tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54017300296598378572024-03-13T11:25:06.627+08:00Living. Loving. Learning.R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-51779486960423334912013-05-02T22:31:00.002+08:002013-05-02T22:38:02.851+08:00Thought for the day...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Random thoughts while I was on my way to work earlier today...</div>
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<i>....There comes a time in our lives when things are not going the way we want them to...all we can do is complain BUT it won't solve anything. Sometimes, we really just have to go through it --</i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">be resilient, endure, and PRAY. </span></i></div>
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<i>Eventually, things will get better.... :)</i></div>
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And it's already Friday in a few hours! Yay! :D</div>
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Have a great weekend!!! (",)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-50665227137520468592013-04-04T03:27:00.000+08:002013-04-04T03:27:02.302+08:00Happy, Happy!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hooraaayy!!! You're now half a year old!<br />
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Happy 6th month, baby Gian! (",)<br />
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-3362376562431526362013-03-25T21:24:00.002+08:002013-03-25T21:36:34.559+08:00Random Thoughts On My Special Day<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"><i>"Whatever with the past has gone, the best is always yet to come."</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: orange;">~ Lucy Larcom</span></i></div>
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I remember when I was still on my early teens, I couldn't wait to become an adult...But now that I am one, I want to be younger again. =P Take note of the word "younger", it means I am still young. (denial..:))</div>
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Sounds familiar? Hahaha! I'm sure most people, if not everyone, can relate to this. <i>Kaya nga uso ang botox at kung anu-ano pang pampabata 'di ba? :) </i>But aside from the younger looks (those were the days when I was cuter? lol!), I miss those days when I was still carefree. Being an adult entails a lot of <span style="color: yellow;">maturity</span> *yeah!* and <span style="color: yellow;">responsibility</span>. Ugh! BIG words! Hahaha!</div>
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Oh well! In spite having said all that I am still thankful for my <u>**</u> years. (fill in the blanks! hehe) Celebrating my birthday today reminded me how blessed I am. Despite the challenges, God has given me with sooooooooooo much! :)</div>
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Aaaaaannnnnnddddddd...since it's my special day, forgive my vanity post. Haha! I really just wanted an excuse to post these pictures of myself when I was younger. LOL! *wink wink* </div>
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studio pic taken when I was 17 yrs old *i think?*</div>
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Photo taken by our family friend, Sir Willy, during my sister's wedding </div>
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Grad pic, informal =p</div>
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Grad pic, Toga shot (2002)</div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"><i>Our birthdays are feathers in the broad wing of time.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">~ Jean Paul Richter</span></i></div>
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To all of you -- my family, friends, former office mates, classmates, and those people I have met along the way -- for sending me text messages, posting messages on my Facebook wall, those of you who sent email/private messages, called me up..all of you who took the time to send your greetings and well-wishes...to all those who said their silent prayers for me...<b><i>Thank you!!! -- you all made my day special and thank you super duper very much much much cause you reminded me how blessed I am. :) May the Lord bless all of us always! :)</i></b></div>
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<b><i>And above all, Lord, thank YOU for giving me these people...thank YOU for all Your blessings!!! Please continue to bless me, my family, my loved ones and my friends with good health, peace, prosperity and love. Thank YOU also for making me realize how blessed I am and for being with me always. </i><i>I love You, Lord! (",)</i></b></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">The LORD is my light and my salvation;</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">The LORD is my life’s refuge;</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">~ Psalm 27:1</span></div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-37432593927743424212013-03-11T00:40:00.002+08:002013-03-11T00:45:09.031+08:00Still...<div style="text-align: center;">
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I have been thinking of searching for this song whenever I hear it during mass. But then I always get busy after and forget about it. Finally remembered it today and thought I'd like to share this with you. I didn't even know the title but the words touched me.</div>
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I was teary eyed when I heard this again during the Sunday mass earlier...some songs do that to me a lot of times. :))</div>
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<i>Hide me now</i></div>
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<i>Under Your wings</i></div>
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<i>Cover me</i></div>
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<i>within Your mighty hand</i></div>
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<i>When the oceans rise and thunders roar</i></div>
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<i>I will soar with You above the storm</i></div>
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<i>Father you are King over the flood</i></div>
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<i>I will be still and know You are God</i></div>
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<i>Find rest my soul</i></div>
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<i>In Christ alone</i></div>
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<i>Know His power</i></div>
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<i>In quietness and trust</i></div>
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A blessed week to everyone!</div>
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May we all find rest in Christ alone and be still knowing He is our God....</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-89692370599908415972013-03-09T03:11:00.000+08:002013-03-09T03:30:34.908+08:00<br />
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*image from <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/karensalmansohnsstore">http://www.cafepress.com/karensalmansohnsstore</a>*</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-62386089621480786152013-03-05T07:52:00.002+08:002013-03-05T10:30:15.342+08:00Milestones<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="color: orange;"><i>"Life is made up of special moments which make life worth living. There are many cherished moments that are missed due to the stress and fast pace of daily living. We must slow down and remember how precious it is to be alive and to love." <3</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><i> ~ Lessons Learned in Life</i></span><br />
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Dear Baby Gian,</div>
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You're 5 months old! Hooray!! :)</div>
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Whew! You're really growing up very fast! Not a long time ago, you're were just a tiny, cute, "payatot" little one, but now you all round and a bundle of super duper chubby cuteness! :) And as much as I would want you to be always the cute little baby that you are now, I know that time really flies and in no time you and Kuya Gabriel will already be big handsome boys. :)</div>
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Forgive me for making your babyhood a little public. You see, memories and dates are important to me, so I want to record your (and Kuya Gab's) milestones as much as I can before I forget them. :) I wish my Nanay, your Lola Rene, did so I can look back and say, <i>"Oh, so this is what I did at 4 months old. I was so cute!!"</i> ha ha ha! Please forgive Mama's vanity. ;) And I'm also hoping that maybe sharing these things will also help give other moms an idea what to expect and when to expect their babies to do the same. </div>
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Anyway, although I really want to get back to the corporate world, I want to enjoy each day with you my handsome little boys as much as I can and be there beside you while you're progressing. :)<br />
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When you were just a month old, you don't know how happy I am even just to see your little smile while you sleep...When you turned 2 months, it became a bigger smile until you smile that big-open-mouth smile of yours. Just before your 3rd month, it became more often when you're awake and you also started "talking" to us already! Your coos and "aahhhss", "mmmmamamama" and "dede" made me so happy! At four months and until now, your laughter and giggles are music to my ears. :) You also started sleeping through the night at 4 months old. I am overjoyed because of you, my darling baby! :)<br />
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baby Gian @ 4 months </div>
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Gian @ one day short of 5 months :)</div>
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On the 1st of March, a few days before you turned 5 months, I finally caught you roll onto your tummy! I have been waiting for it, really! I usually see you already rolled over but haven't seen you do it while I am watching. I was thinking you're probably too heavy and you want to take your time...but then you surprised me and showed me that you can do it! And for the past days, you've been doing it real often and fast! You really want to impress Mama, <i>noh</i>? :) Oh I caught you on my phone's camera. See...<br />
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Oh, before that you have been trying to raise yourself for quite some time already...it makes me afraid you might fall off your mini crib. But thank the heavens that my fear doesn't happen and of course, we're being more careful not to let that happen. :)</div>
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This is how you start rolling over :)<br />
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But earlier on your 4th month, you've been trying to raise your self and sit down already..not to mention that you've been wanting to stand up and walk already! Please, don't rush, baby.. :)<br />
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You have been grabbing things and trying to hold them since your second month, but your grasp is stronger since your 4th month and lately you've been holding on to things much tighter and longer. I left you with Papa yesterday *on your 5th month* to find a "racket." While I wasn't home, I was worried that you won't drink milk on the feeding bottle (you prefer breastfeeding), but you surprised me , when I saw pics of you holding onto it! :) Good job, baby! ;)</div>
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Btw, since you were 4 months old you have been looking at food and glasses longingly and making sounds like you really want to eat already...you're soooo cute but I'm afraid I can't let you eat yet. Don't worry baby, in a month's time you will be eating your first solid. ;)<br />
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And for all of these, thank you, baby, for making Mama happier! :) Happy happy 5th month!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Mama</div>
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<span style="color: orange;">And most of all -- Lord, thank You for all Your blessings! (",)</span></div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-4218144027071152222013-02-14T06:00:00.000+08:002013-02-15T08:04:17.889+08:00God gave me you...<br />
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I was browsing last Monday morning and found a video of Regine Velasquez' Silver concert (both the original and the repeat). I heard that she lost her voice on the first one and promised to do a repeat concert for free. Curious, I watched both and on the part when she sang this song, I can't help my tears to stop from falling....</div>
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So I thought I'd share this with you on this Valentine's day. I hope it will touch your hearts as it did mine. :) The Silver concert video I watched can be accessed through this link: <a href="http://youtu.be/WeZ2T4ds9rs">Silver Regine Velasquez 25th Anniversary Concert - 01.27.13 (Part 2)</a>. I used another video, also by Regine, coz the Silver concert video is long and includes other songs during the concert. The part I am talking about is in the middle, <span style="color: orange;"><i><b>17:37</b></i></span>. This is not just for mothers but for anyone who have loved, who loves and will love. :)<br />
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<i>God Gave Me You</i> is a song by Bryan White from his album <i>How Lucky I Am</i>. It was released in 1999, I can't believe I just discovered it now...Although I also like Regine's version more than the original. :)</div>
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<i><i>For all the times I felt cheated, I complained</i></i></div>
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<i>You know how I love to complain</i></div>
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<i>For all the wrongs I repeated</i></div>
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<i>Though I was to blame</i></div>
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<i>I still cursed that rain</i></div>
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<i>I didn't have a prayer</i></div>
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<i>Didn't have a clue</i></div>
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<i>Then out of the blue</i></div>
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<i>God gave me you</i></div>
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<i>To show me what's real</i></div>
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<i>There's more to life</i></div>
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<i>Than just how I feel</i></div>
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<i>And all that I'm worth</i></div>
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<i>Is right before my eyes</i></div>
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<i>And all that I live for</i></div>
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<i>Though I didn't know why</i></div>
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<i>Now I do</i></div>
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<i>'cause God gave me you</i></div>
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<i>For all the times</i></div>
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<i>I wore my self pity</i></div>
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<i>Like a favorite shirt</i></div>
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<i>All wrapped up in that hurt</i></div>
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<i>For every glass I saw</i></div>
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<i>I saw half empty</i></div>
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<i>Now it overflows</i></div>
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<i>Like a river through my soul</i></div>
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<i>From every doubt I had, I'm finally free</i></div>
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<i>I truly believe</i></div>
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<i>God gave me you</i></div>
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<i>To show me what's real</i></div>
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<i>There's more to life</i></div>
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<i>Than just how I feel</i></div>
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<i>And all that I'm worth</i></div>
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<i>Is right before my eyes</i></div>
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<i>And all that I live for</i></div>
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<i>Though I didn't know why</i></div>
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<i>Now I do</i></div>
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<i>'cause God gave me you</i></div>
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<i>In your arms I'm someone new</i></div>
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<i>With ever tender kiss from you</i></div>
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<i>Oh must confess</i></div>
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<i>I've been blessed</i></div>
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<i>God gave me you</i></div>
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<i>To show me what's real</i></div>
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<i>There's more to life</i></div>
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<i>Than just how I feel</i></div>
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<i>And all that I'm worth</i></div>
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<i>Is right before my eyes</i></div>
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<i>And all that I live for</i></div>
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<i>Though I didn't know why</i></div>
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<i>Now I do</i></div>
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<i>'cause God gave me you</i></div>
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<i>God gave me you</i></div>
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And of course I would like to dedicate this song to all my loved ones -- <i>my friends, my family and most especially to my boys (my Honey, Gabriel and baby Gian)</i>. I am very thankful cause God gave me all of you. I love you all so much!</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy day of the hearts, everyone!!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Spread the love! ^_^</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><3 <3 <3</span></div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-53945872196410111342013-02-13T22:00:00.000+08:002013-02-13T22:00:23.129+08:00"From ashes you came and to ashes you will return."<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Today is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_Wednesday"><i>Ash Wednesday</i></a> which marks the beginning of the <i>Lenten season</i>. The priest places ashes on foreheads as a sign of mourning and repentance. We also practice fasting and abstinence to partake in the sacrifice of Jesus when he fasted for forty days and forty nights in the desert while being tempted by the demon. (<i><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+4%3A1-11&version=NIV">Matthew 4:1–11</a></i>)</div>
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When the priest or minister places ashes on the forehead, he says one of the following:<br />
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"Remember that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return."</div>
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—Genesis 3:19</div>
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"Repent and believe in the Gospel."</div>
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—Mark 1:15</div>
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During the season of Lent, we are reminded to seek God's mercy and forgiveness through reflection, prayer and penance. And prepare ourselves for the joy of Easter. :)</div>
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May we all have a blessed and meaningful Lent!</div>
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<3 <3 <3</div>
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Baby Gian's first Ash Wednesday</div>
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The priest also placed ashes on his forehead but he's still exempted from fasting and abstinence. ;)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-57843326948044021022013-02-07T23:47:00.001+08:002013-02-08T17:34:03.617+08:00A grateful heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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*image is a wall decor for sale at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76367740/give-thanks-with-a-grateful-heart?">etsy.com</a>*</div>
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While browsing online and through my Facebook updates earlier today, I came across two things that made me think of how blessed I am in spite of the hardships that I am encountering right now...that I am still lucky that I don't have the same problem as they do....Although a voice inside tells me I shouldn't be that way, feel lucky just because someone else is stuck with a worse problem than I am. Tama ba yun?! (Uhm! Isang batok sa sarili! haha!) Still, I feel blessed and grateful. It felt like God talked to me and said,<i> "See? Other people have their own cross, too, but they chose to carry it and show their resilience and faith. You should, too!"</i> That was a lot, huh?!</div>
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Trying to be a good Christian, I always try to be grateful of the blessings I have received and am still receiving...one time, while eating I told my Yaya, we're still lucky coz we can eat good food at least 3-5 times a day, some people don't get to eat even once a day. I try to always count my blessings...My other posts are always trying to be grateful, trying to be positive. Did you take NOTE of how many times I used the word "try"? Yes! I<b> TRY</b> because it is not natural for me. Or should I say not natural for anyone who's undergoing something not so ideal or not so good. I know you understand what I am saying. Most of the time, it is more natural for us to complain and not see the good in things, in others, or in our lives. Ang hirap 'di ba?!?! It's very difficult for us to say<i><b> "thank you"</b></i> if we want something so hard, but not getting it..if we have a big problem..or if we're not feeling well..or if we feel that we don't have enough. Mas madali para sa 'tin ang magcomplain...Guilty? :-p</div>
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Also, a lot of times, I worry about tomorrow, about things, bills, etc...But the Bible also says (I already posted this earlier in this blog but I guess it's worth sharing again), </div>
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<i>25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[a]?</i><br />
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<i>28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."</i><br />
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<i>~ Matthew 6:25-34</i><br />
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The Lord tells us, Do NOT worry. Another hard feat! I am thankful for those people -- friends and family, who have helped us. They have been instruments of God to help us through whatever challenges that we are facing. They are there to support us financially, emotionally, and most important of all, spiritually. I told one of my closest friends that this period in my life feels like one of the lowest times in my life. One of ha! Hindi naman lowest. But still, most of the time my prayers and desperate pleads would sound like: <i>"Lord, please please, sana matapos na 'tong challenge na binigay N'yo."</i> Or <i>"Lord, please grant my prayer request"</i>, and a lot of times <i>"Lord, please give me ________."</i> </div>
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When I was in school, we were taught the 5 parts of a prayer: first, PRAISE, that is glorifying the Lord and His name; second, THANKS, thanking God before asking for more; third, FORGIVENESS, like in "The Lord's Prayer" -- "forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sinned against us.."; fourth, ASKING, this is where our petitions and prayer requests come in; and fifth, LISTENING for the answers to our prayers and to what God wants to tell us. But most of the time, my prayers start and end with the 4th -- ASKING. Boink! Sorry po, Lord! :-/</div>
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I felt ashamed that this 15-yr old girl who, while she was battling leukemia (AML), had a more positive outlook and faith than I do. She's an angel. I wished I could have helped her. Now, I could only pray for her soul. A message that she wrote before she went to be with the Lord:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-syhTjMzDjw8/URPIH1HVL4I/AAAAAAAACvM/cLbVPfebvvw/s1600/A+wish+for+Nikki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-syhTjMzDjw8/URPIH1HVL4I/AAAAAAAACvM/cLbVPfebvvw/s400/A+wish+for+Nikki.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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*from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AWishForNikki?fref=ts">A wish for Nikki</a>*</div>
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<i>May she rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon her...</i>I am sure she is in a better place right now where there's no pain and sickness. Thank you, Nikki, for being an inspiration!<br />
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I know there will still be times that I might feel hopeless, discouraged, and down..hey, I am only human! :-p But I believe that the important thing is we keep on trying to stand up again and never give up, right? As Nikki has shared, LIFE is our greatest blessing and we shouldn't waste it. To NOT be miserable amidst hardships and pains. And most important is to keep the faith and be grateful to the Lord for all His blessings!<br />
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So dear friends, </div>
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Have a blessed day and may we always have a grateful heart! :)</div>
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God bless us all!</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-73747047860511322382013-02-05T00:40:00.002+08:002013-02-05T00:40:34.192+08:00Oh hooray for today! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I just love this TV commercial! Makes one feel good. :)</div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;"> Hello, it's a brand new day </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">It's a brand new start </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">Things will go your way </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">With a new beginning </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">For you we'll go on singing </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">La la la la la la la </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">Oh hooray! (today)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;"> La la la la la la la Oh hooray! </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">La la la la la la</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">Start it right </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">Everything's gonna be alright </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: orange;">Oh hooray, for today!</span></i></div>
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Let's all have a great great week! ^_^</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-38378147199094220372013-01-18T03:07:00.001+08:002013-01-18T03:07:44.161+08:00Our country.. :)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/56190703" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="500"></iframe> </div>
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<a href="http://vimeo.com/56190703">THE PHILIPPINES MOVES FORWARD (HD)</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/kitreyes">Francisco "Kit" Reyes</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
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I believe this is worth sharing...</div>
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Hoping and praying for a better and brighter Philippines ^_^</div>
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Happy Friday, everyone!</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-17994662410791410072013-01-14T12:38:00.000+08:002013-01-14T12:38:06.586+08:00Karma :)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bUqsRIsMAS4/UPOFavL3HdI/AAAAAAAACug/TocEokNgBWQ/s1600/karma+rom+raw+for+beauty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bUqsRIsMAS4/UPOFavL3HdI/AAAAAAAACug/TocEokNgBWQ/s1600/karma+rom+raw+for+beauty.jpg" /></a></div>
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*image from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rawforbeauty/222272341214778?fref=ts" target="_blank">rawforbeauty.com</a><span id="goog_507516196"></span><span id="goog_507516197"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a>*</div>
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A little reminder for all of us.. :)</div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Happy Monday! </span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Let's all have a great week ahead! (",)</span></div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-77973444938541078802013-01-09T08:13:00.001+08:002013-02-11T00:34:18.605+08:00What's in my bag: Packing for the D-day<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x69gn-Xyoms/UOy1gGExIzI/AAAAAAAACuA/aL3Zy6Bplvw/s1600/check-list_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x69gn-Xyoms/UOy1gGExIzI/AAAAAAAACuA/aL3Zy6Bplvw/s400/check-list_0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*image from the web*</span></div>
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I have been planning to write a blog post on what a mom-to-be should pack before the D-day since after I gave birth as a reminder to myself and of course to share it with moms-to-be out there who might visit/stumble upon my humble virtual home. :) And now I found the will to actually DO it and not just plan. :p</div>
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And you read it right, <span style="color: orange;">"a reminder to myself"</span>. Just because I tend to be forgetful at times. Well, if it's at least your second visit here, you probably know that I already have 2 kids..the youngest is just 3 months old. I should know a lot about motherhood, pregnancy and giving birth, blah blah blah..Yeah, right?! Well, I don't want to disappoint you, but I am telling you that every day and each experience is still a lesson for me and I still have TONS to learn. :) Whoever said or will say that motherhood is easy is -- lying (amalayer??? amalayer???), an alien (duh!), or not yet a mom. :p Right? :))</div>
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Wait, I am forgetting the main topic. As I was saying, I forgot what to bring to the hospital for my second delivery. So when I thought my water is leaking (click to see my <a href="http://rosalynjoydeleon.blogspot.com/2012/11/gians-d-day.html" target="_blank"><i>birth story</i></a>), I texted my sister (Ate, who also just gave birth) to ask what items to bring -- for me and my baby) and started cram-packing (as in cramming to pack! :p). I'm not planning to have another baby, even if we don't have a girl yet. I guess I got a little traumatized by my second delivery (imagine 12 hours in the recovery room trying to raise your leg!). I am already happy with my two wonderful boys. Unless God has other plans for us. </div>
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Sooooo...What to bring?</div>
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<li>For the baby:</li>
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<li>3 pairs of short sleeved shirts (kimono for babies) and shorts</li>
<li>3 pairs of long sleeved kimonos and pajamas </li>
<li>socks or booties</li>
<li>3 receiving blankets</li>
<li>newborn diapers</li>
<li>bonnets </li>
<li>mittens</li>
<li>feeding bottles, BUT for some hospitals, like Chong Hua here in Cebu, they won't let you use bottles since they strictly advise breastfeeding</li>
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<li>For mom and dad:</li>
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<li>towels</li>
<li>toiletries</li>
<li>change of clothes and sleepwear</li>
<li>going home clothes</li>
<li>house slippers/shoes</li>
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<li>For Mom only:</li>
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<li>adult diapers</li>
<li>breast pads</li>
<li>a robe (to put on when you receive visitors or going to the nursery)</li>
<li>socks for you if you tend to get cold</li>
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<li>Miscellaneous</li>
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<li>for some, a birth plan</li>
<li>hospital documents - admission orders from OB, etc.</li>
<li>camera/video camera</li>
<li>camera charger and extra battery if you have</li>
<li>eyeglasses/contacts lenses + solutions</li>
<li>Philhealth forms and contributions</li>
<li>IDs, ATM cards, credit cards</li>
<li>pillow and blanket for the "bantay"/dad</li>
<li>cellphones and chargers</li>
<li>books or laptop to keep you and/or dad busy</li>
<li>ballpen/s</li>
<li>drinking water</li>
<li>snacks</li>
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What a long list! And since I gave birth early, I would suggest for you to pack as early as 7 months or at around 30 weeks to avoid cramming. ;)</div>
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Hope this helps! Feel free to share your tips and list if I miss anything. :) </div>
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P.S. I also have a <b><span style="color: orange;">newborn checklist</span></b> in word version from my sister. Please feel free to comment or PM/email me if you want me to email it to you. :)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-72992052728121886892013-01-09T06:13:00.001+08:002013-01-09T06:24:50.301+08:002013 -- the AMAZING year it IS!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: orange;"><i>YES! </i>I am claiming it! 2013 IS my great great year! :) </span></div>
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My 2012 was a challenging year...It was much like a roller-coaster ride. It was also the same for some of the people I know. We survived and still surviving because of the amazing providence and grace of God and the help of people who loves us. :) So, for this year 2013, I AM claiming that this IS a great, great, super GREAT year! :)</div>
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Of course, in spite of all the challenges we faced in 2012, I am still very much grateful for ALL the blessings. For one, the world did not end (I never believed it will!). :-p I am thankful for my family (both immediate and extended), my true friends, and one of the best blessing and gift we received in 2012 -- <a href="http://rosalynjoydeleon.blogspot.com/2012/10/welcome-baby-gian-raphael.html" target="_blank"><b><i>Gian Raphael</i></b></a>! :)</div>
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<span style="color: lime;">For the year 2013, I am thankful for:</span></div>
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<li><span style="color: orange;">my family</span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta;">loved ones, including my great friends</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red;">a happy home</span></li>
<li><span style="color: cyan;">good health (for me, my family, my loved ones and for all of us/you!), </span></li>
<li><span style="color: lime;">abundant blessings (financial -- pesos, dollars, and other currencies...PLUS in kind -- work, food, milk, and more! hahaha!), </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #e06666;">travels for my itchy feet</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">great work/job/office, and</span></li>
<li><span style="color: yellow;">for joy, peace, faith, hope and love! <3</span></li>
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(ang colorful noh? lol :))</div>
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Thank YOU, thank YOU, thank YOU, Lord! (",)</div>
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Thanks to ALL those who have been helping us, or just being with us, still with us and sticking with us -- through think and thin! You know who you are. :)</div>
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And thanks to YOU who's reading this and my other posts, wasting your time reading my thoughts and wishing me and my family well. Again, from the bottom of my beating heart, thank you! :)</div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Here's to a <i>joy</i>ful and prosperous 2013 for all of us!!!</span></div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-6332289631272258352013-01-06T10:43:00.001+08:002013-01-06T11:16:10.252+08:00First Sunday of 2013!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Today we remember the three kings/magi visiting the Lord. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. <i>*Matthew 2:1-12*</i></div>
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I missed greeting you all on Christmas and New Year, but let me greet you today, on the first Sunday of the year. ;) </div>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-size: large;"><b>Happy Three Kings, everyone!</b></span></div>
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<b>May we all have a blessed, prosperous, full of love and happy 2013!</b></div>
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And they say that Christmas is until next week so, </div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Merry Christmas, y'all</b>! </span></div>
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xoxo</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-67186763240870626092012-12-21T17:33:00.001+08:002012-12-21T19:32:56.526+08:00Repost: December 21, 2012 -- End of the World?<div style="text-align: center;">
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*image from the web*</div>
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Well, the world did not end today, right? lol!<br />
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<i>36 “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. </i><br />
Matthew 24:36-37<br />
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And it's 4 days til Christmas!!! Are you done shopping? :)</div>
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<3 <3 <3</div>
R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-10143100949473227222012-12-18T05:08:00.000+08:002012-12-18T05:11:06.048+08:00:)<div style="text-align: center;">
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*photo from <i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/lessonslearnedinlife" target="_blank">Lessons Learned In Life</a></i>*</div>
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Happy Tuesday, everyone! (",)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-47776269487926819542012-12-11T10:07:00.000+08:002012-12-11T10:07:58.983+08:00happy two months, baby!<br />
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After bath :)</div>
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*sleepy baby*</div>
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Happy happy 2 months, baby Gian! I am just sooooo happy to see those fats on you. It suits you well, my darling. ;) I thought you're like Mama who doesn't get fat, but look at you now! And you gained 2.45 kilograms in just 7 weeks and 3 days! You'll soon outgrow the first set of clothes that we bought. Good job, baby! Keep it up, okay? :)</div>
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I just hope you'll learn to like feeding on a bottle more. Because soon, Mama will go back to work and you still have to eat. You gotta keep those fats. So promise Mama you'll be good and feed well, okay? Stay healthy!</div>
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I love you!<br />
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Hugs and kisses,<br />
Mama<br />
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<3 <3 <3</div>
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<br />R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-25504075051668470192012-11-26T20:23:00.001+08:002012-11-26T21:35:09.582+08:00Happy happy 3rd Birthday, Gabriel!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Dear Gabriel,</div>
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Happy 3rd birthday, anak!!! I hope you enjoyed your day even if we only had a simple celebration for you since we have budget constraints for now. I promise to make it up to you once Mama is back to work. :)</div>
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You probably don't understand yet that it's a BIG milestone for you, and for me and your Papa. How time really flies!!! I get amazed at times when I watch you sleep and realize how big you've grown. You are now 3 years old and a <i>Kuya</i> to Baby Gian. :) </div>
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We are so proud of you, baby. You have a lot of milestones the past year. You've learned to talk. A LOT. :)) You have shown more independence like learning to eat on your own. And you've learned your ABCs, numbers 1-20 (though you skip numbers 14-16...haha!), and colors! :) Aside from knowing how to use the laptop and our touch phones. lol!</div>
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Though you've become so <i>makulit</i> and hard-headed that there are times I scold you (a lot). I hope that when you grow up, you'll know and understand that Mama does it for your own good. It is because I want you to grow up to be a good and responsible person. I'm sorry if I don't get to spend as much time with you anymore because I am taking care of your baby brother. Know that Mama also feels bad to not be always be by your side. I might not be a perfect Mom, but I promise to always do my best for you and baby Gian. And I hope you and Gian will be the best of friends.</div>
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I wish you happiness, love and good health, baby. May God always bless and protect you. And even with Baby Gian now, you will always be our <i>Bebeng</i>. Papa and Mama will always be here for you, no matter what and we love you sooooooo much!</div>
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Hugs and kisses,</div>
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Mama</div>
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*photo taken on our trip to Danasan Eco Park last Nov 17*</div>
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He was so obsessed with the 8x8 ATV :))</div>
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I remember last year he was still afraid of blowing his candle. Now he's excited to do it! :)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-59392477624346986762012-11-25T08:38:00.000+08:002012-11-25T08:41:46.872+08:00Circle of Life<br />
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I can't help but be in a melancholy mood during this part of November, thinking about the irony of life...and death....</div>
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Today, November 25th, is the birthday of my brother, Noel. And even after almost 3 years of losing him, it still feels unreal...and the pain is still there. Whenever I think of going home to Manila or Bulacan, I remember him picking me up from or dropping me at the airport when I'm finally going back to Cebu. Our <i>"lambingan"</i> is making <i>"asaran"</i> (teasing each other)...When I was in college, he will pick me up every Friday or Saturday at the dorm and drop me off every Monday at SM City or Quezon Ave. Along the way we would have conversations -- about life or just plain <i>"kulitan" </i>and a lot of times, having disagreements, too<i>.</i></div>
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But how can I stay sad or depressed when I also have to celebrate life? Tomorrow is the birthday of my eldest, Gabriel. </div>
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It's the same during Christmas since it's my favorite Holiday and day of the year (yes, even more than my own birthday!). Definitely a happy occasion -- being together with family, exchanging greetings and gifts with friends, and of course, the birth of our Lord. But the sadness is also there because we lost "Panget" (that's how I call my Kuya Noel, I don't call him Kuya..), on December 26th, the day after Christmas. *sigh*</div>
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That's the irony of life. In spite of sorrows, we still have to celebrate joys. In spite of losing a loved one, we have to celebrate the birth of another. And even if we still feel the pain of our loss, we have to move on and still count our blessings. </div>
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It's the circle of life....</div>
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I know there are those out there who feel the same as I do..and here's an excerpt from a beautiful poem...</div>
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<i>"Do not weep for me, for I am within you;</i><br />
<i>I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses</i><br />
<i>the flowers. I am the calm that follows a</i><br />
<i>raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats</i><br />
<i>among the garden of God, and I am pure</i><br />
<i>white snow that softly falls upon your hand.</i><br />
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<i>Do not weep for me, for I shall never die,</i><br />
<i>as long as you remember me…</i><br />
<i>with a smile and a sigh." </i><br />
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<i>(I posted the whole poem here: <a href="http://rosalynjoydeleon.blogspot.com/2011/10/in-remembering-our-departed-loved-ones.html" target="_blank">Weep Not For Me</a>)</i><br />
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And as I posted on my FB status,</div>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-size: large;"><b>Happy birthday, Panget!</b></span></div>
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I hope you're happy celebrating in Heaven and watching over all of us. We love and miss you!</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-17110994438785349992012-11-13T21:33:00.000+08:002012-11-13T21:52:22.471+08:00My Ferrari Cars<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Bonjour! I'm back pretty soon for a very quick post and commercial from all the pregnancy/motherhood-related posts while my 3 boys are asleep. ;)<br />
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<i>Honey's</i> been asking me to post these pics on FB since last week and I thought I also want to share with you my/our latest collectibles from Shell...</div>
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Lego Ferrari F150 Italia replica..and those tiny people are sooo cute, too! :)</div>
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I have been a loyal Shell customer since I started driving. That was way back in 2002. I was still in Manila/Bulacan then and V-power was only Php20.00!! I have been collecting these Ferrari cars from them for some years now. Started with their collectible cards, key chains, plain cars, "vroom" cars, steering cars, etc...and now they have these new cool Lego model Ferrari cars! </div>
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<i>Honey</i> is the one building these Lego Ferrari cars now (while I'm taking care of the new baby ;p). It's more expensive at Php180 than the first sets of collectibles (which only costs Php50 each with Php500-worth of V-power gas) but I believe they're worth it. I just hope we can complete all the models since it's less than a month before the promo ends. </div>
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Oh, how I wish they're real cars! Right? ;) So, what are you waiting for? Gas up now at Shell! ;)</div>
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Enjoy and take care!</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-1749531971693557672012-11-10T13:35:00.002+08:002012-12-11T05:42:23.246+08:00Gian's D-day!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Hello there! I'm really sorry for being like a <i>"palitaw"</i> (lulubog-lilitaw) lately. I've really been busy exclusively breastfeeding and caring for Gian and Gabriel or out job-hunting. For those who don't know what <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palitaw" target="_blank"><b>palitaw</b></a></i> is, it's a Filipino delicacy made from "malagkit" or sticky rice that sinks (while it's being cooked) and floats (when it's done).</div>
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Anyway, I've been wanting to share with you, especially for soon-to-be-moms, Gian's delivery story. Being a second-time mom, I thought I would be more prepared this time. And discovered that I was so wrong. I did say in my <a href="http://rosalynjoydeleon.blogspot.com/2012/10/welcome-baby-gian-raphael.html" target="_blank"><i><b>previous post</b></i></a> that Gian is out early. He is only 35 weeks and 3 days when he came out.</div>
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Good thing, we already bought his things the Sunday before that (I gave birth on a Thursday). Although, we haven't bought his crib/playpen yet and some other stuff. We were planning to buy the following weekend. I also wanted to get some "belly shots" in a studio like what we had when I was pregnant with Gabriel but there was no more time....</div>
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On October 3, I woke up a few minutes before midnight and felt that my undies were wet. So I thought my water bag already broke. I sent text messages to my sister asking what to bring to the hospital (she also just gave birth) and my OB to ask what to do. I started preparing my bag just in case.... I wasn't having any regular contractions the way I was supposed to so I concluded it was okay. I also read in a pregnancy book that it's okay if it's just water, that it might still take a few days or weeks before the baby comes out. No mucous plug and no "bloody show". However, on the morning of October 4, I woke up with a response from my OB that I have to get admitted due to risk of infection. I texted <i>Honey</i> and he went home from work around 7AM. I took a bath and we left for the hospital. </div>
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On our way, we picked up diapers for Gian and some toiletries for me and Honey and some breakfast. (See how unprepared we were??) <b>Btw, I wonder why it is soooooo difficult to find Newborn diapers here in Cebu!!! Calling supermarkets and pharmacies!! </b>Also dropped by the Church to get the priest's blessing for a safe delivery and a healthy Gian. Thank YOU, Lord! :)</div>
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My heart broke when Gabriel cried when we were leaving coz he wants to go with us. He was already placing his clothes inside his bag. :'( It's one of the things I wasn't prepared for since we were supposed to leave him (with his yaya) first at my sister's house before we go to the hospital but since it wasn't on schedule, Gabriel's things are not yet prepared.</div>
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We arrived at the hospital around 10 AM. A resident performed an internal exam on me and concluded that my water bag is still intact but I am already in 4cm. It was inactive labor. And so I was admitted to the hospital and scheduled for repeat CS at 3PM. During the waiting period -- in between procedures and interviews that I had with nurses, residents, and other hospital personnels, I was praying that Gian would come out healthy. The operation should only be around 1 hour but lasted longer because the anesthesia took long to take effect that I had to be given a second dose. But thank the Lord, Gian Raphael came out healthy and "term" at 4:52 PM!!! :) My memories of Gabriel when he came out was a bit hazy but I remember kissing Gian and still chatting with the anesthesiologist after the operation. I was moved to the recovery room before 6 PM. And guess what, I was only moved to my room after almost 11 hours!!! All the other patients already left but I remained there. :-S This delivery was actually kind of traumatic for me because of having had to stay in the recovery room that long. The anesthesia won't wear out especially on my right leg for 10 hours! :( I asked the nurse if it's possible that I might not be able to move my leg again. Waaaah! I was sooooooo relieved when I was finally able to lift my right leg without any help!</div>
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Me and Baby Gian were discharged from the hospital on Sunday afternoon. Thank God! :) </div>
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baby Gian Raphael at 2 days old </div>
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First time to get some sunshine at 5 days old..He was very thin</div>
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Gian at 2 weeks old :)</div>
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A rounder (and darker..hehe!) Gian at 1 month and 3 days old.. :)</div>
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There! Sorry for my super looooong post. :) And thanks for reading! :) I'm hoping to sneak in another post soon! :)</div>
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Happy Saturday! (",)</div>
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<3 <3 <3</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-82619185744809463172012-10-06T07:13:00.001+08:002012-11-24T17:47:25.755+08:00Welcome Baby Gian Raphael!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Name:</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></i><span style="color: orange; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Gian Raphael</i></span></div>
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<i>Birthdate: </i>Thursday, October 4, 2012</div>
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<i>Weight at birth:</i> 6.6 lbs</div>
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Just dropping by for a quick post. Just because our baby Gian Raphael is out a month earlier than his due date! (",)</div>
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While we were expecting we still have time to prepare for his arrival since I'm supposed to schedule my CS delivery at least 2 weeks ahead his supposedly due date, he surprised us by coming out earlier than early! Haha! I guess he wanted to choose his own birthday, huh? :)</div>
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Had me worried that he is preterm but thank God that even if he is short by a few weeks inside my tummy, his weight (although smaller than his Kuya Gabriel) can still be considered "term". More importantly, he's born healthy! Thank YOU, Lord! and to Mama Mary and all the saints and angels we prayed to! :) And to our family and friends who prayed for my safe delivery and baby Gian, a BIG thanks!! :) We love you!</div>
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Happy happy Saturday, everyone! (",)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-14802576631402864622012-09-15T16:27:00.000+08:002012-10-02T17:25:43.161+08:00Oh no! Stretch Marks!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(image from <i>pregnancy.baby-gaga.com)</i></span><br />
Soooo TRUE!!! lol!</div>
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Earlier when I was examining my preggo tummy while taking a bath, I noticed a few signs of stretch marks near my belly button area. My first thought was, "Oh NOOOO!!!". </div>
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I admit that I am vain to some degree. Even though at my age, I still don't know how to put on make up, I still want to look good the natural way. I was planning to get a facial as soon as I can after I give birth to get rid of the pimple marks I got during pregnancy. And now, this! Waaaaah! :-( I didn't have this concern with Gabriel so I thought I still won't have it the 2nd time. But I guess, I'm wrong. Again. I've just realized that it's not the same with every child whether they're still inside you, or when they're already out.</div>
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Well, I'm trying not to panic but as soon as I finished bathing, I put on layers of body butter and lotion on my big tummy. Hoping to stop them from becoming worse and if I'm lucky, to eradicate these ugly marks. *sniff sniff* I'm sure other moms and mothers-to-be out there also want a clear, flawless skin (or as near to flawless as it can be) even after they already have children without having to pay for those expensive derma/beauty salon treatments. I know I myself don't want to spend money on those.</div>
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Anyway, I asked Mr. Google and found these links helpful. Just sharing, for other moms out there.</div>
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* <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Pregnancy-Stretch-Marks" target="_blank">How to Prevent Pregnancy Stretch Marks</a></div>
* <a href="http://www.babycenter.com/0_stretch-marks_1352276.bc" target="_blank">Stretch Marks</a><br />
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But before you put anything on your skin, please be mindful that some beauty products are also not safe for your baby, EVEN if it's just topical.<br />
* <a href="http://www.babycenter.com/0_safe-skin-care-during-pregnancy_1490031.bc" target="_blank">Safe skin care during pregnancy</a><br />
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Good luck and enjoy preggohood! (",)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5401730029659837857.post-44575950646077560502012-09-10T02:36:00.000+08:002012-09-10T02:37:28.660+08:00Happy Monday! ^_^<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-66qFPkAWD6c/UEzgZKXeeNI/AAAAAAAACrA/uAZc7HMD408/s1600/404100_389141634490882_907107439_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-66qFPkAWD6c/UEzgZKXeeNI/AAAAAAAACrA/uAZc7HMD408/s640/404100_389141634490882_907107439_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Image from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lessonslearnedinlife" target="_blank"><i>Lessons Learned In Life</i></a> FB page (a really great page!)</div>
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Just wanted to share this quote to start our week. :)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank You! Thank You! Thank YOU, Lord!!!</b></span></div>
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It is a great day...a great week...a great month...a great year...a great LIFE! (",)</div>
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R. Joy de Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03339247334698244713noreply@blogger.com1