My First Snowfall

When we think of America, SNOW is always part of it. I’ve grown up in Philippines; where there is no snow at all. That is why I can’t wait for my first snowfall experience. I can still recall how God made it so special for me to remember. Dec. 1, 2007. We didn’t expect that it would snow that day.

My hubby and I were so busy preparing foods for our early Christmas Party at church but unexpectedly we received a call and then it was being cancelled because of a coming storm.  The sky starting to change color. It became darker and wind blew and it started to rain. I was downstairs when my husband calls me that it was raining snow. When I first saw it at the window, I didn’t appreciate it. Rapidly, the snow changed everything outside. The trees, roads and even roof of the houses were being coated of its white pureness color. WOW, it was amazingly beautiful. We went outside, it was a little uncomfortable for me because it was too cold yet I can’t control the feeling of excitement within me. I can feel the Spirit of Christmas.

When you hear the word “Christmas”, what is the first thing that you think of?, the christmas carols, the gifts, the fun that the season brings or something else?

For me, contemplating the truth will give more meaning and reason why we need to celebrate Christmas. No matter where you are.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,  ”Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”  Luke 2:8-14 (NIV)

Holiday Visit in Tucson, AZ (2007)

It is been a while that I have not seen my in-laws and at the same time, Greg surely misses his parents. The timing was good leaving Seattle winter “for awhile” and embracing the good weather of Arizona. Mostly people love to go there especially in winter because it is not as cold. Greg and I drove from our place in Bellevue to Tucson AZ. It is always good to travel with your spouse. For me, there is nothing as more exciting to be with your partner.

Dec. 25, 2007 (Tucson, Arizona)

 Spending my time with my in-laws for more or less half of the month was one of the best things that I will always cherish. ( Mama Margz and Papa Dels. 12-25-07).

Sonora Desert Museum

Greg and I got the chance to visit Arizona- Sonora Desert Museum a world-renowned zoo, natural history museum and botanical garden, all in one place. The place was so beautiful and interesting.  Another thing that I have witnessed during my stay in Tucson, AZ, was the Pow-Wow, celebration of American Indian Culture. Dazzling and full of character costumes.

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Pow-Wow Native American Show


…We went to Nogales, Mexico. It was a fun visit and it reminds me of Philippines. It was a little disappointing because we haven’t visited some of their tourist destinations. Our time was too limited but on the other hand it was a good glimpse experience. So if you are interested to go and visit Mexico, check this out Sonora Turismo. 

Nogales, Mexico

 

 

When we drove back home to Seattle, WA. Greg and I decided to stay and spent our 7 months anniversary in San Francisco, CA. As I can remember, the weather didn’t cooperate too well that day but it didn’t hinder us from enjoying our time together. You will be thrilled with their famous Cable Cars, which most people especially tourists enjoy. My husband and I only have seen some part of San Francisco city. You can even enjoy the city by just walking around but of course, you can’t leave San Francisco without stopping at their famous tourist attraction the Golden Gate Bridge.  I didn’t really see the real splendor of this bridge because of the weather yet I have a fun and exciting visit in San Fran, not only seeing these beautiful attractions the city has but also to see some of may “kababayan” ( fellow Filipinos) in the area that made me feel at “home”. 

San Francisco,  CA (Downtown)Cable Car

                                                 

Golden Gate Bridge

Another astounding “vista” that we saw was Mt. Shasta.. WOW, I was tongue-tied when I saw it. It was tremendously stunning. A snap photo of the mountain and it was photographed by yours truly. Moreover, we have seen a good restaurant named Lily”s, It was not a fancy restaurant but it can give you a very satisfying dining and you can also see outside the window part of Mountain. Actually it was my husband who picked because it has a sound of my name.

Heavenly View

 Photograph by: Lilibeth B. Lins (01-2008)

I’ve seen a lot of scenery along the way. The scenery is something that you can reflect upon, and think about how God created things so beautifully and uniquely. Every time I see these things, it reminds me of His greatness.It was a long drive for Greg and I yet very fulfilling. Mostly it was long for Greg – he drove for about 6 days and I only drove for about 2 hours.  He thought it would be funny if I drove through LA, and I learned that I could be an excellent racing driver someday with only a little more practice.