Remembering His Sacrifice this Lenten Season

From: http://catholicriddle.blogspot.com/2012/02/welcome-lent.html

I am very much thankful to youtube and the internet because I have all the convenience to look up a lot of things, learn from discussions, practically everything. We are now entering Holy Week and I really love this song I heard somewhere a long time ago and when I attended the Holy Mass last Sunday, it was played and it really made me shed a few drops of tears. Searched for it and downloaded and here's the youtube copy:

No Greater Love

You loved me,

When I was so unlovely,

You sought me

When I was lost;

You showed me

How much You really loved me,

When You bought me

At the highest cost

There’s no greater love than this,

There’s no greater love than this,

That a man would give his life for a friend;

There’s no higher sacrifice

Than a man would give his life,

You have paid

A precious price for me

You chose me,

When I was so unworthy

You cleansed me

With Your own blood;

You clothed me

With righteousness and mercy,

And You crowned me

With Your steadfast love

There’s no greater love than this,

There’s no greater love than this,

That a man would give his life for a friend;

There’s no higher sacrifice

Than a man would give his life,

You have paid

A precious price for me

You have paid

A precious price for me…

I was actually humming this tune when I stepped down from my so called Pandora this evening and realized that God is more than just awesome designing our lives with all His unpredictable gifts and trials and I felt ashamed of myself expecting and guessing a lot of things He wants for me when in fact He just wants me to trust fully His will and His providence. How amazing, I was walking on the busy streets of IT Park this evening pondering a lot of things, searching for a cab but still thinking, yes, there's no greater love than His love for us. No, I can't think of any reason why I had to leave, I can't think of any reason for choosing the status quo either because I can't just depend on my happiness but then, the bottom line: He knows where I'm heading and I may only have a little idea about it, or probably still clueless, it really doesn't matter, while I am the pilot or the captain, He takes charge of everything. Looking up high to the heavens . . . :)

Deactivating and Reactivating Facebook Account

I have been addicted to the internet and social networking sites since I got started with my friendster way back high school years. Then came facebook, multiply, twitter, myspace, linkedin, GooglePlus whichever started first, and now the latest is Pinterest. and I have skype too! I am not totally active in all mentioned sites but I keep and account in each of them except linkedin, with which I am planning to create one just so I can update my whereabouts regarding my profession and other career-related stuff. Two months ago, I thought of imposing some sort of disciplinary measures and deactivated my facebook and pondered on these:

1. It was cool. I was able to divert my attention to other sites with more sense. haha. I was able to study more and focus on other more important things. I get to watch my favorite tv series online and other teen-flick and romantic comedies I have saved in my hard disk for a long time, and I have started blogging again. 
2. Only a few remembered my birthday. Though I was not expecting much from people and even from close friends, it was still amazing reading text messages from friends and colleagues who actually remembered me that day. It was even more overwhelming answering calls from relatives greeting me that day. Without facebook to remind them, that was pretty awesome!
3. I got to seclude myself from annoying updates from people practically having topics with no sense at all. ha! But still, I have an open mind to stat expressing opinions, ideals, concept and the like. I don't know how I'm gonna describe the kind of stat I really really don't want to read, just three words - not my type :D
4. I am not claiming to have detractors but I just don't like people who uses facebook to gossip around so when I came back, removed some and blocked some too. I am not expecting for them to understand, they are entitled to their own reaction/opinion/annoyance as much as I do.
5. I have to reactivate it when one of my superior asked me: "Do you have a facebook account? just in case we'd prefer to communicate with you through fb?" And I was like, "Oh I had it deactivated, I can reactivate it anytime though". Real ouch. So he decided to have it on skype and I kept thinking I have to reactivate my facebook because yeah, it's a lot useful and convenient at times.
6. I'm the only one in the family without facebook then and so I could not relate with all their communication stuff since Papa is working overseas and then most of my relatives, cousins are hooked up in facebook, even my little pamangkins. haha
7. I miss my friends too, those people I usually connect with through facebook, I miss commenting and liking stuff and I miss posting stats and check ins!
8. My timeline got cut. tsk tsk. When I came back, there's a huge blank already, or like a vortex of two months. 

Now that I am back, aside from unfriending people I don't want to just follow my daily tasks and whatnot on facebook, I have also hidden some stats and updates from individuals I am not really a fan of. Well, I still consider myself entitled to such privilege of removing anyone I simply don't like, not the person of course, but the attitude she/he has. *smiles*

25 is just a number

Got it from http://uwstopia.nl/blog/2008/01/happy-birthday-to-me

through Google

In a few more days, I am turning 25, quarter-life many would say. Looking back, I can vividly see the past so worth cherishing, and these moments of the year, if I only have the luxury of time, I would have planned ahead to go on a long walk on the beach, alone in the long stretch of fine white sands with the waves gently hammering my bare feet as the sun slowly hides herself to slumber,  while I contemplate on the kind of life I have today and for the past 25 years. That wouldn't do for now, I barely have the time to write this because I still have pending stuff to do just so I can fulfill the requirements for my subjects this semester. Nevertheless, I am celebrating my birthday the traditional way, planning to go to church to attend mass, thank the Lord for all the blessings He showered not only to me but to all the people I love so dearly, for all the answered prayers, for the trials and struggles, for everything that led me to where I am right now.

For my 25th birthday, I am recalling the most important lessons I have learned in my entire existence, with which I am very much thankful, for without them, my  mistakes, errors and lapses would be really insignificant. Warning, these are all based on my experiences, thus my viewpoints does not necessarily reflect your own and I have no intention to mislead you in whatever perception of life you may have.

1. Life is a race. But it really does not matter who you are racing with or against, because the more you race with your own self, the more you are bound to get to your goal. Just like marathon, you run like no one is watching, that the other runners do not exist because you are focused on the song in your iPod, the ticktocks of your timer and the humdrum of your heartbeat. You don't have to base your success in whatever success your colleagues have nor your circle of friends are bragging because once you compare your success to them, you are bound to creating someone who is not you. 
2. Your friends change and you are not supposed to go along with his or her changes just so you would remain friends. Allow changes to happen, accept your friends as they are and if you find their stuff just not right for you, do not, in anyway, comment against it, rather, keep yourself keen and aware that you should not do such things nor apply such concept in your own paradigm.
3. Believe in the power of prayers, so as the power of Catholic and religion-oriented schools. At a very young age, being a toddler then, I learned how to pray piously because not only I was taught by my parents but we always do it in school. I was enrolled in a fundamental baptist school, though most of its pupils were like me, a Roman Catholic, I was exposed to prayers and opening my heart to the Holy Spirit, to Jesus and surrendering to Him everything though I barely knew then what it actually meant but, mind you, it was my stepping stone to building a stronger bond with God. Ever since then, I would always pray before I go to sleep so God will save me from nightmares and as years go by, I eventually learned to say a prayer every morning when I wake up, basically thanking Him for my new life, pray for my families, relatives, friends and even strangers. I read the scriptures from time to time and always, I would learn a lot from it. So to follow the legacy bestowed upon me, I am hoping that someday, I, too would be sending my off-springs to Catholic schools, it matters a lot.
4. You can't hurry love, you just have to wait. LSS from an old song, You can't Hurry Love. If you are looking for the right man, be the right woman. Simple as that, no need to elaborate.
5. Do not regret. You were once happy making that decision. As always heard, you learn with your mistakes, with your choices no matter how silly and stupid it was. 
6. Experience teaches us more than what we learn in school. Theories will always be just theories. You need to work in order to expand your knowledge, in order to apply what you have learned and in order to be more efficient in the real world. 
7. Lastly, for now, always remember the basic moral values, those things we learned at home, we learned from our GMRC (Good Manners and Right Conduct) and from our other religious education subjects. Do not be misled by the modern world. Keep in mind that not all things accepted by the society is good. Not all that shines like gold are gold either. The virtues we learned when we were still kiddos should always be the virtues we have to live by, and live with. Be silly at times but never neglect the essence of being modest and moral at the same time. 

I still have a very long way to go, God's will of course, and I am not even sure if I will be remembering all these stuff I am mentioning right now but with God's guidance, I am certain everything will be just fine.

As I have continued to write this one, my birthday passed already. Got caught up with other matters and I sort of left this blog for a while. I have been changing decisions like a switch turning it on and off almost everyday and I feel like the line bordering my dreams and my comfort is getting thicker. Ouch.

My birthday cake from Figaro by my sister dearest :)

Viell Turning One

While I am waiting for the water dispenser to heat up for my milk, I am once again watching the video I created with Windows Movie Maker for one of my goddaughter who is turning one this Monday, February 27, 2012. 

Viell was born to a mother just the same age as I am and while I was compiling the clips, I was thinking how wonderful it might really be, to have an offspring, a child who bears exactly the genes of their folks passed from generation to generation. Of course it's sort of too early to think about such things considering I am still on the verge of my career's take off and I am still starting my post grad studies which reminds me of the numerous stuff still pending, nevertheless, I know I have to deal with them sooner, but anyway, yes, a lot of my friends, colleagues of the same age bracket are now having their own families and enjoying the fruits of their early labors and watching their offsprings break their legs and learn. They look happy and they seem really happy, well then, maybe they are really happy and fulfilled with what they are doing, having to carry their babies with pride, feeding them, go shopping with them, sounds cool, but really can't imagine that with me.

Making this video for Viell, it felt like having watched her evolved from an innocent little darling to an amazing princess always loved, cared, nurtured, spoiled and comforted. Since I have resigned from the company where Viell's dad is currently working, I haven't seen Viell for quite sometime already, three months to be exact and seeing the pictures her dad sent and her mom requested to be included really amazed me, her achievements as a little princess, her progress and her wit and glamour taking into places with her growth. Every child is indeed an angel and Viell will never be an exception. It might be too early to tell but I can see a brilliant kid growing up, a smart and witty princess. Prayers, hopes and wishes goes to you my dear, may you find success in every endeavor you may want to pursue, and for me, only time can tell when and how will I ever enjoy the sweet victory of seeing a little me but definitely it will be later, when God knows I am ready, in all aspect involving it.

Sharing now the video I created, just a simple chronological presentation of Viell's growth, achievements and fun. I have included the music of a Happy Birthday Song by Nina since it's Viell's first birthday and her mom requested  the song, the Hercules Theme Song, I Can Go the Distance, because I personally like the song, the courage and determination to reach your goals and ambitions being implied and The Greatest Love of All by Whitney Houston because I just love its lyrics emphasizing the significance of children and our growth and being independent as well as courage to face endeavors as we continue to walk on the path of life.

新年快乐！

Image courtesy of 123Greetings

Kung Hei Fat Choi! I am not Chinese and as far as our family history is concerned, our bloodlines is not connected with Chinese. I am neither celebrating Chinese New Year nor will be indulging into Chinese traditions but I find myself wearing red shirt and white with pink prints pajama right now. hahaha. I am off to sleep in a while and I remember yahoo headlines for a few days now regarding 2012 Predictions. Read a few lines and pondered. I remembered having passed by a huge print of 2012 predictions in SM Cebu. Rabbit was said to be lucky this year and I can barely recall the details. Early of January, one of Bandila's segment featured the well-known Feng Shui expert Marites Allen and all I remember was that the Rabbits romance and love aspect in life is favorable this year. I also remember her mentioning about the favorable change of work in February or March which actually made me smile while watching because I was then planning to transfer to another structural firm. If I'd have to make it such a big deal, what I read in yahoo was a little bit different from the sources I have mentioned, and I just realized now that I have to ward off this feeling of somehow depending on luck and predictions. Credits to Feng Shui masters who never fail to remind people the importance of hard work, perseverance and choices. I believe there are no better way to reach your goals but by working hard for it, and of course praying and having a deeper faith to the Lord. Nevertheless, I will be wearing a combination of pink blouse and white pants on my first day of work next week. Not that I have read it from Yahoo's 2012 Predictions, but more so because I feel comfortable and well poised with it. haha. Anyway, I am saving 2012 Horoscope for the Rabbit but believe it or not, I haven't read it totally between the lines because I think this is way vague and absurd, besides, I still strongly believe that hard work really pays. Okay, I am bias, I know, because if I read something like I'd be lucky, I'd go for it and it would actually create a clever smile in me. hahaha. So for this, naaaah, (from astrology.com).

Overview

True, the Dragon's pace isn't as comfortable as that of the Rabbit. And yes, this year could be a bit more challenging for you than the last one. But come on, you're looking at seven favorable months! You'll have plenty of opportunities to do what you want and go where you like -- and be successful while you're at it. For now, it's all about timing. Pick your spots, plan celebrations, make big trips and start new projects during your favorable months. And when the unfavorable ones roll around, head for the comfort of your Rabbit hole, where you can avoid risk, spend time with the people you trust the most, and be comfortable with the old while waiting to start the new.

Career

Oh boy. The Dragon is always tempting everyone to make big changes and take huge leaps ... but this really isn't the time for you to follow in his footsteps. Things will shift and change a whole lot in 2012, so your job will be to find steady ground and hang on for dear life. Stay within your areas of expertise. Do what you're good at and what will generate the most money. Don't implement any big business ideas or career moves just yet; if you insist on doing so, wait until your lucky months to make changes. Persistent effort should pay off.

Relationships

Are you on edge about your love life? Indeed, Dragon years have that type of effect. For you, the Dragon's passion and impulsiveness are a little unnerving, as you prefer when people are calm and act rationally. Luckily, Water gives relationships a boost by helping with communication. The good news is the Dragon favors marriage and celebrations. Do you hear wedding bells? This could be your year to take the big leap into love. If you're single, 2012 could be a roller coaster of interesting dates and several different relationships. Be cautious about professing your love right away -- the Dragon loves passion, but it can be fleeting. Hang on tightly and try to enjoy the ride!

Health

It's possible your nervous tendencies could be heightened this year, so make sure you take care of yourself and your mental state. The Dragon's devil-may-care attitude probably makes you quiver; you can also expect others to act slightly crazy and unpredictable. Make time for quiet introspection and ensure your home is a place of refuge. If you have the energy, take up a high-intensity activity such as Bikram yoga or marathon-running. Channel nervous energy into healthy outlets, and keep an eye on your nutrition. After all, the Dragon tends to overdo it and indulge.

Wealth

You probably don't need any warnings about your finances -- after all, you certainly have a way with money. If you can remain savvy about your finances, you might even do well this year -- that is, if you're able to avoid the Dragon's influence for big risks and impulsive purchases. It could be tempting to make costly home upgrades or book an expensive vacation. Use your lucky months for any necessary big spending, but don't go crazy with it.

Happy Birthday to a Dear Friend

For everything that we've been through,

For all the laughter and giggles we once shared,

Thank you!

Happy Happy Birthday Tines!

You've been so good you deserve nothing but the best among the bestest!

God bless you always, and may you continue to

be just the Tiny we know.

You're simplicity, kindness, wit and glamour is more than just an epitome!

mwaaahhh mwaaaahh

Sending lots of love and warm wishes from the Pearl of the Orient Seas

to the Land of the Rising Sun!

Image Courtesy of http://burburchan.wordpress.com/2011/04/10/happy-birthday-tiny/

A greeting sent through email to a very dear friend.

Composed it here so that I won't be having a hard time attaching the whole thing

in my email.

I don't own the pics and very much thankful to google.

Love

I have always been a hopeless romantic. Ever since I knew what crushing means.haha. I remember I was still in my first grade then when my classmate told me she knew I had a crush on someone, and I was like, what does crush mean? From that day forward, the word has always been a part of my silly days. nyahaha. Was I crushing too early? LOL I grew up admiring people, not that I spent my whole quarter life looking for some good-looking prince charming or stalking but then it became a part of my silly side which spiced up my life a bit extreme I should say. I learned to read novels, romantic novels at an early age, then moved on to suspense-thriller but still with love involved when I reached high school. Even when I got used to reading and following the series of Harry Potter, I'd always wished Harry to find his perfect princess. I have always believed in fairy tales, happy endings, love stories to last a life time. I have always believed in love. I have had my fair share of pains and tears and dreams before someone swept off my feet in 2004. That was it. I never thought it would be love. Oh, the magic of the word itself. Was I that lucky? I was blessed, with a man who respects me in a way I never even dreamed of. As the Princess Diaries said, he saw me when I was invisible. Yes, he was there crushing on me and realizing my worth when everyone else were dreaming of their own happy endings. He just saw me as the way I would want a man to see me. Exactly. I believed in his sincerity, his undying love and his well-expressed emotions. In a generation where perfect men are nowhere to be found, I have found the perfection in him. Seven years was quite long but I would love to have it longer than a lifetime. So here's a classic song that always reminds me of how it feels to be enchanted with the magic of love when finally, someone swept off my feet on the 18th of December 2004.

New Year Tradition, the simple way

13 fruits on the table

something long and sticky spaghetti and sweetened malagkit rice/biko
and lots of pork, no chicken :)

chocolates for the sweets

red wine as always, plus cranberry juice

fish for a healthy lifestyle, to balance the meat haha

planner to track down events and appointments

the email gift

Christmas

At Christmas, all roads lead home.

-Marjorie Holmes

Flying home. From Cebu to Tacloban with love. full of love. <3

red red wine! 

I arrived home around 7:00 in the evening already on the 24th. Five hours before our traditional Noche Buena. I was thankful enough that the plane was on time. We landed on Tacloban National Airport 3:30pm, and a close friend fetched me and dropped me off in Duptours Terminal. A long ride home, 2 hours land trip from Tacloban to Ormoc City. I had my luggage with me and I was really tired but the spirit of Christmas was still giving me hope to reach home. I was more than blessed that day, a safe and sound travel, I knew then I was being a taught a lesson. Whew.

 

A Christmas gift email. 

For next year's another road to trail on.

Remembering Jesus' birthday, I thank Him for all the blessings,

and of course, my safe and thrilling arrival.

Still stuck here. :(

It's almost Christmas and in a few hours we will be having our family Noche Buena at home and here I am still stuck in our pad in Cebu. I was supposed to go home yesterday, supercat at 4:40 pm but I was not able to catch up. Apparently, it left on time and it was my fault because I had my last-minute shopping for gifts and pasalubong plus the traffic which was very much expected this time of the year, and so when I arrived in Pier 4, the guard refused to let me in and declared the vessel was already for boarding. I had no choice but to go to the ticketing area hoping that I could still reschedule for today but obviously all trips today were fullybooked already few days ago. Weesam was also fullybooked as well as all other vessels including those destined for other towns in Leyte. I was desperate. I could not imagine spending my Christmas away from my family, and alone in my pad. No way. So I went to SM, left my luggage in Traveler's Lounge. I had to make sure, so I searched for a ticketing agency for planes. When I arrived in Skyliner, I was informed that the one and only flight for Tacloban today was fullybooked too. I was hopeless but I kept praying and waited for my priority number. Thankfully, before my number was called, I was informed again that there are still available tickets for Cebu Pacific Flight for Tacloban today at 3:10PM. Whew! Then I was thinking of the vhire afterwards, if there will still be trips from Tacloban to Ormoc upon my arrival. That would be around 4:00pm already. I have to endure around 2 hours or more to reach home. Oh God be with me. I really need to be home. Crossing fingers for now. :)