This is Gregoria Legaspina-Narvasa.

God answered two of my prayers three months ago - to join the cross culture and to visit my dad in the middle east.

Growing up, I have only dreamed and prayed of flying to visit my dad. I dreamed of feeling the desert heat, walking barefoot in the sand, and seeing camels. It was a crazy thought. At the back of my head, while praying for this, I was certain that this is impossible. We need to pay for tuition, for utilities, for daily need, and for other things here.

All of my life, I waited for papa to arrive at the airport. We get to be with him for 60 days, every other year. The family waits until midnight, immersed within a sea of strangers waiting for their loved ones. We wait until we see a familiar face, until we see a cheeky man wave at us. It was a comforting moment to be reunited, to feel safe with his presence. 

A photo posted by Debbie Manalili (@debbiemariz) on Oct 12, 2015 at 7:17pm PDT

Cortes x Bulatao

Kuya Diomar and ate Rhona's Church wedding last May 10, 2014. Photos below are taken using Panasonic GF-3 and Industar-69. Post-processed using Photoscape.

I don't usually accept offers to be a bridesmaid (I use my age as reason), but this time I agreed to be part of the entourage as the veil sponsor. Best part of being a bridesmaid in their wedding was wearing this lovely turquoise gown plus awesome hair and make-up. 

This is a story of boy meets girl. They exchanged letters, went out on dates, met each other's family, and got married. She works in the city, he works out of the country. They never claimed to have the perfect marriage, but they make it work. 

It's quite awkward to share a personal story in front of the class, especially if it's not yours. For theology class, we were tasked to talk with our parents about how they met and got married. After hearing the story behind how they met, initially shocked, I was amazed. I finally understand their attitude and/or views on special relationships. The story of how they ended up together was short, which I cannot fully divulge here without their consent, but filled with lessons and values. I will, however, share bits of it.

They got married after a year or so of exchanging letters and going out. It's an affirmation that dating someone is not an assurance of a life long partnership, loving each other is. It is choosing to work out things that help strengthen a relationship. Along the way, you'll get to know each other and grow together. It's a journey through life, and it could be more enjoyable if you have someone to go through it.

My father was very persistent in courting mama, even when he went back to work. They exchanged letters, even after they got married. I think I inherited their love for writing letters. It's a reminder to always keep an open communication between you and your partner, either verbal or written. If you feel something, you have to communicate it. However, as the cliche goes, the tongue is mightier than the pen. So as you voice out your thoughts, be careful with your words. Reminder: say what you mean to say, and mean what you say.

God is always in the center of their relationship, even if they are not vocal about it. Put your faith in Him, and do your thing. 'nuff said.

Their story is far from over, and I am happy to be witnessing it. I am convinced that love is socially constructed. For every story of boy meets girl, there are people and/or circumstances that brought them together. However, it will always be their choice whether to take the risk of falling in love. Feeling the kilig is one thing, making it work is a different thing. Being in a relationship is not just about those happy moments, but also about those challenging times and getting through it together. Never look for love, it will find you. It will come in the most unexpected way. The wait may be long, but it is worth it. Above all, never give up love.

As for me, my own story continues. Still in the works, but I have faith in real love that is for keeps.

Adieu!

Last month, all I prayed for was a summer getaway; an outing of some sort. I thought that one weekend away from home would make for a cool what-I-did-last-summer-vacation story. And then again, I was wrong. My summer was filled with love & laughter; it was about making new friends, gaining new experiences, exploring new places, eating a lot, having quality time with family, and deepening my faith.

For the first time in about 5 years, I was able to go out of town with my family. Not really for the usual uwi-ng-sat-balik-ng-sunday routine we do when we go home, but for leisure. I'm amazed to how we could actually enjoy each other's company without the constant bickering between me and my sister. Crazy, how people could actually change and get along. Never thought that was possible, but God makes things possible! Thank You Lord for giving me this family, they're just perfect!

At Caleruega

At Rosario, Batangas with Tala

This summer, I decided to work-even if there are interns working for sir Yayet. It was a good choice, I made new friends and learned a lot! Admittedly, I was a bit -lax since the other RAs were busy working, can't wait for next year! Been learning (and inspired) from the people I work with in the Youth Cluster & RCCESI. Imagine yourself listening to people giving their discipline's take on one matter. AWESOME :D

Youth Research Workshop

Bulk of my summer was spent with YFC. In between working with the Youth Cluster and spending quality time with the family, I was actually serving Him. Back in March, I told a dear kuya in YFC that I feel (spiritually) dry. I prayed for His guidance, to let me hear His message and lead me to His will. And then summer came. Had a lot of 'firsts' in my service, and I believe I was able to experience Him through those things. I spent my weeks packing and unpacking for a YFC activity. Got invited to camps, went to the SHOUT, and the HPV Training.

I enjoyed this year's SHOUT. Familiar and new faces, strangers turned friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, and a household closer than ever. But more than the people I'm with, SHOUT 2012 became personal to me, a week away from everything but not detachment. It was then that I realized that there's a thin line between being 'strong' and being 'broken'. It's called being okay. And so the girl who loved to laugh and smile broke down during the last session. I realized then that the thin line was gone, that I was broken and empty. A brother told me, "Allow the Lord to fill your emptiness. Allow Him to work in you. Lahat naman tayo work in progress". I felt Him like I never did before. I can't even have words to describe that night. He humbled me. He reminded me that He alone is the reason for my mission.

JAD/Sisters fellowship at QC Circle (c) There

Area 1, Number 1! (c) Mica

I confess: I'm a high school baby. I've been serving in YFC HSB since forever. I grew and matured in this program, thanks to my dear ates and kuyas. Nakakapanibago. This summer marked the first time I won't be seeing ate Lucky or ate Tin in the training. The HS Team was different, from what I grew up with. It was God's will. He knew that we, certified HS babies, would grow if other ates and kuyas are able to mentor us. They were not able to see me grow in the Spirit, but I could share who I am to them. As I share my life with them, they do the same and in turn, inspire more in this mission. Praise God for that!

Inspiring people: HSB TEAM ON FIRE!

This summer gave me the opportunity to serve in the HPV Training. I got used to listening and to jotting down notes with everyone. But this time, the Lord showed me a different side-that of the service team. Prayer warrior, laptop girl, etc. Never thought I will be tapped to share God's greatness. One of my questions from SHOUT was answered. He said to me (through the outline), I do not call the qualified, I qualify the called. That line struck me, and yun lang talaga pinanghawakan ko. Being in His presence plus being surrounded by passionate missionaries made the weekend great! The energy this year is different. It feels vibrant, feels like Christ. I'm really excited to serve my love, YFC North B HS and Metro Manila HSB. And I believe it's not a training hype, but I'm excited to share His love with our babies. I've got a long way to go, my YES will last even after YFC. Continuing the journey with Him, continuing the mission.

Metro Manila HSB, represent!

Walang iwanan, parts!

Never cliquish, always sweet.

Work, family & YFC kept me occupied. Work gave me new perspectives, had quality time with my family, and YFC is my summer love. For once in my life, I could truly say that I'm happy. As summer ends, good memories were made. I'm looking forward to creating new ones! I bid adieu to you, summer!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday, mama <3

January 7: Birthdays!

I know a lot of people who celebrates their birthday during the month of January. And last January 7, I went to two different celebrations. It was a crazy day, because I had to make sure that I'd manage my time correctly and be able to make it to the second celebration without compromising the first one.

First Stop: Buffet 101 with the family for Sam's 13th Birthday. My baby brother is officially a teenager. Aww. Did I mention that he's actually taller than me? Our family loves buffets, I actually grew up eating at different buffets, so we tried this one at the SM Mall of Asia. It was my older sister who suggested the place to my mom. At first, I thought it was a bad idea since we live in Quezon City and MOA's in Pasay; plus the fact that the buffet rate is a bit high. However, the universe loves proving me wrong. It's sulit! Definitely the best buffet I've eaten at. Buffet101 actually serves international cuisine, and from the looks of it, their chefs are Cantonese (based on their physical appearance and language). You could even ask them to cook for a certain dish, free of charge! And yes, overflowing drinks! While eating lunch, I actually had two watermelon shakes and a cup of tea. I loved the ambiance of the restaurant, too. The whole place seems like a dining area taken from a posh hotel.

Before digging in. Awkward smile is awkward.

The infamous mirror shot. I was supposed to take a picture with my brother when they came out of the restroom and saw us. Do I even look like my siblings (or mama)?

BEST BUFFET EVER. I would definitely go there again if given the chance.

Rode the MOA Eye with siblings and Lorraine. Guess who cried.

Pretty lights

After a mini-road trip, we finally got home around 6PM and I rested for a while before preparing for the evening. Good thing, my sister offered me a ride to Tomas Morato for the party. 

Second stop: Thaipan for Cath's 18th Birthday party. I had no clue where the restaurant was, so I had to google it before leaving. Fortunately, it happens to be at the exact street as Starbucks Morato. Thaipan has this homey feeling, plus the fact that Thai food is one of my favorites, makes me want to visit that place again. Cath's birthday was also a mini-gathering for our class. I really missed my high school friends! I rarely see them, or even talk to them. It was great catching up with them. 

A panda themed debut!

With Janine, Bianca and Susa!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CATH :*

Some of Avellana's pretty ladies :) 

SUPERSTARS <3

I love celebrating birthdays simply because it shows how blessed a person is. When we celebrate our birthdays, we are usually surrounded by family and friends. They're the ones who'll stick to you no matter what, who'll stand by your side at all times. Birthdays show how you are loved by these people. And above all, a birthday is a celebration of the hope that life brings.

Buffet 101
Bldg K, Seaside Blvd, San Miguel by the Bay, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
Contact No: 556-2888, 556-3888.
Buffet Rate:
Mon-Sat Lunch P699
Mon-Fri Dinner P950
Sun Lunch,Sat-Sun Dinner P1050.
Eat/Drink All U Can!

Thaipan
120 Scout Dr. Lazcano, Tomas Morato, Quezon City
Contact No: 352-4926, 0917-808-0718
Price Range: P110-P360

'Cause love brought me here

This small town life behind for good
And not a single tear was falling
It took leaving for me to understand
Sometimes your dreams just aren't what life has planned 

-Lady Antebellum, Home is Where the Heart is

Finally reached Pangasinan!

A very random photo. Thanks Sam!

A bridge somewhere in Alcala, which crosses the Wawa River

I think I left half of my heart there

I used to visit the plaza at night with cousins whenever we're home

The Dominican influence could be seen around the parish grounds

I was trying to capture Arayat, but I failed

Sunset as seen from NLEX

Mama grew up in, with both of my grandparents originating from San Fabian, Pangasinan. While growing up, she would go home a couple of times within the year for various reasons and of course, she'll bring us with her. Most of my 'cherished' childhood memories include eating at stopovers, passing through NLEX, playing with my cousins, being called 'Mariz', etc. In school, whenever they ask what province I'm from, I'd always say Pangasinan (first, then say Cebu). Up until now, I consider (San Fabian) Pangasinan as my hometown. This may be a cliche, but they say that the home is where the heart is. My heart belongs to that small town at the edge of Pangasinan; to her food, to her culture, to her small town feel, to her people, and so much more! I wished I could stay there, but my life's currently revolving here. Someday, I'm praying that I could stay there, for good.