Palawan Republik

ㅠㅠ

2011-12-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

I want to fly as far away from my self. To vent all the frustrations and learn to rely on myself. I am tired. So tired.

:D

2011-10-29T03:47:00.000-07:00

I am hoping for greater things.

ㅎ ㅎ

2011-10-18T04:12:00.000-07:00

I got down on my knees to take these shots. There is a minature world when you are bowed down. Everything looks and feels different.

O O O O

2011-10-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

My plant is sweating! I don't know if it's due to the cold autumn weather, but yeah! it's "bleeding" with resin. :)

Photography

2011-10-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Ah, autumn. Sigh!

Autumn Ready!

2011-10-11T03:45:00.000-07:00

Yeah, ready. Ready for longer sleep times, warm food, hot chocolates, pies and layered clothes. :) I am off to New York. Do pray for me. I have 2 Interviews, so far. Internal Medicine:) Amen!

Autumn Leaves

2011-10-07T06:25:00.000-07:00

It is so beautiful to see the leaves turning old and then fall. I think they are happy.

Lazy Days:)

2011-09-30T02:36:00.000-07:00

I have a reason to be lazy- autumn:) LOL. How are you, my blogger friends? I hope you are enjoying this wonderful season.

All the best,
Z Joya

Webs and Colors

2011-09-23T02:33:00.000-07:00

Miracles happen everyday. Every second of each breath we take is like a thousand miracles bursting from the unfathomable gist of the human soul. I hope to see the source of it all. To be transparent and merge with the original creation and thus, comprehend. Comprehend without comprehending at all. Behold the beauty that God has stored within us from the time He gathered dust and moulded it to human form. A masterpiece. The highest form of beauty, His image, carved inside our fragility. I have been blind since birth. I want to see, LORD. Thank You.

Rainy

2011-09-17T03:53:00.000-07:00

The rain is here to herald the change of season. I am excited to say the least :)

After the Rain

2011-09-11T03:58:00.000-07:00

Rainy days :) Autumn is finally here.

Autumn

2011-09-09T02:23:00.000-07:00

Oh, Yeah!

2011-09-04T01:14:00.000-07:00

Back.

2011-08-21T00:08:00.000-07:00

Hello. How are you? I am back. I finished and passed my US medical boards. Certified MD, yay! But the battle's starting by September 1st. Will search for programs and apply there for my specialty training. Continue to pray for me, my friends.

Summer Fun- Not! :)

2011-06-16T05:41:00.000-07:00

Hello, my good friends. I am spreading summer love. I hope you are all okay. God bless! Z Joya

Haloooooooo!!!

2011-06-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

Quick post. Two weeks before the test. Take care, my friends:) God bless us all. Please pray for me. Thank you!!! I am swinging!!!

Tea Shop

2011-06-02T05:38:00.000-07:00

I bought three wind chimes:)

I was lucky enough to visit this small but very cozy tea shop. Personally, I prefer Puer tea, but it was like $10 dollars per cup so I settled with the cheapest one- green tea. :) Posted here are some of the things I saw. There were wild lilacs inside and the wood panels were just to my taste. Someday I'll have my own coffee shop.

Nobody

2011-05-30T23:19:00.000-07:00

You are like nobody since I love you. -Pablo Neruda

Hola! How are you? I just got back from two days of climbing. Quite an experience:) My body is sore all over, but I'm feeling much better after the pain meds. The test is in 3 weeks. Waah! Back to the books. Pray for me. Thank you! God bless!

P.S: Am I the only one who haven't heard Nujabes? I feel really bad. Such awesome genre- hip-hop jazz.

Imaginary Folklore

2011-05-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

Skywatch Friday

Doors

2011-05-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

I visited Buddhist temples last Saturday and took about a thousand pictures. There are so many things to tell and photos to post, but I am starting with the doors series. I hope I can have more time to blog, though. Less than 4 weeks before my Step 3. Abandon. That is the word for today.

This being human is a guest house. Every morning is a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor...Welcome and entertain them all. Treat each guest honorably. The dark thought, the shame, the malice, meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in. Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond. -Rumi

Flu

2011-05-17T05:29:00.000-07:00

Plastered by flu. I am okay, though. How have you been?

That which God said to the rose, and caused it to laugh in full-blown beauty, He said to my heart, and made it a hundred times more beautiful. -RUMI

All That I Am

2011-05-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

Happy mother's day everyone. This is a late post for the occasion but I cannot thank my mother enough. Salamat, Mama!
All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.
Abraham Lincoln

Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments. - Habakkuk 3: 17-19

Green

2011-05-04T23:54:00.000-07:00

What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Do Not Forget

2011-04-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

I was young when my father taught me and my brothers boxing. He said that we should always watch the shoulders of our opponent to predict the moves he's going to make. My father said that when hitting, we should give it our best shot and don't hold back. I never learned it. It was in high school when I got into a brawl and ended up being summoned by the police. But I didn't use my fist back then. At this point in my life, I know that I have missed a lot of things because I held on to my fears. I choked time and again. What am I so scared of? Where's the lust for life? The sweet rashness? I am getting old. Waahahahahaha! I just finished watching SAmurai Champloo. Maybe that's the reason why this thought got in to my head. Have a wonderful week everyone.

Pry-O-Rities

2011-04-29T01:37:00.000-07:00

My foster father, an ex-Marine, came over to see my place today. He was not pleased with all the clutter. So, after three years of putting it off, I finally cleaned my "apartment". It's a small room with Japanese door panels, a separate kitchen and a bathroom. Two hours. The rush that it brought made me realize that I have been a slob. I reflected this on my life. I have lived a routine of sitting, working, eating and taking things easy. Now I don't wonder why I have this downs and boredom. All I needed is a kind of "jumpstart", a form of supervision and guidance to straighten me up. A close friend of mine will be a breast cancer surgeon in a few weeks time. Her path is nothing special. It was pure grit and determination. That unyielding focus to her goals and living it out beyond the excuses, which I am so familiar with now, challenges me. I hope I can use all the energy to carry me through this year's battle. I got lots in my mind, but I'll write them when things fall into place. Pray for me.

SKIES

Catch The Sun

2011-04-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

I can use some Sun with all these rain. But, it seems that the world is covered in all sorts of green- lime, dark green. God is awesome. Who can ever mix all the hues to produce such delight to the human eyes. I am breathing all of spring's spirit.

Mighty To Save

2011-04-23T23:41:00.000-07:00

Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?

For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.

Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.

He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
ISAIAH 53:1-12

Good Morning, LORD.

2011-04-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

Psalms 121:1

Here's a song about Psalms 121

Up and Away

2011-04-18T04:39:00.000-07:00

It's raining and I am ten minutes away from my place, tens of miles away from home and a thousand whispers away from my love.

375

2011-04-16T22:11:00.000-07:00

Storm

2011-04-15T02:42:00.000-07:00

There's a storm brewing in my city. The clouds are so dark it looks like it's going to consume everyone who's out. My mind is fighting a storm, too. But I am working it:) Hope you like this song. I did.

SKYWATCH FRIDAY

Stuck

2011-04-13T04:32:00.000-07:00

I am stuck. There are so many things to do but I am confused on how to get over everything. The thought of going on an adventure scares me. Risks. I don't feel like leaving my shell, right now. There's not enough money to fuel my plans. What if's. I can do this. Laban Pa Rin!

M

2011-04-11T04:57:00.000-07:00

Busy day. These magnolias are busy being pretty. Hmmm. Back to work.

I Came, I Saw, I Lost

2011-04-10T04:15:00.000-07:00

I lost my wallet on my way to church today. But then, the message couldn't have been more apt for the occasion, "Where is your security"?. David, the giant killer, lost his job, his wife, his mentor, his bestfriend and his personal dignity before he reached that "success" we all know of. I worry too much. I should have enjoyed that taxi drive and the blossoming Magnolias. Have a good week everyone!

There Will Be Better Days Even For Us

2011-04-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

A street was blocked today in preparation for Buddha's birthday. Most of the people are in for the revelry. But I was away, far away, and oblivious with my grocery bag filled with banana and milk. I would have turned to see them, but I thought that I need to study. I did. Took some time under the Magnolia tree thinking about Buddha and the Lotus. It was all white. Magnolia, the sky, the branches which looked like fingers reaching out to hand the flowers. I was there. I took it all in. Solitude has never been better.

Drown

2011-04-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

I see a pattern in creation, or a part of it, anyways. A system, of living channels, of vessels and a certain kind of fragility. This soft and fragile side makes it even beautiful. I believe that He made everything in the same mould, but took time to make His masterpiece, Man. The images are not enough to show how great God is in what He did and is doing in our life. TGBTG!

SKIES

Rain

2011-04-07T05:56:00.000-07:00

Iris

2011-04-06T00:56:00.000-07:00

I thought of putting some cool quotes here, or some encouraging words. Yet, I'll the music get to your soul. Enjoy!

Mama

2011-04-04T23:06:00.000-07:00

This is for my Mama. I am trying, Mama. God knows I do. When everything has been said and done, I want to be standing and seeing you smile at me.

Proverbs 31:
10 Who can find a virtuous wife?
For her worth is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
13 She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.
15 She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
From her profits she plants a vineyard.
17 She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
18 She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hand holds the spindle.
20 She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
22 She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
25 Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “ Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Here's a clip from Cool Hand Luke.
Arletta: I always hoped to see you well fixed. Have me a crop of grandkids to fuss around with.
Luke: I'd like to oblige you, Arletta, but uh, right off, I just don't know where to put my hands on it.
Arletta: You know, sometimes, I wished people was like dogs, Luke. Comes a time, a day like, when the bitch just don't recognize the pups no more, so she don't have no hopes nor love to give her pain. She just don't give a damn...(She hands him the pack of cigarettes)
Luke: You've done your best, Arletta. What I've done - myself is the only problem.
Arletta: No, no it ain't Luke. You ain't alone. Everywhere you go, I'm with you. John too.
Luke: You never thought maybe that's a heavy load?
Arletta: Aw, why, we, we always thought you was strong enough to carry it. Was we wrong?
Luke: I don't know. There are things just never the way they seem, Arletta. You know that. A man's gotta go his own way.
Arletta: I guess I just gotta, gotta love you and let go, hmm?
Luke: I guess.
Arletta: Well, I ain't askin' what ya gonna do when you get out because I'll be dead and it don't matter.
Luke: You never did want to live forever. I mean, it wasn't such a hell of a life.
Arletta: Oh, I had me, I had me some high old times. Your old man, Luke. He wasn't much good for stickin' around, but dammit, he made me laugh.
Luke: Yeah, I would have liked to have knowed him, the way you talk about him.
Arletta: (after coughing) He'd have broke you up. Luke?...What went wrong?
Luke: Nothin', everything's cool as can be. Arletta, I tried. I mean, to live always free and above board like you. And, I don't know. I just can't seem to find no elbow room.
Arletta: (takes his hand) Oh now, you always had good jobs. And that girl in Kentucky. Oh, I'd taken a shine to her.
Luke: And she sure took off - with that convertible fella.
Arletta: Well, why not? Idea of marryin' got you all, all bollocksed-up. Tryin' to be respectable. You, you was borin' the hell out of all of us. I'm leavin' the place to John.
Luke: That's good. He earned it.
Arletta: Ain't nothin' to do with it. I just, I just never give John the, the kind of, you know, feelin' that I give you, so I'm, I'm gonna pay him back now. Oh, don't feel you have to say anythin'. The way it is, you see, sometimes you just, just have a feelin' for a child...with John, I just didn't.

I Caught A Blue Star:)

2011-04-04T06:28:00.000-07:00

It's funny how close we think we are to our dreams and then the stars we were wishing upon all burned out. Here is one song that keeps me wishing, though. I hope you are all okay. God bless us all!

For Japan

2011-04-03T03:11:00.000-07:00

Sakura

This post is for Japan.

Idle Hands

2011-04-02T00:14:00.000-07:00

Have a beautiful weekend everyone. Enjoy today~

Skywatch Friday

The Flowers Are Coming!!!

2011-03-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

One year post-op and without signs of abdominal adhesions or GIT obstruction, I am so grateful to God. It is the last day of March and I'd like to praise Him for protecting me. About three years ago, on our way to a medical/charity mission, the boat I was in with my parents capsized. I can vividly remember how the boat swayed with the waves. My mother was singing a hymn that time. I don't know how to swim ( an island boy!), but we survived anyway. The stethoscope was filled with seawater and the cellphones rendered non-functional. The best deal that day- new lease on life. My mother doesn't take boats/ships nowadays after that. Talk of posttraumatic stress:0 Yes, March is special.

It is spring here and about a week ago, there was spring snow. It was a miracle to behold. I stood by the windows looking outside while the ground was being painted in fluffy whites. God is an awesome God. I recalled a poem by Charles Bukowski and pondered about how life has treated me. True, I had it bad, but I know that God will sustain me through all these trials. I can say that I am one tough ---- just like that cat of Bukowski.

whatever it is that's confronting us, remember that no one can weather our Rock.

I am still praying for Japan.

The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing [of birds] is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land;
-Song of Solomon 2: 12

No jazz today, but here's Elis Regina- the queen of Bossa Nova. Respect.

Cheers!

2011-03-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

A close kin once told me that all of creation drinks one way or another. The sea drinks the water from the rivers, the barren land taking the refreshing rain, so on and forth. If it's a rationale for drinking, I am convinced. I used to be a hard-drinker back in the days. With time, I mellowed perhaps with my age. Still, I do taste vino every time I feel lonely, or celebrating. My apartment is really small, but spacious enough for me to do burpees (which I rarely do!!) and bang my head when the spirit kicks in. I have no special preference to any beer. I have tried draft beer and I can say that it is good. For the branded ones, I like Corona and Asahi. I want to try the ones from Germany, though. Always been curious with Octoberfest, you know. Whatever it is I'm drinking, I don't go to the point of inebriation. It is enough for me to reach that point of being tipsy and yet sane enough to walk without that characteristic ataxic gait.

Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

-Proverbs 20:1

have a good one today, my friends!

How Can I Show You?

2011-03-23T01:56:00.000-07:00

It is one of those days when I feel really good about things. The world is just beautiful amidst the chaos and the calamities. I have seen the videos of Japan and heard some stories about people struggling with food. It came to me that I should be grateful for all the blessings I have. Anyway, I have been listening to Herb Alpert for days now. Oldies do wonders to me. Each night I play Tim Hardin Trio to help me sleep. Ahh, jazz.

I am off from work. Got tons of smiles from the people I've been with. Cool. I have read that heavy exercise doesn't really help you lose weight. Check NY times today:0

Have a cool day today. I am reading on macro photography during my breaks. Time to study. Thanks!

Wave

2011-03-22T06:02:00.000-07:00

I went out to checka Zen pond/garden. These are the few shots I did with a Tamron regular zoom. The good news is that the fifty was okay. It was the filter which was broken and spared the lens. I was happy to hear that from the AS center. Nothing much going on here. I am working as always and squeezes some study time in between. Still praying for the devastation in Japan. I hope they'd recover soon.

Peace to everyone. Have a great day! Jobim for you all.

MY WORLD

Tattered Sky

2011-03-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

Have a happy weekend:) Enjoy the moon tomorrow night.

Skywatch Friday

A Not-So Simple Love

2011-03-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish that I can just be quiet and say the right words at the right moment. Stripped of all pretentions, I want to be transparent in meaning whatever I utter. Yesterday, I met an old acquiantance who was so excited to see me after a long while.

Hyo-Ri: How are you?

Z: I'm good. You? It's been a year.

Hyo-Ri: Yeah! I miss you... I love you!

Z: Hmm... *smile*

Coming from a woman who rarely talk, I was really touched. Maybe because she meant those words, or I was in a period where I crave for some lovin' and thoughtful words. Come on now, throw some love my way today:))

SKIES

WATER

WORLD

If through a broken heart God can bring
His purposes to pass in the world,
then thank Him for breaking your heart.
– Oswald Chambers

Pumping Goodies

2011-03-16T00:25:00.000-07:00

The best water pump we got on the boondocks.:) We went to the mountains for a visit and this particular old water pump piqued me. You need to pour water into the body so the gasket can generate some kind of pressure, or vacuum. The cloth serves as the sieve for any particulate which comes out of the pump. Rustic, but this waterpump supply 10 households. Fancy, huh?

Ah, Life.

2011-03-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Ah, life.

Boom De Ah Dah

2011-03-13T03:14:00.000-07:00

It has been 6 months since I got my first DSLR. Yay! A dream come true, I'd say. I got the d90 plus the nifty fifty. For the past months, during my breaks, I was able to take some decent images to post here and Flickr. Today, due to carelessness on my part, the camera fell and the fifty received most of the impact. I heard my cardiac cells breaking with the crunch of the glass shards inside. Arrrgh! The lens broken, I tried to checked the body if it needs some kind of CPR (as if!). Tried clicking and with the LV. Pretty cool, still. Sigh! So much for the bokeh and the vivid images. Funny thing is I was planning to buy another lens today. Tsk! All the shops are closed so I'll have to wait this week. Anyway, I am still blessed with sunshine today.

I hope you are all okay. Greetings! Have a wonderful week ahead. Here's something to lift you today. God bless! - Z Joya

Erik Satie

2011-03-12T05:03:00.000-08:00

I finally found Gymnopedie no. 1. Yes!!!! How are you, dear friends? Any news about the Tsunami? I feel really happy being safe from the calamity, but it is so hard to reconcile the fact that others are suffering and in agony at this very hour. Japan is a beautiful country and although I've only been there once, I can say that it is one of the places I'd like to retire to or spend a couple of months on end. I have recurring dreams of the stillness the thought of that country brings. I was in Beppuman and I can vividly remember how damp and wet the place was during the time of my visit. But smoke/steam was everywhere because of the spa and hotsprings in the area. Ahh, Japan. Someday... I always say that when i lose my thread of thought. Hmm:)

I did a set of questions today for my test this Summer. The past year had been really grueling and I will try applying again for the Match this year. Let's see how the review and application go. Fighting! No stress for today. Just plain happy thoughts and prayers for those people affected.

Enjoy Gymnopedie No. 1.

Tsunami!

2011-03-11T04:16:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone is safe. God bless!

SKYWATCH FRIDAY

MY WORLD

Taken by my brother. Camille del Sol beach resort, Palawan.

Thank You for Loving Me!

2011-03-09T05:22:00.000-08:00

I am so happy. Three years of being blest. A lot of difficulties and trials, but God is always here to comfort. Thank You, Jesus.

Heavy Flying

2011-03-08T04:49:00.000-08:00

You know there comes a moment when you feel really alone and that song plays on the background. You don't know where's it from, but it's there. And then you rise from the ground and fly to the stars. I always know I can reach the stars. Thing is, how do I get down from all these clouds?

Home

2011-03-04T07:23:00.000-08:00

Ahh, So much chaos and conflict in the world. It is everywhere and I can't help but think of that beautiful place up there. The past few days had been very cold. Someone said that it's because winter is jealous of the flowers of spring. I would be, you'll see:) Hah! I am suffering from some kind of body pain and carpal tunnel syndrome. It is so hard to move my right arm and shoulder. Woooooo!!! But God is good to me, to us. I hope you are all doing fine wherever you are. I miss home.

Take care and have a good one today!

SKYWATCH FRIDAY MY WORLD

Stretch

2011-02-28T03:44:00.000-08:00

Don't we all need some nowadays?

MELLOW YELLOW MONDAY

Chaff

2011-02-27T02:22:00.000-08:00

I feel so spaced out. Have a good week ahead, my friends:)

Today, we get "two shots".

Goodbye, Winter.

2011-02-25T23:10:00.000-08:00

It had been a cold, dark and dreary winter. But seasons change with the circumstances we are in. Our God is a God of second chances. Everyday is a new day to start anew.

Most Christians are being crucified

on a cross between two thieves:
yesterday's regret
and tomorrow's worries.
- Warren Wiersbe

Posted for Best Posts Of The Week, That's My World, Scenic Sunday

Suman Sa Ibos

2011-02-25T03:02:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine once asked me what my favorite things are. The question was somewhere on the line of, "What makes you happy?". I was in-between jobs then and surviving through moonlighting in a hospital around the metro. I can vividly remember answering, "simple things". Simple for me stands for time with family, coffee with my parents and friends, a seaside view, a moonlit dance near the seashore, a song that truly sings and tell stories, smile from people, peals of laughter on a dark night in my neighborhood and other things. Now that I "earn a living", "living the good life", " career and stuff", I am looking back and enjoying the thought that I still want those simple joys. I am overwhelmed by the prospect of future and the worries it bestows. Yet once again, I delve into that sanctum where I see myself laughing and enjoying the gist of life. There have been choices that I would have second thoughts right now, moments that I would grab if given the chance, but all of those are part of the past which obviously are beyond my control today. I remembered praying for God to lead me in putting my ladder on the right walls. I was never a risk-taker. But then it came to me that I should have prayed to put my ladder on Jesus. Faithfulness- how long would I run the bush just to get it into my system. Live, enjoy life.

We call it Suman sa Ibos. It is steamed rice, the upland variety ( japonica, perhaps) wrapped in coconut leaves. There are many kinds of Suman, but this was especially made for a wedding. That is how we celebrate marriage, the Tagbanua way.

For more of the Tagbanua, click HERE.

You know what's missing in the picture? Tell me.

Discernment

2011-02-24T20:57:00.000-08:00

God never gives us discernment

in order that we may criticize,
but that we may intercede.

- Oswald Chambers

Long Road

2011-02-23T20:10:00.000-08:00

Balanced

2011-02-22T01:59:00.000-08:00

I took this image outside our small church in Palawan. It was raining the whole time we were there, but the green background proved to be nice to the eyes, my eyes, anyway. Hello! Have a nice week ahead:)

Simplicity is freedom.

Duplicity is bondage.

Simplicity brings joy and balance.

Duplicity brings anxiety and fear.

- Richard Foster

Posted for THAT'S MY WORLD.

Seeing

2011-02-20T22:11:00.000-08:00

Those who believe they believe in God,
but without passion in the heart,
without anguish of mind,
without uncertainty, without doubt,
and even at times without despair,
believe only in the idea of God,
and not in God himself.
- Madeleine L’Engle

Child Of God

2011-02-20T00:52:00.000-08:00

May we continue to look upon Jesus. The preacher quoted Mother Teresa today saying, "God has not called me to be succesful, but to be faithful".

Enjoy this beautiful day. God bless us all:)

Posted for BEST POSTS OF THE WEEK.
and THAT'S MY WORLD.

Bubbly Weekend

2011-02-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

A bubbly weekend to everyone:) May God bless your rest.

A Good Day To Fly

2011-02-17T21:49:00.000-08:00

A good day to fly with wings clipped. Thank you, LORD, for your wonderful blessings. Amen.

Posted for SKYWATCH FRIDAY.

Chomper

2011-02-17T04:49:00.000-08:00

RIP, Chomper. We did what we can.

Fits

2011-02-16T02:42:00.000-08:00

Ahh, New Year. Life is getting better. Things passed and behold, a fresh start. I am a believer of good things, of positive things, of love, of faith. Everything is turning around.

To God Be The Glory!

Lazy Hazy Afternoon

2011-01-30T22:15:00.000-08:00

The heat breaks through the pores of my skin as my mind is lulled by thoughts of nothingness. As much as I want to, I know that I cannot be someone I am not. There is no excuse for my doings nor escape from the consequences of my actions. To take heed of warnings or be wary of what I'd be goes beyond the palpable reality of now. The dust settled on my shirt as I scrub the sickening blow of ageing. I am here now.

HELLO!

2011-01-11T20:49:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone. I am so glad to be pressing the keyboards again. Photos next time.

Goodbye, Autumn.

2010-12-16T00:32:00.000-08:00

I like the sound of the snow crunching under my feet. But autumn, you will be missed. Until next year. Waaah!

Sok Galbi

2010-12-13T22:06:00.000-08:00

The best lunch for me is a free one. We don't get too many chances in life. Whatever we get, we grab it (munch it, in this case) and thank the good LORD for His blessings. I enjoyed this meal with my friends. How's the season over your side of the world?

Posted for My World and Ruby Tuesday.

Choices.

2010-12-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

It is not that life is complicated, but the choices we make are vague. Our perspective changes as we mature. There are more options and we want more. It is harder to take the primary option because I am not just me. I am my family,my friends and acquiantances. The consequences are inevitable. Yet, despite all of it, Jesus is always waiting for us to choose Him above all.

2

2010-12-12T05:56:00.000-08:00

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Merry Christmas Lights :)

2010-12-09T23:33:00.000-08:00

It was -2 last night but the lights outside the church made me miss home sorely. May we remember the true reason of Christmas.

In Everything Give Thanks

2010-12-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
I Corinthians 10:31

The Steps Of A Good Man

2010-12-06T22:17:00.000-08:00

Posted for MY WORLD.

Passing

2010-12-06T00:06:00.000-08:00

10:53

2010-12-05T05:53:00.000-08:00

Pray

2010-12-04T03:00:00.000-08:00

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16

Chimes

2010-12-02T01:54:00.000-08:00

The List

2010-11-29T18:46:00.000-08:00

I wrote about 25 things "to do" on my list, but settled to 14 instead.

1. To pray and pray more.

2. To be grateful for everything and everyone.

3. More spontaneity. Take risks. Live.

4. Stay grounded. The view is better and the air breathable.

5. Open yourself. You don't have a spare tire in life.

6. Learn to hustle with pain and worries. Life is made of bends. Be flexible.

7. Today.

8. Laugh harder.

9. Be positive. All the time.

10. Dream your dreams.

11. Climb mountains. More mountains.

12. Silence is a friend. Be familiar with its call.

13. Read the Bible. Memorize verses. Practice.

14. Learn how to swim.

If you have a tendency to despair over lost opportunities or if you worry about the future, ask yourself this question: “What is right in front of me?” In other words, what circumstances and relationships are currently available to you? This question can get your focus off a past regret or a scary future and back to what God can do in your life.- Our Daily Bread Nov 30 2010

The Yoshida Brothers

2010-11-28T06:36:00.000-08:00

I like noodles. That first sip, the first bite, it makes all the difference. Jjampong for you, my friends. For real.
I discovered these guys and they are awesome. Do check:)

The List: 14

2010-11-27T23:45:00.000-08:00

#14: Learn how to swim.

The List: 13

2010-11-26T18:44:00.000-08:00

#13: Read the Bible. Memorize verses. Practice.

The List: 12

2010-11-25T17:56:00.000-08:00

#12: Silence is a friend. Be familiar with its call.

Posted for SWF.

The List: 11

2010-11-25T02:49:00.000-08:00

#11: Climb mountains. More mountains.

The List: 10

2010-11-23T16:27:00.000-08:00

#10: Dream your dreams.

The List: 9

2010-11-22T17:31:00.000-08:00

#9: Be positive. All the time.

The List: 8

2010-11-21T17:50:00.000-08:00

#8: Laugh harder.

The List: 7

2010-11-21T02:12:00.000-08:00

#7: Today.

The List: 6

2010-11-18T19:31:00.000-08:00

#6: Learn to hustle with pain and worries. Life is made of bends. Be flexible.

The List: 5

2010-11-17T04:42:00.000-08:00

#5: Open yourself. You don't have a spare tire in life.

The List: 4

2010-11-16T19:10:00.000-08:00

#4: Stay grounded. The view is better and the air breathable.

The List: 3

2010-11-15T18:34:00.000-08:00

#3: More spontaneity. Take risks. Live.

posted for watery wednesday.

The List: 2

2010-11-14T05:11:00.000-08:00

Why is it so easy to take things for granted? Why is it hard to appreciate people when we are still with them? The familiar becomes commonplace with every moment we spend with them. But when they are gone, or distant, we suddenly miss them and give the cognizance that they really deserve. I have been preoccupied, to say the least, of matters that are beyond me. It is a twisted story, but one for the telling in my lifetime. The grandkids would love it for sure. Second on the list is TO BE GRATEFUL FOR EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE. A thankful heart is like a channel of pure water that feeds roots of trees. It is biologic. You give praise to the One who created you thereby completing the cycle of God's glory, as John Piper posited. I put this on my list because I believe that it is not too late to put up "thank you's". I am on borrowed time (and laptop!)in this turf. Let me just say, "Thank You, LORD!" for chances and the infinite beauty of this life.

11For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
12Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.
13And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

-Jeremiah 29:11-13

This is the best part of Cool Hand Luke for me. I wish I can talk to my mother this way and tell her that I am grateful for everything she did. She gives it wholeheartedly- love.

The List: 1

2010-11-12T23:06:00.000-08:00

Every birthday I make a list of the things I'm suppose to do each year. There is no rationale with it. It is a practice which makes the past year worth looking back. Call it a resolution of sort, but I don't believe in resolutions so it's plainly a list. I believe in change. The issue of people changing is another thing, though. It is hard for me to change my ways so I reflect on this idea to the lives of other people. But I strongly believe that change is possible with the grace of God. All our ways are futile and either takes us to frustration or cynicism about life. I am a sinner. I taunt God and live a self-righteous life. Yet, I am grateful because I know that God extends mercy and grace to people like me. He came for the sinners. Just like Zacchaeus, I am climbing that "sycamore tree" to have a glimpse of Jesus. Like the blind man on the road, I am crying, " Son of David! Heal me". Like the diseased woman, I need to touch the LORD's garment believing that God will heal me. This year, first on my list is TO PRAY and PRAY MORE. Prayer changes things and people. If i pray fervently with faith, I know that I will learn of the LORD. My requests for material things and blessings may be answered but I want Jesus more than anything. I really am thinking that I received and lost so many things this year. But I thirst for something that will quench all my longings. I need God.

It is because of our trusting in experience that we see the steadfast impatience of the Holy Spirit against unbelief. All of our fears are sinful, and we create our own fears by refusing to nourish ourselves in our faith. How can anyone who is identified with Jesus Christ suffer from doubt or fear! Our lives should be an absolute hymn of praise resulting from perfect, irrepressible, triumphant belief.

Rock Encounter By Jay Chattaway

2010-11-11T19:37:00.000-08:00

I like free musical concerts. The first time I saw one, I was mesmerized that I didn't realize I was gripping the edge of the seat. A soprano was holding her breath whilst singing and you can really tell that her voice was that powerful. Hearing the sound of the orchestra, I had the vague notion that it is the closest thing to heaven's music. Awesomeness (quoting Jack Black!)!!!

Here is a rendition of Rock Encounter. Not exactly celestial, but I was "dancing" nonetheless. Have a wonderful weekend, y'all:)

and Gustav Holst:) JUPITER- must-love piece.

Posted for Sky Watch Friday:)

Nocturne

2010-11-11T05:29:00.000-08:00

Let your love flow through me, LORD.

From My Utmost To His Highest.
Abraham did not choose what the sacrifice would be. Always guard against self-chosen service for God. Self-sacrifice may be a disease that impairs your service. If God has made your cup sweet, drink it with grace; or even if He has made it bitter, drink it in communion with Him. If the providential will of God means a hard and difficult time for you, go through it. But never decide the place of your own martyrdom, as if to say, “I will only go to there, but no farther.” God chose the test for Abraham, and Abraham neither delayed nor protested, but steadily obeyed. If you are not living in touch with God, it is easy to blame Him or pass judgment on Him. You must go through the trial before you have any right to pronounce a verdict, because by going through the trial you learn to know God better. God is working in us to reach His highest goals until His purpose and our purpose become one.