Anticipated Mass
Last Wednesday, I already went to our office's clinic to consult about my sore throat and dry cough which started Tuesday. I was to take the following medicines for five (5) days: Sinecod Forte 50mg tablet three times a day, Difflam Forte throat spray 1-2 sprays three times a day, and Cetirizine 10mg tablet at bedtime.
Thursday is my schedule of working from home. Already not feeling well but I can still work. Friday, decided to take a leave hoping a day of rest will help.
Since it is not grocery day today, will leave the condo after lunch to attend the anticipated Mass.
I was able to join the community in praying the Divine Mercy chaplet and the Rosary.
The Mass presider is Fr. Sebastian (a.k.a. Fr. Baste).
The Ascension is the end of Jesus' mission on earth.
When Jesus called His disciples, He did not immediately send them out for their mission. Instead, He allowed them to immerse themselves with Him. If they a deep relationship with Jesus (communion), it is only the time they were given their mission.
One of the most painful experience is to leave.
If Jesus did not ascend to heaven, He is exclusive only to His disciples. He promised to send the Advocate after He ascends to heaven.
After the Mass, went to Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel at The Landmark, one of the Jubilee churches in hopes to gain a plenary indulgence. This I offer for Uncle Tommy.
My food-to-go is Fat Fook Kitchen. While waiting for my order to be prepared, I went to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf to buy Frappuccino to-go. It is a double stamp day from yesterday up to tomorrow. I only need a few to get a free tote bag.
Doing self-treatment, thinking a sore throat is being exacerbated by dry air brought about by the air conditioning, looking for a humidifier. I already bought one at Lazada. The ones I saw on the mall amounting to PhP1K plus can be bought online for less than PhP500.00.
Left for home with my food. 😆
Labels: Chromebook, food, frappuccino, Mass
Nanyang
Grocery day.
Supposed to leave at 9AM. Left around 10AM. But, was able to get a parking slot as soon as we arrived.
Buying groceries at The Landmark Supermarket is a breeze. Left Edgar to bring our purchases home as soon as I paid them.
I was able to finish my morning prayer at the Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel. Also prayed my Precious Blood Chaplet devotion. Prayed the Rosary as a community.
The Mass Presider is Fr. Ruben.
Everyone is asked to evangelize. All Christians are to be collaborators in spreading the Word. Don't be afraid, don't be shy.
It is hard to do this (evangelization) these days in a secular world. The best way is to talk using their "language". Best is through the heart.
St. Paul's strategy is to talk or evangelize in the markets, in the theaters, in the synagogue. The Gospel should be said in joy. We should persevere and faithful to the witness.
After the Mass, went to Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel at The Landmark, one of the Jubilee churches. Hope to gain a plenary indulgence and I offer it for my Auntie Estela.
And for my taste test, it was supposed to be at ShiLin. But, their food is for groups. Only the noodles are for individuals, and I don't feel like eating noodles for lunch. Even their rice topping is for two people.
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| ShiLin |
So, went to the restaurant next to it. It is Nanyang.
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| Nanyang |
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| Hainanese Chicken Rice |
Since it is my first time there, they recommended the Hainanese Chicken Rice (PhP268.00), Hainanese Fried Chicken Rice (PhP268.00), or Laksa Prawn (PhP288.00). The Laksa is a bit spicy. Opted for the Hainanese Chicken Rice.
It is good. It actually reminded me of Ya Kun Kaya Toast and Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice. Both at One Ayala.
Since I would be replacing the mobile phone we have been using as a dashcam, went to MemoXpress where I was able to buy a Nokia C12. This new mobile phone will be used at home and the old Nokia C21 will be used as a dashcam.
Of course, my frappuccino fix at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf where I started this blog.
The Mass presider for the anticipated Mass is Fr. Benny.
This is Jesus saying goodbye to His disciples. He said "Let your hearts not be troubled or afraid.." as the disciples were afraid.
He is comforting when He said, "I have allotted a place for you. When I am not with you, the Advocate will be with you."
The Advocate will guide you, will tell you what to say.
Advocate = defender
Satan = accuser
After the Mass, passed by Healthy Options to buy cranberry juice, Mary Grace for small cake, before proceeding home.
Labels: Chromebook, food, frappuccino, grocery, mall, Mass, rosary, shopping
Bistro Ravioli
Not a grocery day. If it's grocery day or if it is the first Saturday of the month, I am usually out of the house in the morning and I would be able to attend the Saturday Mass aside from the anticipated Mass. Today is not that day.
Supposed to leave around 2:30 PM but was stalled by a "knot".
When I arrived at the Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel, the Divine Mercy chaplet is being prayed. But, I was able to join the community to pray the Rosary. 🙏
The Mass presider is Fr. Keiv.
He started by asking how you define love.
Love understands before the mouth speaks (meaning of "love doesn't have to say you're sorry"?)
Jesus let Himself ruled by love, even in that difficult moment.
The new commandment: Love one another as I have loved you. The crucifixion gives weight to this commandment.
After the Mass, I walked to Mercury Drug at The Link. The medicine I planned to buy is out of stock in this branch but is available at The Landmark branch. When I asked the Landmark branch last week about this medicine, is it not available in their branch this is why I went to the other branch. Hehe!
Next, I went to Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel, a Jubilee church, hoping to gain a plenary indulgence and I offer it for my Uncle Eli.
Then proceeded to Bistro Ravioli at Rustan's to buy food to go. I usually do this during "no grocery" weekends. Instead of going straight to Pet Express at SM Makati, dropped off my purchases in the car and asked Edgar to proceed to Pet Express and I will follow after I buy some more items.
Bought a small cake at The Manila Baker. There is a senior citizen talking on her phone and getting instructions from the other line. The saleslady can't resist to give assistance to the lady that she mentioned the Pandora's box being said on the other line. I butted-in. I said to go straight as most jewelry stores is at Glorietta 1. Then she said that she was actually looking for a money changer. Now, I know where that is because I passed it on my way to and from the parking lot. Gave her instructions but informed her that is is already closed. Is that my good deed for the day? I do hope she was able to find it.
Of course, I did not forget my Frappuccino fix at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. After finishing my cup, I went to Pet Express, paid for Theo's dog food, and proceeded home (after passing by True Value to check if the folding seat/ walking stick is still available).
Labels: food, frappuccino, mall, Mass, rosary, shopping
Election 2025
Woke up early to exercise my right of suffrage. The polling precinct will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM.
That early, saw that there is a fire. I think it would in the Pasay area.
Left the condo unit around 7:07 AM and was dropped off to one of the schools serving as a polling precinct. There is already a long queue. Then, learned that I am queueing at a wrong school!!! Was directed how to get to my polling precinct and walked may way there.
There are actually two (2) queues. A very short one and a very long one. I assumed that the short queue would be for the senior citizens and PWD. The end of the long queue is almost half-way around the block!!!
Good thing I brought with me my sport seat (folding seat/ walking stick), portable battery-operated fan. Obviously, while in the queue, you get to share or hear stories from the people beside you. And thinking it might rain, I asked Edgar, the driver, to bring me my automatic folding umbrella.
I was thinking he would be using the car when he brings me the items. Then, I saw a person carrying a dog. I said to myself, "That dog looks like Theo." When I checked the person carrying the dog, he was actually Edgar who is looking for me. Shouted at them. LOL.
When we are already near at the gate of the school, saw some PPCRV volunteers directing some people on the queue to the shorter queue. That queue is for voters whose precinct is located at the 3rd floor. Thus, I asked them if my precinct is at the 3rd floor. YES. Hayy... If someone is already directing then, I would have finished casting my vote.
Still, it took time to get inside the school. And still a longer time going to the floor where I will be voting. While in the queue at the second floor, with me seating using my folding seat, someone asked if anyone is a senior citizen. I said I would be in October. The young man talked to the security guard, I think he is arguing my case. He, then, directed me to go to the third floor. Thank you. Used my folding seat as cane as I go up the stairs. LOL
All throughout the time I was in the queue, my Apple watch reminded me three times that my heart beat is more than 120bpm even while inactive. When this happens, I sit.
All in all, it took me 3 1/2 hours to cast my vote.
My niece, who voted in a different school, was brought there by Edgar after my umbrella was brought to me because I think it would take me sometime before I finish. A few minutes I finished, she also finished. But Edgar is already on the way to me. Best that I'll already be seating inside the air-conditioned car. LOL
After picking me up, picked up my niece. Dropped her off first, after asking her to treat us at Starbucks, which is also located in the building of her condo. Thank you.
Passed by McDonald's drive thru at Makati Cinema Square before proceeding home.
After my lunch at home and quick shower, slept. Woke up around 5 PM. I must be really tired.
And, is this another fire?
Labels: election, frappuccino
Sukiya
Grocery day.
Left the condo at 10 AM (instead of 9AM). Good thing we were able to find a parking slot as soon as we arrived. I assumed this would be so for it would be a long weekend with the election this coming Monday, and people would be going home to their provinces to vote or just to have a fun vacation to take advantage of the long weekend.
It was quick. After paying for our purchases, left Edgar, the driver, to bring the items home while I walked my way to Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel to attend the Saturday Mass.
I was there an hour before the 12:15 PM Mass that I was able to join the community to pray the rosary.
The Mass presider is Fr. Godwin.
The Gospel is about decision.
The crowd is following Jesus because He fed multitudes. But it is hard for them to accept Him as the Bread of Life.
Just like today, if something is difficult or we cannot understand, we reject it. We have even called it as "cancel" culture.
He did not come to change our status in life (health, wealth, etc). He came to give us eternal life.
We should not only look to our needs on earth; but, we should build a relationship with Jesus. Sometimes our decisions are based on what others are saying or doing. Jesus wants us to make a personal decision.
Our decisions have implications in our life, and even on others.
My take on this, this message is just in time for the coming local election. Thus, my intention for this Mass is for the Filipinos to open their hearts and minds to elect people who would work for the improvement of the country and its people, not just for their personal interests. #ElectionPH
Senator:
(5) Bam Aquino
(45) Heidi Mendoza
(50) Kiko Pangilinan
Party-List:
(63) BUHAY, Buhay Hayaan Yumabong
or
(6) ML, Mamamayang Liberal
After the Mass, I went to Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel at The Landmark. It is one of the Jubilee churches. Hoping to gain a plenary indulgence and I offer it for my Uncle Jessie.
And for my taste-test, it would be Sukiya. Been noticing that there is always a queue in this restaurant. Since, again, I assume there will be a few people, I can be seated immediately. Here, you write your name and how many pax in their list to be seated. After eating, you also go to the cashier with your receipt to pay. I do think this process is efficient.
I ordered the Gyudon with Melted Cheese and Veggies combo (PhP259.00) and Teriyaki Chicken ala carte (PhP150.00). The additional teriyaki chicken is a good decision. 😉
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| Sukiya |
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| Gyudon with Melted Cheese, and Teriyaki Chicken |
And my Frappuccino fix at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf where I started this blog.
The Mass presider for the anticipated Mass is Fr. Benny.
For the past weeks, we are presented with the different images of Jesus: Bread of Life, Living Water, etc. Today, the Shepherd.
Three things to note:
- I know my sheep. The Lord knows each one of us. Knowledge makes relationships better.
- They follow me. Jesus commands authority. When we entrust ourselves to Him, He will lead us to our destiny. The true sheep will never go anywhere but to the Lord.
- They shall never perish (I give them eternal life). The shepherd will stake his life for his sheep. But this is where the analogy stops, for Jesus, the Shepherd, gives us eternal life.
After the Mass, I bought items in my checklist before proceeding home: Genteal drops from dry eyes at Mercury Drug at The Landmark, sausage at Big City at Glorietta, and mini chocolate cake at Mary Grace.
N.B. Habemus papam. We now have a new pope, Pope Leo XIV (Cardinal Robert Prevost). It is interesting why he chose the name Leo--the day he was elected (Feast of St. Michael's apparition), the link of St. Michael and the previous Pope Leo XIII. It is also interesting to note the different personalities of the previous Pope Leos--it is as if our prayers were heard, that we need a "warrior" to fight and stand guard for the Church. Pray for Pope Leo XIV!
Labels: Chromebook, food, frappuccino, grocery, mall, Mass, rosary
Racks
It is the first Saturday of May. Planned to leave the condo around 8:30 AM to 9 AM. The confession at the Sto. Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel starts at 8 AM. Left around 9:30 AM.
I was the second in the queue. The confessor is Fr. Jobine. I think he is the priest who blessed my niece's condo unit.
I have enough time to do the 30 minute meditation on The Visitation, prayed the Precious Blood Chaplet devotion before the Saturday Mass. Joined the community in praying The Rosary.
While waiting for the Mass to start, I saw a butterfly perched on the altar. After I took its picture, it flew to the ceiling. It never left during the Mass.
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| Butterfly at the Altar |
The Mass presider is Fr. Paolo.
Easter does not erase suffering or pain. Instead, it grants us the gift of a new vision, new eyes, new all--that all will be well.
No chain can shackle, no prison to jail, no tomb can bury God's love.
The feast of the two apostles being celebrated is St. Philip and St. James (the lower or the younger).
Philip witnessed through Nathanael. More than seeking God, God sought us first.
There is nothing special about James the younger; but, Jesus chose him. We may be small in the eyes of men; but, we are important in the eyes of God.
Fr. Paolo gave the following challenges:
- Grace of clarity. Contentment is the greatest wealth.
- Grace of correctness of vision..
- Grace of charity. Love is blind. Those in love see beyond, despite and inspite of.
After the Mass, went to Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel at The Landmark. It is one of the Jubilee churches. Hoping for the grace to gain plenary indulgence and I offer it to Ate Marisel, who recently departed.
Passed by Anson's to check for a "small" washing machine. Will check different appliance store later for one that would "fit".
And for my taste test, it would be Racks at Glorietta 2. Wanted to try their Wagyu Salpicao but it is not available. What is wrong with the Wagyu salpicao? The restaurant I tried last week also does not have it. So opted for their Best Rib and Chicken Set (PhP 475.00). It already comes with rice, salad, iced tea, and side dish of your choosing.
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| Racks |
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| Racks decor |
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| Best Rib and Chicken set |
The chicken is quite good, with or without the gravy. The rib is soft but the barbecue sauce is a must. I enjoyed this meal compared to last week's.
Next, I went to Abenson, Automatic Center, and SM Appliance to check for the washing machine being sold in their stores. I will go back to Anson's later after the anticipated Mass.
Of course, I will not miss my Frappuccino fix at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf where I started this blog.
The Mass presider of the anticipated Mass is Fr. Andy.
The life of the disciples in the Gospel is just like us. They pinned their dreams on Jesus, which was shattered as they witnessed the crucifixion. The disciples went back to where they were before (back to fishing).
Jesus standing on the shore shows that He did not leave them. God never abandons us inpite of our mistakes.
On our own effort, we cannot accomplish anything. But with God, we can do anything.
What is important is for us to recognize His presence and follow His instructions. When we surrender our lives to God, miracles happen.
Everyday, God is inviting us for a communion with Him. Our communion with God should be translated on how we live for others.
The success of our Christianity is when people glorify God because of their experience with us.
After the Mass, went to Anson's at The Landmark to buy the
Sharp 5.5kg washing machine. Left Edgar to bring the item to the car after paying for it.
Went to Peri-Peri Chicken to buy food to-go before proceeding home.
N.B. I thought Lyn would be happy with the washing machine. She says it's too big. Aside that it would use a lot of water. It looks small in the picture I forwarded to her via Viber. Decided to buy the
Union 2kg mini-washer in Lazada. Will give the Sharp washing machine to Edgar, the driver, instead. Christmas in May. LOL
Labels: Chromebook, computer, food, frappuccino, mall, Mass, shopping
