Embracing God's Grace 🌺💓🙏

🌺💓🙏 Embracing God's Grace: My Life with Systemic Sclerosis 🌺💓🙏

Autoimmune diseases are chronic conditions in which one's immune system attacks healthy cells in the body by mistake, causing inflammation, and severe damage to different organs.

Unfortunately, I was recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, and it has been a stressful, challenging, and overwhelming experience.

At first, this news caught me off guard, and I wasn't ready for what was to come. However, as time went by, I realized how this condition has changed my outlook on life, my appreciation for the gift of life, and my relationship with God. Every day since my diagnosis has been a faith-building experience, and I am grateful still to the Lord.

I remember when I first visited the doctor. I was feeling weak, lethargic, and my muscles were aching, among other symptoms. I underwent numerous tests, and then came the verdict - "You have an autoimmune disease." My world came crashing down, and I went into isolation. I wasn't sure how to tell my family, and I didn't have the courage to face the truth.

  

However, through prayers and reading the scriptures, something began to shift in me. I realized that God didn't give me this condition as a punishment. Rather, it was an opportunity for me to grow spiritually, develop strength, and encourage others going through similar situations. I began to learn that being thankful to the Lord every day was the best approach to a better and more fulfilling life.

Now, even though I struggle with the symptoms that come with the disease, I am thankful still to the Lord every day. I am grateful for the days I wake up and accomplish simple tasks, and for my family, that has been supportive all through. Despite the unpredictable flare-ups and medical appointments, I am happy to have another day to live.

My diagnosis with an autoimmune disease may have changed my life forever, it changed my appearance but it has given me an appreciation for life and renewed my relationship with God. I am thankful for every single day that have, and I am determined to make the best of it. If you are going through a tough situation, know that with faith, hope, and thankfulness, you can conquer anything.

I am forever grateful and thankful to the Author and Giver of Life.
Thank you, Lord, for giving me another year in my life. 
🌺💓🙏

#HappyBirthday,

#NatalDay,

#Birthday,

#Bornday,

#HappyBirthdayiStariray,

#AutoimmuneDisease,

#SystemicSclerosis,

#ScleroDerma,
#EmbracingGodsGrace,

#istariray23moments,

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Infrastructure

"A good infrastructure facade is more than just an architectural marvel; it is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of design to shape our surroundings. It stands tall, silently inviting us to contemplate the harmony between functionality and aesthetics. 

But amidst the grandeur, let us ponder - what lies beyond the facade? What stories of progress and innovation are hidden within its walls?" 

Now, let me ask you: In a world obsessed with appearances, what deeper meanings or hidden truths do you think we often miss when admiring a stunning infrastructure facade?

#SMMOA,
#Architecture,
#infrastructure,

#istariray23laboy,

#istariray23travel,

#istariray23moments,
#istariray23photography,

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10 Types of DAD

"A father's love is a timeless gift, a guiding light that illuminates our path. On this special day, we celebrate the men who have shaped us, inspired us, and shown us the true meaning of strength and dedication. Their words of wisdom echo in our hearts, reminding us to be courageous, compassionate, and kind. 

Today, let us honor not just fathers, but also the unwavering bond that connects us, for their love knows no bounds and their presence forever blesses our lives."

#Ama,

#Tatay,

#Papa,

#Dada,

#Daddy,

#Papi,

#Papito,

#Padre,

#Father,

#FathersDay,
#HappyFathersDay,

#TypesOfDad,

#arkitekyuklid,

#istariray23moments,

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Someday....

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Araw Ng Kalayaan

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan Pilipinas kong Mahal❤️

Photos are taken from SM Southmall

#arawngkalayaan,

#PhilippinesIndependanceDay,

#phindependanceday,

#istariray23moments,

#istariray23photography

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100,000 Views

We got 100,000 views on my review in Google Local Guide

Thank you, Google for recognizing😊

#GoogleMaps,
#GoogleReview,
#GoogleLocalGuide,
#100000Views,
#istariray23moments,

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Beef 🥩 Nilaga

Beef Nilaga is a traditional Filipino dish known for its comforting flavors and simplicity. "Nilaga" means "boiled" in Tagalog, which perfectly describes the cooking method for this dish. It typically consists of tender beef chunks, vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, along with savory broth and seasonings.

The beauty of Beef Nilaga lies in its hearty and satisfying nature. The slow simmering of the beef allows it to become incredibly tender and flavorful, while the vegetables absorb the delicious broth, creating a nourishing and comforting meal. It is often enjoyed during rainy or colder days as it brings warmth and a sense of home.

Beef Nilaga is not only a delicious dish but also a reflection of Filipino culture and culinary heritage. It showcases the simplicity and resourcefulness of Filipino cooking, utilizing basic ingredients to create something truly comforting and tasty.

Whether enjoyed with steamed rice or eaten on its own, Beef Nilaga is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate, making it a beloved favorite among Filipino households.

Here's a simple recipe for Beef Nilaga:

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beef shank or stewing beef, cut into chunks

- 4-5 cups water

- 2 onions, peeled and quartered

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2-3 potatoes, peeled and quartered

- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into thick rounds

- 1 small cabbage, cut into wedges

- Fish sauce (patis) or salt, to taste

- Ground black pepper, to taste

- Optional: 1 bundle of pechay (bok choy) or green beans

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, add the beef chunks and water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours or until the beef becomes tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.

2. Once the beef is tender, add the onions and garlic to the pot. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the onions soften and the flavors meld together.

3. Add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Let them cook for about 5 minutes or until they start to become tender.

4. Next, add the cabbage wedges and season with fish sauce (or salt) and ground black pepper according to your taste. You can also add a bit of patis for additional flavor if desired.

5. If using pechay or green beans, add them to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking as they cook relatively quickly.

6. Continue simmering the beef nilaga until all the vegetables are cooked through but still retain their texture. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve hot in soup bowls with steamed rice on the side. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of Beef Nilaga!

Remember, you can always adjust the ingredients and quantities according to your preference. Feel free to add other vegetables that you enjoy, too. 

Enjoy your homemade Beef Nilaga!

#beefnilaga,

#nilagangbaka,

#ulam,

#viand,

#sabaw,

#istariray23menu,

#istariray23recipe,

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June

"June arrives like a whispered promise, carrying with it the essence of new beginnings and endless possibilities. It is the month when nature unfurls its vibrant tapestry, adorning the world in a kaleidoscope of colors as if to say,

'Here is beauty in its purest form.' In the gentle warmth of June's embrace, time seems to slow down, allowing us to savor each precious moment. It is a time when daylight stretches out lazily, gifting us longer evenings for adventures and contemplation.


#June,
#MonthOfJune,
#Junio,
#Hunyo,
#istariray23moments,

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