Life in Maryland

3rd Anniversary

2011-09-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today is our 3rd year anniversary. I am so grateful to God. Our love story started eight years ago. Indeed, God is faithful. Now, we have a 22 months old daughter. Thank you, Lord, for all of your faithfulness.

Delicious Cinnamon rolls

2011-05-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

April 23 in the morning. I woke up early and prepare some brunch, it was a surprise birthday party for my hubby. I baked him a delicious cinnamon rolls and some of his favorite food. He was in the shower when our friends and family arrived. I am so grateful that my hubby was really surprise for this party and all the food are delicious. I want to share the recipe of cinnamon rolls that I got from Betty Crocker's COOKBOOK.

First we have to make the sweet roll dough.

1 package regular quick acting active dry yeast

1/2 cup warm water

1/2 cup of lukewarm milk

1/3 cup of sugar

1/3 cup shortening or margarine or butter,soften

1 teaspoon salt

1 egg

3 1/2 to 4 cups all purpose flour

Dissolve yeast in warm water in 2 1/2 quart bowl. Stir in milk, sugar,shortening,salt,eggs and 2 cups of the flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to make dough easy to handle. Turn onto lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic ,about 5 minutes. Place in greased 2 1/2 quart bowl; turn greased side up. Cover; let rise in warm place until double, about 1 1/2 hours.

Cinnamon Rolls

1/2 Sweet Roll Dough

2 tablespoons margarine or butter,soften

1/4 cup sugar

2 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Flatten dough with hands or rolling pin into rectangle,15/9 inches, on lightly floured surface; spread with margarine. Mix sugar and cinnamon;sprinkle over rectangle. Roll up tightly, beginning at 15 inch side. Pinch edge of dough into roll to seal well. Stretch roll make even. Cut into nine 1 1/2-inches slices.

Place slightly apart in greased medium muffins cups, 2-1/2 x 1 1/4 inches. Let rise until double, about 40 minutes.

Heat oven to 375. Bake until golden brown,25 to 30 minutes. Spread rolls with glaze while warm.

9 rolls;240 calories per rolls

Glaze

Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla until smooth and of desired consistency.

You don't need to buy an expensive cinnabun, you can make your own.

Scenic Sunday

2010-04-30T11:52:00.001-07:00

Last year we went to Salt lake City for our anniversary. I love the place, because the mountain are so spectacular. I enjoyed our trip, although I was 8 months pregnant that time. I never regret visiting this place. Thank you so much for the team of Scenic sunday where we can post our photos. God bless your weekends! Join us for the Scenic sunday for more photos check the website.

Kylie's photos with all the people who love her :).

2009-12-09T06:07:00.000-08:00

Mimi and Kylie during her 2nd day.
Kylie with Daddy Mark.Kylie with Aunt Lisa and uncle Dan Lewis.
Kylie with Grandma Sharon and Grandpa Hal.
Kylie with Aunt Lynsey, Aunt Cheryl,Uncle Carter.
Kylie with Aunt Beth, Aunt Bethany,Aunt Natalie.
Kylie with Aunt tess.

Kylie with Aunt Annie and Grandma.
Kylie with Uncle Kevin.
Kylie with Aunt Jan and cousin Krysten.
Kylie with Aunt Wendy.
Kylie with mommy.

First day

Thanksgiving day
While she's sleeping.
2nd day.
In her car seat
4th day.

Kylie is already a month and 4 days. We went to our Pediatrician yesterday and kylie is already 8 and 10 pounds, 22 and 1/2 inches. The doctor is very happy for her, she's doing great. Praise God!

Before I give birth

2009-12-09T05:58:00.000-08:00

My best hubby and me
My nurse during that time
Our assistant pastor
My best friend Wendy!

My friend Wendy and Billy are so excited to see the baby, we thought that I have a normal delivery so I wanted my best friend to be there, but when the doctor said for C section, my friend couldn't go to the operating room. Anyway here are some of the photo.

The 4th of november

2009-12-09T05:24:00.000-08:00

Before i give birth

Mark with kylie at 10:25 pm

I'm so excited to give birth but at the same time, I'm scared about the pain of giving birth. I think because in the Philippines I saw a lot of women shouting during their labor. But in the states is very different because they have Epidural that will make you relax. All you have to do is to push when the doctor told you to push. I thank God that I give birth here, and the doctor is super nice, they have the best nurses who will take care of you 24 hours. I never expect for C-section, that time, I labor for 13 hours but no progress since they gave me the epidural, the doctor was so worried something will happen to me. Everything is very slow, so the doctor asked my husband for C-section. My husband, my mother in law and my brother in law with his wife were there and my best friend, they are very supportive to me. I'm so blessed and feel loved.

The operations take 30 to 45 minutes then I heard kylie's first cry :). During the operations I was shaking because of the medicine, my husband was so worried about me. He's trying to smile and encourage me, he always say that he's very proud of me and that I'm very brave. So I give birth to Kylie on 4th of november at 10:15 pm. Indeed God is faithful! He gave us a baby girl, 6'15 pounds, 19 and 1/2 inches. We are so blessed to have her in our life, Kylie Elizabeth is such a big blessing to us!

I'm back!

2009-11-02T13:16:00.000-08:00

I thank God that after 6 months of our marriage, I was conceive. But I prayed to God almost everyday that He will give us a child and now I'm waiting for days to give birth. Indeed God is faithful. Last september 18 we celebrated our 1st year Anniversary at Utah. 2 days ago I turned 33 and the next day it was my mother's birthday. Wow! days are so fast. We are looking forward to celebrate thanksgiving with our baby Kylie Elizabeth. I thank God for all the blessings that we receive this year!

My husband is a big blessing to me,I never regret that I got married at the age of 31 because God gave me the right person.

God is full of surprises :)!

Sky Watch Friday

2009-05-15T09:44:00.001-07:00

This is the beauty of Bukidnon Philippines. Top and bottom photos, taken from my parents farm, the middle photo was taken in other town.. Join us for Sky Watch Friday and enjoy beautiful skies all over the world :)...

Have a blessed weekends to everybody!

Sky watch Friday

2009-05-07T12:43:00.001-07:00

I love the color of the sky, so blue. Taken during summer in Gorgia.

Join us for Sky Watch Friday. Have a blessed Weekends!

Church Wedding

2009-05-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

To all my followers, thank you so much for your patients for me :)... It's hard for me to update my blog because we're so busy preparing our Church wedding, starting January this year. Anyway, it's not easy to plan your ideal wedding. There are times that I couldn't sleep during the night, thinking what will happen on April 4'09, but I thank God that He answered prayers. I thank God for the safe travelling of all our friends from different states who join our Church Wedding and His presence during the ceremony,receptions. Indeed God is Amazing when you are going to lay down everything to Him. He is faithful!

Here are some of the photos taken during our Church wedding. Thank you Kuya Will for taking all of these photos, until now we haven't heard anything from our photographer.

Watery Wednesday

2009-04-14T13:27:00.001-07:00

Taken in Georgia, Last summer 2008. Have a blessed wednesday to everybody, it's nice to join again for WW. Join us now for Watery wednesday.

Newsboys Concert

2009-03-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

Four weeks ago my hubby and I went to a Newsboys' concert. I it enjoyed so much! The place was really rockin'! It's so much fun when you are with Christians singing and dancing together.

Sky watch Friday

2009-03-05T12:51:00.001-08:00

Today's Simply Divine participation of Sky Watch Friday, taken in our backyard, Frederick Maryland

Join us in SWF site.

watery wednesday

2009-03-03T12:09:00.000-08:00

These photos were taken in Myrtle Beach. When I was a kid I remember that my Father would go hunting together with his friends. He loved hunting, and wild duck and other birds were everywhere on the farm. I loved seeing my father carry a duck because it meant he was going to cook our favorite dish called patutin. Cooked in Sprite with pineapple juice and some herbs, the whole sauce absorbs into meat and is very good for baked rice cake.

Head to the site of Watery Wednesday and join us.

mellow Yellow Monday

2009-03-02T13:00:00.001-08:00

I really like this. I do not know if this is considered a sculpture or not. When I went to Norway I went to the National Park. It was such a huge place and sculptures are everywhere in the park. I went to the Vikings' museums, art museums, and the tourist spots where you can see their lifestyle from centuries ago. I took lots of photos but unfortunately I lost all of them because I did not know how to use my first digital camera. I was so disappointed but hopefully I will revisit Norway someday with my hubby. Join us for Mellow yellow monday every monday, just visit the site and post your photo.

Yummy Sunday

2009-02-28T11:30:00.001-08:00

I bake this during Christmas. I learned to bake when I move here in the states. I love cooking since I was 15 years old, I make my won recipe, and keeping them for the future. I really want to have my own Restaurant someday, so I keep all my recipes for my future Simply Divine Restaurant :). Have a blessed weekends to everybody!
Join us for Yummy Sunday.

My leaders and church in the Philippines

2009-02-28T08:21:00.000-08:00

Last week I was so down and couldn't understand why. Yesterday, I remembered my mentor in the Philippines so I called her. I felt so relieved after we had talked. She encouraged me and asked about my devotional life. She was my Sunday school teacher and taught me about intercession when I was 13 years old. I'm so blessed to have leaders like her. I can share what's inside me and cry when I need. They will just listen and encourage me, reminding me about God's word. These are pictures of my leaders in the Philippines (and of my church). I am so proud to have them as a part of my life. From the bottom Raya, Joey, Pastor Many, My father, Mr. and Mrs Querubin, Mommy Bing and ate Andrea. I forgot to take some of the photos of my Leaders, now I miss them so much.

Scenic Sunday

2009-02-22T10:36:00.001-08:00

Taken in Frederick while my hubby and I went to visit my brother in law. I love Frederick because of the hills, farms, view. Very nice place to live and it's not crowded. Join us in Scenic sunday. Have a blessed sunday to everybody!

Sky watch Friday

2009-02-19T20:11:00.000-08:00

Simply Divine's Participation of Sky Watch Friday was taken at our backyard. I love to take some photos during sunset and I wish I could take some photos of sunrise if I can wake up early :). Join us in SWF site.

Valentine's day

2009-02-16T09:19:00.001-08:00

My husband gave me this flowers, that was february 1. I was laughing because too early. But I really appreciate what he did. During Valentine's day we had a breakfast on bed and he gave me a vanity set. So beautiful and the chair was pink, I was so surprise!

We went to Oxon hill to met my sister's family and we went shopping.

Mellow Yellow Monday

2009-02-16T08:55:00.001-08:00

Today's Simply Divine's participation of

Mellow Yellow Monday, was taken during christmas. I decorated our own table and painted the pine cones with gold, silver brown and yellow leaves. I love to do things like these. Have a blessed week to everybody!

Join us and head to the site for more interesting photos of MYM.

Sky watch Friday

2009-02-13T07:06:00.001-08:00

Taken in Hagers town Maryland, on our way to the mall. Join us in Sky watch Friday. Have a blessed weekends to everybody!

Watery Wednesday

2009-02-10T22:23:00.000-08:00

This fountain was taken in Florence South Carolina during our trip. For more beautiful Watery Wednesday, head to the site and post your best photo of WW this week!

Yummy Sunday

2009-02-09T07:26:00.001-08:00

The middle photo is my favorite brand of nuts, other photo: spinach deep during the party, Brownies and Amish friendship bread, that I bake for my hubby. The last photo was Ya Mon Sen, a Thai salad.

If you want to post your Yummy Sunday just head to the site and join us.

Mellow Yellow Monday

2009-02-09T06:35:00.001-08:00

Today's Simply Divine's participation of Mellow Yellow Monday. This flower taken on the beach. Visit the site and

join us!

Scenic Sunday

2009-02-07T22:11:00.001-08:00

Today's Simply Divine's participation of Scenic Sunday. Taken on Big Island, these are photos from our honeymoon.

Contemporary portrait

2009-02-07T10:26:00.001-08:00

Me and two little girls. Taken in South carolina. These little kids are so adorable. They are the kids of our friend Jorgen.

Please join us in Contemporary portrait, hosted by Aishia Holley. Have a blessed weekends!

Sky Watch Friday

2009-02-05T12:13:00.000-08:00

I love the sunset in our barkyard. Taken during Christmas eve.

For more beautiful Sky Watch Friday, head to the site and post your best photo.

Watery Wednesday

2009-02-03T20:31:00.001-08:00

Taken in Myrtle Beach during our trip to South Carolina. Join us for Watery Wednesday today.

Friends

2009-02-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my husband and I went to the church. I love the preaching and now I felt that Mosaic church is my new family. We have a great Pastor, even if we don't have an instrument for the music team right now, the Praise and worship are doing good. We are one of the first fruit in our church in Bukidnon Philippines. I brought up going to the church every sunday and having a ministry. I miss my friends and Leaders in the Philippines, especially my Parents and family. I am hoping that I could take my Father and Mother in Hawaii to meet some of our relatives.

Sky Watch Friday

2009-01-29T19:50:00.000-08:00

Taken in the Philippines. I was inside the car when I took this photo. This is Bukidnon farm at 4 in the afternoon. Join us in Sky Watch friday.

Watery Wednesday

2009-01-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

Tress covered with Ice. Taken at our backyard and front yard. Visit the Watery Wednesday and join us!

Mellow Yellow Monday

2009-01-25T19:15:00.001-08:00

I'm participating with Mellow Yellow because my favorite color is yellow. This was taken in Shenandoah Valley during the fall. Before winter my sister's family will visit us on weekends and then we would go to some interesting places where her kids can run, walk and play. This is my first post, head to the site and join us!

Today's Flowers

2009-01-25T18:58:00.000-08:00

This is my first post of Today's Flowers. I picked these flowers from the backyard of Jorgan, our friend in Florence, South Carolina. Head to the site for more beautiful flowers.

Contemporary portrait

2009-01-25T10:38:00.001-08:00

My nephews Renie and Kirt Patrick Javier. Kids in the Philippines don't have nice or tons of toys like we have in America, but they are happy kids. You can see them anywhere in the neighborhood playing with other kids. They have a lot of fun that will make you smile when you see them. Actually I already miss them.

Have a blessed Sunday to everybody! Join us in Contemporary portrait. This is my 2nd post.

Yummy Sunday

2009-01-25T10:26:00.000-08:00

My husband and I went to Myrtle Beach and on our way there we needed to stop for lunch. A lady told us that there's a good restaurant for seafood, so we went there and ordered seafood with rice. Their dessert was so delicious. I forgot the name of the restaurant.

This is my Yummy Sunday today. Head to the site and join us! Have a blessed Family gather for Sunday.

Scenic Sunday

2009-01-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

Last January 4, we went to Roanoke to visit our friend who move there. We slept in their house and my friend Diane and I went to the woods for walking and we saw this place. If you want to join us head to the site of Scenic Sunday.

camera critters

2009-01-24T18:00:00.000-08:00

This is my Camera Critters today. This dogs owned by Cathy, our friend in South Carolina. Taken during the party in the house of Sue. If you want to join us for camera critters just head to the site.

Our trip to South Carolina 4

2009-01-23T13:12:00.000-08:00

This is our friends who baked the delicious cookies and bread. Thanks Robby!

And some friends during the birthday of Debbie. This kids are the daugthers of my Jorgen. They are so lovely.

Our trip to South Carolina 3

2009-01-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

While we are in Florence South Carolina I notice that the accent was different, the food was different, they ate rice and I ate some pork taste like Lechon in the Philippines. Anyway the bottom line was I enjoyed our trip to South Carolina, in 20 minutes, I already have friends there. My husband took me to Myrtle beach. This is one of our remembrance in South Carolina the wig.

Our trip to South Carolina 2

2009-01-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

Although our house is not sold. I thank God that I met a lot of people and we never expect that they gave us a Party in Sue's house with good meals. Someone invited us for a Dinner, some people gave us card with blessings inside the card during the party, some people gave us free ticket for meals in the restaurant, some gave us a free Gym while we are in Florence, some people baked a delicious cookies for our way home, some people hug me and talked to me during the party, how they loved my husband.

I said to God, Wow! What a great surprised. I gave all the glory, praises to God almighty for being so faithful and so good and that He gave us a friends all over the world.

I would like to Thank all my husband's friend in Florence South Carolina, you do not know how you touched us. Thank you so much. I am hoping that I will meet you guys in Maryland on the 4th of April, this year.

Our trip to South Carolina 1

2009-01-23T11:53:00.000-08:00

January 8 when we start our trip to South Carolina. We slept one night in North Carolina. I enjoyed talking to my husband while he's driving, I tried not to sleep so that his not bored to driving. The next morning we head to South Carolina. One reason why we visited the place was for the closing of our house.

I am so excited to see the house since it's my first time. So one of the house we planted some bushes, although it was so cold during the time, we tried our best to plant the bushes and put some mold. We borrowed some truck to used , and some friend help us cleaning the surrounding. But the house need some electricity and water supply, so we waited for days to finished that, before closing of the house. We couldn't stay in South Carolina waiting for the closing of the house because my husband need to work. He asked someone to do that. Unfortunately it was not happened, there was something happened to the buyers. For all the trip and effort we had, I Thank God that something good will happen.

I realize that, the best things happened was I met my husband's friends, they are very sweet and very friendly.

Sky Watch Friday

2009-01-23T09:53:00.001-08:00

We are on our way home when I took this photo. I was inside the car. Taken in Hagerstown Maryland. Have a blessed friday to everybody. For more beautiful Sky watch Friday head to the site.

Watery Wednesday

2009-01-20T18:38:00.000-08:00

Today's Simply Divine Watery Wednesday taken at Fiji Island. My husband came here with his team for swimming and beach hopping after their mission exposure, I hope that we could visit this place together in the Future. Join us and visit the site!

Contemporary portrait

2009-01-20T11:32:00.000-08:00

I don't know if this is late but I will love to join Contemporary Portrait. This is Nicole my niece and my nephew David, I miss them so much, they are so sweet and my husband love to go back to the Philippines to see them. If you want to join us head to the site @imincultureshock

Scenic Sunday

2009-01-17T09:09:00.000-08:00

I love this photo. Taken in Fiji Island. Head to the Scenic Sunday for more Scenic post.

Yummy Sunday

2009-01-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

This is a wedding cake of my cousin. Taken in Grand Majestic Cebu Philippines. Have a wonderful day to everybody!

Join us for Yummy Sunday at the site of Janet.

Happy Birthday!

2009-01-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Barbet, we love you! Taken last year.

She is like my younger sister and we miss her so much.

camera critters

2009-01-17T08:00:00.001-08:00

Today's Camera Critters of Simply Divine,taken in Mabuhay Bukidnon Philippines. This is a karabao, this is very useful in the farm and its a big help for the farmers. Have a blessed weekends to everbody. Head to Camera Critters and enjoy the beautiful photos of animals, and join us! This is my 2nd post.

Sky Watch Friday

2009-01-15T18:56:00.001-08:00

Today's Simply Divine Sky Watch Friday, taken in Kona Big Island.. Visit the site and join us.

Watery Wednesday

2009-01-13T21:11:00.000-08:00

For Watery Wednesday today. This is a boat going to Cebu. Taken in CDO Pier Philippines. Join us!

Yummy Sunday 2,Grilled chicken and fresh vegebale salad

2009-01-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

I am trying not to cook a greasy food, because it's not healthy for us, so I grilled some chicken and fish with sweet pumpkin and green beans. I marinate the chicken for the whole night. And prepare some fresh Vegetable salad with lime. Head to the site of Yummy Sunday for more delicious food and join us!

camera Critters

2009-01-11T10:39:00.001-08:00

My hubby's "best friend", Cindi. I post this for camera Critters..

Scenic Sunday

2009-01-10T21:26:00.001-08:00

This is the Washington Monument. Frederick is 45 minutes from DC. Head to the Scenic Sunday for more beautiful posts and join us.

South Carolina

2009-01-08T10:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday My mother in law baked some cookies for our trip to South Carolina. I'm so excited for this trip but our trip there was always postpone due to serious situation. Yesterday when I woke up my hubby asked me to go outside the house, and I saw the trees covered with ice. I'm so happy to experience that and today I saw some snow... Finally we are going to South Carolina today for the closing one of our house. And hoping that some will buy the other house.. Taken last year, I don't have the latest photos but these houses are ready for the market..

Watery Wednesday

2009-01-07T09:36:00.001-08:00

This is the color of water in the pool during summer.. So clear,now it's ice.. Anyway, I missed to post watery wednesday last week due to our trip.

For more beautiful captured of Watery Wednesday visit the site and join us!

On the way

2009-01-06T08:14:00.000-08:00

Upper photo was taken in Fiji 2005, this dog was owned by the village. Lower photos was Cindi..

We recently visited my husband's friend in western Maryland before plans to proceed to South Carolina. We stayed there for two nights and watched the movie Marley and Me on New Years day. The movie was really funny but the ending was so sad because Marley died. My husband felt so sad because last summer he had to put his dog down. Cindi was a very sweet dog and my hubby was expecting me to meet her. Sometimes I would see her in through the webcam before coming to the States, but before I arrived Cindi was already gone. My hubby and his brother, who just lost his dog of the same age yesterday, loved their dogs and would do anything to make them well, but there is a life span. Cindi died at the age of fifteen and a half years old.

While we were in western Maryland my mother-in-law called us to say her brother died so we made a quick one night stay with friends in Roanoke, Virginia and then returned to Frederick. So our trip to South Carolina is postponed until Thursday this week. Today is the burial of our uncle Bob Mohler.

2009-01-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

Today my husband and I will travel and I gonna miss my blog. before Christmas we are so busy, now that the holidays was over we are going to travel in South Carolina to sell 2 houses. I am so happy to have a lot of friends here. Wish you all the best for the Year 2009!

Happy New Year to everybody! God bless for 2009

2008-12-31T22:27:00.001-08:00

watery wednesday

2008-12-31T07:36:00.001-08:00

For Watery wednesday today,taken at Shenandoah valley,when we were in Virginia. Head to the site for more beautiful captured photos of Watery wednesday and join us!

Yummy Sunday 1

2008-12-30T15:39:00.000-08:00

This photo was my 2nd baked of Cookies. My husband loves it, and from that time I love baking, and with the encouragement of my friend Aishia. This is my 1st post of Yummy Sunday. Head to the site of Yummy Sunday for more Yummy Food and join us!

Thanks Jan for the consideration:)..

Scenic Sunday

2008-12-27T12:48:00.001-08:00

Taken on the way to Hilton Waikoloa Village,I was inside the car when I shot this. Happy new year to everybody, may God richly bless you! Head to the site of Scenic Sunday for more beautiful photos and join us.

Scenic Sunday 5

2008-12-20T15:53:00.000-08:00

This was taken on the Big Island, one Friday morning while my husband and I were planning to go to Hilo. On the left picture and bottom, you can see the mountain top of Maui. This is my 5th post of Scenic Sunday. Head to the site and you can join us!

Sky Watch Friday

2008-12-19T07:50:00.001-08:00

From the rising of the sun to the going down,the Lord's name is to be praise!

My husband want to spend time with me on the beach during sunset while we are in our honeymoon. He wanted us to see the sunset.
But when we are going out from the grocery store we saw that the sun is already setting, so I took photos outside the grocery store. Taken in Big Island.
I would like to thank the Sky Watch Friday team for having a wonderful site to post such a beautiful shot.

3rd Month Wedding Anniversary

2008-12-18T15:53:00.000-08:00

Mark and Vine Grossnickle memories!

Our first photo taken on the plane in route to Hawaii and some photos take in Waipio Valley, Shenandoah Valley,Hilton Hotel Big Island, Pololu valley Big Island Hawaii, Butuan Philippines,Frederick fair, Grand Majestic Cebu Philippines, Shenandoah Valley Virginia.

My husband always reminds me of our monthly Anniversary because I always forget it. I think because we are so busy for the Christmas and there's a lot of things to do, anyway I wanted to join TT but I was not able to seat and face the computer earlier to post. I just finished baking Amish bread and baked turkey for our home group. I thank God for our 3rd month Anniversary.

watery wednesday 6

2008-12-17T06:46:00.000-08:00

My husband was trying to make the seagulls fly away so that I could take a better picture of them. It was a very cold day, but a good experienced for us. Taken last two weeks ago in Virginia beach. Visit the site of Watery Wednesday and join us. Have a wonderful Watery Wednesday everybody! This is my 6th post.

Cutting Christmas tree

2008-12-15T07:55:00.000-08:00

The tree was not that heavy, I thank God for my husband.
Before my husband cut the tree, he want to make it sure, if I like this one.
Finally,we found the right one.

Yesterday after church service my husband decided to go to the place where we can cut a Christmas tree. So we went there, the place are huge and there's a lot of car parking on the the place. People are cutting their trees and the payment was on the exit. My husband asked me, what kind of tree I wanted, I don't have any idea which one. There's a lot of different kinds of Pine trees and so confusing when you are there. It was a nice experience for me, I was so cold, but people are so enjoying in cutting the the kids are running and shouting. My husband chose Canadian tree so that we could put the ornament, some trees has a lot of leaves and my hubby are trying to explain to me, that if we choose those, we couldn't put much decoration because of the leaves. Now I learned something..

scenic Sunday 4

2008-12-13T15:22:00.000-08:00

Taken in Big Island, on our way to Pololu Valley and we saw this place, Mark like the bare trees and the Windmill where you can see the black cows. This is my 4th Post, head to the site of Scenic Sunday and join us!

Sky watch 2

2008-12-12T06:14:00.000-08:00

Taken in Big Island during sunset. I enjoyed taking all of these photos with my husband in Big Island. Visit the site of Sky Watch Friday and join us. Have a blessed weekends to everybody!

Christmas Holiday!

2008-12-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

Give love on Christmas!
I realized that I'm so blessed to have a shelter and we could afford to eat 3 times a day with snacks, I don't need to be rich to have that. There are people around the world who don't have any. I need to be thankful to God and count my blessings. I remember when I went to Burma, people there are so scared everyday, because of their government situations and what's happening to their country. Blessed to be a blessing!Giving Groceries.
We gather all the kids to give them toys.
This mother told us that it's her first time having a groceries worth 550 pesos free.
This lady was so thankful for the groceries she received, I asked Mark to drive me to her house and take her in the church. She went with me and we feed her and gave her a bag of groceries, she was crying, so touching.

We wrapped all of these,we did it many times because the cellophane always break.
Mark was the one who come up with the ideas to give groceries to the church member and visitors, who couldn't afford to buy something for Christmas. And some of his friends in the states share money for this. We bought a lot of toys for the kids.
These are my nephews who help us wrapping and prepared food to eat. It's good to have a team work.
This is my sister Leah, she help a lot in cutting a piece of paper for the toys.

Christmas'07

2008-12-10T10:53:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!

My Parents.
I'm wrapping some gift for Christmas today. I open the laptop and saw all the photos of my family celebrating Christmas with me and Mark last year, I start to miss them. There's no place like home. I miss my father, his my best friend in the family, that's why some of my sibling called me Juniora.This is my eldest sister family her name is Imelda. She gave birth last 3 days ago, and I heard it was a boy again. So strange that you couldn't see the baby because you are so far away.

I'm busy distributing the gifts, Mark this time was taking photos and we are not yet married during Christmas. He went to the Philippines to met all my family and spent time with me hoping that we could fly back together in the states . He bought First class plane ticket because he wanted me to experience how nice to fly in 1st class seat. Unfortunately, he went ahead of me, my visa takes time before I received it. We bought this Christmas tree in rush hour,looks so ugly :) we don't have time to put some decoration because everybody was busy for the Church activities.

Watery wednesday 5

2008-12-10T05:57:00.000-08:00

My husband cleaning the pool. The water is not blue anymore.
Before winter, my husband was trying to clean up the pool. This is our favorite place in the house during summer. This is my 5th post. Head to the site Watery Wednesday and join us!

Krysten team won

2008-12-10T05:46:00.000-08:00

Congratulations!
Last night we went to Krysten basketball game and the team won! My husband's family loves sport. I enjoyed watching because Basketball, is a National sport of the Philippines.

Camera Critters

2008-12-07T17:24:00.000-08:00

Taken during Frederick fare. I forgot the name of this animal, but I'm so surprised how it looks like.This is my first post of Camera Critters, head to the site. And you can join us.

The Grossnickles

2008-12-07T10:41:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Jeff and Katie!
Last night was my first time meeting the Grossnickles Family at the wedding of Jeff and Katie my husband's cousin. The Grossnickles are so nice and sweet, I felt like ant because they are so tall and I'm the only Asian there. Anyway I enjoyed the Celebration, it was my first time to attend a wedding in the states. Dinner was so good, and the reception was so nice..

Last night was my first time seeing a snow on the road and outside the house, all cars were covered with snow. Anyway I missed to watch the Pacquiao boxing last night but he won, that's good news! Proud to be Pinoy..

Scenic Sunday 3

2008-12-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

I asked my husband to stop in this place just to take some photo, on our way to Maunakia Mountain. Head to the site of Scenic Sunday for more view. Have a blessed Weekends to everybody! This is my 3rd post, join us.

sky watch 1

2008-12-05T13:01:00.000-08:00

While my husband was driving, I'm busy taking a lot of photos in the mountain. This photo taken on our way to the Maunakia ,Big Island. This is my first post of SkyWatch , visit the site and join us! This is late, I hope it's okay.

Virginia beach

2008-12-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

Mark and I went to the 17th floor of the Hotel to see the whole place, I saw some seagulls and some surfer.
Mark in the Aquarium, this turtle was huge.

My husband take me to Virginia beach last Sunday and we stayed in Goldkey Resort the place are so nice but the beach are so cold, they gave us a $50 certificate for food so we ate at Captain George restuarant, there was a lot of sea foods, taste so good! Before we went home, we went to Virginia Aquarium.
I'm holding a Crab rock, the attendant are explaining how the crab live and how gentle they are..I tried to hold the crab, they are harmless.
If you want to see the whole place of Golden resort you can check online at this site.

Happy 16th Birthday Krysten!

2008-12-03T06:51:00.000-08:00

This is Krysten, my niece, it's her 16th birthday yesterday, she's a basketball player. She's not only pretty but very good in basketball. We are not able to greet her yesterday because we are on our way home from Virginia beach. Happy Birthday Krysten, we are so proud of you!

Watery Wednesday 4

2008-12-03T06:15:00.000-08:00

They call this Queen's bath. My husband told me that it's good to swim here during the night and the water is calm. Taken in Big Island.

This is my 4th post, head to the site of Watery Wednesday for more.

Scenic Sunday 2

2008-11-29T12:13:00.000-08:00

This is a Bukidnon farm Philippines.Taken in my parents farm, for more Scenic Sunday visit the site.

Personalized Christmas gifts

2008-11-29T11:41:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for some Beautiful and Unique Christmas Gift. You can visit my sister Marites web site http://bagsanddolls.page.tl/.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T08:39:00.000-08:00

And then slowly to roll the pig in the flame until tender and crispy.

That is roasted pig, we are not using any technology to cook it,we use man power to do it by rolling the big stick until it becomes brown and ready to eat.

Thanks giving in the Philippines are not fulfilled without Lechon Baboy(roasted pork).Thanksgiving can be celebrated anytime there's a special occassions, example if we have a big harvest in the farm we can celebrate thanksgiving, church Anniversary we called it Thanksgiving and birthdays and weddings.

Happy Thanksgiving to everybody! In a few hours we are going to eat the Turkey! This time American version since I am in America...:)

My friends in Bukidnon,we did hiking.

2008-11-26T13:09:00.000-08:00

We slept in this small house, 8 of us plus 4 more people in the mountain.Isn't that amazing?
Two more hours to reach the Mountain village.

These are my Missionary friends in Bukidnon Philippines. All singles, 4 are doing mission in the mountain . The place was so beautiful (taken before my trip to the states, we did this for mission exposure and refreshment ) If we are together, we talk about mission,cultures and single life :)I miss them so much. We gather once a week for having lunch and go to Ukay ukay store. It was fun!

Watery Wednesday 3

2008-11-26T08:48:00.000-08:00

My husband and I stop in this place for lunch. We saw some surfer, In the other side of this place. Taken in big Island. For more Watery Wednesday visit the site. This is my 3rd post.

Filipino turkeys

2008-11-25T11:06:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of a turkey, taken on my uncle's farm. Turkeys can be seen on many Filipino farms roaming free. Some are huge and their feathers are very colorful. But turkeys are very sensitive to ant bites, which can cause them sickness or even death.

Scenic Sunday 1

2008-11-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

This photo is taken on the Big Island of Hawaii from campus of the University of the Nations. This is my first post of Scenic Sunday. Come and join us!

Pumpkin soup good for thanksgiving.

2008-11-21T08:04:00.001-08:00

My friend Beck and I try this soup in Thailand and it's good and very healthy.
Pumpkin Soup
Try to find a really dark orange-colored pumpkin - it will look lots better. Enjoy"

PREP TIME
5 Min
COOK TIME
55 Min
READY IN
1 Hr
SERVINGS (Help)

Servings

US
METRIC
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
1 2/3 pounds sugar pumpkin -- peeled, seeded and cubed
2 carrots, coarsely chopped
2 onions, cut into wedges
2 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large potato, sliced
1 quart water
3 cubes chicken bouillon, crumbled
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/4 tablespoons ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
salt to taste

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
Place pumpkin, carrots and onions in a baking dish or roasting pan. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
Bake in preheated oven 40 minutes, until soft but not blackened.
In a large pot over medium heat, bring water and bouillon to a boil. Cook potato in simmering water until soft, about 20 minutes.
Combine potato and water with roasted vegetables and puree in a blender or food processor or using an immersion blender until smooth. Return to pot over low heat, and stir in cream, nutmeg, pepper and salt. Heat gently; serve.
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Eat Better, Live Healthier,

Watery Wednesday

2008-11-20T11:09:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of Pololu Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii. My husband took me here to see this beautiful place. This is my 2nd post of Watery Wednesday. Come and join us! More post in Watery Wednesday's site.

My brother and sister

2008-11-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

Today is my 5th month in the states, I miss my family especially my brother and sister. They are very talented and they are participating in the church ministry. Leah Mae is the youngest girl in the family and graduating in Entomology, and Stephen is taking nursing (they are the only singles in the family) These photos were taken on our farm during the 2007 Christmas party.

our 2nd month Anniversary

2008-11-18T14:52:00.000-08:00

It's our 2nd month Anniversary today... My hubby and I are very much opposites, but God is a good matchmaker. I learned that as a married couple communication and respect are very important. We are both learning a lot from each other. Thank God for being so faithful and always in control.

I'm sick from the weather changes

2008-11-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've been on the computer. Thursday night my throat started to ache and my husband told me to sleep the whole day. When I woke up I had a terrible headache and it's hard for me to breathe because of my nose. My husband was very worried about what to do, so he was not able to sleep the whole night for taking care of me. The next day he was so tired from not getting enough rest. Praise God, I feel better now. Two is better than one, I'm so blessed having a loving hubby.

my husband's favorite sport

2008-11-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

This is my husband, playing baseball in college.

My husband loves to watch and play baseball. This photo is from my first time watching professional baseball, with my husband, sister, brother-in-law, and friends from Australia (This is at the new Washington National Ballpark). The top photo shows me having fun at my 2nd baseball game, this one at Baltimore Camden Yards.

Couple minutes

2008-11-07T06:57:00.001-08:00

The fruit of your Marriage
My husband and I read our Marriage devotional book before going to sleep. This is what we read last night.It was a nice devotional reading.

Galatians 5:22-23 Building a strong Christian marriage is hard work. Unfortunately,God's love,joy,peace,patience,kindness,goodness,gentleness,and self control don't automatically come with the marriage license. The fruit of the spirit must be cultivated.
It's usually not the big things that can wreck a marriage. Instead it's the unhealthy patterns that pile up on top of each other such as being negative, sarcastic, neglectful or critical.These are sure to quickly turn good fruit rotten.
How we invest in each other daily will influence our relationship. We can choose to be "other-centered," to be patient and t be kind. What little things are you doing today to cultivate the fruit of the spirit in our marriage?

Consider these suggestions from other Christian couple:
."Never go to bed mad at each other."
."Look for ways to compliment your mate."
."Spend time talking together. Set a regular communication time and stick to it."
."Take a thirty -minutes walk together each evening after dinner."
."Pray together each morning."
To these comments we would add, "Laugh together and don't take yourselves so seriously." Having a satisfying marriage is hard work,but the good fruit is there to enjoy if we help it grow.

I would like to thank my Aunt Brenda and John Dubios for giving us a Marriage devotional book, as a wedding present.

Our wedding bands, symbol of commitment and love. Taken after praying each other.

Good morning.

2008-11-05T12:49:00.000-08:00

YOU SAY
GOD SAYS
BIBLE VERSES

You say: 'It's impossible'
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)

You say: 'I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)

You say: 'Nobody really loves me'
God says: I love you
(John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )

You say: 'I can't go on'
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)

You say: 'I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5- 6)

You say: 'I can't do it'
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)

You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)

You say: 'It's not worth it'
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28)

You say: 'I can't forgive myself'
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)

You say: 'I can't manage'
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)

You say: 'I'm afraid'
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)

You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated'
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)

You say: 'I'm not smart enough'
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)

You say: 'I feel all alone'
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)

Watery Wednesday

2008-11-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

Turtles in Marina Beach, Hawaii. This was taken during our honeymoon! This is my first post for Watery Wednesday. You can join us!

choosing our leader

2008-11-04T09:54:00.000-08:00

Choose for yourselves
this day whom you will serve...
But as for me and my house,
we will serve the Lord.
Joshua 24:15
Today millions of people in the United states will cast their votes for a slate of political leaders,including president.After months of campaign speeches,television and ads and debates,each voters has the opportunity to say to one candidates, "I choose you." Not everyone's favorites will win,but every voter has a choice. Each of us is given opportunity to select our personal leader each day. In the spiritual election deep within our hearts,our choice will stand no matter what others may decide.

Everyone serves some kind of god.whom will we choose to have rule in our hearts today?
Each day we choose the one we will follow in life..

my birthday

2008-10-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday. I am now 32 years old. I thank God for all the blessings that I received and his faithfulness in my Life. Without him, life is meaningless. Every time i celebrate my birthday birthday, I always remember His goodness, how He send Jesus christ to give me life to the fullest. God is full of surprises!

This year is a year of jubilee, My brother was release from the jail, and I got married to the person that I've been praying for 4 years,my parents business are restored. I really Thank GOd that his word is always true, and will stand forever and ever. He will never let you down.

the fair with my family

2008-10-27T11:08:00.001-07:00

This is a farmers fair.
You can see some animals like,pigs,horses,cows, sheep ,chicken and you can also taste the best of the country..Home made ham,pies,ice cream, all your favorite food.it was so good.. They serve different foods and beverages.

akaka falls in hawaii

2008-10-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Akaka falls is one of the tourist place in Kona Hawaii. You can see a lot of wild plants.