Keep a current picture of your husband in your wallet. It is one of those things he will delight in knowing you do. Just make sure he thinks it’s a flaterring picture.

In a while, I will visit my grandmother. I feel so guilty not being able to visit her lately. I promise my self that I will do that today. She is already old and not in good condition. I wanted to buy her something that she likes. But she got diabetes and she likes sweets. I could not buy her that. Should I buy her some medicare supplements? I don’t think so. She’d get furious. OK, I think I will buy her fruits. I think that would work. I hope. As I’m writing this post, I am silently saying a prayer for her. May she live her life to the fullest till she can finally say it’s over. Love you Mie! (I call her that.)

My friend was complaining about acne on her face. There was a single acne scar that was left on her left cheek. She felt it’s going to stay there forever. I know there is an acne scar removal that could help her with it. But while its still there, our temporary solution to it is to color it with black eyeliner so it would look like a mole. Of course that was a joke. My point there is, it’s just a scar and you are still you. That’s what matters. Stay beautiful inside.

I admire how people can eat too much and yet they don’t get fat. I know of a friend who eats like there is no tomorrow. But when you look at her, she looks so fit. She seems not to worry at all at what she eats. I know she exercises. I bet she does not need to take a phentermine diet pill. I wish I had that discipline and passion to stay and look fit.

Keep the house clean and organized. This will help everyone, including you. (It also gives you a great excuse to go to the container store!) My husband is the neat freak in the family, so nothing makes him happier than to walk into a clean, picked-up, organize, smooth running house. I love to be clean; it’s just that I scatter things here and there like a kid. When asked where something belongs my usual reply is, “Wherever you put it, that’s where it goes.” If it makes him happy, gals, do it yourself-or sneak in a maid.

As a mother of young children, it is always your concern to be with them while they are sill young for they will only be young once. Once they will become teenagers, it would be a different phase of motherhood already. But if you are a working mother like me, sometimes there would be some sacrifices that you would make especially when you will be torn between work and family. You got have a well work-life balance. But it does not wok all the time. Just like last weekend when I had to leave my kids behind because I had to attend a conference. If work calls for it there is nothing that you can really do. I felt so bad when I received the email from my boss. But I could not say no to that. Sometimes I wish that I have travel trailers so I can just drag my entire family with me wherever I go. I hope one day, when my kids could come across this post, they would understand why mama can’t be home at times not because she wants to but because she has to. Though this does not happen all the time, but I can’t contain the feeling that I was not with them last weekend when they were suppose to bond with me because they are off from school. Life is like that I know.

I really could not get over the idea that I will lose the 14 day challenge. In our workplace, we were challenged to loose at least 4lbs in 14 days. We were given a diet plan plus the low fat low calorie food itself for free. After all those eating last weekend I have this great feeling that I will loose the challenge. I wish there is a diets for quick weight loss so at least when I go back to have my weight check after 14 days, I can tell him I kept up to the challenge.

Coming from our Management Strategic Planning last Saturday until yesterday afternoon I know I gained a lot of those unwanted calories. Plus when I got home, my friends went out to eat at AA’s Grill to celebrate the success of my friend Louie who passed the recent nursing board exam. When I woke up today, I felt so heavy with all those eating since Saturday. I am tempted already to take ephedra diet pills. Can I?

If you are not a good cook, take lessons! It’s true: the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.

When he gets sick and has to stay in bed, be there at his side as much a possible. Let him hear you whisper a prayer for him.

This is the first time I went to plantation bay… I could not go home and not tour all around the Resort.  The resort was so big that you could not go around it walking…You could ride their cart or the “calesa”… We chose to ride the latter…It was a fun experience because ever since I was a child it always thrills me to ride in a “calesa” as we call it here in the Philippines…

Enjoying it so much…

That’s me…My friend Michelle took this shot (we have the same name)… I kind of directed her to make this shot…But it was a great experience being able to be in a 5 star resort here in Cebu…Another place I always wanted to be…( I came back here and was here three times already on different occasions…)

What is Romance really?

Romance: -came from the word Romans, which comes from French literature based chiefly on legend; chivalric love; adventure; supernatural or fiction love story…

-mark by the imagination or the emotional appeal of heroic, mysterious or idealized. Denotes to something that is unreal, impractical and imaginary; no basis in fact; impractical conception, product of emotions and our unwanted feeling or passion, sentimental or imaginative feelings of being in a love affair with our own Romeos…

So where does Romance come from?

It came from the world…centers on external trappings; perpetuates a sentimental aspect of a relationship; or deception…One concrete example of this is TV, Movies, Music. So does this mean that we do not watch TV or Movies anymore? Of course not…But what I am saying is TV and Movies makes us dream of our own Romeos and compare our partners with those that we see in the movies…Why can’t you give me flowers? Why will you not treat me out to an expensive dinner? Why can’t you give me a diamond? Even if we do not actually say it, we ask ourselves these questions…Thus this would make us feel insecure, discontented and compare our partner with others and end up dissatisfied and in the end trapped in an unhappy relationship… Music- we like to listen to sad, tragic songs if we feel down…I wonder why we always want these type of songs if we are sad…Why cant we listen to happy upbeat songs if we are blue? Why can’t we dance and just spin around and around… because these songs are made to even make us savor our sadness, our emptiness and our pain…so why not listen to happy songs instead?

It came from our flesh…So what does this mean? It means we dream more of the tall, dark & handsome Romeos. We dream about them sometimes fantasize about them…Not just women but men as well. They dream of that sexy blond chick in their two-piece… What about the not sexy blond chick? Do men dream about them? I doubt…but for all we know, they are loyal, supportive, understanding and all positive adjectives we could describe her… I don’t say that being beautiful is bad because there are some woman born beautiful inside and out…What I am saying here is sometimes, it’s our flesh that dictates us to be Romantic…

It came from temptation…is this a sin? A big NO! I say temptation because it corrupts people mind of what real love is…Real love does not compare, does not judge but just love…Pure love…That’s just it…Not Romance but LOVE is what matters…if we have this we make this Journey a Beautiful one…

Dear Daddy,

I thank God for you.  I am so blessed to have you as my father and I would not trade you for a million dollar.  Your abounding love cannot be comprehended.  All the hard works you have done to provide for me, no man can exceed.  All those good traits and Christian values I got from you, no man can take.  I want the whole world to know that I am proud to be your child.  You were always there for me.  When my heart breaks, your comfort is there to ease the pain.  When my mind fails, your encouragement is there to give hope.  When I can seem to do anything right, your helping hand is there to make the loads easy.  For the so many wonderful things you have done for me that made me who I am now, I thank you.

I am aware that life is not always on good weather, because sometimes things would just turn out the way we never dreamed to happen.  I want to say sorry for all the not so good times that came, I contributed to it.  I am sorry for the many times I have taken for granted your discipline.  For those times, I was not appreciative of your presence and ignored all of your efforts to make me happy.  Sometimes, I am carried away by the seductive lures of the world that often led me to temptation.  I have hurt you so much, but I am aware that sometimes you just try not to show it.  I am sorry for being rebellious with your teachings and do things my own way knowing that when I fail, you will always be there to pull me through.  For the abusive acts, that I do to disappoint you and the hurtful ways I have done that breaks your heart.  I am sorry.

I want you to know that oftentimes I may not seem thankful, but deep inside I am.  I just hide it because I am shy to admit that most of the time   you are right and you know what is best for me.  I am regretful for hurting you many times, because I do it out of selfishness.  Though I may not say it everyday, though I may not show it all the way, no one can stop me now and nothing can prevent me to Thank You.  Though oftentimes I would fail and hurt you, don’t ever convince yourself that I don’t love you but it’s just because I am still young and I still have a lot of things to learn.  Hoping you will continue to support me as I learn a new lesson each day, explaining to me the how’s and why’s of life and continue to share with me not only my joys but above all the low moments, which during these times, I‘d greatly need you.  I pray that God would give you and me a long life shred with laughter, tears and prayers.

Love,

Your child

note:  this really is not a letter I sent to my dad..This is a piece that a wrote for “Best Father’s Day Letter” writing contest.. Just want to post it since it did not win the contest…

Playful

In BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY’s last post, I gave the meaning of Romance.  I know there will still be many questions about it.  I will try my best to expound the topic even more…

Now that we know the real meaning of Romance, next question would be…Is it bad?

Romantic feelings are emotions.  All emotions are part of our character, which means it is not bad.  Like all other emotions in should be within our control.  It should include appropriate time to give in to certain emotions.  Learn not to listen to the tags of romantic feelings.  Put it in proper prospective.  No one has ever died of not experiencing romance.  We are not suppressing romantic feelings but a matter of controlling it.  LOVE is the substance of A BEAUTIFUL LIFE and not Romance.

How can I master Romantic feelings?

1. Guard your heart –concentrate on desires that will keep you on the right track.  Guard what you see, hear or speak.  So if mind tells you that your partner is boring because he never gives you gifts, then try to count the things that he is good at.  He may have been very good in verbally admiring how you look and it makes you feel good hearing that compliment.  But you just took it for granted because you think perfect relationship would be measured on material things given and taken.  This is what I mean by guiding your heart.  You can always control it…
2. Put boundaries on your desire-do not pamper your self.  Control/discipline yourself.  This would be hard but I would say, crucify yourself with its passions and desires.  Everything that has to do with the flesh… I want a ring, I want to eat, I want to have a vacation, I want to be caressed every single day… You will never be satisfied if you always want, want and want.
3. Express your feelings- if you want something to be done then say it.  Do not let your partner guess.  If you wanted to be treated out on a weekend, then ask it.  Do not accuse your partner of being unromantic because he never has thought about it… If you want a ring, say it…Because if your partner really loves you then what you are asking, he would certainly find a way to give it.  Please do not interpret this with being demanding.   Demanding is asking and really expecting something to be done.  Asking is just expressing what you want and wait for an answer or a response or an action.

If we can master this, then it would not be too hard to make yourself happy…Because happiness is a choice!

I have a crush… we hear this a lot… but how many of us really know the difference between crush and admiration?

Here is the difference:

Crush- admiring somebody you hardly know because of a certain talents, abilities or good looks; it is a desire to have a relationship with the person…Take not of the word desire. It is born out of attraction…

Admiration- has no emotional attachment involved.  You admire the person because of certain talent or physical feature but you do not have any desire to have a relationship with the person…

Now that we know the difference, what next?  Courtship?  What is really the purpose of having a relationship?  Purpose of courtship for me is eventual marriage and not just a trial and error thing… the more tries, the more heartbreaks.  So if you have no feelings for the person you are involved in, it might be an indication that you are not meant for each other.  If you pity the person, you do not really feel any love for him/her.  So how do we know if we love the person?  You will know…It does not have any formula.  You will just know…I could not expound what really is love… It is such a simple word but there is a lot of meaning to it… If I am to describe it my way, it is giving without expecting anything in return. Giving so much until it hurts and yet you do not stop… It is unconditional… It is does not have rules… It simply is Beautiful!

Being beautiful is important.  What is real beauty?  Do you know that inner beauty attracts more than Physical beauty?  It is true according to surveys.  There was a survey conducted to men in all lifestyles.

These are what men looks for in a woman

1.Femininity – a woman who really shows the difference between the two opposite sex.  A woman who acts like a woman.

2.Affirmation – a woman who is supportive and affirms people as people and not as her subordinates.

3.Encouragement – a woman who says things that builds up and not tears down.

4.Sensitivity – a woman who is selfless and always thinks on others.  A woman who is not trying hard to please anybody.

5.Content – a woman who is not greedy, not overly vain, peace loving and a woman who seldom complains.

6.Tender – a woman who is calm and gentle.

7.Secure – a woman who is god-fearing and shows trusts in God.

8.Can handle adversity – a woman who is strong, courageous and most of all not a clingy vine.

9.Maternal – a woman who is a good mother or has a quality of being motherly.

10.Kind to everyone – a woman who is kind to all people in general.  She does not need to be good looking but kind.

11.Feels good about herself – a woman who enjoys life, not unduly concern on how to please others.

12.Not easily offended – a woman who has an easy way of passing minor injustices and does not overlook faults.

13.Not comparative – a woman who enjoys the success of others, does not given to greed, envy and jealousy

So are you beautiful?

In my last post in Beautiful Journey, I talked about things that make you beautiful in the inside.  Now, I fund out that there are 3 things men don’t like their woman to have…They are if you are selfish, complaining and lack of affection.  Remember that external beauty has nothing to do with the success and failures of a relationship.  Be beautiful inside your heart and develop inner beauty.  What are the kinds of Beauty that you need to develop?

You need:

Spirit Beauty – it simply means righteousness.  Fear of the Lord, a clean spirit and heart.  I am not asking you to be a saint. But if you can be, then why not?  Seriously, sin can make the spirit ugly.  Wickedness can really change your look.  Do you notice in movies?  Wicked people usually look ugly.  The purer you will be the radiant you will become.  Rebellious disposition is repulsive.  Anger, harsh words, shouting and ungentle manners can really make you look ugly not just internally but in the outside as well.  If you are angry, try to look at yourself in the mirror and you will know why I said so.

Soul Beauty – this means peace.  Peace will contribute on the beauty of a person.  Seek after wisdom.  Remember that only God can replenish your soul.  Peace in your heart makes life beautiful for those around you as well.  Have a calm and gentle disposition.  If are, you do not need makeovers for you to be noticed.  Trust me.  It works!

Heart Beauty – make it a habit to SMILE!  There is no substitute for a glad heart. Lightheartedness and joy is an experience of gratitude.  Be thankful in every circumstance always.  Instead of complaining, thank the Lord instead for every experience is a learning opportunity.  Bad habit is hard to break and so are good ones.  If you make it a habit to be grateful always, then it would be hard not be grateful every time.  Human beings are never consistent.  That is why we need to develop a habit of being gratitude.   Be a smile maker.

To sum it all, PEACE, CONFIDENCE, CONTENTMENT & GODLY SPIRIT truly makes a woman beautiful!

Everywhere you go, you will always have an enemy.  May you be at home, work or in school?  Enemies may not be physical or verbal when they are fighting you.  Even those people whom you think are your friends can also be your enemy.  Those people who talk behind your back are your enemy.  A person who even says good things to you just because they do not want to embarrass you is your enemy.  They deprived you of a chance to improve by lying to you.  People who secretly envy you can also be your enemy.  You may not know it, but they are praying to see you fall and are anxiously waiting for it.  However, the worst kind of enemy a person can get is when people say bad things in front of you.  People who are insulting you intentionally.  People who call you names.  Those bully in school for example.  How do we fight back?  How do we win over them?  I have heard this somewhere and before… “The best weapon to fight and enemy is SILENCE”.  Do you think this is effective? I do not know because I have never been in a situation wherein I was insulted or being called names on my face.  However, if a time will come that it will happen, at least I am ready with a weapon.  Your silence can kill your enemy.  Because if you will not fight back, they get irritated because you did not give in to what they want and that is to fight.  They lose the challenge because they cannot be a challenger because you refuse to play their game.  Therefore, they end up a LOSER

One of the things that make people unhappy is if they are not satisfied with what they have or what they are. However, few people know that being happy is possible. All you have to do is just be contented with what you have or who you are. What is the secret of contentment? A grateful heart is the secret of contentment.

What are the barriers of contentment?

1. Bitterness – when you hold grudges, you will never be happy. If you are bitter because your boss chose to promote somebody else instead of you, if you are bitter because your best friend has more suitors than you, if you are bitter because you don’t have the latest gadgets. You will never ever be contented.
2. Envy – one of the 10 commandments is “Though shall not covet your neighbor’s goods” It is self-explanatory. Not only it is a sin, it ruins your happiness because you always consider yourself a loser because you do not have what others have.
3. Wants – you are having too many ambitions. Some even impossible ambitions. You always end up failing because you never stop. Ambitions are good if you aspire for things that are reachable and possible.

Yes, it is hard not to have these things above. We are not saints. We are not mutants and most of all we are not robots. If we seek possible sources to be contented and control bitterness, envy and wants, then why not try it.

So where do we get sources of Contentment?

1. Humility – real humility is right estimation of oneself. You do not have to pretend to be poor if you are not. Do not pretend to be dumb if you are not, just because you want to look humble. Do not prove your selves to others. Let others find it out themselves.
2. Gratitude- contentment starts with a grateful heart as I have said. Always and always count your blessings and never count things that you have not.
3. Devotion – always have constant communication to your god. If you are a Christian, pray. If you are a Catholic then hear mass.

So what is in it for us if we are contented? It is simple. If we are contented then we have:

1. Joy – taste the fruit of gratitude. Have you tried what real joy is? Start to be grateful.
2. Simplicity – when you reduce your wants to simplicity, then you are rich.
3. Confidence – you will not have any insecurity because you are contented.

Now who would not want any of these?

As I was rummaging my old stuff, I cam across some notes on a public speaking course and seminar I have attended in the past.  Not because I am, a speaker or I have a desire to be.   I attended this because I know I am able to apply the things that I will learn one way or another in the future.  I would want to share this to you.  This may be applicable if you are a student and your teacher will assign you to report on a certain topic.  This is also applicable if you are a teacher, especially to Elementary and Secondary schools because your audience there is mostly restless.  In addition, most of all, this is applicable if you are working.  Your boss might assign you to present a deck of action plans, skip levels and more. Hopes this helps.

INTRO SUGGESTIONS in your talk:

1. Humorous Anecdote- whenever you make people laugh, you make them feel good.  If you think that, you do not have a sense of humor, done worry.  We have, Google search, Yahoo search, Bing and all.  If you make people laugh, there are hormones that the body will release which brings a natural painkiller called endorphins.
2. Make an illustration related to your topic
3. Make a series of thought provoking questions.
4. Reference a music, occasion or a past or possible problem
5. Make an interesting description of your topic
6. Make a starting statement of fact or opinion
7. Ask a rhetorical question- ask a question that does not demand an answer
8. Have a quotation
9. Research on a list of statistics
10. Use visual aids.

EFFECTIVE CONCLUSION:

1. End with a quotable quote
2. Give a dynamic challenge
3. Give a plan of action
4. Give a though-provoking question
5. Have a summary of the main points
6. Make a summary of a personal intention
7. Have a Key story- it should contain the main idea of your talk

MORE TIPS ON ENDINGS:

1. Don’t put a new idea in your endings
2. Conclusions need not be long
3. Avoid false endings
4. Deliver your final sentence with confidence and finality, then stop

RAPPORT OBJECTIVES:

1. Capture attention
2. Created a warmth between you and your audience
3. Surface needs of the group
4. Introduces subject or theme

Rapport                -should be used a grabber

- must be well though of

- grabber should be followed by transitional statements

-should be a good ending

a. must bring the substance of the speech into focus

b. must leave the audience in a proper mode

c. must convey a sense of completeness and finality

Testimony:

Definition: Witness; evidence; proof of some fact.

Things to do before you give a Testimony.

1. Prepare a theme
2. Make an outline
3. Give details
4. Consider your audience- get to know what kind of audience you have and center your theme on your audience.  If they are yuppies then make sure they can relate to your theme, and if they are teens then create some themes that can capture their attention.

Things to Avoid:

1. Do not criticize-never criticize other people in your talk; never compare yourself with others especially if the audience knows the person you are comparing with.
2. Do not paint a beautiful picture of a perfect life, a perfect way out and easy challenges to your audience.
3. Don’t dwell too much on the past
4. Don’t speak in general
5. Do not use words that people cannot understand.

SAMPLE OUTLINE:

Introduction/Grabber (1-2 minutes)

-use this to establish rapport to your audience

-introduce your theme

Past (2-5 minutes)

-pick out two or three anecdote

-Choose any experience that would back-up your team

Renewal (2minutes)

-how you came to know or discover your current actions

-doubts and struggles and challenges as you were doing your action

Result (7-10 minutes)

-who you are now

-what the action did to you

-two to three illustration

Conclusion (1 minute)

-encourage your listeners

-invite them

What are the kinds of fear?

1. Fear of the unknown
2. Fear of making mistakes
3. Fear of rejection

Solution lies on the root of the fear: YOU

STEPS TO DISPELL FEAR

1. Be prepared for the unknown – make notes if you are doing a speech, write the page numbers, write it on the side of the paper and be physically and mentally prepared.  Know what your are about to say/sing/orate/dance
2. Be an expert on your topic/song if you are singing/memorize steps if you are dancing.
3. Relax- take a deep breath
4. Rehearse- verbally rehearse and avoid memorizing and reading manuscripts if you are a doing a speech.  Importantly, do your homework.  If you do, it will make you confident.
5. Observe-take a pointer, but do not be a carbon copy.  Know what works with your audience.
6. Use the microphone well- don’t blow the mike and adjust the distance of the mike
7. Get the audience involved-let them repeat power phrases.  Move around the stage.
8. Be calm during tough situations- don’t let the situation disrupts the things you do.  If a person asks a hostile question during your talk, rephrase it in a positive form.  If there are disruptive people in your audience, give eye contact to the person.  Do not be intimidated.  In addition, during your talk, if crowd is noisy, talk in a lower voice.

OTHER TIPS

1. Never begin with an apology
2. Start from where your audience is, and not from where you are
3. Refer to the message of other speakers/performers
4. Affirm the other speakers/performers personally and publicly
5. Preach what you practice
6. Exercise your talents.

The X-Factor of a Dynamic Talk

Dynamic means –mark by energy, vigor or forceful

The X-Factor:  your integrity

1. Be yourself- don’t be somebody you are not, speak from the heart and with authority
2. You don’t have to experience it for you to be able to effectively give a dynamic talk because of the authority of your talk
3. You have to be honest
4. Profess it through speech, actions and your eyes
5. Look at audience with sincere love and compassion, and look at individuals

Are you hurt one way or another?  Do you easily get hurt? Are you dealing with hurt feelings?  Then this is for you…In life we are hurt one way or another.  I was hurt and sometimes I get hurt.  In my own little way, I want to share on how to ease your hurt.  I would want others to do that to me as well.  Let me start on describing the physical evidence of hurt…Bruise, tears, blood clotting, wounds etc.  Some of the emotional evidence of hurt is bitterness, unforgiveness, resentment, self-pity etc.

Let me define some useful terms that we will encounter when we are hurting.

Hurt- is an evidence of spiritual decease.

Emotions- used to heal or nurture our hurt whichever we want to use our emotions for

Nurturing the hurt- you wanted others to pity you; you wanted others to pat you on the shoulder, etc.

Remember to deal with your hurt, and get rid of it.   It is a human nature for hurt to remain within us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and even a lifetime. So how do we handle hurt?

1. Natural Way (human way)
2. Spiritual way- it is a matter of putting our spirit over the flesh.   Do not become an emotional bookkeeper.  Base your forgiveness by faith and not by feelings.  As you begin to forgive, healing takes place.  Deny and reject old feelings, believe that you have been healed.  You have to be spiritually strong for you to be able to deal with your hurt.  Build up your spirit.  Hurt can be looked up positively, it can transform a person.
3. Forget about yourself- self-denial is the first lesson of discipline.  If you do not know how to deny yourself, the road to life will be very bumpy for you.  It should be God first, others next and you last.  Give, give, and do not demand anything.  Love is all giving.  In addition, the basis of self-abandonment is to simply trust.

We are not trying to be a martyr here.  What we are trying to do is to get rid of hurt and that is the only way that we can do without adding additional hurt along the way.  Getting even is never the answer. Getting even can even hurt you more.  Believe me, it came from first hand experience. And when I tried to do these, it eased the hurt.  Scars are always there, but then those scars are needed as a reminder to make that hurtful experience make you a better person.  And looking back, it does not hurt that much.

An angel says, “Never borrow from the future.  If you worry about what may happen, you have worried in vain. Even if it does happen, you have to worry twice.”

1. Pray
2. Go to bed on time
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed
4. Say NO to projects that will not fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others
6. Simplify and uncluttered your life
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many)
8. Allow extra time to do things and to go into places
9. Pace yourself.  Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time. Don’t lump all the hard things together.
10. Take one day at a time
11. Separate worries from concerns.  If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have to do and let go of the anxiety.  If you can’t do anything about a situation, forget it
12. Live within your budget.  Don’t use credit cards for ordinary purchases
13. Have backups, an extra key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in your garden, extra money hidden in a cabinet compartment
14. K.M.S (Keep Mouth Shut)  This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble
15. Do something for the kid in you everyday
16. Carry a book with you to read while waiting in line.  A Bible is not that bad.
17. Get enough rest
18. Eat right
19. Get organized so everything has it’s place
20. Write down thoughts and inspiration
21. Everyday, find time to be alone
22. Having problem? Talk to God on the spot.  Try to nip small problems in the bud.  Don’t wait until it’s tome to go to bed to try and pray
23. Make friends with godly people
24. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures, quotes, proverbs on hand
25. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good “Thank you Lord”
26. Laugh
27. Laugh some more
28. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all
29. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can)
30. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most)
31. Sit on your ego
32. Talk less, listen more
33. Slow down
34. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe
35. Every night before bed, think of one thing you are grateful for that you have never been grateful for before.  God has a way of turning things around for you.  “If God is for us, who can be against us” (Romans 8:31)

When you run away from the challenges of life, you might be running away from your greatness as well.  The very challenges you are trying to escape might be the very means of your greatness.  Let us get to know Jonah. He is the one who was swallowed by a whale and live in the whale stomach for 3 days.  Do you remember him now?

The story goes when God said to Jonah one day. “Set out for the great city of Nineveh, preach against it; their wickedness has come up before me.  But what id Jonah do?   “But Jonah made ready to flee to Tarshish away from the Lord.  He went down to Joppa, found a ship going to Tarshish, paid fare, and went abroad to journey will them to Tarshish, away from the Lord.”  In short, Jonah went to the opposite way pronto!

Now let us put Jonah in our time and setting so we can understand how he might have felt.  Imagine God suddenly said to you, “Go to the malls and preach against materialism and worldliness.”  Just thinking of doing that might send shivers under your skin.  Just imagine what you would look like at the mall shouting, “Stop being materialistic!”  Most probably, people would think you are insane and call security to throw you out.  Jonah might have felt the same.  He might have thought what would happen to his reputation or to himself if he does what God called him to do.  So what happened to Jonah?

He got into trouble.  The height of it was when the boat he was sailing in was being tossed by waves.  Now here is the turning point of the story.  Jonah said.  “Pick me up and throw me into the sea that it may quite down for you; since I know it is because of me that this violent storm has come upon you.”  So what did Jonah do?  He forgot himself.  After he made this crucial decision of being selfless and putting others first, God placed Jonah in the road of his greatness.  A whale swallowed him up for three days and spew Jonah upon the shore.  Jonah then proceeded to Nineveh as God wanted.  There he preached repentance.  He preached s greatly than men and beast covered themselves with sackcloth and call loudly to God.

Now Jonah is remembered all through out history as one of the great prophets of the Old Testament.  Sometimes we are like Jonah, running away from what God wants us to do.  And like Jonah, the more we run away from God’s will, the more we into trouble.  We will be overcome by the storms and waves of life when we are away from God and His will.  If we value our reputation than our faithfulness to God, we will be missing out our greatness.  For our greatness, lies in God and His will for our lives.  What is God’s will?  Does it mean we have to preach?  No. We simply just choose the right things.  Telling the truth when we are tempted to lie.  Shutting up when we are tempted to fight.  Choosing what is moral.  We may not know it, but we are following God’s will if we make this choices and choose to live this kind of lifestyle.

So how do we find our greatness?  Do what Jonah did.  He forgot himself and placed God first.  He then proceeded on what God wanted him to do, even of he was afraid, even of it would cost him much.  So if we apply this to this world, It would cost us much because people would hate us if we report fraud and dishonesty on work, or returning lost things to the owner and stuff like that.  Simply doing what is right while other are not will cost our reputation.  But are we willing to do it?  Do not run away from the challenges of life.  For those very challenges is where you will find your greatness.  Just like Jonah!

This is one of my favorite song….I want to share this to everybody.  Below is the lyrics. Enjoy…

Home

by Michael Buble

Another summer day
Has come and gone away
In Paris and Rome
But I wanna go home
Mmmmmmmm

May be surrounded by
A million people I
Still feel all alone
I just wanna go home
Oh, I miss you, you know

And I’ve been keeping all the letters that I wrote to you
Each one a line or two
“I’m fine baby, how are you?”
Well I would send them but I know that it’s just not enough
My words were cold and flat
And you deserve more than that

Another aeroplane
Another sunny place
I’m lucky, I know
But I wanna go home
Mmmm, I’ve got to go home

Let me go home
I’m just too far from where you are
I wanna come home

And I feel just like I’m living someone else’s life
It’s like I just stepped outside
When everything was going right
And I know just why you could not
Come along with me
‘Cause this was not your dream
But you always believed in me

Another winter day has come
And gone away
In even Paris and Rome
And I wanna go home
Let me go home

And I’m surrounded by
A million people I
Still feel all alone
Oh, let me go home
Oh, I miss you, you know

Let me go home
I’ve had my run
Baby, I’m done
I gotta go home
Let me go home
It will all be all right
I’ll be home tonight
I’m coming back home

“What a day!” Tracy jumped into the bed without removing her clothes. She lay down facing the ceiling with arms stretch wide. She was smiling. “I love you and I will never leave you” kept ringing in her mind. She believed it with all her heart. She was just so happy that night because something happened to her and her boyfriend Kyle. They have been together for a month and this is the first time they slept together. She suddenly heard her sister knocking at the door. “May I come in?” Lorie said. Tracy did not answer. She was a little disappointed that her daydream was suddenly interrupted. In spite of the silence, Lorie proceeded to get in and walked straight to her bed and lay down beside her. Tracy, still not moving. Lorie said “I am so pissed today.” Realizing that Tracy was just silent, she moved her hand and slap Tracy in the lap without moving her entire body. “Ouch! What is wrong with you?” At last, Tracy said something. “You are so not here.” Lorie answered back. Tracy stood up and began taking her clothes off. Lorie still lying down. “This is the most amazing day in my life. Kyle and I”… and before she could finish her sentence, Lorie screamed…”Eeeey. You already”… “Ah huh”, Tracey interrupted her sister. Lorie jumped and hugged her sister. “I am so happy for you”…She even forgot the reason why she needed to talk to Tracy…

“What a day!” Tracy jumped into the bed without removing her clothes…After a month. Same scenario happened but this time, there was no smile in Tracy’s face but tears rolling over her eyes. She was delayed for two weeks already and she just did a frog test, which is positive. She is pregnant. “What would I tell mom?” She stood up and went to a table in the corner of her room. She got stationery and started writing a letter to her mom. After crumpling a few stationery, at last she finished her letter. She folded the paper placed it an envelope and labeled it “To Mom” She then stood up, went to her closet and started pulling her clothes from the hanger and started folding it. She placed it in her big black traveling bag. She took all her jewelry, placed it in a small sling bag, and throws it in the big bag. She is all packed and ready to go. She took the bag and went downstairs. Nobody was home yet. Both her mom and Lorie. So she just went straight out the door and called a cab. She placed her baggage at the rare compartment of the cab and then sat at the back of the driver and said, “Airport please”.

A few hours past, she was already riding a cab on her way to her Father’s ancestral home. She flew 45 minutes, ran away from her mom, and went to her dad’s hometown to face the most life changing experience anybody could have. “Pull over please.” She said. The cab driver helped her with her baggage and Tracy handed him the fare. She stood still until the cab was finally away. Realizing she was standing in the sidewalk, she sighed deeply, went straight to the door just a few steps from where she was standing, and rang the bell. Her dad was not home but her grandmother was there. She was the one who opened the door and surprised to see Tracy, she hugged her. She right away knew that something was wrong. It was so obvious in Tracy’s face. She did not dare ask her. Instead pretending not to notice, she smiled and helped Tracey with her baggage as she widely opened the door to give space to Tracy. Tracy then asked, “Granny, is Mitch here?” Granny said “she is in her room. You go to her while I will clean the vacant room for you. I will just call you when it is ready.” “Thanks Granny”, Tracy gave her grandmother a quick kiss in the cheek and went straight up headed to Mitch’s room. Mitch is her cousin, who also is living with her grandmother. She knocked at the door and waited for it to be opened. After a few seconds, she heard some clicking on the other side signaling that her cousin is already opening the door. As soon as the door was finally opened Tracy got in right away, went straight to Mitch’s bed and lay down as what she usually do in her room. “Hi” Mitch said looking puzzled at the same time happy to see her cousin. “Something is wrong, right? It has been years since you visited granny and now you just showed up and lay down on my bed without a word? Now speak”. Mitch jokingly but at the same time seriously demanded.

Tracy then started telling Mitch the whole story. From day one when she met Kyle until when she found out that, she was pregnant. She narrated how she fought with Kyle that morning since he was not yet ready for responsibility and told her upfront that he wants the baby aborted. But Tracy decided to keep the baby. The only problem she was facing now was her mom. How could she explain it to her that she is keeping the baby without a father? Her mom would really go nuts when she will find out. She warned her many times already that she do not want Tracy to end up like her. “It was so hard to raise kids without a father”. That is what her mom would always say. Tracy was still 3 years old when her mom and dad broke up. Good thing her father never lost contact with her and Lorie. But it was really her mother who sustained both of them financially. Her dad was and is still a bum. She really was a strong girl. She was firm with her decision in keeping the baby and moving in her dad’s hometown for good. As she was still talking and Mitch just silent listening to her, her phone rang. She looked at the phone screen and looked at Mitch, “its Lorie” she said. “I think she knows now”. So she clicked on “answer” and placed the phone on her ear but did not say anything. Lorie on the other line knew that Tracy was already there. “Why?” Lorie asked. Tracy just sighed. “Why Tracy?” Lorie asked again. “You do not have to leave. We can work it out. Mom always wants the best for us. She is angry right now and said she does not want to see you again. But I know that when you come home and just apologize, she would understand. You and Mom should talk.” There was a long pause. Then Tracy said, “Lorie, please understand. Just let me be for now. I will fix this mess soon. But just let me be for now. You take care of Mom. I love you. Bye.” And even Lorie could respond she put down the phone and turned it off.

Three months after, Tracy already got the hang of living a simple life. Totally opposite to her life when she was still staying with her Mom. Now, even buying a cereal for herself, she could not afford. Her jewelry was almost gone. She sold almost everything. The only thing that was left was a ring her Mom gave her on her 18th birthday. She had her pre-natal check ups at a public hospital. She did not take any vitamins for herself and the baby because she could not afford it. If she wants to eat something, she will just shove it off and wait for mealtime before she can eat. But she remained firm and dare not call her Mom or Lorie. The luxurious life she used to live is finally gone. One day as she was combing her hair, she noticed that she had a falling hair. She thought that was just it. But she thought wrong. The following day, she was playing with her other cousin’s 1 year old son. As she was playing “peek a boo” with the baby, the baby accidentally held her hair and when she tried to pull it out, she noticed that the baby had a handful of hair left in his hand. She was shocked and ran straight to her room and looked at herself in the mirror. There was already a white spot seen in her head. So she tried to pull her hair again, and true enough, she was able to get a handful as well. But there was no pain. Meaning, its not attached to the roots. Her hair was all falling off. After a few days, Tracy became bald. Giving up her luxurious life and now, she had to give up her beauty as well. Tracy was very beautiful. She was very popular in her school. She was a cheerleader back then. She had men gone crazy after dumping them. Not to mention by the way, that she had a very beautiful, shiny hair.

As she was staying with her grandmother, all she did was go to church, read the bible and pray. She could not work yet because nobody would hire her because she was a bald pregnant woman. People who do not know her would think that she has cancer. As days went by, she became closer and closer to God. And as her spirit became healthier, her body became weaker. On her 8th month of pregnancy, during her monthly pre-natal checkup, the doctor examining and measuring her abdomen height felt a lump in her stomach. The doctor touched it again and was 95% sure that it was a lump. So she recommended Tracy to have an Ultra sound. But having an Ultra sound was expensive. Tracy thought. So she had to make an excuse and told the doctor that she needs to go home and get money to pay for the Ultra sound. The doctor agreed. When Tracy got home, she went straight to her bedroom but this time did not lay down the bed like she used to, but immediately kneeled down and prayed. She cried but did not ask the Lord why? She prayed, “Lord, I know that I am a sinner. But I gave up everything just to be with you. I left my boyfriend because he wanted me to abort the baby, which I did not agree. I left my Mother and sister because I do not want to be burden to them. I know my mother hates me because of what I have done but I do not hate her back because she totally abandoned me. I go hungry because I do not have money to buy me food but would have to wait for whatever my Granny would serve, but you did not hear me complain. I went bald, but I never questioned you. A while ago, the doctor told me that she found a lump in my stomach. She told me that it could possibly be a cyst. If this would be confirmed, she had to operate me and will do a C-section so the baby would not be harmed and she would have to remove the lump. Lord, you know that I don not have money to pay for Ultra-sound; I do not have the money as well to pay the doctor if I have to go for an operation. Lord, I never asked you anything but strength. Now, I am begging you to lead me out through this test. You have emptied me already. Now its time for you to fill me again…”

Tracy went to Mitch’s room after an hour of prayer. She told Mitch everything. Mitch was the one who introduced Tracy to the Lord. She was the one who gave her a bible. She was the one who always accompany Tracy to her monthly pre-natal except that day because she had to do an errand for her Granny. When she heard the story, Mitch got up and told Tracy boldly. “Tracy, it is time to reap.” So she went with Tracy to the doctor. They were still early before the Ultra-sound lab would open. They waited at the lobby. Then Mitch overheard a young lady talking at a woman on the counter. The young lady said “Thank you. Thank you so much.” So Mitch stood up and went to see the woman at the counter. As she got nearer, she saw a small word in the counter label, which was a big word for her. “Charity”. She silently said “thank you Lord.” When she was already at the counter, the woman smiled and asked her “what can I do for you?” So Mitch asked the woman if she could help her cousin and told the woman about the situation. The woman then handed her a form, which Tracy should fill out. This was a Charity form. They will be given a “free laboratory tests” which included Ultra-sound and would cover doctor’s fee for that day. She told Mitch that Tracy could still get free consultation every check-up as long as she fills out the form every time she visits. Mitch only had 500 pesos. And when she checked the Ultra-sound fee, it was 500. But they don’t have to pay anymore. Just in time as soon as Tracy finished filling out the form, the laboratory opened. Since they were very early, she was the first to be called in. She gave the Charity form to the woman in-charged and she was led right away to the Ultra-sound room. She had to wait for a few minutes before she got the result. So, they hurried to the doctors room when she finally got it. When the doctor read the result, she asked, “Tracy, have you been praying? There is nothing here. And I am pretty sure I felt it this morning.” So she had to ask Tracy to lie down so she could look for the lump. As she was feeling all over Tracy’s abdomen, the doctor could not find it anymore.

On her 9th month, as she was already in labor, Mitch accompanied Tracy to the hospital. And in a few hours, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy. So when it was time to go home, Tracy was thinking that she can go home right away because Charity has taken cared of everything already. But she still needs to pay 500 pesos for some miscellaneous expenses from the hospital that was not covered by Charity. She called up Mitch and informed her about the problem. So Mitch on her way to fetch her, bumped into an old friend of Tracy. She told her that she is on her way to fetch Tracy. Tracy’s friend told her that she wanted to go with her but she had an important appointment so she will just visit Tracy when she gets home. And before she said goodbye, she handed Mitch 500 pesos and told her “my congratulations gift for her since I don’t have time to buy anything for her or the baby.” And so Tracy was able to pay the hospital bill of 500 pesos which was way, way cheaper than paying the hospital’s normal bill. And that was not it. When she got home, she was surprised by the biggest surprise of all. Her Mom was waiting for her. She did not say a thing. Tracy just went to her and hugged her and whispered, “I am sorry Mom.” But her Mom hushed her and just hugged her. “Where is my grandson?” And Mitch handed her the baby. As days went by, Tracy’s hair grew back, and she regained her beauty. She also found a job. She can buy whatever food she wants to buy now without having to wait for mealtime. But she is still single. Yet, she is happy. Very happy. Who would not be? After all those miracles?

After the heartbreaking news about how many lives were destroyed because of Typhoon Ondoy that struck the Philippine’s last September 26, 2009, I never realized  how still blessed I am and my family.  I have so much to complain about. But after that incident and seeing my Filipino brothers and sisters and how much they have suffered, the trauma, the pain of losing their loved ones and even their very possessions, I felt so small thinking that sometimes, I get so selfish because I only see the things that I do not have.  In fact, the mere thought, that Cebu, my hometown did not feel even a tiny threat because of the typhoon that struck the Philippines and destroyed hundreds of life is for me a miracle.  It was not by accident that we were not included.  It was bound to be.  Whatever the reason is, I dare not question.  Because of that, I was drawn to give not because I pity the victims but because I felt ashamed that I still have a lot when others has nothing left for them.  So I started cleaning up our cabinets.  My clothes though they are used but I choose those that still looks presentable, some clothes I still even can wear, but I got so selfless at that time that I did not mind.  My husband saw what I was doing so he also started picking up some clothes and setting aside those clothes that he would like to give.  I am also touched by his sensitivity that he also chooses the clothes that he still could wear.  I also grabbed some useable clothes from my kids and started folding them and placed them in a box.                                                                                                                                                                                                    And to my amazement, we were able to fill the box to the brim.

I felt so happy seeing how much we wanted to share.  Then I felt so small when looked at our cabinet and still saw a lot there.

Then, I realized how ungrateful I was.  I decided not to celebrate my birthday, which would fall on the 28^th, a couple of days after the incident.  Then, I said a prayer and thanked the Lord for everything that I have.  I am sharing this not because I want to boast because I have shared, I am sharing this because I want to let others know, that sometimes, we feel so unfortunate, but we just overlooked at things.   By the time we see people suffering, then that’s the time we realize that after all, we still are blessed because we still have enough.

Gabbriela was the president of the sorority while Samuel was a star in basketball. They were both college then. Gabby and her friends love to watch basketball and they were a fan. They often bumped into each other. Until one day, when Gabby was on her way home, Sam caught up to her. “Hey Gab, are you going home?” Gabby was not surprised that Sam knew her name. She knew that she was popular in school. But she was not like the normal school princess that is usually a brat and a snob. Yes, Gabby was pretty. She has a very cute tiny dimple on both sides near her lower lip that would only show up when she smiles. She was brains and beauty combined. “Hi” Gabby responded and was about to say his name but held back because she don’t want him to know that she knows him. She gave him a question marked face. “Oh, I’m sorry” Sam said. “I was just about to ask you if you are already going home. I know that we live on the same street. The guys already left and I had to stay behind because I need to do some research at the library. Would you mind if I walk with you?” He already knew that he sounded defensive. But he pretended to keep cool. “Sure” Gabby said. And they both walked. They were so silent for a few minutes. Sam was thinking, “I have to break the silence. What would I say to her?… Uhm, Gab, I know that you are so good with Math, Oh and in fact I heard that you are so good with school in general, would you mind teaching me some tricks?” “Trick?” Gabby repeated the word and giggled. “There are no tricks. But I can teach you how to be good at it. I don’t think it’s called a trick. I think its called study” She shook her head but did not wipe out the smile. “So that’s a yes?” Sam asked. Gabby just nodded. And that started it all. From then on, Sam goes to Gabby’s house every after school. It all started with seriously studying Math, until they started sharing secrets. They grew so close with each other that they spend most of their free times together. Gabby has learned to hang out with the boys and Sam had his share of carrying shopping bags when Gabby and her friends would go out.

After college, Gabby worked as an executive assistant of a very big shipping company. Sam was a year behind than Gabby in college because he was a varsity and he could not take all his subjects at the same time as much as Gabby can take hers. And right after Sam graduated, it was so timely that the company Gabby was working for is need of an accountant which Sam was and so he recommended him. Their friendship grew deeper. Until in the Christmas Eve of 2oo4, Sam was pacing back and forth in their family living room. His mom sitting down in the sofa reading a book noticed him and called up his attention and asked “Is everything okay honey?” “Mom, do you think it’s a good idea if I tell Gabby that I love her?” Sam asked. “What? You are in love with Gabby. I thought she is your best friend.” “That’s exactly my point mom. That is why I love her because she is my best friend. She already knew so much about me as much as I know so much about her. And in order for a relationship to work, a couple must be friends as well right?” “Well, you are already old enough. If you think that you really love her, more than just a friend does then tell her. But honey, please be careful. She might not feel the same way. And you might end up hurt or worse, you might break your friendship.” “That is why I am confused Mom. But I should give it a try. Wish me luck” “No honey, I wish you love”. Sam bent down and gave her mom a tight hug and her mom hugged him back. “I love you Mom. Merry Christmas.” “Merry Christmas too honey, and I love you so much.” A minute after the clock stuck 12 midnight, Sam was already holding the phone on his hand and sighed deeply. “Let’s go” he told himself. So he dialed Gabby’s number. His hand was shaking. “Hello” somebody answered on the other line. “Hi, is Gabby there?” “Hey Gab, it’s Sam”. Gabby’s mom knew Sam’s voice already, as he was also close to Gabby’s family. Gabby answered the phone panting. She was shouting on the other line because it was so loud in the background with fireworks and party music. “Hey Sam, are you coming over?” “Uhm no. I just want to tell you something?” “What? I could not hear you Sam. Can you speak a little louder. It is so loud in here.” “Uhm, forget it Gab, I’ll just talk to you tomorrow then.” “What?” Gabby was still shouting. Sam was so tensed already. “Wait, don’t hang up okay. I’ll get inside.” So Sam waited patiently. He was sweating all over. So when he heard Gabby’s voice on the other line, he froze. “Hello Sam, you still there?” Gabby’s voice was so clear this time. “Yes” Sam said softly. “Sam, is everything all right?” “Uhm Gab, just want to say Merry Christmas.” “Yeah. Merry Christmas too Sam. Are you coming over? The party just started.” “Uhm no.” “Sam, are you really sure everything’s okay.” “Uhm yeah” was all Sam could say. “Okay then. See you tomorrow.” “Uhm okey. Bye” “Bye” Gabby answered back. “Uhm Gab” Sam hesitated. “Yes”-answered Gabby. “Merry Christmas and I love you” “I love you too Sam” Gabby answered without any hesitation. “No Gab, really. I love you. And I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Not just a friend. I love you more than that.” Then Sam paused. There was silence on the other line. “Gab, you still there?” Gabby was dumbfounded. “Sam, I don’t know what to say?” “ You don’t have to say anything and you don’t have to love me back either. I would understand if you won’t. But just one thing I ask, please don’t change. I don’t want our friendship to end. I am telling you this because I want to do something that a friend will not usually do. I will love you and I will show you how I love without asking anything in return. I will give this to you freely. And I don’t expect any payment. Gab, please let me love you.” “Sam, I want to pay you back. I don’t want to get it for free. Because I love you too. And I am glad that you do.” “Really?” Sam’s face and lightened up. “Yes, really”. “I love you” Sam told Gabby boldly this time. “I love you too Sam”. Gabby answered back smiling.

After 2 years working as an accountant, Sam was offered a better job and with better compensation. Sam needed the money because his Mom was has just been diagnosed with bone cancer. He really needs to help with paying bills, medicines, chemo and all. So he was left with no choice but to take the offer. But he would be assigned in a different Town and he would need to travel 3 hours at more or less to get home. So he decided to rent an apartment there and would just go home during the weekend. Gabby was not at all happy with the set up at first but she perfectly understood the situation and accepted it. After a few months, the phone calls which was their way of communication got fewer and fewer. Gabby knew something was wrong. One day, while she was trying to call Sam, the phone kept on ringing. Which was so unlikely. Sam would always pick up right away. He would always keep his phone beside. She dialed again. After a couple of rings, Sam picked up. “Hi” “Where have you been?” Gabby asked right away. “Uhm, I left my phone” Sam sounded tensed. “Where” Gabby asked calmly. “In the car?” Sam sounded a little irritated already. “How” Gabby voice started to tremble. “What do you mean how? I left my phone in the car. How am I supposed to answer that question Gab?” Sam raised his voice. “Why are you mad? I was just asking?” Gabby raised his voice too but sounded calmer than Sam. “No, you were interrogating.” Sam now angry. “I was not. It is just so unlikely. You don’t leave your phone and now you have left it?” Gabby voice calmed a little sensing Sam’s mood already. “So this time I did. What’s wrong with that.” Sam’s voice still mad but was not shouting anymore. “Nothing is wrong with that Sam. I was just asking. Because of all times, you should have not left your phone especially now because you know that I will call because it is your birthday.” Gabby wiped the tear that rolled her cheek. But she tried to control herself from crying. “Look Gab, I’m sorry okay. I am a little stressed at worked and you know Mom’s situation. It so hard for me to be here and I cant be there for mom.” Sam calmed down after she noticed Gabby’s voice trembling. He knew that she was about to cry. “I understand. I just want to say Happy Birthday and I love you”. Gabby did not argue anymore. Sam replied “I love you too Gab. Look, I will make it up to you during the weekend okay. I Promise. But I have to go. Take care”. As Sam hang up. Gabby put down the phone gently. She was just staring at the steering wheel of her car where she was when she called Sam. Gabby sighed deeply. She knew that something was up. Sam has always been a fighter. She knew Sam so well. When Sam found out about her Mom’s condition, he was so strong and he handled it well. He was a balance person and he knew that Sam could also handle stress. “That was a lame excuse.” She told herself. Sam was almost perfect. Except that, he is not a perfect liar. She knew that Sam was lying. So she started her car and drove to the town where Sam was staying. She drove almost 3 hours before he reached at Sam’s apartment. Her heart was beating so fast. She strongly believed in her woman’s instinct. She felt scared. She stared at the upper window, which was Sam’s room. The lights were on. So she knew she was home. She said a prayer. “Lord, please give me strength.” So she stepped out the car and went to Sam’s apartment. She rang the doorbell. It took a while before she heard footsteps down the stairs. Sam opened the door half-naked with only a towel wrapping his lower limbs. She was relieved. But Sam looked surprised. “What are you doing here?” “Aren’t you glad to see me?” Gabby asked. “I am but” before Sam could continue she asked, “Aren’t you going to let me in?” “Look, Gab, this is not the right time. We are having a boy’s party in a while. Some of the people are already upstairs. And more of them will be coming over.” Sam sounded so defensive. “So you won’t let me in? Is that what your saying Sam?” Gabby sounded upset. “Sam you are a good person, but I know you too well. And I know that you are hiding something from me. You know that I hang out with boys. Ever since. Now you’re telling me, that it is not the right time? I came all over here to surprise you Sam. But you know what? It doesn’t matter anymore. I do not want to know what is going upstairs and I do not want to find out who is upstairs, because I do not want to think that you people spend night outs in your bedroom half-naked. Goodbye Sam. And oh, before I forget, here is my birthday gift for you. I wont be able to use it anyway.” Gabby handed him Sam’s favorite perfume with a red ribbon wrapped attached on top of the box. Gabby turned away and went straight to her car, started the engine and drove away. Sam was just staring at her, a feeling of guilt in his eyes, part of him wanted to run after her but part of him wanted to stay. After a while, there was a woman’s voice calling her from upstairs. “Sam, who was that?”

They have not seen or spoke with each other after that night. Gabby was able to confirm in time that Sam was really seeing somebody else. It took a year before they finally saw each other face to face again. It was Wednesday, but when she passed by Sam’s house on his way to work, she saw his car parked on the sidewalk. She slowed down and mad sure. When she got to her office, she called Sam’s house. Not because she wanted to talk to him, but she just wants to know if everything was all right. “Hello” It was Cherie Sam’s older sister who picked up the phone. “Hi, this is Gabby.” “Oh Hi Gab. What can I do for you? You want to talk to Sam?” “No,no,no.” Gabby said. “When I passed by this morning I saw Sam’s car. I just want to know if everything’s alright.” “Thank you. It is so sweet of you Gab. But no, we are not all okay. Mom just died early this morning. Sam was already here last night because Mom was already on coma. We just did not bring her to the hospital because we wanted her to rest already. She has suffered so much. We knew this is going to happen soon. So we are all prepared for this except for Sam. He just loved Mom so much.” Gabby was just silent. “Gab, we would really appreciate it if you’d come over here and talk to Sam. He needs you right now.” Gabby went straight home from work. When she stepped in the door, she saw both her mom and dad sitting and waiting for her in their family living room. “Gab” her dad broke the silence. “You know already?” She just nodded. It was hard for Gabby as well since she was close to Sam’s mother. But most of all, she really didn’t know what to do because she knew that Sam was hurting so much and she wanted to be there for him. After supper, Gabby went out to their family garden. Twas a cold night. Gabby was sitting in their garden bench staring at the stars. Her knees were up to her chin and both her hands hugging it as she rock back and forth. She was thinking hard on how to get even with Sam. But it was just all in the mind. She could not do it. She loved him so much. She could no longer cry. It is as if her tears are all gone. It was so painful; she could no longer feel it. Tears just started to fall. She hid her head between her knees and sobbed. She cried because she was sad by the loss of a person close to her and she was sad because she knew she needed to do something, which she don’t want to do anymore. She was crying for sometime already when she noticed a tap on her shoulder. When she looked up, she saw her dad. “Can I sit down?” “She just nodded. “I’m so sorry about the loss. But I know there is something more than that. Gab, you know that you can always talk to me.” “ I just needed to let this all out Dad. I am sad most of all, because I know I have to be there for Sam. But I don’t want to. I am hurting too. I have forgiven Sam already. But it’s just so painful Dad. It’s still is. I want to get even. But there is this part of me that kept on pushing me to be there with Sam. I don’t know what to do. I’m so confused.” “Listen to your heart Gab. Remember what I taught you. Loving even if it hurts. That’s loving unconditionally. Expecting nothing in return. Continue to love even if they don’t deserve it. Continue to hold on to that hope. Till there is still love, keep it. It will just go away, if it’s bound to leave. But while it’s still there, deal with it. I know you are smart. You know what to do. I trust you,” Her dad told her. “Dad, just hold me. Hold me till this will go.”Gabby cried. “Ssshhh… I will just be here” Gabby’s dad opened his arms wide and Gabby just squeezed into her dad’s arms and laid down her dad’s chest. Her dad closed his arms and rubbed Gabby’s back gently. He started to sing “Hush little baby, don’t say a word, daddy’s gonna buy you a mocking bird.” Gabby sang the next line with her dad still crying. “If that mocking bird won’t sing, daddy’s gonna buy you a diamond ring….”

It was still 6:00 am and the chapel was already half full. Gabby slowly walked in. She was planning to sit in the last pews of the chapel but when she turns her head to the left, she saw Sam looking at her. She saw the sadness on his face. She forced a smile to him but turned her head the other way as if to look for a vacant seat. As soon as she found a space, she excused herself, sat down, and started staring at the chapel altar as if she was looking at something there. The chapel was silent you could hear a needle drop. Literally. Because you could hear, somebody trying to get inside the chapel and without a doubt that person getting in was wearing a stiletto. She was tempted to turn around and look for the shoe owner. There was a pretty girl, wearing an elegant black dress. She wore thick makeup and her hair was bronze and curly. She did a catwalk down the chapel aisle and went straight ahead to Sam. Gabby swallowed hard as she saw the girl, grab Sam’s face with both her hands and gave Sam a kiss on the lips. She knew right away that she was the girl. She faced the altar very quickly as if she was guilty that she saw them kissed. She never turned her head until the ceremony ended. At the funeral reception, she was just sitting in a couch and holding a glass if iced tea on her hand. She was just staring at people as they pass by her and sometimes smiles at those familiar faces. Then she started to feel uncomfortable when she saw Sam and that gorgeous girl again. They were both holding hands as they came in. She froze on her seat when she saw Sam approaching her and let go of the girl’s hand when she noticed her. She wanted to run, but it happened to quickly. Sam was already in front of her. “Hi”. Pretending not to notice him coming, she looked up and tried to look surprised. “Oh Hi” Gabby told Sam coldly. “Thank you for coming Gab. It meant so much to me to see you here” Sam’s eyes was teary. “She was a friend too” Gabby answered back. “I know you love Mom” Gabby did not respond to that. Before Sam could say a word she heard the same footsteps she heard in the chapel and as the steps grew louder she knew that the girl in stiletto was walking towards them. Before she could looked at the direction, she heard a voice “Oh baby, there you are” Sam did not turn around but was continuously staring at Gabby who stood up and faced both of them and said “Gotto go. See ya around” and Gabby quickly turn around. “Gab” she heard Sam called her name softly but she pretend not to hear it and went straight to the patio and sat on the steps. She could not leave yet because her parents were still inside. She really wanted to leave already. A tear started to fall but she quickly wiped it. She tried not to cry. But it was so hard to control it that sometimes a tear or two would just fall but she was able to manage to wipe it right away so nobody would noticed it.

Back inside, Sam was so restless and was looking around every now and then. He would stop once in while and chat with some people who would express their condolences to him and then excuses himself and paces around the room again. The girl with the stiletto was also doing some small chitchat with some people in the room and seemed to be enjoying herself. At one time she bumped with Sam in the room but just gave him a smile and continued socializing with the people there. Sam decided to get out of the room. Not that the room was noisy. But he felt he needed to get out of the crowd. He went to the patio and sat down the stairs where Gabby used to sit a few minutes ago. As Sam was sitting there, he immediately missed her mom. When times like this, he knew he could always come to her. But this time he has to deal with the pain on his own. Gabby was about to return to her usual seat. She had to go to the washroom and powder and freshen up so people will not notice that she was crying. But when she looked at the steps, she saw Sam sitting there already. She was about to turn around but even before she made a step, Sam turned around as if he smelled her presence. Sam stood up right away. “Gab”. He sounded as if he was asking for help. Gabby knew right away, what Sam wanted. So she slowly walked toward him and reached out and hugged him. She hugged him tightly as Sam hugged her back and wept. Gabby was just silent as Sam poured out everything. It was as if Sam has been holding to those tears and it felt so heavy already on his eyes that he had to pour it. Sam cried and sobbed like a child. He has never cried like this ever since, not even the time when he found out that his mom was gone already. While the two were still hugging at each other, the girl in stiletto stepped out and saw the two of them. She did not interrupt. She just watched them. Her eyes became teary because she knew now who owns Sam’s heart. They have been going out for almost a year, but Sam never, ever talked to her about his problem. She did not know that his mom was suffering cancer until she died. She did not know that Sam was so close to his mom. He never saw Sam cried. He saw Sam as blank. He did not knew about his past or know nothing of his future dreams. What he knew of Sam is the Sam that he know he is. Shallow. He knew Sam do not love her. He told him so himself. He said that somebody else owns his heart. But that’s just it. No further details. She would see sometimes Sam staring blankly into space, but would dare not ask. She knew that this was going to happen, but she never expected it to happen too soon. She was already prepared for this. She just stayed with Sam because she likes him but she herself was not even sure if she is ready to get to know the real Sam. But she did not realized that she was starting to fall for him until she saw what she saw. But it’s still not too late yet. She thought. She knew that she still can handle the pain. But she was not sure if she would force herself into Sam’s life, she might not be able to control herself anymore but will really fall for him totally. She has to stop. And she needs to stop now. She cleared her throat, cleared her eyes, and approached them. Ehhhm. As she was stood beside them. The two broke up and faced her. Sam did not apologize as if he knew that she would understand. Even before Sam could speak, she said, “Sam I need to go.” “But you can stay for the night”. Sam was trying to be hospitable. But she spoke firmly. “Sam, really. I have to go. And I mean really go.” Sam understood what she meant. “We need to talk” But before Sam could finish his sentence, she interrupted Sam. “You don’t have to be sorry for me Sam. You know that I can manage. And I understand you. I just want you to be happy. Because you are such a good person Sam and you deserve to be with the one that you love.” As she looked at Gabby who was just staring the floor as they were speaking. “Goodbye Sam.” The girl continued. “See you around.” And she stepped down the stairs and walked. Sam did not move and so did Gabby. As the girl in stiletto disappeared in their sight Sam looked at Gabby in the eyes. “Gab, thank you.” Gabby asked, “what was that about?” as she moved her head to the direction where the girl in stiletto walked. “Why did you not stop her? Are you like that Sam? Does it make you happy if you are hurting people?” Sam was just silent. Gabby continued. “You are unbelievable Sam.” Sam interrupted. “Gab, listen to me. I did not follow her because I know she would understand. She knew from the start that I Love you and I have never stopped. She was the only friend that I have when I missed you. She was the only one who would make me forget the pain every time I would think that Mom would have to go soon. She was there when I needed her. Because you were not around. I tried to call you, but you won’t answer my calls. That night that you came, I was really telling the truth. The boys were upstairs but I don’t want you to get in because there were girls upstairs too. They rented some stripper as their birthday gift to me. If I knew you were coming, I should have not agreed to it. But Gab, God knows, I was not cheating. I was not able to answer the phone right away because I had to run and lock myself in the closet so you won’t hear the noise. Karen stepped into my life after 3 months. She found me sleeping in the streets because I was so drunk. She picked me up and drove me to her place until I was sober. We became friends from then on until one thing led to another. But she knew that I was in love with you. She was there when my life was in hell because you were not around. And in fact, I owe my life to her. But, Gab, its you. You are the reason why I am still alive. You are the reason why I did not give up. Every time she hugs me, I wish it was you hugging me. But you gave up on me. You gave me up. Yes, I owe my life to Karen because she was there in my lowest. But it’s just my life Gab. Because when I was with her, I did not have my heart with me. Because it was with you. All along. Gabby started to cry. She cried so hard that she could no longer speak. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry Sam. I was being so selfish. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” She kept repeating those words over and over until Sam hugged her. As she buried her face in Sam’s shoulder, she was still saying sorry. “Shhh… It’s okay. I’m here now and I will always be here. I will never, ever, ever let you go again. I love you. And I am taking my heart back.” Gabby gave her pout. “But I am taking yours with me.” As he said it, he touched Gabby’s face with his both hands as he gently bent over. Gabby closed her eyes as she slowly felt Sam’s breathing. She was just waiting until she felt his lips touched hers…

When God says NO to your prayers, will you still praise him?  After all those tears, the fist clenched hand ached from pleading, the droopy knees from kneeling, the aching arms from reaching.  And God says “NO”.  There will silent cries that will follow and questions starts to grow.  “Why?”  Can’t seem to stop the tears.  Throat gets dry.  You’re catching your breath from wanting to shout.  You can’t say thank you anymore.  Has your faith been waived?  Have you not prayed enough?  Have you not called God long enough?  Why God does say NO?  There has to be a reason.  Has God gone deaf?

Discouragement is another diabolical key that opens the door for strife, the thief of our happiness.  In a moment of weary resignation and discouragement, you open your mouth and release the fear that was in your heart.  “He is finished with me.  I give up”.  But that should not be the case.  Pick up where you left of, restart your worship-reclaim your destiny.  Do not say you are finished with something until God says He is finished with it.  Go back to the same place where you witnessed a miracle if you want another one.  Go back there and lift your perspective.  If God has done it once, He can do it again.  Throw down the final stick of your strength and surrender to God.  You can’t do it on your own anyway, so what do you have to lose?  Dare to trust!

Remember that God will never work until it is too late and you are down to nothing.  Remember that ZERO is the very best place to be-it is just hard to get there.  The path to your personal ZERO point is also a Beautiful Journey to a supernatural seedtime and harvest.  One of the oddest things about God’s economy is His attraction to human emptiness.  He values your emptiness far more than the measure of your fullness.  God will always respond to the emptiness offered through your broken and contrite heart.

So what to do when God says NO?  Worship!  It is the greatest of all mood-altering drugs.  It possesses the power to turn the darkest night into the brightest day.  Worship! And if God fails you, you will be the first person in history that He’s failed.  (And I don’t think you are that important for Him to ruin His redemption over.)  Keep on worshipping.  Pick up the pieces and march on…

STILL
Hillsong United

Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
within your mighty hand

When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust

Draw Me Close To You
by Sonicflood

Draw me close to you.
Never let me go.
I lay it all down again.
To hear you say that im your friend.
You are my desire.
No one else will do.
Cause no one else can take the place.
To fill the warmth of your embrace.
Help me find a way.
To bring me back to you.

Chorus:

You’re all i want.
You’re all i’ve ever needed
You’re all i want.
Help me know you are near.

Verse:

Draw me close to you.
Never let me go.
I lay it all down again.
To hear you say that im your friend.
You are my desire.
No one else will do.
Cause no one can take the place.
To fill the warmth of your embrace.
Help me find a way.
To bring me back to you.

Chorus:

You’re all i want.
You’re all i’ve ever needed
You’re all i want
Help me know you are near.

I Found Jesus
by Delirious

Well I hear they’re singing in the street that
Jesus is alive
And all creation shouts aloud that
Jesus is alive
Now surely we can all be changed ‘cos
Jesus is alive
And everybody here can know that
Jesus is alive

And I will live for all my days
To raise a banner of truth and light
To sing about my saviour’s lve
And the best thing that happend
It was the day I met you

I’ve found Jesus x4

Well I feel like dancing in the street ‘cos
Jesus is alive
To join with all who celebrate that
Jesus is alive
Well the joy of God is in this town ‘cos
Jesus is alive
For everybody’s seen the truth that
Jesus is alive

And I will live for all my days
To raise a banner of truth and light
To sing about my saviour’s love
And the best thing that happend
It was the day I met you

I’ve found Jesus x4

Well you lifted my from where I was
Set my feet upon a rock
Humbled that you even knew about me
Now i have chosen to believe
Believing that you’ve chosen me
I was lost but now i’ve found….

Friend of Sinners
by Matt Redman

there is a song that must be sung;
there is a name that must be lifted high.
There is a treasure more than gold,
there is a King upon the throne;
there is One whose praise will fill the skies.

His name is Jesus,
Friend of sinners,
Jesus, Jesus,
Friend of mine.

There is a peace that calms our fears,
there is a love stronger than death;
there is a hope that goes beyond the grave.
There is a friend who won’t let go,
there is a heart that beats for You;
there is One name by which we are saved.

bridge:
When I was captive fears,
You were the One who came to me,
You set met free.

This is my first time to Blog… Never too old to start that is what I was thinking… Then I realize I am not old after all… In fact, this is not about age or experience but expressing things inside you that just could not stay there but you just have to let it out… Once it is out, there is just no stopping… Just like this very moment… I do not know what to say or to write so to speak…But I just do not know how to end this… Well I will stop when I will stop… But there is definitely no stopping to this… even if I still need to sleep and wake up early so I won’t be late for work, like I usually do…(Not a good habit I know…I’m really trying hard…)Don’t want to be defensive so I have to change the topic before I got it spilled… I and my big mouth…Now I cannot wait and say something about me coming to work tomorrow… surprise…surprise…Would I be late again. Funny but it is not… It is something that I should get serious… fixing’ it… now… We will see…

I took this picture last September 2008. This was during one of my Team Building, held in a private beach resort, which we rented somewhere, in Catmon Cebu, Philippines… I never thought I could capture this wonderful sight. An amateur photographer captured this… (It’s me! A frustrated one though…) using an amateur camera… If you look at the picture, you just wish that you wake up every morning and when you look out your window you would see such a beautiful sight…Everyday I guess would always be a beautiful one…Then there will not be a saying “waking at the wrong side of the bed”… It is always the right side of the bed if that is what you see every waking morning…

We all need friends, ranging from close or best to casual ones. We especially need a few close or best friends who stick around through thick and thin, who take the time to listen, and with whom we have a shared history. Friendship should also be fun! It reduces the emotional devastation associated with job loss or dissatisfaction, divorce, or death of a spouse, parent, or sibling. Friendship also helps to reduce excessive dependency on your spouse even in the best of marriages. But friends can only be good medicine if you take the time out of your busy, demanding schedule to keep them involved in your life as you, in turn, stay involved in theirs.

 10 Tips for Making, and Keeping, Friends Even If You’re Busy

 1.Combine getting together with your friends with other activities, such as having lunch, travelling, going on vacation together, participating in a club, shopping, exercising, taking a class together, or going to the movies.

 2.If your close or best friends want to get together, make it a priority to find the time in your hectic schedule.

 3.Keep your friendship at a comfortable level of intimacy for both of you.

 4.Have the name and phone number of one or two relatives or other friends of your friends so you can find your friends even if they go on an extended vacation or move.

 5.If you like yourself, others, including your friends, are more likely to want to spend time with you.

 6.Reconnect with out-of-town friends throughout the year or at least once or twice during the year, not just at the holidays.

 7.Remember and celebrate your friends’ birthdays – with a phone call, a card, a present, and, if possible, a visit.

 8.Return the phone calls, e-mails, or letters of your friends promptly.

 9.Let friendships take place. Moving a friendship to a different level of intensity or frequency, or even letting it fade away, does not diminish what that relationship once gave you. (By the same token, you may find a casual friendship shifts into a close or best one because of a shared wish to do so or changes in circumstances for one or both of you, e.g. children going off to college and providing more free time, a divorce, widowhood, relocating nearby, and so forth.)

 10. Use National New Friends, Old Friends Week, celebrated each year since 1997 for one week beginning the Sunday after Mother’s Day annually in May, as an opportunity to make the time to visit your close or best friends or at least call, send a card, an e-mail, or a letter.

 By Jan Yager, Ph.D.

Discouragement is another diabolical key that opens the door for the thief to steal our goods.  Perhaps you have awakened to a new day but feel just as bad as you did yesterday. In a moment of weary resignation and discouragement, you opened your mouth and released the fear that was in your heart. “HE is finish with me here. I GIVE UP”I feel the anointing of God to tell you right now, you will not fail and I have witnesses to prove it…Pick up where you left off…Restart your worship-reclaim your destiny. God said “Don’t say you’re finished with something before I am finished with it. Now go back to the same place where you just witnessed a miracle if you want another one.” Don’t be surprised if God tells you to go right back to the last place you had a divine encounter,, Get back there and lift your perspective. Return to the place where you destroyed the enemy, and this time it will be a source of refreshing. The moral of the story is this: Don’t says you are finished before God does. When someone steals your magnifying glass, one of the best things you can do is to remember and relive the old victories and deliverance’s of God in your life. They will remind you if God has done it once, he can do it again. Don’t say you’re finished before HE says He’s finished. Why don’t you just throw down the final stick of your strength and give it all to HIM. You can’t do it on your own anyway, so what do you have to lose? Dare to trust HIM? GOD NEVER WORKS UNTIL ITS TOO LATE AND YOU’RE DOWN TO NOTHING. REMEMBER THAT ZERO IS THE VERY BEST PLACE TO BE- IT’S JUST HARD TO GET THERE. THE PATH TO YOUR PERSONAL ZERO POINT IS ALSO A JOURNEY TO A SUPERNATURAL SEED TIME AND HARVEST. One of the oddest things about Gods economy is His attraction to human emptiness. He values your emptiness far more than any measure of your fullness. Sow a seed of worship when you feel that your world has been reduced to a file of ashes. God will quickly respond to the emptiness offered through your broken and contrite heart and will magnify HIMSELF in your life and the lives of your friends. Worship is the greatest of all mood-altering drugs. It possesses the power to turn your darkest night into your brightest day. WORSHIP! RIGHT NOW! IF GOD FAILS YOU, YOU WILL BE THE FIRST PERSON IN HISTORY HE’S EVER FAILED. (AND I DON’T THINK YOU ARE IMPORTANT FOR HIM TO RUIN HIS REDEMPTION OVER) KEEP ON WORSHIPPING. PICK UP THE PIECES AND MARCH ON….

NOTE: This are bits and pieces of encouraging words from the book “A Purpose Driven Life”

Once upon a time there was this girl who had four boyfriends.

She loved the 4th boyfriend the most and adorned him with rich robes and treated him to the finest of delicacies. She gave him nothing but the very best.

She also loved the 3rd boyfriend very much and was always showing him off to neighboring kingdoms. However, she feared that one day he would leave her for another.

She also loved her 2nd boyfriend. He was her confidant and was always kind, considerate and patient with her. Whenever this girl faced a problem, she could confide in him, and he would help her get through the difficult times.

The girls 1st boyfriend was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining her wealth and kingdom. However, she did not love the first boyfriend. Although he loved her deeply, she hardly took notice of him!

One day, the girl fell ill and she knew her time was short. She thought of her luxurious life and wondered, I now have four boyfriends with me, but when I die, I’ll be all alone.”

Thus, she asked the 4th boyfriend, “I loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?”

“No way!”, replied the 4th boyfriend, and he walked away without another word.

His answer cut like a sharp knife right into her heart.

The sad girl then asked the 3rd boyfriend, “I loved you all my life. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?”

“No!”, replied the 3rd boyfriend. “Life is too good! When you die, I’m going to marry someone else!”

Her heart sank and turned cold.

She then asked the 2nd boyfriend, “I have always turned to you for help and you’ve always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?”

“I’m sorry, I can’t help you out this time!”, replied the 2nd boyfriend. “At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave.”

His answer struck her like a bolt of lightning, and the girl was devastated.

Then a voice called out: “I’ll go with you. I’ll follow you no matter where you go.”

The girl looked up, and there was her first boyfriend. He was very skinny as he suffered from malnutrition and neglect.

Greatly grieved, the girl said, “I should have taken much better care of you when I had the chance!”

In truth, you have 4 boyfriend’s in your lives:

Your 4th boyfriend is your body. No matter how much time and effort you lavish in making it look good, it will leave you when you die.

Your 3rd boyfriend is your possessions, status and wealth. When you die, it will all go to others.

Your 2nd boyfriend is your family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for you, the furthest they can stay by you is up to the grave.

And your 1st boyfriend is your Soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world.

However, your Soul is the only thing that will follow you where ever you go. Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part of you that will follow you to the throne of God and continue with you throughout Eternity.

Thought for the day: Remember, when the world pushes you to your knees, you’re in the perfect position to pray.

Pass this on to someone you care about.

Being happy doesn’t mean everything’s perfect. It means you’ve decided to see beyond the imperfections.

It came as a surprise.   Am I really going to Enchanted Kingdom? Is it all Expense paid?  Some may think that it is just cheap to be there especially with all the promos going on from different airlines.  But for a working mother like me who is sending to kids in a private school, renting an apartment and all, it’s not easy. If I have extra money, I could not spend going to Enchanted Kingdom, stay in a suite in Makati all by myself, and leave my kids behind.  But since it’s free, I don’t mind leaving them for a day or two and take advantage of the free stuff.  After all, who among us does not want free stuff?  Then I was not really expecting that among the 30 or so Team Managers in our program, I will be the one who will be sent.  Thanks to my 3 agents, Erwin, Vanessa and Bemmar who ranked as first, third and fifth in the overall ranking base on the criteria whatever that is.  And so, there we spent one whole day in Enchanted Kingdom, forgetting what lies behind and became like kids for a day. That day was enchanted indeed! Thanks to my team’s hard work.

“Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great one will make you feel that you too, can become great.”

- Mark Twain

“Obstacles don’t have to stop you.
If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up.
Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”
-Michael Jordan

“The truth of the matter is that you usually know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.”
-General H. Norman Schwarzkopf

“When God said to rest on Sabbath, I don’t think He meant we were supposed to sleep through church.”-(quoted from an 11 yr. old kid)

These are my Kids BJ and Phoebe… Aren’t they sweet… These are just random pictures…

I wonder why some people think that they are perfect and see the other as the unfortunate one? Why is it easy to look at others imperfection and fails to accept ones mishaps? Lets say for example, they think that you are not competent or you don’t deserve the things that you have because they see something you are doing which they think is wrong…They may be true.. However, do they really have to make an issue out of it…Cant they see their imperfections as well?
Let me share a very concrete example… (To protect the person’s identity, there will not be naming names here…)In a workplace, the boss conducted a meeting one time… He was trying to point to certain person about a negative habit that that person is doing… It could be that it is the boss’s fault-pointing finger to just that person when obviously, almost everybody is having that bad habit to break… It is understandable that the person felt insulted, or he felt that it is unfair because he was the only one pointed. For that reason, he reacted and started to give out blind items on a certain bad habit. He said that there are people that needs pointing to as well because they are also doing some things that should not be done…Now my question is why is it always easy to point? In addition, if you are the one pointed, why is it easy to point to another as well? Now a small issue has turned out to be a big issue because of the finger pointing…There was no fix and no action done to stop the problem. I do not know if I making sense here… But let me put it this way…If a person is reprimanded because he was caught cheating, and because he is guilty instead of just keeping his mouth shut, he suddenly started pointing his fingers to others whom he accuses as lazy? Does it make sense? It does not make sense at all. Moreover, the sad part is, he got away with the cheating and the people punished were those who were lazy…If the lazy people got punished, then let the cheater be punished too? After all, nobody is perfect!

When I was still young, I attended a talk. I could not remember the date and the time. Yet, I could still remember the speaker was “Didi Nakar” (her maiden name cause she was still single then). I really loved how she presented to us (all youth audience) on how to take a relationship, not just a trial and error thing but you have to make sure that when you get into a relationship, it should be lasting and not a temporary thing. It really deeply rooted into me. Little did I know, it bore fruit. I stayed in a not so perfect relationship. I loved, I got hurt, and then I loved again. I hurt until it hurt no more. Was it all worth it? Yes it was. I am happy now. I firmly believe that every sacrifice counts. I just knew it. I know it know. With faith, and unconditional love combined. So, what to do with romantic feelings? Treat it as if it is your last. Because if you wont, you will go through the vicious cycle of loving, hurting, and loving and hurting…It would be endless unless you choose to end the endless and just stick to that one love…No its not romantic feelings…It what you call LOVING and being LOVED.

I am trying to think of what to blog. However, I could not think of anything interesting. Then I failed to realize that something interesting is just sitting beside me. It is my 4-year-old little girl. The sound of her singing just never stops to amaze me. She was just sitting beside me and watching me type and of course, endlessly singing those unfinished songs, words that could not be pronounced well, lyrics that are made up. I could not help but smile every now and then while listening her sing A-you’re adorable, B-you’re so beautiful, C-your so cyutifal acharm, D-you’re a dayling and so on…Well, that made it interesting enough. It made my night, it made me smile, and it made me forget how tiring my day was. That magical feeling hearing a child sings from her heart and innocently. She never realized how she made someone else’s day. Is it interesting enough? Because many times, what we hear is just the noise. However, if you take time to just listen, then you will realize, how they make you forget your problems and make you wish to just be like them for a while and be free. Then, what is interesting abut it? Nothing…They just simply amaze me.

Amazing views and sights during a trip to Bohol, Philippines…Just cant help but share it..

for a full view of the pictures visit: Beautiful Journey

THE COLORS OF ROSES
Rose is a symbol of Love and Forgiveness. But some cultures have certain meaning to every rose color:

RED Love and Passion

YELLOW Friendship, joy, gladness, freedom

BLACK Farewell

PINK or PEACH Gratitude, appreciation, admiration or sympathy
WHITE True love, reverence, purity, secrecy

So if somebody gives you a rose, depends on what color, now you know what they mean.

We all know that Men adore beautiful attractive women. They easily fall to smart, career oriented woman. They admire woman that could stand for herself and not clingy… However, those are the obvious. Base on survey coming from men on all walks of life, there are certain things men secretly adore in a woman… (Survey source: Kerygma March 2005)

Things Man look for in a Woman

Knows how to cook
Family Oriented and a Homemaker
Gives quality time
Able to handle money properly
Gives his partners his own time and would respect his privacy
Total submission
Constantly shows love, care, patience and understanding
Shows value to herself
Sense of humor
And surprising but true… Man adores woman who prays.
So are you any of this… whether single or married, this checklist would surely help…

Things that I do not want to do

I always do

I want to trust my heart

But my doubts always get the biggest part

It crawled in me whether it is dark or bright

It even wakes me up in the middle of the night

I have my pride

Still my fear I cannot hide

How can I run away from this sad story

When all I have in mind is to get the glory

It’s now consuming me

It would never stop like its so hungry

I want to run, I want to hide

This green eyed monster always on my side

I want it to let me go

But seems I am a slave till I don’t know

Then I found the anecdote that would make this go away

One thing that conquers all come what may

Love, yes love only

Can kill this green eyed monster named Jealousy

I thought I would never fall

Dreams of making it work out

Kept me sane all throughout

Visions of love that would last forever

Is this just a wish? I wonder

When I love should I expect love in return?

When he hurts, I give my hand

Made him feel I understand

However, when I cry he would simply say

Hush, soon it is going to go away

When I love should I expect love in return?

When he stumbles, I help him stand

When he grumbles and demand

I give him love in the open hand

I do not hold back, I do not question

I simply love without any hesitation

When I love should I expect love in return?

When I love, I will expect love in return!

This is when we went to Sumilon.. Twas really fun… We went trecking and all…

You can also check out the pictures in Beautiful Journey

If you are moved on and wants to befriend your ex, its not impossible…Here are steps on how to make your ex your friend…1.Stay calm and relaxed. 2.If you happen to see him/her, just say hi or hello and ask her about his/her family or work life — neutral topics.3.Let go and allow yourself to start thinking of him/her in a new light that is separate from the concept of you and him/her together. 4.Don’t try to talk to them all the time – it looks obviously desperate. 5.Send a message over the Internet to your ex and say something along the lines of “I know we broke up but I would love to just be friends.” 6.If they try to hurt you or make you feel bad just go away and forget about being friends with them, they don’t deserve your friendship. they can let you go that easy and will always be like that. 7.Just treat them like a normal friend, and let them know there’s no hard feelings. remember that you are never forced to do anything so if you feel awkward just leave the room/space Tips*Smile *Text them or IM them, but not too often so they don’t think that you are desperate to get back together with them. *Try to remember that the past is in the past. No matter what happened, it only means as much as you let it mean. Sometimes loving or painful memories can affect how we feel in the moment- but you have control over how much weight you give your past when considering your present. *Don’t make comments about when you went out, just remember, you only want to be friends. *Don’t feel forced to be their friend. You don’t have to call them or e-mail them or act like you’re super-close. -Treat them like you would treat anyone else. Exes are people too. *Don’t get revenge on them or try to. Also, don’t attempt to make them jealous. That can and will wreck a friendship.

(Source www.wikihow.com)

It is often hard to say thank you to people who meant to you. It is hard to say thank you sometimes for things that people have done to make your life easier. It is even hard to say thank you and mean it. However, there are really people who deserve a simple thank you. Not because of what they have done, but sometimes we forget that people needs to be recognized of the good they have done. Gratefulness, that’s one of the hardest thing to do…I have to say thank you…I’m so blessed I cant contain it, so much I’ve got to give it away…
I thank my friends who stood by me and believed in what I believed in
I thank even my enemies’ whose criticism made me strive to be better and for that, made me a better person now.
I thank for past love that one way or another made me felt needed and important and made me realize that once there was somebody who adored me even if at times I may be unlovable
I thank my parents who worked hard to provide for me and I thank them even for their mistakes because it made me stronger and made me see the comparison of living a good life and a not so good one because of the examples I see
I thank my relatives who has always been my number one fan even if I know that sometimes they just pretend to be but still in spite of that they wanted me to feel good about myself
I thank my bosses who appreciated my work and never failed to recognize the good job I have done even if most of the time I feel that my effort is never enough
I thank my colleagues for the competition because it made me always strive for excellence
I thank my spouse because he is the only one who will stand by me come what may
I thank my children because they made me complete
I thank my God because of faith and I thank him for when storm of life comes, I know that there is that inner strength that always keeps me rooted
Most of all, I thank myself because If I don’t love myself I wont be who I am now and I would never appreciate the blessings that I have and I would always compare myself with others because they are far more better than me. I would never realize that what I have now is just what I need, and what I want is what I will work hard for and what I will become is my gift to myself.
A simple thank you may not be enough but then If I hear a person thank me, at the end of the day, I know that even in my lowest, because of that 2 words that was sincerely said to me I know that I must have done something good.
To my fiends, enemies, family and all those who has become a part of me one way or the other, from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!. And I want you to know, once in your life, you have done something good.

So i took this shots on different angles and views of the sky. This was taken at dawn. I intentionally woke up early because I dont want to miss these sights… And I never failed….

And of course the pictorial would not be complete without the famouse “123 jump”…

We ended our weekend with so much fun..Looking forward to more of this…

Model: Fritz, Joy and the 3rd party…Bem..

And we all had a good laugh when we took this shot…

This is one of my work that I am also proud of. This is an image of a Young Family picture. I like this shot because it always reminds me of how nice it is to see a family together. I am a member of a broken family so I always like to see this kind of scenes. This always reminds me of the kind of family that I was never in… But no regrets…Because I have my own family now and I have my own Family picture to make. And of course it may not be a picture perfect but its a picture that i can always be proud of.

Model: Arman, Trixie and my daughter Phoebe

You find it hard to trust anyone and may find you bottle things up, which does not always help as it causes you to feel too stressed and you may eventually explode! Take it easy!

This is the last quizz I took

Your destiny is a healer. Healers have always been on this earth. God has been granting the ability to heal to different people. Does the title “healer” sound strange when placed on anyone other than a Western Medical doctor? If people need healing or relief and wellness is beyond their current strength, be assured that God made someone capable of offering tangible help … ask God it might be you !

And another quiz I took still from facebook…

You live a well-balanced life. Of course you like a little luxury once in a while, but you’re pretty down-to-earth and are happy with the simple things in life. You treat yourself to nice things, but would easily be able to give them up if you had to. You know what’s important in life.

I took a “Are you spoiled” quiz in Facebook.. This is the result…

Baclayon Church..One of the oldest Catholic

.Baclayon church’s altar.  I had to take the shot outside the main door because I did not pass the dress code that time.  You have to be in proper attire to get inside.Still in Baclayon…”church’s pillar”Loboc River…We passed by these 2 kids playing in the river..A couple taking pictures at each other in Loboc river

two little cute creatures..”tarsiers” the worlds smallest monkey.and this little guy here thinks he can hide from me..

and your trip to Bohol would not be complete without the ever famous “Chocolate Hills”

more Bohol pictures in Beautiful Journey

That was just the bright side of it. There were trials along the way too. In that span of time and experience, there I have found out who are my real friends are and who are those who are just pretending to be…Some wants the recognition all by themselves…In that experience you could really see how selfish a person can get..There is no money involved. All who participated were volunteers… Still people crave for more… More fame, more merit, more respects more of everything… I would be a hypocrite if I would say that I was not hurt because of those people. I was a little disappointed because I did not get enough credit. There is one thing that I am proud of though, I am proud of what I did and I know that there is this somebody who is also proud of me. I could hear him say to me “well done”. That is the most important thing for me. Getting high not of praises from people. Getting high because you know you did your best. There maybe times that you get unnoticed by people. One thing for sure, it would never pass by the eye of the one who really deserves the highest praise. That is why I took me years to post this, because now, there is no more pain and I know that whatever would I say here would just be mere observation already and not a judgment… I know deep inside, I deserve to Get High!

One of the sweetest thing that I heard my husband say is, if I die, he will never look for anybody else…Sometimes he says it jokingly and sometimes seriously…He told me that not just twice but a lot of times already…I would never knew if he would keep that word or not..I could not consider it as a promise as well because he never gave an oath…But then I want to believe him and I want to hold his words in my heart…It’s not that I don’t want him to look for another one if I’m gone, but I will never know…Yes, we talk about death sometimes. Not that we are both dying but we just casually talk about it sometimes…And while I am still alive, one thing that I would never regret in this lifetime, I have heard the sweetest word said to me while I am still alive..Thinking about it when I am gone is not my business anymore. What matter’s most is it made me feel loved and made me secure. The man that I decided to spend my life with really meant it when he told me “Till death do us part”. After my death if I go first, that’s already his choice…And when he goes first, I don’t know…What I know, only death and death only can set us apart…with God’s grace and prayer I know this is bound to happen in this lifetime…

This is a dance adagio of my favorite inspirational song “It’s All about you”. This is the first time I tried directing a show…It is a dance concert promoting “Anti-Drug Campaign”. My cousin as a professional dancer spearheaded this event and she asked me if I could direct the show… I willingly said yes…and true enough, I did it…I really enjoyed it a lot and it did not bother me a bit that I was already 11 months pregnant when this event was held…This is one of the most memorable event in my entire life…wish list: checked

For the may times I have hurt you
I want to say I am sorry
For the times I have let you down
Please forgive me

I know I am only human
Prone to make mistakes
But then I know too
That all things made possible through your grace

Thank you for your gentle convictions
That made me realize when I do wrong
Thank you for your compassion
That gives me the confidence to go on

To you, I offer my life
May you take it and make it whole
For people to see you in me
In the countenance of my face
May they see your reflection

I love you
And nothing can separate me from You
Not even the seductive lures of the world
Riches, Fame, Long life and anything new

It would take forever to be with you
Joy beyond measure i taste
Love everlasting I feel
In your presence my Lord…

To the woman on my journey, who showed me the ways to go on and ways not to go on, whose strength and compassion held up a torch of light and beckoned me to follow, whose weakness and ignorance darkened the path and encouraged me to turn another way…To the woman on my journey who showed me to live and how not to live. Whose grace, success and gratitude lifted me into the fullness of surrender to God. Whose bitterness, envy and wasted gifts warned me away from the emptiness of self-will.To the woman on my journey who showed what I am and what I am not. Whose love, encouragement and confidence held me tenderly and nudged me gently. Whose judgement, disappointment and lack of faith called me to deeper levels of commitment and resolved.To the woman on my journey who taught me to love by means of both darkness and light.To the woman on my journey, I say bless you and thank you from the depth of my heart. I have been healed and set free through your joy and through your sacrifice.

I remember my grandmother told me once..”Children’s happiness reaches up to heaven…” This I have seen with my own eyes when my kids were surprised by my mother with books and some hand me down clothes from my auntie abroad…It may not be new but you could really see how happy and exited they are when they saw those books handed to them…They did not even question if those stuff were new or how much was it… They just took it and said thank you jumping up and down… If my Aunt could only see their expression, she would be touched by the appreciation these innocent kids has shown..Unlike us grownup people, because if we receive something, and if it does not meet our standard, we don’t show any appreciation to it and sometimes even complain. Same thing with answered prayers..If we pray for something and we get the answer but not the way we want it or not the way we expect it, we don’t say “Thank You” but instead question why? But the truth of the matter is, that thing given to us, whether we think we don’t want it is good for us…I have heard one preacher say, God does not know how to say “No”…He just answers “yes”, “wait” and “it’s not good for you”…So in everything we receive, whether we like it or we think that we don’t want it, just say ” Thank you for the gift” because after all its freely given…If we have this grateful attitude in us, then maybe we all can say..Indeed it’s A BEAUTIFUL LIFE!

I wonder why every time I look at cartoon shows, Ostrich are always female.  Now  I understand.  The first time I saw an Ostrich…She was really beautiful.  Actually I don’t know if its a he or a she.  But whatever the gender is I really could say, she really is beautiful.  If she sees a visitor, she walks straight near the fence and shows a smile to those who wants to see it.  And believe me, the smile was really beautiful.  The walk is so graceful.  Seems like I am watching beautiful models doing the catwalk.  I am not that fund of animals, but really this one amazes me so much I could not help but admire such creature.  











Here is another shot when she really smiled to the camera.  Really amazing…Another reason for me not to regret on accompanying my daughter to her First Educational tour.  Such a wonderful sight…

I read this somewhere… I really do not know who the author is… Whoever he is I would like to give credit to him. I want to share this…

Focus on what is right and not on what is wrong

Focus on what is present and not what is not present

Focus on what is beautiful and not what is ugly

Focus on what is constructive and not on what is destructive

Focus on what helps and not what hurts

Focus on what we have and not what we lack….

This is so true. Every time I feel insecure, I think about this…Every time I fall, these words makes me always decide to stand up pick up the broken pieces and start all over. These words serves as my inner strength.  I know that I am not perfect yet I know that I can always make a choice on what to think. The fullness of the heart, the mouth speaks. If this is in my heart, I will surely reflect in what I say. Since I knew this, I always make it a point to recite it silently in my heart to always remind me that I am not at my worst. I chose not to be. You can also…

Breaking the Rule1. Never mix prints- Wearing stripes and floral together give a playful look. Remember to keep them in the same color family.2. Always match accessories- Matching earrings, necklaces and bracelets is old fashion. Create a clever look by mixing it all up.3. Shop till you drop- limiting your monthly shopping budget is a good way to make sure you make good purchases. Plus you get to practice self control.

Bending the Rules
1. Follow the trends-  Being trendy does not equal as to being stylish.  Chose the trend that suites your personality, body type and age.

2. Keep it simple-  Depending on the look that you are going for, less is not always more.  You have the license to experiment with fashion.

3. Cotton is for day, Satin is for night-  Not always.Wearing an unexpected mix of items makes a look interesting.

Obeying the Rules
1. Express yourself- Who says you should copy what everyone else is wearing.  Show your personality in the colors and cuts you choose.

2. Dress for your age

3. Dress appropriately for the occasion- A bright tube dress is great for those hot days.  Adding an attractive cover up makes it church worthy.

What on earth am I here for keeps running my mind.  Am I here to be a wife who serves his husband who snores so loudly in the night, who I think that the only he time he focuses is when he watches TV?  Am I here to be a mother of kids who seem to have no problem at all but and does nothing but ransack the house?  Am I here to be a daughter of a Father who is never around and a Mother who will never learn to let go?  Am I here to be a friend to people who only thinks evil of you or thinks that you don’t deserve what you have and that they are far more better than anybody else?  Am I here to be a teacher to younger generations whom you never know if they are listening or is just finding flaws in you so they can tell themselves that you are not at all perfect and you don’t know everything?  Am I here to live in this country who is led by corrupt leaders?  Am I here to live in a society that has unending problems and seem to get harder and harder everyday? 
Yes, I am here because of that and for 101 more reasons.  I am here for a purpose and the ultimate purpose is to make a difference.  To be a considerate wife, a patient mother, loving daughter, sincere friend, responsible person and a good citizen.  To the one who can love, give and bless.  To be grateful to the one and only reason why I am here.  To bring out the best in me and to give Him back all the glory.  If He has given up so much for me, then why I cant I give up something for Him.  My ultimate reason for being here is to be a reflection of God’s love.

I have been a team leader for almost two years already.  But until now I am still learning.  There is never an end to it.  Everyday I learn something new.  In my workplace, I handle an average of 16 direct reports with different personalities and styles.  But the challenging part is handling a person that is very difficult to handle or a person who does not want to be handled.  In facing this kind of people, we must learn how to be an effective leader.  So what does it take to become an effective leader?

Be a BRAT.

1. Be BRAVE -when you need to reprimand. Think that if you do not correct it now, you might not be able to correct it all.

2. Be a ROLE Model – practice what you preach. Do not forget the “golden rule”: Do unto others as you want others to do unto you.

3. Be APPROACHABLE – take time to listen or at least pretend to be. It means a lot.

4. Be TIMEBOUND – do not wait for forever for a person to change.  Deal with it on time.

There are one hundred and one more ways to be an effective leader.  However, the most important thing that leaders should learn is how to serve.  After all, “A true  leader is actually a servant in nature.”

It was my son’s 9th birthday.  We celebrated it at Jollibee due to public demand…As the kids were playing my husband and I were sitting in a table at a corner.  As we were talking, he told me that there was a new traffic enforcer in town.  As I checked it out, I was shocked…I grabbed my camera right away and started taking shots.  It’s not that I am a fan of his, but this sight, you can’t capture everyday,  I see a lot of smiling faces in the streets as he enforced the traffic.  I know one way or another he made those tired drivers smile and even for a while he eased their weariness of having to work hard every single day.  As I am posting this blog, I realized that maybe we can also be creative in our own little way to make some people smile.  I know it would always go a long way. This simple act made me smile and it made others smile.  Smile is very contagious so it’s not a bad idea to spread it around.  Kudos to you Jollibee!

The new traffic enforcer!

Christmas is fast approaching.  And part of the package is Christmas parties.  One of the challenges in a Christmas party is of course the Games.  We want as much as possible wants everybody in the party to joint the games.  Sometimes people get bored of the same games we play every year.  I am not talking about just kids here because if we create good games, it would also engage others to participate.  So here are the characteristics of a good game. 

1. It should be brief- people will wander off if your game is too long.  Urgency brings out the best in people too.

2. It should be inexpensive- be creative, pull together your resources and don’t invest too much money.

3. It should be participative- make sure everyone gets involved.  Make it a high spectator interest.  Make sidelines that could also involve peripheral people.

4. It should not be overly complicated- make the rules super simple.  Demonstrate before the game for clarity.  Write down rules and distribute it to team leaders.

5. It should use of Props- give out special awards.  Props makes the game interesting.  I could make the game different and makes a good impression.  The bigger, the noisier, the better.  But it does not necessarily cost much.

6. It should be low risk- use safety gears.  Don’t make it too rough.  Your games should also be accident resistant.  Having a first aid ready is not a bad idea.

7. It should be adaptable- good games can be modified and changed to meet an angle.

Previously in Beautiful Journey’s last post, I posted some Vital Elements of A Good Game.  Now we go to the types of Games that we can play.  Here some examples of the games.  You can make up your own as well based on these types:

1. Races- eating race (pies, cakes or ice cream eating), drinking race (a liter of lemonade using a shot glass) hobble race (two person with ankles tied will walk or run together)

2. Relay- utensils relay (relaying water using a spoon)

3. Hunt- treasure hunt (give clues or riddles and mark an X for the right spot)

4.Trust- blindfolded games

5. Memory- group concentration (spot the difference)

6. Word-spelling, cut up quotes (unscramble famous quotes or proverbs)

7. Dramatic- charades, paint me a picture, TV scenes

8. Getting to Know you- ID mixed up

9. Tag/Capture- flag capture

10. Water- water bag catch, oily balloon relay, tag of wars, bucket overflow

11. Traditional sports/Game show with a twist

12. Ball Games

and a lot more…Remember that these games are not for you to play but to invest it on others. 

Previously is Beautiful Journey, I gave examples on what are the type of games.  But we often ask our self why do really need to play games during parties, team buildings and functions?  There must be a reason why.  Let me sight a few.

1. To serve as an ice breaker- it breaks down reserved, it lessens formality a well.  Laughter is the best ice breaker.  It bonds people because people wants to share laughter. 

2.  To rouse people to participate especially if the people in your workplace are serious types.

3. To serve as illustrations especially if you want to impart a lesson during team buildings.

So the principle in haveing games should be:

Repetition- repeats a message

Association

Senses-people learn more if it involves more senses.

Some important tips:

1. Play games everyone can win- don’t play games that only athletic and intelligent can play.

2. Group themes in an identifying way- equally divide

3. Ensure high participation level- increase number of player

4. Ensure high spectator interest- make sure that the game is interesting to watch.  Have an emcee to help grab attention.

Remember that to spice up or add flavor is the purpose of the game.  Games should supplement, reinforce, subordinate and should only be occasionally.

Our last Beautiful Journey’s topic about games is how to design thematic and high impact games.  In this post is the actual designing of the game.

1. Set a goal- think on what is your goal in the specific that you are about to design.

2. Set time- a lot of extra time is needed for contingency.

3. Gather participants- know your audience.  Make sure that the game you will be designing will protect integrity especially teenagers.

4. Decide on what type of game- longer preparation is needed for big events.

5. Decide whether the game should be your invention or your innovation- read and research. Have an element of surprise.

6. Get referees- make sure that your referees can handle people, can core fairly, can be used as props, someone had authority, cool, can pacify others and can take the heat.

7. Prepare equipments and props- you can borrow stuff and create an environment.

8. Make the rules and scoring system- make your last game your biggest game.  Always put bonus points.

9. Troubleshoot- think of possible things that could go wrong.  Play the game first before you introduce it.

10. Do not forget the prize and rewards- it does not have to cost you much.

Often we took for granted on teaching our children to save. Most parents think that it is too early to start. We want to give our kids as much as possible whatever they want. However, it is still best to teach them young. There are three simple things to do to make it possible.

1. Talk to them – Get them involve in your conversation as a couple when you talk about finances. That way they will know that life is not easy. Let them hear as you discuss about trying pay those bills. Just make sure you do not quarrel in front of your kids. If you feel that you are about to fight, distract the kids and have them go to their room and talk about the issue between you and your spouse alone. In my family, we have a rule to turn off lights if you leave the room. We made sure that my kids also understand the reason behind it. This is to lower electric bills. We tell them that we need to save so we can pay for their school or buy food. Give them reasons that they can comprehend. They do not need to know the complications. They are still kids after all.

2. Give them options- When they ask something from you, a toy for example, show them the pros and cons of buying that toy and still leave the decision to them. That would help them in decision-making and problem solving when they grow up. In my family, before we go to the mall, we talk to them and give them options before we leave the house. If they want a toy, we set a price range. If they want to play in the arcade, they could not have the toy. Lastly, if they want either of the two, then that leaves us parents to choose where we should eat. They could not have everything. Most of the time we end up at Mc Donald’s. There they can have everything. They get the free toy for Kiddy Meal, eat the food they like and play in the play area for an hour or two.

3. Let them buy their own toy- Make them understand that nothing comes easy. For example, my son wanted to buy a remote control. We let him check how much the price is. I negotiate for a much cheaper toy. If he sticks with the expensive one, I tell him I can only afford much. Then I help him save for it. I make it exciting for him. I set a goal and timeframe. We calculate how much he needs to save daily. If his allowance will not be enough then he must earn for it. Helping me set the table would make him earn a few bucks. That way, he learns to work and earn. I also make sure that I remind him how much he has already saved daily and how many more days left before he could reach the amount. I give him a certain amount daily as well and tell him, that it is my contribution. It does not matter if my contributions are bigger than his contributions. It is supposed to work that way. Then when he reaches the amount, I let him got the counter and pay for his toy himself. The money should come from his pocket.

When I got out from our office, a man approached me and wanted to talk to me for a few minutes. He promised it would take about three minutes only so I agreed. It turned out that the man was a credit card agent. Since I did not have a credit card yet, I grabbed the chance and applied for it. It did not take long until I got my first credit card. I was so excited to use it. One thing led to another to another until I got out of control. I reached my spending limit. And the hard part is, I found my self about to drown in paying my credit card bill. At first, it was so easy until I realized that even if I pay more than my minimum amount due, my outstanding balance seemed not to move. It is as if it is doing some baby steps. I right realized right away that I need help.

I talk it out to some people that I trust- I told a few friends about it and listened to their advices. One friend told me that she had a similar experience. She applied for a balance transfer to help her out in managing her finances since most of her salary went to her credit card bill. Therefore, I applied for another credit card so I can also do a balance transfer. True enough, it helped me manage my finances. I transferred my balance and needs to pay a certain amount every month for one year. After a year, I was able to pay it all. And what happened to my credit cards? They are still with me and I still carry them around. But I learned the most important lesson from that experience. SELF CONTROL. I learned to control myself and I learned to discipline myself. And I am glad that I have to go through that experience because in that way I learned something. Though it was the hard way, but it was all worth it. If it were not for my friend who suggested me to apply for a balance transfer, then maybe until now, I am not over with my credit card bill. Balance transfer is good in a way, but it should not be the case all the time. We must learn to control and use our credit card only if we really need to purchase something important. Lesson number one: Do not use your credit card if you can pay cash. Paying cash is still the safest way to be out of debt.

Bloody Red is what my friend would call our “stats” and measure how we perform as a whole.  My team failed in CSAT…Customer satisfaction Month to Date…We just launched a New Product that is in demand to the public and got positive feedback from consumers.  We were all preparing for the big day…Training left and right, teach backs and all…But when our consumer give but praises to the product, they failed our reps surveys…It is very ironic.  Verbatim from customers such as Rep was not helpful, Rep was not knowledgeable, Rep does not communicate clearly…Where did I ever go wrong?  I asked my self… I was tempted to shout at those under me and blame them for not doing their job.  For not providing a “Service to Remember” as what I always remind them…Then it dawned on me as I thought, there must be a reason for all of this…

Yes, I was too focused on passing the standards…I was thinking too much of being competitive with the other teams who were able to handle the pressure too easily.  I forgot my promise to my team.  I promised them that I will make sure that they will enjoy coming to work and not just delivering what is asked of them but at the same time come to work and enjoy work.  I am accountable of these numbers.  I failed to keep my promise…Maybe, they are partly to be blamed because they are the ones interacting with our customers.  But I should be accountable still.  Because they are My Team.  I should take care of them.  Give them recognition of the good work they have done.  A simple pat on the back and say good job would mean a lot to them… I know.  I have been on their shoes… It’s not an easy job I know, and I failed to recognize their effort…But today, when I get to work, I make a commitment that I talk to my team, one by one and give them a heartfelt thank you for the sacrifice, the Overtime they rendered without complaining and for showing up to work is already more than enough…I am accountable, because I should not only lead, but be one with them…

This is my son BJ at Cebu Beach Club.  Would you believe he is still 4 years old at this time…Too big for his age…

                               

                      And who would have thought that this is what the resort would look like during the day…As early as 6:00am…the place was jam packed already…

This was our tree last Christmas…Never to early or too late too post this… Christmas is bound to happen every year anyway… (An alibi so I can post this picture)

               

                 

                And this was when she was a little bigger already at Tabor Hills Talamban.

Phoebe’s different angles and faces…She really likes the Camera…

 

 

 

                                                            One sweet day with daddy…

                            Bonding with each other…A good site to see.. as if they get along all the time…

                           I was not the one who took this shot because I was riding in the “banca”…

                                                          Another shot of our “banca”

Recently, it has been raining in our place.  I really love the rain.  But then again, there are things that you cannot do when it rains.  You cannot jog and definitely, you cannot take your kids to the park or take your dog for a walk.  So there are times when it is raining too much, you would wish for Mister Sun to shine.  You would wish you were living in Arizona.  Enjoying the sun, the walks in the park and enjoy many more beautiful things to do. I love it when it rain, but I definitely like the heat as well.  Living in Arizona is not a bad idea at all.

I want to buy a car.  I have been thinking about it recently and have been discussing it with my husband.  New car, used car, I don’t care.   So I am now thinking about my options. I am starting to search online and gather some advises from few close friends.   What do need to consider if I am to buy one. How the car looks when I am driving it and the of course the color.  The rest of the details, I am clueless.  Good thing I have checked www.BuyYourCar.co.uk. There I found New or used cars for lease or pay cash for. It did answer most of my questions about car.

My mom has Diabetes.  But nothing to worry since her sugar level is already in control.  She regularly takes her medicine and of course exercises.  I know it really helped a lot.  She does it every single day.  She did not have to enroll herself to a fitness center because she does the exercise herself.  A little aerobics and Kettlebells will do the trick.  As I watched her lifting those weights in her room, I realized its time for me to workout as well.

My children has been my source of strength every time I feel like giving up, my energy every time I feel tired. They complete me and so they deserve the best. I wish I could give them orlando vacations this Christmas. They can have the choice of Walt Disney World, Sea World Adventure Park or Universal Studio. I am holding on to the dream and I know it will come…

Ever since I was a child, we would already set up our Christmas tree as early as November. It was a family tradition. Even now that I have a family of my own, I always make it a point that I have a Christmas tree in the house every Christmas. I bought an a artificial christmas trees a few years ago and decorated it. That was the first Christmas tree that I bought. And it became our Tree every Christmas. I have preserved it and has been using it for how many years already. It has become a part of our Christmas every year. Now I am about to set it up again.

I have been working in the graveyard shift for four years already. The kind of work that I do would require me to work at midnight. Ever since then, coffee has been my best friend. I drink two to four cups when I am in the office. I know that too much of everything is not good. But if I cannot drink coffee, in just a few minutes I will be sound asleep in my desk. It is not a beautiful sight to see. So I make it a point that I have a Capresso ready with coffee every time I feel I would like to travel to dreamland. My new motto, a coffee a day, keeps the snores away…

I hate so say this and I hate to admit it, but every time I look at myself in the mirror, I am starting to see tiny wrinkles under my eyes. Oh no! Though it is not that obvious yet, but if I really take a closer look at it, it is there. I am starting to search around for the best eye cream that could take this away, or at least prolong this from coming to the open. I hate to admit it, but I am going there. I do not know if I am just too conscious with age but I know that I am still not fifty, but halfway there…I never really appreciated beauty secrets until now. Because when I was young, I was always happy with my face…I do not know if I can still be… Yes, reality really bites…

My house help requested a vacation. She would not be around for 3 days. So that means I have to do all the cleaning in the house. Good thing I always teach my kids to keep all their toys in their toy box after they play and put back the books in the shelf after reading. I have to admit I am not a domestic person. Cleaning floor tiles is never easy. Good thing we have those shiny ones that can be cleaned up by just using a mop. If not it would take me the whole day scrubbing the floor. Washing dishes, piling up laundry and folding clean clothes to name a few things that I have done today. Urgh! I’m not used to this, but I survived the day.

I am married for 11 years now. Yet my husband never changed. He always sees to it that he lets me know that he loves me either by words or by actions. He will be celebrating his birthday soon and I wanted to give him something that he would not forget. As I was squeezing my brains on what to give him, I tried to recall every single gift he gave me. I realized he never really stopped giving me wonderful gifts each day. He tells me he loves me everyday. He tells me I still look good. It means a lot to me. He kisses me every night before he goes to sleep. Even if I were in deep sleep, I could always wake up every time he gets home because of that kiss. Still there is one thing I wish he would do. I want him to sing to me. Not in public but just outside our house, on his birthday, with stars all over the sky and outdoor fireplaces to keep us warm. Just him, his guitar and me. I would never grow tired of hearing him sing. Then, there I will give him my gift. Still do not know what though. But I know I will be able to figure it out in time.

I love music. And I love to sing. I have been checking out for MP3 players that I can buy since my old would no longer cooperate. Because I could not live without it, I already broke 2 of it. This will my third if I will buy one. I am planning to buy myself an early gift for Christmas. I am already starting to search online, in gadget stores in the mall, eBay and every possible store or place. I am starting to check on the price, the features and make sure that it will be everything that I wanted it to be. I just cannot live without music. It keeps me sane if I am stressed. It helps me control my temper and it makes me go to sleep if I will have my insomnia attacks. Music is my best friend. It is already part of me. I just cannot imagine life without music. It has been three days already since I did not have an earphone plugged into my ear. Good thing I my helper quit because her grandfather died and she needs now to take care of her widowed grandma. So both my husband and I are preoccupied in taking turns in getting the house tidy. But how long can I leave without music? Not long enough I know.

I am so happy because both my kids are excelling in school. My eldest boy was part of the top 10 list in his class. He may not be the number 1 but he has been very consistent in getting into the top 10 list in class since he was a first grader. And I was not surprise when my youngest daughter though still in pre-school landed as the first in her class as well. Because of this, both of them deserve a treat. I asked them what they want and they both agreed that they want a vacation. To the beach? I asked them and they both agreed. I thought of staying in one of Outer Banks vacation rentals where we can have an opportunity to enjoy the beach and just sit back in our rental home and relax. My kids are looking forward to it ad that includes the parents.

My family is renting an apartment for 1 year and 2 months already. We survived! Yippy! We thought we never could because both my husband and I are dependent to our parents. We finally decided to separate and live on our own. Now it has been a year already. Now we are starting to dream of having a place of our own. I am starting to search online checking for a house. There are lots of manufactured homes that are durable, state-of-the art housing with custom features and options at prices we can afford. They are constructed from the same materials as most site-built homes but they are built in a quality-controlled, factory environment where the materials are never exposed to the elements. Not a bad idea for a start. But the search is still on…

This is Moses.  He is my cousin and he has Down syndrome.  It means a condition of a child in which extra genetic material causes delays in the way a child develops, both mentally and physically.  I remember he had an open-heart surgery when he was still a baby.  I really could not give out his medical history because I was still young at that time as well.  He lives in another place so I only see him when his mom would come to our hometown for a vacation and it is not very often too..  The last time I saw him was a few years ago.  And honestly I don’t know how old he is right now.  All I remember was I was able to baby sit him when he was still a baby.  I could remember him as very tiny.  Just recently, I saw his picture in facebook.  I was amazed at how big he is already.  And most of all I was surprised that he has such a great talent in painting.  A thing that I never knew was in our family.  Because I don’t have that.  The last time I saw him, though he was already 6, 7 or 8 years old then, he was not able to talk yet.  He can only say a few words, now I just cannot help it but be proud of him,  I know there are a lot who is more talented than him.  No doubt about it.  But since he is my cousin, and he is a member of my family, I will always be proud of him.  For me, he is still the best.

                                               Moses and his paintings

Last night, it was my Big Boss’ birthday.  We were invited to attend and since he is our boss, my colleagues and I decided to join.  It was a Sunday and was supposed to be a family day.  I had to meet my friend somewhere so we can go to the party together.  After going out with my family, I did not have the time to change.  I was in my usual normal day-to-day attire.  I was worried but when I saw my friend wearing the same thing, I got relieved a little.  I could picture in my mind the people wearing formal party attire and I would really be out of place.  But when I saw the celebrant, he was not wearing a men’s tuxedo or something formal.  Whew!  I was very relieved or this could have been one of my most embarrassing moments.

One of my previous post I mentioned that my house help went home to her hometown because her grandfather died.  She said it will be for 3 days only.  Thinking about my 3 miserable days made me scared already.  but lo and behold, she is not coming back…Her parents would not allow her because she has to take care of her newly widowed grandmother.  So the 3 miserable days extended to 9 days already.  During the weekend, I a general cleaning in the house.  Did I just do that?  Amazingly I did.  Then I cam across these gifts that I got from my agents.  2 was given to me as an appreciation on 2 different years and 1 was sort of a personalized made birthday card.  I read it again.  It felt me happy to read those messaged that they appreciate me. (that’s what it says in the message…lol).  I grabbed my cam and took shots of these tokens of appreciation I got.  Though this might be late, but knowing my agents value what I taught them, it made me feel good.  Made me even forgot that my body was already aching of moving things around the house.  To all who has been under me, from day 1 until you have been moved to another LOB, or promoted,I would like to say Thank you too for making me feel valued.  It means a lot.

I have a friend who is in a personal crisis right now. It is about her relationship with her husband. I do not want to go into details about her issue, but because of what happened to my friend, I tried to come up with something to write that could help us women. Boys will always be boys if you know what I mean. And most often than not, we women are always left on the losing side. I will be posting 101 ways to try to keep our man. I will have one post per day. If the shoe fits, we can keep them. There is no guarantee that it will work all the time but at least we tried.

101. Constantly remind him of the reasons you married him. List it down and read it to him as often as you can. Remind him of your promise to him even when you were not yet married. Remind him as well of his promises to you and tell him that you still expect him to keep his promise. Remember together the reasons why you fell in love with each other.

100. If your husband loves sports, go to his favorite game with him sometime. Try to find as well a time to sit beside him as he watch his favorite sports show on TV and cheer with him as he cheers for his favorite team. Its hard sometimes, especially if you are not a sports lover like me. But give it an effort and cheer. Just shout when he shouts. Pretend that you are interested in the game and ask him questions about the sport even if you do not understand a thing.

I love the beach. I also love to travel. There are places in the world that I dream I could go. I want to go to Hawaii. I want to visit Mexico, Greece, Jamaica and Dominican Republic. All these places have one thing in common. They have beautiful beaches. If given a chance, my first stop would be Cana region is located at the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic. There are lots of beautiful punta cana hotels punta cana hotels where I can stay. I want to experience the beautiful white sand beaches of a true tropical paradise in Punta Cana. It would be a dream vacation for me. I will keep on dreaming. Anyway, dreams are free.

Bring him his favorite hot beverage in the morning to wake him up. It may be simple but it would surely warm his heart. He may seem not to appreciate it, but deep inside, he feels pampered. If you don’t do it one day, he will surely miss it.

Give him a back rub, foot massage, or scratch his head and watch him purr.  He will surely love it.  Many women may say they will not do it because they don’t want to be servant.  But little did they know, that action would tell him how much you really love him.  Wives are called to be servants and to love our husbands.  So what the heck…Call me a servant..Because I really am…

Go out and wash the car with him occasionally.  He may not need your help in washing that car because why would he, it is a man’s job in the first place.  But he would surely appreciate the company.  Kid around with him while you help him wash his car.  Do the simple things like holding the hose for him or any of the easy stuff.   Make sure that you are helping and not be a burden. If not washing the car, try joining him as he do some house carpentry like fixing plumbs or something.  Just handing him the screws would be appreciated much.   You may join him with this activity but make it not too often or he would get annoyed.  And never expect him to say thank you after because greater chances is he won’t.

Email him a special love message.  Or make post it notes and post it in the mirror, at the door so he could see it right away.  You don’t have to make the message long.  Simple messages or phrases that could make him smile.  It’s the element of surprise that will make him smile when he reads it at the same time it reinforces your love for him.

Start the shower for him in the morning.  We know that he can do it but it could start his morning right.  Do some simple things like letting him sleep an extra minute, or prepare a warm bath for him.  Those thoughtful things are missing in so many relationships.  These simple things are the very things that we take for granted.  And this simple things are also the very things that men look for every now and then in a relationship.

Always be affectionate.  As simple as a gentle touch, a hug, and a kiss on the cheek.  Most men act like they don’t like this or need it.  But honestly, they do and in fact, they’ll love it.  This is one of those that send a signal to his heart.  Simple affections is a key ingredient so often left out.  We women must continue to reinforce an attitude that shows how we love our man even in small simple gestures.

Don’t whine about things.  Develop an attitude of gratitude.  Let me quote Proverbs 21:9 “It’s better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home”.  Men hate whining.  It’s like an annoying, dripping faucet.  Always be thankful, grateful, and appreciative and learn to take things lightly.  I have known a few women who whine about every little thing.  Then they wonder why their husbands don’t want to take them anywhere or be around them.  This is a big NO, NO!  Remember this, if you want your man to be away from you, Whine!

If he is working out in the yard on a hot day, bring him some iced tea or another cold beverages.  This says to him that you care, you notice what he is doing and you appreciate it.  They will love knowing that we are taking care of them.  Let them feel that you are looking after them.  It send a strong message of appreciation to them.

Christmas is fast approaching.   There will be parties left and right.  I am also planning to organize a party for my relatives.  It has been a long time since we had family gathering.  This year I am planning to host the party in my house.  Part of the planning of course is to set up of the house.  I want it to look presentable.  I need to replace some furniture.  One of which is our dining room table.  I am starting to search for some Dining Tables and is starting to compare them.   I need to replace it not because of the party but because the table is getting smaller as my kids are getting bigger.  Just didn’t find enough urgency to replace it until now.  Now is really the right time.  No more excuses for me.

I never had a problem with acne or pimples when I was growing up. Even when I was a teenager when most of my friends where trying out every acne products they know because acnes and pimples are starting to grow all over. Thank God, I never had that problem. My husband on the other hand was part of those teenagers who experienced the agony of wiping those foreign objects on the face. My son is growing fast. I am crossing my fingers that he won’t have to go through that humiliating agony as part of teenage life. I was thinking about it as I was checking online trying to research on a project and I came across a sight for skin deceases which acne was mentioned. That got me concerned. But I will just have to wait and see. A lot of teenagers have to go through that anyway.

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Incendia Health. All opinions are 100% mine.

Abbott Medical Optics Inc., a global leader in laser vision correction would want to know how better vision could make lives better. They want to know if your life has improved when you got that better vision. They are inviting people to share their experience and spread it around and at the same time will be rewarding the best video as well.

Do you have original music videos, videos on boxing and swimming, or videos showing how you improved your daily lives? If you have any of these or any videos that you have showing the impact of improved vision, you can actually win $5,000 grand prize. First price would be HDTV package ($2,599 value) and second price would be The Flip UltraHD camcorder ($199.99 value) in each category. All you need to do is join “You Gotta See This” iLASIK Video Contest.

You can submit a Video and choose the category “My contacts are getting in the way of my good time”, “My favorite sport or activity would be so much cooler with better vision”, “You should see life after the iLasik Procedure”. You can also tell friends to vote for your video once you have submitted it.
What are you waiting for? Submit your videos now at www.GottaSeeThisNow.com.

Let us continue to make this Beautiful Journey as I continue to reveal more secrets on how to keep our man. This is still the 91st…We got a long way to go. I would appreciate if you can also share some secrets that you have tried and tested. Your secret could be added on the list…

Okay so no 91. When he least expect it, make reservations somewhere and take him out to dinner. You make all the plans. It’s a cliché’ but it’s true. The best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Make sure also that you have saved enough because you would be the one to pay the bill. If he insists on paying it, tell him that you really saved for it so it to surprise him. It would also be additional bonus points for you.

Beautiful Journey’s Secrets on how to keep our man continues…

Let him sleep one Saturday, while you get the housework started. Just a friendly tip: Postpone the vacuuming until he finally wakes up. And clean the bedroom last. Make sure that he is out of the bedroom before you start cleaning it. Make sure that you do not disturb his sweet Saturday sleep. And do not wake him up. Wait for him to get up (unless if he has other appointments) and make sure that the table is ready when he does.

Go shopping for him one day. Do not take him with you nor ask him to drive for you or pick you up at the mall. Do it alone. Just surprise him with something you bought for him. This is fun and easy. Buy him a bottle of cologne or a shirt that you would like to see him wear. As we make our journey beautiful, we are also giving him a beautiful journey.

Call him at work one day and tell him that you are nuts about him. Make sure that you don’t say that you are nuts because of him. If you are not fond of calling him at work, do it one time. If your text messages would only contain messages like, “where are you?”, “pick me up”, “I’m at the grocery” or “please pick up the kids”, try to send him a message that only contains the word “I Love You” if you can’t say it over the phone. But it would work best if you say it instead of sending a text message.

Do romantic things often. Give him those starry-eyed stares. Send him candy, buy a romantic CD for quite times alone, dress the way he likes you to around the house. Every man is different but you know well what romances your man. Do it often. Don’t make an excuse that life is so hectic that there wont be time for romance. Falling in love is easy but staying in love needs extra effort. It’s the true test. Doing the things that caused you to fall in love in the first place give you an escape to where you really want to be. Having a beautiful journey.

I am an only child.  My husband is also an only child.  Now that our kids are growing up, our expenses are getting bigger each day.  Our primary concern is our kid’s education.  But one day as I was talking with my aunt, we suddenly talked about how our parents have grown old.  And I suddenly got concerned about that truth, that one day, as they age, they will have to encounter sickness one day.  So I started to think about affordable health insurance. Thinking of that day t come seemed scary.  But then again, I have to be prepared for it since I don’t have any siblings who will help me with the finances when that day would come.  I am not wishing for it, but I guess getting ready about it is just being practical.

We are on the 86th way from 101 ways to keep your man. These things may or may not work for you. But the bottom line is we try to express the best that we can to tell the person we love that we love them.
Tell your husband how much you love him. A man needs this constant reminder. This continues to reassure him of your undying love, giving him one less thing to worry about.

Here is another way to keep your man.
Make sure that you hold hands when in public. It should always be obvious that you are in love. This sends a string message to others-including your children- and it makes you feel good about each other. Holding hands can benefit both you and your partner. You will have that sense of security and you feel that you are always safe and at the same time, he would feel he is needed and that you depend on him. This would make him feel in control.

When eating out, do simple things like sweetening his iced tea or unfolding his napkin. This is a simple servant attitude. This is a given for us women. Many women look at this as lowering themselves as a servant status. But for as for me, I love my husband and I like to show it in simple things. I know that my husband will follow me to the ends of the earth. He knows he couldn’t replace me. I love knowing that I have captured him in every way. You can do the same.

Bake him cookies. Always keep a fresh batch of chocolate cookie dough (or whatever his favorite is) ready. This will tame the cookie monster in him. Men love sweet treats. If you don’t know how to bake, learn. I could also help you feel good because what you have done is a labor of love. You would love how you would be feeling if you see him take that little bite and he would smile and munch everything in the plate. You can also bake for his friends. He would appreciate it.

More ways to keep our man.

When he is half dead doing a lot of chores, run him a hot bath and wash his back. Sit with him and just be his best friend. You don’t need to agree with everything that he will say. You just simply listen. When my husband talks about sports, which I could not relate, I just nod my head and listen. When he talks about music, though I love music, but when it’s his night, meaning I decide to let him be for a night, I just listen. If I don’t agree with his comments about a song for example, I just shake the idea away. I will just wait for my night. Then I will rebut.

This is an interesting way to keep your man.

Commit yourself to learning, growing and filling your mind with valuable, worthy things. Be the kind of girl that would make your man proud. Every man loves to talk to an interesting woman. The most powerful, sensual organ you have is between your two ears. We will never know all we should, and we can improve our minds. I always wanted to be interesting and informed. My husband would never be embarrassed when I can carry an intelligent conversation with his friends, his boss or his parents.

There are ways to keep your man that is not easy.

Do things with him that interests him. Show enthusiasm with his hobbies, crafts, or special-interest projects that he gets involved in. If your husband loves cars and motorcycles, go to swap meets with him. My husband wanted to have his own sound system. I never thought it could be that expensive. But I go with him sometimes when he window shops for some baffles, amps, mixers and all that stuff. I also make suggestions and most of the time it’s a wrong one, but then I can always show him that his interests are worth my time.

Surprise him with a special gift- for no special reason.  Think of something that your husband has been really wanting but never purchased.  You would really see his face light up when you hand him your special gift.  You would really know that there are some things that they wanted to buy but most of the time they just shake it off.  You can save for it and one day buy it for him.  You would love to see how surprise he would get and how happy you have made him.

I was sick the last week.  I was not able to write posts for my blog.  I had a lymph node on my left neck and it was so big and so painful.  I really felt sick inside and outside my body.  The lymph node was so painful that the pain would run all over my head.  I lost my appetite and my heart was palpitation.  I had to have my blood pressure checked.  On the exam table, I was shaking and got so nervous I don’t want to find out what my blood pressure would be.  Good thing that my bloods preassure was normal.  I need to go get my eye checked as well because I might need to have my glasses upgraded too.  Whew.  Am I really getting old or is my body telling me something?  Maybe I need to chill a little and get easy because I am about to become a workaholic already.

If there are any broken fences within the family, do your part to help mend them as soon as possible.  There is more value in this than you could ever imagine.  You could never imagine how much worth this is to your partners.

Learn all you can about being a smart wife.-the kind of woman that will keep your husband interested.  Remember, men are hunters and gatherers.  Give him something to hunt.  Try to raise a topic that might interest him and at the same time would surprise you know something about it and get amazed on how well you knew that stuff.  Talk about politics, economy or anything that you don’t usually talk about or haven’t really talked about.

If your husband has an ex-wife, be kind and loving to help matters in every way.  Even if she doesn’t respond favorably, it will remind your husband that he made the right decision in marrying you.  You can live in misery and always be upset, or you can try to get along and do the right thing.  We may never do things perfectly, but we can always control how we act and react.  This activity related to this matter can really make your husband trust you.  It is never the best situation but you can make it as good as you choose.

Make a habit of writing and leaving him fun notes.  You can leave them on his pillow, o the bathroom mirror, or in his car.  These simple acts of love help to keep him fall in love with you.  Do you realize how much it would mean to your husband if you would surprise him with a card or a love note?  Leave them in different places-the bedroom, bathroom or in his closet.  It will make him feel secure with your love.  Leave the note as well on the car so he can find it on his way to work.

Exercise!   Every man wants his wife to keep her girlish figure, so do everything you can to keep yours.  I am starting now.  Some women are blessed with great figure, or even better, a wonderful metabolism.  For those of use who are not, we must work out.  Not only will we look good, we will also feel good because of all the health benefits associated with exercise.  Whether we walk, run, play tennis, or lift weights-just do it.  It will keep him much more interested in you.  A healthy lifestyle- including exercise- will help you live longer.  We have a responsibility to ourselves to stay healthy.

Look pretty for him.  Just like the saying, “If the barn needs painting paint it.”  You don’t necessarily need to wear makeup.  Just be beautiful by dressing right.  Clean your face.  Treat yourself for a facial once in a while.  Have a pedicure.  Go to a hair salon.  Get a body scrub.  Invest in these for the sake of looking beautiful for your husband.  Treating ourselves with these is not vanity.  It simply is taking care of our beauty.  Though inner beauty still tops it all, but that doesn’t mean we have to look 10 years older than our actual age.

Today is one of the not so good days in my life.  I never felt so bad deep inside I could not tell it to anybody.  If you really analyze it, I should not be feeling this way.  But I am.  I feel that I am burning inside and I want to explode and let things be.  But something is stopping me from exploding. It seems like there are furnace filters in me.  It’s stopping actions or emotions from getting out because it can do harm.  It’s filtering all negative aspects to prevent others from getting hurt.  It better be that way or the filter won’t serve its purpose.

If your husband is a golfer (or a tennis player) then go with him to the golf course (or tennis court). Hey, it’s a blast watching him hot those little white golf balls and squinting until you can’t see them. And see how hard he can swing his racquet! Once in a while, he would like this sort of hero worship.

If you know he is broke- and you are not- put a little cash in his wallet without him knowing. He will wonder all day long where it cam from. It’s a fun way to tease them sometimes when you have a little WAM (walking around money) and he doesn’t. It seems that your husband is always out of money. Those loose bills scattered in your purse (he’ll think you took his). Have a little mercy, ladies, and loan him some money. You could have even more fun outlining the rules for paying you back.

Mail a friendship card to him at work- just a “glad we’re together” or “I love you in so many ways” message. Be careful how you address it. Embarrassing him is not the objective. Stay away from the names like Sweetie Pie, Angel or Lover Boy. These friendship cards are easy to find in supermarkets. It’s the element of surprise that makes this work. If things have been tough for him lately in some way, make the most of good timing.

Make sure you pay attention more attention to him than you do the family dogs or pets. (whatever you do, don’t confuse their names.

If your husband has a job that keeps him on his feet all day, surprise him when he gets home with a hot prepared “foot bath”. (You could put on the new CD you just purchased to help relax him.)

If you have your husband’s children from previous marriage, by all means love them as you would your own. This is a huge statement to him about the quality of the woman he found in you. Stepchildren can always use another positive influence in their lives. Make sure you are one. If you have your own children as well as his, don’t show favoritism. They are all yours now and need the same love and affection. No one can replace their own mother, but you can learn to be a friend. It’s not always easy, but he will love you all the more for loving his children.

Get a life! The best thing any woman can do for herself and her husband is to develop her own interests. Get involved in worthwhile causes- church work, children’s issues, community volunteer work, or the like. Be interesting, have something to say. Offering your time and energy creates a sense of value that will do wonders for your own self-esteem-raising your stock in his eyes too.

I have a friend who sells car. I did not know this until he showed up one day at my house and started to do some sales talk. He said that this is the best time for me to buy a car and so on and so forth. He kept on sending me a text message almost everyday and asking me to do a test drive with him. I started to get confused and am thinking of giving in. I started to calculate already our monthly finances every month if I will purchase a car already. But my husband keeps on stopping me and keeps on reminding me to wait. I started day dreaming already of where to buy Ferrari parts in case I would purchase one. Whhoa! It’s time to wake up. But then in the near future I know we will have to buy one. Not necessarily a Ferrari though.

I was watching TV the other day. I saw one of the famous TV personality in our country publicized her newly bought RV. (Recreational Van) It was colored pink. She let the camera took shots of the entire RV. I did not envy watching it but I felt a little small sting in me. How come there are people who could afford buying a brand new RV and a lot of people goes hungry. I don’t mean to say that they should deprive themselves from buying the things they like and the things they can afford. They have worked hard for it. But I was just thinking that maybe instead of buying a brand new one, they can just buy a used rv for sale. That extra money they saved can be given to charity or something. I don’t want to sound like I am sour grapping or something. This thought jut came to my mind when I was watching that show. But no hurt feelings for me. She deserves it anyway.