Flickering Thoughts

New Leaf

2011-06-07T06:07:00.001-07:00

I am turning a new leaf and focusing more on the business side, with a little teaching and a lot of my kids. I hope that could be a good formula for the long term. I love how I can spend more time with the kids, or do more things for the kids. I love my life! Thank God for it!

Election Fever

2010-05-10T19:25:00.000-07:00

I had to wait for a looong time before I could vote. But I opted to persevere cause I want my vote to count. I also want to be part of history as this is the first automated election in the Philippines.

I was able to cast my vote at 10 o' clock in the evening yesterday. My cousins did vote at almost 2 AM today. Why you ask? Honestly, I didn't count the technology as a main factor. It was the clustering of the 5 precincts partnered with the inexperienced staff and inefficient system. It could have been better if they had like a directive on how to implement the election. What happened was every clustered precinct had its own manager with their own management styles. The other precincts finished around 8 PM with their own styles. Ours, apparently, chose a method that worsened the already tensed situation.

Oh well. At least at the end of the day, what mattered is I was able to vote.

APO pa rin

2010-05-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

Sentiments of an APO Fan

2010-04-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

From Panglao Island Nature Resort, we went home straight. As the edifices passed by my gaze, I couldn’t help but note how my mind (and heart) stayed at Verdant Pavilion. It’s true indeed that with every memorable song comes a section of your life. This holds true to most of my fave songs, but with APO songs . . . I just love their music! Their songs didn’t flood a particular memory but a big fraction of my youth. I was so happy watching them while singing to their tunes. I felt so liberated with their music. I even noticed that at times, my jaw was open. Ha ha!

Yet, my happiness was short-lived as I was engulfed by melancholy sentiments when I realized I couldn’t line up to have my album signed. Yes, it might sound so petty but I just couldn’t help think how it was a history for me since I wouldn’t see them again perform much less be near them. It was actually the first time I bought an APO album. Although I am a fan, I listened to their songs through my mother’s musical files. She bought the albums and I listened to them he he.

Frankly, still am sad about not seeing them near. My delightful experience didn’t reach full circle. Nevertheless, I am happy I had the chance to see them at all.

Truly, such sentiments quantify me as a fan. :-)

Artemis' birthday

2010-04-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

My son's birthday is January 16 at dumating na ang April ng hindi ako nakablog haha! Here are some of the pictures.

sidetracked

2010-04-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

I realized that facebook is keeping me away from my blog. It has been a while since I posted my last entry. I have a different disposition now and I'm glad to say it is in the better side. I just have to let go of some of my worries and voila! I couldn't imagine the impact it could do. I'm not saying it was easy and I admit I am still bothered at times. But once you weigh the advantages and dwell on it..... chances are you'll get convinced sooner than later. :-) And now, I'm officially back to blogging! Woohoo!

farm bandwagon

2009-07-25T01:23:00.000-07:00

I just got hooked in this farming frenzy. Quite entertaining but definitely time-consuming, I must say.

Fun Fun Fun

2009-06-25T21:53:00.000-07:00

Andre's exhibit

2009-06-08T01:07:00.000-07:00

Andre's artwork at 4 years old

With Manong Braveheart (His artwork is the one at the right side)

With Teacher Mitzi

With Lola Nene Lungay

With Manong Bravey, Ate Nicole and fave classmate John Rey

Way to comfort

2009-06-07T22:04:00.000-07:00

"No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was."
-- Job 2:13b (NIV)

This passage refers to Job, suffering painful sores all over his body. His friends came to sympathize with him for 7 days and 7 nights. And they did so by not saying anything. Instead they just stayed with him. Making themselves available to his aid if ever he needed help. They knew Job was experiencing great pain and they did not pretend they knew how he felt. They acted on one simple truth -- he was suffering so much.

Sometimes in life, we try to comfort other people by saying things to them or giving them advices that we thought would benefit them. Although we have the best interest when doing so, it may not be the best approach after all. For a suffering friend, the utmost comfort we can safely give may be the most silent approach there is. Let's just be there when they need us. No need to say anything. It works better this way. This I've learned from Job's friends.

Chilling with Lolo

2009-06-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

:-)

2009-04-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

After my quiet time, got a pleasant surprise from bana when he gave me red carnations for our anniversary. Thanks tay. :-)

Not beneficial?

2009-04-25T02:35:00.000-07:00

I'm trying hard to make my quiet time more regular now. I miss writing my thoughts on it. Here's my insight on the passage I've read.

"Everything is permissible for me -- but not everything is beneficial." (1 Cor 6:12)

In life, we have our own choice . . . our volition that allows us to choose. Whatever inclinations we have shape our decisions. We are free to choose. Yes we are. But that does not mean we will not suffer the consequences of those decisions that are sometimes so bad we will not know how to fix them . . . that does not mean we are doing the right thing (or the wrong one). The bible says we have in us the freedom to choose, but there's a catch. Not everything will be good for us.

Often times than not, we make bad decisions because we rely solely on our own selfish wants and capabilities. We pursue wrong things that we want so bad we are making it right. All of us have been guilty of this at some point in our lives.

It is because we forget that God has laid the foundation for us to choose wisely. We forget that He gave us guidelines through His book so we can be more upright and successful in life.This kind of success is more fulfilling than any purely man-assisted success. Be assured that this will store up treasures in heaven under your name.

Remember, this world is only temporary. You have to utilize it for a bigger gain . . . for a much more crucial gain -- the after life. It would be extremely sad that you would be rich in this life but poor on the other side because you lacked focus on what's important. Don't get me wrong. you can be rich in this life and rich on the other. We just have to use what we have here to achieve goals for the other life. We must gear our wealth towards the achievement of a godly path.

Let's always consult God with our life plans. He is the dominant stakeholder in our lives. He will never fail us. Trust Him wholeheartedly.

Forgiveness and Pardon

2009-04-12T01:13:00.000-07:00

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
- Luke 23:34 (NIV)

We can view forgiveness at two planes. At one plane, it is forgiveness in situ, in the actual situation when and where it happened wherein Jesus forgave those who nailed Him to the cross, those who mocked Him, whipped Him and caused Him so much physical suffering. We can even extend it further to mean that He forgave those who shouted for Him to be crucified.

In a higher place, we can view forgiveness as the central theme of Christ’s ministry.

The Bible says that “all men have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God” but yet God forgave us that we might be saved.

Throughout Christ’s ministry, while here on earth, He urged us, by word and by example to be forgiving. He forgave the Samaritan woman of her grievous sin which in semitic law merits death. He told us to turn the other cheek when someone slaps us, He told us not to throw back the stone but instead broad. And He told us to do good to those who wish us harm.

Furthermore, He said that if you have an offering to the Lord but harbors a grudge against your brother, leave your offering at the altar and make peace first with your brother. And let not the sun set upon your anger.

When Jesus taught us to pray, he emphasized forgiveness. “And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

Yes, forgiveness and pardon is the central theme of Christ’s ministry.

When Jesus was asked how many times we should forgive He said “seventy” times seven.” It does not mean we shouldn’t forgive at the 491th times although this is an awful lot of numbers but it means that the number of times we shall forgive should be unlimited. Because the number 7 in Jewish cabala represents infinity. The message of forgiveness that Jesus preached baffled the Jews whose Jehovah as an exacting God, who will wipe out even an entire generation for their sins of disobedience.

But just what is forgiveness?

Stripped of all verbiage, forgiveness is the conscious condonation of any wrong done. It is nor just failing to take revenge or retribution but wiping out the wrong done.

In natural law there is no concept of forgiveness or pardon. Natural law insists that the balance of justice must be maintained at all times and if any wrong is committed the balance must be restored by exacting punishment for the wrongdoer.

“An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.”

This the Mosaic law in the Old Testament and the Roman Law of the “lex taliones.”

But Jesus wants us to rise above this natural law and partake of divine law that conceives of forgiveness and pardon. For although we are governed by natural law, yet we are called “sons of God” and have the spark of divinity within us.

But our human nature makes it hard for us to forgive. When President Arroyo pardoned one too many of those who have committed brutal crimes our sense of justice rebels and thinks that Arroyo is abusing her powers, no matter how legitimate it may be.

Yes, sometimes we say that we have forgiven but deep inside the rancour still hurts. We find it hard to wipe out the memory of the wrong done.

In fact in the history of the world, among the causes of violence and strife is the desire to take revenge for the wrong done. This is the culture of vendetta in the western world which is even taken farther in the oriental world in exacting revenge over and above the wrong done. “Way sukod sa baws” is not only a Filipino cultural aspect but is prevalent in the oriental culture.

Thus, violence begets violence and the cycle is endless.

And so, when Jesus urged us by word and example to practice forgiveness, He was laying out the foundation and path towards peace and tranquility. Because only when men can learn to forgive, will there be no more strife nor even wars.

Interestingly, psychologists have learned that harboring a grudge is not only emotionally unhealthy but physically unhealthy as well. It eats us inside and causes anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, depression and even skin disease. Only when you let go and set aside the grudge will you be free from the grip of these which cause you unhappiness.

And why does Jesus wants to be forgiving? Is it only for the physical and emotional rewards that we knew to be?

Above all else, Jesus wants us to be forgiving to be able to partake of the divine plan He has for us.

Remember, and I quote again, no amount of suffering will be acceptable to God if we do not forgive and make peace with our brother.

Let us try to emulate Jesus Christ who pronounced pardon and forgiveness even when He was in the last gasps of His human existence, when He said “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”

(Written by my father-in-law for Good Friday service. He is an elder in our church.)

My boys

2009-04-11T00:54:00.001-07:00

ANDRE:

Andre with his monkey trail, courtesy of Manong Manghod.

Waking up

Playing hide and seek with tatay

ARMIS:

One fine day in a stroller

Happy times!

Andre's accident

2009-04-10T21:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday while playing at home, Andre tripped and hit his head on solid concrete. This made him weak (he couldn't even stand) and gave him a bad headache. After sometime he vomited a couple of times which led us to the hospital. His auntie doctor, Manang Mutya, recommended admission and that's what we did. It was his first time to be admitted in a hospital.

His head was examined through ct scan to check any abnormalities. Auntie doctor said it was essential since that kind of head trauma is a candidate for subdural hemorrhage. The word "hemorrhage" in itself scared me. Thank God the result was ok but he was still vomiting so we had to stay to observe him. With his dextrose intact, he was advised by the doctor not to drink or eat anything.

Night came and Andre was crying and complaining about his right hand. It was starting to numb (because of the dextrose) and it was hurting him. Then he asked for water and he cried again when we told him he couldn't drink nor eat. He was asking us what to do when he was reaaallly thirsty. He cried helplessly. He couldn't sleep because he usually drinks milk before retiring to bed. Plus he couldn't touch his "miming" properly because he usually uses his right hand for that. He was definitely way out of his comfort zone. He asked for hugs every now and then. It was sooooo hard for us to see him like that.

Thank God everything went well. We have so much people praying for him and we're so grateful for that. The next day, he was checked by Dr. Epe and he was discharged.

I felt helpless when Andre was in the hospital. I kept on praying to God about him and the message He wants me to have through the experience. I honestly submitted to His will and prayed that I may continue to have fellowship with my kid. I realized I have not done much in exposing Andre to the church and with this experience, I have renewed my commitment to bring my child closer to Him. Thank you Lord for keeping my Andre safe.

:-)

2009-03-22T00:31:00.000-07:00

Eto na, aaminin ko na. Crush ko si Lloydy!!! :-)

What are you doing for the rest of your life?

2009-03-17T00:30:00.001-07:00

(Chris Botti and Sting version)

What are you doing the rest of your life?
North and South and East and West of your life
I have only one request of your life
That you spend it all with me
All the seasons and the times of your days
All the nickels and the dimes of your days
Let the reasons and the rhymes of your days
All begin and end with me

I want to see your face in every kind of light
In fields of dawn and forests of the night
And when you stand before the candles on a cake
Oh, let me be the one to hear the silent wish you make

Those tomorrows waiting deep in your eyes
In the world of love you keep in your eyes
I'll awaken what's asleep in your eyes
It may take a kiss or two

Through all of my life
Summer, Winter, Spring, and Fall of my life
All I ever will recall of my life
Is all of my life with you

Armis' Dedication

2009-03-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

Last Valentine's day, Armis was dedicated to God. The Dedication (equivalent to Baptism in Catholic) started at around 630 p.m. It was held inside the house because of the gloomy sky. Sayang nga eh, originally sa veranda pa naman namin sinet-up yung party.

Some people weren't able to attend the party pero okay lang, I understood . . .si ruthie may taping . . . syempre ang iba may mga date pa with their families or with significant others he he. :-)

Pastor Rey leading the dedication rites

With ninangs and ninongs (not in picture - nice, ryan and ruth)

Mama, Armis and I with relatives from my side

Kainan na!

With Ninang Evette and Ninang Marlyn

Armis slept most of the time

Thanks ma for the yummy Sugarhouse cake!

It was also Lolo Uly's birthday. Happy birthday Lolo!

After the party, we went out to watch hubby with his band. Go Brownbuds!

It was almost 2 a.m. when we went home from the gig. Sobrang lamig na! Grrrrr!

Almost here . . .

2009-03-08T00:45:00.000-08:00

Malapit na, promise. I've uploaded them in photobucket na but can't make the entry now kasi I'm having chills as of this moment. Got fever yesterday after my masteral classes. My yayas joined force to give me a nice massage last night and then nawala this morning but I think it's on its way back again . . .

Mourning for Francism

2009-03-07T18:39:00.000-08:00

I was sad when I found out he got sick. I love that guy. My friends and I went around following his shows while I was in high school and college. I have pictures with him. I even had him autographed my clothes! Then when I was in Balitang K, I interviewed him and he toured us around his house. He was sooo nice and so cute. I was so proud when I told him about high school.

When he passed away, I really cried. For a while I was stunned, refusing to believe. The celebrity that I love and the memories of my youth came flashing in my mind which made me cry more.

My hubby was kinda fascinated how affected I am but to me it was real. It made me ponder on life, what I wanna do with it. How I want people to remember me. Will they know I have JC in me based on how I lived my life? Probably. But I realized I'm not doing more. And remembering how bitter I can be in the past years .... probably not. And I'm sorry for that. I have to let go of any ill-feelings I have for indeed it is short. I have to revive myself, to strive to be a better person, a better testimony, through God's guidance. I have to be faithful to the race that was set before me so that one day I can look back and smile with what I have done with my life.

Welcome Baby Armis!

2009-02-08T23:02:00.000-08:00

Hi guys! Gave birth to baby Artemis John "Armis" last January 16, 2009 at 12:11 a.m. He was 7.3 lbs paglabas. Thank God he was well and great so after a day, we went home already. Check out some pictures.

Taken sa morning ng January 15, 2009 after the "bloody show."
I knew then it was only a matter of time before I give birth.

You Are Powerful and Determined

2009-01-12T19:03:00.000-08:00

Found this from a friend's site. Hmmmmm .... Oh well, some of it are true, some slightly true and some others I'm not so sure, he he.

What's your name's hiddden meaning? Here's mine according to this site:

http://www.blogthings.com/whatsyournameshiddenmeaningquiz/

You Are Powerful and Determined

You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated.
You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want.
You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way!

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.
You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.
You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.
You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.
You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.
You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.
Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.
You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.
You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

Update

2009-01-12T18:38:00.000-08:00

Hi guys. Been out of the loop lately. My laptop crashed and so I can't easily access a computer much less the internet. I can access the computer from my hubby's office but I am not comfortable because usually there are visitors living there. But sometimes if I have important school requirements I pull myself to go and do it there.

Anyway, what's up with me? Well, still waiting for my second baby boy to pop out of me. I'm actually restless already cause I feel the condition is taking its toll on my body. I always have muscle aches, my feet hurts, have a hard time walking too. Also, I am so excited to see him already. I have all my bags (2 baby bags and 1 for me) ready for the hospital. I truly hope and pray all goes well.

Multiple Intelligence

2008-11-03T18:35:00.000-08:00

I also took the Multiple Intelligences for Adult Literacy and Education test, with the following results:

Your top three intelligences:
Intelligence
Score (5.0 is highest)
Description

4.86

Musical: You like the rhythm and sound of language. You like poems, songs, and jingles. You enjoy humming or singing along with music. You probably remember things well when they are associated with music or rhythm. Try to incorporate sounds into your lessons, such as using a familiar tune, song, or rap beat to teach spelling rules, or to remember words in a series for a test. Here are some other ways to use your musical intelligence:

Create a poem with an emphasis on certain sounds for pronunciation.
Clap out or walk out the sounds of syllables.
Read together (choral reading) to work on fluency and intonation.
Read a story with great emotion — sad, then happy, then angry. Talk about what changes — is it only tone?
Work with words that sound like what they mean (onomatopoeia). For example: sizzle, cuckoo, smash.
Read lyrics to music.
Use music as background while reviewing and for helping to remember new material.
Use rhymes to remember spelling rules, i.e., "I before E except after C."

4.71

Self: You have a very good sense of self. You like to spend time by yourself and think things over. You will often take in information from another person, mull it over by yourself, and come back to that person later to discuss it. You like working on projects on your own. You often prefer to learn by trial and error. Effective techniques to enhance your learning include keeping a journal and giving yourself time to reflect on new ideas and information. More ideas:

Go on "guided imagery" tours.
Set aside time to reflect on new ideas and information.
Encourage journal writing.
Work on the computer.
Practice breathing for relaxation.
Use brainstorming methods before reading.
Listen to and read "how to" tapes and books.
Read cookbooks.

4.43

Language: You enjoy enjoy saying, hearing, and seeing words. You like telling stories. You are motivated by books, records, dramas, opportunities for writing. Effective techniques of enhancing your learning using your language intelligence include reading aloud, especially plays and poetry. Another idea is to write down reflections on what you've read. You may also enjoy exploring and developing your love of words, i.e., meanings of words, origin of words and idioms, names. Use different kinds of dictionaries. Other ideas:

Keep a journal
Use a tape recorder to tape stories and write them down
Read together, i.e., choral reading
Read a section, then explain what you've read
Read a piece with different emotional tones or viewpoints — one angry, one happy, etc.
Trade tall tales, attend story-telling events and workshops
Research your name

The scores for the other five intelligences:

Social - 4.29
Nature - 3.71
Spatial - 3.29
Body Movement - 3.14
Math - 2.71

Just because these five are not in your top three doesn’t mean you’re not strong in them. If your average score for any intelligence is above three, you’re probably using that intelligence quite often to help you learn.

Pagsunod (din) kay Paige

2008-10-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

Do you hate it when people smoke around you?
* not really. I just take my distance so my rhinitis won't be triggered.

Who was the last girl you talked to?
* yaya ni andre

Who was the last guy you talked to?
*E l Cid

Do you have any plans for tomorrow?
* yup! Stayed at home. Bedrest pa as per doctor

Recently done anything you regret?
* no

How do you handle/let go of stress?

* bonding with my fam! the best!

Do you think best friends can be replaced?
* same answer with paige -- yeah, but you don’t replace them intentionally…

Is there anyone holding a grudge against you?
* probably…you cannot please everyone

Who was the last person to call you?
* my mom

Who will you be with Saturday night?
* el cid and andre

How many speeding tickets do you have?
* none so far, I do not drive that much anymore

Do you plan on moving this year?
* nope, maybe in three years, God willing.

Does the last person you held hands with mean anything to you?
* very much. guapo andre

What does the last message in your inbox say?
* can't remember -- spam mail

Who have you texted in the last 24 hours?
* Mama, marlyn, otep, piper, el cid, my dean, my masteral prof, etc.

Have you ever had sex on a football field?
* nope

What’s the closest thing to you that’s liquid?
* the calming sea

Something you're happy about?
* my son

Last movie you saw in theaters, with who?
* Nicholas Cage movie - Bangkok "something" with el cid

What are you doing right now?
* surfing the net while admiring the sea and checking on my son while playing in the garden with his cuz

Are you listening to music right now?
* Yup . . . Who am I? by Casting Crowns

Do you wish you were somewhere else right now?
* nope

Last person to call you babe or baby?
* can't remember . . . many years ago pa

Where did you last sleep other than your house?
* in Makati with mama, 2 months ago

Do you smoke weed regularly?
* never tried

Have you kissed somebody in the last 48 hours? Who?
* yeah! andre

Who was the last person's house you went to besides your own?
* my in-law’s house

Miss someone?
* my manila friends

Three words to explain why you last threw up?
* morning sickness syndrome

What's crazy to you?
* my hormones lately :-)

Who is probably talking a load of crap about you right now?
* same with paige - I don’t care!

Who is your favorite person in the world?
* guapo andre

my bebe

2008-10-05T22:29:00.000-07:00

Hey, my baby just turned FOUR last October 1 and I just wanna share my wallpaper :-)

wanted: stress free life? may ganun ba?

2008-10-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

hi guys. been busy with school lately. finals na kasi but just last week, I went to my OB and found out I have tense water bag daw, stressed daw siguro ako ... so bedrest muna ako for one month then check up again and hopefully I will be out of the "bedrest leave."

2008-06-05T23:25:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, a web site developer saw a pix of Andre from my friendster site and asked permission to include his pix at the www.countrybankerslife.com. Check it out! Naku, ke gwapo! :-)

2008-05-30T02:39:00.000-07:00

http://blogthings.com/whatkindofintelligencedoyouhavequiz/

Note: This is very me, nothing new really. I liked yung description nung kay prue kasi pina - mysterious he he.

Andre's GF

2008-05-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

Andre loves this girl! He should be the one to talk to her first before his mom. The first time they met, he grabbed this girl and kissed her on the lips. (hahaha remember that piper?) He loves the robot toy she gave him and says, "hatag mani ni tita evette!"

Renewed

2008-05-06T03:37:00.000-07:00

I have been torn and tainted
Stretched and battered, i fainted
Sin crept in my soul
I was broken and without control

You took notice of not what I have done
Or the wretched soul I had become
You loved me for all I am
Accepted me despite my qualms

Yes, when you came along
You're the son that brightened it all
Still life's hard to bare
But with you I believe I can bear

Now, I know
I need you to heal me
Protect me and cleanse me

Rescue me from my distress
Make me radiant in a white dress

Stay in my heart forever
Change me for the better
I know with you I can sever
Any trial in any weather

Made April 10, 2008; 10:50 A.M.

We Could Be In Love

2008-05-03T22:56:00.001-07:00

Hey! I never knew there was a music video for this song. I love this song!

Amazing Kid

2008-04-30T08:28:00.001-07:00

I heard about Charice Pempengco in the news and had the perception of her as one of the usual talented kids we have in this beautiful country. But I tell you, I was converted into an admirer of this kid after I watched this video camparison between her and Bianca Ryan (an american kid) based on their guestings at the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Very nice stage presence. Check it out and be proud to be a Filipino.

Eto ang trip ko!

2008-04-30T02:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a more detailed rundown on my Bora trip. I went there for my first ever Bora gig together with Brownbuds (they had a gig also) for Roche Philippines at the posh Boracay Regency Resort. We went first to Cebu via Weesam last January 12 then to Caticlan Airport via Asian Spirit.

It was very stressful when we got to Caticlan because amidst all our bags and musical instruments was the pouring rain! We went to Jetty Port for our ferry cruise. Actually, I didn’t like the trip going there. Daming stopovers so hassle kasi dami talga naming gamit. Excess baggage kami worth around 2,000 pesos. Anyways, I was excited to see the fuss about Bora and finally got a taste of it!

January 13, 2008, Sunday First day was my night. Milan night. I was not nervous. Ok, I was a bit nervous but not the way I expected. Come to think of it, I had a different state of mind that night . . . hard to explain really. Although we weren’t able to sing our other slow songs because we prioritized the fast ones for the crowd, all in all, I could say it went well.

January 14, 2008, Monday Brownbuds and Milan didn’t have a gig that day so we spent it helping production and frolicking around the beach. Brownbuds even spent some part of the day just jamming by the beach.

Me? Had a little dip in the beach and roamed around. I noticed they have very fine sand but Bohol sand is much, much whiter! But I must admit, there are so many things you could see at Bora, indeed!

Tirols above, Tirols below

January 15, 2008, Tuesday Had more time roaming around. Bought pasalubong, shirts, souvenirs, etc. Brownbuds night. Oh almost. They sang around three songs then some Roche employees wanted to jam with their own band and so the night ended with them. It was their conference and the aim was for them to have a great time. And yup, that's what they got.

January 26, 2008, Wednesday Another Brownbuds night. This time, a full set, for the eager dancers. Amiel, the vocalist, gave a good performance that night.

January 27, 2008, Thursday We spent some time in the beach just enjoying the company of good people.

I had a nice time in Bora. And I loved it because I was boastfully in great company.

Evie and G

With paige

With Direk Jillmer

With El Cid

With Stickdreams people

All in all, I rate the trip, two thumbs up!

Who Am I?

2008-04-19T06:11:00.000-07:00

One of my songs for my ever reliable God. This song can make me cry anytime.

Who am I?
That the Lord of all the earth,
Would care to know my name,
Would care to feel my hurt.
Who am I?
That the bright and morning star,
Would choose to light the way,
For my ever wandering heart.

Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.

Who am I?
That the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love
And watch me rise again.
Who am I?
That the voice that calmed the sea,
Would call out through the rain,
And calm the storm in me.

Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.

Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.

I am yours.

Whom shall I fear?
Whom shall I fear?
'Cause I am yours.
I am yours.

By Heart

2008-04-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

Jim Brickman (featuring Laura Creamer)

Hold me close, baby please
Tell me anything but that you're gonna leave
As I kiss this fallen tear
I promise you I will be here

Until the stars fall from the sky
Until I find the reason why
And darling as the years go by
Until there's no tears left to cry
'Til the angels close my eyes
And even if we're worlds apart
I'll find my way back to you...By heart

When you go, I'll stop the clock
I won't ever let this moment stop
Time is stealing you from me
But it can never take this memory

Until the stars fall from the sky
Until I find the reason why
And darling as the years go by
Until there's no tears left to cry
'Til the angels close my eyes
And even if we're worlds apart
I'll find my way back to you...By heart.

Until the stars fall from the sky
Until I find the reason why
And darling as the years go by
Until there's no tears left to cry
'Til the angels close my eyes
And even if we're worlds apart
I'll find my way back to you...By heart.

Songs of my Heart

2008-03-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

I decided to post the songs that touched my heart in one way or another. At one time in my life I got crazy over these songs. Not necessarily related to my life though. Will start posting next time.

hmmm, vertigo?

2008-03-05T02:30:00.000-08:00

I have been experiencing dizziness in the past weeks. It started after I got mumps and I thought it was because I had an erratic eating habit during the time. Baka gutom lang. But then, I have been eating on time lately and still got twirling vision. I also took iron tablets to aid my blood production. Yet, it got worst last night. While I was finalizing my grade computation for my graduating class, it was like I was suddenly pierced and then my world transformed into a whirlwind, spinning round and round!

OMG! I literally crawled into my bed and slept it through! And my heart was beating fast, my mind confused and (a bit) scared. Bakit kaya? I went to the doctor today and asked if it's a possible anemia and she said probably not since my lips are still pinkish. She asked me to get a CBC (blood test) to check my hemoglobin count. She also asked me to take a pregnancy test, just in case. I am betting against the latter but I would prefer that than some sickness I have to face.

When I got the blood test result, everything is in tiptop shape. Hmmmmm . . . I'm off to buy a preggy kit now. Sana wala lang to he he... March 13,2007 Hindi ako buntis!!! so what is it then? Hmmmm... still trying to find out.

Bora blues

2008-02-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

Catch my bora blues with these infectious pictures!

Performance at Bora Regency

Bora girls!

More grinning!

hmmm!

From bora shores

Caticlan airport to Cebu!

Nice view from the top on the way home!

Till next batch of pictures (and till a nice internet connection, he he).

Another place in paradise

2008-01-24T09:36:00.000-08:00

You might think I got this from a web site or probably wondering where I've been. I've been blessed the past week to try and see another place in paradise --Boracay. It's another place since I already know I am in paradise here in Bohol :-) biased ba? hehe.

Will tell you about my trip soon! Resize ko muna pics kasi bigat eh, he he.

Super Friends

2008-01-06T07:23:00.001-08:00

I am thankful I found SUPER GREAT FRIENDS in the charmed circle. I was down that night but you were there with me.

I was confused about my feelings. Sabi ko sa sarili ko, how will I react to them, mahihiya ba ko? Deadma nlang ba? Or will I just trust that they will deliver the true virtues of friendship? I am grateful that I held the latter thought. After all, I believe in them. I love them. And I believe I got an early Christmas gift, the day the charmed ones entered my life.

True friends are very, very hard to find in this world. They are those who want to share memories with you, who will accept and love you as you are, faults and all, and who will understand you even without saying a single word. If you have such friends, take time to appreciate them, pray for them and exert all efforts to KEEP them.

God bless you all!

andale andale andre!

2007-12-05T23:58:00.000-08:00

I decided to post an entry on some of my little boy's favorite things to do.

1. He likes to play with balloons.

2. He likes to ride his Spiderman bike.

3. He likes to play in the rain. When it rains, he observes it then asks me every now and then, "super strong na rain, nay?" because I told him he can only play in the rain if it's super strong.

4. He likes face painting.

5. He likes musical instruments. His current favorites are trumpet, percussions and guitar.

7. He likes playing with his cousins.

Andre with Manong Braveheart.

Andre with Ate Nicole

8. He likes the beach!

Below is his pix with his Lola at Dumaluan beach.

9. He likes to wiggle a lot.

10. He likes food from Jollibee and Mc Donald's.

11. He likes playing with his cheetah (comfort) toy named "miming."

12. He likes trains.

13. He likes to draw and paint.

14. He likes toy cars especially his Lighting Mc Queen given by his Mandie Andra.

15. He likes playing with tatay and riding the motorcycle.

16. He also likes to ride the motorbike below, battery charged by his lolo Uly.

17. He's hyperactive and so always gets new wounds, bruises, etc. One time he dived into the Euphorbia cactus plant and got lined scars all over his face. It's a good thing he was still young when he got those (2 years old) so the scars disappeared after a while. Check out the scar on his nose below. He tripped in the garden and fell on the step of the near patio.

Notice the bruise beside his right eye? He got that when we went to Victoria Memorial Park. He was playing with a balloon when he bumped into a small plastic arm chair.

18. He likes boats and airplanes. He longs to ride an airplane to visit his mandie andra, insie chimene and uncle indra.

19. Naturally like any other kid, he likes chocolates. See how much he enjoyed it in this picture?

20. Lastly, he likes to pose for pictures once in a while because he likes to look at it at the digital camera.

There you are . . . watch out for part 2 of this entry, he he. Love you doy! :-)

Warm HAPPYness inside

2007-12-04T21:07:00.001-08:00

A few months ago, I was contacted by my good friend evette a.k.a. piper about a possible project in Bohol. Naturally, since I am already based in this wondrous island, she asked me if I could help and I eagerly said yes. At first, I didn't know that it was an outreach, I thought it was media related since we worked together in media before. And so when we finally got to talk about it, I got so perked up about it! I went to DSWD to check on our possible prospects. I was given a choice between two daycare centers and my question was this, "ano mas in need sa dalawa?" DSWD head Inday Tuñacao and ECCD officer Jun Tabaranza said in unison "ang Badjao daycare center!" The next day, we went to the center. Before arriving to the site, Mr. Tabaranza gave me a briefing about the planks we had to cross to get to the center.

For some of you, you might think it was manageable but wait 'til you get to the part where there's only one wood plank! At nakatagilid pa yun! But lo and behold, I got across many kids (youngest two years old) who just practically walked and ran through the planks as if it's not only 4 inches wide! To tell you honestly, my heart was beating fast at that portion but I gathered my composure since all the Badjaos were looking at me. Ang hirap naman kung mahulog ako eh sisiw lang sa bata na nasa harap ko, di ba? And aside from the fact that my camera is not waterproofed, I don't know how to swim! (I think I reiterated this enough on this site he he)

Anyway, when we got inside the daycare, nobody was holding classes. The teacher said they lack chalk! That's just sad. The picture below is the table they use when holding classes and the stuffs you see on that table are the only things they have to facilitate the learning of more than 65 kids ages 3 to 5 years old.

After a few conversations, I took pictures of the center for documentation on what they lack. While doing so, some Badjao kids were playing in front of me and so I indulged and took a video of them. They were so warm and so naive. They expressed so much happiness even with only a prospect of help on their way. Unfortunately, the Badjao Community felt that sometimes, society neglects them, despite the fact that their ancestors had been there in the last decades. They said that this initiative coming from people even outside of the province is very comforting for them.

Come to think of it, even I was touched about piper’s concern for the less fortunate. It is gravely needed in this world that we have right now. . . to make a difference in our own right, in our own capacity.

The day came, October 9, 2007. Early in the morning, we prepared everything we need, with some help from local rockstars.

So off we went to the venue (a churchhall cum barangay hall).

We were told upon arrival that although our appointment with them was 10am, the kids were already there by 8am, eagerly waiting for us. Wow, talk about excitement!

It started with dances of joy coming from the kids and even us, the facilitators were infected by the papaya dance!

It was followed by the kids' heartfelt presentation, including a dance to the tune of a Badjao song.

Then there was also entertainment from some of the members of Bohol's prominent group, Brownbuds.

And of course, the gift-giving, the food, the smiles . . .

I will never forget that day. . . how privileged and blessed I am to help someone in my own way . . . how I rekindled fire with some of my old friends, people worthy to be kept all of my life . . .

and how that experience, just like a calming warmth in a cold December morn, will forever change how I look at life. I am thankful to piper for giving me the opportunity and thankful to God for allowing me to have such memories crystalized in my inner being. Naks!

Indeed for the children (and their community), as shown in their faces, that day would last a lifetime.

A happy sun shining in their hearts whenever they are in dire need, in depression or simply needing a lift from up above.

That day is surely carved in their memories, as well as in ours, thanking a supreme being for remembering the forgotten "children of the sun." **

* Some pictures courtesy of http://thehappysun.blogspot.com/
** Term courtesy of Prue Halliwell

30 things you probably didn't know about me (revised)

2007-11-16T20:44:00.001-08:00

Hindi na sana ako makapaghintay prue! Buti nlang naka-abot pakong ma-tag mo. Ang intense ng sayo friend, here's mine. This tag (ano ba talga to? tug or tog or tag?) was initiated by Paige last October. Here goes:

1. I'm not a math person (we are one in this, piper he he)

2. I love pomelo, pear, peach, peanuts (walang balat), cashew nuts, sitaw, zucchini, libby's vienna sausage, spanish sardines in a bottle, sans rival, itlog na maalat, sinigang, pritong isda (loved the dark part - hubby says fat daw yun ng isda), english muffin ng french baker, chicken (any kind, even the white opaque cartilage! but the best chicken is from max, kfc, pollo loco!), pizza, dark chocolates, white chocolates, milk (the best drink!), japanese food and crabs. Red crab is the best!!!! yummy!

3. I'm a people observer. I try to understand what makes a certain person move this way or talk that way.

4. Naka-try akong sumulong sa baha around armpit level! Yup, it was grayish, itchy and definitely dirty. It was in high school. From CEU to stop and shop, as in yuck! With matching waves pa yun kung may hangin. Buti nlang hindi ako nahulog sa imburnal kundi patay!

5. I love sci-fi and vampire movies. I love matrix trilogy and my fave vampire movies are bram stoker's dracula with wynona ryder and blade (especially blade 1).

6. I'm a Superman and Lea Salonga die hard (like my mom)! I've watched all superman movies, lois and clark series and smallville episodes (until season 7). I've watched miss saigon play at least three times.

7. I'm a frustrated model. I was recruited in the past but was too shy to do it (teenager pako nun, mahiyain pa he he). I'm also a frustrated artist and a frustrated lounge or jazz singer (not until january, yipee!!).

8. I'm formerly an NPA - no permanent address. I moved houses for at least 15 times (paco, mandaluyong, batangas, sta. ana, makati, pasig, taytay, sampaloc, etc.)

9. I'm a cartoon lover. I loved little mermaid's ariel. I watch cartoon movies whenever I can and enjoy watching nickelodeon and disney channel with my son, andre.

10. I was once slapped by an insane woman (si sisa kaya to? hihihi) while waiting for a ride to school. I had to go back to my house and naturally I missed a few periods because of that.

11. I do not drink nor smoke. So I get drunk easily if I indulge for more than a bottle of social drinking. My first drunk experience was when I gulped two zombie drinks (ito nga ba yung may alcohol content?) one after the other so I could go home to meet my curfew. My friends told me uuwi lang ako pag naubos yun, so nilagok ko. I thought it was just some kind of juice with bitter taste. It was in Tia Maria's Makati. I sat in the gutter wailing that I was so dizzy and that I couldn't stand straight.

12. I'm boyish. I got into wearing dresses late inmy life. I climbed trees and got beetles (salagubang) when I was young so I could tie them and let them fly around (pinapakawalan ko naman after po). I love running contests with boys in my neighborhood, plaaying robots, tumbang preso, chato, tex and many more!

13. I'm sort of a collector of things. I collected stationery, hats (was a hat person until after college since hindi pwede sa office he he), and many more. I collected just about anything then I concentrated on dragonflies last 2000 since I also love catching dragonflies when I was little.

14. I was a shy kid. I usually hide under the table when there was a visitor. But no matter how shy I was, my naughtiness caught up with me in grade 6. I brought a big black rubber spider and showed it to this weird male classmate (he was soooo afraid of big spiders). I was transferred to the other section because of that!

15. Mabubuhay ako sa kwarto with internet (or TV) for a long time. Sadly I don't have it at home, not yet anyway, he he. (pero friend, syempre may pagkain ha!)

16. I'm a discovery and national geographic addict (yung tv ha!).

17. I've read all nancy drew books in fourth year high school. Yes, I watched the Nancy Drew movie starring Emma Roberts.

18. I'm acrophobic or have this intense fear of heights. Naturally, I don't ride roller coasters. I feel like I will have a heart attack if I am subjected to heights. Even the thought of it, sumisikip dibdib ko.
19. When I was little, I dreamt of becoming an astronomer because I love looking at the stars.

20. I hate small yucky insects especially cockroach! ewwwwww! So at night, I cannot live without a blanket because I use it to sleep like a mummy. Kasi feeling ko some eeky insect is gonna crawl on me while sleeping.

21. I had an accident when I was, I think, around five years old. An earring screw went inside my earlobe (not inside my my ears ha). I got into surgery for that. I have a vivid memory of my white blouse with ruffles having blood.

22. I have a total of five holes in my ears. Four of them were made during recess time in high school by my classmates. Looking back, I resent giving in to peer pressure and having those extra holes.

23. When I'm glued to the tube, I cannot (or will not subconsciously) hear anything else except the sound of the TV ( lalo na kung fave series ko like friends, buffy, charmed and smallville). It took some time before my hubby accepted that (paminsan hindi pa rin he he). Tipong parang hypnotized itsura ko sa harap ng TV. Para yatang loka-loka dating ko nun ah hahaha!

24. I have a tendency to be workaholic (siguro katas ng abs to.) I forget time, food and all else when I'm completely busy with something. But I must admit nag-lay low ako when I got married.

25. I'm kinda sickly. I came out as a blue baby according to my mom so mahina ang lungs ko. I had broncho pneumonia at least thrice. I also had tonsilitis so many times, the doctor adviced me to have my tonsils removed the next time I have it. Fortunately, I didn't catch one again but I had to minimize my chocolate and ice cream intakes, huhuhu. I have din allergic rhinitis which is soooo hassle.

26. For someone who sings a lot, who comes from a family of singers and had formal voice training, I have stage fright (usually at the start of the performance). I think it's psychological rooting from my insecurities about my family background. Don't ask me to elaborate he he basta as far as my personal analysis, it's related. I'm trying hard to get rid of it.

27. In the past, I'm easily approached by friends with problems. I guess, it's because they think I can relate to them well having passed a considerable amount of problem phases myself. Anyway, I do extend any kind of help I can shelve them lalo na if it's within my turf. I think I developed the "ate helen" syndrome. I feel honored if they approach me and I like giving advices (wag lang math ha).

28. I've never tried any kind of drugs but when I was an elementary stude, I helped rolled juts (mary jane) into a cigarette for my male kinakapatid (igso in visayan) and acted as his lookout in the corner for anyone coming his way. I don't remember the particular smell basta I remember it smells kinda nice.

29. I'm a movie addict and like prue, I'm a romantic. I love looking at the facets of love, movies about it (but I seldom watch tagalog love stories, naiinis ako). I also love songs with stories or simple songs pero rock!. I was once reprimanded by my mom because I fell in love with Rey Valera song entitled Mahal Kita. I played the song for how many days (...nights). I was touched by its simplicity. My mom thought I already had a boyfriend so nagalit sya kasi high school pako nun eh. Thinking about it now, I can't even remember the tone and lyrics today, hehe.

30. The truth is, I'm a Jesus freak! If at times I'm a bad testimony, make no mistake, that's not Him but the sin in me.

Bow!

P.S. I'm tagging mabel and ate millette, did someone tag her na ba?

Happy B-day ala Andre

2007-11-16T20:26:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, this is my son's yummy version of the happy birthday song. Ka-cute! Love you 'dre!

Birthday Celeb

2007-11-16T17:54:00.000-08:00

For all those people who remembered my special day, thank you. I would like to share with the charmed ones and to the rest of my readers (meron ba? hehe) a glimpse on how I spent it.

For those who didn't know, my hubby and I are living in the small house inside my father-in-law's lot. I call it bahay-bahayan mode. My sister-in-law lived in there when she got married and moved into their own house this year. It's where we can test how far we can support our family one step at a time. Right now, we eat at the big house (called be andre as yellow house) every now and then while inching our way towards us spending for all our food needs. If that happens, then we will start replenishing the kitchen with stuffs then next step is to get our own phone (and internet, yipee!) then maybe we can aim for our own house and so on and so forth. Below is our bahay-bahayan and our backyard.

Well, anyway, I mentioned that because I spent my birthday morning last November 10 getting some cabinets, a sofa and other stuffs we can use at home from my tita's house. My mom and I already shipped all our stuffs from Manila and kept it there. Kaysa bumili ng bago, we opted to check what we can use from there since we plan to sell din naman the remaining things that we cannot use. For this purpose I got the help of some of my hubby's buddies namely milo and amiel (also called embot).

When I was finalizing the things we need to bring, I noticed that the guys borrowed the sofa and placed it in the grass for a photo shoot. I had mine with them below.

After that, we went to Gerry's Grill for lunch. It was almost 1pm. Nangunguna mag-ama ko! (gutom na!)

Other than my hubby and son, I spent my big day with milo, embot, two of my cousins (xela and euben), my son's yaya, my aunt and my beloved mom.

Had a nice time that day mainly because I spent it with my loved ones.

I just wished I also spent it with the charmed ones, my symplystyx friends and the rest of my close friends. Oh well, there's always next year, right? Till then! Carpe Diem!

Studying Bossa

2007-11-15T00:42:00.000-08:00

I'm excited about the gig in January and so I bought a bossa nova cd at once to check initial songs that we could study. Our first rehearsal was November 3. The plan was to jam in the hotel (to develop the band rapport in front of an audience) and then go to the fundraising event of Suitcase 101 afterwards.

From the beginning, my instrumentalists expressed that jazz would need extra effort to learn. Medyo mahirap daw eh, but I wouldn't really know since I'm not good with any instrument. But told them na kung ilan lang ma-practise, yun lang ang kakantahin.

So when we meet for our first rehearsal, I was surprised on how fast they were able to play the songs despite the fact na walang "sepra." We swiftly rehearsed four new songs in just a few hours. Once again it has been proven that I have a great band. Ang galing! They themselves were amazed on how well the rehearsal went for them. Here's our picture after our jamming session at the MetroCentre Hotel, Tagbilaran City. Thanks to twenty something for letting us jam and MCH for allowing us to use their facilities.

Tagged Desktop

2007-11-04T22:22:00.001-08:00

Meow! Here is my desktop. Better late than never folks! The background is a sunset view taken from our backyard terrace.

October is graduation month and so our desktop had been full of folders for graduation pictures. We provided kasi the picture package for the college graduates which consists of sets of 2x2, 2R and 4R actual grad pix. Katawa lang kasi many folders had still to be renamed cause at the time, our staff was pressed for time. Ang gulo!!!! Have to buy blank CDs na to purge the contents of the computer. Plus, I have file splashes of bossa lyrics and guitar for my band's study sessions (naks! parang true).

Aside from that, the screen also housed icons for the a boracay chant made by el cid's band. Kahapon ko lang din narinig ang actual output nila, hope it was okay with piper and leo.

Anyway, buti nlang naka-auto arrange para maayos ng konti tingnan he he.

P.S. I was reminded by Prue to tag other friends. And so I'm tagging hmmmnnn . . . mabel, an-an, dovic, glen and rhoda. Go, go, go!

A fresh face

2007-10-26T06:01:00.000-07:00

Oh well, I meant literally he, he. I washed my face, had make-up over it (by my versatile hubby) and posed in front of the camera for El Cid. This is supposedly for the private eyes of piper and her staff but what the heck! How could I resist a nice photograph of myself, right? Bwahaha!

Jamming the night away

2007-10-24T04:23:00.000-07:00

In fairness, the video should only be for piper's view but then I can't seem to attach it to e-mail and I need to send these as soon as possible. OMG! Tell me what you think. :-)

We took this sa unfinished office ni el cid. Supposedly kasama keyboardist and percussionist pero due to time constraints, ang bass, rhythm and lead guitar nlang. Practised early in the morning and video shooting in the evening. The song is one "note samba." By the way, don't mind the egg maracas he he. Out of beat!!! Kakahiya, so we recorded another acoustic version nlang.

Then we took another video for the song "falling"by the Hawaiian group Keahiwai pero funny kasi nakalimutan ko lyrics nung lapit na end he he. Silly me!

Phoebe

Heavens over you

2007-10-19T02:51:00.000-07:00

I was suppose to make a blog about something else, but when I saw this picture again, I can't help but make a blog about it. I remember the time so well. My hubby took this beautiful picture while we were on our way to Balicasag Island for snorkeling.

I am not a swimming person. Despite the fact that I love going to the beach, living in our house by the sea and snorkeling to witness the world below. . . I am not. This is plainly because I cannot swim! he he! How unfortunate you might say. My hubby has been making fun of me when it comes to that area and I told him that probably because the sea or any natural body of water for that matter is not accessible in the big city plus the fact that I have nose allergies and a history of ear irritation. Talk about water hindrance! Nevertheless, I love the times I am in the vicinity of the ocean (or lake). It makes me calm, happy and contented. I am reminded of the beauty that is set before us by my God up there.

Anyway, during our travel to Balicasag, I was very uncomfortable. The sea was a little rough than usual and the boat readily slides to the curve of the waves, making an up and down motion. In fact, I made it a point to wear my life vest, hold on tight to the bamboo pole nearest me while curling in the boat, nauseous, dizzy with my heart pumping real hard every time we hit a wave. I didn't really tell anyone how scared I was feeling that time in those waves. And then I saw my hubby shooting pictures. I tried to take a glimpse of his aim and saw this view. Wow! There was light from the heavens radiating towards the boat below! Readily, I tell you, as I gaze upon the sight, I was hit hard in my heart! I sensed the God I love in our midst with those lights from the heavens reminding me to trust in Him. It was as if I was welcomed with both arms open wide quipped with a warm smile to complete the feeling. Indeed, I was better after that. Yes, I still felt dizzy but deep inside I was comforted that everything is in His hands.

It might be seen as a shallow experience by some but to me who witnessed it . . . it was overwhelming! And when I am in times of distress, feeling that I cannot take it any longer, I oftentimes invoke my memories to give me that view. And then, I am consoled with assurance that I am not alone and that I should go on. I have wonderful friends, a great family and a loving God who loves me, what more can I ask for?

Marie Melanie (a.ka. Phoebe)

Ecstatic to Help!

2007-10-18T03:43:00.001-07:00

When I was first contacted by my friend, Evette, to help out in her personal outreach here in Bohol, I was overwhelmed with excitement! Watch out for my entries . . . soon!

Faulty Focus

2007-10-14T03:48:00.000-07:00

It seems it is common for people to want something they could never have in their lives. The ideal job that can support a lifetime, the love that never was, a material gift that can be essentially surprising, a perfect life, a perfect world and much more. Half the time, lingering in the daydream of what may have been.

I believe it is part of what makes us human . . . trying to reach desperately to that perceived prize that can deliver supreme bliss. We go on with our lives imagining a dense void in the inner soul because we do not have what we ultimately want. It may not hamper our life on the surface but it may paralyze our ability to act and decide in real time.

The fact is, in this lifetime, if we channel our trust only in ourselves and in other people, we will be disillusioned numerous times than we can count. Among many things, we should build our focus on things we have rather than things we long to have, appreciate people who actually complement our lives rather than those that only appears to be complementing us, provide work for realistic, achievable goals rather than impossibility and focus our life gears toward a divine purpose. Continue with this kind of outlook and surely you will achieve far greater than you hoped for.

Dedication, perseverance and an eternally focused faith in God renders us a better rank in life, a better focus worthy of emulation.

(January 24, 2007, from my Friendster site)