Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Book Review:Getting Control of Your Anger

Ok…I must admit I am a certified “self-help books” addict! And in addition to the series of my self-help quest, I finished reading another great book that I believe all of us could relate with since all of us experience this feeling on a daily basis. This book is so informative and self-awakening that I wanted to share a few excerpts from the book:
“ANGER is a natural reaction to a failure in homeostasis. An angry outburst usually makes it more difficult, not easier to find a solution. Anger often gives you less control over a situation. Ability to withhold anger is a sign of psychological strength not weakness.”
“Humans feel angry whenever we perceive a threat to our physical or psychological well-being. An advantage of anger is that it serves as a kind of psychological warning device. We express anger because we imitate the same behavior we see with our same sex parent (scream yell, passive aggressive anger). Don’t buy the principle that ANGER is something that accumulates and requires a release.” Anger does not go anywhere, no organ and any part of our bodies for storage. As long as you are no longer in contact with an anger provoking stimulus, anger does not exist. It would only be reactivated once you think about the event.”
“If angry count to 10, if very angry count to 100, go for a walk, take a bath, go to a movie-do whatever it takes to remove yourself from the anger provoking scenario so you won’t say something impulsive & furious that you may deeply regret later.”
“A crucial aspect of anger management is understanding when why and how you may have to take yourself out of the situation so you will have a chance to reflect on how best to respond and not simply react to anger provoking stimuli around you”
“Fair Fighting-entails keeping the focus on the issue, not the other persons short comings, not making generalizations “you always…” don’t bring up the old grudges, not engaging in name calling and not making accusations against the other party.”
I’d also like to share a few helpful steps from this amazing book:
DR ALLAN’S ANGER MANAGEMENT FORMULA
Don’t react in anger-respond instead
Don’t buy into the myth that you will explode if you don’t express your anger
Accept that anger management is not easy, it has it’s ups and downs
Breaking the family anger cycle begins with parents
Do not threaten separation or abandonment when you are angry

3 STEP PLAN 4 OPTIMAL ANGER MANAGEMENT
1. Identify “hook”- lures that triggers anger
TYPES OF HOOK
Injustice-actions that is unfair, immoral, and selfish
Incompetence- anything and anyone inept lazy, selfish to identify and recognize
2. Recognize the need-we get angry when a need is frustrated
Types of need:
Respect-when others do not try to understand us, fail to keep promises, make decision without our permission, and impose values on us
Territory-someone takes our belongings, make too many demands, too much intimacy, loud noise, encroaches personal space
3. Fill the need
STEPS to CONFLICT RESOLUTION
State your position
State opponent position
Present proposal
Make an agreement

And this is one excerpt that really striked me:
““I learned a lot from my parents but not necessarily what they intended to teach me. I will never resolve all my anger issues with my parents, some of my needs for respect and understanding will never be met. I focus on one important outcome; I recognize I have had the power and knowledge to do better with my own children.”
I’m looking forward to being able to perfect anger management skills but I know it would take time and a lot of practice. That in the future, I’d be able to control my anger and be a role model for my own children and create an angry-free environment for my family.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Benigno Aquino Day




“Why can’t I go home?” was Ninoy’s question. Even with the warnings from close family and friends, with the country’s economy in a rage, and the iron hands that imprisoned the country and despite a vocal threat from Marcos himself to wear a kevlar vest should he go back to the Philippines-nothing…no one has stopped Ninoy from coming home…
August 21, 1983- he found himself lying at the airport, blood-drenched, shot and murdered… The death that made him an honored martyr for the rest of history.
But the said death served as a key to very important events in Philippine history: his death dethroned Marcos…his death initiated the bloodless revolt-the first that the world has ever witnessed and never thought would be possible …his death placed his beloved wife to Malacañang and given the highest position-President of the Philippine Republic. But most importantly…his death liberated the Filipinos…
And the ever famous line from the courageous and wise Filipino who was exiled, imprisoned, and returned to his country only to die for his country men and brought a dictator down…words of challenge and goodbye:” Filipinos are worth dying for…”
24 years after… we commemorate his death, his bravery and heroism but it is a sad fact that as the years had passed it seems that the Filipino’s had forgotten what the words exactly meant and the sacrifice that Ninoy made just for us to achieve the democracy and freedom we are enjoying right now.
Let me quote a few lines from Kris Aquino’s interview in late night news, as she was asked of what his father’s message would be at these present times:
“Thank you for supporting Noynoy and placing him in the senate…he would continue the principles I’ve fought for”
“Parents are really working hard and are persevering to send their children to school and educate them. They sacrifice leaving their families and the Philippines, they suffer the cold and loneliness a foreign country brings. The children must study hard, aim for good grades and make their parent’s sacrifices pay-off”
“The newly elected leaders should not use their positions for personal gain but instead serve the country well” –Had he been alive today, it would be very nice to hear.
May we always be reminded of Ninoy’s heroism together with his idealism. And let us all together help make Ninoy known to the new generation that all Filipino’s living should be grateful as Ninoy’s sacrifice gave us our liberation and that he is a true hero and not just a face in the 500 peso paperbill. His martyrdom depicted the perfect example of “love for country”. His sacrifice was made out of love. Rest in peace Ninoy…we’d always walk through your path and principles…

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Fat Michael's Place


It was an absolutely stormy day and most of the places in Makati were flooded but nothing can stop me from storming hidden restaurants with good food! Besides, it was my Hubby’s payday so I could definitely demand for a nice treat for dinner! So we decided to visit Fat Michael’s! We took a cab going there but I called them first to ask for directions-the restaurant is actually near Evangelista in Pasay. We passed by South Super Highway going south. Landmark was Makati View Apartelle and we turned right-on the 1st corner, we finally found the place! Again, it won’t look like a restaurant from the outside but as we pass through the wooden sliding door, you’d be amazed to see an intimate beautiful space. We got this small table for two beside the wall and cute funny design with my hubby.
Interiors were a mix of American, European and the family’s own pictures. The place is filled with warm light, wooden chairs, tables, dangling curtains and books! (Which you could read while waiting)
The menu- we were handed with laminated menus but if you want it with a price, you need to refer black board frames hanging on the walls. They have flexible menus to choose from-main dishes to pasta and breads. One thing though that bothered my hubby was their explicit signage: 'We cook slow. Live with it.' -at the back of the menu.






But we weren’t really affected for us the menu arrived just on time and we didn’t wait long. We decided to order:
Beef Salpicao (Php 205)- very tasty with added mushrooms





Rosemary Chicken with Gravy (Php 135)- a good meal as well





And one of the favorites- Seafood Pizza (Php 205)- soft mouth watering kesong puti spread on top and delicately placed tomato and shrimps was really good.






All in all Fat Michael’s does not only provide you with a hearty good food but also gives you a magical touch! After a day's work if you feel harassed and stressed, dining in the place would transport you to a different world outside the hustle and bustle world of the city. One magical restaurant to try!








Fat Michael's Place (843-1953)

115-A Rodriguez Ave., cor. Gen. Lacuña Street Bangkal Makati City



Cafe Juanita



One of my HR tasks includes transmitting government forms to the agencies. And every Friday I usually transmit forms to Philhealth. As I searched the net, I found this restaurant located in Kapitolyo Pasig and I mused about visiting the said place since it’s just near Philhealth. Finally I did had the time together with my Hubby last Friday! I finally got to try Café Juanita located on 21 United St. West Capitol Drive, Kapitolyo, Pasig City. Just a little warning-location is a little bit difficult to get to, especially if you're not familiar with the area. It's easily accessible via Pioneer or Shaw Boulevard so it would be best to call them for directions. And limited street parking is available.
Although at first I was dismayed, since it doesn’t really look like a resto since they just have a very small sign,but when we entered-wah! The place was amazingly beautiful! It can’t be exactly classified as “fine dining” but if you’re searching for a nice quiet intimate place this is the best place! Just a small info-the restaurant is owned by Dr. Boy Vazquez and cafe juanita is on Philippine Tattler's list of Best Restaurants in 2005.
We arrived during tea time around 4:30pm and dinner usually starts at 5:30pm so we waited but had a good time wandering all over the place. The restaurant reminds me so much of the movie-“Moulin Rouge”. I agree…it’s like dining in your “Lola’s house” add the oldies music to that! But more so it gives you this unique homey feel…
As for the interiors- The place is chockfull of old china, antique chairs, tables, cabinets, and other sorts of Filipiniana hemmed clutter. And true to our national heritage, there’s also a lot of Spanish, Chinese, Americana bits and pieces scattered around.They have elaborate chandeliers made of little Chinese lanterns hanging from the ceiling, Coke paraphernalia mounted on the walls, and kitschy little European ceramic figurines all around.
They also have old wine bottles scattered as a design all around, trinkets, old lamps and butterflies! Just make sure you look closely since all of the items do have price tags which means they are all for sale.
Now for the food- there are so many choices to pick from the menu, it is a straightforward interesting mix of Filipino, Mediterranean, Thai, Malaysian Japanese, Spanish and Korean dishes. We tried to be more asian, and here’s what we tried that day:

MY hubby selected a good-asian inspired dish- beef rendang (Php232)


On the other hand, I tried to remain nationalistic (haha!) but with a twist! I love Italian food and pasta but this time with a Filipino mix-I ordered Pasta Filipina (Php 175)-angel hair pasta with taba ng talangka.The food was cooked slow and arrived quite long yet it was worth the wait! Our food tasted excellent!


Overall, I’d be more than willing to come back and dine at Café Juanita-it has a great ambiance & absolutely great food! Not bad for a very nice place with dishes priced for P200-500. The bathroom is clean, although quite small but cute. And the dining experience at Café Juanita would keep you coming back for more!Cafe Juanita would transport you to the old ages bringing you back memories of the past... serving you with great meals that would remind you of your very own mom or Lola! I’d definitely be back soon!

Café Juanita is at 21 United Street corner West Capitol Drive, Barrio Kapitolyo; open daily, 11am to 2pm; 5.30pm to 10pm. Fridays open until 12 midnight. Call them at +63 2 6320357.








Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Book Review: Get out of your own way at Work


I’ve been working for roughly three years now and recently I’ve been trying to reflect…what I am now? How has the industry created a new me? What lessons did I learn? What career path should I take? And what mistakes have I committed?
Psychology and Self Help Section of PowerBooks Greenbelt is my favorite and since I’m reflecting my ways in work, this book caught my attention; I started reading and found it “amazing”! All praises for the book! I found myself in deep realization and self-analysis…Most of the self-defeating behaviors applied to me and moreover I also discovered how certain actions could actually ruin me. All the self-defeating behaviors were well-explained and add the psychological roots that would make you understand yourself better. From here, I realized that how you were reared and brought up by your parents, the atmosphere at your very own home could affect the way you act may it be at school and all throughout work. It is one book that every yuppie or working employee must have and read! And this would help you succeed in your career and have a harmonious relationship with your co-workers and moreso understand your bosses! This book helps you become more cautious of your actions so that you’d not put your job likewise your reputation in jeopardy. This book indeed helped me change my view of the corporate world and my behavior-“from self-defeating to career enhancing.”

Pinoys Rocked the WORLD CUP!


I started to be a boxing fan during the start of Manny Pacquiao’s big fights but as the years passed, I realized…I’m turning out to be a boxing enthusiast! I don’t pass on watching every featured game in TV and I’m looking forward to hopefully watching a game in the big screen and soon in the arena or ring side itself (hopefully in US or Vegas)! Wow! And as an enthusiast I am so looking forward to the Boxing World Cup-Philippines versus Mexico and indeed it made my heart beat rise up until the end! But of course! 6 Filipinos are fighting to make us proud!
Held at ARCO Arena Saturday night, the first fight was between Diosdado Gabi and Jose Angel Beranza. And after powerful shots and punches, in a unanimous decision the Filipino boxer Gabi won the the first match giving the Filipino’s the 1st streak of its victory.




1-0


The second match between Miguel Roman- undefeated fighter from Mexico and Michael Domingo of the Philippines. After an electrifying fight, still in a unanimous decision, Domingo won so its now 2-0!





2-0


The third match AJ Banal-a very young Filipino Boxer age 18 versus Jorge Cardenas ended with a knock-out which leaves us all sighing for just one more to finally get the cup!




3-0


The fourth match Z Gorres vs. Eric Ortiz, a threatening but much awaited fight since if Gorres wins this, the World Cup would be under the Philippines fists. And indeed, the world cup has been decided and the Philippines now holds the crown! Gorres just sealed the deal. And we all rejoiced! It was such a great achievement!

4-0



Then again we have to hold our breaths, the fight between Jhonny Gonzales and Gerry Penalosa instills fear and hope, and although the Philippine Team is now secure, then again we hope for the best for the two remaining title matches. Round 7 swept us with surprise! Penalosa fired off a sweeping left hand that landed perfectly under the rib cage of Gonzalez which led to a KO! I felt so happy for Penalosa! And more so very proud! At 35, physically fit and a very good man with no vices-he managed to hold another title and held the WBO Bantamweight Belt. You could see how enormously happy Gerry was with the tremendous smile in his face! I’ve always admired him and I agree indeed Gerry is a “thinking fighter”. From his fight with Ponce de Leon, he managed to weigh the circumstances, although he lost, all throughout the fight he held his guard so he was not much beaten up. I can say he is smooth, savvy and smart boxer -add the years of experience to that! Hurray!




I wasn’t even over with the victory of Peñalosa, when the fight of the night came in, Ponce de leon versus Rey “BoomBoom” Bautista”. Upon seeing De leon, I felt fear and I just whispered a silent prayer that it won’t matter if Boomboom does not win this title, as long as he does not get beaten up. But much to everybody’s dismay, Boomboom lost upon the first round and was knocked down by Ponce de leon. Filipinos may indeed be disappointed but my opinion… it was a great mismatch…Boomboom was 21 and Ponce de Leon is 27, a lot bigger, heavier and has longer arms. Indeed “De leon is too much for Bautista”.

On that note, it would be a blessing in disguise for Bautista, its better that he got knocked out from the 1st round than experience severe and total damage say he’s able to last up until the 12th round. From here let us not place much dismay in Boomboom, hey the guy is so young and this is a great lesson for him which comes with a great challenge- to correct, rebuild and start all over. After all he is only “21”…As the old Filipino saying goes “marami ka pang kakaining bigas boy…”



But all in all, it’s not bad! Hey! We’re bringing home the bacon! And we are now the title holders! And with a promise from Oscar “Golden Boy” de la Hoya that he will hand the fully-crafted trophy to our President personally. There is much to rejoice and the world cup only proves that the Filipino’s are indeed the “King of the Ring”. To all the boxers who fought –thank you for making us all proud! Congratulations Philippine Team!

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

The WILL YOU Questions

I saw this in one of my favorite and my friend's blog...I tried it and it was really funny! Humorous!Just sharing! Try it too!


Kelly --

[adjective]:

Benevolent to a fault



'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com











MISSING:
KELLY
Was last seen trying to light your hair on fire
'What will you last be seen doing?' at QuizGalaxy.com








QuizGalaxy!
'What will your obituary say?' at QuizGalaxy.com

Thursday, August 9, 2007

SimpsoNIZED!!!

Finally!!! I found a way to save these pics in my pc!
Meet the new generation of the SIMPSON'S family!
The Cabrera Family!!!

Meet Jeff Simpson...


Meet Kelly Simpson...

Meet Nicole Simpson!
Fun right? Try it yourself!
http://www.simpsonsmovie.com/main.html
http://simpsonizeme.com/
Enjoy!!!








Tuesday, August 7, 2007

My Cure-Dress to Express


Each of us undergo phases in our life where we have low-self esteem and for women in particular; having low self-esteem makes you feel like you never look good enough. I admit…I long suffered from clothing anxiety- claiming I have nothing to wear when my closet is bursting with choice and much worse, I’m sick with closet trauma-the out of control feeling that comes from not knowing what to wear or how to dress to reflect the real me. One day as I browsed through the racks of my fave crib-Powerbooks I found a heaven-sent book that could help me overcome my illness-DRESS TO EXPRESS by Tracy McWilliams. Everything I learned from the book is summarized through these steps:

-Understand the emotions that may have held you back from realizing your dressing potential
-Define your image
-Know your clothing personality type
-Identify and understand your body type
-Pay attention to colors in your wardrobe
-Clean out your closet
-Take inventory by making a list of items that you own
-Keep it clothing simple
-Go through your accessory items and take inventory of what you own
-Fill the gaps in your wardrobe
-Try on clothing items that are on your inventory list and begin to put outfits together
-When you go shopping fill in the gaps in your wardrobe
-Keep your clothing emotions under control
-Visualize yourself beautiful
-Control your communication style
-Remember to dress form top to down
-Step in your power as a woman and believe in how beautiful you are

Through this book, I finally understood that I’d always be the best judge of how I want to be perceived. And very important, I learned that: Dressing your best is about matching your inner beauty with your outer self when the match is complete looking fabulous is the by product and clothing bliss is the result. Clothing Bliss is the feeling of calm that is achieved when you are confident that your clothing choices really do reflect your best self. And I’m working my way out to achieve it! For all the ladies out there- I totally recommend this book specifically for the “lost and unconfident ones”. Gurlfriends! Let’s all journey into finding our clothing bliss…