THE HEART OF THE ARTIST

Tablecloth (a true story)

2012-01-15T16:26:00.003+08:00

The brand new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first ministry, to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn , arrived in early October excited about their opportunities. When they saw
their church, it was very run down and needed much work. They set a goal to have everything done in time to have their first service on Christmas Eve.

They worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls, painting, etc, and on December 18 were ahead of schedule and just about finished. On December 19 a terrible tempest - a driving rainstorm hit the area and lasted for two days. On the 21st, the pastor went over to the church. His heart sank when he saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large area of plaster about 20 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of the sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high. The pastor cleaned up the mess on the floor, and not knowing what else to do but postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home. On the way he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type sale for charity, so he stopped in. One of the items was a beautiful, handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work, fine colors and a Cross embroidered right in the center. It was just the right size to cover the hole in the front wall. He bought it and headed back to the church. By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the opposite direction was trying to catch the bus. She missed it. The pastor invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45 minutes later.. She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the pastor while he got a ladder, hangers, etc., to put up the tablecloth as a wall tapestry. The pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it looked and it covered up the entire problem area. Then he noticed the woman walking down the center aisle. Her face was like a sheet. "Pastor," she asked, "where did you get that tablecloth?"
The pastor explained. The woman asked him to check the lower right corner to see if the initials, EBG were crocheted into it there. They were. These were the initials of the woman, and she had
made this tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria . The woman could hardly believe it as the pastor
told how he had just gotten "The Tablecloth". The woman explained that before the war she and
her husband were well-to-do people in Austria . When the Nazis came, she was forced to leave.
Her husband was going to follow her the next week. He was captured, sent to prison and never saw her husband or her home again. The pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth; but she made the pastor keep it for the church.. The pastor insisted on driving her home. That was the least he could do. She lived on the other side of Staten Island and was only in Brooklyn for the day for a housecleaning job. What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was almost full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the service, the pastor and his wife greeted everyone at the door and many said that they would return. One older man, whom the pastor recognized from the neighborhood continued to sit in one of the pews and stare, and the pastor wondered why he wasn't leaving. The man asked him where he got the tablecloth on the front wall because it was identical to one that his wife had made years ago when they lived in Austria before the war and how could there be two tablecloths so much alike? He told the pastor how the Nazis came, how he forced his wife to flee for her safety and he was supposed to follow her, but he was arrested and put in a prison. He never saw his wife or his home again all the 35 years between.
The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little ride. They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the pastor had taken the woman three days earlier. He helped the man climb the three flights of stairs to the woman's apartment, knocked on the door and he saw the greatest Christmas reunion he could ever imagine.

True Story - submitted by Pastor Rob Reid who says God does work in mysterious ways.

A $1 for Agta

2011-12-15T00:24:00.006+08:00

Christmas is just around the corner. But instead of celebrating it with a Christmas party and gift giving, our bible study group decided to share a day of our lives on a mission’s trip to Camarines Sur on Dec 27-28, 2011.
A dollar for Agta is a fund-raising activity of our Pasir Ris discipleship group. Your $1 will be used to buy basic school supplies as a gift for the children in the villages which will include the following: pencil, eraser, ruler, notebook, water bottle, envelope, flashlight and raincoat.

We are targeting to send out 250 sets of school supplies and we would like to give you an opportunity to bless these children by sharing a dollar from your pocket. Of course you are much welcome if you want to give more A few people already gave pledges and the collected amount will be given to the ministry of Agta Tribe.
If you want to know more about the Agta Ministry, I encourage you to visit their website and be blessed.
http://sjhagen.blogspot.com/search/label/A%20Virtual%20Journey

The Lord is surely doing a lot of amazing things in that part of the world. We are excited as to what the Lord is going to reveal to us as we prepare to experience what life is up there in the mountains.
Please be with us in prayer as we go through this journey and take part by sharing a $1 for Agta.

God Bless You!

Matthew 18:10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven."

Agta Missions Team
*If the Lord is touching your heart to give your share please get in touch with us through FB personal message or simply sms us @ 93382707 or 91992704.

An Open Letter to my Future Husband

2011-02-26T00:12:00.004+08:00

Even though I don't know exactly who you'll be
yet, I think of you often. I wonder how you're
living your life now. It matters to me, you know,
because how you live your life now determines the
kind of man you're becoming … and the kind of man
I'll spend the rest of my life with.
Apparently, for some bizarre reason manhood
doesn't come automatically for males. Some guys
seem to spend their entire lives trying to "prove
their manhood" – by hunting, playing sports,
driving fast … and unfortunately, by having sex.
It seems rather strange to us women that guys
think that having sex proves you're a man. To us,
it just proves that you've reached puberty. And
we don't really consider that, in itself, to be
any accomplishment. Becoming a man is a much more
complicated process.
The funny thing is, even in this day and age,
most guys want to marry a girl who respects her
sexuality. A guy doesn't like the idea of his
future wife in the back seat with someone else,
or her being the subject of a sexual conquest
story in the locker room. They'll brag about
girls like that, but they won't marry them. They
want to marry a girl, whether she's never "done
it" or done it and regretted it, who recognizes
that sex speaks the language of forever,
committed love … someone like me.
But why would I want to marry someone like that …
someone who wants to marry a virgin, but spends
his dating years robbing other girls of their
virginity so that he can prove his manhood? He's
not a "real man" in my eyes – he's selfish,
immature boy driven by insecurity, not love. And
I'm not interested.
I want more from you. I want you to respect your
sexuality as much as I respect mine. I want you
to be a real, confident man not a wimp who has to
use women to feed his insecurity. A guy like that
couldn't use all of those women, and then
suddenly love me. He may be "good in bed" but he
is no good in loving.
I want you to learn to really love. Learning to
love is learning to put the other first. A guy
who messes around outside of marriage isn't
putting the good of the other first. He is using
a girl … speaking the "body language" of
permanent commitment when the relationship isn't
permanent. He's putting the girl at risk of
pregnancy. And he's putting himself at risk for
some nasty diseases … diseases he can then later
give his wife. That's not making love. A real man
loves women – and wants what's best for them. And
he doesn't let his desires control his actions.
He controls his desires instead.
I want you to develop self-control. That's
important to me. I don't want to marry a man who
can't control himself. Men like that make lousy
husbands. A man who isn't used to saying "no" to
sex isn't going to be any better at it at 40 than
he is at 18. I've seen women who worry everytime
their husbands hire an attractive secretary. I
don't want that. What kind of marriage could I
have with someone I couldn't even trust on a
business trip.
In the short run, I'm sure there aren't too many
rewards for living lives this way. Society tells
you that you're missing out on your "sexual
peak". You silence during the locker room
bragging sessions can seem deafening. You may
even heard from the girls you date that something
must be "wrong" with you because you won't take
them to bed. Deep down, you must know that having
sex won't prove you're a man. It's just
irritating that no one else seems to know it,
isn't it?
But someone does know it. I know it. And in the
end, I'm the only one who matters. And no, I'm
not as narrow minded as those guys who say
they'll only marry a virgin. Society isn't too
supportive of virginity. I can forgive mistakes
of the past. But I'm interested in your future,
starting now. When I meet you, I want you to be a
man who has made a conscious decision to wait …
out of love for our future family and commitment
to our marriage. And I want you to be a real man,
who's developed the control, maturity and
unselfishness that waiting brings. They may not
be popular traits in the locker room, but they're
popular with me. They'll make you better husband,
and a better father. To me, that's sexy.
I've abstained from sex all these years and it
hasn't been for the lack of offers. I've had
plenty of opportunities, and saying "no" hasn't
always been easy. I'm sure, it's not always easy
for you either, but it will make our marriage so
much stronger. Sex will be our gift to each
other, our exclusive "language". It'll belong to
us, not "us" and everyone else we ever dated.
Thanks for waiting for me. I promise you won't
regret it.

by: Mary Beth Bonboci

Two Tiny Coins

2011-01-04T02:22:00.011+08:00

"Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” Mark 12:43-44

Though extremely poor, I find the widow with the two coins in the bible as one of the most greathearted person ever lived. Jesus caught sight of her in the temple. No one else would have noticed her but Jesus, with eyes that penetrated both her circumstances and her heart, recognized the astonishing nature of her gift. Truly, her gesture was a sign of complete abandonment to God. After learning about this, I kind of picture myself in the scene and asked myself, "If I was there at the temple, putting my offering at the receptacle, what would Jesus see?" Oh my, I guess I would be a great dissapointment!

I salute this woman for being able to willingly and graciously give to the Lord ALL THAT SHE HAD! She truly is a woman of faith because she wouldn't have offered her last penny if she didn't believe that God would care better than she could care for herself. Also, she must have believe in the value of her small offering. What need had God for two copper of coins anyway? But maybe, God in a manner of speaking, did need what she had to offer. Perhaps her gesture consoled Jesus a short time before his passion and death. She had given everything she had to live on; soon, he would give his very life.

The widow also furnishes us with the best example of recognizing the need for money - she had money, although very little - but also the need to hold it lightly - she willingly and lovingly gave it away.1 Timothy 6:10 says " For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs". A lover of money would have hung unto it more tightly than the widow and, when giving it away, would have made sure the gift was noisily apparent.

Personally, I have been constantly skimming the bottom in the last years of my life but God has remained faithful on my needs. I assure you, He truly is a GOD THAT YOU CAN RELY ON and A JEVOHAH JIREH OF ALL TIME! My true security is not in my bank account, but in God alone! :-)

Lastly, the story of the widow and her two copper coins reminds me that God's kingdom works on an entirely different principle than the Kingdom of this world. In the divine economy, the size of the gift is of no conseqeuence; what matters is the size of the giver's heart! :-)

A new heart, a new spirit, a new ME!

2011-01-01T11:44:00.016+08:00

"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you!" Eze 36:26

It's a new year once again! A time of new beginnings and new hopes for most people... for me! The past year 2010 was "my year" in a sense that I was born on the YEAR OF THE TIGER. I thought of it very positively then but naahhh I was totally wrong. However, now that I look back, I actually am very grateful that the Lord allowed me to go through hardships so I become a better person with a greater and extra ordinary motivation, passion and spirit. As in, I can't describe how excited I am with what's going to happen this 2011. I feel like the Lord is going to surprise me with so many things and at the same time, I'd make my way to make Him more proud of me than ever. Well, I know He is no matter how much I messed up in the last 2 decades of my life but nevertheless, I AM STILL LOVED! What a great God I have:-)

The year 2010 truly been a tough and rough road for me. It was the toughest I could ever think of. I was so down in all aspects financially, spiritually, emotionally and even physically. I lost a very important person in my life and I have never been so broke in my entire life but I have no one else to blame but myself. I was not a good steward of God's finances and with that comes consequences. Consequences that affected a lot of people - my family, friends, ministry. The feeling of great self-dissapointment started to control me and I began to fail the Lord more and more each day. I have been a Christian for more that 2 decades but I feel like at one point, I have stopped growing. My desire to be "extra ordinary, make a difference and excel" just suddenly dissappeared. And having to reflect over and over again, begging God to help me understand myself better and see where the problem lies brought me to this - I HAVE FORGOTTEN MY IDENTITY IN CHRIST! I totally lost a clear sense of who I am in God's eyes. That I am His disciple, a temple of His Holy Spirit and more importantly - I AM HIS CHILD.
John 1:12 "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God ."
I John 3:1 "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!"

And that as a child of God I should be victorious. And though I may have been betrayed, rejected and abandoned by others, God always welcomes me with open arms.Because WITH HIM I BELONG!

Another issue that the Lord had to deal with me was my CONSISTENCY. It's hard to be consistent isn't it? I mean, in one way or another we all have our own inconsistencies in life, we get busy, but mine was horrible because my inconsistency is on setting up the right priorities in life. I forgot intently what's really most important. Being a child of God entails enjoying Him, which for me means, spending time with Him, inviting Him into times of recreation and rest in addition to my ministry work. I neglected that, I neglected Him... not totally but worse, consciously! When I read John 8:31 just a few days ago which says "If you hold my teaching, you are my disciples" it hit me. IT HIT ME BIG TIME because I know that a true disciple puts a high priority on spiritual growth and heeds the admonition of Ephesians 4:15 that we are to "grow up into Him who is the head, that is, Christ." But I didn't.I messed up.My spiritual growth became very stagnant and I committed the most common mistake most Christians make - BEING COMPLACENT! I have been very lax, slothful and a mediocre christian. And for once, I hated myself for being one. It is for this very reason why the enemy got to easily steal my joy and passion in most of the things that I do. But game over! It's time to get back ALL that was taken from me! ONLY THE LORD can give me such great determination.Through the Holy Spirit, Christ dwells in all true believers, convicting us of sin, guiding us into truth, and empowering our lives. This then leads me to another area of my life that I have been neglecting for soooooo long - MY HEALTH!

By housing the Holy Spirit, our bodies become temples - holy, set apart for God's service."Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?" I Cor 3:16 This means that you and I carry God's spirit with us wherever we go. We are vessels of dynamic Holy Spirit activity and for this reason we need to take care our bodies by adhering to healthy eating habits, exercising, and getting ample rest. Well, I have no issue in terms drinking and smoking but man, my sleeping habit is VERY BAD! Admittedly, I am a night owl but I have never really tried to change which is actually very possible having a God like mine. Paul instructs us to honor God with our bodies (I Cor 6:20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies) and let Christ be exalted!

"And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of[a] his Spirit who lives in you. Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live." Romans 8:11-13

Many of our addictions, compulsions, and bad habits are bodily behaviours. That's why scripture tells us not to let sin reign in our bodies but to offer ourselves completely to God, to dedicate the various parts of our bodies to God as "instruments of righteousness". The point is what we allow "in us" determines our behavior. And so, part of being the "new me" is also developing good sleeping habits and a healthy lifestyle!

Oh well, these are my main concerns in the last few years that I really, truly wanted to change and I am claiming that I will be victorious over all plans of the enemy to stop me again. With all these, may be you're asking after all that I have been through, what kept me going? Honestly, it is GOD'S CONSTANT PURSUIT OF MY HEART! It isn't in His vocabulary to give up on me. And with that, I am humbled and will always be grateful. Year 2010 maybe the hardest time of my life but at the same time, it is also a year of GRACE and of GREAT TRANSFORMATION of my life!

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU!!!

"You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness". Ephesians 4:22-24

I LOOK TO YOU

2010-10-07T02:47:00.007+08:00

"And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it."

Ecclesiastes 12:7

Lord, I can't sleep.... I'm tired of thinking and crying. My eyes are red, swollen, but I just can't stop the tears. I just can't :-( I lost 2 loved ones in one night. But most of all I lost my Tito Edgar just like that. Though my heart is broken, I thank you for saving him. I find comfort in knowing that he is with you now. Thank you Lord for bringing him into my life. He may have his share of shortcomings, (who doesn't?) but still I will forever be grateful for his life.

I remember he used to take good care of me and my siblings when we were kids. He was a teenager then. He was really close to his one and only "ate", my mom. We lived in one house for a long time. My mom used to tell me how my Tito loves ketchup so much. Even if we didn't have food on the table, as long as there's ketchup, he'll be fine. Among his siblings, he was the most intelligent. He got a scholarship in Don Bosco during his college days and received recognition and awards in chess. He was the one who taught me how to play chess. In fact, I was able to do a module on How to Play Chess for Kids because he inspired me. At one point, he left the country so he can help out his mom financially. After 3 years, he came back, a different person. There were rumours that he was harassed in Saudi and that resulted to mental anxiety. Since then, my Tito has been a burden to the family. We prayed and prayed that he gets well. Later on, by God's grace, we found a solution. With constant check up and injection, his sanity came back.

Just like me, my Tito loves to eat and laugh. We shared a lot of things in common and we went to church together. My Tito loves the Lord.Even if he's alone, he would go to church every single Sunday that he's with us in Manila. I am confident that he is now with the Lord....... peaceful as ever. No more asthma and suffering for you Tito. I will miss you dearly....... I am so sad that I didn't even get to see you the last time I was in Manila. I will miss your "lambing" that I may buy you a chess book, or give you pamasahe so you can go to church etc. I will miss eating and dining with you. I will miss hearing the wheezing sound of our asthma together. Bakit ba kasi tayo ang nakamana nun kay lolo e? 'yun pala ang babawi ng buhay mo. If you were in Manila, I don't think you will die. Mom will not allow that to happen. But I guess this is life. Nothing permanent, except DEATH!

Thank you for all your wonderful memories that I will cherish forever... I will miss you dearly!!!! :-(

Lord, in these times when I really don't have the strength to move on with life anymore, I LOOK TO YOU!

As I lay me down
Heaven hear me now
I’m lost without a cause
After giving it my all

Winter storms have come
And darkened my sun
After all that I’ve been through
Who on earth can I turn to?

[Chorus:]
I look to you,
I look to you
After all my strength is gone
In you I can be strong
I look to you,
I look to you
And when melodies are gone In you I hear a song

I look to you

Have to lose my breath
There’s no fighting left
Sinking to rise no more
Searching for that open door

And every road that I’ve taken
Led to my regret
And I don’t know if I’m go’n make it
Nothing to do but lift my head

[Chorus]

My levees are broken
My walls are coming down on me
My rain is falling
Defeat is calling
I need you to set me free
Take me far away from the battle
I need you
Shine on me!

Autobiography In Five Chapters

2010-01-03T23:47:00.002+08:00

I had the privilege to listen to John Maxwell preach live online a few minutes ago and I tell you, I was really blessed. He talked about SECOND CHANCES having Jonah as his main illustration. Aren't you glad that our God is a God not just of 2nd but 3rd, 4th, 5th and many more chances????? Well I am, co'z if not, I tell you I should have been dead long time ago. In the last 15 years of my life there is one lesson that God has been teaching me that until now I STILL HAVEN'T LEARNED.And so I'm not going to ask God anymore why it happened again and why I am in that hole again STILL TRYING TO GET OUT for the nth time around. Good thing, our God is GRACIOUS! And GRACE means, YOU GET WHAT YOU DON'T DESERVE. It is super embarrasing and humbling to hear that after being so stubborn and disobedient God says to me, "It's alright my daughter, you try it again this year, nothing changed, I STILL LOVE YOU".

And so, here I am, God didn't just give me a second chance but also dealt with my pride.And I thank HIM for that.It is such JOY to feel released from a long time hidden personal issues and be accountable with someone whom God sent to help me get really directed.

With all this I realized, I am not superwoman after all as many perceived. And that is a good thing:-)

Maxwell ended his preaching with this poem of Portia Nelson. My prayer is to be on Chapter 5 this year and that I decrease and HE INCREASES (John 3:30)

Enjoy! GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!

Autobiography In Five Chapters

1) I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost... I am hopeless.
It isn't my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.

2) I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don't see it.
I fall in again.
I can't believe I'm in the same place.
But it isn't my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

3) I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in... it's a habit.
My eyes are open.
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

4) I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

5) I walk down another street.

Portia Nelson
From: Sogyal Rinpoche, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

35 SIGNIFICANT PEOPLE IN MY 35 YEARS

2009-08-26T07:15:00.003+08:00

" I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

1. Papa – for always being proud of me, for supporting and loving me in spite of my shortcomings; for providing in the family all these years; for the many times you have given me a ride even if I was already a grown up; for your non-stop provision and help…….. THANK YOU!
2. Mama – for the many dishes you’ve prepared, clothes you’ve ironed and washed for me; I am a very good cook because of you and popsy; for understanding and being patient, for loving and taking good care of me even as a grown up……….. THANK YOU!
3. Eden (my sister) – for doing all my errands and taking good care of our household especially mama and papa…………. THANK YOU!
4. Bong (my brother) – for working hard to help our family, for giving in to my massage request whenever I need it; for the many times you picked me up and sent me to take a cab for work………. THANK YOU!
5. Tito Buboy – for believing in me and for helping my father send me to college by paying a huge amount of my tuition fee. I wouldn’t be where I am now if you didn’t believe that I can do it.; for inspiring and exposing me to music, maybe you didn’t realize but I did listen to all the tapes you brought from Saudi from classic to reggae, pinoy rock etc. I just love then all!!!! THANK YOU!
6. Ate Rose(wife of Tito Buboy) – for your support to Tito and for not stopping him to pay for my tuition; for praying for me and sharing your heart with me; for always watching the plays that I direct; for helping me come to Singapore; for always having nice words to say about people, about me…………….. THANK YOU!
7. Teacher Pow – for being my accountability partner for the longest time; for the ears that listen each time; for all the prayers and friendship; for the laughter and tears, teach, you have been wonderful! J THANK YOU!
8. Pastor Eddie – for the many preaching and learning you’ve shared; for helping me developed such a strong foundation of my faith; for being a friend and a pastor; for telling me that I am a wonderful lady and that a wonderful lady will never lose admirers……………. THANK YOU!
9. Ma’am Cindy – for the many inspirational talk you’ve shared and home cooked recipes you taught me; for being a good example of how a wife, a mom and a pastor’s wife should be and for showing me how a woman of God is like by being you………… THANK YOU!
10. Pastor Lance – for showing me a good example of what “self-control” is and “being angry without sinning”; for being a friend, for all the laughter and wonderful memories of missions trip and other ministry work; for believing and saying yes to a ACTS Theatre Ministry years ago; and for always getting better and better as a pastor, a minister, a husband, a father and a friend to me and the rest around you………. THANK YOU!
11. Melanie – for inspiring me to laugh each time; for making me feel special – you bake for me, you buy me flowers when there’s a play, you greet me on my birthday, you chat with me whenever I am around, you share recipes with me etc; for always remembering me even if I am far away…….. THANK YOU!
12. Fiona – for being such a wonderful person inside and out; for being such an inspiration and a good example of how a daughter of God should live; for always striving for EXCELLENCE! For attending and shepherding ACTS; for always saying yes to most of the projects/assignments I asked you to do; for teaching me how to say no when you really don’t have the time; for listening to all of my stories whether interesting or not; for believing that I can still counsel you even if I am far away; for being a very good friend in spite of the distance; for praying and loving me………THANK YOU!
13. Lain – for all the stories we’ve shared; all the places we’ve been to; for all the happy and crying times, for all the ministry work and challenges we have experienced together; for taking care of ACTS; for not giving up or losing hope; for always encouraging, praying, supporting and loving me………. THANK YOU!
14. Albert – for teaching me what “FAITH” really is and that “God is never late yet never too early”; for inspiring me and for doing such an excellent job in school, church and your family; for all the good and bad times we have shared and still I never heard you complain, not even once; for being a great leader and an example to the youth….. THANK YOU!
15. Erwin – for being so hard-working; for being courageous enough to take charge of ACTS; for all the wonderful memories you have shared with me whether personal or ministry related; for always believing in me as your director; for not being afraid to try new things; for your humility and willingness to learn; for being a great leader, preacher, actor, trainer and a friend…… THANK YOU!
16. Weng – for 20 years of friendship! Gosh, words are not enough to express what we have been through as friends, but in spite of all the ups and downs, we are still together! For all the secrets we’ve shared, ministry work, travel and missions trips, for all the musicals and projects we’ve made; for the many wonderful memories and still counting…… THANK YOU!
17. Angelo – for being such an inspiration and for proving that God can truly change lives and that with Him nothing is impossible; for the years of friendship; for praying and loving me…… THANK YOU!
18. Jennie – for always spending time with me; for all the love, prayers and support; for always reminding me to save; for just simply being a friend, a wonderful mom, a minister and a pastor’s wife; for always changing for the better especially from the time you married Jeff; for not tolerating wrong doings; for the years of friendship……….. THANK YOU!
19. Jeff – for being excellent in all that you do; for showing humility, perseverance, hard-work and for loving and obeying God; for all the years of friendship we have shared from Voices of Glory Quarter (since high school) to SUMAYA, Sunday School, Choir, Drama,(I can still vividly remember you saying “good news, good news, Christ died for me! Hahahaha) Breaking Point etc; for being a great leader, a pastor, a trainer, a minister, a father, a husband, a friend……… THANK YOU!
20. Tonie – for the trust, respect, support, prayers; for all the laughter, and joy; for all the plays we have made, arts festival and missions trip we have facilitated; for all the places we’ve been to; for the ears that listen; for always being the first one to see me each time I go back home; for all the love in spite of knowing all my weaknesses………THANK YOU!
21. Alvin – for being such a good buddy; for always making me laugh; for inspiring the youth; for being such a powerful and energetic preacher with very high sense of humor; for assisting with ACTS, for always spending time with me over a cup of coffee; for all the wonderful memories in the ministry; for the years of friendship……….. THANK YOU!
22. Theodore – for the endless inspiration of making music for the Lord; for training the youth without expecting anything in return; for your servant heart and humility; for never failing to inspire me with your songs…….. THANK YOU!
23. Chie – for simply loving and believing in me; for always spending time; for not giving up and for the inspiration of forgiveness and undying love; for your friendship so sweet and true……….. THANK YOU!
24. Digi – for being “strong” in the Lord; for not giving up nor losing hope; for staying focus on HIM; for learning how to stand up after a great fall; for always believing in me and ACTS; for the love and friendship………THANK YOU!
25. Ice – for the countless times you made me cry, you taught me mercy, patience, love, understanding and grace. Hahaha, But in spite of all the hurt, our friendship remained strong; for always believing that there is hope in God and that prayers can move mountains, for the brother-sister friendship that we share for the longest time…… THANK YOU!
26. Joy – for all the ministry time we have shared; for always saying yes to Arts Festival, missions trip and other ministry work with me; for inspiring a lot of youth each time you dance for the Lord; for being such a good listener, for trusting and believing in my abilities; for always wanting to attend my lectures; for your eagerness to learn and humility as a servant of God; for being a very good friend…….. THANK YOU!
27. Sephii – for consistently doing production stuff with me; for always making yourself available for meetings and ministry work; for not being afraid to share your heart with me even if you are a man; for not giving up on love; for saying yes to Jesus and obeying Him when He called you to preach; for your prayers and friendship…….. THANK YOU!
28. Rizza – for all wonderful memories we shared together; for the love and respect in spite of the pain; for surviving the times of trials, for always assuring me that I will be proud when you get married; for all the wonderful ministry time together and years of friendship…… THANK YOU!
29. Beng – for all the time you shared with me since way back “theatre time” (won’t mention the theatre’s name anymore, you know what a nightmare that was! Hehehe); for all the help you gave when I was new here in Singapore and even up to now; for all the cooking, cleaning, singing, laughing and crying sessions we had; for the travels, ministry works, outings, events that we were together; for richer or for poorer we were together!J For the years of friendship and still counting……… THANK YOU!
30. Jade – for teaching me how to save which I still couldn’t get up to now, I really am a bad student in terms of finances; for being a good example of discipline, hard-work and perseverance; for always being excited when I cook; for laughing at my jokes; for giving me company when I travel; for all the love, support, prayers and friendship……. THANK YOU!
31. Teacher Dolly – for being such a great example of how a wonderful teacher should be; for giving and sharing with me kitchen tips; for dreaming of starting a school with me; for being such a great mom and a wife; for always spending time with me; for the many times we went out and you brought me home; for the love, prayers and support……THANK YOU!
32. Doc John – for all the discipline and inspiration in establishing a Christian Theatre Ministry; for the very first missions exposure and stage performance you have given me; for believing that I can do it…………. THANK YOU!
33. Teacher Super – for all inspiration you gave on how to handle arts for kids; for teaching me to love them unconditionally; for sharing ideas on arts and craft, directing kids and for helping me understand on the importance of praying over your students and lifting them up in the Lord; for the unforgettable “tacos moments” we had with all the PVIS teachers while were doing our bible studies………. THANK YOU!
34. Teacher Tetes – for giving me the chance to work with you; for the inspiration of being a great teacher and employer; with you I can say that, “All things I needed to learn in pre-school teaching and discipline, I learned it all in PVIS!”……… THANK YOU!
35. Teacher Salve – for believing that I am one of the best pre-school teachers in the world; for trusting that I can really help you run your school (Ingenium) before; for bringing me to Davao and asking me to train all the primary school teachers of Ateneo de Davao in Fingermath which pave way for me to ride an airplane for the first time and since then it never stopped; for letting me go when I needed to move on with my career bringing me to where I am now……. THANK YOU!

EMOTIONAL PURITY

2009-08-15T03:23:00.002+08:00

gave this lecture to ACTS last July..... read on.......

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Matthew 5:8

I. Emotional Intimacy – a close, private relationship that would invoke strong feelings, passions, and the senses.

Emotional Intimacy will bring about physical intimacy. It is the kind of closeness and familiarity that stirs feelings and senses that promote a bond, a union that God reserves for the marriage relationship.
“Marriage is to be held in honor among all” (Hebrews 13:4a)

22Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. 24Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. 25Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26to make her holy, cleansing[b] her by the washing with water through the word, 27and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church— 30for we are members of his body. 31"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh."[c] 32This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. Ephesians 5:22-32

COMMITMENT produces intimate relationships, in that God-given order.

We must re-sensitize ourselves to the importance of guarding our hearts from the “just friends” battle wounds.

Heart check: How is your level of intimacy with the Lord?

II. Emotional Purity – is when you prevent yourself from sharing your heart and your deep emotional feelings to members of the opposite sex.
(Compare dating 100 years ago to this new generation – not much emotion involved!)
- define or clear out intentions
- do not “over-share” especially to someone of the opposite sex (“emotional strip tease” is very common during camp and bible studies/small groups)
-do not spend one-on-one time with members of the opposite sex alone

When you experience intimacy without commitment you are playing with the heart of a fellow brother or sister in Christ and will violate emotional purity.

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Galatians 5:16

III. Defrauding – means to have more, or to gain or take advantage of another, to overreach; to swindle, to cheat.
You defraud people when you use them, or cheat them of something they need to save for someone else; teasing them with what they couldn’t have; playing with the emotions or expectations of someone in which you do not expect to righteously satisfy.

3It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; 4that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, 5not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; 6and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him. The Lord will punish men for all such sins, as we have already told you and warned you. I Thessalonians 4:3-6

A man’s tender attention and smooth words can steal a girl’s heart. However, the young girl in Song of Solomon requests repeatedly not to arouse or awake her love until she pleases.
Men, when you treat a young lady as “special” you may be whetting her appetite for marriage. And if you tell a woman that you are just friends yet your behaviour treats her more than a friendship, she will believe your behaviour rather than your words!

We all understand the beauty of saving our physical bodies for our mates. How much more wonderful if we saved our emotions as well?

When one avoids defrauding, blessings will follow.

IV. Commitment equals protection
18This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. Matthew 1:18, 19

Without a solid commitment in a relationship, the walls around the heart are not protected. Commitment equals protection. When a man and a woman become emotionally and spiritually intimate without commitment, one of the two things will happen: they will marry or they will break up. God the protector asks us to “guard our hearts for it is the wellspring of life (Proverbs 4:23)
Guarding your heart will require you to discern when to share and when to hold back.

V. The Prize of Life
The prize of life is a relationship with our Creator. To look to anything else to fill that gap will not bring about satisfaction. God designed marriage but He designed us to be complete when we are with Him. Marriage is not the answer to eternal bliss. To give it that much credit is taking away credit from the Creator. Marriage is a blessing, not THE BLESSING! A deeper walk with the Lord is not to be brought about by marriage alone, but by reading His Word, talking to Him, obeying Him and giving Him praise, glory and honor.

VI. God’s Plan for your single years
32I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs—how he can please the Lord. 33But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife— 34and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband. 35I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord. 1 Cor. 7:32 -35

Why do so many unmarried people have a hard time facing their singleness head on? Mainly because many singles keep themselves wrapped up in activities that do not foster a love relationship with Christ. They do things they want to do (selfishness), without counting the cost paid. They live in the here and now, without a thought of the future. This focus on self permeates this life stage and in many people the years of being single become a wasteland of me, myself, and I, with little concern of serving and enjoying God.

Jesus was in His thirties and not married. He knew God’s will clearly. He was secure in His position with the Father and His purpose was apparent. Therefore, He kept His undivided attention on the Father.

"Why were you searching for me?" he asked. "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" Luke 2:49

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." Matthew 26:39

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. John 4:34

I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. John 17:4

When singles keep their attention and energy focused on themselves and not on a love relationship with God, they miss out on many activities that would bring about deep satisfaction ENJOYING AND SERVING THE CREATOR SHOULD BE OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL, and this period in our life allows for 100 percent attention on GOD

This undivided attention to the Lord is the point of single life!

CONTENTMENT is not the “gift” of celibacy, nor it is the magic key that gives God a go ahead to send a spouse your way. Being content does not mean giving up hope.

What you do need to do to make sure you align with God’s Plan in your single life?

I Continue to seek Him with all you have
“dying to what you want and replacing it with what God wants”

II Make sure that you are serving God.
When you are seeking Him first He can do awesome things and open doors of ministry you thought were impossible.

III Make yourself emotionally UNAVAILABLE to the opposite sex.
If you saw God as your mate, how jealous would He be over you?

When we pray from the selfishness of our hearts for a mate, it can be compared to going to your spouse and asking for money for a prostitute because your spouse is not satisfying you. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures James 4:3

IV Ask God to enrol you in His “Wife or Husband Training Program.”
The Holy Spirit is our teacher, and if you know deep in your heart that your desire to be married is from the Lord, then asks Him to prepare you.

Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

COMMITMENT:

“For better days or for worse days, I accept what God has for me as a single person. He will not keep me unmarried a day longer than He plans. I will save my emotions for God’s plan and I will forgo the games singles play!”

MARRY SOMEONE WHO IS CONTENT WITH THE LORD ALONE!

Made this lecture from the book, Emotional Purity of Heather Arnel Paulsen July 2009

WAIT

2009-08-06T18:28:00.006+08:00

Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried:
Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied.
I plead and I wept for a clue to my fate,
And the Master so gently said,
“Child, you must wait.”

“Wait? You say, wait!” my indignant reply.
“Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have You not heart?
By faith, I have asked, and am claiming Your Word.”

My future and all to which I can relate
Hangs in a balance, and YOU tell me to WAIT?
I’m needing a “YES”, a go-ahead sign,
Or even a “No” to which I can resign.

And Lord, You promised that if we believe
We need but to ask, and we shall receive
And Lord, I’ve been asking, and this is my cry:
“I’m weary of asking! I need a reply!”

Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
As my Master replied once again, “You must wait.”
So, I slumped in my chair, defeated and taught
And grumbled to God, “So, I’m waiting…… for what?”

He seemed, then, to kneel
And His eyes wept with mine,
And He tenderly said, “I could give you a sign.”
I could shake the heavens, and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead, and cause mountains to run.

All you seek, I could give, and pleased you would be.
You would have what you want –
But you wouldn’t know Me.
You’d not know the depth of My love for each saint;
You’d not know the power I give to the faint;

You’d not learn to see through the clouds of despair;
You’d not learn to trust just by knowing I’m there;
You’d not know the joy of resting in Me;
When darkness and silence were all you could see.

You’d never experience that fullness of love
As the peace of my Spirit descends like a dove;
You’d know that I give and I save, for a start,
But you’d not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
The glow of my comfort late into the night,
The faith that I give when you walk without a sight,
The depth that’s beyond getting just what you asked
Of an infinite God, who makes what you have last.

You’d never know, should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that, “My grace is sufficient for thee.”
Yes, your dreams for your loved one
Overnight would come true,

But, Oh, the Loss! If I lost what I’m doing in you!

So, be silent, My child, and in time you will see
That the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me.
And though oft’ may My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still, “Wait.”

From the book, Emotional Purity of Heather Arnel Paulsen

Let God Do The Choosing!

2009-06-17T16:59:00.003+08:00

If men were like buses, how do you catch one?

A more important questions is - how do you catch the RIGHT one?

Simple : You take only the bus that's headed the RIGHT direction.

First we must allow our Heavenly Father to do the picking. And second,the decision for a mate must be made on a spiritual and intellectual basis before its made on an emotional one.What about love?, you ask. I'll tell you why.

"The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (Jer 17:9)

The heart is willful and is driven by its own agenda. It does not consider things rationally and intelligently - it just loves to love! Therefore you have to point it in the right directions:

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life" (Proverbs 4:23 ).

Whenever you meet a man, you need to get clearance from God, check out his attributes, and then allow your heart to engage. Dating exists not for mating; it exists for collecting data. I believet hat the biblical design would be friendship, courtship and then marriage. Friendship is two people walking together in agreement and accountability, learning and growing together. Courtship follows the mutual agreement to commit to one another exclusively - it is the decisive turning toward the agreed-upon goal of the marriage altar. It is a period of laying a foundation and preparing your life together after marriage. But dating? Well, if you do date, use the time wisely to gather facts.So when you do gather facts, let us compare the process to clothes shopping.

1. Check out the fabric. Is the person mate material? Does this man have an intimate relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ? Does he care what God thinks about his behavior? Is he accountable to God as well as another co-laborer in the faith? Accountability is an important factor. It is imperative to maintaining a committed relationship. Is your potential spouse a member of the same family - the family of God? Scripture is clear on this : "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" (2 Cor 6:14 ).You need to have common interest and values and agree on the essentials of living day to day. You have a similar spiritual walk. You eat the same diet. You enjoy a lot of similar things. You have like interests, like goals in life, like opinions on basic life issues. You have had like experiences in your background. Though there is some truth to the idiom that opposites attract, like-minded folks fare better together. Furthermore, does he want to get married? If you want to be married and your dreamboat isn't interested, don't waste your time. Remember, women fall in love and get married. Men decide to get married and then look for a wife. Note the difference in order. So if a guy says he's not looking for anything serious, take his words seriously. If he's not going your direction, get off the bus & wait for the right one.

2. Does this man want you? Is he pursuing you? The man who is right for you will pursue you and God's hand in the relationship will be clear. No guessing, no fleeces, no dead ends. Scripture says: "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord"( Prov 18:22). Note- who finds whom? THE MAN FINDS THE WIFE. From the beginning of time, God has transported men & women across the world in order to put them together. At the RIGHT TIME, He will bring that man on the scene and he will find you. In God's perfect design, the man is the one who recognizes his mate. Adam has no problem recognizing that Eve was his missing rib. You do not need to strategically place yourself anywhere. You don't have to help a guy out because he's shy. Men will do whatever they have to do to get what they truly want. The man in your life should recognize you as the pearl of great price inhis life and be willing to do whatever he must in order to gain your hand. If he is passive about gaining your affections, take it as a sign that he is not interested. A woman's mother has suggested that it is a good idea to marry a man who loves you more than you love him. As cold as that sounds, it actually might be scriptural if you stop to think about it : "We love him because he first loved us" (1 Jn 4:19).Until then, take the ultimate chill pill. You don't need a bunch of menin your life to make you feel all right about yourself. You need only one man - your man, the one God has selected to select you. And trust me, the right man at the wrong time can be just as awful as the wrong man at any time. So trust God's timing in this. He is the ultimate matchmaker. Relax, sit pretty and allow yourself to be found. Again - WAIT until the man voices his intentions. He should take the lead in establishing the relationship. You may have an inkling that he is the one, but God will use the man to set the tone of the relationship. Allow him the opportunity to woo you - this is your first act of submission. Jesus set the standard for all men to follow. They should love us first. And they should lead the relationship.

3. The man in your life should not desire to move into your house, only into your heart. A man who prepares for your future has made his intentions clear. A man who is husband material has the means to take care of a wife. He is a responsible human being who understands he needs to have something to offer. In short, a man should have the means to bea suitable lover for you.

4. Check out his buddies. Everyone knows birds of the same feather flock together, yet most women fail to see the connection between a man and his friends. A man's pals tell you a lot about the person that you haven't seen yet. They reveal things about the guy's character that might be hidden when he is on good behavior. Everyone knows how to put his best foot forward. Don't stay focused on the foot, check out therest of the body!

5. Check out his relationship with his mother. How does he treat her? This is your preview of how he will treat you. There are lots of men who, because of a negative relationship with their mothers, really don't like women, yet say they do. Unresolved issues between mother and son continue between husband and wife.

6. Remember that a man's family reveals the cloth from which he's cut.Take note and decide whether you want your future with the man in your life to look like his present family situation.

7. Check out the patterns of his life. Do you see repeated cycles of drama in his personal kingdom? broken relationships? problems in making commitments? including the job market? mood swings? Is a problem alwayssomeone else's fault? Does he embrace responsibility or shirk it? Does he keep his promises? Is he a man of good reputation? Remember all garments look wonderful hanging in the store, but with wear, some begin to unravel. Give yourself time and space to check outthe man in your life. Time will always reveal whether or not he is made of the right stuff.

8. Does this man have a vision for his life? Is he running with that vision? Remember, God decided Adam needed help once Adam got busy DOING his assignment. As we saw Adam, a man doesn't need help until he is busy doing what he was created and called to do. Is your guy guided by a sense of destiny and purpose, or does he just allow life to happen around him? A man who is not certain of his mission can be a most miserable person - and you'll be miserable too if you know where YOU want to go in life. A man who has vision is not intimidated by a woman whose mission statement is clear. He will be your best ally,cheerleader and assistant because he wants you both to make it! A man who cannot be supportive of your achievements because he is flounderingin a sea of uncertainty over his own life is not a healthy partner to have and to hold forever. Creating dependencies or feelings of obligation is not the way to get the best out of your man. Somewhere along the way, he will resent you and flee from the smothering burden of obligation he associates you with.You want a man who is firmly anchored in his identity in Christ.Remember, we are looking for a man who will be priest and leader of his home. His first instinct should be to want to cover you, redeem you, and provide for you. Your job is to decide if this is the man God has ordained for you to complement.

9.Complementarity. Do your talents and gifts complement his? Do his gifts complement yours? What about your temperaments? Do you see the two of you as an effective team capable of bringing blessing to the lives of those around you? Do your futures mesh? Can you coordinate your gifts inan attractive and effective way? This is why knowing your purpose is so important. Make sure your hearts beat for mutual causes.When I go shopping I always consider the fabric, the fit and what I already have in my closet. Will my next purchase be a complementary addition to what I already have? If I find that I am going to have to buy shoes and matching accessories to go with a new outfit, I leave it right on the rack. It is too expensive a proposition. If the man you meet makes you feel that you need to completely reinvent yourself, something is wrong. This is where I ask you to consider the relationship in terms of cost. Is this relationship expensive spiritually, emotional or physically? Does your longing for a mate make you willing to forfeit who you are in the process? Or does he see you as the gift that you are?The man in your life should consider you a rare find, a priceless jewel -because of you he is getting ready to get blessed big-time! Any relationship that causes you to fee l unworthy, unlovely, unacceptable, undesirable or that you have to work for love, is too expensive!God has called the man to cover, protect and provide not only materially for a woman, but emotionally and spiritually as well. You should bericher in mind, body and spirit for your union with the man of yourdreams. The man in your life should make rich deposits into your heartand spirit, not withdrawals.

10. Does he have a healthy love & acceptance of himself? Make sure theman in your life has taken time to heal from past relationships and has made peace with himself. How he cares for himself is how he will care for you. A man's relationship with God is crucial here. His love for himself will only be as strong as his love for God. This is not something that you can impart. You cannot be his savior or teacher. That is out of spiritual order. In his rightful place as your personal priest, he should be leading you to a richer relationship with Christ. If he is causing you to compromise your faith and destabilize your walk, if he is leading you into sexual sin or causing you to be distracted from your commitment to Christ, the relationship is too expensive. Offending the Lover of your soul, who promises you eternal love, is too high a fare to pay for a ride that has a limited run. If you and your man can't soar in the Spirit, when the force of yourlove for another is tested by the pull or gravity of the world, your union will not be able to survive.S o you decide. How much is your life worth? How much is your love worth? You will be able to accept only what you believe you deserve. God himself calculated the worth of your love and decided it was worth His life. He now pledges you His love for eternity. Yes, Jesus sets the example for all others to follow when He paid a ransom for His bride. Should you expect less from a mortal man? Throughout the biblical age, men were willing to pay the cost for thehand that they desired. The truth of the matter is, everyone knows that anything worth having, costs. And no one gets a ride in this life for free.

Your prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, I confess that I have not always been as careful as I should've been with my heart. From time to time, my desire for love has caused me to leave my heart in the wrong hands. I now commit my heart into Your hands for safekeeping. Please help me to stop being so impulsive with what you deem so precious. As I learn to celebrate Your love for me, let me learn from Your example what a bridegroom should really be like. Help me to never settle for less than what you desire for me. As I embrace You as the Lover of my soul, keep my affections in the haven of Your own heart. As I rest in Your love, make me more discriminating of those who approach me. I ask that You take over this area of my life. Keep me from those You know would hurt my heart. I invite You to set a hedge around me and keep me from all who would draw me into unfruitful relationships until the day you present me to the mate that You have selected for me.Grant me the discernment to recognize him as he recognizes me. Cleanse me from the temptation to typecast the men I meet according to what I see. Help me to trust in Your knowledge and lean not on my own understanding. I know that You know what is best for me; therefore I yield to Your choice. In Jesus Name. Amen.

I wish I was a child like that!

2009-06-07T22:10:00.009+08:00

Matthew 18

The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
1At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"

2He called a little child and had him stand among them.

3And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

4Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

5"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.

6But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.

It was a Sunday morning, I went to church and was very excited because Pastor JP is preaching again. I really enjoyed the messages he shared during our 2 day retreat on SINGLES MAX - Living Life to the Max!

I sat third row from the front of the theatre where I would always do together with my housemate. During Praise and Worship, I saw this little girl Revekah, (we call her "vecky" in Sunday School) dancing with all her might as we praise and sing "One Way" to our Lord Jesus Christ. This little sweetheart is just around 5 years old and was on the very front row of the theatre. I smiled as I sang and told the Lord, "bless the little children who come and worship you like that little girl infront, I wish I was a child like that!".

As the worship progressed, this little girl didn't stop. She was swaying her arms, raising it up and down, kneeling,bending, bowing down; basically doing her own interpretative dance on all the worship songs being sang. I was amazed at her passion and creativity! At one point, I was soooooo tempted to run beside her and just dance with her for all I care!!!! hahaha

As I continued to watch, I told the Lord, "I wish all the people of God in all ages can just freely worship Him just like that. No inhibitions, no fears, no ifs and buts......... and again, I wish I was a child like that"!

You know, children are amazing!

They teach us a lot of things - more that we can ever imagine! They are innocent, pure, void of malice, transparent, contented, humble, obedient, trustworthy, dependent............... (deep sigh)

I wish I was a child like that.................

Because at this point of my life,

A child-like faith is what I need.

A child-like humility is what I long for.

A child-like surrender is what I need to do.

I wish I am Vecky.

I wish I was a child like that.......

"Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

Serving an Audience of ONE

2009-06-04T04:44:00.001+08:00

The ultimate test of servanthood is whether you can be content to serve an audience of One, when it’s OK to serve in anonymity, when you can throw yourself into a bit part, when you no longer live for the approval of others, when the size of your audience doesn’t matter anymore, and when the size of the role you play is less important than being faithful and obedient.

AUDIENCE OF ONE
Greg Ferguson

It’s such a strong temptation to live for man’ applause
But I don’t want to buy into the lie ‘cause I know that’s not a worthy cause
So to keep things in perspective, I hung a signed up on the wall

The sign is nothing special, but it really says it all
And the sign says

I’ll be content to serve an audience of One
Only His approval counts when all is said and done
And this is my prayer, when the race is finally run
I want to hear “Well done” from the Audience of One

When the drive for recognition starts to get the best of me
All I’ve got to do is look around at the people serving selflessly
And they don’t serve for glory, and they are not keeping score
There’s a sign that’s written on their hearts
A sign I’ve seen before

I’ll be content to serve an audience of One
Only His approval counts when all is said and done
And this is my prayer, when the race is finally run
I want to hear “Well done” from the Audience of One

In the not-too-distant future
When the crowds all fade away
I’ll stand alone before my Lord
And this is what I long to say

I’m overjoyed to serve an audience of One
It’s what I’ve been created for ever since day one
And this is my song, as I bow before Your throne
I love to hear “Well done” from the audience of One

So this will be my prayer, ‘til the race is finally run
I want to hear “Well done,” I long to hear “Well done”
I want to hear “Well done” from the audience of One

SINGLES MAX RETREAT: Are you ready to live it up?

2009-05-25T03:16:00.004+08:00

YOU ARE INVITED!!!!!

If you are Single and located in Singapore, we would like to invite you this life-changing event.

WHAT: CCF SINGAPORE Singles Retreat
WHEN: June 5-6, 2009
WHERE: Trinity Theological College
Fee: $95 - $100 (inclusive of the overnight stay, buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, materials, etc)

Only GOD Could Love You More

2009-05-20T01:59:00.003+08:00

Oh Lord, one day soon I will sing this song to my future husband! :-)

Truly, ONLY YOU CAN LOVE HIM MORE!!!!

I asked the Lord for someone,
and I always knew
that in God’s time and in God’s way
it would be someone like you.
All my hopes and all my dreams
were suddenly fulfilled
It’s almost unbelievable
our love is in his will.

Only God could love you more,
for He gave me this love I have for you.
What a blessing to know He’s your Lord,
For only God could love you more, than I do.
Only God could love you more,

I’m tempted to be saying ,that we met by chance
But God was there at every turn, In every circumstance
To share this life God gave me
seems such a fearful task,
But every moment we have shared
is more than I could ask

Only God could love you more,
for He gave me this love I have for you.
What a blessing to know He’s your Lord,
For only God could love you more, than I do.

For only God could love you more, than I do.

25 RANDOM THINGS ABOUT ME:THE HEART OF THE ARTIST REVEALED!

2009-05-19T02:01:00.008+08:00

I was tagged at Facebook, here's what I wrote:

1. I am a certified SSB! SINGLE SINCE BIRTH! But no regrets co'z I am enjoying life!!!:-)

2. I am a director and I organize BIG EVENTS.But I truly miss acting on STAGE! I dream of being a part of any Broadway Musical! hahaha

3. I am a big fan of Mark Bautista and Sarah Geronimo! They are the ultimate "TOTAL PERFORMERS" for me!

4. I am a Christian. I got to know the Lord when I was 11 years old and my first ministry was the JEEPNEY MINISTRY and VISITATION! Cool!!!

5. I dream of having my own school but do you know what my ultimate dream is? To be a HOMEMAKER!

6. To most people I am very intimidating, dominant and unsubmissive: I challenge you, GET TO KNOW ME and you will know YOU'RE WRONG! :-)

7. I will try any new adventure even if I am scared to death, as long as I have a friend who will do it with me.

8. I am the eldest of 3. Throughout my life, if there is one thing I can be proud of, that is the LOVE and RESPECT I gave to my parents.Believe it or not, I have never fought with them. My goal is to make them HAPPY and COMFORTABLE each day of their lives especially now that they are getting old.

9. A lot of people admire me for being a good Director, Artist, Host, Trainer, Cook, etc. But do you know where I am really good at? TEACHING KIDS!!!!! Oh man, for those who are not aware, TEACHING is my FIRST LOVE!!!

10. I am a SHOPAHOLIC! I get annoyed if I know that I still have money in my wallet.I so hate myself for spending too much UNNECESSARILY! sick!!!!

11. When I was small, I played all kinds of street games! Gosh, PATINTERO, TUMBANG PRESO, MARBLES, CARDS, SHIATO, TAGUAN, LANGIT LUPA IMPIYERNO, AGAW-TAKAW, TAMAAN BOLA, CHINESE GARTER, MORO-MORO, LUKSONG-BAKA, atbp. Gosh, I wish the kids today are able to play those. It was so much FUN!!!!

12. I've watched "27 dresses" and enjoyed it. However, after watching the movie I realized I had more than 27 dresses already yet I am still single! hahaha, still counting.............. (sigh) When will my BEACH WEDDING ever come true? :-)

13. I am targeting to lose weight significantly in the next 2 months.

14. I miss SBC so much - the people, the ministry(ACTS), the worship, the rehearsals etc. I wish I can already be back to the Philippines for good.

15. After the Singles Retreat I am organizing right now, I will start planning for a MISSION's TRIP in Cambodia. I've been there before but I went there to teach PHONETICS and Theater. This time I want to have a 3-5 days MANNA FEEDING PROGRAM! I want to personally cook and feed those precious children of the Lord. Open to anyone who wants to join me! Pray, Pray, Pray!

16. I don't like guys who ADMIRE, LOVE AND ADORE me too much. It's very ANNOYING! A BIG TURN OFF!

17. Even up to now, there are still times when I would just suddenly wake up in the middle of the night and cry. I miss my family and friends in Manila.....................:-(

18. I love to cook. It's one ministry that I have while I am here in Singapore.

19. My voice is just NATURALLY TOO LOUD! I am always mistaken as angry or too demanding and arrogant because of my voice. Yes, it is one of my greatest assets but it pulls me down to embarrassment as well.

20. I hate to admit this but I really think I am madly in love with someone at the moment. The sad thing is, I don't think he is the man the Lord prepared for me so I AM LETTING GO! No text, no e-mails, no phone calls, no dating. I invested too much time and emotions already into something that eventually led to NOTHING.................. Ouch, sakit ha! So TAMA NA!

21. I am so scared of giving birth. Maybe that explains why I am still single.... hehehehe, my tolerance on pain is very low!

22. I wish I learned how to play any musical instrument when I was a kid.

23. I enjoy guys who are confident and can make sensible conversations with me.

24. I can live without CAKES and ICE-CREAMS, but I can't live without PASTA and CHICKEN! Yum Yum!

25. I am a "mother hen" to many. But I wish and pray that the guys that I meet won't just look at me as a "mother hen" but as a woman who can be a perfect wife and a mother to their kids! :-)

HAPPY 5th Year Anniversary ACTS!

2009-05-16T02:47:00.004+08:00

This is our 5th year anniversary video last year which we were unable to upload because of its length and size, but as they say, "It's better late than never!" hehehe ENJOY!

G U I D A N C E (Dancing with God)

2009-05-14T02:50:00.002+08:00

*received this from a friend today...... it's really nice!

Dancing With God

When I meditated on the word Guidance,

I kept seeing "dance" at the end of the word.

I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing.

When two people try to lead, nothing feels right.

The movement doesn't flow with the music,

and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky.

When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead,

both bodies begin to flow with the music.

One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back

or by pressing lightly in one direction or another.

It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully.

The dance takes surrender, willingness,

and attentiveness from one person

and gentle guidance and skill from the other.

My eyes drew back to the word Guidance.

When I saw "G": I thought of God, followed by "u" and "i".

"God, "u" and "i" dance."

God, you, and I dance.

As I lowered my head,

I became willing to trust

that I would get guidance about my life.

Once again, I became willing to let God lead.

My prayer for you today is that God's blessings

and mercies be upon you on this day and everyday.

May you abide in God, as God abides in you.

Dance together with God,

trusting God to lead

and to guide you through each season of your life.

Love Hurts

2009-05-12T01:07:00.004+08:00

How come LOVE can cause so much joy and at the same time so much pain?

How come a guy says I LOVE YOU yet doesn't really seem to know what it means?

And how come a girl like me even believes that there is HOPE with someone like him?

STUPID LOVE, STUPID ME!
(Can I just cry Lord? why do I fall on the same trap over and over again?)

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-10T02:46:00.006+08:00

To my momsy:-) Tessie

Only a mother can communicate love without saying a word

For the many unspoken ways that you share your love in our family,

I hope you know that you're loved and appreciated beyond measure.

Have a Beautiful Mother's Day

I love you ma!

And to all other great moms out there, this video is for you! Enjoy your day!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

Lover of my Heart

2009-05-10T01:45:00.003+08:00

"I want to walk with you everyday of my life

to talk with you in the good and the strife

you're my friend you're my father, for all time

Nothing can keep us apart, you're the lover of my heart"

Today is a time of rest and relaxation. I talked to Him, went jogging and biking with Him. Sang praises to His name and read about Him. Oh man, what an awesome God I have!

Exodus 15:2

"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him."

One Day at a Time

2009-05-05T15:31:00.009+08:00

I'm back to work!

Yes, after 2 weeks of vacation in Manila I am now officially back to work again. However, before I came back to Singapore, I told the Lord to prepare my heart, my mind and my body physically, for what is about to come.You see, whenever I would handle big events, the enemy is ALWAYS on the attack, not just to me but to all of those who are with me in the frontline.He strikes in many areas of my life and I tell you, if I am not prepared, I should have surrendered and just totally given up long ago. I know in my heart that the victory is already mine because of Jesus, but I am not a hypocrite to say that things are easy. Most of the time, Christians commit mistakes when we underestimate the power of the enemy.I assure you, he is not the type who makes things easy! Like right now, the challenges that I am going through are those that will make any normal human being anxious and worried. At work things are sooooooo crazy, employees are being terminated each day. It's been an emotional and mental torture for most of us, coming to work thinking "I might be next". But then again, if it happens, then it happens!

For years, I entrusted my entire career to Him and He has shown Himself faithful all throughout. Who am I to even doubt that His plans are not always for the better? In fact, each time I would move to a new job, it gets better and better!:-) God is good!

Psalm 138:7
"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me."

Other than all the stresses at work, I am also getting slowly concerned about my health. I have been having asthma attacks here in SG and somehow I feel like my body is getting weak. This morning when I woke up I discovered a painful lump on the right side of my stomach and my dysmenorrhea was just so severe I coudn't even get up.Praise God though because later this afternoon the lump just suddenly dissappeared. :-) God is good.

As I go through this challenging time, the Lord brought me to the story of Hagar. She is an Egyptian slave and Sarah's bitter rival. (Gen.16; 21:8-21) Most people know her as the "concubine and a surrogate mother," to bear Abraham's heir. But you know what? there is actually so much more to learn from this woman than we thought.She was mistreated for many years which led her to the wilderness twice. The first was the time she discovered her pregnancy and began lording it over her mistress - not a very smart move I would say for a young woman bearing a child. The second was by force rather than by choice.In a crescendo of bitterness, Sarah had expelled her and her son Ishmael from their home.Can you just imagine how desperate her situations were on those two scenarios? Her bondage, her bitterness, her anxiety about the future? This is what really amazes me about Hagar - on those times when she felt like giving up, desperate and no one one to hold on to, SHE LISTENED TO GOD AND DEPENDED ON HIM!!! And whenener the Lord tells her to do something, she would do it without second thoughts. She wouldn't argue but just turned right around and retraced her steps in obedience. God's word penetrated the wilderness of her heart like a fresh spring nourishing a desert oasis. From the time she responded to the voice in the desert, she began to trust that GOD IS ALWAYS NEAR and that GOD SEES HER! whoa, what a comfort!

As the retreat comes, I pray that God will continue to give me an EXPECTANT HEART. I have always believe that retreats are good avenues for lives to change and for spirit renewal. And I am confident that God is going to do something great in the midst of those who will participate to this event.

From this day onwards, inspite of all uncertainties, I will take things ONE DAY AT A TIME for I know that GOD IS IN CONTROL! And in His arms I am safe! :-)

Psalm 4:8
"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety."

Psalm 37:23-24
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way."
"Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand."

Tagaytay Trip with Aspacio Family and Erwin

2009-04-28T23:55:00.021+08:00

It was a Tuesday morning; I still haven't recovered from my wakeboarding escapade and my muscle ache is awfully bad but here I am again on my way to the South!!!! hahaha

Even if I am tired, I know I needed to do this - ESCAPE from the hustle and bustle in the city! I am not used to chaos and such hurly-burly anymore. I needed peace and quiet in which Tagaytay can offer.(it's the nearest place I can think of! hehehe)

TAAL VOLCANO

I went up there with a family very close to my heart - Jeff, Jen and Jed and my "son" Erwin (hahaha Well, he deserved this treat because he has been working so hard for ACTS and the church)

Jeff, Jen, Me and Jed
Erwin and moi!
Aspacio Family

We didn't go any place extravagant. We just really want to spend time together. Our first stop was at Picnic grove.

Sightseeing and having picnics are the most popular activities to do when in Tagaytay. Many go to the Tagaytay Picnic Grove with their family and friends to get together and have a picnic, and enjoy the picturesque and marvelous view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano.

The Tagaytay Picnic Grove is also a popular destination among lovers because of the scenic view of the Taal Volcano and the coastal towns of Batangas and of course the fresh mountain breeze. Aside from sightseeing and picnics, the Tagaytay Picnic Grove also offers very affordable horse back riding activities both for kids and adults. But we didn't go horse-bike riding. Instead we had Erwin and Jeff tried the zipline! Quiet new and interesting!

At Tagaytay Ridge Zipline & Cable Car you will experience an exhilarating ride up to 60km/hr as you soar up to 300 feet off the ground on a scenic zipline courses 250 meters long. Their professionally trained guides ensure safety and comfort, a ride full of thrills, awesome beauty, and fond memories. The rides are almost for everyone! Their staff will assist and provide outfit with a customized seat harness and equipment. If you're looking for an adventure, go and add some zip to your trip by visiting Taal Lake's nature from new heights - TAGAYTAY RIDGE ZIPLINE!
For the longest time, Jen has been wanting to see Sonya's garden. And so, to satisfy her curiosity, off we went to this secret paradise.

nice venue for a wedding ha! hmmm...

Time and again I am in awe and extremely delighted about this place. A flower garden planted in “organized chaos” yet soothingly pleasing to the eye, as if choreographed with artistic perfection. And then there is the simple yet incredibly filling country cuisine with fresh and organically grown ingredients from the garden, served in fine tableware that complements the idyllic setting.

mother and son moment!
si Erwin din nag-mo-moment! hahaha

Thanks to Sonya! I may not personally know her but her private paradise is practically what burned-out city-dwellers are seeking for. May your wonderful haven of romance continues to bloom like flowers of an eternal spring.

It's lunch time! We went to La trobada, one memorable restaurant for our barkada and while eating, we were serenaded by these 3 musicians. Lovely!

asim!

yum, yum!

"panalangin ko sa habang buhay!"

father and son moment!

After lunch our journey continued.......

We went to Nature Discovery Camp hoping to have Jed swim and play at their very nice playground but the rates went up. We thought it was a waste of money since we won't stay there for long so we decided to go to RESIDENCE INN instead.

RESIDENCE INN is famous for its mini-zoo and is overlooking Taal Lake. Located 56 kilometers south of Manila, this idyllic ridge city in the southern part of Cavite is blessed with crisp and cool mountain air all year round.

Jed had fun playing with these colorful balls! weeeehh!!!

They also have a restaurant, Serpentarium, Birds Aviary, Honey Bee Farm, Bonsai Garden, Game Room, Activity Area, Playground, Souvenir Shops and Food Kiosk. During Sundays and Holidays , they have special entertainments such as Magic Show, Pantomime and steel walkers that will will excite every visitor.

a, e, si Erwin po ba yun animal? hahaha

uy, friends tayo!

Finally, we got so tired. We had an early dinner in one famous Bulalohan and then we went home.

the famous bulalo

our all time favorite "tawilis"

This trip to Tagaytay maybe short and sweet but surely an added memoirs of good times!

WakeBoarding

2009-04-28T23:53:00.019+08:00

I am not into sports but I am a big fan of those in the World of Sports! And in spite of not being athletic, I am not the type who would refuse to try new adventures, so when my friend Fiona asked me to go wakeboarding, I said yes! :-)

Wakeboarding is a surface water sport which involves riding a wakeboard over the surface of a body of water behind a boat or Cable System . It was developed through a combination of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques. The rider is towed behind xi boat or a cable park; typically at speeds of 18-24 miles per hour (29-38 km/h), depending on water conditions, rider's weight, board size and most importantly, the rider's personal preference.

LAGO DE ORO, Batangas

Riding
Using edging techniques, the rider can move outside of the wake or cut rapidly in toward the wake. Jumps are performed by hitting the wake and launching into the air. This can also be done by hitting a kicker (a jump). There is also the slider (a rail bar) in which a rider approaches and rides along keeping his balance. Once a rider improves in the sport, he or she can progress to tricks high in the air. As the rope tightens the rider gains speed toward the wake. When the rider goes airborne, the tightened rope launches him and while in the air, at which point the rider may attempt to do tricks.

Fiona and moi!
Go, go, go, Fiona!

preparing to do my first try!

kneeboarding for a beginner like me!

Wakeboarding maneuvers
As with many freestyle sports such as snowboarding and surfing, there is almost a separate language of terms to describe various tricks. The more height, the more "pop". So therefore the rider's edge is very important to the height of the jump. Heading towards the wake chest facing the boat is known as a heelside edge; approaching from the other direction with chest facing away from the boat is known as toeside edge. A typical beginner to intermediate rider will tend to have an easier time hitting the wake heelside because it tends to come more naturally to them, while more advanced riders can hit the wake both heelside as well as toeside.

wakeboarding stunt!

Surface Tricks

Surface tricks are tricks that are performed when the rider is not airborne.

Examples are:

Backside Butterslide- Rider turns the board backside 90 degrees and grinds the wake.

Backside Butterslide 180- Rider turns the board backside 90 degrees and grinds the wake. Rider then grabs the handle with opposite hand and does another 90 degree turn in the same direction.

Backside Start- Rider gets up in a backside position where the backside is facing the boat.

Body Slide- Rider lies back onto the water.

Butterslide- Rider turns the board frontside 90 degrees and grinds the wake.

Butterslide 180- Same as regular butterslide but with an additional 90 degree rotation in the same direction.

Perez- Rider carves outside of the wake and slides into a surface 360.

Potato Peeler- Body Slide with fin release.

Powerslide- Board is turned backside 90 degrees in the flats. Fins are broken loose. If done correctly, it creates a huge spray.

Surf Carve- Rider cuts back and forth in the wake in a surf-carving fashion. Surface 180- A 180 degree turn on the surface of the water.

Surface 360- A 360 degree turn on the surface of the water.

Ollie- A bunny-hop out of the water.

It's alright Ton, try again! :-)

Zar, Tina, Carlo, Fiona and moi

Tina and I had fun!

Thumbs Up!

this is me with the wakeboarding addicts! hehehe

After wakeboarding we stayed for awhile to see the sunset. Gosh! breathtaking to watch as always!

And picture-taking will always be a part of us ofcourse...............

pretty Fiona and Zarah

mother hen with Zar, ang gaganda naman! hehehe

sisterchicks!

mother hen with Fiona

Uy, si Carlo! sino'ng bestfriend mo duon? hahaha

guess who??? nice!

dinner in Tagaytay (Leslie's reataurant)

Now who will ever thought that there's wakeboarding here in Singapore too!

Check this out: http://www.ski360degree.com/ Very nice place!

And gosh, I am so excited to see this!

The Asian Wakeboard Association is please to announce the Asian Wake Park Tour 2009. This inaugural tour will include several stops in Asia with the following schedule:

Bangkok Thailand (Thai Wake Park) - 6 June 2009 *DATE CHANGED*

Singapore (SKI360) - 13 & 14 June 2009Camsur Philippines (CWC) - TBC

For more info click on the link below:

http://www.wakeboard.com.sg/

Man, this was really an experience I will never forget, who knows when I get back to Manila, I can already wakeboard really well and do my stunts! hahaha (how I wish!)

For those of you who wants to see the video of our first try, click on the link below:

http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/view_shared?p=89f69f3f40b99abfecd52a&skin_id=601&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Youth Camp 2009

2009-04-20T12:21:00.009+08:00

I was fortunate enough to join the Youth Camp this year. The theme was CALL OF DUTY, held at Mt. Peniel Tarlac.I was very excited the whole week. Other than the fact that I get to meet old friends, I also got the chance to work with my team ACTS and I was so blessed with their commitment and dedication to the Lord and His ministry. They have grown so much in the last 1 and a half years that I'm away spiritually, physically and emotianally! hehehe, Skill wise they have improved so much that I didn't have to do much of polishing on the dramas they've prepared. They have also made a lot of "original" performances and that for me was way beyond expectation.Truly, God is working in their midst! I am just so proud of them:-)

DRAMA TEAM 2009

one of my favorite scenes (Jesus played by JM protecting man from the evil ones)

wow, very high energy!
Let's go scare them!!!!! hahaha

Fiona and Erwin performing the skit CHOICES

There are so many things I am thankful for, for Youth Camp. As always, I am grateful to all the volunteers who willingly gave their time and efforts to make this whole event possible. From the Registration Team to Praise Team, Game Organizers, Kitchen Team, Counselors, Junior Counselors, Pastors and ofcourse to those who have supported financially - without them, this Camp will not even be a reality.

I praise God as well for those who got saved. Almost 200 souls got to know the Lord as their Savior and I thank God for using me to be a witness to 4 of them. Weeeeeh!!!! Something to celebrate!

It was all worth the trip back home:-) Until next camp!

A date with Mr.Formality

2009-04-20T12:11:00.019+08:00

I can't believe it's been 2 and a half years now since I got to meet this wonderful guy.

Mr Francis Adrian Ding or "Ades" as we commonly call him is a very good friend of mine from Cebu City. I will never forget the first time I met him, it was during an Arts Festival Missions Trip of my team (ACTS) October 2006 in Cebu and since then, we've been great friends. Somehow I can say that we've been through a lot already; from ministry work to events invitation, gimmicks, dates and fun-time. It's not always been a smooth sailing friendship though, we had our own share of arguments and conflicts but in spite of, we remain friends. I thought when I left for Singapore, things will be different but I was wrong. Our friendship goes to prove that distance is never an issue to real and sincere friendship.He would come and visit here in Singapore especially whenever he has business trips and on my end, I'd go and spend time with him whenever I'd visit Cebu.

Ades is a very interesting guy. He is very sweet, thoughtful, intelligent, practical, straight to the point, loving, sensitive and sometimes too formal or the extreme child-like, hehehe :-) I do admire him in so many ways. He has been a great blessing and an inspiration to me. And I would say that that admiration grew deeper(not on a romantic level okay?) after our conversation last friday when we went out for a late dinner. That night as he poured out his heart, I realized so many things about myself. His passion and love for the Lord is contagious and very transparent. I wish I had the same level of relationship with the Lord as He does but what I saw in Him inspired me to grow closer to Him. That for me made my night!

Last November during his birthday I e-mailed him 10 THINGS I APPRECIATE ABOUT HIM. Below is what I wrote:

*Your gift of affirmation. You are quick in encouraging people and you always have something good to say about anyone. *Your intelligence and ability to express yourself. Man, you are really gifted in the way you communicate and this is really one thing I admire about you.

*Your slowness to anger and the way you handle difficult situations. You're always calm and cool! (Maybe you really want to follow Him when he said in Ephesians 4:26"In your anger do not sin")

*Your good example and being a wonderful "kuya" and a friend to the youth. You guide and inspire young minds in ways you don't even realize!

*Your gift of teaching. You are one anointed preacher Ades, and I am so proud that you are one! I have heard a lot of men preach, yet not all of them are able to get through the hearts of people.

*Your humility. In spite of all accomplishments, you remain humble.

*Your leadership. You sure know how to take good care of your flock. And you train them as you see fit. As they say, "a good leader would always have followers!" I can see them lining up now! :-)

*Your discipline. You know how to value your time and in spite of your very busy schedule, you make sure you find time for the ONE creator of all.

*Your very "mababaw" sense of humor and your "corny" jokes. I mean, you have this "innocent" kind of character and you just simply laugh at simple things.Sometimes, I just can't believe you. Hehehe

*Your ways of making me feel special. I will never forget the time when you had to ask Tonie to treat me to Starbucks as your "peace offering" because I was so upset with you; the time you called me up in the middle of the night and you just sang over the phone for almost an hour to make me smile; and the time you called because you were very upset with "some girls" and you needed an ear to listen and you said "Can I just have 10 minutes of your time?" hahahaha, you really can get so demanding at times but it's okay! (as long as you don't make it a habit, I'm fine with that! You call me in so many different ways – Ann, Ana, Anagee, Buddy, Dudette, Direk, mama hen, mother Hen, partner etc. Did I miss anything?

Ades is a youth pastor friend of mine that most of time is misunderstood. Well for sure he has his own share of shortcomings too. Who hasn't? But the time he spent with us here in SG, I saw that above anything else, HE SINCERELY WANTS TO PLEASE GOD! And I guess that's all that matters right? everything will come from there, that is IF WE SEEK HIM FIRST!

Lastly, I would say that Ades is truly a man of God. Indeed there are some trimmings needed to be done in some areas but that fact will still remain, HE IS A MAN OF GOD! And I am just so proud I got to know him.

God bless you buddy! May you continue to be an inspiration to many! :-)

Kiko

2009-04-13T02:40:00.006+08:00

Today I played badminton with this little boy Kiko.I didn't really expect that I will have a great time with him. I thought I will just be picking up the shuttle cock all through out but I was wrong. This 7 year old boy actually knows how to play! He said he learned it in school. Kiko is the only son of our only "pinoy" neighbor" (Tita Margie and Tito Francis) here in Singapore. I love this family. They have been very nice to us eversince we moved in Pasir Ris. They invite us whenever there's an occasion in their family and Kiko loves to come and visit our house as well. When I have free time, I teach him and we do art work together or sometimes we just play and chat. What's really interesting is that this boy can actually converse with adults well. He is very sweet, friendly and loving. He is actually celebrating his birthday this Thursday and so............

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIKO!!!! Muah!

I look forward to our next badminton game! :-)

UOB Heartbeat Walk/Run 2009

2009-03-30T23:40:00.010+08:00

I love volunteer work!

Other than the fact that the Lord gave me a heart of service, it always give me joy to be with people. The company where I work gives us opportunities to engaged ourselves in community service and with that I am grateful.

with Lih Pin and my colleagues

It has become an annual event for UOB to have this Heartbeat Run/Walk.As we continue to grow in the Asia-Pacific region, we play an even bigger role in Corporate Social Responsibility. Besides giving back to the community through financial donations, UOB firmly believes that its staff should also be actively engaged in the community through volunteer activities. Initiated by Mr Wee Ee Cheong (Deputy Chairman and CEO of UOB Group), UOB Heartbeat – UOB’s staff volunteerism programme – kicked off with the Heartbeat Run/Walk in March 2007 to raise funds for UOB’s beneficiaries: Children’s Aid Society (CAS) and Very Special Arts, Singapore (VSA). Buoyed by the success of the first Heartbeat Run/Walk, a second one was held in April 2008 to raise funds for CAS and VSA, who have been chosen as beneficiaries for another year and runs still the same for 2009.

Mr Wee Ee Cheong (Deputy Chairman and CEO of UOB Group), giving check for UOB beneficiary

In running the UOB Heartbeat staff volunteerism activities, the bank hopes to achieve the following:
*Fulfill corporate social responsibility
*Leverage on staff volunteerism to extend UOB's company values: In pursuing business goals, there is a need to look after the people we work with and help the communities we operate in. This is achieved by giving back to the communities “with no strings attached.”

UOB Heartbeat Run Participants

The objective of the UOB Heartbeat staff volunteerism programme is to ensure that volunteerism becomes a part of the organisation’s “DNA”, which all employees internalise and live by.

bottled water everywhere

I personally wanted to participate in the Walk but since there was a need for more volunteers, I opted to just choose the latter as I would normally do. It was great working with people of different races and of other UOB departments. my team of volunteers as we were being designated to our location

my trainers in UOB ( Joey on my right and Kim on my left)

Until our next UOB HEARTBEAT Activity!

Ladies Night Out!

2009-03-30T23:39:00.005+08:00

In times of very stressful work load, the best place to go is KTV!!!!!!! hehehee

Fun time with officemates at KBox as we all need a break. We love going to this place because food is overflowing!!!!!! yum, yum!

Lei and me
UOB Friends!

picture to the max!

And the night will not be complete without a sip of starbucks coffee........ :-)

sexy ladies!

Sunrise Wedding

2009-03-15T21:26:00.011+08:00

It was a very early Sunday morning, Pam and Angelo finally tied the knot! Wohoo!!!!

the couple (Angelo and Pam)

I find their wedding really unique. A picnic at Botanical garden followed by a prayer walk. It was my first time to attend a "sunrise wedding" and I really am blessed with the simplicity of the whole event. I soooooo...... love the idea of having a prayer walk. Pam gave us a list of what to pray for, mostly regarding the two of them of course. How blessed can it be when you get the privilege to be prayed over by your family members and your closest friends:-) Whoa!

FRIENDS

Part of the simplicity of this wedding is the food. I find it so amusing that we had porridge (as in "goto", yum, yum), bread, coffee, milk and tea this very day.... It's sooooo cute!!!

Jade, yummy yan a! weeeeee!!!

we sat on the mat as we eat, picnic style ang reception! bongga!

We also had a moment of sharing from those who were married and then the bride went to change her clothes to a bridal gown. Pam was so cute, she didn't even bother to ask help when she changed outfit! very independent huh!

tita Monica (above) and Kuya Matt (below) sharing words of wisdom to the couple

And off we go to Botanical Garden's Gazebo for the solemnation...........

Pam on her way to the Gazebo

the groom
here comes the bride, all dressed in white!!!
Super Pretty Pammy!

mother and daughter!

nice gown Pam!

To Pam and Angelo, This is only the beginning, so much lies ahead. But please do remember that Jesus said, A life that is divided will never stand at all. But a life that's built in Jesus' love is never gonna fall!
May you grow together in Him deeper each day. I love you both! CONGRATULATIONS! Muah!

you may now kiss the bride! yehey!!!

closest friends and Pam's family

this is moi!!!! (cute di ba? hehehe)

Jade at 27

2009-03-08T23:18:00.009+08:00

It was Jade's birthday last Tuesday! And being part of "bahay ni ate", she was in for a surprise!!! Most of us didn't greet her until last minute. We bought a nice chocolate cake and filled our room with lighted candles and colorful balloons. We did this because our dear little sister would always rant on having a birthday party with lots of balloons and so, dream come true Jade! hahaha

make a wish and blow the candle!

housemates!

This afternoon, we had BBQ party and celebrated Jade's birthday at Pasir Ris Park. I cooked pansit(noodle) for long life as they say, hehehehe and marinated lots and lots of chicken and pork. We also had fish, hotdog, corn and squid. For appetizer we had some nachos and cheese. yum, yum!

I so love grilled food! yummy!

cat, watch your diet! hahaha

the birthday girl and moi!
the ice-cream cake I didn't even know existed! (it just dissapearred you know! hahaha)

lovely!
dalaga ka na, hindi na bata! yezzzz!!!!
ang makukulit na barkada!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JADE!!!!

May you continue the discipline that you have been showing us and may your heart be always a heart of obedience to Him. You inspire us in many ways than you know! We love you! Muah!

"Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

Friday Night Out

2009-03-08T23:17:00.005+08:00

TGIF! Thank God it's Friday!

I went out with my friends to watch a movie but unfortunately, the moviehouse was fullybooked.(as always! Grrrrrr!!!!!!!) We decided to just go on foodtrip and chat.I sooooooooo... miss going out with friends. We seldom get to do this due to our very crazy schedule.

Ofcourse the night will not be complete without having a sip of our favorite STARBUCKS! :-) our favorite coffee ever!

Kuya Warfil

2009-03-01T23:18:00.005+08:00

Dinner at Vivo City (me, ice and kuya Warfil)

My mentor, friend, pastor, prayer partner, intercessor. What an honor to be visited by him here in Singapore. I reallyhad a nice time talking with him. I also got to meet his daughter Sarah! What a blessing!

at the airport, as he was about to leave SG

Sunday School

2009-02-22T15:21:00.006+08:00

Today I taught in Sunday School! I handled the young ones from 3 - 6 yrs old. Vecky, one of the Sunday Schoolers innocently asked me on our way to our room, "Teacher, are you wearing lipstick? co'z I don't see one!" hahaha I was caught offguard by a 4 yr old little fashionista that we have. Well, she was right, I didn't get to put on my make-up not even a lipstick because I was so busy preparing for my whole teaching agenda.Guess I need to be prepared in "all aspects" next time. Thanks to Vecky!

Our praise and worship time was a blast. I was having a hard time getting the attention of everyone but when the music started, the kids were magnetized. hahaha It's amazing how music can really attract attention, kids and adults just the same.
During our bible story, we talked about the lame man at the pool that Jesus healed. I find it so funny and cute listening to kids answers as to what happens to them when they are sick, one girl kept on saying, "i'm not sick teacher", She just couldn't grasp why we kept on talking about "being sick" when she is not sick at all. hahaha :-)

As always, I enjoyed teaching and working with the kids. They are so adorable!!!! (obvious ba, napapasayaw pa ako! wohoo! )

ANNA VS. ANA

2009-02-21T22:24:00.004+08:00

I find this so cute and interesting! I was going through the book, WOMEN OF THE BIBLE and I saw the name ANNA as part of the list. And since it's very near to my name, I started reading the book by going through her story. And to make this a little more interesting for myself, I decided to somehow make a comparison of her life to mine. Read on.......

ANNA - Her name means Grace

Her Character: Married for only 7 years, she spent the long years of her widowhood fasting and praying in the temple, abandoning herself entirely to God. A Prophetess, she was one of the first to bear witness to Jesus.

Her Sorrow: As a widow, she would probably have been among the most vulnerable members of society, with no one to provide for her financially or to take care of her if her health failed.

Her Joy: That her own eyes beheld the Messiah she had longed to see.

Her Story: For most of her eighty-four years, she had been a widow who spent her days praying and fasting in the temple. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four.She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

Anna, a widow and prophetess from the tribe of Asher, had just experienced the very presence of God. Her eyes had seen the the promised child; whose briliance would scatter the darkness and bring deliverance for all God's people.

She was a woman with great spiritual appetite, who abandoned her life to God and was rewarded by meeting Jesus and his parents just forty days after his birth, during the presentation in the temple.

Her Promise: That she will not let anything bind her devotion to God! No rules or restrictions. No past mistakes or sins. No life situations that she can't overcome. She will not let anything get in the way of worshipping her God and recognizing her Saviour.

Her Legacy: A woman of Prayer who fasted DAILY for the coming of God's Kingdom. God was her family, the temple her home, and prayer her occupation.

Wow! ANNA is such an inspiration! Here's mine:

ANA - Her name means Grace or Graceful

Her Character: She is courteous and well-mannered; she is popular for her cheerful personality; she is in tune with nature; she cares for others and shows it; is willing to aid others in their trials; she is very good-looking;knows how to bring out the best in everyone;she grows in all she does; a teacher, a trainer, with gifts mainly of prophecy, administration and teaching.

Her Sorrow: She has no kids yet until today! hahaha She finds it sorrowful not to apply her gifts to her own kids as she still does not have one at the moment.

Her Joy: That inspite of being single since birth, the Lord made her purpose in this world very clear. And that is to serve him through perfroming arts and to teach and train God's people; to inspire them and bring out the best in them.

Her Story: She got saved when she was 11 years old and God's hand was upon her since then. She served as one of the jeepney captains at Sumulong Baptist Church and was doing bible study for kids in squatters area every Saturday. At 3rd year high school, she started teaching in Sunday School, joined the drama team and was appointed one of the leaders for SUMAYA Youth ministry; eventually she joined Voices of Glory Quartet and the Praise Team of SBC. Several years later she bacame the Sunday School director and handled a couple of DVBS(Daily Vacation Bible School) and also became one of the board of directors for Breaking Point International. Then she also got affiliated with 2 external ministries for drama; YESHUA and STAIRS. In 2003, the Lord gave her the vision of starting her own Drama Ministry and that's when ACTS(Artists called to Serve) was born. Her vision and aspirations as an artist of God is still very evident even while she is in Singapore preparing for a higher calling.

Ana, as a teacher and servant of God continues to experience God's presence in her life. She is a woman of passion and she longs for the day when she will have her own business that will glorify God and continues to spread the gospel through performing arts. (coming very soon! and my story has not yet ended; Praise God!)

Her Promise: That she will not let anything bind her devotion to God! No rules or restrictions. No past mistakes or sins. No life situations that she can't overcome. She will not let anything get in the way of worshipping her God and recognizing her Saviour and that she will serve Him until He comes!

Her Legacy: (well, this is somehow what I want to be remembered when I'm gone!:-) A woman of passion who would continue to spread the word through performing arts. A woman who will never stop learning; finding creative ways to share to other people how much Jesus loves them.

She will be like tree who would bear much fruit, and those fruit will continue her legacy.............. Amen!

WORSHIP MUST BE AUDIBLE

2009-02-20T01:50:00.002+08:00

Calling all non-singers!!!!!!!!

A common misperception about singing is that one must have a good voice to worship. Even some artists who are not vocalists share this misconception.Since they don't sing well as the "worship team," they don't fully engage in corporate worship.

I can't help but noticed that during a retreat or even on cell group meetings, a handful of people would be hanging out in the back and when you invite then to join and come nearer for worship, they would reply good-naturedly. "I'm sorry but singing is my thing or I might just ruin the worship for everyone else!". I can certainly relate to this reticence. Though I am an artist and I can follow a tune, there have been several occasions when I feel like singing is not for me. I can get so frustrated when I do my private worship and I am unable to sing the song that I like beautifully:-( And so I was relieved when I learned that God doesn't care what I sound like.He looks at my heart, not the quality of my voice.

Fortunately, worship is not confined to those who have beautifully trained voices. Scripture invites all of us to sing, shout, or make a joyful noise unto the Lord (Psalm 35:27; 66:1;81:1;95:1-2;98:4;100:1) I can't sing that well, but I can certainly shout or make a "joyful noise". While those upfront leading worship are expected to have good voices, the rest of us are off the hook. So DON'T HOLD BACK YOUR WORSHIP; BE VOCAL, LET IT RIP! :-)

If you love the Lord and you are grateful for all He's done for you, sing His praises at the top of your lungs. That's the spirit behind Psalm 13:5-6 : "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me." Psalm 89:1 adds: "I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known though all generations."

Remember, it's not enough to feel affection for God. As Psalm 66:8 points out, worship must be made audible: "Praise our God, O people, let the sound of his praise be heard."

OVERLOAD

2009-02-17T22:52:00.005+08:00

Waaaaahhh, I never felt so loaded and pressured until today! How come I suddenly have lots of assignments and almost everyone reminded me of my deadline today ha? Grrrrrrr..... I really am having a hard time catching up. First, I need to submit the sponsorship letter for Theodore's concert launch, then I need to send the reservation letter for GCF for the concert venue to Weng, then I need to prepare for our d-group as I lead the worship this friday, then I'm teaching Sunday School this weekend so I need to study my lesson and prepare my songs and materials for my art activity, then I was asked to submit suggestions already for the Single's retreat this May, then I received an e-mail from my staff in ACTS asking me for the line-up for youth camp this April, and finally, my officemate approached me this afternoon asking me if we could meet up and draft the program for her wedding already. Waaaaaahh!!!! bakit biglang sabay-sabay???? Isa-isa lang please, mahina kalaban! :-(

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMU!

2009-02-16T17:06:00.006+08:00

It's my mom's 59th birthday today! Eventhough we are not together at the moment, I know she is happy and blessed. I thank God for her and I admire her in so many ways. I honestly don't remember a time when the two of us fought or argued on something.Tampuhan yes, it happened 3 times on one same reason and that is NO FOOD WHEN I GET HOME from work.hehehe It's normally not her fault but the funny thing there is whenever she finds out that I was upset, she will immediately cook for me.hahaha, I told her that next year, on her 60th birthday, I will make sure that she will have one memorable celebration! Bongga! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA! luv yah! muah!

A NEW LOOK THIS VALENTINE!

2009-02-14T23:46:00.012+08:00

It's Valentines Day! And I honestly forgot about it until someone greeted me, hahaha :-)
(someone I didn't really expect to remember me kasi ang layo ko! But the Lord is really full of surprises, I was happy he remembered:-) pero hanggang duon na lang 'yun.Bow!

For the longest time I have been wanting to perm my hair and now that I got the chance, I did it! I pampered myself by going to the parlor and I had my nails polished and my hair permed.

I also bought 3 new blouses and another dress for office.What an excuse to spend! weeeeehh!!!!

Anyway, I had work today so I didn't get to join the Single's activity at botanical garden but I catched up with the single ladies for dinner eventhough I was so tired already.

Well, new look for 2009! It's time to try new things!

Land, Water and Air Transpo

2009-02-05T02:16:00.008+08:00

I can't believe I rode all of these last weekend! Take a look!

going to KL and coming back to SG
train in Malaysia
bus going to Alor Star

cute miniature cars during the wedding
from Langkawi to KL
ferry from Alor Star to Langkawi

speed boat during island hopping
cable car in Langkawi

Wow! Aliw di ba?

Day 4 - Trip to Malaysia

2009-02-05T02:14:00.012+08:00

My last day in Malaysia is one the most exciting and most adventurous day of my life. Last night, Jade and I were really dissappointed that there were not much things to do in Langkawi and moreso, the water was not really inviting. But before we slept, we planned our day. We told ourselves we will never go home without accomplishing anything and after looking at the activities available at the resort, we decided to go on island hopping. I used to go island hopping in the Philippines so I thought this experience will just be the same. I was wrong!!!!

First thing, we rode a speed boat and it was just so fast that Jade and I kept on screaming! (I was infront you know, sino ba naman ang hindi mapapasigaw nun! hehehe)

Inspite of, I managed to take photos and videos. Aliw!

this is me, before we left our hotel

Our first stop was the GEOFOREST PARK. There were lots of monkeys. But they were not so nice ha! They bite and would run after people especially if you are carrying a plastic. hahaha

cute ng monkeys no?

there's a lake where people can swim and do water activities

jade and moi

pa-cute lang! hahaha

Second stop was the area for eagle feeding. There were not much eagle though when we visited.

Third and last stop was the beach area for sun-bathing and swimming. I enjoyed the water but I was devastated when I saw someone doing para-sailing. I have been wanting to do that since August of last year and I inquired from our hotel if they do offer that and they said they didn't. Waaaahh, when will I ever have my turn??? :-(

In the afternoon, we went to Langkawi Cable Car. This is really one great experience I will never forget. I am not sure how we made it to the top, but I tell you, it was awesome up there!

ain't no mountain high enough! hahaha grabe!!!!!

I can't believe I rode that cable car going up! whoa!

652.5 meters above sea level

710 meters above sea level

Our adventure didn't end here. My gosh, the most stressful part was going back to Singapore because our connecting flight from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore was just an hour apart. Air Asia was delayed for a few minutes but the worst thing that happened was that, our luggage were delayed! I had Jade run to Tiger Airways counter to inform them that we have arrived but might checked in late due to our luggage. We ran and ran and ran but by God's grace, we made it on time!

We were very tired when we got home and man, the next day our whole body was aching! waaaahhh!!!!

PS> I have made a video of our cable car experience. Watch this at http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/view_shared?p=803fdbacf1cadcee6b485a&skin_id=601&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Day 3 - Trip to Malaysia - LANGKAWI Island

2009-02-04T02:51:00.017+08:00

I had mixed emotions on my third day in Malaysia. I was sad because it was my last day in Alor Star and it's time for me to say goodbye to my friend Esther. She will also fly back to Finland on the 8th and I'm not sure if we will ever see each other again after this.(sigh)

Anyway, on our last day, I ate lunch with her and Jermo's family in a Hongkong resto. Evelyn was kind enough to be with us as well.

huge bottle of iced tea no? and it's super sarap!

the newly wed wearing the couple shirt given by Ken!:-)

Evelyn drove us to Jetty, thanks for everything dear! :-)

our last hurrah! hehehe

Inspite of sadness, Jade and I left Alor Star with excitement as we travel to Langkawi Island.This is a side trip and stress reliever for both of us.We love exploring and going to the beach. Wohoo!!!

We arrived an hour and a half later at Langkawi's Jetty and headed straight to AWANA BEACH RESORT. The place was really nice! I enjoyed the set up and basically the whole ambiance. Grabeeeee!!!! eventhough I was very tired already, I still had the energy to join Jade to the beach.

AWANA BEACH RESORT

the view infront of the resort
sunset
We went to Cenang beach and we were very disappointed that the water is not clear! booo!!!

After the beach, we went to visit the nearby shops to get some souvenirs!

nice hotel no! mukhang OLOPPS nga lang! hahaha

At dinner we took more pictures of the resort. It was really a very nice place and the food was great too!!!

si Jade, dalaga na! hahaha

my tago moment in Langkawi! hehehe
this is where we had dinner!

feeling photographer lang! hahaha

dinner is served! yum, yum!

I will never forget what Jade did this night. I badly needed a password to get connected to the Internet and in this resort, they will only allow you to get connected if you order a drink. And so, I did order but I didn't check carefully. When my order arrived, I took a sip and I knew from the taste that there's alcohol in it. A little later I found out that I actually ordered a cocktail drink with Vodka! hahaha :-) I'm so sorry, I didn't know! And since I don't really drink any liquid that has alcohol content, Jade took it (Sayang daw kasi 'yun money!hehehe) Guess what happened a few minutes later? Her face went so red and I couldn't speak with her sensibly anymore. NALASING ANG LOLA ko! hahaha wawa!

Day 2 - Trip to Malaysia - The Wedding Ceremony

2009-02-04T02:50:00.013+08:00

It's Day 2 of my Malaysia Trip, the D Day! The very main reason why I actually went to Alor Star is because of my dear friend's wedding. Esther and Jermo's love story is truly an inspiration to me.Can you imagine how this "Finnish Guy" fell in love with this "Chinese Girl?" Allow me to share it with you.

Esther was selling photocopying machine to one company in Malaysia when she saw this guy Jermo. At that time, Jermo was sent by F-Secure Finland to Malaysia for a short work assigment. As common practice in the business world, Esther gave out her business card to people in that said company including Jermo and had a quick chat with him. At one point of their very casual conversation, Esther asked until when he will be in Malaysia and Jermo said 1 more day and he'll go back to Finland. Esther followed up with, "have you been around?" and Jermo said no.Esther then asked if he wants her to tour him around the next day as she finds it too bad for him not to even go around Malaysia before he leaves. Jermo said yes, and that's where it all began..............

My gosh, time and again, their love story assures me that if married life is for me, my prince charming will come and NO ONE can ever stop him. hahahaha

the bridal car! (yes, indeed! hahaha)

the groom and his family starting to do the task as part of tradition

It was my first time to witness a Chinese Wedding and I tell you, I enjoyed the whole ceremony. There was a chasing game for the groom. Jermo together with his bestman and family members were asked to do some "tasks" before the groom can even have the bride. It was followed by all sorts of other rituals like giving of "ang pau", respect to elders, praying with incense, eating, exchange of vows and rings, picture-taking etc.It was such an interesting and lovely experience.

one game the bride made for his groom

how sweet!!!!

throughout the ceremony, respect to elders was very evident
the groom's family with the couple

the bride's family

It's me while my friend teases me with her bouquet! hahaha funny!
my favorite shot!

Congratulations to my dear friend Esther and Jermo! May you have a wonderful marriage life ahead of you!

THE WEDDING BANQUET

Held at STAR CITY HOTEL, Jade and I were very excited! But as much as I want to relax and enjoy the food and the whole celebration, I couldn't help but feel so uneasy because I was asked to sing. My CD didn't really work well with their sound system but by God's grace, I managed to get through my number. It was my first time to sing in a large crowd after how many months, whoa what a night!

Jade and I ready to go to the banquet!

my gosh, my friend is very pretty!!!!!

esther's niece, so cute!!!!
ako naman pa-cute! hahaha

evelyn and moi!
I can't believe how addict my friend is for pictures. Imagine, after the very tiring and long event she went to my room and asked for more pictures together. Grabeeeee!!!!! :-)

kuleeeetttt di ba? hehehe
ang sexy! di ko kinaya si esther! hehehe

I WILL TRULY MISS YOU MAH!!!! THANK YOU FOR ALL THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES!

LUV YAH! :-)

Day 1 Trip to Malaysia - Esther's Dinner

2009-02-04T02:48:00.019+08:00

It was a very exciting day for me. I travelled to Malaysia to attend the wedding of my chinese friend Esther. Actually, it was more of an adventure for me and Jade because we didn't exactly know where to go. Thanks to Ken who lend me his Malaysian sim card so I can call when I needed help and to woon chun's map. hehehe thanks men!

We left Singapore at 6:10am and was in Kuala Lumpur by 7:10am. We took a bus going to KL Central to visit Petronas Tower. My friend Jade was very insistent in going there and so I accompanied her.We took some pictures but didn't go up anymore because there were a lot of people lined up and we really needed to be in Alor Star by 7pm the latest.

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS

a view from the train station

the city: Kuala Lumpur at noon time
jade and I at the bus on our way to Alor Star

We took a bus going to Esther's place.It took us 7 hours to get there! My gosh! We were so tired, sleepy, and messed up when we get to Esther's dinner but nevertheless, we managed to still take a quick shower and made ourselves presentable. It was so nice to see her again after 4 long months and I finally got to meet his husband! She grew thinner but nevertheless still very pretty and sexy! my oh my!

above: Jade, me, Esther and our new found friend Evelyn
below: Jermo (esther's husband) and his family

After dinner, our new found friend "Evelyn" toured us around Alor Star. First she brought us to a Telecom Tower.Located in the heart of Alor Setar, this tower is a prominent and modern landmark that signifies the rapid development in the state of Kedah. It functions as both a telecommunications tower and a tourist attraction. From the top, one can enjoy the sensational view of Alor Setar.Too bad we got there past 10pm so we didn't get to go up. Sayang! huhuhu
Then we went to ISTANA ANAK BUKIT. Istana actually mean "palace" and Anak Bukit is the name of the area. Istana Anak Bukit is the royal seat of Kedahan Sultan. It is the largest palace in northern Malaysia. Located at a royal town of Anak Bukit, this palace complex consists of Residential palace, Balairung Seri, Balai Pertabalan and a football field (Sultan Abdul Halim, the current Kedahan Sultan is the no. 1 fan of Kedah Footbal Association or Kedah FC).This palace only opened to public when Hari Raya (muslim celebration after fasting in Ramadhan). After this Evelyn brought us to the 2nd to the largest mosque in Malaysia - Zahir Mosque. Officially opened in 1912, this state Mosque is an architectural landmark as it is one of the largest and grandest mosques in Malaysia. Built in the tradition of the Moorish architecture, it has numerous arches and columns that are an epitome of grandeur. The state of Kedah's annual Koran reading competition is held in the premises of the Mosque. Then we went to one of the oldest mosque in Malaysia and pass by the very small airport of the town.

MENARA ALOR STAR (telecom Tower)

ISTANA ANAK BUKIT

Zahir Mosque - the 2nd largest mosque in Malaysia

one of the oldest mosque in Malaysia
an old clock, nice no?

The Kedah State Art Gallery was set up with the objective of fostering interest in and an appreciation of art in the state. Its collection includes paintings, photographs, musical instruments and handicrafts. Temporary exhibitions are held at regular intervals.
This building was the earliest modern government office that was built in the town of Alor Setar. Its construction was spearheaded by Muhammad bin Lebai Tambi, an architect from the Kedah State Public Works Department. The construction of the building began on 21 January 1893, and he was also responsible for the restoration of the Balai Besar building.
This modern building with eastern and western architectural elements was initially the High Court and was officially opened by Sultan Abdul Hamid Shah. This building was closed to make way for the special entertainment hall for very important people during the wedding ceremony of His Royal Highness's five princes and princesses which lasted for three months (June until September 1904).
In 1912, a number of offices were located here such as the office of the His Royal Highness's Sultan, the treasury and audit office and the British Adviser. In 1914, most of these offices were relocated to the Wan Muhammad Saman building. The building was later occupied by the Public Works Department and the Department of Drainage and Irrigation. In conjunction with the celebration of the Silver Jubilee of the reign of HRH Tuanku Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah, this building was converted to the Balai Seni Negeri (State Art Gallery) which was officiated by His Royal Highness on 25 July 1983.

Balai Seni Negeri (State Art Gallery)

There were not much to do so at midnight we went to Star City Hotel where we checked in co'z that's where the wedding banquet will be as well.Esther dropped by to our room before she went to sleep. I showed her the video I made for her and I tell you she was laughing and crying at the same time! Crazy! hahaha, She also enjoyed and was very thankful for the couple's shirt given by Ken and the "ang pau's" from us and woon chun.

Esther while watching the video
the mah and me! :-)
the mah enjoying our gifts to her
Me, Jade, Esther and Jermo

A treat from Beng

2009-01-29T04:36:00.007+08:00

It was a very busy week for me last weekend due to Beng’s Birthday! I got sick and was absent for a day due to fever and flu. Waaaahh!!!!!!

But I enjoyed the treat. After going to church, we had lunch at Crystal Jade with CK and his family. The food was overflowing and everything was extremely delicious! Wohoo!

This is me with the birthday girl

Me with the birthday girl and Jade

Make a wish and blow the candle!!!!

Don't get deceived! This is actually used for "hand-washing" after meal!

In the afternoon, we checked-in at Holiday Inn and she had some of her friends go there. I was very tired because I had to cook (as always!) But it’s okay! It was all worth it!

Wow, imagine nag-kasya kaming lahat sa room! hahaha

The unforgettable game of Lindsay. My gosh, sumakit ang tiyan ko, at in-asthma ako!

BENG - A Birthday Greeting Just For You!

2009-01-25T03:29:00.008+08:00

It was year 2002 when I first met her. And I will never forget how the Lord brought us together. We were both enrolled in a theatre school and one night, I totally forgot that we will be having pictorial for our concert. I didn’t have any extra outfit and she brought quite a few. She never knew me, I never knew her and since I needed the outfit badly, I borrowed one from her. She was very slim then and her clothes were small but I didn’t care, I still wore the blouse even if it didn’t really look good on me. I saw the look in her eyes as I was wearing her blouse as if she was giving me a warning that I might rip her beautiful blouse. And that’s when it all started……..

Unforgettable memories started to add up.

Other than going through a lot of pains and joys in that theatre school that we attended to, we started going out together.

One of which I will never forget was our trip to Ifugao Banaue last April 2003. I was asked to do a workshop there and I needed some assistance. She and and Adon joined to help me.

Adon, Beng, Jennie, Jeff and Me at Banaue "03

Then around 2004, we both worked in an Outbound Call Centre in Makati. It was really funny because we didn’t last in that company for long. It was the most terrible call centre experience ever for both of us!

you were there on my 30th birthday too!

at Gateway

Later on we both worked on 2 different call centres and I really admired her for being so hard-working. While having a full time job in customer service industry, she still worked part-time selling different stuff and getting into different income generating businesses. I remember one time we were helping each other sell shoes, apparel and accessories and we were able to earn quite an amount of money.

Other than being workaholics, we also love to eat out. We normally go to Antipolo or Gateway to eat and watch movies, and of course our favourite hang-out place as always, Starbucks!

my first week in Singapore, we were at the SMRT on our way to Pasir Ris to view a possible flat that we can rent which eventually turned out to be our home for more than a year now.

biking and bonding moments at Pasir Ris Park
our first Christmas in Singapore
we just love to eat!!!!
Valentine 2008
our very first babana boating experience at Bintan Indonesia
hataw sa sayawan si Beng!!!! go, go go!
kahit sa kantahan.....

ang ayoko lang minsan e' agaw eksena! hahaha moment ko 'to e, ako ang birthday girl ng time na'to! hehehehe

So many years have passed but still we are together. Here in Singapore, we stay in the same house and we are still creating more and more wonderful memories.

To you my dear friend, I offer a BIG HUG and an endless THANK YOU

for being such a wonderful friend and a sister in Christ
for the many times you laugh at my jokes
for encouraging and praying for me when the going gets tough
for giving me warnings and reminders when I get too stubborn at times
for teaching me how to save, hahaha
for lending me your clothes, shoes and accessories when the need arises
for teaching me how to be more beautiful inside and out
for loving me inspite of my shortcomings
for biking, cooking, reading and going out to gimmicks with me
for helping me start a life in Singapore when I first came here

and for many other reasons I cannot even remember anymore.

I pray that you will continue to bless lives and inspire people in your own way. May you become more and more dependent to the ONE CREATOR who loves you without condition

Whatever happens, please remember that you have a friend and a sister in me who will pray for you and love you just the same.

I love you Benggay! And a very happy 30th birthday to you!

“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24

WORSHIP ADD

2009-01-21T04:11:00.004+08:00

I took up my Master’s in Special Education in UP years ago but no one told me that other than ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) there is such a thing as WADD or Worship Attention Deficit Disorder! Hehehe The malady attacks normally when you are at church having Corporate Worship. I hate to admit it but I guess I have been suffering from this disorder for a very long time. You know, I love having to sing songs and worship the Lord every Sunday, but to tell you honestly, I am not sure how much percentage am I able to offer in concentrating and in focusing on “real worship” on the entirety of the worship service. The symptoms are evident; it include lack of focus, a faraway look in the eyes and the impression that I’m not all “there”; it’s like my brain is having an out-of- body experience. At the beginning I would be fully alert and very engaged then after awhile, my mind would start to wander and I become completely distracted. I’ll suddenly start thinking about so many other stuff like what to eat for lunch, what follow-ups I need to do at work, how will I spend my weekend, what menu will I prepare for the next day and so on and so forth……. My mouth might be moving but I am not thinking at all about what I am I singing. What a shame! L “My words fly up, my thoughts remain below; words without thoughts never to heaven go.” (King Claudius in Hamlet)

Apparently, I’m not the only one suffering from Worship ADD. But it’s definitely not an excuse for me to stay lax and not do something about it. As I was reading the book of my favourite author Rory Noland “The Worshiping Artist”, he said that as we worship, we should be more attentive to the names and attributes of God. And so I tried it! While singing along with the congregation, I search the lyrics for any characteristics, descriptions, or names of God and I emphasize those portions and sing them with greater energy. And guess what? It worked! For 2 months now, since I got to a read that remedy for Worship ADD, I have been fully aware and focused on God’s description in every song that I sing during worship. Like for example, last Sunday we sang the old hymn entitled “MAJESTY” and for that alone, I started thanking and worshiping God on how MAJECTIC He has been in my life. Other songs referred Him as ALL-POWERFUL, SOVEREIGN, GLORIOUS, KING OF KINGS, FORGIVER, MARVELOUS, MASTER, REDEEMER, SAVIOUR, LORD OF ALL, HEALER, RULER OF ALL, MOST HIGH GOD, NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES, PRINCE OF PEACE, OUR REFUGE, RESTORER, PROVIDER and I can go on and on and on……… And once I started thinking about His character or description, my mind will automatically remind me of how that particular character of God blessed and touched my life. It is very effective and a truly wonderful time of worship!

I encourage you to try it yourself the next time you go to church and sing for Him with all your heart and all your soul and all your mind. I wouldn’t want to break God’s heart anymore by mindlessly going through the motions during worship. Worshipping without conviction is what prompted Jesus to lament, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Matthew 15:8)
Let us not allow corporate worship to digress into merely a sing-along time before the sermon. In I Corinthians 14:15, Paul says, “I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.”

Lovely verse isn’t it?

And so since then, each time I go to church, I make sure that no one talks to me or bothers me during worship; and that when I sing hymns or worship choruses, I interact intellectually and emotionally with lyrics that point directly to God.

Until next time, God bless you!

I Went Biking Today!

2009-01-18T02:35:00.011+08:00

My gosh! It has been quite awhile since the last time I went biking. I felt so bad because I only went on 2 rounds along Pasir Ris town park and I was tremendously catching my breathe already. I guess I'm back to basic since I stopped doing my regular exercise for a few months now. (gulo kasi ng sked ko! grrrrrr..... )

I normally bring a book, a bible and a bottle of water with me whenever I'd go biking. Sometimes I bring a mat and food, depending on how long I plan to stay at the park. Today, I went to the townpark around 15 minutes away from my place and I really enjoyed watching all types of people in there. There were families having a picnic, people reading books(like me!), friends chatting and most of all a lot of men fishing! However, I didn't see anyone lucky enough to get a fish unlike the last time I was there. Too bad! hehehe
If there is one thing I really like staying here in Singapore it is that, I can easily go to a place like this were there is PEACE AND QUIET! (medyo wala nito sa Pinas e, kung meron man, malayo! which is a very sad reality)

After biking I went to a clothing boutique(again!) and bought a dress and a very nice blouse! I also went to buy some groceries and ingredients for my dinner menu. I have been craving for this meal this whole week and now finally I had the time to cook! GRILLED CHICKEN with CORN and BUTTERED BROCCOLI Yum, Yum!

Anyway, I am so tired right now so I'd better get some rest! :-)

My latest Apparel

2009-01-18T02:02:00.007+08:00

This is my Christmas gift for myself! I soooo like the color and style and it really fits me!!! And the best thing is, I got it at a very reasonable price because the boutique (WANKO) went on a Holiday Sale.(don't ask anymore how much co'z my housemates would still say, IT IS VERY EXPENSIVE! hahaha) Anyway, I always believe that hardwork = reward and so, here goes my reward.....

i'm wearing this dress (above) on the wedding banquet of my

chinese friend this end of the month! i'm soooo excited!

cute ng skirt! aliw!

When I Fall in Love.......

2009-01-12T03:37:00.014+08:00

When I fall in love it will be forever
Or I'll never fall in love
In a restless world like this is
Love is ended before its begun
And too many moonlight kisses
Seem to cool in the warmth of the sun
When I give my heart it will be completely
Or I'll never give my heart
And the moment I can feel that you feel that way too
Is when I fall in love with you

I soooo love this song! Maybe because it tells a lot of things about me.Or maybe because it's the principle that I stand for until now. Inspite of the pressure, the why's and why not's of the people around me regarding my "singleness", I am still not bothered at all! I do admit though that from time to time, I get this feeling of longingness to have a "significant other" in my life however, it does not last for long.

Sometimes, I am thinking, maybe the Lord blessed me with celibacy. I am not so sure yet though because until now, there are no clear indications from Him yet. At this point, there is only one thing I am sure of, that is, whether single or married, I can very happy. You know why? because the God who gives joy to those who are married is the same God who gives joy to those who are single. And I really praise God for that!

For many single women in general, the standard in choosing a mate gets lower as they get older. But for me, the older I get, higher standards are being set! :-) This is because I learn more about God and relationships. A woman's "age" or "biological clock" should not be reasons for her to settle for the second best!

The Lord has been faithful in giving me the patience to wait and I know that in love, WAITING = REWARD, MORE JOY, LESS PAIN, MORE TRUST, LESS DOUBT, MORE LOVE AND RESPECT, NO REGRETS!

May God answer my one prayer eversince, and that is, for Him to allow my first to be my last!

Oh man, what a day it will be! One day soon, I will have my own story to tell :-) *wink*wink*

CINDERELLA

2009-01-11T02:03:00.009+08:00

my favorite scene in the musicalLast night I had the privilege of watching Lea Salonga's CINDERELLA the Musical at Esplanade Theater. It was a very expensive "stress reliever" for me but nevertheless I enjoyed every single moment I was there watching. As expected, Lea did an awesome job in all aspect of her performance. The production and set design was amazing and creatively done. The songs are just quite okay, not much of "recall" or LSS but some of my favorites were "In my own Little Corner", "Do you love me because I love you" and "The Prince is Having a Ball".
amazing production and set design
excellent performance by Lea

I watched the play with some of my closest friends from my workplace and then afterwards, we went to STARBUCKS! One of my favorite hang-out place wherever I go! wohooo!!!!

Paula, Cat, Beverly, Me, Lei and Farah my starbucks moment! :-)
Overall, the musical is worth a pretty penny! What a night!

If you want to know more about it, please click on the link below:

http://www.cinderellaonstage.com/

Uncertainties....

2009-01-08T03:40:00.001+08:00

I would like to start this blog with a very deep sigh.... as in very deeeeppp sighhhhhhhhh........

This afternoon, my colleagues and I received some unexpected news from higher management. Our team leaders had a meeting with the “bosses” and when they got out of the room, everyone looked so stressed out. My DTM told us that the management has set higher expectation to all of us and that is to meet the matrix and hit at least 120 calls a day per officer! Upon hearing this, most of us really reacted disapprovingly because we really think that they are asking for the impossible. Most of the calls that we receive are not simple inquiries that can be resolved right away. In fact, we get a lot of complain calls due to system error or inconsistencies of certain procedures. Now, we thought that was it! Later on we realized that there’s more to this “bad news” than we thought. We found out that the management is actually considering closing down the Call Centre in Singapore if we don’t hit the new matrix and they will transfer the business to Malaysia. Now for us, that was really a very devastating news because last year, after all this news on retrenchments and global crisis issues came out, they sent out an e-mail that the last thing they want to do is to lay off employees and so they opted on cutting expenses on other stuff like business travel limitations, recycling of materials and by freezing any promotion for 2009. Then this news came………………

Time and again, this shows how UNCERTAIN life is! I personally thought that our company is stable and that we are not affected much.But I guess I spoke too soon. Good grief!

Other than this, the business news this morning cited that this global crisis that we have right now is just so totally serious that it will take a longer time than expected for us to be able to recover.

Business Mirror today states that:
“RESPECTED international economist Jeffrey Sachs, who has advised developing-country governments and was recently cited for his advisory work for the United Nations (UN), is in town with some bad news: He does not share the optimism of some experts that the current economic crisis will ease later this year or anytime soon, saying the crisis created “imbalances” that are too serious to be resolved quickly or easily.
Sachs said that despite the optimism expressed by some economists, he doesn’t see any recovery from the economic crisis anytime soon due to the extent of the damage the crisis has caused in financial markets and economies, in general.
He said the crisis has caused so much damage that fiscal strategies, spending measures and even the role of rating agencies must be reexamined or even overhauled.
Because of this, Sachs expects unemployment to be relatively high for a longer time than expected.
Sachs also cited a need to come up with a well-structured medium-term plan, without which the crisis could even be prolonged.”

Well, all of these “uncertainties” in our economy are totally uncontrollable and I honestly feel bad about this especially now that we are beginning to feel the gravity of the situation. However, on the lighter side, I glad that no matter what global crisis happens in this world, GOD’s ECONOMY IS NOT AFFECTED IN ANY SINGLE WAY AT ALL!!!!! Wohoo!!!! That for me is already enough reason not to worry because I know that HE IS IN CONTROL!
That in spite of all calamities and downfall, He will take good care of His children.

Luke 12:24 (New International Version)
24Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!

I remember one song I used to sing in church that tells exactly about that verse mentioned above. It was a Filipino Gospel song entitled SINO KA MAN and it says,

“Ba’t ang mga ibon di man lang nagugutom,
Laging may awit sa umaga ma’t hapon,
Tila kaya mayroong dakilang Maylikha,
Nag-aaruga at Nag-aalaga?”

And I say, yes THERE IS!

With all uncertainties in life, only one thing is certain, GOD’S LOVE FOR HIS CHILDREN WILL NEVER CHANGE! And whoever believes in Him will NEVER GO HUNGRY!

John 6:35 (New International Version)
35Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

What a blessing!

Some of the things I wish to accomplish for 2009

2009-01-05T02:20:00.001+08:00

Health

- will exercise at least twice a week (badminton, biking, jogging etc)
- will eat more fruits and veggies; less meat
- will drink more juice, milk, tea and water; no soda; less chips and other "unhealthy and oily" food
- lose weight the proper way

Finances
- save at least 10% of my salary every month starting January
- finish paying all outstanding loans

Family
- to have all of my family members visit Singapore
- to open a business for them

Personal Growth
- to spend more time with the Lord everyday and

grow more in the area of "private worship".

- read at least one book a month

- to love more, pray more, give more, trust more in Him

Travel
- visit Banaue again or Palawan or Boracay
- visit Bintan Lagoon Resort again with my family
- visit Hongkong Disneyland or Maldives or Australia

Work

- no lates, no absences (unless really very ill) this 2009

- will find time to learn more about our processes and bank procedures

- very minimal errors; no service lapse

Others
- Produce Ted’z Concert Launch this October
- Blog all events of my life for 2009 (even if I hate writing)
- Set – up the Day Care Business Procedures and Policies
- Set up one Team Building for ACTS

-Attend the Youth Camp and be with ACTS for our 6th Year Anniversary

-learn at least 10 New Chinese Recipes

-learn at least 5 Chinese words every month

-watch at least 1 musical every quarter

My ORDINARY BOB Prayer Request:

To finish my contract with UOB inspite of the very stressful work.

To go to New York and watch a live Broadway Musical.

To visit Africa and do a 1 week Manna Feeding Program or an Arts Festival there.

To host, organize and sponsor Rory Noland's HEART OF THE ARTIST Conference in the Philippines.

BLOGGING IS NOT MY THING

2009-01-04T09:12:00.000+08:00

A friend once asked me, "why not try blogging?", then I told her, "Blogging is not my thing!"

In all honesty, I never liked writing, even when I was still in school. It's funny though because when I was in college, I used to write a lot in my diary. But I noticed that during that time, I wrote a lot about my crushes and my experiences with them. hahaha, remembering those times really makes me laugh. Well anyway, one of my goals for 2009 is to dare and take the challenge of some things that I hate to do - writing is one of them. And so it goes, the artist in me hopes to find and make a way in the bloggersphere.

Yes, I hate writing, but since it keeps my sanity I choose to do it! Welcome to my space! Enjoy! :-)

HIGHLIGHTS OF MY LIFE IN 2008

2009-01-04T02:10:00.001+08:00

My 2008 was a year full of excitement, risk and challenges. A year full of first, of total independence, patience and sacrifice as I live and work far away from home. But in spite of all these, God was with me THROUGH IT ALL!

Let me share with you the highlights of my life for the year that just passed.

First New Year in Singapore (Marina Bay) (January 1, 2008) - celebrated with 4 of my friends, Nona, Beng, Gerald and Ice; we stayed until 5am that day to welcome 2008;had my very first sip of Starbucks Coffee courtesy of Gerald and we just had a long chit-chat. It was fun!)

Chinese New Year (February 6, 2008) – I went to China Town with Nona and Ivy; it was my first time to experience Chinese New Year in Singapore; I love their Chingay Parade where lots of presentations from different schools and communities were showcased. The fireworks display at Chinatown was also very nice and we enjoyed loitering around the street where all confetti’s were scattered. The best thing was that there were a lot of cheap items to buy.The prices dropped to 80% off.! Almost like a give-away!

In the middle of the street at China Town after the fireworks

Tales Of Spring (Feb 18, 2008) – Flowers, Flowers, Flowers! …still part of Chinese New Year Celebration, Sentosa was field with beautiful decorative flowers all over! Very Nice!

Way Back into Love CCF Post Valentine Event (Feb 24, 2008) - It was fun dressing up; inspiration through singing and personal testimonies were given by Felichi and her husband.
CCF Connecting the Dots Retreat (March 21-22) – Held at Sofitel Hotel Malaysia, I met a lot of very nice single men and women on this event. I also had a handful of wisdom and inspiration from our speaker Pastor Dennis.
East Coast BBQ Party (March 2, 2009) – a "pig-out" for our chinese colleagues and bosses; a very memorable event for me because I got so tired cooking.I can’t believe I cooked 7 Filipino dishes within 2 hours! Record-breaking! dami food!!!! yum, yum!

ACTS 5th Year Anniversary at Boso-Boso (May 1, 2008) – I miss my team so much; with all the hardwork for Camp, they truly deserve this treat from mother hen! SWIM, EAT and HAVE FUN!
Botbydblud GET TOGETHER at Astoria (May 2 – 3, 2008) – After 6 months of being away, I’ve met with them again. We really had fun eating, sharing stories and taking lots and lots and lots of pictures!
Alvin and Diane’s Wedding (May 3, 2008) - Wow! It was really a beautiful wedding! I was really glad I flew back home just for it.CCF Singapore 2nd Year Anniversary (May 25, 2008) – another first for me...... a very memorable one because in all my years in Theater, this was the first time I danced TAMBOURINE! It was not my forte at all, but I did it for the Lord!

VSA Kite Flying Activity (July 28, 2008) - this was one voluntary work I did in Singapore for special children. I was chosen to be one of the team leaders and I really had fun working with different people. The kids were all adorable! There were games and kite painting competition. My team got 80% of the awards including the champion, 1st, and 2nd runner ups! It was really great spending time with kids! I soooo love them dearly!
Grand Prix UOB D&D at Suntec City(August 23, 2008) – such a big event for Delivery Channels Division of UOB. Great food, great raffle items and again, a great experience for me to represent our call center in all the meetings to make this event a reality.

Bintan Trip (August 25-29) - I would say this is the best gift I had ever received last year from the Lord. It was my birthday and I had the privilege to go to Bintan Lagoon Resort Indonesia with some of my friends for 5 long days! A first for me in Indonesia, my first to wear bathing suit, my first to ride a banana boat, my first to drive a buggy etc. etc. I even had my haircut there! It was truly memorable!

Trip to Johor Bahru Malaysia (Oct 6, 2008) - My kind-hearted Chinese friend Esther volunteered to bring us to Malaysia for a road trip, food trip, shopping and sight-seeing. We went to Kota Tinggi Waterfalls Resort and visited some of the malls as well. I will never forget the long ride going there; It took us 3 hours to get to JB simply because we were lost within Singapore! hahaha
Trip to Cebu – Bantayan Island, a paradise on its own, I highly recommend this as a "must visit" place when you go to Cebu. I will also not forget my Karaoke session with the Padins and the Tubod Spring Water trip with my Cebu Kiddos.

SPA and BOTBYDBLUD Get Together (Nov 8, 2008) - If there was one thing that made my October trip to the Philippines all worth it, it will be my SPA moments with my girlfriends and dinner with them. It became even more significant having seen Frances and getting reconciled with her. Aside from this, I was happy to see Digi joined us too.We were almost complete, if only Alvin and Diane made it. But then again, We're Happy Together!!!! :-)

CCF Christmas Party (Dec 13, 2008) - Another first for me --- to direct an MTV which was a CCF Christmas competition. Our team won the "Best Actress" and "Best in Originality" awards. It was fun working with Pasir Ris d-group. Everyone did cooperate!

I also find the visits of my friends from Manila as very sweet and memorable. I had my former TeleTech officemate Bendo, my TeleTech Buddy Marsha and ofcourse my very close friend Ades. I also got to spend plenty of time with Zarah and Tina when they were here. I hope I can see all of them again soon!

Before the year ended, my housemates and I were able to host a Christmas party for our friends. We really laugh our hearts out during our exchange gift. The food was overflowing and even the visitors. he, he, he, There were even people we never knew that came to join us because they have nowhere to go and spend Christmas with.

I am thankful to the Lord that this year, our home has been a blessing to a lot of people here in Singapore. And my prayer is that through our simple gifts of goodness, acts of kindness and hospitality, they may see Jesus in us. And that one day soon, we may be able to share his gift of salvation to each one of them. All glory and praise to Him who deserve nothing but the best!

And for those who have played a significant part of my life in 2008, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

To Beng and Jade - Thank you for being not just my housemate but my friends and sisters in Christ. Thank you for all the reminders, love and care. I am very grateful that I live in the same house as you guys do, the Lord is really good, HE made our strengths and weaknesses compliment each other! I love you both!

To Ice - I have seen you grow and have been with you in most of your ups and downs. We have prayed, worked, laughed and travelled together. We have fought and argued many times, but the fact remains that through the years, we will always be here for each other. Thank you for the many things you have taught me. For the respect and love. It may not be as obvious all the time, but I truly want the best for you. I want you to know that I am praying for you and I will always believe that because you have Jesus in your heart, you will OVERCOME! I love you Ice! Muah!

To ACTS STAFF (Albert, Erwin, Fiona and Lain) - Thank you for taking care of our team while I am away. Mother Hen maybe far away, but I want you to know that you guys are always in my prayers. I apologize if a lot of times I am too straight forward regarding your "lovelife" or if I never agree with whoever you chooses as the apple of your eye. It is not that I do not want you to be happy, I just simply think relationship is not what you need at the moment because you are still studying. But then again, the last choice will always be yours. Just remember, "If you love someone, you will learn how to wait". I love you guys!

To Weng and Tonie - Thank you for all the support, love and prayers. Thank you for always making me feel that you are always there for me; for lending your ears and responding to my sometimes non-sense e-mails!hehehe Among anyone else, you two really know me well inside and out. And I thank you that you remain to be a friend to me inspite of all the good and bad things you discovered about me. I thank God everytime I remember both of you. I love you both!

To Jen and Chie - Thank you for always remembering me, for missing and loving me all th time. love yah!

To Beverly, Cat, Antonette, Jaja and Lei - You guys have been such great friends! Thank you for all the support, the laughter and lots of memorable moments. It is because of you that's why I am still able to smile during stressful times at work. I hope our friendship will go a long way.

To Esther - Mah, you really have made a difference in my life. I never thought I will get close to a chinese girl like you. You have been an inspiration to me as to how dedicated you have been to your work. And now that you are starting to have your own family, I am sure you will continue to do a good job of being a wife and a mom to your future kids. I will miss you dearly as you go back again to Finland but I am sure distance will never ever be a hindrance to a sincere friendship like what we have. I love you mah!

To my sister Eden - How can I ever survive 2008 without your help? Thank you for doing all my errands last year. I know it has been very stressful for our family in terms of finances when I left (or even up to now I supposed, hehehe) But by God's grace, we will overcome all our concern on finances soon. Thank you for taking care of papa and mama and even Bong and Tito. I pray that more and more, the Lord may bring you more wisdom, more love, patience and understanding. That you may learn to forget all the hurts and learn on how to forgive easily.May this year be a year of "homecoming" of you to HIM:-) Lav ya sis!

To all who have made my 2008 a memorable year, GOD BLESS YOU!

I pray that you may continue to live a life of abundance, good health and a life full of love.

Happy New Year Everyone!