24 Things To Always Remember

 

Your presence is a present to the world.
You are unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be.
Take the days just one at a time.

Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You will make it through whatever comes along.
Within you are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.

Do not put limits on yourself.
So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal and you prize.

Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem the heavier it gets.
Do not take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.

Remember that a little love goes a long way.
Remember that a lot … goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
Life’s treasure are people together.

Realize that it is never too late.
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
Have hearth and hope and happiness.
Take the time to wish upon a start.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Hollyhock

What greater gift than the love of a cat?
~Charles Dickens

Several springs ago I planted a hollyhock flower underneath our family room window. Every spring without fail the hollyhock would push forth a strong green stem from its earthy winter resting place. Its dark red flowers would open up to claim its rightful place in the sun. My husband would sit in his favorite chair watching TV with a perfect view of the hollyhock as it gently swayed in the summer breeze.

"That is my favorite of all the flowers you planted," he said.

I tended to it faithfully in hopes it would live forever and provide him with one of life's simple pleasures. That following May, without warning, he passed away, forcing me to live in a world full of fear, pain, and loneliness. My life and my children's lives were shaken to the core as the pillar of our small family was suddenly stripped from us. My world was shattered and I wondered if I could ever pick up the pieces and continue my own existence. Even though I had four children, they had their own lives, with children, jobs, and their own homes to tend to, leaving me with the feeling that I had no one left to care for.

With nothing but time I went outside to brush away the dead leaves and other debris left by the winter from around his favorite flower. I was anticipating its reliable bloom to sway once again in the summer breeze as if it would bring his spirit to life again.

"I don't know how to live without you," I whispered while brushing away the tears that would not stop falling. My heart was heavy, and my soul lonely and scared.

Just as I reached to grab the dead leaves I heard a hiss coming from behind the stem. Startled, I jerked my hand away. My heart pounded, and my vision was blurry from the tears that filled my eyes. I feared there was a snake under the leaves. I quickly stood up to leave the creature alone in hopes it would eventually move on. Blinking several times to force the tears away, my vision cleared. My fear vanished and compassion rushed into my heart instead. What I thought was a snake turned out to be a tiny black fur ball trying to scare away its intruder. I reached for the kitten and it hissed again. Without hesitation I picked it up and began to stroke its tiny head.

"Poor little thing, what are you doing under there?" I said as I carried it into the house.

"Where did you come from and how did you get all the way here?" I said as I tore up lunchmeat into tiny bite-size pieces. The little cat growled like a large lion as it devoured the food. I laughed at this tiny cat with a fierce heart. "Poor little thing, you must be starving."

Since I had never had an inside cat, I took him back outside after his meal. Unfortunately he found the outside drainpipe, decided to explore and got stuck. After much chaos and dread, he was finally retrieved with some assistance. Realizing how vulnerable he was, I decided he would share my home and gave him what I thought was a fitting name, Piper.

Piper has become a magnificent animal with a shiny, sleek coat and he has filled some of the void in my life. He provides me with company on those lonely nights when the house is quiet except for the sound of the TV and his purring as I stroke his head. On days when my world is dark he lightens my heart and makes me laugh, because to this day, even though he is big and strong and is provided with all the food he needs, he still continues to growl while eating. His strong will and determination inspire me to carry on with my life the best I can.

At the time it seemed strange that a little kitten would appear under the hollyhock that my husband so loved. But what better gift was there to give someone who felt so alone in the world, and who was able to give a tiny creature a loving home? Piper and I needed one another more than either of us knew. The hollyhock never bloomed again. It was as if it was transformed into a tiny kitten. Perhaps the kitten was a gift from my husband to give me something to care for and to give me pleasure, just as the hollyhock did for him.

Source

Laughter Is the Purrfect Medicine

From Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's Life
By Donna Gephart

Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects. ~Arnold Glasow

About three weeks ago, I noticed something unusual in our cat's litter box. Yes, more unusual than the heart-shaped urine clump Jasmine lovingly created for us on Valentine's Day. And stranger than the time she swallowed the string from a Christmas ornament and made us a new and improved ornament the next day in her box. It was blood. After a wrestling match, the likes of which World Wrestling Entertainment has yet to witness, I managed to shove Jasmine into her carrier and drive her to our veterinarian's office. The vet told me that Jasmine had an infection. I could handle that. The vet told me that Jasmine needed a change in diet, and that the new food would be much more expensive. My bank account could handle that. The vet told me that I would have to give Jasmine a dropper full of antibiotic liquid twice a day for two weeks.

"Are you nuts?!" I bellowed. "I'd rather hand-feed piranhas."

The vet thought I was overreacting. He grabbed the office cat. "Here, I'll demonstrate," he said condescendingly. The sweet, furry creature lay docile. She willingly opened her mouth when prodded for the demonstration. It seemed to me the vet could have inserted hot pokers into this cat's eyes and she would have purred. Jasmine, on the other hand, turns into Catzilla if we even try to pick her up for a quick cuddle. How would I ever hold her, open her mouth and insert the required dose of antibiotics? On the drive home from the vet, I prepared for the ordeal. "How hard can it be?" I asked myself out loud. "She's small. I'm tall. She weighs about twelve pounds. I weigh, um, slightly more than that." At home, I got hold of Jasmine without losing a limb, but I couldn't grip her and open her mouth at the same time. I needed two more hands or...

"Sweetheart!" I called my husband. When I told Dan what we needed to do, he looked at me as though I had asked him to jump into a pit of slithering snakes. I assured him this was far worse.

"Okay," he said. "She needs the medicine to get better. I'll hold her and you squeeze the antibiotics into her mouth."

The first morning we tried, Dan held her and I worked furiously to get her to open her mouth. When she tried to bite me, I squirted. A surprising fifty percent of the liquid ended up inside her mouth. The rest spilled on her chin, but she quickly licked it off. Success! We felt as though we had won the Olympic event of Feline Medication Administration, and since Dan and I still had our fingers and hands, we high-fived each other.

The next night, Jasmine used her back paw to scratch Dan's palm. He bled so much I thought he would need a transfusion. He bandaged his hand and his ego and tried again. He eventually held Jasmine still. This time, I managed to get a surprising eighty percent of the liquid inside her mouth. The other twenty percent fell into the carpet fibers along with crushed Cheerios, a half-eaten raisin and a set of lost Legos. I was feeling confident now. Dan was feeling woozy from lack of blood.

The next morning, Dan donned his business suit. He had an early meeting at the office. "Come on," he said. "Let's get this over with. I'm running late." He grabbed Jasmine with amazing finesse. More sure of my ability, I opened her mouth and squirted the full eye dropper of thick white liquid... all over my husband's slacks.

Over the next two weeks, my husband's slacks were well medicated. We, on the other hand, were sick of wrestling with our feisty feline. We reached under every piece of furniture in the house to retrieve her, but unfortunately, the only things we snagged were impressively large dust bunnies. And they looked too robust to need antibiotics. Once, when we held Jasmine securely, she slugged the eyedropper across the room with her front paw. We signed her with the Phillies. We would have given up, but our cat's health was too important. So we struggled twice each day to get the medicine from the bottle to the inside of Jasmine. We have a few scratches to show for the effort, but mostly a lot of laughs from our attempts. And laughter must be the best medicine because despite our hilarious misses with the medicine dropper, Jasmine got a clean bill of health from the vet. Thank goodness. Because if he had told us that we needed to give Jasmine any more medicine, my husband and I would have ended up in the hospital. The kind with padded walls, barred windows and white jackets.

Summer's Crossing

Iron Fey Announcement

Out of the way, Ash--Juile's releasing Puck's story first! "Summer's Crossing" is out this October, and features your favorite prankster. 

******

I encountered the first book of the Iron Fey Series last year. I was able to get a copy of the audio book. I haven't read alot of Young Adult books aside from Artemis Fowl, Wolves of Mercy Falls and Laurel Series. I instantly fell in love with the series. The story may seem cliche at the beginning. A lost princess with a best friend who was a meant to watch her and she falls in love with the enemy. But during the course of the plot, it unravels different kinds of personalities from the characters which are really unique and endearing. The fave person, err.. animal in the story was Grimalkin. Yes, the cat reminds me of the Cheshire Cat of Tim Burton's movie version of Alice in Wonderland. He just comes and goes whenever he feels like it - without having to answer to anybody. He insists that he stays beside Meghan because he craves for the interesting but I think deep inside, he has developed a soft spot for the Human.

I have read all the four books - well 3.5 since "A Winter's Passage" is just a mini-novel between The Iron King and The Iron Daughter.. then The Iron Queen. Cannot wait for The Iron Knight! 

Well here is the video for the Iron Fey Series: 

For more information about these books, you can visit the site of Julie Kagawa.

Is Running Not My Thing?

I bought my first pair of running shoes last year. I have never shown interest in fun runs before and was not really the sporty type so I never did focus on getting one even if I am fond of shoes in general. Plus I like the girly-type shoes, stilettos and straps was my kind of thing.

Anyway, when I started to run as a morning exercise, I noticed that I feel that my legs are beginning to itch. I thought it had something to do with the air or the environment since there are lots of trees in the mini-park which was just five minutes from my house. So whenever I feel it, I stop cause I can't seem to concentrate and would just love to scratch which is bad since it won't look good after I do so. When I run using the treadmill, I don't feel the itchiness. Does that mean I am choosy? That I can only run in gyms? 

Hunny and I with the rest of his cousins were looking forward to joining the NatGeo Run. But due to hectic schedules, it was again - postponed. But what we did was practice Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Sports Center. Again, I did feel the itchy sensation. So my doubts grew - am I allergic to something? Or is running not meant for me. My mom had a different idea, she was thinking that maybe I am getting dehydrated or something like that and I should drinks lotsa water or Gatorade to replenish the fluids and electrolytes that my body needs. 

Thankful to technology, I did a little bit of research about this. As I discovered in a running forum the explanation as to why I have been feeling this "thing":

The itching is not on the skin, it's inside the actual limbs. There are millions of tiny capillaries and arteries inside our muscles which expand rapidly due to the demand for more blood that is brought on by exercise. When fit, these capillaries remain open allowing maximum blood passage, but when unfit and inactive they tend to collapse, allowing only minimal blood passage (which is sufficient for a sedentary person however). The rapid expansion of these vessels causes adjacent nerves to send impulses back to the brain which are interpreted as an itch. That's why after a few sessions the sensation tends to go away. Just another indication of increasing fitness levels.

My reaction was..."ahhh, so that's what it was!" With renewed hope that I can still join run or do my morning jogs, it seems to me that the key is just REGULAR exercise. Now I am keeping my fingers crossed.. (tee-hee)

My Room of Eight

I am not a fan of chain texts or emails ever since I started receiving one when I was in high school. I simply don't believe in luck when it comes to such things. And I personally think it is stupid to follow instructions such as re-send the email to 10 people or forward the text to 20 friends to avoid bad luck. Life does not work that way.

I have had a not so thrilling week at work. Trying to adjust with the people movement that involves my account which means going back to step one of "trying" to work with another person. And it is just a week that I am feeling more confident about my decision of leaving the company. Nevertheless, for me - it will still be BAU or Business As Usual until my last day on the 15th of May. 

I came to work today and saw an email from my aunt. It was a chain letter. The second that I have received from her this month. Though I haven't received any from her before aside from our usual exchange of hi-hello, I am blessed that she considers me among her circle now. We were not close before since she was living in US since he day I was born. Though she is my godmother, I met her when I was already 26 years old..

The point of this entry is to share the content of her email. And though I have had a crappy week, I have decided to be happy today - and it is Friday after all.

"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.  May you not forget  the infinite possibilities  that  are born of faith in yourself and others.  May you use  the  gifts that you have received, and pass on the love  that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself  just the way you are.  Let this knowledge settle into  your bones, and allow your soul the freedom  to sing,  dance, praise and love. It is there  for each and every  one of  us."

This is a reminder for me.. to stop once in a while, and smell the flowers. 

FS: Asus K40IN Laptop

Item For Sale: Asus K40IN

Price: Php 21,00.00
Purchased: Octagon - SM Megamall
Purchase Date: September/October 2009
Reason For Selling: downgrade to a Netbook
Warranty: 3 days

Condition of the IFS:
1. no hidden defects
2. primarily used for office stuffs
3. marks in the trackpad - thought that the mark was from the plastic but it wasn\'t
4. no dead pixel
5. no scratches on LCD since it has a screen protector
6. battery life lasts for 2 hours since i rarely use the battery unless i go outside the office

Comes with the following:
1. box
2. manual
3. mouse
4. charger
5. original driver cd/dvd
5. Targus bag(black) or Ideastyle black sleeve (you have to pick one) - no bag/sleeve was provided when i bought my laptop
6. OS (Windows 7, trial version) is optional

Specs of the IFS:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T6500 @ 2.1Ghz
Memory: 2GB
HDD: 320GB
Videocard: NVIDIA® GeForce® G102M, with 512MB VRAM
For full specs, click the here

Pictures of IFS:
Click Here

Meeting Place:
1. Marikina - SM Marikina, Bluewave-Marquinton, McDonald's - C&B's Mall, McDonald's - Bayan
2. Cainta - Sta. Lucia East, Robinson's Metro East, McDonald's - Marcos Highway
3. Eastwood
4. Ortigas/Mandaluyong - Robinson's Galleria, SM Megamall (weekends only)

Another Quake in Japan

A strong earthquake of magnitude 7.4 shook northeast and eastern Japan late on Thursday, and a tsunami warning was issued for the northeastern coast of Japan, an area badly hit by the March 11 earthquake.

Lord help us. 

Please spare the lives of our loved ones - families and friends alike. 

And so I quote and claim God's promise: Psalm 23

4 Even though I walk
   through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
   for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
   they comfort me.

Clouds

A cloud is a visible mass of water droplets or frozen ice crystals suspended in the Earth's atmosphere above the surface of the Earth or other planetary body.

 All photos are taken by yours truly. Oh how I love to take pictures of clouds!

Seat Sale Alert

You've got it right! We've got 20% off for ALL SEATS ALL FLIGHTS! No matter where you go or where you fly from you can get 20% off today! All the more reason to zoom off to a AirAsia GP Destination!

Booking Period: 6 - 8 April 2011
Travel Period: 9 April - 26 May 2011
Travel Notes: Advanced booking required.
                      Fares are not available during embargo period.

                      Not applicable for flights to/from Tokyo (Haneda).

Hurry! Book now and get in on these fabulous steals!

This Easter, Jetstar is offering amazing sale fares from as low as USD38^ (eg. Manila to Singapore). Be sure not to miss this fantastic sale!

Click here for more info.

Get 20% off to Universal Studios Singapore

MasterCard Special
From now till 27 May 2011, use your MasterCard to enjoy 20% off One Day tickets any day of the week when you book online or purchase on-site! You’ll also receive a S$10 retail voucher for even more priceless family fun!” (1st 200 onsite redemption on first-come-first-serve basis).

What are you waiting for? Buy Now.

Win a Singapore Getaway

I have always loved the YourSingapore website. Since I came across the site, it was the primary source I frequently visited before we went to Singapore the first time. I couldn't get enough of all theideas of what to do, where to go, what to eat to ensure that we are going to have a great time. And boy, it was one helluva trip!

Now, they have contest on their FB page wherein one can win a trip for Singapore for two. This  is really awesome! Would like to win not for myself but for my mom and brother so they can have those one of a kind experience.

Join by clicking here: Win a Singapore Getaway

Great is Thy faithfulness

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases
His mercies never come to an end
They are new every morning
New every morning
Great is Thy faithfulness, O Lord
Great is Thy faithfulness

© 1975 Celebration/Kingsway

Alec

He goes back to Japan today. And yes, I know I am not supposed to cry. But his reply has done this to my tear ducts! My only brother, the youngest in the family is growing into a man. I can't say that my time in being a bossy sister has come to an end. But it is gradually to become lesser and lesser.. for Alec that is. My sister, is another story. But she is not the one leaving today so I'll save up an entry for her some other time.

As I meditate on the day ahead of us, my heart brings me back to a simple tune I have learned since I was ten years old. It was often paired with an opening song for fellowship and the message coming from Lamentations 3:22-24:

 22 Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
   for his compassion never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
   great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion;
   therefore I will wait for him.”

And so this is my prayer. And my claim.

Here is my e-mail to my baby brother written a day ago:

Dear Alec,


Yes this is weird but I find myself writing this email at three in the morning. We will definitely be busy tomorrow and moreover, have no time for drama on Monday. Plus we have to avoid letting mom see the deep-buried feelings of sadness as we once again find ourselves part ways - for the time being.

I know I have questioned you time and again of this decision studying abroad and leaving home. In some twisted way, I understand how you feel and respect this choice. I know you are trying to be brave but is somehow afraid to be alone in a place where you have decided to call your second home. I don't know if that is your calling. But I am continuing to trust the Lord that He knows what He is doing and He will fulfill His promise to you.

I pray that you always find the courage to continue this path that God has chosen for you. Peace at times that you are bothered by earthly worries. Grace that you learn to accept things as they come. Friends who will be your shield while you are away. Love from home that will ensure you there is always a place where you are accepted - no matter who you are or what you have been. Humility that will keep you grounded in spite of all your achievements. Strength to always stand up for what is right. Happiness that you enjoy life to the fullest. And faith in God.

Yea, it is now or never. And thank you for always being Alec. I will always treasure our talks. And for  never failing to understand my shortcomings. I thank God for you.
I will see you in Singapore. Don't forget to remind me of this promise just in case I'd forget. :)


I love you baby brother.
Hang in there.
Always believe.


God bless,
Ate Ni

*Sent from my iPod

Dear Ate Ni,

You know I'm not good when it comes to expressing my feelings to my family. But I know you know what I'm trying to do. Time and I again I have been preparing myself when this day again comes. 

I want to continuously challenge myself with what He has given me. I could not let go this opportunity as I know this will promote self-growth and more importantly an avenue to help Mama. I'm a Mama's boy and my priority will always be to give her, to the best that I can, security  as she grows old.

I can say that so far, you've been a good sister to me. With all the hardships that we've gone through, I saw how you grew and became more mature as you lead your life and carry the burden of supporting the family. We all have our own shortcomings, so I don't blame you for yours. What matters is that no matter where we are, we always keep connected to each other and to Him.

You've been through a lot and now that you and Kuya Donn are seeking for a better opportunity abroad, I could not help but also think that the responsibility of supporting Ma and Pa is little by little being passed to me. You never heard me complain anything about it because this is also part of belonging to a family. I know also for a fact, as you have been vocal with your plans, you're desire to save up, get married and also settle down and stat your own family. For now, I can only wish you the best because you have been one strong sister. One of the person that I would talk to with what if's what not's and whatevers.

I believe we can do this. Just continue to ask for His guidance and hold on to His plan for each and every one of us. 

Mata ne. (See you.)

Itsumo ki wo tsukete kudasai. (Take care always)


Alec