Biyaheng Norte

It all started with an earnest desire to show up on the 2nd birthday party of my dear inaanak, Sophia. My dear friend Charol was always persistent in sending us invites since Pia’s christening but our work schedules and other activities always got in the way. When I received a text from Charol, I know in my heart that we’re gonna make it this time. On that Saturday morning, Sim and I excitedly rolled out of bed early to get ready for a trip to San Fernando City, La Union. It’s a well-timed trip for us so as to breathe some fresh air. SIm and I always look forward to long drives. We were supposed to leave Baguio earlier but Sim’s boss called up and he needed to give instructions and send a round of text messages to his officemates. Another important concern, the car needed some coolant and oil so we dropped by the nearest gasoline station. We’re about to set off but Sim realized that his driver’s license was misplaced. Noticing the hassles, I started to pray and ask God if it’s all right to carry on with the journey. We got back and thank God that Sim found his license and got the cellphone that I also left at home. At last, we’re back on the road via Marcos Highway. We had our first stop at the Eagle Monument in Agoo. It’s been my long time dream (since college days) to pose beside the huge statue of eagle! Moving on, we passed the towns of Aringay and Caba. We visited the Paiko Resort in Caba. The resort offers a serene beachfront haven. We had some pictures taken showcasing the beautiful view of the beach. We reached San Fernando City thirty minutes before the party schedule. I didn’t ask Charol which Jollibee branch because I wanted to surprise her. It’s really a blessing that the first branch where we stopped was the one! It’s really a pleasure to see Pia for the first time, she’s such a cute kid. I was asked to open the celebration in prayer. Sim and I really had a fun time at the kiddie party. It’s true what they say that there’s always a child in us. We enjoyed the yummylicious servings: spaghetti, chickenjoy, french fries, sundae, and soda. After the two-hour party, we went to visit the La Union Botanical Garden in Cadaclan. It’s approximately eight kilometers away from the city proper. The garden is nestled on a mountainous twenty-hectare land. It is home to a varied species of living plants and a sanctuary of varieties of wild animals and nature. One station that caught my attention was the Biblical Garden, there are a number of bible verses posted all over the garden. It’s a delight to read those verses and be refreshed. It’s always a wonderful feeling to have a date with nature. On our way to Baguio, we had a stopover at the Bauang Public Market to buy some fish and veggies that are a lot cheaper as compared with the prices in Baguio. We also bought a box of Bauang’s best seller buko pie. Praise God for another adventure-packed day. It’s always a blessing to travel away from home with my husband by my side. It’s always a blessing to visit places with God’s traveling mercies upon us.

Ministry of Hospitality in our Love Nest

“…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”. Joshua 24:15 We have declared in faith that our dream house will be primarily dedicated to our ministry that we fondly call – Ministry of Hospitality. The structure, the furnishings and other features do not really matter for as long as it’s habitable and the purpose of having it will give glory to God. “Welcome one another, then, just as Christ welcomed you, in order to bring praise to God.” Romans 15:7 For Sim and I, the Ministry of Hospitality is to offer the love of Christ to our guests – neighbors, friends, the brethren, and our respective families who are based in the province. It’s our desire to incorporate everyone into the family, by welcoming them into our doors and hearts and providing them a place where they can be graciously entertained. We are hoping that as we receive guests in our humble home, we will not only meet a need but also share the gospel of Jesus Christ and encourage them in the faith. It was year 2008 when we prayed to God about our desire to build our dream house in the city of pines. It’s not a far-fetched idea since our employment is here. The Lord led Sim to inquire at the Acquired Assets Division of HDMF and voila, there’s this lot located a kilometer away from Marcos Highway. The two-storey house construction (basement and ground floor) began shortly after the New Year festivities in 2012 and wrapped up after six months. Along the way, we met adversities mainly due to budget constraints and we were on the brink of losing heart. But thanks be to God who always powered up our faith every time we get discouraged. On our first day of stay, we organized a mini- blessing party in the form of a bible study with our neighbors and brethren at the Baguio Christian Center. We were all blessed! The house still has a long way to go as far as construction is concerned (pending completion of the second floor and attic) and yet our hearts overflow with hope that God’s will shall prevail in every situation. He is the God that started the work and surely, He will bring it to completion!

Move On...

Stop living a life of regret. If it’s not meant to be… it’s really not meant to be. Learn to embrace and appreciate the things that you have control over. Always hold on to what you have. Accept the fact that life is never perfect. But that doesn’t mean you can no longer enjoy a life of abundance and joy. Learn to discover your skills and inner strength… Learn to imbibe the reality that you need the overflowing love and grace of the Creator of this universe… You need a God who can understand all your concerns and deepest thoughts… You need an empowering strength from an all-relevant and all-trustworthy Savior… After you have fathomed all these things, you may now start living an imperfect life perfectly…

Sixth Wedding Anniversary (Newsletter)

Our little friendship that sparked thirteen years ago paved the way to a marriage that is made in heaven but being relished on an earthly plane. Without a pinch of doubt, the working of God’s grace is truly evident in our marriage. We continue to honor God in our relationship amidst the test of time and circumstances. Six years ago, the sacred vow we made before God, our families, friends, and the church will always remind us that God had designed our hearts to love each other as husband and wife… 

 S-I-M's Testimony

 Living a life that pleases the Lord is really a challenging task for every Christian. As I come to appreciate who I am in Christ, I have all the more realized that it’s more than a task, it's in fact a way of life and this embraces all the areas of my life. After six fruitful years of being married to Shem, I am really blessed that God is taking center stage in our marriage. We’ve been through a string of adjustments as a couple but we’re thankful to God for His wisdom and guidance that have always motivated us to carry on. Shem and I have developed a wonderful teamwork not only in marriage but also in the ministry as we continually commit ourselves and at the same time hurdle the challenges in the Programs Ministry at the Baguio Christian Center. Things are equally challenging at work. By the grace of God, I was elevated to a position that required greater responsibility and dedication. There are moments that I find it hard to juggle work, family and ministry assignments but thanks be to God who always inspires me to go on in spite and despite of the circumstances. After fervent prayers, Shem and I are elated to receive God’s answer this year - having a house of our own. We made a vow to the Lord that we’re going to open the house for ministry (ministry of hospitality). As a husband, I’ve been longing to be a father in God’s sweet time and according to His will and good pleasure. There is always something exciting in the life of a person who makes God his firm foundation. Life is far from perfect but a perfect God can always make an imperfect person live perfectly according to His best program. I continually desire that God will increase my faith and make me a better Christian as I live my life each day. Through it all, God is always all-relevant and all-trustworthy! 

 S-H-E-M's Testimony

 God is a God of perfect timing. It is faith alone that will enable us to wait patiently for Him and understand His will for us. When I was young, I take delight in persistently dragging God to answer what I’ve asked for in prayer - in my own terms and forgetting about God’s will for me. But things changed drastically when I got married. God brought my mindset to a deeper level and exposed me to experiences that developed my degree of maturity in dealing with life. More so, God took my faith to an enhanced stage. Sim and I love being together in the journey of life called “marriage”. He is God’s greatest blessing to me. When he came into my life, he put an end to my "search for one true love - a love of a lifetime". He's the answer to my prayer. I am a picture of a blessed and content wife. Certainly, things did not happen overnight. God taught me to learn the art of waiting patiently for His will and perfect timing. Heartbreaking moments come to test our relationship but we are grateful to God and His grace that is continually at work in us. As a wife, it’s not so easy to strike the balance between family, career and ministry. Pressures mount up at work from time to time. It’s not only an issue of work load but also of work relationships. At first, I can’t figure out why things happened in an agonizing way but as time went by God unfolded the thoughts and lessons. In the same way, it’s also completely challenging to serve the Lord through the ministry He has given me and Sim. It’s really by God’s overflowing grace that we get to do our commitment for His greater glory. It’s always my ardent desire to live life to the fullest and this is only possible if I will allow God to direct my path, understand and follow His will for me. Part and parcel of knowing God’s will is waiting patiently for Him and in His perfect timing. God is the driving force behind the success of our marriage. After six rewarding years of being together, Sim and I continue to explore the wonder and the power of this special union we share. To God be the glory! 

 MEMORY VERSES: 

 “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) 

 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33) 

 PRAYER REQUESTS: 

  a little angel who will complete God’s design for a family… 

 successful ministry involvements for God’s glory and good health

A Week-end Treat in Subic Bay

Subic Bay is one of the country’s first and largest Freeport Zones. It is a place perfect for the nature lovers and adventurous earthlings. It has always been in my “dream destinations” list. We were supposed to visit Subic on our second wedding anniversary but due to some twist of circumstances, we went farther to Tagaytay and Batangas. The perfect time came when I learned from my husband that the national convention for PICPA will be held inside the Subic Freeport Zone. It’s a surprise blessing from the Lord. Sim and I agreed that this trip will be a post celebration of our fifth wedding anniversary. Sim’s boss acceded to the request that I’ll join my husband in the hotel over the week end. Incidentally, my boss also requested me to report to our office in Manila for one week. After my stint in Manila, I went straight to Olonggapo City via Victory Liner bus. My husband fetched me at the terminal and accompanied me to Subic International Hotel and shortly after, he went back to the convention area. I had peace of mind resting alone and just enjoyed the presence of God. I had dinner all by myself and had a leisurely walk inside the Freeport Zone while waiting for Sim. Sim and I went out to buy our uniform shirt for the Christmas Holidays – a red-collared shirt from Van Heusen. He also bought me another piece in pink. Also, we were able to buy his much-needed running shoes from Reebok. Thank God, we acquired the items at a discounted price! We got up early the next day and had our breakfast at the hotel. We had a round of photo shoots by the beach, lighthouse and nearby areas. Sec. Gilbert Teodoro was there for a speaking engagement – it’s an added bonus to our trip. After the convention, we went to my dream destination, the Zoobic Safari. As part of the package, we went to a jungle that’s a home to tigers and we really shouted at the top of our lungs every time a tiger approached the jeep we’re boarding. I’m greatly entertained. I must say that am a self-confessed nature-lover! We also came to the Aetas Village and mingled with the members of the tribe. I saw in a closer distance the different animals in the zoo. Then we went to Duty Free to shop a little and make do with our available budget. After dinner, we headed back to Baguio. Sim brought the car and drove with enthusiasm. I believe he’s drawing strength from the Lord. It was really a blessed trip and I give all glory, honor and thanksgiving to God!

Fifth Wedding Anniversary

Reaching half a decade in marriage is indeed a milestone. Sim and I as husband and wife have developed a closer bond that goes beyond personality differences. For me, it’s already a great achievement! Parallel to that, it’s always been our prayer and desire to spend quality time in the ministry that the Lord has entrusted to our care – the Programs Ministry. On the day of our fifth wedding anniversary, Sim and I were both confined to bed due to fever and flu. We were not able to celebrate and dine out but we’re still thankful to God for continually sustaining us in every area of life. God’s grace abounds and He provides for our every need just in the nick of time. On the same day, a nerve-wracking incident happened. We received a phone call that my Ate Shel’s car collided with a passenger jeepney. Physically weak as we are, we rushed to where the accident took place and after an hour, we reported it to the police station. We believe that God used that opportunity for us to minister to my sister’s family. God’s sovereignty is clearly evident in every situation. Praise God!

Enjoying God's Little Paradise

Our visit to Cebu led us to take advantage of a side trip to Bohol. Sim and I tagged this trip as a post celebration of our fourth wedding anniversary. “Republic of Bohol” also referred to as “God’s Little Paradise” is a popular tourist destination mainly due to its signature attraction, the world-renowned Chocolate Hills considered as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Early in the morning, we rode in a ferry boat from Cebu to Bohol. We were stuck for two hours in the wide open seas. I got mixed emotions with the boat ride. I was excited in the sense that it’s my first ever boat ride in an unfamiliar spot and it’s really fun to glimpse the pounding waves and the vast body of water. On the other hand, I felt like am being attacked by hydrophobia. I have some worries that the boat might capsize. Thank God that He convicted my heart to wrestle in prayer in order to combat my fears. When we got out of the boat, I immediately kept my eyes rolling and surveyed the place. Truly, Bohol is a beautiful place! The boat ride is all worth it. I got an instant connection with the place and the people. Sim and I hired a van to tour us around Bohol for one day. Mang Noel, the van driver was very accommodating. He’s not only an adept driver but also a vivid tour guide. We’ve been to famous tourist attractions like Baclayon Church, Chocolate Hills (where we had a souvenir photo taken), Tarsiers’ Place, Bamboo Bridge (where we saw the famous “Buko King” and bought peanut kisses), Hinagdanan Cave, Butterfly Conservation Center, Mini-Zoo, Man-made Forest, and Panglao Island Resort. Having a lunch buffet at the Rio Grande Floating Resto was one of the day’s highlights. It’s an eat-all-you-can treat inside the boat that moves around the river while a band plays. There’s also one thing noticeable in Bohol, the tricycles have bible verses written all over them and serves as placards. Boholanos are religious people. They live a simple life and yet endowed with a very rich culture. For Sim and I, it’s really fun,fun,fun in Bohol! To God be the glory!

Invading the Queen City of South

Cebu, dubbed as the “Queen City of South” is one of the historical places that I have always longed to see. My interest was stirred up when I met a thoughtful Cebuana friend in college. Sim and I agreed to book our flight six months before the scheduled trip. To make it more sentimental, we came to an agreement that it’s going to be a post observance of our third wedding anniversary. We missed the timely celebration due to Sim’s short-lived work assignment at the Fregate Island Private in Seychelles. Just a few days after the Christmas festivities’ euphoria, we’re still in high spirits as we came to Cebu City’s domestic airport. I am wowed and impressed with what I saw while inside the cab. It’s like I was still in Manila. The place is highly urbanized. Jim fetched us in front of the Cebu Doctor’s Hospital. Little did we know that the Saavedra residence is located in the bustling business district. I could see from the gate a tall building of the University of San Carlos. We visited Cebu in January so we were no longer surprised by the overwhelming influx of tourists and devotees to catch a glimpse of the phenomenal Sinulog Festival. We took advantage of setting foot to a number of historical landmarks and scenic places like Magellan’s Cross, Lapu-Lapu Shrine,Fort San Pedro, Buddhist Temple, Bethany Chinese School, Ayala Malls, and Shangrila Hotel. The Saavedras, our second family in the South gave us a welcome treat – a dinner to a cozy seafood restaurant, Ocean Garden. The “ituro mo, iluto ko” style of dining is so impressive because you’ll see before your very eyes how fresh the seafoods that are being served to you. Cebu is also known for its delicacies and dishes but for a food-lover like me, I guess nobody beats the mouth-watering and sinfully appetizing lechon in Cebu (especially the one bought from CNT). As expected, we got an overload of hospitality from Jim and Nice’s family. They introduced us to “puso” (cooked rice wrapped in coco leaves), sukang pinakurat, and biscuits found only in Cebu. And of course, our trip would not be complete without a souvenir item. We went to Lapu-Lapu City to buy a beautifully made guitar direct from the manufacturer - Master Guitar. We were delighted to acquire it at a much cheaper price. The Cebu tour is an enriching experience that truly counts in our memory bank. Just being with my husband Sim makes the whole experience worthy of reminiscence. It’s God who made everything wonderful and we saw how His mighty hand worked in this trip.

 

Fourth Wedding Anniversary

The fourth year of our marriage was marked by challenges mainly due to the physical and geographical separation. We transferred to a new apartment and the next thing we knew an intruder broke in to our place and stole our new handsets and a substantial amount of cash earmarked as tithes. We were very disappointed and wrestled with our emotions. It was God who comforted us and assured us that everything’s gonna be all right. It was almost an unbearable moment when my Sim blurted out the news that a five-star hotel in Seychelles hired him as Accountant. I could not almost figure out the possibility of being physically and geographically separated from my husband. But after so much prodding, I was able to release my blessing – “yes”. The separation was such a painful and humbling experience for us. Day after day, I longed for his return. For a couple of months, I diverted my attention and worked conscientiously. I became too workaholic. I even went on a strict diet. I became a tele-novela fanatic and followed religiously the series Boys over Flowers. By the grace of God, I got a work promotion and was assigned to our Manila office. Phone conversations with Sim were limited due to a very expensive call rate. We contented ourselves with emails every time we have an exchange of thoughts. My spirits soared high when Sim shared the good news that his previous employer in Baguio asked him to come back and offered him a promotion in ranks that’s difficult to turn down. My boss also transferred me to our Baguio office. God heard our prayers! He is good and faithful. Our families and churchmates were so delighted to learn about the wonderful twist of things. God prepared everything from Sim’s arrival to our new work environment, new apartment, and new ministry involvement in the church. Without a pinch of doubt, there is always victory in the Lord!