Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Monday, July 14, 2014
Thoughts on Getting Pregnant Again
Monday, July 14, 2014I visited my best friend Karina and her baby last week to celebrate the little one's first month birthday. I took her in my arms and sm...
I visited my best friend Karina and her baby last week to celebrate the little one's first month birthday. I took her in my arms and smelled her hair, neck and mouth! AAAAAHHHHH!!!! Nothing ever smells so heavenly than a baby's scent. I went crazy AGAIN over the thought of having another baby!
This idea has been toying in my mind since early this year. Both my sons celebrate their birthdays on September (10 and 18) and I want my third (if we'll still be blessed with one more) to also be born on the same month. So that he or she won't be left out, plus it's practical and I find it cute.
I think even my colleagues have been waiting for me to show signs of baby on the way. Me being pregnant has been a constant joke in my place of work, probably because I constantly have a big belly? Waah! Ang panget!
Is there something stopping me? I would say yes. But do I want to get pregnant again? I would say yes too! Let me share what I think about this big monumental step in our family life.
So Why do I want to be Pregnant again?
First, having a big family has been a dream of mine since I was younger. I don't wish for ten kids, that's too much for me to handle. But since I had my first-born and experienced raising him, sending him to school, putting up with his kakulitan and when my patience was stretched to its maximum level, it changed. Hirap pala, isa pa lang that time, then Wes came after seven years (which I believe is a very good gap). As it is, our home is already crazy and my life is turning upside down already. But two is too little for me. Maybe one more I said (to myself) would be good.
Second, I have two boys and don't have a daughter yet. Having just boys was what I really prayed for. I only wanted boys so that I will be the only maldita or queen in the house. Yup I know, I know it's a selfish reason. But when I took care of my mom when she was sick and also decided for most of the important family decisions, I realized the importance of having a girl in the family. But having a daughter is like having a best friend and a companion until a mother gets old. Boys will get married, start their own family and leave their mothers. But daughters usually stay.
Third, if not now, when? If I don't get pregnant anytime soon (looking at within the year until next) then I think I will have a hard time carrying a baby at an older age. There will be more risks when I get pregnant at a later age plus the toll that's going to give my body.
So What's Stopping me from getting Pregnant again?
Fear of the unknown. I had a terrible childbirth experience with my first when I was 50/50 over a week after giving birth due to internal hemorrhage. Which is one of the reasons why my second came after seven years. God was so good to give me an almost painless labor and childbirth for my second time around. Now if I get pregnant again, I just fear about what I might experience during childbirth.
Practicality. They say having one or two children per family today is enough. It's enough for a middle-class family to be able to support each child without having to tighten the belt each time and to be able to let the children experience a rather comfortable life. They say having three or more children could spell impractical because of the higher cost of living. But my take on this actually is God really provides and I know we could get through. Even Daddy Practicality says that we both have sources of income and comparing ourselves to others who don't have regular jobs and still manage to raise more than four children, definitely we could afford another baby.
Looking at the above, looks like I want to get pregnant more than I don't. But actually, and probably you're thinking of this too, it's not up to me to decide. It's God's will that will be followed if he will be blessing me with another miracle, with another tiny human being growing inside me, with another replica of myself and Daddy Practicality and with another addition to our riot and happy family, then I would be the happiest! If not and He says, two is enough, then I would accept it just the same and be happy about that too.
So until that miracle comes (or not), I vow to keep myself stress-free, positive, eat healthier, be more active and to fulfill my duties at home, at work and in the community with loving dedication and joy. And I think, whether I yearn to be pregnant or yearn for something else, these things should be done. You too could practice the same in order for you to have a stress-free, healthier and more positive life! Who knows, you might get pregnant earlier than I do! :)
Reflecting on all these, they just boil down to three: Love God; Love Others; and one that we often forget to do, Love Yourself.
Have a great week ahead loves!
This idea has been toying in my mind since early this year. Both my sons celebrate their birthdays on September (10 and 18) and I want my third (if we'll still be blessed with one more) to also be born on the same month. So that he or she won't be left out, plus it's practical and I find it cute.
I think even my colleagues have been waiting for me to show signs of baby on the way. Me being pregnant has been a constant joke in my place of work, probably because I constantly have a big belly? Waah! Ang panget!
Is there something stopping me? I would say yes. But do I want to get pregnant again? I would say yes too! Let me share what I think about this big monumental step in our family life.
Photo Source |
First, having a big family has been a dream of mine since I was younger. I don't wish for ten kids, that's too much for me to handle. But since I had my first-born and experienced raising him, sending him to school, putting up with his kakulitan and when my patience was stretched to its maximum level, it changed. Hirap pala, isa pa lang that time, then Wes came after seven years (which I believe is a very good gap). As it is, our home is already crazy and my life is turning upside down already. But two is too little for me. Maybe one more I said (to myself) would be good.
Second, I have two boys and don't have a daughter yet. Having just boys was what I really prayed for. I only wanted boys so that I will be the only maldita or queen in the house. Yup I know, I know it's a selfish reason. But when I took care of my mom when she was sick and also decided for most of the important family decisions, I realized the importance of having a girl in the family. But having a daughter is like having a best friend and a companion until a mother gets old. Boys will get married, start their own family and leave their mothers. But daughters usually stay.
Third, if not now, when? If I don't get pregnant anytime soon (looking at within the year until next) then I think I will have a hard time carrying a baby at an older age. There will be more risks when I get pregnant at a later age plus the toll that's going to give my body.
So What's Stopping me from getting Pregnant again?
Fear of the unknown. I had a terrible childbirth experience with my first when I was 50/50 over a week after giving birth due to internal hemorrhage. Which is one of the reasons why my second came after seven years. God was so good to give me an almost painless labor and childbirth for my second time around. Now if I get pregnant again, I just fear about what I might experience during childbirth.
Practicality. They say having one or two children per family today is enough. It's enough for a middle-class family to be able to support each child without having to tighten the belt each time and to be able to let the children experience a rather comfortable life. They say having three or more children could spell impractical because of the higher cost of living. But my take on this actually is God really provides and I know we could get through. Even Daddy Practicality says that we both have sources of income and comparing ourselves to others who don't have regular jobs and still manage to raise more than four children, definitely we could afford another baby.
Looking at the above, looks like I want to get pregnant more than I don't. But actually, and probably you're thinking of this too, it's not up to me to decide. It's God's will that will be followed if he will be blessing me with another miracle, with another tiny human being growing inside me, with another replica of myself and Daddy Practicality and with another addition to our riot and happy family, then I would be the happiest! If not and He says, two is enough, then I would accept it just the same and be happy about that too.
So until that miracle comes (or not), I vow to keep myself stress-free, positive, eat healthier, be more active and to fulfill my duties at home, at work and in the community with loving dedication and joy. And I think, whether I yearn to be pregnant or yearn for something else, these things should be done. You too could practice the same in order for you to have a stress-free, healthier and more positive life! Who knows, you might get pregnant earlier than I do! :)
Reflecting on all these, they just boil down to three: Love God; Love Others; and one that we often forget to do, Love Yourself.
Have a great week ahead loves!
Monday, May 05, 2014
Life Lessons You Should Know In Your 30s
Monday, May 05, 2014This post is inspired by an article I read online, carefully researched and compiled in one great post by Mark Manson entitled: 10 Life Less...
This post is inspired by an article I read online, carefully researched and compiled in one great post by Mark Manson entitled: 10 Life Lessons to Excel in Your 30s.
I first saw it on Facebook when a colleague in her late 20s shared it. I got curious being in my mid-30s, so I hurriedly read it and boy, it made an impact on me and some of my friends as well. Why did I say it was it made impact? It was for the following reasons:
I realized how important it is to save for retirement, to invest your money and to save, save, save. I've read in some self-help financial books how important is to pay yourself first before paying your bills. That is true. Paying yourself means setting aside a portion of your earnings to your savings, to an investment and to your retirement plan.
3. Don’t Spend Time with People Who Don’t Treat You Well
4. Be Good to the People You Care About
I first saw it on Facebook when a colleague in her late 20s shared it. I got curious being in my mid-30s, so I hurriedly read it and boy, it made an impact on me and some of my friends as well. Why did I say it was it made impact? It was for the following reasons:
- Talks About Life's Truths - an article created from a compilation of answers to a survey.
- Talks About Process of Selection and Elimination - Getting rid of those who/that are bringing you down and keeping those that help you become a better person.
- Talks About YOU. - Loving, Caring and Making You The BEST Person you could be.
I have been writing about women empowerment and how I dream of positively affecting others in my little way, which is through this blog. I also believe that one should practice what he preaches and thus, I want to share with you how I am in my 30s. I am first and foremost a very practical person, one who is goal-oriented and I love planning and implementing the plans. I am a dreamer, I cannot say ambitious, but I love dreaming for good things in life for myself and my kids. But it wasn't like that ten years ago. I learned the hard way, but the important thing is I LEARNED. I also took action after the learning. My life is not perfect and will never be. But what I do is I stopped comparing myself to others, stopped minding what others think of me and continuously try to improve myself little by little. So going back to the article, when I read it, it summarizes the life lessons I learned and what I wish to still achieve.
Now let's discuss what these are and I'll tell you what my thoughts are and if I have applied the principles in my own life.
1. Start Saving for Retirement Now, Not Later
When I was still single and in my 20s, I spent a lot on clothes, bags, shoes, expensive SPA treatments, and anything that would make me look good. I thought, I deserved that after all the hard work I did. I lived paycheck to paycheck. Now in my 30s and after having two kids, I realized how important saving is and setting up a financial goal for yourself.
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It's never too late to start. The important thing is to START. And that's what I did back in October, 2012 when I got myself a Variable Life Insurance with provisions for investment, accidents, health assistance and death. When I signed that insurance application and got my policy bible, I felt so much secured. I know I am not only doing this for myself, but for my children as well. I don't want to oblige them to spend for my medicines or personal needs when I retire. I also want to leave something behind in case something happens to me.
Early this year, I withdrew my bank savings and invested it in special savings that has higher interest yields compared to savings accounts and even Unit Investment Trust Fund. I also bought a place for rest (for short, libingan), if ever I RIP. Since it was bought pre-need, it could either be sold to those who require it asap at a higher cost. Also on investments, make sure you study it first, that it's something that you can track and it's something that interests you.
"Make it your top priority to pay down all of your debt as soon as possible." I am honestly still on my way to achieving this because I have credit card debts. I was able to successfully close two accounts already and currently maintaining just one. I plan to pay my debt as soon as I can and get rid of these plastic cards soon. In case of emergency has always been a convenient excuse.
Keep an “emergency fund” in case anyone gets sick in the family, you know you have somewhere to get money from in cases of emergencies. I was told by a manager where I work to save up for at least a six-months-worth your salary for your emergency fund.
Purchasing a Memorial Plan may sound morbid to some, but it's practical and a smart move. It's not only for you but for your family as well.
Have you pondered about investments or insurances already? I'll be glad to talk about this deeper in another dedicated post.
2. Start Taking Care of Your Health Now, Not Later
I couldn't agree to this more. There are times when my mind thinks I'm still fit to get into some activities, but physically, I can't anymore. It's either I get tired easily or I get injured. BUT, I realize that it has something to do with my weight and what I put in my body. It's true that you are what you eat. You are the result of your food intake. With this in mind, healthy eating is important.
Now that I'm in my 30s, I try to eat as much vegetables, fruits and white meats as possible. I try (with all my might) to stay away from:
- Fatty foods (aargh, like Lechon, Crispy Pata and the likes!)
- Foods that are too sweet (goodbye to unli-chocolates and gummy bears, though I still eat a little)
- Junk foods (lucky that I'm not a fan)
- Processed Foods
The point is to stay away from bad foods and take in a lot of healthy ones. Exercise should also be part of our lifestyle. I'm one with those seriously struggling to achieve this. Believe me or not, I have been dieting for the longest time and it seems like I'm not losing weight. I recognize this fact and I know that I should correct something about what I do.
It's important to get in tune with your body, know its needs to achieve a healthier state. Let us (in 30s) be more conscious of what we take in. Can you promise me that?
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This is the selection and elimination process of the people in your life. You don't need to keep some people who make it a habit to hurt you, criticize you, make fun of you in public or drag you down in misery. You don't need to keep people who don't support you with your dreams and ambitions, those whom you are needing just because of their status in life or money but have the power to belittle you. Don't tolerate people who treat you wrongly.
Life is not about the quantity of people who come and usually go (especially when you have nothing) out of your life. It's about the quality of people who become happy for your own happiness and success. They are the people you know you can count on in times when you are down. Don't be afraid to eliminate them or end any relationship especially when it's not helping you grow. Believe me, there's a gracious way of doing it. PM me if you want to know how. :)
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Now that you've selected the people who you plan to keep, most of them are family and best friends, BE GOOD TO THEM. Be there for them. Don't take them for granted. Appreciate them. Look after them. For when will you CARE enough for these special people, when they're already gone? We don't want that to happen, don't we?
5. You can’t have everything; Focus On Doing a Few Things Really Well
Back in my 20s, I was always rushing. I was rushing to climb up the corporate ladder. I was doing everything I can to reach this dream. I was aggressive, I wore my mad hat all the time. I was very ambitious. I dreamed to achieve a lot.
Until I got pregnant with my first child in my mid-20s, resigned from a good job, didn't have money, failed at my marriage. My life was suddenly on reset. I rebuilt a career slowly and started at the bottom just to get by. I learned how to prioritize. I learned how to focus on what mattered that time which were: to do good at and build a steady career in my chosen field, be the best solo parent to my son, and be a good provider. I didn't want anything and I wasn't rushing anymore. Because I realized after the hits in my life that I cannot have everything. I just needed to focus and prioritize and perform well.
6. Don’t Be Afraid of Taking Risks, You Can Still Change
If you're in your 30s and you feel that you're not in the right job or you think your heart still desires to pursue that dream of yours when you were still younger, this is the best time to still DO IT! This is still a good time to TAKE THE RISK and GO FOR IT! :) Being in your 30s is considered mature but definitely NOT old. You don't want to wake up in your 40s or 50s and ask "What If?" right?
I started blogging in 2012. I studied communication arts in college and I've always wanted to pursue a career in media but I never got to that path in my life. I have a natural passionate artiste in me. So blogging became that passion or that road I took without really knowing where it will lead me to. But I'm definitely glad I took the risk. A BLOG in this digital age is considered a digital communication medium for almost all successful companies. So being a blogger makes me a media person (which I've wanted since I was a teenager) and I'm happy I took the leap!
It's never too late.
7. You Must Continue to Grow and Develop Yourself
I started blogging in 2012. I studied communication arts in college and I've always wanted to pursue a career in media but I never got to that path in my life. I have a natural passionate artiste in me. So blogging became that passion or that road I took without really knowing where it will lead me to. But I'm definitely glad I took the risk. A BLOG in this digital age is considered a digital communication medium for almost all successful companies. So being a blogger makes me a media person (which I've wanted since I was a teenager) and I'm happy I took the leap!
It's never too late.
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Like a computer, human brains need upgrading, otherwise it will be obsolete. You may be a subject matter expert of one topic now, but if you're stuck with what you know and not keep up with the new developments on your field, then what you know may be useless.
Educating yourself by attending seminars in fields you are interested in or learning a new skill that you've always wanted to do will add knowledge to your mental bank and therefore yield self-improvement in your 30s. It's never too late to pursue higher education as well. Now this is one thing that I have been eyeing on for the past three years. I hope to be able to enroll myself in school again next year. I am a sucker for new learning and educating myself.
It's also taking care of your health, mentally and physically. You have to learn and re-learn and never stop doing so. Spiritually, you may develop your relationship with God.
This also goes to say that we must strive to continue growing as better individuals, better parents to our children, better wives or partners to our loves, better friend or better colleague.
Educating yourself by attending seminars in fields you are interested in or learning a new skill that you've always wanted to do will add knowledge to your mental bank and therefore yield self-improvement in your 30s. It's never too late to pursue higher education as well. Now this is one thing that I have been eyeing on for the past three years. I hope to be able to enroll myself in school again next year. I am a sucker for new learning and educating myself.
It's also taking care of your health, mentally and physically. You have to learn and re-learn and never stop doing so. Spiritually, you may develop your relationship with God.
This also goes to say that we must strive to continue growing as better individuals, better parents to our children, better wives or partners to our loves, better friend or better colleague.
8. Nobody (Still) Knows What They’re Doing, Get Used to It
My take on this is that even if we think we've matured a lot in our 30s and we're more learned than those in 20s, think again. We in our 30s, should accept the fact that we don't really know everything. Some who are experiencing something new like a milestone in their 30s are novice to the experience. They still sometimes don't know if what they are doing is right or wrong. Let's take for example having your first baby in your 30s. Isn't it that no matter how you researched or read books on how-tos, it's different when it's actual application right?
So don't be surprised, not knowing what to do is okay. Just relax, this is to be expected when you're in your 40s, 50's and even 60s and above.
So don't be surprised, not knowing what to do is okay. Just relax, this is to be expected when you're in your 40s, 50's and even 60s and above.
9. Invest in Your Family; It’s Worth It
I couldn't agree more to this. Always put your FAMILY first. Invest TIME with your family. Our children grow up really fast. My memory of my toddler as a baby is still very fresh to me. Whenever I would look at him now, I wonder why time flies so fast.
Being in your 30s also means, you've matured a lot already. Forgiveness of a family member who had caused you emotional trauma or had wronged you would require that maturity you've managed to develop. Now is that time to forgive and let go of the emotional baggage that's limping you down. Let it go. Especially if we're talking about our parents, who may be at this time already a Senior Citizen and who may or may not be sick, now is the time to repair the relationship.
To those like me in 30s and still want to have a baby, but admittedly are afraid because of the financial implications attached to it, I want to tell you what the article I read told me, just GO AND HAVE A BABY!! We sometimes worry too much for monetary reasons or health reasons (that's why we need to take care of our health!) and what have yous. Children are beautiful. They are God's gift to us. They make us strive more to be better persons and they push us to our limits. They also teach us lessons. They put our lives in order as well. So if you're in your 30s, go and PUSH! PAK! Have babies this time! :) It's worth it!
Being in your 30s also means, you've matured a lot already. Forgiveness of a family member who had caused you emotional trauma or had wronged you would require that maturity you've managed to develop. Now is that time to forgive and let go of the emotional baggage that's limping you down. Let it go. Especially if we're talking about our parents, who may be at this time already a Senior Citizen and who may or may not be sick, now is the time to repair the relationship.
To those like me in 30s and still want to have a baby, but admittedly are afraid because of the financial implications attached to it, I want to tell you what the article I read told me, just GO AND HAVE A BABY!! We sometimes worry too much for monetary reasons or health reasons (that's why we need to take care of our health!) and what have yous. Children are beautiful. They are God's gift to us. They make us strive more to be better persons and they push us to our limits. They also teach us lessons. They put our lives in order as well. So if you're in your 30s, go and PUSH! PAK! Have babies this time! :) It's worth it!
10. Be kind to yourself, respect yourself
When I was younger, honestly, I cared too much what others' opinions are of me. I used to just say YES to them and NO to my own needs and wants. It mattered to me to be accepted and to be liked.
I realized now how STUPID that thinking was. Now I CHOOSE MYSELF. I RESPECT and LOVE myself more, all my flaws, my skin, my skills, my talents. And by being kinder to myself, I developed and used my skills and talents to pursue my dreams, my passion and my desire to make a difference in this world in my own little way, without thinking anymore of what other people will think or say.
Blogging has helped me in the past two years to become more attuned to my inner core. It has helped me realize that I should love myself all the more. It has also helped me realized that by doing so, it's giving my life more focus. I'm glad I took this road.
Respecting yourself means being good to your soul and your body. It's saying NO to people who or things that's going to drag you down or make life difficult than it already is or even to opportunities that may take you away from your family and may oppose your values and principles. Respecting yourself is saying YES to everything good.
Remember to always know and respect your self-worth. By knowing that, you will take in only what you truly DESERVE in life.
Happy week ahead loves!
When I was younger, honestly, I cared too much what others' opinions are of me. I used to just say YES to them and NO to my own needs and wants. It mattered to me to be accepted and to be liked.
I realized now how STUPID that thinking was. Now I CHOOSE MYSELF. I RESPECT and LOVE myself more, all my flaws, my skin, my skills, my talents. And by being kinder to myself, I developed and used my skills and talents to pursue my dreams, my passion and my desire to make a difference in this world in my own little way, without thinking anymore of what other people will think or say.
Blogging has helped me in the past two years to become more attuned to my inner core. It has helped me realize that I should love myself all the more. It has also helped me realized that by doing so, it's giving my life more focus. I'm glad I took this road.
Respecting yourself means being good to your soul and your body. It's saying NO to people who or things that's going to drag you down or make life difficult than it already is or even to opportunities that may take you away from your family and may oppose your values and principles. Respecting yourself is saying YES to everything good.
Remember to always know and respect your self-worth. By knowing that, you will take in only what you truly DESERVE in life.
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~Are there any more life lessons you'd want to add to the list?~
Thursday, March 13, 2014
HOPE For A Woman With A Stained Past - A Life Reflection
Thursday, March 13, 2014Are there times in your busy life that you stop and recall what your life was ten years ago? Did you ever tell yourself, “I’m glad I did w...
Are there times in your busy life that you stop and recall what your life was ten years ago? Did you ever tell yourself, “I’m glad I did what I did because if not, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.” My answers to both questions are: YES. That’s why, I’m writing this post today.
I admit and I am not ashamed to say that I wasn’t a goody and tamed kind of girl. I could pass the kind of a lady that a mom of a boyfriend wouldn’t approve of for her son. Young.
The Past.
Ten years ago, I already had my son from a previous marriage. Yup you read that correctly, I was married all for the wrong reasons (but that marriage didn’t last long hence was annulled in 2008). I just recently recovered from a near-death childbirth experience. My son was just four months old. I was jobless, didn’t have money and stayed at home. I didn’t have a mobile phone like everyone else in my circle of friends did. I didn’t have full support from friends. I was in a marriage I didn’t want in the first place. My life took a 180 degree turn, and I thought I was stuck in that miserable life back then. I thought I didn’t have any choice but to just accept, because I said, “This is the consequence of my actions, I should live with it.”
Road to Moving Forward.
I found hope for myself each time I looked at my child’s big round eyes. The fighter in me rose above everything else and convinced me to overcome my insecurities and fear, to clearly focus on what I deserve, to continue dreaming and to aspire for a quality of life that I want for myself and my son. I looked for a job after he turned one year old. I said to my ex, that I had enough. I gathered the courage to get out of the marriage that was nearly rotting me and probably my son’s future. I slowly got my life back together and started to commune with my new self again. I treated myself better. I became a better parent to my son. I performed well in my job.
The road to moving forward had its hits and misses. I turned to God while going through all these. I searched for Him and finally found him when I served in our church as a choir member. During this time God gave me a good friend who at that time also had troubles with the matters of heart. But while he was going through his own relationship battles a hundred fingers were pointed at me for being the culprit of his failed relationship, so I decided to disappear. I reconciled with my ex-husband, but unfortunately, it didn’t work again. A year later, I crossed paths with this good friend at the time when we were both free. We never separated since then.
Reflections.
Looking back if I just took in what little was given to me, then, I didn’t love enough and give value to myself. I would still be miserably living a life I didn’t want - A life that our society (spell relatives) expects a married woman to live.
If I focused on those judgmental remarks, comments, rumors, and harsh opinions of people about my life, I would have not been happily in love now. My life wouldn’t be as complete and perfectly imperfect right now.
If I put a limit to myself and wasn’t courageous enough to improve and invest on myself (work, education, talents and skills), then I wouldn’t be contributing to the good performance of my work team, I wouldn’t be able to support my parents, I wouldn’t be sending my sons to good schools and you wouldn’t be reading this post today.
LIFE Lessons.
LIFE is what you make of it. It is clearly up to you to deteriorate or invigorate it. We all have our ups and downs. People will never stop having opinions and judgment about you, dismiss them. It’s your life. You don’t owe anybody any explanation. Eliminate people that drag you down. Keep those who sincerely support and help you become a better person. Never think that you cannot accomplish something, just continue dreaming. Don’t focus on bitterness and hatred towards people who judged you, forgive them.
Your past do not determine what your future will be. Work everyday on becoming a better version of yourself at present. Don't let people who doubt and judge you limit you from creating a brighter future. Keep on moving forward my friend.
Yes, I did have a badly stained past - I almost died. My first marriage was a failure. I became a single mom. I was broke (spell no money at all). People harshly judged me even if they don't know me personally and what I've been through.
But my failure and other challenging life experiences motivated me to become STRONGER, BETTER, WISER, HUMBLE, and FORGIVING. I didn't give up on myself. I didn't lose hope. I didn't let depression take over me. I prayed hard to God to help me get through each day while I was fixing my life. He has given me so much, more than what I prayed for. Sometimes I think I am not worthy. So now that I am WHO I have become TODAY because I made my YESTERDAY motivate me to create my better FUTURE, I give it all back to HIM. I am thankful for this blog for it has become a channel for me to reach out to people who may have gone through, or still is going through, what I've been through.
I pray, if you're reading this and is currently in a difficult life circumstance, whatever it may be, DO NOT LOSE HOPE. May my life story inspire you to pick up the broken pieces, put them all together and fix them. Don't give your past the power to rule over your life and how you live it. Let it go. Forgive yourself. Pray. LIVE!
Photo Credits:
Spotless Future
Don't Judge Past
Keep Calm. Move Forward
Your past do not determine what your future will be. Work everyday on becoming a better version of yourself at present. Don't let people who doubt and judge you limit you from creating a brighter future. Keep on moving forward my friend.
Yes, I did have a badly stained past - I almost died. My first marriage was a failure. I became a single mom. I was broke (spell no money at all). People harshly judged me even if they don't know me personally and what I've been through.
But my failure and other challenging life experiences motivated me to become STRONGER, BETTER, WISER, HUMBLE, and FORGIVING. I didn't give up on myself. I didn't lose hope. I didn't let depression take over me. I prayed hard to God to help me get through each day while I was fixing my life. He has given me so much, more than what I prayed for. Sometimes I think I am not worthy. So now that I am WHO I have become TODAY because I made my YESTERDAY motivate me to create my better FUTURE, I give it all back to HIM. I am thankful for this blog for it has become a channel for me to reach out to people who may have gone through, or still is going through, what I've been through.
I pray, if you're reading this and is currently in a difficult life circumstance, whatever it may be, DO NOT LOSE HOPE. May my life story inspire you to pick up the broken pieces, put them all together and fix them. Don't give your past the power to rule over your life and how you live it. Let it go. Forgive yourself. Pray. LIVE!
Photo Credits:
Spotless Future
Don't Judge Past
Keep Calm. Move Forward
Friday, October 25, 2013
Let Go of Your Pain and Become The Better You!
Friday, October 25, 2013Hello muthers, as I am writing this, I am overwhelmed with a lot of wonderful feelings. They are such good vibes that I want to spread it a...
Hello muthers, as I am writing this, I am overwhelmed with a lot of wonderful feelings. They are such good vibes that I want to spread it all out to you.
Honestly, my day at work didn't start right. You know how it is sometimes when you're confronted with a lot of conflicts and issues at work right? There's so little you could do sometimes which is not commensurate to the amount of expectations people have on you. But I'm not going to talk about that here. Nope.
Lately, I have been receiving superb blog blessings here and there. These are projects for my humble blog which I welcome with all my heart because they all came at the right time. I'll give you an example. I have long been self-complaining about my face and then I was given an opportunity to get a free treatment which I badly wanted. I had a terrible looking hair and voila, a hair makeover knocking at my door. I was having bad days at the office and tadah, a free massage in one of the product evens (a product I use because I believe in!) I attended lately.
Some of these things, binulong ko kay Lord. The extras I receive, BONUS Niya! I give thanks to HIM for showering me with so much love, even when I feel I am not worthy. I wasn't like this before. I wasn't as appreciative of people and things I have.Let me tell you a little story about myself.
Rewind: The Not So Goody Me
We all go through rough roads in more than one point in our lives, that street called PAST, to be exact. I did. Two of the most dreadful parts were when I almost died of childbirth and a failed marriage. In those dark and unfathomable depressing times, I questioned HIM. I felt unloved by HIM. I felt left out.
I went on my life as I would have it. I acted based on how I think I should do it. I rebelled. I chased for what would make me happy but it was all temporary. I still felt incomplete.
Until I surrendered. I went back to attending Sunday massess and started serving Him by singing in a choir.
From then on, my life changed slowly. I felt more at peace and I started appreciating little things. I was happy at the most simple life events. I felt complete even if wasn't in a relationship. I deeply enjoyed being a mother to my son. Then somewhere along the transformation, I met Daddy Practicality. We started out as good friends, as band mates. Out of it, a beautiful relationship blossomed and everything fell into its right places.
Giving Back: Becoming The Better You
Like myself, I know there may be some of you who had tumbled or who's still in a deep pit hole. You may have been holding on to your pride, to so much hate, to some regrets, to a heartache, to a painful memory and to everything that's keeping the sadness alive. You feel like you want to endure it for as long as you can and tell yourself that it will make you stronger or that it will make you wiser. But in the process, you are limiting yourself from becoming the better person.
LET GO. Commit not to hurt the other person that caused you your pain, but commit to yourself that you will be a better person. It's easy to say but hard to do. That's true. But how will good things start to enter your life if you've shut down your heart to them? Slowly forgive and try to forget the pain of the past and move on to engaging yourself in activities that will make your life more meaningful. Love yourself more.
Find your life purpose and stick to it. Ask yourself, What is it really that I want? Where do I really want to be right now? What does fulfill me? What truly makes me happy? Your answers will give you clearer hints on your next steps in becoming the person you may have never thought you could be.
Why did I bravely say that? It's because, honestly, I never thought that I would start blogging with a purpose to help and inspire. I never thought that I could touch lives with what I write and become an instrument for their change. I didn't imagine that people will trust me more when a bunch doubted me in the past. All of these, I didn't expect I could have or I could attain, but I dreamed. From a bad past, I overcame my self-criticism, my self-doubts and hopelessness by focusing on doing what is good for myself and my family and on affecting other people by telling them, there's Hope.
When you stick to a purpose, your life will follow just one direction. This direction will lead you to the Better and Brighter YOU! And when you do become one, your positive energies will just flow like a river, constant and unstoppable. You will not notice have far you've gone and how many you've affected
Spreading these goodness to others by inspiring them to also do the same is already giving back to HIM. When that happens, blessings will just pour even on moments you least expect them. I know that very well because I am overwhelmed right now with so much good things happening in my life.
If you're feeling down right now while reading this, tomorrow is another day. There's always HOPE!
But if you're experiencing the same way I am now, then SPREAD it! You are blessed. Infect others with your positive outlook in life. Make them want to be as happy and as peaceful as you are by teaching them how. Inspire them. Help them. Lead them. Be a blessing to them.
Start your journey now on becoming the BETTER YOU! With that let me leave you with this beautiful quote:
Honestly, my day at work didn't start right. You know how it is sometimes when you're confronted with a lot of conflicts and issues at work right? There's so little you could do sometimes which is not commensurate to the amount of expectations people have on you. But I'm not going to talk about that here. Nope.
Lately, I have been receiving superb blog blessings here and there. These are projects for my humble blog which I welcome with all my heart because they all came at the right time. I'll give you an example. I have long been self-complaining about my face and then I was given an opportunity to get a free treatment which I badly wanted. I had a terrible looking hair and voila, a hair makeover knocking at my door. I was having bad days at the office and tadah, a free massage in one of the product evens (a product I use because I believe in!) I attended lately.
Some of these things, binulong ko kay Lord. The extras I receive, BONUS Niya! I give thanks to HIM for showering me with so much love, even when I feel I am not worthy. I wasn't like this before. I wasn't as appreciative of people and things I have.Let me tell you a little story about myself.
Rewind: The Not So Goody Me
We all go through rough roads in more than one point in our lives, that street called PAST, to be exact. I did. Two of the most dreadful parts were when I almost died of childbirth and a failed marriage. In those dark and unfathomable depressing times, I questioned HIM. I felt unloved by HIM. I felt left out.
I went on my life as I would have it. I acted based on how I think I should do it. I rebelled. I chased for what would make me happy but it was all temporary. I still felt incomplete.
Until I surrendered. I went back to attending Sunday massess and started serving Him by singing in a choir.
From then on, my life changed slowly. I felt more at peace and I started appreciating little things. I was happy at the most simple life events. I felt complete even if wasn't in a relationship. I deeply enjoyed being a mother to my son. Then somewhere along the transformation, I met Daddy Practicality. We started out as good friends, as band mates. Out of it, a beautiful relationship blossomed and everything fell into its right places.
Giving Back: Becoming The Better You
Like myself, I know there may be some of you who had tumbled or who's still in a deep pit hole. You may have been holding on to your pride, to so much hate, to some regrets, to a heartache, to a painful memory and to everything that's keeping the sadness alive. You feel like you want to endure it for as long as you can and tell yourself that it will make you stronger or that it will make you wiser. But in the process, you are limiting yourself from becoming the better person.
LET GO. Commit not to hurt the other person that caused you your pain, but commit to yourself that you will be a better person. It's easy to say but hard to do. That's true. But how will good things start to enter your life if you've shut down your heart to them? Slowly forgive and try to forget the pain of the past and move on to engaging yourself in activities that will make your life more meaningful. Love yourself more.
Find your life purpose and stick to it. Ask yourself, What is it really that I want? Where do I really want to be right now? What does fulfill me? What truly makes me happy? Your answers will give you clearer hints on your next steps in becoming the person you may have never thought you could be.
Why did I bravely say that? It's because, honestly, I never thought that I would start blogging with a purpose to help and inspire. I never thought that I could touch lives with what I write and become an instrument for their change. I didn't imagine that people will trust me more when a bunch doubted me in the past. All of these, I didn't expect I could have or I could attain, but I dreamed. From a bad past, I overcame my self-criticism, my self-doubts and hopelessness by focusing on doing what is good for myself and my family and on affecting other people by telling them, there's Hope.
When you stick to a purpose, your life will follow just one direction. This direction will lead you to the Better and Brighter YOU! And when you do become one, your positive energies will just flow like a river, constant and unstoppable. You will not notice have far you've gone and how many you've affected
Spreading these goodness to others by inspiring them to also do the same is already giving back to HIM. When that happens, blessings will just pour even on moments you least expect them. I know that very well because I am overwhelmed right now with so much good things happening in my life.
If you're feeling down right now while reading this, tomorrow is another day. There's always HOPE!
But if you're experiencing the same way I am now, then SPREAD it! You are blessed. Infect others with your positive outlook in life. Make them want to be as happy and as peaceful as you are by teaching them how. Inspire them. Help them. Lead them. Be a blessing to them.
Start your journey now on becoming the BETTER YOU! With that let me leave you with this beautiful quote:
Source |
~ Tell me, did you experience pain in your past? How did you let go of it and become a better you? ~
Sunday, October 20, 2013
When Life Wears You Out, Count Your Blessings
Sunday, October 20, 2013I missed all of you loves! Sorry for not updating my posts as frequently as I usually do. I've been quite busy with a lot of things an...
I missed all of you loves! Sorry for not updating my posts as frequently as I usually do. I've been quite busy with a lot of things and was enjoying some bonding time with Daddy Practicality, the kids, my work, my friends and myself too.
Yup, we all do need some ME-time as I've been saying in my previous posts. It lets a super-mega-over-the-top-busy MOM, recharge, recollect, contemplate and rejuvenate. It makes any mom, take care of herself so that she also elevates her self-esteem and becomes more confident in taking care of other human beings and chores too. It's important that we set some time for ourselves.
I've been stressed lately muthers, emotionally, career-wise and physically and that's why I took a "break." A break for some moments of reflections by connecting with myself and my close circles. No work. No pressure. No expectations from others.
During those times, more than the burden I was feeling, what uplifted me was realizing that after-all, I am blessed and that's what I should be thankful for. Rather than complaining, I should be humbled and overwhelmed with the love that our Creator has been showering me and my family, and of course my blog.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Yup, we all do need some ME-time as I've been saying in my previous posts. It lets a super-mega-over-the-top-busy MOM, recharge, recollect, contemplate and rejuvenate. It makes any mom, take care of herself so that she also elevates her self-esteem and becomes more confident in taking care of other human beings and chores too. It's important that we set some time for ourselves.
I've been stressed lately muthers, emotionally, career-wise and physically and that's why I took a "break." A break for some moments of reflections by connecting with myself and my close circles. No work. No pressure. No expectations from others.
During those times, more than the burden I was feeling, what uplifted me was realizing that after-all, I am blessed and that's what I should be thankful for. Rather than complaining, I should be humbled and overwhelmed with the love that our Creator has been showering me and my family, and of course my blog.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
- I'm thankful for my dear son Dandre was one of the few students who got in their school's Basketball Varsity Team. I spotted his love for the sport and his above-average skills since he was six years old, and I enrolled him in MILO B.E.S.T clinic. He was very happy because he really wanted to learn the basics of basketball and as a mom, you ought to give your child your best to support him in developing his skills.
Dandre's Basketball Journey, 2011 - 2013. Yup that's Chris Tiu! :) |
- I'm thankful for having my a facial procedure done for free. I've been meaning to have it checked due to discoloration, some infections, acne and acne scars, and more actually. I was approached by the distributor of e-Matrix machines who supplies to the TOP and KNOWN derma clinics in the Philippines. Now my skin is tighter and I can see that the sun spots and acne scars lightened.
e-Matrix Facial Procedure done some 2 weeks ago. Will tell you about the experience soon |
- Daddy Practicality was given a people management role in his office. He now leads one full shift in IT Operations. Though not considered as a promotion, but it is a huge step because he was entrusted with the job and not everyone gets to be one.
- I got a hair treatment, hair color and hair trim done at Louis Phillip Kee Premiere salon. I actually scheduled this makeover this month, but maybe I was told to wait because I'll be getting it soon without spending at all. I will soon tell you all about the experience as well. Tell me, if this hair doesn't need a makeover?
My super long, sabog and frizzy two-toned hair which needed an IMMEDIATE makeover |
- My little blog is continuously chosen as a trusted partner of some known brands which I am very thankful for. Truly, as I've learned in Martine of Daintymom.com, that if you start with a concrete purpose to inspire and help, the blessings or monetary aspect will come after. I will soon share to you loves how I started and some basics of blogging. I never expected when I started blogging that I'll be able to grow it to where it's now. I received private messages how I was able to help and inspire them. For me, in blogging, that's one of the most wonderful feeling you could get. It just means, you're doing the right thing. It's overwhelming.
- Last among the many other things I am thankful for, is going home to these two boys who truly care for each other and stand for each other. They are seven years apart but they connect in more ways than one. When I reprimand the kuya for something he did not right, the little one will come to the rescue by hugging him, looking at me and asking if I'm mad at his kuya. What do you say to those big eyes showing how he cares for his brother? Speechless. I'm blessed to have my children. I may not have a baby girl yet (maybe He will give me one soon?!) but truly, these boys make a BIG BIG difference in my life. Forever I will be thankful for being gifted with children who are sweet, loving, kind, smart, happy and healthy.
Brother love, kuya and little one working on a project for a more fun play experience. |
So if like me, you've been thrown by life's unexpected fits, breathe in, breathe out. If you're stressed and pressured, take a healthy break. Think of the more wonderful things you have. Be thankful, be humbled and know that you are blessed. There is also no point in comparing yourself with others. To each his own. I learned that you should better yourself not for others, but for yourself. :)
~ What do you do when you feel down? ~
~ What blessings did you receive lately love? ~