tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38978169995894638532024-03-14T04:14:42.268-04:00Welcome to "Becoming"Life's like a butterfly. When I looked at a 'before' butterfly's process being pretty, they went through a hard part. Being a caterpillar wasnt pretty. They have to wait for the time to become pretty. Sometimes we have to go through that stage too as God promised us a great future infront of us.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-33906700753966396782010-01-27T22:03:00.002-05:002010-01-27T22:27:13.579-05:00Give UpIt's been 3 days since I post my blog. I know I promise to write everyday. But it looks like I have to be real. Haha....I don't think I have the energy to write everyday. With 3 kids to take care of. It's just too ambitious. Plus my husband been working on a project for the last couple days and using the laptop. My laptop is still under repairment, since it crashed couple months ago. I hope I can get it back soon, so we don't have to fight to use the computer.<br /><br />Yesterday, I finally finished my book. I feel blessed with that book. "Brave heart" written by Sharon really encourage me to love people extravagantly. In the last chapter she was talking about letting go our hopes and let God working in our lives freely. I know I have a big expectation and hopes towards my husband and kids. Specially my oldest son. I know he is capable in a lot of way, but sometimes I just forgot that he is only (almost) 7 years old, sometimes he is still think like a child. I just have to let God work in him. Building up our relationship. The same thing with my husband. Yes I do have expectation towards him, but I can't push it anymore. If I want him to change, then I am the one that have to do it first. It's not easy, but I believe that God will give me wisdom and strength to do it. <br /><br />Today I am starting the journey of Love Dare. I can imagine my days would be really hard. I will struggle a lot, but this time I put my hopes in Him. I want Him to restore me in the way He wants. I feel like this year I will have to go through a lot of process. Well, God never promise it will be easy to follow Him, so....I was agreed to take that risk and here I am doing His command. <br /><br />I hope my friends will support and pray hard for me. ;p Without their guidance and support, it will be hard.<br /><br />Time to sleep. After listening to President's speech ... ;p<br /><br />Love is patient ... !Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-77140208017102787642010-01-23T23:38:00.002-05:002010-01-23T23:48:59.240-05:00Breakfast at the Dutch MarketFinally, after so many times trying to have breakfast over the weekend, we finally made it. We went to the Dutch Market to have a nice, home made breakfast. The Pancake, toast, home fries and ham were delicious. We really enjoy it. <br /><br />Today Daniella made me so proud of her. She finally said Please? hahaha..... that is the cutest. We all cheered for her. She was so proud of herself too...she laughed a lot. I figured earlier that when I praise them a lot, they made tremendous progress in a lot of things. Specially for Nicole....I have to keep motivate her to do things. It is funny to see both girls, when they are not sure to do a new thing, they will look to each other and see what happened if they try it. If Daniella not sure if she will like something to eat, she will look at Nicole to see if she is eating it too. That is just too cute. I feel like they trust each other. hahaha.... I enjoy seeing them do that. <br /><br />Nicole will turn 3 in two months. I still can't believe it. She is growing too fast. We still debating whether we are going to put her in a toddler bed or not. I still can't really trust her yet, although now she is climbing her crib. Sometimes I found out a lot of toys or books a night before at Daniella's crib and it will be at her crib in the morning. So I wonder she actually climbed out and got in to Daniella's crib and went back to hers. Crazy girl!!<br /><br />Watching them growing make me want to stay at home again and homeschool them. I figure it will be awesome to be able to homeschool the three of them. As from now I am trying to look at different kind of options. Hoping I can just stay at home and teach them. Pray hard for it.<br /><br />Anyway, I better go to bed and enjoy my TV....<br /><br />Nighty night...Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-9591801476696005212010-01-22T21:54:00.003-05:002010-01-22T22:34:33.565-05:00Weekend is comingFor the past couple weeks...I've been thinking a lot about extravagant love. Sometimes I feel like I get it, but sometimes I am just loosing it. It is so hard to do it. Sometimes I get confuse. This evening I was thinking to make a group of women to learn about extravagant love. Hoping that we can encourage each other so we don't keep falling and keep spreading our loves to people surround us. I wish doing it is so easy. <br /><br />It's not only takes time. But draining all the energy, emotion and time too. I think once it's become your lifestyle, it will be easier, because it is part of you, meaning you are a new person now. Well, it looks like long way to go... but I guess I have to keep have the courage to do it. <br /><br />I can't be happier than tomorrow is Saturday. We are planning to go to Dutch Market for breakfast. I will be fun. I love going out for breakfast on weekends. It is nice. I guess get up in the morning is part of me now. <br /><br />I hope you all have a great weekend.<br />Take good care....Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-44524375657521662802010-01-21T23:16:00.007-05:002010-01-22T21:54:18.077-05:00UnthinkableI spent most of my day reading story about Scott Brown, a new US senate for Massachusetts. It was an amazing race. An unpredictable victory. I read all the comments from all the different media. They uses different kind of term to express themselves from being shock for his victory. One word that I like the most is 'unthinkable'. The dictionary define the unthinkable word as : not capable of being grasp by the mind ; and the second one is being contrary with what is reasonable, desire or probable; being out of question.<br />Yes his victory is definitely an unthinkable. It changes a lot of things. Not just for the 'seat's for people', but it will changes the whole country. For years Massachusetts can't never be able to have a Republican senate, but Scott Brown made his name carved everywhere. He made it for the first time after about more than one decade.<br /><br />Somehow I thought we are like that. We easily underestimate what God can do for us. We just want something that predictable. We want something that we can easily guess where things will go. But we never expect something big and different would happen in our lives. Well, this is may be something beyond his mind too. Because looking at his speech and his reaction how excited he will be going to Washington DC. It was unthinkable. He might change US. Let's hope for the best.<br /><br />Last night as I am thinking about all the politicians that had to admit their <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">adultery</span>, it's very sad. We should started to pray for our leader. Specially a good one. The one that still fight with their conscience. Pray for their family in specific, so that they can keep their faithfulness to their wives. <br /><br />God bless every leader...!!Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-9721178507937119862010-01-20T21:37:00.002-05:002010-01-20T22:35:54.250-05:00Excitement of being parentsTonight we were visiting our friend that just had a baby. They just came home on Sunday. This is their first baby. I can totally see the excitement on their face. The excitement become parents. It is an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">un</span>-explainable feelings. I kinda recalled my first feeling when I had my first. I mean, even when I had my second and third, I still have that excitement. Although I am tired from the sleepless nights, I still wanted to hold my baby and enjoy it. It is so precious. The 9 months of pregnancy paid off, when I saw my babies.<br /><br />Being a parent is not something we've been taught at school or any education institution. It is a learning process through our lives that we will pass it on from generation to generation. I feel like I still have a long road ahead of me. Going through all the traffic road, long and windy road, and road with hills. It is not going to be an easy one.<br /><br />When the first time I have to deal with my son to go through his infancy and toddler hood stage, it was hard. It was our first, of course we were clueless about a lot of things, but we prayed that God will give us wisdom how to handle him. We learn through books, shared with friends, etc. We managed to get out from that stages pretty well. It hasn't stop there yet. We still have another 2 to go. Now I have 2 toddlers to deal with. Nicole is not a terrible one, but of course she has her own characters and way to do things, same with Daniella too. Jeremy now need more attention since he is at school a lot. <br /><br />Every day, on the train I am thinking how in the world can I manage to share my time between work, husband and three kids? God isn't it impossible. Every time I got home, I barely alive. ;p But I have to be alive for them. Play with them, listen to their stories, bathe them, read for them, and all the possibility things you can do for them, yet it's never enough. I notice when my son doesn't get enough attention at home, he will starting acting out at school. He will come home with "yellow" sign for his report of the day. Every morning we try to warn him, stay on green please. Even Nicole remember to warn him, that is how often we say it. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Haha</span>....she is a little mom. <br /><br />I still feel like I am still lucky because at least I was able to spend a pretty good amount of years within my children's life. The investment that I made, makes me know my children really well. I know what they need, how to talk to them, what is their battles, I can assure you that I know what they would and wouldn't do. Specially Jeremy. I thank God for that. It makes me keep making an effort to be care to my children. We try to set dates with our children. I did dates with Jeremy alone and occasionally with Nicole.<br /><br />A lot of people take the parenthood for granted, they have no idea how precious and valuable it is to be parents. I have a friend in Australia that shared the same value with me. For us our children are very important. She is a first time mom also, but she just awesome. Her goal is to raise a Godly and honor children. I know it wasn't easy for her, but she did manage to do it. Her humbleness to learn make the blessing keep pouring upon her. She also pray everyday asking for wisdom isn't it amazing?. Not just that, she did all of that, with no maids, sitters and she even work. She have the choice to live comfortably if she wants, but she put her family first. That makes her a noble woman. Just like woman in Proverbs 31. I really admire her extraordinary love for her family.<br /><br />On the other hand, I heard a lot of story how spoil some of the parents are. They can get all the help as they wanted. Sitters, maids, families, and friends, but they just wasting it. They abandon the relationship with their children. The value being parents become a cultural and 'a must to do' thing. As long as the children get fed well, get nice birthday party, get the newest toys, or nice clothes, they are well raise and they are a success parents. How sad it is, knowing the fact that their children are actually a human being with feelings, emotion needs, and have character within them that needs to be develop.<br /><br />When we have ridiculous story to tell between us, we will scream and sometimes speechless. We heard some moms actually proud how good is their sitter managing their children. It drive us nuts. Since we know what is our principle.<br /><br />Don't get me wrong. Not that I never enjoy that luxury living. I used to have sitter and maid when I only have my son. But I was able to set up a boundaries between my sitter and me. Whenever I get home, she rest and my son is all mine. I fed him, bathe him,and read for him. When we are on vacation, I put my sitter on vacation too. I will never take them with me. I even let them go to the mall every other week. So we can have quality time together, just the 3 of us. Every hour I called from work just to make sure she is following the schedule that I gave it to her. The meanest part is.... I fired them, once they made a mistake, well, I tolerate it 2 mistakes. First reason is I think they are being disrespect with my rules, second of all because I don't want my son get to attached with the caregiver. I remember one time I have to go out of town, I didn't have any sitter at that time, my husband finally took care of my son by himself. Guess what? It was do able. And I was so proud of him. We weren't depend on the sitter. All we need to do is sacrifice ourselves and not being lazy.<br /><br />I wish parents more aware about their future, not just academic future, but their character and how they will turn out become a person. That is what important. <br /><br />Parents please think about your vision for your family. Then you can come down with what kind of family you want to have? <br /><br />Good night everyone.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-11428957292333931562010-01-19T22:06:00.002-05:002010-01-19T22:14:39.185-05:00Tired DayI guess I lost count the day. For some reason I thought my last entry was on Sunday. Which I thought I only skip a day. But I was wrong. I had a really long day. Sunday I was doing errand, ... groceries shopping mostly. I had fun with Nicole. I always try to take her a long with me when I do my shopping. Beside I get to spend time with her, I can actually teach her a lot of things while going out with her. And the last thing I hate to do is ... Cooking. But I was able to manage myself cooking for the whole week menu. I know... it's a lot. <br /><br />Nicole said a lot of funny thing. That precious talked, I will not forget it. As soon as we get in to the car, she said, Mommy I want to read the music. Made my laughed, I said, Mommy I want to listen to music. Then on the way home, I guess I put the heater to high, her comment was ... Mommy I can smell hot. I was confused at first with what she meant, but then I realized she meant she is hot. That is so cute. I love the stage where they are trying to put words together, sometimes they use it in the wrong situation or wrong meaning. But they are learning. Just like I am still learning English.<br /><br />The past two days just crazy. I don't have the energy to write. I made a commitment to come home earlier , so I get to spend my time with my husband and kids. I just want to enjoy them. Time is precious, without you realized it will fly away.<br /><br />Anyway, I have nothing much to talk today. Even if I have, I hardly can survive now, I just took 3 pills of Advil for my back pain. It looks like knock me out now. So I better go to sleep.<br /><br />Will post more tomorrow. Have a great night.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-746070613861137562010-01-16T21:16:00.002-05:002010-01-16T21:38:58.990-05:00A little relaxing weekendAfter very tense week, I went out of town with a friend. We stay overnight in a hotel. I felt really good. It was very relaxing. We talked all night, shared stories and our hearts. We end the gate away with shopping at the outlet. We went to Arundel Mills Outlet in Hanover, we had lunch and the best part of it, we were able to control ourselves. It wasn't compulsive shopping, we got what we need with really good bargain. So we were happy about it.<br /><br />Now I try to make strategies to prevent sickness in the house. LOL ... not fun at all. The easiest step will be wash hands as often as we could. Specially if we just coming back from outside. Suddenly I fell like Monk! ( If you know that TV series called Monk, the OCD's detective). Also the food that she is going to eat. It get me thinking too, since Jeremy and Nicole going to have their birthday soon, I will want them to check their blood.<br /><br />Well, the bottom line is ... our life is getting back to normal, although we keep in our mind that one day a chaos will happen and we wanted to be on standby mode. This is exactly what the bible tell us, to be alert, because we don't know when God will be coming. I feel like He use this situation to kinda picture it out.<br /><br />It's 930pm, I wanted to be in bed with my husband and watch a movie. So, I better stop now and will write again tomorrow.<br /><br />Enjoy your weekend!Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-40174565004416087042010-01-16T00:34:00.001-05:002010-01-16T00:46:45.741-05:00NeutropeniaThis is exactly what the doctor told us. This is what Daniella have right now. I put some of simple explanation by <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wikipedia</span>. I think it is easy to understand.<br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neutropenia"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Neutropenia</span> - <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wikipedia</span>, the free encyclopedia</a>: "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Neutropenia</span> (adjective <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutropenic</span>), from Latin prefix <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutro</span>- and Greek suffix -πενία (deficiency) is a hematological disorder characterized by an abnormally low number of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutrophils</span>, the most important type of white blood cell, in the blood. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Neutrophils</span> usually make up 50-70% of circulating white blood cells and serve as the primary defense against infections by destroying bacteria in the blood. Hence, patients with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutropenia</span> are more susceptible to bacterial infections and, without prompt medical attention, the condition may become life-threatening (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutropenic</span> sepsis).<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Neutropenia</span> can be acute or chronic depending on the duration of the illness. A patient has chronic <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutropenia</span> if the condition lasts for longer than 3 months. It is sometimes used interchangeably with the term <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">leukopenia</span> ('deficit in the number of white blood cells'), as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutrophils</span> are the most abundant leukocytes, but <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutropenia</span> is more properly considered a subset of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">leukopenia</span> as a whole.<br />There are numerous causes of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">neutropenia</span> that can roughly be divided between either problems in the production of the cells by the bone marrow and destruction of the cells elsewhere in the body. Treatment depends on the nature of the cause, and emphasis is placed on the prevention and treatment of infection."<br /><br />On the other hand we are a little relief that Daniella's condition is not that bad yet. Although, the doctor confirm that she has that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">disordered</span> because he test her blood again today to make sure it's right. I like the doctor. I l<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">ove</span> him very much and looks like he is someone that I would let treating my daughter. He looks like he is in his mid age to get ready to retired, but still very diligent, wise,patience and very observant. We were very satisfied with his observation and suggestions.<br /><br />He said if he met Daniella in different condition, he would suggest different direction, but since he met Daniella in happy and healthy condition, he is totally suggesting another way. For now there is nothing we can do about it. We just have to wait for her progress. Since she can't fight the infection by herself, we have to be very cautious when she get fever, we have to admit her to the hospital. That alone is very scary, it's like something big and yes it is a big deal for her. We can no longer put her on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">tylenol</span> or <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">motrin</span> and wait until 3 days. She will going to need immediate medical attention. Also, when she has cold after 2 courses of antibiotics she <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">doesn't</span> get well, we need to take her to her specialist to shot her and help her killing the bacteria. It breaks my heart. I just really <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">don't</span> think I am ready for this. This afternoon when the doctor try to draw her blood, it looks like she knew what is going to happen. She didn't cry when the nurse try to find her vein to poke the needle in. Poor girl. She suddenly get use to it and many more will come. I can't imagine it. This is finally answering my question too about how it takes her forever to recover from a cold. As the matter fact, everytime she has fever, motrin and tylenol won't help too much. It only help for the 1-2 hours for her. Also the fact that she get sick easily and need more antibiotics for her cold. Now we understand more about her body.<br /><br />I think God has purposed in this situation. Although I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_23" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">don't</span> know exactly what, but I'm sure that this will put my family hold our hands tighter together to face whatever in front of us. As her parents we definitely start to get down to our knees and pray for our children. Also it is an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_24" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">exercise</span> for us to put our faith more in Him, the one that holds our future. Think about it, sometimes we take it for granted to have kids. We have kids but we forget that we are not just feeding them food but also nourish them, spend time with them, talk to them, raise them well, and so many things to do with them. Not knowing how long our children will live, make us preserved the moment as much as we could.<br /><br />Please continue to pray for the miracle and also hopefully she <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_25" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">doesn't</span> have to go through scary moment in her life. Although, I can't guarantee that she will not get sick forever (it will be the ideal!) but at least she can minimize it. I hope for our friends not to get offended if we will get really strict about not getting close to sick kids or not to have people to come over with common cold. It's kinda overreacting, but we just never know what could happen. I think the most stressful part would be if she needs to go to the hospital, we still have another 2 children that need to be taking care. We <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_26" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">don't</span> have family that we can call anytime. That is what really scares me. Pray for that too.<br /><br />It will looks like living in the bubble. But I still let her play in the playground, although my heart sank when I think of a lot of things for the consequences. Again I want to let her enjoy her childhood. Today we have a warmer day, I let her play in the playground and she really enjoy it. We thank God that she survive the first year of her life without we realized it. God had been protecting her and He will be. All the glory and praises just for Him. She belongs to Him.<br /><br />Thanks for all the prayers and concern. God bless you .... !!Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-80095700149565833652010-01-14T08:03:00.003-05:002010-01-14T08:25:23.277-05:00EmotionI skip a day of my blog last night. I just couldn't help myself to write yesterday. The whole day was really energy draining. I came to the office at 7am yesterday. Around 9am, the doctor called me and told me Daniella's lab result. It was heartbreaking to me. The fact that her lab test still the same like the first one, really hit me. Suddenly, I just want to run home and do nothing. As the doctor referred a Hematology & Oncology specialist, I tried to call and make an appointment. The doctor is not available until the next 2 weeks. And her doctor told me it is too long to wait, knowing her blood work result is really need immediate attention. So I search all the docs in my county, I hardly can find one. So I called her doctor back and she referred us to Children hospital. I called the hospital and thank God they can give us an appointment this Friday. I just realized that, there are only 2 docs in the county that specialized in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology. Crazy....! But knowing that she can get the appointment soon. It is a big relief.<br /><br />Daniella had been a pretty challenging baby, since she was born. She wasn't coping with a lot of things well. She also been sick a lot since she was born. Unlike Jeremy or Nicole, they are more tough in fighting the illness. For the past month, the doc have to give her antibiotic for 20 days in a row, because she just keep getting sick and wouldn't heal well. We never suspicious about it. It is all start from her first year old check up. As usual we did blood count and some extra test because she wasn't gained a lot of weight, knowing she eats and sleeps well. The doctor just wanted to rule out some of the suspicious matter. Want to make sure that she is actually normal. But it turn out that her blood work is all over chart. I am personally never see that kind of test result before. <br /><br />I think after I searched and try to find out about her diseases, I was able to calm myself down a little bit. At least I can put my mind in rest until tomorrow. Although, I am not lying that I am a bit nervous if she get sick. Because she can't have any fever right now, at least not until we find out how to treat her. I can only pray for her. She is the sweetest thing ever. Smart and lovable.<br /><br />I will update what is going on tomorrow. Hope everything will turn out well.<br />Thanks for all the prayers and support. I really appreciate it. God bless...Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-42367962531423173462010-01-12T22:21:00.003-05:002010-01-12T22:35:47.324-05:00Bad MoodThis morning I took Daniella to the lab to draw her blood. It was cute when Nicole decided to watch her. I was afraid that she will get nervous when she sees Daniella cry. But she said no mommy, I want to see Lila. Daniella was calm knowing her sister was there. It's funny, because the first time when it was only the two of us, she was freak out and cry right away as soon as she sees the chair. This time was different. For some reason, Nicole was entertained her well. Nicole said to her "It's ok lila, you will be ok, you are going to get sticker". She smiled at her, and Daniella smiled and talk back to her ( I don't know what she said!). Not until the nurse poke her arm, she cried, she called me...Mama..., but her cried wasn't too long. She was happy again.<br /><br />It was so cute to see how they can comfort each other and love each other. I know I am kinda brain washed my kids. I told them so often, that they have to love, care and stick together as siblings. Nicole and Jeremy always care and think of each other when they are not together. I do hope it will continue until they grown up.<br /><br />I have a mood swing today. I feel like my emotion got mixed up together. All the happy, excited, sad, nervous feeling get mixed up. So many random things happened at once today. I just don't know how to sort it out. But the most upset thing that happened was when I got home. This thing had been going on for several years now, but till today, haven't been solved yet. Very disappointing and annoying. I wish this get solved soon and I don't want to face it again. Sometimes people just need to learn about boundaries. <br /><br />Tonight I have to sleep early I have to get up super early tomorrow. Hope things are getting better tomorrow. O...I think I haven't finish talking about my resolution. Hahaha....<br />Get distracted over the past days. I will get back on that hopefully tomorrow. ;p<br /><br />Nighty nighty....Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-4997786522786886632010-01-11T23:41:00.005-05:002010-01-11T23:51:53.272-05:00His JokeI am so happy today because when I tried one of my old jeans, it fit me! I feel like I wanted to run and scream around my apartment complex. LOL.... It is almost 3 years, all the size 2 jeans being kept in the boxes. I am dying to wear them. Finally the day has come. I should celebrate it !<br /><br />For those who read my blog, please pray for my big day tomorrow. I think God has a big sense of humor towards me. Daniella had a blood test last week and the result wasn't good at all. To be honest, I never see that kind of result before. Too scary for 13 months old cutie. ;p It looks like God just want to play peek a boo with me. Tomorrow I am going to take her back to the lab and re-do the test. I really hope the second test will improve a lot. Only God knows what is going on with her body. After giving me all this emotion...I hope God will say, I got you! ;p<br /><br />Tonight is the first night we are going back to our positive routine. Hahaha....yeah...there are bad routines that formed without you realize. We agree to turn off the TV at least for an hour and actually talk and do devotion. It is now our number one priority and not negotiable. It is fun actually that we got to talk and share things that happened all day. <br /><br />Well, I need to go to bed and get myself ready for tomorrow. Hope God will end His joke. ;p I love you Jesus.... just like my three little angels do love you.<br /><br />Good nite...Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-89964470129220287662010-01-10T20:40:00.003-05:002010-01-10T20:58:08.946-05:00BusynessOk...I'm not breaking my promise by skipping writing my blog for the past 2 days. I was out of town for the weekend with my husband. It was a great trip. We went down to Lynchburg to meet our friends and also to refresh our mind and relationship.<br /><br />Living with 3 kids, hectic work schedule, and maintain the house is not easy and very restless. It's like working 24/7 non stop. We feel like we starting to become roommate, a roommate that shared everything. Share kids, bills, house, .... you name it...LOL... Well, it's not funny. ;p<br /><br />It was kinda weird going places without the kids. This morning when we went to the church...We usually have to get up at least 2 hours before and still have to rush to the church. This morning, it only took us 30 mins to get ready and I feel like for the first time, we entered the church before they start and we actually can prepare ourselves before it start. Super nice....<br /><br />One thing that I realized, we are very easy to get trap in our busyness world. If you feed them, its just never stop. You just always busy and busy all the time. It's like your core life...BUSY! and you started to have your comfort in that busyness. I know I don't want to take my relationship with my husband for granted. I dream to spend the rest of my life with him and have the adventure of my life with him. SO I will not let my busyness world let go all that dream. We have to started to investing our time, emotion, energy and just about anything to each other. I don't want end up to be a stranger one day.<br /><br />Coming back from the 2 days trip, we talked about a lot of things ... It feels good. Being refresh in our marriage just make everything much easier, we can plan for our future better --- although God is in control ---, we still need to plan for our family. I have something to look forward. We will become a better spouse to each other and to God. We starting to lay down some serious things, some core value in our marriage that will hold our marriage stronger, make some commitment and stick to it.<br /><br />So, I am not backing off, just rest for a little bit. I will come back again tomorrow!<br /><br />Hope you all have a great week.<br /><br />The best investment in life is when you invest in your marriage and children.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-71180380103069961742010-01-07T22:54:00.003-05:002010-01-07T23:16:17.063-05:00BulliesToday we had New Year Party at our office. It was fun and very relaxing. Of course with plenty of yummy food. Some of them are actually cooked in the office. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hahaha</span>.... too wild ;p<br /><br />Anyway, I found out today my youngest cutie girl actually walk all day. I am so excited for her, she finally can wonder around the house, walking! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Yey</span>..... Gosh they are growing too fast !!<br /><br />This morning when I wake up, I received a group email from my son's class. One of the parent mention about a topic that had been brought up in a radio, pointing specifically to our kids school. She is kinda worry about it. She want to make sure that every kids are able to report any kind of bullying at school. I talked to my son often, if someone bullying him, he must tell us or the teacher. We have to solve the problem if that is happening.<br /><br />As I look at in the dictionary what the word "bullies" means, here what I got : <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">A person who is habitually cruel or overbearing, especially to smaller or weaker people. </span>I've been thinking all day, that this is actually not just happening at school. It is happening everywhere, without we realize, we as an adult probably have different term of it. If you think about it, don't you sometime feel left out in certain group of people? <br /><br />In workplace this is easy to find. We easily get caught with the situation of bullying someone without realizing it. Start with gossiping, judging, eliminate them and killing their characters. That is probably the worst. In adult stage we probably will not use <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">psychical</span> to bully someone, but we use words. When was the last time you actually honestly praising your co worker or friends? When was the last time you can remember, you are in the middle of conversation, then someone came, then you stop right away. Or you share your life loudly, but when someone that heard your story commented on your story and you weren't happy about it, because the story meant for someone else. Isn't it categorize as bullying too? because whether you realize it or not, it become a pattern of your character and a habit that happen over and over again.<br /><br />Becareful with your bullying life. I am trying to think about myself too, hoping I dont have that habit in my life. Let's don't bring Middle School in adult life. As God command us to be kind to each other.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-52225888922358407292010-01-06T22:44:00.003-05:002010-01-06T23:30:31.101-05:00AngryToday I came home early, I was so tired and sleepy, didn't get much sleep last night. I only slept for 4 hours and had a long day. Beside, I missed my girls and my boy. I wanted to spend my time with them. As I preparing dinner, I saw Nicole go back and forward to the kitchen. She make sure she got spoon and fork and drink. As I watch her, I am amazed how she is already grown up to be a little girl. she is not a toddler anymore. She is very independent. She can do almost everything by herself. The most impressive thing for me is she can clean up very well. I always nervous about her. I always asked God if she will be turn out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ok</span> and I feel guilty leaving her for work. But God is good. He hears my prayers to my kids. I try not to worry too much.<br /><br />Lately I feel like my patience is being tested. Specially towards the kids. I get annoyed easily and angry. Although I didn't let the anger stay until the next day. I still try really hard to control myself.<br /><br />At work I have a very annoying co-worker. I really do not know what is his problem. But he always looking for my mistakes or even <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">every body's</span> mistake. Today I gave up with him. For so long I've been very patience and go whatever he is asking. But today, I am just so tired to actually following his stupid request. I ignoring him and my friend took care of it. I wonder why people are working without using common sense?<br /><br />I did feel guilty because I was thinking well, God did ask us to forgive people so many times. Why can't I give him a chance and just let this go and be patience. I was convicted with that. But as I walk towards my office, I thought to myself, I am a human being that have emotion and feeling. It is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ok</span> for me to feel that way, as long as I am <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">conscious</span> about it. That it why we need God and friends to help us to go through hard time.<br /><br />I want to try to be patience with my kids. Sometimes I do yell at them. But then I regret it later. It's not easy to be able to control our anger. But as our age adding, we should be more wise to find out how to control ourselves. It is make a lot of different in people's life, sometimes we don't know what we say in our anger towards someone. What we did might hurt someone and we don't realize it.<br /><br />Remember that God asked us so many time to forgive people, why don't we try....Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-53384437864998813242010-01-06T00:03:00.002-05:002010-01-06T00:30:14.423-05:00S.O.STime is ticking so fast. Is it almost second week of January? ;p When I was a little kid, I used to watch this show called "The end of this world" (I think). This story about a girl that can switch bad thing into a good one. Her most powerful magic is stopping the time using her finger tip. Isn't cool, I always wanted that magic and dream if I can do that...I will stop the time and taking a long nap. Hahahaha....<br /><br />Today I learn about Help! I helped one of my co-worker today and I notice that she was feeling uncomfortable with the help that I gave it to her. She wasn't sure if she wanted to received my help. I figure, some people does feel weird when they get help. I was that way too. When we moved here 4 years ago, for the first 2 years, it was hard for me to ask for help. I almost can't do it. Until I finally realize, how arrogant I am never asking people for help. I beat myself up by doing things all by myself. I realized when we used to lived back home, we have 2 maids and a driver, so we never need friends for help. The part of being humble to ask for help never appeared in my life. Slow but sure, I am starting to ask people around to watch my kids, asking them to do some other stuff that I can't do. I feel great, plus one of the lady told me that she feel blessed when she help people. She feel grateful that she can help someone, when someone asking for help, she feels like she's been giving an opportunity to help. I didn't understand by then...but I finally got it.<br /><br /><br />By helping people I always feel great, I feel like I am accomplished something. I used to use a lot of excuses that I am busy with kids and family and I don't have time. I actually could, I just have to manage myself better. With taking care of myself, I can do more things. Eat properly, exercising, get enough sleep. My mom always said that I like to turn the world upside down. I turn morning into night and the other way around. I am a night owl, my creativity comes at night time, along with quietness. ;p <br /><br />Anyway, my other resolution this year will be exercising and diet. Last year I was successfully cut 45lbs in a year. This year I only need 10 lbs. I am sure I can do it. One of my effort is, I try to walk for 20 mins, at lunch time. I usually walk around The Mall, with all the nice view. <br /><br />Try to take a small step to help people around you. Sometimes it doesn't take a lot of effort, you could buy something for a friend that need it. For example, you know your friend is sick and she needed a medicine, you can just simply help her to buy it. I am sure it will make her day. ;p<br /><br />Gooood night !Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-77903457450317576552010-01-04T23:45:00.002-05:002010-01-04T23:59:14.109-05:00SingingTonight I was in Vienna, VA for a concert. It was fun and I really enjoy it. I sang all of the songs because I know the songs and I love it. Andre Hehanussa was the main act. About 10 years ago, I was one of his backing vocal for his concert. So I was so thrilled to know he is in town. He is one of the famous artist from Indonesia. Along with that, there was Shakila, she is also one of the well known artist from Indonesia, she reside to VA since she was married to an American. Tonight I got a chance to told her that I am one of her fan, in fact I used to sing her song. I really had a great time. It was a blast. I dance and sing. I totally will sleep well tonight.<br /><br />I love singing. Every time I am sad, stress, desperate, down, I always run to music. I express myself with music. For some reason it is just really soothing me. Since I am in US, for the past 4 years, I hardly sing. It's like one of my passion, although it's not a main one. <br /><br />I really hoping that one day I can sing in church and lead a worship. Fun and funky worship. It is just the way I wanted to praise my God. With the talent that He already provided me.<br /><br />Some people starting to ask me to sing. This time I will not pass it, I will definitely take it as my chance. I will not let myself down anymore and I will try to be confidence. I always remember a parable from bible, 3 men with money, only one that actually came back and double the money. That is exactly why God give each of us talents/gifts, it is for us to use and to bless others. <br /><br />Give what you have, don't just keep it for yourself. Someone can always enjoy it.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-18260658750779239612010-01-03T22:03:00.003-05:002010-01-03T23:17:28.436-05:00Decision...decision....Tomorrow is already Monday, my least favorite day. I am going to have a long day tomorrow. So I am preparing myself for tomorrow. Entering the third day of January...I looking on what I am going to do this weekend and the next, my weekend already booked for the rest of the month. Gosh....I didn't even realize until I stand in front of my calendar and look at it. Time flies so fast. Part of me still not ready yet, although I know I am going to have an adventure for this year and looking forward for it.<br /><br />Today I am thinking about taking a big decision that I have to make. But this time, I don't have the guidelines and totally clueless. I am totally blank. I don't know what to do. Something to look forward is I am going to have someone helping me out for this. We are going down to Lynchburg, Virginia to visit a wonderful friends of ours. The good thing is...it will only me and my husband. It is a totally BIG treat for us. I think we need this refreshment. Just the two of us, refreshing our relationship. We hardly even go just the two of us. 'The two of us' runaway totally will be the first time in 2 years. It's been a long time. I know it will be really weird spending 2 nights without kids. But they will survive, I am preparing myself now!<br /><br />Forget the BIG decision for now...I still have to talk about my resolution. I guess this will be my resolution #3. Ever since I am working in DC, my perspective of life has been changed. Things that I used to do and passion in finally come back to me. So good to be myself. For the past four years although it is hard, but I dont think that I did what I should have done. I don't think that I've done enough spreading the gospel and share about the love of God. I feel like I've been in the safe zone. I've been walking on the egg shell and being comfortable in the Christian circle.<br /><br />Walking everyday on the street of DC, working in a big building with the diversity of people really opening my eyes. I've been very selfish for the longest time. Knowing some people need God in their life, I cant just close my eyes and walk passed it. For the first time after 4 years, I finally confessed my faith. I shared God in a bar. Talked about Him with someone who don't believe in anything.<br /><br />With the recession starting on last year, I heard almost everyday in the news about it. It has a big impact in every individual, family, and society. Most of the non profit organization stated that people that used to donate stuff now become their recipient. Very sad. I can't bear my heart watching this situation anymore.<br /><br />Couple nights ago, Jeremy asked me to pray with him. I couldn't resist his request. So I went in to the room with him. I asked what is his prayer request. He said he ask if God will bless us so we have more money, so we can help others in need. I feel like someone slap on my face hard. If a 6 years old can think about others, why I am being selfish? I really need to get off my butts and do something.<br /><br />So here is resolution #3... I am going to volunteer in a non profit organization, helping distributing food and packing up in the ware house. I am going to do it with Jeremy. But since the requirement is 7 years old for the children that are going to help, I have another 30 days to go to wait until Jeremy is turning 7. But other than that, what I really want to do it volunteering to teach the kids in need. I found several foundation that has opening for it, I need to pray hard and find the one that God want me to do.<br /><br />" Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed - not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence- continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" Philippians 2 : 12-13<br /><br />Have a great week everybody....!! You can change the world with Him who made you....Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-71690354161072187702010-01-02T23:49:00.002-05:002010-01-03T00:01:17.663-05:00OrganizingEntering the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nd</span> day of 2010, I am still trying to organizing my life. Hoping my life will get easier. I am planning to get more organize, specially in term to save money. Organizing all the bills, paper work, and advertisement. So I don't missed anything.<br />You will surprise if I said that I already wrap Nicole's gifts for her 3rd birthday in March. Never happened before. I bought the gifts when it was on sale a month ago. <br />I also starting to plan for Jeremy's birthday, summer vacation, summer camp... <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">hahaha</span>...I know it's a lot, but I feel good about it. Since I am working, I just have to be more organize, I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">don't</span> have a lot of time anymore. I don't want end up spending my time cleaning up the house, organizing each week and less time for the kids. Organizing makes me feel good. I am almost done with all the organizing and I must say that I am proud of myself. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Hahaha</span>......<br />BUT one thing that I still trying to avoid, planning for food/meal. I don't like cook. It is so hard to think about what to cook. I have to take a deep breath and starting it. ;p<br /><br />That's another resolution. Plan things better. That way, I can also save money and not being a impulsive shopper. For the past 6 months, I've been really careful with that and I did well. I haven't seen any junk or unused things being bought. All the stuff that I bought is what I need. Beside that I make sure what I purchased is on sale or have a good deal. <br /><br />I need to keep <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">discipline</span> myself in order to be success. Hope all my laziness will go away. I am still fighting it. Wish me luck everybody....Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-11834752576654552922010-01-01T23:58:00.003-05:002010-01-02T00:14:12.707-05:00Day 1 of 2010Knowing that I have goals for 2010 makes me have the energy and excitement to face my days. I feel like I know good things will happen in front of me. Regardless knowing failure will have the role in the process, I feel like I am ready.<br /><br />Today, we invited some friends for lunch. It was a good one. It became one of my resolutions, trying to invite friends to come over for lunch or dinner, at least once a month. We really need to get to know people and have a relationship with them. I totally remember in 2009, for that whole year, we only invited 2 friends to come over for dinner. Which is really bad. I feel ashamed for it.<br /><br />So I am starting to put some name in my list ... You could be the one...;p<br /><br />Have a good start of the year .... !!Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-46276540687808721092010-01-01T00:22:00.003-05:002010-01-01T00:30:46.020-05:00HAPPY NEW YEAR!Finally the New Year has come. Welcome to 2010. It's kinda weird how to write it...there is ONE in the middle instead of ZERO...<br /><br />All of my family got up to welcome 2010, including Daniella the baby. We all excited and open the 2010 with a prayer. Thanking God for 2009. Although it was a hard journey, yet He is with us. Guiding us through the year. We are hoping the same thing. <br /><br />Everybody kinda listing their resolution. I am always trying to make my resolution do-able with a little sense. Some of the goals need courage and hard work. I will try my best to do it. <br />This is one of my resolution....<br /><br />I always wanted to write a book. An inspirational book, a devotion book, a real life book that can help people to go through their lives. I figure if I never start at all, when is this going to happen? I finally decide to be brave and commit to 365 days writing my blog as my journal. I really hope I can make it.<br /><br />Other than that...I will write it as the day goes by. I don't have a long list, only couple bullet point, but it is important for me and hoping no recycling resolution next year....;p<br /><br />HAPPY NEW YEAR everybody ! WELCOME 2010 !!!!<br /><br />The days will tough and suffer, but with the Lord, all things are possible. Be strong in your faith and be perseverance.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-42560003322633557652009-11-18T22:53:00.006-05:002009-11-19T22:40:20.576-05:00A Brave HeartAs I write this, I am listening to my favorite song when I was in Elementary school. It's a really old song, called First Love by Nika Costa. When I listened to that song back then, I wondering if one day I will ever find someone that can make me fall in love just like she describe in her song. The feeling of first love is unforgettable. All you can think is that person, the excitement in life, something you look forward to do. Every now and then I always wanted to feel that feeling over and over again. It's just very relaxing and peaceful to be able to feel that again.<br /><br />I had struggled a lot for the last couple weeks. I was trying to recognize myself if there is something wrong with me. I was hurt, bitter and unloved. I started being sarcasm with people that say they love me. I was at a point get sick of it. I am so tired to hear that. Then I realized why? The word just a word, it meant nothing. There wasn't an act to it. It just something that people have to say. Words to end a conversation? Words to say because there is nothing to say or because they have to say it?<br /><br />I kept searching if I can find the justification if that is ok for people just to say it without mean it. Or say it but never act on it. I have no luck to find it. Instead, I found that God told us to love each other, love your neighbor, even love your enemy. Is that possible for you to say I love you to your enemy? I don't think so, the only thing you can show it only by act on it. Acting on something to show them how much you love them. Words come out from the mouth just wasn't enough. I wonder how can you tell someone love you, if she never really do anything for you. I guess it is just like your husband or your boyfriend, they will do anything just to show how much they love you. An act of love.<br /><br />Do I need extravagant love? A brave heart? A heart that can go through the dimension of love. Just sleeping under my blanket, not to get up in the morning and just dream about it. How fun that could be if I have a day to do it and can be fulfilled by it. ;p<br /><br />How many women out there actually craving for love? Love that they want more and more and more...a never ending one. Why a lot of people can't understand how important it is to have a relationship? Share they feelings? Is that just me because I don't have family in here and all I can depend on is my friends? Why it is so hard just to spend 2 hours over a coffee one night? A night or two over 365 days? If you say you love them, is that hard to fulfilled? Words can be simple ... Quoting a song from Carol King " Words can hurt you, if you let them, people say them and forget them..." I guess that line of song is totally correct. People can just easily say that and then forget them.<br /><br />Right now I am taking a big heavy step. A courage to put a step in front of my other feet. I want to have a brave heart. A heart that not just wanting being loved, but giving out my love. Fulfilling my passion that God had put it in my heart so I can love others. By not walking on egg shell anymore, open up a lot of chance for me to serve as myself. I am not worry anymore that I will fall and afraid someone will judge me. Having compassion to others truly help me to see another dimension of love, different side of love itself. It's been a really hard lesson for me to understand, but I think I got it at the end. May be I will try not to complain about it anymore. But I can't promise, I am a human being with feelings after all, and still need that love. But I will not let myself get disappointed with that. I believe that walking with Him, I will find it, someone will come in to my life and make me remember how it is to feel loved. <br /><br />Arggghhhh...."Tell me Teddy Bear why love is so unfair, will I ever find a way and answered to my prayer?"<br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">" Let's not just talk about love; let's practice real love. This is the only way we'll know we're truly living " ( I John 3:19, The Message ) </span><br /></div>Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-35644753955573467752009-09-14T07:18:00.003-04:002009-09-14T07:40:37.171-04:00Fall is Coming<div style="text-align: justify;">As the month has changed, every time I got out from the train, there is no longer the smell of summer breeze, instead it's a fall breeze. A very refreshing one... It's always reminded me the first time we came to US, our transit was in San Fransisco. Stepping out from the plane, the airport's air smells so good. The spring breeze in the morning mixed with the smell of the fresh brewed coffee. Looks like everybody ready to start the day. For some reason it's very memorable. Can't forget that.<br /><br />It's 7am and I am already in the office. Still half asleep I think. It's been 2 months since I am working. Still not easy. *sigh*. I wish I can just let it go and work, without have to think about what is going on at home. But well,... I am not complaining, try to understand that 4 years stay at home can't be place in just 2 months. It is definitely take some time. <br /><br />As usual, my life is full of drama. Sometimes I wish I can ask God to give me a break from this episode. ;p Last week my sitter went back home, her son is sick. Thank God I got the replacement right away. But she can't drive, so I have to go to work super early so I can pick up Jeremy. <br /><br />Right now I am trying to create a blog just for the kids. I wanted them to have their own story written and be memorable. I will let you know once I published it. I hope it will bring a lot of inspiration and helpful information. <br /><br /></div>I will try to write again soon. I can't believe time has gone so fast. I hope everyone have a great week.Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-34771480432638630542009-08-13T08:56:00.002-04:002009-08-13T09:19:37.933-04:00Wonderful Day<div style="text-align: justify;">As I reached the top of the street from the metro station, I can feel the nice breeze after couple days of hot and humid day. It is a beautiful morning. For some reason I have a great feeling inside me. Feeling optimistic facing my day and thank God for another new day for us. When I got in to my office, hardly people in there and it's nice. I decided to write and catch up with my journal that I had been abandon for a while.<br /><br />Every day is special to me. It is always something happened in my days. Never passed it without a meaning in life. I feel that God teaching me everyday on the train while I sit and read and say my prayers. Train is my classroom, it is my devotion time. Time alone just me and God, ignoring people around me.<br /><br />The past two days I was sick and didn't go to work. The girls and I had a terrible cold. Although I am sick, I valued every moment that I have with my kids. Even just for two whole days. It was precious. We had a great time. When I'm home, no TV all day. We did fun things together.<br /><br />Lately the kids get in to fight a lot. I started to think that this is not a good sign having kids that keep fighting. So I said to them, let's make the rules in the house. I took a big poster card and let Jeremy and Nicole draw on the cardboard. They need to share. Hahaha....a little after 2 minutes, the fight starts. Gosh.... they yelled at each other... it turned out that Nicole took his part and draw on his part. So I talked to them. It is hard to make 2 years old understand thing. ;p But I think I have to. I said to both of them that they are brother and sister. They need to love each other and help each other. One day they will need each other. I want them to get close to each other. After they calm down, we start to write on that poster board. Start from number 1 ... I draw a big heart and say love .... ( Nicole said : caca! ) we laughed.... so I wrote love Caca, Jeremy and Daniella... I wanted to teach them to love each other. Love your siblings.<br />And it goes until number 11. Including : Do not fight, do not yelled at each other, clean up the mess, obey mommy and papi, help each other, say nice thing to each other, share things except it is a special thing, no lego on the floor, etc. <br /><br />Here is how we play it : I made the big poster board to lay down the rules, then I made 8 vouchers, and have tokens. Every child that break the rule will get a token. At the end of the week we count the token, who gets the less token will receive a voucher. In a month, if they are able to have 4 vouchers, they will get a reward. They can buy anything they want for things that less than $5. Of course the big brother is very excited and Nicole had no clue. But she will learn. She has to learn to obey and listen and do positive things. I am glad that now they are thinking before they do or say things.<br /><br />After that we took a wagon ride. It was fun. I borrowed a wagon from a friend. We are heading to the beach next week and wanted to bring that wagon. The kids loved the wagon ride. Mommy had to work hard to pull the 3 of them. I had a wonderful day. What a precious moment.<br /><br />I miss my previlage to be able to stay at home. Hope this won't last long and I will be able to stay at home again, or at least work from home. <br /><br />Have a wonderful day everyone.<br /></div>Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-67770687005028355302009-07-22T07:40:00.006-04:002009-07-25T09:27:55.632-04:00Responsible<div align="justify">I know it's has been awhile since I'm blogging. Although I have a lot in mind to write, but I just can't squeeze my time in to writing lately. It is driving me crazy when I can't blog. I think the space in my mind is about to be full soon. ;p I wanted to share some of my experience that I had been going through lately. It wasn't an easy one. Well, since when I have an easy experience. But again, I learn my lesson from this event.<br /><br />I used to think that every adult know about responsibility. But I guess I was wrong. Totally wrong. Since I have kids, I realized that responsibility is something I have to teach them and plant in to them, so they know what is responsible is about when they grow up.<br /><br />About a year ago, I met one of Indonesian friend in here. She is a well-known person back home. (or may be not) Although her fame is not through herself, but she had a very famous husband. Anyway, the reason I met her just because I was trying to help a friend that needed her and was looking for her. There is when the contact started.<br /><br />The first time I met her, I had a pretty good impression. After couple meetings, she introduced me her business to me. It's a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">jewelry</span> business that I am doing now. It is a good business and I enjoy doing it to be honest. Beside it's making a good profit, I got to do it with my best friend and it's so much fun doing it with her.<br /><br />After couple months knowing her, she asked me to do her a favor. She wanted to have an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">iPhone</span> through AT&T but couldn't open one account because she doesn't have - either good credit or no credit at all. I asked her couple time if that what she really need, because if you are not a business woman that needed 24 hours connection, it's just a waste, cause you have to pay monthly fee for that. For single mother with 2 teenagers that are going to college at the same time in the following year, I don't think it's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">necessary</span>. Well, she insisted that she want one and firm about it. So we trusted her.<br /><br />The first payment was late. I didn't say anything hoping she will contact me to let me know whether she is going to pay it or not or at least let me know if she will be late. But after couple days passed by, I finally called her because I wasn't hear anything from her. Come to my surprised that she actually more angry than I do. (Isn't amazing?) I starting to wonder....Am I the one that owed her? or the other way around? She gave me 1000 pages of her 'to do' list which I don't care, because, that time I also had a very crazy life. I just had a baby, we just moved to a new apartment. Now, I have to be a debt collector? Anyway, couple days after that, she stop by and gave me couple checks for the next couple months.<br /><br />This month when the bill is due, I cashed the check. Couple days later while I was checking my bank account, I was so confused why there is a returned deposit check plus the fee. Knowing that it's my checking account to pay the bills I don't have a lot of extra money in there. So I called the bank and they told me that the check I deposited is no good. The account in that bank is closed. My natural reaction was - of course - mad !! Not just because the check is returned, but the fact that I have to pay all the fee and messes my account.<br /><br />I told her what is happening. Instead of apologizing and promising will pay it soon. She argue with me about it. O my goodness. Can people go crazier than that. She said that she swear that she is always remember to put money on that date, or may be I was cashing it the same time as she paid her insurance for $300. Again...who cares? All I know that the check has been returned. Couple days I haven't hear from her about what she is going to do. So I called AT&T to transfer the account or disconnect it. She was freaked out when we did conference call. Typical of her....excuses are always her best bet. She said I can't afford to pay the deposit because I have to pay the rent, insurance, bla...bla...bla....( I don't know what she is saying anymore, cause with all her lists, I put away the phone). So I said to her...look...relax, just let them process the transfer. If you are not eligible for the account, then we <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">disconnect</span> the service as simple as that. We will pay for it first and you just pay us back. She is agreed to it. That night we disconnected the service and cost us $125 to break the contract.<br /><br />My husband told me she will not going to pay this. So he said, why don't we just take her <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">iPhone</span>, since she won't be able to use it anyway. Not so much because we wanted to use it. We don't! But he just think this is the fair thing to do. She bought the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">iPhone</span> for $200 with contract, now we pay $125 to break her contract, he thinks it's fair. I didn't agree just because I wanted her to learn a lesson, being responsible.<br /><br />The next morning, as I sat on the train to work, I read my bible. That day when I opened my bible it was Romans 2 about righteous judgment. It is about teaching us we need to show His kindness, tolerance and patience because God is our judge, not us. Well, you probably need to read the whole thing to make this connect to the story. Anyway, I felt that God ask me to do this for His goodness. So as soon as I got in to my office, I told my husband that I agreed to do what he suggested. I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">text</span> that woman telling her that we wanted to help her financially. I said, you don't have to pay us back $125, but it would be fair if we trade with the cellphone. You can pay all the charges divided in to 2 months. But I guess I was wrong, once again, she was mad! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Hahaha</span>...........I just laughed this time, I was speechless. I said to God, look, I did my best. I try to do the right thing. But it didn't work. If I was her I will take the offered, because it's only half of what she owed. In total she owed about $300. Look, if she is struggling financially we <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">definitely</span> can talk. But as far as I know, she always make a poor priority. She just came back from Hawaii with her daughter, I know the trip was her reward. But again, you still have to spend some money while you were there right? And if you are struggling a lot, because her kids goes to college this year, wouldn't be a right thing to do just to cash the trip and save the money or pay all your debt. That is what bothering me.<br /><br />Well, I don't want to go to any further details anymore. Until today it is not solve yet. But again I learned my lesson. God <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">teaches</span> me a lot of things and it made come to the understanding of being a Christian. Being a Christian not just about how many hours you put in prayers, reading bible, attending Christian conferences, church and put your days in to fasting if you do not have the character of Christ. I was angry with God for a little just because this woman put herself so high in Christ. She always attending conferences out of town, she told me how many hours she pray, how long she is fasting, etc. But all of that didn't matter because she is not showing her character as she suppose to be. One night while I was pumping, I feel like God said " Look, if I never let you go through this event, you will end up the same. You can praise and read the bible everyday, but you are not showing my character, it will be useless". I am so glad that God lead me along the way. I did finally realize that as much as I wanted to help people and have compassion and being a woman of influence, but if it is not naturally grow, I will struggling and end up keeping a lot of bitterness in my heart. Again, I have to thank God for this. For He is good and always have reasons for things. Things aren't easy, but with Christ I can go through it.<br /><br /><em><strong>"But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God's wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. God will give to each person according to what he has done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life " Romans 2:5-7</strong></em></div>Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3897816999589463853.post-43715441084881688452009-07-06T15:03:00.003-04:002009-07-08T23:51:56.585-04:00New Beginning<div align="justify">This morning as I drove to the train station at 6am, I got the chance to see the beautiful sunrise. In front of me as the sun come out from the east, I thanked God as He fulfilled His promised each and everyday. Suddenly, I can feel His presence through the beautiful nature that He created. I can't stop worship Him, as my tears rolling down to my cheek, I take this as a sign for me to start a new beginning of my life. </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">As you all know that I've been struggling with a lot of things for the past couple months. It wasn't an easy one, yet through God that gave me strength, I was able to passed it. In fact I can see the wonder of His work through the hard time. Relaying 100% everything on Him, was the right thing to do.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">He planned everything so well, I couldn't even help myself to draw away from Him anymore. The long commute that I have to go through everyday, gives me a chance to read His words. I have at least 2 hours of my quiet time on the train. I don't like the commute and the fact that it's wasting my time by taking me away from my kids. All I can do is praying for their protection.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">Today, I just want to thank God for all He had done in my life. Everytime I turn my head in each direction, I can see Him doing something great for me. He opened a lot opportunity for us. I can't be more thankful to have Him in my life.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">Thank you Jesus.</div>Christine Lantanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01062012617273394455noreply@blogger.com0