Delish Rainbow & Psalms

My photo
Just like a warm, healthy and hearty chowder, the author can not be described in merely simple words... A lady who holds some meaty character in a lean structure. Who takes delight in her Creator and the vast masterpiece that He charmingly brought to existence. Gentle but strong, she is full of surprises! Her eyes glow in awe of His works! Oh, how can someone like her be described? She is like raindrops and sunshine in autumn hours!

Hearty Chowder's: Autumn Love (book preview)

Autumn Love Preview

Autumn L♡ve from Jm dela Rama on Vimeo.

"Autumn leaves falling, changing of hues. The wind is cool yet the sun rays stay warm. Love is everywhere!"

I never thought I could even try to put together the "scenes" I've experienced during my first trip to Europe. I was soo overwhelmed and got soo in love with the whole journey! It was all in all comforting, inspiring, delightful and fulfilling! I'm not a writer but I was able to recently write and finish my first coffee-table book. I'm not into making videos but surprisingly I was able to create this one.

I think there's Someone working with me all this time. :) I'm inspired! Enjoy... ♡

THIS BLOG IS BEING UPDATED AT: CLICK & VISIT ME HERE =)

25 January 2011

"Walk with Me"

"I know I'll never get lost whenever I am with the Lover of my soul." - October 2009, Avenue des Champs-Elysees.
(Photo by: Nina)
God is the Author of creative romance. Not the Hollywood kind of love!

He's been longing to be intimate with us since way way back! Are you going to take His hand and walk with Him? Or are you going to do things your way? The thing is ~ He is a true Gentleman who patiently waits & who lovingly pursues. Now, it's up to you to say, "I DO". ☀

09 November 2010

How's your "VIEW"?







My photography all around lens: Canon 24-105mm (very limited). 

God's lens: the widest and longest wide-angle and telephoto lens there is in the world (limitless)! ;)
I'd rather let Him do His thing than rely on my own thoughts & ways. I'd rather trust His eyes than trust my own sight and I'd rather place my hope in Him whose view is endless than be confident on my own understanding. He is a God of impossibilities, His view is simply breathtaking! :) Oh la love! 


Images Courtesy of NASA - Aurora over Lac du Flambeau, Wis. and Canon :)

30 September 2010

To march & follow...

Early quiet morning, opened my laptop and "Ilumina", clicked Exodus... The introduction of this book spoke something special in my heart... March, obey & follow... =) 

GET UP . . . leave . . . take off–these words are good ones for those trapped or enslaved. Some resist their marching orders, however, preferring present surroundings to a new, unknown environment. It’s not easy to trade the comfortable security of the known for an uncertain future. But what if God gives the order to move? Will we follow his lead? Exodus describes a series of God’s calls and the responses of his people.
Four hundred years had passed since Joseph moved his family to Egypt. These descendants of Abraham had now grown to over two million strong. To Egypt’s new pharaoh, these Hebrews were foreigners, and their numbers were frightening. Pharaoh decided to make them slaves so they wouldn’t upset his balance of power. As it turned out, that was his biggest mistake, for God then came to the rescue of his people.
Through a series of strange events, a Hebrew boy named Moses became a prince in Pharaoh’s palace and then an outcast in a wilderness land. God visited Moses in the mysterious flames of a burning bush, and after some discussion, Moses agreed to return to Egypt to lead God’s people out of slavery. Pharaoh was confronted, and through a cycle of plagues and promises made and broken, Israel was torn from his grasp.
It was no easy task to mobilize this mass of humanity, but they marched out of Egypt, through the Red Sea, and into the wilderness behind Moses and the pillars of cloud and fire. Despite continual evidence of God’s love and power, the people complained and began to yearn for their days in Egypt. God provided for their physical and spiritual needs with food and a place to worship, but he also judged their disobedience and unbelief. Then in the dramatic Sinai meeting with Moses, God gave his laws for right living.
God led Moses and the nation of Israel, and he wants to lead us as well. Is he preparing you, like Moses, for a specific task? He will be with you; obey and follow. Is he delivering you from an enemy or a temptation? Trust him, and do what he says. Have you heard his clear moral directions? Read, study, and obey his Word. Is he calling you to true worship? Discover God’s presence in your life, in your home, and in the body of assembled believers. Exodus is the exciting story of God’s guidance. Read with the determination to follow God wherever he leads. ♡

08 February 2010

"PAH-REEH" (in His sweetest time)

They say that Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world. I can not say that it is the MOST ROMANTIC since everywhere I go I feel that LOVE IS ALWAYS IN THE AIR.! ♡♡♡ Oh, the cheesiness inside of me! But, undoubtedly, it is really one of the most charming cities I have ever been to! Just looking at the famous eiffel tower on the TV screen makes me sigh and say "aaaahhh"...


Last October 12, 2009 was my official first day in the city named "Pah-reeh". It was a dream come true since I waited, longed, hoped, prayed, sought, fought and desired for six to seven long years before I tasted, felt, smelled, perceived and savored my much awaited journey to Europe. And never, as in never-never-ever in my wildest dream nor imagination can ever seize the beauty of God's perfect timing and His awesome promises being fulfilled!


Section: Q & A (In random order, almost.)


Why in all countries did you dreamed of going to France?
Hmm... good question. Why France? 
Yes, that was my question. Hello? 
Actually, it all started when I was in college. (Please don't start computing my age. That's considered rude in France!) I took up French in my foreign language class and since then I dreamed of going to this famous place. In general, one of my childhood dreams was really - to travel and explore the world. On top of my list were Australia and Europe.  
How did your parents react?
The first time they heard about my plan, they were quiet and calm. Expression-less (is there such a word?). Maybe they didn't know that I was serious back then. Then year after year after year, I've been telling them about my plan. It was only in 2009 that they had a definite reaction. My Mom was excited, happy and oh yes, it was a definite yes for her. My Dad was quite "çomme çi çomme ça" or felt so-so with the matter. I think it's because he knows how expensive it is to travel to Europe and secondly, it's going to be my first trip in Europe, without them, alone, his only daughter, away and miles away from them. But in the end, I think he can't do anything about it anymore and so he supported my desire to explore the land of macaroons!
Who were your companions? 
I was with my college friend whom I've planned the trip years ago - Analynne. And my make-up artist friend, Nina whom for some reason was just on time to join us since she also wants to go to France to have a vacation and to study at Make Up Forever in Paris. 
What was your favorite place?
Wow! There's a lot! For one, the district where our apartment was located was just beautiful! We were near restaurants, fountain de Saint Michael and the famous Notre Dame Cathedral. Analynne was the one who searched for our apartment.
Next, I love Loire Valley where my childhood fairy tale dreams came true! It was a royal experience. The only thing that's missing was my prince charming or in french "Mon Prince Charmant". My favorite Chataeux were Cheverny, Chambord, Amboise (since Ever After was filmed there) and ofcourse Chateau du Clos Luce (the final residence of the great Leonardo Da Vinci). Chateau Versailles was one special place for me too. It was where I really pondered on God's answered prayer to me, His works and magnificence. That's where I savored my autumn hours. 
Wait, you didn't mention the Eiffel tower as one of your favorite places. How come? 
I know. It's because it's not on the top of my list. Yes, I sighed when I finally saw it after hours and hours of walk on our 2nd day. But it was just that. Nothing really special. But it was like a wake up call and a daily reminder to me that I was really already in Paris. My promised land in that season! 
Any unforgettable experience?
I can not state just one because every single day was unforgettable. But as mentioned, I really had a special time in Versailles. I even went there thrice. My "quiet times" in our apartment was also unforgettable. 
Oh and yes, we saw a Brad Pitt look alike in Amboise! He works in a souvenir shop. A younger version of Brad Pitt with not so prominent jaw line. Blonde and blue-eyed. When he said "au revoir" (good bye), I think I replied in Italian instead of French. Har-har! 
Oh, and I just remembered, our flight from Paris to Venice gave me a majestic view of the Alps! It took my breath away - literally and figuratively! Awwws!
Tell us about your most memorable adventure.
I had the opportunity to explore the place alone! "All by myself....I loved to be...all by myself tralalalala!" And that was my desire, to go to a place where I can just walk and enjoy the country, its culture and people. It was memorable because I was able to go from one place to another, commuting through their RER, meeting new friends, taking photos of the sceneries, enjoying my time alone, talking to strangers in their native language (tried to)... It was a great experience! 
Did you meet someone interesting?
By interesting, you mean my type? I got to see 2 interesting looking men. One was in Loire Valley train station who looks like he is having a "GQ" magazine moment, with his grey trench coat and stylish hair-do while the sun's rays played as his backdrop. There was an eye-contact but the thing is I was wearing my sunglasses during that time. So I guess that wasn't counted at all haha. The second guy was actually from Venice. I didn't see him entirely since I was avoiding to make any eye contact (a way to guard myself). But I know that he has deep set eyes, dark hair, tall and medium built. He looks very regal or maybe he's a son of a mafia leader or some sort!?! Yah, I saw his Dad with him, they really look like those guys from mafia films - The Godfather! Oh and yes he was elegantly handling a Louis Vuitton folder! Saucy! 
But if you mean interesting in my own language, I can say that I met a bunch of interesting and unforgettable people during my trip. Divine appointments indeed! I had new friendships to keep! I met Ate Luzviminda (the sister of Liezel, my high school friend), her adorable daughter - Marie Constance, her officemates, Victory friend Karlo and his Mom - Tita Carmen, Nancy and her beau Laurent, Joms (a lovely server in our hotel in Venezia), and other strangers... =p
What are the things that spoke to you before this trip happened?
It was all about the Prayer of Jabez... God's blessings and expansion in my territory. Indeed, it all took place according to His plan. The trip was not just about macaroons and gelato, photography and vacation. It was all about fruitfulness, maturity, growth, being a vessel of God from one place to another, planting seeds and so much more! It was about His daily miracles, goodness and faithfulness all through out! 
Any funny expectations from the people around you about this trip?
The most common expectation was that maybe, just maybe, I would finally meet "the one" during this trip. Almost everyone was hopeful including my parents. I can't blame them since it's the perfect place to find romance. The perfect place to enjoy the trip with someone while the autumn leaves are falling, the gentle breeze embracing your very skin and the fragrance of love is everywhere! Oooh-la-la enough of the love tone!
Before I left for this trip, a friend of mine even told me, "JM, bring back the romance from Paris". I think I did. But, instead of bringing back the romance from Paris through "the one", "The One and only" was the one who patiently romanced me in Paris! I say "patiently" because I was stubborn and blind to see that. God was all over the place, telling me that His love for me is tremendously special, more special than anyone can give or offer. He brought me in one of the most romantic places in the world to simply reiterate how He is so in love with me! No words can amount to that kind of love. It was that purest of pure love affair that changed me forever.
What advice can you share to others about life and traveling?
In life: 
1. believe in BIG and GREATER things! 
2. trust in God's perfect timeline, unlimited resources and awesome blueprint. 
3. Be prepared to be used by Him at all times. 4. Never underestimate a huge God and never let anyone nor anything hinder you from enjoying His promises.
In traveling: 
1. travel light... light in heart that is. Don't let any fear, anger, annoyance nor anxiety keep you from savoring your trip. 
2. Always open your eyes to the beauty around you and open your heart to God's voice through the things He's surrounding you with (good or bad). The possibilities are endless! 
3. be kind... they say French are rude. It's not true. Every where you go there is a chance to meet rude people. But if you show them kindness (good values) and try to communicate to them through their own language, I'm pretty sure you'll even gain new friends during your trip. 4. pray, explore and enjoy! 


I can say that the trip itself was not entirely perfect. It was even a testing of your endurance, patience and faith. But as His Word says, through Him all things work together for good (Romans 8:28). I have expectations for this trip...Let me just say that He even exceeded my hopes and dreams. He simply gave me a RENDEZVOUS TO REMEMBER. ♥♡♥

03 December 2009

A place called HONG KONG

Here are my first few travel photographs in a busy place called, HONG KONG (2007). {Please don't steal from me by copying the photos in this blogsite. All photos here are copyrighted. Send me a comment/ message if you want any of the photos in this site. Thank you.} (=


The famous LV shop


at the Harbour...

Victoria Peak


HK Skyscrapers


Causeway Bay


Hong Kong Sunset

24 November 2009

AN EXTRAVAGANT BACHELORETTE WISH LIST: Things that I don't really need but can wish for =)








1. A Travel/ Flight Gift Card


One Sky Jet Gift Card
$50,000 up to $10 million




One Sky Jet passengers can purchase charter flights using prepaid cards. Flights seat up to 13, and feature flat-screen TVs, chef-prepared meals, and a masseuse and aesthetician (for facials and spa treatments). Prices range from $20,000 (for New York to Miami and back) to $75,000 for a round-trip flight from New York to London. Now, this is the way to travel!
Just make sure your gift card is loaded! (www.onesky.com)


2. Manolo Blahnik Black & White Patent Leather Shoe Pumps

Php15,920 ($338)


When I was a kid, my one and only Lolo Max used to tease me a lot. It brings him joy and fulfillment whenever he makes me cry! That's how much he loves me.
I have a lot of memories of him and even remember him through a number of great things - including his suave and distinct fashion sense! One of his best chic piece was his signature black and white patent leather shoes which looks so much of Manolo Blahnik's sweet twin... Of course, it's flat and wide ~ fitted for real men like my grandpa! ;) I definitely don't need this one. It just reminds me of him.
3. A Jollibee (fast food restaurant) Franchise ~ Lowie-inspired (PINOY na PINOY!)
How much is the investment required for a Jollibee restaurant?
The financial requirement depending on the final store size and facilities ranges from Php 15 to 30 Million "ONLY".
4. Family Get Away at Villa Feltrinelli
A fun and splendid time in Italy: to visit and catch up with a good family friend.


5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.....50....100...
What a list! And to think that I'm not yet done with it! It's nice to desire for extravagant things like these. But, at the end of the day, you need to check your heart if your purpose and motive to achieve such things are in its rightful place.

This was supposed to be a list just for fun. But, while browsing each number, I realized that I don't really need these things. Sure, they are lovely stuffs! Who doesn't want to travel the world in comfort and style? To have your personal chef prepare your favorite cuisine? To invest in a sure hit franchising business? Wear your Manolos which remind you of your grandpa? And to have a sweet vaca with your family and visit a friend?


All these things are great but at the end of the day it's all a matter of the HEART. God wants us to desire greater things but the question is: Is it in line with His will, His heart and plan for you? 2009 brought me wonderful things. Things that my thoughts and imaginations hoped and dreamed of. You know what, they even surpassed all my wildest prayers and longings! They were all perfect because a perfect God made all the impossibilities - POSSIBLE! Can't wait for what's in store for me and my loved ones this 2010! His timing and ways are always perfect!
[For now, this is just a fun "wish list" but we'll never know where God will take and lead me next. ;) ]
-trust and have faith for greater things-
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:11-13)

"OH YES, SHE WAS ALL EARS!"

WHAT MAKES A GOOD LISTENER?

WHICH ONE ARE YOU?
a.) the one who listens intently, without batting an eyelid = 100% FOCUS
b.) the one who tries to listen but then swings by in his own world every 20 seconds or so
c.) the one who already mastered being a "good listener" and just nods every now and then or says "ah-huh" or "uhm" in between pauses

I've experienced being with a genuine listener. She didn't only listened to my lengthy stories but what surprised me was how she patiently listened to me while singing Everything But The Girl's "DIDN'T KNOW I WAS LOOKING FOR LOVE". It really shocked me!

Basically, these are the common things people do when I sing (note: some are exaggerated and some are not):
1. they try to listen to the first few words then blurts out a really really loud laughter
2. they say, "hey, you can really recite a good poem"
3. they just pretend not to hear anything
4. they just utter a sarcasm to stop you from singing
5. well, the list can go on but i don't have any intention to prolong this list ;p

It was just so different for me to experience someone who can... not only listen to my stories but someone who can endure me, singing in front of her. As in, she really LISTENED and even sang the song's chorus with me. Barely I meet people like her!

This may sound very trivial, I know. But I really appreciate and take delight in simple things like this.

Thank you Cecilia! =)