DiaroDeVida

Investing Life Wisely

2011-09-08T16:57:00.000+08:00

How can I become more like Christ?

Am I reading the Word regularly?

Am I devoting time to prayer?

Am I meeting together with other believers?

After reading the message for today from ODB, these questions became a daily to-do list for me. Reminding me not to waste years of life instead use them wisely. Don’t just spend time, invest it. Invest it to bring praise, offer sacrifices, thanksgiving and glorify the Lord. If we do this we will gain wisdom. Not the kind of wisdom due to hard work and years of study but the wisdom that is the fruit of our reverence with Lord.

This is a great challenge for me. How about you?

God is my Happiness

2011-09-08T16:53:00.001+08:00

Nothing compares to continuous answered prayers and overflowing blessings. I myself can attest how God works in my life after I have worked for Him. This is not to boast about what I did but what God has done for me. I prayed for breakthrough and He gave it, without any conditions.

“Seek your happiness in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desire.” Psalms 37:4, taught me to be happy with the Lord and everything will follow. We all have our heart’s desires such as sufficiency in our daily needs, ability to get our wants, success, etc. Most of us strive hard to get this but God wants us to first find our happiness in Him. This is just a reminder for us not to live for ourselves alone, nor the world. Live for the Lord, for Him to be worshiped and glorified.

A LIST OF THANKSGIVING

2011-08-12T17:25:00.000+08:00

Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!

I have been through a lot this past few months and I have list of things to be thankful for. Words just can’t be enough to explain how God succeeded over my difficulties, challenges, weakness, anxiety, etc. There were a lot of times that I almost give in to the test but thankfully I did not for He strengthens me. God uses numerous ways you won’t expect be very useful for you to surpass hardships. Almighty Power has been and will always be declared!

When I say “list of things” I really mean it friends in Christ. So please just let me have this ample space to glorify God through this testimony I am writing (now have written). I know most of you do writing for a living but as for me this is my own way of being a writer of truth and breakthroughs for the Lord so I expect you to be compassionate enough not to note grammatical and typo-errors. Just bless God for that. ;D

Glorify You Father and I thank you for everything. Here we go for the “list of things” and breakthroughs wherein I experienced the presence of God.

Tango at Work. You must know why this is first in my list. You probably had the same situation when you almost want to leave your job, because I did. You can’t just stand the intimidating policies and the superiors who gave you phrases like “and the management will determine employees employment” numerous times. Colleagues buzz around oppression and glitch that triggered the thought of sweet escape. But the Lord said, “Wait there’s more!” Then I realized, “Hey, the Lord is telling me something.” I did surrender; surrender all these struggles unto the Lord. Like a child stunned in awe, I have witnessed how God demonstrated His control and authority above all these hardship and hard work. The breakthroughs I have been praying for came in perfect time which brought victory and glory to God. Sweet success relished with people God used to dedicated support, love, trust and strength spiritually and emotionally. The Lord is so generous to get me surrounded by people whom I have united with the same faith and one God. In Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” For together we stand and succeed with the Lord.

As truly as the scripture says in John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and me in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Now, I will continuously dance with the music and songs – of praise at work though the going still gets tough and tougher. Thoughts of leaving come and go but one thing I’ve seen, God will surely deliver overflowing blessings and success provided that I stick with Him and His Words. The Lord will not leave me totally empty handed nor defeated because I have victory through Christ.

Family Matters. When it comes to my family, especially my kids, I will always be at the front line to protect them and ensure they are well. Yes my limitations just can’t keep away but God is Almighty, nothing to worry. First Elijah dealt with skin abscesses. He had to undergone minor operations and took tons of antibiotics just to get the bump out of his skin. It was time consuming and financially destructing. Then, my youngest, Van suffered from bronco-pneumonia at his 8^th month for some reason I didn’t know. It was heart breaking as I had seen him endured the syringe and dextrose entered in his veins. But I need to be strong for they stare at me and search strength deep in my eyes. I am at weakest but the Lord is always stronger that I ever imagine. He did not stop helping me to surpass these past health combat. God paved the way for their healing and financial provision as I prayed, “Heal me, LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.” - Jeremiah 17:14

New Found Fellowship. It’s hard to find people whom you can share and strengthen fellowship with outside church. As for the Lord nothing is hard. Ever since I started, I aspire to be in a small group at work. Time has passed along with people and then came new ones whom I stayed with late after office hours to glorify the Lord and dig His wisdom deeper. We enjoy praise and worship together, you know who you are. Let’s keep the fire burning and continue to be in union with Christ. Let us all be the salt and light in this place where God bound us together.

The Sound of Success. It took a while before I heard the bell rang for my sale. Zero visibility of inputs made me the least performing of all. I almost fell off the edge of the earth. I started to consider opportunities outside my comfort zone. Yet the Lord led me to His plan and will. As per His leading, I did not stop because I know;Philippians 4:13 “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Time was made perfect for His name to be blessed and glorified when God get to start the results coming. Now, one comes after the other. God you are so great!

That’s all folks! I will now give way for other testimonies. The Lord will surely keep the blessings coming. Let’s stick together in union with Christ and we can never go wrong. I would love to be soaked by the Holy Spirit at work, home, Church and everywhere God calls us for duty. All praises to the Lord!

GOD Over the Ruthless World

2011-06-28T16:00:00.000+08:00

Assuming you have a glass of water. It was very clear before with assurance that there is no foreign objects or bacteria that you might not see. Suddenly, an insect got trapped inside, say a fly. This fly came from different dirty places. Now, all dirt and bacteria got transferred in the glass of water. The bad thing is, you're feeling so thirsty but you can't drink given that you might get infected. You can't seem to find a refill anywhere. No clean water to drink. How can you survive?

I don't know if this relates things right now. But one thing is for sure, I am trapped. Trapped from pressure and disappointments. Consumed with the idea of finding ways to be free from here. Can't find a better place to go and continue with my aspirations. Loosing focus on what, where and how to get things into a better situation. Yes, the world is unfair. How come some people have and some don't? Why some get what they want and I don't? Is there any secret to get to your goal as easy as 1,2,3? I started to fear and worry. Yet God never fails to make me understand things in His ways and how to face all my fears.

What should I do? God said:

>> Focus on what I, the Lord has prepared for you.

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

“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” -- Proverbs 16:9

>> Focus! Focus!Focus! Not on yourself nor the problem but God's will.

"Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!” And God granted what he asked." -- 1 Chronicles 4:10 ESV

>> Learn how to understand His leadings.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” -- Psalm 32:8

>> Always seek for his will.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” -- Matthew 6:33

“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” -- 1 John 2:3-6

>> Pray continually as if there's no tomorrow.

"In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out." -- Ephesians 6:18

>> Worship the Lord.

"Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs." Psalms 100:2

"Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength, ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness." -- I Chron 16:27-29

The world is ruthless and I hate it when people are ruthless, too. This is how God use us Christians to testify for Him. Things happen whether we like it or not. At times, I'm at the point of loosing faith in myself but the Lord carries me to gain confidence. Though I know how, I still have no idea how God thinks. He thinks beyond the human mind can. He calms me in my distress and restores me through his Words when I thirst. I feel His presence reigning over me.

I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvelous works. -- Psalm 9:1

You may be troubled and confused. But remember to submit to God and ask for His mighty help. He's the King now and forever. He won the world through Jesus and will continue to reign in you.

All praise and worship to you, Lord!

God’s presence, His greatest present

2011-05-03T12:55:00.000+08:00

“Your Words oh God never fail! All praises unto You!”

After reading Our Daily Bread, I feel secured and thankful. “Never Alone" is the title and reading is in Hebrews 13:1-8.

God's love and His words will always be our refuge. Its good to know that we can rely on Christ especially during hard times. Once again, God’s promise rebuilds my strength. “I will never leave you nor forsake you”, he said in Hebrews 13:5. This verse is my fortress at all times. When I find things hard and trials come my way, I always think that God is with me and my family. Then I say, "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?" - Hebrews 13:6

To share the love of God, here goes ODB for May 3, 2011:

Never Alone

Read: Hebrews 13:1-8

Having played intercollegiate soccer, I’ve never lost my love for “The Beautiful Game.” I especially enjoy watching the English Premier League. One reason is the skill and speed with which the game is played there. Also, I love the way the fans sing in support of their beloved “sides.” For instance, Liverpool has for years had “You’ll Never Walk Alone” as its theme. How moving to hear 50,000 fans rise as one to sing the lyrics of that old standard! It’s an encouragement to players and fans alike that together they will see each other through to the end. Walk alone? Never.

This sentiment has meaning for everyone. Because each of us is made for community, isolation and loneliness are among the most painful of human experiences. During painful times, our faith is vital.

The child of God never needs to fear abandonment. Even if people turn on us, friends forsake us, or circumstances separate us from loved ones, we are never alone. God has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Heb. 13:5). This is not just a nice tune or clever lyrics offering an empty sentiment. It is the promise of God Himself to those who are the objects of His love. He is there—and He isn’t going away.

With Christ, you will never walk alone.

God’s unseen presence comforts me,

I know He’s always near;

And when life’s storms besiege my soul,

He says, “My child, don’t fear.” —D. De Haan

God’s presence with us is one of His greatest presents to us.

Jesus, No Greater Love

2011-04-25T18:24:00.000+08:00

How did we observe the Holy Week? Most of us went to the beach. Had a quality time with friends and family. Had fun and enjoyed the heat of the sun as well as the long weekend. Some participated in church activities. There are others who watched "The Passion of Christ" and other movies relevant to the season. There are a lot of things that people have in their list. But the most important part that everyone should have not missed was to reflect how great is our God to send His only begotten son, Jesus on earth and carry the cross of sin to death to save the world. (John 3:16)

Last Friday during our devotion before the praise and worship rehearsal, we've talked about the time when Jesus was handed over Pilate in Mark 15. Pilate (in verse 2) asked Jesus, "Are you the king of the Jews?". Jesus answered, "So you say." Pilate asked to confirm with Jesus if he's the king of the Jews because this was one of the people's accusations against him. Pilate was amazed that Jesus didn't answer.

Pilate was torn between giving justice for Jesus and pleasing the crowd who were shouting to "Crucify him!". He even asked the people in verse 14 "But what crime has he committed?" Yet the people sentenced Jesus to death. These people were those who have seen and experienced Jesus' miracles. :(

Jesus is Alive!

As we end our devotion, we thanked God for doing such a big favor. If you think about it, we're supposed to be whipped and crucified to death because of our sins. But God loved us so much that he let Jesus die for us. No greater love isn't it?

Hope that every one had a worthwhile time with God. May we not only do this during holy week but every day of our lives. Let's have time to be in reverence with the Lord. Be happy and celebrate for Jesus is alive and we are saved. Just submit to Jesus and believe that He came on earth, live like one of us, died and have risen to save the world. Jesus died with us and our sins. Jesus has risen and so are we.

As the bible says, "To have faith is to be sure of the things we hope for, to be certain of the things we cannot see." (Hebrews 11:1) Be not like Pilate and everyone else in their time who have seen and personally experienced Jesus yet did not believe. Declare Jesus in your life and believe that he is the King, our salvation. Not only during the Holy Week. Praise be to God!

Pauline @ age 10

2011-04-07T17:29:00.000+08:00

I went out the office early off to Pauline's 10th birthday yesterday, April 6th 2011. Time did fly real fast and here she is, almost a grown up. She's fond of "girlie stuff" (as she quotes it) like clips, stickers (she even sell her stickers in school), boots, books, Barbie, Taylor Swift and her requested gift - "The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary". She had finished reading volume 1 'til the last before Hollywood created the movie. When I heard about her asking Ten to buy this book, I was like "what's that again?" Hahaha! Was it like just generation gap? Naah. I'm just not a fan that's why I didn't know. ;) Now, as our present for her, I dropped by National Bookstore in Megamall to get her the book before going to Guadalupe. I've got the prescription from Ate Jenni so I will not buy the wrong piece. Good thing I got "The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary" and its the last book of its kind.

The book looks nice and it has a lot of embossed photos. I just don't feel like reading it. Maybe its just not for me. Pauline said its about grade school bullies, losers and dorks.

Here's the synopsis of the book.

Her Dad told me that she really loves reading The Wimpy series. She will not let the book go until she's done. And her Dad knows her very well because after a few chats and eating small serve of food, she's at page 45 already. She didn't even the put book down while eating and her Mom and Dad calls her attention for that. Hahaha.

She didn't stop reading it from the time she opened the Wimpy book.

At her young age, she's doing really good in school and received academic awards. Each recognition Ate Jenni will take her leave from work to attend and be at the stage to get her medals. I am a proud Aunt, Pauline. :) Keep up the good work and make your parents proud all the way.

Blow your candles young lady.

Pauline smiling with her most beautiful Aunt. Haha ;)

The dinner was really good although I let down myself for eating a lot. That was also because of my sister kept on telling me, "Oh, sige pa. Kain ka pa." Hahaha. Then I found myself eating, eating and eating. Hahaha. Of course, you need not to disappoint a pregnant woman. Oh, I almost forgot. Pauline will be a big sister soon. Ate Jenni is almost 5 months pregnant. Yehey!

And by the way, I'd like to share my photo with Iñigo. He's Pauline's cousin. Iñigo is such a bright kid at 3. He sung and danced along with his bigger cousins. I can see Elijah in him and I wonder what will happen if they will play together. Hahaha!

The bright and cuuute Iñigo taking his pose.

Bible Verses About Love

2011-04-07T14:59:00.000+08:00

Scripture overflows with verses about love, including passages that speak of divine love, brotherly love (friendship), and romantic love. This collection is just a sampling of the many Bible verses about love.

Bible Verses About Love

Genesis 29:20
So Jacob worked seven years to pay for Rachel. But his love for her was so strong that it seemed to him but a few days. (NLT)

Proverbs 5:19
A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love. (NIV)

Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs. (NIV)

Proverbs 13:24
Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. (NLT)

Proverbs 15:17
A bowl of vegetables with someone you love is better than steak with someone you hate. (NLT)

Proverbs 17:9
Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. (NLT)

Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. (NIV)

Proverbs 30:18-19
There are three things that amaze me—
no, four things that I don’t understand:
how an eagle glides through the sky,
how a snake slithers on a rock,
how a ship navigates the ocean,
how a man loves a woman. (NLT)

Song of Solomon 1:2
Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine. (NIV)

Song of Solomon 2:16
My lover is mine, and I am his. (NLT)

Song of Solomon 4:10
How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume than any spice!(NIV)

Song of Solomon 8:6
Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. (NIV)

Song of Solomon 8:7
Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away. If one were to give all the wealth of his house for love, it would be utterly scorned. (NIV)

Matthew 22:37–39
Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' (NKJV)

• Read other instances of this passage.

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (NIV)

1 Corinthians 13:1-3
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. (NIV)

1 Corinthians 13:4–8a
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails ... (NIV)

• Read 1 Corinthians 13:4–8 in several popular Bible translations.

1 Corinthians 13:13
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (NIV)

• Read 1 Corinthians 13:13 in several popular Bible translations.

Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. (NIV)

Ephesians 5:33
However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. (NIV)

Colossians 3:14
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. (NIV)

1 Peter 4:8
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (NIV)

1 John 3:16
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. (NIV)

1 John 3:18
Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. (NIV)

1 John 4:8
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. (NIV)

• Read 1 John 4:8 in several popular Bible translations.

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (NIV)

heaven's grocery store

2011-04-06T13:10:00.000+08:00

During the weekends, we spent time in my Mom's house and stayed there with my kids. I was in my niece's room doing some chores when I saw "Heaven's Grocery Store" poster at the back of the door. I read the poem and realized that these are the real necessity in life.

Here it is, "The Heaven's Grocery Store"

I was walking down life's highway

a long, long time ago.

One day I saw a sign that read,

"HEAVEN'S GROCERY STORE."

As I got a little closer, the door opened wide,

and I found myself standing inside.

I saw a host of ANGELS.

They were standing everywhere.

One handed me a basket and said,

"My Child, shop with care."

Everything a human needed

was in that grocery store.

And if you couldn't carry it all,

you could come back the next day for more.

First, I got some PATIENCE.

LOVE was in the same row.

Further down was UNDERSTANDING,

you need that everywhere you go.

I got a box or two of WISDOM,

a bag or two of FAITH.

I just couldn't miss the HOLY GHOST,

for it was all over the place.

I stopped to get some STRENGTH and COURAGE

TO HELP ME RUN THIS RACE.

By then my basket was getting full,

but I remembered I needed some GRACE.

I didn't forget SALVATION,

for SALVATION was free.

So I tried to get enough of that

to save both you and me.

Then I started up to the counter

to pay my grocery bill.

For I thought I had everything

to do the MASTER'S will.

As I went up the aisle, I saw PRAYER;

and I just had to put that in,

for I knew when I stepped outside,

I would run into sin.

PEACE and JOY were plentiful;

they were last on the shelf.

SONG and PRAISE were hanging near,

so I just helped myself.

Then I said to the angel,

"Now, how much do I owe?"

He smiled again and said, "MY CHILD,

JESUS PAID YOUR BILL A LONG, LONG TIME AGO."

Just thought that this is something to share and ponder. What if a grocery store of heaven is for real? We can just pick all that we need, priceless. Would you also imagine shopping in Heaven's Grocery Store?

Storyland Weekend

2011-04-05T14:46:00.000+08:00

Last Sunday, Elijah attended Gabe's 1st birthday. He enjoyed playing and dancing but not eating. Maybe because he's too hooked with the happenings around him. He really loves birthday parties, games, magic, mascots and stuff. Though he's a bit uncontrollable, I'm happy to see him enjoy, mingle and play with other kids.

My Elijah

Look at him. He hugged the Elephant. :)

But after a while, he came to me crying. He said that the mascot clutched his head when he tried to passed in between the Elephant's legs. He hated the Elephant for that. Here I go again explaining things to his understanding just to stop him cry and for him not to hate the Elephant mascot.

Good thing pictures pacify him. Smile baby!

After the party, we both enjoyed the rides. He loved the carousel ride and we enjoyed the space shuttle like ride with our neighbors. The ride didn't scare him but the people screaming did. Sabi niya, "Mommy, patigilin mo sila sumigaw kasi natatakot na ako!" Hahaha I just need to explain again. :D But overall, he enjoyed our Storyland day out and he's looking forward to going back there with his Dad and Van. 'Til next time. :)

Van's 4th month day out

2011-03-28T10:10:00.000+08:00

I am full mommy.

March 26th, my youngest son turned 4 months. I thank God that he keeps him healthy (so healthy). We have no time to go out as I need to rehearse for the Sunday service so we've spent his day in church. I brought him along the praise team Saturday rehearsal. Every time he listens to our praise and worship, he seems to show interest in music. He sleeps or he just observe what's going on around him. Earl said one time that he can see a future musician in him. He's probably thinking of notes and songs while he sleeps. I would like to see him doing that someday.

♪♫ do re mi ♪♫

♪♫ I can sing ♪♫

Hmmm I like to play music someday, Mommy.

Can I also play base guitar like him in the future?

♪♫ Happy 4 months to me ♪♫

I love you, Van. God bless you with good health and may you grow in His guidance. :)

lanie, happy fiesta!

2011-03-25T18:48:00.000+08:00

It was like Lanie's fiesta during lunch 'til merienda. Lanie's celebrating her birthday today and she blessed us with a lot of food (literally). Overflowing rice and bicolano dish like bicol express, laing, gatang sitaw and a lot more. All of us had a bloated lunch and everyone enjoyed eating on "dahon". I'm not so sure if Alyz did as she had KFC Chicken Salad again (note that she always request for this every birthday blowout) and a little laing and gatang sitaw. But I'm sure she did enjoy (Alyz) coz it showed in her smiles. ;)

We're so happy and Jaclyn (right) was already sleepy ;)

Allan means more rice.

Its always fun to eat together, right Alyz?

They enjoyed eating on "dahon", for real.

I still can't get enough. Trying to get some more while I hold my lunch box. :D

Still so fab while eating.

Cheers for more blessings for you Lanie.

Oh no, Lanie are you still having fun or just need time? :D

Then, we had Mcdo's caramel sundae for desert. Yumm!

Aside from the food, CMG peeps also enjoyed picture taking. Although we had it at Jac's corner, that didn't become a problem at all. Everyone still managed to take their pose in every clicks. And one thing fun about it was, whoever took the picture will join afterwards. It was a bit hard to enjoy the picture-taking because of my spot. So, I just enjoyed funny faces and maximized my space even though it was so hard. I can't breathe properly actually. But overall, everybody had a real great fun. Check this out!

Smile everyone!

Hope you did enjoy celebrating part of your day with us, Lanie. May God bless you more and give you the desires of your heart.

Lanie (in fabulous long summer dress), Happy Birthday once again!

love. marriage. music

2011-03-23T10:45:00.000+08:00

elijah and elisha: bonding time

2011-03-21T16:01:00.000+08:00

My sons are so adorable. I thank God that Elijah loves his younger brother, Elisha Van. He can look after his brother if I need to do something real quick. He talks to him and tries to make him laugh. He loves taking picture with him, too. This was their bonding during the weekend and they had fun together.

I really hope that it will not be changed even though others try to compare their looks, attitude and other features. We just need to make them understand that they are both special, loved and important.

Just to share:

Elijah or Elias means "Yahweh is God," was Hebrew prophet in the Old Testament who opposed the worship of idols; he was persecuted for rebuking Ahab and Jezebel (king and queen of Israel); he was taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire.

Elisha or Eliseus means "My God is salvation", a prophet, a disciple and successor of Elijah; to many Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox he is known as Saint Eliseus; however, the standard English form of the name has been "Elisha".

Mom and Dad love you both. :)

reunion kick off

2011-03-21T14:23:00.000+08:00

A week ago, it was just Abe, Tin and me. Then, we tried to invite more people from ADPR 1N but no success. It was just Ace and Ahnnah who confirmed. Still, we enjoyed and the night went well.

Thanks for making yourselves available and spending time. This should be the start of more get togethers. Happy to see you again. Hope we can do this often. Let's keep in touch!

one day, make-up day

2011-03-17T17:39:00.000+08:00

It was just her (Lanie) at first who got ecstatic to apply Jen's gel eyeliner.

Then, she got Jaclyn's pretty eyes!

Julie's celebrity-like smile.

and Tin's cheerful face.

I created my own. ;D Just to join the fun.

The Faith of the Centurion

2011-03-17T14:17:00.000+08:00

In Luke 7, Jesus encountered a great faith of a Centurion.

¹ When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people who were listening, he entered Capernaum. ² There a centurion’s servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. ³ The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. ⁴ When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do this, ⁵ because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.” ⁶ So Jesus went with them.

He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. ⁷ That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. ⁸ For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

⁹ When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” ¹⁰ Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.

Like the centurion in Luke 7, people in the storms of life don’t waste time or mince words. They go directly to the people whose faith they’ve tagged as real. We need to be those people. Do our lives mark us as a go-to person in touch with God?

Find out what God would like you to see and read Becoming a Go-To Person at http://www.odb.org/.

Dean and Sam with their wives (for real)

2011-03-16T12:28:00.001+08:00

Supernatural lead characters, Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) with her wife Danneel Harris and Jared Padalecki with wife Genevieve Cortese. They are such lovely couples.

The Ladies of CMG

2011-03-15T16:05:00.000+08:00

It was just Lanie's make-up time supposedly. But because she got soo very happy with Jenny's Maybeline Eyestudio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner she turned the faces of CMG ladies into her own masterpieces.

Jaclyn was the fairest of them all and could also be the witch that made every Cinderella story for real. :D

The Queen: Jaclyn
weeetweeew

blog feed to your facebook

2011-03-14T16:29:00.000+08:00

I thought I would not be able to cross post my blogs to facebook notes until I found How to Add Your Blog Feed to Your Facebook Profile using my search tool. Followed the instructions and got my blog updates/feeds imported to my facebook notes. Cool! Now this post is supposed to be directed to facebook. If not I won't stop figuring it out. :D

27 years of blessings

2011-03-14T13:16:00.000+08:00

February 20, 2011, I turned 27. A late post it is. But I want to show how grateful I am for 2010 has been so good to me. I thank God for the blessings He had showered me the whole year. At 27, I have gone a long way. I have 2 kids now and happily married. My career is on the right track. And above of it all, I am in service for the Lord. I may not be as successful as how others describe success but I am successful through God's continuous grace.

Thank you CMG family for celebrating it with me. Better late than never. ;D I still owe you a bucket or 2 maybe next year. heheh

happy birthday, elijah! I love you, baby!

2011-03-14T11:29:00.000+08:00

Every time Elijah reviews this video clip I made for him as a simple present for his birthday, he will say: "Aayyy Mommy, nakakaiyak naman." :D He really speaks like a grown up. He's so playful and very much "makulit". Some people think that he's spoiled but no. He's just trying to enjoy his childhood much and I don't want to ruin it. Elijah is at a stage where he wants to explore, try everything and learn a lot. He needs to be supervised not deprived. Though at times as parents you can't help but be scared for him and scold him about not-so safe things he has done. But of course you would explain why after for him to know that its for his own good too and that you love him. Just remember baby, I will let you play but of course will keep an eye on things you do to make sure you're safe. Enjoy your childhood, son. Nothing's gonna hurt you while mom and dad are around. Make the most out of your gifts and your life. We love you, baby! God bless you, my Elijah. =)

happy birthday, hon

2011-03-10T17:01:00.000+08:00

December 15, 1980 : Rafael Cagado Laylay was born. I did not expect that I will end up a life with him. It was really God-made. I used to call him "Kuya Raffy" when I was young because he's older and I am her parents' god-daughter. He's my childhood crush back then. Weird but true. Back in our boyfriend-girlfriend stage, our families used to find our relationship weird because we are "magkina-kapatid" they say. However, it has not been a problem for us. Maybe because we're in love in spite of anything else.

Now, aside from my husband being my greatest love and partner in life, I also sooo love Piolo Pascual. :D I even have the craziest hallucination in life and that is: My husband, Rafael Laylay bears a resemblance to Piolo Pascual. For my eyes only. Funny me! :D

Better late than never. This is my belated happy birthday post for you. Belated happy birthday to Piolo too last January. My bad, I haven't been blogging for some time but at least I'm updating it now. ;D

Happy birthday, Hon! I love you, Piolo! :D

Ay, I love you, hon! ;D

♥ on our fourth year ♥

2011-03-10T13:33:00.000+08:00

Ephesians 5 - "21Submit yourselves to one another because of your reverence for Christ. 22Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands as to the Lord. 25Husbands, love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave his life for it."

The Lord has always been the reason we are still together, growing fonder. He never leave us empty handed and He's been our source of strength as well as grace. We were first blessed with our eldest son, Elijah then we got married. Yes, we were not an ideal couple who took vows first but for us, ours was special. We gave all our best to surpass difficulties and successfully won over challenges. Thanks be to God! May he keep us stronger, together.

Thanks for the flowers!

Now, we are happier and our family is bigger. November 26th 2010, I gave birth to our second/youngest son, Van. We celebrated our 4th year anniversary by being just together in a special dinner. We didn't go anywhere since I need to recover. Yet, our anniversary went well and it was something that we will remember and cherish for the rest of our days. =) We'll surely make more memories together also with our kids.

I love you and will always do. ♥

Hon, life has never been the same from the time I stepped out of my comfort zone and started a new life with you. We have had our ups and downs like any other couples in the world yet we're standing still and strong. I'm ready for more because not a single problem is bigger than our God. I will try my best not to argue with you over some not-so-like-a-married-man things you do but I hope you would also put it to an end or at least try to pass up. I know you can do it! ;)

I look forward to the coming days, months and years with you and our kids.

May God continue to nourish and strengthen our marriage.

Volcanic Temper

2011-03-08T17:28:00.000+08:00

Ephesians 4-29-32

TEMPER: a sudden outburst of anger.

It erupts and melts everything like a volcano. Its blast can be as powerful as a nuclear explosion. =( Temper can be as intense as a volcano when it is aimed directly at another person in a family. Bad thing is, it leaves an emotional as well as spiritual devastation and bitter feelings behind. People we love are often the target of our hurtful words. And it really hurts, all the more to us. I feel so burdened and find myself regretful of what I've said and done. Yet the Lord is telling me that I have a choice: that is to respond in anger or in kindness. And I will always choose to respond in kindness and tender heart. This can be my own thorn in the flesh and I want to win over losing temper. The Lord said: I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me."-Philippians 4:13. All I need to do is surrender this vulnerable part of my emotions to God's strength. "Instead be kind and tender hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ."-Ephesians 4:32. So really, who am I not to forgive even the littlest things others have done especially those in my family. I ask God to forgive me for uncontrolled temper and may He show me how to moderate my emotions and teach me how to honor others above myself. Seek help to others to deal with your emotions in appropriate ways. Lord, use my friends in Christ in giving me spiritual support and words about losing temper. I pray that the Lord be with us in victory over the world's temptation of anger and bitterness. As we earnestly seek to love others and to please God, we can win the victory over a volcanic temper.

Spirit of God please change my heart and give me a new desire. I want to be a man of peace, not controlled by anger's fire.-K. De Haan

Losing your temper is no way to get rid of it.

God bless all of us with peace and love for one another. May we live our lives with kind and tender heart. Amen.