DEVO 003 | I Wanna Know What Love Is

Devo

It’s the love month & I wouldn’t miss this chance to share about LOVE. Straight to the point! As we celebrate our relationships this February, may we not forget our first love- Jesus.

We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19

He is WHY we are able to love for HE is LOVE. And I believe it is in knowing, acknowledging & experiencing that, that we are able to give true love. True love? I love how Joel A’bell puts it in one of his sermons. He explains, “God is love but love is not God.” Also I remember in college a saying we printed in our org shirt which says, “Art is not art for art’s sake”. Let me change art to love, Love is not love for love’s sake. The world has defined love in sooooo many ways that I couldn’t have said it better myself. To explain further, I could say I “love” my husband but love is not my husband. I “love” to sing but singing isn’t love.

Wanna know what love is?

The love that never runs dry?

The love that won’t leave you?

The love that accepts you?

The love that takes you higher?

The love that died & lives for you?

JESUS

So, especially at this time when LOVE’s a buzz, again, as we think of our relationships, the flowers, chocolates & all the sweet nothings… or maybe you feel left out from the celebration because you have your reasons… switch whatever emotions are weighing you down to light & love because HE IS THE ONLY REASON YOU’LL EVER NEED TO FEEL LOVED. May we think of our relationship with Jesus, feel his embrace as we look to the heavens, bask in His presence, offer our hearts & say “I love You too”.

Confessions of a Pregnant Mom at Week 38

Motherhood

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

Preggy Momma Confession coming right up!

38 in 2 days & I found myself confused in prayer. Have you ever been confused what exact words to say to God or ask of Him?

I think any mom would agree that the last weeks of pregnancy are… what right & fitting words would describe them, right?

I want to pop, like NOW! The stretching & struggle are just so real that even the thought of labour & delivery pains are gone. You just want your baby out & finally see him/ her, her in my case. I couldn’t even think of the “stress” they say, that’s coming. I just want to wrap my arms around her & see her with my very eyes.

But as I was praying, something hit me. This child is ultimately His. He has numbered her days, have great plans for her & all the beautiful promises of God are set. That even if I reaaaaaaally want to give birth NOW, HIS PLANS won’t change. And His ways are higher than mine.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 2

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

And right there & then my prayer changed to “Lord, if not NOW, then whenever it may happen, would you give me the strength to endure the struggle that comes with this blessing.” I thought, if enduring is the way for the will of my Father to be realised, then yes, ok. Because really, it’s for my own good, it’s for our baby’s best.

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. Corinthians 1:20

AND THEN I REMEMBER WHAT JESUS DID ON THE CROSS.

At that time He was probably saying, Father God, if me enduring the cross for your will & purpose to prevail, would be the only way for the world to be saved, then yes, ok.

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. FOR THE JOY SET BEFORE HIM HE ENDURED THE CROSS, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

For the JOY SET BEFORE ME… I WILL ENDURE.

Sometimes we get stuck on what we want or what we think we know is best for us… stuck in our small minds & not seeking the One who sees the big picture. Then we rush into praying for something that’s “just”. He says in His word to SEEK HIM FIRST & all these things shall be added to us. I’ve always believed that in the process of seeking Him, He’ll reveal Himself, His will & purpose for you resulting for you to want what He wants because again, His ways are higher, He knows what’s best for you. ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED TO YOU already means, that.

Would you take time to ask God what He wants because really, if you pray for what you just want… He won’t change nor His plans or promises, just because you prayed.

Let your prayer seek His will.

He is God. Unchanging. But have the confidence because… He is God. All- knowing. He is God. He loves you. He will not withhold what’s best for His children. He makes all things beautiful in His time, always.

The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. Psalm 84:11

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart… Jeremiah 1:5

We’ve come this far, see you soon baby love!

A Baby Shower to Remember x Tips on Planning a DIY Baby Shower

Motherhood

We just had our Baby Shower & I’d like to share a few tips on planning/ organising one.

But before sharing with you tips on planning a DIY Baby Shower, I would like to express the gratitude my husband & I have for making our Baby Shower one that’s to remember.

We have been praying for our Baby Shower… since the beginning of our journey, we have seen God’s mighty hand move & our shower was no exception. I remember praying for God’s presence to be evident & that His glory would be made known through the celebration. I mean, those who know our story & my personal story would know why this was our prayer & why I am very passionate about marriage, family, parenting & motherhood. Sounds like a cliché or as what I’ve expressed during the shower, “being OA?”. I’m sorry, not sorry. This is simply the truth, God is gracious, loving, faithful & kind. So, I will boast about who He is & how he’s been moving in our lives. This was & is a big deal because EVERYTHING we were, are & will be experiencing, in this case a celebration of life, are all because of His Divine intervention, work & sovereignty.

Styled by Rose Rodas of Rose Letters I Photo by Cinderella Ruiz of Cinderella Photography

Favors by Rose Rodas of Rose Letters I Photo by Cinderella Ruiz of Cinderella Photography

I still remember the days I prayed for the things I have today.

Our Baby Shower, a day full of His love. We felt it deep. All love languages ticked.

Quality Time I Warm Fuzzy Feels through every message & hugs from everyone!

Words of Affirmation

Service

Gifts

Quality Time

First, ALL GLORY TO GOD. We thank the Lord for this great blessing. Having a baby was a dream & a prayer request. We specifically prayed to be pregnant after our 1^st anniversary & that’s exactly what happened. A dream come true & an answered prayer!

Prayer Warriors in Action

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Next, I want to honour my husband & just express how great He has been during this journey. WE were both pregnant, if you know what I mean. Love, you have been nothing short of amazing!

Thank you to my dear sister, Gale, for organizing the baby shower, most of all, supporting us all the way, in any way.

Grateful for everybody who helped out & made the shower, extra extra special.

Primrose- Styling & Giveaways

Check out Rose Letters Cebu on Facebook for your event styling, invitation graphic layout needs & more

Dee- Documentation & Photo Editing

Check out Cinderella Photography on Facebook for your photography needs

Hannah– Invitation layout & Documentation

You may message Hannah Mariel Jabines on Facebook for your graphic layout & event documentation needs

Lenie, for assisting

Carmina, for hosting

Jesse, for taking care of registration

Jesse

Carmina

Lenie

And to EVERYBODY who came, made time, gave gifts & helped us with the baby essentials & even those who weren’t able to come but showed some LOVE in any way, sending gifts, messages & prayers during this season. FAMILY & FRIENDS, we will be forever GRATEFUL. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives, you’ll always be part of ours. We are truly humbled by the overwhelming support. WE SPEAK A BLESSING TO YOUR LIVES a gazillion folds, IN HIS NAME, as you’ve blessed us tremendously.

With Kim

ALL BY HIS GRACE

Sharing with you some snippets of the Baby Shower

Grateful for these people!

Lifegroup

Too happy!

Ninong Bien & Ninang Dalian

Friends from the Industry I Barbie, Manna & Maan

The Sister, giving her message.

With Tita Gina of Team Merced I Every time she has appointments in Velez, she invites us for lunch for a quick catch up!

With Hannah & Tita Dory’s representative, Drew!

Never a dull moment with Lenie!

Love this bunch! They’re our constant Prayer Warriors.

Here’s Manna, giving a message on how EXTRA I am. Haha!

Godparents Represent!

Soul Sisters!

Tita Mila giving her message.

Missing the rest! Insert Cha, Franz, Anne & Resane.

Emotional over everything. God is Great!

The Crying Ladies. Haha

Thankful for everyone for the gifts, helping us out with Renee’s essentials.

So, here it is!

Tips on Planning a DIY Baby Shower:

Set a Date & Time

First thing’s first! Set a date & time. Try answering the basic questions when planning a Baby Shower or any event for that matter- WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, HOW. First thing’s first- WHAT & WHEN. What? A Baby Shower, in this case. When? Baby Showers are usually done on the 7th month of the Mom’s pregnancy. Communicate with the Mom- to- be some time in the 6th month when would be the best time, so that you have ample time to prepare.

Finalize Guest List

Answer WHO. Who are the ones who have been part of your journey? To the Mom, do not feel obligated to invite everybody, just because… You would know who were the ones who’ve made an impact in your journey. And this principle I keep in mind- You do not need a title nor an invitation to care for people. There will be people who will care or have shown care despite not having a title in your life or an invitation to gatherings like these. It’s your choice to invite them or simply appreciate them some other way. The right people will always stay. Communicate with Mom- to- be on the guest list before inviting.

Have a Gift Registry

Having a Gift Registry makes it very convenient for the Parents to- be & the guests. This would ensure parents are able to use the items for their baby in a way they plan to use them. And it would be easy for guests to choose their gift because they’ve been already sorted out. The first time I joined a Baby Shower, I was so clueless of what a baby would need. Thankfully, the celebrant had a registry. Totally saved me! As the planner, you may ask for the registry details from the Mom- to- be.

Choose a Theme

Choosing a theme is OPTIONAL. Nowadays, this has become popular for parties. How you come up with the theme depends on you, mainly the gender of the child. Some plan to do a gender reveal on the shower so most of the time, a baby shower like this becomes an all white party. Here are some probable factors for you to be able to come up with a theme:

*Baby’s Name

*Season the Mom is due

*Place Baby was conceived

And so much more! Be creative. Don’t forget to consult with the Mom- to- be. But like I said, this is just optional. A simple & memorable gathering is more than enough.

Make an Invite

Once you’ve established, date, time, event & theme. You may start inviting. Fortunately, inviting people has become very convenient due to social media. You can choose to give out invitations &/ or simply make an event on facebook. Announce when, time & gift registry. You may also include an “attire” based on your theme. How about WHERE? I would suggest answering that once you get a headcount. It’s best to have planned a month before the date to give time for people to adjust their schedules & make a confirmation. Announce the details as well as a deadline when each could possibly confirm so that you can set the venue. While you’re waiting for everybody’s confirmation, you may do some ocular visits & make calls to inquire. However, if you choose to give out hard copies of the invitation, you might need to finalize venue already.

Layout by Hannah Mariel Jabines

Book the Venue & order Food ahead

So you’ve got the headcount, now’s the time you book the venue or you may pencil book in advance. Make sure venue is suitable for the shower, consider number of guests coming & food is appropriate for the shower.

Make a Program

Have about 2-3 games & consider time for eating, gift giving & messages. The whole duration of the shower should be about 2-3 hours only. If you have a lot of guests, lessen the games & give more time for messages because even if you say “keep it short”, it won’t be. I personally would rather give the guests time to say or share something than games. They deserve the time considering their support, efforts & love. But customize & personalize all you want, it’s your shower!

Make Registration something for keeps

This is another thing that’s optional. However, this would be something you could give as a remembrance of the milestone to the parents- to-be. So if you are able to stretch yourself in making this happen, it would be great!

Make updates at event page from time to time

Make or announce updates from time to time to make it interesting. Other than important details, you may post trivia’s, post maternity photos or make a countdown. Here were a few sample postings in our shower.

Delegate tasks

Make sure you delegate tasks especially on the day. After all, you get by with a little help from your friends! Here are some areas you might need delegation with- registration, documentation, host/ game master, styling, music, food & beverage & etc. Depending on the details/ ayour

Have Fun

Most of all, have fun in doing all of these things (considering that you’re close with the parents- to- be) knowing that you are blessed to be blessing the couple in their milestone.

Here’s hoping you have a memorable & meaningful baby shower! Hope this helps. Enjoy your journey!

Maternity Shoot x Pregnancy Diaries

Motherhood

“Your story is not just your story. It is for others to learn and know. And one day you will share these experiences to others- mothers, single ladies and many more. I just feel that this season of yours is going to make you a better person for His glory. I sense the unfolding of greatness, the unveiling of His love and the showering of joy. The Lord is not done with you yet.”

This was my sister’s message in the middle of my 1^st trimester. These words were the beginning of a realization for me & I truly thank God for people like my sister who continuously remind me that the life I live is His.

This inspired me to share about what I experienced & felt during the first few months of my pregnancy. Which means the experiences & feelings each mother goes through are different. I say “mother” because pregnancy is already part of “motherhood”, in fact, it is the beginning of it. If you’re somebody who’s expecting or who’s praying to have a baby, I hope this gives you an idea what happens during pregnancy & that you’ll be able to prepare for it.

Oh the joys of breaking the news that you’re pregnant! The day has finally come when your prayers have been answered, the future looks bright as you start pinning adorable baby outfits, maternity fashion, checking out lists of what you’ll need when the baby is out, thinking of booking a photographer for your maternity & baby shoot, planning for a baby shower & the list goes on. All of these are great & they’re a beautiful side to pregnancy but the hard or challenging reality will get to you as pregnancy progresses. Mothers or every parent will agree that those mentioned are just tiny bits, parts or the sweet little things to motherhood or parenting.

The first few weeks of my pregnancy were difficult. Although I hear some pregnancies are flawless, mine was one of the usual cases. Usually during the 1^st trimester pregnant women experience morning sickness, excessive vomiting, swollen breasts, weird cravings at the same time distaste for some food while appetite increases, amplified urine movement, nausea, heartburn, acne breakouts, mood swings, skin discoloration, are more susceptible to illness & so much more. Some experience these for months & some even during the whole duration of the pregnancy. (If you’re a guy reading this & you’re expecting, take notes! You’re wife isn’t overreacting, these things happen!)

For me this meant, stopping work, ministry & all other activities I had in a snap! I remember my husband telling me one time that his head was aching because he wasn’t able to drink coffee, I tell him, “Just imagine how I feel?”. For a coffee lover who drinks about 3 cups a day & letting go of that in an instant, not to mention everything else my body goes through, the struggle was very real. And that’s just one. Being pregnant means sacrifice. This is just the beginning.

Shout out to EVERY MOM! You are beautiful, strong & truly Wonderwoman! I hear new moms say, “Dear Mom, I get you now”. I have only been given the starter if this was a full set course meal yet I feel you. And I just want to say THANK YOU. You are amazing!

During this time (1^st trimester) we found out I had hemorrhage, which had me stay at home for a month & a half. I was usually in bed & these were the times I kept crying & I honestly tell my husband & myself “I’m tired already”. As if giving up was an option. Of course not! I often hear people say, “the baby is worth it” or “it will be worth it”. No doubt but for usual cases or even crucial cases wherein bed rest is a requirement for 9 months & the struggle is very real, I realized this… Like any other thing that we say is worth it, like marriage or whatever matters to you for the world & in this case, the baby… ________________ (whatever it is) is not enough reason to stay strong… Jesus will always be the answer, the reason. I don’t know how I’d reach this point without Jesus.

Jesus… keeping me strong, giving me a hardworking & patient husband who was & is with me through the whole process, giving me family & friends who would communicate, encourage, visit, cook, bring food, pray with me & show any kind of support. Jesus made all of these things happen. And these things gave me so much comfort & joy during this phase.

If you’re one of those who did those things mentioned above, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. You have no idea how much you’ve brought a great impact during my pregnancy. You know who you are. Your names will forever be carved in my heart.

During the 2^nd trimester, the hemorrhage healed. Answered prayer! This time, I am able to go out, however, because of everything else that comes with pregnancy; I had to stay at home more often. My husband & I had the mindset of, “it’s better to be safe than sorry”. Like I said, pregnant women are more susceptible to diseases. We don’t want to risk it. Also during this time, my appetite was waaaaay better, as what most would say, the 2^nd trimester is the best time. Naturally, I gained weight & there’s no shame in that. Pregnant women have to gain for their baby’s health. So when people comment about how much you’ve gained, have the confidence that what goes on in your body is no joke & if that meant being chubby or fat even, you wouldn’t have it any other way for your baby’s sake. Giiiiiiirl, YOU’RE BODY IS THE TRUE WONDERLAND. Especially during this time when you’ll be able to feel the kicks, pokes & even turns! How amazing is your body, His creation.

Pregnancy hormones kick in & I had times when I’d look to the future, would feel very emotional because the realities of motherhood or parenting would sink in. The beauty & the struggle in one scenario made me pray for God to give me a MOTHER’S HEART. An intentional loving mother who will be able to give what’s best for my child in the way GOD wants her (YES IT’S A GIRL) to be raised. Not just me but for my husband & I to be purposeful parents. As one of the mothers I know would put it, #MomOnaMission. Yes we are, yes I am. Being a parent has always been a prayer & a dream. And I do not take lightly the grace that’s been given to my husband & I. #ParentwithaPurpose. We have this in mind, we are the keepers of the next generation, which are the world changers. A vessel for His glory to be made known in the generations to come.

We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, HIs power & the wonders He has done… so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, & they in turn would tell their children. Psalm 78:4 & 6

Writing this as we enter the 3^rd or last trimester. Physically, baby’s movements are really felt, the struggle of the weight is getting more challenging everyday, stretch marks are in & skin has been very itchy due to the continuous stretch. I also don’t mind, although I plan to let them go when baby is out. I don’t mind if this is the way my body is responding to the stretch to make room for the baby inside. These marks are beautiful marks. Truly there is growth in stretching. Very true in life. As baby grows & tummy stretches, it is not only the physical that’s doing all the action. Body, soul, mind, heart & spirit are being stretched & are grown, by His grace. And I’m really grateful for that.

This is it! Another season of experiencing Jesus. A few more weeks & we’ll be able to hold baby in our arms. Nothing but expectant hearts knowing He holds the future & that His promises are yes & amen.

Last Christmas, our families went on a beach getaway at Club Serena, Moalboal. We took the chance to have our maternity shoot. And the 2^nd setting was when we had our advance anniversary celebration at Kandaya Resort, Daanbantayan, since I am due on the same month as our wedding. By that time, baby would still be a few days or weeks old & we’re not certain we can go out to for a celebration. Nonetheless, reaching 2 years with a baby in our home would be the best gift, the best celebration yet. All glory to God. DIY photos by my dear hubby, sharing them as inspirations for your shoot too! Both locations are in Cebu, Philippines.

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6

Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire. Proverbs 29:17

These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Deutoronomy 6:6-9

Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. Proverbs 13:24

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

Having A Broken Family Doesn’t Mean A Broken Life For You

Lifestyle

A couple of weeks after getting married, I posted a gazillion of photos at my social media accounts & each photo had meaningful captions about how the dream of marriage started, a glimpse of the proposal, the preparation & the process of getting to the BIG DAY & the day itself, along with the people who were, are & will continue to be part of our journey.

Every beautiful soul that were supporting us all the way & God’s masterpiece as our backdrop

And then, a person sends me this message…

… I don’t believe in marriage because I grew up from a broken family & there are a lot of playboys around. I remember, you came from a broken family. I just want to know how you turned out to be someone who believes in marriage.

So here goes my answer.

Having a broken family doesn’t mean a broken life for you.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

MY IDENTITY IS IN CHRIST

I am a child of Christ more than anything else. I identify with Him. This has got a lot to do with knowing your Heavenly Father first. He is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the Great I AM, the Prince of Peace, the one who died for you & me. And identifying yourself with Christ gives you the hope that’s like the sun that shines every morning, gives you joy that’s overflowing, peace that surpasses all understanding & love that’s everlasting. You’ll be so full of Him that you can’t help but give the same to the people around you.

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind. Psalms 33:11-13

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 1 John 4:7-9

And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:5

For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God? {33} It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. {34} He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. 2 Samuel 22:32-34

These are just some of the verses about God. Continuously read about Him, then you’ll be able to identify yourself with your Heavenly Father.

YOUR SECURITY & CONFIDENCE IS IN HIM

This also means that your security & confidence is in Christ. Having Christ doesn’t mean the absence of challenges, we live in an untamed world. But it only means having Him go before you not only in battle, also in victories & every part of your life, every fiber of your being. That should enable you to be secured & confident.

When you have Christ, you have everything.

One of my favorite verses- She is clothed with strength & dignity; and she laughs without fear of the future. Proverbs 31:25

For this God is our God forever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end. Psalms 48:14

O my Strength, I watch for you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God. God will go before me and will let me gloat over those who slander me. Psalms 59:9-10

My salvation and my honor depend on God ; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. {8} Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Selah Psalms 62:7-8

For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory. Deuteronomy 20:4

LISTEN TO HIS VOICE & TAKE THINGS INTO HIS PERSPECTIVE

Anybody can influence you to his or her perspective & talk you into it then you’ll grow up believing in whatever they say, good or bad but the best one you’ll ever need & listen to is His. When people think that you’ll just be like your parents or they’re just waiting for you to fall & their voices are too loud it’s getting into your head…shut your ears but leave room for His still small voice. Don’t let the negative things & words get to your heart. Look at things with faith, everything happens for a reason, for His glory.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalms 73:26

GET INTO THE WORD

The only way to know yourself more is to knowing Him more. And the only way to hear Him & have His perspective is to read His word.

Faith comes from hearing & hearing the word of God. Romans 10:17

He has a lot to say to you & He loves you too much for you to just waste your life. Know His gifts, promises & teachings. And after knowing them, live by them & experience the wonder of His love for you.

“If you will diligently listen to the voice of the LORD your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, your healer.” Exodus 15:26

Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Proverbs 30:5

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. 1 Corinthians 4:20

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

FORGIVE

Forgive your parents & yourself. Stop thinking & living like the fault of your parents are yours & that the consequences have to be yours. I’ve heard it a couple of times & along the way, I might have said it while going through rough stuff, “I’m like this or am going through this bad situation because I came from a broken family”. You know you have a choice? You have a choice to respond positively every time the going gets tough. Growing up, by His grace, I made my situation a motivation to never give up on His promises in my life. He said in His word, He has fashioned the days for me & that I have a hope & a great future. And I was willing to do everything to claim that. It wasn’t an easy road given the circumstances, never. But I go back to Him then He tells me Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength. I am not saying all of these things because life was easy, you will have more challenges because life is a beautiful struggle. But I can confidently say all of these things because I went through a lot & now I testify of His mercy, grace & love. Continuously move forward with God’s promises.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8

GET WISDOM & ACT ON IT

From reading His word, you’ll get a lot of wisdom but you have to act on it & be wise. Apply what you learn.

For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. James 2:26

BELIEVING I MARRIAGE

I have found whom my soul loves. Song of Solomon 3:4

With all of those things, I then believed in love… in marriage. My faith in Christ kept that alive in me. Although I made wrong decisions in relationships, I let go & let God. That was the case in everything. He took the wheel & one day He led me to the man He has for me.

Psalm 139:13-17

¹³ For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.
¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, Andskillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
¹⁶ Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there werenone of them.
¹⁷ How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!

God is a God of order. Graduate, meet friends that speak life to you, establish your career, get Godly counsel, have fun & the Lord will just give you the man he has for you somewhere in the middle of you living your life in accordance to His will.

Seek Him first & He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

So about immature guys around you… first of all, pray for the person for you & don’t keep guessing every time a guy tries to pursue you. Ask God, ask your Daddy! And if the guy doesn’t love God, has no plans nor a direction in life, leads you to do wrong things, He’s obviously not the one. Don’t play the role of an angel & say you can change him. If he is God’s will for you, God will change him, not you.

Do not awaken love until it so desires. Song of Solomon 8:4

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5

And if everything seems to be great- He loves God, has a plan & direction & leads you to the right things… that’s good but that’s not enough, you need His confirmation. And when He confirms, the one will definitely date you with a purpose, with a goal of eventually marrying you. Sadly, this is not very famous. Most people just date & say “we’ll see”. I was riding on the same boat, you can try & learn or you learn from others or let’s say… a familiar one, learn from the experience of your parents.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

Marriage has been in our hearts when my husband & I were dating. By His grace, after a year, my husband now, boyfriend at that time, asked me my hand in marriage. We had a wonderful marriage, not because of the venue, lights, decorations, dresses & flowers but because God was with us.

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16

I believed & now that I am married, I will continue to believe in marriage. It is God’s gift to me & my husband & we fully accept it. And we believe for a God- given family someday.

I end this message with a piece of my wedding vow.

Handwritten with love

#travelwithtara #taraforreel #Marriage #Love #Life #Jesus #Family #Relationships #Testimony

Reminiscing our First Travel as Mr. & Mrs. B: Singapore

Travel

Singapore Travel Essentials: Map of Singapore, Cap, Shades, Cameras, Water, Identity Bands & our wedding bands- just flaunting ’em!

Exactly 3 months ago, Reel & I entered into marriage. The day after, was my birthday, which was our flight going to Singapore. Our first travel as Mr. & Mrs. B.
A double celebration is an understatement. A minute of pause before I continue to tell you about our first travel. Just really want to give back the glory & love to God for his endless favour, relentless love & unending grace. All of the things I’ll be sharing wouldn’t be possible without his hand working marvellously in our lives. So horray to the adventures of Mr. & Mrs. B!

I’ve held on to the darkest nights, now let’s live through the night with the brightest lights. Quality time with Mr. B.

The first of the many ADVENTURES.

We arrived at dawn & was greeted by the wonderful Changi International Airport. Changi in itself is already a destination in Singapore. The place is just world class, it’s like a mall with so many perks, free massages, areas to sleep & lounge, a variety of food choices, good deals to shop and not to mention, clean carpets & toilets!

You’ll never get lost in Singapore, signs, maps & instructions where to go are everywhere.

Kopitiam Restaurant

Before heading to the hotel, we decided to grab a quick bite to one of the restaurants at the airport. We saw quite a lot of places to eat but we were looking for Singaporean food. Well, you’re already in another place, immerse. KOPITIAM it was. We had their signature Kopi, toast with kaya jam & eggs!

Then off we go!

Riding the subway is fast & easy too. Just follow the map & the line where you’re supposed to go to. Their subways are air-condition, so altogether it’s convenient & comfortable.

Checking Google Maps

Marina Bay Sands Hallway

Our first stop was at the Marina Bay Sands. It’s probably the best hotel in Singapore & we felt really blessed to be able to stay there.

Marina Bay Sands

After saying that we were on our honeymoon, they let us check- in at 6am, without charge. Talk about favor! And this was the lovely view that said hello to us.

Hello to this lovely view outside our hotel room!

The Marina Bay Sands Experience

There are so many things you can do at the Marina Bay Sands. Here were the things we enjoyed doing.

1. Swim at their boat- shaped pool while enjoying the view of the Marina Bay.

2. Relax & take a dip at the Jacuzzi.

3. Spend some quality time at the room.

You’re at the Marina Bay Sands, don’t be so quick to go out & explore, explore the hotel first. So hey! Your room is part of that.

4. Wander around the viewing deck & take breathtaking snaps!

Snaps at the Deck by day

Snaps at the Deck by night

Around the area, you could already go to a lot of the must- see places in Singapore.

Magnificent Structures around Marina Bay

The Merlion

Singapore Flyer

Gardens By The Bay

Helix Bridge

Art Science Museum

The Shoppes At Marina Bay Sands

You can get a good spot outside the Shoppes & watch the lights show by the bay in the evening.

And while you’re roaming around, don’t forget FOOD TRIP!

There are a lot of CELEBRITY RESTAURANTS at the Shoppes where you can indulge to gastronomic delights but if you’re on a tight budget, no worries! There are a lot of good hawker places around. Just go back to SG solely for the celebrity restaurants next time.

Sandwich ice cream by the streets for only $1.

Hawker at the food courts.

Day one & we’ve done a lot of things already! Day two & the rest of the days left, we went to the Orchard as it is already in the middle of the other spots to go.

Orchard is where you do shopping & discover more eats! You could do a lot of things there but our time wouldn’t really permit us to do EVERYTHING. So, besides shopping, here were the things we did around the Orchard & the places nearby.

Dine at Marché

Swiss at Singapore? If it’s worth it, why not?!

Eat more of those delicious & veeeery affordable sandwich ice cream.

More KOPI & KAYA TOAST!

Toast Box cafes are just around the corner, dig in to their kopi & toast with kaya jam while you’re in SG.

National Museum of Singapore

Learn how Singapore came to be. They’re actually a young country yet a very progressive one, interesting how they started from scratch! Had a lot to do with their leader- Lee Kuan Yew.

Check out their MOVIE THEATERS
Although it’s really just the same movie, we found it really cool that they give away their 3D glasses plus, they have clip- ons for those who are wearing eyeglasses. Sorry, we don’t have that where we come from. So yes, we were very happy.

Other places nearby where you can go are Clark Quay & ride the slingshot. Ride the subway & you go to China Town & Little India.

Clark Quay

China Town

And of course, our Singapore trip wouldn’t be complete without going to Universal Studios in Sentosa. We’ll probably go to the Night Safari & the rest of the places in Sentosa when we have kids. It’s best that you buy your tickets ahead online to cut to the lines. We got there early but the line to the tickets were reaaaaaaallllly long, gladly we got them ahead & lined up with the rest who already got their tickets. Imagine if we hadn’t. And we got free Universal Studios glasses for purchasing the tickets online!

So, as soon as the gates were opened, we conquered the giant! Our first ride was the Battlestar Galactica, both the HUMAN (red) & CYLON (blue). Fortunately (maybe unfortunate for me bec. I was too scared) we only waited for about 5 mins. because most of the people would probably go to the less scarry rides first.

That’s right! We rode this giant, first. SCARED to the moon! But made our Universal Studios trip worth it.

Us, after the crazy ride! A rightful selfie with the Battlestar Galactica.

Then we watched the WATERWORLD show.

Before you get in, they give you flyers to the map & schedules so that you’ll be guided. And they have lockers where you can place your items before going to the rides. Food stalls & restaurants are in every section too, nothing to worry about once you’re inside. Just have fun fun fun!

A piece of advice though, bring a menthol inhaler. You’ll realise when you get there. Haha.

It was truly a very entertaining show. Our next stop was visiting THE MUMMY. Still a scary ride, although it was mostly dark you could still feel the fall of the ride plus the fire & sound effects. It was very effective then & waiting for an hour & a half was worth it!

The last ride that we wanted to try was the TRANSFORMERS but the line would probably be too long & that would take away all the energy that we have left. Saving the best for last, we checked the other sections of Universal Studios.

FAR FAR AWAY

We watched the 4D movie show of Shreck, Fiona & the gang!

MADAGASCAR

JURASSIC PARK

NEW YORK

We watched LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION by Steven Spielberg. It was an empty soundstage with the setting of a category 5 hurricane that would hit New York. So that’s how they do it! Cool.

Watched the parade & took more photos before the Transformers!

“Promise me something Katie. That you’ll take a lot of pictures. You’ll only regret the ones you didn’t take.” Safe Haven

Parade

THE DOCTOR IS IN… VACATION

A few photos taken by Mr. B

Then, down to our last ride- the TRANSFORMERS. Waited for another hour, even more… then it was our turn!

That ends our Universal Studios experience & a few more hours till we kiss Singapore goodbye. Back to our first destination, Changi. Last sip & bite of kopi & kaya toast!

Singapore was enchanting but it wouldn’t be the same, without my prince charming.

I could go to any place & would feel as thrilled for as long as I have Mr. B holding my hand, the destination doesn’t matter because we are each others destination.

And with that, we can conquer the world. Till our next travel!

Special thanks to our Godparents, JP & Cielo Villegas for the mugs & friends, Wilma & Chen for the map.

#Singapore #travel #travelwithtara #taraforreel #Blessed #TYL

We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 2

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. Corinthians 1:20

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. FOR THE JOY SET BEFORE HIM HE ENDURED THE CROSS, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

Let your prayer seek His will.

The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. Psalm 84:11

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart… Jeremiah 1:5

I still remember the days I prayed for the things I have today.

Our Baby Shower, a day full of His love. We felt it deep. All love languages ticked.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Primrose- Styling & Giveaways

Dee- Documentation & Photo Editing

Hannah– Invitation layout & Documentation

ALL BY HIS GRACE

Sharing with you some snippets of the Baby Shower

Tips on Planning a DIY Baby Shower:

Set a Date & Time

Finalize Guest List

Have a Gift Registry

Choose a Theme

Make an Invite

Book the Venue & order Food ahead

Make a Program

Make Registration something for keeps

Make updates at event page from time to time

Delegate tasks

Have Fun

Shout out to EVERY MOM! You are beautiful, strong & truly Wonderwoman! I hear new moms say, “Dear Mom, I get you now”. I have only been given the starter if this was a full set course meal yet I feel you. And I just want to say THANK YOU. You are amazing!

If you’re one of those who did those things mentioned above, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. You have no idea how much you’ve brought a great impact during my pregnancy. You know who you are. Your names will forever be carved in my heart.

We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, HIs power & the wonders He has done… so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, & they in turn would tell their children. Psalm 78:4 & 6

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6

Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire. Proverbs 29:17

Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. Proverbs 13:24

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

… I don’t believe in marriage because I grew up from a broken family & there are a lot of playboys around. I remember, you came from a broken family. I just want to know how you turned out to be someone who believes in marriage.

Having a broken family doesn’t mean a broken life for you.

When you have Christ, you have everything.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

The first of the many ADVENTURES.

Then off we go!

The Marina Bay Sands Experience

The Merlion

Singapore Flyer

Gardens By The Bay

Helix Bridge

Art Science Museum

The Shoppes At Marina Bay Sands

A few photos taken by Mr. B

Singapore was enchanting but it wouldn’t be the same, without my prince charming.