Blessing 365 - THE END

Seize Every Moment. Count your Blessings.

I chased the sunset and caught it just in time. What a great symbolism for my Blessings 365 as it comes to its "sunset" moment. I am never the same because of it. I am better because of it. This was God's gift to me to GIVE to you. I already miss "everything" about B365, but I am looking forward to what God has in store for me. Stay close ... for new blessings will come. Until the next journey together, I would love to say ...

THANK YOU.

Revelation 1:8
"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."

Come visit me at Stillimpressions.blogspot.com !!!

Blessing 364 - The Bridge to Contentment

Bakers Beach

My kids and I drove out to Bakers Beach today to meet Christine Leong (my personal photographer), who I have asked to take our pictures for the second to the last day of Blessings 365. I owe her much gratitude and love for doing such a wonderful job!

It's no accident that I chose the Golden Gate Bridge to be our backdrop for today's blog. Blessings 365 has been a "bridge" to reach God, to touch lives, to create new friends, to encourage a weary soul, to grow more thankful, and to appreciate the small things in life. It has been my key to contentment.

My family has been very supportive and ever so patient with me as I have tried to meet my 12 o'clock deadlines every night to blog my daily blessings. It's just too bad that Jon couldn't be in this picture with us. But he has been my silent strength each day as he spurs me on.

I have had so much fun doing this project! For the most part, I have jumped for joy over all the wonderful blessings that I have been able to post! From the smallest smiles to the biggest laughters, God has instilled within me an inner joy that no one will ever take away.

At times, I have found myself alone on this project, not knowing who are still reading and following me. There has been countless times when I have wanted to give up for it has been an almost impossible endeavor to finish. Sometimes it has been very trying to have to blog a blessing when I have had such a terrible day. But God never fails to bring in someone or something to keep me going. I may never know where my ripples may reach, but I just need to keep making those waves.

Just when I have nothing else to give out, God fills my hands with love that overflows again. I have found these heart rocks over this pass year. Each one represents a special time and place. I have always said that if I go looking for love, I will always find it.

... AND I DO!

So once again, God reminds me to count my blessings ... even those that are disguised as burdens. The hardest things in your life brings about the biggest blessings.

Each little act of kindness will bridge those who need to find God. I have been given this great honor to be a bridge to those who I may never meet and to those who I love dearly. But who am I to have been given such a task? I am so unworthy. I just know it's because of God's grace, I have accomplished these beautiful blogs of blessings.

Out of all the heart-felt blessings that I have shared with you all...

This one has to be my favorite...

And I praise God that Christine's images today

are the ones that I will enjoy forever!

So from my HEART to YOURS ... may I just say THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH ... for coming along on this journey with me. Tomorrow will be our last day together on BLESSINGS 365. But it won't be our last day as friends. We will always have our bridge to connect us. Please come back tomorrow so I can give you a farewell hug.

1 Chronicles 16:34

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;

His love endures forever.

Blessing 363 - Miss UC Davis

Leiza Guerrero

Class of 2010

Psychology

What a wonderful time we had walking all over the UC Davis campus for Lei's graduation photo shoot! This one particular picture stoled my heart away! How could you not with such a lovely face! What struck me like lightning was the fact that Leiza was no longer that little junior higher that I first met, but is about to be a college graduate! A beautiful young adult suddenly appeared before my eyes as we were both enjoy an adult conversation over a healthy salad we had for lunch. I just praise God for the giving me the honor of being her photographer at this pivotal time of her life! I really enjoyed today.

Blessing 362 - Heart Rocks

This shall be my last week on Blessings 365. It has almost been a whole year since I began this blessed journey. I shall leave you with these Heart Rocks that I found last week at my favorite beach ... My Dear DRAKES. God always seem to know where to guide me in order to find His tokens of love. Whenever you go looking for love, it shall always find you astounded!

Blessing 354 - From Little Girls to Young Ladies

From little girls...

3-18-01

To beautiful young ladies!!!

6-6-10

It's such a blessing to see these young ladies grow up from being playmates to establishing meaningful friendships. When I posted their old picture on Facebook, I had no idea they were all going to be together today! Thank goodness Rachel had a camera and now you see them as they are. I am so blessed that Ashley has a close personal relationship with each one. That was something that I never forced upon her. God knew she would need her ATES" in her life. God always knows what is best for us and who to put into our lives to encourage and strengthen us.

As iron sharpens iron,

so one man sharpens another.

Proverbs 27:17

Blessing 353 - Nathan's Baseball Championship Game

Nathan has been Niko's best bud ever since they were very little. It was such a blessing to watch Nathan and his team win the championship! We are so proud of him!

It's awesome to see strong and supportive friendships develop at such an early age. It was important for Niko to watch his buddy play. It was double to blessing to see Nathan at his best!

Here's Nathan running to 3rd base! This was my actual first action shot that I really liked! Poetry in Motion ... is Nathan Sanchez #5!

Oh to bring back our childhood is a wish that I would make instantly! Long summer days playing ball in the park. Buying ice cream from the ice truck as it drives though your neighborhood. Swinging on the tire swing until sunset. Well, summer is back and we all hope to do all these things to make childhood memories for our children.

Thank you, Nathan, for an awesome game and for an incredible show!

You started our summer with a GRAND SLAM!!!

Blessing 353 - Ashley's 8th Grade Graduation

Happy Graduation, Ashley!

Ashley and Michelle with their favorite teachers:

Mr. Dwyer and Mr. Petree.

I'm just so proud of my baby girl! She was given the Presidential Award along with some of her classmates as well! She tried so hard to study diligently during her Junior High years and we just praise God that all that hard work paid off! Their plaques even had President Obama's signature! But more importantly, I praise God for her spiritual maturity. Her teacher told me that she has been very instrumental in creating the strong friendships within her class. Her love for God is demonstrated by her love for her friends.

WOW.

This is where AMAZING happens!

Blessing 352 - Sweet Heart

I baked two dozens of these Strawberry Delights for Ashley's teachers today. It has become an all time favorite among my friends and families. I pray they will be a blessing to her teachers. Just a small sweet token of our love for them. They have been so utterly wonderful and inspiring to Ash.

Tomorrow, Ashley graduates from middle school. Where did time go? She has been an emotional wreck for she will deeply miss her 8th grade class. Sweet memories for my little sweetheart. But the sweet fellowship they will always share will continue in Christ. They are one in Christ. One in Spirit. One in Love.

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose...

Philippians 2:1-2

Blessing 351 - Free Jamba

How thankful I am to be treated for a nice cold Jamba Juice drink today! Did it taste twice as good because it was free or the was it because it was loving made by my dear friend Hem? I think the latter. It was her last day working at Jamba Juice. She has done such an exceptional job as one of the leads there. I know Hem will do as great at her new job as a CNA! Congratulations, Hem!!!

The free things in life are worth smiling and rejoice over! But what really steals the cake is knowing the One who lovingly creates these little tokens of joy into our days. Was there anything in your day that added a little "Jamba" in your so called "ordinary"? Take note of that blessing. God put it there to get your attention. He knows exactly what we need and when we need a little "boost" to help us get by.

"...For your Father knows what you need before you ask him."

Matthew 6:8

Blessing 350 - Empty Bowl

From the moment I got up this morning, I have been non-stop and on the go!!! But today has been one of the most productive days in a long time! From sun up to sun down, I can honestly say that I can account each waking hour. I haven't spent much time for myself. But that's where the blessing comes in. Doing things for the benefit of others always brings inner joy that lasts forever.

I do feel like this empty bowl. Filled to the rim of strength and energy, now as depleted as this empty bowl above. But I know strength comes in the morning when you have a God whose faithfulness is new every morning.

Lamentations 3:23

They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Blessing 349 - Drake's Beach 2010

Drake's Profile

The Rocky Shore

Mr. Starfish in his hot tub!

A Bird's Freedom

Love Prints in the Sand

Just a few highlights from today's trip to Drake's Beach! It was a beautiful day for pictures! It was a perfect day for great fellowship and food among dear friends!

Praise God for today!

Blessing 348 - The Chair

An empty chair awaits a welcomed friend to come

Not by chance but planned

After all the chores are done...

An empty chair can act as a resting place to one

Or a patient book holder

When one has to be gone...

Imagine yourself, a chair, awaiting to be used

You have no say who sits

for the one you cannot choose.

If I be a chair, be it by a window

So I may enjoy the garden

that blossoms from below.

Come visit often and a read a book on me

Trust that I will uphold you

Linger and rest on me.

~Lani~

Blessing 347 - High School Core Leaders Retreat

A most blessed time at the Bantay's Residence! We held our High School Core Leaders Retreat here today and we just praise God for an awesome time He gave our leaders to be refreshed and trained for the ministry. They consist of college, career, and some high schoolers who are being led to serve the Lord in our youth ministry at church!

OUR SERVANT LEADERS!

Not only did we have some intense workshops through out the day, but we also had a great time in fellowship, in eating, and in just being goofy for God! It also happened to be Roby's birthday today! Happy 21st Birthday, Roby! (He's the guy in the Vans shirt.) Yaye!

BLESSING 346 - I Want Some KOREAN BBQ!

BEFORE...

and AFTER!!!

I am thanking God in advance of the delicious Korean BBQ I will have this Memorial Weekend! The last time I had this was back in North Carolina when Lev grilled up some for us. My mouth is already watering just thinking about it! I am praying really hard that I will be able to grub on some really soon!

It's the three day weekend!!! Let's get together please!!!

Let's also remember those who sacrificed their lives for our country.

Praise God!

Blessing 345 - Crepevine Gift Card

A wonderful surprise came in the mail! It was a Crepevine Gift Card from Chris, Connie Ann, and Cyrus! It was their way of saying "Thank You" for taking pictures at Cyrus' birthday party. Even if I didn't get a thing, I would still be so very blessed to be part of the celebration! I think the best things in life are the thoughtfulness that come from loving friends. To me, it's not just a gift card. It's a gift card to one of my favorite places to eat! So, thank you so much, Connie Ann and Chris! I will surely enjoy every bite of my crepe! I almost feel guilty for being rewarded for something I absolutely love to do ... "capturing the moment."

I think when ever God thinks of us, He instantly captures every moment that has to do with us. He is intimately acquainted with all our ways. He knows every smile, every tear, every joy, and every pain that we experience. Then He surprises us with His "gift card" of love and comforting presence. So never think you are ever out of God's reach. He is intimately acquainted with you.

You discern my going out and my lying down;

you are familiar with all my ways.

Psalm 139:3

Blessing 344 - Bowling Ball

Niko and I went to the thrift store today and found this beautiful bowling ball that came with a bag for only $12! Of course I had to get it! I really enjoyed bowling the other night with my friends and thought it would be great to practice to get better this summer. Well, it looks like we will be spending some time practicing our strikes and spares in the alleys! Anyone down?

I just praise God for such a good find! I hope I really get to use it this summer. It's not just the game, but it's the fellowship behind the game that makes bowling so much fun! I know God can use this activity to draw more brothers and sisters in Christ closer. I'm looking forward to that!

Blessing 343 - Forgiveness

Ask for forgiveness. I will offer forgiveness to those who have hurt me, and I will ask for forgiveness for any wrong I’ve done to others.

Matthew 5:23–24: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.”

Blessing 342 - g2 proImages

It was truly amazing to see a friend's photography exhibit this past weekend! I hope one day I will be able to do the same. I still have so much to learn, but I know where my strength and wisdom will come from and I know Who I am doing it for. I just praise God that I am surround by great friends who are willing to school me as I follow right behind them. Oh the possibilities to bring glory and honor to God through the talents He has given to us!

I WANT TO MAKE GOD SMILE...

and to capture His smile one day.

**Some of Gerry's pictures are posted on my Faceook. Come visit my wall. =)

Blessing 341 - To Rest or Not To Rest

To play ball...

Or to sleep...?

Oh, I think I'll take it easy today.

This is exactly how I felt coming home from church. I had the worst allergy attack and not to mention a possible stomach virus. Monta couldn't have illustrated my afternoon any better. I can't complain. God cleared my afternoon so that I can actually rest. It's been a wonderful day worshipping God and seeing good friends as well! Even though some of them may be far away, I can still feel them close as if they were standing right in front of me. I love that! Praise God for texts and emails.

Blessing 340 - POREOTICS!

What a blast it was to be able to do a photo shoot with the A.B.D.C. champs!

P O R E O T I C S!!!

Ashley and Niko was just as excited as I was! They will be performing at the Kababayan Fest in Great America this summer! They were able to do a meet and greet in Japan Town today. It was a blessing to see a bunch of young talented guys meet their fans! Thanks to Gabe Balanag for hooking my family and I up at this awesome and memorable event!

TIC-TIC-TIC!!!

Blessing 339 - Our Best Friends

If only our dogs could talk...

All I can do right now is show you I love you.

I do wish that you could be in my arms everyday.

If I could only see your smile every time that you do.

You do show your love for me and you do it so well.

All I can be is content even though the distance is so great.

You give me a reason to smile everyday.

Blessing 338 - Old and New Friends

Maribel and I had a wonderful lunch at Sweetie Pie's Cafe today! She has been such a sweetheart of a friend to me. I praise God for the times we can spend together.

She was a little scared of shooting with my camera, but I think she did a wonderful job with this picture. She doesn't know it yet, but I think she will be one of my favorite photographers soon.

We both enjoyed our turkey and bacon panini sandwich with a side salad. A perfect meal for a nice sunny day! It was a girlie meal, but it did satisfy us nicely. We even had free samples of chocolate cheesecakes!

My first coffee of the day accompanied with some flowers on our table.

Can our day get any better?

Actually... a surprise visit awaited me at home! I finally had a chance to meet Pastor Lem's wife... Danielle Usita! They quickly dropped by the house just so I can meet her! It was a pleasure to finally see her after all the wonderful things that Lem have told me about Danielle. Now I have a new friend... a pretty one at that!