A Hidden Church, Heartfelt Prayers, Sweet Scramble Shakes, and a Daughter's Exciting Back-to-School Shopping Day

Some days remind us that life is a beautiful blend of reflection, family, simple joys, and unexpected blessings.

We traveled to Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat to attend the burial mass of the father of my high school classmate. The mass was held at Our Lady of Manaoag Church, a hidden gem tucked away in a quiet corner of a barangay. If you were simply passing by, you might never imagine that such a beautiful church stood there.

From the outside, the church appears simple and modest, but stepping inside reveals a peaceful and solemn atmosphere. The entire area is surrounded by towering trees, lush greenery, and beautiful wild hanging plants that create a refreshing and prayerful environment. The serenity of the place made the mass even more meaningful.

After the mass, while the family was busy taking pictures and gathering for their memorial photos, my daughter suddenly asked if she could buy a scramble shake. We found a nearby vendor, and she happily enjoyed her colorful icy treat while waiting. It was one of those little moments that brought smiles even during a solemn occasion. Children truly have a special way of brightening the atmosphere wherever they go.

We then proceeded to the cemetery, where we offered prayers for the eternal repose of her father's soul. It was a touching moment as family and friends gathered together to honor his memory and celebrate a life well lived.
After spending some time with the family at their home, we headed to the market for another important mission, school supplies shopping!

This part of the trip became extra special because of two generous supporters of my daughter's farming vlog. As new vloggers, we only have a small number of followers, but we are blessed with people who genuinely support and encourage our journey. These two kind hearted supporters are working abroad and have already built their families there. Although they now live far away, they still enjoy watching my daughter's farming adventures.

Because of their generosity, my daughter was able to buy notebooks, paper, crayons, socks, a lunch box, a tumbler, and a small tray to organize her school supplies. She focusing in coloring pink things, no wonder her favorite color is pink.

One of my favorite moments was watching her confidently line up at the cashier by herself. She carefully paid for her purchases while happily chatting with the staff. The cashier kept asking her questions, and she eagerly answered every one of them. She may not always be talkative in front of the camera, but in person, she is definitely a little chatterbox! She always asking and sometimes she still answering her own question.

The journey home was filled with gratitude for friendships that endure through the years, for family who stand together during difficult times, for generous supporters, and for the simple moments that make life meaningful.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. All photos used in this blog are my own and were personally edited using Canva.

Have a nice day! 💛