One perfect Spring day, fate led me and my family to an amazing place called Mckinney Falls State Park. A place where nature bestowed so much of its richness and beauty. A place where one can find an escape from all troubles of life. Though it only gave me a few hours of refuge and joy, it was more than enough to comfort my restless soul.

When worries cloud your mind and tires your heart, escape with me.

The falls, surrounded by beautiful old Cypress trees reminded me of a Japanese Zen garden. The cascading waters gracefully drops into a peaceful emerald pool. Nearby, there’s a man waiting for a fish to bite his bait. At another corner, another man looked as if he was day dreaming and being one with the moment. Oops! That was me staring at my water reflection.

When your world seems getting smaller and you need a room to breathe, escape with me.

The water though cold, felt so good. Refreshingly good!

When you want to reconnect with pieces of yourself and the many adventures you often dreamt but never ventured, escape with me.

Parents watched their kids closely as they play in the water. It was slippery and I had to hold my son’s hand really tight. After seeing a mom fell flat on her buttocks, there was no way I’m letting my boy glide into the algae covered rocks like he’s wearing ice skates.

When you wish to find the inner child in you and once again feel that unrestrained, pure happiness, escape with me.

I sat on the log as I took more pictures. Unknowingly, my wife took one of me. She said, “You looked like you’re totally being one with nature.” I smiled like a little kid and said, “I was.”

When you want to celebrate ”You” and the people who brings sunshine to your day, escape with me.

One of the kid was pushing the floating log while the other excitedly rode on it. My son on the other hand decided to add more props to the magic by blowing bubbles into the air. A little boy next to him kept jumping to pop the bubbles. Laughter filled the air mixed with voices of anxious parents calling their kids to stop going into the deeper waters. My wife being one of them.

When you wish to see Nature and everything around you with fresh eyes, escape with me.

When you want to find love, rekindle love or celebrate the love of your life, escape with me.

When you decide to left go and run free or just slow down and enjoy what life has to offer, escape with me.

When you decide that it’s time to follow your own dreams and not the dreams others made for you, escape with me.

After an exhilarating, fun time at the falls, we flew a kite on a field of Bluebonnets. I can’t forget my son’s excited voice as his kite went way up high into the sky. He kept yelling, “Dad, dad, look at me. I did it!”

When you hope to make minutes of laughter into a lifetime of joyful memories, escape with me.

That day, it was not just my son’s kite that soar and flew above the ground. My heart flew as well as I captured each beautiful and unforgettable memory.

I wish there is an escape to everything. I wish there is an escape to every tragedy that befalls us everyday. Sadly, there are many events that there are none. These are situations beyond our control. Situations we need to face with courage, hope and faith.

As the horror and devastation of the Oklahoma Tornado unfolds, me and my wife felt a heaviness in our chest as we tried to hold back tears. So many have died, many of which are children trapped inside schools and buildings they thought would shield them from the deadly tornado.

I dedicate this post to the victims and their families in Moore Oklahoma and its surrounding neighborhood. To let them know that the world grieves and cries with them. That constantly, they will be in our thoughts and prayers. That as one, unified community we will support them in whatever way we can. That they have someone to walk with and hold on to as they face the aftermath of this unimaginable calamity. Perhaps we can not escape certain events but we do have a choice on how to pick up the pieces and start rebuilding our lives all over again.

Thank you for escaping with me today. Though it was short, I hope it inspired you to follow the things that makes you happy.

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A month ago, we ventured on a different route on our way back to Houston. I was getting sleepy and needed to stop. I told my wife, “I badly needed some coffee. I wonder if there is a coffee shop somewhere in this town.” Unknowingly, we were in for a treat way better than coffee. Sorry, fellow coffee lovers. It was more invigorating than our caffeine rich favorite beverage.

The Many Patterns Of Life And The Roads We Take

Some patterns leads to something delicious and refreshing. Our first stop was The Old Mill. A shop of many sorts. Souvenirs, ice cream, coffee, home decor, Art works and more. You name, they got it!

While I was waiting for my brewed coffee, my son together with his mom were busy selecting the flavor of ice cream to eat. My son was being thoughtful and left me a few spoons worth of  left overs. As they say, “Sharing is loving.” Ice cream and coffee together? Yum-yum!

My wife decided to check a local jewelry store. While waiting for her, me and my boy decided to find treasures of our own. We found a Gum Ball machine and won a few treats.

Remember those good old days when simple toys like marbles rock our world? Well, this place has lots of them. I was surprised that Lego boy found them fascinating. He got really excited when we bought him 20 pieces of marbles.

Instead of eating the gum balls, we decided to play with them as we do with marbles. After several hits, they broke into pieces.

Some patterns remind us of the good old past. Of the things that brought a smile to our day. Of the things that we shared growing up with our family and friends.

Wimberley has lots of Antique Stores. It gave us an instant trip down memory lane.

This metal knight reminded me of the days when I imagined myself as part of King Arthur’s knights of the round table. Today,that legacy lives on through my son and his generation.

Like pages taken from a CountryLiving magazine, Chic-A-Dee exudes that warm and welcoming country charm. I can totally see myself living in it. Yes, for real!

In one of the stores, I heard my wife’s excited voice, “Hey, check out these books. I used to read them as a kid.” I told her, “Me too.” We bought one so we can share the magic of these books to our son. Plus, it will help us recollect the childhood memories we long forgotten every time we read the book with him.

My wife has been collecting tea cups lately. Imagine her joy when she discovered these vintage gems. She got herself two. With a wink she said, “Thanks Hon.”

Some patterns enrich the heart. Patterns that bring us happiness. Patterns that become a part of our most cherished memories. Memories that reminds us of  unforgettable times we had with family.

We saw a painted hand on a wall. Its finger was pointing towards a wooden pathway. Below the hand was a description that says, “A little bit of Heaven.” 

It did feel like we had a bit of heaven as we enjoyed the beauty and serenity of Cypress Creek. My son gave me a sweet smile as he played with the other kids. He looked so happy. The very same look I used to have when I was his age playing with my siblings and cousins along the creek next to my house. There was even an old Guava tree next to it that I used to climb to pick fruits, rest or dream.

It was getting late. We were having so much fun that we forgot for a moment that we still have  to drive a few hours to reach home. I swear, for a second, I thought it was home. Too bad I had to wake up from my day dreaming.

My son asked me, “Dad, can we stay longer? Can we also eat in a restaurant? I am hungry.” Next to the creek was Ino’z. It looked like a perfect spot for a taste bud adventure. We chose a table next to a huge tree. I was literally sitting next to its trunk. While savoring the delicious Tilapia Fajita, I noticed a face on the trunk staring at me. Then I looked around me and saw more faces on the old giant cypress trees. Hmm? Cypress Creek is a mixture of enchantment and mystery as well.

Some patterns inspire us to create and use our God-given talents. Seeing the kids catched fish using materials they saw along the creek, my son also made an improvised fishing pole. He found a broken tree branch and a yarn while I found a metal wire which I shaped into a fish-hook.

Some patterns makes us realize just how lucky we are to be alive. To be given moments that make us see the goodness within us and around us. To be given chances to experience events with the people we care about.

Everyday we will meet many patterns and cross roads. Among the many patterns we will make in this lifetime, we should choose the ones that will bring meaning and joy in our life. 

What pattern do you wish to follow today? What pattern did you follow that brought you to your dreams? Whatever they are, cherish them always.

Thank you for being a part of this week’s WordPress Photo Challenge titled “Patterns‘ and thank you for sharing your friendship with me day after day. Friendship is another pattern that will give us many reasons to smile and be thankful for.

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“Mom, thank you for bringing me to the most fun places.”

As for my version of this week’s challenge, I made a letter for my mom, for my wife in behalf on my 7-year old boy and for all of you who wish to honor their mom everyday.

Happy Mother’s Day to all!

A Mother’s Day Letter To My Mom

Dear Mom, 

“Mom, I know you were scared to ride the canoe but you rode with us anyway so me and dad will have a fun time. Thank you mom.”

Above the ground, everything seems possible. I can climb the highest stairway that leads to many doors of opportunities and new beginnings. I can pick the biggest dreams that shines brightly on a star-studded sky. I can even pretend that I have superpowers so I can fly to places I longed to be.

Above the ground, I can reach the top of the world. A world where I can be anything I hoped to be.  A world where all my wishes will come true.

Above the ground, all I hear are the sound of laughter. Laughter of happiness. Laughter of  peace. Laughter of love that knows no end.

Mom, all these, without you to share them with will be incomplete. Your presence gives meaning and substance to every unforgettable experience in my life. 

“Mom, remember that place where we flew the kite and played in the water? Oh, and mom, remember that place where we ate sushi and the fried shrimp thing? Can we go there again mom?”

Mom, thank you for loving me with all your heart. Thank you for the many times you wiped my tears and helped me smile again. Thank you for believing in me and helping me achieve the things I never thought possible. Thank you for teaching me the right values in life. Values of generosity, kindness, humility, faith and more importantly, love. Thank you for creating a home that gave me the happiest of memories. Memories I will always treasure and take with me where ever I go.

“Mom, thank you for giving me the best, happiest childhood there is to have. Till today, I still remember that moment where you baked an Angel cake with colorful marshmallows on top for me and a chocolate cake with M and M’s for my sis during our double Birthday celebration. I was less than 10 years old but I can still vividly remember how happy I was on that day. Thank you for all the love and sacrifices you and dad made for me and my siblings. I will always be grateful.”

I wish I said it more. I wish I embraced and kissed you more. I may not be able to turn back the hands of time but I can create a new one starting now. Everyday, I will celebrate you for being the most beautiful, loving mom any child could ever wish for. Everyday, I will thank God for giving me the chance to know you and be a part of your life. Everyday, I will pray that blessings of love, happiness, peace and good health will surround you and our family always .

“Mom, can I have the Cookies and Cream?”

While at Brehnam’s Maifest event, my son saw these turtles. He wanted one so much that he kept circling the turtle booth. Before we left, his mom surprised him by saying, “Okay, which one you like to bring home?” Looking all excited as he said, “Really mom, really?” He held carefully his turtle in a cup the entire trip home. It was more than an hour drive. Before he went to sleep, he named his new friend “Croc.” Guess what he did as soon as he woke up? Bingo!

To the best mom in the world, Happy Mother’s Day! 

I love you mom. 

                                                                         Love, 

                                                                         Your Son

Thank you for your sharing your day with me. Today, let’s celebrate our mothers as one blogger family. Cheers to all our moms!

Today, discover the inspiring world of these blogger friends. Their zest for life, their families, their environment and most of all their faith are priceless treasures that will bring a smile to your day.

Lingering Visions of  http://lingeringvisions.wordpress.com/2013/05/06/weekly-image-of-life-nature/

Paula Jo of  http://lifeslittlebigadventure.blogspot.com

Mrs. Padilly’s of  http://mrspadilly.com/2013/05/03/the-heart-of-the-pedernales/

Hardik Gohil of  http://mang0pe0ple.wordpress.com/2013/04/29/weekly-image-of-life-natures-bliss/

Imelda of  http://mywordwall.wordpress.com/2013/04/30/clouds/

Patricia of  http://lifeofaministermom.com/2013/04/30/weekly-image-of-life-natures-bliss/

Katy of  http://praguebykaty.wordpress.com/2013/05/05/wiol-natures-bliss/

Francine of  http://francineinretirement.wordpress.com/2013/05/06/orange-and-natures-bliss/

For those who wish to join in this week’s challenge, here’s a link and the widget. Have a great time making wonderful memories.

http://thismansjourney.net/2012/06/13/weekly-image-of-life-happiness/ 

Images taken using an iPhone 4 camera with Camera + App and Nikon 1 J1. My friends, have fun discovering and creating the most beautiful images everyday. They are a part of the unforgettable memories and events we make in this lifetime.

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As we all celebrate Earth Month, I wish to pay tribute to one of our planet’s priceless gift, Mother Nature.

I grew up around nature. My parent’s house used to be surrounded by rice fields, ponds and creeks. I remember how everyday seemed like a great adventure. During lunch breaks, I would rush to the nearby pond and catch a few mud fish trapped in an old woven basket. Long before I knew what goldfish were, they were my version of goldfish. A few I kept in my improvised water jug aquarium and kept as pets while the rest I returned happily to their home. Life was simple yet full of wonderful surprises.

We need to respect nature. It is our friend. It gives us refuge from all the troubles of life but in a few minutes, it can be a source of destruction. A destruction brought about by man’s abuse and neglect of mother Earth for hundreds of years. We can do our part to ease if not halt the continuing misuse of nature. We are part of a positive on going change that hopefully will heal of planet.

A few weeks ago, my family and I went to the Hill Country to celebrate my birthday. I didn’t ask for anything material but I did wish to be close with nature and explore it with my two best friends, my wife and son. We visited 3 parks in 2 days plus a lot of exciting bonuses in between. I couldn’t have wished for a better gift.

On our last day in Austin, me and my wife were still deciding where to go. We already went to Mckinney Falls State Park and Zilker Park the day before and we were hoping to go somewhere that can match the beauty and fun in these two amazing places. Call it fate or plain coincidence but I was drawn to check Pedernales Falls State Park while I was googling for the best places for adventures at the Hill Country.

We almost backed out when my wife saw this trail. There was no people around us. It did look scary. It reminded us of those creepy, isolated scenes in horror movies. Talk about paranoia. While we were discussing whether we go or not, my son started saying, “Eany, meeny, miny, moe which direction should we go?” After choosing the right side of the road, he waved his hand and said, “Let’s go guys!” So, we followed our new leader.

I had to laugh when my wife blurted out sounding concerned, “Where in the world are we?” as we passed through what seemed to be an endless uninhabited series of winding road. I tried to calm her down by saying, “Hey, look at that spectacular view. Isn’t that beautiful?” My son on the other hand was just as excited as I am. He would raise his arms and shout, “Yipee!” everytime the car goes in a sudden downhill drop. It was his version of an instant roller coaster ride.

We finally reached the park. The view from the top was breathtaking. Can’t believe nobody told me about this jewel in Texas. From a distance, we could hear the sound of falling waters. Before we walked down towards the falls, my son blew bubbles while me and my wife took pictures. Lots of pictures.

Without fear, my son started running down the stairs. My heart skipped a beat when I realized how slippery and dangerous it was. Sounding alarmed I yelled, “Stop and wait for me.” What a relief when he did.

We were all excited to see up close the upper section of Pedernales Falls. There were about 4 drops of the waterfalls that we could visually see. There were probably more. How the cascading waters dropped and stirred the tranquil part of the falls was just beautiful. Not to be outshine were the many unique and fascinating rock formations.

My son had a fun time throwing pebbles into the water. He would jump with joy and excitement when the stones made a big splash. He reminded me of how I was when I was about his age. Just like him, nature to me was a huge playground where I found and gathered many moments of happiness and serenity. Just as many as the pebbles we were standing on.

While I was busy capturing images with my camera, my son was also busy capturing moments with his heart. Looking so happy as he counted his shells, my son cheerfully told me, “Dad, look at me. I’m a great explorer.” I brought down my camera, smiled and said, “Yes, you are.”

Nature inspires us to discover things we thought are not possible. My wife and I found a fascinating tree with clear water flowing out of its trunk. Part of it flowed into a small stream while the rest created a miniature waterfall.

We took off our flip-flops and dipped our feet into the cold, crystal clear waters. It felt so good. So refreshingly good!

On top of the tree was a pond with live fishes in it. On one side, bubbles were forming as water came out from its sand bottom. A wonderful discovery that made me feel like a kid all over again.

I heard my wife’s excited voice calling, “Look, look, checkout their catch.” The man showed us a few Carp as big as my forearm. I told her, “That is really cool. Wish I brought my fishing rod.”

I wish we didn’t have to leave the park. So much fun for so little time. Unfortunately, we had to go and though our magical encounter was brief, it was more than enough to inspire all of us. Best of all, it was a birthday gift that my entire family truly enjoyed sharing with me.

Life is all about making adventures that will last a lifetime.

May this post help us see the precious blessings nature gives us everyday. I hope it will open our eyes as well as our hearts to the reality of its vulnerability. It is crying for a much-needed global rehabilitation and preservation. Earth is our home. How we choose to treat it today will reflect on what future we will all have tomorrow. 

How do you wish to honor and celebrate our planet Earth today?

Thank you for sharing your day with me. I appreciate and value each visit and comments. I apologize for my delayed response. I promise to catch up as soon as possible. Wishing everyone days of abundant bliss, love and peace.  

Today, discover the inspiring world of these blogger friends. Their zest for life, their families, their environment and most of all their faith are priceless treasures that will bring a smile to your day.

Patricia of  http://lifeofaministermom.com/2013/04/03/weekly-image-of-life-easter-time/

Anne of  http://freedomborn.wordpress.com/2012/04/02/the-empty-egg/

Katy of  http://praguebykaty.wordpress.com/2013/04/08/wiol-easter-time/

Hardik Gohil of  http://mang0pe0ple.wordpress.com/2013/04/08/weekly-image-of-life-easter-time/

The Guat  http://thewishfactor.wordpress.com/2013/04/11/weekly-image-of-life-easter-time/

For those who wish to join in this week’s challenge, here’s a link and the widget. Have a great time making wonderful memories.

http://thismansjourney.net/2012/06/13/weekly-image-of-life-happiness/ 

Images taken using an iPhone 4 camera with Camera + App and Nikon 1 J1. My friends, have fun discovering and creating the most beautiful images everyday. They are a part of the unforgettable memories and events we make in this lifetime.

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Up, up and away! No matter how old we get, we should always keep soaring, flying and living.

Up, Up And Away

So here I am this morning, just waking up, psyching myself with blogging, a cup of strong brewed  coffee, a potassium high banana to start another busy day with my classmates. We are having a weekend reunion. Celebrating more than twenty years of wonderful friendship. It felt really good being around people you shared so much fun times, laughter and lots of nostalgic, comforting past. People you see yourself celebrating 20 years more of craziness again and again, without a doubt. Today, I offer a toast to all who wish to keep their youth “forever young” in their hearts as well as a toast to all friendship that will keep our spirits soaring high. Who’s with me?

Thank you for the generous blogging friendship and for making me remember my happy childhood memories. Memories where I jumped so many times, believing that I could fly. In many ways I did.

A perfect, fun day at Zilker Park in Austin. It is great to wake up and have an entire day that makes you feel like you are “Up” on top of the world. Imagine if we can have that everyday. Wishes do come true and I wish for everyone days like that all the time.

Lately, what made your spirits soar with happiness?  Whatever they are, I hope they will always remind you that you can do anything, be anything.

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We barely awakened from the nightmare in Boston when a peaceful town of West in Waco Texas was shaken by a chemical explosion that will too forever change their lives. The town is mourning both from loss of lives and from the unimaginable devastation the explosion has created. The search continues for the missing which gives everyone the much-needed hope.

Images taken by different people reflecting the effects of the tragedy. We all hope that light will overcome every bit of darkness. That hope will always burn to give courage and strength to all who seek it. When we believe with all our hearts, miracles and positive changes happens.

I told my wife the horrible news as soon as I arrived from work. She was in shock. She can’t believe that about 3 hours from our home, a deadly, massive explosion had happen. As I watched the news, I can’t help but tear up. It was something that could happen to anyone, anywhere.

This serene place is called Cypress Creek in Wimberly Texas. We passed by this beautiful town by accident. As I stared at the waters, it seemed to be saying, “Peace and calmness will come. You just have to give time a chance to heal those wounds that took your smile and left you broken. Joy will come your way. Be patient. Don’t give up on hope.” Sounds like it was not only talking to me. It was meant for all who seek comfort and answers in their lives.

So, today, I wish to offer this post to the people whose lives are forever change by these tragedies. I hope and pray that soon healing will come, that the pain they are going through will go away with the passing of time, that peace, justice, forgiveness, joy and love will come to those who needed them the most. We can no longer pretend to be blind or indifferent to the negative changes around us. We can no longer be passive and just go our usual ways. It’s time to wake up, be aware, to respond and join hearts with one unwavering faith. To work together as a solid community that seeks to uphold what is good and just.

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Texas is blessed with the most amazing Spring colors. Everywhere I turn, carpets of vibrant wildflowers covers every vacant fields and highways.

Just a few days ago, my son and I flew a kite on a field covered with Pink Evening Primrose.

After flying the kite, my son picked some flowers. A few he threw into the air while the rest he gave to his mom.

In Search For The Texan Bluebonnets

We went to the Hill Country last weekend to celebrate my 42nd birthday. On the way to Austin, we came across a dreamy field of Bluebonnets at Chappell Hill. For several weeks now, I’d been checking the Bluebonnet Sightings website for the most beautiful blooms around Texas and thanks to one of its visitors, we were able to get a piece of magic of this unforgettable Texan wildflower.

We were so happy. It was our first Bluebonnet experience. My wife kept saying, “Picture, picture,” which meant it was time to make our Kodak moments.

My son helped capture some of the images. He was really excited to learn how to use the timer and zoom lens. We ran back and forth, repeating several shots until we got it right. It was a lot of fun.

My son and I walked to the farthest part of the field where the bluebonnets were at their thickest. My wife gladly declined. It was a bit of a walk which me and my 7-year old didn’t mind pursuing. It was part of our little adventure.

My co-explorer kept looking for the golden magic egg underneath the bluebonnet blooms. After several searches, he told me, “Dad, there’s none.” I replied, “Yes, there is. It’s just an imaginary golden egg.” He looked at me, laughed and said, “What? It’s not real?” Laughing with him, I explained, “It’s real if you imagine it to be real.” He then turned around and walked towards his mom.

On the way to the car, a perfect sunset was glowing across the sky. It seemed to say, “The most priceless of all treasures are already safely kept in your heart. Cherish them always.” Couldn’t agree more.

We returned to Houston Sunday afternoon. Whether it was fate, coincidence or pure luck, we saw a rare combination of wildflowers along I-10 East just after exiting the city of Luling. It was postcard perfect. Me and my wife kept saying, “Wow!”

As I start the car, I looked at my rear view mirror and saw once more the beautiful sunset. I silently whispered, “Yes, I will always cherish them in my heart.”

You might be wondering what happened to the rest of my weekend trip. Well, it will be my birthday treat to all of you. What you just saw is just a preview of what’s to come.

Thank you for sharing your day with me. I hope the Texan wildflowers brought the most exciting and joyful colors to your day. Thank you for the inspiring birthday wishes you shared with me. I will treasure them always. God bless you all!

How do you celebrate colors in your life? How did it inspire you today? Whatever it is, I hope you’ll treasure them always. They are part of your wonderful memories.

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Just before I head out the door, my wife handed me a piece of paper. She whispered, “Hey, look what our son made for you. He was in his room this afternoon busy creating this.” I opened the paper which turned out to be a home-made card my son made as an advance gift for my birthday. I was speechless. Pretty much I was smiling on my way to work.

My typical day can be very busy. For almost 10 years now, I had worked as a night shift emergency nurse. Sometimes I have nights were I am basically on my feet, going back and forth, juggling several sick and critical patients. After my shift, I bring my son to school, then have breakfast with my wife as we watch our favorite T.V. series such as Walking Dead and Grimm. Around 10 A.M. I go to sleep, wake up by 05:45 P.M., take my coffee, eat a light meal, shower, say a few prayers, then rush back to work.

A few days ago, I surprised my son with a toy he saw at a store. Today, he surprised me with a birthday card where he wrote, “Thanks for buying my Target toy.” Our kids see how much we love them. In their little yet pure, beautiful way they give back that love in the most amazing way.

Off days are for groceries, soccer game, trip to the stores, “restaurant-time” as my son excitedly calls it, play and adventure time, church on Sundays, quick exercise at the gym and lots of catch-up sleep if I can. Oops…almost forgot, it’s also my blogging time.

kids show their love in way that fill our heart with joy we never dreamed possible. They teach us each day how to care more, give more, live more.

My life sometimes feel a bit monotonous but I try my best to squeeze in some fun and excitement in it. A few days ago, while heading towards soccer practice, I spotted a vacant lot full of springtime blooms. I stopped the car and we all went down to check out the flowers. They were beautiful. A fleeting gift of nature that only comes once a year.

The rest or shall I say, most of the monotonous cycle is broken by my son’s never-ending joyful surprises, ideas and creativity. Yes, sometimes he can test my patience but most of the time, he melts my heart and that of his mom’s with his thoughtfulness, humor and loving gestures of affection. He is my little sunshine that gives me and my wife rays of inspiration, hope, happiness and lots of reasons to laugh.

Best Birthday Gift In This Lifetime

My happiness is easy. Play and activity time with family, a day at the beach or park, home-made gifts from my son and wife, a delicious meal, a great laugh with friends and family, reading generous comments in my blog posts, witnessing answered wishes and prayers unfold.

Part of my gift is a paper plane complete with instructions.

As I read the card, I felt a sense of gratitude and joy knowing that my son appreciates the things we shared together. That he has so much love to give to me, his mom and the people around him.

The best gifts are not the one’s we can buy or put a price tag on. It’s the ones that comes from the heart. These are the gifts we cherish and take with us wherever we go.

As I unfolded the paper plane and set it up, I imagined and believed that me and family will travel the world in it. That I will have more birthdays ahead so we can discover the many adventures this lifetime has to give. Seemed like a childish wish but isn’t it that for as long as we believe, anything is possible?

To my son and wife, thank you for making me believe that little miracles can happen everyday. That I can overcome the odds, find happiness and peace in the midst of chaos. That I can hope and dream with all my heart. That I can smile, laugh and even shed a few tears and know that you both will always be there for me. You both are my most treasured, priceless gift that God blessed me in this life.

To my wife and son, thank you for bringing color to my world. There is no greater gift that I could ever ask or wish for on my birthday.

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend. Hope you enjoyed my post for this week’s photo challenge called “A day In My Life.” May we all celebrate tons of happy, memorable birthdays and events this life has to offer.

What’s your most cherished gift in this lifetime?

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Filed under: family, Life, parenting, photography, Weekly Image Of Life, Weekly Photo Challenge Tagged: A day In My Life, beautiful day, Best Birthday Gift, birthday, birthday card, celebration, Family, first grader, Flowers, God, good life, Grimm, Happiness, Health, Holidays, Kids, Life, love, parenting, Photography, Post A Week, Recreation, Reflections, spring, Springtime, Sunday, Texas, toys, weekly image of life, Weekly Photo Challenge, Wife ]]> http://thismansjourney.net/2013/04/05/best-birthday-gift-in-this-lifetime/feed/ 140 abubot6 Island Traveler/thisman'sjourney.net/A Day In My Life A few days ago, I surprise my son with a toy he saw at a store. he wrote in his card, "Thanks for buying my Target toy." Our kids to see how much we love them and in their little yet pure, beautiful way they give back that love. Perhaps even more. kids show their love in way that fill our heart with joy we never dreamed possible. They teach us each day how to care more, give more, live more. Island Traveler/thisman'sjourney.net/A Day In My Life Island Traveler/thisman'sjourney.net/A Day In My Life Island Traveler/thisman'sjourney.net/A Day In My Life Island Traveler/thisman'sjourney.net/A day In My Life Island Traveler/thisman'sjourney.net/A Day In My Life http://thismansjourney.net/2013/04/03/weekly-image-of-life-easter-time/ http://thismansjourney.net/2013/04/03/weekly-image-of-life-easter-time/#comments Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:40:49 +0000 Island Traveler http://thismansjourney.net/?p=8254 Continue reading →]]> A Time To Rejoice

Easter is a much awaited festivity in my family. As far as I can remember, my parents taught me and my sisters that Easter is a treasured symbol of our faith. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating the resurrection of Christ who came to the world to save us from sin and darkness. It is a day to witness a promise that there is a heaven that awaits us all. A heaven where we all are free, happy, at peace and just surrounded by love that never ends. 

Easter Sunday

Coming from a 12 hour night shift work, I gulped a strong brewed coffee to prepare myself for what’s going to be a busy yet fun day with friends and family. Just before I took a shower, I secretly prepared my son’s surprise inside several Easter eggs.

A few days before Easter, my son saw a toy while we were buying some groceries. When he saw it he said, “Hooray! I found it.” I turned around and replied, “You found what?” With eyes wide and sounding so excited he explained, “Dad, these are Star Wars Fighter Pods. I’d been looking for them. Can I have one please, please, please?”

As we walked along the toy section he kept saying, “Please, please, please dad!” I guess he was speaking a bit loud cause my wife approached me and whispered, “The women at the other aisle were laughing at you guys.” Imagining how silly me and my son must have looked like, I laughed as well. I didn’t buy the toy that day. I explained to my son that it was not the right time to buy one. Looking a bit sad, he placed back the toy and softly said, “Okay, dad.”

Easter is also about creating magical, happy moments with our children. It is a day where the Easter Bunny appears and scatter millions of Easter Eggs all over the world. It may be a make-believe tale but to our kid’s they are real. As parents, we try our best to make the most beautiful, amazing childhood for our little ones hoping that one day, they too will share the legacy of happiness and magic that they experienced.

After the Easter Sunday church celebration, we went to our friend’s house to celebrate Easter. We had games for the kids before the exciting Easter egg hunt. The kids were running everywhere, just having a great time. Their laughter of joy echoed all over the park.

My son had a Star Wars Dark Vader basket which my friend lent to him. We forgot to buy  our own Easter basket. Talking about being ready for the event.

One of the best things about Easter? Food! Lots of delicious, mouth-watering foods. It was a “Brunch” feast and yes, I was drooling as I wait for the signal, “Everyone, time to eat.” The BBQ chicken and spaghetti were just so good.

Back to my Easter surprise for my son. I had to find a perfect place to scatter my personalized Easter eggs. After waking from a 3 hour sleep or nap, me and his mom took him to a park. It was almost close to Sunset.

He was wondering why we were there. He thought Easter time was over that morning. I simply told him, “I’m checking something.” He kept saying, “Are we going to Target after this?” I told him, “Way better than Target.”

After I scattered all the eggs, I called my wife, “Hey, time for his Easter surprise.”

At first, my son looked at me wondering why there were more eggs. I smiled at him and said, “Just pick up the eggs and look what’s inside.” He did and when he opened them his face lit up looking all so happy, excited and yes, surprised. As I watched him opened the rest of the Easter eggs,  I told myself, “The magic lives on.”

Regardless of our religion and what we believe in, Easter is a time to rejoice with the people we love and letting them know how much we care. To bring laughter, happiness and magic in their lives as much as they bring the same to ours every second of everyday.

Happy Easter to all! Thank you for sharing my Easter tale. I hope it inspired you to create magical tales we all will be sharing and reliving many years from now.

How was your Easter? What do you enjoy the most during this holiday?

Today, discover the inspiring world of these blogger friends. Their zest for life, their families, their environment and most of all their faith are priceless treasures that will bring a smile to your day.

Hardik Gohik at  http://mang0pe0ple.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/weekly-image-of-life-gateway/

Patricia of  http://lifeofaministermom.com/2013/03/24/weekly-image-of-life-getaway/

Wisdomfromafather at  http://wisdomfromafather.com/2013/03/25/memories/

April “Bob’s Wife” at  http://alwaysbobswife.wordpress.com/2013/03/26/weekly-image-of-life-getaway/

Katy of  http://praguebykaty.wordpress.com/2013/03/27/wiol-getaway/

The Guat of  http://thewishfactor.wordpress.com/2013/03/28/weekly-image-of-life-getaway/

Anne of  http://freedomborn.wordpress.com/2013/03/31/what-an-awesome-god-what-a-wonderful-world/

For those who wish to join in this week’s challenge, here’s a link and the widget. Have a great time making wonderful memories.

http://thismansjourney.net/2012/06/13/weekly-image-of-life-happiness/ 

Images taken using an iPhone 4 camera with Camera + App and Nikon 1 J1. My friends, have fun discovering and creating the most beautiful images everyday. They are a part of the unforgettable memories and events we make in this lifetime.

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Reaching For Our Childhood Dreams

Once we were children. Full of hope for a future surrounded by happiness and everything amazing. That little child in all of us is still there. Listen to its voice. Let our heart speak of what truly makes us happy.

Let us not allow the influence of the material world dictate what road to take, what dreams to follow, what stars to catch and what future we wish to have.

We are our future. We are our destiny. We are the ones who make choices that make things happen. Choices that shape tomorrow’s stories and events. Of course, there’s also the love from our families, friends and our God that gives us the will, the inspiration and strength to pursue our future goals, wishes and dreams.

What are we waiting for? Time to jump and reach for those dreams!

To all of you who’d been a part of this blog, thank you. You all inspire me to catch my own stars in cyberspace. They are bright and full of possibilities not just because I want to believe that they are but because you all supported me generously from the very beginning. Once again, thank you.

Wishing for everyone a future full of laughter, joy, peace, love, hope and wonderful dreams that never ends.

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