friendships in the journey

  

[new books, ayeeee!]

 

Coffee with Micah and Lai in the morning... It's good to intentionally share our hearts to return all praise to God for it is He who created it and knows it well. Psalm33:15

Gen was back to work in the afternoon while I endured a grueling headache. Probably, I should refrain from using my hair clamp. It's pulling my hair too hard.

In the evening, Tito Pepe invited us for dinner. I guess he likes Gen because of his Ilocano descent. God is really good for bringing Gen not just to our biological family but our spiritual family as well. From the start, we always believed that when God unites us, it will not just be an exclusive union (of course it is, covenant-ly-speaking!), but an inclusive one rather, ministry-wise.  We are for God and for His people!

Praises!   

ice cream on a rainy afternoon

Spent the afternoon with Kuya Rey & Ate Minette's family and also Weng... We recorded video clips and audio narration... We are so blessed becoming recipients to their creativity!

On our way home, I had flashbacks of our prenup concepts way back summer. I really wanted to take some shots from a vintage restaruant in Makati. But yes, it' in Makati. Too far away to do just that. But today, we were so blessed to know that there's a vintage diner within the city! I was overtaken by their vintage collection. Such a feast for the eyes!

Fifties Cafe, thank you for accommodating us today! We had a great time chilling all the more with ice cream on a cold afternoon.

trial make-up

Trial Make-up...

my left eye brow got bruised...huhu...

Gen and I were candle sponsors at Arnold's and Ate Debz's wedding today.

Me, trying to take a pic of myself... 

look at the scene stealer behind! =D

ma-picture-an nga!

one more! =)

=)

Tonight, Papaps wed Kuya Jeth & Ate Ren at Orange Grove Clubhouse. In its entirety, we had fun! Yes, over cocktail sweets and collecting emptied wine bottles after.  

Here's us after the full evening.

The Art Of Marriage

by Wilferd A. Peterson (short, popular version) Compliments Of Erik & Beth Kent, Co-Publishers of NJWedding.com  A good marriage must be created.
In the art of marriage the little things are the big things... It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once each day. It is never going to sleep angry.
It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family. It is speaking words of appreciation and
demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.
It is finding room for the things of the spirit.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is not only marrying the right partner...
It is being the right partner.  - by Wilferd Arlan Peterson  --- Saw this poem at the boutique (where I fitted my gown) yesterday.#amen 

pawayusa + pastowej = practical

[stimulated to sketch]

Bought lamps today... something i would really want to see at the wedding... so it's really practical to get things that we would be using more than once. Some of the decoration stuff were used at the e-session (prenup pictorial) and engagement party and will be used on the wedding! Ha, so excited to keep most icons in our future home.

Yes, Recycle-Your-Wedding is our core value for decoration!

can light bear happiness?

We tested the lantern with Amor... Yes, we flew 1 tonight, and it's [very romantic] according to Jackie (yes, she and mama came with us......
 

eagles' nest

[wasn't able to take a pic of the room; this is from the web]

We found a place! A one-room space we decided to turn into an all-in one studio. Bedroom, sala, work space, dining and prayer room. Yes, something we can temporarily call home. Mom loves the shanty place. Gen and I wanted to look for another one. But she insisted its safety and nearness. Mothers know best. And actually, my mind is racing how we can turn it into something liveable cozy. Really excited to clean up and pimp some space.

Time is short though. Any idea, anyone?

tatty bear will guest the wedding

Did so many errands with mama today... And here's a stop at the toys department...








Can't resist but buy a bunch of these cuddlies... Tatty bear will certainly have a part in the wedding! Woohoo!

1John4:18

Just playing with our photos... #undonevideo

eighteen days... #muragbalot

"Perfect Love casts out fear." 1John4:18

hand dance

Gen and I hand danced on this song while we were seated facing the comp (bookings). Haha, this is the best of what we can do as far as dancing is concerned! #funnight

We checked our finances. And in the Lord we continue to enjoy and hope.

"And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6"

two-gether

Found this on IG; 

taken by @kenius08

Sundays are not any better!

#thankyouLord

thank you, Kenneth ;)

pink sunday

[photo not mine; i found it at Instagrm; really made me happy just looking at it!]

Having a healthy sunday so far! #almostalways

Gen and I played with Nette2x after the second service. She's too smart to get us playing hide and seek with her and her toys! Haaaay! #unwinding

We then prayed for Weng who left for Manila to work on some career stuff. =)

Papaps brought Gen to Panabo and Tagum... Visitation at Panabo City satellite service and God-Encounter at Tagum City (where Bem is at). While the men of my life are out and about, I'm here working on the photo stubs.

full-packed

Hala sige, DIY gyud!
Every bit of me is tugged at posting random pics of what I've been busy with recently. Ha, I'm layouting the template for the photobooth (happy si manong from the studio--having been taken some weight of his burden). 

1. I don't like generic layouts.

2. I want our layout to be coherent with the theme.
3. I'm having fun!

So let's see if I'm doing well. I am so trying hard. Hahaha!

And... earlier today... we finished 90 token boxes! Kudos to Gen and me! Ang saya lang!

Kingdom Agenda

But... really... I want to post a pic of what is much of a highlight today:

Yes, our second meeting! Couples for the Kingdom: Genesis & Rejoice, Xeres & Glaisa and Shong & Cathy! Ayee!
Today's topic: The Purpose of Marriage and A Counsel To Bride's & Grooms (by Ps.Ed Lapiz)... if you happen to read this blog and you have friends or siblings whoa re pursuing a godly relationship/marriage, they are free to join our next cell meetings! ;)

All for God's glory!

honey pastor

My epic fail.

Yes, I failed to snap a photo of Genesis powerfully preaching at Reload tonight. I was totally absorbed. He preached about Fighting Brokenness With Community. I did the altar call and I saw a broken generation. There was too much of it even in a crowd like that. How much more on the streets and the rest of the public places we know. We really need to rise up and be determined to make Jesus King. To make Him known and channel His grace to everyone needing it.

To God be the glory.

Unconditional Love

Earlier today, we went to our first stop - PISD. We dropped the invitation to our Ninong Roger and Ninang Perla Kwan and the moment converted itself to a very rich marriage counseling. Marriage is indeed tough and it is only by the grace of God with daily intentional effort to love faithfully that it can last a lifetime.

When God chooses a lifetime partner for you, He doesn't give you the most compatible person you can live with. Instead, a person who can be totally different to who you are. Why? Because He wants you to learn to love unconditionally even when your own conditions can never be met. Living to love unconditionally is the greatest benefit that marriage can ever do to a person--this is the presence of God Himself. #Christ-likeness

precious!

Today, we're back doing the errands. We first met with the Welborn family to give them our invitation. This family had been one among the many who welcomed us when we first came to Davao. And since they're in town (they've been residing in the province to manage their beach resort), they wanted to meet Gen. We braved the hard pouring rain and got Gen on a hot seat. Aaww. They scrambled for our baby pics with their children and ha, it's really nostalgic refreshing the moments. 
...
We went to check my gown and it fits well now. Woohoo!
...
And... we finally got our rings. We were sent money (another blessing... grabeh na gyud ang John 1:16... dili na namo ma-explain!) Just enough to pay for the ring's labor. We fit them. And... We love it. Very simple. But we love it. Really soooooo happy! =D =) This is something we would wear forever!
Then, we LBC-ed invitations. While queueing for our turn, I was asking Gen how much my engagement ring cost. Ever since I had it he would never disclose. Tsk. But today I was best-bugger award. We played If-The-Price-Is-Right kind of game. Higher. Higher. Higher. Lower. Higher. 
...
...
...
What? You spent that much on me?
#tears


And it costs much more than our wedding rings combined. 


#tears
(Ayan kasi makulit.)


So many things came into mind as I think about Gen (I almost forgot about the ring). He surprises me many times. And before I went to bed tonight I texted him how much I felt so loved (although I am not the gifts-speaking-love-languager) even beyond the ring. Really thankful that God gave Gen to me. He is someone I would want to know more perpetually everyday.

celebration-worthy

we love you Ate (Ninang) Raya =)
Your life is worth celebrating!
Thank you for sharing your life and wisdom to us!
You are very inspiring!
See you soon!
#hugs 

artsy artsy

We went artsy artsy tonight by decorating matches... i so love these girls...

the Lord is my strength

#gettingbetter

Hello :)

Hello everyone :)

#sundaychill

first cell meeting

We always dreamt of ministering together in one place... And finally, we had our first cell meeting with Shong, Cathy, Glaisa and Weng. Ceres (Glaisa's boyfriend) tried to catch up (and we hope to see them both tomorrow at church). It's sort of a couple's cell because these are young professionals who wanted coaching in their relationships. And for Gen and I, it is an honor for us to plant seeds of God's Love in them. #byGod'sgrace

Gen shared today about the prodigal son and the eternal inheritance that is saved for us and that which we can always return to--only at the Father's house. We had spontaneous sharing... Rich and stirring.

In Him our hearts rejoice! God be praised! 

whew!

Finalizing the guest list... Not easy...but fun!

labor of love

Among the things (concerning the wedding) that we really want to go hands-on is the invitation. As I have made money making invitations for others in the past, I thought I will surely go DIY with mine should my "schedule" come. And now that we're "here," we did it LOL---Labor of Love!

We kind of splurged on the invites (while Ate Emma gifted us some amount--thank you sooo much te!) but we thought it is worth it. We want to let the people know how excited we are to spend the late-afternoon-to-evening with them in God's presence. 

=) 

I wonder how the rich father felt when He sent out invitations for the wedding of His Son... Matthew 22:1-14

The original plan on the invitation was an Air Mail envelope (i love snail mails!) packing a vintage letter. We disregarded the idea when Gen wanted a book-type version as he wanted it to be coherent with what we're going through--a journey. It should somehow carry a message or tell a story. And I surely loved the idea, too! We kept it simple (hmm...) as we only wanted to send our love and hearts.

Anyhow, we need to get these out ASAP.

again, thank you!

thank you for everyone who came last Tuesday night...

thank you for the effort sa getups!

thanks for the food, gifts, smiles, prayers and the well-wishes...

the well of encounter: how we met

We were frequently asked as to how we met. I guess that's because most were surprised with the engagement--or because it seemed silent. I plan to share some bits tonight, although Gen's version (we have the same, though) is printed in the wedding invites. I hope I can word them well as I am overtaken by favor, love, grace and delight.

Back in 2006, Micah and I were booked to go to San Fernando, La Union to speak at a youth camp. Sadly, we had to call off the arrangement for a valid reason. After that, I found PK's (pastors kids) and some youth leaders adding, messaging me in Friendster (that was prolly the prominent social networking site back then)--mostly inquiring of God's work here in Davao. I was glad to accommodate them all. 

Come October-November 2007, Ate Raya (along with other youth leaders in PCGAMI-Mindanao) setup a Youth Summit in CDO. The vision of the gathering started as a gathering for PKs. I remember Ate Raya contacting me and my brother to somehow light a fire in our hearts for a gathering. It turned out to be a bigger one as we welcomed all church leaders. As the event neared, I was accustomed to getting inquiries from different leaders(Ate Raya and husband, Kuya Joey just came from La Union for a youth gathering. I was told my name was mentioned there)--including Genesis Supsup who emailed me and tried to get me a short YM chat (with how he knew my address: found my email address in Friendster). It was rather a quick conversation that ended up with him saying, "Thank you for all the info regarding the summit. We might not be able to make it as we have pressing needs right now. Nonetheless our hearts are with you guys. And... I know you're a very busy person... really, thank you for allowing me to chat with you. You might as well delete me on your contacts list."

The 5-minute exchange ended. I deleted the contact. haha.

Gen remained a passing inquiry. It was after several months (2008 na =D) that I heard from him again. I was trying out the blog feature of Friendster. Gen commented on this: "It's okay to sleep a hundred years and be kissed by the right prince than be kissed a hundred times by the wrong frog." I remembered him saying, "Have you ever thought why girls long for a prince when princes almost always pass a frog-season." (not verbatim)

Hmm... striking... 


I asked myself, "bitaw noh? Pandamay."

That year, we had very casual exchanges not until I came back from the youth summit held at Nasuli. Gen asked how it was. I heard from him again. But things remained plain and short. It caught my attention though when a few days passed my 26th birthday came. He wrote me a birthday note that had good length. Knowing the unentertaining-to-guys-kind-of-girl that I am, I only managed to reply "thank you" as I did to all who slipped me an e-message.

A month quickly cycled. December 10-12, 2008 were three great days at Cuneta. Yes, the second National G12 Conference. I met lots of new friends including those that I get to talk to online... Christian leaders that remain great friends today (yes, including Jez Manugue--one of the bridesmaids). And I quite forget that I hadn't met Gen yet. 


The last session closed and my parents were booked to meet with Ptr. Cesar Castellanos that evening. Mom asked me to bring the camera to their seat (front line). The spot was packed as people were crowding for photos with the speakers (Lorena and Sarah were there then). Bem and I squeezed our way to our parents finding them with Auntie Becky and two others---Tita Nars (Gen's mom) and Gen being introduced to our parents. I handed the cam, getting us introduced to them. He stretched his hands for a handshake. (I recognized this guy from the photos.) I exclaimed, "Uy, Genesis!"--I was happy I finally met all the leaders I met on the web.
  
He didn't say a word. #pwedemaulaw


I introduced Bem and left. I was embarrassed. I thought I have mistaken him with the guy at Friendster/PCGAMI PK.

December Twelve ended.


We arrived Davao the next Saturday. I found a message in my inbox saying, "Hi Rej. How;s your flight home? I just want to tell you I feel blessed meeting you in person. It matters to me sending this note."

Eeeeek.

Di na gyud ko ganahan mo-reply unta. But I thought, at least, tama ko na mao gyud to siya na guy. Things remained plain --and truly, I am so glad and proud how Gen maneuvered our progressing conversations from then on--that's why I remained to be there in the journey. He knew the topics I like to dwell on and those that I don't. (will insert a thought sana--but will post nalang another entry) I think that pays for the long progress. hehehe.


Yes, we met that night. At a conference... At a place where God's presence fell and people feasted on it, in His Word and where living water flows. The well of Encounter... Maki-barkada na mi ila Isaac ug Rebekah, Jacob and Rachel and Moses and Zipporah... We never knew we'd be here someday. But yes, we're [here] at the place we used to secretly wondered if there's a "there" for the two of us.


To God be the glory.


We are really humbled. With the impossibilities of being geographically apart, it is only God who can create an honest friendship within two people. #Godloveswritingstoriesoftheheart

one blessing after another

We were sent a gift... We weren't able to get over from yesterday, and here's another one! To God be the glory!

#grace

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one month

Fetched some of the invitations, checked the photobook and the wedding favors... We rushed all these hoping to get back to BCC at 1pm. We failed to make it on time. We then spent the whole afternoon at Palos Verdes with Ate Jingle, Langga, Amor, Arianne and Ate Rhea. We made layouts, gabbed and ate pizza until we get the 4:30, 5:30pm feel of the place. Believe with us that it won't rain, okay? =)

Preparation lessons:

1. Coherent. We want a coherent theme. #vintage (vintage travel, vintage chic, vintage glam - vintage clean and vintage simple! Vintage but not rustic.)

2. DIY. I used to make my school projects on my own (a typical eldest #birthorder) and I believe in Do-It-Yourself weddings. There's too many ideas to glean from on the web and definitely, I would want to have one that's not so generic as I see many weddings around town--10 weddings having the same decorations... DIY weddings are demanding though. And there's this kulba-part if things work or not. I sure hope they do. 

3. Being hands-on. We wanted to be hands-on with the preps. After all, it will be our first and last wedding. I can't just leave things onto someone else. Yes, hands-on but not be-all. I really believe that I don't always have the best ideas. And sure, during the preps, I found very smart and creative ideas from friends. They are real jewels wrapped in skin.

4. Up-to-date. Follow through. Follow sched. 

5. Live within the budget. Brides want the best wedding for themselves and it's tempting to splurge. And when ideas come, learn to sort which of them are most practical, most meaningful or most important to you. It helps keep the safety of the wedding fund.

6. Engage in moments. Although we're set with the wedding event, it's still important to engage in gratitude-moments to the Lord and with loved ones. I am learning to remember family and friends as much as possible and take time to thank them for their presence and loving support. I can't be too absorbed with the event and miss out on people. I also take me-time moments. Gen and I also ask each other even more frequent "how-are-you's?". Ministry is also our core values as well as secular work. Running time, but still keeping up and besting every moment. #asGodenables 

Our days are definitely numbered. In all these, God be praised!

#thankfultohavewillingfriends

gospel-bearer

Micah called just now for a good great news. Can't help but put up a super-gratitude post... Makalaag gyud mi taman! Sigh............ Thank you, Micah-yla! #superfriends #friendssincebirth #disciple sauna #coPastorkarun #futurebusinesspartners? #whoknows

Engagement Party

#virtualweddingaisle ...

(to be continued)

buy one take one

Too many errands on a hot day; We decided to pause enjoy some Cornettos. It's great doing things together--maski asa magkauban. Buy-one-take-one ang tirada. Toinkz! #offtoBCCtopreparetheplacefortonight'sengagementfellowship

cardworm

Got another card! =D =) =) =)
Weeee!
My second while he's here... Does he know it warms my heart?
#diakomagsasawa

Haaaay...

Engagement party tonight... My first time to attend! #nyahaha

Son-day to last

Here are some shots we took having a teal-colored roll up door. During our vintage glam session, we designed to have it in Paper Tree. Unfortunately, we got there late. The store was already open when the team arrived. We ended up having the shoot at SM---place really hot and the day was humid at the time. And the guards shooed us away. Haha. 

The first Sunday to forever is finally here. Barely one month more to go, we're already very honored to serve the Lord together (it has been quite a while since "together" but it's really different now that we are in one place). Our morning started by praying for a sick child that was brought by her mother to church. The toddler just had colostomy and needs more medication. Gen prayed for the him after we talked and extended help to the young mom. We also met a couple who's getting married a month after us. And we are starting a cell group come Saturday! Weeee! After the second service we spent the lunch with Anne. I am so blessed with how Gen brings things to the table just to help me comfort one of my precious girls. We devoured Isaiah 54 (one of our core passages) with Anne then off we went to grab sundaes or Cornetto. To no avail. =( That means we need to schedule another afternoon for that (diba, Anne?)!

#LovingGodLovingPeople

togetherness makes the difference

Way back the Friendster days, I posted the shoutout, "Jacob worked. Rachel waited." Sure there are many angles to the status message and in all these, God has been faithful to bring us together. We now work together and wait together--and ever ready for forever. #asGodpreparesUS

I am always blessed seeing Gen work--and the thought that I will see him everyday working is nostalgic. Him accompanying mom and I for all the errands do take his working hours yet he freely lees way.

Some of my weekends thoughts, you know. Surely there's a lot more reasons to worship God tomorrow through songs.

See you around, people.

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more than words can say

Left the girls (at home)--they're busy making us really cute invites for the engagement party. These ones are surely sweet. Love the thought that they're having fun while working as they sang this loved track from a Brit girl band.

Thankful for the eagerlz [more than words can say]. =D

taking part at youth reload anniv

I was occupied taking photos at Reload - Justice League today that we weren't able to take a photo together at the stage. Tsk. But as I scrambled through our photos, I found these. (Taken last July 2, 2011---6th anniversary of youth reload) =)

BEFORE

AFTER

serving God together...

inventory

Spent the whole day doing the inventory with mama, AJ and te Jingle. Now, here's us after the exhaustingly fun day. We're off to Reload :)

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here for forever

Joy is doubled today. Gen arrived early AM (his last flight/trip as single---naks!) and mom celebrates 53 years of God's faithfulness.

God is great!

invitation sneak peek

text by: gen | layout by: rej

I'll be getting the first five copies today...

I really hope it will turn out good...

#jitters

new phone wallpaper---ayeee!

i'm prepared to not-have a perfect marriage.

and i prepare more on having a happy marriage.

(#purposefulmarriage --yes =))

"Do two walk together, unless they have agreed?" -Amos 3:3

hala...

Uuuuuuy, naka-crush! =p

(among the bunch of shots that will not be included in the photobook)

still editing the photos for the photobook... it's due tomorrow, and obviously, I'm cramming--yet enjoying much!!!