Counting my blessings

started this blog entry at 5:31 PM, last day of the year 2016.  a song says "count your blessings instead of sheep." as much as we want to have all the blessings in the world every year, we can not just have the best of everything.  for this year-ender post, i decided to mention a few not-so-good things but on top of it, count my blessings--- the major ones i consider among the many blessings that God has bestowed upon me this passing year.

after her 2 thanksgiving performances, December 2016

first, i am just too glad to see my little girl perform her duty as a children choir member.  this has been her dream since she was 5 years old.  two years after, she is now a full-fledged chorister.  i just love sundays especially when i see her perform her divine duty.  performing duties in PNK has never been more delightful when you are with your little girl.  there was this time that i felt really guilty for her not being able to perform.  i had to fetch her to church and it was raining very hard, so it was very difficult for me to drive with the car aircon malfunctioning.  just imagine the moist that i had to wipe every few minutes.  when we reached the church, the officers were already holding the devotional prayer and my little girl was already giving me that sad stare.  told her to dress up as we were already late, and that she will just have to attend the worship service.  she cried for not being able to perform for the first time.  it really broke my heart and i felt really, really sorry for it.  i just have to thank God for giving her that conviction, at her young age, to perform her duty as a choir member. with that, proud daddy here!

this year, my team at work was downsized to 4 from an abundant manpower of 9 plus one department head, our team now has become small-scale.  this is one thing i didn't like about my 2016 and i just can't figure out what to do "next" with our current set-up.  looking forward to a "brighter" 2017 and clearer "directions" in terms of my career.

one delightful thing that happened this year is my sister and her family's homecoming in June.  this has been anticipated since last year and i volunteered to arrange a family trip to one local destination.  my choice--- Iloilo!  not only this place is beautiful but i have come to be familiarized with the place because of the numerous business trips i've done.  besides, the dad and the sister wanted to set foot on Guimaras Island.  the city tour went good... i took them to the best batchoy in la Paz market, Netong's, then afterwards took a stop at the nearby Madge Cafe.  unfortunately, we were not able to get an impromptu booking to Guimaras Island but blessing in disguise, we were able to go to a new destination that even i haven't gone to yet until that time--- Islas de Gigantes!  sight was awesome!  just beware since some parts of the water have a good number of jelly fishes.  but overall, the island is paradise!

swimming inside mountain walls

family photo at Islas de Gigantes, June 2016

my nephews and niece missed Jollibee big time! we've frequented the fast food store and they never get tired of it.  it feels so good having our little girl mingle with her ate and kuyas... no language barrier there, haha!!  they get along well with each other and our little girl's being bunso in the family was all the more justified. too bad, things have to come to an end and so the short Philippine visit was all worthwhile!

Lolo Daddy with his three apos.
Missing in photo: Ria who has yet to fly to Manila by this time

cousins bonding at the hotel pool, shaking off the summer heat!

Jolli-baby! First stop of Ria
after I fetched her from the airport

still... Jollibee!

bye bye time, ate dear :)

late this year, i was able to reunite with two good friends from college:  Arman & Rheidell.  the latter who happens to be the dad of my little girl's bestfriend in school and in church.  friendship lives on!  i've been regularly visiting Arman with my two girls in his store assignment nearby our place but it's even delightful to visit him again with one of our good buddies, Rheidell.  too bad PJ can not make it for, yeah, different and numerous reasons... as usual. haha!

one thing i am very thankful for this passing year is God's continuous blessing to me and my family.  very early this year, i felt God's embrace when He gave me back the duties i felt i "lost" when i transferred locale last December 2015.  first, He willed that i be assigned to monitor the dako ng Kapilya in PNK which is not an easy task.  i instantly felt that PNK has become my home in the new locale i went to in the latter part of 2015.  the PNK family in Taytay locale is simply great!  then a few weeks after, i was assigned to monitor a new choir group in the choir department.  not a choir leader, yes, but very much close to it.  and i am thankful for this divine duties entrusted to me in the new locale.  for the coming year, i'm praying that He continuously bless me in upholding my divine duties in the church, and bless my family as well that we may not falter with our obligations to Him. 

#TeamJuniors during the church's 102nd anniversary

#TeamJuniors after the last choir practice of 2016

my Taytay-Kapilya PNK family - "Mahal Ko Magulang Ko"

PNK-Kapilya family after special worship service in EGM locale

more church victories for God's glory in the coming years!

before i end this post, there's one thing i am really, really thankful for other than the spiritual blessings that God has given me and my family.  it's the "little" surprise we all got this year but as this year's end draws near, the "little" surprise is not so little anymore!  wifey will be due next month!  and we are praying for her safe delivery of this upcoming bouncing, healthy, baby.... boy!

double lines!

baby DJ in the house! (bahay-bata)

Thank You, God... for all the blessings You have given us this passing year.  to You we entrust our lives in the coming year and onward.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!  Let's keep blogging.... again! ;)

The Teachers Made Them All!

My admiration to teachers has not faded.  Today, social media made me realize that it is good to reach out to your former mentors--- give them a good glimpse of how they did in molding not only your knowledge but your character as well.  Tell them you appreciate what they have taught you in the classroom, and how you heeded their advises outside its walls.  Give them a snapshot of the success you have achieved in which they have been a part of.  It is also through the modern technology that I get to hear news about my former mentors.  It gives me joy seeing them still in their teaching careers, some have jumped into other fields, while it's saddening to learn that some have gone already.

The news about our grade 6 adviser gave me a shock, learning that she passed away at an early age due to an illness.  Another class adviser, currently still teaching, is fighting a stage 4 ovarian cancer.  It is admirable to note however that she has a very positive outlook about everything.  Ms. Arlen Garilao is one of the most strict advisers we had in high school.  When she is around, nobody dares to make noises in the classroom.  She is authoritative.  She taught us Biology in our sophomore year.  I admit, I fear her when she discusses in front of the class.

II - Jeremiah class of 1989-1990 with Ms. Arlen Garilao as the class adviser, University of the Assumption - San Fernando, Pampanga

But over time, you begin to realize that just like any other teachers, Ms. Garilao has her soft spot.  She also has those light moments when she's with her circle of friends.  And yes, just like any parents, she has this genuine care for all her students.  Recently, I sent her an FB (Facebook) message introducing myself (and she confirms she still recalls me but not by my nickname "Jon" but with my first name "Edilberto") then inquiring about her current condition.  She openly informed her Facebook friends that she had that illness and her faith is just amazing.  I am one with her and with her loved ones in praying for her fast recovery.  The young ones still need her wisdom and love for them to learn things not only about the academic subjects but about life as well.

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This blog post is dedicated to ALL teachers, and especially to our 2nd year class adviser, Ms. Arlen Garilao.  Thank you po for sharing your life with us, may you continue to be a light to all the young ones who have been fortunate to be under your care.  Your immediate recovery is part of our prayers. :)

September 5 to October 5 is National Teachers Month.

7 Years of Blessed Leadership

Today marks the 7th year of Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo as the church administrator of the Iglesia Ni Cristo.  He has assumed this divine responsibility after our beloved Bro. Erano G. Manalo passed away in 2009 and from there on, Bro. Eduardo carried out his duty as the church's Executive Minister.  He has since then continued to lead the church into the parade of victories.

photo courtesy of eagle news dot ph

The number of membership continues to grow, brethren tirelessly getting involved in massive evangelical missions--- not only here in various parts of the country but around the world as well where locales of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) are established.  Aid for humanity has continued as the church recognizes the love for our fellowmen.  Magnificent houses of worship have been dedicated to God, and thousand more barangay chapels have risen in order to accommodate and bring closer the place of worship to the growing number of worshipers.  Hundreds of new ministers ordained, and many church workers taking their oath to carry out the ministerial duties that God has given them--- all for the sake of the church.  Thousands of church officers added to be with the church administration in edifying the brethren.  Various church activities, spearheaded by the Christian Family Organizations, are being held in order to solidify more the brotherhood and bonding of families--- all being done under the dynamic leadership of our beloved church administrator, Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo, with the guidance and blessings of our LORD God!

Trials may have tested the church a year after its centennial anniversary but God proved that His church administration and His Nation in these last days are really His.  He upheld our dear Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo and defended His Church against the traitors.  And yes, just barely a year after persecuting the church, the traitors who want to put our administrator down have been put to shame and confusion.  Just like God's promise to His people:

"My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion." - Psalm 71:24, NIV

Today's technology has been put into very good use by the church administration.  Brethren all over the world get the chance to participate in many special worship services officiated by Bro. Eduardo through webex link.  This enables him to reach many brethren as possible through the use of modern day technology.  

Personally, if there is one thing that really made me admire our beloved Executive Minister, Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo, it is his uncompromising obedience to God which example he actually showed in what may be the most trying times of his life.  "We wish to reiterate that the INC is not a family corporation."  I have heard it myself, uttered by our dear Executive Minister in one of the worship services he officiated.  The traitors may say anything they want but they can not take away the fact that Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo stood for what is right, obeyed God, and put the church's interest more than anything else and over anyone who chose to follow their own personal interests and self-gain.  Undoubtedly, Bro. Eduardo possesses the traits of a true servant of God, His rightful church administrator.  As a member and church officer, I promise to be united with the church administrator for as long as I live, for being in unity with the church administration is being in union with God and with the Lord Jesus Christ.  My family prays to God that we continue to hold our divine duties in the church, continuously be in unity with the church administration, and be with him in edifying the brethren.. for all of us to be steadfast in our faith, until the second coming of our LORD Jesus Christ.

GOD bless the Iglesia Ni Cristo.  GOD bless the church administration.  All glory and honor to God's most Holy Name!

Related read:  7 years of victorious, expert, and magnificent leadership 

8 Years of Triple Infinity

8 years of 08-08-08... through thick and thin, for better or worse,
God is still the center of our relationship.  May our family grow in hope, faith and love.

I can't believe we have reached our 8th year together, blessed with one witty and loving daughter, wifey and I can't thank God enough for all the blessings He has bestowed upon our relationship and family life for the past 8 years.  Just like any other relationships, we've had our ups and downs, we had petty fights, we kiss and make up, and at the end of the day, we are just too happy to perform our duties in church.  I think it's what makes our bond more intact even at times of trials and misunderstandings.  It's funny that most people around us see our relationship as perfect and they even question if we ever have misunderstandings and argument.  Let me put this on record, YES, we do.  We've been to trials just like any other couple, we do fight over some matter, but at the end of the day, we just brush it off.  Nothing will be resolved over fighting.  Yes, we get our messages across each other and then that's it.  Brand new day after a misunderstanding, and life must go on.

Looking forward to more years together, and I continuously pray that God continues to watch over us, bless us, and may we remain in His keeping until He gathers us once again in the Holy City He has prepared for His children.

"Bahay at mga kayamanan ay minamana sa mga magulang: nguni't ang mabait na asawa ay galing sa Panginoon." - Kawikaan 19:14

2016: Page 17 of 366

Today has been a tiring but great day.  Little Aya went with me in my Sunday school assignment in Dividend.  Then we had a short but worthwhile bonding at the mall in the afternoon.  I really love spending my time with my little girl.  She takes away my exhaustion and makes me happy even when I am tired.

Earlier after our officers meeting in the locale of EGM, we had a minor road accident going back to Taytay.  The van we were riding bumped into a vehicle crossing the roundabout of Kaytikling.  Fortunately, everything was settled by a calm talk between the two parties and one traffic officer.  Sad thing though, the bumper of the van we were riding fell off.  We have to tie it before we can proceed driving to our destination again.

Mentioning the officers meeting, I was so moved by the gestures of my former co-officers in the locale of Centennial.  Upon seeing me in the meeting, they all approached me and gave me that "we miss you" look.  Then most of them told me to come back already.  Two of them even had the guts to chant "Iiyak na yan! Iiyak na yan!" urgh! Miss these kids!

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There is this new juice kiosk that makes me want to drink until my tummy is "super full tank." Juice Avenue, which apparently is a part of Fruitas Group offers delicious, thirst-quenching all-natural juice drinks.  Looking at its website, it also offers a variety of fruit shakes but the one in SM Taytay only displays juices.  I don't complain not having shakes because I prefer juice over shakes.  My favourite flavour--- MELON!  Then of course, Buco comes in a close second favorite.  I have yet to try their Apple flavour which should be another favourite of mine, and they also have Watermelon & Yellow Mango flavours.  Next time. ;)

2016: Page 12 of 366

Today, I am not feeling well.  My sinusitis triggered this morning from either dust or something that smells odd.  I don't know. All I want to do is go home, lie down and take a good rest.  But knowing that I have pending items to finish (write), most likely I will work from home.  And yeah, send email to my boss later tonight.  *sigh*

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I was able to see Treston International College and its campus... well, actually, just its main and second floor lobby.  Was able to have a short chat with Dixie who informed me that I may have to chat with Daphne as well, who had to leave the campus that time for a chore.

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Meeting wifey after office in our 2nd favourite mall.  I'm longing for this family time.  Got to go!

2016: Page 4 of 366

Happy birthday, Towtow!

Today has been generally pleasant as we start the first work day of the year.  Traffic is still surprisingly light and people in the office seems to be feeling good. Good vibes, I must say.  We had a small celebration for our colleague, Mich, as she celebrates her birthday today.  She brought us 3 boxes of Papa John's pizza and we gave her a birthday cake in return.  I know, the pizza costed more but what the heck, what mattered was that we were all happy.  The team also had the chance to talk to our interim boss and we found out that I may be considered to relocate to CDO for work.  This thought only sank in my mind at this time, before I finally call it a day.  I have been to CDO only once in my life when former boss Nix & I flied over there to do media rounds.  It was a quick and a busy pure business trip and I haven't appreciated the place yet unlike my love and appreciation with Iloilo.  So now, I was like, wait.. do I really want to be relocated there?  Our boss jokingly asked how old my daughter is and where she is currently studying.  I think he is ready to consider my whole family moving to CDO and assign me a new job function.  Now this reminds me to share this thought with wifey after I publish this post and before we sleep tonight.  The thought of being in a new environment excites me but the fear of getting out of the box somehow creeps in since it will mean settling anew, back to square one for my family.  There would have been no problem if I am still an eligible bachelor but taking two other lives with me in this change somehow makes it more complex.

After work, my office mates & I went to the wake of Papa Rey.  A mini-reunion with former office mates capped the night, having Mabel & Simon's presence as well during our visit.  Before driving home, I drove thru Starbucks to get wifey her green tea frap fix.

At Papa Rey's wake in Marian Memorial Chapel (Marcos Highway) with PCFI officemates

2016: Page 2 of 366

Iglesia Ni Cristo, Lokal Ng Taytay, Rizal

Feels good to perform spiritual duties first thing in the morning.  Since I transferred locale, I always love driving to church with my performance schedule:  morning schedule on weekdays & weekends, I get to drive on no-heavy traffic roads at dawn, leading to the church.  This is my 3rd time to perform in the choir in our new locale and my first choir performance this new year, 2016.   Today, the church commemorates the 91st birth anniversary of our beloved former executive minister, Bro. Erano G. Manalo.  It is always good to remember our leaders, as advised to us by the words of God:  "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith."- Hebrews 13:7 NIV  Bro. Erdy was my living role model of a good leader and it played a big part on my learning of how to love the church whenever I perform my duties to God.  Today, we thank God for giving us a leader in the person of Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo, who is in union with the former church Administrators.  Their love and care for the church continue and never fade.  This we genuinely feel whenever we stand before the presence of God to worship Him.

After performing my church duty, I drove to my in-laws' place to get the sopas which my mother-in-law prepared for the wake of Papa Rey.  When I arrived at my in-laws' place, I still had time to take a good sip of coffee with Papa Johnny.  Regular coffee, creamer and sugar on a hot water and there goes my coffee fix for the day!  When the sopas was ready, I left for the memorial chapel.  Seeing the parking area almost empty, I was able to park conveniently.  Saw the people sleeping so I just left the hot soup there and sent messages to the family so when they wake up they'll know that it came from us.  I then proceeded to our favorite car wash place and had the car washed.  Chose to eat pancake for breakfast while I wait for the car's turn to be washed.  The place is full for a holiday weekend.  When the car was ready to go, I drove to the bank and to the supermarket beside it to do a couple of chores.  Now I get to rest at home until the afternoon then leave with my little girl again later when it's her mom's turn to attend church services and perform her duty in the finance department.  In a couple of days, it's work, work, work again!  Better cherish the moments of these two remaining days with my two girls before I get busy again.  And yeah, looking at the 2016 Philippine calendar, most of our official holidays fall on a Sunday.  What a bummer.

2016: Page 1 of 366

Before I call it a day, let me once again greet everyone a happy & prosperous new year!  Time's indeed fast.  We just waited for 12 midnight to arrive yesterday and now, the first day of the new year is almost ending.  After my two girls slept until almost half the day, my family went back to Mommy's place to celebrate new year with them over lunch and afternoon snacks.  I lost count already on how many times I was offered to drink with the big boys while the big Lucido clan gathers and each time I turned them down with the help of my parents-in-law, answering for me, "hindi yan umiinom.  sa softdrinks lang matakaw."  I am not sure though if they (my in-laws) are proud about that or what. hahaha!!  We had a nice time there in Mommy's place and even my little girl enjoyed bonding with her 2nd cousins.  This is the first new year that her first cousins, JM & Miguel, were far from us as their mom just recently went home from Dubai and they spent their own family time together in Baguio.

After the gathering in Pasig, we dropped by the mall to get some stuffs for our mobile phone.  I know, I know, I don't have a new mobile phone unit so I just bought something for it to look like new.  Talk about saving for future new plans.

We were texting the Ocampo siblings on the update with their Papa Rey.  A very sad news broke last night just more than an hour before new year stroke.  Papa Rey was gone.  His suffering ended just before the new year.  He was diagnosed with a lung cancer and everything happened too soon.  Just merely a week being confined in the hospital, his true condition was just revealed by another doctor too late already.  This is the first time in my life that I didn't greet a whole family a "happy new year."  And yes, it is a very hard time for the family I considered my second home when I was still a bachelor.
So just as they have settled in the funeral home, my family was there already.  We checked what's needed and assisted the siblings who are all younger than I.  We still manage to smile as we greeted each other and tell stories of what really transpired during Papa Rey's medication days in the hospital.  But really.  We can only do so much to console them.  We volunteered to bring sopas tomorrow for them to have something warm for the tummy.  After meeting with a few acquaintances who also tried to visit the family early, we left promising to come back the next days until Papa Rey's burial.

I ended day 1 of year 2016 by attending our Sunday School class for the first time in the new locale where we transferred.  This is it.  Back to square one.  I need to reminisce my starting years as officer in the church where most of the time I am a follower rather than the leader.  It's all good though... gives me a humbling experience to reflect once again how a church officer must perform his duties to God, following the leaders which God elected to administer the faithfuls. I admit, I lost a great part of me when the special tasks in the choir and in the PNK were left in the former locale.  But I fully trust God why we are here now.  It's all for the better, I believe.  When the purpose is known, I will all the more praise and give thanks to the LORD, our God, for He is good all the time!