Everyday Life

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

2010-05-09T01:00:00.001-06:00

Before I was a Mom

I slept as late as I wanted and never worried about how late I got into bed. I brushed my hair and my teeth everyday.
Before I was a Mom -
I cleaned my house each day. I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby. I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous. I never thought about immunizations.
Before I was a Mom -
I had never been puked on - Pooped on - Spit on - Chewed on, or peed on. I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts. I slept all night.
Before I was a Mom -
I never held down a screaming child so that doctors could do tests...or give shots. I never looked into teary eyes and cried. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.
Before I was a Mom -
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt. I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much. I never knew that I could love someone so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom.
Before I was a Mom -
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body. I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby. I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child. I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important.
Before I was a Mom -
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay. I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom. I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much before I was a Mom.

Have a Beautiful Mother’s day to you and your Mom…=)

3 generations were out on a date =)

2010-05-04T15:39:00.004-06:00

Last minute plan always work... Right? Well, when I woke up yesterday. I wasn't feeling well. My forearms were killing me. I went to my doctor and they said i had tendinitis and it will take a week or so to heal. I told my mom that I was taking Kalea out to the Zoo ( small one ) by my house. And i know that my mom would not say NO for that.. She'll go wherever I go.. I love her..She's up for anything.. Plus the weather was beautiful.. So we took a walk at the zoo, had late lunch @ Sonic and last stop at miniature golf... I thought after a long productive day that my Lil one would be tired already.. When we got home -- she still wanted to go outside and play her bubbles.. So I took her out and we went for few minutes walk since It was already dark.. But Man!!!! the weather was still nice.. Thank You Lord for ONE fine day with my luvs.......

TGIF

2010-04-16T16:03:00.002-06:00

It's almost 530PM and can't wait to go home. Had a long day today. Just need to get some R & R....... Well, i heard it's gonna be a good weather this weekend. So, I think Im just gonna for a walk today with my lil one...... Anyways, have a great weeekend!!!!

Long time no Blog =)

2010-04-14T21:12:00.003-06:00

Hi bloggers,

I know I know. Its been awhile since the last time I actually wrote something or even open my blog. I apologized---- I don't know where to start but pls continue to pray for me and my family. I am just always thankful that God is always there for me and continuing to guide me especially when I am so lost. I wouldn't know what to do without HIM. I am also thankful for my family and friends who are always there to encourage and pray for me.. or If i just needed to vent or someone to cheer me up... I actually just got home from church. Usually i would just drop off my teen to youth but today--as much as I want to enjoy the weather outside.. I said " Lord I need you today"...... So then I decided to go to service, took my lil one to Children Ministry and also brought my mom with me...I just needed some quiet time with the Lord....Once again, even though i didn't know what to say, what to pray for, I was soo lost with words...But God always understands our prayers even when we cant find the words to say. My teen shared with me that she felt God presence today. She was in tears the whole service.. She said that the Youth Pastor did his life testimony and how he got saved and the wrong choices he made in life.. I felt her excitement to share what she learned and felt today.(her and i actually didnt talk on the way today,her teacher called me this morning and i didnt know what to say to her. I said ill talk to her after Youth).,But God is truly amazing and he answered my prayer and helped me handle it in HIS way...

See, almost 2 yrs ago.. I went back to my bad addiction...(smoking)... especially when I'm stress. I mean I already quit for 5 yrs but 2008 was not the year for me. It was the year when i thought I was soo ready to give up. I prayed that God help me stop my addiction without the normal withdrawal symptoms. I know God answers prayers, It was God that made me stop smoking 5 yrs ago. When i was stress, I didn't need to smoke. It was all him... Wow!! It feels good to write again. Even if its not my thing to write but just to write how I feel...It just feels soo good... Nitey!

Christmas Eve 2009 017.jpg

2009-12-28T17:42:00.001-06:00

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2009-12-28T17:41:00.001-06:00

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2009-12-28T17:40:00.003-06:00

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KALEA'S 3RD BDAY

2009-12-01T17:46:00.001-06:00

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NYC Thanksgiving 2009 with the FAMILY

2009-12-01T17:22:00.001-06:00

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Acquire the FIRE November 13 -14

2009-11-05T13:30:00.001-06:00

Acquire the Fire is a 27 hour life transforming event built around bringing volume and clarity to God's voice in the lives of teenagers. For more than two decades, ATF events have delivered...

Decision-making opportunities for Christ
Pattern-breaking challenges for living "real-life" with God
Future-shaping perspectives that help youth see themselves in God's big plan
Bring your youth to the event of a lifetime. You'll find the greatest worship bands, the greatest audio feast, and the greatest, most mind blowing interactive ministry you have ever experienced at a Christian event. Join the hundreds of thousands of young people who will give God 27 hours at an ATF this year and walk away transformed.

Typhoon Ondoy Relief FUND IN MIDWEST

2009-10-01T10:46:00.003-06:00

For those of you that wants to donate some clothes.... You can drop it off to 1064 Mount Prospect Plaza Mount Prospect, IL -- There will have bins and people outside to take care of your donations. Let's all continue to pray for all the victims and our loved ones.. May this calamity bring people closer together, to help each other. We all know that there's another Typhoon coming. Let's all continue to pray for each other and lend a helping hand in any way we can...

Thank you and God Bless us ALL!

PS.. If you are getting this email and you are not from ILLINOIS.. Please feel free to send this email to everyone you know from Illinois. Thanks!

Happy 14th bday Ate Des!

2009-09-01T16:11:00.006-06:00

Happy 14th Birthday Ate Des!!! How time flies....May God continue to protect and guide you... We love you.....

Happy 2nd bday Baby Kai!!!!

2008-11-30T01:00:00.000-06:00

Hi there!

Long time no post from me....Just wanted to greet our baby girl a Happy 2nd bday ..few months before she turned 2..She's been singing her Abc's pretty good and her numbers up to 12....Lolz.. She's still hyper and very talkative.. Knows all her animals and she got hooked on Looney Tunes..don't know why ..lolz... Well, we have a long day today....Going to church--out to eat....and Will and I are planning to take them to Kohl's Children Museum......Hoping for a nice weather

Blog more later!

Ciao

It's sad and funny but I'm very thankful

2008-10-27T18:48:00.002-06:00

I thought of blogging few weeks ago but I guess I'm still not ready of what I want to say. I guess I am just very thankful that I finally realized that when you have a problem....No one else can help you but God alone.. Not even you're own friends. It's so sad that hearing different advices from other people made me realized a lot of things... But I thank God 'coz his the only one knows what I've been feeling about all this.....I also thank my husband for telling me everything...

Happy Bday El!

2008-10-20T18:01:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to greet my friend El a Happy Bday in Heaven El... We love and misses you....

Busy Summer

2008-08-18T10:16:00.004-06:00

Hey y'all!

Hope every ones having a great summer so far....

As for me and my fam....we are having a great summer so far even though I was going thru some stuff couple of weeks ago but thank God that It didn't last. I'm much better now but still gotta work on my part... With God on my side... He's always there to wake me up with HIS words.. Even if at times -- i still get so destructed .. I try to make sure that I stay with HIM..... I guess, I was just soo overwhelmed with everything and didn't really know what to do....Part of the message yesterday by Michael Franzese ( guest speaker) was awesome... He said that no matter what.. You're struggles in life will never go away.. No matter how long you've been a Christian.... It just get stronger but always remember that God is on your side and give your life to Jesus and know that HE loves you and always there with you.... Thank you Lord!
So yah, I didn't get to stay inside the service.. Had to take Kalea outside 'coz she was just talking loud the whole time but I was still able to watch him at the overflow room while Kai was meeting some kids and playing hide and seek ( will try to post some pictures of her and her friends).... Right after church, we just stayed home and I was planning to go tennis with some friends but decided not to coz we were all tired...... So, I thought I was gonna get some sleep but guess not.... My honey wanted to play some golf ( driving range ) for us and miniature golf for the kids... So, that was nice and relaxing....... Got some ice cream afterwards and I made some dinner when we got home.. I was craving for fried eggplant with some anchovies and fish...lol.. Man! we were stuffed...

Going backwards here..lol.. Well, we just celebrated my daughter's 13th bday.. Her bday is really on August 28 but we just wanted to celebrate it before school starts plus you don't know with this weather.. Again! Thank you Lord for the nice weather we had...Everyone had a great time.. It was nice to see some of my friends, my sisters friends and Destiny's classmates and of course my family....... Some didn't get to make it due to prior engagements and last minute plan.. But that's okay. So yah! we all had a great time...Sooo much food....lol

Today, I just booked our Mexico Trip for my hubby and I ...Yiikkees! no kids for the first time... Destiny is really not too happy about this.. But I told her that she's been to Mexico twice already and plus Mom and Dad needs to party alone in the island..lol... ..So we are looking forward to this.... We are leaving Dec.8-11.. Now, Im just waiting for my boss to approve my vacation...lol........

Well, i guess this is it for now.. Gotta get back to work.....

God Bless you all!

Destiny's 13th Birthday

Beautiful Sunday Afternoon

My daugther is such a girls scout!

2008-08-04T18:59:00.003-06:00

Okay, gotta blog this one... Destiny ( my 13 yrs old) knew that there was tornado coming....So, she packed all her sisters stuff, got flash light ready, got the food for us and milk for her sister...etc.... soo funny, 'coz she's soo ready to go....I just love her...Man! I didn't even have to tell her...That's my girl...Good thing she's not like her mom...ha ha..Soo cute..

K ...if you're driving..Drive safe or pull over ...

Nitey!

Annual family and friends picnic 2008

2008-08-03T14:31:00.002-06:00

An AWESOME TIME with friends and family........

finally found the answer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-02T21:50:00.002-06:00

Thank you Lord!!!! God is awesommeee.....Today he showed me the answer through HIS words and through HIS people.... I finally found some of the answer to some of my questions..... I now have the complete full joy in my heart... Not that I didn't have it before but this time It is such a wonderful different feeling..............

Aight! I will blog more later...........

Just bloggin.....

2008-07-31T00:30:00.002-06:00

It's almost 1AM...and thought of blogging since I can't really sleep... Been so many things on my mind this past week and I pray that God will help me get through all this. Anyways, it was nice to see and have dinner with one of my good friend Lina... She stopped by right after work 'coz she forgot something in my car when we went out last Sat....But she stayed till 11..We didn't know that it was that late already. Well, it was always nice to chat with your girls..So, sure we both had a great talk and heart to heart talk..=) My other friend Liz was suppose to stop by but I told her forget it since we all have work the next day. Anyways, I am so looking forward this Sat. Hope to see some of my friends, old friends and some new friends I met on facebook.... I am so glad to get a hold of some of my old friends since really I don't know their numbers anymore... So, i have to go grocery shopping this Friday to bbq . I heard it's gonna be really hot.. Yikkkes! so gotta get ready for that and bring lotz of water too...Okay, i'll blog more tomorrow...I am getting sleepy now...Nitey!

Our very first big Christian Concert .........................

2008-07-20T22:05:00.007-06:00

is in our backyard...yes! it' s 5 minutes walk from my house..Ignite Chicago was held at Alexian Field Schaumburg Stadium....... God is awesome! Even if the weather was so hot..I mean really really HOT..As in we were sweating like crazy...better than rain...either or...We'll still be there......BUT it was such a different feeling...Seeing everyone lifting their hands and dancing for the Lord........ALL HIS children was just so ready and excited to PRAISE HIM...My very first Big Christian concert... We were just moved by his Holy Spirit..Seeing everybody...from a small child to adult......Sooo awesome to see little kids praising the Lord..singing and dancing...... Destiny and the rest of the kids got some autographs from Superchick and David Crowder band.. Being in this concert was so different... You feel the love and God's presence...It was one great experience....I'll try to post some pictures tomorrow... Let's all go there again next time...=)

Nitey! God Bless

Time with my soon to be TEEN

2008-07-17T20:52:00.004-06:00

Last December - I bought this book for the church called " How to be a successful teenager" . We didn't get to use it. And when our church closed. I brought it home with me and today Destiny and I spent some time to read it... So far, the book is good. And hope to read the rest at least once a week. It's very easy to read and understand..I also let her ask some questions and with God's help. I tried to give her the answer I know. This easy - reading book talks straight to teens, showing them that they can live victoriously over real-life problems they face every day. Through dramatic stories and scriptures, it reveals the truths they need to know. If you know any teens who are faced with temptations, learning these truths will help equip them to be successful teenagers. Even if your teen is a Christian, he or she is not immune to the pressures common to all teenagers. Whether you live in a pastor's home or out on the streets..You need the exciting insights that are in this book...This book will show you how to have the abundant life you want..Both Christian and Non-Christian......

Glory to God!

Taking Back What the Devil Has Stolen

2008-07-17T15:42:00.003-06:00

Thought of sharing you one of the sermon I heard at Life Changer's church....This is sooo true....Let's take back what the devil has stolen from us

Please click the link below:

Taking back what the devil has stolen

May you be blesssed!

Just taking a break

2008-07-17T14:34:00.006-06:00

.................just taking a break from work.....Soo busy today.....Hope you all had a wonderful weekend.... As for me and my fam.. As always, busy weekend but always blessed....Just to see your fam and friends are always worth it..... Friday, i had a date with my daughter Destiny to go to her friends grandma's 75th bday at one of the Country Club in Glendale Heights. Saturday, we went to my in-laws to see Kayla. ( God is good.....)..We haven't seen Kayla for almost 5 yrs now...So, everyone was so excited to see her and her family..... Sunday, after service... we went to Great America.. ( just me and destiny)....'Coz I really wasn't planning to go but since my daughter knew about it and it was also my friend's daugther's bday Alexis..Happy Bday Lexis! ...I just felt so bad for my daughter Des...'Coz I knew she wanted to go even if she wasn't saying anything to me...You know how us Mom's ..We always know how our kids feel....=) ..... So, we ended up going around 4.......It was short but sure had a blast....=)......

Last nite --we attended the Wednesday service @Life Changers Church ...God was again spoke to me through HIS words...The message was about humility, humble yourself before God, how to say I'm sorry to someone sincerely not just because you have to say it but because it's coming from your heart, and the last one that really HIT me was " It's okay to cry, that's why God gave us tears"...Wow! that was really good...Another great message, not just for us to hear but also be a doer of HIS words..So I pray that God will help me on this one and I also need to help myself..It's funny how Pastor Gregory said it..He said if its hard for you to cry...Find something to make you cry..If listening to a song, Christian song, Love song or whatever song that will help you cry then do it..If it's a movie, love story, sad story, then go watch it...But you have to sometime cry........ It was soooo good! I wish I can explain it more...I'll see if I can upload the sermon here...

Anyways, the reason why we had to attend the Wednesday service'coz we're going to Ignite Chicago this coming Sunday at 12 along with the Magsingit Family and her friends at church... So, we're all looking forward to this coming Sunday... We missed the one last year
'coz we were at Mexico Cruise.... So, we are very excited and can't wait.....For sure I will blog about it and share you the experience.....Well, I gotta get back to work.....Ciao for now!

God Bless!

Forgive and Forget

2008-07-09T16:15:00.001-06:00

I thank God for this devotions…..

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
- Colossians 3:13

Have you ever told someone that you forgave them? Have you ever said to someone, "It's ok... I have forgiven you?" What did you mean by that?

The word "forgive" means to pardon one for their trespasses. I means to excuse a person from the things they have done against you, to absolve them from any punishment. It means to renounce your anger at that person, and not to hold it against them.

A very popular phrase used today regarding forgiveness, is "Forgive but don't forget." But when you truly forgive someone, you are forgetting what they have done against you. You are saying, "it is in the past, and it does not exist anymore." You are putting it out of your mind, and out of your heart.

Many Christians say they have forgiven someone, and yet they use the very things they "forgave" against them later. They bring up past transgressions to hurt or wound the person they are angry with. Imagine if God did this to us? Imagine if you had a fight with God, or didn't listen to God, and He said, "Well remember the time when you were 5 and told your parents a lie? Remember when you were 8 and you stole candy from the store? Remember the first time you used my name in vain?"

The phrase "forgive but don't forget" should be "forgive AND forget." Because if you continue to remember their crimes against you, you are letting those past trespasses, those past actions that you forgave, cause resentment in your heart. You are letting those past transgressions affect your relationship with that person.

You cannot forgive someone, and still be angry at them for what they have done. You cannot forgive someone, and still hold a grudge against them. God tells us to forgive each other AS HE has forgiven us. He tells us not to judge them for their actions, after we have pardoned them. He tells us not to hold a grudge against them, but rather to forgive them in our hearts (Matthew 18:35).

When you say you have forgiven someone, have you truly forgiven them? Are you saying it because it is true, or because you feel it is the right thing to say? Today, if there is someone you have not forgiven, if there is someone you are still angry at, take time to make it right (Matthew 5:23-24). Examine yourself, ask yourself... what have they done that I cannot forgive, when Christ forgave us after all of our sins. What have they done, that we cannot forgive, even after Christ asked His Father to forgive the very people who were murdering Him?

Araw nang Kalayaan.( Happy Independence Day)......

2008-07-06T23:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Independence Day Everyone!! Hope you all had a wonderful one with ur loved ones.... As for me and my fam... I had such a great long weekend.... Here u go!

Thursday-- I met up with a couple of friends of mine..I finally got to see one of my girls that I haven't seen since March..... So it was really nice to see her..then went shopping afterwards..lol......My dad, nephew, Des and some of my fam went to downtown Chicago to watch fireworks... Grandpa had a great time with his grandchildren....lol...My mom and my Lil one didn't get to go...My mom was not feeling well that day..So, they ended up staying home and we just watched fireworks over here by my house....Nice and perfect view....he he he

Friday - We actually didn't have any plans today but to go swimming..But it was kinda cold ( for me..)..So, since my dad invited us to go to Grand Victoria Buffet for dinner...We all went along with my mother in law and my brother in law... Not the whole fam got to go due to prior engagement they already had......But it was still fun especially eating them crabs..Oh wow!!!! made my day....lol... Since my mother in law wanted to spend more time with Kai...we decided to go with them to watch fireworks at Carol stream..Oh man! it was packed but beautiful..We were right in front where the fireworks was set up...I was scared at first but it was actually safe coz they had this thing where you can't really get too close....

Saturday - Had our weekly lunch date with my hubby. Went to Bahama Breeze this time...As always, we talked for good 3 hours...ha ha ha....Right after lunch, i went to pick up my kids and mom..then we went to Wood field Mall, Game works and ate at Chipotle for dinner..My brother also met up with us...... God is just sooo good... I continued to pray that my brother will continue to grow with the Lord and spend more time with us as a family...For these past months...Hes been hanging out with us..Not just on a family event but even just ordinary days.......So happy =) Thank you Lord =)

Sunday =) Went to 10AM service today. Another great message from Pastor Gregory Dickow....Last week he talked about " Taking Back what Devil has stolen from You" and today he talked about " Expect the Unexpected".. Expect the unexpected, not in just what you might be asked to surrender, but also in the bounty of blessings you will receive in return.
My lil one was good today....She went to the children ministry for her age and had a great time and played with some kids..... Last week she was not feeling it....I guess coz she had a lil cold and just wanted to stay with Mommy..=)...... So yah! then we went to Manila Fiesta for lunch...Oh goodness!!! that's out 4th buffet this week..Not good..ha ha ha..... Finally, we went home ..took a nap and we were suppose to visit Bro.Gerry but I guess he was at my brother's house for Pam's practice and bday celebration..And it also happened that Magsingit fam was there too...So, that was nice..we BBQ and chat again....lol.. and they are all excited for tomorrow....Lord, I pray for Pam's party tomorrow.. I pray for the family. I pray that all will go well your way Father. We pray for a beautiful day tomorrow Lord....We Praise Your Name Lord, Amen.....

Goodnite and God Bless You Readers =)

I thank you Lord for another blessed year!

2008-06-30T20:41:00.003-06:00

Hi All, today -- I just turned 32..And my bday is almost over....So I thought of sharing some of the things I did on my birthday....Let's just say that I've been celebrating it since Friday night...lol..... Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes, for the gifts and for just thinking of me this special day..... I love you guyz!!!! Well, I am sooo full right now..We just got back from Todai and we ate and stuffed ourselves today...Wooohooo!!! I love it and I feel great.... My dear daughter gave me a wallet for my bday...Yup! I really need it....since i almost lost my wallet this past Saturday...That's another story....So I will tell u all about it later.....I received a very beautiful colorful flowers from my best friend Lovely...( special delivery at work)...he he he..I thought I had a secret admirer...lol j/k...And of course my special simple but meaningful gift from my husband.....( engraved my birthday date too..)...lol

since you can't read it...here's what it says.... =)

A LETTER TO MY WIFE CHARISMA

TODAY I'M HERE AND SIT ALONE
THINKING ‘BOUT THE YEARS THAT HAS GONE
I SEARCH MYSELF TO FIND SOME ANSWERS
ON HOW MY LIFE IS FILLED WITH LAUGHTER'S
I THANK MY GOD THAT PUT ME HERE
GIVE HIM THE HONOR EVEN TIMES OF TEARS
I KNOW HE'S WATCHING MY LIFE UNFOLD
AND I'M EXCITED FOR THE PROMISE I’M TOLD

I LOOK AT YOU AND I SHAKE MY HEAD
WHAT DID I DO TO BE THIS BLESSED
HOW COULD I END UP WITH THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WIFE
WHEN THE VERY FIRST TIME I MET YOU, YOU WEREN'T EVEN MY TYPE
YOUR BEAUTY SHOWS WHAT GOD CAN DO
IN THE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE TOO
IN THE INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF LIFE
THAT HELPS KEEP BALANCE WITH MY BORING SIDE

YOU’VE SHOWN ME THINGS THAT OPENED DOORS
BEFORE I MET YOU, THESE DOORS WERE CLOSED
NINE TIMES OUT OF TEN I EAT AT MICKEY D
NOW IM BETTER AT EATING HEALTHY AND FANCY
WE'VE BEEN MANY PLACES THANKS TO YOU
WE'VE DONE MANY THINGS THAT YOU INTRODUCED ME TO
I LOVE THE KIDS YOU’VE GIVEN ME
AND NOW YOU’RE TALKING NUMBER 3

I REALLY WANNA ASK YOU THIS
BECAUSE I KNOW MANY OF MY WEAKNESSES
HOW CAN I BE A BETTER FRIEND
SO OUR LOVE STORY WILL NEVER END?
I MAY GET UGLY AND VERY OLD
I PRAY YOUR LOVE WON’T SEE THAT AT ALL
MAYBE ONE DAY I’LL BE ON A SICK BED
HAHA! WITH YOU I BET I CAN STILL KICK IT

I KNOW ONE DAY WE'LL START ETERNAL LIVES
I WANNA GIVE EACH DAY A SPICE
EACH DAY I WANNA SPEND WITH YOU
EACH DAY WERE DOING SOMETHING NEW
SO HERE IT IS MY HEART AND SOUL
I CLOSE THIS CORNY, RHYME AND POEM
PLEASE DON’T GET TIRED READING THIS
’CAUSE I LOVE HEARING FROM YOUR LIPS

LOVE, YOUR SOUL MATE WILLIAM

Yup! he is just too sweet for me...love u honey!

Again, thank you everyone for celebrating my birthday and surprising me with some stuff....I thank you Lord sooo much for all the blessings you have poured upon me.... Thank you again for making my 32nd birthday such a beautiful one......

Nitey!

----SHOP till we drop-------

2008-06-25T23:47:00.001-06:00

Hello bloggers.....Goodness! I ate too much of them brownies and fudge chocolate...Now, I can't sleep..>Anyways, let me just do a short blog here and share you the fun that happened today...My honey didn't go to work today..As in no business and no work..lolz... So he just stayed home with the kids until it was time for us to meet up at Woodfield Mall.... He met up with me at the Ma;; and as always ...It's always sooo much fun to go shopping with him...Not only hes my best friend when it comes to shopping but we are also next to each other when it comes to fitting room or he will be outside the fitting room and he'll wait for me to come out and show him my clothes....lolz.. and I will do the same for him...We went to Express today.. But he beat me today....He bought so much and I ended just a couple of outfits..That's okay tho..... Next time..lol.... So yah! anyways, looking forward to see some of my friends this weekend...... Blog more later....

Nitey!

Is It ReaLLY important 2 have QUiet TimE with HIM

2008-06-19T12:19:00.001-06:00

The summer months seem to be a time where we take a break from our normal routines, which is great. But, we have to be careful to never take a break from having time with the Lord. How can we safeguard this time and make it a priority each day?

Is it really that important to have a quiet time with the Lord everyday? I mean, the Lord knows how busy our life is, so if we just toss up a few prayers and listen to a Christian song on the radio while rushing off to work, that should suffice, right?

It’s easy to let the busyness of life crowd out time for prayer, Bible reading, and sitting with the Lord. There are a million things on all of our to-do lists, time is tight, and quiet moments seem few and far between. But I’ve learned that if I make the choice to be with the Lord first thing in the morning, my outlook on life that day and my ability to handle things seems to go so much smoother.

Also, we've had to change my mindset on having a quiet time. Spending time with the Lord in the morning doesn’t end when we say “amen” and put our Bible back on the shelf. We've just invited the King of Kings to participate in our day. So, we get up from spending time with the Lord in the morning and start eagerly looking for His hand of activity in my life.

We think about the Bible verses we read that morning and look for ways to apply them to our life that very day. We watch the circumstances that come our way hour by hour and ask the Lord to constantly give us wisdom to process life in the way that would be most honoring to Him. Our mindset is healthier, our attitude more positive, and our ability to extend grace to those who rub us the wrong way is increased just by setting aside some time to be with the Lord.

If you are struggling with having quiet time with the Lord each day, try these helpful ideas:

* Be honest with God and admit your struggle. Ask God to give you the desire to set aside time to be with Him.

* Start with just a small amount of time. Even if it is just 5 minutes at first, give this 5 minutes solely to the Lord without any other distractions. Over the next weeks and months, your desire for more time with Him will increase.

* Use a version of the Bible that lends itself to study. I use the NIV Life Application Study Bible and I love it. It helps me understand the context each book was written in and gives me commentaries to understand specific verses.

* Ask God for understanding as you read the Bible. When I first started reading the Bible I had a hard time, so I started praying that God would open my spiritual eyes to see the truths in a life changing way for me.

* Write some of the verses that seem most applicable to your life on 3x5 cards and use them in your prayers. For example, Matthew 6:19-20 says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” So, I could use this verse in my prayer time by praying, “God, help me to know how to store up treasures in Heaven. Help me to relinquish my tight hold on my earthly possessions so I can use them to build your kingdom now. Show me how to best use that which you have blessed me with. Give me your mindset for the money I have.”

Dear Lord, I want a more vibrant relationship with You and I know having a daily quiet time is an important part of that. Help me make this my most important priority each day, no matter how busy life is. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

How Great is OUR GOD!

2008-06-15T21:45:00.006-06:00

Happy Father's Day Lord! ...The just man walks in his integrity: his children are blessed after him - Proverbs 20:7.........

Good evening bloggers...Please allow me to share you our day --- This morning --as soon as we woke up......Destiny gave her gift to her dad.... And at first...It was all quiet.... till I heard a loud scream from my hubby....ha ha ha.. He was soo happy 'coz i know he's been wanting to experience to ride a racing car..and actually go for 175 mph...So, we gave him the gift certificate and he will experience it next week....More pics next week.... --We all got ready to go to church, and this is our 2ND service at this church. The church name is Life changers church and pick up my mom.... Great service today by Pastor Gregory Dickow...Sooo anointed by the Holy Spirit...How great is Our God...He is OUR Father that knows it all..God knows what we went thru and what were going thru but He is soo loving, merciful God and and HE is always there for us for whatever reason..Everything is in his hands. My husband and I was in tears because no matter what happened....... GOD IS ALWAYS THERE for us!

Right after service --- we went to the restaurant to celebrate Father's Day .......

Today was also my friend Rain's graduation Party.....Congrats Rain!!! We always knew you'd make it....We love you....I wasn't really planning of going today since we all just got back from St.Louis...But I'm glad we did.....It was all worth it.... Plus God spoke to me at the service today... One of the message was " To live your life, enjoy your day,visit someone, encourage someone, bring some food to someones home and don't wait for an invitation..:....Well, since I've been thinking and missing my friends sooo much...Today was a good opportunity to see them.... I also know how it feels especially this is a big important day for her...I'm sure she wanted to share it with her friends..So, she was really surprise to see us there.....Well, this is my update for today....

Here some of the pictures ( it's all mix pictures from this weekend)

Hope y'all had a blessed Father's day!

Blessed and Joy!

Nitey =)

Our first bus experience trip with Kai

2008-06-14T23:30:00.001-06:00

Hey! Hey!

Well ---- we all left around 5AM and met up with everyone...Had breakfast first......So far so good with my lil Kai...That portable DVD player helped a lot...But if we went more than 5 hours...Hmm, i don't know how long Kai will last to stay still. lolz.. after 3 hours..she was already getting restless and just wanted to walk around and switch seats...Yikkees! So yeah, can you picture it yet?....lol...But hey! it was a new experience again with our lil' one...We like to try new things all the time...lol....
So yeah, kids had a great time...There was really nothing at St.Louis but we ate a lot.....But the ARCH...oh goodness! MJ and Des went to rode all the way to the top...Pictures there for u too see it... Again, we can't thank you enough Lord for giving us the opportunity to have a family business. This family business gets to bring us to places we've never been before...It's funny...I asked my eldest daugther...How many states she's been so far??? I think she said 23...I said don't forget to thank God because if God did not give us WFG ...We wouldn't travel this much.... We also love it because, we always get to go as a family...Yes, it is tiring sometimes but once you're there...You don't feel like going home anymore........Again, it was an awesome and another experienced to ride the first bus trip with our lil'one....=)

Here are the pictures... Enjoy!

God Bless You All!

Father and daugther time........

2008-06-12T22:30:00.003-06:00

Let me just do a quick blog here...... See -- in a way it's good and it's not good to make your own schedule... My hubby took a couple days off from work & business again..lol.... and just plannd his day with my eldest daugther Destiny....So, he asked Destiny what she wanted to do since she's on summer vacation......I guess she said swimming and Safari Land....So yah! they went swimming without me and my lil one.... And to make me feel jels..lolz.. they keep sending me pictures... =( ... But really, Im glad that they have their time alone..........so, when i got home --my husband was feeling so sick due to that Roller Coaster from Safari Land.... I guess he just ate when he rode that.... Plus he was forced to ride that...Knowing Destiny --she will force you...lolz.. Kids just don't understand that it's different when ur getting old....Hmm, did i just say Old....oh no! hey, i think im much better now and i get to do more stuff than when I was in my teen...lol.... Ok.. that's it for now...Gotta pack... Vavoooo

World Financial Revs UP

2008-06-09T20:04:00.007-06:00

Last Friday -- my husband and I went to visit one of the new WFG office in Burbank Il. Our good friends Tony Di Mieli and Jason Beninato are the one that opened this branch. Congratulations guyz!
Article to read from last Friday...

http://www.southtownstar.com/business/995162,060908worldfinancial.article

WORLD FINANCIAL REVS UP

June 9, 2008
Recommend

BY Bob Rakow Correspondent

The only thing missing was Carl Edwards' signature back flip.

World Financial Group celebrated the opening of its Burbank office in a big way Friday afternoon with Edwards' race car parked in front of the office, 7903 S. Lockwood Ave.

The No. 60 blue Ford Fusion is sponsored by World Financial Group and was driven by Edwards during the 2007 Nextel Cup series. He took the checkered flag three times last year and finished in the top five 11 times. He alsowon the Busch Series Drivers Championship title.

The car is now used for promotion events.

"There's been a steady flow of people from the neighborhood," said Jason Beninato, who opened the Burbank location with his partner, Anthony DiMiele. "We see some people slam on the brakes and turn in."

Children and adults alike flocked to the car to get a rare up-close-and-personal look at the vehicle and pose for pictures. Children were given an opportunity to sit in the car.

"Anything to do with NASCAR is big," said Ronnie Ayers, a representative of Roush Fenway Racing, Edwards' race team. "People don't get that close to a race car. People love it."

NASCAR enthusiasts especially loved when Ayers started the car and revved the engine, filling the air with a sound typically heard at stock car races.

"The South Side loves NASCAR," said DiMiele.

World Financial Group is a financial services marketing organization whose affiliates offer life insurance and broad array of financial products and services. The company is owned by the AEGON Group, one of the world's largest life insurance and pension companies.

The Burbank location opened June 1. Friday's festivities included a barbecue and a steady stream of family, friends and colleagues who stopped by to congratulate DiMiele and Beninato on their endeavor.

The duo's goal is to work with families and small business owners to develop investment strategies that will help them achieve their financial goals.

"We specialize in these areas," said Beninato, who added that he and his partner are focused on educating customers. "Everybody needs to understand it."

My deareast grandma's

2008-06-05T15:32:00.006-06:00

Oh I forgot to tell u all the goodnews...lolz.. My grandma who just came here from Philippines last March 2008....doesn't really like to go out ( not even to walk around)...So, last Sat. After I took the kids to the mall. I took my mom, my grandma, my girls and my nephew to Chicago.. First we went to vist my friend and her daugther who is my godchild.. Gave some clothes to her... Stayed there for a lil bit... Then we went to see my inlaws and they made some fresh smoothies for us...Thank God! that my mother inlaw finally met my grandma.. Then, our last stop was at my brother's house who made some good fish sinigang ( filipino dish) and we ate dinner there..lolz.. Guess what??My grandma was tired..We were out from 1PM and didn't get home till 10... She said this will be the last time that she's going out with me... Hey, I just took advantage of it..Since we were already out... So now that she finally met almost everyone except my other grandma from my dad side... So now--last Tuesday, my dad's siblings from California came over at the house for dinner and brought my Nanay Ayo ( my dad's mom) and AT LAST, they finally saw each other and tallk things out... See, they had some issue before.. You know how it is... My grandma didn't want my mom to get married right away and things like that and some other issue...Ugh! Long story short....they kinda didn't get along before....But their okay now... I saw them talking, laughing and eating together....Soooooo cute.... Actually my Nanay Ayo ( dad's mom) is 9 yrs older than my Mamang ( My mom's mom)....Wow! Well, i just thought of sharing you that....'Coz i am just so thankful to God and very happy that my dad's side and mom side are now in good terms.... I'm sure that God smiling on down right now...Peace in our family...Please include us in your prayers that my family will remain together in love and peace. God is good all the time!

Thank you Lord!

Inexpensive But Unforgettable Anniversary ( per my honey lol)

2008-06-04T20:18:00.006-06:00

Well - We're finally back after a long day of celebrating our anniversary.See, before we got married. We talked about it that once we get married. We will take turn to plan our wedding anniversary. So, this year was my turn to plan. My plan was to take this weekend off and do a short road trip and check in somewhere. But my honey told me that he wants to start celebrating our anniversary on the real date. Not before our anniversary or after anniversary.. ( at least try our best)... So, Thank God that I was able to take off from work today......I had so many plans for our anni such as jet ski, hot balloon ride but the weather was not cooperating. So, I keep cancelling them. Also, thanks to some of you that greeted us thru voicemail, text and voice note...And for your question...The answer is it's all because of HIM..God is in the center of our marriage. But we thank you and we're glad that we can give hope to some of you..Remember, it's all God's work and we are just doing our part. So here's what we did today......

We woke up at 7AM
Thank God for this special day and the life that we have
We were both so happy to greeted each other
Got ready
Drop off Kalea to my mom
Went to get light breakfast at DD
Appointment at Heavenly Massage in Buffalo Grove location ( Highly recommend this place than Schaumburg location.. )
We got our pedicure/manicure/massage together -- So funny -- we were both laughing especially the part when they were scrubbing his feet. He was so ticklish...lolz ( sorry, no pictures this time..Why? 'coz it just felt so good and so relaxing that I didn't feel like doing anything at all... lol
We ate at Sagano Japanese restaurant ( My best friend Lovely recommended me to this restaurant...) We love Japanese food.....We chat and talk for hours. lol
After we ate, we went to check out Life Changers Church....
Cruise around --weather was beautiful..So we had the top down the whole time.. Thank God it didn't rain....
Then did paddle boat.... and fell asleep when we got to the middle of the small lake.. It was pretty relaxing..Very quiet.

Since we didn't get to eat dessert at the restaurant....We ended up going to Dairy Queen...And we got some Earthquake brownie...Now, that was good..Our day was really complete...lol......
We both didn't want to go home and we were planning to check in but we were thinking about the kids....So, we went home first before we went to get the kids and ...........Sorry -----I have to end it here....TMI ( too much information)....Let's just say tha we started our day with some good laughs and relaxing day & ended our day with some good wine & unforgettable moments. lolz........ MY HUSBAND HAD A GREAT TIME AND HE KEPT SAYING......IT'S ONE UNFORGETTABLE SWEET DAY!!!! ha ha ha ha.....

Thank You Lord for this special day you have given us. You have been so good to us. Thank you Lord for bringing the two of us together.

Goodnite!

Happy 4th year wedding anni HOney!

2008-06-04T06:54:00.003-06:00

It's June 4...and today is our 4Th year wedding anniversary.... Total of 9 years being together... =) May the Lord continue to guide us and strengthen our marriage.

To my honey,

I love you! I thank God for bringing us together...I know when God brings two people together, He not only reveals HIS plan, but HE also plans for their future. “For I know the PLANS I have for you, declares the Lord,‘PLANS to prosper you and not to harm you.PLANS to give you hope And a future.”JEREMIAH 29:11 NIV....
I am so blessed and thankful knowing that our marriage is what God has plan and purpose for our lives. I love you honey.... and thank you for all special times and more happy times waiting for us.....

Ok....I have to get ready now...It's my turn to plan for our anniversary this year... We are both off today ---So I will blog later!

To God Be All The Glory!

Weekly Question # 2

2008-06-03T14:05:00.007-06:00

Here's question # 2 by greenbucks

Let's say it is possible to have that one chance to be another person for a day,
who would you choose to be and why?

Really --- If it's really really possible to be another person for one day.... I would choose to be ANGEL LOCSIN...lolz.... Don't laugh now... So, I can be partner with PAPA PIOLO PASCUAL in any of his movie....So yah!!!! that's who I want to be for ONE SWEET DAY.... Why not? di ba.... .... I like PIOLO since he became so popular...I am Piolo's number 1 fan (sssshhhh!!! don't say anything to my hubby...j/k) I also like Angel Locsin since LOBO teleserye ( filipino soap opera)...lolzzz

What about you??? Who would you want to be?????

Daddy's Corner ------> for my Honey

2008-05-30T14:08:00.017-06:00

Hey! Hey! I'm finally doing this.. I think I'm doing it right.. Thanks Mitch for such a wonderful idea and thanks Love for your blog and saw this....

Well, where do I begin.. So many things i want to say ( kuwento ) about our Love Story of how my honey and I met... Let's just say that I knew him back in 1991 where I used to work at Mayor Daley Summer Job but I don't remember him.. He actually remembered that he was introduced to me by his girlfriend before( actually my coworker at that time). But then again, it wasn't the right time for us to be together.. And 1992 came, i was hospitalized - He said that he was there visiting me, coz his friend knew me and he just came along and he remembered watching me but we didn't talk ('coz i was asleep)Nyek!..7 yrs later June 1999-- we saw each other again at this one Karaoke bar.. and I already had my first child who was almost 4 yrs old at that time and now turning 13 ( and the father of my child and I just separated 1996).. Ever since June of 1999-- it was finally the TIME.. and we were inseparable. We like to do things together. He gave me the promise ring Sept of 1999 and we got married June 4, 2004. I want to thank the Lord for bringing him into my life. He is my best friend. And he always said that I'm his best friend too. It makes us both smile just knowing that we are each others buds. We can just talk to each other about everything. Don't get me wrong, we still have our ups and down but because God is in the center of our marriage. He is there to help us solve our problems...It maybe small or big. But we know that we cannot handle our problems without HIM. As we now know, God was and still is guiding each of us. We both accepted Lord as our Savior and it's the best feeling knowing that God is with us all the time. The meaning of " Fullness of Joy" is now in our hearts. Thank you Lord again for bringing us together.

Honey, thank you for everything. Thank you for being a great best friend to us especially to me. Thanks for bringing me with you all the time even if sometimes I make you feel like I don't want to hang out with you. I'm glad to be in business with you. Thank you for understanding. Thanks for the laugh. Thanks for all the surprises. Thanks for writing me love letters. Thanks for giving me everything. Thanks for setting goals with me and with our children. Thanks for keeping all your promises. Thanks for your sweet romance. Thanks for all your compliments. Thank you for loving us. Thanks for being patient. Thanks for having such a big heart and being the most generous person I know. Thanks for encouraging me. Thanks for praying for me and the kids. Thanks for praying together. Thank you for being such a wonderful dad to our kids especially to Destiny. Honey, you know that I am not very good with words... But just know that WE LOVE YOU..

Start Copy Here}

Started by Mitchteryosa

Rules:

1) Copy from {Start Copy Here} to {End Copy Here}.

2) Blog Brag about your husband - yes, the father of your child/ren. As I’ve said singles may also join by bragging about their own fathers, or even grandfathers. It doesn’t matter! Of course, Daddy bloggers themselves may also join, but you have to blog about your fathers and not about yourselves, deal? Okay. Good.

3) Add your blog in the list below linking to the post that you just made. Or if you wish, do it as how I’ve done it in my other blog by adding a new page.

4) Leave some love here. Yup. Here. Thanks!

5) Let’s not forget Peppermint Creative for the corner border I used for the badge.

6) Lastly, let’s help each other by copying and updating the list of participants in your post. Come and visit once in a while for the benefit of the late comers who have also joined this meme.

My Masterlist:

When Silence Speaks
Everything About Deye
Etc Atbp
Pinay Mommy Online
Coffee Cup Princess
Garden of Moments
Aeirin’s Collection
Never Dainty The Long Journey Of My Life
A Mother Of Yesterday, Today And Tomorrow
Everything That Has Breathe Praise The Lord Can Of Thoughts
Anything And Everything In Between No Place Like Home
Pinay WAHM
Only In Silence
Bisdak Footprints
Simply Me, Simple Life
Fun | Fierce | Fab
Confessions Of A Supermodel Wannabe
Embracing Health For Life Raptured Dreams
Jona Thinks
Uncomplicated
Points Of View
Beauty Of Life
Hue And Hysteria
Leaf In Deforest
Just Me Eds
Momie’s Space At Momie’s Pace
Juliana’s Site
Purpled Sky
In Love For Life
All About Mye Life
Cookie Jar Of Entertainment
Faery Dancing
The Nambiars
CC’s Online
Precious Moments
Me And Mine
Little Peanut
A FilAm Journey
Walk2Remember
A Message From My Heart
Rhodilee
Whatever Comes To My Mind
Everyday Life
( and You are Next)
{End Copy Here}

Now, it's your turn to share your story.. We can't wait to hear the story of How God brought you and your hubby together. And if you are daddy bloggers, then you can also share your story with us... C'mon! =)

God Bless all the couples!

Myanmar and China need your help!

2008-05-29T16:15:00.007-06:00
Hi everyone,

Thought of sharing you the updates the I received today from World Vision about China and Myanmar. Let's continue to pray for the family and also the staff member of World Vision who also working tirelessly in difficult conditions to help those who are suffering.

Three ways you can help

Pray for children and families in China who have been affected by this deadly earthquake, and pray that aid agencies like World Vision would quickly acquire the resources they need to come to the assistance of those who have been left devastated by this disaster.

Donate now to help provide emergency relief to survivors of the recent earthquake in China. Your gift will help World Vision deliver life-saving assistance, including food, water, and shelter, to desperate children and families.

Give monthly to help World Vision deliver emergency aid to children and families in the wake of disasters around the world, like the recent quake in China.

I have been part of World Vision since 2005 and I Thank you Lord for another opportunity you have given us to help others. I am so grateful and bless for the opportunity to have had a part in impacting the lives of families in need.

Thank you and God Bless Us All!
Char

Weekly Question 1

2008-05-29T12:52:00.013-06:00
I was passing through my bestfriend's site who actually invited me to join her blog. ( plus i know she comes up and find a lot of cool stuff esp.when it comes to website) So I really thought It's fun to start doing this and I saw this... So I'd like to start doing this too.. lol....

It's a weekly question originated by Teacher of Julie at greenbucks

here's the question:

If you are married would you know if your husband is reading your blog? If you are in a relationship, would you know if your partner is reading your blog

My answer is.....

I think he does sometimes... See, my husband is pretty busy man but I know he does make times especially when it comes to us and his children...That -- he doesnt forget no matter how busy he gets.. I know at first he thought It was just another website thing.. but when he actually saw everything... ( He finally approved and actually thought it's pretty cool to do this... Sometimes when Im at home and doing my blog..He would sit next to me and start reading... lol...Sometimes he would even ask me If I blog something about him....

What about you? Does your husband or partner read your blog?

Ok-- this is it for now... Gotta get back to work...

Can't wait for the next one!

Char!

Thank you all "Update for March for Babies"

2008-05-29T10:20:00.004-06:00

Hi All!

I just wanted to say Thank you all of you that helped me reach my goal and beyond!!! God is good... You are all so very generous. Your generous donation will help save lives and help the thousand of premature and sick babies all over the world. Thank you all again!

God Bless

Char

You can view my personal web page address at march for babies

Memorial Weekend 2008

2008-05-27T12:25:00.002-06:00

Hope you all had a blessed Long Memorial Weekend.... Well, here are some pictures and videos of our long weekend

Friday - May 23rd We took our grandma out to Little Quipo (Filipino buffet restaurant) for her 78th bday... She was soo happy that she didn't want to end the night. She finally met my brother's mother in law... Let's just say that they were chatting the whole night...

Saturday - May 24th My husband and i had our time alone and ate at Kyoki's Japanese restaurant. One of our favorite restaurant in Oakbrook. Yummy! Then we finally went home...But Kai --I can feel that she didn't want to stay home so I took her out to Target and bought some new videos for her while Des and Will stayed home. lolz...

Sunday - May 25th Today is the official last day of our home church, AOGIM and I know that God has a big plan for all of us, for his people. When one door closes, God always open another. It was a great service today. And I can't wait of what God has plan for us. We learned so much from everyone that was at AOG, learned so much from all the Pastors. God has been good to all of us. I just want to say Thank you Lord for guiding us and for giving us the opportunity to once again serve you. We love you Lord! We were supposed to stop by at my bestfriend Love's bbq but we had a family gathering at my inlaws. So we stayed there till night....I was actually looking forward to their bbq and of course to see her ( not just food. ok) ...Next time!

Monday -May 26th THANK YOU LORD FOR THE WEATHER! On our way there --we were praying 'coz we heard that we were gonna get some storm....But God is good! We didn't get no RAIN at all! ...We went to see my honey's ( boys) lol... It was nice to see some of them... It was actually my friend Tal and I that ( kinda) organized it.. So the boys can see each other again... It was nice to see them played some sports ( with their kids) this time...ha ha ha ha... I really didn't get to chat with my friend tal 'coz we were so busy with the kids but hey! thanks for the Halo halo Tal... that was good.. =) ...

Enjoy the pictures! Hope you and your family had a fun, safe and blessed memorial day weekend

My lil' Kalea's short video.

2008-05-19T08:31:00.006-06:00

Here's a short videos of our lil' Kai...I should've taken this video months ago but I didn't know how to download it in my computer... She's soo cute!!!! just love's to copy everything.... very coachable....lol ( got it from her dad) ..very hyper (uhhm u think), and she just love to smile and laugh...Such a happy baby.......

Continue to Smile =)

God Bless

Char

Happy Mom's Day =)

2008-05-12T08:55:00.012-06:00

I hope each & everyone of you had a wonderful day with your kids & ur loved ones. On this very special day I feel very blessed to be a mother to my 2 wonderful children. We all know that mother's love never ends. It's always there. And I am so glad. I love it when my mom and I would just talk and vent and get it out. Thank you mom for being an amazing mother at Every stage of motherhood. Thank you Des & Kalea, for giving me the chance to be a mother and loving me when I am not perfect. Thank you Honey..You are everything and above all I thank God that we are in this journey called "parenthood" together.

So, what did we do this weekend????

Friday - We had a FAMILY DAY/ Mother's Day at Odyssey Fun Club..We were there for almost 4 hours... We had so much fun just to be a kid again. Kalea took all her sister's tickets and got the ELMO for 500 tickets. lolzz

Saturday - Woke up early - got the kids ready and took my mom and my grandma to Heavenly Massage as our Mother's Day gift to them.. My grandma's first time to get her little foot spa done.. She was soo cute that she didn't want any color on her nails. My mom got her hair cut done and she's also the same way as her mom that she didn't want any color on her hair. But that's okay -- they always look beautiful with or without colors on their faces or hair. lolzz... They didn't want to have lunch tho coz we had another party to go to that afternoon. Met up with my honey at her Uncle's house in Oak brook to celebrate his cousin's first bday.... Went home around 4 pm...Relax and took a nap.... Dinner time at Uncle Jun's house to celebrate my cousin's 6th bday..Whew!! trust me -- I was sooo tired but it was all worth it.. I had a great time just chillin with my cousins and Aunts..... Kai played all night that she was sooo cute that even if she didn't know the kids.. She would go up to them and smiled at them...I bet if she only knew how to say it-- she would introduce herself...lolz...

Sunday - We went to church.... Kalea was awesome joining us for practice..She just grabbed the mic from us & started singing with her own baby words. ..She was singing and doing her praise & worship to Our Heavenly Father. Soo cute to see our children singing for the Lord. -- We had a good small group bible study service taught by Bro. Jesse. Here's the verse that we went over yesterday... Ephesians 6 "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right" We had lunch at Taste of thai..receivd an hand made card from my kids..William started teaching Kalea to say "Nice to meet you & shake your hand at the sametime" ..So, she's been doing that to all of us and some people that she knows... lolz.... But you have to first say "Nice to meet you".... Right after we finished, I went to buy ingredients to cook for dinner... My parents in law came over to have dinner. So, i just made catfish sinigang ( filipino dish) and bought some dessert. They came over for dinner after Medieval Times ( gift from Mikey, their youngest son)....And then FINALLY --- my time alone with my hubby.... Thank you Lord for this wonderful blessed weekend.....

Here some of the pictures & short video of Kai that will tell you all about it.

Love you all! Char =)

jus another pictures of my luvs =)

2008-05-05T15:18:00.005-06:00

Tips for TOUGH times

2008-04-30T20:47:00.003-06:00

Pray, Ask God for Help. Read the Bible, devotional & meditate.

Be Still

Let "bad moods" pass. (these are not times to make or tackle big decisions.)

Try not to speak in anger. Cool off first. Words hurt!

Take one Day at a Time!

Be good to yourself! Know Jesus loves you!

If you don't know what to do, do nothing!

Always be willing to forgive! Some of the most important words in our English Language: I'm Sorry

If you are having relationship problems with your mate, ask yourself...Am I choosing to "love" this person! or am I choosing not to love!

Do you need to put the "eyes of Jesus" on! What do you see?

Say "I Love You!

Reach back in your heart to all those "sweet memories" you have with your mate! It's fun to bring them back, then realize just why you picked this person to spend your lifetime with!

*TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK

2008-04-24T14:27:00.008-06:00

Thank you GENWORTH for putting this awesome events for us and for our kids.....They had a wonderful time. Not only they got to know where we work but they also learned so much from each and everyone of them....

Here are some of the things they did today:

8:30-9:00 Continental Breakfast
Parent member show attendee where their desk is
9:00-9:30 Welcome and Icebreaker activity
9:30-10:15 Learning activity how to run a business
10:15-10:30 Concession stand
10:30-11:00 Craft Activity- pictures
11:00-11:45 Learning activity- Investing your profit
11:45-12:15- Lunch Break with family
12:15-1:30 Outdorr activity
1:00-1:30 Personal Safety, ID a kid
1:30-2:00 Finish Craft Project(if needed)
2:00-3:00 have kids prep for Exit Skit
3:00-3:30 Home office employees invited to Exit Skit
3:30 Deliver any craft gift to parent, receiving award and prizes and sang the song TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME....!!!

MARCH FOR BABIES

2008-04-23T14:48:00.001-06:00

Surrender

2008-04-22T10:40:00.002-06:00

Daily Devotional is what I like to read most of the time.. This devotional is a good reminder to all of us. It is difficult at times but the bottom line is we are here to please God….We all know its tough when we are in pain…But through it all, we can all learn to trust God….Happy Monday!

“Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the One who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!” Proverbs 3:5-7. (The Message)

It seems that the longer I’ve been married, more and more frequently I hear of struggling Christian marriages.. I know these couples never intended to be in such a desperate place. When they said their wedding vows of “for better or worse,” they never imagined that the “worse” part would include thoughts of divorce appearing as a good option.

When I hear about these couples, I turn my thoughts toward my own marriage. I hug my husband tightly and whisper prayers of thanksgiving that we are together, committed, and growing closer.

You see, this hasn’t always been the case for us. For about half of our fifteen years of marriage, we fought constantly and although we loved each other passionately, we just couldn’t figure out how to be married or how to be a couple.

Finally, in desperation, I cried out to God asking Him what I should do. His answer surprised me. In the still, small voice in my heart, God told me to surrender my marriage to Him. I knew that the key to surrendering my marriage was trusting God. Instead of trying to be in control by telling my husband and God what to do, I learned to set my eyes on Christ and to ask Christ what He wanted me to do in my marriage.

Since that day, I have focused on being the kind of wife God wants me to be.. I have searched the Scriptures, and one step at a time I have obeyed God’s commands for being a godly wife.

Many times it has felt like two steps forward and one step back. But that’s still progress! God has transformed our marriage into one of friendship, intimacy, and laughter, instead of the strife-filled marriage we had previously experienced.

God knows all about your marriage. He knows all about you. He knows all about us. Your marriage is a gift from Him, and can bring God glory and you joy when you surrender your marriage to Him. Start today by trusting God, and see what happens as you allow God to transform your marriage.

What would you like your marriage to look like today? One year from now? Five years from now? Ten years from now? Ask God to give you a hope and a vision for your marriage.

What’s one thing can you stop doing because you know it doesn’t create oneness in your marriage?

In Colossians 3: 14 we’re told to “put on love..” What’s one thing you can do today to show your husband you love him?

Sometimes we hesitate to surrender to God because of our fears. Can you identify any fears you have in your marriage? As God to reveal these to you, ask Him to take away your fear and to replace it with His truth.

Dear Lord, thank you for my marriage. I want the marriage You want me to have, Lord. I confess that I’ve tried to make it into what I want it to be, not necessarily what You want. I surrender myself and my marriage into Your loving hands and Your sovereign Lordship. Give me the desire and strength to be the kind of wife /husband You want me to be. Then I know I’ll be the wife /husband my husband/wife needs. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Joyfully In Christ,
Charisma
http://charisma-everydaylife.blogspot.com/

Over the weekend 04/19-04/20

2008-04-21T14:05:00.002-06:00

KALEA WITH HER COUSIN MJ AND LOLA

Kalea at the park ( Chicago)

LINCOLNWOOD OFFICE --LAUNCH THE NEW PROJECT

Please continue to pray for our church

2008-04-14T11:03:00.012-06:00

Yesterday's message - Act 20:19-25... Bro. Jerry did a testimony about his life about his past and when he found the Lord. It was an awesome testimony.

Yesterday-- after doing the praise and worship.. There was only good 10 of us there... God spoke to me -- I looked around especially all the things that are happening all over the world.... I found myself complaining so much about our church. I know that God is not happy about that. As I asked for forgiveness right away. To give me another chance and to help me, help us......

Please continue to pray for our church. We are going to push forward and continue our church and we will give it another try for the next 6-8 months. If we don't see any progress. We will close the church. Once again, God gave us the sign to not close the church. The rent went down to $200.00 less. Praise God! I know that there are many things that touched my mind to leave our church. some good and some not so good. I know that many times the Lord may reassign a person to another church so they can bring ministry or encouragement to another congregation -that's the best to leave a church. Some - leave a church simply because disinterested, dissatisfied or feel that they are losing focus of why they go to church for or feel that they can find something better or other reasons. This is my first HOME CHURCH and I know that God put me here because I have a big mission to do. God said it will never be easy to build HIS church. God is patient with me and I know that He wants me to be patient with myself and TRUST HIM.We are not here to serve any Pastors that came in and out of this church but we are to serve our ONE AND ONLY TRUE MASTER,Our Father in heaven. I also know that before my husband took the job as a music director, God did not say that every Sunday will be okay.. Some days you will feel the struggle or be alone but I Will be with you. Yesterday, it was just my husband and I did a praise and worship.... We LIFT UP THE LORD! We lift him up wherever we are. My husband made a point yesteday -- some might think that hes trying to prove something or he was born hard headed. Really, if he wants fame... he probably left long time ago and went to a a mega church or open his own band but we do this to Glorify our ONE AND ONLY FATHER... He has bless us with so many things, a family, a good health, our financial... All these things are all came from him and sometimes what we do for our ministry is not even enough. God has bless with so many things.. Who am I to complain???? Complain, that there's not enough workers in our church -- instead why can't we be just thankful that we have a church to Glorify him. I know that God will provide... HE HAS AN ULTIMATE PLAN FOR US..... I feel so guilty sometimes for complaining too much...I know God never promises things to be easy. And really that is ok. But He does promise to be continually faithful in every situation that we face. Even if it does comes at the last minute..God is extremely honored by our sacrificial giving. We have a responsibility to invest in others around the world, even if it is a sacrificial gift. And why would God bless us if we are greedy and selfish? I am also thankful for Bro.Jerry. This man of God is trying to change. As I get to know him more and more, He is a very humble guy... I rather follow a man who is trying to change himself for the Lord and be a good follower of Christ. I still sin but He knows exactly what we need..He knows our heart...It felt soo good yesterday just to LIFT HIM UP! GLORIFY OUR FATHER..TEARS OF JOY...I know that HE was with us, comforting us, whispering in our ears to just TRUST IN HIM...... There will be more challenges ahead of us but I know HE is just preparing us..... Jesus said " In this world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world".....

Be blessed!

Rainy Day!

2008-04-12T16:22:00.005-06:00

Man! what's up with the weather......I like it in a way ---It feels good to sleep and just watch movies all night. Anyways, i thought of blogging in since I'm really not doing anything right now but wait for my mom and my grandma to come over... I bought some shrimp for sinigang....( Filipino dish)... Been busy with our upcoming events this coming week and this coming June... Our next event is gonna be at St.Louis, MO.. And we are planning to rent a coach bus so everyone can just enjoy the trip. =) . The last time we rented one --it was so much fun.. I think Destiny was just 8 yrs old and we went to Atlanta Georgia and watched so many movies, talk and played some game. Last night my in laws and my nephew came over to have dinner. We watched Alvin the chipmunks... ( saw it twice already) lol... and I am Legend.... Lord willing this year -- they'll move in with us. I thank God that things are working out for my father in law and William right now. One of our family goal is to have our parents just work for us. It's better because not only we get to help them but also to be with them more. William and him get to do father and son bonding more and more. Just this past week, they been going out to lunch, dinner and sometimes he'll pick him up at work and they just go together to William's appointment. It so awesome to have a family business. I am thankful that we were also to get my mom stay home and watch our little one. Not only she get to spend time with her kids and grand kids but she's not as tired as she used to when she use to work at Meijer. Sometimes we get so scared for her 'coz she use this sharp machine at Deli. And I know even if don't hear her complain. We feel her. We know that her body is tired and she just wants to rest. We know that our parents are not getting younger and we just want to take care of them. And that's why we thank God so much for giving us the opportunity to have WFG business. Anyways, Destiny and I just got home. We went to kids birthday party ( bowling).She played two games and I ate free pizza...lolz... K --gotta go for now. My hubby is asking for a good massage right now..Hmmmm, we'll see...I'm kinda sleepy right now...ha ha ha ha.. Enjoy this weather...God Bless

Sunny Day!

2008-04-07T08:21:00.011-06:00

Finally ---- I was able to take my little one 2 days in a row....

Saturday ----spend time alone with my hubby..... then late afternoon I took my grandma, mom, and my kids to the mall and also showed her our office in Schaumburg.......We also ate at Stir crazy ( he he he...) I was loving it....My sister was our server..... Not only I gave her a hard time ( with a big love of course) but with a good discount....lolz... BUT guess what she did --- she took $5.00 from me..... ( tip for her-she said )....oh no!!!! she got me...lolzzz.... Then we walked around the mall and bought some stuff for my grandma.. Kalea was enjoying watching the clowned making animal balloons...lolzzz

Sunday - We went to our home church -- great message today from Pastor Gerry....Also, had a wonderful fellowship with Sis.Connie, Pastor Gerry and Sis.Judy..... Again, I thank God for His love for us. HE knows what were going through right now and it's not easy but the only thing we can do is to continue to pray. I know that He has a big plan for each and everyone of us. Right after church, we went to mommy.. My mother dear and my father dear went for a date. Daddy took her shopping and got her some nice clothes from Express... How swet...lolzz.... My brother and Keeve came over and bought some steak to bbq. I took the kids to the park while waiting from mommy and daddy to get home... Keeve ( my nephew) wanted to go skateboarding and Des went biking... Sorry --didn't have my camera with me -- so I just took a couple of pictures of my lil one from my phone...lolzzz......As soon as my parents got home..... We bbq -and made some sago, fruit salad...man! i was full ---- there's my weekend..... hope u all had a blessed one =)

k --

http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007/NiceDayWithMamang

( If u can't view the pics)..just go to my picasa web...tnx

Our Valentine's Day

2008-02-19T10:05:00.006-06:00

Thank God for this special day that he has given us. Did'nt really expect to do anything today( since its weekday) and i thought my honey had an appointment to get his wisdom tooth pulled... But I didn't know that he had a plan of surprising me..Goodness! Right after work -- I was actually on the phone with him..I was walking to my truck and when I opened the door -- there! dozen of roses everywhere waiting for me... And there was no card/note .....I didn't know the whole time my honey was watching me...lolz.. Then he came knocking on my window and gave me the card... So silly! but very sweet...lolz.. then he asked me what i wanted to do..Really, I just wanted to relax.. so we went to the salon togehter and got some touch up ( my hair..color is fading away...lolz) ..... Then bought some stuff and we also surprized Des with her new bag ( that she's been wanting to buy for herself...)....so, what we did was ...we hang it on our door with a love letter from his dad...lolz.. sooo cute...... Man! she was screaming so loud... lolzz then just had a dinner....Anyyways, hope u all had wonderful time with your loved onez. =)

Our Time Alone

2008-02-09T21:25:00.001-06:00

Ready for below zero???? Oh goodness! I love the snow but not below zero...Yikkeeess!

Okay let me get to the subject ...Time alone? Yup, I'm sure all of us do understand the meaning of time alone. Time alone with our Heavenly Father, Time alone with ourselves, quality time with our kiddies and time alone with our spouses. My hubby and I started to have our date night almost 4 years ago. When we got married, we had an agreement that we would try to go out at least once a month and we actually try to take turn of planning our dates even our wedding Anni. It's actually cool and fun coz it gives us time and opportunity to plan for each other. It's been actually tough for the past year only because we just had our youngest baby Kalea and it's just so hard for us to leave her all the time. We feel bad leaving our kids whenever we would go out but we had a heart to heart talk last year that we need to try our best to be consistent of our date night.. Like I said, at least once a month. So, this month it's actually my turn to plan but last night my hubby just felt like going out and had a taste for T-bone steak...lolzzz.. Thank God that I was still at my mom's house when he called. Kalea and I was actually on our way out to go home. So, when my mom overheard me that William wanted to go out.. She said just to go ahead. Thanks to my ever dearest Mom and Dad =) So, I went home and got ready.... I actually wanted to go watch this movie called "Fools Gold" but he wanted to just relax, have coffee and talk..He even asked me to turn off my cell phone.lolz..'Coz he caught me talking to Marge..lol. So, that's what we did.. We went to Denny's.( out of all restaurant). We pick Denny's..Why? I have no idea.lolz...It was relaxing, good coffee and had an awesome fun talk..lol... Then we went to pick up our little one. Then when we got home, we went over our goals and I'll try to blog that sometime this week.

Today, we went to Oak brook office to plan for the Local Event were having next week at Hilton Hotel in Lisle. Man! I missed all of our business partners from different offices. I feel like I haven't seen them for months. 'Coz we actually been busy running our own branch here in Schaumburg. But since the annual convention is coming up this March in Los Angeles, we've decided to go to Oak brook office every Saturday for the next 3 weeks. After Oak brook, my hubby and I had a lunch date at " Buca di beppo" Italian restaurant. YOU all have to go there and try their food.. It's soo delicioso!.. I mean --- I've been to so many Italian restaurants but this place is soo good.... The calamari there is so good.. Best calamari we've ever had. But let me just share you something that happened today before we had our lunch.. We were in the truck about to park, and we saw this lady from far away ( Single Mom) asking for money, homeless. We called her and gave her what we have. But before she left, she told us " My name is Mary, please pray for me and my kids." Oh, that feeling. That's why we can't take advantage of God's blessings to us. Because God is soo good. My husband and I looked at each other 'coz we wanted to invited her to eat with us but she was already gone. But we thank god for the opportunity, even for that one second. God is always with us.

Let me just leave you with this -- I know that many of you are already doing this but I guess it's okay to be reminded sometimes. Here you go....

Don't let your job or the kids or any work or time with friends and extended family interfere with your marriage.
Many couples today find that being married doesn't guarantee that they will have quality time with one another. If you are both busy,( just like me and my husband) you have to plan to spend time together. Here are some ideas ( and I'm sure some of you are already doing this). We just have to stay consistent. Right. =)

1) Schedule a weekend or weekdays just for the two of you. Write it on your calendar, put it on your computer planner, etc. Don't change it for any other event. You don't have to go anywhere or spend money. ( Some people would laugh because my husband used to have palm pilot but now he has this huge daily planner. ) Hey, at least I know we are on his schedule and he always keep his promise to have quality time for me, my kids and the rest of our families. =). I have small calendar & I also have reminder in my computer at work.

2)Have breakfast, lunch or dinner once a week

3)Let your children know that you need time alone together. Tell them that they can knock on your close door if its really URGENT. lolz. I remember telling this to my eldest daughter that " Mommy and Daddy needs to talk". Now, that doesn't work for her anymore 'coz she's almost 13.lolz.( U know what I mean) So, we have to try something else

4)Walk around the block together. ( I actually don't like walking but my husband loves to walk, so he try so hard to encourage me and it actually works. he he he) last summer, we did a lot of roller blading.

5)Do chores together ( like dishes).. We actually try to cook together. That's good too

6)When you are running errands together. Turn off the radio or cell phone and just drive and talk

7)Spend 20 minutes a day. ( Hmm, we try 10 or 15 minutes a day. ) I'm guilty coz I sometimes get caught up with house chores and forget about him. So, i have to remind myself that

8)When you travel together, don't take work on the plane or road trip. Spend that time talking with each other. ( I say this because my husband and i travel all the time) and it helps a lot. =)

Really the bottom line here is if you don't schedule time for one another, you won't have the time... Okay, hope this help

We thank you Lord for the love you have shown us, continue to give us the love, peace and joy in our lives. Continue to guide us Father. For all the things we have gone through, for all the things that we are about to go through, I pray that you will continue to keep our family complete. Guide us and protect us. Give us the patience for our differences. We love you Lord, In Jesus Name, Amen!

Nitey

D Magsingit Fam

2008-02-08T11:56:00.001-06:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Roots - Free family tree template

The Santos look a like meter.. Happy Friday..lolz for fun!

2008-02-08T11:39:00.002-06:00

Winter activity FUN 2008

2008-02-08T00:03:00.001-06:00

Thanks for the snow! and thanks to my honey for coming out to give us some good cheer and also sled with us ( even if he doesn't feel good)Awwww... thanks again honey!....We can't wait to bring our little one Kalea. We miss her so much today...Hopefully next month ( when it's not too cold).....Will blog all the crazy fun things that happened today...lolzz..

Fun night with Hannah Montana

2008-02-07T14:08:00.001-06:00

Picture from the left -- Hannah, Tamara, Matthew, Rachel, Desitiny, her classmates Radha and Julianne..

Will blog more later! Ciao

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-03T17:09:00.001-06:00

Hello friends, hope you all had a blessed 2007…

Let me just tell you how our Christmas went … as you can see in the picture – my dad was not with us. He had to go to California (last minute) due to family emergency. His younger brother was in the hospital (fighting colon cancer). We told him that he should go and be with his brother because he needed him most. Please include my Uncle Noel in your prayers.

24th - was crazy, stressing, sad but at the end --- It was all fun…. My mom, des, kai and myself were on our way to drive my dad to the airport and our plan was to drop off my dad then go last minute shopping. But guess what happened… my truck broke down on me on our way to the airport (and I can see the airport from the place where my car broke down)………….waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa =(Thank God! My brother’s work is not far from where we at… So, we called him and he picked up my dad, took him to the airport, and came back for us. We thought it was the gas but Nope! Still didn’t start… So, I called my friend Martin and he checked the truck to see what was wrong but still didn’t start…. The city towing truck came and took my truck to the O’Hare Impound… My truck had to stay there for half day because when I called our towing company …there was no driver available. Martin took us to my brother’s house and I had to call Hector (WFG) to pick us up and take us back home. Thanks to my dad and he offered for me to use his truck while his away. Got home around 5pm. I didn’t get to get ready anymore instead I did last minute errands. Came back home – pick up William, the kids, my nephew and my mom then we went to Chicago. Spent our Christmas Eve at my in-laws. Then we stopped by at my Aunt’s house. I had so much plan for that day but It didn’t happened but that’s okay because what important is I got to be with my loved ones. My hubby, my kids, my mom, my siblings, my in-laws and we did a lot of singing, dancing, laughing and joking around the whole time.

25th – we just went to my mom’s house. Ate lunch, watched movies, open gifts and we slept the whole day… We went back at night time already and ate again and watched movies again….ha ha ha

26th - back to work! --- My nephew stayed with us the whole time…

30th -- WELCOME HOME DAD! WE MISS YOU.......

NEW YEARS EVE!!!! ---- SNOWING -----------

31st – had to work for half day. Thank God! They let us go home early… I rented Filipino movies. Packed our clothes and went to Chicago. This year we stayed at my in-laws house…We were going to go to my Auntie Cely’s house but the weather was just really bad and I didn’t want to take Kalea out. So, we just stayed at my in-laws…. The kids played WII the whole time. Man! That game is crazy – destiny’s arm was sore the next day and William was sweating like crazy, and we watched one of the Tagalog movie…
Countdown --- we all came downstairs and waited for the countdown… and as soon 12 midnights hit. We pulled the string for the balloon dropped mixed with coins and ching! Ching! Lolz…it was so fun – sooo cute! Kalea woke up when we were doing the countdown and she went back to sleep right after…you could see that she just woke up from the picture…. After the countdown – everyone was doing his or her own little dance downstairs… My in-laws were doing their dance too.ha ha ha. Sooo cute…. Finally! We watched this scary Filipino movie around 2 AM and didn’t finished till 5… I couldn’t sleep because I wanted to finish the movie.ha ha ha. Everyone was up and watching too…. You can tell that we were too scared to go to sleep. Lolzz.

1st - woke up around 9am – my in-law brought Kalea to our bed and woke us up…coz we ended up sleeping in the living room with Mj, Des and Mikey … I just love sleeping there (only once in a blue moon. ok – lol). Breakfast was ready – again! They played WII for 5 hours… goodness! Finally -- -went home and ended our night with??????????????????????????????????????? Warm blanket and hot coffee……….thank you Lord for a wonderful time you have given us…. =)

More pictures =) http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007/GOODBYE2007

Ciao!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

2007-12-28T11:52:00.002-06:00

Hope everyone had a BLESSED Christmas with their loved ones..... Here are some of our pictures to share ...It was a silent but joyful Christmas...( Again, i didnt get to download my pictures so I ran out of space...) but enough to share it with you.....
Will blog some later.....

Click the site below for more pictures =)

http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007/Christmas2007

Pictures from Lolo and Lola's house

2007-12-10T11:13:00.002-06:00

It was a great weekend..!! After picking up Destiny at her friends house and helping dad work on his car.. We went to Chicago and stayed at my in-laws house.. You can really tell that they were sooo excited...They prepared sooo much food for us...My mother in laws made some leche flan in the middle of the night.. We sang and dance all night..Kalea and Des was helping them put some ornaments to their tree.. You can really tell that kids do give sooo much joy in the house..... It was sooo nice...I miss those days that you just go to your parents house and they just take care of you and feed you all day..lol... When we woke up ( Sunday Morning)... fresh brewed coffee was ready with filipino fried rice, sausage and more food...Oh Lordy Lord!!!..We left Kai there that morning but we had to wait for my in-laws coz they also went to their hhome church ... We were teasing them that we'll be moving with them next month..lolz... My hubby and i talked about it that we're gonna try our best to stay there at least twice a month on Sat.night......Anyways, enjoy the pictures..

Ciao!

Genworth ( work) Christmas Party 2007

2007-12-08T13:19:00.001-06:00

Morning! just sharing you the pictures we took last night from our company's Christmas Party... It was sooo fun. Except that my honey wasn't able to join us this year... He was supposed to go to San Jose California for meeting but he cancelled his flight on Friday morning and I coudn't change my RSVP anymore for two people.... But anyways, I had a great time with my co-workers this year... We chat, ate and dance together... Im not saying that I will not enjoy if my hubby was there but it's different because I was able to dance and chat with my co workers and some people from different department... Anyways, the dinner was good and I got home around 10...( still early..right..lol) ..And I also won the limbo dance... ( Wheeww! I thought I was gonna break my back...ha ha ha)... Anyways, I'll blog more later.. I have to help my hubby work on his car... We just dropped off Destiny to her friend's house..Their working on Christmas cards and their going to Retirement home.We were gonna go but we only have one car.. And we have to fix the other one..Just like Love said on her blog that it's so nice to know that our kids are slowly getting the true meaning of Christmas..Just couple of weeks ago my husband, Destiny and I are discussing that we have two people that are very close dearly to our hearts that we want to help not only this Christmas but Lords willing that we can help them every month. It maybe something small but anything is possible with God....
Okay---- I'll blog more later.... Enjoy the rest of your weekend... Here's the pix from last nite....

All Praises to you , O Lord!

Congrats to Ate Destiny

2007-12-07T23:05:00.001-06:00

Congrats to my daughter Destiny for being part of the Newspaper staff Dec 2007 at her school...We love you Ate Des!!! Keep up the good work

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY KALEA! NOV.30, 2006

2007-12-03T15:20:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Princess Kalea Star.. Born on November 30, 2006 at 4:39AM -- Northwest Community Hospital....Thank you Lord for our little Kalea.. She gives sooo much joy and love in our family.. Her sister Destiny loves her so much... We thank you Lord for our children....

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU ALL! for coming to our Princess Kalea's 1st Magical Birthday Party.... Thank you all for the gifts, your presence, your calls/text, your help,support and prayers...... and to those of you that weren't able to make it....We missed you...

More pictures.... Click here http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007/KaleaS1stMagicalBirthday

We love you all!

I thank you Lord!

2007-11-29T23:25:00.001-06:00

I thought of blogging before I go to bed. I just want to give Praises and Thanks to Our Dear Father for HIS faithfulness. I thank you Lord for the opportunities you have give me to minister to others especially to my one and only brother. I had a wonderful talk with my brother today, Lord and I know that you were the one that speak to him. Thank yourd Lord for giving me that strenght and wisdom to talk to my brother. Lord you know that I have been praying for him and the rest of my family. What a wonderful feeling it gives me to be used by you God. Lord, my only prayer right now is that you continue to use me on a daily basis Father. I will continue to pray Lord that my family may find you and turn to you. That you are the only answer in their lives. Open their hearts Lord. I believe Lord that you changes people and you changes things. I pray Lord for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes. Thank you Lord that you are not leaving us on our own. You are always with us.I love you Lord! Goodnite.

This is my prayer Lord.
In your Name,
Char =)

Relaxing 4 days weekend =)

2007-11-28T11:22:00.002-06:00

Wednesday night

We went to my in-laws house and had dinner there. We did nothing but laugh all night ‘coz the chocolate I was eating …It melt so fast in my mouth and I was talking and laughing at the same time and I didn’t realize that I was already drooling all over my honey’s polo shirt…. I thought that was funny…

Thursday

Aaaahh!!!! I can feel the winter already. Lolzz… Destiny went to our room early and played with Kai and they both jumped to our bed. It feels so good just to lay down all day with your loved ones. =) .The 3 of us shared what we were thankful for…it was so nice to hear all the blessings that God has given us… We all got ready.... We were planning to go to Richard Walker for brunch but I know that it was going to be too crowded so we ended up at IHOP. Stayed there till lunch… Late afternoon – Destiny wanted us to go to the hospital with Dad…So; we went to dr op him off. Went to meet his co workers and walked around at the Hospital… Dad needed to work one holiday. So he picked Thanksgiving…. So he can be with us Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve and New Years Day… We went home and add more Christmas Decorations…. Waiting for my family to pick us up… We had thanksgiving dinner at my cousin Eugene’s house… It feels so different..… I really felt God’s work in my families’ lives… I feel more comfortable with my dad’s side… I feel the love this time…. Thank you Lord!!!…
As soon as we got home… The kids and I put on our pajamas and went to pick up dad…. We watched the movie “ Nativity”. It’s a good movie to watch with your family…

Friday

I was planning to go shopping but my little one had a fever for 2 hours. I got so worried again. I laid hands all over her body and prayed… Thank God and her fever didn’t continue. But since I know that she wasn’t feeling well. I just decide to stay home with my kids. Thank God I did. It was sooo relaxing. Just eating, watching and play with them =) …

Saturday

Des and I did some Birthday shopping for Kalea…didn’t really do much today

Sunday

We dropped off Kai to mommy so she can get some more rest before we went to church… Today was different…. I really can’t type the detail but let me just say that God is so wonderful. He knows what were going through as a church. He knows that were hurting, were struggling and we need him… My hubby, bro.martin and sister marge ..We all ended up staying till 6pm. We just had heart to heart talk, great sharing from one another and at the end we held hands, and we all said our prayers. It was so powerful. We felt HIM. I know that He was there, comforting us, hugging us…I know that God knows our every tear. Thank you Lord for being so kind and the patience that you have given us. We lift everything up to you Lord. Just like what God told Moses that it wouldn’t be easy but He will be with him. I know that we all feel insecure at times. But we don’t have to depend on our own strength. Because God had promised to be with us, just as he was with Moses. When God asks us to do something, I know that HE will give us the ability and the resources to do it. Because ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD!

GOD IS ALWAYS GOOD!

Our Thanksgiving 2007 PICTURES..

2007-11-26T09:52:00.001-06:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.

Here's the picture for now... I will blog later today... Enjoy

Our Dad's 60th birthday Celebration

2007-11-19T17:04:00.002-06:00

It's almost the end of the day.. Let me just do a short blog before I go home. i like to do it here at work. ( I like the computer..lolz)...

Friday

We just stayed home, ordered some food and rented some movies to watch. Didn't really do anything but just trying to prepare for this coming week. Destiny wanted me to check the mail cuz she was waiting for her report card... And yup! we got it... I just want to say " Congrats to Destiny".. She's in High Honor Roll for this semester... Keep up the Good Work Des! We are so proud of you =)

Saturday

Woke up early--- Went to Dunkin Donuts .. Bought some breakfast for my father in law and Vince.. They were trying to finish the office last Saturday ( should be done this week). After the office.. Will, the kids and I went to Oriental Buffet for lunch...And it's funny... First time, we actually gave Kai her plate and fork.. Oh goodness! she was sooo cute and excited that she made a big mess under the table... She ate so much that day...ha ha ha...
After lunch -- we went to Michael's to buy Destiny's project... And here I am so excited about putting my Christmas tree... I ended buying stuff for the house... Destiny wanted to do the bow for the tree.. So, I let her and didn't really turn out the way we want it to.. But we still used some of it and the rest will just use it for the gift.. But hey, I am so proud of her for even trying 'cuz I can't even do that myself..ha ha ha... I feel bad cuz It was also Lala
s 7th birthday and we didn't get to go.. Had to do so many things.. Plus my parents came over and brought some Popeye's for us...They didn't leave till 10:30PM.. So, it was too late for us to go.. Happy birthday La! We love you...

Sunday

Thanksgiving Celebration at church.. Pastor Renato and his family came ... We were so happy to see all of them there... We ordered Boston Market ( and I forgot to order sweet potatoes..sorry guyz)..

My family and I gave our dad a small gathering for his 60th birthday,..It was a sucess..Thanks to my brother, my sister, my mom and my daugther Des for helping me plan this birthday for my dad...We had a great time.. Some couldn't make it... Prior engagement, working and other parties...But what's important is ... To see the smile on my dad's face... I thank God for our dad.. He worked so hard to give us a good life.. I pray the Lord to continue to protect &blessed
him all the days of his life and that he may live a long healthy life.

Well, i gotta go now.. My hubby and my daugther are waiting for me .. Destiny has a parents conference meeting at 6:30 tonite.. I told my hubby that he doesn't have to go but so far hes the one that doesn't want to miss this... lolz.. He hasn't miss one so far... Oh well, i guess he also wants to hear and see whats going on at school... He probably doesn't want to hear it from me...lolz.. He knows that Im not detailed when it comes to telling story..... k.. vavoo.. God Bless You All!

Just click on my Picasaweb to see some pictures..

http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007/DADDYS60THBDAYTHANKSGIVNGCELEBRATIONATCHURCH

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-19T15:43:00.001-06:00

Make a slide show, scrapbook or ecard

Count your blessings instead of your crosses;
Count your gains instead of your losses.
Count your joys instead of your woes;
Count your friends instead of your foes.
Count your smiles instead of your tears;
Count your courage instead of your fears.
Count your full years instead of your lean;
Count your kind deeds instead of your mean.
Count your health instead of your wealth;
Count on God instead of yourself

2 Corinthians 12:9

2007-11-15T11:04:00.001-06:00

But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9

The Thought

Do you really believe this verse? Do you really believe that God's power is most displayed, not in our strength, but in our weakness? Do you believe that His strength begins where yours ends? If so, do you live like it? Why do we spend our days trying desperately to bolster our strength and aptitude rather than desperately seeking God? We rely on coffee, vacations, and college degrees, while our Bibles sit on our shelves and our faith grows weak. As long as we try to be self-sufficient and self-reliant, we will never experience the joyful peace that comes from relying on Christ.

The Prayer
Lord, Forgive me for my pride that makes me act I don't need You. Jesus, I need Your grace for my every breath; teach me to rely on You for the strength to get through each day. Draw me to Your Word, push me to my knees, and bring me to the end of my rope so that I can fall into Your arms.

Seven Stages of the "Married Cold"

2007-11-14T16:05:00.001-06:00

But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called
"Today," lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
Hebrews 3:13

Some clever observer has described the way family members often drift
apart as "the seven stages of the married cold." The pattern can be
illustrated by tracing the reaction of a husband to his wife's cold
symptoms during seven years of marriage:

The first year-"Sugar Dumpling, I'm worried about my baby girl. You have
a bad sniffle, and there's no telling about these things with all this
strep around. I'm putting you in the hospital for a general checkup and
rest."

Year two-"Listen, Darling, I don't like the sound of that cough. I'll
bathe the kids and put them down. You just lie down while I get the car
nice and warm."

Year three-"Feeling a little punk are you, Hon? Maybe you'd better lie
down and rest. I'll bring you something to eat. Do we have any soup?"

Year four-"Look, Dear, be sensible. After you feed the kids and wash the
dishes, you'd better hit the sack."

Year five-"You don't sound so good. Why don't you get yourself a couple
of aspirin?"

Year six-"If you'd just gargle or something instead of sitting around
barking like a seal, I'd appreciate it!"

Year seven-"For Pete's sake, stop sneezing! What are you trying to do,
give me pneumonia?"

While we may smile at this imaginary degeneration of concern, it's all
too real in many marriage relationships. The pattern is in sharp
contrast with our text, which calls for daily encouragement that keeps
relationships warm and alive, rather than steady discouragement that can
only harden hearts.

It is important for you to make this atmosphere of support and
encouragement a foundation of your marriage. Marriage can rob your
relationship of intimacy and excitement. Why not decide today to find a
fresh way to encourage your spouse.

Discuss: Do the ways you and your mate express concern for each other's
troubles differ now from when you were first married? Are some of these
changes natural and appropriate? Do others foster isolation?

Pray: That the "dailiness" of family life and its increasing familiarity
will serve to draw your family closer instead of leading to
indifference.

Just an update over the weekend!

2007-11-12T09:16:00.001-06:00

Morning everyone! Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend

Let me just blog before I get busy bee here at work..lolzz

Friday

--- After work I went home and got ready...So exciting.. .. Before we went to our dinner date -- we went and visit the kids first at mommy.. Awww! we felt so bad leaving Des and Kai -- but since Kai doesn't really understand anything yet.. We had to explain to Destiny that we are going out for a date that Mommy and Daddy need some time alone *wink*..lolzzz...
- We ended up at Chilis... My appetite change for some reason... ..William ended up ordering his One Full Slab BBQ Back Ribs and I ordered my combination of Tilapia and Shrimp with some veggies....Yup! it is different to go out like that without the kids... Don't get me wrong....We love and enjoy are kids but sometimes -- You need that date alone with your partner...You know what I mean.. lolzz--- I can finally be silly and do my thang with him...ha ha ha... Sooo funny! I dont need to be all detail about it here..Right... But yah! It was fun...Since -- it was his treat... I ordered some dessert...Hmmmmm... Delicioso =).--- Left around 10:30PM.. Usually -- we should be on our way home around this time... I really didn't want to go home yet... Can't think of anything else --- ended up at this Karaoke Place ( by streamwood).. Saw some old friends... It was this guy Eric and Mayb that told us about this.. Pretty nice and decent place... My honey didn't sing but I did... ha ha ha.. -- Hmmm -- it was getting pretty late so we decided to finally go home and get the kids.... Knowing me --- I stayed up till 4am...just being goofy..I had toooo much caffeeine... Coffee and Coke combined.. Oh goodness! We had sooo much fun that we didn't want the nite to end.... Well, since we've been planning to have our date twice a month.. We plan to take turns again just like our wedding anni.. so, we'll see if we follow through. lolzz.

Saturday

-- My poor honey -- got sick....Uh Oh! Mommy, what did u do? lol.. Daddy Will is not feeling well... So he just stayed home.. He didn't go to the meeting at all.. So, I had to do it and meet up with my team and take care of some suff, filing paperworks and clean up some stuff from the construction..... Our team are sooo sweet.. They all text William after the training and said that "He must be really sick" coz hes never absent unless theres a family emergency or hes really sick....Soo cute......Anyhooo, after the office -- I went to my mom's house to get some food to bring it to my hubby......... I went to sleep and woke up around 4PM.. Got ready to go to one of my frenz babys party at Chuckee Cheese... It was fun! Always fun coz I get to see and chat with my frenz.. lolz..
After the party -- we went to get some movies.. It was Destiny's turn to pick...She got " Meet the Robinsons and How to eat Fried Worms"... Then we went to get some Mexican Food... Yuummy! Went home, watch the movie, ate and prepared the Praise and Worship Song for the next day.....

Sunday

--- We woke up late.. Yikkes! Sorry Lord! no excuse...Got to church almost 10AM.. Thanks to Brother Martin -- He got there almost 9AM and he was almost done setting up the instrument.. Sis Irish had an emergency and didn't get to go to church... She had to be with Pastor Renato.. He ran out of medicine and started feeling numbness in his finger.. Please include him in your prayer..

It was a great service today -God is always good.... My sister Marge's prayer brought tears to my eyes. Bro.Gerry's sermon today was so good.... I know that God was there the whole time. God speak to his heart once again. I thank God everyday for using ordinary people like him. May God continue to give him the strenght and wisdom to preach HIS word.

We stayed at church till 3PM.----William wanted to have his coffee-- so before we went home -- we went to Dunkin Donuts and just hang out there.. Kalea was eating her munckins, William was having his Large French Vanilla coffee, Des was having her white chocolate and muah having my sweet Dunkanccino.....But man! I thought coffee would help me stay up. I was still sleepy -- I think because the weather was soo gloomy and i just wanted to stay in bed... -- Finally home sweet home.... We watched the other movies -- went to sleep at 5PM -- woke up around 630PM.. Cooked some dinner--- and around 10PM..Kids finally went to sleep and I made my TGIF drink ( Aileen's famous drink)...lolzz.. Yummy!!! ---- do you still want me to go on-- lolzz..--- It was a good night sleep again....... bwhahahahahhaahah... Sure both my hunny and I had fun... Great weekend!!! Thank you Lord for giving us this opportunity to relax, enjoy and reminisce.....

can't upload the photos here... just check out the photo on my site..also, sooo sorry -- not that much pictures taken over the weekend.. I have to download it still.. http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007/Nov9And10

K -- gotta get back to work.... Enjoy the rest of your week and Keep them beautiful SMILEZ going.. =)

God Bless!

Just Breathe

2007-11-01T14:20:00.001-06:00

November 1, 2007

By Melanie Chitwood

"It's useless to rise early and got to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves? Psalm 127:2 (MSG)

Devotion:

Many women today share a few common denominators: we're busy, we're tired, and we need some breathing room! We have jobs outside the home and in. Husbands need meals, romance, clean laundry, and more romance. Kids have play-dates, sports, church activities, and homework. We volunteer at the school, run carpools, clean the kitchen, walk the dog, do laundry, squeeze in a walk - and on and on our list continues. Whew!

Ladies, we cannot do it all. The good news is that we were never intended to do it all. Today you have permission to say "no." For some of us that comes easily. However, for many of us women, whom God designed to be givers and nurturers, this word does not come out of our mouths very easily.

Here's one practical way I've learned to say "no." I ask myself, What are my priorities? I have two levels of priorities. The first level includes God, my husband, my children, and the home front. This level is set in stone. The second level of priorities includes ministry, friends, and exercise, and this level of priorities has more variation for me. Taken together, these priorities are my compass, helping to guide me to a "yes" or "no" when considering adding another activity to my life.

Let's see how this works in real life. Last year I was asked to teach a women's Bible study at my church. Now, at first glance, this seems like an automatic "yes." After all, teaching Bible study is a good thing! However, I took the time to pray, and God very clearly showed me it was not the right time to add this commitment to my life. Looking back my family and I were incredibly busy last year in some ways I hadn't anticipated. I see clearly how saying "no" was the right answer at that time.

In a sense I have to give myself permission to say "no" because for most of my life I've said "yes" when deep down inside I've wanted to say "no." Here are two practical guidelines to help you learn how to say "no." First, if you immediately know you don't want to do something, just go ahead and turn it down by saying something such as, "Thank you so much for asking, but I just cannot make that commitment right now." The next guideline -- pray! If you're asked to do something and you really want more time to consider the situation, be honest by responding, "Let me take some time to pray and I'll give you an answer in a week." Then really pray and listen to God's leading!

Take a deep breath and say it aloud -- no. Now breathe again, sit down for ten minutes with a cup of coffee and enjoy the breathing room you've created for yourself.

Dear Lord, You show me by Your example of resting on the seventh day of creation that I, too, need rest. Show me your priorities for my life. I pray that they align with Your will for me. Help me to say no to the things that appear good but might take me away from the better choices You have for me. Lord, I pray that I will have breathing room in my life, times to be refreshed and moments of quiet closeness with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Simple but blessed Celebration

2007-09-23T21:17:00.001-06:00

TAKEN AT THE OFFICE -- SURPRISE

CAKE MADE BY MY FATHER IN LAW

TAKEN AT CHURCH TODAY

Our last stop-- My friend from High School ( Marisel baby's first bday)

Don't give up

2007-09-14T09:53:00.002-06:00

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future. --Jeremiah 29:11

Don't give up.....

One day I decided to quit...
I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality... I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.
"God", I asked, "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"
His answer surprised me...
"Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them.
I gave them light.
I gave them water.
The fern quickly grew from the earth.
Its brilliant green covered the floor.
Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.
In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo. He said.
"In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.
But I would not quit.
In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would
not quit." He said.
"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared
to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant...But just 6
months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.
I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."
He asked me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots".
"I would not quit on the bamboo.
I will never quit on you."
"Don't compare yourself to others."
He said.
"The bamboo had different Purpose than the fern.
Yet they both make the forest beautiful."
"Your time will come", God said to me.
"You will rise high"
"How high should I rise?"
I asked.
"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned.
"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."
I left the forest and brought back this story.
I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you.
Never, Never, Never Give up.
For the Christian Prayer is not an option but an opportunity.
Don't tell the Lord how big the problem is,
tell the problem how Great the Lord is!

Heavens door opened this morning, God asked me... My CHILD...
what can I do for you?" and I said "Protect and bless the one reading this message.
God smiled and answered ... "request granted ............

This message is now in your hands.
What will YOU do with it?

send this to family and friends so that they too will have their
lives in God's hands
You never know when GOD is going to bless you!! Good things happen when you least expect them to !!!!!!!!

Happy Monday!

2007-09-12T09:41:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday! – Yup! that's what I love about my best friend. When she tell her story ( very detailed.. Man! I tell yah and I love it.. ) and here I am totally opposite of my dear best friend. It’s hard for me to be detailed. Lol… But don't worry I’ll get to the story. Hmmmm, I think.

I really didn’t do much this weekend but another family gathering at my Uncle’s house. It was nice. I sang all night with my sister and ate soooo much food. So that was fun. While my brother and my dad doing their own thing outside with the rest of the guyz

Sunday – Right after church Love and her family went to meet up with us at my mom’s house to drop off some fresh veggies from their garden. She said more to come. So looking forward to that. =) …

Been busy bee re-doing stuff at the office… Yesterday was fun because I was singing for good one hour and dancing while moving stuff. Destiny at first was getting annoyed because I was being so loud (singing and dancing) but later on she started being goofy too and we did our Praise and Worship together….They both know how I am and I guess you can say that's one of the reason my hubby fell in love with me..hahahah..The funny part was when we were at wal-mart. I was singing while buying some stuff and people were just looking at me and I thought William was gonna stop me but no can do and joined me instead..hahahha Hmmm for some of you, you all know I am. You know I can be sooooo hyper and can't stop me especially if I'm in the mood… lolzz. We didn’t really finish last night ‘coz we had to pick up Kai… But before we went home. We went to blockbuster to rent some movies. It was my honey’s turn to pick movie this time then we had dinner at my parent’s house. Yiikkees! My sister caught me wearing her shirt so she chased me around…. lolz. I just love having her as my cute little sister…

Finally – Home sweet home – we started our Give Up the Past With a Spiritual Worry/Change Jar…
This is something that we talked about yesterday as a family…something to start in our home…. Isaiah 43:18, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” Whenever we dwell on negative things from the past, we place our small note here (or however much we can afford) in the jar. And we will continually ask God to change our heart, mind and feelings toward the past. We will give God the glory for changing the way we think about the past. And we will ask God to help us avoid worrying about the future, too.

We also started our Table Talk but I’ll talk about that later… Right now – must get back to work. My boss is about to come and yiikess – I don’t’ want to get in trouble now…

Pictures --Uhhmm just go to my http://picasaweb.google.com/SantosFamily2007
( more pictures later..still have to upload it... )

Okay – Enjoy your day now with a BIG BIG SMILE =)

I am walking for GINA LOBELLO on Oct. 14

2007-08-27T14:36:00.001-06:00

Hi,

I'm writing to you to ask for your support in a very special cause.

This year, I'll be taking part in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Walk to Cure Diabetes along with a half-million other walkers across the country. I am walking for my friend's daughter Gina Lobello. Gina was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes last year just shy of her 2nd birthday. Our goal: To raise $90 million to help fund research for a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications.

Type 1, or juvenile, diabetes, is a devastating, often deadly disease that affects millions of people--a large and growing percentage of them children.

Many people think type 1 diabetes can be controlled by insulin. While insulin does keep people with type 1 diabetes alive, it is NOT a cure. Aside from the daily challenges of living with type 1 diabetes, there are many severe, often fatal, complications caused by the disease.

That's the bad news... and yes, it's pretty bad.

The good news, though, is that a cure for type 1 diabetes is within reach. In fact, JDRF funding and leadership is associated with most major scientific breakthroughs in type 1 diabetes research to date. And JDRF funds a major portion of all type 1 diabetes research worldwide, more than any other charity.

I'm writing to ask for your support because now more than ever, EACH of us can be a part of bringing about a cure. Each of us can make a real difference

Won't you please give to JDRF as generously as you're able?

Together, we can make the cure a reality.

Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you this day

Charisma Santos

Please visit my Walk Web page if you would like to donate online or see how close I am to reaching my personal goal:

http://walk.jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=86759964 ">

Pictures from this weekend and last weekend - Enjoy =)

2007-08-13T12:35:00.001-06:00

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters

2007-08-08T06:56:00.001-06:00

The Verse
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.
Psalm 23:1-2a

The Thought
God is the God of comfort. He is our hiding place, our Rock and Refuge, our shelter in storms, our protection in trial. He is waiting to shelter us under His wing, hold us in His arms, and surround us with His love. In fire and water, He is there. In the trials that always come our way, He is there. When God allows things into our lives to refine us through fire and bring us to Himself, He is still there with us through the testing. But how do we find this comfort in adversity? For many of us, we have not felt the touch of God in tragedy. What is wrong? I think that our problem is not that God is not here, for we know that He is always here. Our problem is that we aren't letting Him do what He wants to. Our worry is not just what God wants to remove; our worry is what is keeping God from giving us peace. Worry can be defined as a lack of faith in God. Trust Him- He knows what He is doing. Seek after Him- that's what He wants you to do. Love Him- He wants you to experience His love. And about all, pray. Pray, pray, pray. The worse life gets, the more you need to pray.

The Prayer
Holy Spirit, Restore my soul. You are the only One who can give me peace when the world falls apart. Rain down on me Your soothing comfort; lead me beside still waters. Let me rest in the assurance of Your promises, and be satisfied and content in Your love.

Be Blessed! Be Encouraged!

Happy 4th of July!

2007-07-04T22:05:00.002-06:00

Hope you all had a safe and blessed 4th of July celebration with your loved ones. We were actually plannning to go downtown to watch fireworks but we decided not to-- 2 reasons -- had to take care so many things before we leave next week and we also heard that it was gonna rain..

This morning - i cooked some breakfast - did laundry then went to my in-laws house for bbq and goodness -- It's been awhile since we spent our 4th of July in Chicago. Fireworks everywhere! as in every block -- there was fireworks.. Then William and I left for couple of hours to go the wake. One of our business partners, Diane Cinardi.. She's like a mom to all of us. Her mom passed away Sunday night. She's a wonderful lady - full of life. Now, she's in a better place with Our Heavenly Father. Please include them in your prayers.

Then we went back to my in laws house and I think today was the first day again that I saw William and his younger brother- Mikey talked for hours.. So, when I noticed them talking outside -- I kinda left them alone. God is so good! You can see that their parents are so happy to see them again like that..

I didn't get to see my parents today. My mom had to work and my dad was doing some remodeling at home. That's why in a way -- Lords willing-- to have our own house this year -- So, I can just have everyone at my house.. he he he... We love it that our family always have gatherings but sometimes it's so hard to go back and forth or we have to do half /half.. lolzz. I think we've been doing this for the past 8 yrs.. he he he.. Oh! actually my Aunt ( from my dad side) called us today to also stop by at their house for bbq but we told them that my inlaws already invited us.. I kinda feel bad that we weren't able to go.. Like I said -- Lords willing -- once we have our house -- then I can just have everyone over...Yiiipppee! Well, this is for now ---- again --- visit us at http://www.walk2remember.com/-- We also have our blog there...

Nitey! Vavoossskkki!

Char

Summer is here!

2007-06-19T11:42:00.002-06:00

Hello readers ---please know that I blog most of the time at my friends blog (lovely) http://www.walk2remember.com/ -- so you can also go there..

well -- where do i begin...Friday-had lunch with my hubby and the kids at the office. My honey made lunch for all of us then I went back to work... Friday afternoon , i took my mom and the kids to my Folk Dance practice in Naperville... .. My Gosh! Can i just tell you that I was sore after the practice but It was so much fun. We did nothing but laugh. We practiced for 4hours. We are doing this for one of our convention coming up. (Cultural Dance Event). At first, we tried tinikling (bamboo dance) and they had me tried it first.. Oh man! I thought i was gonna go home without a leg..So then, we also tried Pandango. This one was easy-- that's only if you are okay to go home with no hair.. lolz ( just kidding). But yah, we all agreed on this one and we did good so far.. Next practice is tomorrow and the Saturday. Looking forward to it. Saturday -- we just went to Family party and did some errands for father's day. Sunday, we had a good service but before the service there was man that walked in our church and asking for help. He said that he needed a ride to Central and Belmont. We asked him if he can stay for service but he said that he needed to get home and get his medicine. So Martin and my hubby went to drop him off and gave him money to buy his medicine. After the service, I went to stop by for few minutes at Marge's house. She's helping me with some stuff for my little one's dedication this Sunday. After the service, we just went home.. My younger sister Christine wanted to go out to eat for Father's day but instead she ( for the first time..woooohooo)..went groceries with my daughter Destiny. I made a list for her to buy and she went and used her own money. So we just bbq at home with my parents. Simple but fun =) ....Ayyy, my sister's been coming to my house mostly everynite now for the past months and just hanging out which I don't mind at all but man!everynight..Oh goodness!..we been borrowing each other clothes.. ( I love it! ) ... Well, I guess for the next 3 wks will be busy bee for us.. Looking forwards to all the events coming up and hope to see all of you there..

Here's the update for our 2nd Outreach Church Picnic -- We already got the place for August 25...More information will follow. Please continue to pray for us that whatever we do or plan to help others is all in God's hand. We do it for the Glory of God.

Yesterday when I came home from work -- my daughter Destiny came up to me and showed me the letter she received from her Dad ( William) ... I was almost in tears when I read his letter to her...We can't thank God enough for giving us such a wonderful husband, friends, brother and father to everyone. I love you honey =)

And lastly, congrats to Destiny for hitting the high honor on your last quarter. We are so proud of you. We love you!

Have a good day everyone!

May God’s Light forever shine in your heart and upon you and yours! SMILE

Woooohooo!!

2007-06-08T08:34:00.001-06:00

Finally, I am now US Citizen lolzz.. Gosh! After how many years... That's what you call ( proscastinator)...Thank you Lord =) .. Anyways, my hubby and I had a great time yesterday... Not only we got free parking ticket but we were goofing around the whole time ( it started coz I had to do number 2..hahhaha) and I told him to stay there and don't let anyone take my spot and to text me when the line is moving..ha ha ha... I was getting so sleepy coz the line was too long...I had my DD already but still sleepy..... Ha ha ha .. My Oath Ceremony wast at 8AM.. So, we had to wake up at 5Am.. Got ready. We went to drop off Des at mommy, so she can get ready for school and good thing the school bus also stop there. Then we went to drop off Kai at my in laws then went straight to downtown... But my Oath was short--- We got out of there around 930Am but you know how I am --- I was still chatting with some people I met....N-ewayz, gots to go for now... Enjoy the rest of your day...And I will see some of you tomorrow and the rest on Sunday ( Lia's dedication..)
Oh and let me introduce you Funmi ( she's from Nigeria).. She's really nice.. We were talking for 2 hours. lolz.. She works at St. Mary's.. Oh man! she can talk.. But very nice lady.. She had no camera -- So i told her if she don't mind. I will send her a copy of our pictures.

We do not remember days, we remember moments

2007-06-05T14:24:00.001-06:00

A time to celebrate the beauty, the gift and the blessing of enduring love.

Yesterday we celebrated our 3rd year wedding anniversary and it was also our 8 yrs being together. How time flies?? Actually, this year was my turn to plan. We try to take turns every year. We didn't really do something big this year but it was very special of what we did yesterday. Right after work , I went groceries and I called Destiny and told her that I will be cooking menudo ( William's favorite dish). Well, for the filipinos ( that's not easy to cook).. Too many ingredients. So, when I got home I told him that I have my gift for him. But he asked me if he can help me.. I said No, but he said that he wants to be part of it..So he can take the credit..lolzz.....So then, he started cutting and peeling the veggies and I started cooking and putting the ingredients to the pot... We were thinking if we should his mom and my mom to ask for help but we both said " No, let's do William and Charisma's style"... So, we were both reading the filipino recipe.. And waited for almost an hour just to make sure that the pork is tender... I was doing the tasting and William will do the 2nd tasting just to make sure also......lolzzz.. My mom kept calling and since she knows that it was our anniversary..I told her that " Mom, if i give you some-- that means-- its good"..if not, then don't ask anymore..lolz.. Well, guess what???? It was deliciosoooo... So my honey and Des went to drop off some menudo to my mother dear and she said that it was good except it needed more salt or fish sauce... But it was good!!!! Yipppeee......They both came back and my hunny took a shower before dinner so we can have our dessert after.. lolz.... Oh before I forget... The night before our anniversay- he gave me his gift, a simple letter and we both said our prayers for each other before we had our dinner...He always does! I think for the past eight years now.. He never once forget to give me short or long letter... hmmm, wish i can share it with you of what he wrote but it was very sweet and touching.. Then around 7:30PM.....Tin's been bugging me if she can come over and it's hard for the past months ( since she broke up with her ex)..She's been going to my house and just hang out.. Which i don't mind because Tin's fun to be with...She does nothing but laugh at you....ha ha ha ha....So she stayed till 11:30PM...

Anyways, sorry haven't been blogging..Been kinda busy -- Fun busy--i may say =) -- actually- been visiting some old friends and organizing some events. Lords willing - it'll be done before we leave for the cruise.

Here are some pictures from yesterday --- before and after menudo... Also, pics from my sis' graduation... So proud of her..=)

Thank you Lord for all the blessings. But most of all Thank you Lord for blessing me with a wonderful husband and two beautiful girls that balances me everday of our life.
Vavooski ...Don't forget them beautiful smilez going..

Love the ones you're with

2007-04-30T14:31:00.001-06:00

Key Verse:1 John 4:11-12, "Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us." (NIV)

Devotion: When you're with the ones you love, do you love the ones you're with? I am embarrassed to admit it, but there are times when I'm with my family, and my mind is somewhere else getting something done! I realized this one night while we were all watching a movie. It looked like we were spending quality time together as a family. I was there physically, but I was returning phone calls and emails mentally. I glanced at the clock to see how many hours before bedtime when I could get some work done, and noticed the silhouette of my son's face. I was struck by how grown up he looked. How quickly ten years had passed! It made me think, it won't be long before he's counting down the hours until I go to bed, so he can instant message or get on the phone with his friends. That's when I recognized the gift of being with the ones I love and loving the ones I'm with, while they're still with me.Jesus knew His time with the ones He loved was limited. He valued the years He had here and was very intentional about loving each and every person He was with. Jesus didn't see people's requests for His attention or time as interruptions, but welcomed them as invitations. I am a type-A, get-it-done, kind of girl. "Being" instead of "doing" is tough for me. The only hope I have is to take my struggle to God and ask Him to help me. He made me this way and He's the only one who can make me more like Him. Through His Word, He's challenged me to slow down and spend more time being with my husband and my children. He knows how easily I can allow my time with them to get crowded out by my need to "do" things. He has helped me to see them as the highest priorities in my life.What about you? How often are you really with the ones you love…no agendas, no errands, no planning…just being? How often do you laugh together, watch movies together, or go out for ice cream? There are a few things I do to help me cherish the time I have with the ones I love. First, I look into their faces and remember what they used to look like. That helps me grasp how quickly time passes. Second, I imagine a day they may not be here; the day they might live in another State with their own family; the day I will wait for them to call and tell me what they have been doing since we last talked. Third, I think back to what life was like without them. That jolts my memory, and makes me so grateful for the time God has given me with them. And lastly, I remind myself daily that my tasks and "to do lists" will always be here, but the ones I love may not. My prayer is that you will join me in slowing down to be with the ones you love and love the ones you are with!

My Prayer for Today:Lord, thank you for the people you have given me to love - even when they are hard to love, even when I feel like I don't have enough time to enjoy them. Help me to slow down and see them through your eyes. Help me to see them as the greatest gifts I will ever be given. Remind me daily that the only thing that will last for eternity is my relationship with you and my relationships with others. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Plan a date with someone you love (your child, spouse, parents or best friend).Talk about the things and people they care about most. Really listen and enjoy them.If you get distracted by things you need to do, imagine this is the last time you will be with them and make it your best ever!

PARENTING

2007-04-12T09:47:00.001-06:00

Parenting
The Essential Ingredients of a Godly Home Matthew 10:11-13 says, “Now whatever city or town you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out. And when you go into a household, greet it. If the household is worthy, let your peace come upon it. But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.” This is how God blesses homes. Your house needs to be a house worthy of the blessing of God. So I want to give you Five Essentials to a Godly Home. 1. You need prayer in that home. In Luke 19:46 Jesus says, “My house will be a house of prayer.” Teach your children that God will answer their prayers. If God’s house is a house of prayer, yours should be one too. 2. Speak the Word in that home. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says, “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” 3. Make it a house of humility. James 4:6. God can bless humility. He resists the proud. 4. Make it a house of giving. Malachi 3:10 says, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” 5. You need leadership in your house. Joshua 24:15 says, “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.” Take a stand, and have leadership in that home. The Four Stages of Raising ChildrenAs you train your children in the way they should go, it’s important to understand The Four Stages of Growth in Your Children so they will grow up to hear God’s voice and make right decisions 1.Discipline Stage 0-5 years CREATE CLEAR AND VERY STRICT BOUNDARIES – no choices; you’re teaching them to yield their will to your will so they will eventually be able to yield to God’s will.WHEN YOU’RE SPEAKING TO THEM EXPECT A RESPONSE – otherwise you’re teaching them not to have regard for your commands. Your children will rise to the level of your expectation. One of the reasons God chose Abraham was because “he will command his children,” Genesis 18:19 says.MAKE YOUR INSTRUCTION CLEAR – Colossians 3:21 says don’t exasperate your children. Warn them that the command is coming. “In 5 minutes, I’m going to call you and I want you to be finished…”2. Training stage 6-12 yearsThis is where you are training your children to be young adults. They are pretending to be in that role. Give them some grace. Give them more choices. For example, “Here are 3 choices, but remember when you make a decision, you’re not going to change it.” Teach them to make their bed and clean their room. Now let them do it. Check it. Show them where they need to improve. 3. Coaching stage 13-19 yearsDuring this stage, you let them be the quarterback of their life. You’re the coach, but you let them play. You’re not driving them. They drive. You coach. You call some plays, but let them call some. When they make a decision, you ask “So what did you decide?” Then you say, “let me give you some pros and cons about that…” You still give them your advice. 4. Fellowship stage (friendship)You’ve done your job. You give advice only when they ask for it. You can’t try to be their friend during the Discipline and Training stages. This is the time you can be their friend, when you’ve done your job correctly in the earlier stages. It’s tragic if we don’t honor the Discipline stage. It affects the rest of their life and yours too. Now that you have these practical stages of how to teach your children as they mature, remember what sets it all up is when your house has the 5 Essentials for the Blessing of God. God will bless and honor you as you honor Him and put Him first in your home.

Invade your teens' World Without Invading Their Space

2007-04-09T13:22:00.000-06:00

Just thought of sharing you this one I read this morning.. It will help all of us ..Not only us parents but everybody who needs this..

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY --
http://www.focusonthefamily.org/

Be Your Teen’s Role ModelWhat is a role model?

When we say someone serves as a role model, we mean the individual is someone others admire or try to emulate. For teenagers this often means the person is someone they want to be like — whether it’s because of the person’s lifestyle, athletic prowess or the attitudes the person shows.

Some of those role models are celebrities out of your teen’s reach (athletes and movie stars), while others are in his or her own circle of influence (youth ministers, teachers and other parents). What do those people have that make them attractive to your teen?

What teens crave

Why do teens look up to the other adults in their lives? Whether or not we like it, parents are sometimes considered the enemy. Teenagers might see their moms and dads as judgmental and unconcerned about their lives. Two qualities, therefore, are crucial to being a role model.

1. A role model is understanding, not condescending.

When 13-year-old Jenny seemed especially upset about a boy not liking her at school, her father said, “That’s nothing to worry about. You’re too young to even think about boys.” When the dad spoke those words, he was telling Jenny that her concerns were not important. Yet it was serious in her 13-year-old world. Role models try to connect with a teen to understand what he or she is going through. They do so without belittling the teen’s problems or downplaying the triumphs.

2. A role model is a friend but also a leader. We often think that to be a role model to our teenager we must know the name of every new movie or be able to use teenage slang. That’s not necessarily true.

While most role models understand the teen’s life and are friendly, they also take on a leadership role with them. Role models provide answers, insight or suggestions about the teen’s struggles — oftentimes from their own experiences.

How parents can be good role models

• Be available. Let your teenager know your door is always open. While your son or daughter may not beat down your door every time he or she has a question, your teen is more likely to do so when you have left that door open.

Say phrases such as “I’m always here for you” or “I’d love to hear about your day.” Don’t apply pressure, but let your teen know you are there for him or her.

• Listen to your teen. Being available to your teenager does not mean listening with one ear and then giving a long string of advice. Listen to your teen first, then ask follow-up questions. Don’t jump in with advice (even when you clearly see what should be done). Instead, proceed slowly, asking your teen what he or she thinks should be done.

Being a role model to your teenager may seem like an impossible undertaking. But realize that your young person needs someone just like you — someone who loves him or her and who can point in the right direction.

Broken and Poured Out

2007-04-06T08:17:00.001-06:00

April 6, 2007

Broken and Poured Out

“Drink from it all off you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Matthew 26:27-28 (NIV)

Devotion:

“Kati, it is broken, surely you don’t want that one,” said my bewildered husband, while we were out one Good Friday evening a few years ago.

We had been walking around downtown after dinner to do some window shopping. Wandering into a little shop called “Barouke,” I spotted this hand- carved wooden cup. I had been on the hunt for a special cup that our family could use just for communion.

“It’s perfect, John. Jesus was broken and poured out for us today thousands of years ago”, I replied.

It was a fairly simple design made from Lignum Vitae, which according to its little tag, happens to be the hardest and most dense wood in the world. I thought it would be a very fitting cup for my wonderful, stubborn family. It has also been called “the Wood of Life” for its pharmaceutical values. What better communion cup could you ask for than one made from the Wood of Life that was found “broken” on Good Friday?

I look at it today and it serves as a constant and visible reminder of Jesus’ great love and sacrifice for me and you. Yes, you! “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, NIV).

When He broke the bread and gave it to the disciples during the last supper, He told them that it was His body; and He took the wine and said it was His blood poured out for many. (Mark 14: 22-24) He was broken and poured out on a cross so that we might have the opportunity for forgiveness and the choice to spend eternity with Him in Heaven. Like my communion cup we don’t have to be perfect to be forgiven, we come just as we are, even broken.

The song “In Remembrance of Me,” written and sung by Cheri Keaggy, says it very well. The words are true and beautiful:

This is My body

Given for you

This is the cup that holds the blood

Of a new covenant

This is forgiveness,

Simple and True

This is the way

That I have made for you

Before you eat

Before you drink

Take a long look inside

And tell Me what you see

Do this in remembrance of me.

Will you remember what He did for you today? Will you slow down long enough to thank Him? Will you accept His forgiveness? I will.

Dear Lord, thank you so much for your sacrifice on the cross for me. Thank you for your love. Help me to never take it for granted, but to always be mindful and grateful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:

Take the time to read the Easter story today from the Bible, any gospel – Matthew, Mark, Luke or John - that you choose.

Create a special “communion” cup to use with your family.

Reflections:

How often do you stop to think about what the Lord has gone through to make sure that you are with Him in Heaven?

Will you set aside a certain time of the day, week or month just to remember and thank Him?

Power Verses:

Ephesians 1:7, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins…” (NIV)

The children are watching us

2007-04-04T09:07:00.001-06:00

Good Morning friends, please allow me to share you this daily devotional I received this morning..I know that many of us can relate to this story. I know I am =). See my husband always say Good Morning to us and I remember one time when when my older daughter forgot to say "Good Morning" to her Dad. So then I told her to go and say sorry. But before she went...She told me that "Mom,how come you tell me to say sorry when you always forget to say Good Morning to Dad too.Oh my! I felt so ashamed and I prayed right away and asked for forgiveness and to help me be a better person and be a good example to my children. I then went to talk to my hubby and we had our talk..See, God understand that we are not perfect but we can always try to be a better person. Remember that our kids are not only smart but are always watching their parents. But remember this one, before we can teach our children God's ways, we first build a right relationship with them, one in which God's truth will grow and flourish in the hearts of our children. Our teaching and example just demonstrate to them a way of life they will want to emulate, rather than a burden imposed on them. Here you go and hope you enjoy reading this.. BE BLESSED!
The Mom in the Mirror
By Karen Ehman

“However, … the wife must respect her husband.” Ephesians 5:33 (NIV)
Devotion:
I’ll never forget the day I saw myself in that mirror. Even though over a decade of time has passed since I caught the glimpse, the image is still vivid. And I’m sorry to say that it wasn’t a pretty one. My then six-year-old daughter and her three-year-old brother were playing together in their room. I strolled down the hall to check on the baby who was due up from his nap soon. It was then that I saw it.

As I approached the room where my kids were playing, I heard Mackenzie’s voice pipe up as she expressed to Mitchell her immense displeasure. You see, he was not stacking the colorful, snap-together, plastic blocks in a manner that suited her. As I neared the door I heard her sharply declare “No, Mitchell. Not that way! Oh, just give it to me! Anybody with a brain knows they go like this, not like that. Can’t you ever do anything right?” Her words, though unkind, weren’t the real issue. What bothered me most was that they were spoken with a caustic, condescending tone. I was not going to let her get away with it.

I stepped into the room and with classic mom form - hand on hip, finger pointed, throwing the child’s middle name in for emphasis???I gave it to her. “Mackenzie Leith Ehman! Young lady, I don’t ever want to hear you talk like that to your brother again!” Without even looking up from her pile of blocks, she quickly and calmly retorted. “Why not, Mama? You talk like that to Daddy all the time.”

Ouch! My kids often serve as a painstakingly honest mirror when it comes to my attitudes and actions. The offense my daughter had committed that day paled in comparison to what I feared my kids were witnessing in our home as they saw their mom interact with their dad in a disrespectful manner. I cried and prayed and cried some more. I told my husband what had transpired. I then told my moms’ Bible study group. Turns out I wasn’t the only mom who had a little mirror in their house. Many of us had seen ourselves vividly reflected through the voices and actions of our offspring. We vowed together to keep our words and tones in check. Of course, we found out this is often easier said than done.

The word “respect” in today’s verse can be one we wives assume we are obeying because we have a limited view of its true meaning. A quick reading of this verse in the Amplified Version of the Bible sheds a deeper light. Its parenthetical description of the word “respect” reads, “that she notices him, regards him, honors him, prefers him, venerates, and esteems him; and that she defers to him, praises him, and loves and admires him exceedingly.” Whew! No wonder God wants marriage to last a lifetime. It might take us women a lifetime to learn to exhibit all those qualities!

It’s been a long time since I spied my ugly self in that mirror that day. I still struggle at times with a sharp tongue, often saying things in jest that in reality are unkind. And my kids now reserve the right to call me on the carpet for such behavior. We moms need to remind ourselves that there are little and not so little eyes watching, and in many cases imitating what they see. What’s in your mirror?

Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times I have used my words, attitudes and actions as weapons of disrespect toward my husband. Empower and enable me to live a life that accurately reflects what a godly wife should be. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Pay close attention to your words and tone this week as you interact with your husband. What would you see if you were videotaped and then had to watch a playback of how you speak to him? Would others be able to tell from your encounters that you respect your spouse?

For the brave at heart only: Ask your children to be honest with you. Question them about what they observe when you speak to your husband. Is there anything they think you should clean up? What grade would they give you when it comes to how you treat their father? Tell them that you are trying to obey the Bible by showing dad respect. You just need a little report card from them to know how you are doing and to enable you to make the necessary changes.

Reflections:
Name a wife who gets a good grade in this subject. What is different about her? What does she do, and not do, that makes her a good example?

Ask yourself, “Is there one person who would be a good fit to hold me accountable in this area?” Pick someone who will be honest with you and who cares enough about you and your marriage to tell you the truth and point you to God. Contact her to see if she’d be willing to check in with you periodically to inquire how you are doing.

Enjoy the rest of your SUNNY AND SMILEY DAY

PRECIOUS FRIENDS

2007-03-26T20:12:00.001-06:00

Buenas Nochez Friends,

Hope everyone had a blessed weekend! Well, i did.... Friday nite-- i got to hang out with my girls. Thanks to my best friend Lovely, she was able to get everyone together there.. She had to call them individually so that they all would go.. See, the last time we all got together was last Christmas. So, everyone was so happy when they all got to Chilis. One of our favorite place to go for dinner..lolz. We got in trouble too cuz I we were so loud.. And yes! I admit...I am first to say that I am guilty..lolzz.. My hubby, my daugther Destiny, our friend Martin and Matthew stopped by at Chilis to get my daugther's Ice Skate.. They went Ice skating that nite... My friend Marge and I went to meet up with them after Chilis. We all went home right after. Went to pick up my lil one Kalea at my mom's house. We came home and we just relax and went to sleep early to get ready for our Local convention the next day ( Saturday).

Saturday ---- we got ready to go to Midwest Conference Center ( Northlake Il). It was an awesome event. I thank God everyday for our business. Not only we helped people with their financial plan but also we are building our friendship with our business partners and clients. But most importantly, we can minister to them and able to share our Life with Jesus. My husband and I along with my daughter Destiny and soon Kalea love meeting new people everyday. It makes us realize that wherever you go... You can meet new friends everyday.. =) . After the event-- we went to Portillos and had lunch.. Then, our last stopped - we went to Marge's house for her Party Lite show... It was fun!!! As always, I had to joke around..lolzzz. That is always been part of me and will never go away...ha ha ha.. Yup! i didn't buy anything..But I got the catalog.. and hopefully..I'll order when I feel like it...lolzzz... Ayayyayyay! I have to get a house first-- if i buy those candles.. I don't have anymore room in my house..lolzz.. That was my Saturday nite..And finally went home and my honey was already home... Just watched movie and finally went to sleep....

Sunday - got ready for the church! Thank God for this morning...Nice Sunny Weather.. My Kai Kai wanted to play all day.. And today I discover her beautiful smile...ha ha... If you are about to take her picture..No matter what she's doing..Crying or playing..>She will stop and pose and smile for you....ha ha ha ha.. Soooo cute! We went to visit her grandparents ( dad side) in Chicago.. Dad and I played basketball.. After that we stopped by at the office... Kai and I fell asleep while Destiny was helping dad putting his song book ( for church ) in order.. Then when Kai and woke up , we all went to eat at Hong Ning ( Filipino Chinese restaurant).. .. We didn't want to go home yet cuz the weather was so beautiful- so we decide to hang out at the parking lot of Mc Donald for few minutes and just talk and enjoy the weather.. Mom and Dad stopped by at the house right after their date.... That was our weekend! Thank you, Thank you Lord for a wonderful weekend and Thank you lord for a wonderful friends and Thank you Lord for always being there with us..

Goodnite...

Check out our pictures this last weekend..Go to the last page to see the latest. Thanks

http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantosCharismaSantos

Rejection and Forgiveness - Part I

2007-03-26T12:38:00.001-06:00

Monday, March 05, 2007

Rejection and Forgiveness - Part I
By Tracie Miles Galatians 1:10, “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (NIV)Rejection is something we all face in life. Rejection comes in many forms – affairs or divorce, supervisors who can’t be pleased, teenage rebellion, being turned down for a job, shut out from a club or sorority, or the betrayal of a friend. Although this list is not exhaustive, you get the idea. These things have one thing in common - they are painful, and very damaging to our self-esteem.In the midst of rejection, we are so focused on ourselves that it is difficult to pull away from the hurt and think clearly or rationally. Our thoughts are often, How could that person have done/said that to me? Do they know how much I have done for them? Have they taken a hard look at themselves? We all share these thoughts when we are consumed with despair caused by hurtful words or actions from others.There are three basic truths in handling rejection:Truth #1: Understand that you are made in the image of God. We are told in Genesis 1:27 that God created man in His image. Men and women are God’s most unique works of art, His masterpieces! There is no one more valuable and precious than the children of God. Remember who you are in Christ and choose to see yourself through God’s eyes.Truth #2: Rejection is only destructive when we internalize it, allowing it to creep into our personal belief system. Since we cannot control what other people think, we have no control over whether or not people approve of us. We are only in control of our own attitudes and beliefs. If we allow the opinions of others to affect the opinions we have of ourselves, then we are allowing those who hurt us to control our thoughts. If we keep our thoughts focused on how much God loves us, we won’t dwell on the opinions of others.Truth #3: We can combat the destructive forces of rejection by understanding our position in Christ. We are God’s most prized possessions! Spend time focusing on who we matter to instead of who we don’t. We are told through out the first book of Peter that we are chosen, royal, holy, accepted, and instruments for God’s work. Our position is one of royalty, and we are each a significant instrument in God’s spiritual orchestra.During painful times in our life, we can triumph if we remember that God is our strength. God is a forgiving God, and He desires for His children to be forgiving as well. He is sufficient to get us through our problems. He is our Almighty Redeemer. We do not need the world’s approval, and we will never be able to please everyone. We only need the approval of God. God is waiting to wash our souls with His grace and mercy to help us through any situation, but first we must have our spiritual eyes and ears open to hear His loving, comforting voice.Dear Lord, I pray for Your wisdom on how to deal with situations in which I feel hurt, rejected, and worthless. Fill me with Your love so that I can forgive others. Help me remember that Your approval and acceptance is all I need. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.Related Resources:The Confident Woman by Anabel GillhamDo You Know Him?Listen to Today's Radio Show Application Steps:Ask God to intervene in your situation, and help you forgive this person and mend your relationship. It may seem hopeless, but nothing is too big for God to handle.Create two lists. List 1: write down all the wonderful traits, talents and skills that God has gifted you with. List 2: write down all the people in your life who love you. Seeing all these things on paper will help relieve the pain of the person(s) who made you feel unworthy and rejected.Reflections:Unforgiveness is poison to our soul – do you need to forgive someone who has hurt you? Are there people in your life that you would do anything to gain their approval? Would your behavior change if you were only concerned with God’s approval, not that of man?Do you thank God daily for the privilege of being made in His image, and remember that you are beautifully and wonderfully made?Power Verses:Psalm 36:5, “Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.” (NIV)1 Kings 8:50, “And forgive your people, who have sinned against you; forgive all the offenses they have committed against you, and cause their conquerors to show them mercy.” (NIV)

Another Wonderful Weekend!

2007-03-18T21:01:00.001-06:00

Buenas Noches Readers =) ..Well, it was a beautiful weekend and great weather ..Cold but sunny.. it's okay though.. We can't have it all. It was a great Saturday morning --- breakfast with my family, got ready to go to the office-- This time we had to be at Burr Ridge.. We had new team mate that just recently joined our business and had to go to training.. I thank God for our business.. And we are able to help them accomplished their dreams slowly. With God on our side-- we know that ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE. He is an Awesome God! We thank God for HIS many blessings, for HIS love and HIS MERCY. And for the blessed Holy Spirit who strenghtens me day by day, leads to the path of righteousness, and gently speaks to me about the areas of my life that need to change. God is good! Thank you LORD!.... Lunch time, hang out with my team -- helped them with their license and some paperworks...Then we left the office to go to the Mall and got Kalea's earrings.. Yipppee!!! I didn't pick the November birth stone.. I kinda don't like the color.. It's light yellow.. So, we went and get the light pink..... Later afternoon, we went to meet up with my parents but they went to my brother's house to assemble my nephew's basketball thingy that he bought for the backyard.. Destiny went with them--- So, my little one Kai and I went groceries -- We came home and mommy cooked beef stew ( hmmmm, finally i made it very very tender that daddy was very impressed. He he he! Destiny and Dad came home and ate dinner.. Like I said, my hubby was very happy that I made the pork very tender that he can finally chew it this time.. Usually, when I am in a hurry even if it taste good... The beef is not tender as it did tonite... Goodness! I had to let it boil for an hour.. I gotta get pressure cooker so I don't have to wait that long. lolzz.. Right after dinner-- my daughter, Destiny and I baked our Walnut Brownies.. Hmmmm...She helped me baked it.. We made it for the church..... Then, finally the kids went to sleep and Daddy and I finally got to relax and got our stuff ready for the church.. AND MOMMY FINALLY GOT A GOOD MASSAGE FROM DADDY..lolzzz...( He always gives me good massage).. Mommy is too spoiled..Lolz...

Sunday ---- PRAISE GOD FOR ANOTHER WONDERFUL AND SUNNY DAY... We woke up around - 7Am.. Played with the kids till 8Am.. We had to take 2 cars today... Des, kai and myself went to pick up Lorelei and her daughter, Caitlyn... They went to church with us... Hopefully, I can pick her up every Sunday so they can come with us... She doesn't drive..She's also 7 months pregnant and she's very excited .. She's actually having another girl... So, help me pray for her and her family.. for a safe and easy delivery and healthy baby...We had a great sermon this morning " Prayer"..We all know that Prayer is the most powerful weapon. I thank all of you for your prayers. Let's continue to pray for one another and for everyone.

My parents are so cute.. My mom called me this morning when I was on my way to church.. They just went to their church and they had their date at Denny's.. Every Sunday is their day to date after church -- They try to do something together.... So today - they didn't waste anyday to stay at home.. They went to church and went to eat for breakfast. My mom told me that they are now qualifed for Senior Citizen breakfast.. My mom is so funny..hahhaahahah.. She wanted to get the free breakfast...lolz. After that-- they went to visit my brother and stayed there the whole day..They left around 2pm to visit my grandma then my parents went out again and ate dinner... ( he he he) My mom is so happy coz my dad is now taking her out mostly every weekend... God is soo good and so loving! Thank you Lord for my loving parents.. Btw, my grandma ( dad side) is now feeling much better.. Getting stronger everyday.. We went to visit her last week.......Finally, our last stopped today -- we went to visit my in-laws because they wanted to see Kalea -- So, we just stayed there till 7pm ..Ate dinner, Destiny was playing with her cousin MJ ( My brother in - law's son..)..William and I just ate and slept....ha ha ha ha .... So, there goes our weekend --- -- Our family are so active that we don't like staying home toooo much.. Sometimes is okay but not all the time...ha ha ha.. We like to do things all the time.. Even if it's something small just as long as we're together --- then we are fine and happy...he he he he.. . .. K-- I'll blog more later.. Okie dokie.. Hope you all had a blessed weekend!!! Love u guyz.. =)

FUN NIGHT =)

2007-03-16T21:52:00.001-06:00

Hello there.... Well, it was a good nite.. We took our daughter, Destiny out today and we went Ice Skating..Whoooo!! I thought I was gonna die but guess what.... I DID IT!!! YIIPPEE!!.. Thanks to those rails.... It kinda helped me at first then i started doing my own thing... Even if i know that everyone was going speedy gonzales there.. I was taking my lovely time and i didn't have to bounce my butt.. lolzz.. What's cute about it was when my daughter Destiny and her dad was chasing each other.. It was kind of scary watching them coz it feels like they were going 100mph...hahahahha... So, i kinda told them to stop...lolz.. But they still didn't listen to me...Oh well.... Man!!! I was so out of shape.. But it was a good work out for your leg esp.your butt...lolzz...Then, we went to Woodfield Mall.. She wanted to go to her new store " Limited too" and she bought some new shirt while her dad kept telling me to buy her more stuff... I said " Nope"... that's enough for now..lolzzz.. So, her dad said that he will take her shopping next week without me..Ayyyyayay!!!! Then, we finally went to eat.. ( We were so hungry after ice skating..)... Then we went to pick up my baby girl at my mom's house... We missed Kai the whole time we were skating.. We saw a lot of kids there.. I think they were around 3 or 4.... We can't wait to take her ice skating next time.. 3 yrs from now..hahahahah.. Well, buenas nochesamigas! Te amo... and hope you all have a wonderful weekend..

Oh yah! before I forget... I made new friends again today..her name is Christy.. She's half burmese and half italian... Very nice lady.. She went shopping for her daughter and bought at least 20 pairs of clothes...Goodness!!!.. She's a chemistry teacher at Maine East..Very pretty lady... They are going to the Carribean cruise ( for her kids spring break)... Hmmmm.. Fun!

Okay nitey nite... Love u guyz and I will blog more later....

Here's the pics from tonite ----

http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantos/ICESKATINGMARCH2006?authkey=zaybhztd4OI

Encouragement for Today

2007-03-16T12:29:00.001-06:00

Hi Everyone, just want to share this message I received this morning. I sincerely hope that you will be blessed and encourage by today's message.

The Marriage I've always Wanted

Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. Mark 10:9 (NIV)

If you were to describe your ideal marriage, what are some things you would include? Engaging conversations, romantic dates, fun adventures, shared responsibilities, financial security, passionate intimacy, and a partner to pursue dreams together would be some of mine. As I walked down the aisle on my wedding day and mindlessly repeated the vows the pastor instructed us to say, I toted with me all these expectations of my ideal marriage. I thought our marriage would just have these things built in and all this would naturally come as part of the package.

I soon discovered, however, that a marriage is like that wonderful toy that you get on Christmas morning. You rip open the attractive packaging and go straight for the on button. When nothing happens, you feel confused and very disappointed. You are so sure that getting the toy will result in instant happiness, so when it fails to meet your expectations, you set it aside and move on to something else.

If only Id taken just a moment to read the instructions, I would have discovered three little words that could have made all the difference: batteries not included.

Had I read the instructions I would have realized that I can only get the toy to meet my expectations when I take the time to put energy into it. Having a great marriage is a matter of choice, not chance. Leaving it up to chance is saying, Well I just hope well have good communication, great sex, romantic dates, and share the responsibilities of life. Unfortunately, the realities of life dont lend themselves naturally to these things. We get busy, stressed, distracted, and before we know it, weve neglected our marriage for years. We keep pushing the on button hoping to get more from our marriage, but without putting in the batteries, well never really experience all that it can be.

I dont want to leave my marriage up to chance. I want to make the choice each day to invest wisely in my marriage. If I want good communication, then I have to set the scene for times that my husband and I can really talk. Not just debriefing about the events of the day but taking time to dream together, plan together, laugh together and grow together. If I want romantic dates, then I have to educate my husband on what this means and discover things we can enjoy doing together. If I want my husband to long to come home at night, then I ask him to define the word haven and make sure our home reflects that.

When I invest energy into my marriage, suddenly it starts working the way its supposed to. I must also remember the real power-source for my marriage comes from getting into Gods Word and letting His Word get into me. Gods Word is the ultimate marriage instruction manual!

Dear Lord, help me to put aside my pride so I can hear You whisper to my heart things I can do to improve my marriage. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Application Steps:

Set a date for you and your husband to go out and have time to really talk.

Ask your husband to define what a haven is to him.

Identify the areas of marriage you are struggling with and look up verses in Gods Word that address each.

Commit to memorizing these verses and refer to them often.

Reflections:

Whether youre a seasoned spouse or a newlywed, you have at some point realized that after every wedding is a marriage. Marriage is not a fairy taleits a reality. What helpful advice or wisdom has God given you about the reality of marriage that you could pass along to single women or brides-to-be?

Power Verse:

Romans 12:9-10, Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. (NIV)

Thanks and KEEP THOSE WONDERFUL SMILEZ GOING =D

Living in God's Power

2007-03-16T06:41:00.001-06:00

Great message I received this morning..I love the feeling that whenever I come to work and open my email.. I see my brothers and sisters in Christ that would send me all God's message. I love reading all of them.. Thank you and let's continue to share HIS words..

Living in God's Power

Today's Scripture
"With God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God promises so many good things for your life, but He wants you to step up and receive them. If you come to Him and claim the blessings and abundance He has offered, then your life will be changed forever. God has all of the power necessary to restore broken families, replace lost trust, and work miraculous acts that no one could expect to see happen. In fact, many families and individuals have been changed by God through this ministry because of seeds of faithfulness and hope that were planted by people like you! All things are possible with God, and if He is in your life, you can plant seeds that will one day grow and give someone the hope of Jesus!
A Prayer for Today
God, I know that You have the ability to change people through me. Thank You for changing me and giving me the ability to trust You for great things. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Have A Blessed Day!

PHOTO ALBUM

2007-03-14T19:51:00.000-06:00

Well today, I tried the PICASA site to create an album since I love taking pictures and sharing not only my families but also my friends and business partners. I just uploaded new pictures from before.. So, if you have time.. Go and check out our Album...
Just click all the links below

http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantos/MixPicsOfOurFamilyFriendsChurchMembersBusinessPartners?authkey=HwxSApRFIIM

http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantos/KALEASTARSPICSONLY?authkey=nLF5gDuL7pY
http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantos/ICESKATINGMARCH2006?authkey=zaybhztd4OI

http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantos/KALEASTARSPICSONLY?authkey=nLF5gDuL7pY
http://picasaweb.google.com/CharismaSantos/ICESKATINGMARCH2006?authkey=zaybhztd4OI

*** Check back often***** 'Cuz I will be uploading more pics....

thanks

2007-03-14T17:13:00.000-06:00

hi sis! this is a good way for you to learn how to maneuver the computer more, so keep it up k. continue to be inspired by the word and works of God. i'm so grateful we serve the God of the universe... He not only made us best friends here on earth, but He gave us a plus! by making us sisters in Christ Jesus. He certainly knows what he's doin'...i thank God for you, sis! - keep the smiles goin' *love you much!*

HI THERE!

2007-03-14T11:01:00.001-06:00

Wow! Am I actually doing this..This is fun... Well, thanks to my lovable... My sister in christ... She invited me to her blog.....I am not really very good of sharing my thoughts thru this but I guess this is a great tool to share our thoughts, activities and exchange stories and get to know each other. New Friends are always welcome =) ...Well, I'll write more later.. God Bless =)

Everyday Life

***HAPPY MOTHERS DAY***

3 generations were out on a date =)

TGIF

Long time no Blog =)

Christmas Eve 2009 017.jpg

christmas Eve 30.jpg

ate and me.JPG

KALEA'S 3RD BDAY

NYC Thanksgiving 2009 with the FAMILY

Acquire the FIRE November 13 -14

Typhoon Ondoy Relief FUND IN MIDWEST

Happy 14th bday Ate Des!

Happy 2nd bday Baby Kai!!!!

It's sad and funny but I'm very thankful

Happy Bday El!

Busy Summer

My daugther is such a girls scout!

Annual family and friends picnic 2008

finally found the answer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just bloggin.....

Our very first big Christian Concert .........................

Time with my soon to be TEEN

Taking Back What the Devil Has Stolen

Just taking a break

Forgive and Forget

Araw nang Kalayaan.( Happy Independence Day)......

I thank you Lord for another blessed year!

----SHOP till we drop-------

Is It ReaLLY important 2 have QUiet TimE with HIM

How Great is OUR GOD!

Our first bus experience trip with Kai

Father and daugther time........

World Financial Revs UP

My deareast grandma's

Inexpensive But Unforgettable Anniversary ( per my honey lol)

Happy 4th year wedding anni HOney!

Weekly Question # 2

Daddy's Corner ------> for my Honey

Myanmar and China need your help!

Weekly Question 1

Thank you all "Update for March for Babies"

Memorial Weekend 2008

My lil' Kalea's short video.

Happy Mom's Day =)

jus another pictures of my luvs =)

Tips for TOUGH times

*****TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK****

MARCH FOR BABIES

Surrender

Over the weekend 04/19-04/20

Please continue to pray for our church

Rainy Day!

Sunny Day!

Our Valentine's Day

Our Time Alone

D Magsingit Fam

The Santos look a like meter.. Happy Friday..lolz for fun!

Winter activity FUN 2008

Fun night with Hannah Montana

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Pictures from Lolo and Lola's house

Genworth ( work) Christmas Party 2007

Congrats to Ate Destiny

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY KALEA! NOV.30, 2006

I thank you Lord!

Relaxing 4 days weekend =)

Our Thanksgiving 2007 PICTURES..

Our Dad's 60th birthday Celebration

Happy Thanksgiving!

2 Corinthians 12:9

Seven Stages of the "Married Cold"

Just an update over the weekend!

Just Breathe

Simple but blessed Celebration

Don't give up

Happy Monday!

I am walking for GINA LOBELLO on Oct. 14

Pictures from this weekend and last weekend - Enjoy =)

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

*TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK