So Much To Thank God For

Dear God,

I know that Your will for us is to be thankful, no matter what the case may be... It's so easy to be like that when days are bright and spring is in the air, so to speak. Those days I feel so alive, and so refreshed. But then it's so hard and difficult when the days are bleak and dreary. I feel so sluggish and cranky, and sadly for me, my DS and DD turn like that too. They whine and argue, and fight, and drag themselves in the house as if always looking for something to do, or they turn restless and uneasy.

It definitely is not easy for me to be thankful on those days, Lord, but you said in Your Word that it is Your will for us. Honestly, if I think about it in the real sense of the word, I do have so much to be thankful for, even on gray days... For one, I have my DS and DD. And I have my DH too of course. The best part of it is that I have You strengthening and teaching me all the time. On sad, low days, I want to learn to rely wholly on You more, Lord. Thank You for always being there.

...give thanks in all circumstances,
for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18

The Simple Woman's Daybook #35

FOR TODAY... June 29, 2010

Outside my window... A bit showering and cloudy.

I am thinking... Of watching tv the whole day tomorrow to watch our new President take his oath in office!

I am thankful for... A new Philippine President -- Benigno Aquino III.

I am wearing... A printed pink mickey Mouse shirt-dress.

I am remembering... To give an oral quiz to my students this Friday.

I am going... To rest and take a long sleep today after answering today's Daybook!

I am reading... Rather, browsing a good recipe book of new meals for my family, entitled, "Mix and Match Meals - Your 4-Week Guide to Home Cooking". Kids and DH like to try new tastes and dishes this time. :)

I am hoping... Traffic on our way to and from DD's Ballet school will improve. Awhile ago we left the school at 5pm and arrived home at almost 8. Yes, 8! I get a splitting headache in 2-3 hours of traffic! (Yeah, only in the Philippines, lol!)

On my mind... A big bowl of fresh, crisp lettuce greens with bacon bits, parmesan cheese, --- okay, the works for Caesar Salad!

From the learning rooms... Math exercises for DS.

Noticing that... The rain pours a lot during the afternoons, and it causes too much traffic in the streets.

Pondering these words... Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies... -- John 11:25

From the kitchen... Creamy Macaroni Soup, and Chicken Arroz Caldo.

Around the house... Kids are busy browsing the net with their laptops...

One of my favorite things... Listening to my DS play the Piano.

From my picture journal...


Thanks to Peggy for allowing me to take part in The Simple Woman's Daybook. Blessings and have a great week, everyone!

Music Monday #18 ~ Power Of Your Love

Thanks to Shawntele of Saved by Grace, for this wonderful meme. There won't be Monday blues for me again because my week starter will be filled with melodies for the Lord!

How great is the love that our God has for all of us. We are his best and greatest creation and always the apple of His eye. I am grateful for the unconditional love He has for me -- a love that never changes or wavers, a love that is always faithful and strong. Lord You are so good, thank You for changing me, and for constantly helping me to live a life according to Your will.



Lord I come to You
Let my heart be changed, renewed
Flowing from the grace
That I’ve found in You
Lord I’ve come to know
The weakenesses I see in me
Will be stripped away
By the power of Your love

Hold me close
Let Your love surround me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side
And as I wait
I’ll rise up like the eagle
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love

Lord unveil my eyes
Let me see You face to face
The knowledge of Your love
As You live in me
Lord renew my mind
As Your will unfolds in my life
In living every day
By the power of Your love

Hold me close
Let Your love surround me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side
And as I wait
I’ll rise up like the eagle
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love

Hold me close
Let Your love surround me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side
And as I wait
I’ll rise up like the eagle
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love

And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love

And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love

Help Me To Understand Like Jesus

Dear God,

Sometimes I feel like there isn't anyone who cares about what I am going through, or the many temptations I am facing... But when I read Your Word and spend some quiet time with You, I feel refreshed, yet ashamed and convicted of my wrongdoing. Lord, I personally believe that You have chosen to come to Earth and live among us so that You could understand the many trials and temptations we all face and be able to help us make the right choices in life.

Please help me recall the temptations I faced when I was growing up... I want to understand my DS and DD the way You understand me. I do not want to be too judgmental or hasty in giving them the idea that I am always better than they are. I know some parent friends of ours who do not try to see things the way their kids do, and who are not at all sympathetic with the little, minor, or trivial trials they face as children. I certainly do not want to be like that kind of parent, God. I want to be able to see things through my children's eyes, and be able to be an effective parent and friend to them. Help me become like You, Lord.

Because he himself suffered when he was tempted,
he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Hebrews 2:18

Tea Talk Time #25

1. I'm having... Cool and refreshing water to help stop my itchy throat from acting up...

2. I'm feeling... Happy that my adolescent students are having fun in my class as much as I am!

3. On my mind... Lesson plans for next week! :)

But you are a chosen people,
a royal priesthood, a holy nation,
a people belonging to God,
that you may declare the praises of him
who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
1 Peter 2:9
Thanks Ruth for the refreshing Tea/Coffee Break! God bless you more, my friend!

What Is In My Heart

Dear God,

When I became a Mother, I also automatically became a teacher to my children. I am their first mentor ---the one who will not only teach, but the one who will also guide and lead. But what exactly is in my heart? -- that question I would oftentimes ponder on thoughtfully... Your Word says that out of the heart can come evil if we are not careful. Father, please fill my heart with Your love, so that my teaching will reflect You.

I do not want my DS and DD to be subjected to worldy teaching when they are at home; I know they both get enough of those when they are away from me. Please also give me wisdom and discernment Lord. I want to teach my kids Your Word, so that we can teach and admonish one another with Scripture.

When our hearts and minds are full of You and Your Word, then we can sing with praise and joy. As a family we can proclaim Your goodness to all those we meet. That way the teaching will continue on to others around us. What a blessing that truly is.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly
as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom,
and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
Colossians 3:16

The Simple Woman's Daybook #34

FOR TODAY... June 22, 2010

Outside my window... A bit dark and humid; oh I wish it would rain so the climate would be cooler.

I am thinking... Of how I could get rid of my itchy throat -- makes me go into fits of coughing, and it irritates me...

I am thankful for... God's blessings and provisions for our daily needs.

I am wearing... A pale yellow shirt-dres.

I am remembering... What kind of meds I drank the last time I had a terrible itchy throat like this. (Can't recall anymore ^__^)

I am going... To try find out what causes this itchy throat. The antihistamine isn't doing it's job.

I am reading... My Filipino work-text book; also for my lesson plans...

I am hoping... That it would rain and cool weather will dominate Manila!

On my mind... A huge bowl of Clam Chowder, hehehe! :) Yum!

From the learning rooms... Math exercises for both kids.

Noticing that... The weather is truly haywire.

Pondering these words... And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. -- Romans 8:9

From the kitchen... Chicken Tinola Soup, Chicken ala King, and Chicken Nuggets.

Around the house... Kids are busy doing their homeworks...

One of my favorite things... Watching my DD dance Ballet gracefully.

From my picture journal...


Thanks to Peggy for allowing me to take part in The Simple Woman's Daybook. Blessings and have a great week, everyone!

Music Monday #17 ~ Go Light Your World

Thanks to Shawntele of Saved by Grace, for this wonderful meme. There won't be Monday blues for me again because my week starter will be filled with melodies for the Lord!

This is an inspiring song, that everytime I listen to it, I just feel like praising and worshipping God, and making His name known to everyone. I sure hope you will feel the same spark too. God bless us all as we go out and spread the Word about Him.



There is a candle in every soul
Some brightly burning, some dark and cold
There is a Spirit who brings a fire
Ignites a candle and makes His home

Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the helpless, confused and torn
And hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world

Frustrated brother, see how he's tried to
Light his own candle some other way
See now your sister, she's been robbed and lied to
Still holds a candle without a flame

So carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the lonely, the tired and worn
And hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world

We are a family whose hearts are blazing
So let's raise our candles and light up the sky
Praying to our Father, in the name of Jesus
Make us a beacon in darkest times

Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the hopeless, deceived and poor
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world

Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world

The Example Of Jesus

Dear God,

About this time two schoolyears ago, I remember when I was somewhat accused of doing something wrong in the workplace, and everyone else was against me. I didn't do anything wrong, Lord. That wasn't really fair. I felt that all my co-workers were ganging-up on me, and all I wanted was for them to understand what they have done to me...

Why should I accept the suffering for something when I did nothing wrong? Yet, in our quiet time conversations, You told me to take it patiently -- that this is okay and acceptable to You. Why, Lord? Verse 21 says it is because of Your suffering and the perfect example You set for us.

Perhaps somewhere in their lifetime, my DS and DD will be accused of wrongdoing when they are innocent. Lord, please help me encourage them by showing them the truth in Your Word -- that they will also suffer in some way, some time or another. Thank You, Jesus, for giving us this truth; and the comfort that lies in You alone.

But how is it to your credit
if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it?
But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it,
this is commendable before God.
1 Peter 2:20

Tea Talk Time #24

1. I'm having... Sips of water from a little water jug I brought to class since Tuesday. My throat is itchy and it helps that I take little sips to cool my throat.

2. I'm feeling... Happy that my freshmen high kids are having fun with me in class.

3. On my mind... How to help my other students who are having difficulty in the subject I am teaching...

Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in him and he will do this...
Psalm 37:5
Thanks Ruth for the refreshing Tea/Coffee Break! God bless you more, my friend!

My Strength Within

Dear God,

When I am faced with numerous trials, sometimes I just couldn't believe it. Because normally, it would have reduced me to a thousand, trembling pieces, or make me fall and crumble like a stack of paper cups blown away in an instant. Inside my head, something tells me I should not feel calm and serene. But in my heart, I can only feel peace.

Because of Your strength Lord, I can look up and smile. I can joyfully take my DS's and DD's hands and stand strong for them. The fear, worry, and anxiety can leave their hearts and eyes, as they also experience the peace that passes all understanding. I can look at them feel at ease and trust.

Lord, You don't just build me up on the outside. You do a total, complete, rejuvenating and strengthening inside. This is where I totally need You the most. Allow me to mirror Your strength so that my DS and DD will also be drawn to You. I praise You much, Lord.

I pray that out of his glorious riches
he may strengthen you with power
through his Spirit in your inner being...
Ephesians 3:16

The Simple Woman's Daybook #33

FOR TODAY... June 15, 2010

Outside my window... Dark and wet; the rain just came by. Too bad we left some windows open at home and found that the water went in our rooms. Time to wipe!

I am thinking... Of how else can I make teaching fun for my students. :)

I am thankful for... God's generous hand in providing for me and my family.

I am wearing... A plain pink cotton shirt-dress.

I am remembering... Not to leave the windows wide open next time we leave the house...

I am going... To prepare for next week's lesson plans.

I am reading... Yaman ng Pamana -- a Filipino worktext on Language and Literature

I am hoping... The weather would be more comfortable especially during the daytime.

On my mind... A big tall glass of lemon iced tea.

From the learning rooms... Math exercises for the kids.

Noticing that... When the weather becomes too humid, my itchy throat becomes worse.

Pondering these words... A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished. -- Proverbs 28:20

From the kitchen... Hotdogs and Cream of Corn Soup.

Around the house... Kids are busy preparing for bed; I will too, after completing this Daybook.

One of my favorite things... Milkshake, our 7 mo. old
Maltese puppy's soft, fluffy hair!

From my picture journal...


Thanks to Peggy for allowing me to take part in The Simple Woman's Daybook. Blessings and have a great week, everyone!

Music Monday #16 ~ Every Single Tear

Thanks to Shawntele of Saved by Grace, for this wonderful meme. There won't be Monday blues for me again because my week starter will be filled with melodies for the Lord!

I love this song and I thank the Lord for the assurance He always gives me when I am at my most trying times. Lord You are a loving God. Thank You for always being there, and for always giving me the hope that I need to go on. It feels good to know and to be assured that for every tear that I shed, You also feel it. Thank You, Lord.



You feel insignificant, a whisper in the wind
Sometimes you think nobody knows your name
But there's Somebody watching over you
And He knows everything you're going through

He sees every single tear
He feels everything you're feeling
He wants to hold you close and dry your eyes
Oh your heart is what He hears
When the world just hears you crying
No matter what the pain, He cares
About every single tear

Overwhelmed by circumstances out of your control
Hope can be the hardest thing to find
When you're like a heart without a home
You don't have to face this hurt alone

He sees every single tear
He feels everything you're feeling
He wants to hold you close and dry your eyes
Oh your heart is what He hears
When the world just hears you crying
No matter what the pain, He cares
About every single tear

If God adorns the lilies of the field
And cares for every sparrow in the sky
How much more is He aware of your sorrow and despair
How much does He care about your life

He sees every single tear
He feels everything you're feeling
He wants to hold you close and dry your eyes
Oh your heart is what He hears
When the world just hears you crying
No matter what the pain, He cares
About every single tear

When Too Much Of A Good Thing Is Enough

Dear God,

I am not much of a cook or a kitchen fixture... But I like to clean, organize things, read, do crafts, and the like... There is nothing wrong with any of these, isn't it, Lord...? The problem here is that I tend to have a one-track mind. I often get so involved in one thing that I don't have the discipline and self-control to stop and move on to something else when it's about time.

Like, I spend time trying to plan and write my healthy grocery list, even though I should be spending time with my kids, or have a quality afternoon with them. Then I become quite annoyed when they both get fussy. Then there are days when I spend hours cleaning and putting system and order in things, even though my body sends signals that it's time for me to take a break with a good book; and then I wonder why I am so fatigued or wasted.

Please give me wisdom and discernment, Lord, to know when I've had enough of one good thing, and it's time for me to move on to the next.

If you find honey, eat just enough—
too much of it, and you will vomit.
Proverbs 25:16

Tea Talk Time #23

1. I'm having... Ice-cold water after a busy day making lesson plans in school.

2. I'm feeling... Excited for next week's high school opening of classes.

3. On my mind... Completing my lesson plans and having fun with my students.

I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.
Psalm 119:14
Thanks Ruth for the refreshing Tea/Coffee Break! God bless you more, my friend!

The Joy Of My Heavenly Father

Dear God,

After reading today's devotion in my quiet time, I realized that it is hard for me to apply the verse personally. I know that You are mighty and powerful, and that You save us. But, the very idea of You being joyful and rejoicing over me is something that I could not easily understand.

When I think hard and put this in view of my DS and DD, I somehow get a sparkle of understanding. Because when I look at my kids, I am filled with joy watching them in their journey while growing up, discovering new things, and being able to do these on their own, independently... Both of them bring happiness to me, even when they make mistakes, simply because I also know that it is part of growing up, and also part of being a parent to experience joy and some pain along the way...

Lord, I clearly know now, that this is the very thing that You want my own eyes to see. I am Your child, Your daughter -- and You delight in me even when I fall constantly. You pick me up by the hand, give me a tight hug, and zealously encourage me to try again. Thank You for rejoicing over me.

The LORD your God is with you,
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with his love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephanaiah 3:17

The Simple Woman's Daybook #32

FOR TODAY... June 8, 2010

Outside my window... Dark and humid... Looks like the weather is still in summer mode.

I am thinking... Of finishing my lesson plans for the high school students's 1st day in class next week.

I am thankful for... God's help and provision for myself and my family. He is my super-duper generous Father in heaven.

I am wearing... A pink shirt-dress with Tinkerbell on it.

I am remembering... To update my notebook/journal which I haven't opened since early last week!

I am going... To Buy new pencil cases for DS and DD. Old ones from last school year are a goner, lol!

I am reading... Noli Me Tangere by Jose Rizal

I am hoping... The weather would be cooler especially at night, so we could save on aircondition use.

On my mind... Creating fun times with my students when teaching the subject I am assigned to teach starting next week.

From the learning rooms... Kids are yes, back to school, and are in school mode again! Lessons are coming up next week!

Noticing that... Even if our local weather bureau states that the rainy season is here, no rain coupled with cool breeze are coming in to visit our country. Oh Lord, please send us some refreshing rain...

Pondering these words... And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross!-- Philippians 2:8

From the kitchen... Chicken Sinigang Soup with lots of vegetables.

Around the house... DS and DD are watching tv together... Good to know they are both okay with the show on Nickelodeon. No arguing whatsoever to change channels...

One of my favorite things... Cold breezy nights and mornings... Which eventually will result to low electric bills, lol!

From my picture journal...


Thanks to Peggy for allowing me to take part in The Simple Woman's Daybook. Blessings and have a great week, everyone!

Music Monday #15 ~ God and Dog

Thanks to Shawntele of Saved by Grace, for this wonderful meme. There won't be Monday blues for me again because my week starter will be filled with melodies for the Lord!

For this week, I'd like to share this beautiful and touching animated video by multi-talented artist, Wendy Franciso. This is one of my favorite songs about God and dogs, and it would be wonderful if you could visit Wendy's site here to get to know the woman behind the song, or visit the permalink of the God and Dog site here to read on Wendy's thoughts about the song she made. :)

Dog or pet lovers will be able to relate well to the idea revolving around the message of the song. As for me, I am just so very glad that God created dogs. 'Will leave you on for now to enjoy the video; am just gonna give our Maltese dog, Milkshake, a tight, big hug. :)



I look up and I see God
I look down and see my dog
Simple spelling G O D
Same words backwards D O G...

They would stay with me all day
I'm the one who walks away
But both of them just wait for me
And dance at my return with glee...

Both love me no matter what
Divine God and canine mutt
I take it hard each time I fail
Bud God forgives, dog wags his tail...

God thought up and made the dog
Dog reflects a part of God
Ive seen love from both sides now
It's everywhere, Amen, bow wow...

I look up and I see God
I look down and see my dog
And in my human frailty
I can't match their love for me...


PS: For those who want a copy of the music sheet, here is a little something from Wendy's site to help you sing and strum at the same time :) ---

Help Me To Show Mercy

Dear God,

Thinking of my quiet time for today, I thank You for calling us, sinners, to repentance... Imagine, if You had come only for the righteous, then I surely wouldn't have been called. For I am a sinner.

Lord, as You have shown mercy to me, help me also to show mercy to other people. In my list, there are so many who do not even deserve any consideration, or even a second chance. But I also know that I am not the one to make that judgment. Your Word says that we are not to judge. Rather, we should emulate You, and follow Your example.

I know You want me to show compassion to my DS and DD, but the challenge here is that I should also extend the same to strangers! It is easy to show mercy to those who are my own, so to speak, but sometimes, it is hard to have the right feeling toward those who are difficult. Jesus, You are the best example to follow. You loved everyone, Lord. So please help me do the same, because in doing so, I know I am setting an example to my DS and DD...

But go and learn what this means:
'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.
Matthew 9:13

Tea Talk Time #22

1. I'm having... Strong black coffee with sugar substitute. Am taking it in a white styro cup once again. It's starting to rain in Manila and coffee is a wonderful treat. :)

2. I'm feeling... Happy because school is about to start and the kids are excited to be with their friends and classmates again.

3. On my mind... Lessons lined up for my high school students, and how I could teach them effectively and properly so I won't be a boring teacher. :)

Through him all things were made;
without him nothing was made that has been made.
John 1:3
Thanks Ruth for the refreshing Tea/Coffee Break! God bless you more, my friend!

The Responsibilities God Gave Me

Dear God,

Sometimes when I look at the talents and abilities other Moms have, I tend to be a bit jealous because I am not as "perfect" as they are. Then I start thinking, daydreaming, wishing, and dwelling, on how I could have a nicer and bigger house, or a brand new house where I could smell the faint trail of fresh paint which I so love, a house with a breezy, fragrant garden, and soft green grass where I could enjoy a glass of iced tea on a white porch with rattan chairs, a house with a neatly manicured lawn where I could watch my kids play and run around... And to add, at times, I become bothered that I may be embarrassing DH or DS and DD because I am not up on the latest fashion trends, clothing accessories, and mine are so very out of style...

Father, I fail to remember that You gave me other wonderful talents and abilities and You expect me to use them for your honor and glory. I know that those are my responsibilities. And I know that it is not wrong for me to try to improve, but it is wrong for me to let my envy of other Moms cloud my vision of You. Lord, please help me fulfill my responsibilities.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.
If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve;
if it is teaching, let him teach;
if it is encouraging, let him encourage;
if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously;
if it is leadership, let him govern diligently;
if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Romans 12:6-8

The Simple Woman's Daybook #31

FOR TODAY... June 1, 2010

Outside my window... Dark, black skies, and a bit of cold air from the rain that God just blessed us with a few hours ago...

I am thinking... Of healthy snacks for the kids to bring with them once school starts again next week.

I am thankful for... God's blessings and provisions everyday for me and my family.

I am wearing... A light blue shirt-dress with Tweety printed on it.

I am remembering... To make my lesson plans for my high school students next week.

I am going... To remind the kids about spending their weekly school allowance wisely.

I am reading... Do Hard Things by Alex and Brett Harris

I am hoping... The weather will be cooler so that we can save on our electricity bill (airconditioning bill = way too high!)

On my mind... Back to school for DS and DD, and back to work for me.

From the learning rooms... One more week to go before the kids go back to school...

Noticing that... The rainy season is slowly making its presence felt, especially in the afternoons.

Pondering these words... For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -- Romans 8:38-39

From the kitchen... Creamy Pasta Carbonara for my DS, and milky Macaroni Soup for my DD. These two have different tastes in food. :)

Around the house... DD is beside me, playing Club Penguin on her laptop, and DS and DH fell asleep beside each other while watching tv...

One of my favorite things... Cold nights and cool mornings...

From my picture journal...


Thanks to Peggy for allowing me to take part in The Simple Woman's Daybook. Blessings and have a great week, everyone!