Nourishment for My Weary Soul: There's Hope in Christ

How bad things may look right now means nothing. It's how good they can be with God's help that counts. In life you can absolutely count on one thing: everything can turn around in one day, in one minute sometimes. Don't you dare to give up- you might be a moment away from a windfall.

The Reason for the Season

The reason for the season
Is Jesus Christ our Lord
Not Santa Claus or presents
Or gifts we can't afford;
The reason for the season
Is Christ, the child born
So long ago to save us
Not toys on Christmas morn.

The reason for the season?
God cared enough to give
His Son for our salvation
That we might with Him live;
The reason for the season
No matter where we roam
God claims us all His children
And wants to bring us Home.

The season has a reason
To thank God for His love;
To offer our repentance
And pray to God above
We not forget the reason
Christ came to earth for all
To be our one Redeemer
And save us from our 'Fall'.

Rawland Storm

Toy for the Techie

Kids nowadays are technologically savvy and it shows in the games they play. If the young (and the young-at-heart) of today are to make a list of their favorite toys, you will most likely find PS3 on top of the list. This seventh generation video game is popular worldwide not only because of its graphic quality and the number of games that can be played therein, but also because it has internet connectivity and a blu-ray player, which allows the user to watch movies. Looking for a toy for your techie loved one ? You've found one.

A Woman's Thing

Christmas shopping is fun especially when the things you like are on sale. The other day, I went shopping for my personal stuff and got a some really nice lingerie items at 40% discount. A good deal, indeed! I am quite particular about my lingerie. I always look for quality and comfort, even when it means paying more. After all, when you feel good inside, it radiates to your outside appearance.

Bird Perched on a Tree

a view from my bedroom veranda

Fast Check Out

Shopping is a lot of fun until it is time to check the price of the item you want to purchase and the price tag is no longer attached thereto. It is a hassle when you are already at the check out counter and you have to stand there forever waiting while the clerk goes back to the rack/shelf to look for a similar item with the same price tag. Likewise, when you want to check the price before deciding to buy and both the price tag and the sales clerk are nowhere to be found in the crowded store. Good thing we now have the barcode scanner because even when the price tag has been detached, as long as the barcode remains attached to the item, we can still check the price. A lot of stores now have scanners attached to their walls to enable buyers to check the prices of the items without waiting for the sales clerks. Some stores even have self-service check-out counters. If you're using an android phone, you can also download an app for a barcode scanner. The wonders of technology!

Good Morning.... Brrrr

It's another cold morning here in Florida. After enjoying a sunny and breezy weekend, we're back to another freezing week. The last two weekends, I have been shopping for more winter attire. I am tired of my blacks and grays so I have been adding brighter colors to my wardrobe.

It's nice to stay in bed all bundled up when it's 35 degrees cold but it's now time to get ready for work.

So, good morning blogging world! Enjoy your day! Keep warm!

Hop a Flight to Miami

It is at this time of the year when snowbirds and those wanting to enjoy a friendlier climate, away from the freezing cold winter months, are starting to come down to Florida. After all, there is fun and entertainment here in Florida, and, of course, the beach and the sun.

One of the most popular places to visit in Florida for fun and entertainment is Miami, ranked as the Cleanest City in the U.S. in 2008. However, just like most major metropolitan cities, going around by public transportation is sometimes a hassle. The better option would be the miami car rental. You can go anywhere at your own pace and time. That's travelling with comfort.

A View from my Bedroom Veranda

Today's a beautiful day in Florida. Although it is windy, I can still feel the warmth of the sun - a nice respite from the freezing weather we've had the past week.

I took this shot from my bedroom veranda.

The sun's reflection on the water

I saw a large aquatic bird and a turtle beside the lake.

There are trees obstructing the view and this is the closest

shot I can get of the two creatures. They look like they're

in deep conversation and I feel like a paparazzi spying on them.

Where To - on Christmas?

I won't be able to go home to my home country for the Christmas holidays so I started making plans about spending the holidays out of state. California was my first choice because I have a lot of cousins and friends there. However, I could not find cheap air fares; and with only a 3-day off from work, the expense and the travel to the West Coast is not very practical. Then, I thought about going to Pennsylvania, Virginia, or New York. After all, I have standing invitations from old friends back home to visit them. Finally, I decided to stay here in Florida. Hopefully next year, I'll have enough leave credits and money to allow me to enjoy a longer vacation. My friend, Gina, also advised that I should plan my travel date in advance and search for travel deals online. She and her family do that and are able to get very affordable plane fares. I'll definitely do that, Gin!

In the Stillness of the Morning

I woke up to a cold and foggy Sunday morning. Just before the sunrise, I went outside and stood by the small lake gazing at the ducks swimming to and fro the waters.

Thank you, Lord, for a beautiful morning.

In the stillness of the morning,

Far away from all the noise

I feel the peace enfold me,

As I listen for His voice

It flows down from the mountain

And across the crystal lake

It understands no barrier

As my tension it seeks to take

It steals me from my anger

And puts my mind at ease

And I'm aware of nothing except

This still, small, quiet peace

It moves me beyond the words

I watch flow from my pen

And I feel a certain gratitude;

This peace is my best friend.

I do all I can to protect it

And I cherish the time we share

And as I watch the sun come up,

It's for peace I say a prayer

Oh, Lord, please give to everyone

Who is going through some pain

A portion of this joy within;

May peace forever reign!

Sparkling Clean Car

I had my car detailed yesterday while I was at work. On Fridays, there's an auto detailer which services cars in our office. An officemate said they really do a good job so I decided to try it yesterday.

I usually have my car washed every weekend at the gas station. It's done by machine and although the dirt is washed away on the windshield and body of the car, the wiping and polishing is not thoroughly done. Well, the machine can only do so much. Although I am the only one who uses it and my car is only 6 months old, I make sure that the interior is kept clean and tidy. Whenever I can, I wipe, sweep, and even use a Scotch pet hair roller for cleaning. Still, I am not satisfied.

I'm glad I had my car detailed. The guy did a good job cleaning, polishing and waxing my car. It feels good to see the interior and exterior super clean. For a $15 charge, it's worth it!

The Window to the Soul

It is said that a person's thoughts can be ascertained by looking through his eyes. It is because the eyes are the window to the soul. One of the first features that attract us when we look at a person's face is the eyes. Bright and expressive eyes can make one pretty. On the other hand, eyebags, dark spots and wrinkles that appear under the eyes are, definitely, not good to see, and makes a person look older.

As we age, physical changes start to appear in our body. Our skin is no longer as supple and flawless as it was when we were sixteen, eighteen or even during our early twenties. Although we cannot prevent nature from taking its course, we can help delay or lessen the effects of age by taking care of our skin. We should observe good health habits like proper nutrition, enough sleep, exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking, avoiding harsh chemicals on our face, and proper cleansing. It also helps if we have less stress in life. Of course, for those who can afford it, getting the best treatment for under eye wrinkles.

Give it a Personal Touch

Two weeks ago, I already sent my gifts for my loved ones back home although I gave specific instructions that they receive it on Christmas day. Money is tight so I cannot splurge for gifts this Christmas. My spirit is willing; unfortunately, my pocket is weak. However, I still made a list of people whom I want to give a little something this Christmas. Those kind-hearted 'angels' who've been there for me, helping me go through the tough life of living alone in America.

Gifts do not have to be extravagant to be appreciated by the recipient. It's the fact that you've remembered that person that makes him appreciate it. A simple but unique gift this Christmas could be personalized note cards. You're not only giving a gift but you're also giving a part of you because of the personal touch that goes with it.

Christmas Shopping

Today's the first day of December, twenty-three days before Christmas. It is at this time of the year when people are busy shopping for gifts to give their loved ones. Have you done your Christmas list yet?

Money is tight nowadays but there are stores that offer discounts and promo sales. If you're shopping for electronic and computer stuff you can also save through tiger direct coupons.

When I was still back home in the Philippines, I enjoyed shopping for Christmas gifts. I would usually start shopping early to avoid the crowd of last-minute shoppers. Now that I am away from home and on a tight budget, I just sent cash to my loved ones so that they can choose to buy whatever fancies them.

I hear people say that Christmas is an expensive season and have become very commercialized. Well, it is also said that Christmas is about love, and we cannot love without giving.

Happy shopping and don't forget to shop wisely!