Sure you were present when the kiddos were born

Sure you changed their diapers without complaining

Sure you assembled lego altogether

Sure you cooked the best kare kare for them

Sure you brought them to pet stores

Sure you taught the boys how to handle worms

Sure you solved the kiddos techie problems

Sure you applied kiddos with sunblock

Sure you carried them on your shoulders

Sure you can drive 12 hours straight for a road trip

Sure you showed them what redeemed is

But still you are not the best Father!

Sure you know that we love you lots, right?

And the best Father loves you right, lots!

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Happy Father’s Day with love love love love…!

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As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; - Psalm 103:13

And so the camera was stolen

And the aquarium fishes died

And the mugs were broken

And my right arm is in pain

But I won’t zoom out those things.

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Today is holiday in here – our 115^th Independence Day

I’m free from office work and be with the kiddos

I’m free to prepare their meals

I’m free to savor the moments at home

And I will zoom out these things.

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Pork in wild ginger. Yum!

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Sweet potato fries. Yum!

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Banana. Yum!

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Sunburst mirror. Not edible!

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Now I am looking at the big picture

I am just glad for all that I have

That I can live in this moment

Here right now

Celebrating!

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Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. – Psalm 47:1

My kiddos regularly say I am the best mom.
I know I am not but still I accept with deep thanks their love for me – it’s God’s gift.
I know it is the adult me and other adults who say I am not the best mom, or them not the best mom, or them not the best person.

But my kiddos know better. They appreciate who I am and not look for who I am not compared to others; they appreciate what I can do and not look for what I do imperfectly compared to others; they appreciate my love and not look for another mom.

The more they appreciate me regardless of the condition we are in, the more I feel their overflowing love. The more thankful and happier I am!

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My kiddos always find me something that they know I will like — for sure!

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We adults have a lot to learn from the kids.

- No comparing. Appreciate the person who loves you.
- The best doesn’t mean perfect.
- No need to focus on imperfection, love instead.
- There can be a billion bests. It only needs people who are grateful enough.

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The best brick vase! The best dried flower! The best stick!

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Happy mother’s day to the best mom — YOU ARE THE BEST MOM!

If in doubt, be kiddolike.

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“Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, “‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’?” - Matthew 21:16

After four hour drive, we reached our first destination, the 500-year-old-or-so Banyan tree which is locally known as Balete tree or Millennium tree. Around 50 adult people, arms outreached, are needed to cover the diameter of the tree. I cannot distinguish the trunk from the roots but because of the hollow it created, it’s amazing for the whole family to be ‘inside’ the tree and for the boys to attempt to climb even for a few feet only. The vine served as a good swing too!

And now I will mention this. We could not have enjoyed Baler because on the expressway we had a near miss accident involving a trailer truck. Good thing my hubby was alert, he avoided collision by steering instead to the center island where we hit bamboo fences for a growing tree. Surprisingly, Pearl (our car) is okay – no scratches. We were all shocked and shaken – shocked and shaken.

And so when we reached Bahia de Baler Garden Resort and served with buko (young coconut) shake, I remember how shaken we were earlier. I am simply thankful to God for leading us safe and happy to see my family together.

Oh yes, the buko shake was good – and so the glass bottles!

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Cool! The other good things in Baler!

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Dicasalarin Cove. Breathtaking! Breathtaking! We held our breath on the way to the cove. The road is narrow, winding, and steep. If not for the breathtaking view we would have forgotten to exhale!

The place is breathtaking! I haven’t mentioned that yet, right? As the place is secluded, the paradise is ours!

I love Dicasalarin Cove! I love Baler! Because I found the biggest heart rock so far! A good family souvenir for Baler Road Trip!

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Sabang Beach. It’s the beach front of Bahia de Baler Restaurant (built between Bahia de Baler Garden Resort and the beach). Fronting Pacific Ocean, Sabang Beach is one of the surfers favorite where the waves could be really huge especially when the northeast monsoon wind blows. The place is now very special to me just because I watched my kiddos surf, surf, surf!

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Digisit Beach. We love the place! Why? Because there are stones and boulders – my daughter and I love stones and boulders! Because there are tiny fishes – my boys (of course that includes my hubby) love fishes! Because the sunset is breathtaking – we (including the group of photographers) all love it!

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Falls, falls, falls. True. Along the road there are a number of mini falls amidst the lush greens!

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Tromba Marina Sculpture. A reminder of the people who run to Point Baja Hill (now known as Ermita Hill) hoping to be saved from the tsunami of December 27, 1735. The catastrophic tsunami is said to wipe the old Baler town in an hour. Heart breaking.

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Ermita Hill. There are around 300 steps to the top of the hill where the Miraculous Cross stand. Leg breaking – for me but not for my kiddos! And not for the seven families who were saved from the wrath of the Tsunami on December 27, 1735.

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Museo de Baler. It’s hard to miss it with the sculptured mural. The museum housed significant traces of Baler’s history. There are Chinese porcelain from the Galleon Trade, old reports…

The museum also relive the Siege of Baler thus the paintings of the siege participants – both Spaniards and Filipinos.

And yes, there was President Manuel L. Quezon. And the kiddos have the chance to mano (Filipino gesture of respect).

They have to give respect especially that they clung to his Presidential car! The car was built by General Motors of America and arrived in the Philippines on November 4, 1937. It was turned over in 1938 to General Douglas MacArthur and was used all throughout his duty in the Philippines.

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Dinadiawan Beach. It has a beautiful shoreline that I have to wake up at 4:30 AM to catch the beautiful changing color of the view before full daylight. To catch it we need to stay in another resort — the Dinadiawan Beach Resort.

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There’s more to love in Baler. The mountains, lush greenery…

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And yes the suman (sticky rice roll wrapped in palm leaf)! Suman is real good that I forgot to take picture. Believe me we’re not hungry but we got to taste it — sorry if we can’t help but eat them all!

Thank you so much Baler — till we meet again!

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Thank you soooooooooooooooooooo much Lord for your awesomeness!

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You alone are the Lord. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you. - Nehemiah 9:6

I had breakfast with my hubby – home made daing na bangus (dried milkfish).

Fresh from yesterday’s catch from Aling Nene’s Pond in Valenzuela.

My angler boys made another trip to the pond sans the girls. Could they be challenged from our earlier visit where our one and only take home fish is caught by the mom (that’s me!)?

Here are the photos of the fishing trip 2 days ago and yes, let’s define ‘caught’ later on.

Here’s the first catch of the day! The fish is not big enough to take home so back to the water. And the triumphant smile goes to my heart!

Here’s the 2^nd catch of the day! The fish is not big enough to take home so again back to the water. And the happy smile goes to my heart!

Here’s the 3^rd catch of the day! The fish is too small to take home so again back to the water. And yes, the grateful smile goes to my heart! Finally, he caught one after several fishes got away from the hook.

Here’s the big catch of the day! Just big enough to take home for sinigang

And yes, I caught it and here’s how:

1. The boys have been convincing me to fish instead of roaming around and so I agreed.
2. My son put the mashed flour bait in the hook and cast it to the direction I pointed.
3. I held the rod, occasionally looking at the floater, while I read a home magazine.
4. Then I felt something is pulling my rod and so I screamed. I screamed!
5. The boys saved me from the struggling fish!

It’s obvious I caught the fish, right?

Hurray for the girls!

And so the next day – that was yesterday, the boys were determined to beat the record. And they succeeded with 18 take home fishes! They were so excited that they forgot to take photos but it’s alright, I’m enjoying the daing na bangus. Not even the vinegar can stop me from smiling sweetly

There is so much to thank for…

Love.

Fun.

Togetherness.

And hey, don’t be disappointed with the small fish catch because there are large ones meant for the seasoned angler — 10 kilos and above.

As for the family, the priority is to catch smiles and we did!

Now going? Aling Nene has cottages on the side.

And in the middle — go rafting!

And yes, you can fish without renting a cottage.

Enjoy the day!

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Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?

- Luke 11:11

Line of destructive priorities.

Line of selfishness.

Line of pride.

Line of shame.

Line of hatred. Yes. Yes. Yes.

There was a cross.

I saw the cross differently back then.

And so I wanted to run away from it.

After all it was heavy and left me bleeding inside.

But I wasn’t able to go far. It was painful to walk away wounded and bleeding.

I needed a healer.

And then I saw the cross anew

It stitched my wounds.

It helped me cross the line of surrender.

It brought me to the Healer.

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Drawn To The Cross
by L. Mirabueno

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I had the painting commissioned. I want to be reminded when I was drawn to the cross and not away from it. That there is no point in running away because love is all it is. It is not just cupid’s love but the love of the Father and the Son for mankind — for us sinners.

Jesus saved us on the cross. It is not a lovely sight knowing that the Father is grieving but — He loves us.

Jesus saved us on the cross. He took our shame and He is not ashamed — He loves us.

And where is my hubby in all of these?

In the title!

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You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. – Romans 5:6

Last year you asked me if I wanted an ipad and I said no because I have a laptop already. But still you bought me one because you knew I will like it.

And true enough I liked it! It’s handy and I can use it while lying in bed. That is if I’m not yet off to dreamland the moment my back touched the bed.

This year you asked me if I wanted an iPhone or Note 2 and I said no because the phone you gave me still works. But still you gave me one because you knew I will like it.

And true enough I liked it! It’s handy and helped me in my current project. I was able to sketch-erase-sketch an organizational chart, among others.

And so I realized that as much as it is important that you should know what your wifey like — like a vintage aqua Volkswagen van (wink wink) it is also important for me to appreciate the gift you feel is important.

Of course I do appreciate them all my techie hubby! I love how you knew I needed something which I didn’t ask for because I am a DIY-junky-vintagey wifey!

And so for your birthday we are giving you something which you might not want but trust me you will love this because…we do!

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Boys Fishing
by L. Mirabueno

Believe me this is priceless because you will remember the times the boys gone fishing with you. Yes, I know they’re quiet in the painting unlike in real life where they scared the fish off so you won’t catch anything! But then, it can still come true one of these days, lol!

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Believe me this is priceless because one day you will remember how your artsy daughters stayed late to finish painting this just for you!

So love it, love it because we love you, love you!

Love,

wifey

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P.S. Your birthday wish for wisdom and prayer of thankfulness to God is a gift itself.

And yes, the greatest gift is already given to us. Not every one may want Him but God the Father knew that we all need Him.

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There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. – 1Corinthians 12:4-6

Last Saturday the kiddos and I were in Jaime Velasquez Park, Salcedo Village for the Art In The Park 2013.

My eldest daughter and I were excited on the event. She’s excited enough to invite her two best friends with us. And I am excited too that I reminded myself of the policy, “No buying until I sleep over it for at least a fortnight.”

And so that meant NO BUYING because the event is only for one day! And so that meant bringing in extra towel lest I drool over the inspiring lovely fantastic artsy creations of the artists!

True enough I started to drool on the first booth. Woot! Woot! There was a mosaic owl mirror which could be a whimsical addition to my wall mirrors. But sorry it wasn’t the fortnight yet. Owleave you then, bye.

We haven’t gone far when I drooled again on the potters’ area. I wantttt Joey de Castro’s jumbo cup and saucer! I wanttt Mia Casal’s clay necklace and ring! I wantttt Jon and Tessy Pettyjohn’s tea set! But sorry it wasn’t the fortnight yet. Huhuhu — stop claying you’re a big girl now, okay?

Do I have to mention that the towel was quite wet already when my heart gone giddy yap giddy yap? No, I don’t think there’s a need to mention the wet towel but I have to mention that I shrieked for the horse taka – the same time my youngest shrieked for the rag doll! But sorry it wasn’t the fortnight yet. Poor baby but she knew she’ll have it one of these days – we will make one.

And so you asked, “Where are the photos of these drool worthy things?”

And I replied, “Sorry I was busy wiping.”

But here are some of the photos of other lovely creations.

No, he is not my kiddos’ granddad. He is Pete Jimenez, the artist whose sculptures was wow worthy. Wow worthy enough that we had seen SOLD SOLD SOLD on empty platforms!

Here’s one of his creations for the women. The cheapest ‘Her Mess’ bag but as of our stay it wasn’t sold yet. Could it be snatched by a bag lover should its title was ‘Her Miss’?

My misses – the ones I haven’t bought? But there will be Art In The Park next year — and it’s more than a fortnight by then!

Thank you so much to the Art In The Park organizers and artists — it was another memorable bonding time for the family!

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He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers. – Exodus 35:35

It’s okay if you don’t — at all times.

Because I do not understand myself as well — at all times.

Sometimes I go crazy. Sometimes crazier.

What I don’t understand is I sometimes prefer the crazier me.

Maybe my Creator prefers the same too. Who knows.

He knows.

Will you marry me?

It’s okay if you don’t — I’m married already.

That is not actually a question. It’s the topic in today’s Sunday service.

Well maybe it’s a question.

The important foundations of marriage were discussed — 5 C’s.

Covenant. Communication. Chemistry. Character. Christ.

I would say that if you only take Christ — He is the strongest foundation there is.

Will you?

I take this question with me.

Will you now do that chairs stacked in the garage? Is that my conscience whispering?

Got to move then! And so out the messy chairs — red leather seats torn and removed.

These chairs have been repainted and reupholstered twice. That’s a different story.

What I’ll share today is I need to do this fast because my conscience might not make me sleep. Lol!

And so no more reupholstering. I just grabbed the spray paint, brush, and poster paints.

And quickly here it is.

Just like that. It’s done!

Oh the other chair? It has a different question of course.

I will post it next time because I have yet to decide if I’ll include a marriage story with it. Lol!

Will you please share what’s your “WILL YOU?”

No you may not direct the question to me.

You want to ask God, “Will you…?”?

Go ahead please.

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 ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ – Jeremiah 33:3

Will you please  join me in the fab furni party here?

Miss Mustard Seed Furniture Feature Friday

Jennifer Rizzo Fabulously Creative Friday

Redoux Link Party

I just had a very full and tiring week at work and I see the next coming 18 months that way. I am afraid not of the loads of work but of the time I could be further missing my kiddos. We hardly began the focused works on the overhaul of systems and processes brought by the transition to our new company when I was identified as the potential weakest link in our team because I had pushed through with the holiday vacations with my family. They scheduled meetings on later part of 2012 and first week of 2013 but I declined. I appreciated I was chosen to be part of the team but it doesn’t mean I am giving up my most valuable team, my family.

I have assessed how I did in all the teams I was involved and holy mama I was strong! And I know that the very person who made the forecast was not able to realize his projects on time. Armed with that fact, I offered that they may take me out of the team because I was never ever a yes person. I believe in firm NO — NO to pulling down.

That is the reason why I only had tea and pistachios for breakfast this weekend — otherwise, I’ll have a heap of everything in the table, lol! But it felt good to slowly sip the tea and play with pistachio shells. It is very good to watch my daughter draw while she smiles to me from time to time. It is very good to smile for what God has for me.

It is a very God day! He reminded me once more that I am loved and I am on His team — linked strongly!

Yes, I am still on the working team.

Yes, I am the missing link — missing you!

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The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.

- Habakkuk 3:19

Every day I am confronted in the road by screaming billboards. Reminding me that I have yet to own the latest in fashion and technology; that I have yet to achieve the silkiest skin and society’s dream body; that their cake is chocolatier and the chicken is crispier.

It made me breathe less or shall I say that my breathing is heavier, harder  — “Chocolate cake or dream body? Latest in fashion or crispy chicken?” It’s hard to satisfy advertisers at the same time — more so if you are not at all interested but somehow compelled to want it.

I dream of regular road travels that will leave me breathless of nature’s beauty and abundance. And today I want to thank Artist Stephen Glassman for his dream of putting a crack in the urban skyline and allow us to take a breath despite the traffic.

Urban Air will transform existing old urban billboards to breathing spaces with suspended bamboo gardens.

To make this come true at least $100,000.00 pledges is needed — and then the project will be funded. Please check the team behind the project in their  KickStarter page.

I can’t wait to see similar project here in the Philippines.

I can’t wait to see a whispering billboard reminding me to BREATHE, PRAISE, LOVE.

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Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. – Psalm 150:6

waves by Sandy — yahoo news Oct 27, 2012

To those who are affected by super storm Sandy, my prayers are with you.

I was worried in the thought that some might not be used to storms and its effect thus might be greatly devastated. But then I realized that we are all humans equipped with coping mechanism by no less than our Mighty Creator. Yes, that’s only how far we can go alone, coping — getting by. But living with life (there’s living like dead, right?) is only possible with God.

I myself have been through so many storms since I was conceived up to now — be it life’s storms that hits like nothing else or the powerful wind and rain that hit Philippines 20 times a year on the average.

Looking back, I realized how much I appreciated storms when I was a little girl. After candle lit nights due to power outage I would excitedly go out and appreciate the brighter surroundings — brighter because some trees fell or branches were broken. I would go around picking fallen fruits and coconuts and was so excited when I found a turtle! I was aware that there was damage but my young eyes were appreciative of the clean up.

When I got older, especially when I became a mom, it was different. There were worries on possible shortage of food or drowning in the flood. There were worries on severance of relationships and drowning in despair.

There is worry until there is trust in the Lord. Until I talk with the Lord. Until I connect with the Lord.

As human, there is only so much that I can do. The more I worry of what I cannot do, the more I am not able to do what I can do — like entrusting my worries to the Lord.

I am worried about you — and I am entrusting you to the Lord who can carry us through storms and give the warmest comfort.

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He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. – Psalm 107:29

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And yes from time to time I pause and think of you and pray for you my dear blog friends.

The heart strings were not cut. They were turned into lovely friendship bows.

The times that were used to be spent online were added to more hugs, kisses, sharing stories, crafting, smiling, walking around, counting blessings, and smelling the armpits of my kiddos.

It was all good. Soooo good. Very very very good.

It is such a blessing to be a mom. Just one kid brings so much joy. And I have four!

And today I read that around 50,000 children go missing yearly in India. That is 14 children missing everyday — infinite heartaches each second.

(Photos from the News)

The kids are missing due to human trafficking. And this surely is not happening in India alone. We have our own numbers in our own backyard. It makes my heart ache as a mom and as human. What happened to our own kind, the adults? What happened to their hearts?

I pray that each one will hear God’s word. And feel God’s heart. Then feel their own. And know that God is in the heart business. He cleans, He restores, He makes new, and He loves.

Let us all give tight hugs, real tight hugs to all the children of the world.

Let us whisper that they are loved so much by God. Some might not believe it, like most of us do at some point in our lives, but still let us whisper. One day that whisper will be heard — loud and clear.

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All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. – Isaiah 54:13

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I am tempted to finally say, “Adios Amigos.”

But here I am saying instead, “Ahhh Diyos Amigos!”

Diyos is the Filipino translation for God.

“It’s God my friends!”

Who else will stop the flood caused by 11 straight days of monsoon rain?

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Who else will make Filipinos smile in hope?

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 Who else will provide what you need most?

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Who else will soak  you in love?

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Who else will make one fit for the ohlifepics?

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Who else will lay down his life for us?

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Ahhh Diyos Amigos!

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Where ever you are right now — down the deep or floating on air

Whatever you may be doing right now — laughing in pain or crying in happiness

We both know that God alone knows His purpose for us — and it is good.

I believe that even when I feel like something so bad is happening to me.

I believe that feelings are not always the truth — but He is.

I choose to believe because…

it’s raining hard again outside!

Ahhh Diyos Amigos!

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The waters saw you, O God, the waters saw you and writhed; the very depths were convulsed. -Psalm 7:16

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Note: Photos are not mine as I can’t be everywhere while there’s flood.

Me, I can’t afford to be afraid of Friday the 13^th because sometimes my birthday falls on this day – like today!

Happy birthday to me!

Because it’s my birthday I got to share with you what happened yesterday. Before leaving for the office, my daughter accidentally broke our mirror. On my way to the office, I saw a teen’s body lying on a pool of blood. Later on I learned that he was hit by the car and sadly he was dead – God bless his soul.

And those happened on Thursday the 12^th.

Just saying that what one might fear on a Friday the 13^th might be actually happening any time, any day. Just saying that it’s not fair to fear 13 just because it’s next to what is perceived as the perfect number – 12. Twelve months in a year, twelve gods of Olympus, twelve numbers on the clock– and maybe 12 eggs in a box.

How about you, how would you feel if some people decided they don’t like you just because they like the perfect lady in front of you?

Because it’s my birthday I got to share with you what happened yesterday. My parents brought me big prawns, big squid, big fishes, big crabs, big smiles and big love! My officemates had pasta delivered as pre-birthday celebration –- surely we will have a feast on the day itself! My hubby and kiddos, as usual, their love made me smile!

And those happened on Thursday the 12^th.

Just saying that there are many blessings in a day that we might have missed because we focused on our fears. Just saying that it’s not fair to frighten ourselves because of superstitions. Just saying that it is one year with twelve months, that there is only one true God amongst more than 12 idols, that I’m writing this on the 13^th hour – and there are 6 eggs in a box which are perfect.

How about you, how do you feel when you decided to appreciate and see beauty, just as is?

Because it’s my birthday I got to share with you my birthday song. Hopefully you’ll take time checking it.

Some people find the lyrics weird and might not like it. I am weird and you might not like me. But I like the song and somebody surely likes me, even loves me – just as I am. You know, the One who can make all things possible.

Happy Friday the 13^th everyone! Shine!

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This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. – Psalm 118:24

Photo from Bluebell Books Twitter Club Short Story Slam Week 22.

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“He lifted and carried me up with all his might!”

This is Bianca’s doting memory of her Dad when she was a little girl – and really heavy for a 5 year-old. But it didn’t matter, the weight –for love.

It was all good until she felt that he had dropped her down, the family down – real hard.

It was bad.

It was all bad until she felt that he had tried to lift himself up, the family up – real hard.

This is Bianca’s painful memory of her Dad when she was a young girl – and really hopeful for a 9 year-old. It did matter, the wait – for love.

“He lifted and carried my Dad up with all His love!”

This is Bianca’s powerful praise of God now that she’s a teen – and really lovely in and out for a 14-year old. It did matter, the forgiveness – for love.

It was good.

“They lifted and carried me up with all their might and love!”

This is Bianca’s heart song of her Dad and God forever — higher, O higher!

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As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. – Isaiah 55:9

I whipped someone with my words

I crushed myself with my thoughts

I fought out of pride

I allowed myself beaten

I wished for someone else’s death

I wished for my own death

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 Oh yes, I am not a good girl

I cannot stop hating passionately

I cannot control my evil thoughts

I cannot move on from bitter past

I cannot have freedom from guilt

I cannot be a good girl on my own

Unless I am dependent on good God

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Happy Independence Day to all my American Friends. This might means so much to you as it means so much to us Filipinos when we celebrate our independence from Spanish and American colonies. But honestly, I am not so sure if we are truly independent as a nation. Can one indeed be free just because the tangible prison wall is brought down?

What I am sure is I am free when I allow my Saviour to rescue me from the intangibles that imprison and stop me from being a good girl.

How about you, are you a good girl? Are you free?

You may not answer the questions but please feel free to listen to this  song.

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In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and He answered by setting me free. - Psalm 118:5

scrap wood to decor to table

I meant to make a table out of this scrap wood but for now it will serve as a reminder that I do not need to wait for that future time to serve a purpose – that right now, in whatever state I am, I can serve a purpose, that I have a purpose, that I may be the purpose.

And so while mommy was busy painting seeds of hope, my little girl joined me. She painted her Snow White in the tray. Wouldn’t the dwarfs be happy with that – even Grumpy?

scrap wood to tray

I may be the purpose. To make me understand that if the seven dwarfs had Snow White, I have Jesus – who will wash me whiter than snow. This is true. Not a fairy tale.

But that is not to say that I don’t believe in fairy tale – especially if the fairy is my daughter peeking through the gate made of scrap wood

Wish now and it will come true!

Fairy Beatrice

Do I hear you wishing for more fabulous repurposed scrap wood? Close your eyes…wishy, wishy, wishy, wonderful you – your wish now come true! Now open your eyes in Funky Junk Interiors world!

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If scrap woods can be made for different purposes, ever wonder why we are made? Let’s hear it and not forget that we are loved!

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

- Psalm 73:25

Ugly words can be heard all over. Or is it just me who doesn’t like the sound of “Racism” when it could really be not. Or “The winner is not really beautiful or smart or talented” or “The judges and voters are unfair”.

Millions of Filipinos could be bitter, salty, sour or a combination of two or three.

I am not sure if there’s even a food that tastes good with all three flavors in it.

I am a Filipino with 1 liter of Chinese blood. And I would be one of the happiest if Jessica Sanchez won the American Idol title.

I am a human with 5 liters of red blood. And I would be one of the happiest if we are gracious enough to accept that someone is better than us by human standard.

I am not a TV fan thus I’m not a fanatic of American Idol or any show. If I can, I only watch the finals where a Filipino is a finalist. I love Filipinos — how they can be very resilient, kind, beautiful, talented – but even then, no race has a monopoly of these qualities.

I may be sad but I am happy as well with the result of American Idol Season 11. A Filipina is first runner up. Wow! Congratulations Jessica Sanchez! You are a great singer and how you have dealt with the defeat is a sure win!

And congratulations Phillip Phillips! How you dealt with victory sealed the title! I enjoyed your finale performance and I like the song “Home” especially the line, “Don’t pay no mind to the demons they fill you with fear…”

-

-

He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means, “Be opened!”)– Mark 7:34

Years ago, months ago, days ago we all have no idea that we will be part of this. By ‘this’ I mean what is currently happening to us. By ‘us’ I mean US – U and Spoon. We already have our own plans for the future. Plans on what, when, where and how things will happen. But these are all uncertain because only God knows why things should happen.

And so life goes on. There is no stopping us and the kiddos in watching The Avengers. We all like superheroes but as Captain America said, “There is only one God and I’m pretty sure he doesn’t dress like that.” And I say amen to that.

I have been telling myself that I’ll cross the bridge when I reach there, wherever ‘there’ is. Now I have second thoughts because my Super God might have a different idea – fly me or plant me? What bridge?

I dare not ask why. He will let me know — or not. He will let me grow – oh yes.

P.S.  Someone do you wrong? May we never forget that we are not The Avengers.

P.S.2 Any idea for the title?

However, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him”—1 Corinthians 2:9

but giving thanks when things are not going well in marriage is very challenging

but it could be one of the finest moments.

It leads one to the inner recesses of the soul to intentionally look for something good

and see God’s child whom He dearly love and wants us to love as well.

Today it’s easy to give thanks for my hubby

1.For the love 2. For taking care of me when I am sick 3. For working hard for the family 4. For the fishballs, squid balls, kikiams 19 years ago 5.  For praying for me 6.  For kiddos basketball ring 7. For waiting patiently 8. For the almond nuts 9. For the times you are happy being with me 10. For the friendship 11. For the precious kingdom 12. For the wristwatches 13. For the moments you are in love with me 14. For the sandwiches 15. For the hurts that pulled me closer to God 16. For the black Chanel bag 17. For holding my hands 18. For singing in the church 19. For the struggles that taught me how to let go 20. For sharing your fishing accessories for my crafts 21. For repairing the chairs 22. For the morning kisses 23. For the diamond ring 24. For fixing the lights 25. For playing with the kids 26. For bargain hunting with me 27. For sharing your thoughts on church service message 28. For the body massage 29. For lot hunting 30. For your beautiful smile 31. For the mini delivery vans 32. For dreaming happy times with me 33. For attending marriage encounter 34. For family vacations 35. For time for just the two of us 36. For coming home 37. For coming to God.

My dearest that’s only 37 reasons because it’s your 37^th birthday!

If you want to hear a hundred, then grow old with me!

One day the heart may not forget the wonderful feeling of being loved

but it might forget the details and so I record them.

I have several journals and it’s a golden one for my hubby

– just because it’s easier to dream for a happy golden anniversary with it!

Truly one of the finest moments in marriage is giving thanks.

For this moment, can you think of at least 5 reasons why you’re thankful for your partner? You may or may not share it with me but you must ensure that you share it with your partner. They will surely love to hear it direct from you!

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds

– Hebrews 10:24

if we can find the Mercedes-Benz

 Oh we found it!

INVISIBLE STORY HEREIN

And the comments that exposed my teeth are here!

- I’m sending an invisible car payment to the loan company

- I have a similar feature on my car. My Lamboghini is cloaked to look like an AMC Gremlin. So far nobody suspects a thing.

- My invisible Mercedes is sitting in my invisible McMansion’s garage next to my invisible super-model wife’s invisible Porsche.

- I’ve been invisible to women for years.

- Why is there so much invisible money in my wallet???

- i drove this car to my doctor, and he said he couldnt see me today,,,

- Hey I just got hit by a …………….uh uh I know I wasn’t drinking………license plate number??? I told you it came out of nowhere. What!!! taking me to the police station, what for?? Officer you gotta believe me!!! LOOK, LOOK there goes another one – WHAT !!!! you didn’t see it !!! UHHHHH

- (invisible comment)

We have no doubt at all of the car’s existence before we figure out where it is, right?

Why could that be?

Because we trust the manufacturer?

Because we believe in the genius of humans?

Ever wonder why it’s so hard for some to believe in the existence of God?

Why they cannot trust the Creator?

Why they cannot believe in God’s genius despite how awesome His creations are?

Let us see…

No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. – 1 John 4:12

Me:    I love you so much!

Him:    I love you so much more!   *kiss*

Me:    Thank you! I have a big smile   *kiss*

Him:    I’m so happy that I made you smile

Sweet, huh?

That is not always the case because there was a time when the exchanges were, “I hate you!” and “I HATE YOU!”

Bitter, yeah.

Most of us might have tasted how bittersweet love can be. It will be the case as long as we are humans. And humans expect. And humans fall short of each other’s expectations.

Since human falls, love falls.

It falls…

…

But it can be picked up

And put altogether

But no, the pieces cannot be put all together

There will be cracks and holes and deformities

The question is, “What do you do with it?”

Glue it with insincere repentance?

Fill it with temporary pleasures?

Straighten things up to our satisfaction?

or

Let God seep through every crack.

Let God fill in the holes.

Let God show us that there is really no deformity

But something special.

And what do you do with something special?

Love it!

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. – Psalm 147:3

And finds you

Pouting

Scowling

Indifferent

Angry

You think you will be able to see it?

How, when your upper lip covered your vision?

Think about it

Inhale deep.

Don’t exhale yet.

Not yet

Not yet

Nottttt yet!

Now, exhale!

Let it out – the baggage

Out of your heart.

Now lift the side of your lips, with your facial muscles.

Turn on your eyes – yes, like a light bulb, so bright.

Why, you look funny!

But wait, you’re lovely now

Now that it turns to sincere smile and knowing eyes…

It has been a crazy month. The laptop crashed, the company I am working for is sold for the 2nd time, our section is challenged to generate more savings on top of the $2M saved, I worked extra longggg hours in the office for a number of days and I was attacked with depression.

But think about it, I am so blessed. I have challenges, kiddos who hugged me tighter, hubby who missed me, lovable friends who checked on me and the pillows? Cloud 9 and 10!

Thank you Lord!

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26

For Bluebell Books: Short Story Slam Week 20.

See their special offer and join — A story in 55 words!

*

‘I SING, YOU SMILE’ – written on a cardboard beside him.

I smiled and the passers-by who read it.

“Why are you doing this? You can’t even see them?” I asked the singing blind man on the sidewalk.

“Because I want to be the reason for a smile,” he said.

What a very special offer.

*

When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them. – Job 29:24

Catch the smile!

Sharing my hubby’s big smile when he caught a 0.87kgs sea bream (bakoko) – we caught the smile as well! Surely he will catch something bigger than that – fish or not! We’re preparing for that bigger smile – by smiling now!

Smile – heaven’s cure!

Sharing my family’s love for massage – my hubby and I massage each other; I massage each of my kiddos, all of them massage me. And when we’re all dead tired, the masseur puts us into sleep – that we may wake up minus the sore. Thanks to Heaven’s Cure Body Oil, Massage Gel and Coco Rub!

Touch Therapy – heaven’s cure!

Sharing my love for fish oil capsules – for preventing ordinary cells from mutating into cancer cells! But the most obvious effect on me is it eased up my depressions. Yup I prayed much about it that it better leave me and if one of the ways is to welcome the fish in, why not? I prefer the fish than the devil!

I even applied the fish oil in my toes that got itchy after trying different shoes in Payless. Gone! As if eaten by the fish – similar to fish spa where, without mercy, you allow the fishes to bite your dead skin. Yay! Thanks Squalene – you’re beyond skin deep!

Fish and oil – heaven’s cure!

And how about you — would you care enough to share something that you love and makes you smile?

You — heaven’s cure!

You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions; – Psalm 45:7

Prompt from Bluebell Books Short Story Slam Week 19

Image Credit to Whitebook @ DeviantArt, titled A Christmas Story for Rezzan

*

I ran away from him. It was Christmas time.

That was years ago. Not for good. Just for awhile.

I was confused and in pain.

Faith is amazing. It made me go back.

It connected me to God.

Faith is trusting in the now – that right now great things are unfolding no matter how unbelievable it is. What seems dead may be breathing for new life.

Faith is being excited about tomorrow – that tomorrow great things will be unfolded no matter how unbelievable it may be. What seems dead is alive and fruitful!

Faith is amazing. Faith got me back.

It connected me to God’s graces.

I was overwhelmed and in His arms.

That is now and tomorrow. For good. Not just for awhile.

I ran towards Him. It is me, Rea.

Then Jesus answered, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour. - Matthew 15:28

I am an artist because I see extraordinary in an ordinary.

I am an artist because I see beyond the defined purpose of things.

I am an artist because I appreciate each supply chain — tracing back to the Ultimate Source.

I am an artist because I am in love each time I create things — my heart actually giggles!

I am an artist because my kiddos are artists – see some of their lovely works! Hmm it runs in the blood!

Self-portrait of my 13-year old daughter. She got her Dad's blood.

My precious daughter. Don't tell me she's not as cute as the portrait.

'Mom & Dad' by my 4-year old daughter. She got her Mom's blood.

I am an artist because my hubby is a great sculpture – my kiddos love his clay dinosaurs! And I love our dining chairs because he repaired and painted them! Hmm it runs in the heart!

I am an artist because I am a child of the Master Artist who created the sky – with changing hues!

Extraordinary wire heart by me! Extraordinary child by God!

I understand that most of us are not comfortable to call ourselves an artist just because our creations are not at par with other artists but does it not matter that God, The Master Artist, is delighted with the beauty that we have created?

The good news is, God is not only an artist — He is also an evaluator and curator – and a Master at those! He appreciates beyond what is seen and heard. He knows genuine Art of Forgiveness, Art of Caring, Art of Giving and all art of the hearts.

I don’t have a shop.

I don’t have a gallery.

Maybe you too.

But we have a home where we showcase kiddos art or table setting or organized chaos.

We have a heart where we showcase love, forgiveness, faith, and much more.

Not comfortable being called an artist? Oh well, let’s call ourselves HEARTIST!

He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers–all of them master craftsmen and designers. – Exodus 35:35

For Bluebell Books: Short Story Slam Week 18

*

“Lovely daisies,” said the woman beside Dee.

“This is for my best friend, to cheer her up. But she’ll have this later, the rain won’t stop,” replied Dee.

“Oh, I have an extra umbrella here. Please use it,” offered the woman.

“Are you sure? You’re an angel!” remarked Dee thankfully.

“I am very sure! That is not an ordinary umbrella though. It’s an umbrella of grace,” revealed the woman.

Dee can’t believe her luck. She can’t get off her mind too what the woman said:

“Remember that an umbrella of grace is available for you to use each time there is rain of challenges. All you have to do is accept it, open it, and use it.”

“When you are forced to walk in the rain, allow your senses to be awakened by each drop of cold rain that you may understand how much others need as well the umbrella of grace.  No, you need not pray that it will be provided to them. Pray that they accept it, open it, and use it because it is readily available — for free.”

“And hey, don’t be surprised if wings show up and take you to miracles. Faith moves impossibilities.”

I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. – Psalm 61:4

1. Having been made or come into being only a short time ago
2. Still fresh

RAY:

1. Radiance; light
2. A small amount; a trace
3. A straight line extending from a point

Let’s talk about new old things. By old, I mean something that already exists or has been always there. And yes, something old can definitely be new.

It can be new when the eyes are new; when the perspective is new; when the heart is new; when the self is new.

How can two people who regularly saw the same sunray not have the same reaction — one saw it with a smile and the other one just squint and frown?

Could the person have seen a ray of hope and that ray is more than enough?

Or he simply saw a ray?

Could the person have seen a burst of warm love and felt it deeply?

Or he simply saw a ray?

Could the person have seen an extended grace and never doubts its source?

Or he simply saw a ray?

Shall we now look close enough with the old and discover something new? I just did.

January. JaNewRay. TheNewRay,Yeah!

TheNewRea? But my hubby isn’t old —  yet

Happy New Year! Happy New You!

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. – Ezekiel 36:26-27

Cinderella on Her Tea Break from Bluebell Books: Short Story Slam Week 17

*

“Surely the shoe will fit me. It’s mine.”

“And I’m a princess now?”

“But what if there’s no fairy godmother?”

“And I wasn’t able to attend the ball?”

“And what if the glass shoe didn’t slip from my foot?”

“Oh, why do I need to analyze everything? Time for tea!”

There’s jasmine, chamomile, lemon, ginger, green tea…

What caught her eye though is the Christmas tea.

“Yes, I’ll have Christmas tea! Christmas is for miracles and I had just one!”

As Cinderella sipped the spirit of Christmas, she felt calm and her mind restored.

“Great things will be poured upon us for reason that we know nothing of. We need not figure out why but simply take it in with deep thanks.”

And Cinderella decided to live happy thereafter.

But not without sharing how to prepare Christmas tea!

Directions:

1. Pour faith over bag of events in a cup of grace.

2. Let it steep with prayers.

3. Add a sweetener such as trusting smile.

4. Sip with gratitude.

5. For best partea, serve others.

“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. – Acts 2:17

I found it hard to breath. My throat slowly closed. Rashes rushed in.

I passed the allergy test yet the anti-biotic failed and caused me to gasp for air.

Human affirmation is not enough. God’s grace is.

I thank God for the recent cross.

It is painful, especially the unseen wound but the cross stitches.

It fastens together the family with threads of love.

It mends broken souls.

It embosses the heart with an attitude of gratitude.

Thank you so much friends and family for your prayers — for bringing it all to Him.

Thank you so much hubby for taking care of me. For bringing the kiddos to the hospital that I may not miss our normally messy yet love-filled moments as family. I love you.

Thank you so much kiddos for the hugs, kisses, smiles, and love. I love you all.

Thank you youngest daughter for the question, “Mommy are you healed already?”

“The operation is over but the healing goes on.”

“But I prayed to Jesus to heal you.”

“You did? Thank you!”

A stitch in time saves mine — my life beyond the breathing level.

Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave.

- Psalm 107: 19-20

looked beyond the lens

confident of devotion

effortless smile

looked beyond the truth

convinced oneself it’s unreal

bittersweet smile

looked beyond what’s seen

trusting the One who sees all

reassured smile

*

For Gooseberry Garden on Photos, Nostalgia, Memories, and Families

Life goes on. Despite several endings. Life goes on. Despite several deaths.

Life goes on. Because there are endings. Life goes on. Because there are deaths.

If you are beside me now you’ll know that I am actually babbling.

I am not even sure if I am dazed or tired or both or anything else.

But I am so sure that I am sincerely grateful for all of you.

You who brought love, hope, blessings, prayers, and all good things in here.

Would you bring some too for BAYLIS?

He is a good man with epilepsy, aphasia and Parkinson’s.

He had brain tumor removed and will have a cataract surgery on both eyes next month. Thank you for your prayers.

He was a University Professor and a Pastor (if I’m not mistaken) and so much more — maybe Baylis can tell us.

When I think of Baylis, I can’t help but remember Job —  Job who was challenged with difficult circumstances and still kept his faith in God.

Baylis, despite his difficult circumstances, still managed to appreciate and encourage others — like me. Thank you so much!

And I am sure he has a very special smile – maybe he can tell us about that too!

*

“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” – Job 42:2

Image from Bluebell Books Short Story Slam  Week 16

*

“I don’t like rain it changes my plans.”

“And what are your plans my lady?”

“The usual — go for a walk, take pictures, stay at the café and have my favorite waffle.”

“How about checking someone else’s plan for you out there? Go out in the rain.”

“Go out in the rain? And wet myself?”

“Why not?”

“Okay. Okay. I’ll go out there with my boots and umbrella.”

“Don’t forget to wear your wow glasses!”

Reena smiled at her Mom.

Reena smiled some more – out in the rain.

She saw Mommy ducky and her cuties picked flowers – and yes she saw the quack wow in their eyes while they strut their way into the rain!

And so she picked flowers too – happy and fresh flowers bathe by the rain!

Silently she said her thanks, “Thank you so much dear duckies for showing me that I always have the option to find beauty even amidst the rain. That I should not automatically envision mud when it rains – but happy duckies!”

Reena can’t wait to get back home – duck walking and quack wowing.

“Mom, fresh flowers for you. I love you!”

“Wow! Thank you my lady and I love you too!”

“Welcome but you have to thank a mommy duck and her cuties as well!”

“Mommy duck and her cuties?”

“Yes Mom and thank you so much for today – a happy rainy day. Not in my plan — but a real gooooooood One!”

—

After series of tests, the doctor confirmed that a cancerous cyst has to be removed in my cervix.

I got to see a cardiologist in a while to confirm that it is okay for me to push through with the operation which is scheduled this coming Saturday.

Not in my plan — but I trust the real gooooooood One.

*

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. – Jeremiah 29:11

left to aunts

passed on to grandma

back to parents

forwarded to hubby

stayed with kiddos

back to me

back to You

You who will never give me up

You who will never leave me

You who will never stop loving me

You who is ever faithful

*

As we journey through life it is inevitable that we will be left behind; that we will be left out – but never left alone.

It is cold in here

But not one with cold shoulders

Warm heart is working

Thursday Poet Rally is cool — and so too The Tickly Turtle!

Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. – Hebrews 13:5

It is cold inside

Does it have to be outside?

Warm them with your smile

It is cold outside

Does it have to be inside?

Defrost chilly heart

For Gooseberry Garden on November, Winter, Change, and Hope.

*

Earlier I had a schedule of breast ultrasound. It was still early in the morning and a weekend. No hurry, no worry.

But the radiologist had other plans. He wanted to hurry, to worry. He blah blah about I should have come earlier.

“But my appointment is between 8:00AM and 9:00AM and it’s only 8:30AM?”

“Yes, but if there are ten of you, only one shows up at 8:00AM and the rest at 9:00AM…blah blah blah.”

Thank God the procedure only takes around 5 minutes. I got to get out of that place fast but not without leaving some words in the reception with the lead amongst the staff.

“I come here for my well being not to seek for someone who will dampen my day. You are well aware that you charge much higher than other health companies, right? And that premium charges must be for a better service?”

“Yes, Ma’am and we’re really sorry. Will you please write here in our complaint form?”

“Write the complaint for what? Don’t tell me that this is the first time it happened because I won’t believe you. An attitude like that must have been well practiced.”

“I would be lying Ma’am if I say that this is the first time it happened with him.”

“What is the complaint form for? How many complaints do you need before you do something about it? If you can give me a figure and show me the number of complaints I will be more than willing to exert further effort.”

“We’re really sorry Ma’am for your bad experience. “

Oh well, it is December already but I remember Gooseberry Garden’s topic for November because of the incident. I need to cool down.

Good that my awesome daughter is with me – wearing an awesome shirt.

sprinkles of heaven - awesomeness

Good that my favorite green tea frappe is near.

sprinkles of heaven - book and green tea

Good that I have a good book with me – at the Still Point, an inspiring collection of devotional readings by Sarah Arthur.  And so I randomly open it and here’s what I get…

I saw the world end yesterday!

A flight of angels tore

Its cover off and Heaven lay

Where Earth had been before.

I walked about the countryside

And saw a cricket pass.

Then, bending closer, I espied

An ecstasy of grass.

(Eschaton by Elizabeth B. Rooney)

See the word bend in there? That made my day! And of course in the thought that sprinkles of heaven are all around if we choose to see!

And so I see the cool red shoes the man is wearing in the table besides us.

And the lovely floor!

sprinkles of heaven - red shoe and lovely floor

And I remember too some of my November blessings…

1. All Saints Day and All Souls Day – that includes me and you, think about it
2. 2011 People’s Manager Award – deliver results, engage today’s talent, shape the future
3. November birthdays that brought my Mom and my son to me
4. Family day, crafting days, bazaar
5. Feast of St. Julian of Norvich who said:

“all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well”

“God made it, God loves it, God keeps it.” – referring to the nut size thing in God’s hand which is the entire universe

And so much more — including YOU!

From whose womb comes the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens. – Job 38:29

Image from Bluebell Books Short Story Slam Week 15.

*

Grain by grain, bit by bit, each moment drops.

It is a slow death.

“Will somebody bond those grains together, form it in one big ball, and roll it into oblivion!”

With pains oozing from her whole being she wants nothing but to speed up time.

But time won’t.

Grain by grain, bit by bit, each moment drops.

It is an expeditious death.

“Will somebody crush each grain, turn it into millions, and fuse within me through eternity!”

With love oozing from her whole being she wants nothing but to slow down time.

But time won’t.

Our hands are almost same size now! Hands may let go but heart won't. Happy 10th Birthday Benedict! I love you! We love you!

Today is my son’s 10th birthday! He’s growing up so fast. Five months ago I wasn’t able to control my tears when he left for 1^st day in school –his 1^st day wearing pants uniform. The year before that he was still wearing khaki shorts – my young boy. Oops got to stop now else today turns out a Saddy Birthday.

Happy 10^th Birthday Dearest Son! I’ll share with the world 10 things I am thankful for about YOU!

1. You love numbers. A math whiz just like your Dad!
2. You love letters. My scrabble, boggle, and book buddy!
3. You handle your money well – you trust your Mom to handle it for you!
4. You are not a complainer.  “Mommy please buy me a new shirt. This doesn’t fit well with me anymore after 4 years.” Or are you?
5. You know how to give thanks. “Thank you sooo much Mommy for the new book! I will massage you for two months.” How can I not give someone like you a whole library?
6. You are thoughtful. Most of the times you spend your Kid’s Church bucks to buy something for your sisters and brother – and sometimes for Mom and Dad too! We are all touched!
7. You are sweet. You tinker with me – bending wires, sanding woods, appreciating junk!
8. You excel in what you like to do. Just like your Dad! You deserve all those medals that you give to us!
9. You cry. Just like your Mom! Let those tears remind you not to make others cry in pain. Make others cry in joy? That will make me cry!
10. You love God. Because you do, you love us too – thank you sooo much! I love you! We love you!

There are more reasons why I am thankful for you but I’m not writing them all here right now.

There is no hurry – writing them.

Let’s hurry now – finishing our crafts, hunting for books, loving each other, creating memories…

This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. – Psalm 118:24

Yes thank you so much for your prayers that you will be saying in a little while.

I opened my email today and read this…

Please pray for my baby. 

 She had seizures last Saturday 3 times, once last Friday. She would stare blankly to her right then her hands would jerk for about 40 seconds. The pediatrician advised that we observe her further — if it persists, we’ll schedule an EEG for her. 

 From Sunday until now, there were no jerky movements on her hands and feet, except for the blank stares of around 5 seconds each. This usually happens when she’s being breastfed. I am scared…

My blog friend Maricel is scared. She’s a first time mom — even nth time mom would be scared.  Let’s join her pray for the baby. Let’s pray for this mom too.

Aloud, in whisper, in silence — God hears them all, right?

And I read too a number of emails these past few weeks all with warm message of, “I have been thinking of you and praying for you. I hope all is well…”

And all I can say to God is, “Thank you so much for blessing me with these wonderful people in my life. Please bless them more.”

Aloud, in whisper, in silence – God hears them all, right?

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. ²⁰ For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:19-20

to thank

tough times

turned my life upside down

trained me how to hold on right

throwing away what could loosen my grip

taking me to the place where my trust won’t be broken

there, up on the cross He loved me even before I loved Him.

my son bent the wire for love

Thankful for my son who made the Son on the cross

Taught me that loving involves a lot of bending

That bending is not deforming but purposeful

from the family that bends together

Thankful for the time with my family

Touching, talking, teaching, trying

Transforming whatever we have into love

Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare. – Psalm 75:1

Detectives and lawyer

They were my companions in my younger years

Those book characters were with me everywhere

I once imagined myself as

Smart and resourceful Nancy Drew

With brothers as lucky and clever as Hardy Boys

But I think I grew up

With astute logical reasoning as Sherlock Holmes

With an ability to get somebody out of trouble like Perry Mason

My family was hopeful

That someday they will see me in court

A lawyer just like my uncle

But I couldn’t tell them

I just wanted to be a woman, wife and a mom

I haven’t told anyone until now

And so I grow older and took up engineering

And yes I became a woman, wife and a mom

Defending someone, saving myself and trying to be logical

Dream came true? I don’t know. All I know is I could be Hercule Poirot

Who believes that “in the long run, either through a lie, or through truth,

people were bound to give themselves away…”

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For Gooseberry Garden on Childhood, Dreams, Books, Role Models.

It’s true. All I ever dreamt of was to be a woman, wife and a mom — all because I wanted to find my way back into love. And how about you?

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. – Matthew 7:7

Image from Bluebell Books: Short Story Slam Week 14

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I am letting go. I no longer want to wait.

No more waiting for the phone to ring. No more checking my e-mail twice a day. No more torturing myself thinking of you. From hopeful to edgy; to depressed; to desperate; to discouraged — I am now letting go.

It’s about time to soak my callous heart in healing bath, scrub away your lies, indulge in heaven scent dreams and rinse with confidence that there are wonderful revelations ahead of me.

I love tub for one. I can close my eyes knowing I am safe alone. There’s no one to highlight flaws and no one to crush the spirit.

Oh there’s rubber ducky to remind me to not to be so hard with myself and to smile despite the emptiness inside. Grace will fill all the empty spaces…

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. – 1 Peter 5:10

This may be your last chance to kiss me

Do it with passion as if what touched my lips

Is not only a feather.

This may be your last chance to love me

Do it with passion as if the soul that touched my being

Is with fidelity.

This may be your last chance to be with me

Do it with passion as if your heart that beats for me

Is not a figment.

This may be your last chance to remember our story

Do it with passion as if the hero who cared

Is not merely a fable.

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For Gooseberry Garden on Feathers, Fidelity, Figment, and Fables.

“Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” – James 4:14

Less than a month ago I discovered a lump in my breast. What immediately came to mind is the possibility of breast cancer and of near-death. It made me pause and check myself.

There was no fear. There was no worry. How could it be?

I realized that I have been prepared for this – with my death experiences.

Death of dreams.

Death of trust.

Death of happiness.

Death of confidence.

Death of enthusiasm.

Death of hope.

Death of courage.

Death of spirit.

With those deaths I never asked, “Why? Why? Why?”  But nevertheless I am now given an answer if ever I ask, “WHY?!”

I was being prepared to give birth to my faith.

I gave birth to 4 living babies and my 1 unborn was taken from inside. Pure labor and pain before the release of lives from within me – very much like the birth of faith.

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It’s Day 31 of Feeling Good! And I’m talking about death? Surely death is painful if we focus on the loss. But if we shift our focus to what it gave birth to – it has beauty on its own.

I never thought that faith alone could give birth to so many wonderful things.

Birth of dreams.

Birth of trust.

Birth of happiness.

Birth of confidence.

Birth of enthusiasm.

Birth of hope.

Birth of courage.

Birth of spirit.

Yes, what were lost are best lost. Now I have new ones — better ones plus so much more.

And oh, the lump in my breast is possibly not cancerous. The doctor told me to go back after a month to confirm if I need an operation but as of now, it subsided already. Death of lump?

Now tell me, how can I not feel good? Sometimes feeling good is not about feelings but about trust. That we are better off with it; how others are better off with it – with what is given or taken away.

This is the end of my 31 Days of Feeling Good series – but not the end of feeling good!

‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4

Ghosts haunt the Mommy

Free her from bondage

Jack, Oh let her go

No more tricks or threats

Enough with your rules

For a hollow win

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For The Gooseberry Garden on Halloween - Trick or Treat?!

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It’s Day 30 of Feeling Good! No more tricks or threats — just truths and triumphs!

Triumph over feeling of insecurities;

Truth is you are wonderfully made.

Triumph over feeling of worthlessness;

Truth is you are precious.

Feel good. Enough with put downs. Enough with self-defeating attitudes.

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. – John 8:32

Comfortable bed, blanket and a pillow

Not everyone have them blessed fellow

Warm cup of coffee any time of the day

Thousands don’t have a cup, much more a coffee

Daily shower, soap, and shampoo

To some, this would be heaven sent – heaven scent

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It’s Day 29 of Feeling Good! You know those small luxuries which sometimes go unnoticed, those we may not even consider at all as luxury, IS NOT SMALL TO SOME.

Those are not small to some.

Those are big, a dream, a miracle for them.

Those are not small to some.

And why should it be to us?

Feel good for the miracles you have now.

Feel good for the miracles you can share.

Feel good for the awesome smiles those miracles could bring back to you.

Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

– Ephesians 5:20

Play not with fire

that burns the soul

and destroys lives.

Play not with hide and seek

hiding from responsibilities

and seeking faults.

Play not with monopoly

of ideas and decisions

someone else is in the game.

Play not of passing around

the juicy tales about someone else

go sip some tea.

Play not with indecisions

playing safe from accountability

is not safe at all.

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It’s Day 28 of Feeling Good! Play used to be something to look forward to when we were young. When grown-ups associated it with something destructive play is no longer good.

Feel good again — play child’s play! Play with kids!

Hopscotch, kick the can, jump rope, jacks, marbles, tags, Simon says, freeze dance, musical chair…

Play fair — enjoy the day!

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them” – Ecclesiastes 12:1

Image from Bluebell Books: Short Story Slam Week 13

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“Reading again? You are so lazy to do nothing but read!”

How could she make him understand that she is not just reading?

Her ears were deaf with mockery thus she savors the lines that say she is special.

Her heart was crushed, bleeding non-stop, thus she needs healing with the words.

Her spirit suffered that it wanted to escape thus she needs the pages to stop it.

“Reading again? You are so lazy to do nothing but read!”

Oh how he made her felt so small because she was looked down.

Oh how he made her felt so sad because she can no longer see love in his eyes.

And so she ran outside together with her book of comfort and climbed a tree.

She timed her tears from the moment it leaped out till it reached the ground.

“Reading again? You are so l…”

“Oh no he found me!”

“Reading again? You are so lovely up there!”

He learned how to care and not look down – because he looked up.

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It’s Day 27 of Feeling Good! READ!

R-edeem your spirit

E-mbrace its value

A-llow it to soak the Word

D-ay and night

Feel good up in the tree, up in the sky, up to the Highest!

Let this book of the law be ever on your lips and in your thoughts day and night, so that you may keep with care everything in it; then a blessing will be on all your way, and you will do well. – Joshua 1:8

I lived amongst storms

Real ones

Those that drenched the flesh;

Metaphorical ones

Those that dried the bones.

Since I cannot afford to be defeated

I think of storms as redemptive

Instead of restrictive.

I can’t hide and curl up forever

Got to go on despite the lashing of the winds

Got to bend real well and grip real hard.

And when the floods reached my soul

Got to swim or float

The Lifeguard is after all looking out for me.

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It’s Day 26 of Feeling Good! Holy Lord I didn’t know bended spoon could bend that much! Thank you Lord for letting me know how flexible you have made me. That I can weather the storms without boots and raincoat and umbrella – because I have you!

Feel good, storms can take out the debris out of your life and leave you with valuable ones!

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10

Turn your back

and sin no more

and seen no more

and scene no more

Turn your back

and meet a purpose

and metamorphose

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It’s Day 25 of Feeling Good! Surely you know what I’m saying.  Just turn your back and help others realize how ugly it is. No, not your back — but what you have left behind!

Feel good now for you are facing the light! See how valuable you really are.

Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, “See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.” – John 5:14