Have you ever sat in traffic for like an hour or two? Or at a doctor's office waiting to be seen? What do you usually do when you're 'stuck' in any of these situation? Well, if you're behind the wheel and you're in Bangkok, there's pretty much nothing you can do but wait. Maybe listen to music, yes. But what if you're just a passenger? Is there something you can do besides wait for the car to go?
This question has crossed my mind several times while waiting for the traffic to clear, and again today while waiting for my name to be called at the hospital. With my first pregnancy, I was spared the waiting because we were then living in the hospital compound, and the nurse would just give me a ring when it was almost my turn to be seen by the doctor. Now we live far from the hospital, plus this hospital is big with a lot of patients, so I have to free up the whole morning just to see the doctor for less than fifteen minutes. I forgot to bring a book with me this morning, and I couldn't find the Bangkok Post anywhere at the waiting area, so I started discussing ideas with MY man who was busy checking emails on his phone. What would be a good time filler at the clinics? I looked around, there were about thirty people waiting to be seen just in one section alone, and think of all those people's wasted time, just sitting there, watching who comes by, and who leaves, patiently waiting for their turn to see the doctor.
Wouldn't it be a good idea if the hospital could provide some sketch pad perhaps, for those who like to doodle? Beadwork or cross-stitch for the waiting mommies? MY man who works at the hospital immediately brushed off my ideas, saying the management will never buy the idea. They wouldn't want patients coming to them with their finished products as evidence of how long they had to wait! But hey, just think of all the time these people waste sitting there doing nothing! We waited for about forty-five minutes at the cashier and pharmacy, and there were like a hundred people there!
This I want to turn into a concept. I don't have any concret idea in mind yet, and it would make a really good business concept to come up with a product that people can do while they're in their cars stuck in traffic, or waiting to be served/seen in some office. Ideas, ideas!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Eating, and Nothing Else but Eating.
More than a week has passed since I last had my face in the toilet and for that I'm most thankful. All the vomiting had my tongue numb and injured from all the acid, not to mention how sensitive my teeth became from it all. I can hardly wait to feel normal again, the nausea still comes and goes so I still go through my days in a daze.
The good news is we finally decided to visit the Pinas in two weeks' time! Right now I eat like every forty-five minutes but the desire to eat is absent--my appetite is practically non-existent. I have this long list of to-eats when we get to Manila, and I'm crossing my fingers that by the time we go, the cravings would have set in. I'm all excited just thinking of all the food I'm missing, and all the shopping I'm going to do! I have to spend at least a day in a bookstore getting Roo all the books he needs--books are just so expensive here we buy most of his story books second hand. I also want to buy preggy clothes.
Now to start the countdown...
The good news is we finally decided to visit the Pinas in two weeks' time! Right now I eat like every forty-five minutes but the desire to eat is absent--my appetite is practically non-existent. I have this long list of to-eats when we get to Manila, and I'm crossing my fingers that by the time we go, the cravings would have set in. I'm all excited just thinking of all the food I'm missing, and all the shopping I'm going to do! I have to spend at least a day in a bookstore getting Roo all the books he needs--books are just so expensive here we buy most of his story books second hand. I also want to buy preggy clothes.
Now to start the countdown...
Saturday, December 5, 2009
How Do I Give?
When you give offerings, how much do you give? When the offering bag comes your way, do you just dig in your pocket and fish out whatever is there and then put it in? Or do you plan for it, have your money ready in an envelope way before it's time to go to church? And when you give your offering, how do you give it?
There's this story in the Bible--one of those which Jesus Himself told to drive home some truths. It's about these two givers who went to the temple to worship. One was a rich man, and as he gave his generous offering, he made sure that his money made this clinkety-clank-clunk sound was heard by every worshiper around. I'm giving my offering, was his loud message. His offering was big, but his heart was not really into the giving, it was focused on something else.
Another giver, a poor woman, looked sadly at her two small coins. It was her last and she felt so small, so desperate, so sorry that she couldn't give more. When the offering plate came her way, she bowed her head, and tried to conceal her offering as well as she could, embarrassed that she could give so little. Yet, Jesus said, this woman gave more. She gave all that she had.
I have yet to tell this story to my son but he has already shown me the meaning of giving all that he had. One morning, just before church, I asked him to prepare his offering. During the week, I would randomly give him 10 baht for keeping his toys, or helping out so as to teach him how to earn money. His dad would also ask him for a massage and pay him the same amount. I have taught him how to set aside his tithes, but the rest of his money, I told him he can spend it any way he want to. So he keeps his little treasure in his money bag.
When I checked on him a while later, he came to me beaming, Mommy, I have so much money! This is my offering! Turns out he emptied his money bag, and stuffed all the coins in his pocket. I said, But you don't have any more money left, are you sure you want to give them all? I had to make sure he knew what he was doing, I didn't want him crying later.
Never mind, mommy, I'm giving it all. I want more heathen children to know about Jesus. I can work again tomorrow, I will wake up really early so I can work.
Ain't that a lesson for mommy to learn? No worries about having no more money left. As long as I give it all to Jesus, I can always work again tomorrow.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Heartwarming.
I wish I can say that I feel a lot better now. But no. As the days go on, my NVP gets even worse. No matter how small my food intake have been, or how frequent/infrequent, I just can't keep food in. Not even water. Even just a sip of water sends me back to the toilet. I've been subsisting on Gatorade for electrolytes. I'm relying on stored nutrients, and perhaps stored fats too, to nourish my growing baby.
Through it all, suffice it to say that I'm becoming weak. And more irritable. God be merciful to me, I don't mean to cry through this difficult time, much less in front of my son. My son, my little angel from heaven, has been very mature through it all, even more mature than his mommy these times, I must say. Every time he sees me heading to the toilet, he'd immediately drop his play, slip into the bathroom door, and before I know it, he'd be patting my back, asking "Are you okay, Mommy?" "I'm here for you, Mommy." At really difficult times when my nausea gets so bad that I'd forget myself and snap back at him or his daddy, he'd say in his most patient and sweet voice, "Mommy, we don't want the baby to hear that kind of voice, remember?" Then last night, when I had just about given up on eating because everything was just coming back out, he cuddled and sweet-talked me all the way to eating the porridge that his daddy couldn't convince me to try. My angel from heaven, my little Roo.
God did not promise us sunshiney days all the time. But through the rainy ones, he provides help. He gives comfort. His grace is ever-present. Just as my son was leaving for church this morning, he gave me a kiss, and then left me with a get-well note that he had painstakingly folded into an envelope: "Mommy, when you feel sad, just open my card, okay? I love you."
I may be not be in tip-top shape right now, but you can bet my heart is all smiles.
Through it all, suffice it to say that I'm becoming weak. And more irritable. God be merciful to me, I don't mean to cry through this difficult time, much less in front of my son. My son, my little angel from heaven, has been very mature through it all, even more mature than his mommy these times, I must say. Every time he sees me heading to the toilet, he'd immediately drop his play, slip into the bathroom door, and before I know it, he'd be patting my back, asking "Are you okay, Mommy?" "I'm here for you, Mommy." At really difficult times when my nausea gets so bad that I'd forget myself and snap back at him or his daddy, he'd say in his most patient and sweet voice, "Mommy, we don't want the baby to hear that kind of voice, remember?" Then last night, when I had just about given up on eating because everything was just coming back out, he cuddled and sweet-talked me all the way to eating the porridge that his daddy couldn't convince me to try. My angel from heaven, my little Roo.
God did not promise us sunshiney days all the time. But through the rainy ones, he provides help. He gives comfort. His grace is ever-present. Just as my son was leaving for church this morning, he gave me a kiss, and then left me with a get-well note that he had painstakingly folded into an envelope: "Mommy, when you feel sad, just open my card, okay? I love you."
I may be not be in tip-top shape right now, but you can bet my heart is all smiles.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Expecting.
I've never seen a happier boy. We were in Pattaya, and on our way to the pharmacy to buy the preg test, our son, ever-inquisitive, asked all the questions as to where, what, why we were making a special trip to the pharmacy. We explained everything, and so when he finally saw the two lines on the strip, joy filled his face. He was so happy, ecstatic that God had heard his prayers for a baby.
Me, I'm still in a daze. Literally. The days have been a blur, the toilet has become my best friend, relieving me of nausea. With my first pregnancy, I was sick in the mornings only. This time, it's all day, and most of the night. My boys have been very supportive, very caring, and I'm thankful for them.
Hope this phase won't last long. I have to think positive. For now, I shall eat, and eat, and eat, even if it means having to let it all out, only to start eating all over again.
This too shall pass.
Me, I'm still in a daze. Literally. The days have been a blur, the toilet has become my best friend, relieving me of nausea. With my first pregnancy, I was sick in the mornings only. This time, it's all day, and most of the night. My boys have been very supportive, very caring, and I'm thankful for them.
Hope this phase won't last long. I have to think positive. For now, I shall eat, and eat, and eat, even if it means having to let it all out, only to start eating all over again.
This too shall pass.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
On Visas
The first time I applied for a visa to the U.S., I was naive and not prepared. Naive to state that I was going there to visit for a month, and not prepared with all the details of my finances. That time, a friend was granted a visa with money in her account not even enough to buy a ticket, so I thought, one bank account showing enough funds for airfare would suffice. I was refused a visa.
From that day on, I never bothered to apply again. Not only because I don't want to risk another refusal and waste good money on the application fee, but mainly because other countries hold more appeal and attraction to my traveling senses. But ever since I got married, MY man has always been trying to invite me to go visit his sister with him.
Well, we're thinking Roo is old enough to travel long-distance now so we finally applied for a US visa. This time I made sure we had all the documents ready, with all the bank books and what not. Because of my previous experience, I had my doubts, thinking there certainly are better ways to spend the thirteen thousand baht plus money we paid for the application fee. MY man assured me I need not worry, the letterhead of the hospital will get us the visa.
Turned out he was right. A total of two questions were asked: "Why are you going?" and "Where are you working?" So much for me lugging all those documents in my bag. Roo was disappointed he didn't get asked. He was all ready with an answer: "I want to go visit my auntie and uncle. And I want to play in the snow!"
So, looks like we'll be heading that way soon! A.Weng, here we come! :D
From that day on, I never bothered to apply again. Not only because I don't want to risk another refusal and waste good money on the application fee, but mainly because other countries hold more appeal and attraction to my traveling senses. But ever since I got married, MY man has always been trying to invite me to go visit his sister with him.
Well, we're thinking Roo is old enough to travel long-distance now so we finally applied for a US visa. This time I made sure we had all the documents ready, with all the bank books and what not. Because of my previous experience, I had my doubts, thinking there certainly are better ways to spend the thirteen thousand baht plus money we paid for the application fee. MY man assured me I need not worry, the letterhead of the hospital will get us the visa.
Turned out he was right. A total of two questions were asked: "Why are you going?" and "Where are you working?" So much for me lugging all those documents in my bag. Roo was disappointed he didn't get asked. He was all ready with an answer: "I want to go visit my auntie and uncle. And I want to play in the snow!"
So, looks like we'll be heading that way soon! A.Weng, here we come! :D
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Silly Mr. Noodle
Elmo is on. I can hear Roo chuckling every now and then, and while I'm engrossed in my own computer time, I can't help but sneak a glance when Elmo starts talking to Mr. Noodle, or Mr. Noodle's brother, Mr. Noodle. Elmo would usually call on to Mr. Noodle whenever he wants to know how something is done, or when he wants an answer to his question. Mr. Noodle, ever a silent character, would then respond to the question, by trial and error. He usually gets the process or answer wrong the first few times, and the way he tries to figure the answer out is just so silly, you will laugh. He is so silly but you can't help but love him!
Thank you to the Noodle brothers! You sure know how to entertain and educate my son!
Mr. Noodle
Mr. Noodle's Brother--Mr. Noodle
Mr. Noodle's Brother--Mr. Noodle
Thank you to the Noodle brothers! You sure know how to entertain and educate my son!Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Of Birthdays and Presents
What do I want for my birthday? To travel would be the first thing off my mind, maybe. Other than that, I am not in "want" of anything right now. I'm in good health, my boys are happy and healthy. My dad and my siblings are all doing well. Nothing I can ask for really. Oh, maybe a good eight to ten-hour straight sleep! That would do! That's officially my birthday wish for this year.
Yesterday morning, my son borrowed my cell phone to call his dad--he asked his dad to bring him out so he can go shopping for mommy's present. I tagged along, but after dinner, Roo declared that I should go somewhere else so he can buy me a surprise gift. That was totally fine with me, it's not very often that my son gives me the freedom to be all alone by myself--you see, we are like twins, the siamese conjoined kind, that go together everywhere. When we met up about half an hour later, he was beside himself with excitement!
Mommy! I bought you a birthday present, here, open it!
He knows my birthday is not til Thursday yet, but he just can't wait! He told his dad that he was sure mommy would love his present. And so, the whole evening after we got home, and the rest of the night before bedtime, and right after he woke up this morning, I had to listen to the same thing. Through the whole discussion that it's not my birthday yet, I managed to 'guess' what he got me, and he had to convince me to think it's something else, so that I will still be surprised. Bless his heart, my dear, adorable Roo!
Oh well, he pleaded, and begged, and implored with tears in his eyes for me to open his present. Now! Guess why? He got a toy for mommy, and he wants mommy to share it with him! Ha, ha! We finally agreed that we'll open it tonight, actually, he'll open it for me. It will be the perfect present for me I know, just anticipating the joy in his eyes when he finally can get to "share" his present with me.
Yesterday morning, my son borrowed my cell phone to call his dad--he asked his dad to bring him out so he can go shopping for mommy's present. I tagged along, but after dinner, Roo declared that I should go somewhere else so he can buy me a surprise gift. That was totally fine with me, it's not very often that my son gives me the freedom to be all alone by myself--you see, we are like twins, the siamese conjoined kind, that go together everywhere. When we met up about half an hour later, he was beside himself with excitement!
Mommy! I bought you a birthday present, here, open it!
He knows my birthday is not til Thursday yet, but he just can't wait! He told his dad that he was sure mommy would love his present. And so, the whole evening after we got home, and the rest of the night before bedtime, and right after he woke up this morning, I had to listen to the same thing. Through the whole discussion that it's not my birthday yet, I managed to 'guess' what he got me, and he had to convince me to think it's something else, so that I will still be surprised. Bless his heart, my dear, adorable Roo!
Oh well, he pleaded, and begged, and implored with tears in his eyes for me to open his present. Now! Guess why? He got a toy for mommy, and he wants mommy to share it with him! Ha, ha! We finally agreed that we'll open it tonight, actually, he'll open it for me. It will be the perfect present for me I know, just anticipating the joy in his eyes when he finally can get to "share" his present with me.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Peace Amidst the Storm
Thunder is rolling in the distance, the sky is gloomy and dark. Rains are on the way, but somehow I welcome the shower that will soon refresh the earth. These past few weeks have been busy with planning, planning, and planning. Till now none of our anniversary trip plans have gelled. Disasters and natural calamities everywhere have blocked our travel plans. So we might just stay put this year, and settle for a quiet dinner instead. Maybe at the Sukhothai--where it all started, where we got married.
After all the frenzy of life's ups and downs this week, I long to sit still--and just be. I leave you with this verse: "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
After all the frenzy of life's ups and downs this week, I long to sit still--and just be. I leave you with this verse: "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Hope Amidst Disasters
Still reeling from all the horrors of the destruction that typhoon Ketsana caused in the Philippines, yesterday morning, I woke up to news of an earthquake and a tsunami in Samoa. More than one hundred people died, and others were swept to sea, still missing until now. Today, another earthquake occurred in Indonesia.
One after another, these calamities come and leave behind such heart-wrenching devastation that my soul can't help but cry out, "Lord, how long? How much longer till you come and all these can end?"
Luke 21:11 says, "There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven."
So is this the time Jesus was talking about? I believe so. The time is near. The time is here. Isn't that wonderful? There's hope beyond the horizon. In the same chapter in Luke, Jesus goes on to say, "When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Praise the Lord!
In the meantime, let's do what we can to help the people who are suffering from all these disasters. The Philippine Embassy here in Bangkok accepts donations (dry/canned food, blankets, clothing, etc.) for the typhoon victims, from 9am - 5pm, weekdays.
Click this link if you're situated in other parts of the world and you want to do your share.
One after another, these calamities come and leave behind such heart-wrenching devastation that my soul can't help but cry out, "Lord, how long? How much longer till you come and all these can end?"
Luke 21:11 says, "There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven."
So is this the time Jesus was talking about? I believe so. The time is near. The time is here. Isn't that wonderful? There's hope beyond the horizon. In the same chapter in Luke, Jesus goes on to say, "When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Praise the Lord!
In the meantime, let's do what we can to help the people who are suffering from all these disasters. The Philippine Embassy here in Bangkok accepts donations (dry/canned food, blankets, clothing, etc.) for the typhoon victims, from 9am - 5pm, weekdays.
Click this link if you're situated in other parts of the world and you want to do your share.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Mother's Day in Thailand
Many a day, my son would come to me with a huge smile on his face, his eyes twinkling in excitement. His hand full, he would hand his load to me and say, "Flowers for you, mommy!" I would accept his offering, a bunch of them, and thank him for being so sweet. Red, yellow, green, orange, purple, blue, and the colors in between, the flowers stood straight and tall in my hand. Bright and cheerful, my son's flowers always make me smile. Never mind that they're just pretend. Never mind that they're a bunch of colored pencils. Someday, he said, when he's big enough to find the flower market himself, he'll buy me real ones.
Early this morning, he came home with a big smile, and in a shy and quiet voice, he said, "Flowers for you, mommy!" In his hand was a bunch of yellow daisies. My favorite! He and his daddy made an early morning trip to Pakklong Talat (flower market), and the dad told me that he had insisted in getting me the yellow flowers! My sweet, sweet boy! While I was arranging the flowers in a vase, he played quietly beside me and at one point,he looked up and said, "Mommy, while I was buying the flowers, I imagined that you'd be very happy, and it came true! You're happy!"
Here's wishing every mother a Happy Mother's Day! And to Her Majesty, Queen Sirikit, happy, happy birthday!
Early this morning, he came home with a big smile, and in a shy and quiet voice, he said, "Flowers for you, mommy!" In his hand was a bunch of yellow daisies. My favorite! He and his daddy made an early morning trip to Pakklong Talat (flower market), and the dad told me that he had insisted in getting me the yellow flowers! My sweet, sweet boy! While I was arranging the flowers in a vase, he played quietly beside me and at one point,he looked up and said, "Mommy, while I was buying the flowers, I imagined that you'd be very happy, and it came true! You're happy!"
Here's wishing every mother a Happy Mother's Day! And to Her Majesty, Queen Sirikit, happy, happy birthday!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Wedding
The carpet was laid. Flowers were strewn all over it. The mood was festive. Love was in the air!
The bride, covered in her veil, marched. The groom met her at the altar. The couple held hands and faced the minister. The minister beamed a smile at the couple, took one step towards them, and with a huge smile in his face, spread out his arms, and squeezed the couple into a big hug. After about five seconds, he took a step back, gazed up at them, and overwhelmed with happiness came back to them with another hug. This time, the embrace was longer. And tighter.
Without a word, the minister stepped back one more time, and attempted to carry on with his duties. But as he lifted his eyes toward the couple, he just couldn't say a word. His joy was beyond words! Face radiant, once again he hugged the couple with all the love he could muster. Then he nodded his blessing. The wedding ceremony was over.
Wordless ceremony, it was. But it was more meaningful than any other sermon ever preached in any wedding. The love in the minister's eyes said it all.
The wedded couple, their love stronger than ever, went on to live their happy ever after life.
The bride, covered in her veil, marched. The groom met her at the altar. The couple held hands and faced the minister. The minister beamed a smile at the couple, took one step towards them, and with a huge smile in his face, spread out his arms, and squeezed the couple into a big hug. After about five seconds, he took a step back, gazed up at them, and overwhelmed with happiness came back to them with another hug. This time, the embrace was longer. And tighter.
Without a word, the minister stepped back one more time, and attempted to carry on with his duties. But as he lifted his eyes toward the couple, he just couldn't say a word. His joy was beyond words! Face radiant, once again he hugged the couple with all the love he could muster. Then he nodded his blessing. The wedding ceremony was over.
Wordless ceremony, it was. But it was more meaningful than any other sermon ever preached in any wedding. The love in the minister's eyes said it all.
The wedded couple, their love stronger than ever, went on to live their happy ever after life.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
One Year
Life is great. God is good! Can't complain about anything. My boys and I are in good health, and we continue to enjoy each other's company.
Life would even be more beautiful, I think, if my mommy was still with us. A year ago, we buried her. A year ago, a part of my heart died. And I still miss her terribly. At night, when all is quiet and I lay awake listening to the rhythmic snoring of my special boys, hot tears still flush and sorrow still clutches my heart. I think of the days when she was here, when I had her to tell every detail of what happens with my Roo, when my dad still had that twinkle in his eyes. There are times it gets so hard to accept that she's gone that I have to shake myself to remember that. A part of me still want to believe she's just there at home. I still wish I can just pray and she will come back to life.
But like they say, this is life. We are here for a moment, then we're gone. That is precisely why I want to live each moment to the fullest. No telling when my time will come. Whenever that will be, I glory in the hope I have in Jesus--there's eternal life waiting for me at the end of this all. And there I will never have to say goodbye to any of my loved ones. No more parting there.
Oh what a day that will be!
Life would even be more beautiful, I think, if my mommy was still with us. A year ago, we buried her. A year ago, a part of my heart died. And I still miss her terribly. At night, when all is quiet and I lay awake listening to the rhythmic snoring of my special boys, hot tears still flush and sorrow still clutches my heart. I think of the days when she was here, when I had her to tell every detail of what happens with my Roo, when my dad still had that twinkle in his eyes. There are times it gets so hard to accept that she's gone that I have to shake myself to remember that. A part of me still want to believe she's just there at home. I still wish I can just pray and she will come back to life.
But like they say, this is life. We are here for a moment, then we're gone. That is precisely why I want to live each moment to the fullest. No telling when my time will come. Whenever that will be, I glory in the hope I have in Jesus--there's eternal life waiting for me at the end of this all. And there I will never have to say goodbye to any of my loved ones. No more parting there.
Oh what a day that will be!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
First.
Today is the day my little Roo has been eagerly waiting for since he turned three. Today, my little boy started his first violin lesson. It was hard to tell though who was more excited: the boy or the mommy. ;D Excitement mixed with stress for me, as I decided to drive to the music studio, unsure whether there would be available parking, and whether we'd make it there on time. Plus the fact that the parent is asked to sit in the lesson, and become a student herself, so she can guide and help with the homework.
Traffic was kinda bad on the way going there. We had a dry run of the route last Sunday, but today I found out that more cars take that route on weekdays so I would have to leave earlier next week. We arrived at Miracle Mall with about twenty minutes to spare, and Roo and I walked to the supermarket for water to kill time.
First thing Khru Om taught Roo was how to bow. Then she showed him two positions: rest and play positions. The rest of the time focused on bowhold. The way she explained the bowhold was very interesting for the little boy. She had bunnies hopping, chocolate-stirring, and kangaroo-hopping that kept the boy smiling and engaged throughout the lesson. She made sure too that the mommy learn it all.
Well, who knows. I just might be buying my own violin soon too :D
Traffic was kinda bad on the way going there. We had a dry run of the route last Sunday, but today I found out that more cars take that route on weekdays so I would have to leave earlier next week. We arrived at Miracle Mall with about twenty minutes to spare, and Roo and I walked to the supermarket for water to kill time.
First thing Khru Om taught Roo was how to bow. Then she showed him two positions: rest and play positions. The rest of the time focused on bowhold. The way she explained the bowhold was very interesting for the little boy. She had bunnies hopping, chocolate-stirring, and kangaroo-hopping that kept the boy smiling and engaged throughout the lesson. She made sure too that the mommy learn it all.
Well, who knows. I just might be buying my own violin soon too :D
Monday, June 22, 2009
Still Here...
Many stories, no time to write. Or maybe I have time but no inspiration. Or maybe I'm just too busy at facebook. :D
Hope you're all well. Hope to update soon.
Hope you're all well. Hope to update soon.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Questions and Answers. Lessons on Life.
My charge is busy. He is playing barber to one of his teddy bears. Might as well let him do that--who knows he'll end up being a barber. Instead of a farmer. While I write something. Which is hard to do when the barber throws question after question at me while snipping hair away. Mommy, what are the polar bear's enemies? What living things live indoors? Where do they sell tadpoles? Why are rain clouds black?
These days, the questions are getting more and more difficult to answer. Good thing there's google. Roo never stops asking, and if he's not doing that, he's telling you something he just learned. The times he's quiet, it still is never quiet--it's like I can almost hear the wheels of his mind churning, processing something that he's going to ask next, or talk about next.
And so, since he's always speaking his mind, we've been teaching him about tact. My kid as candid as he is, sometimes can say things that are not tactful, or polite. Like one time, his grandma and grandpa gave us alkaline water, and he didn't like the taste of it, so the next time they said they were coming to give us some more, he burst out, "But I don't like alkaline water!" Bringing him aside, I talked to him and told him that it's great that he's telling the truth, that he didn't lie about it, but that sometimes, it's good to keep some things we don't like to ourselves. So that people don't get hurt. I said next time it would be nice if he can just say thank you, even if he doesn't like what someone's giving him, just so that person would be happy.
He took that lesson to heart. When his grandparents came, he didn't say a word about the water. But he got back at me a while later. His daddy called, and I informed the daddy that the little boy didn't sleep. That meant one thing. He won't get a treat from his daddy. While mulling over his misfortune, he walked over to the kitchen gate, called my attention, and said, "Mommy, that was not really a nice thing to say to daddy. It's true that I didn't sleep, but that wasn't nice of you to tell daddy that. Now I don't feel happy."
Now if you'll excuse me, I have some rescuing to do. The bear doesn't look too happy, and my son is all covered with bear hair.
These days, the questions are getting more and more difficult to answer. Good thing there's google. Roo never stops asking, and if he's not doing that, he's telling you something he just learned. The times he's quiet, it still is never quiet--it's like I can almost hear the wheels of his mind churning, processing something that he's going to ask next, or talk about next.
And so, since he's always speaking his mind, we've been teaching him about tact. My kid as candid as he is, sometimes can say things that are not tactful, or polite. Like one time, his grandma and grandpa gave us alkaline water, and he didn't like the taste of it, so the next time they said they were coming to give us some more, he burst out, "But I don't like alkaline water!" Bringing him aside, I talked to him and told him that it's great that he's telling the truth, that he didn't lie about it, but that sometimes, it's good to keep some things we don't like to ourselves. So that people don't get hurt. I said next time it would be nice if he can just say thank you, even if he doesn't like what someone's giving him, just so that person would be happy.
He took that lesson to heart. When his grandparents came, he didn't say a word about the water. But he got back at me a while later. His daddy called, and I informed the daddy that the little boy didn't sleep. That meant one thing. He won't get a treat from his daddy. While mulling over his misfortune, he walked over to the kitchen gate, called my attention, and said, "Mommy, that was not really a nice thing to say to daddy. It's true that I didn't sleep, but that wasn't nice of you to tell daddy that. Now I don't feel happy."
Now if you'll excuse me, I have some rescuing to do. The bear doesn't look too happy, and my son is all covered with bear hair.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
TSMSS - NO More Night
If ever there's a song that makes my eyes get all teary-eyed and my hope in Christ become so strongly felt, it's this song. "No More Night" is one song that makes me wish life in this earth can just fast-forward, and we can get to the finale. My heart longs for that day when there will be "no more night, no more pain (oh yeah!), no more tears (I cry when I get to this part ;), never crying again... praises to the great I AM, we will live in the light of the RISEN LAMB!"
I share this song with you guys out there. We are approaching that day, may we all look forward to that beautiful day with fervent hope and faith. We shall all SOON be together-- happy and joyous with our loving Saviour! For more songs of inspiration, please visit Amy's blog.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Separation Anxiety Schmiety.
Haha! So much for the sound sleep I was imagining I'd have last night. Yesterday, my son's bed was delivered, and he was so excited about it that he didn't even ask to be cuddled to sleep. To my astonishment, he didn't even want me to get on his new bed! Yup, Roo is almost four, and all this time since he was about six months old, we've been co-sleeping. And yes, that's the reason why I haven't slept well all these years too! I am not much of a sleeper, as many of you already know, and having a growing boy cuddle next to me night after night, aggravates the problem. I just cannot sleep when someone's cuddling with me. I always have to wait till he's fast asleep then I detach myself from him. And if not cuddle, it's kicking that I get. Not intentionally of course, but still that's enough to wake me up and bring me back to square one on the sleeping process. How I wish I was like his dad who can sleep through all his cuddling, kicking, and whatever else!
So when Roo agreed to finally have his own bed, and sleep in his own bed, you bet I rejoiced! Suddenly there was light at the end of the tunnel for me. I might just get to re-experience what it's like to sleep soundly again. To be able to sleep through the night without a tiny hand tugging at my pajamas, or fumbling for my arms. Or be awakened by a kick in the face as the little creature beside me changes position as he revels in his dreams.
Nah-uh. Why?
Because...when my exhausted little Roo finally got sleepy, he asked his daddy to cuddle with him instead! That's when the sensitive, sentimental part of the mommy gave in. Suddenly, I had this overwhelming sense of sadness. Kind of similar to how I felt when I weaned him and stopped breastfeeding. Oh I wasn't prepared to be un-needed like that! I think when God created me the mommy, he inserted that emotional liking to being needed as part of my mommy survival kit. And now, my baby who started out as a blob physically attached to me, who used to be so helpless without me, suddenly could exist without me! It's like my heart went for a walk, and I'm not sure if it's ever coming back! Whoah! Now I have an idea how I'd feel when my son leaves home for college! I'm going to an emotional wreck! Help!
Sigh. One step at a time, dear. Got to get myself ready for the first day of school first. Oh wait, sorry. Got to get myself used to him sleeping in his own bed first. Almost forgot about that. You see, he woke up in the middle of the night, and found his way back in my arms. Who talked about losing so much sleep? Nah, not me. Not anymore! Call me sentimental. Call me a freak. But I'm a mommy. I'd gladly lose more sleep for now, just so I can have a few more nights to cuddle. Because for all I know, when the moment's gone, it's gone. When he discovers nights without sleeping beside mommy not that bad after all, I might never be able to coax him to come back and tug at me. Even for just one more cuddle.
So when Roo agreed to finally have his own bed, and sleep in his own bed, you bet I rejoiced! Suddenly there was light at the end of the tunnel for me. I might just get to re-experience what it's like to sleep soundly again. To be able to sleep through the night without a tiny hand tugging at my pajamas, or fumbling for my arms. Or be awakened by a kick in the face as the little creature beside me changes position as he revels in his dreams.
Nah-uh. Why?
Because...when my exhausted little Roo finally got sleepy, he asked his daddy to cuddle with him instead! That's when the sensitive, sentimental part of the mommy gave in. Suddenly, I had this overwhelming sense of sadness. Kind of similar to how I felt when I weaned him and stopped breastfeeding. Oh I wasn't prepared to be un-needed like that! I think when God created me the mommy, he inserted that emotional liking to being needed as part of my mommy survival kit. And now, my baby who started out as a blob physically attached to me, who used to be so helpless without me, suddenly could exist without me! It's like my heart went for a walk, and I'm not sure if it's ever coming back! Whoah! Now I have an idea how I'd feel when my son leaves home for college! I'm going to an emotional wreck! Help!
Sigh. One step at a time, dear. Got to get myself ready for the first day of school first. Oh wait, sorry. Got to get myself used to him sleeping in his own bed first. Almost forgot about that. You see, he woke up in the middle of the night, and found his way back in my arms. Who talked about losing so much sleep? Nah, not me. Not anymore! Call me sentimental. Call me a freak. But I'm a mommy. I'd gladly lose more sleep for now, just so I can have a few more nights to cuddle. Because for all I know, when the moment's gone, it's gone. When he discovers nights without sleeping beside mommy not that bad after all, I might never be able to coax him to come back and tug at me. Even for just one more cuddle.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
With the Dolphins
We made it to the Dolphin Lagoon ten minutes before the show was scheduled to begin. The tickets cost $22.90/person, and includes admission to the Underwater World. The lagoon was quiet, although most of the front seats were already occupied. We walked over to the last few remaining front seats towards the left side of the shaded area, and got all settled in.
Bubbling with excitement, Roo could hardly wait to see the dolphins. Mommy, when will the dolphins come? This he asked every two seconds. In between, he fired question after question about dolphins, where they'll be swimming from, what they eat, etc, etc. Pretty soon, the loudspeaker blared with music. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, the show will begin in five minutes!
The dolphins were introduced and the show host provided a narrative of information about them. The audience was also informed of ways they can help preserve the environment to help save the lives of the dolphins. Throughout the show, the dolphins performed and regaled the audience with their natural behaviours, i.e. singing, jumping out of the water, tail-flapping, showing how fast they can swim, etc. Although I've seen dolphin shows where the dolphins did more tricks, there was something about the Sentosa version that was charming and endearing in its way. Perhaps it had to do with the more natural environment where the dolphins were located, and also because of the way Sentosa made me more aware of what I can do to lengthen and preserve the lives of these mammals.
Right from the start, Roo kept asking if he could ride them dolphins. He wanted so badly to get near them. So when the host announced that you can get a chance to touch the dolphins for $15/two people, my little boy lost no time in coaxing me to go buy him that opportunity. We joined the crowd at one side of the lagoon, and waited for our turn to touch Splash, the pink dolphin.
There were a few rules to abide by: Disinfect your hands with the bacterial sanitizer. Don't hang your shades or hat, wear them. Don't get too close to the dolphin. Pat or touch only the designated part of the dolphin, don't touch the head.
It was too short a visit with Splash, but I think Roo and I will always remember that moment! Splash stayed very still as we patted his back, and he bopped his head in and out of the water the whole time. It was an exhilarating experience to get that close to an animal that I've always been fascinated with! That was a very special time for me and with my little boy!
Bubbling with excitement, Roo could hardly wait to see the dolphins. Mommy, when will the dolphins come? This he asked every two seconds. In between, he fired question after question about dolphins, where they'll be swimming from, what they eat, etc, etc. Pretty soon, the loudspeaker blared with music. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, the show will begin in five minutes!
The dolphins were introduced and the show host provided a narrative of information about them. The audience was also informed of ways they can help preserve the environment to help save the lives of the dolphins. Throughout the show, the dolphins performed and regaled the audience with their natural behaviours, i.e. singing, jumping out of the water, tail-flapping, showing how fast they can swim, etc. Although I've seen dolphin shows where the dolphins did more tricks, there was something about the Sentosa version that was charming and endearing in its way. Perhaps it had to do with the more natural environment where the dolphins were located, and also because of the way Sentosa made me more aware of what I can do to lengthen and preserve the lives of these mammals.
Right from the start, Roo kept asking if he could ride them dolphins. He wanted so badly to get near them. So when the host announced that you can get a chance to touch the dolphins for $15/two people, my little boy lost no time in coaxing me to go buy him that opportunity. We joined the crowd at one side of the lagoon, and waited for our turn to touch Splash, the pink dolphin.
There were a few rules to abide by: Disinfect your hands with the bacterial sanitizer. Don't hang your shades or hat, wear them. Don't get too close to the dolphin. Pat or touch only the designated part of the dolphin, don't touch the head.
It was too short a visit with Splash, but I think Roo and I will always remember that moment! Splash stayed very still as we patted his back, and he bopped his head in and out of the water the whole time. It was an exhilarating experience to get that close to an animal that I've always been fascinated with! That was a very special time for me and with my little boy!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Day Two
Bright and early the next morning, we trooped down to the breakfast hall to fuel up. A waiter greeted us and asked us what we would like to eat: bacon or chicken sausages? And how do you want your eggs?
At the buffet table, they had some fried rice, salad, and a variety of fresh fruits. Bread, healthy and otherwise, were laid out next to the toaster. Cold and hot drinks were available at the self-service station. This, was to be our fare for the next five days. Every single day of our stay. No change of menu. In Thai, they'd say, same-same.
At the Imbiah Station, Sentosa monorail staff called out a hearty hello as we approached the platform. When the train arrived, they waved hellos to the passengers, and assisted in the getting on and off the train. We got off at the Beach Station and waited for the beach tram that would take us to the dolphin lagoon. While waiting, I bought tickets for the Songs of the Sea show, which Roo insisted we watch that very evening. Ten Sg dollars each. Rain or shine, the show will go on, I was informed.
At the buffet table, they had some fried rice, salad, and a variety of fresh fruits. Bread, healthy and otherwise, were laid out next to the toaster. Cold and hot drinks were available at the self-service station. This, was to be our fare for the next five days. Every single day of our stay. No change of menu. In Thai, they'd say, same-same.
At the Imbiah Station, Sentosa monorail staff called out a hearty hello as we approached the platform. When the train arrived, they waved hellos to the passengers, and assisted in the getting on and off the train. We got off at the Beach Station and waited for the beach tram that would take us to the dolphin lagoon. While waiting, I bought tickets for the Songs of the Sea show, which Roo insisted we watch that very evening. Ten Sg dollars each. Rain or shine, the show will go on, I was informed.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Still on Day One.
I've always loved the drive to and from Changi Airport. Towering trees spreading their branches out line the highways, and everything just looks so green! The taxi ride was pleasant--especially that we chanced upon a Maxicab instead of the usual old and vintage Singapore taxis. While the daddy photographer clicked photos away, Roo and I settled in to enjoy the scenery.
It wasn't long before we reached the gate to Sentosa. Here we were greeted by a whole harbourfront of construction works. Uh-oh. This is what the hotel reviews were talking about. We soon found out that this massive work under construction is to become Resort World come 2010. Singapore is going to become a casino haven.
And the taxi stopped right behind all that action. Just like how they described it on their website, yup, Treasure Resort Sentosa is in the middle of it all. The Merlion stands tall right across the hotel and the monorail's Imbiah Station was but a stone's throw away from us. One hotel staff came to assist us with our baggage. And she stepped right behind the counter after she was done with our bags--yes, she was the receptionist too. Talk about cutting costs!
The room was small--tiny in fact, compared to all the other hotel rooms we've stayed at. But it was clean. Very clean, I should say, if you take into account all the construction going on beside and behind the hotel. And because Roo and I are so used to all the renovation and remodeling sounds that occur everyday in our condominium, the construction sounds from outside the hotel building was tolerable--our systems just automatically tuned them out because they sounded so much like home. He he he.
After a longish snooze, we ventured out--rode the monorail to the Beach Station to find food. The hotel gave us free passes to the island's trams, buses, and monorail. We discovered Palawan beach, and the food court there. The beach looked like any other beach, but for some reason, it didn't feel like a beach. Up to this day, I still can't point my finger on it, why that beach didn't hold any attraction for me. At all.
It wasn't long before we reached the gate to Sentosa. Here we were greeted by a whole harbourfront of construction works. Uh-oh. This is what the hotel reviews were talking about. We soon found out that this massive work under construction is to become Resort World come 2010. Singapore is going to become a casino haven.
And the taxi stopped right behind all that action. Just like how they described it on their website, yup, Treasure Resort Sentosa is in the middle of it all. The Merlion stands tall right across the hotel and the monorail's Imbiah Station was but a stone's throw away from us. One hotel staff came to assist us with our baggage. And she stepped right behind the counter after she was done with our bags--yes, she was the receptionist too. Talk about cutting costs!
The room was small--tiny in fact, compared to all the other hotel rooms we've stayed at. But it was clean. Very clean, I should say, if you take into account all the construction going on beside and behind the hotel. And because Roo and I are so used to all the renovation and remodeling sounds that occur everyday in our condominium, the construction sounds from outside the hotel building was tolerable--our systems just automatically tuned them out because they sounded so much like home. He he he.
After a longish snooze, we ventured out--rode the monorail to the Beach Station to find food. The hotel gave us free passes to the island's trams, buses, and monorail. We discovered Palawan beach, and the food court there. The beach looked like any other beach, but for some reason, it didn't feel like a beach. Up to this day, I still can't point my finger on it, why that beach didn't hold any attraction for me. At all.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Day 1 - Arrival
My heart raced with the familiar jitters as we lined up at the immigration . There's just something about the "immigration" that unsettles me. Having to face the immigration officer in Singapore made it even worse. The first time I came here about eight or nine years ago, I experienced first hand the racial discrimination in this country. The officer took one glance at my passport then asked me how much money I had on me. Demanded that I produce evidence to show her that I had enough funds to finance my visit. Then she asked me how long I planned to stay, and when I answered, "Three days," she stamped a 3-day visa on my passport. Not exactly a friendly welcome to their country.
This time around, there was no interrogation. The officer was still the unsmiling kind, but she didn't ask any questions. Just quietly stamped our passports then handed them to us without saying a single word. Heaving a sigh of relief, we marched on to the baggage claim and waited for our luggage. We didn't have to wait long.
As we walked out to find the taxi stand, we noticed right away how quiet the airport was compared to Suvarnaphumi. It had the feel of a small-town airport, kind of like how it was in Bali, but with much more modern facilities. I exchanged smiles with MY man. Again, this was exactly how we wanted our vacation to be: quiet and restful. God is sure spoiling us--He knows exactly what we need and when we need it. I just love the way He surprises us! Not our first time in Singapore, but it sure felt like it :D
This time around, there was no interrogation. The officer was still the unsmiling kind, but she didn't ask any questions. Just quietly stamped our passports then handed them to us without saying a single word. Heaving a sigh of relief, we marched on to the baggage claim and waited for our luggage. We didn't have to wait long.
As we walked out to find the taxi stand, we noticed right away how quiet the airport was compared to Suvarnaphumi. It had the feel of a small-town airport, kind of like how it was in Bali, but with much more modern facilities. I exchanged smiles with MY man. Again, this was exactly how we wanted our vacation to be: quiet and restful. God is sure spoiling us--He knows exactly what we need and when we need it. I just love the way He surprises us! Not our first time in Singapore, but it sure felt like it :D
Monday, April 20, 2009
Is the Best!
Roo received VIP treatment on the plane. He got to board the plane first. Along with first-class and business class passengers. Then he had a special welcome onboard. The stewardess walked up to his seat, said hello and asked him his name. After the hearty greeting came the treat: game boards!
His food was served right after the plane took off. Which was timely because he was starving! His food tray was loaded with all kinds of treat too! Besides the yummy pasta and fresh bun, there was a special kiddy fruit juice, chocolate and candy bars (which the mommy discreetly packed away in her bag), and scrumptious dessert (chocolate cake which mommy and daddy shared :D) Plus ice cream!!!
On top of all these, he had his own in-flight entertainment. He had a hard time choosing what to watch. Thomas the Train or Happy Feet? The plane ride from Singapore was too short for both.
So I'm not surprised that when asked which airlines he likes best now, he immediately quipped, "Singapore Airlines!"
His food was served right after the plane took off. Which was timely because he was starving! His food tray was loaded with all kinds of treat too! Besides the yummy pasta and fresh bun, there was a special kiddy fruit juice, chocolate and candy bars (which the mommy discreetly packed away in her bag), and scrumptious dessert (chocolate cake which mommy and daddy shared :D) Plus ice cream!!!
On top of all these, he had his own in-flight entertainment. He had a hard time choosing what to watch. Thomas the Train or Happy Feet? The plane ride from Singapore was too short for both.
So I'm not surprised that when asked which airlines he likes best now, he immediately quipped, "Singapore Airlines!"
Friday, April 10, 2009
Almost Home
Six days away from the hustle and bustle of city life was bliss. And torture. The part of it without internet access was torture. Had so many stories to tell but internet at the hotel was so expensive that it totally blocked me off the writing mode.
We're at Changi Airport now...waiting for the gate to open. Quiet here. One nice thing about Singapore, you can hear yourself think. Sentosa Island, where we stayed, is going through a lot of construction right now but compared to Bangkok, it was still serene. I praise God for the wonderful way He orchestrated our Sentosa trip! As always, His providence saw us through the planning of the whole trip. We had exactly the vacation we needed!
'Twas the best of times...happy memories stored in our family bank, we can hardly wait to get home!
We're at Changi Airport now...waiting for the gate to open. Quiet here. One nice thing about Singapore, you can hear yourself think. Sentosa Island, where we stayed, is going through a lot of construction right now but compared to Bangkok, it was still serene. I praise God for the wonderful way He orchestrated our Sentosa trip! As always, His providence saw us through the planning of the whole trip. We had exactly the vacation we needed!
'Twas the best of times...happy memories stored in our family bank, we can hardly wait to get home!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Sentosa Escapade
In an hour's time, our troop of three are heading to the airport. We are taking our Songkran holiday a week early, and we will be in Sentosa till Friday. Cross fingers I get to blog while there...if not, stories when we get back.
Have a good week everyone!
Have a good week everyone!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Disney on Ice
Every year since they started coming to Bangkok about ten years ago, I've never missed going to their shows. That is, until I gave birth to my baby. The ice skaters fascinate me, and the Disney part of it excites the child in me. I haven't gone for the past four years so I'm happy they're back in town! My boy is finally old enough to go! He is beside himself with excitement, and we're counting the hours.
We're watching Disney on Ice tonight!
We're watching Disney on Ice tonight!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Run for It!
My heart skipped a beat when I saw him. We had just made the turn at the Pratunam-Rajadamri intersection when this traffic policeman standing in the middle of the road, waved his flashlight up and down, pointing at us. What did we do wrong this time? You never know what it is the policeman is stopping you for. It could be that you changed lanes when you were not supposed to, or turned when you were supposed to wait for the green light. You really have to diligently read the traffic signs, which are in Thai by the way, or else you're in trouble. These policemen station themselves at places where motorists are likely to violate the rules. Most often, they hide behind the shadows, or they magically appear right when you make the illegal turn, ready to issue their tickets. If you don't want the trouble of having to claim your license from the police station, they accept one-hundred baht dole-outs.
As we drove past the police officer, I realized he was flagging the car behind us instead. I breathed a sigh of relief and looked back to check out who got unlucky. This gold CRV behind us kept driving on in spite of the policeman's signal to stop. The person on the passenger seat ducked as the policeman continued flashing his light at them to stop. The driver ignored the officer and tried to maneuver his way through the traffic instead. What does he think he's doing? I chuckled out loud to MY man. I watched the policeman stomp to his motorcycle in anger. How does he think he can get away with it? Did he forget he's driving in Bangkok traffic?
The CRV driver gathered speed and overtook us. Up ahead we saw him signal to turn right, then he weaved in and out through the traffic. Haha! Where does he think he can escape to? We were nearing an intersection and as fate would have him, the light turned red before he could cross it. A few seconds later, the policeman in his motorcycle zoomed past us.
He eventually had to follow the policeman. When we caught up with them, I saw the policeman furiously writing away the ticket. Double jeopardy for the violator.
What we would sometimes do to get away from our wrongdoings! But like we all know, whatever we do has consequences. No matter how far or wherever we run to to escape, the Bible states that our sins will still find us out. In the end, it will still catch up with us. So why run?
As we drove past the police officer, I realized he was flagging the car behind us instead. I breathed a sigh of relief and looked back to check out who got unlucky. This gold CRV behind us kept driving on in spite of the policeman's signal to stop. The person on the passenger seat ducked as the policeman continued flashing his light at them to stop. The driver ignored the officer and tried to maneuver his way through the traffic instead. What does he think he's doing? I chuckled out loud to MY man. I watched the policeman stomp to his motorcycle in anger. How does he think he can get away with it? Did he forget he's driving in Bangkok traffic?
The CRV driver gathered speed and overtook us. Up ahead we saw him signal to turn right, then he weaved in and out through the traffic. Haha! Where does he think he can escape to? We were nearing an intersection and as fate would have him, the light turned red before he could cross it. A few seconds later, the policeman in his motorcycle zoomed past us.
He eventually had to follow the policeman. When we caught up with them, I saw the policeman furiously writing away the ticket. Double jeopardy for the violator.
What we would sometimes do to get away from our wrongdoings! But like we all know, whatever we do has consequences. No matter how far or wherever we run to to escape, the Bible states that our sins will still find us out. In the end, it will still catch up with us. So why run?
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Then Sings My Soul Saturdays - As the Deer Panteth...
One of my old-time favorites, this song tugs at my heartstrings. Too often I get caught up with the mundane things of life. I forget I'm empty without Him. I forget I get thirsty when I don't drink of the Living Water that He offers freely. My soul longs for Him. My heart desires Him. I want to worship You my God!
Check out Amy's blog for more TSMSS songs.
The Love of a Child
In this post, I shared how my dad's love for me sheltered me from any want, or need, of another boy's love. Here, I related how MY man broke through all the walls, and barriers, I've built around myself, to fight for his love for me. Now, if these two men in my life came any later, my guess is, they would have had to contend with my latest beau, if they hope to capture even just a tiny piece of my heart.
For this strong and mighty contender has stolen my heart. He offers a love bigger than what his tiny heart can hold. Before I met him, I thought I knew the kind of love that can satisfy my heart. Nah-uh. I didn't know what I was missing. I had no idea that a little being can love me with no bounds. I just love how he constantly needs cuddles and hugs. And he knows exactly how to communicate that need to me. Even in the middle of play, he runs up to me and gives me a hug, or showers me with kisses, telling me he loves me. When he's tired, he'd come up to me and say, Mommy, I need to cuddle. Nothing can compare to that feeling of being needed. Gives me a clear picture of my purpose. Reminds me why I'm doing what I'm doing.
I know this stage won't last forever. I know his love will grow and mature to an even stronger and steadfast love for his mother but his expression of it will change. So for now, I am savoring the sticky kisses. Cherishing the spontaneous hugs. Such bliss! Basking in the clinging, tenacious love of a child.
Which reminds me, my love to my Heavenly Parent should be just as unyielding. I should also learn to communicate my need of His presence in my life. I think He loves 'cuddles' and 'hugs' even more than I do. As a child of God, I should let Him know how much He means to me too!
Lord Jesus, I do love you!
For this strong and mighty contender has stolen my heart. He offers a love bigger than what his tiny heart can hold. Before I met him, I thought I knew the kind of love that can satisfy my heart. Nah-uh. I didn't know what I was missing. I had no idea that a little being can love me with no bounds. I just love how he constantly needs cuddles and hugs. And he knows exactly how to communicate that need to me. Even in the middle of play, he runs up to me and gives me a hug, or showers me with kisses, telling me he loves me. When he's tired, he'd come up to me and say, Mommy, I need to cuddle. Nothing can compare to that feeling of being needed. Gives me a clear picture of my purpose. Reminds me why I'm doing what I'm doing.
I know this stage won't last forever. I know his love will grow and mature to an even stronger and steadfast love for his mother but his expression of it will change. So for now, I am savoring the sticky kisses. Cherishing the spontaneous hugs. Such bliss! Basking in the clinging, tenacious love of a child.
Which reminds me, my love to my Heavenly Parent should be just as unyielding. I should also learn to communicate my need of His presence in my life. I think He loves 'cuddles' and 'hugs' even more than I do. As a child of God, I should let Him know how much He means to me too!
Lord Jesus, I do love you!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Then Sings My Soul Saturday - Let's Sing a Happy Song
This past week I've been thinking a lot about my mom again. I miss her. So badly! Sometimes I wish I can just pray, and I will pray as hard as I could, for just one more moment with her. One more chat, one more hug.
But no, it just can't be. She's gone. The only thing I can do is ask God to comfort my sad heart. And He does. He fills my heart with songs that brushes away the sadness that envelops my soul at such times. One song my little boy and I like singing is this song, "Let's Sing a Happy Song!" Makes me smile in spite of my longing for my mother.
Visit Amy's blog for more songs that can brighten your day and bring you closer to God.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Pain of Losing One's Pet
Early Wednesday morning, I was comfortably perched in front of the PC, checking my emails when my lil boy came running to me, blubbering something. Half-listening because I was immersed in an article, I brushed him off mumbling that I'll play with him in a little while. He left me alone but a few seconds later, I heard him calling again, this time I noted an urgency in his voice that I couldn't ignore. I hurried to where he was, and found him banging on the aquarium wall, telling the fish not to go too close to the filter. Two of his pet fish, one gold fish and one golden carp were stuck on the wall of the filter. As this has happened before, I too rapped on the aquarium wall, encouraging the fish to move away from the filter. Alas, they stayed right where they were. Motionless. Lifeless.
With a heavy heart, I told Roo the fish were dead. Tears brimmed in his eyes as he looked at me sadly. We called his daddy on the phone to relate the news, and before I could even finish talking, Roo burst out crying. Poor boy. I know exactly how he feels. Brought me back to one morning almost four years ago...
May 5, 2005. I still remember the date. I still remember the day. It was a Friday morning. I had spent the night alone at home. MY man came home from his night duty, around six-thirty-five a.m. I heard the front door click but knowing it was him, I dozed back to sleep. A few minutes later, he rushed into the bedroom and without thinking blurted out his news, "Meemoe is dead!"
Still heavy with sleep, I sat up. Did I hear him right? Meemoe? My fish? Dead?
Tears started streaming down my face and before I knew it, I was crying. Cried so hard I got hysterical. Why? What did you do? Why did he die??!
Turned out that on his way to the hospital the night before, he had poured in too much food into the aquarium. My fish must have eaten too much and died from...what do you call that, gluttony? That was one of the saddest days of my life.
The first fish I've ever gotten attached to. Got him when MY man and I were still dating. We had spent the afternoon at the park and on the way home we saw this fish shop and decided to stop. We bought a tiny janitor fish, about an inch long, thinking he'd be good for my aquarium. Never really imagined he'd do me some good too!
Over the years he spent with me when I was still single, I'd come home after a long and tiring day at work, he was the only fish who welcomed me home. He was a character, that Meemoe! As in when I walk into the room, he'd swim towards me and keep wagging his tail (do fish wag their tails? ;P) in greeting. I often talked to him, especially when I was stressed out, or I had problems, and he'd just stay there at my corner, swimming in place. Listening. When he wanted to play, he'd follow my finger around the aquarium wall. He could do that for quite some time before getting distracted and swimming away. He was the only fish I've seen who can swim upside down! When he ate, he'd glide through the water, gobble up the food, upside down! And when he's resting, you'd see him swimming in place, head up, tail down, under the driftwood. Reminding me of a sleeping bat. How I miss that fish!
MY man kept him in a bottle of formalin for about two years. I couldn't bear the thought of flushing him down the toilet, nor burying him. And I thought I'd be able to gather up the courage to see him lifeless, but I never did. MY man eventually had to get rid of him, in what way I don't care to know. But getting attached to another fish, I think I never will be. MY man got several more janitors but I never bothered to develop a relationship with them anymore. We still have fish, but for me, they're just fish now. Have my heart guarded.
I could only empathize and hug Roo tight when he cried for his fish.
"Will my fish be in heaven, mommy?"
I hope so, my son. I do hope so.
With a heavy heart, I told Roo the fish were dead. Tears brimmed in his eyes as he looked at me sadly. We called his daddy on the phone to relate the news, and before I could even finish talking, Roo burst out crying. Poor boy. I know exactly how he feels. Brought me back to one morning almost four years ago...
May 5, 2005. I still remember the date. I still remember the day. It was a Friday morning. I had spent the night alone at home. MY man came home from his night duty, around six-thirty-five a.m. I heard the front door click but knowing it was him, I dozed back to sleep. A few minutes later, he rushed into the bedroom and without thinking blurted out his news, "Meemoe is dead!"
Still heavy with sleep, I sat up. Did I hear him right? Meemoe? My fish? Dead?
Tears started streaming down my face and before I knew it, I was crying. Cried so hard I got hysterical. Why? What did you do? Why did he die??!
Turned out that on his way to the hospital the night before, he had poured in too much food into the aquarium. My fish must have eaten too much and died from...what do you call that, gluttony? That was one of the saddest days of my life.
The first fish I've ever gotten attached to. Got him when MY man and I were still dating. We had spent the afternoon at the park and on the way home we saw this fish shop and decided to stop. We bought a tiny janitor fish, about an inch long, thinking he'd be good for my aquarium. Never really imagined he'd do me some good too!
Over the years he spent with me when I was still single, I'd come home after a long and tiring day at work, he was the only fish who welcomed me home. He was a character, that Meemoe! As in when I walk into the room, he'd swim towards me and keep wagging his tail (do fish wag their tails? ;P) in greeting. I often talked to him, especially when I was stressed out, or I had problems, and he'd just stay there at my corner, swimming in place. Listening. When he wanted to play, he'd follow my finger around the aquarium wall. He could do that for quite some time before getting distracted and swimming away. He was the only fish I've seen who can swim upside down! When he ate, he'd glide through the water, gobble up the food, upside down! And when he's resting, you'd see him swimming in place, head up, tail down, under the driftwood. Reminding me of a sleeping bat. How I miss that fish!
MY man kept him in a bottle of formalin for about two years. I couldn't bear the thought of flushing him down the toilet, nor burying him. And I thought I'd be able to gather up the courage to see him lifeless, but I never did. MY man eventually had to get rid of him, in what way I don't care to know. But getting attached to another fish, I think I never will be. MY man got several more janitors but I never bothered to develop a relationship with them anymore. We still have fish, but for me, they're just fish now. Have my heart guarded.
I could only empathize and hug Roo tight when he cried for his fish.
"Will my fish be in heaven, mommy?"
I hope so, my son. I do hope so.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The Island
A tropical paradise. An exotic and beautiful island. Surf the internet or check out the travel section of a bookstore and you will find more enchanting and tempting invites to the island of Bali. I think I first saw a picture of Bali in a ticketing office, and that left me the impression that Bali is all about pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Apparently that is not the real picture. You fly to Bali and expect to see only beautiful beaches, you'll come away disappointed.MY man had his heart set on seeing at least one volcano in Bali. His son who has not yet seen a volcano supported his dad's goal wholeheartedly. The mommy who wanted to relax at the beach, once again outvoted, had to reluctantly concede. We scanned the map for the nearest volcano, and agreed to head to Mt. Batur -- about 87 kilometers away from the hotel.
With the exception of their main city, Denpasar where there are a few modern structures sprouting up, Balinese architecture and ancient-style dwellings still abound in the island. "There are no buildings here in Bali, mommy" Roo noted "only houses." Traffic and road signs are still in their language. You won't have a hard time getting lost because signs are few, and mostly hidden by branches of trees, and are often too close to intersections. And get lost we did! :D
As we left civilization and drove to the countryside, picturesque scenery came into view. MY man on the wheels of the Avanza we rented excitedly exclaimed, "Now this is the real Bali!" His son seated beside me at the back, stopped sucking his thumb for a second, and asked, "Why, where's the fake Bali, daddy?!"
Let me share with you a few pictures of the "real" Bali:
The entrance and exit of every town/city in the island is marked by this gate or the split one shown below.
Many different designs of this split-gate structure is found at entrance of temples or towns.
View of the rice terraces...their rice fields are like these even the tiny ones which just have three or four levels
Mt. Batur --1,717 ft high
Hawkers at the volcano viewpoint
The volcano
Close-up view of the volcanoWednesday, February 18, 2009
Faces of Bali (title borrowed from MY man)
What impressed us most was their culture: it appeared that the Balinese haven't lost their traditions and their identity. And they don't just have their culture, they still live it. Yes, they do wear modern clothes, i.e. pants, skirts, and tee-shirts, but we noticed that the Balinese men, even the younger ones, still wear their sarongs and head cloth (udeng)> The women use traditional clothes of bright-colored long-sleeved lace or silk, and sarong, even when driving their motorbikes! On the way back from the volcano, we encountered a religious procession--we had to slow down and inch past them on the shoulder of the road for they occupied most of the road. These Balinese men and women were dressed in their finest clothes as they walked to their temple. The women were carrying offerings on their heads, while the men played musical instruments which enlivened the procession.
People in Bali are hospitable and friendly. MY man and I discussed these traits at length, in an effort to distinguish Thai friendliness from that of the Balinese, and we came to the conclusion that Thais are still more on business-like friendly. Not the Balinese. They really stop to talk to you, and really appear to be interested in you. MY man said they're genuinely friendly, emphasis on the genuine. You chat with them and you get this sense of belonging, like you are a part of their warm community, and not a stranger. They introduce themselves, shake your hand, and ask you your name in turn. Everywhere you go, the Balinese (with the exception of the hawkers, I have to add) greet you with this amiable smile on their faces as they call out a hearty "Hello!"
The Balinese are also very helpful. Even in the rural areas where they could hardly speak a word of English, they try their best to help lost tourists. One even got his motorbike out and drove ahead of us for like two to three kilometers just to lead us to the place we wanted to go. Then on a couple of incidents, we witnessed two motorbike accidents where quick as a flash, pedestrians and onlookers rushed to help the motorists like they were their own family members.
One thing that really stood out in comparison to Bangkok, or Thailand for that matter, was the Balinese' use of helmets. Real ones. It's either the police are very strict about it, or they are really just concerned about their safety. A majority of them use motorcycles, and most of them stay on the motorbike lane. Sure there were a few strays who wove in and out through mainstream traffic, and a handful who instead of wearing helmets, were using their udeng, but for me who comes from a place where people don fake helmets to "comply" with the law, it was quite impressive to see the majority using real helmets! Even the little ones who ride with them have their own helmets, too!
Visiting photographers, I imagine, really have a blast taking pictures of the people of Bali. The Balinese are very comfortable around cameras--when you ask to take their picture, they're only too happy to oblige. MY man didn't know this. The first time he spotted an interesting subject--the man in charge of parking near the volcano viewpoint, he asked me for 1,000 rupiah. He was going to offer the Balinese money in exchange for a few snapshots. Turned out he didn't have to. The guy readily agreed and smiled into the camera.
Here's a picture of him and the rest of the faces of Bali:
Parking attendant at Mt. Batur viewpoint
Close-up view
Religious procession to the temple
Balinese women carrying offerings
Balinese men carrying some stuff we didn't really recognize
Pink must be their favorite color, don't you think?
Never thought of this before, but doesn't this position look so much easier for the child to hold on?
Check out these boys, they even walk around in their helmets
Balinese boys hanging out at the deserted Jimbaran beach
Boys at Jimbaran beach
People in Bali are hospitable and friendly. MY man and I discussed these traits at length, in an effort to distinguish Thai friendliness from that of the Balinese, and we came to the conclusion that Thais are still more on business-like friendly. Not the Balinese. They really stop to talk to you, and really appear to be interested in you. MY man said they're genuinely friendly, emphasis on the genuine. You chat with them and you get this sense of belonging, like you are a part of their warm community, and not a stranger. They introduce themselves, shake your hand, and ask you your name in turn. Everywhere you go, the Balinese (with the exception of the hawkers, I have to add) greet you with this amiable smile on their faces as they call out a hearty "Hello!"
The Balinese are also very helpful. Even in the rural areas where they could hardly speak a word of English, they try their best to help lost tourists. One even got his motorbike out and drove ahead of us for like two to three kilometers just to lead us to the place we wanted to go. Then on a couple of incidents, we witnessed two motorbike accidents where quick as a flash, pedestrians and onlookers rushed to help the motorists like they were their own family members.
One thing that really stood out in comparison to Bangkok, or Thailand for that matter, was the Balinese' use of helmets. Real ones. It's either the police are very strict about it, or they are really just concerned about their safety. A majority of them use motorcycles, and most of them stay on the motorbike lane. Sure there were a few strays who wove in and out through mainstream traffic, and a handful who instead of wearing helmets, were using their udeng, but for me who comes from a place where people don fake helmets to "comply" with the law, it was quite impressive to see the majority using real helmets! Even the little ones who ride with them have their own helmets, too!
Visiting photographers, I imagine, really have a blast taking pictures of the people of Bali. The Balinese are very comfortable around cameras--when you ask to take their picture, they're only too happy to oblige. MY man didn't know this. The first time he spotted an interesting subject--the man in charge of parking near the volcano viewpoint, he asked me for 1,000 rupiah. He was going to offer the Balinese money in exchange for a few snapshots. Turned out he didn't have to. The guy readily agreed and smiled into the camera.
Here's a picture of him and the rest of the faces of Bali:
Parking attendant at Mt. Batur viewpoint
Close-up view
Religious procession to the temple
Balinese women carrying offerings
Balinese men carrying some stuff we didn't really recognize
Pink must be their favorite color, don't you think?
Never thought of this before, but doesn't this position look so much easier for the child to hold on?
Check out these boys, they even walk around in their helmets
Balinese boys hanging out at the deserted Jimbaran beach
Boys at Jimbaran beachOur Pad in Bali
I had the assignment of planning the whole trip, and my search for hotels took more than a week to complete. It wasn't easy looking for a hotel when you didn't know what to expect. MY man texted his friend in Jakarta to ask for advice, and this friend suggested we stay at Kuta Beach, and even got good discounted rates for us at a couple of five-star hotels located at Kuta. "Your first time in Bali," he said, "you've gotta stay at Kuta. Not for the beach, but the culture." Problem was, I've stumbled on one too many negative comments about Kuta. Touristy. Crowded. Dirty.
We want a quiet vacation, and the Nusa Dua area seemed the perfect place for us. At first I hesitated because I did not know how far exactly it was from the airport, and I wasn't sure if I could arrange for airport transfer. Thanks to Kuya D who just came back from Bali. His description of the area narrowed down my search to Nusa Dua hotels. I'm not even going to say I'm just lucky, I believe it was providential, that I stumbled upon a hot deal at Novotel Bali Benoa. Non-refundable, non-cancelable, at $35 less than the normal rate. So Novotel Bali Benoa it is!
Note: The write-up below was written in Bali, 13 February 2009, the night we arrived.
There were only a few greeters at the arrival area. We scanned the signboards that each person was holding up. Couldn’t have missed the hotel representative. He was right there, at the very front of the cordoned area. I couldn’t make out the words, but I knew it was NOVOTEL the moment I saw the familiar blue insignia. He met us at the exit.
“Ms. Eris?” For a second there, I thought MY man had a new name again (I should write a post on that.) But the guy was looking at me. Eris. Yep, that’s me.
With a friendly smile, the driver led the way to the parking lot. He stopped in front on a Toyota Innova and loaded our bags onto the car. “The drive to the hotel," he informed us, "will take about thirty minutes.”
It turned out to be a pleasant drive. “There’s no traffic in Bali, mommy” Roo observed. We had our first glimpse of Balinese architecture on the way. The driver informed us that 90% of the people in Bali are Hindus. No wonder they say that Bali is the only place in Indonesia that serves pork. We were wondering about that because from what we know, Indonesia is a Muslim country.
When we arrived at the hotel, bellboys bowed their greeting and welcomed us courteously. They were all dressed exactly like our driver, in plain beige long-sleeved shirt with chinese collar, and traditional batik sarong that ran all the way to their ankles. Welcome drinks were served at the front desk, and to Roo's delight, Novotel Dolfi Kid's Club had a welcome gift waiting for him! A stuffed reindeer, which he quickly named as Nicky.
The hotel, beautifully designed in traditional Balinese architecture, overlooks Tanjung (Cape) Benoa. We walked to explore the resort and found ourselves in the middle of a lush tropical garden.The atmosphere lent a relaxing and soothing feeling as soft Balinese music played in the air. We trekked to find the beach, passing by a swimming pool with a lifeguard on duty who seemed to have his hands full, but was not too busy to greet us with a smile. We decided to have lunch at their restaurant by the beach, and much to our surprise, the food was very affordable! Vegetarian pizza and a dish set of grilled dory fish with rice and vegetables turned out to be less than $10, inclusive of 21% government tax and service charge. God is good!
Well, God was not finished with His surprises yet. "Your room is not ready yet," the receptionist said, "but we are upgrading your room. You will stay at the tropical terrace room." My smile widened. After all the research I've done on the hotel rooms, I knew quite well that this room is nicer, more spacious, and umm, well, beyond our budget. Isn't that just a wonderful surprise? We paid for a superior room but we got to stay in a tropical terrace room instead!
Here are some pictures of the hotel:
View of entrance to the hotel on the beach side. Taken from the hotel wing across the road.
Balinese flutist playing music at the lobby
Pathway that led to our room: gate opens to a tropical garden
Rain shower beside the gate
Terrace fronting the room
View of the garden from the room
Roo exploring the bathroom
Roo's welcome gift, Nicky the reindeer
Restaurant by the beach where we ate our first Balinese meal
We want a quiet vacation, and the Nusa Dua area seemed the perfect place for us. At first I hesitated because I did not know how far exactly it was from the airport, and I wasn't sure if I could arrange for airport transfer. Thanks to Kuya D who just came back from Bali. His description of the area narrowed down my search to Nusa Dua hotels. I'm not even going to say I'm just lucky, I believe it was providential, that I stumbled upon a hot deal at Novotel Bali Benoa. Non-refundable, non-cancelable, at $35 less than the normal rate. So Novotel Bali Benoa it is!
Note: The write-up below was written in Bali, 13 February 2009, the night we arrived.
There were only a few greeters at the arrival area. We scanned the signboards that each person was holding up. Couldn’t have missed the hotel representative. He was right there, at the very front of the cordoned area. I couldn’t make out the words, but I knew it was NOVOTEL the moment I saw the familiar blue insignia. He met us at the exit.
“Ms. Eris?” For a second there, I thought MY man had a new name again (I should write a post on that.) But the guy was looking at me. Eris. Yep, that’s me.
With a friendly smile, the driver led the way to the parking lot. He stopped in front on a Toyota Innova and loaded our bags onto the car. “The drive to the hotel," he informed us, "will take about thirty minutes.”
It turned out to be a pleasant drive. “There’s no traffic in Bali, mommy” Roo observed. We had our first glimpse of Balinese architecture on the way. The driver informed us that 90% of the people in Bali are Hindus. No wonder they say that Bali is the only place in Indonesia that serves pork. We were wondering about that because from what we know, Indonesia is a Muslim country.
When we arrived at the hotel, bellboys bowed their greeting and welcomed us courteously. They were all dressed exactly like our driver, in plain beige long-sleeved shirt with chinese collar, and traditional batik sarong that ran all the way to their ankles. Welcome drinks were served at the front desk, and to Roo's delight, Novotel Dolfi Kid's Club had a welcome gift waiting for him! A stuffed reindeer, which he quickly named as Nicky.
The hotel, beautifully designed in traditional Balinese architecture, overlooks Tanjung (Cape) Benoa. We walked to explore the resort and found ourselves in the middle of a lush tropical garden.The atmosphere lent a relaxing and soothing feeling as soft Balinese music played in the air. We trekked to find the beach, passing by a swimming pool with a lifeguard on duty who seemed to have his hands full, but was not too busy to greet us with a smile. We decided to have lunch at their restaurant by the beach, and much to our surprise, the food was very affordable! Vegetarian pizza and a dish set of grilled dory fish with rice and vegetables turned out to be less than $10, inclusive of 21% government tax and service charge. God is good!Well, God was not finished with His surprises yet. "Your room is not ready yet," the receptionist said, "but we are upgrading your room. You will stay at the tropical terrace room." My smile widened. After all the research I've done on the hotel rooms, I knew quite well that this room is nicer, more spacious, and umm, well, beyond our budget. Isn't that just a wonderful surprise? We paid for a superior room but we got to stay in a tropical terrace room instead!
Here are some pictures of the hotel:
View of entrance to the hotel on the beach side. Taken from the hotel wing across the road.
Balinese flutist playing music at the lobby
Pathway that led to our room: gate opens to a tropical garden
Rain shower beside the gate
Terrace fronting the room
View of the garden from the room
Roo exploring the bathroom
Every evening, hotel staff came knocking at our door to give us the next day's weather forecast. And these calachuchi (plumeria in English) flowers.
Pathway outside our gate, leading to the gardens, and out to the beach
Pathway outside our gate, leading to the gardens, and out to the beach
Roo's welcome gift, Nicky the reindeer
Restaurant by the beach where we ate our first Balinese mealSaturday, February 14, 2009
Once Upon a Weekend
Sure he checked our bags. The customs officer had politely asked to look into our luggage as I handed him the customs declaration form. Putting the forms down without even glancing at them, he proceeded to scrutinize the contents of our big bag.
“Did you bring milk?” first thing he asked. Daddy E nodded and showed him the can of Pediasure milk we brought for Roo. Still sealed.
The officer smiled and waved us on, “Enjoy your stay!”
I have heard and read about the friendliness of the Balinese but I wasn’t prepared to see it in the many hands that beckoned from currency exchange counters right across the exit from customs. Smiling faces peered from their little cubicles, each of them urging us to have our money exchanged with them. Several of them were holding signs that said, “No Commission.” How do you choose which counter to go? “Same rate, same rate.” One kept repeating. That settled it. I headed to the counter nearest to me.
One hundred dollars please. The lady beamed a smile and quickly counted out some bills, “That will be one million one-hundred-forty thousand rupiah." Ahhh, just what I’ve waited so long to hear. At long last, we ARE millionaires!
About thirty minutes before landing, when the plane started its descent, I braved the glare of the sun and pushed the plane window up. The scenery below sent waves of homesickness all over my being. For a moment there, I imagined myself going home to Roxas. The ocean and the islands below didn’t look any different from the ones I see when we’re about to land in Roxas. The structure and layout of the houses looked so similar I choked back a few tears, realizing once more that when I go home to Roxas, mommy won’t be there anymore.
MY man voiced out the thoughts in my mind when we emerged out of the airport. “My love, it’s like we’re in Roxas!” he said. The smell of sea breeze in the air, the people, the cars at the parking lot, all these reminded us of home. Everything looks so green, so serene, and so laid back, that just like every homecoming I’ve had my entire life, time had come to a standstill once again.
Thank God! Our vacation has begun. I took a deep breath of the cool ocean breeze.
Man, it sure smells like home!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Greetings from the Insomniac
Two-sixteen am. Wish I can say I'm in dreamland. Nah-uh. As usual, my boys are fast asleep. Me, well, I've folded the laundry, finished packing. Now I'm facebooking, blog-hopping, and waiting.
We're off to Bali for the Valentine's weekend. Blame it on the excitement of very cheap air tickets, the flight time didn't sink in until after I've received the confirmed itinerary. We leave at six am so we have to be at the airport by four. That explains my vigil. I can never sleep just before a flight, if that flight is not during the day. Well, I'll have three nights in Bali to catch up on the lost zzzzs.
So, if I can't get online access at the beach, let me greet one and all a Happy Hearts' Day!
We're off to Bali for the Valentine's weekend. Blame it on the excitement of very cheap air tickets, the flight time didn't sink in until after I've received the confirmed itinerary. We leave at six am so we have to be at the airport by four. That explains my vigil. I can never sleep just before a flight, if that flight is not during the day. Well, I'll have three nights in Bali to catch up on the lost zzzzs.
So, if I can't get online access at the beach, let me greet one and all a Happy Hearts' Day!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Pray Without Ceasing
"Pray without ceasing." (1 Thess. 5:17)
I have yet to read my lil Roo this text, but he's already teaching me the meaning of this biblical admonition. One day not too long ago, we were talking about missing Lola, and how wonderful it will be to be with Lola again when Jesus comes. I mentioned that we need to pray for tito J and tito A (my brothers), that the Holy Spirit would work in their hearts, that they would decide to give their hearts to the Lord, that we'd all have a happy reunion with Lola in heaven. Since then, Roo has been praying earnestly for them. Whether he's praying for blessing on his food before eating, or asking for God's protection before we leave the house, Roo does not forget to implore Jesus to work on the hearts of his titos. They're in his prayers in the early morning, and late at night. He ceases not to pray for his beloved titos. Lately, he's even including their girlfriends in his prayers.
Early this morning, I was encouraged by what I heard from one speaker in 3ABN. He was talking about how we should always pray and read the Bible regardless of how we feel. He pointed out that our relationship with the Lord should not be based on our feelings. Our feelings change from day to day, there are days we might not really feel like praying, or opening our Bibles to read, but he stressed that we should do it anyway. Jesus, he said, did not feel like going through the Calvary experience. Three times Jesus prayed, "Let this cup pass from me." He didn't feel like going through it all. But did he shirk from it? No. Because He knew that Calvary was the only way to save us all. And if praying and talking to my Savior, and reading about Him and learning of Him, is the only way to be like Him, then I should do it every single moment, no matter how I feel.
Pray without ceasing.
I have yet to read my lil Roo this text, but he's already teaching me the meaning of this biblical admonition. One day not too long ago, we were talking about missing Lola, and how wonderful it will be to be with Lola again when Jesus comes. I mentioned that we need to pray for tito J and tito A (my brothers), that the Holy Spirit would work in their hearts, that they would decide to give their hearts to the Lord, that we'd all have a happy reunion with Lola in heaven. Since then, Roo has been praying earnestly for them. Whether he's praying for blessing on his food before eating, or asking for God's protection before we leave the house, Roo does not forget to implore Jesus to work on the hearts of his titos. They're in his prayers in the early morning, and late at night. He ceases not to pray for his beloved titos. Lately, he's even including their girlfriends in his prayers.
Early this morning, I was encouraged by what I heard from one speaker in 3ABN. He was talking about how we should always pray and read the Bible regardless of how we feel. He pointed out that our relationship with the Lord should not be based on our feelings. Our feelings change from day to day, there are days we might not really feel like praying, or opening our Bibles to read, but he stressed that we should do it anyway. Jesus, he said, did not feel like going through the Calvary experience. Three times Jesus prayed, "Let this cup pass from me." He didn't feel like going through it all. But did he shirk from it? No. Because He knew that Calvary was the only way to save us all. And if praying and talking to my Savior, and reading about Him and learning of Him, is the only way to be like Him, then I should do it every single moment, no matter how I feel.
Pray without ceasing.
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