I know....it has been forever since my last entry but I will try to make up for it by getting rid of all the backlog I have. It is tough when one does not have a computer but come Wednesday, I will be a mother of a new IMac...I opted for a desktop so that I can sleep better at night. Having had a laptop for more than 5 years, I think that I lost a whole year of zzz's put together.

Anyway, I had a very nice dinner with the Kauffman's, Syjuco's, Hoschka's and Salientes last week at Cafe Juanita in Mandaluyong City. As soon as we entered the restaurant, it felt like the land of the whiteys. They were all over the place. Hardly any Flippers or Chinese dining there which surprised me because it is a hole in a wall kinda cafe and it wasn't very easy to find either. It is a cafe/bar/restaurant/furniture place all in one. Very interesting chandeliers, decoration and collection of plates and silverware. It was full to the brim and our group of nine had to squeeze in a table for 6 while we waited for the people to vacate our territory. When we were given a table for 12, we were so far apart that we all decided that we want to test each other's deodorant and snuggle up in our table for 6. We didn't mind so much as it felt cozier and besides, it would be the perfect way for me to taste everyone's order without having to look like a beggar.

The place.











The gang, starting with your bloggerina and Philipp.

Paul and soon to be Daphne Syjuco with T. Hoschka.
Janina Hoschka, Mai and David Kauffman.

Because we were so close to each other, David couldn't help himself and threw a glass of red wine on Janina's black and white dress. He says it was an accident but I personally believe that it is all the pent up anger David feels for Janina's abusive treatment he has been receiving all these years. Go David Go!!!Michael Salientes who had all sorts of juicy chika to share that evening.
The Hoschka brothers, as predicted, ordered the same thing. Seabass.
Corned Beef with vegies.

Beef Rendang .
Binagoongang Pork Liempo.
3-way Adobo.
Grilled squid. Lastly, with all the wine throwing, gossip sharing and bill splitting, I forgot to get the details of Cafe Juanita. Will update this as soon as I get it.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

If You Haven't Tried it, You Are Missing Out.

Lunching at Martinis Bar, Mandarin Oriental was such a pleasant suprise last week for me and my sisters. To tell you honestly, I feel I need a break from Peninsula food because it is what I have almost every day of my life. But when I celebrated my birthday last July, Charisse Chuidian gave me a GC for Carvery Lunch at one of my favorite bars in Makati. It was only last week when I had the time to sneak away and use it with my sister, Janina and Lucille. The pleasant suprise was the fact that Charisse was able to join us. It was a change in pace and made my week go by a lot faster, after all, time flies when you are having fun. For that day, all our tummies were extremely happy.

Ok, seriously speaking, YOU MUST TRY IT OUT.

This was my favorite, duck that was so juicy and tender.
Salad prepared just the way you want it.

The side dishes that come with the main course.

Choice of Roast beef or Lamb. (YUM! Oh no, I can hear my tummy grumbling.)
And treated like a princesses, even if it was buffet style, our main course was prepared and sent to our table just the way we like it. And the desserts was just perfect in taste and presentation. Life is good.

Martinis Bar, Mandarin Oriental
Soup and Salad P480++
Whole course meal P650++
(632)7508888 local 2457, 2458