tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17344607702672214272024-02-19T05:50:50.902-05:00JOURNEY OF JOSELLELet love and faithfulness never leave you...write them on the tablet of your heart ~Proverbs 3:3Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.comBlogger165125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-62901657503865964312017-01-18T09:56:00.003-05:002017-01-18T09:56:35.747-05:00My Journey to Breastfeeding<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am back! I can definitely say I feel normal again. Alan and I have graduated from the demanding daily grind of a newborn and now we have somehow established our own little routine which is so amazing! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, my beautiful daughter turns 3 months old. 3 months may seem to have flown by so quickly but to me that was the slowest and most difficult 3 months of my life. It was also the most amazing because I am blessed to nurture and give nourishment to my daughter in the most natural way, BREASTFEEDING. Mainly, our breasts are divinely designed by God to nourish our precious babies. So before I give birth, I prayed that the Lord will allow me to nurse my daughter and that I will be free of any sickness or complications that will hinder me from nursing my child. Alan and I prepared ourselves for this journey by attending lactation classes and getting hold of all the things we would need (nursing bra, nursing pads, nursing cover, nipple cream, etc) Other than direct feeding, we also thought of pumping and feeding through a bottle. Luckily, Alan's insurance covers for pumping equipment! (Tip: check your insurance provider and see if they can provide you an electric pump for free)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But boy oh boy! As natural as it is, breastfeeding was the most painful and humbling thing I had to go through. I had underestimated it! It's harder than being pregnant and giving birth. To breastfeed takes a tremendous commitment and effort. In the beginning, Amanda was feeding on demand. That means she has no set schedule for feedings so we would feed her whenever she's hungry. That also meant sleep deprivation for us. It was exhausting. Amanda had a good latch but since my nipples were new to breastfeeding, I got excruciating sore nipples. It was so uncomfortable and sometimes I would dread the next feed. But it does get better like breaking a new pair of shoes. And then here comes engorgement. My milk came on the third day and my boob suddenly engorged. My flat chested boobs all of a sudden looked like porn star boobs! haha. They were hard and not pleasant at all. I also got my share of clogged ducts, milk bleb, chills, fever, minor mastitis, lahat na! But I continue to nurse even though it would burn occasionally. I would literally cry out during feedings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Honestly, I was so close to giving up breastfeeding the first few weeks. I questioned myself that maybe it wasn't for me. I tried to convince myself that I was a formula baby and I grew up just fine. What was the big deal? I felt like I couldn't do it anymore at that time. All I thought about was myself. It's funny cos I prayed for this child for a long time and now why was I being so selfish? However, Alan was adamant that I breastfeed our daughter because it is the best and loving gift we could give her. He said that if only he could breastfeed, he would. Breastmilk has lots of amazing benefits to our baby. It provides the ideal nutrition and has everything our baby needs to grow. And it's free! I'm thankful that my husband didn't let me quit. I couldn't do this without his full support. To help ease my load, he would change our baby's diaper, give me water and snacks while I nurse, wash the pump equipment, he let me sleep in longer and would give our baby pumped milk at night, do the laundry, etc. I remember for the first 6 weeks, all I did was nurse, nurse, nurse. I am also lucky that other family members that live with us chipped in with the cooking, cleaning, and other house chores so I didn't have to do anything but take care of our baby. Alan and I were also able to go out on Sundays to go to church and we would leave our baby with my mom and my sisters. It helped a lot that we had our family's love and support. Thank you guys! You helped me so much to carry on my breastfeeding journey. It is so true that it takes a village to raise a child.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Whenever I see my baby's chubby cheeks while chugging away all my milk (cutest thing ever), all the pain goes away. And when I see her fat rolls on her legs and arms, it's a validation that all my sacrifice is worth it. Breastfeeding is such a miracle and I'm truly grateful to have been given such an honor to nourish my baby in the most natural way. I'm also happy to get my pre-pregnancy weight back! It's not that it matters a lot, but it feels great to wear my favorite pair of jeans again! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In terms of milk supply, currently, I do not have a lot but I have the enough amount my baby needs. In the beginning, I wasn't producing enough milk and since Amanda had jaundice, it was suggested to us that we mix-feed her so she can get rid/lower the amount of bilirubin level through her poop. We're lucky she didn't have any nipple confusion. And after she was free of jaundice, and I had boosted up my milk supply, I got rid of the formula completely. I am glad to breastfeed again 100%. What helped me increase my milk supply were drinking tons of water, eating fiber rich food, Milo(malt), Fenugreek seed supplement or Moringa (malunggay) supplement. My goal is to breastfeed her at least 6 months, if I'm lucky a year would be great. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each woman and each baby is uniquely made by God. I understand that not all women are physically fit to breastfeed. And that's okay. Whether you decide to exclusively breastfeed, exclusively pump, formula feed, or mix feed, please know that it is perfectly fine. Let's not be too hard on ourselves. What is important is that our babies get the nourishment they need. And to those who see moms breastfeed or formula feed in public, let's be respectful and let's avoid judging them for how they feed their babies. They are doing the best they possibly can. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I hope I didn't scare all those future mothers out there. As I said, it does get better, I promise! Today, I find pleasure in breastfeeding and I think I will miss it when I eventually wean her. Breastfeeding won't go on forever and so treasure each special moment you have with your baby. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joselle </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-90767513814524890842016-10-23T18:39:00.001-04:002016-10-23T23:46:16.221-04:00Amanda Johanna<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Presenting our first born, Amanda Johanna Fernandez who was born on October 18, 2016 at 9:17 pm. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Discerning for our daughter's name <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">had to be</span> very intentional for <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Alan and I</span>. We want her name to be purposeful and meaningful with hopes about who she will become. Alan suggested her first name and I was delighted to give the second name. The name <i><b>Amanda means lovable/worthy of LOVE.</b></i> <b><i>Johanna means God's gracious gift.</i></b> I want this to be a reminder to her that she's very much loved by everyone even before she was born. And after 5 years of her dad and I being married, the Lord remained faithful to us and has graciously gifted us our first child in His perfect time (on my bi<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">rth month pa!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> What an awesome way to welcome <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">my big 3-0</span></span>!)</span></span></span>. To have her is the best birthday present I've ever had. She's everything we've ever dreamed of. She's our world. She gives indescribable joy to our life and more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thank you everyone for praying for her safe delivery. We are now in the recovery stage and we pray it will be quick so you can get to meet Amanda soon! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Before you were born, I set you apart.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>-Jeremiah 1:5</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joselle</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-82964252668230936562016-10-04T00:00:00.000-04:002016-10-04T10:04:10.680-04:0037 Weeks<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have reached the final stretch of <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">what to me<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> has been </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">a</span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">wonderful</span> and gentle pregnancy journey. In any day now, we will finally see our little bundle of joy. I have been waiting for th<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">e</span> day that my eyes will meet hers. That my skin will touch hers. To hear her cry for the first time and know she's alright. All of these and more won't be a dream anymore but a reality. Soon. In just a few days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also, in just a few days, our lives will be changed forever. The "just the two of us" will be non-existent. For a while, our travels, date nights and other spontaneous activities will have to be put aside. Here comes the sleepless nights, the gazillion nappy changes, the taxing <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">breast feedings</span> and all other mundane tasks I hear from other parents. Believe it or not, <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">the<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">y</span> don't scare me</span></span> at all. I am <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">blessed</span> I have the best partner in the world to share these responsibilities with. And <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">there's</span> confidence i<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">n me </span>that God will give us strength to endure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In just a few days, I w<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ill find myself<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">lying in <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">a</span></span> hospital bed. With epidural or without, <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I just</span> pray that baby and I will be safe. From all the birth stories I hear from <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">other moms</span>,
I realize that whether you have a birth plan or not, your plans won't
always pan out as you hoped for. So I will just hold on to God's goo<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">dness and allow Him to</span> control <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">my labo<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">r</span></span> and</span> delivery<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A new title awaits me<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I</span>n just a few days, I will be a <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">MOM<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">...</span> officially!</span> I wonder what kind of mom<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> I</span> will be<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">?</span> A <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">cool mom? A <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">helicopter mom? Or <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">a</span> stage mom?<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span>Perhaps, like being a wife, I will eventually figure it out as <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I</span> go along. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Even if</span> I don't turn out to be the best mommy in the world, I hope she will feel th<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">e</span> love<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> a</span>nd the care<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> I have</span> for her <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">is</span> my absolute best. If I won't be able to give her material things, I hope she won't lack of every good character. Like what my mother-in-law always reminds us, to not spoil her too much even though we know it will be hard not to. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">thought</span> of bringing her to her first ballet class <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">thrills me a<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">lready</span>. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm sure she'll be so cute <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">tw<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">i<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">rling in</span></span></span> a tutu. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the academics department, <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know there will <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">be loads of</span> pressure. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">B</span>ut I hope <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">she gets he</span>r daddy's <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">scholarly attitude<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> and humble <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">intelligence. I know it must be silly to think this far out in advance<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">She's</span> not even out in the world yet. lol. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This mama basically woke up and felt like she just had <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">to let her thoughts <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">and aspirations out<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span>opportunit<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ies that await<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> you are a<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">plenty, </span>my dear daughter! <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just know that <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">y</span>our dad and I will always be here to support you and guide you <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">in all <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">your life's choices!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">all of you<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> who are <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">reading this, <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">t</span></span></span></span>hank you all so much for being part of this journey! We're so grateful for all your kind words and all your support. Thank you all for showering us with gifts and baby's needs!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">T</span>he 3 baby showers we had were<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> absolutely amazing and we're so grateful<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> t<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">o be surrounded by <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">indulgent family and fr<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">iends.</span></span></span></span> </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Y</span>our generosity <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">is unbelievable</span>! We definit<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ely </span>feel so blessed than ever knowing that you are all as joyful and as excited as we are in having this baby. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We overwhelmingly fe<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">el</span> the Lord's goodness <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">through all of you. </span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our journey to pregnancy will end soon, but our journey to parenthood will begin in just a few days! I cannot wait to write down our little family's stories and share them with all of you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joselle </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-80945767311579578852016-08-22T17:43:00.000-04:002016-08-22T17:43:07.064-04:00The Ferns Maternity Photoshoot<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When my dear friend Jen Evangelista-Cruz offered me a very special gift, a maternity photo session with her husband, AP Cruz, my jaw just dropped. I have seen first hand AP's talent and passion in photography and I became one of his fans instantly. To be offered such a marvelous gift was such a huge honor. I thank the Lord for my friends' thoughtful and generous hearts-hearts that always bring happiness and joy to others. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We shot at McDaniel Farm Park, 3 mins away from our apartment. A park I didn't even know existed until our friends Jeanette and Mike told us about it. It's a historic farm turned into a public park. The place had a rustic feel and every corner was so picturesque. It was a perfect place for photo shoots! We checked the weather forecast and it was going to rain that day. Thankfully, the rain didn't show up until we finished shooting. I was up at 6 am and did my own hair and make up and tried dolling myself up so we can catch the sunrise. I'm glad we got a glimpse of the sun but the rest of the day was breezy and cool. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've read somewhere that the best time to do maternity shoots is at 7 months of pregnancy. Mommy is not too bloated and can still actively glide around with only minimal discomforts. And that was true! I was glad that I was able to move around without any problems, I was able to climb up the hills, managed to situate myself in the middle of a gushing creek, and was able to just be on my feet for 3 hours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">AP has a very artistic eye. He let us look at the raw photos from his camera after the shoot and on every scroll, we were left with "awww", "wow", "uh-mazing", "beautiful", "nice". Those raw photos didn't even need editing. That's how good he was. As a photographer, AP was easygoing and fun to work with. Alan and I have one signature pose, and that's a big smile with a peace hand sign. hahaha. We are amateurs when it comes to photo shoots so I told AP we just wanted a very relaxed, bright and cheery session. Less of serious poses and more of we-just-want-to-be-our-goofy-selves kind of poses. He was able to achieve it! Special thanks as well to his gorgeous assistant, his wife, Jen. She had so many cute ideas and suggestions on how to make the pictures look good, from the props to the blocking, to how our hair looked. The two of them make a great team! Both of them are nurses and does photography on the side. They also do weddings, engagements, family portrait and even newborn/kids photo shoots! For bookings and inquiries, visit AP's facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/allaincruzphotography/ or email him at allaincruz.photography@gmail.com.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm flattered and my heart is so full by all the kind compliments I get from my friends and family on how pregnancy looks good on me. After I've seen AP's pics, I now believe it! lol. I think I radiate a pure joy! A joy like no other. A joy that only God can satisfy. A joy of becoming a mom. So now let me share with you some of our maternity pictures to inspire all you moms out there and those dreaming to be moms someday. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-4881130450634909552016-07-27T09:00:00.000-04:002016-07-27T09:01:30.436-04:00Week 27<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm now on my third and last trimester! By God's grace, my second trimester went by smoothly and baby is growing quickly but as gently as possible inside my tummy. Here's a rundown of what my pregnancy was like through the previous weeks. </div>
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Week 18. I was scheduled to see a maternal fetal specialist. They are experts for high risk pregnancy. Although my pregnancy wasn't really considered high risk, we found out something quite unexpected. Early on the pregnancy, on my first OB appointment (week 7) I was told by my doctor that I was supposed to have twins!!! Unfortunately, she only found one heart beat thus only one baby has fully developed. I'm not going to lie, it broke my heart a bit. But the doctor reassured me that I did nothing wrong to harm the other baby. I did more research about it and I found out that what I had was called the vanishing twin syndrome. Most moms back in the day probably didn't know they had multiple babies that vanished early in their pregnancy. But because of advanced ultrasounds that we have now, it could be frequently identified. By God's grace and mercy, the maternal fetal specialist told me that the fetal tissue of the vanished twin was reabsorbed and the one that was left was perfectly fine and healthy. What a relief! I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I trust God that He is in control. Twins could have been great but I'm sure it would be definitely challenging as well. What truly matters is that Alan and I are blessed to have a child.</div>
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Week 19. I had my anatomy scan. It was the level 2 ultrasound where they took measurements of the baby, check baby's major organs, feet, hands, fingers and also detected baby's gender. The scan went well and baby was growing at a steady rate. As for the gender, we were so thrilled to find out that we were having a baby girl!!! We had a gender reveal party that weekend which was organized by our small group in CFC. If you want to see the video, click here--> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMt3nefROMc" target="_blank">The Ferns Gender Reveal Party</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a girl! </td></tr>
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Week 20. I start to feel baby's kicks. She's so active and could feel her movements especially when I am just sitting in the couch or laying in bed. It just feels surreal whenever I feel her move. What a glorious thing to grow a human being inside my belly. Amazing!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5p49_MvHw1_VzVuxyex6ys75K06qwz4KBba0zM-M4y4lnPH_wBTk-wa2CR26dCeCNVx1ykjYZuWa4m5YLhi97sKLAObicnTsGyHE0l4cIL-GNscEJEgOeFbX4uHCQ2E59XNrET5jACmET/s1600/glow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5p49_MvHw1_VzVuxyex6ys75K06qwz4KBba0zM-M4y4lnPH_wBTk-wa2CR26dCeCNVx1ykjYZuWa4m5YLhi97sKLAObicnTsGyHE0l4cIL-GNscEJEgOeFbX4uHCQ2E59XNrET5jACmET/s640/glow.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Week 20</td></tr>
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Week 23. We had our hospital tour. We were informed where we would go during labor, where the visitors would wait, what we would need to bring in the hospital, what hospital amenities we could enjoy, and so on. It's helpful to know all these things so we could be better prepared and stress free when labor comes. We scheduled a birthing class and a breastfeeding class too in the following months. </div>
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Week 24. Alan bought a new car! Not exactly pregnancy related but I guess this purchase is in preparation for our baby! Our 2006 Camry stopped working for the second time and so got towed and repaired again. This time it was the alternator. The other time we got stranded, the starter and motor mount had to be replaced. We just couldn't imagine getting stranded somewhere while baby is in the car. Definitely not good. We just see it fit that we get a second reliable car for baby. Welcome to the family Rose! <br />
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Food cravings. I have been into making smoothies out of fresh fruits and vegetables. I guess that's the reason why people recognize my glow. hehe. My skin has cleared up and noticed that my hair is extra shiny! Although to be honest, sometimes I do give in to unhealthy food too. I'm only human lol.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBkYwLOmz8q_pj_UU9vkPQvtGO3xJjwdiMeHFSVOa7w7VCAidRkcv9o425d3nKEjL_kc6tw23fm66B3YdN4f6U3NanqZ9GYUCJhkQ2SbyJxONpOLRTHMpSVpOw1YzYP0P3NuUoiUW1qEOq/s640/smoothie.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberries, mangoes, banana, spinach and coconut water </td></tr>
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Weight. I have gained 12 lbs (as of week 24) since the beginning of my pregnancy. For me, that's quite a lot! I'm only 5 feet tall so I'm only expected to gain another 16 lbs more. But I'm totally fine with it. All for the sake of the baby. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Week 24</td></tr>
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Sleep. Sleeping was quite challenging. I was advised to sleep on my side and had to refrain from sleeping on my back Sleeping on my side caused me sore shoulders. I have also developed a carpal tunnel on my right wrist so when I sleep on my right side, it makes it worst. Thankful to my ever so loving husband because he helped me resolve my sleeping dilemma. He went online to look for great deals and got me a memory foam mattress topper and pillows. That made sleeping so much better. Thanks Daddy! </div>
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Week 26. Our dear friends from CFC pulled off a surprise baby shower for Alan and I. Please allow me to have some emo moment right now. Must be the prego hormones. We must have done something good to deserve this overwhelming love from them. We truly felt God's goodness in our life and God's validation of love to us through all of these amazing people. He put the right people at the right time in our life. Napakaswerte namin sa kaibigan! We loved everything from the party props, program, games, food, gifts and their heartwarming messages. We haven't bought a single thing for the baby and we are grateful that they generously gifted us with things that we will need for her. We can never thank them enough! Okay, enough of the rambling.. Here are some of the pictures from that memorable event! (Thanks to our dear friend Leah for these photos we will forever cherish!) <br />
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Can't believe we only have 3 months to go. I will surely miss this sweet time bonding with my baby in my tummy. But we can't also wait to see her, kiss her and hold her in our arms. </div>
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Till next pregnancy update!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz_bkeR1k173V24KQ2hYcusdRw9BPnuoEBhT9zn2c7NfnqhLz-3uaNT1701a2zGZELi8yRVSIkZSn9SigZ0jncYD18n4l3PI5QJuGlnPernZ-tnUpfCwYNlMrYuzci-3lrgYRyBBM1GCf/s1600/to+open+in+oct+soon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz_bkeR1k173V24KQ2hYcusdRw9BPnuoEBhT9zn2c7NfnqhLz-3uaNT1701a2zGZELi8yRVSIkZSn9SigZ0jncYD18n4l3PI5QJuGlnPernZ-tnUpfCwYNlMrYuzci-3lrgYRyBBM1GCf/s640/to+open+in+oct+soon.jpg" title="Coming soon" width="640" /></a></div>
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xoxo,</div>
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Joselle</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-76935534760051237772016-04-19T22:25:00.000-04:002016-04-19T22:40:38.157-04:0013 weeks <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I am so glad our little angel and I breezed through the first trimester! I thank the Lord that I was spared from morning sickness, nausea, food/smell aversion, spotting and cramping. This little one inside of me is truly an angel. Never had she/he made mommy feel awful. The only thing I had to struggle with was sleepiness and exhaustion. One of the early symptoms I had was falling asleep early at night and taking longer naps on the weekends. It was such a struggle keeping my eyes up during work especially in the afternoon. But now that I'm over the first trimester, I'm starting to feel like myself again!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On cravings, I didn't have any crazy cravings. I think between my husband and I, he's the one whose craving a lot. haha. I just like to eat healthy for our baby. I try to eat fruits and vegetables more. I try to keep my snacks healthy too (eg. yogurt, toast, nuts, granola bars). I have been trying my best to avoid food that offers no nutritional value like chips, processed food, soda, etc. Also I switched to drinking milk and stopped having coffee and tea because they make me run to the bathroom like crazy. Although this weekend, I treated myself for a bit of comfort food to celebrate the end of my first trimester! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My tummy is already showing as my uterus has grown in size. From the size of a blueberry when I first found out, my baby has now grown to a size of a peach according to the baby app (what to expect). However, I don't have a decent bump yet. I just look like I'm bloated. I couldn't fit into my regular pants anymore so I'm living in my leggings and loose tops. So far, I haven't bought any maternity clothes yet. The only thing I've bought in my early weeks was a bellaband! It's a basic maternity band designed to hold up unbuttoned pants and no one has to know. It's pretty much like a spandex camisole although it fits right from your belly through your waist. No need to buy maternity pants. Lifesaver! Now that it's starting to warm up, I'll probably switch to maxi skirts and dresses soon. Also, since my belly is starting to stretch out a bit, I bought a pregnancy oil to avoid/reduce appearance of stretch marks. It also aids my belly from drying and itching. (thanks to YouTube for these pregnancy tips and must-haves!)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I had my first ultrasound on week 7 and that's when we had our first glimpse of our little angel. We also got to hear his/her heartbeat! On our next visit, I had my pap smear and blood work done around week 11 and everything was normal. We also heard the heartbeat again from a fetal doppler. It was music to our ears every time we heard the baby's heartbeat. Made me want to buy a at-home fetal doppler! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This pregnancy makes me more affectionate and cuddly to my husband. I don't know why but I just like smelling him, hugging him, kissing him more (sorry TMI!). I'm thankful I don't have mood swings either. Speaking of my husband, he's been so great in taking care of me and our little angel. He lovingly checks up on me at work everyday. He runs to the grocery store to buy my needs. He eagerly goes with me on every doctor's appointments. And most importantly, each day and each night, he blesses us and covers us with prayers (Numbers 6:24-26). Little angel, you are so blessed to be loved by an amazing daddy!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJ08JRj5lt2BrE-1F4i4nPc65pCzMF3h0wThq0L4dTWVQtxzsQgvZ0lHtgWEi-CeCQHBssnMvBhawCWAYrrwNxKx2IknvxWxotquTYencq4564QVlY7ZoH7u-cbKfA8_cWw4bxuno30Xp/s1600/sweet+rice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJ08JRj5lt2BrE-1F4i4nPc65pCzMF3h0wThq0L4dTWVQtxzsQgvZ0lHtgWEi-CeCQHBssnMvBhawCWAYrrwNxKx2IknvxWxotquTYencq4564QVlY7ZoH7u-cbKfA8_cWw4bxuno30Xp/s640/sweet+rice.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Saying hello to the 2nd trimester! Praying that baby will continue to grow healthy and that this pregnancy will stay calm and easy. 6 months to go. Till next time.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Joselle </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-6025004450042048502016-03-15T10:04:00.001-04:002016-03-15T10:04:11.890-04:008 weeks<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Somehow, our dreams are unfolding exactly as they should. What we dream of happening is happening. Not exactly when we planned it to be, but in God's perfect timing! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Alan and I are excited and happy to share the wonderful news that, WE ARE EXPECTING A BABY! I've entered my 8th week and by October 25th, as I turn the big 3-0, I'll become a momma officially. I can hardly believe it. My heart just melts in awe and with overwhelming joy. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This pregnancy is a testimony that the Lord's timing is always perfect! We have waited for <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4</span> years to conceive. Waiting is never easy. But great things come to those who patiently wait. And here we are now, on to the next chapter as parents. Indeed, God is faithful to those who are faithful to Him!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Lord definitely gave us enough time to prepare ourselves to become parents. Although, we can't be fully prepared, there are things I know for sure. First is that I have the best partner in the world. I know Alan will be one awesome, doting dad. And because it takes a village to raise a child, I'm grateful that God gave us very supportive family, friends and community. Lastly, I rest in the fact that the Lord shall and always will equip us and guide us in every way that matters. This is His beloved child whom we are greatly honored to nurture, love and care for. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I hope you join us as we pray for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy
baby. Thank you to all of you who prayed with us for this beautiful miracle. Thank you my dear prayer warriors.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw-qUrJ03NMIw7qfxbt95JpIGp5c5cbd7InVt6cm9z1K26G8nfFL3XxGm6rdHDJVZ9PrbUojfWuRaD2aWZXYKR3kqqa0rX-9zOjTQ1RKKh8ICocf_aXCuWoJfYWdy26alwYVT0fKqC4kvG/s1600/babyfernandez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw-qUrJ03NMIw7qfxbt95JpIGp5c5cbd7InVt6cm9z1K26G8nfFL3XxGm6rdHDJVZ9PrbUojfWuRaD2aWZXYKR3kqqa0rX-9zOjTQ1RKKh8ICocf_aXCuWoJfYWdy26alwYVT0fKqC4kvG/s640/babyfernandez.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">excited to meet you all :)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joselle</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-9507606462726136622016-02-01T16:29:00.003-05:002016-02-01T16:42:21.634-05:00Baked Teriyaki Salmon<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have been gearing towards eating fish lately due to my above optimal cholesterol level. That means I'm not getting any younger!! I need to stay away from the bad fats and hang out more with the good fats. Aside from taking fish oil daily, my doctor recommended for me to eat food that are rich in omega-3 like those found in salmon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On that note, let me share with you one of my favorite and easy salmon recipes. Baked Teriyaki Salmon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients for the teriyaki sauce: </b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tablespoon olive oil </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 clove minced garlic</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1/4 cup soy sauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 tbsp water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp honey</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp brown sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1/2 tsp minced ginger</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tsp cornstarch</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp water</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4 salmon filet </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Procedure:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />2. To make the teriyaki sauce from scratch: </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Add oil and garlic to a saucepan. Cook till garlic turns golden brown.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Throw in soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar and ginger. Mix and bring to a simmer for 2 mins.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and water and slowly add this to the sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat. (you may adjust saltiness/sweetness to your own liking) </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Line out a sheet of aluminum foil on your baking dish and lightly
oil it. Place salmon on top and brush each salmon with teriyaki sauce.
Another option is dipping each one in the sauce <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">if</span> you don't have a
brush.<br />4. Cover them with another sheet of aluminum foil and fold the edges.<br />5. Throw in the oven and bake for 20-30 mins or until the fish is fully cooked.<br />6. Serve immediately with your favorite salad or brown rice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's it! It's really simple, easy and I love that it's not as expensive as eating salmon out in restaurants. Hope you found this helpful. Till my next kitchen journey. Happy baking! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/v/t1.0-9/1916688_10153863480999801_5534087650042930555_n.jpg?oh=daf083e61f839f9b105a3448ec548980&oe=574488CD" style="height: 495px; width: 660px;" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-73905459277036898552016-01-27T22:08:00.000-05:002016-01-27T22:08:02.937-05:00What I learned in 2015<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2015 came so kind to me. The few years prior were better but last year was roundly special!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was the year I turned in to a full-pledged wife when my husband came in February. I learned a lot of things. I learned that my husband eats light breakfast in the morning. Fruits and tea are essential. I learned to adjust. I learned that I have to let him be on the driver's seat and I take the passenger's. Not because he is the better driver, but he likes to serve me. On the other hand, as a passenger, I learned that I was an annoying backseat driver and so I had to take one step back and let him do his thing, freely and humbly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We learned that we like doing things together. Like tea and milk, peaches and cream, adobo and rice, we were inseparable. Even in doing the house chores. He does the laundry with me. And that makes it fun. After a few damaged clothes, he finally knew which of the clothes go to the dryer and those need to be line dried.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was also last year when we finally moved out and decided to get our own place. I learned that bringing a notepad with a checklist of things to look for an apartment while negotiating with the leasing manager can make you look like a pro<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span> When in fact I have never searched for an apartment in my life. It may seem overwhelming but actually moving can be feasibly done if you do your research on point. I learned that interior decorating is not so expensive if you know where and what to look for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was last year too when together, we joined a couples discipleship group. We learned about how so much of a cradle Catholic we were and there's still so much to learn about our faith. What's refreshing to know was that while we were learning about our faith, our relationship grew deeper and stronger<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> and we made <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">wonderful friends.</span></span> We learned a lot from each others experiences and so much so from our household leaders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I learned that God does and always will take care of my job. He builds my ladder even if I don't realize it. All God expects me to be is that whatever I do, work at it with all my heart as working for Him (Colossians 3:23) and He will take care of me. I learned to give priority to what utterly matters and figured out what was dispensable and what's not. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I learned that my writing skills got better, however, I didn't write as much. I felt sorry but not so sorry. Family, work, community, got in the way. A good kind of way. I learned that influencing people could be done more with actions and not so much with r<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">hetorical </span>words. To be truly intentional with touching other people's lives is to first making yourself better. I know I still have a long way to go. Through God's grace, he taught me how to control my emotions, my anger, my frustrations. That your one and only enemy is the evil one. The more you try to be good, the more the devil tempts you to do bad. And that's just how the world works. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I learned that the pressure is getting real in the baby department. Now that Alan and I are together, people seem to be in a hurry for us to get pregnant. <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">W</span>henever I check my Facebook, babies and new moms dominate my news feed. I learned that I should rejoice and be happy for them and to not think something is wrong with me. I learned that God is still preparing me and Alan for parenthood.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My favorite learning of all is that the happiest moments of my life is not the accumulation of things but the moments I get to spend with Alan and the memories we made<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Life is s<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">imple and less complicated <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">that way. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2015, I learned a ton from you and you really took my breath away. I'm now getting <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">the</span> hang of being a wife, and prayerfully a new role would be nice, 2016. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="480" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xla1/t31.0-8/12513831_10208527833257798_7064233080508884770_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xoxo,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-50702492479781456262015-12-28T14:53:00.001-05:002015-12-29T09:06:43.701-05:004 Years<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Alan and I reached our 4th year wedding anniversary today. Being a wife to my husband each year is wonderful but this year it is even more so. Now that we're blessed to live happily together, I'm getting to know him on a much deeper level and there is so much more of him to love. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My family, especially my mom, would tell me how lucky I am to meet such a good man like Alan. To me he is a unicorn, surreal, one of a kind. And I have God to thank for that. It can only be God who could adeptly orchestrate uniting two distinct people, who lived oceans apart to be together. When Alan was younger, he discerned to be a priest. Good for me, it was not his calling. On the other hand, when I migrated to the US, I thought I would marry a blonde-hair blue-eyed man. However, our plans are not God's plans. And God's plans are always absolute best. I couldn't be more joyful that I married Alan, a beautiful man, with a heart. My one and only man in the world, the universe rather (O diba feeling Miss Universe haha)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Looking back at the 4 years we've been married, we hardly get into fights. No dramatic, screaming scenes so far. I guess because Alan has the softest and calmest voice in the world, it is close to a whisper so to yell is alien to him. And I like to take my chill pill once a day regularly. LOL. Kidding aside, we are pretty much a great team. We have each other's backs covered. Such that problems turn into sweet little adventures when we deal with them together. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">At the end of the day, when he snuggles at my back, and my body pressed against his, I could not help but feel like I'm over the moon. This warm feeling of blessedness is still surreal...even after 4 years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thank you to our dear friend AP, for the photos below taken at Savannah.</span> </span></div>
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<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="426" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1780839_10153180693857312_4765468061264378850_n.jpg?oh=061bfd7bdc16c1447b03a75d9a9c08f2&oe=5721BE77" width="640" /> </div>
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<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="426" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/t31.0-8/1933243_10153180694107312_799845088908256253_o.jpg" width="640" /> </div>
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<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="426" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/1933555_10153180693342312_1055095820305690653_o.jpg" width="640" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-14363908962532767852015-12-09T20:33:00.002-05:002015-12-09T20:33:29.203-05:00The bug was back<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">December is here, and it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. In the front door, there is a wreath hanging filled with lush red poinsettias that seem almost real. In the living room, a cute pink tree pops in, filled with ornaments glistening in every angle. Yes, our first tree is pink and unapologetically so, always what I have dreamed of. In the dining area, another wreath sits in the middle of the table albeit much more special than the one outside the door. It's an Advent Wreath filled with various evergreen, pine, holly, mistletoe and candles. In our family, we feel that it is the most significant decoration of all. More than a decoration, it's a spiritual symbol that has been part of our family tradition every Christmas time. Beginning on the first Sunday of Advent or first Sunday after Thanksgiving, the family gathers around the table before dinner. We light the wreath, we pray and sing together to remind and prepare ourselves for the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are boxes stacked in the corner of my room waiting to be wrapped in pretty papers. I know I will have a lovely time wrapping them up one by one, if only I can find the time. I remember happy stories of my Lola Remy when she used to work at the wrapping section of Bloomingdale's. Each item she would delicately and beautifully wrap and in return she would receive generous gratuities from her gracious customers. It's sad that they stopped doing that now in the malls. Anyway, I don't really mind wrapping. It will always be a sweet remembrance of my Lola Remy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Christmas parties have begun here and there. I gaze in to my calendar and my weekends are all blocked! I have one this weekend and another one on the next. Both are potlucks. I know the oven will make a great companion through the course of this holiday season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Food food food. Holidays are always a good excuse to mingle and overeat. Except in Alan's case. Over the weekend, we attended various holiday get-togethers and from one of those, he developed a stomach flu. It's draining and it's painful but it's not as bad as his previous flu back in July. My poor hubby got the bug back. He stayed home on Monday and rested. I also took a day off to take care of him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I ponder on today's gospel, <i>Come to me … and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28). </i>Perhaps God wanted<i> </i>us to take a break from the restlessness this holiday brings. Although it wasn't the kind of break we wanted, God knew it was the only way that could allow us to receive his rest and rely in his comfort.. Even for one day. All day, my attention and care was all for and consumed by looking after my husband, holding on to God's mercy and grace and not by the holiday frenzy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Time runs fast. But I hope <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">December <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">will be kind and will run slowly so I cou<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ld <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">enjoy an<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">d spend time with all the people that t<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ruly mat<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ters. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">t <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">makes m<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">y heart sw<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ell</span> with</span> so much gratefulness that <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Alan and I are together this Christmas. <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yeste<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">rday, he asked me what I wanted <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">to g<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">et for Chris<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">tmas and <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I couldn't think of anything else. <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Maybe the re<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">a<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">son is</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>I have already received <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">th<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">at </span>one thing on top of my Chris<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">tmas <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">wish list for the past <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">few years</span>,<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">that <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">he</span></span> and I w<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ould</span> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">finally</span> reunite</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. Thank you Santa, <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">thank you Lord<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">!</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-5778507380556788062015-11-09T21:43:00.000-05:002015-11-09T22:04:34.398-05:00The Beauty of A Christian Marriage<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's one thing to marry your spouse for the first time and another thing to marry your spouse all over again. There's something romantic in saying "I do" for the second time after being through every difficult situations. Choosing to marry the same person, accepting all their imperfections and forgiving them for all their shortcomings has never been sweeter. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Over the weekend, Alan and I attended the CFC's Marriage Enrichment Retreat 1. (There are 3 series I believe). We were tremendously blessed to have been invited to this kind of retreat as we were profoundly enlightened on our roles as husband and wife, on how to communicate effectively, on how we could build our homes for God and on how we could pastor our future children as a team and with the grace of God. Unfortunately, our household leader has limited us on sharing the details so we don't spill out all the exciting things that are in stored to the future candidates. But basically, it was such an awesome experience. Really a priceless investment of our time and money.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My decision to marry Alan was the best I have ever did in my life. We are married for almost 4 years now and there's not a single day that I have regretted marrying him. Even when he forgets to throw his dirty clothes in the hamper, even when he forgets to flush the toilet sometimes haha. Especially that we live together now, our relationship is a lot vulnerable to quarrels, misunderstandings, and disappointments. But at the end of the day, we choose love. And by loving each other, we honor the Lord. The God that brought the two of us together for his glory. This is a marriage that is saved by God. Without him and without his humble teachings, this is not possible at all. We couldn't do it on our own strength. It is easy to take each other for granted. It is easy to become selfish. It is easy to judge and irk each other. It is easy to surrender when the going gets tough. But because the Lord is our core, we have a marriage that is enriched with love, understanding, grace, respect, and forgiveness. Our marriage is not perfect, but by God's grace it is perfect in every way that matters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the world we live in now, marriages are being constantly attacked by the evil one. And that's why I'm grateful to be part of a community that makes us thrive to have a holy marriage. I'm grateful that we have shared this event with our friends who also have the same goal in their marriages. I'm thankful to all those people whom God used mightily to make this event so much memorable for us and a success. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-74553433577918303462015-10-25T00:30:00.002-04:002015-10-25T00:30:20.403-04:00Birthday Prayer<b></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Lord, I give You glory and honor for You are GOOD. Your loving kindness is everlasting. Your generosity abounds and you give great gifts to your children. I could never be grateful enough to You for blessing me with another year. Thank you for satisfying the deepest desires of my heart. No one else but You can supply my needs dear Lord. Thank you for answering my prayers. Thank you for your everyday love validated through my spouse, my family, my friends, and my community. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Lord, thank you for Your amazing grace and mercy. Although I may be unworthy of Your love, you still love me anyway. That is how forgiving and compassionate You are. Your love is unconditional. How blessed I am to be loved by You. Day by day, I live by your grace. My life is not always happy happy joy joy, but You are my saving grace. You give sense to all life's trials and adversities. You reveal to me the power of prayer. You teach me to hope and to trust relentlessly. You teach me how to be patient and kind. In Your holy words I find comfort. Through your holy words, I am purified. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Lord, I look forward as I age gracefully to know you more. I'm thankful for the 29 years worth of love and wisdom You have given me. My heart is full and I couldn't ask for anything more than You to bless all the people reading this blog. May they too experience Your everlasting love! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">xoxo,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Joselle </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-76349510946847229182015-10-20T23:09:00.001-04:002015-10-20T23:09:28.979-04:00October rambling<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This month has always been special to me. Besides of my birth
month, what is there to not love October? The mornings are crisp, the
leaves are too. The afternoons are warm but not too hot. The evenings
are cool but not freezing. We could go days without turning the
AC/heater on. What an energy and wallet friendly month! haha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This month is also kind of sucking me in a whirlwind of activities. Thus explains the sporadic writing. I decided to gift myself a day off today to rest. But because the weekdays and weekends were hectic, I had no time left to do the house chores. Instead of taking the day easy, I caved in to cleaning the apartment and cooking. Sometimes I wonder if I have developed an OCD in me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Although I enjoy them, sometimes I still dream of a perfect, chill day. A perfect day would be waking up without an alarm clock, going out for a walk along a trail covered in crisp autumn leaves, stopping in a cafe and grabbing a cup of tea while I sit for an hour to read my bible and meditate. Then I go back home and watch episodes of my favorite tv series. Invite my favorite people over for pizza, lemon pepper chicken wings, and board games. Nothing fancy, just chill. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Going back to the cooking, today I cooked Arroz Ala Cubana. It's a family recipe and a great comfort food. It's made of stir fried ground beef/pork, bananas, eggs (I like mine over easy), and rice. All of my favorite food in one dish. I enjoy cooking. So much so when Alan eats more than I expect. Most of the time I encourage him to eat in moderation which he does so well, but when I cook, that rule doesn't apply any longer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Other than cleaning and cooking, today has been really a good day! Besides my hour long nap, I got some good news in the mail! Alan's green card finally arrived! Long story short, his initial green card that was supposed to arrive after a month of his arrival unfortunately got lost in the mail. So we had to re-apply, mail another application form, go to the whole bio-metric she bang and pay another ridiculously high fee. What a pain. After 8 months, he finally got his green card. America, you know I love you but this is not a good way to welcome immigrants who strive to come to your country in good order. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Anyway, that's about it for October. Life has been good. Busy but good! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-69854041568648139712015-09-04T23:40:00.000-04:002015-09-04T23:40:08.737-04:00Moving in <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It was a cloudy morning and the sun imposed not to show up. I was worried that the gloomy weather would cripple our plans to move out. Alan and I headed out to the apartment and tackled the final inspection, put down the required fee, and got the keys. It was drizzling a tiny bit. While we were in the car, I kept on singing these words from my mouth: <i>"Push the clouds away and let the sun come our way"</i> in a tune of my own making. Magically, the fat dark clouds suddenly vanished and the sun gloriously revealed itself. Thank the Lord!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Upon stepping my foot inside the apartment, I took some time to soak up the moment. I stared at the white walls (1 free accent wall; Icelandic blue), smelled the new paint, felt the new carpet and hardwood floors. The room was blank like a canvass waiting to be filled with colors, waiting to be showered with life. While the place was impeccably bare and pristine, I gave myself a moment, took pictures and happily marveled at it's emptiness before chaos took over. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Then we stepped out and went to the U-haul store. Alan initially reserved a 17 ft. truck. However, we found it unavailable at that day and so they replaced it with a 20 ft. truck free of charge. Puzzled, Alan and I looked at each other as we asked ourselves, can we possibly drive this? Left with no choice and time constraint, Alan got in the driver's seat, said a prayer and carefully drove the truck and ourselves safely home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When we got home around noon, we found our gracious friends waiting for us. My heart leaped for joy. To say they are our friends is an understatement. They are our brothers and sisters in our Christian faith and therefore, they feel like family! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">At first, I thought we wouldn't be moving a lot of stuff. We weren't owning any furniture aside from our beds. But as people knew about our move, our boxes started to accumulate. My aunt Ida gave us a set of pretty dinner plates, salad plates and bowls that my Lola Meding bought when she worked in Bloomingdale's. My Lola bought all of her three daughters one set each. A <i>pamana </i>(heritage) we will forever treasure. My aunt also handed us utensils, serving dishes, baking dishes, and other glassware she would no longer need. My other grandmother, Lola Lou, who also moved in to a new place, handed us pots and pans. My mom also inherited my Lola and Lolo's beds and dressers. Lastly and the biggest piece we had to move was a glass dining table set given by my former manager's close friend, Cindy. I can never thank these people enough for their kindness and generosity towards us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The following day, after church, we took some holy water to use in our simple house blessing in the evening. We invited our Ninong Butch and Ninang Ida to join us for dinner. Our Ninang Clair and Ninong Vic gifted us prayers and blessings to protect every corner of the apartment from every evil. We sprinkled every nook and cranny with holy water as we said our prayers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We're glad that the weekend move went pretty well. </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Day by day, like puzzle pieces, furniture, mirrors, paintings, lamps, rugs and all other bits and bobs seem to fit. As I am sitting in our white Ikea Ektorp couch (which by the way I got for a good deal from a garage sale!) I am still left in the surreal sense that this is now home. </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">PS: Thank you once again to my small group, especially to the Tonidos, Dilags, Abellanosas, Masons, and Ton-Leah. Thank you also to the Grutas, Ninong Butch, his brother Ronnie and my cousin Chris for all your help! We deeply appreciate the time and energy you put in on our move. And for all your best wishes and prayers, thank you so much! God bless you all! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="480" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/11896087_10153611228019801_5753856162437139415_n.jpg?oh=e15925aef790e5d4b4aa461fe008cd43&oe=56704484" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-52808634001823469992015-08-27T16:54:00.000-04:002015-08-30T14:36:23.055-04:00To our long time host family<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Dear Ninang Ida and Ninong Butch,</span><br>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">No words could ever express how grateful we are to you both
in opening up your home to us for the past 7 years. We have never felt more blessed
to have such a generous and thoughtful family like you. Without your help and
guidance, we would not have made it this far. I don’t think we’ll ever forget
every good thing you have done for us. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Ninang Ida- thank you for:</span>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-synthesis: weight style; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Teaching us how to be clean and organized. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The good meals you have cooked for us.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> <span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-synthesis: weight style; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"></span></span></span>Inspiring us to be responsible and dependable sisters and
daughters.</span>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Ninong Butch- thank you for:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Preparing our tax returns. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Helping us fix our cars and other broken things in the house. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Teaching us how to save money and live better (Walmart?) lol</span></li>
</ul>
<br>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are tons of things we are grateful for but most of
all, we are greatly thankful for leading us to the community, CFC and inspiring us on how to
be good servants and followers of God. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Inevitably, we do have our shares of misunderstandings and disappointments as well. That's why we would like to take this chance to apologize if there were times we have caused you problems unintentionally. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Not all families are designed perfectly but we are perfectly designed by God to relentlessly love and forgive one another. </span>The great thing is we love and serve one God who unites us all and helps us overlook our imperfections. I guess that's the key in keeping a peaceful, gracious, loving and tight family bond.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Also, we wish you well on selling the house and finding a
new home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As you know, we are just a few minutes away. Please drop in
whenever you like, our door is always open.<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span></span><br>
<br>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thank you both so much! We love you!</span> </span></div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
</span><br>
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<br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/400845_10150515521509801_1872630257_n.jpg?oh=c064d2fb1d6ed7e6caae16a899b717c0&oe=5638BA43" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="spotlight" height="640" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/400845_10150515521509801_1872630257_n.jpg?oh=c064d2fb1d6ed7e6caae16a899b717c0&oe=5638BA43" width="425"></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle and family</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-74008675826419560492015-08-22T21:58:00.001-04:002015-08-22T22:12:31.758-04:00Moving out of our sweet spot<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We live in a 3K square foot home. When we first moved to Atlanta, we were very fortunate. My mom's sister, her husband, their only son, and our grandparents graciously adopted us in 2008. In Filipino culture, having extended relatives living in one roof is <strike>crazy</strike> typical. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRKQ2A__aUhrjWPsjWQYWwhByGhUVa4OWh2Jd6FmGsniMlaaAByn3Yvbh0ieqshAyDDoLQtEKQNn8YkK_OMNHaZrszfPTYo__-2FZub257R-Aj3HmFn66KvIIn8V0bmd-PsWCA11r_7fr/s1600/225171_21122084800_2370_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRKQ2A__aUhrjWPsjWQYWwhByGhUVa4OWh2Jd6FmGsniMlaaAByn3Yvbh0ieqshAyDDoLQtEKQNn8YkK_OMNHaZrszfPTYo__-2FZub257R-Aj3HmFn66KvIIn8V0bmd-PsWCA11r_7fr/s1600/225171_21122084800_2370_n.jpg" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Tons of beautiful memories bloomed out of this house. My favorites were those of our grandparents and our Saturday brunches. The only time we could enjoy breakfast all together in a week. My sisters and I would wake up early to cook a hearty breakfast. Fried rice, eggs, spam, <i>tuyo</i>, corned beef, kielbasa, <i>longganisa, tocino,</i> and our fave, <i>mala-chicharong</i> crispy fried bacon in flour. Then we would wait for our lola and lolo, our mom and our aunt to come home from their adoration and 9 am mass. In some glorious days, we would take it up a notch and have a little picnic on the deck and reminisce about the good old days for hours. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There were immeasurable life lessons learned from this house and with a grateful heart, all of those lessons would be carried over to the next chapter of our lives. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Next chapter? Yes! This young wife has some big news to share! Now that Alan and I are together, it just seemed right to move out, move forward and start a new beginning. We knew this day was going to come anyway and we reached that point when we knew we must already begin to stand on our own. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's always challenging and daunting to move out of our comfort zones, isn't it? However, our hearts are filled with hope and trust that God will always provide. He is with us. </span>He loves us. Even if we can’t see the whole plan, He can<i>.</i><i> </i>That's more than enough and that's all we really need to know. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As we begin a new chapter in our lives, we are beginning to see our dreams slowly being made into reality. Wherever God takes us, as long as Alan and I are together, it will always be sweet, it will always be home. </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Lake View at Night" src="http://medialibrarycdn.propertysolutions.com/websites_media/merrittatsugarloaf.com/cached_thumbs/640x480/545bd3b680d8c864.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous lake promising us of many happy days ahead :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-32139850847418677662015-08-17T21:56:00.000-04:002015-08-18T09:20:40.552-04:00Dollywood<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
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Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
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Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Last week, our eldest sister who lives on the other side of
the world came to visit once again. It wasn’t long as we’d hoped for but it was
sweet nevertheless. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because time was so
fluid, I took a day off and took the family for a long weekend bonding and
family time. </span><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="640" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/11822396_10153555708864801_5416997250752225908_n.jpg?oh=44db21fcfb8c8f101a3ac868de2f311d&oe=567A7B55" width="640" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Aside from Georgia, I loved for my sister to see other parts
of the US so we decided to take her to Tennessee. From north of Atlanta, it
took us 3 hours to get up to the smoky mountains of Pigeon Forge. The view going up was breathtaking.
The sky was so immaculately blue and the clouds were as white as cotton balls.
The mountains were just full of lush green trees. The air was so fresh, so
inviting. We saw animals that we’ve never seen before. We were just left in
wonder of how God majestically made all these beautiful things.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="640" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11828800_10153597325225712_7013834686191968039_n.jpg?oh=1a1e88c3eb2d9d86a0c056c5ebe3a3b4&oe=5681BCBE" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">While on the road, we talked about life, love, and dreams.
We talked about exciting things coming our way. Of course, our road trip won’t
be complete without Ate Joyce filming lip sync music videos. She loves
productions, always. I remember the days when we would all sing along to the
entrance songs of the cartoons we used to watch. And then we would put actions
on it and choreographed dances. It was like having our own little Broadway show
at the comfort of our home. How fun it is to be surrounded with girly girls. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When we arrived, the first thing we did was go to an outlet mall.
Yes, I drove for 3 hours to go shopping because it was my sister’s request. According
to her, she held herself shopping for the whole year cos she planned on buying
an entire new wardrobe when she got here. Luckily, that weekend was tax free
weekend for TN! We spent half of our day there. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Going back to when we were little, our mom
would only buy us clothes during Christmas and whenever school starts (school
uniforms). The rest of our clothes were hand-me-downs, gifts from our thoughtful
families in the states or handmade dresses by our nanay (papa’s mom). We only had a few but
enough to get by. As long as they were clean without any holes, we were fine. (Thank
God for uniforms). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">God has really blessed our family in so many ways. Now that
we make our own money, we can make up for things we were lacking before. But still
always mindful and grounded by the teaching that we are only mere stewards of God's resources. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Back to our trip, Alan quickly followed right after work. He
arrived right in time for dinner and completed my day! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We made sure that this trip will make us strongly bonded, we
booked ourselves, all 6 of us in one room! 2 queen beds and 1 sofa bed. Mom and
Ate, me and Alan on the queen and the younger sisters on the sofa bed. We
shared one bathroom too! Hair dryer, make-up, toiletries, hair brushes all
happily lying above the bathroom counter. I’m glad Alan is always a trooper. He didn’t care.
He was used to being surrounded by a lot of hormones. He grew up with 2 sisters
and he loved the energy of her 7 lovely Ochoa aunts (his mom’s sisters). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The next day off we went to Dollywood! I wasn’t aware that
there was such a place until my manager recommended it to me. It’s a theme park
owned by the famous country singer who was born in TN, Dolly
Parton. The park reminded me of Knott’s Berry Farm in California. Anyway, because
music is in our blood, we enjoyed the musicals and the shows more than the
rides. Did you know that “I Will Always Love You” most popularly sang by
Whitney Houston was composed and originally recorded by Dolly? The most thing I was fascinated by Dolly was that she grew up dirt poor. It was just inspiring to learn how she achieved her dreams and still remained close to her roots and to her family. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Half of the day was spent in that theme park and it was more
than enough for us. After eating mostly southern food for the entire trip, we
couldn’t wait to eat our favorite meal! So as soon as we hit home, we headed
for some Korean BBQ, tofu soup and steamed white RICE. Ahhhhh!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The following day was our last day with Ate. We took her to
the airport without saying GOODBYE but till we meet again! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-80298588920867192282015-08-04T21:00:00.003-04:002015-08-04T21:00:54.109-04:0010 Things I'm thankful for my Mother-in-law<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1. One bright sunny day, my M.I.L and I
visited a tailor who did our dresses for my sister in law's wedding last year. Mommy
happily introduced me to the tailor and said, "this is my daughter in law and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m blessed to have her". My heart gladly
jumped with joy and I said in response, I am blessed the same. I thanked the Lord
for that special moment we had.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2. Although she is not my biological
mother, I thank her for loving me as her own! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3. She currently works as
a professor in Ateneo. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She teaches
English and has a master’s degree! Can you imagine her reading my blog posts
and the pressure that I have to make sure my grammar is correct and that I have
all the right punctuation marks set in the right place? And yet I’ve never
heard a single criticism from Mommy. In fact, she’s always the first one to like my posts. Thanks Mommy and sorry if I’ve ever made you scratch your
head. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">4. I thank her for the unwavering
support she always has for us. She’s certainly always been supportive and
understanding of all of our decisions. She’s made my role as a wife so much more easier. I owe a great deal of gratitude to the Lord for giving us a good
relationship. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">5. Like my own mom, I’ve always
admired Mommy’s simplicity. She would rather present herself comfortably than
fashionably. I thank her for inspiring me on how to be practical. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">6. Like me, she loves food and
parties. She makes every reason to celebrate so we can all gather as a family
and eat some delicious food! Hahaha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">7. I thank her for her daily
inspirational posts on Facebook. Because we are miles away from each other, FB has become
our channel of communication. Thanks also for tagging us on every family
picture. We miss you guys so much!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">8. I thank her for the sacrifices she took upon as a wife and
as a mom when she decided to move to Japan with Daddy. I’m pretty sure it must have been challenging for her to put her career on the side and chose to be a housewife and
take care of everyone. For the invaluable life lessons that shaped your
children’s lives, especially Alan’s. Thank you! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">9. Thankful for the inspiration she
gives us on being a good Ate to her 7 younger sisters. I admire how solid your
love and affection is towards each other. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">10. Most of all, I thank her for
bringing Alan to this world and I thank the Lord for choosing her to be his
mother. I thank her for countenancing me with what was difficult for one mother to do,
to entrust the only son she loves to another woman to love. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Happy 60<sup>th</sup> birthday
Mommy. We praise and thank God for you! </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-45899172432493701912015-07-01T18:27:00.001-04:002015-07-01T20:47:49.354-04:00Don't bug himMy husband is ill and is on respite for 3 consecutive days. My poor guy caught a bug floating around somewhere. Nothing major really compared to the near-death-dengue virus he had last year. But still I couldn't help but be frantic.<br />
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I think from all that have been given to him, the acetaminophen, vitamin C, loads of rest, soup, care, love, and prayer, he should get better soon. I have a big hope in my heart that this too shall pass. And a big God that is good. <br />
<br />
Indeed, God is so good! Because the good news is Alan got a job! After a few amount of interviews here and there, a job offer finally came at hand. He's so happy to join the work force again. He just had enough time to finish all the TV series he brushed off on the side. Enough time to take care of my yummy breakfast. Enough time to train on household chores. And lots of time for prayer. His little daily routine goes something like this: breakfast, prayer time, job hunt, lunch, check emails, TV series, dinner, chores, prayer time. Before an onset of his career, the heavens gave him a break to focus and delight in the things that really matter- time for himself, for me, and for the Lord.<br />
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He starts next week and praying he'll get better before he goes off to work.<br />
<br />
Hoping he recovers fully before our mini getaway to Savannah this weekend! I feel like it has been quite a while since our last wanderlust although this is not quite as long as I hoped for. This quick one will just have to do. It could just help
me recover from the busyness of June and gear me up for what July has to
offer.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-77470724562016556532015-06-20T04:14:00.000-04:002015-06-20T12:16:50.057-04:00Selfless Soul<div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">I woke up in the crack of dawn to get ready for work. I arose from my bed earlier than usual. My younger sister asked a favor from me to drive her to her internship as her "carpool buddy" is on vacation. With a cheerful heart, I agreed cos that's what families do. They lovingly help each other :) Her office is further than mine so we had to leave an hour earlier than my usual time. I informed my husband about this the night before and to my delight, he responded, "I'll drive you both to work." :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Lunch time came and my husband asked me to go out to eat. On weekdays, I really don't go out for lunch and I always bring my baon (packed lunch)with me to work to save money and unwelcomed calories. So going out to eat in the middle of work is such a lovely treat. Off we went to this cute tiny place across the street, called Tuscany Cafe. This little cafe is delightfully charming with a European ambiance. Relatively the prices were not so cheap so Alan and I decided to order one meal and split it because 1. we're conscious of our spending 2. the portions were huge 3. I didn't want to go back to work sleepy after eating a big meal. I was craving for pasta and a steak and fries for him. Both of us wanted two different orders. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know how my husband loves his steak and thought it would be a nice treat for him for waking up so early in the morning so I</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> told him he can get the steak and I'll just have some soup. So this gracious waiter came up and Alan told him, "can we get the Fettuccini Bernadette and Mushroom soup please". I was touched that he gave up his steak and went for what I wanted. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I know Alan has always been shy when I post things about him but this is my blog. Sorry my love but MY RULES. hahaha. </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I never let a single small act of selfless love unappreciated and most especially, the big ones. My husband proves to me many times over and over that he's more than willing to give up everything for my sake. Apart from Christ, I've never met a man so selfless who will treat me highly before himself. A guy who will give up his work in a reputable international bank back home and take his chances in the US and be with me. A guy who will spend half of his fortune to marry me. A guy who will give up his favorite thing to pave the way for what I want. He just fascinates me every single day. I'm greatly blessed for his selfless heart beats for me. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I couldn't be any luckier. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm just infinitely grateful and in awe of how God molds this fella everyday in His image and likeness.</span></div>
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xoxo,<br />
JoselleAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-88390652076343461602015-06-16T23:33:00.000-04:002015-06-16T23:33:40.032-04:00Three Things about Tony (aka Daddy): A birthday honoring<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today, it is a very special day for Alan's daddy, and luckily, mine too :) I think it is an opportunity for me to give honor to a man so dear to us on his birthday. Let me share with you 3 things about what I'm most grateful for with daddy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1. He embodies grace under pressure</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It was around Christmas couple of years back in the Fernandezes' lovely abode. They were prepping for a lunch reunion of their old friends from Japan. I went down to the kitchen to peak and see if they can use a hand. I saw Daddy with his hands full and yet he seemed very calm and chill. So I asked him what can I do to help and he gently asked me if I can fix the salad. He added that the guests would be coming in a few minutes and he felt stressed out because the table wasn't ready yet. In my head, he looked otherwise. Nothing about him looked frazzled or alarmed. To try to lighten up the mood, I uttered, "Stressed na po kayo niyan? You don't look like it po" hehe. To me, I will be always reminded of his gracefulness. I believe Alan got his soft spoken quality and gentleness from Daddy which I am pleased. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2. He is thoughtful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I appreciate so much the times when Daddy would text me to check where I was and if I would be eating dinner at home while on my vacation in the Philippines. I grew up without a father and so to be cared for by Daddy was a great deal to me. Daddy showed me how it was like to have a genuine father on earth. I am blessed and honored to be his daughter-in-law. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">3. He is hardworking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Daddy worked for the UN in Japan and concentrated on waste management. I've never seen someone very mindful of his trash and the environment as daddy. I believe he also worked as a consultant for earthquakes and disaster prevention. It's his joy to inform everyone how to be prepared when natural calamities come and he takes it very seriously. When I was in high school, I happened to be hanging out with Nina, Alan's sister at their house and Daddy suddenly gathered everyone and showed us a documentary DVD on earthquake preparedness plan. Now at 61, he devotes most his time on his new baby, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298574-d7618642-Reviews-Zaan_Japanese_Tea_House-Quezon_City_Metro_Manila_Luzon.html" target="_blank">Zaan Japanese Tea House</a>. I witnessed how much work he put in while they were starting up the restaurant and I'm just so proud. Please check them out at Mother Ignacia Ave corner Roces Ave. (Please click on the link. Quick ad right there haha) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">To close, I want to honor a man who gave Alan and me insights to many things. I thank him for teaching Alan how to be a gentleman, and to be rooted in God's presence. I especially learned from him how to live simply and to invest in travel because it is the best channel of learning. It makes my heart leap remembering what Daddy shared with me one day about one of his greatest dreams. For all of us to travel to Italy together as a family. That's one of the sweetest dreams I've heard, ever! Just the fact that he dreams intentionally for the family is enough for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Happy birthday Daddy! Thank you for everything! We love you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Joselle and Alan</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16627741456135927037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-47225788111644438912015-06-08T18:42:00.004-04:002015-06-08T18:42:50.602-04:00Nostalgia<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You know how one event can bring you back in time? Here's mine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I grew up in a tropical country which is hot with abundant sunshine and humidity. I love taking cold showers everyday especially at the end of each warm, toasty day after playing Chinese Garter, Ten Twenty and <i>Patintero</i> with my friends. However, in early dawn mornings before going to school, cold baths were dreadful. From most of the houses we lived in (we used to move a looooooot) there were no showers built in. At one house, I remember being excited at the thought of having a shower even without a heater installed. As a little kid, it felt like showering in the rain which I playfully enjoyed doing. A water heater was not one of our major concerns back in the day until we moved here in the US. Try taking a cold shower in winter time and you'll know what I mean. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Saturday night, we found out that our carpet floor in the basement by our closet area was drenched in water. I thought water from upstairs leaked. I hurriedly took our clothes away and reached for the wall. It was dry. We then came to find out that it was the water tank situated in the basement next to our room that had major issues. I was just glad that it was not water from the toilet (ewwww). So we had to shut it off. We were advised that the heated showers won't be functional for a few days while waiting for the replacement tank but the toilet and sinks were usable. Thank goodness! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In times like these, good thing we have <i>tabo</i> (dipper) and <i>palanggana</i> (bucket) at home! I bet you will find <i>tabo</i> in every Filipino houses. Haha. This morning, I filled up 2 <i>palangganas</i> with cold water, heated water from an electric kettle and poured it right into the cold water which resulted in a lukewarm-ready-for-bath-water. I felt like I was home. I felt like the child that I was growing up in Manila. I am happy to realize that I am still the same person, only a few pounds heavier and with more responsibilities. Cheers to the familiar feeling of it all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-58600487819498377042015-05-12T19:20:00.001-04:002015-05-12T19:20:32.113-04:00New Family Traditions<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It has been three months since my husband moved in and so far, it has been amazing. I'm not saying that our life is perfect. Heck NO. Like any other newlyweds, Alan and I are figuring things out as we go along. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We are so blessed to be mentored by and to witness the lives of some of the wonderful married couples that are greatly dear to us. And so let me share with you what we've learned and what traditions we are keeping for our own little family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Blessing each other before leaving the home.</b> One of the traditions we've set is that the leader of the home must bless his family before setting their foot outside. So everyday, before I leave the home for work, he places his hand over my head and blesses me with <b><i>Numbers 6:24-26</i></b>:<i> "May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, And give you peace. Amen"</i>. This morning, we left the home together because he was bound for a job interview and so I blessed him and prayed over him. Blessing one another, just as simple as saying God bless you, is so important so that each of us and our day is covered in prayer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Wednesday date nights.</b> Another tradition we've taken on is to go out on a date every Wednesday. Now that it's only just the two of us, we are taking advantage of this luxury of time. Our weekends can be so busy in between serving in the music ministry, doing errands/household chores, catching up with family and friends, parties, and church so it is important to set apart a weeknight for just the two of us. Since we share the love for food, we enjoy discovering restaurants together. Here, we don't only eat but we try to dialog and ask how our week is going and we raise any concerns to each other if there are any. If money is of the essence, spending quality time can be as simple as going out for a cup of tea or simply walking in the park together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Hug/kiss each other and say I love you everyday.</b> Sad but true, we didn't grow up in families that say I love you to each other as often. For us, we thought actions speak louder than words. We weren't touchy either. However, showering your loved ones with hugs and kisses, affirming each other and saying you love them everyday are essential. When we knew that my love language was touch, my husband made sure my love tank is filled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Share meals together. </b>We try as much as we can to eat together (which explains the weight gain hahaha). In the past, I wasn't in the habit of eating breakfast. When Alan came, he would wake up early to prepare my cereals with fruit and a fresh brewed milk tea and I couldn't pass the sweet gesture. In the evening, we eat dinner together as well in our dining table free from electronic devices. Researchers confirmed that families who eat dinner together and catch up on each others everyday lives reap great benefits especially for the (future) children. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Pray together every night. </b>As we retire to bed at the end of each day, no matter how exhausted we might be, my husband and I read each other scriptures and meditation just like reading a child a bed time story. Reading God's word together is one effective way of growing in faith as a couple. If we are looking for a manual for marriage, we need not to look further. We can find all we need to know in the Bible. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Alan and I were raised up totally different by two different families. Traditions that are familiar to me and I'm comfortable with could be strange to him and vice versa. So we compromised, and agreed to come up with our own. These are traditions of our own choosing and making. Traditions that we hope to influence our future generations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Joselle </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1734460770267221427.post-78055620144036030052015-04-24T16:44:00.002-04:002015-04-24T16:44:44.052-04:00Bistek Tagalog with Broccoli<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Filipino food are so good but can be so bad for you so I decided to kick it up a notch and make it a bit healthier. I grew up eating Bistek (Beef Steak) with a cup of warm white rice. My mom would sometimes add potato or green beans but this time, I added broccoli. Sharing with you how to make this simple and easy recipe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 lb. beef sirloin (thinly cut)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 large sweet onions (cut in rings)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3 cloves garlic (crushed) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 head of broccoli (cut into bite sized pieces)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/4 cup soy sauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2 pcs of calamansi/lemon (can add more as desired)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">butter or oil </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">sugar </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Procedure:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Marinade beef in soy sauce,calamansi/lemon and pepper for at least 30 minutes but not more than an hour. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In a pot, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a minute. Set aside.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In a pan, heat butter or oil and saute onion rings. Set aside. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In the same pan, heat butter or oil and saute garlic.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Then fry the beef until cooked and tender.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Add the marinade and simmer for a few minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sprinkle a dash of sugar. Sugar helps balance the saltiness of the sauce. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Add the onions on top or mix it together.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Serve and enjoy!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Serving: 5-7 people</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15470106960348159869noreply@blogger.com0