A Filipino Family's Journey Toward Being Truly Rich

Blessed to be stressed!

2010-06-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

We have been in Manila for one week already. It has been a week of adjusting to living in a different room and house (especially for the kids!) as we now stay with my in-laws (but have yet to decide on where we will be staying long-term), dealing with the hassles of public transportation (as opposed to having two mission vehicles at our disposal whenever we needed to go anywhere), figuring out where to put all our things (currently there is a lack of closet space! hahahaha), attending our community's Anniversary Celebrations, getting back into the groove of going to our "office" (in Timor, our mission office was also our home. Here it is located in Mandaluyong), and of course, catching up with family and friends. Today we will be bringing the kids for a general check-up with our trusty pediatrician (such a blessing to our family!).

Overall it has been a relatively stressful week compared to a typical week in Dili. Ironic but true. However, despite the added stress, I indeed feel BLESSED. Blessed to be stressed. I know that God has much more in store for me and for our family. Bring it on! As long as we remain in Him, we will always be "so blessed (we) I can't contain it, so much (we) I gotta give it away, Your love has taught me to live now. YOU ARE MORE THAN ENOUGH FOR (US) ME!"

Truly Rich and Blessed In Singapore!

2010-06-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we left the place we had come to call "home" for the past five years. Indeed our family can testify to the truth of this verse from the gospel according to Matthew: "Everyone who has left houses, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, will receive one hundred times, and will inherit eternal life." (Mt 10:29) When we decided to go on mission as single missionaries and then later on as a couple, God truly made this verse come true in our lives. Having and raising kids on mission further re-affirmed this - not only did God give us a lot of things "one hundred times" over as individuals, but moreso our children! :) They have gained families from all over Timor Leste, and from Brunei and Singapore as well.

In fact as I write this post, we are savoring our TRULY RICH AND BLESSED life, our stopover in Singapore (SG) as a preview to our NEW BEGINNING, a new journey with the Lord, as we return to the Philippines. We are enjoying God's abundance and blessings through our CFC SG family, particularly the Cercados. We are taking the time to rest and look forward in hope to the new life God is preparing for us in Manila. Although yesterday's departure was full of sad goodbyes and tears, it was also full of HOPE and FAITH and LOVE. HOPE for the community we would be leaving behind, FAITH that God would be true to His promises, and LOVE overflowing from and for God, our families and our community.

We continue to wait with expectant faith and grateful hearts, waiting on the Lord and knowing that He has a big bright beautiful future in store for us! THE BEST IS YET TO COME! Praise GOD! :)

Counting down the days.. and reminiscing... Thank You Timor Leste!

2010-06-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

We will be leaving Timor Leste in 4 days! FOUR days!!! Oh my.

It has been five years since hubby (at that time, BF-turned-fiance-on-the-airplane-ride-over) and I agreed to go on mission for our community. A lot has happened since then.

On the plane going to Brunei which was our first stopover before Timor, hubby proposed to me. (This deserves a blog post of its own hahaha). We started our mission as an engaged couple serving the kids, youth and singles, and occasionally helping out my dad and mom with the couples. We learned a lot about each other, fought a lot, made up a lot, prayed a lot, served a lot. Our term as a missionary engaged couple helped prepare us for our life as a married couple.

After we got married in the Philippines on January 7, 2006, we left again for Timor Leste, excited to serve as a "legitimate" missionary couple. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that I was pregnant a mere 2 months after arriving (can anyone say "honeymoon baby"? hehehe).

2006 was a year of crisis for Timor. In the heat of the crisis, it was decided that the female members of the mission team, at that time composed of my 5-month pregnant self, my mother and our single co-missionary were to be evacuated via Philippine military aircraft along with other Filipinos who had chosen to leave the conflict-torn country. (Again, I should probably blog separately about this!) Despite ongoing sporadic violence in Timor, after spending about 2 months in the Philippines, hubby and I, along with my parents, another missionary couple, and four single missionaries, returned to Dili to continue the mission. We were armed with our faith in God, hope for a better future for our Timorese brethren, and love for God's people and Church.

On October 10, 2006, I gave birth to our son, Timothy Alan, named after St. Timothy, one of the youngest missionaries and St. Paul's "protege." Incidentally, we also call him "Tim" to remind us that he was born on mission here.

Fast forward to July 5, 2009. After our community's pro-life rally, the first of its kind in Timor Leste, and an afternoon of walking back and forth to check on things, being the Pro-Life Ministry Head, I aptly gave birth to our daughter, Alyssa Therese, whom we had nicknamed "Rysse" (pronounced "Reese"), even long before she was conceived! After giving birth to Tim, and upon contemplating on having a second baby, hubby and I had decided that if our second child were to be a girl (and oh did we claim it! Thank God for NFP-BOM! It worked!) her nickname would be "Reese" or something similar-sounding, so that when you put their names together, it would sound like "Timorese."

Amazing how God answered our prayers and made all this come true. So with "Tim ho Rysse" (Tim and Rysse in Tetun) we had our missionary "fruit." No wonder then that our Timorese family here consider our kids as their own. Indeed, it has been a privilege, joy and blessing to raise our kids on mission. Challenging yes, but very inspiring and uplifting. Since we have the kids with us wherever we go, we are blessed to be a family witnessing to God's immense love. I even got to "homepreschool" Tim! How TRULY RICH we are!

And now.. in a few days' time, we will be LEAVING. Our mission in Timor is ending. We will be going home to Manila. We don't have our new mission assignments as of now. There are a lot of challenges facing us. Yet despite these, my heart is at peace. It doesn't matter now where we will be based or what we will be doing.

Our mission has taught me that what matters MOST is that we will be together, as a family. Hubby and I as partners in life, parenting and mission, together with our adorable "TimhoRysse" angels. No matter what happens in the coming days, weeks or months, we know that we will always strive to live up to our family's life verse:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)

May God be praised forever and ever! Thank you Timor Leste! Your people, especially our members here, will always have a special place in our hearts and family!

Leaving on a jetplane...

2010-06-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

We will be leaving Timor Leste soon. It has been a meaningful mission for our whole family. We started out as an engaged couple in 2005, came back as newlyweds in 2006, I gave birth to our eldest in 2006, and then our second child in 2009. So far, we've spent the most of our life as husband and wife, and parents, as mission partners too, in Timor Leste. It will be difficult to leave. Too many memories, too many friendships, too many "things we still could do" (and perhaps too much luggage too, hahaha).

But despite all these, we WILL be leaving. In less than 2 weeks. It is an inevitable fact that I have to face.

And so, this morning, at 4.00 am Timor Time, I surrender.

I SURRENDER LORD.

To Your will. To Your plans. For myself. For Anthony. For our kids. For our family. For our mission. For those who will be left behind. For those whom we will be going home to.

I SURRENDER.

May Your will be done.

Today, I let go and let God. I recall again my lifeverse:

²⁴However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. (Acts 20:24)

Lord, may I testify to Your gospel wherever I go. May our family be a living testimony of Your grace. Amen.

Goofing off with our co-missionaries - WE WILL MISS YOU ALL!

Homeschooling is Pro-Life!

2010-05-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

(Timothy Alan S. Rodriguez, safe and sound in Mama's womb :)

I first felt the Holy Spirit's stirrings to homeschool when I attended our community's first major Pro-Life event way back in 2006. We had a speaker from Human Life International, Brian Clowes, and it was a truly inspiring, eye-opening event. Back then I was pregnant with our first child, who will be turning 4 in October. Hubby and I were so privileged to be part of the Pro-Life event/training back then (we were even chosen as models for one of the creative presentations!). Little did I know that Pro-Life and Homeschooling would eventually become two big passions in my life!

When Joseph Meaney of HLI came to Timor Leste in 2007 for our Family Life Conference, he spoke again about homeschooling and presented briefly the differences in kids who are homeschooled versus those who aren't. His presentation really made me (and hubby too!) start to seriously consider homeschooling as an option for our children.

The conviction to homeschool our kids continued to grow (perhaps God really planted it in our hearts) and was further strengthened when we heard about Bo Sanchez's homeschool catering specifically to Catholic Filipino parents like ourselves.

For my part, I have come to believe that homeschooling may not be God's will for some families, whom He may call to doing mission by sending their kids to public or private schools (even Catholic schools nowadays need a LOT of revival and renewal and are prime mission fields!). Indeed it is challenging and perhaps a bit frightening to even consider teaching one's children at home. "I'm not a qualified teacher!" "Will I have the discipline and time to do this?" "How can we afford to live on one salary?" "Will my kids be anti-social?" These questions are usually the first that come to mind when one starts thinking about homeschooling.

Thankfully, if one does enough research (thank You Lord for the internet!), one can get lots of answers to these questions, and also find encouragement and draw inspiration from countless homeschoolers who truly believe that teaching your kids at home is THE way to go!

As for our family, we are still in the process of making the final decision to homeschool (when to "officially" start i.e. with a structured curriculum, which curriculum to use, how to deal with the financial and practical aspects, etc etc). For the meantime, we just want to make the most of the time God has blessed us with, especially by having our kids on mission with us. This includes "homepreschooling" our kids.

To be Catholic in this day and age calls for a firm belief in defending our faith, our families, our homes. If I call myself Catholic, then I should be Pro-Life. I firmly believe that homeschooling is pro-life, and that the pro-life work should involve advocating homeschooling.

When we homeschool our kids, it is easier for us to pass down our Catholic faith and life to them. We also get to choose what influences them and in turn how they will live their lives as good Catholics and responsible citizens. We get to be there for them during the critical, crucial stages of their development in all aspects of their lives. We get to teach them about things that are not normally taught in schools, especially the lessons of life.

(3 and a half year old Tim, reading his "Bible" after seeing his Papa reading our daily Bible reflection guide. It was so CUTE and INSPIRING! He even told me "Mama, I'm reading about Jesus rising from the dead. Or you call it `Resurrection.' :) Note to self: Buy Tim his own kid's Bible when we get home to the Philippines! Hahaha)

Homeschooling is PRO-LIFE.

If you believe that God is calling you to homeschool, do not be afraid. There are many men and women, families out there who are doing the same thing. Because they are CONVICTED, not just convinced, to do so. Let's pray for one another that we will be able to act upon all that God is calling us to do, especially in the best interest of our children.

"As for me and my house, will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

(Our 2nd child, almost 11-month old Rysse, seems to enjoy praying the Rosary with us. The other night, she woke up at 2 a.m. and when I carried her, she saw the rosaries on our little altar in the bedroom, and kept pointing to them and smiling and babbling, so I gave her one to hold. She kept babbling, and it seemed as if she was reminding us to pray the Rosary, which we usually do every night, but that night we had overlooked it. Needless to say, we ended up praying early that morning, and Rysse went back to sleep soon after! Amazing God!)

Listed below are some books that may help you discover the richness of homeschooling :)

Lessons I Learned From Blogging :)

2010-05-20T07:37:00.000-07:00

[This post was taken from my other blog (www.trulyrichlife.blogspot.com). I thought that I would never be able to open my account, so I wrote this entry as a reminder to myself. However, since Google has re-enabled my account, I've decided to maintain only two blogs from now on, namely this one and the other on homepreschooling.]

A lot of things have happened since my last post here. Hubby, the kids and I have been on mission trips to the districts twice. The kids have gotten sick a lot albeit with minor illnesses. We have been busy preparing for our departure and transition of leadership/tasks to our local missionaries and community leaders. Indeed, it has been a full almost one month since I've posted any entries on this blog.

One of the most significant things that happened was this: my other blogs, that I had started developing about a month ago about (1) God's goodness to us as a missionary family (www.trulyrichandblessed.blogspot.com), (2) marriage and parenting tips and experiences (www.onmarriageandparenting.blogspot.com) and (3) homeschooling our preschooler (www.teachermamarules.blogspot.com) have been disabled! And I have no idea why!

Needless to say I was quite disappointed at first. I even contemplated giving up on the whole blogging thing. However, I just can't help myself. Ever since I was introduced to the concept of writing, rather, typing things that could possibly bless someone else's life, or touch another person's heart, or make a fellow parent out there go "Ah! I agree!" or inspire a fellow Catholic/Christian - well.. you get my point here: I am not about to give up on this blogging thing just yet. :)

In fact this whole experience just taught me a few important lessons:

1. Always back up your blog. D-u-h! ;)

2. If at first you don't succeed, try and try again.

3. If you really believe that something you do can make a difference, then nothing should stop you from doing it.

and the most important lesson of all:

4.God is worthy of ALL our praise, ALL the time. "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!" Job 1: 21

So even if your blog gets disabled or deleted,
even if your email address gets compromised,
even if your hard disk crashes,
even if your spouse forgets to put the toilet seat down,
even if your kids are hard to handle,
even if your work stresses you out,
even if your community has its conflicts,
BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD!
Praise Him with ALL you've got, ALL the time!

(Are you familiar with Job? Try checking out the book below. Or better yet, get our your Bible and read up on him:)

A Memorable Mother's Day because of Kuya Tim

2010-05-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

This Mother's Day, I brought some flowers to Mass with the intention of offering them for our greatest Mother of all, Mama Mary. Even before we got to the Church, my eldest, 3.5 y/o Tim, saw the flowers, took one bunch of them and handed them over to me, saying "HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, MAMA!" Aaawww.. And this despite my not having told him what the flowers were for. Then to our surprise, he turns and gives the second bunch of flowers to Karen, our single co-missionary here in Dili. "HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, KAKA!" Tim said. Needless to say, both Kaka and I were so pleased with his thoughtfulness.

Later on, at Church, Tim saw the flowers and again handed them over to me. I said, "Thank you darling, but we'll give these to Mama Mary, over there, we'll put them on the altar." He replied, "No, but she's not talking. You keep them Mama." Hahaha. Oh well. :) I tried my best po, Mama Mary. Will keep trying to teach Tim to love and know you more, so he can love and know your Son Jesus more!

This evening, Tim said something else that brightened my day and made my heart melt. He was playing his usual "superhero/transformer/tra

in" games while I was giving him a bath, mostly pretending that he was so and so hero or transformer. While getting dry and changing into his pajamas, he suddenly asks me, "What's Papa's power Mama?"

To which I reply, "Umm... cooking?" Hahaha.

And then Tim says, "No. His power is staying with me. And loving me. Where is Papa anyway Mama? I need him." Aaaww. My heart melted right then and there! *Sniff sniff*

Thank You Lord for affirming me, us, that despite our everyday struggles and challenges to teach and discipline our kids, YOU are in control and assuring them of our LOVE, albeit imperfect and at times conditional. Thank You Lord, because just like Tim, we know and believe that Your "power" is "staying with us, and loving us." We love You po!

We love you Kuya Tim (and Rysse too of course)!

Proud Papa with our first-born, Timothy Alan, a few days old :)

Work At Home Opportunities

2010-05-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

If you're a parent like yours truly who is currently going through a discernment/decision process (work or stay at home with the kids?), the wonderful world wide web is quickly becoming a TRULY RICH source of ways and means to combine the two previously-mentioned options - you can stay at home AND work at the same time! The term WAHM (Work At Home Mom) is fast becoming a household name! Thousands of people have done it and are still doing it (I am currently studying the tips and techniques myself, in the hope of creating alternative passive streams of income for our family :)

Just thought I'd share with you how some people are doing it (Click on the links below):

Pinoy Work At Home Dad

Home-based Business for Stay at Home Moms

WAHM-IT!, The Masters Course

Clixsense as featured by Nimwey

Workfromhomemomma.com

There are actually dozens and dozens of sites out there (just try googling "work at home"!) It's a bit overwhelming at first, but with faith and commitment, by God's grace, YOU and I can make this work!!!

A blessed Mother's day to all moms out there, especially those who really want to stay at home, raise their kids and earn money too!

Love Love Love

2010-05-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

Earlier today, we had our regular prayer meeting for our small group (called a "household" in our community). Our main theme for the day was LOVE, and it was divine inspiration from Father A. The worship/prayer session before the sharing proper had almost everyone in tears, as God spoke personally to our hearts, each of us different yet united in love.

We were a mixture of single and married men and women, lay and religious. With different backgrounds and personalities. From different countries and cultures. With varying concerns and problems and sins and questions.

Yet united by ONE God. And His perfect LOVE.

What a grand reminder of how "now that You're near, everything is different, everything's so different Lord! I know I'm not the same, my life You've changed, I wanna be with You, I wanna be with You!" (Now That You're Near by Hillsong)

As husband and wife, with God's love and grace, we CAN choose to love unconditionally, despite our spouse's faults and failures.

As parents, married or single, with God's love and grace, we CAN be MORE loving and patient and kind and teach our kids to be the same.

As families, with God's love and grace, we CAN be a force of good change in the world today. Strong Christian families = Happy peaceful societies.

As workers, with God's love and grace, we CAN do MORE to serve others through our everyday tasks.You don't have to be a fulltime missionary to do mission. Bless the world through your talents, time and treasure.

Love conquers all people.

Choose to LOVE today. :)

Some resources that may be useful to you in your LOVING others:

The Newlywed Collection Fom the Focus on the Family, Love For a Lifetime Book, 3 Audio Tapes, Phamplet on Marriage Strengthening Resources & Lenox First Christmas Together Ornament

My children's Bruneian "grandfather"

2010-04-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Just recently, we have been blessed to receive His Grace Bishop Cornelius Sim once again into our mission home/center here in Timor. Bishop Sim first came to Timor in 2005, then returned again in 2007 (if my poor memory serves me right!). This recent visit was in line with the ordination of Timor's third bishop which you can read about here.

Bishop Sim has always been considered a dear family friend, dating way back to the years my family and I spent in Brunei. I remember when I was still a mere 13 years old, attending my first Festival of Praise (a gathering of Catholic youth from all 3 parishes in Brunei), and I was a bit shocked to hear my counterparts from Seria Parish referring to him (their Parish Priest at the time) as "Fr. Corny." I was a bit intimidated at first by his "aura" and he seemed a bit too serious for my taste, but over the years, "Fr. Corny" has turned out to be one of my/our best-loved pastors and personal friends.
My most favorite memory of Bishop Sim was when I sought his counsel and guidance after going on mission for 2 weeks to Timor Leste. At that time, I was a single missionary for CFC's Family Ministries based in the Borneo-East Timor Mission Center. I will never forget Bishop's words of wisdom, love and encouragement when I poured out to him my convictions, doubts, inspiration, fear, etc etc (whether to continue with my relationship with the man who is now my hubby, or become a nun!). Truly, God blessed our married and family life from the start by including Bishop Sim in the crucial decisions!

This is why my post is titled the way it is. Because to me (and hubby too!), Bishop Sim has become like a "father" and not just in the spiritual sense. His down to earth ways, simplicity and earnestness in serving God and His flock never fail to amaze us.
That's why our almost 4 year old Tim calls him "Lolo* Bishop"!!!
*Tagalog for Grandfather

We love you Lolo Bishop! May God always bless and guide you as you serve His people! We are TRULY RICH, GREATLY BLESSED, DEEPLY LOVED because of people like you!

Financial Breakdown of Raising a Child

2010-04-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

(A repost from www.stoutboys.blogspot.com. A MUST READ FOR ALL PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS! :) Blessings upon everyone!)

The government recently calculated the cost of raising a child from birth to 18 and came up with $160,140.00 for a middle income family. Talk about price shock! That doesn't even touch college tuition.

But $160,140.00 isn't so bad if you break it down. It translates into:

* $8,896.66 a year,
* $741.38 a month,
* $171.08 a week.
* A mere $24.24 a day!
* Just over a dollar an hour.

Still, you might think the best financial advice is; don't have children if you want to be 'rich.' Actually, it is just the opposite.

What do you get for your $160,140.00?

* Naming rights. First, middle, and last!
* Glimpses of God every day.
* Giggles under the covers every night.
* More love than your heart can hold.
* Butterfly kisses and Velcro hugs.
* Endless wonder over rocks, ants, clouds, and warm cookies.
* A hand to hold usually covered with jelly or chocolate.
* A partner for blowing bubbles and flying kites.
* Someone to laugh yourself silly with, no matter what the boss said or how your stocks performed that day.

For $160,140.00, you never have to grow up. You get to:

* finger-paint,
* carve pumpkins,
* play hide-and-seek,
* catch lightning bugs,
* never stop believing in Santa Claus.

You have an excuse to:

* keep reading the Adventures of Piglet and Pooh,
* watch Saturday morning cartoons,
* go to Disney movies, and
* wish on stars.

You get to frame rainbows, hearts, and flowers under refrigerator magnets and collect spray painted noodle wreaths for Christmas, hand prints set in clay for Mother's Day, and cards with backward letters for Father's Day.

For a mere $24.24 a day, there is no greater bang for your buck. You get to be a hero just for:

* retrieving a Frisbee off the garage roof,
* taking the training wheels off a bike,
* removing a splinter,
* filling a wading pool,
* coaxing a wad of gum out of bangs, and
* coaching a baseball team that never wins but always gets treated to ice cream regardless.

You get a front row seat in history to witness the:

* First step,
* First word,
* First bra,
* First date,
* First time behind the wheel.

You get to be immortal. You get another branch added to your family tree, and if you're lucky, a long list of limbs in your obituary called grandchildren and great grandchildren. You get an education in psychology, nursing, criminal justice, communications, and human sexuality that no college can match.

In the eyes of a child, you rank right up there under God. You have all the power to heal a boo-boo, scare away the monsters under the bed, patch a broken heart, police a slumber party, ground them forever, and love them without limits, so one day they will, like you, love without counting the cost. That is quite a deal for the price!!!!!!!

Love & enjoy your children & grandchildren & great-grandchildren!!!!!!! It's the best investment you'll ever make!!!!!!!!!

(Our family enjoying one another ^_^)

Making Money Online Especially From Blogging

2010-04-24T17:37:00.001-07:00

This blog, just like many others similar to it, was started in the hope of being able to bless the world through sharing of experiences, tips and pointers on how to create alternative streams of income (passive and otherwise) for the average person, especially wives and mothers like yours truly.

Since I am relatively new to the blogging world, and there are so many resources out there on the Web alone, I thought I'd just share some videos I came upon on YouTube. I hope this helps bloggers like me get an idea of how to earn from what we do (though I have yet to put everything into practice!). :) A blessed Good Shepherd's Sunday to us all! :)

Making Money Online Especially From Blogging

2010-04-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

This blog, aside from being a venue to share our family's life adventures with you, just like many others similar to it, was started in the hope of being able to bless the world through sharing of experiences, tips and pointers on how to create alternative streams of income (passive and otherwise) for the average person, especially wives and mothers like yours truly.

Since I am relatively new to the blogging world, and there are so many resources out there on the Web alone, I thought I'd just share some videos I came upon on YouTube. I hope this helps bloggers like me get an idea of how to earn from what we do (though I have yet to put everything into practice!). :) A blessed Good Shepherd's Sunday to us all! :)

Financial Literacy and Your Family

2010-04-23T10:35:00.001-07:00

What role does financial literacy play in raising a family?

A very, very BIG one.

Families, especially those with young children like mine, need to have a strong financial foundation to ensure that nothing is lacking when the time comes (read: basic essentials people - food, water, clothing, shelter. etc plus the luxury item here and there *winks*). All parents, well, most at least, want to be able to give the best to their kids.

A lot of times however, we fail to do so.

We work ourselves to the bone, some even juggling 2 or 3 jobs at the same time. Still we fail to do so.

We try to save part of our income, hoping that that "rainy day" won't come too soon.

We cut down on expenses, yet still the bills keep piling up.

Face it, we parents, no matter how hard we try, many many times fail to give the BEST to our kids.

But there is HOPE, people.

Don't despair.

You don't have to have a background in finance to be financially literate.

All you need is CONVICTION and COMMITMENT.

(More on this in the upcoming posts! Stay tuned!)

Financial Literacy and Your Family

2010-04-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

Truly Rich in the Bible

2010-04-23T09:37:00.003-07:00

Weekly Bible Verse – Being Truly Rich

This is taken from www.borrowfromnone.com, a cool Christian blog I discovered when I googled "truly rich meaning." :) Sharing this for all of us who sometimes forget to be grateful for what we have.

In my case, I'm truly grateful for my hubby, our 2 adorable children and all the extended members of our family, our friends, the opportunity to serve and do ministry and at the same time care for and teach our kids at home, among many, many other things. :)

Posted using ShareThis

Truly Rich in the Bible

2010-04-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

Another glimpse of our Truly Rich life ;)

2010-04-21T11:39:00.000-07:00

Musings and Reflections On Our Baucau Mission Trip (April 17-19)

Last weekend, the whole mission team made up of yours truly, hubby, Karen, Maun Chico and the 2 little ones went on a weekend mission trip to Baucau. Since we had already gone on a mission trip to the district before, I was a little bit more lax this time when it came to preparing and packing things for the kids (meaning this time, I didn't bring everything BUT the kitchen sink! haha).

It was a blessed, tiring, fulfilling, agonizing, heartwarming trip all in all. Going on mission is always exciting, but with 2 small kids tagging along, it's always TIRING too! Not just for me, but I'm sure for them as well. Praise GOD though for Karen, who was always willing to carry Rysse or play with Tim despite her being tired as well.

And for hubby of course, who was patient and loving despite his tiredness and aching muscles after driving for hours on rough, winding roads.
Maun Chico was a big help to us too, and I totally honor him again and again for his commitment to the Lord and to the mission. Despite having to leave his 4 young kids behind every time he goes on mission outside Dili (his wife is studying in Kupang, Indonesia at the moment), he puts his complete trust in the Lord that He will take care of them. Amazing faith!

(Maun Chico - Lord, I surrender all to You!)

We went to Baucau to conduct the "Living as a People of God" (LPG) formation series for the leaders and interested members. About 40 people came (I need to check the attendance sheets again!), a mixture of leaders and members from Baucau Kota, Fatumaca and Venilale (the furthest away, but the earliest to come! Kudos to them! Inspiring!). At the beginning, we had to have an emergency team meeting to decide if we should push through with the training (it was set at 9 am but by 1030 am only THREE people had arrived!) and have a prayer assembly instead.

But God's wisdom and Spirit prevailed and pushed us to push through with the LPG talks. SIX all in all! Hubby gave 2, I gave 2, and then 1 each for Karen and Maun Chico. (Pics of the actual LPG sessions are with Karen, hehehe). It was a LOOONG day but all in all very inspiring! Although there was one incidence at the end where patience and love was tested TO THE MAX, but God's Spirit of healing and unity was present and prevailed! HAHI BA NAI! PRAISE THE LORD!
We were blessed to be hosted by the Salesians of Baucau Kota on Saturday evening. Fr. Palomo Aguedo SDB was and continues to be a strong supporter of CFC and is always ready to give advice, input and inspiration. Praise GOD for Him and all Salesians, just like Fr. Manuel Ximenes SDB and Fr. Rolando Fernandez SDB, who hosted us Sunday night in Laga parish, about 1 hour's drive away from Baucau Kota. It was a pity though that Fr. Max and Fr. Rolando had to leave early Monday morning for Fuiloro, so we were only able to catch up with them for a little while Sunday night after their meeting with the Parish Pastoral Council. Even so, it was a blessed time for us all. (Bedbug bites and all! hehehe. Though I must remember to bring that bedbug spray every time we go on trips!)
Tim is shown below posing in front of the Uma Tradisional or Traditional House situated inside the Laga Parish compound. One of the funny and endearing things Tim said while we were in Laga was "I'm in heaven." He said this out of the blue during one of those times when we were just hanging out in the compound, waiting for the priests' meeting to end so we could find out where we'd be staying. I really thank God for helping Tim adjust well whenever we go on mission. Even though at the start he'll be like "I don't want to be here. Let's go home to Dili." Eventually he will get over it and just accept that he and we have to be where we have to be. THANK YOU LORD!
And here he is again, posing during our "Hasae Foto" (picture-taking) pit-stop to stretch our legs and take in the amazing view as well! It was cute too that during the rough parts of the trip (read: SUPER BUMPY, BACKACHE CAUSING! hehehe), Tim would suddenly say "Oh, I have to pray." Then he'd proceed to pray "God, please don't make the road bumpy anymore. Amen." What an inspiring boy our precocious preschooler is turning out to be!

All in all, what a wonderful trip it was. Despite Rysse developing a rather bad heat rash on her butt and back, it was still great. (By the way, TO ALL PARENTS OUT THERE, try applying virgin coconut oil whenever Baby has a rash. It works wonders!)

In the end I can't help praise God at all times for the TRULY RICH life we lead: a life RICH in faith, friendship and love. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU LORD!

Life is meant to be lived. BE TRULY RICH!

2010-04-21T04:46:00.001-07:00

The term "Truly Rich" is not originally mine to claim. I first came upon it when I read Bo Sanchez's books about simplifying one's lifestyle and living an abundant life, and especially in his book "8 Secrets of the Truly Rich". Reading these books have made me want to really live out the principles laid down by Bo (and perhaps many others before him, whose books I have yet to purchase when we go home to the Philippines).

As a Catholic lay missionary for my community (for the moment anyway *winks*), I used to think that I had to accustom myself to the simple salary that I get, and so my young family (especially our two small kids) would have to go without a lot of things. But after reading Bo's books, and hearing from other co-missionaries about "The Wealth Academy," plus having attended a series of financial literacy lectures himself, my husband and I have committed to give our all in striving to be truly rich in all that matters.

At this point, there may be people who are shaking their heads, thinking, "Ahhh.. greed has set in." Or perhaps "Envy has made her want to be rich." But to those who are thinking such thoughts, I reply with something that Bo Sanchez himself said: "I believe that the ultimate purpose of wealth is to love others".

After all, is it greed if we want to provide the best for our children, whom God has placed in our care during their time here on earth? Is it envy if we want to be able to take care of our aging parents, our siblings, and yet, have excess money to share with the poor? I don't think so. In fact, God never said that money is evil, but that the love of money is the root of evil.

Anyway, for those who are reading this blog, don't expect that this will be about "getting rich quick" or money-making schemes. It is actually just a not-so-plain wife-and-mom's attempt at sharing with you how BEING TRULY RICH in all that matters can shape and change one's outlook in life.

And for that, I have my Heavenly Father to thank. :)

In the meantime, if you're interested in reading related articles on being "truly rich", I've compiled some here for you, after googling "truly rich" and "truly rich meaning." Ah, the wonders of the world wide web.

The first article is an excerpt from Bo's introduction about his Truly Rich Club.

My name is Bo Sanchez.

For twenty years, I was a poor missionary.

It helped that I was single then. I had no babies that needed diapers or a wife to romance on dates or a house mortgage to pay. So poor was okay.

I didn’t need money. I was happy preaching, writing, and doing ministry work among the poor. I really thought that to love the poor, I had to become poor.

I also used to think that to be close to God, I had to be poor too. I had this subconscious belief that money was evil.

But over ten years ago, I began to change my beliefs. (Which by the way is where all radical changes start. As the Bible says, “By your faith, it shall be done unto you.”)

Today, I’m a Truly Rich missionary.

I chose to become an entrepreneur. I now run businesses, invest in real estate properties, and invest in stocks and other paper assets. As of this writing, I have 16 income streams flowing to my life.

Yes, I’m still a missionary. I still preach, write, and work among the poor, lifting them out of poverty. And the impact of my ministry has multiplied a hundred times more.

But in case you’re asking, I don’t drive a luxury car or own a mansion. Oh yes, I can now afford to buy them. But as a personal choice, I’ve decided to remain simple in my lifestyle. Why? Not because it’s wrong to own them. I repeat: It’s a personal choice. But I believe that the ultimate purpose of wealth is to love others. And I’ve made a choice to use a lot of my wealth to make this world a better place.

I’m Truly Rich because of two reasons: My passive income is much more than my monthly expenses—and so I’m able to tithe to God and give sacrificially for the ministry and the poor.

And that’s what I want you to experience.

Friend, I want to stop talking about me and start talking about you. I want you to enjoy the same blessing in your life. And the key is to change your beliefs and thinking…

To read more about this, log on to Bo's website for the Truly Rich Club.

This next article describes "richness" in more "worldly" (but not necessarily "evil" hehehe) terms. :)

The Definition of Rich: How an SEC Ruling Has Changed What It Means to be “Rich”
by Alexander Green, Chairman, Investment U; Investment Director, The Oxford Club

The original article is found here: http://www.investmentu.com/IUEL/2007/20070607.html

Thursday, June 7, 2007: Issue #681

Are you rich?

The definition of rich in the Oxford American Dictionary is “having a great deal of money or wealth.” But then, how much is a great deal?

Most Americans probably define rich as “someone who has a lot more money than me.” (That’s why taxing the rich is so popular politically. By definition, it leaves the vast majority of us out. “Don’t tax you and don’t tax me. Tax that fellow behind the tree.”)

Fortunately, the Securities and Exchange Commission has recently redefined what it means to be “rich.”

Why? Because the SEC restricts hedge fund ownership and other “private money” investments to the wealthy, whom they assume can take care of themselves.

This requires the regulatory body to define – and redefine – what it means to be “rich.” This year the SEC made a new ruling.

According to The Wall Street Journal, “The SEC now says investors need to have investible assets of at least $2.5 million, excluding equity in any homes or business, to be eligible to sign on a hedge fund’s dotted line. That’s a huge jump from the current requirement, which says individuals have to have a net worth of at least $1 million, including the value of primary residences, or an annual income of $200,000 for the previous two years for individuals or $300,000 for couples.”

Forget keeping up with the Joneses. Now you have to keep up with the SEC.

A Million’s Not Enough To Be Considered Rich

Clearly, the federal government believes that, if you really want to consider yourself wealthy and sophisticated, having a million dollars just doesn’t cut it anymore. In its defense, the SEC says it’s just trying to keep up with inflation and booming asset prices.

And there is no doubt that total wealth has been soaring in the U.S.

According to the Federal Reserve Surveys of Consumer Finance, 8% of total households in the U.S. have a net worth of $1 million or more, if you include home equity.

Unfortunately, the new definition of rich – a net worth of $2.5 million (excluding home and business equity) – applies to just 1% of the American population.

This has had the predictable effect of outraging many investors who are now shut out from hedge funds and other private investments.

I agree with them, frankly. Uncle Sam doesn’t have any legitimate business telling you which risks you can take and which ones you can’t. (As though money equates to intelligence or, worse, government bureaucrats and politicians knowing better than you do what’s good for you.)

If you have enough money to meet a fund’s investment minimum, you should be free to have a go at it. This is a risk-taking culture after all. Good risks often lead to large rewards. And those who use their freedom to take poor risks, well they learn soon enough.

But back to my original question. Are you truly rich?

Rich Is a Relative Concept

According to the latest statistics from the U.S. government, to be in the top 1% of U.S. households requires a net worth of $6 million. The minimum income required to be in the top 1% of American tax-filers is $300,000.

Don’t feel bad if you didn’t make the cut. As Henry David Thoreau once said, “A man is rich in proportion to the number of things which he can afford to let alone.” For many of the wiser among us, amassing a large sum of money is one of those things.

Besides rich is such a relative concept.

A few months ago I was listening to an interview with Bono, the singer for the rock band U2. (Bono has devoted a great deal of time and effort to relieving the plight of the poor in the Third World, a job that has won him accolades worldwide, as well as Time magazine’s 2005 award for “Man of the Year.”)

The interviewer asked Bono whether, with his astonishing wealth, the poor he was helping could in any way identify with his lifestyle.

“You have to understand,” Bono replied to the journalist, “that in these people’s eyes there is no difference between you and me.”

“You haven’t seen my salary,” the interviewer responded with a laugh.

“It doesn’t matter,” said Bono. “You have a roof over your head. Three squares a day. Clean drinking water. A doctor who sees you when you’re sick. In the eyes of these people, you have everything.”

Indeed. You may not qualify for hedge fund ownership. You may not have a six-figure income or a seven-figure net worth. But then you may still be exceedingly wealthy.

Good Investing,

Alex

In my next post, I'll be sharing a reflection on being TRULY RICH taken from www.borrowfromnone.com. The author gives a poignant yet timely reminder to us all about what is truly essential in this life. ;) BLESSINGS UPON US ALL!

Life is meant to be lived. BE TRULY RICH!

2010-04-21T04:46:00.000-07:00

For twenty years, I was a poor missionary.

It helped that I was single then. I had no babies that needed diapers or a wife to romance on dates or a house mortgage to pay. So poor was okay.

I didn’t need money. I was happy preaching, writing, and doing ministry work among the poor. I really thought that to love the poor, I had to become poor.

I also used to think that to be close to God, I had to be poor too. I had this subconscious belief that money was evil.

But over ten years ago, I began to change my beliefs. (Which by the way is where all radical changes start. As the Bible says, “By your faith, it shall be done unto you.”)

Today, I’m a Truly Rich missionary.

Yes, I’m still a missionary. I still preach, write, and work among the poor, lifting them out of poverty. And the impact of my ministry has multiplied a hundred times more.

I’m Truly Rich because of two reasons: My passive income is much more than my monthly expenses—and so I’m able to tithe to God and give sacrificially for the ministry and the poor.

And that’s what I want you to experience.

The original article is found here: http://www.investmentu.com/IUEL/2007/20070607.html

Thursday, June 7, 2007: Issue #681

Are you rich?

The definition of rich in the Oxford American Dictionary is “having a great deal of money or wealth.” But then, how much is a great deal?

Fortunately, the Securities and Exchange Commission has recently redefined what it means to be “rich.”

Why? Because the SEC restricts hedge fund ownership and other “private money” investments to the wealthy, whom they assume can take care of themselves.

This requires the regulatory body to define – and redefine – what it means to be “rich.” This year the SEC made a new ruling.

Forget keeping up with the Joneses. Now you have to keep up with the SEC.

A Million’s Not Enough To Be Considered Rich

And there is no doubt that total wealth has been soaring in the U.S.

According to the Federal Reserve Surveys of Consumer Finance, 8% of total households in the U.S. have a net worth of $1 million or more, if you include home equity.

Unfortunately, the new definition of rich – a net worth of $2.5 million (excluding home and business equity) – applies to just 1% of the American population.

This has had the predictable effect of outraging many investors who are now shut out from hedge funds and other private investments.

But back to my original question. Are you truly rich?

Rich Is a Relative Concept

Besides rich is such a relative concept.

The interviewer asked Bono whether, with his astonishing wealth, the poor he was helping could in any way identify with his lifestyle.

“You have to understand,” Bono replied to the journalist, “that in these people’s eyes there is no difference between you and me.”

“You haven’t seen my salary,” the interviewer responded with a laugh.

Indeed. You may not qualify for hedge fund ownership. You may not have a six-figure income or a seven-figure net worth. But then you may still be exceedingly wealthy.

Good Investing,

Alex

Different Definitions of "Truly Rich"

2010-04-20T22:42:00.001-07:00

The term "Truly Rich" is not originally mine to claim. I first came upon it when I read Bo Sanchez's books about simplifying one's lifestyle and living an abundant life, and especially in his book "8 Secrets of the Truly Rich". Reading these books have made me want to really live out the principles laid down by Bo (and perhaps many others before him, whose books I have yet to purchase when we go home to the Philippines).

As a Catholic lay missionary for my community (for the moment anyway winks), I used to think that I had to accustom myself to the simple salary that I get, and so my young family (especially our two small kids) would have to go without a lot of things. But after reading Bo's books, and hearing from other co-missionaries about "The Wealth Academy," plus having attended a series of financial literacy lectures himself, my husband and I have committed to give our all in striving to be truly rich in all that matters.

At this point, there may be people who are shaking their heads, thinking, "Ahhh.. greed has set in." Or perhaps "Envy has made her want to be rich." But to those who are thinking such thoughts, I reply with something that Bo Sanchez himself said: "I believe that the ultimate purpose of wealth is to love others".

After all, is it greed if we want to provide the best for our children, whom God has placed in our care during their time here on earth? Is it envy if we want to be able to take care of our aging parents, our siblings, and yet, have excess money to share with the poor? I don't think so. In fact, God never said that money is evil, but that the love of money is the root of evil.

Anyway, for those who are reading this blog, don't expect that this will be about "getting rich quick" or money-making schemes. It is actually just a not-so-plain wife-and-mom's attempt at sharing with you how BEING TRULY RICH in all that matters can shape and change one's outlook in life.

And for that, I have my Heavenly Father to thank. :)

In the meantime, if you're interested in reading related articles on being "truly rich", I've compiled some here for you, after googling "truly rich" and "truly rich meaning." Ah, the wonders of the world wide web.

The first article is an excerpt from Bo's introduction about his Truly Rich Club.

My name is Bo Sanchez.

For twenty years, I was a poor missionary.

It helped that I was single then. I had no babies that needed diapers or a wife to romance on dates or a house mortgage to pay. So poor was okay.

I didn’t need money. I was happy preaching, writing, and doing ministry work among the poor. I really thought that to love the poor, I had to become poor.

I also used to think that to be close to God, I had to be poor too. I had this subconscious belief that money was evil.

But over ten years ago, I began to change my beliefs. (Which by the way is where all radical changes start. As the Bible says, “By your faith, it shall be done unto you.”)

Today, I’m a Truly Rich missionary.

Yes, I’m still a missionary. I still preach, write, and work among the poor, lifting them out of poverty. And the impact of my ministry has multiplied a hundred times more.

I’m Truly Rich because of two reasons: My passive income is much more than my monthly expenses—and so I’m able to tithe to God and give sacrificially for the ministry and the poor.

And that’s what I want you to experience.

Friend, I want to stop talking about me and start talking about you. I want you to enjoy the same blessing in your life. And the key is to change your beliefs and thinking…

To read more about this, log on to Bo's website for the Truly Rich Club.

This next article describes "richness" in more "worldly" (but not necessarily "evil" hehehe) terms. :)

The Definition of Rich: How an SEC Ruling Has Changed What It Means to be “Rich”

by Alexander Green, Chairman, Investment U; Investment Director, The Oxford Club

The original article is found here: http://www.investmentu.com/IUEL/2007/20070607.html

Thursday, June 7, 2007: Issue #681

Are you rich?

The definition of rich in the Oxford American Dictionary is “having a great deal of money or wealth.” But then, how much is a great deal?

Fortunately, the Securities and Exchange Commission has recently redefined what it means to be “rich.”

Why? Because the SEC restricts hedge fund ownership and other “private money” investments to the wealthy, whom they assume can take care of themselves.

This requires the regulatory body to define – and redefine – what it means to be “rich.” This year the SEC made a new ruling.

Forget keeping up with the Joneses. Now you have to keep up with the SEC.

A Million’s Not Enough To Be Considered Rich

And there is no doubt that total wealth has been soaring in the U.S.

According to the Federal Reserve Surveys of Consumer Finance, 8% of total households in the U.S. have a net worth of $1 million or more, if you include home equity.

Unfortunately, the new definition of rich – a net worth of $2.5 million (excluding home and business equity) – applies to just 1% of the American population.

This has had the predictable effect of outraging many investors who are now shut out from hedge funds and other private investments.

But back to my original question. Are you truly rich?

Rich Is a Relative Concept

Besides rich is such a relative concept.

The interviewer asked Bono whether, with his astonishing wealth, the poor he was helping could in any way identify with his lifestyle.

“You have to understand,” Bono replied to the journalist, “that in these people’s eyes there is no difference between you and me.”

“You haven’t seen my salary,” the interviewer responded with a laugh.

Indeed. You may not qualify for hedge fund ownership. You may not have a six-figure income or a seven-figure net worth. But then you may still be exceedingly wealthy.

Good Investing,

Alex

Next we have different people's definitions of being "truly rich" taken from http://www.thestar.com/living/article/513507. As you will see, most people realize these things during special times of the year, like Christmas, and in this case, Thanksgiving.

'I am truly rich in all that matters'

Published On Sat Oct 11 2008

Conviction Of The Heart

2010-04-09T10:46:00.001-07:00

God has been whispering something to me of late...

Or is it just the cry of my heart, which I am hoping is an echo of God's answer to my soul's desire?

Lately I have been asking Him (and hubby) again and again: WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN TO US IN JUNE? (June is when we return to the Philippines, after almost 5 years of being assigned to Timor Leste *or East Timor as most people call it* for mission).

What will our new assignment be?

What will our typical workdays be like? (All this time, the mission office has also been our mission home, so we've been blessed to be work at home parents :) Though occasionally we have to go on pastoral visits to the parishes, members' homes, the districts, etc etc, WE HAVE BEEN BLESSED TO BE A FAMILY ON MISSION.)

Will I be able to breastfeed Rysse until she turns 2 years old, just like I was able to with Tim? (She's 9 months as of this writing and I TRULY BELIEVE THAT BREAST IS BEST. So I want to give her the BEST just like her Kuya).

Will Tim be able to adjust to being left behind at home (WHERE WILL WE STAY? Another question! LOL) while Papa, Mama and Rysse go to the office? Who will make sure he takes his nap? Will he be able to follow the routine he's been so used to all this time?

What about our desire to homeschool Tim? Will we be able to do that? How? Can we afford to live on one income if and when the time comes to start homeschooling him?

So many other questions. And no answers so far.

EXCEPT one.

Matthew 6:33

"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."

"..be concerned above everything else with the Kingdom of God and with what he requires of you, and he will provide you with all these other things." (Good News version)

So right now, I have to TRUST. To seek God's kingdom above all else. Just like Tim says, "Calm down Mama. You have to take a deep breath," when he sees me getting all worked up about something (which he did or didn't do. hehehe)

I hear the Holy Spirit saying "Calm down. Take a deep breath. BREATHE ME IN."

I hear my Father saying, "In time. ALL IN MY TIME. All will be revealed. REST."

I feel my Beloved holding me, "What you desire is also My desire. Especially for your family. Especially for your kids. TRUST."

"Would any of you who are fathers give your son a stone when he asks for bread? Or would you give him a snake when he asks for a fish? As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" (Matthew 6: 9-11)

Therefore, I will BREATHE. I will REST. I will TRUST.

I choose to do so. This is my conviction. This is the state of my heart.

Beloved, have Your way. You are our Everything. May our family be founded on You and on Your love. Amen.

Easter should be forever :)

2010-04-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Today is the Wednesday in the Octave of Easter.

It is STILL Easter!

Easter isn't just for a day.. we actually celebrate Easter for six weeks after the actual Easter Sunday, until the Solemnity of the Lord's Ascension.

Then comes another big feast day for us Catholics: PENTECOST!

Incidentally, last Holy Week led me to reflect on the meaning of Easter in my own life.

I've come to realize and decide that Easter should be FOREVER. Forever remembered, stored away in my heart and lived out every day.

It's funny and sad at the same time that many Catholics and Christians nowadays consider Christmas to be the biggest feast/time to celebrate. Complete with decorations, carols, sumptuous feasts, carolers, gifts, etc etc.

But what about EASTER? How come we don't decorate our houses to celebrate the day when Jesus rose from the dead, and conquered death and sin for us all?

How come we don't go from house to house singing "Jesus Christ Is Ris'n Today" or other Easter hymns?

How come we don't send each other Easter cards in the same way we send Christmas cards (we list down every person we want to send cards to, etc etc)?

How come we don't have Buena Noche on Easter eve (the night of the Easter Vigil)?

I'm not saying that I or we as a family were able to do all these things this Easter either. But we have decided that next year onwards, Easter (and the Holy Week before it) will definitely include more preparation on our parts and more activities for the kids and the whole family. We will start our own Easter traditions.

To remind us that Easter should be forever in our hearts. :)

(Incidentally, we as a Mission Team and family celebrated Easter in our own simple way. Karen baked a delicious chocolate cake and Anthony cooked some spaghetti. :) Tim asked Karen to put a candle on the cake, his "birthday/Easter" cake. Yum yum! Kudos to Karen and Anthony and thanks for our simple, sumptuous Easter feast!)

To live is to die...

2010-04-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

As I write this, it is already Good Friday. And in the wee small hours of the morning, I want to declare to the world that I AM GRATEFUL.

I am grateful to my God. For my family. For my friends. For my community. For my faith. For Mother Church.

There are many customs, traditions and “superstitions” associated with today, the day the entire Christian world (and some non-Christians as well) remembers what True, Sacrificial Love means, as personified by Jesus dying on the cross.

Some of these customs and traditions are considered silly, some sacred.

As for myself, I want to start a tradition of my own. To always remember how GRATEFUL I should be for this life that I have and probably do not deserve.

Yet because of Ultimate Love on the Cross, I am worthy.

And not just me.

My entire family. My husband. Our precious kids. My parents, brothers and sister, in-laws, etc etc.

All of us are worthy.

Because when He died, we lived.

Today I’d like to recall the lyrics of a beloved hymn I grew up with in Brunei…

“To live is to die

And to laugh is to cry

To live is to love with all your heart

To live is to walk

And to talk in Your word

And to live is to…” (oops, forgot the last line! LOL)

But the point is..

TO LIVE is TO DIE…

And as God holds my future and the future of our family in His hands now, especially what will happen in the next few months, I am going to have to learn to DIE..

DIE to my personal preferences..

DIE to my own wants and needs…

DIE to my hopes and dreams..

And SURRENDER all to HIM..

So that I may LIVE..

So that my preferences will be what He prefers..

So that my wants and needs will be fulfilled by Him, in His own time and on His own terms..

So that my hopes and dreams will live through His grace…

Indeed, what joy it is to DIE..

in order that one may LIVE..

Children Learn What They Live

2010-03-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

Children Learn What They Live by Dorothy Law Nolte

If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.

May our children live as You want them to O Beloved, and may we open ourselves to Your will for them and for us as parents so that they may learn all the good things in life.

Time to rest, reflect and work

2010-03-28T00:12:00.000-07:00

Holy Week has just started with the celebration of Palm Sunday, Celebration of the Lord's Passion. This is one of, if not THE MOST, meaningful times of the year for us Catholics and Christians.

A time to rest.
In the arms of the almighty God.

A time to reflect.
On the power of His work on the cross.

A time to work.
On our hearts, on our attitudes, on ourselves.
(And in my case, a time to work on things left undone due to procrastination. :)

May this time be a BLESSED one for us all.

We love you Jesus.

Help us to live the life of adventure that only YOU can promise and grant us.

Most of all, help me to be a BLESSED wife and mom so I can be a BLESSING to my family and community and everyone around me.

Thank You Lord.

Amen.

Love is priceless.. Families are forever...

2010-03-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

I love my family.

My nuclear family: hubby Anthony, kids Tim and Rysse.

My extended family: Santiagos and Rodriguezes (no pic to show yet though for the Rodriguezes!)

FAMILIES ARE FOREVER! :)

God is in my heart. - Tim, 3 yrs 5 months old

2010-03-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

Earlier (well yesterday, strictly speaking :) we were having dinner at a local fast food place (if you can call it that! LOL) after having a Lenten Recollection and Confession (which was the BEST part for me!). Sr. Christelle Zabalerio, MM, was with us.

Tim was being his usual playful won't-sit-down-coz-he's-too-excited self when suddenly he knelt down on the floor, made the sign of the cross and prayed "Lord, please help me, Amen."

At first we thought he was kneeling because he saw something on the TV which was placed above the counter. So we asked him about it...

"What are you doing Kuya Tim?"

"I'm praying to God."

"God? Where is He?" (Again we thought he'd seen an image or picture of God or something similar on the TV).

(Then, to our delight Tim replied.)

"God is in my heart."

Aaaawww... *sniffs* What a blessing you are to us dearest Tim!

The conversation continued:

"Who taught you that?"

"Papa."

Double aaawwwwww.... *sniff sniff sniff* tears of pride..

THANK YOU LORD FOR MY HUSBAND, WHO STRIVES TO BE THE BEST PASTOR, PROTECTOR AND PROVIDER FOR OUR FAMILY.

AND FOR TIM, WHO IS YOUR DAILY REMINDER OF LOVE, PATIENCE AND JOY FOR US ALL.

And of course, FOR RYSSE, OUR ANGEL BABY.

It's 5 am already! Arrrghhh...

2010-03-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh.

It's already 5 am. I've been working since 1 am.

I have about 2 to 3 hours left before my babies wake up.

Aaarrrrrggghhh...

If I didn't love You as much as I did, I'd be sleeping blissfully right now. :)

But then again, what is another sleepless night if it means that other people will be blessed?

I just hope and pray that my sleeplessness won't turn into crankiness, short-temperedness and all the "negative-nesses" that can ruin the day, not just for myself, but especially for my loved ones, MOST especially hubby and the 2 kiddos.

Oh. And gotta find me some matching exercises for Tim because lately that's all the "learning" he only wants to do. Hmmm... Wonder what time I'll go to sleep this time?! ;-)

"Homepreschooling" - My New Favorite Term

2010-03-20T10:22:00.000-07:00

Lately Tim has been pleasantly surprising me with his eagerness to "learn" by getting his workbook out on his own and declaring to me "It's time to learn, Mama!" Although he does get selective about what we do and how we do things, like he insists that a circle is drawn "this way, Mama" and that we should take turns in doing his pre-writing exercises, it has become a simple pleasure for me to be his "teacher."

I've been repeatedly asking Tim if he'd like to try another school, or at least go with us to see one, but he always comes up with the same answer - "This is our school" while gesturing towards our home or room.. And always says "And you're my teacher."

Aaaawwww... What will we do when it's time to leave the mission area, where it's most convenient to "homepreschool" Tim (Thanks to Susan Lemons for this term!) because our home is also the mission office?! What will I do then, Lord?! Please show us the way!

In the meantime, I think I'm going to homepreschool Tim as much as I can, as long as I can. :)

On Discernment and Decisions

2010-03-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

Right now, my family and I are facing a crossroads in our life. The decision/s that we're faced with will impact us as individuals: as husband and wife, as parents, and for our children, as son and daughter. Indirectly, it may affect our extended families and community as well.

Discernment.. what an agonizing, purifying process...

What a fitting way to go through LENT.. haha..

I only pray that we make the decision/s HE wants for us.. What is BEST because it is according to HIS plans...

Jeremiah 29: 11 - I hold you to this LORD! I love You, my Constant, Unchanging Beloved!

COJ or CFA (Catholic Preschool or Homeschool?)

2010-03-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Right now we are in the process of discerning what God wants for our kids' education. Tim just turned 3 yrs and 5 months and we've been wanting to enroll him in a preschool or something similar here in Timor Leste. However, so far, all the schools that he could apply to are categorized as "international" (read: EXPENSIVE hehehe) and also, every time we ask him, he'll say "I don't want to go to school. This is our school. Here." (And he gestures around him). "And you're my teacher, Mama!" (Aaawww... *heart melts* )

Truthfully, ever since I learned about homeschooling from Bo Sanchez (Catholic Filipino Academy or CFA) and other resources online (mostly from non-Catholic Christian sites, which by the way are very, very good! :)) I've been thinking a lot about what Tim always says about going to school (read above :)) Perhaps homeschooling IS the way to go for us, and God is using Tim to send me a message.

On the other hand, if we do go for homeschooling, we know it will be a HUGE commitment, especially on my part. I'd have to really stay at home (or find work I can do from home) to be able to teach Tim (and Rysse when she's old enough). Which means Anthony would be the only one left working.

The question in this case would then be "Can we afford to live on one income?"

Hmmm...

On the other hand, there are several good preschools (in the Philippines) that I've discovered online. One of them is Cradle of Joy (COJ), which has really caught my attention, since they advertise themselves as a Catholic Progressive School, and claim that their curriculum is the closest aligned to homeschooling. After having read some of the testimonials of parents who have sent their kids to preschool there, I'm half convinced that COJ is the school that we've been looking and praying for. (Although, at present I have no idea how much the tuition fees there cost! Perhaps when I do find out I'll change my mind! hahaha.)

Anyway, for the meantime, while we are still here in Timor, I guess I'll just make the most of Tim wanting to go to "school" at home with myself as his "teacher." I've managed to get some good materials online (here's a sample from www.dreamenglish.com: howmanyfish) and from the bookstores in the Philippines, and hopefully I'll be able to teach Tim the basic preschool concepts he needs to know at his age. At least for the next few months, that's how our set-up will be.

What do you think? COJ or CFA? :)

Instant Preschool Lessons During Long "Adult" Meetings

2010-03-12T12:47:00.000-08:00

Earlier today (well, yesterday, technically speaking), hubby and I had a meeting with Fr. Aguedo Palomo,a Filipino Salesian missionary. As usual, we had the kids with us, and as usual, Anthony ended up alone in the meeting because, as usual, Tim got bored and decided to drag Mama and baby sister Rysse outside to play.

The Salesian community house in Baucau Kota, just like other Salesian houses in Timor, has an abundance of green growth inside their premises. Prompted by my desire to make the most out of missing the meeting, and my desire to expose Tim to basic preschool concepts as a footstep towards taking the still-to-be-discerned-and-finalized dive into homeschooling, I tried giving Tim some basic Science lessons inside the garden.

We ended up having lots of fun and Tim learned quite a few things in the 30 minutes or so we had to wait outside:

1. The difference between living and non-living things
I'd ask: "Tim, is this living or non-living?" Then proceed to explain: "Yes, because it grows! And needs food, fresh air, water and sunlight, etc etc."

2. How to tell if a plant is dead or alive
I showed him the brown, withered stems or leaves and the green, upright stems and green leaves.

3. What makes the leaves color green (Chlorophyll)
"Can you say `cholorophyll' Tim?" "Repeat after Mama, "klo-ro-fill."

4. The concept of "Different" and "Same"
He pointed out for me which plants had the same leaves and which were different.

5. Reinforcement of shapes
Tim already knows his basic shapes and I asked him to describe the shapes of the leaves on each plant. :)

When Tim got bored of that, we went inside the waiting room (the meeting was in the Refectory) and played "I Spy" and "What Animal Makes This Sound?" and "Name That Nursery Rhyme/Tune." I was able to incorporate some lessons on phonics and music there. :)

After that, we proceeded to the Refectory where Tim saw a feather duster lying around. He picked it up and after I'd explained to him its purpose, started dusting and cleaning the tables and shelves in the Refectory without my prompting. So he ended up learning a "life-skill" which is also important for preschoolers like him.

This afternoon made me realize once again the importance of being open to opportunities to teach Tim, wherever and whenever. Learning doesn't just happen in school but SHOULD take place anywhere and everywhere. And the best teacher for your child.. is YOU! :)

Blessings on Tim/Rysse's 1st Almost Week-long Mission Trip

2010-03-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

"Lord, there is no god to compare with you; you are great and do wonderful things, you are the only God." Psalm 85:8, 10

As I write, er, rather type this my family and I are ending our 1st mission trip together to the mountains of Baucau, Timor Leste. We left Dili on Tuesday and tomorrow (Saturday) will be going back, after visiting Laga, Quelicai, Fatumaca and of course, Baucau Kota. All beautiful places where we experienced God's amazing blessings!

In Laga, we met up with Fr. Jojo San Juan SDB at the orphanage run by the sisters there. We were able to go to mass and even if Tim was misbehaving a bit (he always does so during Tetun mass, and I can't blame him, he can't understand Tetun so it's hard for him to sit and try to listen! He behaves much better during English mass, though when his playmates are around, hay naku! It's hard for him to sit still!) Anyway, what a blessing it was to go to mass, I miss going to Tetun mass!

The trip to Quelicai was tiring and involved quite a bit of bodybumping i.e. the road was SOOOO bad! Rysse had fallen asleep in the pick-up but woke up after we had started on the bumpy road. All I could do was pray and hang on tight to Rysse, at the same time checking on Kuya Tim from time to time as he was sitting in the passenger seat beside Anthony. Praise GOD we got to Quelicai safe and sound, and what a beautiful, simple, cool place to visit!

The sky above us was filled with stars, and seemed so close. Reminded me of my single missionary days in Fuiloro way back in 2001, when God first made my heart beat for Timor Leste. He made me fall in love with Him back then (to the point that I considered breaking up with Anthony to pursue the religious life! Good thing God intervened and guided me through family and friends! :)) Being in Quelicai with my family reminded me of God's desire for me to FALL IN LOVE with Him every day, through my service as a wife, mom and missionary. Indeed what a blessing! (Thank you, Fr. Jojo! You are a great instrument of God's love and wisdom for us!)

After spending the morning taking pictures and catching up with Fr. Rui Hornay, another SDB missionary in Quelicai, we went back to Baucau, treated ourselves to a sumptuous filling lunch, and headed off again to Fatumaca. Here we were to stay with one of our CFC leaders. Now, don't get me wrong here people, by nature I am not a spoiled brat nor choosy about where to stay, etc etc.(I have my parents to thank for that! Love you po Papa and Mama!) But ever since I became a mom, it's been very challenging for me to say "YES LORD! Send me wherever You want, I don't care what happens as long as I'm following Your will for my life!" Mostly because wherever He sends me, there goes my two young kids as well.

In the case of Fatumaca, I was pretty hesitant because I know here in Timor, especially in the districts, not every place is comfy and cozy. Not every place has running water and 24-hour electricity. So I prepared myself for the worst and prayed for the best. And you know what?

God answered my prayers.

It wasn't the best place we had stayed in. But nor was it the worst.

At least there was electricity. The room we stayed in was simple but comfortable. Our hosts were kind enough to prepare hot water for the kids' bath. There was enough water stored up for us to use (though, as usual, the bathroom was located outside the house, at least it wasn't far off in the jungle, unlike in some other places!) The food served was simple fare to many, but a delicious feast for us.

But the greatest blessing of all was the LOVE we felt through the people there: our hosts, YFC Fatumaca's Couple Coordinator, our CFC leaders there and everyone who came out to meet, greet and eat with us. Despite my fears for the kids' health (I made sure they had mosquito repellant on always, tried to keep them at a distance from our hosts' kids who had coughs and fever, and discreetly discouraged contact with "questionable" objects and people) I knew that being there was what God wanted for us. To remind us that He is our ONE God, and that we have ONE faith and baptism through Him.

After Fatumaca, we journeyed back to Baucau. (If you're wondering how in the world we were able to keep precocious Tim occupied during all those road trips, you can read about it here).

Our first day in Baucau was a day of rest, a time for the kids to recover from the long road trips and a time to just BE a family. What a great blessing!

Earlier (well, yesterday, as it's already 5 am Saturday here) we picked up Karen and sent her to Fatumaca, and I was so inspired again by her commitment to serve the Lord! If we hadn't sent her in the pick-up, she would've walked a long way to get to her host's place (same as ours). And would've gotten soaked in the rain! It just amazes me how much love for the Beloved can make one crazy, willing to do things other people normally wouldn't do if given the choice!

We returned to Baucau and met up with Fr. Aguedo Palomo SDB, another inspiring Filipino missionary and then had a loooong meeting with the leaders of CFC Baucau. Praise GOD everything turned out ok! I'm so proud of hubby Anthony for leading the meeting so well!

This mission trip has been a HUGE blessing for me personally! I've come to realize once again how AWESOME, GRACIOUS, KIND AND FORGIVING my Beloved Jesus is. How wonderful, funny and sweet my hubby Anthony is. How intelligent, patient and caring our first-born Tim is. How sweet, easygoing and angelic our little princess Rysse is. How BLESSED I am, we are, compared to others. How I have no right to complain when others are far worse off than I am yet they choose to be happy and don't complain nor compare their lives with others'.

After all, if one has a roof over one's head, clothes on one's back (and front as well LOL), three meals (and sometimes even more!) a day, complete and functioning body parts, and all the other basic necessities of life (not to mention a few luxuries as well!), what right does one have to complain?

Instead, COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS! You'll realize you have so much to live for, so much to be thankful for! BE BLESSED AND BE A BLESSING, my friends! :) Especially during this Lenten season. :)

(To see more pics of our Leste Mission Trip, click here if you're friends with me on FB :)

How To Keep Your Preschooler Entertained During Long Trips

2010-03-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

As of this writing, hubby, Tim, Rysse and I are on Day 4 of our mission trip to the East of Timor Leste (translated literally to English: East of East East! LOL). It has been four days of long road travel to four different places, some parts smooth sailing, others really bumpy! All in all though, the trip has been a great opportunity for fun family bonding, especially with our preschooler Tim! Here's how we've been keeping him entertained during the tiring trip:

1. Keep lots of snacks on hand, especially his favorites! Fruit like grapes, apples, pears (kept fresh in a cooler), wafer biscuits (newly discovered goodies for Tim while on vacation in Manila), and (forgive me here, health-conscious moms everywhere!) "sometimes" food like candies and gummy bears! (given to him in "emergency" situations only, i.e. when he's extremely bored or cranky already) :)

2. Keep him hydrated as well with lots of water, juice and the occasional soft drink (Oh dear!).

3. Play games during car rides like "I Spy" and games we made up ourselves like "What animal makes this sound?" or "Singing Silly Songs".

4. Talk to him about the beautiful scenery :) And the animals we pass by like the horses, goats, pigs, etc

5. Explain to him why we're going where we're going and why we're doing what we're doing - here is a great opportunity to share with him what we do for a living :)

6. Let him rest and take a nap or two :)

7. PRAY! We pray with him while we're on the road and ask for God's protection and blessing :)

All in all, it's been a blast not just for Tim, but for the whole family so far, though there have been some challenges/power struggles/tantrums/tears involved. :) But thanks to a lot of preparation and planning, these have been minimal compared to the joys and perfect moments shared! :)

How about YOU friends?

What do you do to keep your kid entertained on long trips? :)

Feel free to comment :)

2 kids + 1 whole day conference = LOTs of "luggage" :)

2010-03-06T11:34:00.000-08:00

It is now approaching 5 am Dili Time.. yikes! :) Pretty soon, in about 2 hours, the alarm will be ringing. And we will start preparing for a looong day ahead. We'll be taking the 2 kiddos to the CFC Leaders Conference. Hmm... which means we'll be taking along lots of "luggage" that they will or may need for the day... (funny though, the other parents here in Timor can get by with bringing just the bare essentials...)

But for an OC mom like me, who likes to make sure that everything is prepared and planned for (yet is FAR from being the organized, uncluttered person I hope to be!), these are the "essentials" that will be going into the kids' bags:

1. Extra clothes (2 sets for each kid)
2. Diapers and diaper change essentials for Rysse (Drapolene cream, cloth for drying those delicate, rash-prone folds, changing mat, baby soap *don't want to use wipes anymore, as much as possible*)
3. Baby wipes (for cleaning hands, faces, feet, etc etc)
4. Hats to protect them from the sun
5. INSECT REPELLENT - must keep them protected from the rampant dengue and malaria diseases! using deet-free, citronella based (currently from humanheartnature) given by truest friend M!
6. Towelettes - 3 each (to wipe the kids' sweat *hopefully not blood nor tears!*, etc)
7. Small rattle and teether for Rysse
8. Toys/activity books for Tim - whatever can fit in his Thomas and Friends bag (thank you, Ninang Gela!)
9. Portable DVD player and DVDs (in case of emergency only! To keep Tim still :) Hmm.. but still deciding whether to really bring this!)
10. A pair of eating utensils each, in their portable utensil case
11. Tim's baon (food & drink): Coco Balls and powdered Nespray milk (for breakfast!), cooked instant noodles (for lunch and snacktime: please forgive me, health-conscious moms everywhere!), 1 peeled pear, 1 peeled apple, wafer biscuits, 1 bottle of water
12. Rysse's baon: mashed avocado and baby rice cereal (for breakfast), mixed vegetables and soya dry Cerelac (for lunch - to be mixed with water just before eating), 1 sippy cup of water
13. 1 extra bottle of water - just in case, it's very, very hot here! :)
14. Small bottle of rubbing alcohol (disinfectant for those little hands, except Rysse's!)
15. Breastfeeding bib - though Rysse HATES being covered up when she nurses! (And I don't blame her! :)

Other stuff we'll be lugging along aside from the bags:
1. Baby sling
2. Stroller - Either Tim or Rysse can use this. Hopefully Tim will take his usual afternoon nap, and if he does, this will come in handy! :) He's a bit too big for the stroller, but well, it beats carrying him for the hour or two he'll be asleep! (Gotta save our backs, people! Especially if we're planning for more kids a few years down the road!)

Sometimes Hubby looks at everything I've prepared to take along for the kids and gives me this "Why are we bringing so many things again?" look.. However, many times during previous conferences, I know he's also grateful that I've chosen to "overprepare".. Keeping the kids happy is our number one priority! :)

Though at times I do wish I were one of those easygoing, no-need-to-bring-anything-we'll-just-make-do-with-what-we-have-and-what-is-there moms! Just like my dear co-CFC members here in Timor! hehehe. However, experience always tells me, never mind the extra "luggage". At least there's lesser chances of meltdowns and tantrums! :) (Or am I doing it the wrong way and teaching my kids to be UNflexible?!)

What do YOU think??!!

Lots of "luggage" or travel light?

Looking forward to your comments!

Guilty yet Grateful

2010-03-04T23:15:00.000-08:00

Dili. February 24, 2010. (This is a late post!)

My 3 year old son Tim is down with a sore throat. Yet despite his illness, he continues to be a source of joy (albeit many times, frustration too!), inspiration and amazement for us all!

After taking his antibiotics earlier this evening, Tim ended up throwing up everything he had eaten and drunk for dinner. LITERALLY EVERYTHING. In the panic that ensued, Anthony ended up bringing Tim to the bathroom to be cleaned up, and I started trying to clean up the mess on the bed, on the floor trailing to the bathroom. In my panic, and here, PLEASE FORGIVE ME, PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS and PEOPLE everywhere, I didn't keep an eye on almost 8 month old Rysse who was lying on the bed.

WRONG MOVE MAMA!

A few seconds later, I turned around to see Rysse falling off the bed. Correction, she had already fallen! I screamed and rushed to grab her, which made her all the more startled and scared and hurt, and she started screaming and crying. Her Papa opened the bathroom door and asked what had happened and between sobs, I explained to him what had transpired. Soon, Tim came out of the bathroom with Anthony, all cleaned up. I was still holding Rysse, trying to calm her down.

Tim: What happened to Rysse, Mama?

Me: She fell down Kuya, because I was trying to clean your suka (vomit).

Tim: I’m sorry po Mama. It’s my fault.

Me: It’s not your fault. It’s Mama’s.

Tim: No, it’s mine. Because I made suka (vomited). Wait po Mama. I’m going to pray for Babagirl (our nickname for Rysse).

He then proceeds to kneel in front of the little altar in our room, makes the sign of the cross and prays:

Tim: Lord, please help Babagirl. Amen.

And despite my heart breaking because I was guilty of negligence, I offered up a prayer of gratitude to the Lord, for reminding me that despite my imperfections as a mom, I must be doing something right.

(By God’s grace and thanks to her guardian angels, Rysse seems none worse for wear after her fall. Lucky for us too, that she landed on one of the soft footrugs on the floor beside our bed. Thank You, thank You, thank You Lord!)

To Tim and Rysse: Mama’s Confession of Guilt and Prayer of Gratitude

I know at times I fail to show you
Just how precious you are to me
There are times when I do not do
All that I should to make you happy
There are times when I lose my patience
Raise my voice and lift my hand in anger
When your endless chatter to me seems like nonsense
Though I know I should treat you better
For all the times in the past and still to come
When I should have been a better mom
I ask for your forgiveness
For you I only want the best
The best that God and the world has to offer
I thank the Lord at all times for you both
Papa and Mama’s beloved son and daughter
I will always wonder what I did to deserve you
Despite my wicked youth and imperfections
God decided to bless our union with you
Each of you sent to us from heaven
And so today I will offer up my thanksgiving
To the Lord the ruler of everything
For you, my children, my precious little ones
Together we will serve till His Kingdom comes.

I love you both very much!

Kids say the cutest things (continued)

2010-03-04T23:14:00.000-08:00

This morning Tim was drinking a cup of chocolate milk and playing with his wooden blocks (thank you Ninang Sister Socorro!) while I was singing “I Offer My Life.” He had heard the song yesterday during our morning worship with the Mission Team and still remembered it (what an amazing memory he has for a 3 year old! And I don’t mean to sound biased, but it’s true!). So he started singing along. In the usual manner of any precocious, inquisitive preschooler, he then asked me what the song meant, so I tried to explain to him in terms that I thought he’d understand.

Tim: What is the song talking about po, Mama?

Me: Well, it’s about us offering everything to God. It means whatever we do, we give it back to Him to make Him happy because we love Him.

Tim: We give to Him?

Me: Yes, everything we do. Like when we sing, or play with our blocks. Or like me now, I’m eating breakfast (gestures while holding sandwich in hand). When we work. When we pray, and play. Even when we drink and eat, we give everything to God.

(Upon hearing this, Tim gets this frowning, puzzled “I don’t want to share” look on his face and hides his cup of chocolate milk behind his back. LOL. I try to explain again to him.)

Me: It’s ok po Tim. I don’t mean we give to God our food and drink, like your milk. It just means when we eat or drink, we thank Him and want to make Him happy.

(Tim looks relieved and continues drinking from his cup. I am amused and amazed at his antics and offer a silent prayer of thanksgiving for this precious little boy.)

Later on in the morning, he says another endearing thing. This time it’s before his daily “Learning Time,” where I attempt to teach him age-appropriate preschool concepts for at least 30 minutes.

Me: Let’s pray before we start learning, and ask God to bless us, so that what we learn we will not forget.

Tim: Ok po Mama. Oh wait, wait.. I want to put my blanket on my feet first. Wait! Wait, God!

Me: (heart melting) Don’t worry, God will wait.

My prayer for you, my dear Kuya Tim, is that every day you will grow more and more to be the boy and eventually, the man, that God wants you to be. I only hope that despite your Papa’s and my faults and failures as your parents (and you know dear Tim, how imperfect we are!), God will still bless our desires for you, our hopes and dreams for you. We love you our dearest first-born!

The Joys of Motherhood

2010-03-04T22:18:00.000-08:00

Ah what joy it is to be a Mom!

Despite the stress that comes with parenthood, and motherhood, in particular, there are no words to describe how truly, wonderfully blessed I feel to be a mom.

A mom to two amazing, wonderful angels: almost 41 month old Tim, and almost 8 month old Rysse, whom I am blessed to raise with loving hubby Anthony (aka "Bebs" LOL)

It seems ages ago when I was a young, carefree single lady with all the time in the world and all the fearless dreams in her heart (which included setting up a free physiotherapy clinic for kids, and becoming a saint by dying in the mission field). At that time, I truly felt that the world was my oyster. I could do anything, be anything, try anything.

Fast forward to the present.

I am a wife. I am a mom of two. I am on mission for my Catholic charismatic community . I (along with my dear hubby) have started two small businesses on the side.

And along with these responsibilities comes stress. But not the I-can't-take-it-anymore-I'm-going-to-kill-myself kind of stress. But the more sweet kind. The stress that leaves you feeling blessed.

The kind of stress you feel when at the end of a long day, you still feel blessed despite the fact that your kids (and most of the time your hubby too!) are fast asleep and yet you can't join them because you still have work to do (in my case, translation, translation, translation). (Or blogs to update. hahaha. Must keep my fans/followers updated! hahaha) You feel blessed because you know that your work and efforts will be a blessing to your family and to your community.

The kind of stress you feel when at the end of a power struggle with your 3-year old kid about brushing his teeth and preparing for bed, he looks at you and says in a whimpering voice "I love you, Mama, please don't be angry with me." You feel blessed (and a bit ashamed) because this little boy loves you even if you don't deserve it.

Living with this kind of stress leaves one no choice but to rejoice and give thanks at all times. After all, who am I to complain when all around me there are people who don't have a roof over their heads, food on their tables, clean clothes on their back and water for their daily needs? Who am I to complain when I am blessed to have a husband who happily cooks for us so I don't have to, when I have someone who helps with the laundry and the housecleaning, when I have access to airconditioning in the hot, hot, hot place which we call home for now?

Indeed, I AM BLESSED TO BE STRESSED. Life is a great adventure, and the One who created me out of love will ensure that I will never be alone!

Join me as I journey on this road called life. Ride along with me as I juggle my daily tasks and tackle the obstacles that life will throw in my way. All of these are just adventures in our life, which help us get to our Final Destination: Home.

P.S. Welcome to the birth of my second blog, which will focus more on the joys and sorrows, ups and downs, of parenting, breastfeeding, and being a sort-of-work-at-home-mom, among other things. (You can check out my first "baby" here)

March 4, 2010

3.20am Dili Time

THE LANGUAGE OF LAUGHTER: PROPER PRONUNCIATION PLEASE!

2010-03-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

I remember a funny incident way back in 2005. It was the first time for us to be on foreign mission where we actually had to use the local language – Tetum - in all the talks that we would give. At first, we would give the talks in Bahasa because our Indonesian CFC brethren had already translated the basic teachings into Bahasa Indonesia. At least that way, we could do our CLPs and Youth Camps properly without having to worry about language barriers. But, as Timor Leste had already been independent from Indonesia for almost 6 years when we started our mission (we arrived in 2005), we were challenged more and more to use Tetum as it was more widely spoken and accepted by the Timorese.

During one of our first YFC Youth Camps, Anthony was giving Talk 4 on Receiving God’s Gift - the Power of the Holy Spirit. In one of the pointers on how we can receive the Holy Spirit, it is stated that we should “simply ask, and we will receive.” In the Tetum language, this translates into “husu deit, no ita sei simu.” This phrase is pronounced basically the way it is spelt out, particularly for the word “husu” the “hu” is pronounced the same way as the English word “who”. Therein lies the importance of proper pronunciation, as you will read further on.

So during Anthony’s talk, he was going over the pointers on receiving the Holy Spirit, when we noticed that at one point the participants started laughing. Even the service team couldn’t help giggling. Surprised, I asked one of the YFC members what prompted their laughter. He replied that Maun (in Tagalog, Kuya or older brother) Tony had mispronounced one of the words – instead of saying “husu” he had said “hosu.”

And what does “hosu” mean in English?

To pass gas.

Yikes! Talk about embarrassing!

Instead of saying “simply ask, and we will receive (the Holy Spirit)”, Anthony had said “simply fart (pardon the term), and we will receive…”

Needless to say, from that time on, we have made sure to pronounce properly our Tetum words, especially when giving talks.

The moral behind this story: to all you foreign missionaries and foreign missionary-wannabes out there – learn the language of your country, including proper pronunciation please! But even when you make mistakes speaking a foreign language, learn to laugh at yourself! The language of laughter bridges all gaps!

(Myself with some of the pioneers of YFC Timor Leste circa May 2005 @ The National University)

Reminiscing...

2010-02-28T12:08:00.000-08:00

November 22, 2006 @ Dili, Timor Leste

Yesterday, our son, Timothy Alan Santiago Rodriguez, turned 6 weeks old. For us, his proud parents, yesterday marked a milestone in our journey of love with God and with Tim. We have learned a lot of things since we came here as a missionary couple, but over the past 6 weeks, it seems that God has given us a lot more lessons to learn, especially as new parents.

Tina: Lesson # 1 - In all things we must keep our eyes, minds and hearts fixed on Jesus, pray always and ask for Mama Mary’s intercession.

Tim was born on October 10, the day the doctors said he was expected to be born. My waterbag broke at 5.30 am but since I had no labor pains yet, oxytocin was administered to augment my labor at 9.00 am. Before this, Anthony and I prayed the Holy Rosary in the waiting room at the hospital, offering all the Sorrowful Mysteries for a safe delivery and offering my soon-to-come labor pains for the conversion of souls, especially for the troubled people of Timor Leste. During labor, and my episiotomy repair afterwards, my focal points were a small figurine of the Holy Family, and a picture of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. When the pains were sometimes too much to bear, I would imagine the statue of Mama Mary and the figure of Jesus on the cross, at Aimutin Church, where we attended daily mass.

All these things helped me to stay focused and bear the pain of labor and of getting my episiotomy stitches, not once, but TWICE (the midwife didn’t do it right the first time, so the Pinay OB-Gyne ended up redoing some of the stitches! OUCH!). Focusing on Mama Mary and her “Be it done unto me according to Your word” attitude also helped me to undergo the initial discomfort and pain of breastfeeding. Now I understand a little bit more the sacrifices that Mama Mary and our own mothers had to go through to nurture and nourish us (Thank you Ma, I love you! J).

Indeed, when we fix our eyes, minds and hearts on Jesus, we can do all things and bear all pains. If we offer everything up to Him through Mama Mary, we’ll be able to withstand all hardships.

Anthony: Lesson # 2 – In all things we must put our trust in God and draw strength from Him, especially when we don’t understand the trials we must undergo.

2 days after Tim’s birth, and just 1 day after coming home from the hospital, we had to return because Tim had unusually widespread jaundice, which didn’t disappear even after being exposed to sunlight. After taking a blood test to check his bilirubin levels, the doctor said that Tim had to be admitted for phototherapy as his bilirubin levels were unusually high. And so we ended up staying 4 days and 4 nights (most of which were sleepless) at the National Hospital here. Our (mine and Mama’s) usual routine was taking care of Tim AND Tina, who was recovering from labor and her episiotomy repair. Every time after being breastfed, Tim would be exposed to ultraviolet rays to help decrease his bilirubin level. Seeing our son having to bear the heat of phototherapy and numerous blood tests sometimes made us want to question “WHY LORD?”

But the readings before and after Tina gave birth, mostly from the book of Job, reminded us that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away, but His name will still be praised forever! And indeed, we continued to praise Him. To trust completely in Him and draw strength from Him, especially during those sleepless nights. In fact, God proved to us that He is good all the time – at the hospital, we were given a vacant room to use all to ourselves, instead of being in the newborn ward with the other sick babies. This helped make taking care of Tim and Tina easier for us, as we had our privacy and own space. Indeed, GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!

Anthony & Tina: Lesson # 3 – Be joyful at all times. Always have a sense of humor, it will help get you through sleepless nights and avoid unnecessary fights! J

After coming home from the hospital, we had to adjust to life with Tim. There were times when Anthony wouldn’t wake up when I (Tina) would need him to help me with Tim (don’t worry though, he’s better now, he stays up and wakes up when needed! J). Or he would wake up but only for a minute or so and then fall asleep again. Instead of making it an issue, I (Tina) would laugh it off with him the next morning, and tell him about the funny things he did or said when I tried to wake him up. J

Having a sense of humor (truly a gift from God! J) can help us get through sleepless nights, troublesome days and avoid unnecessary conflicts. J This applies not only to husband & wife or new parents, but to everyone, especially us missionaries, who many times face problems and difficulties as we go about God’s work. After all, God Himself also has a sense of humor (He made giraffes and zebras, men and women J for exampleJ)!

Anthony & Tina: Lesson # 4 – (A tip for other parents-to-be J) Raising up a kid for Christ starts from conception J

Tim is a true kid for Christ – even before he was born, he would attend daily mass with us. He especially seemed to like the “Our Father” part, when Daddy and Mommy would lay their hands on him (while still in Mommy’s belly J). He would join our mission team household meetings and daily team rosary.. so even now that he’s no longer in Mommy’s womb, he behaves well during mass, household meetings and rosary time. Praying the Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, and especially the “Angel of God” prayer often helps Tim to go to sleep, especially when he has stomach pains. Singing praise songs to Tim also seems to help put him at ease – in fact, right after Tim was born, when he was placed in Tina’s arms to breastfeed, she and Lola Tita sang praise songs to him (while Tina’s episiotomy site was being repaired J).

And so we continue to pray that God will help us to raise Tim to be a true-blue kid for Christ; already he’s helping Daddy and Mommy to be a better couple for Christ!

Anthony & Tina: Lesson # 5 – Even babies can be instruments for intercession for other people.

Right now, Tim seems to be growing to be a healthy boy, except that he has difficulty and seems to be in pain just before he passes urine. We’ve consulted the doctors here, and their advice is for him to be circumcised. However, we were advised to have him checked in the Philippines first. So now, we cope with Tim crying (sometimes so hard, his face turns super red in color!) every time he wants to pee. It’s hard sometimes to see him in pain, but there’s nothing much we can do for now… so we tell him and pray with him to offer up his pain and discomfort for other babies, especially for those who are sick, and are in the refugee sites here in Dili.

And so God can use even little babies as instruments of healing and salvation for other people. Especially as instruments for their parents to grow in faith, hope and love. J

Anthony & Tina: Lesson # 6 – The people you live with, serve with and encounter every day, especially your own family members, are God’s gifts to you – learn to appreciate, honor and love them, despite their differences, faults and failures.

The 8 other people in our mission team – the people we live with and serve with – have been an enormous blessing to us. Without them, taking care of Tim – including washing and ironing diapers daily, making sure he’s fed, clean etc etc – would be more difficult, because we’d also have to deal with cooking, washing dishes, cleaning the mission house, etc etc. At least with the daily chores distributed among our mission team, we have more time to deal with Tim. J

Our families have also been a source of unconditional love… their prayers and support continue to give us courage, especially during difficult times. The physical presence of Papa and Mama (aka Lolo Mon and Lola Tita to Tim J) has also been a great blessing – they are able to guide us in being new parents.

The local CFC community has also been a source of inspiration and strength. Even with the difficulties that our CFC brethren face every day (some are still afraid to travel to certain places due to sporadic gang violence), they visited us in the hospital and at home, and even gave gifts for Tim.

Indeed, we should learn to appreciate, honor and love the people that God has given us. They are God’s instruments of blessing to us.

Anthony & Tina: Lesson # 7 – Every moment in your life is an opportunity to pray and thank God. God is involved even in the small, ordinary things of our lives.

Every moment, every second is an opportunity to praise and thank God, to lift your heart up in prayer. Whether it be feeding your baby, changing his diaper, washing and ironing dozens of diapers, staring at your child’s adorable face, cutting his tiny fingernails, calming him when he cries… every moment is an opportunity to be one with God. J God wants us to involve Him in the small, ordinary, “boring” things of our lives. Remember, it’s not about success, but faithfulness.

There are so many more lessons that we’ve learned (perhaps we should write a book! Hahaha) during the past 6 weeks.. and we’re excited for the many, many more lessons coming our way… “Oh Lord, teach us to accept whatever comes our way…” We praise and thank God for all of these, and also… for all the people who have been part of this journey of love with us… thank you all… May God always be with us!

P.S.
Timothy Alan Santiago Rodriguez was welcomed into the Catholic world on October 30, 2006 with Fr. Alan Bondoc, SVD and Sr. Socorro Aunzo, SSPS, as his godparents - missionary godparents for a missionary baby. J Fr. Jojo San Juan, SDB officiated the mass and baptism ceremony. All religious mentioned are Filipino missionaries and are great supporters of CFC in Timor Leste. J

How long has it been...

2010-02-24T08:12:00.000-08:00

How long has it been..

1. Since I was able to update this blog. (Hehehe. Back to the real world for now.. The world of our daily routine on mission.. i.e. not much time for blogging, most of the time spent on being a mom on mission..)

2. Since I was able to chat with my family back home. O how I miss you all!

3. Since I've had a good full body massage.

4. Since I've had some good, quality, don't feel guilty or selfish "me" time.

Come to think of it.. there are so many things that I haven't been able to do in a long, long time.

But you know what, if not doing all these things means I'm doing other things far more important, like making perfect moments with my hubby, taking care of my adorable kids, and trying hard to be a good missionary, unworthy as I am, well.. then I say..

...it doesn't matter how long it has been. What matters most is BEING, DOING, LOVING. :)

Manila Ocean Park Adventures :)

2010-02-05T12:16:00.000-08:00

Manila Ocean Park is one of the places we went to during this blessed trip to the Philippines :) Tiring but fun, though it was too crowded in my opinion..(of course, what do you expect in a place like Manila? After being used to small crowds in Timor Leste, any large area filled with people would seem too crowded for me!) :) Anyway, I'd like to share some survival tips for parents who plan to take their kids there:

TIP #1: If you can, don't go there on a Saturday, so many schools/groups go on field trips there! Instead, opt for a weekday. Of course, for many parents, this is virtually impossible. In this case, make sure your kid/s know the importance of sticking together during the trip. :)

TIP #2: Before you go, tell your kid/s in advance where you're going, what they'll see there and teach them about being safe in public places (don't wander off, ask for help from the right people if they get lost, etc etc. For kids who can't verbalize so much yet, the SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT thing to do is, don't let go of their hand!! Always keep an eye on them! )

TIP #3 and THE MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL: Pray and Play! :) Pray that the kids be safe from all harm and infectious diseases! Play and have fun, make perfect moments! Leave all your worries and work-day thoughts behind and soak in the time with your family! And try to learn a few things about ocean life while you're at it!

Breastfeeding Fashion Basics

2010-01-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

I think I should start sharing some of my tried and tested basic fashion tips for all breastfeeding moms out there :)

Not that I am what you can call a cool fashion icon, but I hope that at least I can pass for umm.. reasonably fashionable?! haha. (If not, oh well.. everyone's entitled to his or her own opinion right??!)

Anyway, lately, I've been sharing some breastfeeding tips with another yummy mummy who's also a missionarymom, Maia, and one of our topics was what kind of clothes yummy mummies like us can wear when we're on a budget.. (And believe me, us missionarymoms are ALWAYS on a budget!)

In fact, sometimes one doesn't have to purchase any new items at all. All one has to do is review what's inside one's closet and try and test the different ways one can breastfeed in it..

What is most important is COMFORT, CONVENIENCE and CASUAL CHIC. :)

More on this once I get my thoughts and ideas more organized. :) It's already 2.30 am. hehehe.

AMAZING GOD

2010-01-31T10:05:00.000-08:00

A message for me from Facebook:

On this day, God wants you to know...

... that it is time to finally forgive yourself. You've carried the guilt, the shame for long enough. You've kept your wounds open for long enough. The time has come to let go, to heal. Keep the lessons and let the pain heal. Yes, you know what we are talking about it.

Isn't it amazing that even through the world wide web, Jesus speaks to our hearts?!

Isn't our God just totally awesome, because He allows us to experience the fullness of life?!

What an amazing God is He! Despite all my faults, failures, past and present (and in the future too!) He still loves me!

Maromak diak nafatin! Hahi ba Nai Aleluia!

Kids say (and sing!) the cutest things!

2010-01-30T08:49:00.000-08:00

Every day, Tim never fails to amuse and delight me with all his cute sayings and antics.. (though there are also bad moments.. when he's too hyper or too stubborn.. but that's for another post!) One of the cutest things he's ever said during this weekend in Subic.. (see dialogue below)

Tim: Tomorrow we'll ride the bumo cars ok Yoya??

Lola ("Yoya" to Tim) Tita: But I'm afraid to ride the bump cars.

Tim: Don't worry Yoya. We'll take care of you!

Aaaawww..... :)

Another cute Tim moment:

Me: Let's sing Tim... "I don't care if it rains or shines.. as long as I have my Jesus around.. hanging on the dashboard of my car.. Ba.."

Tim (interrupts): Is that a song about rain and sunshine Mama?

Me: Yes po.

Tim: Oh. It's my turn now! *Singing* "In our house.. It's rainiiingg.. But it's ok because God's with us.."

Aaawww... He made up his own song!!! hahahaha. Thank You Lord for Kuya Tim. :)
[caption id="attachment_29" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Kuya Tim with Old McDonald (his name for Ronald McDonald! :)"][/caption]

Of fever and Fern-C

2010-01-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

This is going to be another of those long, sleep-deprived nights... Our eldest, 39 month old Tim, seems to have come down with something. Just this morning he was his usual, bright, perky, self-assured, loud, lovable self and then this evening he started looking feverish and had a bit of a cough starting up.

After coming home from anticipated mass, he refused to eat dinner and said he wanted to go to sleep instead. This truly surprised me and his Papa, as usually we'd have to practically force him to go to bed early.. this meant there was something wrong with him indeed! By 8.30 pm Tim was fast asleep.

We called his pediatrician who advised us to give him some Paracetamol so we woke him up, but he ended up spitting it all out and throwing up whatever was left in his stomach at that time (*sighs*)... At the risk of another vomiting episode, we decided to give him some Fern-C enriched grape juice instead every 2 hours.

And guess what?

So far, so good. His initial temperature before 9 pm was 38.5 degrees Celsius. After his first Fern-C juice intake at 10 pm, his temp dropped to 38.3.

It's now almost time for his third Fern-C intake. His temp a few minutes ago was 38.

After this, maybe I'll really consider helping Papa (my Dad!) more with the Fern-C business!

(If you haven't heard about Fern-C or want to know more about it, check it out at http://www.fern-c.com!)

Oldie but Goodie ;)

2010-01-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

During my prayer time, I use Pandasal as my bible reading guide and there's a section also on Daily Evening Prayers. Here's an excerpt from one of the hymns used in the latter, which happens to be VERY appropriate for my personal sentiments at this point in time. (I just wish I knew how the tune goes!)

Day is Done (Traditional Hymn)

Day is done, but love unfailing

Dwells ever here;

Shadows fall, but hope, prevailing,

Calms every fear.

Loving Father, none forsaking,

Take our hearts, of Love's own making,

Watch our sleeping, guard our waking,

Be always near.

LORD, YOU ALONE ARE OUR CONSTANT. May our hearts find their rest in You alone.

Mother's Loving Reminder

2010-01-19T09:37:00.000-08:00

One must ask themselves today, are they truly doing what Our Lord is asking of them or are you only pleasing yourselves? Are you walking the road of Calvary or are you taking the easier way out? Do you truly love God or are you denying God? (Mama Mary on FB)

wishes for 2010

2010-01-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

though a bit late to post this... it's almost the end of January.. but it's still the beginning of the New Year! hehehe..

Wishlist for 2010
1. for God's will to be revealed to our family, nuclear and otherwise
2. for alternative streams of passive income so we can be a blessing to others
3. for more ways to bless the people around us and share God's love
4. for opportunities to open up so i can be a work-at-home mom and continue being a missionary in whatever way possible
5. and of course, for good health and long life for my loved ones especially our parents and grandparents and our kids :)

WHAT ARE YOUR WISHES FOR 2010? It's never too late to make a wish.. God is always listening! :)

i love my kids!

2010-01-16T13:21:00.000-08:00

i consider myself an okay mom.. but everyday i face the challenges all moms face.. to be LOVING in all i do and say.. *sighs* LORD HELP US MOMS EVERYWHERE!

First steps

2010-01-16T13:01:00.000-08:00

This is my first serious attempt at blogging. I've been mulling it for the past six months or so but I've only gotten around to ACTUALLY doing it right now. Why only now after all this time? Well, in the day and age we live in, people blog for lots of reasons. Some want to advertise certain things or products. Others want to advocate certain causes or missions. Still some blog in the hope of it becoming an alternative source of income. Some blog about their day-to-day lives, their children and families, etc etc. Many bloggers simply want to be heard.

As for myself, I guess you could say I'm blogging for all of the above reasons. I want to advertise the best PRODUCT in the world, guaranteed to change your life for the better! And better yet, it's FREE! I want to advocate a CAUSE that I truly believe in. I hope to gain an alternative income source to support our family's needs.

And.. like the millions of bloggers out there.. I WANT TO BE HEARD. I am missionarymom.. hear me roar!!! ;)

Welcome to my blog everyone! :)

Hello world! And so it begins.. :)

2010-01-16T12:22:00.000-08:00

The beginning of the blog...

Why missionarymom?

Because I'm a mom with a mission.. who just happens to be a fulltime Catholic lay missionary at the same time! (Well for now at least..hehehe)

And what is my mission? To share with everyone especially all moms out there, how GOOD, how AMAZING, how GENEROUS, our God is...

And YOU don't have to be a fulltime missionary to do that! :)

May our lives be blessed so we can be a blessing to others!

MOMS ROCK!