Walk2Remember

Your prayers are needed...

2010-05-21T18:32:00.001-05:00

today is Project HOPE's Feed the Hunger Program. i have to be honest with you all, i was really expecting many will feel the need for this particular ministry esp. when i posted it on facebook, but i guess i shouldn't have expected too much =( i failed to just allow the Lord to do what He wanted regardless of how much help we get from others. though we continue to be grateful to our repeat sponsors, i was really hoping to be able to gather more funds in order to help more, but sadly, besides our yearly sponsors, only our family responded. for a second there i was really devastated, i neglected to remind myself that as long as the Lord is in the midst, whether we feed 1 out of hundreds that we at Project HOPE desire... i'm sure the experience and help that will be provided will have an incredible and unforgettable impact to us esp. to those who will be there. that what is important is as long as the Lord continues to be glorified and His people are helped, that's all that really matters.

is it wrong to feel discouraged for not receiving the help i expected? i'm sure the Lord understands what i feel. forgive me for feeling this way. i just really feel bad for those who are in desperate need of something we always take forgranted of. the types of food that we can so easily get, but to them what they eat is what's being thrown away by so many of us. i don't know i just don't get it i guess. i hope the Lord help me understand why others just can't take that step to open their hearts to a major need like this. why it's so hard for them to unclench their fists? whew! sorry, i just really need to get that out of my chest. i feel the brokeness of these people, i'm sure it'll be more heart breaking once i witness it first hand. oh gosh! i probably won't be able to serve to the best of my ability coz i'll be crying the whole time =(

anyway, getting back to my soul purpose for this blog. i would like to ask for your fervent prayer for this Feed the Hunger program. my sister, my bro-in-law and with the rest of our crew are on their way to the location as i type this blog. i heard that one of the hardest things they are experiencing right now is the hot, dihydrating weather. please kindly include them in your prayers this moment. that they will all feel the Lord's presence from beginning to end. that every person in every corner of this facility will be blessed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Lord, let Your will be done and may You be glorified in every way. Lord, You gave us this opportunity and so we ask for Your provision, strength and guidance that all will be well according to Your will. in Jesus Almighty and Precious name, AMEN!

2010 Feed the Hunger

2010-05-11T23:12:00.000-05:00

We at Project HOPE have been blessed once again with the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ to the under resourced children of Tondo, Manila Philippines, stricken with hunger and sickness.

With the help of our dear brothers and sisters of Yeshua Emmanuel Community Church and in leadership of Pastor Manuel Ocampo, we will be serving another "Feed the Hunger" program on Saturday, May 22, 2010. A couple of our members, Treasurer, Yvonne Sales (my sister) and Videographer, Aries Sales (my brother-in-law) will witness, volunteer their time and provide what is needed in our behalf during this time.

Due to the space, we have estimated only 100 people to be fed. But just like last year when we fed 200 street children in Payatas, Philippines, we will also be serving them 2 dishes, rice and a juice box already on a container for easy distribution.

What does this mean to you? This simply means that you are also given the opportunity to extend help to this unpriviledged fellowmen, who have no voice to express their needs and sufferings.

We at Project HOPE have come alongside them to be their advocate to YOU, who have been blessed with more than enough, on their behalf. These people are the ones who live less than $2 a day. To them, two meals in one day is a miracle. Their daily routine is rummaging through trash to find scraps of food in hopes to have at least one meal in one day. At times, they force themselves to sleep through hunger hoping that the next day will be brighter, but there are days when they feel that all hope is gone.

On the other hand, how many of us have wasted food because of ridiculus reasons and too much of it just makes us sick? These poverty-stricken people are the opposite... how they desire to be able to feel and say, "I had too much to eat" or "I'm full" or "I'm stuffed".

We understand that many are still facing financial hardship. However, living in U.S.A. already gives us more reasons to be thankful for and a step ahead to those who are less fortunate. We earnestly ask for you to take a step of faith and give what your heart tells you... help make a mark into the hearts of this hurting people.

For those who do not know our organization, Project HOPE is a non-profit family ministry. It was established in 2005 and since then we've been continuously supported by the generous donations of ordinary and compassionate people like you. We're not a big organization, but we believe in the power of "compassion in action". It doesn't take a big organization to help the forgotten. Paraphrasing what Mother Teresa once said, "If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” Friends, the size of the contribution is not what matters most. The key here is to have the heart to do it. Just feeling sorry for them doesn't change a thing, but acting on it brings hope to the hopeless.

Please do not think that everything has been taken cared of by somebody else and your contribution will not make much of a difference... I mean, imagine if everyone else starts to think the same way? FRIENDS, YOUR EFFORT COUNTS. Let us set aside our differences and instead let's come together to do what is right and what is needed... that is to be able to feed this people at least one meal on May 22nd. With your help, we will be able to feed 100 poverty-stricken people OR MORE IF GOD BRINGS THE INCREASE. Just one meal my friends and believe me it will be rewarding.

We also believe that prayer is a powerful and necessary tool and so we ask for your support in praying for this next humbling task the Lord has put in our hearts. Pray for the Pastor & my sister, Yvonne that they will be able to present the message of the Lord with clarity and with grateful heart. Pray for all the volunteers, that they will be safe, have the strength and God's heart of compassion to serve this people with love. That we will have all the resources needed to make this feeding program a success. Pray for every person that will set foot on this place that they will not only be filled with the abundance of food, but with love for the Lord and hope that is only found in Christ.

TO DONATE:
Please visit our website at http://www.walk2remember.com/phupdates.html
or by MAIL:

Payable to Project HOPE
263 Comstock Dr.
Elgin, IL 60124

I will keep you all posted regarding the progress of "Project HOPE's 2010 Feed the Hunger Program".

On behalf of the Project HOPE team, I would like to thank you all in advance for your support and prayers. May God bless you for the action you will take, your thoughtfulness & generosity!

In His Service,

Lovely Miranda
Project HOPE
www. Walk2Remember.com/projecthope.html

Day 5 (Last day for COH Challenge)

2010-04-16T13:47:00.002-05:00

ok, it's the last day of the challenge and i'm in awe of God's help in my time of hunger. i couldn't have done this w/o God's guidance. i was soooo jels when my hubby was munching on some chips last night, but he was nice enough to stop right away as soon as he saw me going crazy hahaha - i fell asleep with a stomach ache =(

but i'm sooooo grateful i was able to meet another 5 day challenge! i know the day is not over, but hey it's not easy to be in this type of challenge you know with the temptation all around you all the time - ugh!

well, i just wanna add too that i thank the Lord for giving my older sis another year of His amazing blessings! HAPPY BIRTHDAY ATE SALLY! WE LOVE YOU!!! YOU'RE THE BEST!

wishing you all a blessed weekend! tgif!

God speed!

Day 4 - COH

2010-04-15T21:02:00.003-05:00

oh gosh! i can't wait - one more day and i'm back to eating normal again! it just goes to show how fortunate we all are to have access to food all the time. wow! i can't imagine how poor people do it to survive =( here's me complaining for not being able to eat what i want for 5days while the less fortunate have no choice but to try to survive for the next days to come.

today i felt cramps and dehydration. yes, i was tempted in so many ways... in fact i fell for 2 pieces of peanuts at work, but i caught myself right away. ugh! i feel so guilty =( again, it goes to show how easily tempted we get and without the help of the Holy Spirit ugh! i don't know how we can fight our temptations. my sis even reminded me how things will be if it's the end of the world... wow! thank God the Lord has my family in the book of life =) it's exciting to know that God has a place prepared for us already =)

again, this experience taught me the true meaning of abundance and blessed. thank you Lord for your grace! may this experience bring about ways for us to bless others as you continue to bless us. help us to extend the abundance we receive from you to make a difference in someone's life.

Lord thank you for this amazing experience. to You be all the glory =)

Day 3

2010-04-14T18:40:00.000-05:00

Omg! I'm beginning to realize that I CAN'T LIVE W/O COFFEEEEEE!

Besides seeing walking meat, I see coffee everytime I close my eyes waaaa!

Ok, 2 more days and hitting the buffet. I'm sure I'm not the only one thinking of doing that. I'M SOOOO HUNGRY!

K I don't have much energy to talk about anything else so um, pray for me that I survive 2 more days =)
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Day 2 (Celebration of Hope Challenge)

2010-04-13T12:22:00.002-05:00

oh no! my hubby and my son gave up last night already. they explained how bad they feel about what our brothers and sisters go through and how difficult it is to really be starving and not just hungry. my sis just emailed me and she's already struggling too. her son gave up last night as well. so now it's just me, my daughter and my sis. i gotta admit, it does give you enormous headache =( gosh! imagine what the poor people go through? i mean they have no choice but to feel the hunger, the headaches, the cramping every single day.

i don't know how long i'll last, but i'm still trying and have yet to give up. i don't even know how i did it the last 2yrs lol

i know the Lord doesn't need us to do this to prove something to Him... it's just a way of knowing what our brothers and sisters go through when faced with hunger or starvation.

what did i eat for lunch yesterday? i ate the chicken off of the $1 chicken sandwich i bought. for dinner, rice and beans... wow! that was somethin' else. i'm not really a fan of beans, but i had no choice... i was hungry =)

for lunch today, i'll probably eat the same thing or chicken bits w/ rice - depends what i find. but i realized yesterday how much i spend for lunch here at work alone..... it's crazy!

well, i need to eat now coz the people walking by right now are beginning to look like steak to me hahaha

adios!

5-Day Challenge "Celebration of Hope"

2010-04-12T09:38:00.005-05:00

happy monday! ok so my hubby, my son, my daughter and i are on a 5-day challenge to identify with the poor. though this is my 3rd year doing this with our home church, www.willowcreek.org, it's still not an easy thing to do, but since the 4 of us are doing it together... it will be easy to support and encourage each other =) for those of you who are new to this challenge i'd like to give you an idea of what this 5days will have to be like:

5-Day Food and Water Challenge
As an act of solidarity w/ our brothers & sisters around the globe fighting hunger and thirst, we challenge you to eat for five days as half the world’s population eats every day. Eat the meals of your day using the options below. Set aside money you would have spend on additional groceries & donate it to Celebration of Hope 2010 to support those who struggle w/ hunger, thirst, & sickness.

Meal Options
• Plain oatmeal or Cream of Wheat
• Rice & beans
• Rice w/ bits of fish or chicken
• A small portion of carrots, cabbage, onions, tomatoes, squash or broccoli
• Tap water

Food Portions
Portion sizes around the world are much smaller than those of a typical American meal. One cup or 8 oz is a generous portion. Meat is a luxury; the average African consumes less than an ounce of meat per day- about the size of a small chicken nugget. Fresh fruit & veggies are rare, available only if grown locally & in season.
While these meals seem small by American standards, they actually represent diets in the broad middle when compared to the rest of the world. Half the world’s population lives on no more than $2 a day. Approximately 1 billion people live on even less- only $1 per day.

Tap Water
Public water systems in the US generally provide adequate, accessible, clean water for the common good in environmentally sustainable ways. For 5days, we challenge you to drink only tap water & remember the more than 1.1 billion people who don’t have access to clean water.

ok, so now u get the idea... i pray for whoever's taking this challenge, that we will feel the true message and lesson that God wants us to learn from this. that the Lord will break our hearts for the needy and that it will stir our hearts into a different meaning of how truly blessed we are and how extending help to the needy really makes a whole lot difference in someone's life.

DAY ONE: all 4 of us ate oatmeal for breakfast. i still need to figure out what to eat for lunch, but i know for sure oatmeal again for dinner =)

to God be all the glory!

Checkin in

2010-04-09T13:08:00.000-05:00

Hey bloggers! And so I was convinced to reactivate my FB... I'm a bit cautious who I accept as a friend now so let's see how this will work. I thank God for privacy settings since I still wanna maintain my privacy and don't wanna broadcast the whole world things they don't have to know. Plus, it saves me from mysery =) I'm still not a huge fan since some people really uses it to live their fantasy life through it ( u know - 2nd personality).

On another note, I'm glad and grateful to the Lord for reconnecting me with people who played a significant role in my life. So all in all, I really wish this experience with FB will turn out to be glorifying to God =) if it leads me to a different route (a one ugly route) then there won't be any second thoughts for me... I'm closing it for good!

Ok, so I'm blogging while I wait for my sashimi rice. Something new for my lunch menu... I keep alternating between bibim bop, sushis and makis - now it's time to get somethin new! I'll tell you the verdict later!

Oops! Gotta go - time to fill up my one hungry belly =) happy friday!
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HaPpy EaSTEr!

2010-04-03T12:13:00.000-05:00

I know it's not till tomorrow, but I'm all excited already in spite of the weather =) the celebration must go on!

Hope y'all are having an awesomely sweet Easter weekend! May this very important day bring joy and freedom to you and your loved ones =) I love you all with the love of the Lord!

The tomb is empty... Woohoo!
Praise the almighty King!

God speed!
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Its THEE daughterr :)

2010-03-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

Ok, well this is my first time blogging so bear with me. Lemme introduce myself...

The name's Camille Miguel Miranda. 15 years youngin' and proud to be a teen :) I'm my mom's first, so that means she loves me the most :)...sike! More like the least :P aha. I attend South Elgin High School(SEHS) as a freshie. I go to Willow Creek Church every Sunday, and I attend the highschool ministry: Student Impact :) hmm..what else... I'm a chill person, LOVESSS to LAUGH, and LOVESSS FOOD! So hook me up with any kind of food, we'll be bff's! Haha, jk, I'm friends with everyone :D keep your friends close, but keep your enemies CLOSER! I keep that phrase with me all the time!

Well I guess I'll catch yah guys laterrr! Gotta get ready fo thee FASHION SHOW :)))) I'll end this the way I end my own journal: PEACE&LOVE<3
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Mixed Emo...

2010-03-27T01:59:00.000-05:00

I know it's late, but I can't sleep still... listening on some old songs w/ hubby =)

I need your prayers... tomorrow or should I say, later on today is the fashion show already. I'm nervous, excited, scared, happy, stomach turning, feet hurting, and so on... the best part of this whole experience is the chance to be able to do this in this lifetime (um, i'm 33 yrs old w/ 3 kids) and to be able to do this w/ my best friends of 19yrs - c'mon who wouldn't take the opportunity? though it's still sad not to be complete coz our 3 other girlfriends couldn't join due to circumstances =( I know they wish us well and I believe they will still be there to watch and support us - which is always comforting.

I gotta admit, it's been a wonderful experience thus far for all of us... being together makes it all worthwhile - it removes any negativity =) plus ALL my girls still looks GORGEOUS the more they get older - I'm so proud of them! not only have we gone through so many ups and downs, we've grown to keep each other grounded by encouragement and by building up and not tearing down =) I really think that's been the key to our long lasting friendship. I mean you can hardly find group of friends (esp. 10) who are still as close as we all are for this many years. We are extra extra blessed - I know that for sure.

K, well I gotta go and get me some rest. Pls kindly pray for a successful show and that we will all exceed everyone's expectations and of course definitely enjoy every second of it =) tanx much guys!

God bless! Gnite!

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there's always a reason...

2010-03-03T14:43:00.003-06:00

as i mentioned on my last blog, i had 3 parties over the weekend. thank God we went to all 3. i not only saw some old friends, but i also met some cousins i never knew before. the fun part was we all bonded like there was no tomorrow. did some planning to stay in touch and all that good stuff. my cousins live close by my house too so that's awesome! ahh! such a great feeling to see old friends and gain more important people in your life isn't it? there's always a reason for everything =)

for the past 2weeks i've been searching for the cheapest way to go to cali. see there's 8 of us traveling and imagine how much that will cost? ugh! at first my mom-in-law suggested to take the train since the kids enjoyed riding that before anyway, but i'm worried for my 4yr old... she might get irritated (idk). i mean i was really leaning towards that already since the airfares are just ridiculous, but thank God i found one yesterday almost half-price so i made sure i reserved it already. now i can't wait till that day =) my kids are way too excited and have really been saving their money coz they want to be able to buy on their own. so that's a relief for me and noel since we've seen how responsible they are with their spending anyway and how they really make sure they have money saved for rainy days. my 4yr old saves money to buy books and educational activities. she loves paying for her items on her own at the register. such a wonderful feeling to know that the values you teach your children are being practiced even if you sometimes feel like they're not listening =) the gift of parenting... hard, but it pays off eventually.

k, gotta go now... still have work to do =)

have a blessed wednesday!

Fashion Show

2010-02-27T08:30:00.001-06:00

good a.m. everyone! I'm just taking a few mins of my busy weekend to blog about something very exciting my girls and i are into lately.

well, we're fortunate enough to model for this filipino designer, victor miller, who will be showcasing his wedding gowns this coming march 27th.

we were informed about this last year and of course we were all excited then, but for some odd reason almost half of us wanted to back-out at the last minute of our 1st rehearsal. but after practicing "THE WALK", we were all back at the same page... EXCITEMENT is all I can feel with everyone.

one great thing about this is that my daughter and my goddaughter are in it too... so my best friend, char and i will be able to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity with our daughters =) i still can't believe that our daughters are part of what we do now - ugh! they're growing up too fast. my daughter, camille, is turning 16 this year while my son, ayren, will be facing his first teen year. gosh! where did the time go? Hmm, in a way i'm happy for them coz they get to experience more of God's plan for their lives. It will be tough, but life is worth living for esp when you're in the care of our gracious Father, our Creator.

anywayz, we have 2 bdays to go to today and another one tomorrow. it's crazy that i haven't even bought anything yet. so i think it's better to sign-off now before i fall asleep again since im bloggin' while layin' down hehehe plus still need to run some errands. k, have a blessed day people! today is a gift from God, let's live like we believe it!

God speed!
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thank God for EBay & Craigslist

2010-02-22T21:17:00.003-06:00

yep! it's that time again to get rid of stuff we don't need and make extra bucks off of it =)

just sold noel's blackberry storm for $200 through craigslist. thank God we tried craigslist first before ebay - otherwise i'd have to pack worry about the bids and shipping. i find craigslist much easier esp for big things.

have you used ebay or craigslist? if so, tell me your experience!!! i know i made more than $2k last summer before we moved using both. just imagine if i gave my stuff away or left it at my old house? ugh!

i really think good photos and honest descriptions sells your stuff easily and problem free. i had people drive 2 hrs to my house to buy my stuff and i'm soooo grateful =)

i still have a few to sell and i'm sure i'll have more when it gets pretty nice outside. i do have some furnitures i'd like to sell too since i don't have room for them anymore. we had to use part of our garage to store 'em so hopefully we'll be able to get rid most of them this summer.

there is a possibility we might move again coz of my husband's job. i kinda want to, but i kinda don't for many reasons - but wherever the Lord leads us... we're all for it =)

well, thought i'd drop a quick blog before i do my devotional and hit the sack. wishing you all a good night and a peaceful sleep =)

God speed!

bored =)

2010-02-21T17:41:00.002-06:00

thought i'd drop a quick blog before i bring my daughter to her youth group.

so yesterday, i met with some of my girls to the kid's expo. i brought my lil' one, my son and my nephew. the kids obviously had an awesome time, but i was unhappy when my daughter finally wanted to get her face painted and we waited for 1 1/2 hrs. and she was the 4th person in the line, we were told they won't be able to get to us coz they had to close.... ugh! AFTER ALL THAT WAITING?! ugh! i could've bought our own paint and painted her face myself - grrr! it didn't take long till i realized how tired the artist must have been. he was there non-stop from 9a-6p... so i'm sure his back was in pain already hehehe so that's ok =)

nway, we went to my husband's relatives for dinner and had a relaxing time for at least 2hrs... a much needed rest i tell yah. i just love the company of old people - they're so hilarious!

btw, how was everyone's valentine's? ever since i started working full-time again, my hubby and i haven't had time to go out on a date, so we made sure nothing will stop us on love-day! first, we had to do the most important time of the day... our praise and worship at church =) then we took the kids to fuddruckers then watched tooth fairy. for dinner, noel took me to jade asian infused. so much humor and productive talk, plus enjoyed the 6 course dinner we had. we give this place 5 stars! will definitely recommend the food the ambiance and the friendliness of the staff. price? very reasonable =)

oops! gotta go =) will blog again some time soon! have a blessed week!

thank you, sponsors!

2010-02-19T10:32:00.003-06:00

i want to take this opportunity to thank our Project HOPE sponsors for the HAITI relief funds that we donated through Bright Hope:

The Love & Kindness Bible Ministry
Ms. Girlie Vinas
Bacerra Family
Apple Umali
Hernandez Family
Carol Miranda

may the Lord continue to richly bless you all with His abundance! we have donated $415 to sponsor Med Packs to help the people in Haiti. any help we can offer the poor brings great impact to their lives. we cannot thank you enough for your out pouring support and God's provision, but our continued prayers for your well being is all we can offer =)

THANK YOU!

HELP for HAITI

2010-01-14T15:17:00.003-06:00

i'm sure you all have heard the aftermath of Haiti's massive 7.0 earthquake that struck on Tuesday, January 12th.

we the Project HOPE team have chosen Bright HOPE International to be the organization who will receive the donations we will be collecting to help aid the victims of this heartbreaking tragedy.

i'm sure many of you would like to help first hand, but have valid reasons that prevents you from going. however, there is good news... you can help NOW! through your generous donation, we can put our resources together to help fund the aid needed now and in the days to come for this already impoverished country.

please visit our site for ways to donate: www.walk2remember.com/phupdates.html

any amount will go a long way for this poor people. so let's act now... no need to way our differences... the need is endless, but helping 1 person at a time is worth all the effort.

NOTE: whether you choose to donate through Project HOPE or not, please make sure to also be very cautious with the organization you choose to send your donations to. It's sad to imagine that there are people who profits from this types of tragedies. But God sees it all and we can rest everything in God's care for in Romans 12:19 it says, "Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord."

greetings everyone!

2009-12-30T22:14:00.005-06:00

hope your Christmas was well celebrated with your loved ones =) mine was absolutely SUPER! though i was soooooo tired (3days of non-stop celebration) it was fun and worth it! thank you Lord for another opportunity to celebrate your birth with my dearest family.

this year, we're complete. my dad didn't go to the philippines so he was able to spend thanksgiving with us and Christmas. we had some guests over too so that added more fun =) played lots of games - wow! can't believe organizing so much games can be soooooo tiring. i mean just getting every one's attention all together - ugh! i'll die!

tomorrow is another exciting day! don't know if i'll even have time to blog so allow me to take this opportunity to thank you all for following my blogs and sending me comments and thoughtful messages. i know i've been a horrible blogger lately, but give me another chance for 2010 will yah, hehehe. k, may you all feel the presence of the Lord as you celebrate another year of His amazing plans for your lives. i pray that God will be at the center of your relationships, your decisions and every season of your lives. know that you are exactly where you're supposed to be - God's plan is greater than ours and His timing never fails. which reminds me, i came across this blog and i thought it would be perfect to share it with you all since we all come up with our own new year's resolutions... how for some of us, the coming year encourages us to look forward to a new beginning while others are having difficult time to see clearly that God has a master plan for their lives even before we were born. i encourage you to read this piece: http://urbanchristianz.blogspot.com/2006/06/you-are-exactly-where-youre-supposed.html may it touch every part of your soul and help you see God's light to its brightest.

HAPPY NEW YEAR MY DEAREST FRIENDS! LOOKING FORWARD TO A YEAR FULL OF HOPE, LOVE AND GLORY FOR OUR SAVIOR! GOD SPEED!

never gets old...

2009-12-14T09:38:00.002-06:00

this Christmas season... it's always a joy to be reminded of the precious gift given to ALL of us.

Put Christ at the center of your Christmas...

2009-12-03T15:01:00.002-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR ONE AND ONLY SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST!

pre-THANKSGIVING greetings!

2009-11-24T16:02:00.004-06:00

hi all! sorry to be a blog-slacker =) no other excuse, but being a busy working-mom/wife =)

have you guys put up your Christmas lights yet? i have! with the help of my loving husband, 3 silly kids and my sis we finished all the decors last weekend. ahh! i just loooooove Christmas! with thanksgiving coming close too - i have nothing but gratefulness to the Lord!

we're hosting thanksgiving this year again and possibly Christmas too - we'll see if it doesn't work out with my brother's schedule. the next few days will be very tiring, but fun-filled!

i'm so excited for the upcoming thanksgiving coz i'll be cooking a couple of new recipes and with a lot of prayers... i'm hoping everything from food, games and lots of love and laughter will complete the day.

well, just wanted to send you all my love this Thanksgiving. and may the good Lord richly bless you and your loved ones!

oh and here's an idea for you... Thanksgiving will not be Thanksgiving at all if you do not share what you're thankful for this year... so friends and family, get your thoughts together and fill up your home with gratefulness! IN EVERYTHING (ALL CIRCUMSTANCES), GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD, for this is God's will for all of us.

P.S.
PER PROJECT HOPE: Thanks to the Lord and Hope to the Hungry of K-Love for giving us the opportunity to feed 25 homeless people this coming Thanksgiving at Morning Star Mission in Joliet, IL. GOD IS SOOOOO GOOD, ALL THE TIME!

be a blessing everyone!

In Memoriam: 13 Fallen at Ft. Hood

2009-11-11T20:27:00.003-06:00

i pray for God's merciful comfort and healing to the families left behind of the ft. hood victims. Lord, i also pray for the shooter, maj. nidal malik hasan, that You may do the work only You can do in his life. Lord, may You continue to hold those who serve us close to You, as well as those in harms way. may Your ultimate will be done in our lives and may Your name be glorified in the midst of this tragic time. in Jesus Almighty name, Amen.

in remembrance of the victims of the ft. hood shooting...

SpeCIAL THANKS...

2009-10-23T16:46:00.004-05:00

to my hubby, my bf (char) and my sisters for coordinating a surprise 33rd birthday party for me last sat.

can't imagine what my hubby and my bf went through just to pull it off =) aww! they love me =0

... thanks to my God for giving me another year of His great plans for my life. the Lord never fails to amaze me i tell yah! so Lord once again, i give you my life. MAY YOUR WILL BE DONE!

here's a few pics to share to you: (just lovin' my family and friends) - too bad some didn't make it =( next time maybe? hehehe

gotta get myself ready for a wedding and my gf's (girlie) birthday tomorrow... a long day, but i'm sure it'll be all worth it, by God's grace =)

blessings to all and continue to be a blessing to others =) to God be all the glory!

Happy 4th Bday in Heaven Mama!

2009-10-03T13:29:00.001-05:00

On our way to my brother's place to celebrate my dearest mom's bday in heaven. Praying for a good weather though =)

Anyway, just wanted to remind everyone that although the storm "pepeng"did turn to a different direction, that we shouldn't stop praying for them. I told you prayer works! God hears us!

Have a blessed day!
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New Storm "Pepeng" Coming

2009-10-02T10:23:00.000-05:00

Per my cousin's email here's an update re: the new storm "pepeng":

Right now what we need to do is to PRAY that BAGYO PEPENG change i'ts path, PAGASA categorized it as a SUPER TYPHOON, like KATRINA which did a lot of damage in New Orleans, USA. Right now it's direction or path is towards Central Luzon. We're praying that it changes it's direction. According to PAGASA it would hit Central Luzon tomorrow (saturday) late morning or afternoon. Let's all pray and hope that BAGYO PEPENG slow down and decrease it's strength. Always take care and GOD BLESS... Regards to all!
-Kuya Michael

Friends, this is a call for a mass prayer. No matter how much funds or goods we collect for the victims, prayer is still the #1 source of help. These are the times we shouldn't let go of the hope and faith we have in God. Only by God's grace we can get through this.

Thanks to all who sincerely takes their time to pray and for the ones who were so kind to share their blessings.

To God be all the glory!
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Indonesia & Samoa Quake

2009-10-01T11:36:00.003-05:00

Indonesia quake toll rises to 531 dead while Samoa rises to 150. We are working with World Vision to send as much help as we can to the people of Padang, Indonesia & Samoa islands. Friends, I ask that you sincerely look around you and see how blessed we all are with the things we have, some we don't necessarily need, but we get it anyway coz of our wants... the desire of the flesh.

I encourage you to use your resources wisely and extend any help you can to these people who by no means have nothing anymore.

As we end the fundraising for the people in the Philippines, we, the Project HOPE Team start a pledge for another disaster relief for the people struck by the tsunami in Indonesia and Samoa.

We know we can't help everyone, but what better way to deal with this, but to come together in unity to pray and put our small/big resources together and take the opportunity laid before us to make a difference in the lives of these hopeless people. Saying we feel sorry for them doesn't make any difference... we need to take action!

SPREAD THE WORD MY FRIENDS AND LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Our distance shouldn't be a reason why we can't help... we have the resources to bring help to them. But what do you do from here?

Project HOPE Donation Update

2009-10-01T09:02:00.000-05:00

I'm currently stuck in traffic on my way to work, but would like to keep you all posted as to where we are with the donations to be sent to the people in the Philippines affected by the storm.

As of 8:30am today, we have collected $805. I would like to challenge everyone who hasn't taken the pledge, to donate ANY amount your heart is telling you. There's another Typhoon coming anytime soon. Let's push for the $1000 mark. I know we can do this. Please listen to your heart and grab the opportunity to make a difference. God bless us all!

In Service for Christ,
Project HOPE Team
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Does God exist?

2009-09-30T09:22:00.000-05:00

A MUST SEE - AN EYE OPENER!

Donation update

2009-09-29T18:11:00.000-05:00

I've been feeling under the weather since yesterday and I think my lack of sleep coz of thinking too much about the situation in the Philippines added more to my worries and now it's taking its toll on me. It's ok though, this is nothing compare to what they're going through.

I'm on my way to grab some meds for me and my kids, who are also not feeling well and while I sit in traffic, thought I'd update you all with the donations we've received so far.

I know I suggested to start w/ $5 or whatever amount tugs your heart and I'm happy to inform you that as of 5:50pm today, we have collected $350 to send to Sagip Kapamilya. I will wait 'till Thursday afternoon to send it since there are some who are planning to give when they get their pay check tomorrow.

We will also be conducting a collection of goods and necessities to send to the people greatly affected by this tragic calamity. I will keep you all posted on this next action item.

Your continued support is one of the reasons we continue to do what we do. These types of organizations are not easy, but because God continues to use you and I to be His hands and feet to the needy, we, the Project HOPE Team have no reason to give up.

Thank you so much for everything!

In Service for Christ,
Lovely
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Update re: Flood in the Philippines

2009-09-29T10:46:00.003-05:00

246 people are now known to have died in severe flooding caused when Tropical Storm Ketsana struck on Saturday.

The country has appealed for foreign aid to deal with the disaster, which has displaced 450,000 people and left 380,000 living in makeshift shelters.

Public buildings including schools, universities and the presidential palace have become relief centres.

The storm has now hit Vietnam, where at least 22 people are said to have died.

Friends, let's take action! Any help counts! It's not enough that we feel sorry for these people, IT'S TIME TO DO SOMETHING. no help will reach them if we just sit and continue to feel sorry for them. what's holding you back? IF WE ALL WORK TOGETHER, ANY AMOUNT WILL ADD UP AND HELP THE LESS FORTUNATE. have you forgotten how blessed you are? again, i am desperately asking for your help - let's stop the talk and just walk the walk! i challenge YOU who's reading this. YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

For Donations please go to: www.walk2remember.com/phupdates.html

100% of the proceeds will be donated to ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya focusing on this cause.

Typhoon in the Philippines

2009-09-28T15:14:00.007-05:00

The Project HOPE Team are working diligently in gathering our resources to extend a help to the people affected by this flash flood. We are in need of YOUR HELP! ALL proceeds will be donated to ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya Foundation directly for this need. Your continued monetary support and prayers will make a huge difference in the lives of this hard hit poor people. We will focus on helping the poorest of the poor. Please include them in your prayers as well as this simple fund raising action we are doing to help save lives as much as we can. Please, let us come together to do what we can to help.

For donations please click this link: http://www.walk2remember.com/projecthope.html

Sincerely,
Lovely Miranda
Project HOPE Team

Philippines flood death toll rises to 140

People swim through flood water Sunday in the east area of Manila, after a tropical storm tore through the northern Philippines. The death toll in the massive flooding that swept the Philippine capital of Manila and nearby provinces has reached 140 - Written by Sevencam Monday, 28 September 2009

The worst flooding in the Philippines in more than 40 years has left at least 140 dead and affected almost half a million people.

It is feared the death toll is likely to rise as rescue teams continue search and rescue efforts in the capital Manila and 25 nearby provinces, some of which are still under water.

Tropical storm Ketsana unleashed a month's worth of rain within 12 hours on Saturday. Up to 80 per cent of Manila was submerged, displacing around 450,000 residents.

Around 115,000 displaced people are now sheltered in makeshift camps but Philippine health authorities have warned of possible outbreaks of disease. The head of the country's National Disaster Co-ordinating Council said rescue teams were "overwhelmed" by the scale of the disaster.

The floods are estimated to have cost the country 30 million US dollars in damaged crops, roads and bridges.

5 Reasons Why God Uses Problems

2009-09-27T00:58:00.000-05:00

The problems you face will either defeat you or develop you - depending on how you respond to them.

Unfortunately, most of us fail to see how God wants to use problems for good in our lives. We react foolishly and resent problems rather than pausing to consider what benefit they might bring.

Here are five ways God wants to use the problems in our lives:

1. God uses problems to DIRECT us.
Sometimes God must light a fire under us to get us moving. Problems often point us in a new direction and motivate us to change. Is God trying to get your attention? "Sometimes it takes a painful situation to make us change our ways." -Proverbs 20:30

2. God uses problems to INSPECT us.
People are like tea bags... if you want to know what's inside them, just drop them into hot ever water! Has God tested your faith with a problem? What do problems reveal about
you? "When you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience." -James 1:2-3

3. God uses problems to CORRECT us.
Some lessons we learn only through pain and failure. It's likely that as a child your parents told you not to touch a hot stove. But you probably learned by being burned. Sometimes we only learn the value of something... health,
money, a relationship... by losing it. "It was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to your laws." -Psalm 119:71-72

4. God uses problems to PROTECT us.
A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it prevents you from being harmed by something more serious. Last year a friend was fired for refusing to do something unethical that his boss had asked him to do. His unemployment was a problem - but it saved him from being convicted and sent to prison a year later when management's actions were eventually discovered. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good... -Genesis 50:20

5. God uses problems to PERFECT us.
Problems, when responded to correctly, are character builders. God is far more interested in our character than our comfort. Our relationship to God and our character are the only two things we're going to take with us into eternity. "We can rejoice when we run into problems... they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady.". -Romans 5:3-4

Here's the point:
God is at work in your life - even when you do not recognize it or understand it. But it's much easier and profitable when you cooperate with Him. "Success can be measured not only in achievements, but in lessons learned,
lives touched and moments shared along the way"

LIFE IS AN ECHO. What you send out, you get back. What you give, you receive. WHEN YOU BRING OUT THE BEST IN OTHERS, YOU BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOURSELF.

Have a blessed day!
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Forgiveness, how important is it?

2009-09-18T19:56:00.000-05:00

I'm on my way to my sister's house from work to visit my dad who's recovering from a procedure done to his kidney. I know it's been days since my last blog so I thought I'd blog while sitting in traffic. (Constructions everywhere, ugh!)

Oh! Happy Friday by the way =)

Anyway, praise God that for the past few weeks now, everything's back to normal at home. How? Well, forgiveness had to take place in order for peace and new beginning to come back in our home. My husband and I were determined not to give up on our children no matter what, even if of course there are times when it feels like that's the only way to go. I mean, if the Lord never gave up on me and still gives me chances up to now, what right do I have not to give the same grace God gives me to others esp. to our kids? Home is a place where I want my children to always find grace, love and forgiveness. Although I know that there are more adventures just sitting in the corner, I'm ready to face them with the help of my Savior.

It also helps to know that I have a friend who's going through the same thing. it gives us the opportunity to share our pains and struggles and of course encouragement and wise/sometimes silly ideas on dealing with it.

Of course, the consequences of the wrong decisions my daughter made have been addressed and has definitely caught her attention... well at least at the present time. It is natural for us parents to desire and be hopeful for our children to never turn wayward again, but only God knows their future. And as parents, whether our children are going or seem to be going in the right direction, we cannot and should not give up praying for them.

There's no formula in racing a perfect child, but there is LOVE which brings them safely back home.

God knows! coz His love was the reason I got saved.

Let's not give up on our loved ones. They need us more when they're lost.

Blessings!
Love
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more BEAUTIFUL YOU by jonny diaz

2009-08-31T09:01:00.000-05:00

here's another dedication to my teen. remember that even if we're going through a big storm in our lives right now, there's nothing you can do to make dad and i love you more or less... you can't earn it, coz we love you unconditionally. always, mom

first, the story behind the song:

people look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.

whatever you're doing by sanctus real

2009-08-30T08:44:00.002-05:00

Lord, i praise you in this storm...

to my daughter, camille. always remember that God is bigger than our problems. He loves you and so do we. here's a song i dedicate for you.

i need a SAVIOR by among the thirsty

2009-08-28T10:38:00.002-05:00

here's another dedication to my teen... i love you! -mom

undo by rush of fools

2009-08-27T13:37:00.004-05:00

i've heard this song a few times, but this time it brought a different impact in my heart.

i dedicate this to my teen. i love you... always, mom.

can't work...

2009-08-27T10:32:00.001-05:00

it's sad that i haven't blogged and now that i am, i'm sharing a not so good news to you all. but like my intension from when i started blogging, i'm here to share the faithfulness of the Lord through good times and bad and so i would like to remain transparent.

i'm sure all will agree that there is no one in this world who doesn't go through a hole in their lives. however, the results would only be different in the way we handle it. some try to run away, while others face it. as for me, i'm not a quiter... esp when it helps to know that God is on my side.

nway, it's been weeks maybe even more than a month now that our family was hit by a heart breaking load and it has taken its toll on us. maybe previous/current parents of teens will be able to relate to me when i say our teen has made some unwise choices and has brought us down to our knees before the Lord these past weeks. however, i'm grateful that my husband and i and of course w/ the support of my family n some friends, are prayerfully and patiently working together... we're hopeful that this will all end in God's time and that this will result to be one of our family's greatest testimonies.

i remember talking to God before this trial in our lives came, that if need be to bring the rain in my life for His glory then let His will be done unto me. wow! i never imagined how painful it can be. did i make the right request there? i thought for a moment, but realized, i think i did! i know this is a test of faith and i trust the Lord's promises that He will not leave us nor forsake us.

this experience has opened my eyes in sympathy and empathy with families who are going through different waves in their children's lives. i want you all to know that you're not alone. no one has the perfect formula on how to raise a perfect kid. there will always be a time in our lives when at least one, if not all of our children, will challenge our parenting. but even with our own lives we have also been testing our boundaries, if not more than what our kids are putting us through. and we all have to go through the consequences of the wrong choices we make. so parents, i encourage you to never give up even when you feel that you've tried everything and you're at the end of your rope. believe me, i've felt that and still do these past few days. but see God is faithful. He's not done with us yet, esp not w/ our children. He sees the big picture that none of us can and in order to complete the pieces, He needs our involvement. and sometimes He uses the ones who you would normally think will be the last person who will remind you that hope exist.

friends, let's continue to trust God's plan even when it's so hard to see how we will get through it and what good can come out of it.

3 things you can do for now:
Pray for strength.
Pray for wisdom.
Pray that love will reign.
oh! and did i say PRAY?

know that the Lord stands by you. don't give up! let me know if i can pray for you. pls kindly include us in your prayers too.

God speed!

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Oberweis Ice Cream presents... Project HOPE!

2009-08-11T21:02:00.005-05:00

what better way to raise funds for Project HOPE than to enjoy this HOT summer by treating yourself, your friends and family at Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy!

friends, on saturday, august 22, 2009, plan a trip to one of the participating oberweis stores below and bring in this coupon.

Oberweis was kind enough to sponsor Project HOPE between the hours of 10am - 6pm that day and we will get 30% back on everything you buy!

rest assured that 100% of what we collect will benefit the people suffering from hunger all over the world. our goal is to raise funds every chance we get to fund the food and necessities we distribute to every street children or family in deepest needs.

partnering with oberweis on this day is another blessing for all of us at project hope because this means we will be able to feed and help more people... with YOUR help!

may the good Lord bless everyone who will be involved to help us raise enough funds. thank you all for your support... please kindly include this event in your prayers. we appreciate you =)

When you feel you've lost it all...

2009-08-09T23:53:00.000-05:00

I remember the chorus of the song I sang at one of the services at our old church before; it’s called “Jesus Will Still Be There”. Yes, even when we’re stressed, dismayed, confused, depressed, and lonely or whatever negative feeling that may try to grip us, know that God’s hands are not too short to save us.

I am always humbled at the thought that nowhere in the scripture did Jesus promise us that life will always be easy and filled with calmness and joy. But He does promise to be with us, no matter how stressful life may seem at any given moment. During times of stress and fatigue in our lives, be encouraged to know that we can turn to Jesus for comfort and reassurance. And as we recognize His presence, He gives us peace. When doubts threaten to swamp us, we can turn to Him.

It’s a great feeling to acknowledge that Jesus Christ has been faithful in the past; He is faithful in the present, and He will be faithful in the future.

Please allow me to share the lyrics of the song to you and I pray that the Lord will use these words to comfort you during the difficult times of your life.

Things change, plans fail
You look for love on a grander scale
Storms rise, hopes fade
And you place your bets on another day

When the going gets tough
When the rides too rough
When you’re just not sure enough

Jesus will still be there
His love will never change
Sure as the steady rain

Jesus will still be there
When no one else is true
He’ll still be loving you

When it looks like you’ve lost it all
And you haven’t got a prayer
Jesus will still be there

Time flies, hearts turn
A little bit wiser from lessons learned
But sometimes, weakness wins
And you lose your foothold once again

When the going gets tough
When the rides too rough
When you’re just not sure enough
When it looks like you’ve lost it all
And you haven’t got a prayer
Jesus will still be there

I hope this has blessed you more than it continues to bless me. Friends, if anxiety and dread are lurking around your tomorrow, remember God's wonderful promise, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." So, lift your head up for the Lord is with you every step of the way.

Have a JOYFUL day!

long time no BLOG?

2009-07-15T14:31:00.003-05:00

i'm such a horrible blogger =) sorry all, i've been really really busy. besides arranging my property to be rented, we also moved to this newly constructed townhouse that i so love! at first, having the idea of leaving my house and downsizing to a townhouse was certainly not that easy, but the Lord really have something good in mind. we've seen so many properties, but this one came in the picture at the last minute. so i've been really trying to unpack, decorate with a new twist and purge some more since our stuff at the old house will definitely not fit here.

the fun part too is that we found out a week after we moved in that our neighbor across us is my long lost friend in grade school. wow! how cool is that! anyway, i'm really not planning to give you all a full story of what's been happening to me lately since i'm short in time. i'm unpacking some more right now and hopefully i'll be able to do much more than i planned. i just thought of logging in since the computer's been on while waiting for my daughter to finish her lunch. hehehe

anyway, one more good news is that i have a pt job now and it's been great to be back to the work-force. i can't complain, but rather i'm all so grateful to the Lord with how everything turned out.

k, i'll try to blog again later, but for now... i wish you all a blessed day!
God is good all the time!
-love

WeEkenD BlaSt!

2009-05-27T09:37:00.010-05:00

we had an awesome time this past weekend. we celebrated my daughter's graduation and my bro-in-laws' bdays. although the weather didn't work all that great with us, we had an intimate dinner at bravo cucina italiana at the glen... i love that place! great place to shop, eat, relax or just hang out! too bad my other bro didn't make it, but we were blessed to have the company of my dear mother-like friend (w/ her dearest hubby) whom i met at the airport in cali last yr. they were both so delighted to be there with us and i'm so glad that the whole fam enjoyed their company as much as i did.

memorial day was another fun day with the whole fam. we decided to go to volcano falls the last minute and really just ended up having loads of fun! although again, the weather limited our activities, we were still blessed to be able to do just enough for the day. we played baseball/softball at the batting cage (my arms hurt -ugh!), kids spent an hour playing arcades while i enjoy watchin' my lil' princess play guitar hero =), then we all had a blast car racing at the bridge track - wow! couldn't believe the priceless smile, excitement, scream & laugh of my 3 yr old daughter. the race was pretty long that all of our jaws hurt coz of laughing and shouting trying to chase each other. then for our last stop, we went to laser quest to play laser tag - that was another kicker!

another unforgettable moment for the whole fam and all coz of the grace of God... so glory to you my Lord! thank YOU so much for your love =)

well, off to finish a vid i'm doing - till my next blog! God bless us all!

Congratz to my GRADUATE!

2009-05-24T00:17:00.011-05:00

oh gosh! still can't imagine i have a daughter who's on her way to high school. i'm happy coz i know the Lord has great plans for her and i'm sad coz she's growing up too fast. i'm glad i'm still able to keep an eye on her though hehehe

well, i can only continue do to what i have to do as her mom. to continue to pray and submit her life to the Lord... besides what better way than to put her in God's hands =)

i know there will be many roller coaster along the way, but i'm ready as long as i have the Lord on my side!

well, just wanted to share a few pics before i sign off!

tomorrow's a big day for her and my bro-in-laws... a fancy dinner for 20 people is just perfect to complete the excitement! congrats again to my daughter who loooooves to laugh and happy birthday to my bro-in-laws!!!

thank God for the many blessings! gnite all!

Charice - Standing O Again!

2009-05-18T22:18:00.003-05:00

if you haven't seen the oprah show today, here's a wow moment of our very own charice pempengco with her first international single, "Note to God"... ahh! the Lord has truly blessed this girl and i just really hope the fame won't get to her skin, but continue to have a humble heart. the pride of the filipinos! you go girl!

busy busy busy...

2009-05-08T09:50:00.004-05:00

that's been my schedule for the past weeks.

things to do:

work out - i've been slacking off lately coz of the following to do lists =(
purge purge purge! this is a lot of work - need to get ready for the upcoming garage sale. (keep the "less is more!" mentality)
create memorable gifts for the bday celebrants & grads in our family.
finish wedding video
house hunting
keep up with volunteer work - i pick up donated food from panera, dominicks, woodman's, jewel & bakeries and drop them off to willow creek's food pantries in my area. and celebration of hope packing today - woohoo!
shred - shred - and shred some more
i'm sure i have more things on my bb - but just have to keep up with all of them - Lord help!

well, just wanted to take this opportunity to wish all the remarkable mothers' (whether you have your own or you're a mother figure to someone) a blessed and joyful mom's day! enjoy your special day with your loved ones!

happy mother's day mama! we miss & love u soooooo much!

look what i found...

2009-05-05T11:52:00.005-05:00

a nest with 3 beautiful blue baby eggs!!! what a blessing! first time i've seen something like it... i thought my sis was messin' with me till i saw their mommy and daddy... WOW! they're either robins or bluebirds... SOOO CUTE!

see, i covered my patio set during winter and i haven't taken it out. my sis then decided it was time so she as she takes the cover out... this is what she discovered sitting just on top of one of the chairs. she put back the covers since moving the nest might cause the parents to not come back for their bebes anymore.

amazing huh? simply a blessing!!!

Ms. California - you go girl!

2009-04-28T13:30:00.003-05:00

heaven was celebrating and cheering for you! standing up for the truth and never compromising her beliefs definitely is so inspiring and gives way to Christians like us to never be afraid coz God is on our side. whether it'll cause us fame and fortune... these are all temporary pleasures... what God offers is a life of abundance and joy - PRICELESS! Your crown is heaven is awaiting you - and that my dear is the crown we should all be working hard for =)

Day 4 of my Celebration of HOPE challenge...

2009-04-23T10:45:00.002-05:00

i meant to blog about the whole 5days of this challenge, but i got caught with other important things.

yea, so it's the 4th day of the 5day challenge to relate to the poor people of zimbabwe. again, for those of you who don't know what the challenge is... well, you're supposed to eat portion sizes like, just a cup of only the following options: plain oatmeal or cream of wheat, a tortilla, rice, and beans, rice with bits of fish or chicken, and a vegetable. for water, it should be tap water, but you can drink as much as you want.

well, i've eaten only oatmeal for bf, rice w/ bits of chicken or veggies for lunch and dinner. mind you this is repeated for 5days. tomorrow is my last day and i'm starving. i've been drinking water like crazy and tap water is not at all that fun to drink, but that's the point, i need to relate and believe me, although i've done this last year... it's a great way to be reminded over and over again.

my daughter started doing it with me, but unfortunately on the 3rd day she got a virus and threw up a few times at school... so i guess she'll have to continue next week or something. although she didn't want to quit, later on she felt that it was good or better that she did coz she's now enjoying her fave ice cream hahahaha

it's crazy how temptation really lingers around you when you're trying to focus on something good. ugh! so many times i was tempted to just quit or just get a lil' bite of this and that, but thank God He strengthens me. although i feel cramps at night... i just force myself to drink some more water and fall asleep after reading.

i've asked my best friend, char to take up the challenge with me. now, i know this will be harder for her since she's best friends with food. not that i'm not, but she's a none stop eater, but she's fortunate to still have a slim body. ugh! i hate that! hahaha but kudos to her she's makin' it! although i'm sure she has complained many times as i have, she's almost there! one more day char... and we're hitting the buffet! hehehe

on another note, i've been wanting to give y'all an update regarding the "feed the hunger" event that we, the project hope team put together in the philippines last monday, april 20th. however, i'd rather have pics with my update as well. please be patient with me and i promise you, i will be sending the update sometime next week. but i'd like to take this opportunity to glorify our heavenly Father for blessing the event with His abundance. we couldn't have done this without His grace and provision. He has brought this ministry a loooong way and i'm so grateful to be in His service. thank you Lord!!! YOU are awesomely awesome!!!

k friends, wishing you all a wonderful and blessed weekend! hopefully i'll be able to blog again tomorrow... Lord willing!

God bless!
love

HAPPY EASTER! what a TRUE LOVE...

2009-04-12T19:00:00.004-05:00

ahh! just remembering the powerful story of the Good Friday and Easter, i cannot help but get teary eyed... i mean, just think about Jesus' supreme act of love for you and me... it's the power of His "substitutionary atonement" - Jesus Christ died in our place when He was crucified on the cross. friends, we deserved to be the ones placed on that cross to die coz we are the ones who live sinful lives. but Christ took the punishment on Himself in our place—He substituted Himself for us and took what we rightly deserved. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” -2 Corinthians 5:21.

now that's TRUE LOVE!

let's go deeper so you'll get the bigger picture... let me ask you a question, what walls (problems) are you currently facing? well, i encourage you to watch this powerful message from Bill Hybels:
http://www.willowcreek.org/mediaplayer/playerHome.aspx?id=109&chid=1&cid=3
(once you click on the link above, select "Easter" on the recently added category)

after you watch the entire message... i want you to know that whatever problem you're facing today, know that they are only temporal... there is an expiration date on it... for the only eternal problem you will have has already been paid full by Jesus Christ.

humble yourself, seek, ask and knock and the door will be opened to you... that is the promise of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

have a powerful EASTER! remember, God is good all the time!

Weekend to Remember Experience...

2009-04-08T10:32:00.005-05:00

IT WAS DEFINITELY A MOMENT TO REMEMBER!!!

for those who have not heard of Weekend to Remember, lemme give you a synopsis of what this getaway is for...

"Weekend to Remember is a weekend marriage conference that teaches God's design for marriage and family. The environment is fun, non-threatening, and sometimes hilarious. And it's a wonderful time for couples to refresh good marriages or heal troubled ones. There are over 150 conferences in cities all across the U.S. each year. Registration is open to individuals, couples, or groups. Whether you're engaged, newlywed, or remarried, enrich your marriage and begin a godly legacy for your family by attending a conference in a city near you. Or plan a memorable getaway to a destination of your choosing.

How will your marriage be remembered?
Marriage is defined by memories. They can be memories of joy and fulfillment or pain and heartbreak. It all depends on how well you apply the principles that make marriage thrive. For thirty years, the Weekend to Remember conference has been helping couples create the kind of memories that build a healthy marriage. Remember your marriage. Remember this weekend."

ok, so we were scheduled to go last year, but due to conflicting schedules and other circumstances, i had to reschedule for the next one which was a year after. i've gotta be honest with you, my husband did not have a clue as to what this seminar/retreat/conference/getaway (whatever you what to call it) is really all about. all he knew was a getaway for the two of us, until that day we were having breakfast did he ask for our itinerary, so i gave him a print out of what our 3days will be. i did not receive a feedback (good/bad) so i just continue to receive the day as a blessing =)

we dropped off the kids to my sister's condo. it was their first time having the kids all by themselves, and it was the first time my little one will be sleeping without mom & dad... so we were pretty worried too. however, i've prayed for this day so i was confident that all will go well by the grace of God =)

the conference was held at the marriott in oak brook, il. right after we checked-inn, it was already time for the first session which started at 7p, last friday. funny how they mentioned: most of you, husbands, probably have no idea what this is all about or were pretty much just dragged into coming, some may have even fought on the way, but i promise you that you will all enjoy the ride... hehehe *thank you Lord!*

believe me, to our surprise, the place was full. some were married for a long long time, some are less than 5yrs and some are premarried; some have problems, some are looking to reconcile and some are just like us... looking forward to strengthen our marriage. i tell yah, before noel realized that we all have different reasons why we're there, he looked at me and asked, "are we having marriage problems that i don't know about?" i laughed and said, "no, we don't have to have problems just to be here."

i know we all have our expectations when we got married and most, if not all probably got disappointed to find out that you and your spouse still have a lot of differences. but you know what's amazing? the Lord has reasons why 2 different people are united as one.

through out this 3day experience, noel and i saw a whole picture of God's design of marriage painted right before our eyes! it was surreal! mind you, although this was a conference, the idea is not to focus on bashing husbands or wives or interacting with other people to find the same common ground, but it was mainly focused on you two. it felt like it was just the two of us there. no need for fake demeanor... everyone joined the journey with their spouse and enjoyed every moment. there were moments of laughter, but there were also moments where you see yourself coming to your senses and of course, there were moments of tears.

every opportunity was exhausted and it was all worth it. the line of communication between spouses were opened and for my husband, although he's been doing very well lately, this exercise gave him a better understanding of the importance of communicating. and yes, this exercise taught me a lot as well.

one of the many exciting moments was the time when we had to spread out all over the hotel and find a place to be alone and write a letter to your spouse. there were a few ideas they suggested for you to include in the letter, once done, get together with your spouse and read your letter for them. see, my husband knows very well that simple romantic things makes me over the top, happy. so when we saw each other, he led me outside the courtyard and volunteered that he reads his letter for me first. i was so touched as he read his letter to me with tears and as usual i was in tears reading mine.

there were a lot of things we learned and did together during this 3day getaway that will certainly make a huge impact to our marriage and our kids. the Lord has done it again! Our main goal to take away from this conference were 2 things... to strengthen our marriage and to be in oneness with Christ.

to end our wonderful experience, we renewed our vows on the 3rd day. you know what's amazing? everyone in the room were in tears... TEARS OF JOY... that's what God was aiming for.

and to close today's blog... i pray for all the couples who attended the Weekend to Remember seminar that as they live their normal lives once again, that they will grow in oneness with Christ and they will continue to lovingly accept their differences and be each other's support system as they model a Christlike marriage to their children, other families and friends.

i encourage you to join one of Weekend to Remember's marriage conference... no need to wait for problems to go to this... if you are in it for the long run, this is for you. marriage is a lifelong commitment... it shouldn't die when it doesn't meet your expectations. remember, expectations lead to disappointments.

thank you Lord for this amazing opportunity! YOU DEFINITELY ROCK!

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

2009-03-31T14:47:00.003-05:00

have you guys seen this movie? if you haven't, i highly recommend it. i knew nothing about this movie till my daughter said they were going to watch it at school as part of their topic in english. since we couldn't find a movie the other day, my husband decided to rent it.

well, i must say, it was a powerful movie, worth watching. set against the horror of the holocaust, it's a tale of an unlikely friendship between two 8 yr old boys. in spite of their stations in life, their friendship grew because of their innocence. they do not judge each other, but instead, bruno, son of the high-ranking military officer, extends help to his inmate friend to find his father. oh gosh! i'm not going to reveal the whole story, i'll just have you see it for yourself. one of the few powerful, moving fable i've ever seen. it's a conversation opener... our kids (except for my 3yr old) along with my nieces couldn't stop thinking and talking about the movie.

i love watching 19th century movies! just like angelina jolie's movie, "changeling"... whew! that one was good too... so heart breaking.

that's it for now... happy watching!

spring break just ended =(

2009-03-30T16:02:00.000-05:00

well, back to school for the kids. i was sad to see them go to school today too since we had an awesome time during their break. although budgeted, my husband and i made sure that we will make the most of our time together with the kids. it was extra special since 3 of our nieces stayed with us too.

my cooking skills came out *thanks to food network*... couldn't afford to take the kids out every meal - my goodness! we did all sorts of things and most of them were very cost-efficient like, park-hopping... we discovered some beautiful park here in the northwest suburbs of chicago. we went biking, played basketball and enjoyed some funny stories while playing at the playground... we enjoyed every second of the beautiful weather. we also brought the kids to oberweis and cold stone a few times. took them swimming, window shopping, movies, and ate out a few times over the week. the best part of it all... there were no interference. we talked, we laughed, and had tears of joy... we had so much fun spending time together that we ended up coming up with a new family tradition game called, "finish my sentence". it was so fun that when we joined the earth hour night, we decided to play it again while enjoying the calmness of the candles that lit up the house =)

there are so many things i want to tell y'all, but having all 3 kids call out "mom" at the same time just drives me crazy! see, my sis who lives with us, went to visit her family in the philippines so i have no help at all. i had to force myself to learn how to cook like a pro and lay-off on fried dishes since my husband and kids got used to my sister's awesome dishes.... grrrr! i'm not complaining, i'm in fact enjoying every moment. i just feel like there's no time for me to sit down anymore since i'm constantly doing something. but it's all good... my fear is to get used to being a SAHM. hmm, nah! i love spending time with my kids and being able to see everything they do, but i still feel i have to have that time away from being a home maker... either a part-time somewhere or a ministry that God puts in my heart. i'm sure a lot of you can relate =)

well, kids are back from school now... gotta fix them something to eat now! you all have a blessed day! gosh! whatever happened to the weather huh? maybe the angels forgot to drop the last batch of snow on time =)

God speed!

Quick Project HOPE update

2009-03-26T10:49:00.008-05:00

here's a few pics of the families we adopted for Project HOPE's "Adopt a Family Christmas 2008" ministry. There were a total of 10 families, unfortunately the camera was having technical difficulties that's why the other 3 families were not included in these photos. But regardless, we're fortunate to have been the hands and feet of God to these families. Once again, the Lord reigns!!!

And to all our sponsors, thank you for all your help! We couldn't have done this without you =) May the Lord continue to bless you all for what you do.

Our God Reigns!

Project HOPE Team

WATCH OUT for blind spots!

2009-03-13T18:29:00.002-05:00

In conjunction with yesterday’s ODB, I decided to share this with you. Just a couple of weeks ago, an anonymous commentator sent me a message on one of my old blogs. (To avoid confusion, I will just use a female gender since the message didn’t really give me that info.)

She was desperate to seek some guidance due to her current struggle in her spiritual life. Long story short, she was having a “restless faith”. Was raised at a Christian home, but slowly drifted from her faith since teen, but now as an adult she reflects back on what little she knows about God. She says she knows what God wants her to do, but chooses to wrong path anyway even if she knows that consequence will follow. So, struggling to fully follow God’s way due to her current situation and of course the pleasures of temptations, she asked for a prayer. I replied to her, but never got a response back anymore. However, I hope and pray she received my email or maybe somehow she’ll run into this ODB and find herself taking the necessary steps to really develop her relationship with the Lord to guide her along the way. However, it is possible that my only role regarding her spiritual journey was to just pray for her and give her encouragement coz I truly believe that God’s Word is not returned void. Whatever it is, it was a pleasure to receive her honest message.

Anyway, as I reflect on that day, I remembered the time when I was just learning how to drive. Does it seem odd to you how driving can have anything to do with her situation? Well, at least I got your attention! HEHEHE! Ok, allow me to get to my point. My driving instructor at the time gave me a good advice. He said, “You think by looking at the rearview mirror you know what is on all sides, but remember that your vision is limited. Always look over your shoulder before changing lanes coz there may be another car in your blind spot.” This wise instruction (if followed) really keeps us out of more potential wrecks than we care to think about.

I’ve said it before and I won’t stop claiming it that the Bible is our instruction manual from God for navigating our life’s journey. However, owning a copy is not enough. This book is different than any of the books you own. The Bible has all the instructions you and I need that will transform our lives. Therefore, it must not collect dust; rather it must be studied, applied and passed on to others.

Just like checking our blind spot should be our automatic response when we’re driving, applying God’s Word should also be our natural response when we’re faced with the hard knocks of life. Believe it or not, the Bible will tell you what is wrong before you have done it. However, the problem is even with people who already know the theology part of it still struggles to fight their temptation and end up turning their backs to compromise with the lies of temptations.

Friends, understand that the freedom God gives us is not at all a license to act as we wish. In order to feel and experience the changes in your life as you seek God, you need to understand that part of surrendering your will and allowing God’s will be done, you will have to do the things God wants, not what you want for your life.

Never come into terms with the saying “ONCE a criminal, always a criminal” coz friends, this will only destruct your journey to a new life. Instead, focus on the good things God has in store for you even if you don’t know the end result… watch out for the blind spots of life… hold on to your faith and be guided by God’s instructions. Because no matter how spotted your past may be, God can change you from the inside out. The Lord is so gracious that He can create a new heart in you and can make you a new creation. Remember this verse in 2 Corinthians 5:17 “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”

I will pray for your new journey!

Have a joyful day!
God Speed!

You're still incomplete...

2009-03-12T12:11:00.000-05:00

Incomplete
READ: Philippians 1:3-11

He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. —Philippians 1:6
When I was a little girl, my parents bought their first house. One afternoon, the family hopped into the car and drove to see where we soon would be living.

I couldn’t believe it. The house had no windows or doors, and there was a strange odor. The basement was clearly visible through big gaps in the floor and we had to climb a ladder to get down there.
That night when I asked my mother why they wanted to live in a house like that, she explained that the builder wasn’t finished with it yet. “Just wait and see,” she said. “I think you’ll like it when it’s done.”
Soon we began to see changes. The house got windows, then doors. The “funny smell” of new lumber faded. The holes in the floor were covered and a staircase was added. Walls were painted. Mom put up curtains at the windows and pictures on the walls. The incomplete house had been transformed. It had taken some time but finally it was finished.

As Christians, we need “finishing” too. Although the groundwork is laid at our conversion, the growing process continues throughout our life. As we obediently follow Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith” (Heb. 12:2), one day we too will be complete. — Cindy Hess Kasper

God sees in us a masterpieceThat one day will be done;His Spirit works throughout our livesTo make us like His Son. —Sper
~x~o~x~o~x~o~

Whether we're new believers or matured Christians, we sometimes let our eyes focus at the problem rather than God. People are influenced by their negative feelings, past guilt, and lack of understanding about the Lord. Having the motto of, "I know God can, but I'm not sure He will." I know it to be true that when we let this motto rest in our hearts, it leaves us with no peace.

Don't get me wrong, all God's children begin at the "somewhat still in doubt faith" stage or "restless faith" for short. We all struggle with trusting God and that's not a sin in His eyes. Just like the disciples, they experienced periods of doubt, but Jesus did not condemned them, rather He helped them mature as they experienced different trials... so what are we to do? I think we should also embrace the idea of gaining experience, spend more time getting to know God by studying His Word, and fellowship with other believers instead of exposing ourselves to more temptations that will help us fall out of faith rather than gain.

Friends, if you allow yourselves to be stuck in this restless faith stage, you will not experience spiritual growth. Remember that the blessings we receive from God will always be in proportion to our faith. That's why our greatest desire should be to increase our faith so that we can live successfully in this world.

Remember that we are not in a position to see the whole picture of our own lives nor others. We only see a small portion. However, if we rely only on our limited perspective, thinking ours is the best way, then we're just setting ourselves for failure. Instead, choose to trust God... the ONE who sees the whole picture, to direct our efforts. If we do, God can work through us to create something beautiful.

You know, through my own experience, I witnessed that faith can take us to heights we've never dreamed of. But we also must admit that life isn't always easy... gosh! some of it can be quite scary. However, I find it to be real in my life that when I remind myself of God's goodness... I know He can lift us over the hard places in life. So take heart my friends, God isn't finished with you yet... just be patient!

Have a JOYFUL day!

God Speed!

Bless YOU!

2009-02-27T10:42:00.003-06:00

sometimes, you would know if a friend truly means the message they send you if it was personally addressed to you and not just a mass email. well, this is what i felt when my dear friend, jenny, sent me this movie and i was so touched that it brought tears to my eyes. i'm grateful that through her and through this "simple truths" i was reminded of God's faithfulness in our lives.

friends, because you all are so dear to me... i would like to share the simple truths of this message: www.blessyoumovie.com

God is awesome!!!

have a blessed weekend everyone! know that God never fails to keep His promises =)

ei there!

2009-02-23T11:23:00.002-06:00

just checkin' in... been awhile since i updated you with what's been happenin' in my world.

well besides remaining a SAHM, i've been busy sorting out stuff at home. after many prayers and waiting for God's confirmation, we've finally accepted that it is time to move. so i've been sorting what'll stay with us and what i can finally let go. selling stuff on craigslist and ebay have been really successful and thank God i get a lot of people who are interested in buying our home furnishings.

we plan not to keep too much stuff and want to keep our next place as roomy as possible. we're hoping for a good turn out with the move and all other stuff that goes along with it. God's been really good and still i have no reason to be salty about this whole thing.

there are different emotions lingering around my mind, but thank God He keeps me sane. i know a few people who are so dear to me that have gone through tough times with their housing situations and i myself have been a witness to it all. all have different causes, but the pain was the same. what is a person like me can only do, but to offer encouragement and lots of prayers. i mean, i myself can only find strength from the Lord to keep me going. i really think He's the best there is out there. no matter what seasons of life you're in... He is the answer!

nway, regardless of all the challenges that has faced me lately, i continue to find reasons to be grateful. i continue to enjoy my loved ones, i continue to look forward to what God has in store for me.

for valentine weekend, my whole family celebrated the love day @ my bro-in-law's choice of restaurant (he was treating everyone hehehe), red lobster in schaumburg. funny how we always end up getting the server's attention to join our conversations... that's always fun though!

last sat, my girlfriends and i put together a surprise baby shower for our dearest friend, girlie. we're so happy for her... gosh! i feel like i'm the one having another baby coz i was just so excited preparing this for her esp when i was shopping for baby stuff hahaha. can't wait to see the baby! nway, i'm so grateful to everyone for making it and for making it extra special for her... kudos to everyone and for a successful shower! you could tell she was so happy with everything =) of course not seeing everyone for quite sometime brought so much memories and hurting of the jaw for laughing too much. my girl, ellen and i got a headache from laughing. ahh! laughing, it does your life, body and soul good ;)

yesterday, my sis surprised us with their new place. mind you, we helped them move last month, but since she's been planning a sunday get together for the whole fam, she came up with the idea that there was a barricade blocking their street coz of a construction and for us to take a different route that's pretty much just blocks away from their old place. confused as why we were parking at a newly constructed condo buildings' parking lot, she finally gave in and said, we live at a different place now and asked us to look up... oh gosh! there she was waving at us in her new patio. wow! i must say... they did an awesome job moving without letting us know. the place was spectacular... it has the perks you would want in a condo (heated private garage, water and heat included, quiet neighborhood, everything's new, no major rules besides keep the building clean, it has a library in the bottom floor, and more) except they're just renting the place, but hey... it's all good! they don't have kids anyway so, why not! we were so happy for them and esp grateful to the Lord for giving them such wonderful landlords... the place they were previously in had a lease for one year, but the landlord's were understanding and so kind to null the agreement. i really feel that this is the place for them to start over and enjoy one another. thank you Lord!

well, that's it for now... i think that's enough update to fill you guys in.... gotta get back to my world! blessings to all!

When there's still no answer...

2009-02-13T12:49:00.002-06:00

TGIF Everyone!!!

Hope today's ODB will bring you all a brand new HOPE to look forward to. Have you prayed for something a few times but never heard anything from God? I can definitely relate to that. And I know from experience, it's hard to accept God's silence. It's like we just want Him to jump into action whenever we call, especially when we are hurting or afraid of something. However, we need to remember that He promises to meet our needs, that's why we can be sure that a silence from heaven has purpose.

Are you with me yet? See, if you think about it, silence grabs our attention and it teaches us to trust the unknown future. I remember the time when I prepared to pray over a situation that would impact my life. As I got on my knees, for some reason I felt like God was suddenly gone. For days, weeks, and even months, His presence seemed so far away. I've seeked and asked family and friends to pray with me and for me regarding my situation, but still there was nothing.

I've searched for God in every way I can only to find myself at the same spot with the same problems. Then, at an unexpected time, He dramatically intervened in my life to clearly dictate my next steps. Then it dawned on me that the answer I'm looking for is this: "WHEN GOD IS SILENT, KEEP ON PRAYING!"

There have been times when I've heard people say they quit praying about a need coz there was just no answer coming. But here's what I realized... in Matthew 17:20 it says that faith the size of a mustard seed is able to move mountains... so imagine how tiny our trust must be when we give up on the Lord! I remember what Jesus said (paraphrasing here since I do not have it exactly memorized), peace is what God leaves with us. He doesn't give as the world does and so we don't have to be worried, afraid or be upset coz God will NEVER abandon us. However, you know what the problem is? It's us treating prayers like a vending machine, that when we put coins it gives us an instant response. But see talking to God is a long-term investment so that we can have that close and faithful friendship with Him.

Friends, I know at times it can be frustrating and frightening when the only thing we can hear when we pray is our own breathing. But take heart, for in the Bible, it says that God is always with us, and His silence will not last forever (read Job 23:8-10 or Heb. 13:15). I encourage you to cling to those promises as you seek the purpose behind His silence.

Remember that although we may be riding an emotional roller coaster and God may be silent for a time, He NEVER STOPS working on our behalf. When the time is right, He provides an outcome that's aligned with His perfect plan for you and me. It's a promise that in His time, not in ours, that rest will come on solid ground. You wanna know how awesome God is? Well friends, He's aGod who NEVER breaks or changes a promise and is forever faithful to us. I know at times we question God coz life seems to give us too much trouble, but believe me, we can trust God's word, which gives us hope when we need it most. Giving up before the Lord answers your call is the biggest mistake youwill ever make. So friends I encourage you to PRAY ON! He hears you =)

Have a JOYFUL FRIday! God Speed!

Obama's approval of abortion & embryonic stem cell

2009-01-29T09:59:00.007-06:00

i've been wanting to blog about this since the day our new president signed the approval for abortion rights and the funding of embryonic stem cell study, but i was caught up with a much needed attention. i must say i was so disappointed when i heard the news.

i know there are lots of unwanted pregnancies out there, but i speak specifically to those who are facing this reality right now. whether this may be read by somebody years from now, i will continue to stand for the sanctity of life and so i encourage you to continue reading.

like i said from my previous blog regarding the inauguration, i celebrate with america for the historic event we all have shared that time and hopefully still in the days to come. however, this heart breaking news re: abortion has brought me to tears as i reflect on the painful memories, hard choices and heart breaking experiences me and my loved ones have gone through.

i was 17 when i found out i was pregnant. i was scared and confused. there was no time wasted for my boyfriend, at the time, to think this through coz he was certain that he wanted me to have an abortion. although i had mixed emotions and was still uncertain of what lies ahead, i knew right there and then that my boyfriend had no intention of having me and our baby in his life and so i walked out angry, but determined that i was going to solve the problem on my own (whether it means abortion or keeping the baby).

my whole family were not happy to receive the news (which was expected). my dad, at the time was still a non-believer and like most parents, had high hopes for his children and so he was certain not to support me during this difficult time in my life. now that i'm an adult and a parent myself, i do understand how hard it is for parents to accept the situation right away. so, i was forced to move out. i lived with a friend who was staying at her sister's 1 bedroom apartment. so for the next 6 mons of my pregnancy i was sleeping in the living room floor. i was working at a minimum wage in order to support enough grocery, at least 1 meal a day for me, and travel expenses to and from work & the clinic. during this time i was also seeking for an answer, for hope, for some sort of positive support. don't get me wrong, i had the support of my mom, but she was also afraid of my dad at the time. i knew she tried her best, but i was full of anger and was just determined to go through this on my own and there was this feeling inside me that didn't want to cause her more burden.

so one day, i decided to let fate bring me to where i needed to be. i decided to just walk. yes, just walk and think things through. and after long hours of walking, i came across a sign that says "crisis pregnancy center"... i didn't know what they were all about and i was even more afraid to go in coz this place was residing at a small abandoned-like building administering services in the basement. but after longs battles of second thoughts, i finally decided to give it a shot.

nervousness overwhelmed me when i saw that i was the only client at the time. i was asked to fill out a form and take a pregnancy test. after it was confirmed that i was pregnant, a volunteer counselor brought me inside her office. i will never forget her angelic smile and as she approached me with words of acceptance and followed by encouragement. i was able to finally open my heart to share my struggles and pain. i felt like i was dreaming, that this is just too good to be true. that this woman whom i just met, understood and accepted me for who i am instead of judging me. she explained to me the help they can provide during and after my pregnancy. and before i know it, she was handing a small book to me that would slowly water the seed she planted in my heart. in the front cover of the book was the title "HOPE for the Future". the first few pages were the shared thoughts of many young ladies who were going through unwanted pregnancy and with it were words of promises and hope in Christ.

this Bible has allowed me to understand and accept that the child (fetus, baby, spec of blood, infant or however you want to call it) in my womb is a gift from God. A HELPLESS BABY WHO DESERVES TO LIVE JUST LIKE YOU AND I. although i never went back to that crisis center, i carried that God-given encouragement from that lady all through my life. it has definitely opened up hope for my future. and as God promised, He supplied for all my needs and more. my daughter is now 14 yrs. old and has been a blessing to me and my whole family. and i know without a doubt, God has an amazing plan for her life.

so to you my friend, i feel for you. however, you do not have to go through this alone. i encourage you to not be deceived by the pro-choice advocates who said that it is good that a woman has the right to decide what happens to her own body. understand my friend, that it's not your own body you're killing, but it's a tiny, helpless unborn infant. this helpless baby is not a "product of conception", as the abortionists say, or a "glob of tissue". this helpless baby is and will not be the reason why life will be difficult, nor killing this baby is the solution to a better life.

friend, i know it may be difficult for you to believe right now, but i want you to know that there is hope for your life and hope for you in every way. no matter how serious your problem, or how upset you feel, you can find the peace and strength to make it through this difficult situation. you may think God doesn't want anything to do with you, or that you've made too many mistakes for him to love you, but God DOES love you, just the way you are. i know this is hard to believe, coz we all have done things we are deeply ashamed of, and we just can't imagine how God can still love us in spite of everything we have done wrong. but guess what i found out in the Bible... i found out who God is and how He operates, and i began to understand that God is bigger than what we perceive Him to be. He will never stop loving you. Nothing you will ever do can make him turn away from you. that's why you don't have to be overwhelmed with confusion or hopelessness just like i was. God is with you now, ready to give you the hope you need.

i've realized that apart from God, hope is based only on feelings and dreams for the future. and when those dreams are shattered, hope is crushed. but if your hope is based on God Himself, you will have a hope that problems cannot crush.

so friend, if you want peace of mind, there is no substitute for doing what's right. obeying God will bring a peace that can withstand almost any problem. you can't expect peace if you continually choose what's wrong. however, i have to warn you now, that doing what's right is not necessarily easy. sometimes you don't know what's right; your situation may be complex; or maybe it involves options you've never had to think about before. at other times you know what is right but just don't want to do it. either way, reading the Bible and seeking God's guidance will help you. talk to Him... He will listen. it will help you know what to do and find the strength to do it.

you can leave me a msg. on the comment section (anonymously or not) if you have a prayer request, if you need help in finding resources to help you get through this or simply would like to share your thoughts. until then, i will be praying for you. remember, there is HELP available.

to all: although the obama administration passed this new law this is not the time to quit. it only just proves us that we have a bigger job to fulfill. please continue to pray for our president and his administration and let your voice be heard.

thanks for your time.

God speed!

Do you have a need?

2009-01-27T14:16:00.003-06:00

Hello All! Hope this email finds you well. I'm glad I have this opportunity to share my testimony to you once again. But before I do, I'd like to ask you ... Do you have a need that you don't know how to meet? You may have tried to solve the problem on your own, but just couldn't. Maybe you turned to some self-help books or consulted the advice of friends and family, though it sorta helped ease the pain at the moment, at the end of the day you found yourself back to square one. Or maybe you've prayed, but never really felt assured that God heard. You tried enough to trust Him, believing that if only you had enough faith, your need(s) would be met. Yet up to this moment this anxiety you're in still won't go away.

Well, did you know that the Bible is full of stories about people just like you and I? Just like us, their deepest needs could be understood and met ONLY by God. Let's admit it, we're needy people. Some are successful in their careers, but yearn for someone to love them. Some are financially stable, while their household is a mess! Some are physically fit, but mentally and emotionally drained. All this and more and of course vise-versa. But see, my point is we don't have to face our need(s) alone. There's ONE who comes to us to make us whole.

Two Fridays ago, I had a job interview. I had my hopes that this time there would be better results instead of just another resume to fill another space on their database. Well, it turned out just like the rest of my interviews who said, "Well your experience are definitely outstanding. However, we have other candidates lined up for an interview, but you will hear from us once we've made a decision." So, just like others... it's either I'll receive a letter of regret from some companies who do respond or you won't hear from them at all.

And so as I left the building that afternoon, I can honestly say, I felt so down. While driving, I took the opportunity to talk to God. I knew He understood what I was feeling and He was ready to listen and comfort me. I know He understands that it's okay to feel that way from time to time. And so I made it known to Him. I said, "Lord, I know You have never failed to provide for our needs and I'm grateful that You allow me to be transparent with You when times of difficulties just brings me down. Lord, can I just cry this out for 5 mins?" And so I did. I know many people think that crying about a problem is a sign of weakness or surrender... for me... it's true and it's okay! Especially if you want to be transparent with God. WEAKNESS, because you acknowledge that you cannot do things on your own and SURRENDER coz you know that ONLY God can help you. Someone once said, God helps those who help themselves... see you got it all wrong... coz God helps those who CANNOT help themselves. It's surrendering what's impossible in our eyes, but possible with our Savior.

You're probably wondering if I stopped crying after 5 mins. =) Yes, I did. That's my deal with the Lord when I need to release my feelings to Him. He lets me and He understands. And once again, I felt relief, especially when I told my husband what I was feeling that day, the Lord was so quick to use my husband to confirm that He was there in the car listening to me. My husband said, "Everything will be okay. This is not the time to give up, after all God has done for us. God is bigger than this. He knows. Just be patient."

And as an added bonus that He really does provide for our needs and as a proof that God is full of humor; just last Friday, exactly a week after that moment with God, I received a letter from the IDES regarding a raise to my unemployment benefits. A $40 raise I never expected to receive. Who would think that I, who only collects unemployment still gets a raise? C'mon now, that's the work of God! Friends, believe what is unseen coz He works behind it all.

And to this I close. Friends, whatever your need, God has an answer. Know that He is not slow about keeping His promise to us. We're just really impatient. And no matter how you and others understand your situation, giving excuses to justify that yours is different, as human that's expected, but I want you to know that God's timing is perfect in meeting our needs. And in fact, waiting for His answer actually ensures greater blessing.

God's love for you and me is eternal. Great is His faithfulness and His mercies are new every morning. Therefore, you can lay your needs before Him and He will see you through this difficult time in your life. He will never turn His back on you nor will He ever shut the doors of blessings. What He has for you is love acceptance and hope. Allow Him to be this for you today and always.

Friends, you will not find satisfaction elsewhere... God is available and your personal relationship with Him will only be the one that is needed to help you get through this. Look to Him for HOPE, salvation is FREE through Christ, our ONLY Savior.

If you are in need of a prayer, please feel free to send your request (anonymously or not) in the comment sections. It will be my pleasure to pray for you.

Have a JOYFUL day! God Speed!
love

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

2009-01-21T10:37:00.004-06:00

may the Lord give our new leader the WISDOM to take the right steps, the KNOWLEDGE to make the right choices, the STRENGTH to take America to a new direction, the COURAGE to stand for Christ and for what is right, and the HUMILITY to see people through the eyes of God.

we do not know what lies ahead, but with the new set of fresh air God has bestowed upon us yesterday only shows that God is truly merciful. there may be views i still do not agree with our new president, (ie. abortion & gay marriage) but through prayers i know we can overcome this. the Lord is bigger than Him nor of any situation and so i trust what God is doing. our job is to pray for our leaders to lead us to a better world... a world who acknowledges God in every direction... and who promotes peace, love and hope for everyone!

AMERICA, I REJOICE WITH YOU!

still in a Christmas mood...

2008-12-28T20:42:00.002-06:00

tho i feel like i got food poisoned from the chinese food i ate for lunch, i still feel very Christmasy! so how was every one's Christmas? hope you all spent it joyously with your fam.

wasn't really planning on blogging, but when my daughter and i just finished purchasing songs from itunes, i saw that the Christmas countdown started all over again hehehe so oh well, might as well blog right?

well, we spent almost 3days at my brother's new condo in chicago. had lots of games, food and great memories. the only thing i forgot to do is take group pics - ugh! 1st Christmas without it. can't do it on new years coz we're incomplete. =(

although the budget was pretty tight this year, the kids got everything they wished for. i was as always, the videographer and captured some really great, over the top, surprised faces once they opened their gifts. ahh! it was def a kodak moment!

tomorrow's my daughter's 14th bday and boy i can't wait myself. i pray for a God-centered year for her and many blessings for my teen. we're so blessed to have her and we just continue to surrender her life in God's hands. she has grown to be a beautiful, compassionate and with a big heart for the needy and we're so proud to be her parents. advanced happy birthday, camille! we love you!!!

well, i promise to load some pics next time. till then, may the Lord's blessings shower you this holiday season! i still have some great stories to tell, just kinda lazy right now... so nitey nite!

Project HOPE's year-end update

2008-12-19T16:33:00.003-06:00

Dear Friends,

Hope this email finds you all well. Well, 2009 is just right around the corner and we, the Project HOPE team would like to extend our warmest thanks to you who have stood alongside us in praying and helping the underprivileged all around the globe.

Here's an update of where your donations have brought this ministry. Please join us in praising and thanking the Lord for this opportunity to serve the people in need. Whether they are in need of material or a whisper of prayer, Project HOPE has extended every help we can offer this year.

Fund Drive:
Feb & May: Valentines Day & Mother's Day - we delivered flowers & raised $685
Aug: Garage Sale - raised $143

In May, we volunteered to help the poverty-stricken in Zambia & Zimbabwe, through Bright Hope & Willow Creek's Celebration of Hope: We packed nutrional meals & med packs.

November:
Donated $500 to a family whose father died of cancer and have no way of paying for the funeral expenses.

On Thanksgiving, we helped feed 10 homeless individuals through the help of Wayside Cross Ministry in Elgin. We also have committed to provide food for another 10 homeless people this coming Christmas.

Christmas: For the past two years, we've been adopting 10 extremely poor families in the Philippines. These are families who have no other way to celebrate Christmas, but to sleep in hunger. Our team has agreed to provide each family enough necessities to last them for at least a month and be able to celebrate Christmas with hope that our God cares for them. These necessities are: Rice, Cooking Oil, Sugar, Vinegar, Champorado, Spaghetti noodles, Spaghetti sauce, Corned beef, Meat loaf, Cheese, Biscuit, Coffee, Milo, Packs of noodles, and apples. To them this is more than a Christmas wish come true and our hearts celebrate with joy that is beyond dreams.

I decided to include the list of families we are helping this year, in hopes that your hearts will ache with us and continue to come alongside us in this crusade. This ministry is not a joke. Being the hands and feet of God to this broken and hurting world has opened our eyes to not envy the people above us and instead look at the people below us and be grateful for what we have.

* Mr. & Mrs. Lito&Cynthia Santilleces
Tricycle driver & plain housewife with 6 children from brgy. 10

* Mrs. Aida Tolentino – husband deceased with 3 children from brgy. 10

* Mr. & Mrs. Loreto & Gloria Aquino
Factory driver & lavandera (someone who washes clothes by hand) with 12 children from brgy. Lumbang

* Mr. & Mrs. Fred & Deylin Patino
Construction worker & plain housewife with 3 children frm. Brgy. Lumbang

* Mr. & Mrs. Jomer & Joan Moreno
Welder & helper with 3 children from brgy. Lumbamg

* Mrs. Lilia C. Leyesa- husband deceased
Store keeper & helper with 7 children from brgy. San carlos

* Mrs. Alona Kalalo
Cigarette vendor with 5 children from Brgy. Balintawak

* Mr. Armando Mista
Unemployed with 3 children from Brgy. Pinagkawitan

*Mr. & Mrs. Josie Luja Janitress with 4 children from Brgy. Tambo

*Mr. Eddy San Sebastian - Handicap with 6 children

Friends, know that the task doesn't stop here. The need has tripled due to struggling economy. The task is bigger, but the good news is God is greater than anything. He has touched your hearts to help this ministry in extending the love of God to others. And so we are eternally grateful. We have a big job ahead of us in 2009 and so we continue to ask for your generosity and compassion as we come together in unity to help the poorest of the poor.

Now as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, the hope of the season, we at Project HOPE want to thank you for all the help you've extended in furthering the kingdom of God.

Please let us know if we can pray for you in any way this holiday season, for prayer is the best gift we can offer. We'd love to hear from you.

Have a Merry Christmas!

--God Speed!
Lovely Miranda

Project HOPE Team

wow! 10days?

2008-12-15T11:45:00.004-06:00

and it's Christmas? goodness! i don't know about you, but this year is going by soooo fast. in a way it's good coz i anticipate to see what lies in 2009.

i'm done with Christmas shopping, wrapped all the gifts, met up with some of the girls before Christmas (hoping to see the rest before then too) and let's see, oh! so many good news that happened lately that i'm all smiles these past few days.... i know the Lord was the #1 source of them... so all praises to Him!

changing the subject here... i was so thrilled to see my kids get along so well lately. you know how kids are sometimes... they find it amusing to annoy each other like cats and dogs, but lately it hasn't been the case. my teen and my son have been getting along for the past few days that i actually had to video tape some of them.... hahaha yep! it was like an instant prayer came true! they got along so well that they managed to watch movies together, sleep in my daughter's room, tell each other jokes, and have a concert in the office while playing their guitars... i mean, what more can you ask for? well, i know it won't be like this everyday, but i'm sure glad they're setting a good example to their little sis and really just showing love for each other. we can't have everything, i sure am glad to have God guide our steps everyday.

last weekend my daughter and i volunteered to wrap gifts for the families who cannot afford to buy retail gifts to their children. this church has partnered with Willow Creek's Christmas serving opportunities. however, their idea was good and different. in order for them to raise more funds to help more less fortunate people, they priced the donated gifts (new) about 80%-90% off the retail price. in this way, parents still have the dignity to be able to pick and buy a gift they would like for their children. the gifts they buy is what we wrap. it was definitely an eye opener, esp. for me and my family who i consider still very blessed to have what we have even if we are struggling financially. God is good, i tell yah!

anyway, starting this friday, the 19th, our home church, Willow Creek, will be having a 12 identical Christmas services... it will end on the 24th. if you live in illinois, i sure hope you'll find time to come and enjoy our yearly, wonderfully put together program about Jesus' birth. it's a great way to spend it with your loved ones and guess what? it's FREE! all you need to do is click this link: http://www.willowcreek.org/MiniSite/default.asp and reserve your tickets to the service time of your choice.

hope to experience this amazing true to life story of Jesus, our ONLY Savior!

God speed!

Project HOPE on Christmas!

2008-12-04T23:34:00.005-06:00

here's an update for you all:

this coming Christmas, project HOPE has once again adopted 10 less fortunate families in the philippines. these families just like the last couple years we've been doing this, are the once who are not able to buy any food to celebrate Christmas. most of these families force themselves to sleep to be able to ignore their hunger. as an added blessing, we're also providing each family enough food to last them for at least a month.

we've also committed ourselves in providing to feed 10 homeless people last thanksgiving and will be feeding another 10 this coming Christmas through the help of wayside cross ministries.

it has been a privilege to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ to these people and we are so blessed to have this opportunity.

as a matter of fact, we are in the process of organizing a "feed the hunger event" this january in the little town of pasig in the philippines. with the help of my mother-in-law and her compassionate team, we will be able to feed as many people, up to the maximum capacity of the vacant town house that will be used to serve these people, owned by our grandma. we will be serving lunch and dinner for one day (date tbd) and will be giving away hope bags for each family as they leave for the night.

all of this because God is just so good and He has touched people's hearts to donate their resources and for many who continues to pray for Project HOPE and our team.

thank you for everything! may our good Lord shower you all even more with His blessings!!!

please continue to pray for us and the projects in store for Project HOPE.

God speed!

just in awe...

2008-12-02T21:50:00.004-06:00

on my way back home from droppin' off my son to school, i was listening to wmbi 90.1 fm and heard the song, "mary did you know". i've heard this song many times, but never really had a chance to listen and ponder the lyrics. this time i did. i could not help, but imagine the beauty of how HOLY Jesus is and how blessed we are to have Him.

as a mom, i also wondered how mary felt. if you listen to the lyrics of the song and imagined for a moment that you are mary... how will you handle it? esp knowing that you're just 13 yrs old. how would you tell your parents? your siblings? your relatives and friends?

i'm humbled by mary's faith and trust in God as she carries this baby boy not knowing what will happen. she just obeyed and trusted what God asked of her. wow! now that's faith!

anyway, today my daughter went to her youth ministry and every time i pick her up, she never neglects to share to me the message she learned. well, guess what? it was about mary. hahaha, God's full of humor, i tell yah! well, our conversation got so exciting that she herself was flabbergasted. she then mentioned to me about the video they watched in youtube. so here it is friends... see for yourself and let it resonate your mind, body and soul...

the message is so powerful that i couldn't really decide which videos to share to you... so i have no choice, but to pick 2 from the tons of videos out there. here's another version...

well, i hope this videos have inspired you as well. God is so AWESOME!

back to regular week!

2008-11-30T21:24:00.005-06:00

well, how was everyone's thanksgiving celebration? hope y'all had and awesome one just like mine! the highlight for me was the time we spent expressing reasons to be thankful for, before we started eating. although some were caught off guard, i'm in awe for the sincerity of everyone... from the youngest to the oldest. ahh! thank God for my entire family!

nwayz, thanksgiving week is about to end and i'm back to job hunting, kids are back to school tomorrow and noel's back to work after a week of family time and many expressions of gratefulness from the family to God.

so... how was black friday for everyone? this was my first year not going. thank God i didn't feel quite down about it. i guess coz i was so tired preparing and plus the kids in our family are well aware and understand our situation (i'm so thankful that they do). i know retail was down this year tsk tsk tsk.

just the other day, i was reading the article about the great depression and the economic crisis the world is going through right now and i must agree to all of the people that were interviewed, who experienced the great depression, when they said that the generation nowadays will feel the hardship more due to the lifestyle we have gotten used to compare to their lifestyle in 1930s. well, thank God we have God with us to satisfy our every need and to give hope when the situation continues to exhaust it. i tell yah, faith in God really helps to get back in the game!

yesterday was my friend, larraine's graduation party. it was held in a fully renovated, classic bowl. it was a joy seeing some of my girls i haven't seen in ages... gosh! i miss them again already hehehe. too bad i don't have pics, but i sure hope those who took pics will somehow have the time to forward them to me *ehem girls!* as usual we were all loud, cheeks were hurting coz of laughing and are thumbs were close to getting blisters coz of bowling. it was a fun night and i sure hope rain had an awesome time. congratz again my loves! you did it! we're so proud of you!

here's a shot of the shadow box i made for my friend, rain. i'm glad it put a smile on her face =)

k, this is it for now... y'all have a good nite! God speed!

hAPpy ThAnksGivIng EvE!

2008-11-26T10:24:00.003-06:00

thought i'd blog before i start with my busy day. we're hosting thanksgiving this year and i've been trying to joggle my schedule everyday since last friday. see here's one of the many things i'm grateful for even if our budget is tight... i may not have the luxury to be shopping for myself anymore, but the Lord continues to shower us with food. 2 of our fridge are full - it never runs out - that's why i really find it hard to complain coz God continues to provide for our needs.

thanksgiving and Christmas are 2 of my favorite occasions to celebrate... there's nothing like recognizing how awesome our God is... although everyday should be thanksgiving, tomorrow is the highlight of the amazing journey our Christian brothers and sisters (pilgrims) went through. from numerous trials and sufferings... they were faithful to give thanks to our Lord! now that's faith!

so to you my friends, what are you most thankful for this year?

have a blessed thanksgiving to you and your loved ones. may you cherish each moment coz no matter what, everyday is different... and each day is a gift from God.

p.s. it's not turkey day... it's THANKSGIVING DAY - recognizing the blessings God has given you. (it won't hurt to be reminded)

muah! i love you all =)

Celebrating My Uncle's Life...

2008-11-21T23:29:00.001-06:00

we love you uncle von! say hi to mama for us... we know we will see you again!

heaven was waiting...

2008-11-20T22:08:00.003-06:00

for my uncle who went to be with the Lord last night @ 11:45p. people wonder if we were surprised since he was suffering from lymphoma, pneumonia & tuberculosis, however, for me, since i've gone through this same situation with my mom, you don't really find yourself leaning towards departure, instead you hold on to every moment you have. no matter how bad the circumstances is in front of you, you can't really ready yourself to face your loved one's departure... however, i can speak for my cousins and my aunt (who are also believers in Christ) that the experience and every moment was worth it. my uncle received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior during his battle and although we grief for his passing, i can certainly attest that his departure was not in vain, instead we rejoice for his new life eternally with Christ, our Lord.

i'm a firm believer of matthew 8:36... "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" yes! in life it all comes down to one decision, that is if you want to gain everything in this world and lose your soul, or you won't have everything this world brings, but you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? at the end of the day, it is what it is... we will depart this world, but we just don't know when, but i'm glad to say that I AM SAVED and i just look forward for the day i will finally be with my King! how about you, do you know where you're going? don't be too arrogant with your good deeds, for we are not saved coz we do good works, but bcoz of His love and mercy, He died on our behalf. His free gift of salvation was made available to us which can only be received through faith. now, when you love Christ, that's when good works follow.

so, going back to my uncle... i'm glad i was able to spend time with him when we went to VA, but i'm most delighted to hear that he received Jesus' gift of salvation right on time! to God be all the glory!!!

ahhh! it feels so good to be at peace with everything! though trying moments come my way, i'm so glad i have the Lord to turn to and share my deepest sorrows. if you're interested in finding out more of how you can have "THE BEST' relationship with God, please feel free to shoot me an email i'll be glad to pray for you and with you.

i've been sick since last week. i loss my voice 3days ago and i'm having such a hard time sleeping at night coz of my severe cough. i just thought i'd log in real quick before i hit the bed. i've been cleaning like crazy (even if i should be resting) coz we're hosting thanksgiving this year. thank God we're able to even if we're in the midst of a financial crisis. God is good and there's no way i would decline celebrating thanksgiving and Christmas... it's about my Savior we're talking about here for crying out loud!

nway, last sat, i met up with my girlfriend for brunch and tried the restaurant in arlington heights called "uptown cafe"... it was both our 1st time there and we both tried something new hehehe. we're glad we did. every food we ordered deserved 5 stars. thank God for metromix i discovered this restaurant! oh gosh! i'm getting hungry just thinking about it. too bad my girlfriend totally forgot a few hrs won't be enough to catch up on things, but i'm glad to see her and blessed to have that opportunity with her. looking forward for more!

so, what's for thanksgiving? well, besides good food and many laughs, i look forward to hearing everyone's testimony of what they're thankful for. oh btw, i volunteered to cook. oh my! is that a good thing for my family? hahaha maybe not, but oh well, they don't have a choice =)

k signing off now! may you all have an awesome night and a blessed tomorrow!

the power of the Lord...

2008-11-16T20:36:00.004-06:00

i happened to browse around billy graham's website to find some resources that might be of interest to me at the moment and i ended up watching this video.

i'm glad i did and now i'm MORE IN AWE of just how powerful the Lord is once you fully submit your life to Him.

watch and be blessed!

the God i know...

2008-11-13T23:35:00.008-06:00

when you think about God, what thoughts do you have in mind? who is He? what’s He like?

i'm glad that God had found me. if it wasn't for Him, my life would probably be so miserable. coz right now, even if we're having financial difficulties, i'm grateful that my family stands strong all because we have God as our foundation.

i can honestly say that it's been really tough financially lately, but i'm grateful each waking day, each time i see my kids, each meal we eat, each time i grocery shop, each time i fill my tank, each personal time i have with the Lord, etc. see, the Lord has taught me not to look at the people above me when the feeling of envy is kickin' in, instead look at the people below me and be grateful for what i have.

yes, there are times i just cry in the car when i just don't know how we will get by for the next month's expenses, but believe me, this trying time definitely brought our family even closer. it has opened many doors of great communications and best of all, it has brought us down to our knees and closer to the Lord.

last week's message from willow has once again helped me add more fuel of trust in the Lord. and so i would like to share it with you. you and i may not have the same situation, but i'm almost positive that this will help you one way or another.

may you be blessed as you listen closely to the message of comfort... (to watch, pls click on the image below. once you're on the site, click on the same icon on the top right)
remember, when life gets dark, come to God for comfort. gnite!

the Heart of Jesus

2008-11-06T22:53:00.002-06:00

i'm in awe! just watch what Jesus could do...

Praise the Lord for Adoption!!!

CHANGE has come to AMERICA!

2008-11-05T10:20:00.007-06:00

I decided to turn today's ODB to the topic of yesterday's historical win due to a phone call I just received about a couple crying, out of disappointment for McCain's loss over Obama.

Yesterday, if you think about it, millions of people casted their votes for their choice of political leaders, and more importantly for President. After many months of campaigning each one of us, voters, had the opportunity to choose, however, we must understand and accept that not everyone’s choice will win.

Yes, we all have our differences... we have proposals we agree and disagree on. But even if the turn out was different, we, of all different walks of life should remain in prayer everyday for those who are in authority to make the right decisions. I tell yah, living in this land of great opportunities should bring us hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel... ALWAYS.

I must confess, I voted for Republicans. I have my reasons... like most of us do. There are things I agree and disagree with both parties, but like many others I stand for the hope, the right direction, and the great opportunities ahead for us.However, watching America unite for change and hope yesterday was definitely historically breath taking. As my kids and I direct our very eyes watching this historic triumph unfold before us, I felt JOY in my heart. No major incidents were reported, instead unity as one nation took its place under the provision of our glorious King. Yes, I truly believe that Barack Obama was appointed by God to be the next President of the United States. Did I know that then or was I leaning towards that? I can honestly say, no, but as a child of God, I trust and embrace the Lord's plan. Whether McCain won, we all serve ONE GOD who is our eternal President, the One who has our best interest... the Creator of McCain and Obama... so I choose God's leading.

On another note, I salute McCain's gracious message yesterday. There's no doubt how much he loves his country and how willing he was to bring about unity and change, but such time as this has to happen. I do not regret voting for him, instead, like him i embrace the new chapter of America's story and Obama cannot fulfill any of those changes we want to see if we just sit and watch, we all have a role to play and if we want to see those changes then we all need to help and better get moving!

So now what? Do we just let yesterday's triumph become a one day history? Do we continue to dwell on McCain's loss? Or do we stand together to work for the greater good and prayerfully support our next leader?

Friends, let's pray that the Lord will guide Obama's steps, his decisions, his choices, and his presidency. That the Lord will use him and his members to really bring about change in America. That the hope we all hold on to will finally be revealed and experienced through the touch of God in Obama's leadership. I pray that Obama will put God first in everything he does, to live in the foundation of Joshua 24:15, so that all will be well even in the midst of trials and tough decisions.

AMERICA, I celebrate with you! God bless us all!

p.s. my weekend was so exhausting. i finished painting my brother's bathrooms... ugh! it was so dangerous coz i didn't have the proper ladder to use, but someone had to do it and i wasn't about to buy a ladder just for a small portion i couldn't reach. so i managed to get myself up there and yes, by the grace of God i'm still ALIVE! whew!

we finished my daughter's election 2008 scrapbook - stayed up till 3am monday night. oh gosh! out of all the things i had to do and finish over the weekend, i was so drained yesterday all i wanted to do was sleep, but i only succeeded 30 mins of nap time coz my lil' one kept calling me... ayayay! well, i'm off to study for my last test this sat. i hope and pray for a celebration soon!

enjoy the beautiful weather and a blessed wednesday!

Is He in your life?

2008-10-29T13:35:00.001-05:00

Hello All,

I hope you all remember me... the ODB lady. Wishing that all is well with everyone and that although we're at the verge of economic crisis, know that God is faithful and just. I also want to take this opportunity to thank you everyone who continues to pray for me as well as the numerous follow up emails requesting for the daily bread. So without further ado, let's get on with today's message.

Does God exist in your life? Or is He a figment of your imagination?

As a child, my siblings and I were surrounded by a very strong atmosphere of religiosity, both in school and home. Our mom was a devoted servant of a church in our town. We were told to pray and do the ritual practices at church. I thought I knew God then. I would say that He lived in my heart, but nobody really explained to me about the importance and the difference of having a PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP with Him. I guess I kind of assumed too that I already had one.

Not until things were going wrong in my life did I start searching and caring for the REAL MEANING of a relationship with Christ. I was so in hurry to find out that I even longed for something I could touch, hold, feel and hear to give me proof that there is really someone out there who has my best interest.

Let's be honest, no one enjoys the feeling of brokenness. But after receiving Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior of my life and devoted some of my time getting to know Him through His words, (believe me it was tough understanding it at first, but the more I spend time with Him the more He reveals Himself to me), I learned to depend on Him & His promises everyday. My hopes became brighter and being broken gave me an entirely new perspective on God's plan for my life.

Just the other night, I I tried going through different books to understand what Jesus was trying to say in this verse: "Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only one seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." After much research, I came to the conclusion that this passage teaches us that death is necessary for a harvest. Jesus' death for our sins led to glory and life not only for Himself, but also for us.

Therefore, only by falling and breaking can a single grain produce a rich crop. If it stays isolated and protected, it will never produce anything.

I truly believe that's how the Lord works to mature His children. He allows us to be broken to bring spiritual growth and supernatural ministry into our lives. And the process is always the same:
1) He targets the areas where we're not submissive to Him.
2) He arranges circumstances and selects the tools with which to break our self-sufficiency.
3) He controls the pressure and timing of those circumstances to bring us back into His will.

I mean, the choice is still ours... if we refuse to be re-formed through this brokenness and continue to cling to whatever God wants us to release, then He will put us on the shelf. Just think about it, yes, we resist brokenness wherever we turn, but just like the single, unbroken grain of wheat, we will become fruitless and alone if we continue to follow what we think is best for us. Our biggest problem is we choose to hang on to the things we think bring joy. We want to persist in relationships that are blocking our spiritual growth. We want to take the easiest way hoping that God will bless our laziness and impatientness. My friend, this is not the road to maturity that our Father in heaven has prepared for us.

There's no doubt that brokenness hurts. But God's word, proclaims that it hurts more not to be broken. Don't be distracted by short-term happiness. Look where God is leading you and let Him do whatever it takes to get you there. When God says "NO", when He takes away instead of adding more, when He divinely manages what we have, how much we have, and how long we have it, He is helping us keep our eyes on Him. don't despise these moments. Instead, recognize them as the voice of God calling you back into His loving arms. Yes, it won't be easy, but in the end, as you continue to trust that God delivers and redeems people from all walks of life, you can look back and see how amazing and genius God is for putting your pieces back to whole again.

Have a joyful day everyone!

God speed!
Lovely

whoa! too much...

2008-10-26T23:11:00.012-05:00

project goin on for the kids' school. noel and ayre worked together for ayre's science project (due tomorrow) while camille and i worked on her history project (due election day, but too much research and scrapbooking to do).

here's ayre's space rocket model (made out of legos - he's presenting it tomorrow) you can do it, ayre! i so love every details of this...

here's a preview of camille's election book (will post more LOs when project's done - still have a lot of pages to do. a lot of cutting, gluing, thinking and laughing comes with this project, but what i love the most is the bonding =)

i've been sore since yesterday. i finished painting one of my brother's bathrooms, last friday. i'm glad he loves the color i picked for him. it's a modern gray. at first i thought he wouldn't like it coz i know he's not into dark colors, but thank God he likes my taste hehehe. he says that's one of his favorite rooms in his house now, aww! i'm painting the master bath next and i think a lighter mocha would be great for it. he likes the idea, i just hope he'll like the results too. yikes!

i'm about to send the odb for tomorrow as well as send my resumes out again so i leave you with well wishes and a reminder that God is good all the time!

tired, but it's all good

2008-10-21T22:10:00.006-05:00

it feels like this day was dragging. although i ran a few errands all morning, talked with a friend i haven't seen in ages, did a few things around the house, the day still seem too slow. anyway, so much eating and physical work since thursday. let me summarize if i can *wink*

thursday: hubby and i had a lil' misunderstanding the day before, but he totally surprised me by taking a day-off just to take me out on a date. as an early gift for me, he wanted to take me on a shopping spree, but i'd rather do an early Christmas shopping for our family rather than buying something for myself since i don't really want anything, but a job, you know what i mean?

i was so hungry so we decided to eat first. originally, we planned to try the sushi station in our area, but he wanted me to try, house of tokyo. wow! i must say it was all worth it. we arrived exactly in the beginning of the "all you can eat" dinner special. get this, it was $24 pp, the chefs just began serving fresh sushis in front of us while this little boat filled with different types of sushis sailed this long table we were in. we went sushi CRAZEE! it was too much for the night that it felt like the food entered our brain... oh gosh! it's too much just thinking back. we enjoyed the food so much coupled with some good laughs and great topics of conversation.

we then purchased a few gifts from aurora outlet, watched eagle eye then called it a night. purrty good i must say.

friday: my 32nd birthday - wow! time flies! i thank the Lord for giving me another year to experience more of His amazing plans for my life. God is good all the time, i tell yah!

well, although it's kinda tough for my husband to get a vacation from work, he requested this day anyway and thank God they approved it, but not saturday. well, better than nothing. we had a few things planned, but i was dragging. so we ended up at woodfield mall (kids' choice), they wanted to go to gameworks, but we were running late for dinner. i wanted to try weber grill since the kids and i get really curious every time we see that ginormous grill in front of the restaurant. how do i rate it? well, i finished my humongous burger w/ jalapeno cheese (i was hungry ok - but i prefer pepper jack cheese, but they didn't have it), i like the starter, which comes w/ shrimp, chicken, ribs, onion rings & somethin' else, and the rest of my fam were satisfied w/ their orders... so i would have to give it a 3 1/2 out of 5. only bcoz i'm not really a fan of grilled stuff and the server was somewhat in hurry to take things out of our table. but all in all, it was a night well spent with some of my loved ones. thank you Lord!

saturday: woke up early to help my brother move to his new condo in chicago. although i also like his town house before, i feel a new and good beginning here. the place of course is BEAutiful... surrounded with crown molding, tall ceilings, 2 huge patios, marble bathrooms, and cute layout. with all the loading, unloading and unpacking, they managed to surprise me with ube cake and yummy food... aww! they love me =) it was almost midnight when we got home.

sunday: we all woke up sore, but thank God for pain killers! the message once again, hit the nerve of my current situation. it's called, what we learn in downturns. of course with the downturns we've been experiencing this year, bill explained the hope that is in Christ with clarity and confidence that God is faithful through it all. it was the perfect time to have heard this message and i'm again, so grateful to our heavenly King. i plan to share bits of what i learned for tomorrow's odb (say no more, i know i've been slacking off with my odbs and believe me i'm so disappointed of myself and so i ask for your prayers).

the kids still wanted to hang out so we decided to just eat at panda express. we filled the place with our laughs... gosh, we're loud! hehehe

noel got home early from work. we watched indiana jones in the theatre room while munching on our popcorn and chocolate - it was heaven!

monday: went back to chicago to help my brother unpack. @ 2, we rushed back to pick up my son from school. did my daily job description as a mom and hit the bed pretty late.

that's pretty much what i've been doing the past few days. tomorrow afternoon will be voting day for me and my husband. are you guys ready? i'm sorta not, since i haven't reviewed the other candidates... hopefully tomorrow morning... i'm so bad =(

this week will be physically and mentally draining for me. my brother requested that i paint parts of his house, i have to help camille with her election 2008 scrapbook project & help my son, ayre with his science model project. since he's so fanatic with legos, we decided to make a model out of his legos. he just can't wait to start on it. as a matter of fact i'm pretty excited too! hehehe

well, that's it for now, i'm supposed to be sending out my resume, not bloggin' - WHAT'S THE MATTER WITH ME?

k, blessings to all! gnite =)

little pilgrim by chuck girard

2008-10-15T10:28:00.002-05:00

as promised, here's the song that moved me as chuck girard sang over us, last sunday. as i listened to this song, the life i lived before i fully surrendered it to the Lord, flashed before me, as well as the people close to my heart who stepped away or are away from God's path right now. tears were running down my face as i cried out to the Lord for my loved ones.

but anyway, i hope that as you watch the video, you will listen to the lyrics and let it resonate within your soul.

a message worth sharing...

2008-10-12T16:40:00.009-05:00

i thank the Lord for bringing us to our home church now. the effect has brought many changes in our lives and continued growth. every message has an impact in my life and i praise God for every opportunity to hear His messages.

today's our church, willow creek's 33rd anni. we're privileged to have country music artist, chuck girard, whose songs had a strong influence to the pioneers of willow back in 1970s.

this was willow then:

and this is willow now (main auditorium - there are other auditoriums for different age level services):

the messages of chuck's songs as he sang over us today, definitely touched my heart in such a different way and i will make sure that one of these days i will upload some of his songs so you all can also be filled with great hope in the midst of any circumstance in your life. absolutely a must hear!

however, i came across a message from chuck that i would like to share to you all. may the powerful message bring about change in your heart. to God be all the glory!

We live in a difficult world, in difficult times. Everyone it seems, has an opinion, and it's not easy to figure out what to believe about life, why we are here, and what is the purpose of it all. We have our inner moral compass, and just when our instincts tell us we may be on the right track , someone we may look up to is caught in some area of moral failure, or a spiritual leader falls to the temptation of the world.

Well, I found out the hard way (See "My Testimony"), that there is really only one uniform source of truth, and that's the Holy Bible. This tract is not to convince you of the veracity of the Bible, but instead is for folks who are past that step, and just don't know what to do with what they know is in the Bible.

Before we get into the practical steps which lead you into receiving Jesus as Lord and Savior, let's look at some simple but profound facts, using the Bible as our standard of truth, otherwise this all would just be one person's opinion. I know that the Bible seems to have contradictions and inconsistencies, but really, that's only how it appears on first look. No man can really know the truth of the Bible without 2 prerequisites:
1) He must be open and honest, so that he can be led of the Holy Spirit. The Bible is understood by Divine revelation, not by intellect alone.
2) He must receive the revelation in steps, as he lives out the principles of the Bible in his daily life. As you are led into what you need to know by the Spirit, and live out that which you discover, the seeming contradictions and inconsistencies seem to fade away, and the true harmony of the "whole counsel of God" becomes evident.

So...the first revelation you need is of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. After that get ready for the rest of your life, as God produces in you the character and attributes of a true Christian.
Here's a few other concepts to grasp before we begin:
1) Don't get religion, get relationship.The first step is not about churches, personalities or organizations. It's about getting right with God. After that God can place you in a fellowship of believers where you can grow.
2) Don't judge Christ by Christians. Christians are just people. Leaders fall and fail, but you don't hear that much about the ones who serve God faithfully, never cheat on their wives or husbands, never get in trouble. Believe me, these far outnumber the ones you hear about. Billy Graham is a phenomenon to have been so faithful and well known with never a hint of scandal. Get your eyes off of men, and look to God for your answers. If you approach Him with an honest, questioning heart, He will satisfy your need to know. (Seek and you will find....)
3) Don't wait to get your life together before you get right with God. This is a "come-as-you-are" party. Jesus loves you right where you are. It's only he who can affect real change in your life, because real change only comes from the inside out. Our attempts at self-improvement usually are usually working from the opposite premise, and that kind of change seldom works, and NEVER works on the eternal level.
4) Don't make the mistake of thinking that you are too evil for God to forgive. The Bible says that "when we repent, He is faithful and just to forgive, and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness. If you are truly repentant, there is nothing that cannot be forgiven. Jesus loves YOU, no matter what your past.
5) Don't think that if you become a Christian, that you won't have fun anymore. Hollywood, TV, books etc., have in general painted Christianity to be something for a bunch of losers..dried up prunes of people who have lost their zest for life. Not true. God will change your mind about what you think is fun, but true Christians have real joy in their lives and really know what real fun is. I'm glad the days of partying down and "having fun" without remembering what happened to me because I was passed out are over. What kind of fun is that?

Let's move along, with a few more facts to consider:
1) Everyone in the world has missed God, and needs to be saved. No matter who you are, without Jesus in your life, you are lost. No matter how good a life you may lead, you are lost without Christ. Men have fallen from godliness and need to have relationship with God restored, which can only happen through the cross of Calvary.
2) Your salvation cannot be earned. This is something God has done for us, we can't earn it, we must just receive it.
3) Your salvation cannot be learned. You don't need to go to Bible school to be saved. Wouldn't it be unfair if only theologically literate people could get right with God? No, God made this so simple that a 10 year old child can receive Jesus as savior. He truly made it so simple that "the foolishness of God would confound the wisdom of the world." It's a matter of faith, not intellect.
4) You must recognize your need. You ARE a foul depraved Godless person, as we all were before receiving Jesus. Even the good things you do have a selfish agenda if you really be honest. You must be willing to call sin sin, and turn from it, change your lifestyle completely, pick up your cross and follow Him. Difficult club to join, you say? Yes, and I want you to know it isn't always pretty. It's losing your life for His sake that you may gain it back. It's suffering sometimes because you do the right thing. It's not easy. Don't join if you're looking for an easy way. Yet, at the same time this life is filled with joy and satisfaction. Think of the life that Jesus led. Full of suffering, rejection and pain, and yet Jesus was the happiest most well-adjusted person who ever lived, because He did it God's way..
5) You must receive Him by faith. You won't know all the answers, you may not even have thought of many of the questions. It's a matter of knowing in your heart that what Jesus said is right, then acting on it.

What did Jesus say?
1) "I am the way, the truth, the life. No man shall see the Father if not through me."(John 14:16) He didn't say, as many gurus and spiritual leaders do that He knew a way to get truth, He said He WAS the way the truth, the life. He also said He was the ONLY way. (A hard one for a lot of people, but I didn't say it, HE did.)
2) They that call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.(Ro. 10:13) Self explanatory.
So.. How do I receive Him?

It's so simple you may have a hard time believing it. No costly seminars to attend, no years spent in Bible school, only a simple prayer of faith.Here are the steps, (not a formula, but steps)
1) Repent. Recognize your sinfulness and turn from your ways. Be willing to change what needs to be changed."If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9, KJV).
2) Receive His forgiveness. He died on the cross so that you may be forgiven. Your forgiveness was purchased 2000 years ago. Receive it now."For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16, NIV).
3) Don't wait for a bolt of lightning. Most conversion experiences are not dramatic. You may or may not experience an emotional release, it doesn't matter, we walk by faith, not sight.
4) It is necessary to believe in Jesus deity, that He rose from death and conquered sin. This is something you must believe by faith. No one has pragmatic proof of these truths. But we do have the Holy Spirit who will confirm these facts to you by that "inner witness", that compass inside that says "this is true"...."that if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."(Romans 10:9, NIV).
5)" Confessing with your mouth."(above scripture). I believe there is power in spoken prayer.

Try it now; say "Jesus is Lord", and feel the power of those words. Then continue and pray words to this effect: "Jesus, I need you in my life. I've not been tremendously successful without you, and so now I'm going to try it your way. I repent of every wrong thing I've ever done, and receive the forgiveness that You offer. I believe that You are God, and that you died on the cross and rose from death to conquer all the works of darkness. I surrender my life to You this day, and pledge to do my best to be obedient to You from this day forth. You have made me a new creation, and I am now "born again" of the Spirit of God. Because of You, I will go to heaven when I die. I pray all this in the Name of Jesus."

What now?
1) Go tell somebody!"If you confess Me before men, I will confess you before my father."(Matt: 10:32) I'd love for you to let ME know. E-mail me, chuck@chuck.org or fax me, or whatever, I'd love to hear what God did for you.
2) Get a Bible..Read it a little every day. Contact me, I'll send you one. Or get one from a bookstore or The American Bible Society, or even the library until you can find one you like. A couple recommended modern translations, excellent for new believers are "GOOD NEWS FOR MODERN MAN" or "THE LIVING BIBLE" "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" (2 Timothy 3:16, KJV).
3) Find a church."Don't forsake the assembling of the saints." God's got a home for you. Ask him to guide you to a good church. Contact me and let me know where you live and I might be able to guide you to a good church.
"....not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh." (Hebrews 10:25, ASV). .
4) Pray daily. Talk conversationally to God. The Spirit that is within you will put you in touch with Him. He does speak to us today, but you have to learn how to hear His voice.

hello!

2008-10-11T11:47:00.002-05:00

been feeling under the weather since yesterday. i have sore throat and my right side teeth has been aching coz of the root canal i got done the other day. i've been on antibiotic for almost 2weeks now plus taking meds for my cold... my gosh! is that even healthy?

i hung out with a friend till late last night and felt like passing out while i was driving coz of what i was feeling already. i had to pretend i was okay coz my friend needed some emotional support so i didn't really want to add up to her worries. but thank God i made it home safely.

although i have some chores to do today, i feel like i just wanna tuck myself into bed all day. ayayay! but i can't!

my teen went to her awana camp yesterday. they went to baraboo wisconsin. i'm so delighted to see her enjoying it. i've noticed that when she joined, her interest in growing with the Lord has grown tremendously. i even learn new things every time she shares the messages to me. and then at times my daughter, my son and I find ourselves testing each others knowledge about the verses we know in the Bible as well as competing on naming the books in the Bible. guess what? my 11yrs old son always wins! oh gosh! thank God for awana! too bad they don't have awana in the philippines when i was growing up... hmm, i feel a light bulb just turned on over my head! let's make it happen Lord!

ok, i should sign out now and get myself going for the day.

praying for my daughter's awesome experience w/ the Lord during this trip,
love

what a weekend *)

2008-10-06T11:24:00.003-05:00

thank God i'm able to blog again. so what have i been up to? um, besides job hunting, here's my weekend update *wink*

fri: had dinner with my girlfriend. too bad a couple of our friends didn't make it. so happy to be able to eat my fave shushis hehehe it's been a 1 1/2 since my last one. that's so unlikely of me =) my husband was so jealous that he wanted me to plan our next date already =) might try the new jap rest in our area called, sushi station.

sat: i just had the "just do it" attitude last sat. i went to menards and lowes to get my materials to paint all of our baseboards. i was not quite happy with my performance coz i think i was too slow, not to mention i started late ;) so i'm off to finish the rest today... +ing my fingers =)

sun (yanna's 3rd bday): the message was another eye opener. this "influence" series that bill hybels is covering for 8weeks has given me (although slowly) a new set of eyes. i just pray that the Lord will help me each day as i live it coz i sure can't do it without Him.

we managed to meet up with the filipino community there at willow. so glad we did. most of them were our age and so it was easier to relate. looking forward to building a wonderful relationship with this group and hoping we will be able to extend ourselves to others with authenticity.

we went straight to chuckecheese to celebrate my daughter's 3rd bday, but unfortunately their system was down for quite some time and so we headed off to caesarland in chicago. well, guess what? the place went out of biz. ugh! GREAT! so although i refused to go to go bananas (used to be jeepers) we had no choice, we wanted yanna to have a great time on her birth. it's not about us, so i had to set aside my preferences and make yanna's day enjoyable. i believe the place got flooded coz as soon as you enter, the smell was quite awful. thankfully, we found a good spot and was able to celebrate for our little one.

it's funny how the Lord led us to this place though. mind you, it's been years since i last saw my guy best friend. the only contact i had was with his parents whom i just send greeting cards to on every occasion. but anyhow, he was there at go bananas with his new fam. my husband saw him first and so we were planning a way to surprise my him, until they ended up playing right behind our table. long story short, we were both so thrilled to see each other and both families. they ended up celebrating with us. so besides the hassle of having to go to different places to celebrate my daughter's bday... thank God we ended up there. so weird seeing all the kids together though, it reminds us that we're not getting any younger... yikes!

well, that's it for now. gotta get back to painting! have a blessed day everyone!

catchin' up

2008-09-29T09:42:00.003-05:00

with blogging. i've been busy digging through the boxes in our storage. i'm trying to get rid of stuff and really just organize everything before i start working again (dunno when yet... hehehe). my husband said, "the key is if you haven't seen it for a year and you survived with out it... get rid of it." so although i have the tendency to keep it all... i closed my eyes and followed my husband's advice. ouch!

the result? wow! i see more space hehehe. but does that mean, more stuff to buy? um, hope not. i did go to ikea the other day to finally buy the bins for the playroom in the basement. i bumped into my old friend, butch and his wife, nova and managed to catch up a lil' bit. that was nice =)

over the weekend was my son's 11th bday and my mom's 3rd yr in heaven. we invited ayre's close friend, matthew (my girl, marge's son) and headed off to volcano falls with my entire fam. the fun was a success! love the laser tag with the kids... hehehe. the lil' ones snuck up behind me & caught me too many times... i'm guess i'll die easily @ war *wink*

got home at 9p and i still had to prep my palabok (filipino noodle dish) for the next day. i planned to cook early sunday morning so that i have time to get ready for church. but unfortunately, my sis thought we had all the ingredients for the palabok i was going to make. i ended up driving to 4 filipino stores and they were all closed. whaaaaat? so i had to just drop them off to church, got all the stuff i needed at the filipino store and rushed myself home to cook. for someone who doesn't cook, i think i did pretty well. took me 45mins to cook and 5mins to load everything in the car. however, there's one thing i realized... i will no longer desire to open up a catering business hahahaha and to think that was just 1 dish i made - so sad... but hey! regardless all the driving and the stress... i'm so happy to get great reviews for my palabok hehehe made it all worth it! thanks Lord!

well, we made it to the cemetery on time and celebrated my mom's anni & again, ayre's bday. some of my mom's close friends were there so that really completed our day. brings the good old memories =)

too bad noel was working 7 straight days... he missed his son's bday and my mom's anni. thankfully he's off today and tomorrow so bonding time with dad is our itinerary for 2 days.

oh and to all the couples out there... whether all is well or you're in the midst of a trying moment, i encourage you to watch the movie, "FIREPROOF"! How far will you go to keep your promise and save your marriage?

i love you all with the love of the Lord,
lovely

Our God Reigns

2008-09-21T22:43:00.002-05:00

i felt so renewed at church today as darlene zschech lead us to praise and worship. it was a concert filled with awe of our great God. ever since our pastor, bill hybels took over every service due to some major changes in the staff... the big vision that the Lord inscribe in his heart that our church will be filled with people praising the name of God and that we will be a singing church, i've felt nothing, but gratefulness towards his gift of ministry. the Lord never fails to use him to get the message of the Gospel to all people.

today, however was definitely one of the many special days at willow. darlene zschech, one of the most influential Christian singers of all time (some of her most popular songs are: shout to the Lord, through it all, & all things are possible), used her gift to lead us into prayer, worship & praise to our Holy God.

it was too surreal!

please allow me to share to you 2 of the songs that brought me to tears as i embraced the truth of how joyful and peaceful it is to live for Christ, to trust and give my life to His hands. and to be reminded that at the end of the day, God is enough and He is always good.

friends, each one of us face different trials and we all handle it differently. no matter how we deal with it, somehow, someway, we yearn for HELP. God knows our cry for help. He knows every detail whether we choose to tell Him or not. however, God gave us the gift of "free will" and therefore, it is still our choice to respond to His ever-present help. i know sometimes it takes for us to go through difficulties to take the route to God, but friends, i encourage you... this is the day! don't waste another minute apart from God, but receive His agape love. His love that is not only filled with amazing wonders, but eternal security. no, living for God doesn't exclude you from trials, but it brings joy in the midst of suffering and peace that passes all human understanding. i pray that you will take time to resolve this matter to our Creator and allow Him to reveal Himself to you. because friend, you matter to our awesome God!

test update

2008-09-20T13:37:00.002-05:00

yes, i'm absolutely uncertain this time with 1 of the tests i took this morning. to start it off, i'm not a fan of history and to make it worst, the questions were not at all what i studied... grrrr

well, i can honestly say that at least 20% of my answers were all guess. i just submit all my tests in God's hands... after all He's my ultimate source of wisdom and knowledge. so God, may Your will be done!

k, just a quick blog here since i have lots to accomplish today!

have a blessed weekend everyone!

craigslist

2008-09-18T10:28:00.007-05:00

yesterday, i couldn't stand the files and supplies that were exposed and in our office, so i thought i'd check out what my area has to offer as far as cabinets or shelves, through craigslist.

well, lemme tell yah... i spent about an hour searching for the right one and i'm glad i did. my husband and i found 2 bookcases that retails for $130 ea and we got for $120 for 2. One is brand new and the other one, although it has been used, looked just the same and has a 2 doors in the bottom. Plus, we've been putting off buying a snow blower. they're just so expensive that's why, but again i'm glad i looked at craigslist. there was one selling for $400. was just a yr old and it was def well maintained. we checked it out and of course you use your judgement by how clean and organized their house is since that's pretty much how you could tell if they're really taking care of their belongings. well sure enough, they live at a new subdivision (location not on my GPS yet) 15 mins. from where we live. they have a huge, clean and organized house... whew! the snow thrower? well, it was sitting in the garage, shinning! my husband examined it meticulously and we were both very pleased. and the good news is, we didn't even have to bargain, the owner just offered to bring it down to $350. yay! retail price for the one we got? $679 (the cheapest)... now that's a deal!

the best part was meeting the owner and his daughters... they seemed to be such a loving family =)

thank God for craigslist!

so today, i have some organization to do and studying later tonight. i have another exam (longer and harder than the last 2) this sat.

hope you all have an awesomely blessed day!

got chills...

2008-09-17T09:26:00.003-05:00

as my husband and i listened to charice pempengco's duet with celine dion. a 16 yr. old girl from the philippines who struggled as a child seeing her mom abused by her father. she joined every singing contest she could possibly find just to have food on the table. both at one point were dreaming to be able to eat pizza and charice once again managed to win another contest just for this reason.

this girl has been blessed from beginning to end. her life might've started rough, but in God's time, He delivered them from it. i pray that this girl as well as her mom continue to praise the Lord for their success. that this fame will not lead them to step away from God's path. it would be such a loss if they do. i give the Lord all the glory for this mother and daughter. God is so amazing!

here's a clip of the duet with celine dion. worth watching...

whew!

2008-09-11T15:47:00.003-05:00

thank God we're all ok. woke up early this morning to bring my sis to her dentist in chicago. while she was busy getting her teeth cleaned, my daughter and i drove to the nearest filipino store. haven't been at that place for years now. my daughter even had a blast shopping for junk food hehehe

before heading back, we stopped by my brother's oberweis, got my latte and ice cream for my sis and my daughter. on our way to pick up my son (5mins. away from school) someone accidentally hit the back of our van. there were 3 vehicles involved and thankfully no one was hurt. the lady who caused it wasn't paying attention, but i could tell she was scared, shaky and just in shocked. i felt so bad for her though, i had to calm her down. i had to make her feel that everything will be ok, cars are fixable and we should still be thankful that no one got hurt. thank God the owner of the other vehicle was gentle and very much understanding, he even agreed to what i said and added, "that's why God made auto shop" hehehe. i mean of course there are different types of accidents, i'm just not fond of people who go off... i think it's best to calm down and make sure that everyone assists and be remorseful of each other regardless whose fault it is. nothing will get resolved by hostility... in fact it'll just make matters worst.

so today, i feel blessed and relief... at least no one got hurt and we all got home safely.

my to do list for the rest of the day, it's simple? study and study hard... i have finals this weekend. Lord, i need your help again please! =)

stay safe everyone! find refuge in God!

You think you know?

2008-09-10T09:21:00.010-05:00

It's amazing how I started to realize how different we are everyday. I never really thought of this 'till I started playing around with the mood character i recently uploaded. Yesterday, I felt so lazy and bored, but today I have so many things I need to work on that's why I picked "busy" as my current mood for the day... it's pretty much a combination of feeling fired up, organized, & accomplished. But believe me, there are also days when I question Him about my situation and I learned that it's ok to do that. And I kid you not, I'm always in awe of how many times He puts me back in the right track.

I'm really grateful that the Lord gave me a chance to read the book I'm currently reading, it's called, "10 things you should know about God & Life". It gives me a better understanding of how life works and how the Lord truly desires for us to prosper through an absolute, really one on one relationship with Him. Understanding the difference between really trusting God and just saying that you trust God. I'm learning so much as I carry this load of job loss.

I don't know how He does it, but whatever magical thing He does, He never fails to give me new hope. And so with amazement, i just sincerely put my trust in Him. I mean, why wouldn't I? He's blessed me more than I deserve. He changed my life when I thought there was no other way around it. I know that He understands what I'm going through regardless I say something or not. But see, I finally figured it out that the reason why He wants to hear it directly from us is because it's for our own benefit, if you haven't realized that by now. I don't know about you, but for me, it helps me to get a better understanding of my situation when I vent out, either to a friend or a family member... it brings peace in my heart. I really think that keeping it in will make matters worst, not only for yourself, but to your loved ones. And so, what better way, but to let it out to the One who understands it all... our One and Only heavenly Father.

I've seen people panicked like it was the end of the world for them when dealing with a difficult situation. Sometimes, the problem comes when we rely too much on our own perception of the situation. Like with my situation, there were times I felt so disappointed due to numerous turned-downs I received in a week. I just couldn't imagine why the Lord would allow something like this? But yet again, I remember the verse in Proverbs 3:5, "Never rely on what you think you know." And so time after time, I hear the Lord gently telling me that out of a seemingly bad situation can come good. (Romans 8:28 - All things work together for good to those who love God...)

That's why I'm so grateful to say that I know that the Lord will be glorified during this waiting time in my life. In the meantime... I will continue to hold on to His promises and be obedient to whatever He wants me to do. I may not fully understand His plans, but what matters is I trust His results and I know that God is enough at the end of the day.

So friends, when you encounter hardship, I encourage you to be honest to the Lord and pray that He will remind you not to rely on what you think you know is best for you. Believe from the beginning that God will bless you in the experience. Let's walk by faith, my friend, and not by site.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. -Proverbs 3:5

Have a JOYFUL day!

checkin' in ---

2008-09-07T23:39:00.002-05:00

i don't think i'll be sleeping anytime soon... my husband and i just felt the urge to try dunkin' donuts' iced latte and i ended up finishing the entire large cup. so not only am i bloated from the party we went to earlier, i'm also kinda gassy, ewe i know, but oh well! hehehe

we planned to take out my mom-in-law after church & after the party, today, but unfortunately she suffered from insomnia again last night. she ended up staying home to get some rest. we then just spent a few hours at my girlfriend's house to celebrate her daughter's bday & christening. so glad we went tho... i had a chance to talk to a friend i haven't seen in a while. anyway, happy birth again, elyssa! thanks for the invite!

ok, so besides gardening, i've been studying all week for my exam (1 down 4 more to go!) last sat. i feel really good about it, but won't find out the results till after a month since essay was a big part of it. i just really hope that i pass all 5 and won't have to retake any of them. God's been really good to me - i have nothing but gratitude =)

i've been anticipating for the new series we just started today at church, it's called, "influence". see all of us are of influence to someone whether we know it or not. no matter what our status is in life, no one is a nobody. people we encounter everyday, are impacted by our daily decisions, actions, and example. however, if we're for God, are we walking the paths God asks us to walk on so that we can be the light stand to others? are you one who's just content to have the ticket to heaven or do you have the heart to reconcile others with God as well? or are you one who's for God on sundays then for the world for the rest of the week? one who should be grateful to know God, but yet instead of influencing others for the sake of Christ, you're the one who was influenced to do things that are apart from God? friends, there's always hope! i encourage you to take part of this 8-part series on influence. watch as our pastor, bill hybels, challenge us to make the most of the opportunities we have to make a difference for eternity.

click this site to watch today's message: http://www.willowcreek.org/MiniSite/story.asp?storyid=5

i pray that as you give your time and effort to listen to this series, the Holy Spirit will touch your heart to come alongside us and make a difference for Christ sake. remember, no good works will win you a ticket to heaven, but only through the saving grace of Christ Jesus. of course as we put Christ first in our hearts, good works will follow through the help of the Holy Spirit.

may the good Lord guide our ways as we live the days we have left here on earth.
have a blessed week!

errands after errands

2008-08-29T17:54:00.004-05:00

yesterday while the kids were at school, my sis, my lil' one & i went to aldi to buy some canned foods to send to her fam in the philippines. i thought i won't have to spend money on curtains for the master's br, well i guess i spoke too soon... i didn't like the one i had so i ended up buying @ tj maxx. it was a couple of inches short so i'll have to fix the bottom to touch the floor... easy fix! i also bought some new table linens to dress up my kitchen & dinning tables for when we come up with the date to have "the couples get together dinner". still undecided with the date coz of my husband's work schedule, but hopefully soon (um, at least before winter - geeze!).

did a few scrapbook layouts last night and read the new book i have called, "10 things you should know about God & Life". i wish to finish this one as a start... i'm all over the place with my books. i have tons i haven't finished, but would come back to them every now and then. so hopefully while i have my adrenaline going, i'll finish at least 3 this year (gotta start small).

today was yet another driving around, running errands day. went to sam's club to get some more stuff for phils and some for the house. went to the new value city furniture just to browse around and i'm glad we did. i found a dark wood cushioned bench with wicker baskets in the bottom for storage only for $40 (pic has no cushion, but mine came w/ it)... org cost? between $190-$429... so what was wrong with it? a lil' crack in the back - fixable and def unnoticeable! my sis also got a replacement for her entertainment center for $39, org. $220. way to go clearance shoppers!!!

after pickin' up my son from school, i went to menards to buy some mums - got a great deal also - $2.98! just super! gardening time tomorrow!

well, i'm about to pamper myself now after 2 days of driving back and forth, rearranging furniture and accents.

hope your day was relaxing or rather productive like mine =) thank you Lord!

have a blessed night!

before school starts...

2008-08-25T21:52:00.004-05:00

i've been taking the kids out just about everyday. nothing big just swimming, bowling, golfing, shopping, parties and of course church =)

speaking of shopping... i bought this soft hot pink robe from bath & body last friday and i'm glad i did... it was so worth it for the price - it's so comfy & very spa like kinda softness - you can't even get 'em online anymore (at least the red and pink ones) - the lavender is actually cheaper online & on sale too, i think. thankfully i got the pink one, although i was really hoping to get the red ones, but that i know sold out pretty fast. i did managed to get one for my good friend, marge, for her bday and i'm glad she liked it! happy birth again sis!

taking advantage of the time i have to get things done at home actually feels good coz i get to accomplish a lot. redecorating our bedroom is not done yet and so today i spray painted my table lamps in black and fixed the shades to give it a touch of red to match the rest of the accents. i also had my husband put up my little people (inherited from my brother also)... will take a pic of them so you all know how they look hehehe. i think all it needs is new curtains and i'm glad i have the perfect one for my windows (no need to spend).

it was my son's orientation night @ school today and both my husband and i were able to meet his teacher. apparently, per my daughter who is in 8th grade this yr tells us that her brother's teacher is the most meanest teacher in school. yes, she did look a lil' mean, but i think she's just perfectionist. i do believe tho that my son will need a reasonably strict teacher to boost him up to work harder... so until i don't hear a nasty complaint from my son, i will calm my nerves down and leave everything to the Lord. i've submitted my prayers for my kids' 08-09 school journey and i know that the Lord will guide their ways. so i don't think i need to worry about his teacher =)

tomorrow will be a long day for me again... have to bring the van for service all the way in chicago, take the kids swimming before summer ends (at least for them *wink*), and back to school for me.

so i think i should sign off now to get me enough sleep for tomorrow's blessings - you all have an awesome week and as always, may the Lord's light so shine upon you =) gnite!

what we underwent this past few days...

2008-08-21T23:36:00.002-05:00

this past few days haven't been the rest time i was thinking i would get, but i'm not complaining coz the kids are having a great time bonding with their cousins.

forgot to mention on my last blog that my lil' one accidentally poked her dad's right eye, which resulted a big cut on his cornea. he was so restless that night and so i was trying to convince him that i will take him to the er, but he resisted. the following day was so hard coz it was as if he was blind. he was so much in pain and couldn't really open his eyes. i fed him, got him ready and was really just guiding his way. i called around to get him an appt with our "new" primary dr, but bcoz the cut was pretty severe, he had to send us to the ophthalmologist which was thankfully right across. during the rush of walking and driving back and forth, i saw my husband's appreciation to me and we both got pretty emotional thinking of those who cannot see. how hard it must be for them and their loved ones. =)

my husband was restrained from working for 4days and he's just going back tomorrow. but during this ordeal, i saw how baby my husband can be. he needed me to be there next to him at all times. it's funny how he gets when i would put his eye drops... yes! i would do his eye drops. i tell him, "what would you do if i'm not around?" then while laughing he says "well, that's the only time i'll force myself to learn, but till then i'm gonna need you." guys can be such babies, i tell yah.

anyway, since he felt a lot better when the dr. put a contact lense on his right eye, we were able to meet up with my friend who lives a few mins away from indiana. of course i had to do all the driving. my friend, tracy, gave us a new stainless steel dish washer since it wasn't the right size for her kitchen and ours was having a problem already. we drove to orland park to eat at ginger asian bistro. how's the food? i'd give it 2 1/2 stars for the price and coz their rice was pretty dry and def not at all cooked well. staff's friendliness & the place is def a 5 star. but it was worth a try... i know my friend, tracy and kim liked it.

before heading back home, we decided to go to my brother's house to pick up his advance bday gift to me... (yep! really advance coz my bday is not till oct, but again no complaints here!) well, sure enough i was thrilled to see what he gave me... it's a deluxe iron gazebo to put in my back yard complete with a cool netting! ahh! i've been wanting one, but thankfully i didn't have to buy it hehehe. however, i told my husband to put it up next year since summer is almost over.

anyway, we went home with a lot of goodies besides my gift. see, my brother's moving to his new condo and he's trying to get rid of his stuff since he wants a totally diff theme for his new place. so obviously, we picked what we wanted, cleaned our room, rearranged it as soon as we got home and fixed my lil' ones bed to make it look more cozy. we even brought the sponge bob tv, vcr & dvd player from the kids' playroom in the basement to give her a space of her own in our bedroom. we were so worried that she might not sleep in her bed and jump back in ours instead, but lo and behold, the plan worked! we can now have our bed back and turn from our sleep anytime we want w/o having to worry about accidentally hitting her while we're asleep. whew!

well, that's how my days have been this week and tomorrow we're hitting the outlet stores and heading to volcano falls afterwards. so nitey nite and hope you all are enjoying your summer while it last. God bless!

Family Outing, not over...

2008-08-17T22:26:00.003-05:00

i'm just checkin' emails right now and paying bills =) but thought i'd blog before i sign off.

yesterday and today were again a busy weekend for our family.

noel went to pick up his mom and nieces. we're so happy we have them over for a week. haven't seen them since last yr.

sat: i had to run some errands early in the morning. passed by my friend's house and chatted for a bit... oh! we also passed by some garage sales around her neighborhood, but unfortunately i didn't find one. besides i just remembered that i just did a garage sale myself and i'm not about to add more junk =)

as soon as i got home, we got ready and went to brunswick for arcade and bowling. my mom-in-law had a ball playing, "deal or no deal" hehehe

we then went to church and boy let me tell you! the message was tuned in for me. it was about accepting the necessary endings in your life. when i get a chance to put my notes together, i will share some important keys i've learned from speaker, dr. henry cloud. it sure did turn on some lights in the things i've been struggling to understand lately... esp. with my job loss.

i'm grateful that once again, the Lord prevailed to reveal His ultimate plan for me.

today: we had an awesome day picnicking at the beach and as an added bonus, we had a blast watching the air & water show. we were surprised that my lil' one, yanna (2yrs old), was enjoying the show and wasn't really bothered with the loud noise that thundered the air. since we still have some energy to grab some shake and ice cream, we passed by my brother's new oberweis store in lincolnwood. over stuffed with food @ the picnic and shake/ice cream to end the day... our day was obviously blessed! couldn't ask for more.

thank God for another weekend of many blessings. well, sweet dreams... gnite =)

Something Better

2008-08-15T13:40:00.000-05:00

Last night, I caught myself feeling somewhat despair. I went to my room, closed the door behind me and wrote on my journal. Not feeling a big relief, I decided to turn to God’s word and sure enough the Lord was quick to remind me the verse in 2 Corinthians 12:9. It says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” I read that verse over and over again and remained still. It is those moments that I feel the Lord’s presence comforting me.

See, I was focusing too much on the job I’m loosing. Today is actually my last day and knowing that I do not have a replacement yet, I was slowly beginning to feel the worry that is crawling in me. Change is unavoidable. We go through various experiences that change us. Whether the results are for the better depends largely on our attitude. Just like apostle Paul. Both he and his living conditions changed after his experience with Christ on the Damascus Rd. Rather than arresting Christians, he became a courageous and bold defender of the faith. He was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, and imprisoned. As I was reading his story, I thought to myself, “Wow! He certainly had a good reason to complain”, but instead he thanked God. Why? Coz Paul recognized that his greatest treasure was Jesus Christ and the righteousness Christ offers.

Gradually, I realized that my confidence was my worst enemy. I had gone into the job searching world with an “I can get a job right away” attitude. I realized that this time it’s not under my timetable. I had to adhere to God’s timetable which requires both my faith and courage.

I know sometimes waiting on God can feel difficult, but the Lord has a plan for each of us, and the timing of every detail is always right. So when it comes, we can look for the new opportunities God is offering in it and, like Paul, we can rejoice, give thanks, and embrace the change. I know I have to take it one day at a time. I must believe that He knows how I should live, trust that His plan is right, and have the determination to wait until He gives a signal to proceed.

Through all the phases of my life… the birth of my children, the loss of loved ones, the transition of my employment… God has always been there, guiding me into the next wonderful part of my life. Sometimes change is hard to accept; but knowing that God is there, I am able to face each new change. I’m sure that if we follow the Lord’s schedule we will experience the blessing of watching Him work things together for our gain and His glory. I can rest assure that no matter what challenges lie ahead in my life or how the world around me changes, I have the love and grace of God to see me through.

How about you my friend, in what situation do you need to practice waiting on the Lord and trusting Him? Know that I feel for you, but we can both take heart that in God’s word we can put our hope. So instead of relying on people or on you for success, the remedy is to rely on the one true source, God, for our security rests in Him alone.

Have a JOYFUL weekend and to some of you, it has been a pleasure working with you all!
God bless!

08/08/08 (means infinity)

2008-08-12T09:50:00.005-05:00

meant to blog yesterday, but i was preoccupied with work, job interviews & job hunting... plus i was pretty tired from the trip too.

there was a miscommunication with the location of my interview yesterday. i was so ready, but unfortunately the position was based in downtown which for sure will not work for me and my kids' schedule. was i disappointed? hmm, somewhat only bcoz i wanted to get a head start with interviews... i sorta knew this wasn't the job for me due to the salary range, but they were eager to speak with me and so i was looking forward for the interview. oh well! so much for that.

anyway, the car we rented was due back at 6pm. i was already done with my interview around 3p, but the problem was i didn't have a ride back home. noel couldn't leave work that early, plus he was stuck at a customer's house till 8p... i had to call people. thankfully, my friend, aileen, just got out of work and met me at pompei (love their chicken herb ravioli, btw... hehehe). had a quick bite and left to return the car. we had a chance to catch up and was sorta encouraging her to take a road trip with her husband... funny how she hesitated coz she said, they might just end up killing each other just minutes away from home lolz

so how was our 08/08/08 anni trip? it was A+++! i guess the last minute planning really does work!

fri: instead of leaving at 6p, we ended up leaving at 8p so we didn't get to minnesota till 2a. i felt so bad for my husband coz he was falling asleep already, but he was forcing himself to drive coz he just wanted me to relax and enjoy, but i had to... otherwise we wouldn't have the chance to reach our destination lolz

checked in at the holiday inn and the rest is history...

sat: had an early breakfast @ the hotel and left to spend the whole day at mall of america. wow! so many stores and i ended up just buying 2 things... a scarf and a coach wristlet. ugh! our gift for each other was a shopping spree... i had my chance, but i ended up with 2 things, great! i was so focus on looking for the right scarf that i didn't have the energy to look for other things, well besides stuff for the kids. noel on the other hand had 4 pairs of shoes @ nordstrom, couple of jeans, 4 tops from diff stores & a belt... oh wait, he got himself another magic trick to entertain the kids. =) we closed the mall... more than 10hrs of shopping - wow! a dream come true hehehe

sun: had our bf and planned something we haven't done before so we went kayaking. it was still early to go home so we decided to pass by wisconsin dells, but unfortunately, we couldn't find the spot we saw on our way to minnesota. so since it was already 3p and we haven't had lunch, we decided to just find the nearest japanese restaurant. we then ended up in a small town called, monoma in madison, wisconsin. at first we were thinking, "what did we get ourselves into?" lolz, but lo and behold... we had no idea that this pleasant summer afternoon in this small town ended up to be such a beautiful spot to complete our short vacation. the place was filled with mini stores, restaurants and hang-out spots with a view of the lake and some other new construction building to complete the tourist area. we walked around the streets, found ourselves shopping at ragstock and wow! never knew we would find the coolest stuff we've been looking for at a cheap price. oh and did i mention that i found the scarf i've been wanting at this store also? yep! i was set.

we were eyeing on this japanese restaurant we saw first, but as we kept walking, we saw this new japanese restaurant built on the roof top called, wasabi. again, 2 thumbs up! i think we were both sushied out after this... hehehe we ate, spider roll, dragon and 2 rounds of spicy ken. noel finished the 2nd round, i had to make room for my cold stone's coffee lovers in a waffle bowl ice cream hehehe.

okay, i think this 2 day trip added 5 lbs on our scale. whew! we didn't get home till almost 10p. it was an awesome last min. trip to celebrate our 11th anni... alwayz good to make that time alone as husband and wife... away from the kids. although it was hard, we both realized that it keeps our marriage, healthy.

well, that's our mini vacation story... hope you all will be inspired to take that trip alone with your spouse.

if you're on a budget, that's ok... one of the cost effective ways we did was to rent a car, which cost us less than $200 (including gas) from friday afternoon till monday @ 6p. now if we used our suv? well, that would've doubled the price, plus we loose out on the mileage & my tires will be all worn out. and with the hotel, make sure to get one with a complimentary breakfast and an indoor pool. now that's a deal!

after you've booked your transportation and lodging, all you need to do is enjoy every moment wherever the road takes you. one thing that's good during the long drive is that you get to talk about anything (of course avoid any discussion that would ruin your vacation - don't sweat the small stuff!)

ok, that's it for now! God bless!

wow! 11th anni

2008-08-08T08:30:00.002-05:00

we're so blessed to have reached this far and are looking forward to growing old together with many more celebrations to come!

well, i know i mentioned before that we planned a weekend getaway. we couldn't really make a reservation till we're absolutely sure that my husband's days off were approved. well, God is so gracious... my husband's boss approved his vacation. nowadays with the lack of man power to cover all the outstanding at&t jobs, it's pretty hard to even get 1 deserving day off. but again, the Lord made it happen for us.

so as for the last min planning... we're off to minnesota! here i come mall of america! hehehe

praying for a good weather both for our trip & for our garage sale.

y'all have an awesome weekend!!! God speed!

is it goodbye?

2008-08-06T09:57:00.003-05:00

on my way to work i was getting pretty senti thinking about my last days to drive to my current job. i only have till next week and wow! i guess it's hitting me little by little. i was thinking where would the Lord have me drive to next? hmm, i can only wait =)

i love my job! there's nothing i dislike about it... everyone's been really good to me and i've learned to love each one of them like a fam. today, my boss left to go back home to FL and it's our last day to see him since my co-worker and i will be leaving next week. he came by and gave me a hug and was really appreciative of my performance. we were both pretty sad about it, but hey life goes on. i just wish that all of us here remain in good spirits and somehow still get connected in the near future.

our last lunch together... we ate at the onion pub... always like the food there and the ambiance. again, another moment to cherish. too bad i didn't get to take a pic of everyone together. will def make sure to bring my camera tomorrow till next week to capture my good memories here.

cherishing every moment,
love

such little time

2008-08-05T12:27:00.002-05:00

wow! school is approaching and i still have lots to accomplish this month.

check list:
job hunting
garage sale
celebrate our 11th anni.
camille's registration
job hunting
more dentist & md appts (for the whole fam)
pick up dishwasher
lunch date with a friend @ ginger asian bistro
bday parties
couples only dinner party @ my house
job hunting
magic waters
jonas bros concert
fam vacation
oh! and did i mention job hunting?

Lord willing we will be able to do all this!

noel's finally back from MI. he came much earlier than expected that's why he was able to come with us to our friend's baby shower. so happy for lums & eddie! first baby and you can really see the joy in their faces... another cherub on the way! so exciting =)

always great to see old friends... my gosh! all the kids are so big now =( of course they were all surprised with my daughter, camille. being the ate of all the kids there... she definitely was standing out that time... we're so proud of her. everyone was adoring her simple, modest, and girly style. aww!

such joy to see my friend, odie. we were cracking up the whole time. somethin' about the little things that makes us lol. love her! oh and the guys of course just bonded like there was no tomorrow. everyone wanted to stay, but goodness! the facility mgr was so rude and kicked us out while we were getting ready to take a pic. grrrr!

uh-oh! i know, i haven't loaded any pics.... i've been lazy, sorry =( i won't promise this time, but i'll try my best k. (again) hehehe

need a favor... if you don't mind including in your prayers, our up coming garage sale and our anni this weekend, i would really appreciate it. my husband and i have been sorting our stuff since sunday and today will def be one of those late nights just sorting and cleaning since he's off tomorrow (gotta get us some mcd's iced coffee)!

we planned a weekend getaway for our anni while my loving fam takes over the house and the garage sale. still praying that my husband won't be called for work though =( and hoping for another successful gs this year!

well, that's it for now... blessings to all!

important things to take care of

2008-07-30T21:31:00.002-05:00

the other day i made a list of things i need to take care of, a few of them were...

* appts with the doctors and dentist
* cancel my facebook
* send my resume
* gather stuff for the upcoming garage sale and so on!

well let's start with canceling fb... there's so many reasons why i decided to cancel my acct. besides getting a hold of some old friends there, i found more cons than pros. plus i knew from the get that those social networking will just lead me to do or think of things that are not pleasing to the Lord. but i'm human and so i admit that i joined out of peer pressure. but thankfully, the Lord continued to show me things that are apart from Him that are unnecessary and can make life miserable... so yeah, i saw what i really got myself into. now the choice was either for me to follow His ways or to continue to be blinded by this world. well, i choose to follow my Savior... besides, i can live my life in the abundance of God's grace and enjoy my family and friends without having a virtual 2nd life in the cyber world.

yes, without being fully aware of it, i do think that we end up developing a 2nd life in the cyber world that we get hooked on it too much, not that it's so bad that you end up becoming a monster, but as i thought of it... wow! I spend too much time focusing on my virtual life, rather than my offline life. and the 2nd life i was talking about... well i discovered that people end up doing things and sayings things that are not likely them in real life. it's so sad, but i've seen it. so yeah, i'd rather just stick with blogging rather than bombarding myself with too much online work. besides i'm content with the opportunities the Lord has given me with my business as well as the sharings i've done here in my blog so why bring more complicating things in my life right? am i actually making sense to you guys? hehehe

sorry, this is just my opinion - i'm sure there are others who do not have the same belief as i do, but for me, i'd like to make it right with God. i've done my share of mistakes ever since i joined fb... and to avoid it, i gotta do what i gotta do, even if my flesh is telling me, i shouldn't. to tell you the truth, i'm loving my decision. i feel more refresh and i'm enjoying my fb-free life now hehehe

today, my kids and i went to our dentist - thank God it was 2mins away. otherwise my son would've been starving to death just waiting for all of us to finish. i dropped him back home after his was done. i had a deep cleaning done on my right side and i have to come back tomorrow for the other side... it's so hard to eat, but it's ok... i'll loose more weight that way hehehe (i'm such an unhealthy thinker).

well, gotta go! i need to start job hunting again =) gnite!
blessings to all!

weekend bliss

2008-07-28T00:58:00.000-05:00

hi all!

i know it's late, but i'm tellin' ya the mcdonald's iced coffee really keeps me up =) do i like stayin' up late? um, only when i don't have work the next day... so tomorrow i'm planning to work from home =) although i lack some sleep, i still love the coffee... yum!

had a great weekend! too bad my husband wasn't with us =(

sat: we went to my grandson's (long story) 8th bday party/block party! happy birth matt! i love block parties - sure was great to celebrate bdays at those events. the kids had a blast. i saw some of my girlfriends (which was always good!), went to church (received an awesome msg about money, power & sex - will share some of the things i learned to my odb), and just went back for more good times! we didn't leave till 11p.

sun: i didn't get to sleep till 2am so yanna and i woke up late. we had a late lunch at my sis' place and went to the new glenview park... wow! although the surroundings were still under construction, the park was awesome! hoping that part of their plan is to have a field house for rent for parties... will def be one of the 1st to rent that place. my whole fam had a great time. we played badminton, basketball, rock climbing, watched a baseball league, enjoyed the playground... i mean the place def has a wow factor!

now to complete the day, we drove 5mins away and strolled to the beautiful town center of the glen. just loved it from the moment we entered this place. i would move there in a heart beat hehehe. an hr & 1/2 drive... def worth it! we ate, hung out and just enjoyed many laughs. if only my husband, my dad, my niece & my sis-in-law were there, we would've been complete already... hopefully next time.

well, that was my weekend, back to work and i'm not one to complain ;)

so sorry i haven't been able to upload some pics - i've been using my laptop and i store my pics on my desktop's ex-hardrive so, will def try to upload sometime this week.

hope you all had and awesome weekend too! God bless!