Showing posts with label Today I Am Series. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Today I Am Series. Show all posts

5.16.2025

Today I am Overjoyed...

Today I am overjoyed to experience the goodness of our Father God. Last May 10th, our family, together with my uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces had a simple get-together as we celebrated my grandmother’s 99th birthday.


The previous year was a tough one for her. She had another bad fall which fractured her right hip (second time). Recuperation was longer and tougher. She also stayed in a nursing facility for over a year. In hindsight, the advantages of bringing her to this place were quite numerous. A caregiver is present 24/7 for her medicines, to change her diaper, give her a bath, to feed her - to basically tend to her daily needs. However, there weren’t many recreational activities to stimulate her mind, body and soul. 


I am overjoyed that my grandmother is mentally alert. She enjoys conversing and is aware of the things happening around her. She knows everyone, too. She shares her preferences for food which we bring whenever we visit to make her happier. She chatters non-stop and it’s truly a blessing to have her around in our lives.


I am overjoyed that the sore on my left ischium is getting better. I no longer feel the “pain” in that area after sitting for an hour or so. Though I still limit sitting for 3 - 4 hours each time. The exudate or discharge is very little these days. And I am confident that it will heal very soon.


Despite life’s challenges and obstacles, it is always best to focus on the positives and to appreciate the goodness in every situation. 





12.30.2018

Today I Am Pleased...

Today I am pleased... as I recall and reflect on the life I have now and what I have become after 22 years. The horrific vehicular accident that fractured and dislocated two levels of my spine was indeed a life changing experience! (Read full story from here)



Undeniably, my journey had so many forks in the road, bumpy rides along potholes and reroutings due to the longstanding traffic! In the process of all these chaos, I am very pleased to have allowed my good Lord to work in my life as I delight to learn His mandates and listen thoughtfully. I continue to seek for His restoration and guidance that I may grow continually (because I am but a sinner). "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6-7, KJV


His wonderful grace has sustained me through. In the process, I learned resilience from my uncountable challenges and I practiced fortitude no matter how paralyzing some events were. This day marks another milestone for me as I celebrate the equal number of years I used to be an able-bodied and a paraplegic!




Similarly, I am pleased to celebrate Christmas eve with my grandmother who had a bad fall last September 2nd that resulted to a fractured left hip and was replaced partially. I was present when she was brought to the emergency room, I saw her yell in pain while being transferred and witnessed her progression after her operation no matter how slowly it was due to her age.


My 2018 was overall satisfactory though I have not amassed myself with earthly possessions. I have no reason to complain but only overflowing gratitude for having a fairly good health, that I am surrounded with the people who adore me and a job I enjoy doing. Prayerfully our 2019 will be a fruitful one filled with kindness and determination for our dreams to be fulfilled.

3.09.2018

Today I Am Relieved...

  Photo from Ali Express

... that my heart does not just listens intently to God's words but follows His mandates too. By being a regular attendee of our church's services on Wednesdays and Sundays, I am convicted to engage in everything that pleases Him. And this is the rightful thing to do. Consequently, learning the scriptures will shield us from errors thus, enabling everyone to have the ability for discernment.




I am relieved and joyful that we have finally settled in our house. Everything seems to be in order and in its proper place after almost four months. Admittedly, transferring to a new place is no joke and is not an easy-peasy task. Packing things and later unpacking them takes time. It is not only stressful but a lot of patience is necessary. Similarly, we can now breathe, relax and entertain in the place we call  our home.


Despite life's ups and downs, what are you relieved with?


3.28.2017

Today I Am Dumbfounded...



Today I am dumbfounded... to witness firsthand how the equation: planning + working hard + persevering = reaping of harvest.


My brother B has lofty dreams. But when his profession as a radiologist started, he had second thoughts of whether becoming a doctor was a good choice or not. Money was not easily obtained in the beginning of his career. He also experienced the stigma from others that being in the medical field will make you richer, yet he wasn't. There was also pressure to give his two growing sons a good education by sending them to reputable schools.


After many years of study to earn a diplomate in medicine and fellow, as well as to establish a career in his field by buying shares from hospitals and clinics plus the trust he obtained from his patients and colleagues, his profession thrived. He was obsessed and passionate with what he did. Days off were never part of his vocabulary because he grabbed every work opportunity offered to him. He mused that he was tired. Yet he continued to be focused and constantly envisioned his goals. 


Some of his friends had to work abroad and be away from their families. He was thankful he didn't have the need to tread the same path because work was available here. His other allies migrated to the other parts of the country where competition is not as stiff. Again, he was thankful he need not go to a foreign place to establish his career. 


To date, he is reaping and harvesting the rewards of his hard work. He now owns a house and recently purchased an FJ Cruiser for his wife without having to loan from a bank. He can also afford to give lavish gifts during special occasions to my parents to requite the goodness and sacrifices they have previously done for him. 


There are definitely no shortcuts to having a good life unless you were born with a silver spoon and I am continuously in awe of how our Father blesses those who work hard, has the right mental attitude and the desire to serve! 

The photo my brother B shared over FB private message

1.02.2015

Today I Am Grateful...

Today I am grateful... I celebrated Christmas and New Year with the people I deem important - my family. We were complete (again) for the first time after so many years. My youngest brother who is often away due to work during this season is now home. It's always a joy to see everyone looking fairly the same like my parents with more grey hair and seemingly wiser point of view about life. This festivity was a great opportunity for me to bond with my brothers and their wives. I admire their ambition, dedication and compassion in their respective careers and families. I was able to immerse in my nephews' and niece's "world" who never fail to bring so much happiness, laughter and awe. Admittedly their transparency, genuineness and wit always astound me. 


I am grateful for the job I love doing from home. My exposure and interaction with my Japanese students have made me more appreciative of their culture... and hopefully I could witness it in the future. Similarly the people I've met through BC Bloggers and the rest of my virtual friends have also been part and parcel of my life. The weekly round is something I look forward to as I discover bits and pieces about you. Consequently by reading your entries, I feel that I too have tasted the food you've prepared, have also traveled to the numerous places you've been to and learned from your many life lessons.


As I reflect on the year that was, the quote below resonates loud and clear:


My parents with my nephews and niece


As we embark on the new year, may we all achieve our dreams, desires and aspirations with His help. Most importantly, may your journey this 2015  be fulfilling and meaningful!


What are you grateful for?

8.31.2014

Today I Am Fortunate...

Today I am fortunate... to get out of the house on a working day! My aunt invited me to spend it at the mall to window shop and we agreed to check the numerous stalls at Greenhills. Unfortunately, it was a Thursday. There was a reshuffle going on and saw empty booths instead!


We headed to the nearest mall, Robinson's Magnolia and decided to check its every floor. As we reached the second floor, we were astounded to witness the department store closed but there were some home items on display near the entrance. Luckily I found a tumbler I was looking for hi and lo! I can inconspicuously put it inside my bag because it is rectangular in shape and small, with a capacity of only 300ml. My aunt was happy to buy it for me.




To my surprise, she got three inspirational posters and two huge hampers! Remember, we only wanted to window shop, lol. Then we went inside the various branded shops. I fell in love with FINO Leatherware. The shop smells of genuine leather but their goods cost an arm and a leg though some items were on sale. She got a planner from this shop because she mused that it was pretty!


Cream-O, my aunt's pet lazing around


I am fortunate to have a flexible working schedule and take things easy on a working day.  I do this once in every while though and the change in the routine does wonders to give me the needed break from teaching. 


How do you distress? Do you also find yourself spending more on some occasions?

4.26.2014

Today I Am Thrilled...



Today I am thrilled... by just looking at this heartwarming picture. It bespeaks about so many words associated to a steadfast and unchanging feeling for a significant other. Similarly, it proves that a relationship can last a lifetime if both are looking towards the same goal to make it work.


I am thrilled at the thought of how these elderly manage to make it through despite life's ups and downs. It would be exciting to hear about their successes, their failures in their marriage and the different aspects of their lives. It would also be interesting to know about the many issues they've had and how they managed to resolve them.


Since time immemorial, my Mom patiently utters that no relationship is perfect. However, certain ingredients are necessary to make it endless. Love, communication, trust, fidelity, religion and patience are some of them. I am no guru on this subject but once in my life I have loved... and I sincerely wish to be thrilled throughout my golden years (and have the same facial expression) even if my teeth are all gone or the lines on my face are conspicuous with the right one.


What will you do to make your relationship successful with your only one?


Photo source: Distractify

2.26.2014

Today I Am Comforted...

Today I am comforted... to starkly know the essence of the word, commitment I have profoundly learned in the process of healing.


I was in a lose-lose situation many years ago. Due to my stubborn nature, I acceded to what was wrong and compromised in the process. Looking back, I am grateful that I allowed myself to be in that moment and witnessed the unfolding of many beautiful memories and realizations that will forever be part of my past. No regrets, actually. But I will never allow myself again to be in the same boat.


Once, while pondering on the myriad why's, I chanced upon the meaningful poster below:




... and the more I was convinced to remain steadfast and to stop from wavering despite the occasional thoughts of going back.


Similarly, commitment in all aspects of our lives speaks volume about our personalities. Your presence at work despite a seeming typhoon, your competence to joyfully submit your deliverable before the turn-around-time,  your aptness to interact with numerous personalities or your integrity to love your spouse says so much about your character.


What have you committed to lately?


Photo source: Mandy Hale

8.16.2013

Today I Am Lucky...



Today I am lucky... to find not just one but four variants of my favorite Halter Bonbons! 


While doing our weekly grocery shopping I went to the items on sale and found these. The price tag read P9.25 (original price per box was P24.75) and it'll expire after four months. Not bad, right? I love the coffee flavor since time immemorial. But since the price was significantly lower, I also got myself the other flavors which were as good. But as a certified coffee lover, nothing beats my first love.


I hope your Friday was great!

7.16.2013

Today I Am Marveling...



Today I am marveling... at the idea of having long, curly hair. I can't resist but to stare in amazement at how some ladies spend so much time (and money) to care for and maintain their pretty locks. And it certainly adds to one's appeal and beauty, right?


For more than a decade now, my hair has always been short. I decided consciously to cut it this way due to practical reasons: I like mine the wash and wear hairstyle. The only downside is, I have to visit my hairstylist after six to eight weeks. I'm not sure though if long hair will look good on me. But I can forever be marveled at other people's crowning glory!


✿✿✿✿✿✿ 


How can I control my life when I can't control my hair?  ~Author Unknown
There is one thing about baldness:  it's neat.  ~Don Herold
Gray hair is a blessing - ask any bald man.  ~Author Unknown
A fine head of hair adds beauty to a good face, and terror to 
an ugly one.  ~Lycurgus

 
Photo Source. Quote Source

7.11.2013

Today I Am In Awe...

Today I am in awe at how the multinational beverage company, Coca-Cola created a three-minute broadcast advertisement to promote peace between the Indians and the Pakistanis.


The campaign did not only use vending machines with live-streaming camera and 3D touchscreen technology but also enabled both countries to communicate in a fun way before they could drink their purchased product. They were able to dance together, wave at someone, make a friend, exchange gestures and trace together symbols of love, peace and unity!


I encourage you to watch the video below and feel the happiness both countries experienced because of Coca-Cola!


A moment of happiness has the power to bring the world closer together


How do you make someone happy ?


Video Source: Coca-Cola

6.29.2013

Today I Am Inspired...

Today I am inspired... with these fashion items. I am gravitated towards the classic and timeless look that never go out of season. Let me share with you my fashion preferences you might also deem simple yet elegant.


No. 1 - Leather bag and shoes. Dress up your chic business attire with timeless leather, brown bag and shoes. The dark hues are a stark contrast to the clothes' light colors that you may mix-match with any other outfit.


No. 2 - Leopard design. Animal prints come and go in the world of fashion. I wouldn't mind wearing a minimal touch of it by incorporating a scarf to accentuate the attire and use the same print for a bag. But I sincerely love the idea of mixing yellow and violet together! Would you dare to wear this?



No. 3 - Stripes. I'm guessing that you and I must have owned an item of clothing with this pattern. It can be horizontal or vertical; and some of you might even find tons of this print in your closet! This whole attire gives a relax yet classic feel, don't you agree?


No. 4 - Short floral dress. Perfect for a daytime party that gives a very feminine look.


No. 5 - Sandals. A sexy haltered blouse donned with a very short shorts is something I cannot wear but I adore the color combination! The sandals; I am fond of wearing though. I am also magnetized to the color orange because it exudes adventure, happiness and warmth.


On most days, I'd still choose to wear a white blouse I will never get tired of. What set of clothing do you see yourself confidently wearing and find too loud? I'd love to hear from you :)


Picture source from Stylish Eve

5.18.2013

Today I Am Dreaming...

Today I am dreaming... of recreating my private space. If I had enough funds and resources, I would like to replicate both photos attached to this entry.




I love the cleanliness this room exudes and the spaciousness that goes along with the minimalist look it boasts. It's clutter free too. I'd definitely spend my entire day in this haven doing my preoccupation without a tinge of boredom. I would also enjoy the brewed coffee's scent emanating that will surely calm my nerves especially when I'm meeting a deadline.




The bathroom spells e-l-e-g-a-n-c-e and more s-p-a-c-e. I like the homey feel it has and the ornamental plants that are scattered all over. The fixtures made of wood add to the gorgeousness of this room. The shower area is great and to suit my need, I would remove the steps. I'd still keep the bathtub and dip into it from time to time to relive my stresses and tensions away.


I am dreaming of creating these personal spaces. How about you, have you visualized the rooms you'd enjoy spending your time in?


From Interior Design Inspirations

4.21.2013

Today I Am Wiser...

Today I am wiser... and a smarter consumer. Gone were the days when an advertisement would lure me to purchase the product I didn't really need. I admit, my occasional wants are sometimes hard to resist. For example, when I go to the supermarket, I hear my name being called by the goods especially in the junk food aisle, lol. Instead of getting a large pack, the smallest would satiate me and do me good. More so, it is enough to give me an instant lift!


As an employee, I value every centavo that passes through my hand to purchase even a piece of hard candy. I try my best to spend my hard-earned money within a budget and live within my means. As a wise consumer I recently compared prices of some commodities from various supermarkets you and I frequently visit. To my horror, prices vary - a lot!


Please click for a bigger view


With the above comparison, I wonder why the  government has failed to implement a regulated price for all goods sold whether in the supermarkets, in convenient stores or in your friendly sari-sari store? Why are the brand companies allowing their products to be sold in different prices if the acronym SRP (suggested retail price) exists?



Prices were collated from March to April 2013

2.25.2013

Today I am Certain...

Today I am certain... that summer is undeniably in the Philippines! With the temperature progressively increasing by the day; my household and I have started using the electric fans and the AC interchangeably non-stop. Similarly I no longer see my grandmother with her shawl draped over her shoulders while complaining of how chilly the weather was though the sun was brightly shining.




When I was younger, I welcomed summer with much enthusiasm and excitement. It was an opportunity for me to earn without dishing out a single centavo. I displayed my enterprising skills when I was in elementary and I shamelessly sold Indian mangoes and makopas to our neighbors that were freshly picked from my grandmother's garden. And my basketful of fresh produce sold like hot cakes!




I also remembered selling ice candies with miniature pearls (sago) that were a best seller amongst my playmates. I informed them that the water we used was purified and also shared that we handled every piece hygienically.  Consequently, a knock at our door every single minute was heard and reservations were made too for the following day. Oh, and the sight of my tin can filled with coins was enough to make me smile!




It was during summertime when my friends and I concocted bubbles out of gumamela flowers, powdered soap, blowers from kamias stem and found ourselves going over our neighbor's fences for more gumamela flowers! Then we would climb the roof to gleefully blow the concoction away while giggling and laughing at the sight of it.


Ahh... pleasant memories... and I am certain that like me, you had fond remembrances of your summer too!



Photos from Indif.com,  Gilbert Rondilla, Michael Yater, Girl blowing bubbles

1.01.2013

Today I Am Thankful...



Today I am thankful... for witnessing the unfolding of how our good Lord has worked in my life. It's been sixteen beautiful years after He had gifted me with a brand new start through the life-changing vehicular accident that fractured and dislocated two levels of my spine. And though He had allowed me to be forever dependent on the wheelchair for mobility, I will always be grateful and will always marvel at the inward renewal that has taken place.




I am thankful for my acquired disability because it has compelled me to have unparalleled optimism,  gladness and faith. To combat my negative thoughts that may occur every now and then, I will collate only good things that will transpire: instances of joy, triumphs, accomplishments and milestones worth remembering no matter how insignificant or trivial it may be. At the end of the year, I will surely be surprised at the numerous blessings as I read and recall each and every positive event. This is also a great way of focusing on the good instead of dwelling on things that will only dampen my spirit.




I am thankful that He has sustained my needs as well as my family's throughout the year. Nevertheless, saving is a prudent move for me to not hurt my wallet. I will set aside a certain amount every day. Thus, when an emergency arises, I will have sufficient funds for it and not go on scrimping on other essentials.


Consequently, the very word that defines my sentiments is best described through the poster below:




This 2013, have you thought of making a difference
 with your life? I'd be happy to hear it!

9.14.2012

Today I Am Amused...


Today I am amused... at the idea of winning the lottery! The current jackpot prize has accumulated to more than 280 million and if I win, I will get myself a spacious lot so we could build three different cottages wherein my two brothers with their families can live in the midst of a grand garden . Blessings are best shared with the people you love. More so, I will always be in the company of my nephews and niece whom I adore very much.




My nephew and niece, Seth (4) and Naomi (3) are inseparable when together. At their very young age, they consider themselves the best of friends! Seth is fascinated with dinosaurs while Naomi with guitar and calls herself a rock star - not pretty rock star but rock star. They spend time eating popcorn or watching cartoons and playing out in the driveway. I get entertained when I see them together. If only adults could treat each other this way, then there will be peace in this world, right?



My Mom recently found out that her blood pressure was high. After having it checked in the laboratory, the results showed that her cholesterol has to be controlled and she was on the prehypertension stage. I find this a blessing-in-disguise. She now chooses the food she eats, cooks mostly healthy and still deliciously tasting dishes for the family plus our grocery list has significantly shortened. This means our lives will be longer and we save some cash too by only purchasing the nutritious items. Oh, and I hope I won't hear my household moo-ing soon! :)


These are the things that have made me smile today. Do you have similar stories to share?


9.07.2012

Today I Am Excited...



Today I am excited... to witness the vibrant colors surrounding me (consciously)! It is not just black nor white but also blue, green, red, yellow and many more.




From the moment we open our eyes wide as we wake up in the morning, a splash of the sun's yellow rays welcome us to another day filled with adventure, hope and purpose. You get out of bed, excited to do your usual chores and the clothes you put on may depict your mood, activity or level of comfort. Will it be an orange, brown or pink? Some would take hours in the mirror mix-matching clothes and colors that suit their skin tone. While some have a harder time deciding on what lip tint to use.




In our daily conversations, colors are frequently used and heard too. I catch people say "as black as coal,"  or "as red as blood," sometimes "as white as ghost," and "red carpet treatment" but always "see the world through rose-colored glasses."


The world we live in is also full of colors and in many ways, our decisions, reactions and thinking are affected by it. Red means stop. Green for go. Black signifies mourning.... and I know that your favorite color may be the exact tint of your flip-flops!




There are times, I am certain when you'd feel gray and blue. Whatever state you are in at this very moment, remember that things will come to pass whether you like it or not (thank heaven)!  The rain will soon stop. The flowers along the meadow will eventually bloom. Things will starkly change if you put your trust in Him and make that first step for a better today.


Enjoy the rich colors around you and embrace every good thing happening not only today as we continue to learn to focus on what is beautiful, just and true!



Photo source from here, here, here and here.

9.01.2012

Today I Am In Love...



Today I am in love... with the idea of creating a better work space for myself. I need a niche to accommodate not only the many things that comprises me - threads, various pens, books, my reliable desktop, numerous tins for chargers, mints and coins and where I can obliviously do my tasks but also the many more stuff I will accumulate through time.




I like the thought of transforming my microcosm into a space where I can work on and on without having to get out of it and where everything I need is within my reach.




It can be situated in the corner of the room, with glass walls from which creative ideas spring forth.




Or a simple space with some special things that inspires me and significant items that compels me to work even harder.


Yes, today I am in love with these ideas that will materialize sooner than soon (I hope). A small quiet place I can tirelessly work until the wee hours of the morning and gleefully finish typing an article, or an entry for my blog. A space from which something is cultivated and developed - the thing I love doing the most!


Have you created your own niche? Tell me more about it. :)


Photos from source 1, source 2, source 3, source 4