Happy Mother's Day to all the moms in the world!

Good morning, my friend!

Don’t you just love watching people from all walks of life during a quiet time at the park? Whether their jogging, walking around, riding a bike or a scooter (I even saw someone on a knee scooter one time), having a nice conversation with someone, hearing kids’ laughter, sharing lives with one another, etc. — isn’t it a wonderful feeling to wake up each morning seeing this proof of life around you?

Waking up each morning is one thing to be grateful for because God gave us another day to celebrate life, to be with our loved ones, to fulfill our purpose, to keep dreaming and keep going despite our circumstances.

Every morning is indeed a blessing…so let’s make it a habit to start our day feeling grateful for all the things that God has blessed us with.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; … Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 ESV

I’ve been drinking this choco float for 3 consecutive days already. Hubby came home with this yummy treat one morning after work, and since then I can’t get it off my mind.

As a matter of fact, it’s all I think about today…

For only 45 pesos, it sure is a yummy alternative to my favorite drink from Starbucks (Choco Java Chip). Talk about instant savings!

There’s Jollibee across from the village where we live and I am feeling a strong urge to go out and buy my 4th choco float this week. But it’s way too hot outside!!!

Should I stay or should I go?

That pretty much gave me a clearer picture of what I didn’t want to be.

On the other hand, I am very grateful for my circle of friends (then & now). Because they respect my decision and never try to influence me . (They know they won’t succeed anyway. Hehe.)

It’s good to know that my mom has recently stopped smoking (when she started having health problems.) I wish my papa would do the same thing before it’s too late. I seriously don’t want to see him puffing some Padron cigars when he reaches age 60-70.

Doing a regular exercise renews my strength, keeps me away from unnecessary stress, and helps me keep up with my kids’ active lifestyle.

It is my goal to stay healthy so I can take care of my kids, homeschool them, and above all, enjoy them. For sure, kids won’t appreciate a mom who’s always impatient, angry and stressed out.

I usually run a minimum of 5K outdoors. I use my hydration belt and Nike Swift running sports bra to avoid back pains. I haven’t tried using any Bauerfeind supports though.

Running together is also my favorite bonding time with my husband.

I asked him what he wanted to be when he grows up. I though he’s gonna answer, “musician”. But to my surprise, he answered. “I want to be a teacher, a doctor, and a cashier at Chic-boy!”

Now where did Chic-boy come from? Hehe.

His uncle used to work as a Restaurant Manager at Chic-boy. My sister worked as a cashier, too.

Oh well…

We often hear them say that their looks are their investment, which I think is fair. I just sincerely hope they don’t only focus on the outward appearance, but on things that will make them beautiful on the inside, too.

“The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7

Like all fine machinery, my marriage (and everyone else’s, for that matter) needs to be strengthened from time to time. Raising kids, paying bills, and living a hectic day-to-day life can put a lot of strain on marital bonds. So here are some ways to keep the fire burning:

• Create a Daily Ritual: Routine can be one of the most stabilizing things for any relationship. Oftentimes, we feel disconnected from our spouse when we don’t have the ability to spend chunks of uninterrupted time together. Small rituals can be a way to regain your balance and reconnect, even for a moment. Your ritual can be anything: a kiss goodbye in the morning, a hug after work, or a quick walk after dinner. The important thing is that you both acknowledge it and make it a priority everyday. I learned this trick from a favorite Christian counselor. Become a Counselor has more information on the work of counselors, if you’re interested in this career path or seeking counseling. 
• Seek Out Married Friends: Marriage is a long and tough road. But, you’re not at it alone. Make an effort to spend time with other married couples in your life whom you get along with. Whether it’s just a quick bite to eat or seeing a movie together, it can be restorative to see other couples who are dedicated to each other and their relationship.
• Embark on Something Together: One way to bond quickly is to try to work towards a goal together. Two years ago, my husband and I committed to running together and living a healthy lifestyle for our children. Whether it’s a lifestyle change or learning a new skill, trying something new together can really make you see what an ally you have in your spouse.
• Go on a Retreat: Sometimes you just have to get away from it all and really reconnect with no distractions. A Christian retreat or weekend counseling session can supercharge your commitment to each other. For more information on family therapy degrees and counseling techniques, check out Guide to Online Schools.

Sources

USU (2009)

BYU (2012)

If you’re like me who’s too lazy to go to anywhere just to pay bills, then the best option for you is to pay electronically. It’s fast, reliable and hassle-free! Trust me, I have been paying our post-paid cell phone lines, phone and internet bills for a few years now and I’d like to do it this way forever. It’s the most convenient thing in the world.

Know more about electronic payment at ThePaymentsAuthority.org.

Thank you Jesus!

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. – Isaiah 53:5,6