I Just Turned 39

I turned 39 today! It feels great and grateful for the reason that God has blessed me another year to live. Though it's quite sad because hubby and Karl are not around to celebrate it with me. Nonetheless, I have my friends who made time and made sure that I will be happy on my special day.

I am HAPPY to be 39.

I am excited for what 39 is going to bring into my life and the things that I would like to achieve in this new year of my life.

I am praying that God will continue to bless me and my family all the desires of our hearts.

Now that I am 39, I have so much maturity both personal and professional level. Life is what we make it. We color the events of our lives in a way we look at things and in a way we think it's right.

Thank you Heavenly Father for the love, grace, forgiveness, for my family, friends and for life. Please continue to walk with me on this beautiful journey we called LIFE. 

A letter to my Mom on her 61st Birthday

Today is my mom's 61st birthday. She's thousand miles away from us so we couldn't celebrate with her. We just sent her birthday cards ( yes, we still prefer snail mail..) and we will do facetiming later (thanks to our technology now).

It's her another birthday in 12 years that she's miles away from us. It's quite sad but we are all thankful that God has given her another year of life to celebrate. And that what matters most ..

Though I sent her card, I'd still want to write her a letter to celebrate her special day.

Dear Mama,

Today is a special day not only to you but ours as well because this is the day when God created a wonderful woman to be our mother. It's definitely a celebration for having the greatest mom in the world!

Certainly, me & my brabbie would not be the person we are today without your ( oh dad too of course..) guidance, constant advices/reminders, unconditional love (which you have given yours to us in abundance) and values that you instilled us. Thank you Mama! Thank you so much for all the things that you have shown to us and for continue doing, believing, acting living a life not to expect things to happen but to make things happen.

How I wish we were there to celebrate your special day. You know that we are always thinking of you all day and you're in our heart always. As you celebrate another year on this world, I want you to know that you are truly appreciated and irreplaceable. Trusting that our heavenly Father will continue to bless you more healthy long life and strength to face the game of life. And that today is the beginning of another awesome year for you because you deserve it.

Happiest Birthday Mama! Keep in mind that you make the world a better place for us and it's such an honor of being your daughter. And that being said, I am so much grateful to God.

With so much love & respect,

Your first born, Leah

A Birthday Letter to My Son..

My Dear Karl,

Exactly 13 years ago, when i gave birth to a bouncing baby boy. I couldn't described what kind of emotions I was feeling back then. Apparently, it's a mixed emotion! .. I was crying because it's a tears of joy.. then smiling because you're a truly blessing from God. It was the happiest day of my life and one of the best thing that ever happened to me.

When i first held you,  I was so scared as you were so fragile. Thinking that I might break and hurt you by not holding you properly. I loved to cradle you in my arms. You were such an adorable young fella. I was amazed by God's unfolding gift to be your mother.

I stopped working for two years to be a hands-on mom for you. It was exhausting day of my life but full of fun and excitement. Those were the  incredible years for me. As I watch you grow, I fell in love with you deeper and deeper everyday. I saw your first smile, heard your first giggles. Remember the song The Itsy Bitsy Spider? You were 6 months old  then when I have to sing it over and over because you love that song especially when I run my fingers up and down to your belly. You were giggling! Your laugh is the loveliest melody... a truly music in my ears. I cheered and cried when I first saw you struggling to crawl at 5, climbing up in your crib at 6,  taking your first step at 11 months because you were strong, brave and it amazed me and feels so proud at how far you'd become.  

Today you will turn 13, and you're entering your teenage years. I can't help thinking that you have grown so fast buddy! You're no longer a baby boy but still you will always be my baby, our baby.. and you know that. As a mother, there's always something special having a child. It's hard to explain. But I know someday, you too will feel the same way when you have your own family.

So as you enter down the teenage year of your life, there are few things that I'd like you to remember as you go older and live your own life. I know that these will help and keep you grounded as you go own and experiencing the twist and turns of life.


1. Your daddy and I  will always be your best friends for the rest of your life. We will stand up for you, help you, support you, understand you and will give you an unconditional love. 

2. Don't forget to say these important words : I love you, Thank You, Please and Sorry. Make sure that it comes from your heart. 

3. Always remember to be yourself . Ignore those people who will turn you down and disrespect you. It's a waste of time!

4. Nobody's perfect.. everyone make mistakes, even dad & mom but I want you to learn from it because this makes you more stronger, tougher to face life.

5. When you reach the age that you finish schooling and able to get a good job (hopefully with good pay), don't forget to save some for travelling. Travel, explore and learn new things from different cultures, customs and beliefs. In this way, it will help you to value, respect more of other's life.

6. Don't be afraid to take risk. It's part of life and you need to embrace it. Though risk sometimes, may lead to failure but take note that it can lead you to  success. Make sure that you follow your heart and always ask guidance from Holy Spirit.

7. Take time to learn to play guitar. It's good to have other skills aside from being a computer wizard.  ... Girls love that. And I want you to play one for Mommy.

8. Be smart enough not out think your common sense. Trust yourself  to listen to your intuition. Think twice or more than when you make a decision. Think the pros and cons.

9. Life can be cruel at times. Stand tall, be tough, stay focus and positive.

10. Happiness is a choice. Have the courage..You may start choosing it right now. 

11. Don't get me/us wrong when  I/we kept on repeating same words, advises because i/we want you to be in a right path so you will have a good life.

12. Live your life by the rule of love. Love your parents, your friends, your future wife, children, your neighbors, your enemy (they deprive of it). Show everyone kindness, compassion, selfless act. Smile and say words that are pleasant not hurtful. But don't forget to love yourself too for being who and what you are because you are wonderful creation of God. Your uniqueness is your strength.

13. Above all, don't forget to pray and give thanks to the Lord our God. Because without Him, you, us are nothing. Always ask guidance in everything and anything you do.. will do.  Serve Him in any means you can.

Happy 13th Birthday my Son! May our Heavenly Father continue to guide you in the new chapter of your life. I wish and pray that you will continue to grow into a Godly young man. That you will continue to acquire wisdom, and grow up as a brave , respectful, loving man.

Like your daddy, know that I am so proud to be your mother. You are very precious to me because you bring joy to my heart. I love being your mother since the day you were born. You're the purpose of my being. I love and enjoy your company since day one. The past 12 years has been filled with priceless memories and I look forward to many more years.

Remember that life is a blessing from God. And He has plans for you! Plans to prosper you  and not to harm you. He will give you hope and a future. So Be thankful everyday!

Love you muchu,
Mom

PS:
Remember that Hugs is important. It's a way to share joy, to show comfort... Ooppss, and  don't forget to smile often, and less frown. This will make you more gwapo anak. I love you to bits and pieces son.

13 awesome years with my man

13 years ago today I said " I DO" to the man whom I'd like to grow old with. Wow how time flies! It's hard to believe that 13th years have passed by since that very meaningful event of our lives. Our wedding day was far from perfect but on that day I  married the one I love. I remember that day, I was excited about us, our partnership and the things that we want to aspire to do and accomplish as husband and wife.

It's been a wonderful roller coaster ride which both of us enjoyed, learned and  grew up together. As each day passed by, we became closer every year and more stronger facing life together for our son. I cannot imagine my life without him. 

I thank God everyday that I married my best friend, my confidant, my ex-boyfriend, my favorite date in the planet. He's the reason why I frown less and smile more . God is so good! 

We had a quick bite after the good news! I

Skyping with him when I was in Manila

What a journey it has been! We had a good ride my love through sometimes its
bumpy but that made us more stronger and became more closer to God. Thanks
for being my man, for making me and Karl more happier throughout the years.
Love you then and I love you you still so much more.

39 years and still counting..

exactly 39 years ago, my best-loved couple tied the knot. two beautiful and amazing people united with love despite of their opposite personalities.

Dad & Mum's favorite phrases

their love story is quite unique and like any other relationship, they been through a lot of challenges. it's a truly a roller coaster ride but they surpassed it. they stayed together through good and bad times - a beautiful thing indeed.

they got married at an early age (my dad was 19 and my mum was 20 then..) and i am still laughing at loud whenever it brings back to my mind how they ended up together. my dad stole a kissed from my mum,she cried and scared because she thought that she will get pregnant by my dad's kissed. and the rest is history.

now these two are  also awesome grandparents to my one only child. their care, unconditional love and endless teaching of what life has been taught them has now been provided to my son - a truly admirable traits.

growing up seeing my parents how they value their relationship (through love, respect and trust), how they enjoy themselves not only being a couple but being best of friends as well, inspires me to love and be loved. 

for the wonderful parents that we have, you guys are the best example of what a parents & grandparents should be, what a couple should be and what a parent's in-law should be. we may not have riches in this world but your love, support, and care are enough. we thank God as you guys are such a blessing indeed! we love you muchu!

Happiest 39th Wedding Anniversary! More years of happiness and keep the fire burning Dad & Mum :)

One of their favorite songs.

a surprise party that wasn't a surprise anymore

i can't remember that i had a huge party celebrating my birthday. it's always a simple one with family.

when july month came in, my friends kept on bugging me about my birthday plan. seriously,  i had hectic schedule at work, too many things on my plate and i was so  pressured.  i had no time or energy how will i celebrate my birthday this year. so i just decided to have a dinner with my husband after church.

but two days before my birthday, i've got an sms from my best friend telling me that there will be a dinner at home on wednesday ( which is my birthday itself). i am wondering cause i didn't plan anything at all.  then i asked her why and who said.. after a few seconds, my phone rang and i've heard from the other line that she was laughing and apologizing as it was supposed a surprise party.

apparently, the supposed surprise party wasn't a surprise anymore. and i thought i would experience the traditional one where the lights are off, there's balloon, people gather...

though it didn't turned that way, i am still grateful and truly touched that my friends took time out of their busy and tiring schedules to prepare and cook foods for my birthday. it was an amazing night knowing that i have these people who truly care and love me. - it makes me feel like so wonderful .

i've got 3 cakes actually but i forgot to capture a photo of the cheesecake from Ning. Tiramisu was from my hubby and the mango once was from my cousins.

Thank's again guys! I do appreciate your effort and time. You don't know who much you made me feel so special. God bless US all :)

let me end this by thanking God for giving me another year of life. for the continuous blessings that He's been showering me and my family, for blessing me the important people in my life, for all the opportunities, trials that made me strong and closer to Him and for all the guidance. praying that He will continue to bless me and my family a long, happy and healthy life together in Jesus name. Amen.

iloveyouLord! happy birthday again to me!!!

12 years together

12 years of friendship, partnership, being your wife and staying in-love with one another. I thank God for bringing us together and for blessing me  you as my husband. Happy Anniversary my love and i love you everyday of my life1

life lesson i'd learned at 37

i just turned 37 today. it's just a normal day for me, no party it's just a simple dinner with my husband and grace at home. 

it's so difficult to celebrate cause my son is in manila, a thousand miles away from us but nevertheless I am so grateful that God gave me another year of life. He continued blessing me more than i deserve and that amazed me how good He is despite of my weaknesses. God  truly loves me.

being here in this crazy world for almost 4 decades ( wishing for more decades.. ), i'd like to share what are the essential things that i have learned throughout the years which hope will serve as a channel and inspiration to others especially to my son.

1.   life isn't fair but it's good.

2.   life should always be live with GRATITUDE and ATTITUDE.

3.   everyday of life is learning experience, seize the opportunity, learn and experience everything you can.

4.   be grateful all the time and appreciate things in life even the little ones.

5.   enjoy the simple pleasure that life has to offer.

6.   take risk. don't be afraid to try as there is no harm in trying.

7.   don't be afraid to make mistakes, it's part of life and you are not perfect.. no one is perfect. remember that in every mistake you make, there's a lesson to be learned.

8.   don not dwell on the past, it's pointless and you can't change it. let bygones be bygones.

9.   let your voice be heard. sometime it's important to share what yo think and feel.

10. learn to forgive so you can move on and live a happy & peaceful life.

11. help others even in a smallest way. it makes you feel better about yourself both mentally and spiritually.

12. treat people with respect just as you would like to be treated.

13. spread love as the living expression of God's kindness.

14. be a blessing to others. God is delighted living our life to be a blessing to others, it's a special grace.

15. get rid of negative thoughts, it cause depression, hurt and stress. it doesn't give you ain't good at all.

16. think before you speak because you could say a words that can hurt and once been said, you can never take it back.

17. surround yourself with people who care for you, people who loves you, encourage you. motivate you and most importantly makes you feel good about being you.

18. never regret a day in your life. good days give you happiness and bad days give you experience which are both important. every detail of you life is what made you into who you are.

19. no one is in-charge with your own happiness but you. so figure out and make a right decision of what makes you happy.

20. envy is a waste of time, it will drag you down.

21. always be positive, it gives hope.

22. take time to rest, your body will thank you.

23. sunday is God's day. free yourself and offer this day to Him.

24. always put God in the center of any relationship.

25. don't forget to say thank you and sorry.

26. always believe in the power of prayer. God is listening, trust and have faith!

27. continue dreaming it makes you an interesting person that has meaning, direction and purpose in life.

28. be an inspiration to others so that they can try to do more to become  someone

29. be aware of what is happening in your surroundings. innocence is not an ignorance.

30. take time to read  a good book.

31. always save money, it's important.

32. love your family more. friends may come and go but family will always be there for you.

33. communication is very important in marriage life. it keeps the romance alive.

34. being a mother is a challenge but it's an awesome experience that gives meaning to every moment of my life.

35. say i love you to people you love, for we never know when it be the last time.

36. be yourself. confidence makes a woman more beautiful and smarter.

37. frown less, smile more.. let people know that there still hope.

Happy Birthday to ME! Cheers :)

Karl's turn 11 today

Today I celebrate being a mom for 11 years... I can't believe that my sweet baby boy is turning 11. Imagine how quickly years passed by? As cliche' as this might sound but it feels like yesterday only when I first held him in my arms. From the moment I laid my eyes on him, he brought so much joy and pride to me.

Every time I looked at his angelic face, I told myself that I will try to be my very best mother I could  be, though I was scared about what I am going to do to raise him well. Because there are no guarantees from parents that their child/children will turn out the way they want them to be which I know someday he will understand when he become a parent. But I believe in the power of prayers. I know that God will  never stop protecting him and will continue to guide him into the right path.

Now that he is older and doesn't believe in Tooth Fairy or Sta Clause anymore, yet he remains sweet, loving, kind,compassionate, thoughtful. His level-headed attitude and sensible traits are the ones that I truly admired. That being said, I am happy how far he had grown up. 

Happy Birthday my son! What a blessing you had been and you will continue to be as years passes by. Daddy and I are proud of you beyond measure. I wish you nothing but good health, happiness and wisdom. Enjoy every minute of your childhood! I love you Buddy more than you will ever know. 

Birthday Greetings to the Best Mom in the World ...

Sending my birthday greetings to the super woman who happens to be my dear mom. Wish I am there right now to celebrate with you but I pray that the our God Almighty will continue to bless you long, happy and healthy life.

I will forever thankful to God that He chose me to be your daughter. I definitely would not be where I am today without your constant encouragement, support, love, advises through all of the twist and turns of life.

Happy Birthday Mama! Thank you so much for being a superb mother. I love you so dearly! Stay strong and lovely :)

Here's poem for you.

Thank you Mom

Maybe we are apart

But a bond still exist

I live in my mom's heart

I am the child.

For whom you was the shield

To protect me from evil, 

A mother like you

Can defend her kids

From even the devils.

Today I am writing these lines

To say you, Thank You and

Happy Birthday to you.

I love you Mama!

Happy Birthday Mama!

Today is my mother's birthday! It's her 57th  birthday and she's been away from us for 8 years. I decided to write a simple note and share it here on my blog as way of honoring how grateful we are for having here as our mother.

Dear Mama,

Today is your birthday, one of my favorite event in my life because it reminds me how blessed, lucky and grateful we are for having you as our mother. It's been 8 years since you'd been away from us to give us a better life. You chose to be on that path without thinking the difficulties of living alone.

You are the strongest and bravest person that I know. Our family has been tested and challenged and you have been our pillar of strength through it all.  You are truly the most loving, thoughtful, compassionate, caring, giving and amazing woman that the world has. Your selfless attitude constantly amaze me and that inspires me to be a better woman and mother. 

Thank you Mama for everything you did for us, for raising us with grace and wisdom. Your unconditional love is the epitome of how wonderful you are. We respect you, admire you, look up to you and adore you for every single thing and words you've had imparted to us. We are so grateful  that you are OUR MAMA.. we love you endlessly.

You will always be the best mother, teacher, friend and grandmother for us. The best GIFT that God given us.

Happiest of birthday and May God continue to bless you all the desire of your heart.