Saturday, December 24, 2011

It Is the Season That Brings Love, Christmas Day!

Yey Christmas Day is nearly coming! My nerves aren't wasting function being sad today, but they too are patiently counting down the remaining hours before the most-awaited season of the year!

During this year-end occasion, I eat a lot of delectable delights (Well, everyone does!). These eyes I have are so craving that I couldn't resist eating luscious and mouth-watering food served, the expected result is.. I get fatter and heavier each year. My stomach's getting bigger too! Likewise, the sure thing I'm about being concerned is that every year I have always had an increase in weight, but no dramatic changes in height at all. With all those mind mumblings, happy hopes are fading and little lip curves are bending down, badly. Like this-- ): haha. Well, maybe it's about time to start the year right stop complaining about body figures and instead be thankful for all the things I have received through the whole of all accounts, for there have been hundreds of reasons to be grateful for, for the millions of blessings given to me. :)


Little ones from over modern generation are mostly having this "cliche" of what Christmas really means to them. Far more often, the first thing that comes to their mind when the 25th of December is coming, everything is kind of correlated to Santa Claus and his stuff. Some children are adhering to the fact that Santa's the one watching them, so they need to be good all the time. Christmas carols and treats and parties, are all part of a child's event excitement.


Several years ago I was also being oriented with the fancy image of Santa Claus giving gifts in the middle of the night, while riding on his sleigh pulled by reindeers. Prior to Christmas Day, I had sleepless nights hoping that one night I would be lucky enough to surprisingly spot Santa in the living room, putting beautifully wrapped presents under the Christmas tree. Because we didn't have those colorful ones some kids like me used to display as a decoration and ornament, I used my white school socks instead and hanged them on the walls of our house. With the every passing day had gone by, I had wished Santa would care to put anything on it and I would be so happy. 

From that time that I was flattered with great curiosity, as years passed and I began to grow older, I learned that the man with the long beard wearing red, who I thought will go down the chimney was nothing truthful. I learned that I didn't really need other fancy illusions, I have my own father and grandpa out there and they can be my true and living Santa Claus. Everybody should understand where the word "Christmas" really originated, then we will come up more glad knowing of what is the true essence of celebrating the yuletide season. It's all about Jesus Christ, our Savior.


I can now smell the cooling air of the season! Breezes. Hmm. I want to clap and jump excitedly as if it is New Year! Just lately I heard Jornacions will be having a family gathering tonight and I am looking forward to that event. I feel sad and so sorry, we didn't make it to join the Saure side. My cousin just called minutes ago and she was telling us here about the whole lot of fun going in there. She also said that except from us, every family member is present. Hey New Year, can you hear me? I wanna spend time with my other family right on your special day. I hope so. And since it is Christmas(lol), I wouldn't have a second thought to this. If I can just possibly give everyone a big hug I would do! <3 Hmm, I keep my fingers crossed that it wouldn't be just as pretty awkward for the both sides hahaha.

Aside from the fact that we will be celebrating the occasion once again as a whole family, my brother's missionary application was just recently submitted this month. Actually the papers were done even July but due to some other applicant's concerns, it was pended. And oh here's the click! Avid fans of him like me, should really know about this! I was just informed by a friend on Facebook through a video tag, about a special announcement David Archuleta made during his "My Kind of Christmas Tour" show held at Salt Lake City, Utah. You need to watch this~




Well after knowing his soon-to-come plans, I am now just as happy as who seemed to be the happiest person today. Lol. Thank you David for inspiring tons of people! Let's give love on this day and beyond! Merry Christmas to all! :D

Thursday, December 1, 2011

I Am His Daughter

"Being a woman, I learned, means allowing myself to be constantly stirred by a spiritual locomotive known as grace. It means that I don’t have to fight to be better or stronger than others. It means that I am significant. Being a woman means that even just the clothes I wear can make an impact on people. It means I get to set a higher standard. It means that the beauty of my heart outweighs the beauty of my face. Being a woman, most of all, means I can be who I was called to be in Christ. It means redirecting my heart towards God, just God. It means He gets everything." -- A Woman of Praise

Every woman sent here on earth has a very special mission. So divine that God gave his trust to each of His daughters that they will be virtuous and full of grace, helping others to come closer to God and when the time comes, to live happily ever after in His presence. He loves us all. He wants us to become like Him. He wants us to be strong and courageous to face and overcome those barriers that will eventually come over our lives as we pursue our journey towards everlasting happiness. He knows each and everyone of us, who we are even in the pre-existence, our strengths and weaknesses, joys and triumphs. With His strength, nothing is impossible and we can do all things.

Here, as I was making a good turn searching some EFY(Especially For Youth) videos on Youtube, I came across listening to this one that gave me the positive mantra, to always remain pure and holy despite worldly possessions. After seeing this video and pondering upon it's lyrics, it was again brought into my remembrance that nobody is a "nobody", and that being His daughter means having great worth. I love my Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ so much! With their love and kindness, I am forever grateful to them! 
The photos in the magazines
Don't dictate who I'm supposed to be
The world can't recognize, all that I am inside
But I know in His eyes, I am a part of, the bigger picture

There's so much more to me
He helps me see that I have so much to offer
I am His daughter
He loves me the way I am,
He's my strength when I stand
He is my King, and my Father,
I am His daughter

The people on the TV screen,
The leaders, rulers, and queens
I watch them shape the world,
And though I'm just a girl, I still know for sure, 
That I am a part of, the bigger picture

There's so much more to me
He helps me see that I have so much to offer
I am His daughter
He loves me the way I am,
He's my strength when I stand
He is my King, and my Father,
I am His daughter

And when I'm feeling small,
And wondering if I'll ever, find courage to stand tall
Through His love I remember

There's so much more to me
He helps me to see that I have so much to offer
I am His daughter
He loves me the way I am
He's my strength when I stand
He is my King, and my Father,
I am His daughter
I am a child of great worth, chosen to be born in this time and generation.
I am His valiant daughter.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

50 Random Things About Me!

The following, are just some of the silliest things that maybe you have known or haven't known yet. These, I reveal. :D

1. I was born on Tuesday, at 7:32 PM.
2. I only have two moles all over the body.
3. "Pinaglihi" in yam bean or singkamas in Tagalog and spaghetti(Mom said).
4. Already had mumps, chicken pox and measles during my childhood years.
5. I didn't attend my grandmother's burial.
6. Hi, I wAs a j3j3m0n b3For3. lol
7. I slice my mosquito bite like a pizza.. through my fingernails.
8. I have lots of nicknames such as: Jona, Juna, Jonana, Junana, Jonaboy, Jonakid, Jo, Jon, Nang, Joners and Onang.
9. I have wanted to do exotic adventures since before like to have a loop on a ring of fire in a circus etc.
10. Strangely attracted to mysterious and unpredictable guys.
11. When I was a kid, I played jolens, yoyo, trumpo, beyblade, crush gear, tamiya, pogs, teks and more. My brother influenced me.
12. I already killed..
13. A cockroach.
14. No snacks, no studying.
15. I say NO to shawarma! You will never get me eat that one.
16. Never been held in a piggyback again by a boy since my father carried me on his back when I was two years old.
17. I had a doll named Coralyn and I was so scared to her. So I threw her in the garbage bin.
18. Even though I am not able to review, I ace some tests.
19. Won a box of delicious brownies during a raffle draw in school.
20. Had known a 16 year-old Egyptian girl because of playing Yoville and we became good friends.
21. Climbed up the top of the two subdivision tanks-- the North Olympus and Kingstown's.
22. We had so many adopted cats before. Then one day came my Papa disposed all of them. My sister and I were very sad.
23. I fiercely played basketball with my older boy cousins before.
24. Even played "punong-braso" with my guy classmates way back grade 4. I defeated all of them.
25. Title holder of the chinese garter/ten-twenty game during my 5th grade.
26. Sometimes, I prick my pimples.
27. I'm not studying this semester.
28. Had a crush named Pauli during nursery days. I also had another crush when I was in 1st grade but hadn't known his name. So I just called him Cinderella.
29. Had a chicken pet and best friend. And when he/she was killed as the main ingredient of tinola, I cried so hard!
30. I'm a very random person.
31. When no one else was at home, we used to bring toys and played them at the rooftop when my siblings and I were still young(Urduja Village years).
32. We had also lived at Citation Homes and Brickstone in Camarin.
33. During the Brickstone living, there was a time my Mama cried so hard and everybody was so frightened because they thought I was lost or kidnapped. When in fact, my friend and I just played in front of the neighbor's house. I was three years old then.
34. I did "sabunutan" with my cousin Rina because I bumped her bicycle during one playtime. We fought, hehe.
35. Had an embarrassing moment when I fell off a moving tricycle(the driver didn't notice) because I was barely holding. My sister, who also happened to be sitting at the driver's back was laughing hard at me while I kept on running to get to the tricycle again.
36. Before then, I thought humans were all living inside the earth.
37. Addicted to Cornetto ice cream.
38. My father told me when I was still a toddler I jumped on a 10-feet pool and almost drowned.
39. My mother told me I should have been named Liwayway(oh thank goodness I wasn't!). My present name was just also an instant thought away, because the nurse was asking for it already.
40. When I was fourteen, a good friend gave me a small letter. That was also the first time I received one from a boy. But unfortunately, I lost it in my pocket.
41. I was once listed in the FDA poll by mistake in one subject. It was the professor's fault.
42. One night, I dreamed that my father was a vampire and that he was horribly haunting us in our house. I hid myself inside an empty sack of rice.
43. I'm wearing a stripped yellow shirt and a dark blue pajamas right now.
44. My hair was dyed brown twice and black once.
45. I never liked Twirlie among of the Jollibee mascots. Way back, my sister Rizza and I once made a story about Hetty and Twirlie quarreling to win Jollibee's heart. I was a fan of Hetty before, until now.
46. The first and last time I watched American Idol was only during the David-Archuleta-Season. Since then, I never watched again.
47. I collected stationery, stickers, shampoos and conditioners, headbands, cuticles, ballpens and keychains.
48. My grandpa(father side) was a Japanese soldier during the World War II.
49. Weighing 56 kilograms as of now. And lastly,
50. Just try to approach and talk to me nicely and we can easily be good friends. I promise. :)

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Reminisce

Recently I was thinking of a possible good topic I would be tackling about here for the month of November. It was on the last day of October since I wrote my last entry, so I decided I wanted to write again at least anything. Right now, there is nothing else banging on my head so I suppose the things I will say later on are all just coming out of nowhere, out of the mundane. =P

Folly or silly as it seems, I am a huge block of a random person. I think about really impossible things. I am also a dreamer, I have the most gigantic imaginations of this world on my mind. I love funny stuff and I do the stomping of the happy feet. Along with my siblings, cousins and friends, we always make it to the point that whenever there is a serious prototype happening, we come up with rather the most ridiculous idea ever. Think about it. Who else wants to be affected in a grave manner? When there is actually an alternative way to solve a problem in a more delighted way? Being happy really cures, it heals blues and fools. It is like a medicine readily available ever. Take it from my experience.

There was a time when I almost felt like crying because I once failed a test. The examination was so difficult that every student was to lose hope if they could still pass on the subject. I came home sad and without a happy curve on my face. I was so depressed, for I feared that it would result in a low grade at the end of the semester. But then I thought, what else I can do with it? It happened and I couldn't anymore bring back the whole like it didn't really happen at all.

So I decided to talk and mingle with the wonderful people and have a jest around. I made up my mind I wouldn't anymore think about it that much. I got up from the depression and started to gather hope that it wouldn't much affect my grade. And what was the result? I became happier and was filled with optimism that I will get through with it. Plus, it gave me the positive energy to study even harder when the next exam comes.

I received my grade. To what surprised me, it didn't get that low just from what I had expected it would be like. It taught me a lesson: No one can really bring back or change the happenings that had gone by, but sure it is you can manage to change whatever is happening in the present by just choosing to act, not to react.

***

A few days ago, I was bothered with mine flaws and vulnerabilities. Knowing that I am an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I was like shot that got through my head the shortcomings and neglectfulness I have grown into over the years. Yes it's true that I share not the borrowed but my personal testimony to others, I work with the missionaries and I magnify my callings in the church. Yet there are things that I am aware of, which are primarily should be given the full attention first. Bigger problems start with the little ones. Once the small beginnings turn into even bigger problems, it will become habitual and would possibly be harder to change if not given the right treatment as soon as possible.

One night when I was lying on my bed going to sleep, I came up evaluating myself. I reflected on the things that I am doing everyday. I thought, if those things, were really enough for me to say I have developed a perfect obedience pertaining to the application of what I have been learning throughout my life. Sadly, the answer was no.

It is true that we won't really achieve true happiness if we only stick to just the two or three of the good principles and disregard the others. Developing yourself comes into a step-by-step process, and wouldn't be achieved in just an instant preparation. Failure inevitably comes through our everyday experiences thus teaches us to accept frustrations and once again try for the best. We may sometimes see challenges in life as stumbling blocks that keep on dragging us down, yet we should also keep in mind the teachings of the leaders that if we give our strongest hold to the rod, we will not falter. For those too are tests given, for our personal development and to acquire more faith and obedience to the commandments of the Lord and to help us attain greater spiritual growth and maturity.

So the next day I made my mind that I will start making a change-- I will always take time reading the scriptures and wouldn't miss a day not praying especially when I wake up in the morning; I will start doing my best in obeying all the things my parents would require me to do and I will make myself more available in serving others. Also, I promise to be more patient. Well, I just have to keep this in mind: If I really wanted to be a nurse, I will be more patient. Because  nurses, are really "patient" people. ;)

***

Take a break. Why am I suddenly being addicted in eating Cornetto ice cream these past few weeks? Hmmm I wonder why.

Oh I'm craving today. What have you done to me creamy one? I think it's already time for you to know how it becomes so difficult for me to forget about when I couldn't actually stop myself wanting for more every time I eat you. I tried all the flavors and all of it were amazing. My taste buds keep on asking for more~

***

"Growing up into a strong and beautiful dog, how good it feels to know I became part of her simple yet so pleasant world.."


Yesterday I saw a group of dogs walking on the street. They were of different colors and faces. There were blacks and whites and browns. Some of them were fat, some were thin. Like a band marching, I was amazed of how they looked like together and thought maybe they were really friends at all. The moment when I was just staring blankly at them, I remembered our former dog named Fatchie, who is now living in the province at my uncle's house.

I miss the days when she was still a puppy and I played with her. I miss the times when she would excitedly jump on my feet and I will be holding her onto my arms when I come home. Truly worth longing was the moment when I captured pictures of her, I even took a shot when she was still a newborn and made it my profile picture on Facebook.

The last week of October we came to visit Pangasinan and saw her again. She had a fine fur and a good looking face enough for a well-cared dog. How surprising it was when she still remembered everyone of us and felt like she was again our own Fatchie, just like before. Oh how I miss her so much, our first dog pet ever.

Fatchie before, Potchina today.
As time passes by, life also gives us experiences that go past and make turns in our lives. There are things that stay put in the corner and never change, and there are also matters that unpredictably come off our way whether we want it or not. They say photographs and papers may fade away, but the memories will always linger and brace as a  remarkable treasure in our hearts as years go by. We can never rewind what happened from the past but we can always look forward in that tomorrow where the more wonderful things await us. Life is beautifully created by God. We should just learn how to appreciate and acknowledge even of those in their simplest form, because unknowingly, sometimes those that aren't given the real importance, really are some of the things that matter the most in life.

***

Monday, October 31, 2011

Hey Halloween, I Have Something to Tell About You!

I plead in cry tonight.. that the spirits I know who are just around me and wandering everywhere, wouldn't bother to waste even a short second of their time getting fond of me in this hour of reflection. XD

Dear invisible-but-sometimes-visible-dead-people,

I am with all my sincerest sympathy aware that times like these, your noticeable presence is seemingly acceptable to the living and the goosebumps and spine-tingling motions to hit us anytime are all part of your spooky occasion. But again, I plead in cry tonight, may you doze off in your graves just for the meantime or if you don't want to, you might as well merry go round maybe with the one beside me and never ever come back for me again lol. May you rest in peace at this very moment so it would be possible for me to actually write a blog, hehe.

Looohuhahooove,
Jona-the-not-so-ghosts-fan

Life is full charm, and just like as it is, life is also full of creepy creatures. If you would realize, I wouldn't be considering this topic as a beauty I appreciate in this world because honestly, I don't really appreciate ghosts and horrors. Sure as the earth revolves around the sun, they give me evil bats in the stomach. But since the All Soul's Day is coming and also to give way to the commemoration of our loved ones death, I would just willingly let myself to give it a whirl this time. Haha?

The world is being hampered with beliefs and initial perception of mainly ghosts and other scary stuff when November 1st is soon to undertake people's lives. Gruesome TV shows, movies and such true-to-life stories become the center point of the talking and divulging of everyone regarding the 'Halloween Season' as what we commonly know. Nations' traditions give rise to some practices like doing the 'trick or treat' fun and going to the cemetery. Some even throw fancy costume parties, ghost hunting and candle lighting. We all have different customs and doings that show how we give importance to the remembering of those souls who had just passed away.

During the month, we visit our Great Grandfathers and Grandmothers at the cemetery usually not during the peak hours when the place is as almost crowded and the population is visibly thick. We come there as a family and we bring flowers and candles as what every family does. Sometimes when the mood strikes, we do ghost hunting hoping that we would see or feel the you-know-what-I-mean thing. But do you know how predictable everything as usually it is? We always scream together even before we will start the seeking that ends up everyone got scared and wanting to stop whatever is going on(if there is), so our pursue would be discontinued and we will start laughing again. Funny it is when we gain courage to tell horror stories based on each other's experiences and at the end, everybody will run to the nearest adult with the little children almost crying while the older ones are tolerating the terror. I admit I am one of those, oftentimes. Oh sorry dearest ones, I won't ever do that again. I love you! :) While there are hair-raising and chilling cracks, the entire occasion also serves as a time to bond and mingle with each other, a moment of joy and keeping in touch when the world seems to clasp in the horrible side of it.

So what about you? :)


We may not enjoy the present days they are not together with us, we may not even see and hear or talk to them physically in this life and dispensation, but there is one thing we are all sure of-- and that is the promise of our Heavenly Father that we will see each other again when the time comes, together forever as a family. :)





Wednesday, October 26, 2011

The Mormonads

Are you experiencing spiritual hunger? Why don't you take a look at these pictures! :)


















Tuesday, October 25, 2011

P.S. I Love You

Love is incredibly strong and beautiful. Love makes a person see even the entire existence like it goes up in the most subtle of all the clouds above, and suddenly everything down seems to get no trouble. When one is being caught amid the most dominant thing ever created by the human emotion, it protrudes a heavenly feeling that puts puzzle pieces back into the frame to where they belong, and you own it. That is how love works, it is like a criss-cross pattern of an unexpected magic that brings two souls into everlasting joy and happiness.

When you are in love, things are ten times a lot funnier than with what they were just like before; inspires you no matter how hard the struggle would be like; gives you a glow and a bloom into apparent rosy blushes; sometimes inexpressible in words because it is only by how you feel, that has the right and ability to tell the whole universe how good it is when a person started to love someone. This is my-your-our so-called love. It destroys yet it heals. It can be painful but it can also be a relief. Brings sick glances to those who do not know how to deal with it and endearment to those who believe in the power of it. It is a feeling like no other, a four-letter word that created history.

Do you wonder what made me push through with this topic? If you will see, I am not much being a love analyst nor that kind who is fond of daydreaming of having a boyfriend nowadays. Little did you know, it was all because of the fiction novel I read just a few days ago entitled 'My Name is Memory' which struck me. The story was about the two lovers who had crossed each other's path during the early centuries that brought an unpredictable twist when they met again in the modern days. I don't say that once you read it, you are going to like it too. We all have different tastes in love stories like that, we all know. It just happened that I was somehow indulged in that story. But anyway you can just look for the summary of the book in the internet if you want to know more about it, and just in case I wasn't able to tell you exactly a little background of the story as I mentioned above. So I was inspired(even before then) to write a blog about-- how it feels to love and be loved by a special someone, what it conquers and how it changes a person in this sometimes love-hate  relationship that has been going on between people who are no more no less, in love with each other.

When you truly love someone, it is true that you disregard all the bad characteristics and you look for his positive traits. You accept him for who he really is as a person, no matter how rich or poor he stands in life, and even how he looks in his superficial appearance-- because you simply have understood how the inside outshines the outside. You will do whatever it takes to make the one you love happy, you will want to prove that person he made the right choice when he chose to love you and will show him how important he really is in your life. You treasure your moments together and there is not a time when you would want to be apart from each other even for a short period of time.


Love changes the way you see things. Like have you ever had a change in a manner of yours when you actually acted like a little child before but now you seem to gather more olden years because maturity suddenly boomed into you? Or have you ever thought of  having a total make-over in yourself or doing your best in every single little thing like improving your character, enhancing your talents and studying hard simply because you want to become that better person who is deserving enough for the one you love? Yes, because it gives you motivation to change. Love really has the ability to change the way you sit and talk and eat and groom yourself and more! How powerful it is, isn't?

They say true love waits and comes in due time. They say it is a destiny. Others tell love can be found everywhere and anytime, it may not be today or tomorrow but in God's right time. It will come unexpectedly and surprisingly in an instance when it is exactly just right for you to encounter. Likewise, true love and infatuation are usually being interchanged by people. I say, when there is an infatuation, it is only intended for the mean time and is temporary. You might be wrong in being in love once you feel it, it is in other words just a physical admiration or a crush as what we call it. I am not judging or much going ahead of what is the difference between the two because still, there are cases when infatuation leads to real love. But generally speaking when you infatuate, you are just having an intense fondness and is somewhat transitory. Unlike when you really love, it is unconditional and permanent to a person whom you can wholeheartedly call the reason why you still want to live for the rest of your life. The attractiveness lies in the overall character. And no matter what happens, either he develops a contagious disease or whether he loses his job that could lead to the corruption of all his riches, you still love him. :)


"Love is kind and wholesome. To love is to give, not to take. To love is to serve, not to exploit." -- Pres. Spencer W. Kimball

Love conquers everything, you will come to know it once you get to that lasting part. Oh what a heartache it would be when love is just one-sided, when the one you love doesn't love you back. It is like a single block being pulled out from the middle stack and the rest collided. However, there is nothing more good than being with the person whom you have chosen to share eternity with. Whom you wished to see before you go to sleep and when you wake up. Who gives you hundreds of reasons to cry, yet millions of reasons to smile. Indeed, priceless.


To what love means, to sacrifice. To what love means, to sometimes let go. To what love means, is to be with that only person whom you share the same feelings with, the feeling that only the heart can tell. To what love means, is to say "I Love You."


Monday, October 17, 2011

Part II (It was a birthday blast)

I got the privilege. More opportunities are way to come. There are still coming couple of years, and I should be ready. I know this is just the start, yet the exciting part. 

My 18th was the most different and unique of all the previous birthdays I ever had. The whole event wasn't like the typical one that is usually celebrated with invited relatives and friends but rather a simple day out in the temple and a plain celebration with my family, by choice. Everything went good and amazing. I simply couldn't ask for more than the blessings of good health, family ties and spiritual learning I have gained throughout the years. Those fairly ones I consider the greatest presents I've received, for they can be treasured in this time and beyond.

October 12th, 2011. 6 AM.

The day that we were looking forward to had come. I woke up in the midst of a beautiful sunrise and on the dot settled all the needed stuff for the day. That was also our final examination week. Badly, I wasn't able to take the exam in our major subject because.. aha! Let's say, the melodramatic term just entered the scene. And because I knew I would not be capable of holding the time pressure, it resulted to a good definition. Lol. But thank goodness the morning wasn't totally ruined in a perfect mishap, I was able to take the minors. Sooner, Shiela and I will be meeting at twelve noon.

While waiting for Shie to come, I was standing at the corner way of the mall entrance when I saw some street children lying on the pavement, which took me to apprehend looking at them that I was really blessed with the enough supplies and necessities provided daily. That I shouldn't anymore complain with anything else seeing the less-fortunate people in all those years sleeping on the cold floor, when I have a home to rest at the end of the day. And to what really tugged my heart was the fact that I was so blessed to be part of a bonded family, whom I can throughout count on when they, have nothing to call upon. Everything I saw, showed me how hard some circumstances could be in the perspective of some people from different walks of life. Again, it made me realize to always be grateful and contented for what I have.

Shiela finally arrived and to my surprise, she gave me a gift-- a delicacy from Red Ribbon and a cute little vial glued with the word "DOC" on the front label, joined with a rolled brown paper inside. Aww. :")

Traveled by bus. Traffic. Chitchat. Walked and ran. Dusty. Eyes on the clock. Chitchat..

At not exactly 4 PM we arrived at the temple safely. We first went to the PBO and bought some items. Shain was there too, waiting for us. She was with her older sister, baby niece and brother-in-law. We talked for about half an hour before we proceeded.

The white patriarchal blessing envelope was the main purpose of our trip. I read mine while sitting on a bench. Oh how life-changing it could be! The Lord really loves me, I really know. The day was so fulfilling and memorable. We went back home.
Ask me and I will tell you what best friends are for. :)
Back home, there it was my family waiting who later on sang me a happy birthday song. Here's what the cake looked like:
Happy Birthday!
Oh-huh to alleviate the tiredness brought by a real productive day, I brushed my teeth and washed my face then went upstairs after blowing the candles. I didn't mean to but I was just supposed to take a nap for a little while that led to a sounding sleep until the next morning! When I woke up, that was when I realized what happened. Maybe my Mama didn't mind to wake me up for she knew I was already tired that time. And yeah, there's one thing more I could have been eating a lot that night if it wasn't all because of my fault. I regret. :)

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

October's Special Part I

Dear October,

It has been like.. I am feeling you this way.

There is nothing much I could barely feel in this month that would bring out spice and a true incomparable moment, except from me clinging to the fact that my birthday is undeniably fast coming, which I tell with all honesty I would rather reset if would have been possible, or make a jump out of the date because I believe I am not yet ready to face the next ginormous sojourn of this existence. While I am not wholly ditching off the run the mere idea of espousing legality-- and as a matter of fact, I look upon my 18th as a time when I will be more accountable of my everyday decisions whether good or bad; a time when I am about to take responsibility of my every action more certain than with what I had only done during the years that passed; with my Heavenly Father's help, to envision and do for real the sowing and reaping of the greatest opportunities that would shape up my future; and most importantly, to stick to the goal of accomplishing the precious treasures I should deal with in this probationary state: To prepare for a temple marriage and motherly role. To go on a mission, even so.

But do you know what makes everything even more exciting? The story goes like this.

The long wait is over. Remember the 5th of September, in the year 2010? We(Shain and Shie) decided to go to the Patriarch to ask for a blessing. Last Sunday(October 2), we were so blessed to have the printed paper then. From that exceptional day, the feeling was fervent. I almost burst  into tears realizing that after a year and a month it was finally handed over to us. That day I would never forget.

Before anything else to come up with, we were eager to open our envelopes and read it afterwards. And as we were about to leave, a brother perhaps 20's of age came along our way. He was smiling at us, and he seemed to know what was the reason of our visit. It wasn't until when he told us something, that made the day's excitement to fade away. Whatever the feeling was, to wait just for at least less than two weeks until we finally get to that only place where it is best, I know will be something very special and of extraordinary spiritual experience. Definitely will be the highlight of the year. So I really thank that brother's sudden presence on our way. I am looking forward on that day, when things are going to change for the better.

So the story goes like this-- On the 12th comes into a two-part event. A birthday celebration and my patriarchal blessing reading at the temple. The latter is what will make the day more special, I guess.


Since soon enough I will be leaving Young Womanhood, here is a message video I pondered upon from Sister Elaine S. Dalton, The Young Women General President. I want to share this because it gives a lot of encouragement and motivation that will help me as I go through thick and thin in years to come. It also reminds me that I am a beloved daughter of God, a woman of great worth sent here on earth for a divine purpose and mission. So blessed to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints!


And by the way, Happy Birthday to all October Celebrants out there! :D
                                                                                   
Sincerely Yours,
Jona(Who promises to always stay young at heart)   

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Pale Tuesday

The sun's bright rays didn't brush my skin, and the plopping sound I heard outside was pretty intense in my ears. I opened my eyes and saw the sky was gray. It was 6:15 early in the morning. As I arose in my bed, a thought came across my mind.

Nothing ever compares to have a cold weather like this where the breeze as almost shivering and the sound of the raindrops is like clinking bells ringing down the plain ground, have always been giving the soothing and calming effect to me. I love rainy days. 

When it rains, I feel a peaceful part in me that glows and turns grief and remorse into a magical glimpse of rather high hopes and good anticipation. I feel a relief from distress and I make it a time to think of anything else I still needed to do so. But even though I seem to feel free from worries, there is always an unapparent distinction that lingers on me from where I see flashbacks of yesterday and a deep longing for someone I've never known in my entire life. To what or who it is, it doesn't bother to give me even with the slightest idea.



However on the other hand, apart from enjoying the rainy season, I am not capable of performing tasks way effective than in just ordinary days. The weather affects me in different ways. Like when there is a raining sensation, arising from my coma state is hardly bearable. Similar to whenever I thought of doing something that should be done for the rest of the day, my mind tells me to get off the couch and start producing the fruit of labor, yet my body is contradicting dictates. Well you see? That is how life brings you the finest, shows and tells you what makes every single little thing in this world worthwhile and sometimes you cannot compensate, you shouldn't be just staying in the corner waiting for things to happen, when you know in the first place it is best when you make things happen.


Look ahead of the future. Seek after the things that comprise greater eternal prospect. Learn to achieve and always remember that God's ways are better than yours.


It is true that the darkest cloud and raging thunder may strike and drag you down on your way..




But nothing of these can prevail when you believe that God has given you the strength to overcome sore afflictions. Because indeed after all the storms of pain and sorrow, comes the glistening rainbow.


"And now, verily I say unto you, and what I say unto one I say unto all, be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you." (D&C 61:36)

You see how a rainy weather could have a total impact on me? It is a challenge to get things done and accomplished! Right, if only classes are everyday suspended like this. Haha!


Oh let it rain. :)

Monday, September 26, 2011

THE MANIA -- I Bet You Know Him

David! David! David!
DAVID ARCHULETA. He's just too good to be true. I can't take my eyes off him..

Kidding naughty girl, HAHA. I remember the time my world first turned upside-down when I was still in high school, and I watched an episode of American Idol audition. This cutie guy showed up himself on the platform in front of the scrutinizing eyes of the judges when he was still young, sixteen or seventeen right? And now he is twenty. The very moment I saw him I already liked him, but it wasn't until when I learned he was a mormon(LDS) too-- I came to love him more and moooooore. :)

Meet and Greet, the group 4
Hey. Above is a picture of us at the Araneta Coliseum's dressing room, the dome where he held his second concert. He already had three visits in the country: The first one was at the Mall of Asia concert grounds; secondly was at the SM North Skydome where he only promoted his latest album (It wasn't a concert actually); at the Araneta was the third.


P.S. If I didn't win the contest, I would never have a snapshot like that. :)

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Sickness Puts Much Pressure on Me

Achooooooo.. I got sick. Darn.

During the past days, I wasn't feeling well. I knew I will be sick, and I was right I have it now. At first I had mild tonsillitis and the next day it was followed by colds. The good news is my tonsils got themselves into their proper function just yesterday and the bad news is my runny nose, gets blows and sneezes far away from recovery! Stuffy. Still I did go to the hospital for our duty and luckily I didn't mess up there. I wore a face mask and for goodness' sake, I performed well clinically.

I hate being sick. It isn't just because I am not feeling well though it is one of the reasons, but because I'm being self-restricted to people around. Of course they won't make it any obvious if they don't want me mixing and blending up with them, but I get daunted. The fact that I have to keep myself a few meters away from them is a bit stressing out especially when you have respiratory diseases such as colds and cough, etc.. I feel helplessly isolated. Poor little girl, so sickly. I just have to understand it's also for their own good. Hahaha.

Alright folks, I have no choice but to give myself a break today so I can regain strength not too soon. I'm really hoping the next week, I'll be kicking alive once more. I gotta do a lot! I don't want to lay on my bed doing nothing at all because I promise I won't be singing Bruno Mars' song. Okay, tinge up! Get up! :D

***

Monday, September 12, 2011

Start Recording Thoughts: It Is Important

"Anything that is not recorded or written, will always be forgotten."
I remember that quotation I'd written in my notebook dated August last year during one Sunday meeting, where I sat in the front seat because I was the pianist and I didn't have the choice but to listen all the way through until the meeting ended.

In fact, that was quite fair because church members are expected to be all ears in the speakers though! I admit I was a stubborn kiddo way back, but who are you to judge the imperfect? *winks

To prove upon, I always refer to that quote and I consider it as my reference whenever I feel the call of tiresome hands to think of still writing on course of pen and paper, or maybe in whatever way just to manage having that hodgepodge of memoirs.

So that was when I thought of  it and moreover, lending even a short period of time in doing a blog can be a cherished sentiment itself as it serves as the footnote of life's flipping pages and chapters.

Actually I have lots of blogs anywhere in the web. I even have a red journal and a green diary full of coded letters. To mention I signed up at Xanga and I think I made three entries there, did post on LDS Journal as well and presently doing stuff at Tumblr. You know what? Much of anything else I've wished so far is my whim-wham in wanting to be a consistent blogger, could possibly be the same just as to how I treasure my 'superb' passion in Music (You can't take that away from me, hehe).

I'm so sorry, I don't believe this entry to be that sensible unlike others' blogs I've read just recently, where theirs I am very sure are heartfelt and profound. Amazing is the way how they give sorts of advice and principles of wisdom and life experiences, which resulted to me admiring them. Haha! Or maybe because I'm still seventeen and most of them range five years and up older than me, which means I still have more rice to eat

However I believe in that remaining fruitful years to come, I will learn and develop myself from a picture of being a tiny seed growing up into a strong and mighty tree. For nobody has reached the reward on top without him stepping first in the primary ladder of the hardest part, and most tremendous side of getting into the podium of genuine success.

Believe in yourself because you can do it!  Don't just follow your dreams, chase them!

I will make it, I will be counted. If others made it and reached the twinkling stars, you can manage to captivate the whole universe!

You see how recording thoughts could be the basis of real commitment? Needless to say, I'm bound to this-- my first entry at Blogspot. More stories later! :)