Nono's Comfort Kitchen & Bakery

Satisfying is the best word to describe my dining experience at Nono's located at S Maison at Conrad Manila. It was pure bliss to rediscover Filipino comfort food by a Filipino chef. 

L-R: Nono's salad, Roasted beef belly, Parmesan crusted fish with tomato & basil spaghettini, coffee, Pork belly balsamic adobo

I met my cousin, Laura (who is from Malaysia), together with my aunt Pinky for brunch. Laura tagged along with his husband Jeffrey for his meetings in the Philippines. He is the regional director for an international insurance company based in Singapore. They stayed at Conrad Manila atop S Maison. They were here from February 11-16.

The food photos we took may not look as enticing and may not justify how tasty they are. But seriously, everything is comforting. Every dish had a unique and distinct flavor that complemented well with each other. It was reasonably priced too since portion is good for sharing. Nono's salad and pork belly balsamic vinegar were my favorite. And coffee, too!

After dining here, I googled and learned that some of their bestsellers are Nono's home style fried chicken and waffle, Nono's pizza, truffle cream pasta and Nono's chocolate oblivion. As early as now, I'm planning to treat my parents' combined birthday celebration (10 days apart) and try some of those dishes. Spending wisely is also a must these days. 

Sunset at Conrad Manila

At Conrad Manila, you'll get the best view of the sunset along Manila Bay. Guests have the option to go alfresco while enjoying the breeze and the magnificent scenery or be amazed indoors.

Luckily, my work schedule enabled me to spend time with Laura. I was with my aunt Pinky who readily agreed to be with us and took the time off caring for her 5 dogs and 4 cats.

Little did we know that 4 loong hours passed by in a jiffy! We did not only enjoy the food. We filled each other with stories about our health, hobbies, families and our lives in general. How was your last dining experience?

Helpful links:

1. Nono's Comfort Kitchen & Bakery

2. Conrad Manila

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An Unexpectedly Heart-warming Gesture

My heart is full. I was taken aback by the warm gesture of my 10-year old Vietnamese student (initiated by his mom) whom I am teaching English. I received a message from him this morning that  read: 

November 20, 2024 is Teacher's Day in Vietnam. I shared the screenshot of my student's message to my employer and she responded encouragingly saying, "Yes, it's alright to receive their gift." I also learned that the Vietnamese have high regard to their teachers. Gift giving is their way of expressing their gratitude. In the Philippines, the same act of appreciation is also extended to the teachers by their students. When I was still in school, I remembered giving  tokens to my advisers. The entire school would also prepare a short program to honor them.

In the previous company I worked for, every English as Second Language (ESL) tutor was not allowed to receive any gift (whether cash or in kind) from his or her students. They have stricter rules we needed to follow in accordance to its Data Privacy Policy. I had several offers then, but I had to politely decline. One student even wanted to send money for an e-scooter after he found out about my disability. "For gratuity and your convenience," he insisted. Another sent a souvenir from Tokyo Disneyland, when her entire family enjoyed a short trip there. This I gladly accepted. It was then sent to my home address. 

Being a teacher is one of the most rewarding jobs in the industry. Some may find it outlandish. However, I find fulfilment especially when I see the student's growth - no matter how slowly. In the process, I feel proud that I was partly responsible for the abilities he or she has gained in the course of time. It requires a great deal of labor, persistence and patience that emanates from the desire to be better.

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The Harsh Reality of Life

Our lives here on earth is momentary. Three family members of the people we know passed away this month.

The world dictates - accumulate material things, work hard for your aspirations, or do whatever you love. As a Christian, I am reminded to set my affections on things above, to prioritize God's mandates, and to please Him at all times.

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COVID-19: The Good After The Enhanced Community Quarantine

As someone who telecommutes, being home-bound was never a problem. In fact I am able to have a flexible work schedule, eat nutritious cooked meals and linger longer in bed when everyone gets out of their houses before the sun rises to avoid the traffic rush. I look forward to the occasion when my parents and I buy our groceries, attend church services, enjoy a hearty meal at our go-to restaurant or simply waste time in a mall to people watch. And I seriously miss doing those. Surprisingly I am surviving! 

It is not all that bad though during this time. 

1. Making a quick trip to the supermarket, drugstore and the wet market are the only times my parents go out. The village we live in has a curfew. It is mandatory to wear a mask at all times when outdoors. The good is, our expense has decreased since we only spend on the necessities. 

2. The air is so much cleaner. With fewer vehicles on the roads now after the lock down, it is no surprise that the level of pollution has immensely decreased.

3. I am grateful that the industry I am a part of is not affected, enabling me to continue to work and earn a living.

4. Today's technology allows my family and the rest of my brethren to continue to listen to God's Words via online streaming. 

This pandemic will stop. I just don't know when. And I humbly ask our good Lord to end this global event once His will has been accomplished. 

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Overflowing Blessings

Photo from Walls Need Love

"Count your blessings name them one by one, count your blessings see what God has done." is a famous line from a hymn I learned early on in my Christian life. I like the idea of focusing on the positives no matter how trivial as I thank the heavens for every thing despite the odds and  uncertainties. It has also been my habit to enumerate three blessings on a daily basis and consciously look at the goodness of life.

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Early this year, my prayer for our house to be completely accessible became a reality. An extra ramp was added outdoor. The existing three were adjusted to have an even slope. Similarly the posts that held the door of the toilet were removed which prevented me to use it in the past. A church member who was skilled and available did all these tasks. Before we proceeded with the renovation, we were quite hesitant because of the noise, dirt and money involved. It was also unhygienic to use the commode long term but it still serves the purpose on rare occasions.

As a PWD (person with disability) transferring to and fro has been a challenge. Despite my parents' willingness to help me, they are not always available. Our good Lord has directed me to  purchase a raised toilet seat which was attached to the toilet bowl so that my chair is at the same level.  Similarly, I was able to buy a shower bench with adjustable legs that makes my transfers a breeze. And these liberate me to be as independent as I can be at (least at) home.

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My grandmother celebrated her 93rd birthday on May 10th. I was joyfully glad to see her walking minus an assistive device after her horrific fall last September. My Lord has sustained her through her most difficult moment. She is back to her jolly old self but has lost weight despite her massive appetite.

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During our church's anniversary last month, I was able to listen to the invited pastors' brief testimonies. The struggles in their ministries as well as the sacrifices they have done as they stood on their faith were unthinkable but with the grace and compassion of God; they are managing. Thus, I feel privileged to be a member of our church who is led by a pastor who studies the Bible meticulously and painstakingly. He imparts the scripture to us and teaches nothing but the truth.

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My mother forgot her wallet when we were in a mall after buying some pastries. She remembered it was missing when she had to buy another product. Luckily, the store's attendant handed it to her when she went back, complete with all the cash and IDs. And as I remind myself of all these blessings, I once again proved that our amazing and wonderful Savior is alive.

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Quality Time with the Family

In spite of the maddening holiday rush, the congested roads and our busy schedules, we all agreed to spend some time together last December 19th to witness my nephew's performance with the rest of the Ateneo Grade School Primary School Choir. While reflecting on what I have witnessed, I cannot comprehend how those grade schoolers were able to memorize 20 songs, including the German version of "Silent Night." The many rehearsals and the backstage chaos were also unthinkable. Nevertheless, the result was spectacular as they serenaded us throughout their 45-minute show complete with actions and musical instruments!

Carnival themed decor at EDSA Shangri-La Mall

The childlike awe in me was also awakened at the sight of the mall's carnival-themed decor. They were grand, highlighting the holiday ambience. I certainly wished I could linger longer.

On hindsight, I realized that time is something we can never control. The kids are growing so fast and their wittiness are remarkable. Though we do not meet as frequent as we used to, our communication is constant as we update ourselves with our daily triumphs no matter how trivial and encourage each other during difficult moments. I was grateful and blessed to be with my adorable nephews and niece!

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The Story of "My Survivor"

Flowers of various colors and species have always been pleasant to my eyesight! I can perpetually stare at them, admire its loveliness and enumerate a lofty list of the many things I find attractive about it.

Survivor, my orange bougainvillea was purchased last March. Its height was approximately three feet and had many thorny branches already. Sadly, after a week of being transferred to a bigger pot, its leaves started to wither, its flowers fell off, until dried twigs were all that were left!

We were tempted to throw it away but we continued to tend to it. Not very soon, new leaves started to spring forth. We became more hopeful and researched online what it needed: it loves the sun, thrives on little water and occasional fertilizer. Two weeks ago, flowers started to appear - and it continues to blossom.

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My Survivor's story is analogous to every Christian whose faith is being tested, resiliently facing life and evolving wiser, stronger and more matured as he victoriously surpasses the test.

My grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday last May. When she started to be an octogenarian, her health deteriorated. Both her eyes had cataracts. Apparently the removal  made her one eye blind. Her kidneys started showing signs of failure; the creatinine level was very high. She was advised to have dialysis and was restricted from eating foods that could advance its deterioration. The visit to the specialist is never-ending to this very day. She had gone through a test called the GFR, religiously takes her medicines, has quarterly consultations with her specialist and her health miraculously improved based from the most recent lab results.


She continues to honor and praise our good Lord irrespective of the discomforts she has been experiencing. Her smile is undeniably contagious because He has always been present in her life. Remember, life is never a walk in the park. "Let us run with patience the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1 KJV

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Kids Are Undoubtedly Smarter These Days 3

My niece, Omi visited me this afternoon right after we finished spring cleaning. She was talkative and animated as she answered my every questions about her day at school until she saw the mop by the corner of the room. And her eyes sparkled!

Omi: "Naynay may I help you mop the floor?"
Me: "Of course but you're too little to do that."
Then she started talking non-stop...
Omi: "I enjoy doing this. In our school, the janitor mops our classroom. My mommy is like a janitor too because she does so many things in our house and sometimes I help her. So I'm also a janitor like her." o_O

I giggled and was amused by her naivety. I then explained to her the word, "chore" which she later understood. She's now six. Her presence is always a joy and I continue to pray and hope that she'd grow up to be a fine lady.

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Blessing In Disguise: Nodule Detected Via Ultrasound

One week ago, my cousin, Mark who is barely 27 was operated on  for total thyroidectomy. Because  of his adventurous and jovial personality, he volunteered to be the guinea pig when the new ultrasound machine was delivered to the medical institution. He works there as a nurse. His valor was a blessing in disguise - cancer cells were suspected when a huge nodule or mass was found on his throat! And like any normal being, he was anxious and fearful though he tried hard not to dwell on it. A conspicuous and long scar now lays on his neck.

Mark kneeling, second from left

I view this a blessing-in-disguise because:

1. In the nick of time, the nodule was discovered and he had been operated on. He had received the results of the histopathology exam which confirms the big "C." He will  undergo an additional radioactive iodine ablation (RIA) therapy to kill the residual thyroid tissue. 
2.  His medical procedure was covered; he was treated in the same company where he is working for.
3.  This incident can be a gentle nudge from our Lord - a reminder for reflection as well as transformation.

 The demise of my grandmother's siblings were all due to cancer: throat, lungs, colon, bone, and prostate. To date, only three are alive. And I prayerfully hope that they'd spend their twilight years minus the misery an illness brings.

I shiver at the thought of getting sick. The discovery and removal  of my myoma three years ago was an occurrence I will never forget.  Why? Because the Oncologist said I had a cancer and radioactive therapy was the  next best solution. I had a second opinion from another Specialist. We were comforted to know that it wasn't cancer after a frozen section was done (whew!).

Photo source: Roney Smith

To end this post with a positive tone, our gracious Lord allows good and bad things to happen in our lives. By experiencing both, we see the purpose behind those difficulties and appreciate more the triumphant and victorious moments. Yet, it is best to remain thankful at all times and learn in the process. Advance blessed Christmas and may your faith remain steadfast in your every endeavor!

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The Changing Seasons

 

Source: Ann Street Studio | Jaime Beck

"To every thing  there is a season, 

and a time to every purpose under the heaven... 

a  time to weep, and a time to laugh... 

He hath made every thing beautiful  in His time..."

Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 (KJV)

We lost a granduncle last month who succumbed to cancer. The battle was long and excruciating. His sufferings were heightened after a bad fall in the bathroom that fractured his hipbone. This mishap further compelled him to be bed ridden 24/7. On hindsight, we were relieved that those agonizing moments were over now and that he's in a better place than all of us.

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My brothers and I weren't born with a golden spoon in our mouths. I witnessed how my hardworking parents provided for our needs and our occasional wants. On the contrary, we are exceedingly blessed for the unending support, love, understanding and trust they untiringly shower us with to this day. My grandmother also portrayed a significant role while we were growing up. She inculcated the importance of time as well as money and introduced Christianity to our family.

Our dreams coupled with hard work, dedication and persistence enabled us to be where we are right now. Similarly being grounded in the Word of God further directs us to tread the right path. And despite the numerous bump rides in our various journeys, it is our faith and the love for family that keeps us closer to each other.

My second sibling is now a doctor specializing in radiology and has a sub-specialty in MRI, ultrasound and CT-scan. My youngest brother is a sous chef for an offshore floating hotel for an oil rig. Their destination to these jobs weren't easy; yet they are now reaping the rewards of their hard work. 

A famous saying in our vernacular goes like this: "ang buhay ay parang gulong."  If there is one thing that I've realized in my life, it is to value whatever skill or resource He has bestowed me with. And as a responsible steward to His wonderful blessings, I am only giving my best in all my undertakings and valuing all that I have. Thus, wait patiently. He makes every thing beautiful in His perfect time!

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A Verse A Day Keeps The Sorrows Away

Heartaches, failures and disappointments are all part of our lives. We may have experienced these due to various reasons; yet it should not prevent you from trying, succeeding and smiling all over again.  And while we were recently experiencing a rainy weather these past few days, my spirit was down in the dumps but the verses from the Bible all changed that to positivity. My perpetual favorites are:

Isaiah 41:10

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Proverbs 3:5-6 

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Psalms 147:3
He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

It is certainly a blessing to have a  personal relationship with the Lord. I can never be who I am today without Him. He Has healed me, enabled me to continue to live, gave me hope and made me smile all over again. And most importantly He has freed me from my sins and my guilty conscience.

People can break your heart, discourage your spirit, leave or forsake you and let you down. Our good Lord is constant and unwavers. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.  


Do you agree? Please share a similar situation when you experienced Him working in your lives.

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Kids Are Undoubtedly Smarter These Days 2

I love kids and often times, I really wish my nephews and niece will stop from getting older! But sadly I cannot control this part; let alone their preferences in life. Whenever there is an opportunity for me to be with them, I really make it a point to immerse myself in their microcosm because they amuse me and they certainly grow up so fast! Let me share with you some of our conversations:

On our way home from church last Sunday, it started to rain so hard. Omi, my only niece hates the rain. She trembled at the downpour and told everyone how afraid she was and suddenly uttered "let's pray to Jesus so the rain will stop." I then encouraged her to pray. She said, "Dear Jesus please make the rain stop so I will not be afraid." A few minutes before we were getting closer to our house, the rain stopped and I said, "look Omi Jesus answered your prayer." She was beaming from ear to ear and stated, "I told you so; He answers our prayers!" 

On a separate occasion, I was asking her how she was doing in school:

Me: "How many classmates do you have?"

Omi: "We're eight (8)."
Me: "Who is the most intelligent?"
Omi: "Me!"
Me: "Who is the prettiest?"
Omi: "Me!"
Me: (Sounding surprised) "Really, you're the best than all of your classmates?"
Omi: "I'm also the cutest because I'm the smallest in our class!"

To end this entry with a happy note, let me share the quotes below. And to all my mommy blogger friends, tap your shoulders for raising your kids pretty well. Job well done!

Photo sources: Nikki Hempenstall and Amy Hall

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From Routine To Meaningful

I am in a daze and I continue to be dumbfounded till this very day. You see early this month, I was certified to teach (1) TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and (2) Business English concurrently. Four days later, while I was still in the brink of accepting these great news; I was astonished to see my name included in the (3) list of the Good Tutor Awards for the first quarter of this year. And I can't help but to whisper a sincere "thank you" to our good Lord.

On hindsight, I questioned Him if I truly deserved these because there were a few occasions when my enthusiasm declined especially after an encounter with a difficult student. On rare instances, I would hear myself whine to my parents about some trivial matters relating to my job as an ESL (English as a second language) tutor. Yet I am reminded in the book of Psalm 75: 6-7 that promotion comes from God and not from men. I assumed He had seen how hard I worked for these and has exalted me though I am still in disbelief.

I have a secret. I dread the technicalities of the English grammar, more so explaining it in detail. I can speak English like my first language and I know when a sentence is correct or incorrect. However, I painstakingly review because I want to excel in what I love doing. I have to prepare myself for the advance students who know the grammar rules by heart. For instance, I have to clearly explain how a reflexive pronoun is used or make the student understand the difference between an active from a passive voice.

The month of May is still unfolding and I continue to be in awe for all these blessings. On a reflective note, I have learned to become more:

1. Grateful that I am able to work from home despite my limited mobility;
2. Patient in dealing with different personalities and extend it outside my job and                        
3. Trusting in His perfect will for me.

So whether you're praying to get the position you're eying for, saving for your dream house or working hard to close the business deal; have faith and do your best. Because He rewards and gives what is rightfully yours in His perfect time.


Photo source: Shelley Mc and Jennifer Wilson Jevel

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Kids Are Undoubtedly Smarter These Days

... and I am exceedingly blessed to have three nephews and a niece who are altogether brilliant, affectionate and bubbly! They have hilarious antics they might have gotten from their favorite cartoon shows, classmates or the adults around them and would sometimes utter profound or unthinkable words for their ages.

One evening when I was accomplishing my tutoring notes, my 4-year old niece quietly entered my room. She handed me a family pack of my favorite Sugo Hot and Spicy Peanuts while smiling warmly. 

Omi: "Naynay, for you!"

Me: "Thank you! Why are you giving me a present? It's not my birthday."

She was quiet for some time, perhaps thinking of an answer to my question. I thought she did not understand what "present" meant so I continued to babble

Me: "When you're in school and you obey your teacher or give a correct answer, you get a star, right? Why are you giving me a present? Did I do something good?"

Omi: "No Naynay. That is not a present. That is a surprise!"

And I was more surprised with the choice of word she used.  Despite her very young age, she thinks maturely and talks logically. Sometimes she scolds her older brother who is eleven!

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Similarly, my 5-year old nephew is a darling! He is mischievous in many ways but he knows how to say I'm sorry when he has wronged you. He would also kiss you and say I love you when he wants to get your attention.

You see my brother has a collection of Zoids that started when he was in college and continues to buy it whenever he sees an interesting piece from the Internet. And my nephew is able to play with them infrequently especially when supervised also because it is costly. One day, my brother found out that one part was broken.

My brother: "What happened to this part, why is it broken now?"

My brother was trying very hard to control his temper while talking to his son. He muses that shouting and spanking are not really necessary.

Seth: "It's ok, we'll get another one!" (While patting his father's back, trying to appease him and sounding very adult-like!)

Kids... are not just smart but are often smarter than how we view them. That's why my mom often reminds us to be careful with our actions especially when the little ones are around. They are like sponges who absorb everything in their environment. And I really wish they woudn't grow up so fast because I am enjoying every minute of their cuteness and wittiness!

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Rocky Turns 1

My youngest nephew, Roque Silas or "Rocky" turned one last October 11th. He was born on 10-11-12. Since my sister-in-law gave birth to her first born and the youngest through the C-section, she wanted her youngest child to be born on the 31st of the month too; the very same date when my brother and her eldest son were born. Unfortunately, it would be too long for them to wait for Rocky's birth. So they thought that 10-11-12 would be a unique birthday!

Kiddie parties at Jollibee are the best! Though a brief 2 hours is allotted for every celebrant to spend their birthday joyously with games and a hosting service from its crew, the guests had an enjoyable and fun time throughout the party after typhoon Santi. And my brother and his wife were very thankful that most were able to celebrate with them!

The R-O-C-K-Y cakes were especially ordered from a former colleague, China Zamora-Uy and her mom, Tita Tina. They were chocolate and lemon chiffon cakes with a thick layer of marshmallow icing. The inspiration came from the birthday cakes of our local celebrities whose names were spelled out. If you wish to check more of Team Zamora's products that are both affordable yet delectable, visit their site here. 


Team Zamora
Cristina Zamora Uy
sun: 09227085979
globe: 09167648431
landline: 7494722
e-mail add: tinazamorauy@yahoo.com
website: http://teamzamora.weebly.com/index.html

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After 25 Years

It was a night filled with laughter and fun emanating from the function room of Chef Laudico Guevarra's on October 5, 2013 as we reminisced our elementary days 25 years ago. Physically, not much have changed except for some unwanted pounds and grey hair. Three of our teachers have retired; two will soon join the bandwagon.  My batch mates are mostly professionals, if not housewives and businesswomen. Despite its brevity, we were all glad that we made time to meet again and hopefully have frequent get together in the future.

Memento: folding fan and eco bag

To our delight, Marge collated the" then and now" photos that stirred various reactions from the attendees - most were astonished and elated especially at the sight of the old photos. Reunions are truly heartwarming and often unforgettable.

When was the last time you met your elementary friends?

Photos grabbed from friends

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As He Fondly Recalled

The antiquated photo was taken in 1950s when my father was barely five (first from right). He is the middle son who was terribly spoiled by his grandmother but had frequent beatings from his mother. He fondly recalled how he enjoyed playing on the street and always went home with his both arms covered with rubber bands or his shoebox filled with playing cards after several games with his friends.

He jovially shared that he and his younger brother would sit on the lap of their eldest brother though the jeepney was empty of passengers to save on fare when going to school, lol! The driver would then encourage them to sit for free and later spend the money to buy more snacks in school. Now that's very clever of them to devise such scheme!

My father is now 61. And though the twilight years of his life is fast-approaching, he continues to have a child-like charm that we find endearing. And I never fail to thank our good Lord  because he and my mother continue to be considerably healthy even in their senior years!

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Happiness Is... Being Complete!

Please click photo to enlarge and appreciate

The caption of this picture is very true for me. The illustration is even more endearing! It completely defines an ideal familial relationship irrespective of the hardships, the lack of tangible things you can acquire from this world and the comfort it brings.

I also see contentedness painted all over their faces and profound love for each other; making what seems impossible possible. And I am truly blessed because my family exemplifies this. Do you also have the same sentiments?

Photo source: email attachment.

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Be An Example

My soul was blessed this morning when I heard the choir sing the song of Joe Zichterman entitled, "Be An Example." I was in a contemplative mood to assess how I am living as a Christian in this mundane world.

Admittedly, my life is not perfect but I am reminded that as Christians, we can be blameless.  Walking keenly towards the right path is never really that arduous because I have chosen to be an example despite the many temptations and waverings. Enjoy the lyrics below and have a blessed and fulfilling week ahead!

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Many now are watching the footsteps that we take; 

Many soon will follow in the choices that we make. 

So let us then be faithful to be what we should be, 

And leave a good example that they can clearly see. 

Let us then be watching the weary, day by day, 

Looking to encourage and to lead them in the way; 

To run the race with patience; On Jesus fix their eyes, 

And challenge them with excellence, that they might win the prize.

Chorus:

Be an example of the believers in word and in conduct; 

Be steadfast in love, in faith, in purity of life. 

For those behind us, let us stand within the gap
and make a difference in their lives; 

Be an example to follow Christ.


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... be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

Photo source

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Thankfulness: Grandmother In Our Lives

The house is quiet. Not a single noise is heard except for the monotonous sound of the fans in the room. My household is slumbering, probably snoring to a faraway land. They have been busy earlier marketing, preparing, cooking, hosting. No traces of merrymaking could be detected except from the glass wares on the dining table waiting to be kept in the cupboard. I could almost create a conversation amongst them saying, "Sigh, tomorrow, we will be back where we truly belong." The clutter all cleared from the revelry and joviality, excitement and delight of my grandmother’s imminent 87th birthday celebration.

I pause,

I contemplate,

and count my blessings!

As I stared at Lola Lucy (while she was making a wish after blowing two birthday cakes Loren and Alex; Katkat and Jaime have presented), I failed not to marvel at how young she appeared aesthetically despite the prevalent wrinkles and lines in her face, neck and arms. The contentment and peace that radiated from within her is all the more noticeable. She stood regally. Her voice depicted a command of authority. Her memory sharp. She is akin to a wine aged for decades; the longer it is the better it tastes or like a cheese that is ripened to intensify its flavor and transform its texture.

She is partly the reason why I am the way I am now. When I was growing up, she incessantly and untiringly instilled the values of money and time. We would have our one-on-one session regularly and as an adolescent, I dreaded those moments, acceding to everything she said to make our “sessions” short. I was mischievous and still am.

She taught me to budget my allowance. She reminded me to always give my tithe, to put a part of it in safe keeping in case of a rainy day and further instructed me to never be ashamed of any job as long as it is modest and honest. I was free-spirited then, younger and unwise. However, with her words reverberating in my mind, I have now learned to appreciate them and have understood everything in the process of growing up. Yes, she instilled values I am thankful for; values that keeps me rooted and unfazed despite the changing times.

As I conclude this entry today, I wish that she would live for as long as God wills her to, to continue to age gracefully and unceasingly be an encouragement to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren from whom love, kindness and gentleness is obtained. She is our pillar, our anchor and our strength to carry on with life.

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