PAL RAINE

One of my deepest desires when I am in my younger days is that, when I grow up I wanted to be a nun.

And a friend of mine wanted to be a nun too!

photo credit: Rezo via photopin (license)

Looking back over the years, studying in a Catholic school run by an FMA (Daughters of Mary of the Assumption) sisters, we are certain of becoming like them -- a Nun (Assumption sisters that time is still under the FMA congregation before they become Missionaries of the Assumption or M.A). As part of the Catholic culture that formed us, we had deep love and devotion to God and Mama Mary.

But, as time goes by my desire suddenly change., as I think it more, I have a doubt and try to question myself -- IS GOD CALLING ME? To what way of life is God calling me or if He is just directing me to do something to serve His people in another way.

Learning from a friend/classmate who is already a Nun. She said, "it is difficult to have this kind of devotion because you have to prepare/answer many things,. the likes of " :

Are you willing to serve wholeheartedly?
Does your heart feel drawn to prayers, meditation, reflection, retreat, etc...
Do you have a Catholic Value that you can help contribute to the community your going to serve.

Becoming a Nun

The steps in entering a Religious Community are less familiar than steps in getting for married life. I for sure knows what are the steps in getting married, get marriage license permit, go to register your name as couples and have a license priest to preside your wedding.

To become a nun, you need to engage in the act of discernment. Which means "DIS" to apart and "CERNERE" meaning to sift. And that means a practice of sifting apart.

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I was invited by the Marist Sisters of the Philippines to attend and witness the Eucharistic Celebration and Perpetual of Vows of my Childhood friend and Classmate.

So blessed to witness her fulfilling her dreams and desire to serve God and His people.

As I entered the church, I have moment of silence, recollecting all the memories we have from childhood to a teen's life. I don't want to cry, but the tears fall down my eyes. And I said, "You made it and I am proud of you!".

Officiated by Rev. Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, D.D.

My Chosen One, In Whom I Delighted

Delight thyself in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. ~Psalm 37:4

Me & Sister April Anne Acero, S.M

To give God everything is not so easy. Living in a simple life, great joy and peace of mind, having a little but seeing her very happy with her devotion and service. To give the desire of her heart. To give God everything, not just a theory but truly.

Indeed it is a beautiful life, but it wasn't for me!

Congratulations on becoming a Nun my friend. Wishing you fulfillment in your service to the Lord God Almighty.

Escape the ordinary and have a satisfying adventure and relaxing stay you'll never forget. With just a little bit of preparation for a day that's sure to be nothing but fun in the sun and having a good time with families at CAMP HOLIDAY RESORT & RECREATION AREA

Headed to Sasa Ferry terminal and ride a barge for 10 to 15 minutes for only PHp10.

And arrived at Barangay Kinawitnon, Babak District Samal Island in Davao del Norte.

The barge going to Babak Ferry Wharf is next to the resort. Actually, a walking distance from Babak Ferry Terminal.

My two daughters and my mom were very excited, for it's their first time to ride on a barge and see the resort.

Upon entering, a receptionist will ask you if you're going to be a guest for a DAY TOUR or for an OVERNIGHT stay. They have a good choice of accommodation and all the facilities are walkable.

For us, we're here for a DAY TOUR!

ADULT Fee >>> PHp80/pax net
CHILD Fee (6-12 years old) >>> PHp50/pax net

Inclusive: FREE USE of swimming pool and open cottages.

I read a lot of negative reviews about this place, but in my experience I wasn't disappointed with their services. After we pay for our entrance, we are escorted by a guard to look for a nice spot for us. That time the place is so quiet, they have number of guests, but not that many.

Because we don't bring food, so we stay in their in-house restaurant serving sumptuously affordable dishes.

The restaurant is very typical Filipino service -- a bit slow but very friendly. What I don't like about it is that when food is being served, lot's of bugs coming in which is very annoying. The friendly-staff give us a small candle and light it in order to keep the bugs away. :)

The beach is very clean and the pool water is clear and warm.

BEACH

SWIMMING POOL for KIDS

BTW, the swimming pool here is for kids alone. Adult can use their infinity pool if you are going to stay for overnight.

Right beside the Kiddie Pool is a Playground, wherein your kids will enjoy.

SHOWER AREA for KIDS going to the pool

PLAYGROUND

And if you want to have an overnight stay, NO PROBLEM! They have colorful cottages that suits your preference.

The whole resort is perfect though it's not that luxurious but the simplicity and serenity of the place makes me to come back again and stay. I definitely recommend CAMP HOLIDAY RESORT & RECREATION AREA to everyone who will visit Samal Island.

What a lovely day to start a new year, wherein you don't have enough time in any way to think about what to do for tomorrow. Just a pure RELAXATION, having FUN and to feel the humbleness of making a real difference full of gratitude and LOVE with your close family.

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Camp Holiday Resort & Recreation Area

Babak, Samal Island, Davao del Norte

Phone No. (082)303-3294

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Last Sunday, December 27 at 2 p.m., I was invited to attend a Post-Christmas Bloggers Gathering.

During that day, I'm not feeling well, but need to join for it was a long planned by our group and also at the same time I need to get my GC from a sponsor.

First time to join a blogger gathering during Holidays held at Happy Cakes by Zeny M.(I will post about Happy Cakes at my Foodie Pal Online site.)

This year the theme is "TO GATHER AROUND" a celebration of Friendship and Stories that bring Food Enthusiast's and Beauty/Lifestyle Fanatic's together at this time of the year.

Photo Credit to Naprey Almario
Behind the Rolling Chair

Accompanied by my youngest daughter, I went there late an hour past start time. I'm not that well but it doesn't stop me from going.

What really amaze me is that, aside from the GC I get from REKADO(thanks Ma'am Lena), I also get many freebies and giveaways from Leebai Sinsuat Ambolodto, Maria Celeste Noblefranca of Busy Queen Phils, Fly Ace Corporation(MAY Red and White Wine and LOTUS BISCOFF), BioEssence, Aromacology Sensi and Happy Cakes.

So lucky indeed to get all these prizes!

Greatly overwhelmed with what I've got this Holiday season, I was reminded how out of shape I am literally wherein I have no idea how I can spend my Holiday with this illness and no time to spare with families and friends.

And just in time, I came to a room to a hush that I am super duper late for a party and my heart is convicted on the spot that I have come to a right place of gathering. And I couldn't help but to cry quietly, how happy I am to be part of the team. Thanks so much Ms. +Jojie Alcantara for giving me the opportunity to work with people that share the same goals, interests and satiable passion for food, beauty, health and wellness.

In every season, we have this so-called TENSION. Where life is so unpredictable...one moment our hearts full of joy, and the next minute can be filled of sorrow and pain.

Get through the Holidays with CONFIDENCE. Even if your not OKAY, and you want to break free from illness and stress --- good way is to enjoy yourself with good friends. And get a lot of FREEBIES and GIVEAWAYS too!!!