When Dad Went Home

Dear Dad,

You passed away on December 3, 2013 at 10:57pm at Capiz Emmanuel Hospital surrounded by family and with so much love.

Its been 16 days since and it is only now that I have gathered enough strength to write anything since you embodied so much of my life, words will never suffice.

When we decided to bring you home on December 1st, my world just spun out of its axis.  Yes, there was fear.  Fear that I was going to loose you, my anchor, my rock.  Fearing the future would be so empty without you.

We have had conversations on this in the past.  We said all we needed to say and so much more.  We did all we could have over the years.  I can say that I can look back at my life with you and never have to say that I regretted anything or wish we had done this or that.  We did everything together.  We had our one on one time and we had family time.  Every moment we spent together was precious, and you personally made sure of that.  You always taught us to live each day with the family with quality and to the maximum.

But the reality of it all was something I never thought would happen at such a time.  37 weeks pregnant, we were this close to you seeing your new grandson.  The one that you knew I was going to have.  Dani's little brother.  But everything seemed to be happening all at once.  Not to mention the current situation of Capiz after Super Typhoon Yolanda.  Poor Joey.  He had to do the heavy lifting.  I could only do so much.

Seeing the air ambulance land on December 3rd just made things even more real.  Ironically, it was a beautiful morning.  The kind of mornings I would look forward to, coming home from Manila and heading back home with you waiting for me at the door.  The morning sunlight would be so peaceful and serene, orange hues all around.  

Bringing you to the hospital and seeing you lying there. 2 machines for your heart and lungs.  It was you, but again it wasn't.  You looked more peaceful than when I saw you a few days before that in Manila.  Joey was right, your body was with us, but we knew the real you went home already.

I will never forget the pain in Lola's face when she saw you.  How can you ever describe the pain in a mother's eyes, seeing her only son who was also the youngest, slipping away.  Seeing Lola sobbing in her wheelchair, at the side of her son who took care of her for all those years.  Loosing her husband at such a young age, to loose another man in her life that was closest to her.  There is no word to describe it.  But even through her pain, Dad, I saw her strength and her faith.  

Your sisters were there.  The women you grew up and shared so many memories with.  So many people who were close to you were there.  

The amazing part of it all, Dad, despite our sadness, we were not hopeless.  We still had our faith.  God was still in control.

Loosing you is the most painful experience in my life.  You knew that.  But, Dad, we had peace when it finally happened.  Somehow, we were together but in another way.  Despite the tears we had, we still had light moments of smiling and laughter.  That's just so you, Dad.  You always found a way to make us smile despite everything we went through.

You did a great job preparing us, Dad. By God's wisdom and love, we will move on.  But we will never forget.  I will miss you all the days of my life.

Seeing your highschool and college friends was one of the best parts of saying goodbye.  They came all this way to see you.  After all these years, I finally have faces to fit the names you talked about so many times.  They told us the same stories you told us.  In their stories, you were young and alive once more.  But then we also cleared some stories up where you ingeniously switched names so as not to confess they were your funny personal experiences.  So you, Dad.  I'm glad you told us all those stories.  Those are the things we can hold on to.

Danielle and Liam are still so young to completely understand.  But it has surprised us so many times how they suddenly say things out of the blue about you.  When we first brought a picture of you home so that we could prepare the house for visitors wanting to visit you, Dani said suddenly, "Lolo's home!"  They would say things like, "Lolo is sleeping."  "Lolo is playing with Jesus."

My daughter could have gained so much from you, Dad.  You raised me to be who I am now.  I pray for the same wisdom and strength to do what you did with me. I will miss out on all your advise and instructions.  Most of all, she doesn't get to experience what a wonderful man you are.  She remembers you, but I fear she is too young to hang on to those memories.  Just the way you were when your father died, too.

I will always remind her of her dates with you.  How you would take her to the beach and eat barbecue with her after your daily afternoon walk at the Stadium.  How you buy her books and bubbles to play with.  Even undergoing your therapy, you would go all the way to Iloilo (2-3 hour drive) just to visit her then go back that afternoon.  You would come all this way just for her (and me).  You would save her some of your biscuits for her to nibble on when she would play in your room or watch tv on your bed while you worked on your desk.  Camping in the lawn with treats just for her and Liam.  Watching her splash around in the swimming pool.  How you taught her to pray on her knees and thank God for all her blessings.  2 years is not enough.  Those were the things you did with me way back when.  And you could have had more memories of your own.  You still dreamt of binging them to Disneyland, walking with them during school activities, birthdays...

You were the best dad.  In the few days we laid you in state, so many people came to pay their last respects and shed real tears.  You helped so many people and touched so many lives.  Far more than I think you actually realized.  I'm so proud to be your daughter.  

Coming into 2014, its going to be a very different Christmas and new year without you.  I miss our talks most of all.  How I could just talk to you at anytime about anything and everything.  I pray I will be the same with my own children.

I thank God for you every single day of my life, Dad.  God became real in my life because He was so real in yours.  I love you so much.  I know you are closest to the Father now and that's what we all hope for.  No more sickness, no more hurt, no more doctors, no more sadness.  Only love and pure joy.

Always in my heart, Dad.

Believe

John 14:12-14

Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (NLT) ( Romans 8:28 ) 

God is masterful in weaving events together for His glory, even if it is painful, challenging, or traumatic. When your world comes crashing down, keep your faith focused on God. He will not fail you. When your attention is focused on a solid rock, your perspective changes and the rest moves into your peripheral view. How can you stay focused on God when all else fails? Plant yourself in God's word. Be persistent in prayer. Confide in an accountability partner who is mature in their faith. - Devotional

If You Want Me To

IF YOU WANT ME TO:

By Ginny Owens

The pathway is broken

and the signs are unclear

and I don’t know the reason 

why You brought me here

But just because You love me 

the way that You do

I’m gonna walk through the valley

If You want me to

Cause I’m not who I was

When I took my first step

And I’m clinging to the promise 

You’re not through with me yet

so if all of these trials bring me closer to you

Then I will walk through the fire

If You want me to

It may not be the way 

I would have chosen

When you lead me through a world 

that’s not my home

But You never said it would be easy

You only said I’d never go alone

So when the whole world turns against me

And I’m all by myself

And I can’t hear You answer my cries for help

I’ll remember the suffering 

Your love put You through

And I will go through the valley 

If You want me to.

Fear

In the face of fear, we need to hear Jesus ask, “Why are you fearful?” (v.26) and be reminded that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5-6). There is nothing that He can’t overcome and therefore nothing for Him to fear. So, next time you’re haunted by your fears, remember that you can rely on Jesus, our fearless Champion!

Lets keep it going

Supertyphoon Yolanda

2 weeks ago, Nov 7, 2013, Supertyphoon Yolanda struck. The main path was my hometown, Roxas City and Capiz as a whole. Categorized as a CAT 5, strongest ever recorded in the world. 

It hit Roxas at 11am. In Iloilo it was around 1pm. It didn't stay long and moved on pretty fast, but what was left was so hard to see. 

I have no words. I am currently on bed rest now and its impossible for me to go back and see all this for myself. 

Thankful to the Almighty Father my family and all I know are safe. Material things can be replaced over time. In that I rest my hope.

Despite all this, God's hand is clear. Its in the hearts of all those who have come to help and serve so selflessly. Trying to do our best regardless of the circumstances.  There is always a way. After the storm comes the hope of a new day. 

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life—

    of whom shall I be afraid?

- Ps 27:1

In the face of fear, we need to hear Jesus ask, “Why are you fearful?” (v.26) and be reminded that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5-6). There is nothing that He can’t overcome and therefore nothing for Him to fear. So, next time you’re haunted by your fears, remember that you can rely on Jesus, our fearless Champion! 

- Our Daily Bread

Father, open my eyes to those struggling to have enough food, enough love, enough hope; then open myheart to find ways to help them receive love, using myhands in service to them—and through them, to You.  By serving others, we serve God. 

- ODB

6am nap

Bryan just came in from a double overtime at work. Its 6am and he asked me to wake him at 8am. 

This is one of those times when I can't believe how amazing my husband is. He had to monitor the overtime from 6pm to 6am. Although he was just home in the study, he stuck to it as he always does.  I have to honestly confess, I don't think I could do it if I were in his shoes. 

I always feel frustrated he has to do this. Helpless as well. Our businesses are the same but their ways are so different from mine. Thats the world we live in. No two things are ever alike, unless manufactured. 

Watching him sleep right now.  Im blessed. He gets a big hug and kiss when I wake him up at 8am. 

1 Peter 3:5-6

For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.

Going back to 1989...

24 years ago, I had a brother.  Another brother.  His name was Juan Carlo.  He was a big deal for our family.  For 4 generations the Hernandez family has had only 1 boy for each generation.  He was supposed to be the one who finally broke the trend.

But I never got to hear him cry or even hold him.  I was 9 then.  I just remember riding my bike around the court of my Tita Grace's house.  Waiting.  Waiting for my dad and my mom to come home.

That was the first time I saw my dad cry.  I never saw my brother, or I just can't recall actually seeing him.  I remember briefly a photograph of him inside a shoebox.  No life in him.  But he was beautiful.

I don't even remember my mom's face.  I don't think I even minded hers as much as it surprised me to see my dad's, grief stricken and tears all over his face.  

Juan Carlo was born premature, like Joey and I.  But he was too young.  Too small.  Too weak.

My mom already had a history of difficult pregnancies and childbirth.  We all were born in 7 months, Cesarian section and mom had ecclampsia.  We never got to breastfeed because she had no milk to give.  

24 years ago, my mother was only a year older than I am now.  But I cannot, for the life of me, imagine travelling for about a month to Europe then America with a 9 year old (me).  I was useless at that age.  Honestly, the sad part is, I don't remember most of it.  Except Austria because of the movie, "Sound of Music".  I was there for the centennial celebration of the Eiffel Tower... slept right through it.

My dad was livid about the whole trip.  He was the most devastated when we lost my brother, I think.

Without any warning, he took Juan Carlo with him and drove straight back to Roxas.  The shoe box next to him the whole way.  He buried my brother under the Ilang-ilang tree at our home.  As dad would fondly recall, that was the first place the sun shone in the morning.  Since then we moved Juan Carlo next to Lolo Kukit but still within our grounds.

Being 7 months pregnant today, I can't even imagine traveling and being so irresponsible.  I barely make it to Manila even with dad in the hospital there.  As much as I would like to be there, I am carrying another life and I am completely responsible.  Not to mention how difficult it is to be pregnant.  So how could I even consider going across Europe on planes and buses, walking all over, then flying to the States with a 9 year old and no other male relative to even help me with my luggage.  Bryan is my rock during this time and I am practically useless for a reason. But its a given and not even worth a second thought.

Reminded my family about today.  The saddest part is, my mom keeps forgetting this day.  Its like just another day for her.  But my dad has been bringing flowers to Juan Carlo every year.  Now its our turn, with him so far away.  Its imaginable in so many levels.  But that is my reality.  Thats the kind of mother I never want to be.

Mom has her good points.  But I won't allow the bad to tamper with my relationship with my children.  They mean the world to me.  I just choose, by God's grace and wisdom, to be a totally different mother.

So this day, I remember Juan Carlo. Take a moment to ponder on the life that could have been.  But also how his brief 3 days of life will always have an impact on the rest of our lives.

As wives we need to remember that it’s our unique privilege to be encourager to our husbands, to support them with a good word when they need it and make their heart glad. Of all the people in the world, that good word of encouragement matters most from us. 

- Joy Tanchi-Mendoza

Tito Joey

My baby brother holding my baby girl. Life has a way of getting to you when you just look away for a few seconds. 

Lord, teach me to value my heart more than the

externals. Grant me the wisdom to cultivate internal

ingredients that will make my heart a wellspring of

life to those whom I come in contact with today.

The contents in your heart are more important than the outer packaging.

- ODB

3 years and blossoming

After 3 years, it warms my heart to see our wedding centerpiece blooming still when we have lunch or dinner at my grandparents' place in Compania St. 

My Abuelita was already too weak to make it to my wedding. But I made sure she got a centerpiece. She loved flowers. She really gave this flower so much care and attention when she was still alive. Few months after our wedding she passed away.

So many good memories in a single orchid plant. I think it also represents my own marriage. It has not been a perfect 3 years but I believe we've grown and developed as a couple even more since. 

With a daughter and a son on the way, I hope this orchid stands in more happy moments in our life. 

Luke 12:27-31

“Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

A. W. Thorold writes, “The highest pinnacle of the spiritual life is not happy joy in unbroken sunshine, but absolute and undoubting trust in the love of God.”

Even youths grow tired and weary,

    and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the Lord

    will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

    they will run and not grow weary,

    they will walk and not be faint.

- Isaiah 40:30-31

Me, my books and my imagination

Growing up, a habit I inherited from my dad was the habit of reading. I could spend the whole day, continuous days even, in my room with a good book. Some snacks didn't hurt either. I was a homebody that way. I knew how to take care of myself and my time. Just give me a good book. 

Reading was never a waste of my time. Nowadays, I long for that time when I would pride myself in finishing a book within an amount of time. These days, audio books are my easy means of reading. With a toddler, its hard to have that space and attention exclusively. 

I am so pleased that Dani has gained that interest in one of my ultimate passions. Although she still needs to learn the alphabet, the pictures fascinate her. She easily recalls pictures and emotions I tell her. Very assuring on my part. 

I may never be able to give her the world. But books open up the world and countless possibilities. From adventures, experiences, trials and characters. What a life it is to be able to read. 

My dad had a rule that I would like to implement on my kids. Toys are to be earned. Books are unlimited. 

When the earth rumbles

Like any other regular morning, our day started pretty much the same way. 

A bit past 8, while I was getting readt for work, we felt the room move. Earthquake! Bryan was his usual calm self, telling me not to panic. I quickly put on proper clothes and slowly made my way out of our room. Dani was already on her way down with her yayas. Pregnant as I am, I cautiously went down with Bryan. 

Even when we were already on the ground floor, everything was still stirring. The chandeleirs were swaying at a very urgent pace. Like a pendulum if sorts. My father-in-law was downstairs as he always is that time of the day. 

The cars outside were rocking. Electric wires swaying. It was pretty long, unlike other earthquakes I've experienced before. 

Thats how our day in Iloilo began. Then news from all over came in. The wonders of modern technology. Everyone is connected almost instantly. 

Apparently, the earthquake came a few kilometers from Bohol. Bohol experienced a 7.2 instensity. Iloilo was about a 5. Roxas City about a 4. But it was felt up to Kalibo. 

Our home in Roxas is pretty blessed when it comes to earthquake. As Scriptures go: 

Luke 6:48

They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.

Our home is literally built on a hill made of solid rock, so they didn't feel a thing. God is good and true to His words, regardless of the application. 

Cebu, which is close to Bohol, also suffered a lot of damage and casulaties. Buildings yielding to the force of the earth. Who are we but mere man?

Watching the news, we only visited Bohol last year. To see the centuries old churches in a pile of rubble, its very heart breaking. People died today. A 4 year old child trampled when people began to run. 

(Photos taken from a facebook page)

Prayers of comfort and protection. May this be part of our country's awakening. Too many selfish people living lives oblivious and arrogant to those who have so few. May God be brought front and center. 

So as we sleep soundly tonight, feeling after shocks still, we remember how blessed we are. How great our God is that the earth can be moved in such a way. The world is in His hands. Let us remember to make our lives purposeful. 

In His Time

Ecclesiastes 3:11, 14

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.

Seems only yesterday we gave up our lives to God in Talon beach in Roxas. The sun was shining in the noon sky. Family was present to witness.  It was a wonderful day. 

I can still remember looking next to me, my brother was also giving his life to surrender that day, too. Our Lola and Dad were so proud. 

Ptr. Lorenzo officiated the day with Ptr. Jenkins (our youth pastor back then) looked on. It was fate that the church baptistry was being fixed that time. Or else we wouldn't have had such a peaceful, simple setting. Except for a few jellyfish floating by, it was my idea of focusing solely on the objective at hand. 

18 years have passed and I still have much to grow into. More lessons to learn. More sharpening needed. 

18 years and we have gone through so much, my brother and I. Our faith has been shaken, stirred, chopped, crushed. But here we are. Eyes forward and steady on our Lord. 

We both started on the same road but somewhere our roads have split. Though still side by side, its not the same path we both trod. He has had his own experiences with the Lord and so have I. But as I look over we are still side by side. God is good. 

I start a new incline in my road with our new baby boy this time. To clear a new road not yet travelled. But I hang on to the One who has been the steady hand I could hold on to all my life. 

Lord, you are God. My loving Creator and hope. Wipe away all my fears and set me on your ground. I refuse to let fear take over. As you have blessed us, you bless us fully not partially. You do not bless us with a half-hearted blessing. So I claim victory over the health of our baby boy in Your mighty name. Let it be done to bring you more glory. 

Thank you for a wonderful 18 years. May we have more years of following you faithfully. Stumbling and clumsy at times, but following your lead. 

Be praised, Lord God! 

Its a boy!

Another happy day for our family! Its a baby boy! 

Father, you are too good to us. Despite all the troubles and obstacles, Your face smiles brightly. How can I ever thank you for such a wonderful gift?

Dani will have a partner now. Just like me and Joey. I can't imagine any other amazing bond. Thank you that I get to share it with my children. 

Father, we choose to see the good in everything. Life is too short to focus on the bad. Make us live a life of direction and purpose. To always look up to you, Lord. 

Having a son will open our eyes even more to the life that you have laid out for us. Let this new life breathe in new strength for us. As always we lift him up to You. May he grow in your light, Lord. 

Grant us the wisdom and discernment, Lord. 

In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Deuteronomy 1:29-31

Then I said to you, “Do not be terrified; do not be afraid of them. The Lord your God, who is going before you, will fight for you, as he did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes, and in the wilderness. There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.”

Must have budget goodies

This is a first for me, posting items that I like at the moment. Never was a kikay girl, growing up with my dad and brother. But these days, 30ish and a mom with a career, I do need help. Still open to more help, too. 

So these are my go-to products that won't break the bank. Its wonderful to have these at the local grocery or drugstore! Heaven sent! 

From L-R: Finesse Clean + Simple Hypoallergenic Hairspray, Petroleum Jelly, Acqua Bella Splash Cologne by Penshoppe, Bench Bambino Baby Cologne, Lip Ice Sheer Color in Strawberry, Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF15, Maybeline Clear Smooth Shine Free Pressed Powder, Face Shop's BB Cream Power Perfection and Cover Girl & Olay Simply Ageless Blush.

Being pregnant, my hair is back to its curly abandon mode. So whenever I fail to iron it, my cow licks are aplenty. I need help holding all that action down. 2 pumps at the most gets the job done. Thats why I like this product. I don't enhale. 

Petroleum Jelly for my lips. Does wonders and have been a fan for years! 

The colognes from Bench and Penshoppe help me with my allergies. I sneeze easily with certain scents. My body also reacts well with these types so I get to feel refreshed and not get an itchy and stuffy nose in the process. 

Lip Ice's lip balm is probably the easiest ones I've used among all the others. It matches your skin color so the shades are never exactly the same. I have to give credit to my cousin, Yolly, for this find. And it doesn't clump up in the lips over time. I skip the lipstick on regular days because of this. 

Cetaphil because my face looks like sandpaper if I let it be. Ugh! Its not sticky and is scentless, so it helps with my allergies with certain scents, too. Plus scented products on the face is a no-no. 

Maybeline's pressed powder is easy to find and won't break your budget. For quick days, I know my environment is not the most glamorous at times so this does the job well. 

Face Shop's BB Cream is light and mousturizes. I tried other brands but this one gets me by far. So I'm sticking to this at the moment. Plus it fits my shade well. Nothing tacky like the geisha look. 

Cover Girl & Olay did good with their blush. It fits my shade and looks natural (w/c is always key!). Takes a while to finish one container. I'm happy, glowing and natural. Chos!

I do have other items on my dresser, but this is my way of saying thanks to the people behind these lovely, budget-friendly goodies. If you have only 20 mins to get ready for your day, you tend to skip on the basics. 

Happy Sunday! 

Shocking and scary news

ILOILO CITY, Philippines - A 27-year-old man died while 34 others were taken to different hospitals in this city allegedly due to food poisoning.

All of the victims have one thing in common: They consumed milk tea on September 24 and 25 at Dakasi Milk Tea House located at the Ayala Techno-Hub building at Smallville Complex in Mandurriao district of this city. Most of them consumed milk teas laced with milk pudding or leche flan.

The patients were treated at St. Paul's Hospital, Iloilo Doctors' Hospital and St. Therese-MTCC Hospital after they reportedly suffered stomach pain, dizziness and vomiting and began feeling weak. Of the 34 who were hospitalized, nine are still confined in the hospital to date.

In an earlier report, Glen Jesse Alonsabe, regional epidemiologist of DOH-6, said the man who died was Ben Jason Cua Chang. He allegedly died due to fatal arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat, which occurs when the electrical impulses to the heart that coordinate heartbeats are not working properly, making the heart beat too fast or too slow or inconsistently.

The hospital where Chang was brought did not issue any medical bulletin on what caused his death but he reportedly suffered from loose bowel movement that led to dehydration, causing his kidneys to fail and eventually resulted in arrhythmia.

But Chang's female relative posted on Facebook that "he died of kidney shutdown due to severe dehydration" and "not primarily because of drinking milk tea at Dakasi." Further, she claimed that "negligence and carelessness of some health care professionals at a private hospital contributed to his death. We are not accusing anybody of our loss."

Immediately following the incident, the Iloilo City Health Office ordered the closure of Dakasi pending investigation of the incident. City Health officer Urminico Baronda said DOH-6 and the Food and Drug Administration took samples of the suspected ingredient that may have caused the suspected food poisoning.

Senior Insp. Lea Rose Peña, chief of the Mandurriao Police Station, said his men already started with their probe. Several victims, including a group of Chinese tourists from Cebu and their house helps, already booked their complaint against Dakasi.

The Dakasi management, in a statement to GMA-Iloilo, said it is waiting for the results of the investigation. "We are very sorry for what happened. No one wanted this, least of all us. But we cannot be totally sure that the cause of their food poisoning is their consumption of Dakasi products. We still have to wait for the results of the official investigation being conducted by the DOH and the CHO. Until then we cannot give any further statements," the statement said.

Since mid-May 2013, Taiwanese health authorities have confiscated more than 312 tons of food starch-a key ingredient in bubble tea-that was found to have been tainted with maleic acid, a cheap food additive that can cause kidney failure when consumed in large doses.

In an article written by Jenny W. Hsu, the toxic starch has also poisoned Taiwan's food exports. Known as bubble or pearl tea, the combination of chewy tapioca balls and milk tea has come a long way since it was first concocted at a small tea shop in central Taiwan 30 years ago.

Not only it is the most popular drink on the island, the beverage has taken the world by its palate. Bubble tea shops can be found in Berlin, Istanbul, Paris, London, Sydney, Japan, Singapore and across China.  (FREEMAN)

http://www.philstar.com/region/2013/09/28/1239115/after-taking-milk-tea-food-poisoning-kills-1-downs-34-city-health-closes?nomobile=1

This news has rocked Iloilo City in the past few days. Milk tea shops have sprouted with a vengeance and has really captured the local market. 

I do on occassion go to milk tea places, including Dakasi. But I very rarely get ones with milk tea or with add ons. I guess I have my lactose intolerance to thank. Plus, I usually go for fruity selections with basic add ons such as nata de coco or aloe vera. Guess I'm wierd like that. 

Dani likes the Peach Yakult tea of Dakasi. So hearing this news scares me because it is a familiar place for all of us. 

Dakasi is one of the more popular milk tea places in the city. Barely a year old, too. It just opened this year. 

This latest news only strengthens my new passion for healthier, organic (if possible, although sources are limited as of this time) food. Juicing is my new thing but I still have to be very careful. Taking care of a house with a toddler and two senior citizens is a situation to be seriously taken. 

With a lot of things easily available, it really makes you evaluate the impact it has on you in the long run. Not to mentiin my family's own medical history, it pays to be healthy. A bit more expensive and quite the trouble, but it can't measure to hospital time and tests. 

Love in action and in truth

1 John 3

16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

An old batchmate of mine has been sent to prison for the 3rd time on pushing drugs. Twice he was caught in Roxas but the third in Kalibo, hence, he is now being held in Kalibo. 

Everyone was glad and amused when he finally got out last November, just in time for our first ever reunion. He was actually one of those that really put his whole heart into it. 

I got to talk to him a bit during the time we were preparing and he was deadset on never going back to prison again. How he wanted to live his life right for his wife and twin daughters. He was even chosen to lead the prayer during our reunion. Actually, he insisted on doing the prayer. 

A few months after our reunion in December, we heard he got caught in Kalibo. I was sad and worried for him. We heard his family gave up and abandoned him. 

Now he pleads with our classmates to send him food, basic necessities. The worst is he has landed in the hospital two times now in the last two months. 

Logistically, it is a bit difficult with him in Kalibo. We don't know anybody and the penal system in this country is both questionable and shady. 

With him in the hospital again and turning yellow, apparently, on a personal level it seems only a few of us our capable of doing anything. 

I feel for those of our classmates who have chosen to help. I know some of them have limited means but still choose to do so out of the kindness of their heart. 

Reading this verse has come at the right time. Doubts have entered my mind. But I am reminded that the help I give is not from my own personal effort but from God's grace, love and mercy. I am not any different from Michael in God's eyes for we are all sinners. God chooses to love us regardless. 

So, I take steps I know I only have the means to do. It means a bit if a sacrifice on my people's part, too. But then again, not so many people can do this. 

May God guide our steps and block all those that mean to do us harm. He knows our hearts and this is for His glory and perhaps be key to Mike's salvation. 

Philippians 1:4-6

In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Be faithful because He is faithful. 

I will never leave you nor forsake you. —Hebrews 13:5

Look for God in your difficult place and discover what He’s doing in and through you there.

- ODB

Restorer and nourisher

Ruth 4:15 

15And may he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age… 

That is why when Moses died at the age of 120, his eyes were not dim and his natural vigor was not diminished. (Deuteronomy 34:7) Caleb, at 85 years old, could still drive out the giants from the land. God had literally nourished his body and made it strong for war. (Joshua 14:11) Sarah was certainly rejuvenated in her old age by God for she was still desirable to a king at the age of 90. (Genesis 20:1–2) God even renewed her womb. She received strength to conceive seed (Hebrews 11:11), giving birth to Isaac in her old age. 

Beloved, God is outside of time and your faith in Him brings you into this timeless zone. There, what the years have stolen will be restored. And even as your years increase, you will not grow weak and weary because the restorer of life and nourisher of your old age is in you! - Joseph Prince

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Mitsuyado sei-men : oishi!

I trip amd I forget the name of this place. I am definitely not familiar with Japanese restaurant names. But the food is so good, I hope I get to go back!

Gaby, April and Ana brought us to Mitsuyado sei-men on Jupiter St., Makati for ramen. The place was packed and we had to wait a while. You know its going to be good when you see real Japanese people around. Even the ambiance was like a quick trip back to Kyoto. 

I had a surprise from Ina that she had sent through Ana.

Bronuts!!! Felt like it was my birthday! Wildflour cronuts will have to wait until next time. She gave me dark chocolate and sea salt, and cream cheese with bacon ones. But this will have to wait 'til Iloilo because Ramens were the goal for the night. 

The char siu pork was melt in your mouth fatty goodness! The veggies broke the fatness but it was an eyes closed kind of an experience. 

I wanted to be brave and I wanted to try something I never had before, so I went for the cheese tsukamen. Cheese over noodles then dip the noodles in the broth. Conclusion, strange things more or less find a way to turn out right. I'm glad I tried it. The noodles and the soup was out of this world! 

Bryan had the Char Siu Ramen while Joey tried the spicy kind. Two thumbs up from both and the empty bowls were the evidence. 

I'm glad we got to spend time together as a family this weekend. What I thought would be a somber and heavy moment in our lives actually turned out to be one for the books. Only wish Dad could have joined us. But by God's goodness, it is possible. 

Lugang Cafe lunch

Lunch after our visit at St. Luke's to check on dad who, thank God Almighty, is doing good. 

Lugang Cafe on Connecticut St., San Juan was nearby so couldn't pass up a chance to introduce Joey, Gaby and April to what we consider the best fish heads dish we've ever had. 

We started with some xiao ling bao. This was the crab roe kind.

Of course, the classic pork xiao long bao, oozing with happiness. 

Dan dan noodles. Yes, it sounds nutty because it kinda is. Peanut saté kind of broth. Pretty light despite its appearance. 

The fish heads were as good as we remembered them to be. Smothered in garlic oyster sauce, it literally melts in the mouth!

Dishes worth noting was the excellent roasted duck, spinach seafood soup with century and salted egg and  spinach in garlic. Forgot to take pictures of it since we were famished at this point. 

Lugang will always be a must for us. It was fun sharing it with family. 

Happy 39th!

After a very challenging roller coaster of a day, ending it with family made me feel how much my family is there for me no matter what.

Bound by blood and faith. Nothing could be stronger.

I'd say Bryan's birthday worked out pretty well. 

Wildflour

For Bryan's 39th birthday blowout, we had the Alcantaras join us for dinner at Wildflour at Bonifacio Global City. I've been dying to try it amidst the cronut madness.

Researched using Foursquare and was not disappointed. I had a lot heaven-like moment tonight. I rarely have these moments in one sitting. 

The arugula and mushroom salad got me the most. I am coming back for this and I'm putting it in writing if I have to! So good!

The flambes were fantastic. One order of this and a salad, thats a pretty good meal! Light and savory. Servings were just right.

By far the best french onion soup I've tasted in my life! Its been a pretty shallow life. I'm so easy to please haha the broth was yummy on different dimensions. 

The birthday boy had the California Burger. Kinda reminded you a bit of shawarma. Good just the same. The fries were a bit too heavy by then though. A side salad would have been better, I think. 

The highlight was the salted chocolate cake with a candle for birthday purposes. Ana did not go wrong with this one. One of the best cakes ever. Not sickeningly sweet and the rock salt gave it a suave finish. Belissimo! 

My birthday boy. The love of my life. Heres to more years of good memories.

Thank you, Lord! 

Psalms 27:13-14

I remain confident of this:

I will see the goodness of the Lord

in the land of the living.

 Wait for the Lord;

be strong and take heart

and wait for the Lord.

Psalm 91:14

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;

I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

 He will call on me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble,

I will deliver him and honor him.

 With long life I will satisfy him

and show him my salvation."

Our God is Jehovah and there is nothing that is out of His reach. We look up to you, Lord during this trying time

For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him... - 2 Chronicles 16:9

Whenever we ask God for anything in Jesus’ name, Jesus says to us, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.” This means that in your prayer for healing, when you say “in Jesus’ name”, healing comes over your sick body because it is by His stripes that you are healed. (1 Peter 2:24) In your prayer for protection, when you say “in Jesus’ name”, you are kept safe because the blood of Jesus protects and delivers you from evil. (Exodus 12:13) 

- Joseph Prince

First and Last in a day

There’s never a day nor a season

That prayer may not bless every hour,

And never a prayer need be helpless

When linked with God’s infinite power. 

—Morton

Let Christ be first in your thoughts in the morning, and last in your thoughts at night.

Baybay, Roxas City

Double rainbow in the distant horizon. Cool afternoon sun and breeze. 

Simple treats that never go out of style! 

Dani loves barbecue with a passion! 

Playing in the sand with Liam and the Yayay Jennies. 

Liam finishing off 2 pork bbq sticks and a liver bbq. Good eating, Liam!

Good evening, Roxas City!