Black and White?

I took a picture at our front porch this morning. And look at this! It turned out black and white. I wonder how it happened. It could be because there were so much snow that it almost covered up everything except of the street, because a truck regularly clean the way for safe driving. Thanks to them.

The Story of the Ten Lepers

Luke 17:11-19 was a story of the ten lepers that was asking healing from Jesus. During their time, lepers were outcast that they have to hold their certain measure of distance from the society. On one of Jesus' healing mission trip, he happened to met these ten lepers. They were shouting from a distance, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us."
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When Jesus saw them, he said, "Go, have yourselves checked by the priest." And as they went, they were healed. One of them, a Samaritan, when he realized that he was healed, came back to Jesus and thanked him with a shout. Jesus asked, "Were not all ten healed? Where are the other nine?"
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This story shows how man can sometimes be bold to God when they are in need. They are as eager to show their faith to God whom they think is the only answer to their problem. But sad to say, once their request being granted, they were not anymore as bold as they were. They even forgot to thank God for the mercies that was bestowed upon them.

Thankful Thursday- Initial Post

It has been a while that I wanted to join this "Thankful Thursday" because I believe this is one form of worshipping our God. And it is one powerful weapon against the attack of our spiritual enemy. I would like to apologize for not asking permission first to join, because truth to tell, I don't know where to ask permission. I was asking few bloggers about this, and I remember one blogger guided me on where to go, but somehow, I lost that information. But anyway, right after publishing this post, I will go ahead and find the one that I need to ask permission in joining this weekly blog activity called "Thankful Thursday".
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There are a lot of things to be thankful for all the time and you can never ran out of it. As God had commanded us, "...give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV In other words, we give thanks to God for both good and bad things and events that has been happening to us.
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I'm not sure where to start, but since this is my initial post on this subject, I'm thinking, I will pick today to start with. And if we talk about thanksgiving to God, it is endless, so I will just state few.
*I thank God for the good health
*I thank God for my skin problem due to the weather (it is my first winter here)
*I thank God for my tinnitus here (it is because of the weather, too)
*I thank God for the safe drive of my husband
*I thank God for the visits and comments on my blog
*I thank God for the meals
*I thank God for the positive TB skin test. Yup! I wrote it right. I have my TB skin test last Monday for my immigration requirements. Yesterday, the spot was swelling and red, where it was not supposed to be if you are negative. My mom-in-law told me that sometimes, that kind of result is not accurate. So, I had X-ray exam this afternoon. They will just call me for an appointment once the result came up. I believe, they will see some problem with my X-ray result, because it always happened to me, every time I had X-ray exam. I know there was something wrong with my chest because I am scoliotic.They may say mine is not really something contagious, they may say mine is something that I got from somewhere unaware, But still the word alone is something to be cautious. I have been through many physical examination while I was still in the Philippines, namely; several physical examination for employment and the last one (just few weeks before I come here) was the physical examination done in St. Luke Medical official clinic for US VISA requirements. None of them that has told me that I was TB positive. Not even a hint. I am so upset now with the result. Upset; not to the point of anger of why I have this. Upset; because I don't understand how it happened and led me to ask; "Were all my previous physical examination gave wrong results?"
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But as God had commanded, "... give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV If however, the recent result is true, God has a purpose. I may don't know why, but it is sure for my own good. It may be this is being revealed here because I can get a free medication here. That's great! Isn't that worth to thank for?

Optical Illusion #4

FOCUS YOUR EYES ON THE DOT IN THE CENTER AND MOVE YOUR HEAD BACKWARD AND FORWARDS. WEIRD, HUH?

Coupon Codes

Local newspaper Sunday edition is always much awaited in our family. Why? It is because of its coupon codes. They give away fifty or more coupon codes every Sunday. I enjoyed cutting them out and used them anywhere. It is one of easy ways to save dollars in shopping.
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The good thing is, most brands of their products that with coupon codes are the products that I actually uses and love, such as; Head and Shoulder, Always, Olay, L'Oreal, Campbell, Energizer and many more.
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I just wonder why this don't apply to the Philippines where it is needed the most. Filipinos would surely be glad if this coupon codes will be on local newspapers, too.

Chameleon Christian

Chameleons are squamates that belong to one of the best-known lizard families. Research indicates that Chameleon has the ability to adapt his color to make himself indiscernible from the surrounding environment.
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I admit, during my immature stage as a believer in Jesus Christ, I was a Chameleon Christian. On weekends, I was active with my fellow young people christian activities. Encouraging one another in the church service. While the rest of the week, I was active with some "wordly activities", too. I thought there seems to be no wrong with it. We were not doing some seriously bad things though. But what I did not realized, my conversion should be visible to those surrounded me. Instead of adapting to the world's dark lifestyle, I should have been allowing my "light" to shine on them. There's nothing wrong being friends with the world, but you have to hold your stand, drag them out from the darkness and let your light shine. That is your mission in life. They seriously need you.

"... let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16 NIV

National Chocolate Cake Day

Who knows that January 27th is a National Chocolate Cake Day? I may hear some say, "Is there such a day?" Oh yeah. This and more surprising daily events you can find that in Holiday Insights. It doesn't say where is this originated though. Nobody can tell. But I believe, the originator must be a baker. :) Remember, yellow or white cake will not do. It is only Chocolate, all Chocolate.
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When it comes to cake, every body in the house knows what is my favorite flavor. Chocolate. Every gathering that we go, if I got a choice, I would always go for Chocolate. I'm just so crazy with Chocolate, particularly, Dark Chocolate. Hmm, I'll make sure that I will have a piece of Chocolate cake today. Get indulge in your favorite Chocolate cake, too. Chocolate Lover, this is our day. :)

Mamacrafty

It is Recommendation Monday once again. I am so excited because few days ago, I already have in my mind to whose blog I will recommend today and give this award as well.

Mamacrafty is an awesome quilter. Her works just really fascinates me and her other friends. She joined a quilt contest and everybody was so sure that she will win because of her extra ordinary style and designs of her quilting work. And she did! Mamacrafty is one of my first few blogger friends during my early days in blogging, and presently, we still regularly exchange visits. She lives here in Michigan and I really. really wish to visit her someday. I wish to see her work room that I am in awe very much.

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In speaking of recommending a blog, I would like to invite you to visit CanvassData.com. It talks about super affiliate . This blog is about personal take on social media and super affiliate marketing. What is affiliate? It is a referral program that pays you if some transaction was done through your blog. A proper advertiser affiliate tracking url should be provided.

Successful Marriage (part 5)

We are now in the part five of this series. Wives, we were done with our roles, and this time, it is the husband's turn to learn. I will be sharing about the: ROLE OF MEN

A. Why should man fulfill their biblical role?
.....*Fulfilling biblical role means trusting God to know what is best for his family.
.....*Because God's will is "good,well-pleasing and perfect"
.....*Because man will never experience the privilege of "oneness" in the marriage relationship if men defy God's will.
.....*Because man will never be the person God intended him to be if he don't fulfill his biblical role.
B. Man's part in marriage:
.....*The husband is to be wife's leader. Here are some of the characteristics of the leadership of the husband.
.........1. Leadership in the bible is being a servant. "Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant..." Matthew 20:26 NIV
.........2. The man's concern is:
..............-not himself
..............-not to give orders
..............-not to boast to others
..............-not to have his own way
3. Being a servant means:
.....*you put the best interest and need of others ahead of yours. In other words, husband live for thier wife
.....*you are willing to sacrifice yourself
.........a) personal needs
.........b) wants
.........c) desires
.........d) aspirations
.........e) time
.........f) money
4. The emblem of leadership in the bible is not a crown or throne, but a towel and a basin. "...so he (Jesus) got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him." John 13:4-5 NIV
5. The most important element of leadership in the Bible is a servant's heart. The man must be the family's biggest servant.
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Opps, I am not done with the "Role of Men" yet. Part 6, 7 & 8 will still be about the "Role of Men". Successful Marriage (part four) can be found at my January 18th post. For advance study, listen to audio-sermon at Living Word Christian Ministries.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus from the Latin word "ringing" is the perception of sound within the human ear in the absence of corresponding external sound. It can be perceived in one or both ears or in the head. It is usually described as a ringing noise, but in some patients it takes the form of a high pitched whining, buzzing, hissing, humming, or whistling sound, or as ticking, clicking, roaring, "crickets" or "tree frogs" or "locusts", tunes, songs, or beeping.
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I have this tinnitus back when I was still 9 years old. The doctors said it must be the side-effect from oral medications, such as aspirin and some high dosage anti-biotic syrup, because I was a sickly girl then. But I believe it has other cause than that. One time, my brother came from Japan with this "cassette walkman" that I was so fond of. (During that time, it was the latest gadgets.) I can still remember that I had it on for almost the whole day and on full volume. And I believe that caused my ear infection that gave me hearing problem in the present.
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Few weeks after I arrived here, I have been suffering of tinnitus more than I had back in the Philippines. There has never been a week without it. It is very uncomfortable and it made my hearing problem worse. Flying was terrible, too. Popping ear pressure made my trip miserable for a week.
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Three months ago, I had two hearing test, first at Sandusky and the other one was in Cass City. I had undergone a test called "Pure Tone Audiometry" and the other test called "Tympanometry". After such, the result was, very poor, that I seriously need a hearing aid.
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Personally, I don't want to wear one. My reason is, I don't want to come to a point where I will be very dependent on it that when I took it off, I can hearing nothing at all. I would like to hear any suggestion, comments, ideas or observations regarding this hearing aid. Thank you in advance and I will appreciate it very much.

Friends Are Like Shoes

Friends are like shoes,

They came from different size.

Some are loose...

Some are tight...

And there are those

That fit just right.

They can help you

As you walkk through life.

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When I was still in the Philippines, I only have few very close friends. Don't get me wrong. I just don't have too much time going around, because I rather stay home doing the house chores or doing my crafts. But I have few that I do regularly visit though. Well, I did not lock myself in. I was involved in a ministry three times a week schedule. Maybe that is why I want to save some of my free days at home.

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But I had an active relationship with those few close friends that I have. We regularly return visits. We set date for mall hopping. Sometimes we just choose to be in the house, had fun and enjoyed trying new recipes. Sometimes we were just in my room talking some serious women talks, sharing thoughts and helping each other through sound advice.

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"A friend loves at all times..." Proverbs 17:17 NIV

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Attention: Loving Moms

For your kids entertainment and past time,wii reviews is a good quality webshow.

Flexibility

I am the kind of person who writes down every plan that I had in mind and aim to accomplish them on the day that I set them, but on my case, more often than not, I have to move them again to another day because I was not able to do all of those listed things on my organizer on a given day. Most of the time, it puts me in trouble because it messed up with my commitment to others. I had problem with setting my time with flexibility, so that I can adjust whatever changes of plan I might encounter in a day.
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While it is smart to plan our days ahead, but we must consider that sometimes, God has other things He wants us to do other than our plans. This is why James 4: 13 says; "Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow, we will go to this or to that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money. Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." NIV This is the way we acknowledge God's lordship in our lives.

Sleeping Too Much

During my period of unemployment, my greatest enemy was too much sleeping. Though I wake up as early as 7:00 in the morning for my daily hulahoop and a hearty breakfast, but after cleaning the kitchen, I went to sleep again for another 2-3 hours. That made me wake up by almost noon time and I then took a bath and have my lunch. (eat again) After lunch, I always had dark chocolate and took a nap for another an hour or two. (sleep again)
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That was how my days were, except for the days that I need to go somewhere or when I need to do something. I hate that way. It made me feel very guilty that I was just wasting my time while there may be a lot of senseful things to do. But that was just my weakness, when there was nothing to do or nowhere to go, I just indulged in sleeping.
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My best antidote was this bible verse; "Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." Proverbs 10:4 NIV This encouraged me to get busy doing something.

I believe even if you have a fat bank account, that could not be an excuse to sleep your whole day away.

SMELL

There is a part of our brain that stores emotional memories that is intricately linked with smell. As a result, if you ever noticed, there are some scents or aroma that reminds us of a past experiences and can flood us with the same long-ago feelings.
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A lot of times, when I smell something familar, it instantly made me either happy or sad. Sometimes I can't remember right away the scent and how it relates to my past, but it is quite fun digging the story behind the scent.
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Sure there are good smells and bad smells, but did you know that scents can also be happy or sad?

STOP!

Doing what is good and what is right all the time is not an easy task. It is a continuing struggles in our lives. I often heard myself saying, "How I wish that there is a STOP sign in front of me every time I am about to do something "not good" or something "not right". Of course, this can't happen... or at least, this can't happen literally, but the Holy Spirit and His word are there guiding us in the right way to do through regular prayer and regular study of the Holy Bible. In that way, we will know when to stop.
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And here is one easy way to avoid doing wrong to others; "Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:39 NIV Of course, we wouldn't lie to ourselves; we wouldn't do something to hurt ourselves; we wouldn't cheat to ourselves; and above all, it is our natural characteristics that we love ourselves no matter what. If that is how we treat others, loving them as we love ourselves, we can't go wrong in any way. There will be no need for a STOP sign.

Optical Illusion #3

Where does the gray spot come from?

Dede's E-blog Talk

It is Recommendation Monday once again. I had a hard time deciding to whom I will give the award for today because... oh my goodness! your blogs are all deserving. But anyway, there will always be Mondays in every week, so that means, your's will be next... and today's award goes to:

Dede's Eblog Dot Com , is one of the most outstanding blog that I really consider giving regular visit. He share a lot of very helpful information, tips and tutorial that bloggers need to know about good traffic; how to make money online and a lot more senseful matters. He gave serious dedication in researching more for the sake of his readers. No wonder he got the world reading his blog and no wonder he got PR4 just lately. Keep it up, Dede!

Successful Marriage (part 4)

AGGRESSIVE SUBMISSION

Part three post was talking about what submission is. On this post, I will share that the wife's primary ministry in life is her husband. The greater the realization of this role on the part of the wife would make it easier on her to fulfill her role in the marriage relationship. Failure to grasp this would mean that she will back down from her responsibilities and she would not become the person God intended her to be. She would be unsubmissive, she'd probably focus more on her career and her personal ambitions or desires. The ultimate result would be chaos. On this post, I will share about what wife's ministry to her husband is all about.

1. Foundational Scripture: "The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."Genesis 2:18 NIV

2. Defining the ministry of the woman to the man:

....a. God created woman to be man's helper. Rather than looking at this as a negative, the woman should look at this from a positive perspective. The proper perspective is that without the woman, man is incomplete. Being man's helper is not an insult to a woman's dignity but a perfect compliment to her.

One of God's trait in the Bible is that He is our helper. "...The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid."Hebrews 13:6 NIV

.....b. God created woman to be a suitable helper. None of God's creation can provide man the help that he needs. The wife was made to fulfill the needs, lacks and inadequacies of the man. Only a woman can and that makes her indispensable. "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD." Proverbs 18:22 NIV

.....c. God made the woman to compliment the man and not to duplicate him. Wayne Mack says, "She is to man what a key is to a lock and what a film is to a camera- indispensable." "...woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman." 1 Corinthians 11:11 NIV

.....d. God did not create woman to destroy man, but to build up man. The woman must not do anything to the detriment or harm of the man. "She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life." Proverbs 31:12 NIV

Note: A woman can be involve in other activities and maintaining ability as well as can found in Proverbs 31:10-31

3. Specific ways where the wife can be a helpmate:

.....a. Make the home a refuge- a place of encouragement, comfort and understanding.

.........* Do not use insulting jokes or cutting remarks on the husband.

.........* Do not nag the husband to the point of exasperation reminding him of his failures and faults.

.........* Correct with gentleness and love.

Note: This should also be the way the man treats the woman.

.....b. Showing interest in the man's interest, problems and concerns. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2:3-4 NIV

.....c. Making suggestions, advice and corrections in a loving way. "She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." Proverbs 31:26 NIV

.....d. Keeping herself beautiful, especially the inner self. "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight." 1 Peter 3:3-4 NIV

.....e. Be loyal to your husband.

.........* Do not complain of your husband to your children.You are breeding grounds of disrespect and lack of confidence in the husband's leadership.

.........*All difference in methodology in discipline must be discussed away from the children.

.....f. Be faithful to your husband.

.....g. Being appreciative and grateful.

.....h. Show confidence in his decision-making.

.........*Continual strong opposition to the man's decision-making process will cause the man to be indecisive, insecure and unsure of himself. If the wife wants to contest the husband's decision, it must be done in a none-threatening way.

.....i. The wife must see to it that she is not competing with her husband.

Conclusion: After everything has been said in this post about women's role of helper, I hope that women now begin to see their role not as dormants, but with heads held high understanding the dignity of their ministry, which is something that God prides Himself with by calling Himself "Helper" as well.

Finally, we are done with the wife's role and on next post, we will be talking about the husband's role. Successful Marriage (part three) can be found at my January 11th post. For advance study, listen to audio-sermon at Living Word Christian Ministries.

"Eagle's Soar"

I have been here in Michigan just seven months ago already, and during that short period of time, I had witnessed a lot of big and serious events (both good and bad) that America had encountered. And one of them is the victory of the history maker, upcoming US 44th President Barack Obama. I am one of those millions US habitant that are very hopeful of the anticipation reinventing America. The eyes of the world are on USA. May this year 2009 be the start of "Eagle's Soar" again. Help America!

The Conversation

I love to share to others about Jesus' love to us, but I have a problem. Everytime I started to talk, it seems that everything that I learned had disappear. I went blank. I don't know what to say next. Until I found myself sorry... sorry that I caused confusion to the person I was sharing to, instead of enlightening... and the worst could be, that I made them feel so sinful in themselves instead of showing them God's grace and forgiveness. God knows that's not my intention.
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Sometimes, as I was talking to somebody, there were times that the Holy Spirit told me that the opportunity is knocking. Most of the time, I found my heart praying to God to use me, supplying me on what to say...
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"Now, I have put my words in your mouth." Jeremiah 1:9b NIV
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But I am glad, real glad that God lead me to this blogging world. I found my usefulness in here. I take pleasure in living to tell God's amazing grace. As my title said, There is nothing more fulfilling than doing what God wants us to do.

Electric Blanket

Last night was -6 degrees here. The weather man says this winter was colder than it had been in the past years and it will possibly get colder in the next few days, too. My ear's ringing (tinnitus) get worse. It didn't stop for a couple of days already. It is really uncomfortable for me.
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My mom-in-law lend me her electric blanket. It was very helpful. I had a sound sleep last night.
It leaves me wondering why it is so cold here while in the other country is hot. It is so unfair. But the sight of snow all around is neat though. It is very beautiful.
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By the way, I invite you to visit ted. He wish to have visitors on his new blog.

"Age is but a number"

My favorite chocolate, Dove, has a special message on every wrapper. I had one this afternoon, and the message was, "Age is but a number." It made me laugh. Because this morning, as I was combing my hair, I noticed a couple of gray hair. Oh no!!! It was a shock to me. Then I remember how old I am. Well, I should not be surprised.
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I was pondering what else are the changes that the age will bring? Poor eyesight. Poor hearing. Weaker knees... and then the Alzheimer's disease. :( Well, the good thing is, while we get weaker physically, it doesn't have to be that way spiritually. It is possible that we get better and better with age.
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Let us stop worrying about our physical age, it is about time that we work out for our spiritual age because it is the only thing that we have that will last forever.
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"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day." 2 Cor. 4:16 NIV

Food-On-The-Go

"I'm hungry. Are you?"
"Yeah."
"McDonald?"
"Sure."
"What do you want?"
(Grin)
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This is the usual conversation my husband and I had if we get hungry on the road. He knows already what I want from McDonald. I am just so crazy with their hot McChicken Sandwich, while my husband like their Big Mac. It is our favorite food-on-the-go.
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What is your favorite food-on-the-go?

Electronic Bible

When I was yet in the Philippines, I had an electronic Bible NIV by Franklin. It is a battery operated and very easy to use. Exactly the same one shown in the right picture. I like it very much especially when I do my study or writing an article. But I gave it to my best friend, Ann, prior to my moving here. And since I don't have it anymore, I am planning to buy myself a new one.

I found this other one in Christian Book.Com, Electronic Bible, NKJV by WowBible. A little expensive. This one is colored and better than my old one. But I still prefer NIV. Maybe I will continue browsing until I can find a good price. Or maybe I will try e-bay.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness..." 2 Timothy 3:16 NIV

MONEY

I feel sad every time I heard this quote; "Money is the root of all evil." Whoever started this wrong quote was either missing the few words before that phrase or had cut it short intently. The accurate verse is found in 1 Timothy 6:10a "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." NIV
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Money is a blessing from God. Money brings good things if you know how to use it. But it is the love of money that sparks up the bad thoughts and intentions. God gave us money to use it for our own good, but sad to say that some made money their god. Some idolize it in the way that they keep it as much as they can even if somebody in the family is in need. Some just do "everything" to acquire a lot of money. But let us remember, it is God who gave us money. Yes, we worked for it, but it is God who gave the work. Maybe some could disagree with me, but everything we have, even our breath comes from God.
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If you got a lot of money, be grateful to God. Enjoy your money because that is a blessing from God. If He touches your heart to help others, do so unselfishly. And if you got no money, don't worry; "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5 NIV

Domino

Playing online domino was how I met my husband. He happened to be my opponent over the table of Yahoo! Domino. After a while of playing, there were exchange of polite comments that lead us to friendship... and so on. :)
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Playing domino is a family tradition of my husband's side, too. Every time we have a company in the house, we played double 15's domino. I didn't knew the game and it was my dad-in-law who taught me over the first few rounds until I learned enough to be by myself.
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Playing domino is fun. It is some kind of a family bonding, too. My mom-in-law once asked me what kind of game I like to play, "I don't have time to play," was my reply. Mom was just laughing. I didn't realized, we should spare time to play, no matter how busy we can be. It is good both for the body and heart.

SOAR!

Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the Lord, will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles..."

During the stormy part of our lives, it really made our days so gloomy. Unpleasant things that are inevitable are all around. They were there to ruin our day. They were there to dissolve our joy. But the truth is they are harmless if we don't entertain them. This is the verse that really inspired me day by day. As i wake up in the morning and feel gloomy again, I always remind myself and would smile and cheer, "SOAR!!!".


The eagle has the ability to soar beyond the storms.

Happy Birthday, Mama!

Denise' Shortybear's Place

It is Monday once again. After a week of carefully reviewing my fellow blogger's page, the second blog that I want to recommend goes to;

Denise' Shortybear's Place blog's is really an encouragement to many. And I am one of them that are greatly blessed by her blog. She is a woman of great faith inspite of her health problem lately. Denise, when in good health, she always look for ways to help others. She is a very concern sister and friend. Denise is blessed with a very loving and caring "lovebug". He never left her side especially when Denise was sick. God had been so good to them. He uses people to help them. He had been there providing their every needs. God is greatly glorified in Denise' life. God is greatly praised in her blog.

Successful Marriage (part 3)

AGGRESSIVE SUBMISSION

Part two was primarily talking about what submission is not and this time, we will talk about submission is.

1. It is the personal responsibility of the wife. "Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives..."1 Peter 3:1 NIV

.*Submission should come willingly from the wife.

.*There is nothing in the scripture that tell the husbands to oppress or force their wives into submission.

(The most that the husband can do is to pray and enjoin the wife to be submissive. After that, he just really has to trust God.)

2. Submission is a perpetual lifestyle, not one-time event.

3. Submission is not optional or conditional, but mandatory.

Many women practice conditional submission; they submit only if they get what they want or if they can have something in exchange, but this is not what the Bible is saying. Submission is not to be conditioned by abilities, talents, wisdom, education or condition of state.

4. Submission is part of spirituality. I don't believe that a wife can be both spiritual and unsubmissive.

5. Submission is a positive concept.

.*The emphasis is on putting all your talents, resources and energy at your husband's disposal.

.*It means yielding to the husband's management for the good of the family. It is a teammate. In any team, there is a leader and in marriage, God appointed husband to be the leader.

6. Submission is the wife's joy.

.* Just as Jesus submitted to the Father not with resignation or heaviness but with joy.

.* Submitting cheerfully is showing respect to the husband. "However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." Ephesians 5:33 NIV

7. Submission is extensive- "the wives are to be subject to their husband in everything." It is not selective.

.* Submission is to be the wife's lifestyle at all time, in all places (not just the church), and in everything.

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POINT OF CLARIFICATION: This submission however is not total, absolute and unlimited because the proper context of submission is "as is fitting to the Lord." Our ultimate and final submission is to the Lord because the husband's authority is merely appointed by God and should never violate God's intentions and purposes. "We must obey God rather than men!" Acts 5:29 NIV

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Don't worry, wives, I will be talking about the rules of the husband on part five. Successful Marriage (part two) can be found at my January 4th post. For advance study, listen to audio-sermon at Living Word Christian Ministries.

Canning Fruits and Vegetables

This picture was taken from our basement. There in the basement we store our canned fruits and vegetables. We also have a big refrigerator there that stores breads, meats and many more. These fruits and vegetables are our produces here. My dad-in-law has a green thumb, so they say. During spring time and summer, he was on his feet all day doing the gardening. And on early autumn, that's when he start canning the fruits and vegetables which at some time I helped.

I love having garden and I love to eat the fruits and vegetables fresh from your own garden. This is something that I had not experience in my country. And this is one of the reasons that made me wish that winter will soon be over.

"The Mitten of Middle America"

Michigan is the 8th most popolous state in the United States of America. It has the longest freshwater shoreline in the world. Michigan is the center of the American automotive industry.

Sugar beet is one of the biggest agriculture among corns, wheat, etc. Deer are very common here and dangerous, too, because they are known as most common cause of road accidents. I once had an experience that while we were driving, the deer out of nowhere just suddenly cross the street. And all of us in the car were screaming.

I am located in the Thumb Area, in between Tuscola and Sanilac County. I didn't have the chance to explore the entire Michigan yet, because of the winter, and also, because my husband is currently in school. But he promise me that by the next spring or summer, we will be driving around Michigan. I love it. :)

Beggar

I have a confession to make. I hope somebody can give me an advice on this sick thought of mine.

It really doesn’t touch my heart every time I see beggars on the street asking for money. What was on my mind was becoming a beggar is a willful choice. I personally know a person who decided to become a beggar because she was tired of doing anything just to earn. I know some people who leave their land in the province just to go to a big city and become beggars. Their lives could have been even better back where they were, because they have a land that they could plant some vegetables or root crops.

Of course, there are those that are genuinely disabled to do anything to feed their selves. But I think they could go to any government organization and have them lead the way where to go for people like them. But then again, I know some people that don’t want to be under some organizations because they don’t want to be under the rules. And that’s how I develop being sarcastic about these beggars.

Here is this bible verse; “I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” Proverbs 37:25 NIV I believe that having faith to God will not lead you to become a beggar because I believe that God himself is their great provider.

I hope you don’t get me wrong as being a stingy person. When I was still in the Philippines, I love to bring some grocery items to a poor and needy neighborhood. If I know somebody is in need, I could hand them some cash. That’s it. And, by the way, I know there are exceptions on some cases and I’m talking generally.

Vaccination Shots Day

I had my two vaccination shots today. Tdap (Tetanus Diphtheria, Pertussis) and Hepatitis B, at Tuscola County Health Department. These shots are requirements for my immigration here.
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Imagine, I had shots on both of my shoulder. I am scared of needles, but of course, I can't act like a sissy. :) It is still numb right now, and I don't feel like posting. I feel like very tired tonight. I hope tomorrow I will be fine. I will resume my blog walking tomorrow. May we all have a good night.

Happy Birthday, Manang Melinda!

My sister Melinda will be turning 50 years old in the next few days. Oh, I miss her so much. When I was still in the Philippines, I always made sure that I was in their house on her birthday, but this time, I can’t because I am here in U.S. Ramelyn, my niece and her daughter always made sure, too, to give her a birthday party. She used to treat her mom to a fine restaurant with the whole family. And sometimes, they went to a sauna parlor, just the two of them.
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This time, my niece asked me what would be a great idea for her 50th birthday celebration. She wants to make it real fancy this time since it will be her mom’s golden year. We agreed to research online to find good ideas. I found this website CELEBRATION. Perfect! Exactly what we needed! They offer a lot of wonderful and unique 40th-50th birthday party ideas .They also offer great ideas for recipes, drinks, decorations and a lot more. There are also a lot of testimonies about other’s experiences, and are very helpful, too. This is more than hiring a party coordinator. They have it all what you need. All you need in one site. Are there any of your love-ones that will be celebrating birthday soon? Visit their website and plan ahead for it.
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Maybe this time it will be in the function room with a surprise program. Fifty miniature cake with single candles on it to blow. Tiffany's collection of bracelet will be a good gift for her, too. Well, all I can say is, "I am so excited to see pictures of my sister's 50th birthday party." :)

Vizio VP423 HDTV

This is theTV that we bought the day before Christmas eve because the one we had was not working anymore. Vizio VP423 Plasma HDTV 42". We bought it from Wal-Mart and my husband got a good deal on it. This was his Christmas gift to himself.

Baby Justin Ace

This is baby Justin Ace T. Casas. He was born last December 13, 2008. He is the son of my niece, Ginafe. Isn't he look like a little angel?

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It really confused me to think what I am to him. Actually, there were already two baby before baby Justin came. Some say I am a grandma to Justin. Some also say I am a great aunt. So which is the right one? Please let me hear from you about this.

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Congratulations to my niece, Ginafe.

Our Daily Bread

There was a point in my life that I live up to the daily blessings. I was one of those who were got laid off because of the changed of management. After quite a while nothing left to me except for those few coins in my piggy bank. It was the time of forced diet. But the amazing thing was, the very few coins that I had in my piggy bank didn't ran out. Just why? Because everyday, God would use any of my friend to bless me. A friend would come and invite me to dine out. Or my sister would send me some bread and that I took them for my supper. I don't remember how long it lasted that way, but my very few coins didn't ran out until I was able to get hold a new job then. There was always bread for the day.

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I may don't understand why it happened to me but I believe God had put me in a situation where I would need to learn to trust Him in a daily basis. God was displaying His being my provider and that He doesn't fail ever.

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"Give us this day our daily bread." Matthew 6:11

Acu-Hoop

One of the gift that my husband gave me during Christmas day was this, Acu-Hoop . It is 4lbs, medium hulahoop. 40 inches diameter and the pipe is 1.75 inches. This is exactly what I need! I like its color, too. I play 10 minutes every early morning, (at least 30 minutes before breakfast) and another 10 minutes in the afternoon, (at least 30 minutes before dinner) It promise to trim your waist 2 inches monthly until fit.

CAUTION: Due to the strong impact direct to abdominal and body muscles, use gradual length of time in the first week starting 1 minute, or what you can handle. Do not use more than 20 minutes at one time. Over excercise may cause injury.

Can You Tame Your Tongue?

"The boneless tongue, so small and weak,

Can crush and kill", declared the Greek.

The Persian proverbs, wisely saith

"A lengthy tongue, an earthly death."

Sometimes it takes this form instead:

"Don't let your tongue cut off your head."

While Arab sages this impart:

"The tongue's great storehouse is the heart."

From Hebrew wit, the maxim's sprang:

"Though feet should slip, don't let the tongue."

A verse from scripture, crown the whole:

"Who keep the tongue, doth keep his soul."

(quote from Anonymous)

"He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from the Calamity." Proverbs 21:23 NIV

Dong Ho's Eskapo 2.0

One of the new items that I add to my blog for the year 2009 is to give away an award on every monday. I call this "Recommendation Monday". Starting today, I would carefully pick up site to blog about. Keep checking it, the next might be yours.
Dong Ho's Escapo 2.0 is a travelling blog. His blog just turned 1 year few days ago. His pictures of the places that he had been to are very fascinating and inspiring. After a while of regular visiting his blog, it made me plan for a vacation to one of the nicest place he had post. His post does not contains pictures only. He gives out very informative stories, histories, guidelines and such... No wonder how he gain a vast numbers of commentators. Keep it up, Dong.

Successful Marriage (part 2)

Aggressive Submission

Whenever there is failure in marriage, we can be sure that the conduct of the couple's lives is not in accordance to God's word. But when couples fell in line with God's word, true success is achieved.

Today's issue focus on the wife and her biblical role in marriage. the Bible calls woman, man's "helpmate". What this means is that a woman must complete and compliment her husband.

The New Testament frequently commands the wife to subject or be in submission to her husband. "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything." Ephesians 5:22-24

*Some wives find it difficult to submit to their husband because they're more convincing, more intelligent with so many things of maybe they've had more achievements or success in life. Some may just be plain stubborn..

*the wives have to understand that the primary reason for submission is that it is submission unto the Lord. Falling here, we fail God, and therefore we are in sin and out of the will of God. Being "unsubmissive" is sinful rebellion against God.

Here are some correction of the false picture that women might have regarding submission:

1. Submission is not just for women. It is for all. We all submit in various levels and aspects of our lives. "Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 1 Pet. 5:5
2. Submission does not mean that you can't voice your opinion. "She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." Prov. 31:26
3. Submission does not mean that the wife becomes a mere decoration and makes her abilities dormant. In Proverbs 31, the wife makes full use of her abilities. She is a working woman.)

4. Submission is not indicative of inferiority.

*Matthew Henry says that this about the creation of Eve from Adam's rib: "A woman was not made out of his head to top him, nor out of his feet, to be trampled upon by him; but out of his side, to be equal to him, under his arms, to be protected; and near his heart to be loved."

5. Submission does not make you a slave. In fact, submission gives the woman the Freedom to be what God intended her to be and that is to assist man to reach his full potential as a husband, father, career person and above all as a worshipper.

(Part 1 can be found in my December 23rd post. Series sermon by Pastor Mel Caparros of LWCM, Cebu City, Phils.)

I Got PR2 !

It has been awhile that I had been closely watching my PR. I even wonder if I could ever have it. But last night, as I was about to sign out from my blog, something caught my eyes. It was the PR stats on the lowest-right part of this blog. I saw some changes. Did my eyes just deceived me? PR 2 ! I can't believe it because I didn't see PR 1 before it happens to be PR 2 now. I wonder why is that.
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Anyway, I want to take this as a chance to thank all of you who took time to visit my blog. I really appreciate it. Without you, I could not possibly get PR at all. As my gesture of gratefulness, I promise to give my best that I can in posting more useful and helpful post.
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Above all, I thank God for my PR 2, for without Him, I can do nothing. As this is my ministry in life, I will devote myself in studying more to be able to share more to you, my readers. I live to tell God's Amazing Grace. There's nothing more fulfilling than doing what God wants us to do. And I will continue finding out on what else I can do in life in service to others.