Growing up in the Philippines where Halloween was overlooked because of the Christmas season starting as early as September (at least in my time, I believe it's gaining popularity now), it came as a surprise how big it is here in North America. I mean I think I only dressed up once as a kid for my mom's company's Halloween party for kids and once as an adult for my company's. And here, as early as September, Halloween candies are being sold, costume stores and rentals open up, people start planning their costumes meticulously, and invites to parties are being sent out. I wasn't really a fan of dressing up but being with a man who looks forward to it and whose principle is to not half-ass his costumes, I kind of got into it. And I've started to understand the fun of it all.

How Do They Say It? Oh Yes, Ours Is My Favorite Love Story

I grew up loving Cinderella, romantic comedy movies or any love story with a fairy tale resemblance happily ever after ending. Hearing stories of how couples I know met and eventually ended up together warms my heart, and gives me hope that one day, I'll have mine to share.

While Nick and I's love story wasn't born out of long courtship that spanned from childhood, or that he saw me across the room and was besotted with my smile - it is ours to share and smile upon. And that makes it the most beautiful love story I have ever heard.

Of Familial Blessings

 

Once in a while, God gives you something so great that you never thought to ask for before - and you're left to wonder how He knew to give you a blessing as amazing as that which you've just received. You can only smile and utter many thanks, that He saw you deserving of such a wonderful gift. 

That's how it was for me when I got to be part of Nick's wonderful family. When I prayed for Nick, I didn't think to include 'great family background' as part of my 'requirements' for my man. And I was very specific when I created that list. I did write though that I wanted him to be family-oriented. I love my family so much and enjoy spending time with them, so I hoped my man would also get along with them. And yes, he did, so well it's amazing. God works wonders, I tell you! Just keep on praying, hold on to your faith, and trust in His works and perfect timing.

That Day Came. And Then I Knew

What day will be mine? I don't know. But that day will come. And then I'll just know. ;)

Almost six years ago, I wrote that in this blog. I had no idea when that day will come, or if it will ever come at all, but I've never lost hope that I will one day find him. You see, when I wrote that, I wasn't in the best time of my life. I needed to assure myself that just because it failed for me once, love will never work for me. Love happens to anyone and that gives me great hope that it will happen to me. I won't say that my hope has never faltered because it did. But my hope was grounded in the knowledge of who God is, steadfastly rooted in His love.

"Most days of the year are unremarkable. They begin, and they end, with no lasting memories made in between. Most days have no impact on the course of a life. May 23rd was a Wednesday." - 500 Days of Summer

It was a sunny Sunday in March.

Of Mini Photo Shoots

When your significant other is an aspiring photographer, you get the perks of being a model (even when you're so far from looking like one). I am usually the one initiating our impromptu photo shoots though - I mean it's good practice for him and yes, I do like to get photographed 'professionally' once in a while. Although many shots later, I sometimes start complaining about smiling too much or holding a pose too long (sorry, babe). But nonetheless, it's still fun to play model. And it's great to have others play it too - thanks Ced and Zoe!

I really just want to get you guys to see the great works of Nick. A far-cry from being a model that I am, he's still able to capture the beautiful in me.

Let's Pick Some Blueberries

Blueberry picking season has actually come and gone and we've missed it this year. It's an annual family tradition come July, but stuff came up and kept us busy. It's a shame really. We were up early last Sunday ready to be bending over under the sun when my Mom, who went there earlier, texted me and advised me against going because there wasn't much to pick anymore. Blueberries aren't big too. And you want them big as they're the sweetest. I blame the drought happening in BC now. It is crazy boiling hot this summer, it's not even funny. We're actually at Stage 3 water restriction right now and being advised to be water-wise. So anyway, Nick, Cedrix, Zoe, and I just went straight to Cora's for breakfast. On a Sunday. That's never happened before.

Enjoying Ruby Lake

At least once a year, my friend Maria and her hubby Chris make it a point to spend a weekend at their cabin up in Sunshine Coast. And we're very fortunate to be always invited when they gather up family and friends to take with them for a much-needed rest and relaxation weekend. To be away from the hustle and bustle of city life for a couple of days is always a treat. And with network and reception being bad there, you're also forced to do a digital detox. Yes, that is such a thing now in this digital time. I'm telling you, it is wonderful to be without smartphones and internet for a couple of days - you can actually lift your head up and look around, take everything in and revel in God's grace and goodness. And just breathe.