Three Days Mission (my first "go"ing)

When something's so overwhelming, I find it really hard to put into words.
Here I am attempting to immortalize one of the best three days of my life. :)

It's been more than a week since the Hike For Christ's Movement's three days mission trip in an Aeta community (specifically in Sitio Banawen, San Felipe Zambales). We went there to make disciples and to get to know the community more so that we can serve God better through them.

Looking back before the mission, I was so grateful for the spiritual preparation that we had. We heard and learned from different missionaries who's "been there and done that" in the mission field. One is currently working in reaching out our Muslim brothers and sisters, one is a Discipleship Pastor on one of our congregation and lastly, a group that has the same heart beat as ours in reaching out the tribes in the Philippines. I was inspired with their stories, excellence and boldness. I was touched with their heart to really honor Christ in their ministries. We were so fired up.

But then, I also learned from these exhortations that there will be attacks from the enemy as we attempt to expand the Kingdom.

Days before the mission, it became evident. Internally, I had that unexplained and extraordinary tiredness. Externally, I was suddenly being threatened to be homeless.

 The attacks were great, yes, but I also learned that when the attack is great, it means we're doing something great for the Kingdom as well. That excites me. Moment by moment, I was amazed with His grace and strength that carried me (and the team) through and was able to resolve to "go" no matter what.

Day 1

I had the privilege to lead the group devotion. I was personally reminded that even before we do something, God already affirmed us and is  well pleased because of our faith in Christ. That gave me the confidence to look forward of how He's going to move on our behalf in the next hours and days.

After the devotion, off we go for the three-hour trek under the scorching weather. It was indeed VERY challenging (I could still remember my numb arms, tired feet,dry throat etc.). But more than those, I remember singing worship songs with our not-so-pang-music-team voice, vlogging (haha) and the start of becoming intentional in connecting and knowing the locals. We're grateful for the children (April Boy, Daniel and Christian) who became our guide and the families we met while taking a refuge under the shade of some trees.

And finally around 11 AM or so, we made it!  We then ate our lunch, took a rest and prepare for the house-to-house discipleship.

We were then divided into teams (I was part of Team Grace with Glenn) and we went to different houses with these goals: to know them and make Him known in their life.

We've  heard their stories, hobbies, health concerns, dreams, struggles etc.
We've shared His story of salvation, Lordship and even Repentance.

It's amazing to witness how He's touching lives and I'm so in awe that He allowed us to be part of it!

Day 2

I think this is the most productive day of my life so far. A lot of things happened in a day and seriously, there were moments when I thought "Really, that also happened today?"

We attended the local church. We were welcomed with children singing praises! Tears shed when people shared their testimonies of how amazing God is. How He provided, healed and how He brought people back to Sitio Banawen. We met Ate Rachelle (one of the people supporting the ministry in Sitio Banawen). Her heart for community could be seen writ large while crying over gratefulnes for being back in the Sitio.

 Tears shed again when Ate Chaye spoke on our behalf and said that there are acually many people behind us who are also one with us in loving and reaching the community. Indeed, we're so grateful for those who sent us!

We're also able to finally connect with the local pastor there (Pastora Divina). We prayed for her and believe with her for the community.  She then invited us for a fellowship night and we agreed. Suddenly, we just found ourselves going to her home for lunch (am not so sure what happened,hehe).

We brought adobo and bananas. Pastora prepared pansit, fried fish,rice and.... snake. Yes, you read it right. It's not that she hates us or something. They really cook and eat snakes in the community. I wasn't brave enough to taste it though. :(

After lunch, we had a chance to meet few locals outside Pastora's house. I was so glad to see Judith again. She's one of the children I met on my first visit last year. She's a little bigger now and I also met her little sister!

After that short fellowship, we continued spending time with the kids. Some of us focused on discipling the little children while some focused on the youth. I was able to help out in handling the later.  Ate Chaye encouraged them that they're not too young to be used by God.

We then had a small group to process the Word. This was also my favorite moment since God allowed me to share my testimony to four young women (Jessa, Shiela, Anabelle and Reina). The testimony of how a girl like me (who's so unlikely to go on studying) was able to have a degree. The testimony of how I found my value and identity in Christ alone (not in other people OR in crushes hehe).

They played volleyball after that and I served as a scorer. I was proud that my girls won! :) Yay!

The team then distributed "sopas" to them. Yum!

At night, we had some time and played Uno!!! It was a challenge to play in the dark but it was so much fun!

Time pass by and we ate our dinner. We didn't realize that the people we're actually waiting  for us for the Fellowship night. I'm grateful that God didn't allow us to miss it. When we realized that they're waiting for us, we hastily went!

In the fellowship night,  they danced their traditional Aeta dance for us  and suddenly, they  asked us to dance with them. It was really, really, really an amazing time. We danced and sang (we sang "Awit ng Bayan" for them) praises together too, encouraged one another and pray. I was hoping the night wouldn't end. Awww..

Some of my personal funny moments was when Nanay Luz called me Kenkoy (Nay? why? hahaha). And when one of us thought that the English of "Gawa" is "Job" instead of "Acts".

Really, all of that happened in a day!

Day 3

We woke up early to prepare breakfast. It was a challenge to start a fire and to find the utensils sa madaling araw. Grateful na nakaluto kami just in time.

We resumed our house-to-house discipleship to reach out those who are really far from the community. When we're about to go, we're surprised na sila na mismo yung pumunta sa area kung nasan kami. Nandon na pala sila!

I'm reminded of the verse John 12:32 " And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself." - Jesus

Wow, may Jesus be lifted higher! He is the One drawing people to Himself!

I was amazed with the report that 4 Aeta fathers received salvation at that time.

 I was also able to share the Gospel to Aileen (one of the first girls I met in the community last year) as we went through the One 2 One. This was actually an answered faith goal! "To one 2 one an Aeta girl" I wrote and pray at the start of the year. Nakakaiyak when I'm teaching her how to find the verses in the Bible we gave her. HUHUHUHU. I told her we'll have Chapter 2 when we meet again.

When we're about to leave, one woman went to us so that we can talk to her as well. She went too from afar. She ran so she can catch us! Hirap magpigil ng luha. I was then able to listen to her and shared the message that we're saved by grace alone. I pray I encouraged her as well through prayers.

This is just too sweet of Him!  Thank You Jesus!

We then took some group pictures, bid goodbye and went home. I can't believe it's over.  Talagang nakakaiwan ng puso.

Who would've thought that after being rejected for mission trips multiple times,I was finally able to go? It's amazing  that the then "go" of my God in now "went".

Here's to more "go" ing.
Here's to more of His enabling power.
Here's to more for His glory.

It's just the first.



*Views and opinion expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Hike for Christ Movement.

First Hike For Christ

I wanna set the world on fire

Until it's burning bright for You

It's everything that I desire

Can I be the one You use?

I want to put  the lyrics of  one of my earliest favorite Christian songs - Set The World on Fire by Britt Nicole in this post because it's been my anthem since I heard it in a youth service. I loved and prayed this song.  I believe that God used this to give me a vision that one day.. He will use me, one day, I will be beyond myself, one day,  I will set the world on fire. That's a big vision though and I felt so small...

Just like how it is in the song:

I, I am small but

You, You are big enough

I, I am weak but

You, You are strong enough to

Take my dreams

Come and give them wings

Lord with You

Nothing I can not do

Nothing I cannot do

...but He is big enough and strong enough.


Last Saturday (February 10, 2018) marked my first participation in an out of town outreach event. It happened over at Sitio Banawen, San Felipe Zambales.

My journey towards this event and the event itself was simply amazing.

Last December, we had a dinner bonding with my Kids ministry family. I wanted to give something to my co-volunteers to remind them of God's faithfulness over the year 2017.  I thought of giving them printed pictures of some of the highlights of their year. I visited their timelines and chose pictures! One of the pictures that I loved was the picture of the children smiling in Teacher Jayson's post (he's a part of a movement called Hike for Christ Movement  and they had an outreach event in a community last December). I chose that picture and gave it to him. He talked about it and the movement over our dinner and in my heart, I uttered "Dad, I hope I could also do something like that".

I wanna feed the hungry children

And reach across the farthest land

And tell the broken there is healing

And mercy in the Father's hands

Days after, my grandmother passed away and the brevity of life was taught to me and I also eventually discovered the beauty of outward-focused life . I really wanted to do more for Him in this lifetime. It became a faith goal to serve more and to do more for women, children and the Gospel.

I liked the facebook page of Hike for  Christ Movement (HFCM) sometime last year and I started to see their posts. I was thrilled to discover that they will have an event soon and it's an "Engage" event!  Children + Evangelism! Oh, my heart. Hehe.  "Dad, can I be part of that?"

I remembered  this Word:

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10

He planned for me to do good things. He created me anew for these things. WHOA.

I sent them a message, clicked going, last two slots na lang but still can't help but be so excited!

But a few weeks before the event, doubts crept in and so does fear.

I doubted  my motivation and intention. Am I really doing this for Him alone or am I just gonna do it for myself? :"( I needed some time to think about that because, I'm not so sure of my heart.  I needed  to surrender to Him and to His purposes and will alone. "Dad, I don' t want to go if this is just about me and my selfish desires."

Fear crept in too. I talked to my friends about it and one well- meaning friend asked me if I'm sure about it  because she heard some volunteers  died few years ago while crossing a river for an outreach event. The other volunteers were also traumatized.  She asked if we have to cross a river, and I said I'm not sure. She advised me that if we have to cross a river, please, if possible, ask for another route.

I started asking, "Dad, is this wise?Should I back out if we have to cross a river? Is this really Your will for me? "

I'm really amazed when He let me encounter these words:

"...stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

Princess. in awe. indeed.

GRABE. Okay, so stand firm daw. Trust tayo.

He knows I needed more encouragement so eto pa..

 For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways;
 they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. Psalm 91:11-12

For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. Revelation 5:9b
The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."  Exodus 33:14

YAY!!!! Okay, Lord. Let's do this!!!!

Along the way, I'm amazed at how supportive my friends and co-workers are. They gave hygiene kits and donated. I'm beyond grateful for their beautiful hearts! This made me so excited.

Feb. 9    Prepared and slept for an hour
Feb. 10  Walked around Cubao at almost midnight. I'm not sure kung may jeep pa from SM Fairview na dadaan sa may P. Tuazon. Inhale. Exhale.

And, yay! Meron pang jeep! I had a little accident though. Biglang nag preno yung driver because of a cat. Hindi ako nakahawak. My right knee hit the metal at the back of the driver. Huhuhu. "Dad, please. May it not be serious."  I started to kinda panic because it's painful nung tatawid na ko, bigla pang may truck na mabilis so I had to walk faster. Wahhhh! Whew. Great thing that I could still walk well. (Right now, I noticed na may pasa pa din yung knee ko. hehe)

Anyway! I arrived at the meeting place (Jollibee) and awkwardly asked a woman  inside if they are from HFCM. She  shaked their head though. Texted someone from HFCM and asked where they are. He said that they're outside near a speaker.

Yay! I found them! I met Grace and Mat (Hi girls! It's so lovely to meet you!) . It's Mat's first time too and we had good chat. I also met Van and eventually, Jayson arrived and introduced Pao to us. It's her first time too! She is such a sweet young woman. I'm so happy that we're on the same van - Van 1!

We also met the other volunteers  inside the van and prayed before we go.  It was kinda hard to sleep. I don't know.. did I sleep? Maybe I did.Hehe.   It was cold and I regret  not bringing my sweater. :"( Anyway, I'm happy that the other volunteers could finally have a good rest. Hopefully. Hehe.

Ate at Jollibee for breakfast. (I don't know kung saang Jollibee na haha)
Chaye (HFCM's founder)  said something that made me blush. HAHAHAHA.  Ayoko na sabihin. I'll just keep it in my heart. I'm sooooo grateful to finally meet her!!!! (Hi Chaye, if you're reading this, I also want to say to you what you said to me (I hope you remember)  and even more because I also saw a glimpse of your beautiful heart!!!)

Went  back to the van. Tried to sleep and the sun is rising.

Eventually, we're there! The mountains greeted us.  Had a huddle time.Prayed. Got my shirt (Oh, the shirt's awesome!). Carabaos arrived and flashback starts. I remember riding it when I was young in a harvest season (pauwi galing bukid at nakahiga sa mga sako ng palay). Hehe. This time,  walang palay (just our bags) and sumakay kami. :") It's wonderful to experience it again.


Nung tamawid na kami ng unang ilog (eto na, yung ilog!), I was riding the carabao and I was staring at my feet and the water. I remember His word for me:

 For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways;
 they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. Psalm 91:11-12

Biglang nagkapakpak yung kalabaw sa paningin ko. It's like an angel used by God for me at that time. HEHEHEHE. Kasi nga na amazed ako na nakaangat yung paa ko sa ilog habang tumatawid!

Glad to have good chat and hugot with other volunteers too like Dina, Albert and Earl!

Pao and I  eventually walked and encountered yung iba pang mga  ilog  na mababaw lang.  I thought,
"eto ba yung mga ilog na kinatakutan ko? Awww Dad, sorry."

Now, when I close my eyes I can still remember the lahar on my feet, the clear water, yung mga talahib and the mountains!!!!

We arrived at Sitio Banawen at around almost 11 AM. We had  our morning devotion and I'm amazed that Lorainne shared the Word that God gave to me for the new year - Ephesians 2:10!!!!!

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. :")

We had a delicious early lunch (tinola and tilapiaaa)!!!! And I got another answered prayer (It was a prayer to Daddy to really help and not be a burden)! Earl asked me to help him as he share the Bible story to the kids. (Earl, I hope I did help you. HAHA)

Find Me. HAHA

Had a huddle time with the kids! I talked with two girls and three boys with random ages. It's warms my heart  that they know Jesus. I think when they know Him and call unto Him, they are rich in life already. Why did I say that? because I experienced talking to well-off children who doesn't even know His Name. One once told me, "Jesus, what's that?" That's  one of the most heartbreaking thing and worst than being poor for me.

Okay so back to our  huddle time, I pounded more how great God is in creating things and even greater because He sent Jesus for us. He gave His best for us and nothing is impossible with Him. I wanted to inspire them to keep on dreaming and lift their future to Him. I asked them what they want to be and they answered that they want to be a soldier, policeman, teacher and ...a Pastor! An 11 year-old boy said it! WHOA. Oh, I really hope he would be!!!

We had a group picture and we started giving the hygiene kits, Chicken Joy, toys,  juices, Bibles and some clothes. It was challenging at first to keep things organized because the people we're pretty aggressive and ... excited? hehe. Eventually, it was okay and I had a  little chat with other kids as well. I met Aileen, a pretty girl and had a small talk with her and her sister-in-law too.  I'm surprised when she asked for my number. hehe. I also had a chance to talk to a grandmother. I asked her if she's happy that we're there and she smiled brightly with her yes.  :")

We ate an egg sandwich, cleaned the place, took some pictures, took the group picture, more pictures and rode the carabao again going home.

After 2 and a half hours of staring at the mountains, sharing stories, jokes (HAHAHA PAO!!!!!) , sound trip, praise and worship, we arrived where our vans are. Changed clothes, went inside the van, prayed and exchange stories and funny moments.

Slept and woke up to eat dinner. We ate at Rico's (I think that's in Subic).  Listened to a love story and ate Sinigang na Hipon after a long wait. We went back to the van and sleep... ... .... ....woke up at times and then sleep... ... ...sleep. And tanannnnn! Hello Cubao! :")

Thank You Daddy God for our safety!



Awww. It's time to say goodbye to one of the best 24 hours of my life.  Bid goodbye to the other volunteers  and I'm sad. I walked with Van and Renjo going to Farmers. Arrived at home at around 1 AM and slept  with a supeeerrrr happy heart. :")

Oh what a privilege!
 I'm excited to go and make JESUS famous again in the mountains!

O Lord my God, you have performed many wonders for us.
Your plans for us are too numerous to list.
You have no equal.
If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds,
I would never come to the end of them. Psalm 40:5 New Living Translation (NLT)

My hands, my feet

My everything

My life, my love

Lord, use me


1st Photo by Les Anderson on Unsplash
Other photos are from Pao, Dina and Kuya Ronald :") 

Answered 2017 Faith Goals!!!

It's that time of the year again wherein I'm excited  to make Daddy smile through my faith (by having my Faith Goals!!!). Every year, my church (Victory / Every Nation) usually have  Prayer and Fasting week. It is " to dedicate the year to the Lord and seek His will."   I've been participating since 2012, saw a lot of breakthroughs and grew in my relationship with Him.  It simply became one of the highlights of my year!

Then Joshua said to the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” JOSHUA 3:5 (ESV)

If you want to do it with us this year, you check this site: https://victory.org.ph/join-us-as-we-pray-and-fast-in-2018/

 Anyway, before I write my 2018 faith goals, let's look back on how God heard and miraculously made a way for my Faith Goals last year.

 Let's get started (opening the booklet) !


Last 2017 I believed God for.... and He answered!

Personal Faith Goals: 

• Leadership 113 graduation! 

          - yay! My Mom even came for that! And so does my One 2 one Leader, Ana!

• Better than Jewels (book) by Ms. Rica Peralejo - Bonifacio

          - gamit na gamit for my VG last year!

• Strengths Finder (book)

- WAAAAHHH! My dear friend blessed me with this on my birthday!!!!!

• Awesome special offer

          - Yes! I got 5K from the company! (Nabunot kasi ako ulit for Trip to Korea, kaya lang, hindi na daw pwede yung mga nakapunta na.. so.. they gave special offer instead.)

• Braces

• To cook more food again

- I cooked  Penne Pasta etc. on my birthday!!!! plus pag volunteer na magluto sa bahay ;") 

• Beach 

          -  I went to Zambales with VFs! Teehee!

• Increased tithe

• Increased ability to love 

• Deeper and more intimate relationship with God 

• Security in Him 

My Family 

• Family business !!!!

- Yes! We started to have a store in front of our house and my uncle bought a new Tricycle (pangpasada) 

• Great relationship with relatives

- I bond with my cousins this year like never before. It was amazing!

• Smartphone for my brother

-oh yeah. He just bought one! 

• Boldness to share the Gospel 

- I somehow got to share the Gospel during the Eulogy! Continuously declaring SALVATION! 

• For Nanay Lydia to be comforted and healed

- I believe she is comfortable now and completely healed.

My school / career

• High grades in UP!!! 

- awesome! awesome! I got 1.00 and 1.25 in my subjects!!!!! Yes,  even on my subject last sem (undergrad subject with Math!!!! oh my!!!! Si Lord talaga ito!!! This is worthy of another post!!!) 

I'm in awe!!!!

• Best Teacher 

- I was awarded twice last year (I guess)  and for the 9th time in history. ALL BY HIS GRACE!!!!!

• For TOR to be released before Feb. 15!

-I needed this for my admission and the Lord granted it! Nakapagpasa before the deadline! 

• Tuition Fee

• Favored Leave and Schedule

- I super needed these and He made a way! Most especially for enrollments!!!!

• Highly favored enrollment

-Grabe. It's indeed divine na nakakuha ako ng subjects and profs pag enrollment. Hunger games po ng subjects sa UP. 

• Favor sa  Professors

- super answered! I love and I admire my Profs!!!!

• Great relationship with classmates and co-workers 

- I love and I miss my classmates in different subjects. I love and I miss (those who resigned) my co-workers too!!!

• Cash Special offer

- like what I said earlier, I got 5K for this. So it's cash! Yay! 

• Wisdom, Intelligence, Knowledge 

My Ministry 

• Cha's Victory Weekend

Last 2016, I was crying in Mcdo kasi hindi natuloy weekend nya. But God made it happen this year. I declare she's been established in the faith! Hug Cha! I miss you so much! 

• Spiritual growth and fruitfulness for my Spiritual daughters

I'm amazed. How one became a leader. How others served God in the ministry or simply, when they lead a prayer,  started reading the Bible or Tithing. Their growth brings so much joy in my heart. You're always in my prayers girls! Huggggggg!!!! (So this is how it is to be a  mom noh?) 

• Invite and have more teachers in our group sa Office

- yay!!! Some left, some came. I'll be forever grateful and privilege to share His love to the teachers!

• Singles Ministry VG

- started to have one! Sundays at 1pm! And our family is growing! Vibrant gals it is!!! I'm excited for this 2018 with them! 

• Share the Gospel to more co-teachers and classmates

- whoohhoooo!!! Thank You Daddy for the boldness and opportunity! I was even more elated when I got the chance to share the gospel to a classmate last year!!!! I'm in awe!!!!

"...2017. To say it's been a roller-coaster would be a huge understatement. I had my lowest and my highest points in the same year and there were times I felt like I was just floating-- unable to feel because there were too much happening all at once. But at the end of it all, whether I'm grateful, grieving or trying to heal/feel again, I find myself with  no questions at all... just an abundance of peace. Because when nothing else is sure, I know His love for me is. Always. And this year made sure that was enough confidence for my heart to make it through anything. 2017, you were one crazy ride but I'm grateful you happened. Thank you for making me braver."

Very well said,  Moira dela Torre.

It was a great year because of the GREAT GOD alone. :") 

I'm super expectant for 2018 only because of our GREAT GOD and  DAD.

Always remember though that JESUS is our GREATEST BREAKTHROUGH. 

*closing the booklet and will open another one! :") 

It was just a dream

Tonight was a dream

Yesterday was... 

It's just a thought. 

It's all "who would've thought?" 

Encouragements and Greetings

Questions and service 

Endings and Beginnings 

It's pouring and our calling 

Directions, steps and care

I don't care. Strong right? It's okay. 

Mindful. Grateful. 

I was talking to Daddy. It's amazing how He kept my heart together.

How I was still allowed to breathe, to laugh, to listen and to speak

When I thought you didn't see, you did. 

When I can't say it, you said it.  (There were times I was wondering how you could say those things?HAHAHA) 

I didn't think you'll come but you came. 

It was just a dream. 

It was just a dream. 

How can it be real? 

Is it real? 

Yes, it is..

but it's still a dream.

Mt. Batolusong

September 29 -30 are special days for me. That's when my Victory Weekend happened. Victory weekend is a two-day retreat that helped me in establishing my faith.  I can still vividly remember the best weekend of my life. I received the best gift ever (which is the Holy Spirit) and then I publicly declared that I am Christ's follower!  

To celebrate, I organized a hike going to Mt. Batolusong located in Tanay, Rizal last September 30. I never heard of this mountain until I read an article about Erich Gonzales'  climb. I searched the pics and amazed to realized that it's possible as well to see a sea of clouds. By faith, I hope people will accompany me. :")

There are some who responded they're going with me but in the last days messaged that they're not available anymore. I'm grateful for my dear friend / discipler Ana for staying and for Daddy God sa pag gising sa kanya (HAHAHA) . Kasi ang usapan, 2 AM, but my friend arrived at around 4AM! Yeah that's 2 hours of waiting but I just talked to Daddy na.. if before 5 AM dumating sya, tuloy kami, if not, it's His will na wag na lang muna mag bundok. :") Ayun nagising sya ng mga 3 AM plus. (Hi mars, you know you're forgiven hehe.) Ayun, hindi na namin naabutan sea of clouds. You have to start trekking ng 3 AM para maabutan!!! We also didn't go to Kay Ibon Falls ( a popular side-trip) because it's so slippery going there. 

Here are some of our pictures! :") Breathtaking sya! :") 

                

Let's go! :")

Ang linis ng tubig!! :") 

Stopped  to enjoy the view!

Buhay na bato :")

Mapatag Plateau

       

Tindahan ni Aling Yolly :") 

Talahib is love!

Buwis buhay part! (kinabahan ako dito haha)

We survived!! Whew!!!

Summit!!!

Prepared! Haha! I love our raincoat! Inspired by Love you to the stars and back! #joshlia HAHA

Erich. Hahahah

5 years ago she's with me on my Victory Weekend, and until now, she's here beside me. I thank God for her life!!! We're excited to climb with our MOGs in the future. HAHAHA!

I tried  to document what happened so that I can help you if ever you want to climb this beautiful mountain too! Here's what happened to us: 

4 AM - Jollibee Pureza (Ate breakfast, rode jeepney to Cubao) Php 13

5 AM - Cubao (rode a jeepney to Cogeo)  Php 25

6 AM - Cogeo (rode a jeepney to Sampaloc - pababa kayo sa Batangasan San Andres) Php 42

7 AM - arrival at Batangasan  (Rode a tricycle going to San Andres) Php 120 isang byahe  *60 each 

          - registered at the Brgy. hall of San Andres *Php 100 each

          - meet our tour guide (Ate Rose)  Php 500 ( *Php 250 each) 

          - start trek 

          - side trip to Sangab Cave  

          - some stops to drink water (you can drink in a mountain spring! Isn't that AWESOME?!!) 

          - met other mountaineers/ tour guides

          - amazed with the clean river (ang cute cute! ang linis) 

          - Duhatan Ridge

          - ate egg, banana and siomai sa tindahan ni Aling Yolly (Php 12, Php 10, Php 25) 

          - Mapatag plateau 

          - Buwis buhay part (AHAHAHA) 

11 AM - summit!!! (shouted "Thank You for Your love, Jesus!!!) 

12 NN  - descent 

             - tambay ulit sa tindahan ni aling Yolly. Heard their funny stories when they met Angel                                        Locsin and Erich Gonzales 

               - ate pansit canton (yes, even sa taas ng bundok may pansit canton!! (Php 25)

              - umulan na, ang  slippery na pababa!!! Thank God for the safety!!!

   2PM (I think) - took a bath at Sangab Cave. Ang lamig ng tubig!!!  Nakipaglaro sa mga local kids too!

   3PM   - nagbanlaw, roller coaster of emotions... nawala yung wrist watch ni Ana :"( Hindi na namin                           nakita. Do not leave your valuables unattended!!!  (Php 20 - hindi na kami pinagbayad                                 dahil   sa   nawalang watch though) 

   3:30 PM - Brgy. Hall (hugas ulit ng shoes hehe) 

              - said good bye to our Tour Guide na super bait. :") First time ko magkaroon ng female na                                guide - Ate Rose. It's like hiking with your Mom!

              - rode a tricycle to the highway Php 120 - (*60 each)

              - rode a tricycle  pa sakayan ng Cogeo na jeep (Php 50) - mahirap na sumakay at maghintay                        ng jeep eh

              - rode a jeep to Cogeo Php 30

              - ate dinner sa Cogeo 

              - rode a jeep to Cubao Php 25 Roller coaster of emotions, got a news that my grandmother is                             in the hospital  :"( 

              - rode a jeepney to stop n' shop and pureza (Php 11/ Php 13) 

It's been 5 years since I responded to Your great love. 

It's been 5 years since I believed that You are bigger and greater than any mountains. 

It's been 5 years of realizing that I'm not really alone. 

It's been 5 years of strengthening the faith and trusting You anyway. 

5 years of being in Awe of You, Daddy God.. Jesus and Holy Spirit.

I'll always be Your #princessinAwe 

In awe of Your favor in good times. In awe of Your comfort and power in the midst of challenges. 

In awe of Your creation. 

In awe of who You are.

Thank You for being my ultimate source of Kilig!!! Happy 5th anniv to us my Lord!!! Excited for more years and seasons with You!!!

Why do I love sunflowers?

They're not that beautiful.

Honestly, it wasn't natural for me to love sunflowers. I didn't find it appealing at first. Most especially their big brown/black center part called seed head (I hope I'm right).  Some years ago, I think  roses and tulips are way better. But then, though the sunflowers are not that beautiful, there's something about them that's so charming and I fell for them over time. I can't resist the facts that  they stand tall and confident no matter how they look. They remind me of being  secured of who you are and that you don't need to compare yourself to the other beautiful flowers/people around you. You have your own kind of beauty.  Yes, they're not that beautiful, but they are secured and that makes them beautiful.

They're yellow.

Some sunflowers could have a touch of red or orange but they're mostly yellow right?  And I love yellow. The color is so optimistic. You just always want to look at the brighter side of things. There would always be hope.

They even grow in a challenging season.

In the University of the Philippines, it's been a  tradition to have sunflowers every graduation season. It gives hope to the graduating students and it's as iconic as the UP's Sablay.  The tradition was threatened though because of the calendar shift in the university. The graduation season now falls in a rainy season. But then, we're grateful that the sunflowers managed to stay and we're still enjoying them!

Despite some challenges, the sunflowers teach us to just continue blooming and growing. We were not promised a storm-free life but a storm-proof life in Christ.

They're a source of nourishment for others.

Last Saturday was the fourth time that I saw the sunflowers in UP and I noticed the bees that stay in the disk/ seed head. According to an article, "Sunflowers grow with everything they have only to give away what they spent so much time growing. They are selfless." Embrace that it is always better to give than to receive.  Let's live to love and to be a blessing to the people around us.


They look towards the sun.

This is actually my favorite reason why I love sunflowers. They encourages me as they look to the sun. As for me, I will look to the Son. I will just look to Jesus and by His grace turn my back on the dark. I will live, love, bloom, grow and stand looking  to Jesus.  It reminds me of the verse Hebrews 12:2 which says ".. 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."


They have a lot of seeds.

When I think of seeds, the Word of God came to mind. In one of Jesus' parable which is The parable of the sower, He said "This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is God's word." Luke 8:11

Over the years, they are a lot of seeds that has been planted in my heart through my quiet time or through my leaders. My prayer is that for the seeds in me to just grow. And as I plant the seeds/ Word to the people around me, the desire is still the same .. for it to grow, stand, shine and continue to multiply. I'm grateful though that growth is God's work.

"It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. " 1 Corinthians 3:7

"When the sunflower is done blooming, the seeds fall to the ground to wait til next spring, when they'll be new sunflowers."

PS. It was really awesome to stare and enjoy the sunflowers with friends/sisters last Saturday. It was really wonderful  to pray with them while walking along the flowers!!  Hi Gabby and Arl! 

First Semester at UP

Hi! Good morning! I just got my grade from one of my subjects this sem (EDTEG - Foundations of teaching in the Early Grades) some minutes ago and I'm just so elated. Yes, my grades are finally complete. Look:

So it dawned on me. My first semester in the dream university is over.

My heart still breaks that I can't say that it was a very smooth, easy- going , so "sisiw" and purely God- honoring  5 months. Can I just confess? During those months, it was like I was slapped in the face with the fact that I'm so weak, so limited and  not good enough. I even became that group mate that people would usually hate. That group mate who can't contribute much, can't say much. I felt  desperate, useless, brainless and I honestly hated myself. I was too worried about my testimony (well, who wouldn't?). I felt so ashamed. At times, I think I deserve to be stoned to death. And countless times crying out to Daddy God to have mercy on me because I am such a sinner. Why is this happening? It shouldn't be, right?. I felt messy, so imperfect (surprise,surprise!)...emotions all over the place.

Through these moments though, I was in awe again of how God reminded me that He is not over with me yet. He is still molding me toward becoming the woman that He wants me to be. He told me that I have hope, that I still have hope  and that is Him alone. Right now, I can only stand and hope again because of Jesus. Pwede pa akong magbago. Sa totoo lang, hindi ko alam kung saan ako pupulutin or how I could go on in life without Him. Grabe noh? Paano nagawa ni Lord mahalin ang isang kagaya ko? Na yakapin ang isang napakaruming kagaya ko? Grabeng pagmamahal and I believe that is the great love that will continue to change me for the better. I know He doesn't want me to be like this forever so I am offering myself mercy.All I could do is ask for forgiveness and slowly, bitterly forgive myself."...falling is painful. But it also teaches" - Rica Peralejo

I learned and experience a lot from the erstwhile sem not just from that failure ) Hehe. Let me share the lighter and brighter ones!

• I learned that  Values Education is not an easy subject and shouldn't be taken for granted. It is very important for the teachers to be really equipped in teaching this.Decision -making and critical thinking skills are vital for the students. 
• "Hindi lang laro ang laro" just like how Johnson's ad puts it.  In playing, children can learn a lot. That's one of the things  that I learned when I took EDTEG.  It was such a wonderful subject that I just grew my love and appreciation  for children. I also thought for a while of becoming a pre-school teacher! And then I also became  a fond of pre-school / kindergarten teachers. I think they're awesome.  I would smile every time I would see children playing Lego and blocks! I would think that they're developing their fine motor skills. While when they are running around, I would think that they are developing their gross motor skills. It's not enough pala that a child can recite 1-10. It must be checked if they can really count / if they have what they call "number sense". When you ask a child to give you five apples, will he be able to give it? When I see a two year-old using a smartphone or tablet, I will feel sad knowing that her body is still developing and it might affect her posture in the future! It breaks my heart too when parents doesn't care if their children are watching a show with SPG rating or if they just let them watch in YouTube without any supervision! I think children will have a greater effect on me now. 
• It's possible for a Kindergarten class to be so behaved! I love UPIS (University of the Philippines Integrated School) ! Galing! 
• My classmates taught me about https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/ !!It's really helpful when we did our research paper and when I did my case study! You don't have to worry if  what you're doing is saved or not!  I love it. I think it's such a blessing! Speaking of case study, the deadline for that was last May 25 at 11:59 PM (obviously).  I passed mine at 11:57! I failed to proof read and I really regret it. Thus,  I also learned that no matter what, proof read!!! 
• I - CC ang mga ka groupmates!!!
• APA format for references!!
• The real Oble is in the library! Not the one displayed in the university avenue! 
• I can walk from shopping center to Eduk. 
• I can walk from Eduk to OUR. 
• Blue book is a must. 
• Palma hall is AS!!!
• Hotdog (should be Tender Juicy)on stick and dynamite are the best. I'm so grateful that kilala na ako ni Ateng binibilhan ko. hehe.
• The library could be a home. 
• Wi-fi. :) 
• Laptop is helpful (praying for one. Mag Amen ka. :))
• "Ganito tayo sa UP, we do research and we publish it!" - Prof. Muega
• "Dapat lagi kayong research mode". - Prof. Alcazar  

Above all the learnings is the fact that my God is my Father. He provides and He makes miracles like from the time that  I don't have any slot nor professors at first,  then when  I can't attend our observation day,  our presentation time (walang nag ask ng questions, haha!), reporting  up to Grades Viewing. I know it's only because of Him. 

 Kahit hindi talaga sya perfect na sem and it's nothing much as an offering, Lord.   I still want to offer it to You. Thank You so much Dad!!!Hindi mo ako binigyan ng deserve ko! No shadow of hope have I in anything I've done. It's all by Your mercy and grace. In Jesus' Name. Amen. 

Let's do better next sem! :)

PS. I'm eternally grateful to my prayer partners who prayed for me in this season! Hi to my Lola Lydia, VFs, Cherry blossoms girls / Ka - Vg sa office, Ate Jovie, Heart , Jhesie and most especially, Pauleen my loves! Tuesday nights are so wonderful because of your faith and prayers for me! I love you all girls!

24th Birthday

You are altogether beautiful, my darling, beautiful in every way. - Song of songs 4:7

Princess in Awe at 24! Started the day with this from Daddy God. Hahahaha. (Sabe ko na talaga and ganda ko eh) #theSweetest

My heart was so full already and then there's a student who played saxophone for me, and then I received and read your messages with or without pictures (over, sobra na ako pero pwede nyo ba isulat at iabot sa akin pag nagkita tayo? love love letters), I got yakult, sterilized milk and  stick Os from officemates,  then I got a cake (thanks Cha! Sobrang desire ko talaga ang cake for my birthday!), phone call, prayers, opportunity to lead VGs, be with spiritual daughters,  and then on my bed, a surprise gift!

But then beyond all that, I saw how God blessed me so much of great people to meet in 24 years! Can't help but remember our moments together guys! I realized how I miss most of them  and how awesome it is to still to spend time with those who are around me in this season!

I realized, ang saya saya mag birthday!  PINUSUAN KO NG MALAKI sa PUSO ko ang bawat greetings promise! Challenging pala talaga to like or comment sa bawat isa.

Here's my prayer for you, my reader and for all of them:

Romans 15:13 New International Version (NIV)

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Kamsahamnida to Appa!

Four years in Awe

Happy 4th anniversary to me and Jesus!

September 29-30, 2012

That's the date of my Victory Weekend and that would always be my #bestweekendever.

'At the cross' and 'We are the reason' were playing in the background. I was crying so hard out of gratefulness for what He has done for me. Finally, I'm home in His love! There's no place I'd rather be! (Hindi ko ma contain yung pag-ibig na naramdaman at  nararamdaman ko! Chapter 3 would always be my favorite!) I received the gift of the Holy Spirit. The curse has been broken.  I let go of the past and  of everything that's holding me. I was forgiven and I got the grace to forgive. Sobbed, worshiped and publicly declared,
"Everyone, I'm now a follower of Jesus!"

I remember, kahit pag-uwi ko at nasa puregold ako. Parang lumulutang yung feeling sa pagka in awe. Never felt so loved! As in, as in, AS IN!!!!!

My prayer back then was to never be familiar with what He has done and never take it for granted. I'm amazed that after 4 years, the awe is still there and even increasing to the nth power because of the joy of discipleship (helping women to realize their First Love!)! Never thought that I could have this kind of purpose. Never thought that I could lead in anyway. Never thought that this kind of life is possible!

Heavenly Father,

Thank You so much  for letting me be in awe. Thank You for giving Your Son Jesus for me, for my family, my friends and yet-to-be friends. Thank You for the Holy Spirit! Thank You for my sycamore trees (the people that You used for me to know You).  I'll be forever grateful and in awe of Your love. The unfathomable, the unconditional, the unending kind of love. Payakap, Dad! Happy fourth anniversary! In Jesus' Name. Amen. 

                                                                                                    Your princess in awe, 
                                                                                                               Ycah 

falling in love loving women falling in love with Him

She's so simple, so pretty. 

She smiles but it's empty. 

She needs a hug, a company. 

She needs strength, love, security, joy,  identity. 

She needs Jesus really. 

I've been longing to share Him to her. 

What-a-life it would be for her.

 I know He's the only solution

          to all her pain and  confusion. 

I'm excited for what she'll become!

Yes, a  woman after God's heart will come. 

She's broken and breaking within 

Got to be with her again and listen 

Come on Holy Spirit! 

Let's encourage her and pray! 

Just when I thought it's all over,

She read out a reviewer 

A  door was suddenly opened

I just find myself sharing the Gospel!

Heaven rejoices as she accepted

Our Lord Jesus Christ and His blood shed

I declare peace and wholeness for her heart 

I'm sure though that His love will never part

She' s so simple, so pretty

She smiles and  it's not empty 

She got a hug, a company

She found strength, love, security, joy, identity 

Jesus' all she needs really

What-a-privilege, what-a-joy to be used by Him 

 I'm falling in love loving women and may they all fall in love with Him.

- ycah padayao (September 23, 2016)