Good evening! Maganda hapon! On this day 34 years ago I experienced one of God’s miracles, that is, the birth of my daughter, Karen. Karen was, as I remember, laughing and smiling most of the time. She was a very happy baby. I’m not surprised that she chose chocolate as her theme. Even as a small child she loved chocolate. She often wore more of it than she actually ate. Maybe that was the beginning of her aspirations to be a make up artist. Unfortunately, my time with her was cut short when she and her mother came back the PI before she was 2 years old.
In 1979 I received a picture of Karen when she was 4 years old and I kept that picture in my wallet for more than 20 years until it started to fall apart at which time I placed her picture on my refrigerator. Every morning as I prepared my breakfast I would say hello and ask her how she was doing. I would tell her I loved her. I worried about her health. I wondered about her education. I asked my self how she is making a living. Will I ever see her again? I wondered if she was married yet.
Then, on July 23, 2004, God must have determined that the time was right for me and gave me another chance. I received a phone call that changed my life. At first I thought I was being called by a telemarketer. “Hello, is this Martin W. Marek” ? Sabe ko, yes….. etc.
I finally got to see Karen when she came back to the States for another tour in September. When I first saw her my heart was pumping so fast that I thought it would explode. I couldn’t believe I was actually holding her in my arms again. What a joy to see how beautiful she really was. I couldn’t believe how humble and down to earth she was. Is this really my child?
For the next four years we talked on the phone, texted each other and spent a lot of time sending emails getting to know each other again. During this time she told me about her boyfriend, Ariel. In pictures that she sent to me in emails I could see that he was a good looking man and that they made a handsome couple. She also sent me pictures of him with the kids. It looked like he was really enjoying their company. But it wasn’t until I arrived here and finally met him that I could really determine whether he was right for Karen. It didn’t take long for me to see that they are really made for each other.
His love and respect for Karen is without a doubt. He is very much a gentleman. He treats Prince and Winona as if they were his children, with love and understanding. His soft spoken ways make it easy to see why Karen is so much in love with him. I have also had the opportunity to meet Karen and Ariel’s friends since I arrived. You can tell a lot about a person by the company he or she keeps. I would feel very lucky to have such good friends. I’ve also had the chance to meet with many of Karen’s closest relatives. You all have been so kind to me; it makes me feel good to know that I now have such a wonderful extended family.
Since Karen is my only child, it will great to have Ariel as my son-in-law. I don’t think I could have chosen a better person myself. He will like a son I never had. I am really going to enjoy my life even more now that he is a part of it. So, it is with great pleasure and no reservations that I gave my blessings to Karen and Ariel. I never thought that I would get the chance to walk Karen down the aisle but here I am. God is good. God is great. May God be with you always. Good luck in your lives together. I love you all very much!
Ariel's testimony
ARIEL'S TESTIMONY:I belong to a family of eight, comprising of 7 boys and 1 girl. For 10 years I was the “bunso”, but I never got any special attention/treatment especially from my father. At that time, I felt “sawa na siya sa boys” and I thought that my speech disability was an added reason why he never really showed any interest in me.
At an early age, I felt rejected by my Dad. This further hindered the development of my speech, and made me feel insecure. These greatly affected my self-worth.
Sports were the means by which I tried to cope with this. I engaged myself in various sports and always made sure I did my best. Fortunately, I excelled in volleyball and soon played for my school and the Philippine team. Because of the recognition I got from the sport, I earned my father’s respect and acceptance which made me work even harder. My achievements in this sport made me popular, accepted, and admired; however, it also paved the way to feed my pride and open doors to engage myself in immorality. It was also during that time when I was invited to become a ramp model, and this further inflated my ego. Women were all around me, and I got involved with most of them. This gave me temporary fulfillment and thought that it added value to my self-worth. Still wanting to improve my image, I joined a fraternity to give myself a more macho effect.
(At this point, I would like to ask for forgiveness from my brother, Kuya Von. Kuya, I am sorry for lying to you before when I denied joining a fraternity and for not submitting to your authority.)
Things suddenly changed, when at one time in my life, I was under surveillance.
For the first time I experienced the real and true sense of the word, “fear”. I realized that there were a lot of things beyond my control. I ran from one place to another trying to hide, but the threat of death was always so near. The hit man seemed to know every single move I made, what I wore, and where I went. It came to a point where I just could not trust anyone, not even my own shadow. I have reached a point of paranoia where in one of my sorties, everyone I met looked like hired gunmen. During one pictorial, I noticed a chopper hovering over us and I instantly hid at the back of my co-workers. Fear and death overwhelmed me; my surroundings grew dark and seemed as if it was closing in on me, and all I could think of doing was to run to my room and hide. Upon entering the room, for some reason, my vision was tunneled to the Bible at the corner of the room. When I opened it, the first verse I saw was John 3:16 which reads, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The words shall not perish struck me and never before had it been so real to me. It instantly calmed me down and brought light to my gloomy mind. It is so hard to explain the experience I encountered that day. Out of fear and desperation, I cried and bowed down before a God I never knew in such a personal way before. I found myself desperately calling out to Him for help.
After that incident, I called my girlfriend and told her about what happened. Looking back, I can see God’s strong hand in my life and that situation, because she told me that her doctor had invited her to join an event in CCF. I joined her and learned more about the verse that spoke to me in that most desperate moment in my life. I learned that Jesus died on the cross and paid for the penalty of my sins, that He rose again on the 3rd day, and that He gave His life up for me. I needed to pray and ask for His forgiveness, accept His grace & unconditional love, and make Jesus my Lord and Savior from that day forward.
After accepting Jesus Christ in my life, there has been an ongoing battle between my old and new self. He never promised that all my troubles would disappear, but I was sure that He was my fortress and strength in all the trials I faced and will face. Before my life with Christ, I was relying on my own strength and will to get past all the trials I encountered. But now, I can boldly face these problems because I have cast all my cares to Him and continue to trust only in God’s strength, power, and sovereignty over my life.
Our wedding has been another testimony of God’s perfect will and hand in our lives. We literally started from zero, but trusted that God will fulfill and be faithful to His promises to us. With each day that came as we planned this, God’s wonders and miracles unfolded. Karen and I could just stand in awe by how He has provided for us in every step of the way, and we can only give back all the glory and praise that is due to Him alone!
At an early age, I felt rejected by my Dad. This further hindered the development of my speech, and made me feel insecure. These greatly affected my self-worth.
Sports were the means by which I tried to cope with this. I engaged myself in various sports and always made sure I did my best. Fortunately, I excelled in volleyball and soon played for my school and the Philippine team. Because of the recognition I got from the sport, I earned my father’s respect and acceptance which made me work even harder. My achievements in this sport made me popular, accepted, and admired; however, it also paved the way to feed my pride and open doors to engage myself in immorality. It was also during that time when I was invited to become a ramp model, and this further inflated my ego. Women were all around me, and I got involved with most of them. This gave me temporary fulfillment and thought that it added value to my self-worth. Still wanting to improve my image, I joined a fraternity to give myself a more macho effect.
(At this point, I would like to ask for forgiveness from my brother, Kuya Von. Kuya, I am sorry for lying to you before when I denied joining a fraternity and for not submitting to your authority.)
Things suddenly changed, when at one time in my life, I was under surveillance.
For the first time I experienced the real and true sense of the word, “fear”. I realized that there were a lot of things beyond my control. I ran from one place to another trying to hide, but the threat of death was always so near. The hit man seemed to know every single move I made, what I wore, and where I went. It came to a point where I just could not trust anyone, not even my own shadow. I have reached a point of paranoia where in one of my sorties, everyone I met looked like hired gunmen. During one pictorial, I noticed a chopper hovering over us and I instantly hid at the back of my co-workers. Fear and death overwhelmed me; my surroundings grew dark and seemed as if it was closing in on me, and all I could think of doing was to run to my room and hide. Upon entering the room, for some reason, my vision was tunneled to the Bible at the corner of the room. When I opened it, the first verse I saw was John 3:16 which reads, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The words shall not perish struck me and never before had it been so real to me. It instantly calmed me down and brought light to my gloomy mind. It is so hard to explain the experience I encountered that day. Out of fear and desperation, I cried and bowed down before a God I never knew in such a personal way before. I found myself desperately calling out to Him for help.
After that incident, I called my girlfriend and told her about what happened. Looking back, I can see God’s strong hand in my life and that situation, because she told me that her doctor had invited her to join an event in CCF. I joined her and learned more about the verse that spoke to me in that most desperate moment in my life. I learned that Jesus died on the cross and paid for the penalty of my sins, that He rose again on the 3rd day, and that He gave His life up for me. I needed to pray and ask for His forgiveness, accept His grace & unconditional love, and make Jesus my Lord and Savior from that day forward.
After accepting Jesus Christ in my life, there has been an ongoing battle between my old and new self. He never promised that all my troubles would disappear, but I was sure that He was my fortress and strength in all the trials I faced and will face. Before my life with Christ, I was relying on my own strength and will to get past all the trials I encountered. But now, I can boldly face these problems because I have cast all my cares to Him and continue to trust only in God’s strength, power, and sovereignty over my life.
Our wedding has been another testimony of God’s perfect will and hand in our lives. We literally started from zero, but trusted that God will fulfill and be faithful to His promises to us. With each day that came as we planned this, God’s wonders and miracles unfolded. Karen and I could just stand in awe by how He has provided for us in every step of the way, and we can only give back all the glory and praise that is due to Him alone!
Jason De Guzman's photos (Imagine Nation)
From Jason:I had a different feeling about this one.
When I first saw the assignment on our worksheet, it didn't register immediately that the couple getting married was Ariel and Karen of Blushing Bride, one of our favorite wedding coordinators. To my mind, they've always been a couple. They're always sweet, even during the tense moments of a wedding, calling each other "Honey". When it did hit me, I felt both nervous and excited. They make such a beautiful couple, both being former models, and I knew this wasn't our typical wedding shoot.
Their supplier friends came in full force to help out too. The make-up was done by Cherry Pacheco-Uy, Threelogy provided their usual wacky antics and an awesome on-site video, catering by Josiah's, hosting by Monique Lopez, the list goes on and on. We were in venerable company.
What I didn't expect was how much I'd be blessed that day as I listened to Ariel and Karen share their life stories, both before and after they met. Aside from modeling, they share a common love for Jesus, and they shared how both their lives have been transformed as a result of knowing Him. I found myself near tears several times. I went home that day with a greater appreciation of just how much God blesses those who love Him. Wow!
To Ariel and Karen, we are truly blessed to have heard your story and witness the fulfillment of God's promise to both of you. May your life together be filled with more testimonies of just how good God is. Thank you for the friendship and the trust. 'Till our next wedding!
Shot with Jayjay Lucas and Riz Candazo for Imagine Nation
When I first saw the assignment on our worksheet, it didn't register immediately that the couple getting married was Ariel and Karen of Blushing Bride, one of our favorite wedding coordinators. To my mind, they've always been a couple. They're always sweet, even during the tense moments of a wedding, calling each other "Honey". When it did hit me, I felt both nervous and excited. They make such a beautiful couple, both being former models, and I knew this wasn't our typical wedding shoot.
Their supplier friends came in full force to help out too. The make-up was done by Cherry Pacheco-Uy, Threelogy provided their usual wacky antics and an awesome on-site video, catering by Josiah's, hosting by Monique Lopez, the list goes on and on. We were in venerable company.
What I didn't expect was how much I'd be blessed that day as I listened to Ariel and Karen share their life stories, both before and after they met. Aside from modeling, they share a common love for Jesus, and they shared how both their lives have been transformed as a result of knowing Him. I found myself near tears several times. I went home that day with a greater appreciation of just how much God blesses those who love Him. Wow!
To Ariel and Karen, we are truly blessed to have heard your story and witness the fulfillment of God's promise to both of you. May your life together be filled with more testimonies of just how good God is. Thank you for the friendship and the trust. 'Till our next wedding!
Shot with Jayjay Lucas and Riz Candazo for Imagine Nation
Jayjay Lucas' (Imagine Nation) photos
From Jayjay:
One of the most tear-jerking weddings I ever shot.. I was so blessed with the testimonies of these two! was kinda hard shooting with teary eyes.. hay with God indeed all things are possible.. If they look familiar to some of you, they are Ariel and Karen of Blushing Bride (http://www.theblushingbride.us/).. They finally got married and here are some snaps from their beautiful day. Although it rained before the ceremony started.. it was raining more inside Blue Leaf..I never shot so many teary eyed guests that day.. that’s how beautiful their story is.. and it’s God’s story. Wish can I get a copy of their testimony so I could share it here in my blog oh if you scroll down you may see some pips from That’s Entertainment..
Shot with Jason de Guzman and Riz Candazo for Imagine Nation Photography
One of the most tear-jerking weddings I ever shot.. I was so blessed with the testimonies of these two! was kinda hard shooting with teary eyes.. hay with God indeed all things are possible.. If they look familiar to some of you, they are Ariel and Karen of Blushing Bride (http://www.theblushingbride.us/).. They finally got married and here are some snaps from their beautiful day. Although it rained before the ceremony started.. it was raining more inside Blue Leaf..I never shot so many teary eyed guests that day.. that’s how beautiful their story is.. and it’s God’s story. Wish can I get a copy of their testimony so I could share it here in my blog oh if you scroll down you may see some pips from That’s Entertainment..
Shot with Jason de Guzman and Riz Candazo for Imagine Nation Photography
Our Suppliers (the best!)
Caterer Josiah's Catering
Ceremony venue Blue Leaf
Coordinator Blushing Bride
Hotel Dusit Thani
Reception venue Blue Leaf
Designer Nono Palmos
Entourage's Gown Michelle Lim
Suit/Barong Nono Palmos
Cake Clay Cakes
Mini cakes Joy San Gabriel
Car rental Don Robert's bridal car
Band Freedom
Emcee Monique Lopez-Ong
Florist Eve & Co
Event stylist Henry Pascual
Gift registries Rustan's
Make up Cherry Pacheco
Hair stylist Ney Guese
Entourage's makeup Razel "Pong" Niu
Entourage's hair stylist Edwin Jore
Invitation Adworks Graphics
Photographer Jayjay Lucas, Jason de Guzman & Riz of Imagine Nation
Photo Booth Pose & Print
Videographer Threelogy
Projector Dennis Sy
Sound Sytem Strada Audio
Genset c/o Blue leaf
Give-aways ZEN
Coin bracelet Matus Jewelry
Prenuptial Photos MangoRed
Wedding officiant Pastor Bert Vila of CCF
Ceremony venue Blue Leaf
Coordinator Blushing Bride
Hotel Dusit Thani
Reception venue Blue Leaf
Designer Nono Palmos
Entourage's Gown Michelle Lim
Suit/Barong Nono Palmos
Cake Clay Cakes
Mini cakes Joy San Gabriel
Car rental Don Robert's bridal car
Band Freedom
Emcee Monique Lopez-Ong
Florist Eve & Co
Event stylist Henry Pascual
Gift registries Rustan's
Make up Cherry Pacheco
Hair stylist Ney Guese
Entourage's makeup Razel "Pong" Niu
Entourage's hair stylist Edwin Jore
Invitation Adworks Graphics
Photographer Jayjay Lucas, Jason de Guzman & Riz of Imagine Nation
Photo Booth Pose & Print
Videographer Threelogy
Projector Dennis Sy
Sound Sytem Strada Audio
Genset c/o Blue leaf
Give-aways ZEN
Coin bracelet Matus Jewelry
Prenuptial Photos MangoRed
Wedding officiant Pastor Bert Vila of CCF
Plan to Forever
Our wedding is featured at Kasal.com website. Check out this link http://www.kasal.com/html/rr/realwedd/realwedd11.html
Honoring of Our Parents
Karen:
Daddy Ben,
I want you to know that I really think that you are such an amazing person, and a much more amazing father. You are much treasured, celebrated, and quietly thanked.
I want you to feel really good about all the great things you do! How you’ve been such a wonderful husband to Mommy Shirley in the way you have been quiet, gentle, and have taken special care of her throughout these years; and how you have been a hardworking, patient, devoted, and dedicated father to all of us. I especially would like to thank you for always making me feel that I belonged to our family. I will always be grateful for your unconditional love and acceptance, and for the assurance that I will always have you, my family, by my side. I will always treasure all the fond memories we’ve shared together: of you taking and fetching me from school, helping me with my school projects, and sometimes bending some of the rules for me. J
I want you to appreciate your uniqueness and realize what a beautiful soul you have. When I was a young girl, I have always looked up and have always seen this in you, and this has made me look for someone like you to be my future husband. I was drawn to Ariel because I saw that he had many good qualities that were similar to yours (except mas mabilis lang po sya kumilos ng konti sa inyo). Lalo na, when I learned that he had the same birthday as yours, sabi ko sa sarili ko, “JACKPOT ITO!”
Dad, I just would like to ask for your forgiveness again for the wrong decisions that I have made before which have caused you pain, in one way or another. But I know that no matter what, you will always be proud of me.
You make so much sun shine through, and you inspire so much gratitude in the lives of everyone who is lucky enough to be a part of that joy.
You are a very special person, giving so many people a reason to smile. You deserve to receive the best in return, and one of my heart’s favorite hopes is that the happiness you give away will come back warm to you…each and every day of your life. I love you and I will always be your little girl, Dad.
Mommy Shirley,
I can look back on my childhood and realize how blessed I am to have you as a mother. Back then, I didn’t understand how much you worked hard and how much you sacrificed for our family. Yet, you never gave less than your best to us.
When I look at your hands, Mom, I see all the hard work you have done for me. I acknowledge all the sacrifices you’ve made for me because you wanted to be sure that I got nothing but the best. I remember how you enrolled me in different classes, how you were with me 24/7 when I was in show business to the point of somewhat letting go of your own business, and for giving your 100% support in all my endeavors. Thank you for providing us with the stability to keep us confident, the knowledge to help us accomplish things, the dedication to help us grow, and the enormous amount of time that you spent.
Alam ko na matigas ang ulo ko nung bata ako, pero buti nalang cute ako kaya mabilis mawala ang galit mo J. Hanggang ngayon pa naman, diba?
Mom, I didn’t mean to make things difficult for you. I never meant to do anything that would upset you or make you worry about me, but I know that there are times when I haven’t been all that I should be. I did not always realize all of these things when I was younger, at least not in ways that I could put into words. We’ve disagreed with each other, and even disappointed each other, but we accepted those times of irritation knowing that they would pass and would all welcome to understand how each of us really felt.
So again, let me just tell you how sorry I am for all those times I’ve let you down.
I wish I could find a way to let you know how important you are and how much I respect you.
I know that it is not easy for you, or anyone for that matter, to sacrifice much and love someone unconditionally, but it’s amazing because you did just that. My being in your life was never an accident, but the Lord knows what’s best for us, and all I am today I owe to Him and you. I hope I can make you as proud of me as I am to have someone like you for my mother.
You are a really incredible mom; you’re the most accomplished mother I know because of what you have done in your lifetime. You have made being in a family one of the best parts of my life. No matter what life brings my way, or how my life changes from year to year, I will always have love in my heart and the feelings of family to make my life worthwhile.
Mom, I love you very much and I want you to realize that your wondrous amazing love has always been life’s greatest gift to me.
Mommy Lilian,
There’s a certain magic that happens when a woman becomes a mother. From the 1st joyful moment she holds her newborn child, an amazing transformation begins to take place. Nourished by a fountain of unconditional love, her heart fills and expands and strengthens to nurture and protect her child for time eternal.
Thank you mom for choosing to give me life, for wanting me, and for loving me. There are decisions that you’ve made that you think were wrong, but God had a purpose for everything and He alone can turn our mishaps into blessings. I probably didn’t understand when I was a young girl why things had to be this way, but in my heart, I never was angry with you or blamed you for the decision you made. I understand the difficulty of what you went through, and I want you to know that I’ve forgiven you, if you think that I’m blaming you for that decision. I knew that you ultimately just wanted what you thought was best for me. My heart just overflows with love for you, Mom, and this has made me always long for you and long to establish the relationship we never really got to have.
Mom, I’m really grateful that the Lord gave you to me to be my mother. You and Dad really had a great combination…pang-showbiz ang beauty ko!!! J
As I begin this new chapter in my life, I pray that the Lord will continue to help us restore the relationship we have.
I know I don’t always make it clear, but I don’t want to leave you with any doubt, so remember that I love you, I always have, and I always will!
Daddy Martin,
Dad, I’ve always felt bad that I didn’t get your blue eyes, and that I got my being hard-headed from you instead! J
When I first heard your voice as we talked over the phone, I immediately knew and was overwhelmed with your love for me when I heard you say my name. And when I saw and hugged you, there was that sudden feeling that I connected and belonged to you. I never thought that it would be so easy for us to get along well, but when I got to talk to you more, I realized where I got my personality and joyful disposition.
Just like with Mom, I am so blessed to know that all these years, you were also looking for me; and now I am more blessed that we have found each other. Since that time, I thank you so much because you have never failed to express to me your longing to shower me with a father’s love.
I love you, Dad, and I’m really looking forward to the many years that we will be spending together as you retire here in the Philippines.
MAMANG,
I want you to know how much I admire you for raising such a good man as Ariel. I look up to you because I’ve seen that in the many times we’ve been together, you have always been so warm and loving to me. Thank you for making me feel at home whenever I would pay a visit to Gen San, and for always cooking great food to keep my stomach happy.
My heart is filled with so much gratitude for you and the rest of Ariel’s family for accepting me and the kids wholeheartedly and for being very understanding of our situation. I’m so blessed and thankful for how all of you have welcomed me into your family.
I appreciate you more than I could ever express! I pray that our relationship will grow and continue to flourish in the coming years. I love you, Mamang!
ARIEL:
Dear Daddy Ben, Mommy Shirley, Daddy Marty & Mommy Lilian,
Thank you very much for raising up a wonderful and gorgeous woman in Karen. She is truly all that I’ve ever hoped and prayed to marry. Thank you for your blessing and entrusting her and the kids to me.
I really look forward to spending time for us to get to know each other more, because I’m sure that I will enjoy all of you as much as Karen did.
I promise to take special care and do my best to provide for her and the kids. I am committed to love Karen unconditionally before God and before all of you.
Dearest Mang,
First of all, I would like to thank you for carrying me in your womb for 9 months. I know it was not an easy experience for you considering you had to do this for all of my siblings. I also would like to thank you for raising me up and teaching me how to become a responsible man. You have sacrificed so much for me and my siblings. In fact, I distinctly remember the times when we ate at the dining table making sure that all of your children ate first before feeding yourself. “Kahit ulo nalang ng tortang talong ang natira sayo”, not even once did I hear na nag reklamo ka. That simple gesture only shows how much you love us. I praise God for giving me a mother like you. I would not forget how you thought of us first before yourself.
Second, I want to ask for forgiveness for all the hurts and disappointments I have caused you. I know it was very painful for you to see your children disobey you at times. As far as I can remember, when I used to ask permission from you, it was always a last minute thing. Then you would say “nag papaalam ka ba o nag sasabi ka lang?”.
Mang, today, I will become a husband to my wife and a father to my children, I pray that God would give me the strength and perseverance to love and raise my family the way God has strengthened you to raise our family. Mang, I know that it is your desire that all of your children remain united by respecting and supporting one another. I will continue to keep that in mind even after I get married. I want to assure you that you have not lost a son rather; you have gained another beautiful daughter in Karen. I love you!
Daddy Ben,
I want you to know that I really think that you are such an amazing person, and a much more amazing father. You are much treasured, celebrated, and quietly thanked.
I want you to feel really good about all the great things you do! How you’ve been such a wonderful husband to Mommy Shirley in the way you have been quiet, gentle, and have taken special care of her throughout these years; and how you have been a hardworking, patient, devoted, and dedicated father to all of us. I especially would like to thank you for always making me feel that I belonged to our family. I will always be grateful for your unconditional love and acceptance, and for the assurance that I will always have you, my family, by my side. I will always treasure all the fond memories we’ve shared together: of you taking and fetching me from school, helping me with my school projects, and sometimes bending some of the rules for me. J
I want you to appreciate your uniqueness and realize what a beautiful soul you have. When I was a young girl, I have always looked up and have always seen this in you, and this has made me look for someone like you to be my future husband. I was drawn to Ariel because I saw that he had many good qualities that were similar to yours (except mas mabilis lang po sya kumilos ng konti sa inyo). Lalo na, when I learned that he had the same birthday as yours, sabi ko sa sarili ko, “JACKPOT ITO!”
Dad, I just would like to ask for your forgiveness again for the wrong decisions that I have made before which have caused you pain, in one way or another. But I know that no matter what, you will always be proud of me.
You make so much sun shine through, and you inspire so much gratitude in the lives of everyone who is lucky enough to be a part of that joy.
You are a very special person, giving so many people a reason to smile. You deserve to receive the best in return, and one of my heart’s favorite hopes is that the happiness you give away will come back warm to you…each and every day of your life. I love you and I will always be your little girl, Dad.
Mommy Shirley,
I can look back on my childhood and realize how blessed I am to have you as a mother. Back then, I didn’t understand how much you worked hard and how much you sacrificed for our family. Yet, you never gave less than your best to us.
When I look at your hands, Mom, I see all the hard work you have done for me. I acknowledge all the sacrifices you’ve made for me because you wanted to be sure that I got nothing but the best. I remember how you enrolled me in different classes, how you were with me 24/7 when I was in show business to the point of somewhat letting go of your own business, and for giving your 100% support in all my endeavors. Thank you for providing us with the stability to keep us confident, the knowledge to help us accomplish things, the dedication to help us grow, and the enormous amount of time that you spent.
Alam ko na matigas ang ulo ko nung bata ako, pero buti nalang cute ako kaya mabilis mawala ang galit mo J. Hanggang ngayon pa naman, diba?
Mom, I didn’t mean to make things difficult for you. I never meant to do anything that would upset you or make you worry about me, but I know that there are times when I haven’t been all that I should be. I did not always realize all of these things when I was younger, at least not in ways that I could put into words. We’ve disagreed with each other, and even disappointed each other, but we accepted those times of irritation knowing that they would pass and would all welcome to understand how each of us really felt.
So again, let me just tell you how sorry I am for all those times I’ve let you down.
I wish I could find a way to let you know how important you are and how much I respect you.
I know that it is not easy for you, or anyone for that matter, to sacrifice much and love someone unconditionally, but it’s amazing because you did just that. My being in your life was never an accident, but the Lord knows what’s best for us, and all I am today I owe to Him and you. I hope I can make you as proud of me as I am to have someone like you for my mother.
You are a really incredible mom; you’re the most accomplished mother I know because of what you have done in your lifetime. You have made being in a family one of the best parts of my life. No matter what life brings my way, or how my life changes from year to year, I will always have love in my heart and the feelings of family to make my life worthwhile.
Mom, I love you very much and I want you to realize that your wondrous amazing love has always been life’s greatest gift to me.
Mommy Lilian,
There’s a certain magic that happens when a woman becomes a mother. From the 1st joyful moment she holds her newborn child, an amazing transformation begins to take place. Nourished by a fountain of unconditional love, her heart fills and expands and strengthens to nurture and protect her child for time eternal.
Thank you mom for choosing to give me life, for wanting me, and for loving me. There are decisions that you’ve made that you think were wrong, but God had a purpose for everything and He alone can turn our mishaps into blessings. I probably didn’t understand when I was a young girl why things had to be this way, but in my heart, I never was angry with you or blamed you for the decision you made. I understand the difficulty of what you went through, and I want you to know that I’ve forgiven you, if you think that I’m blaming you for that decision. I knew that you ultimately just wanted what you thought was best for me. My heart just overflows with love for you, Mom, and this has made me always long for you and long to establish the relationship we never really got to have.
Mom, I’m really grateful that the Lord gave you to me to be my mother. You and Dad really had a great combination…pang-showbiz ang beauty ko!!! J
As I begin this new chapter in my life, I pray that the Lord will continue to help us restore the relationship we have.
I know I don’t always make it clear, but I don’t want to leave you with any doubt, so remember that I love you, I always have, and I always will!
Daddy Martin,
Dad, I’ve always felt bad that I didn’t get your blue eyes, and that I got my being hard-headed from you instead! J
When I first heard your voice as we talked over the phone, I immediately knew and was overwhelmed with your love for me when I heard you say my name. And when I saw and hugged you, there was that sudden feeling that I connected and belonged to you. I never thought that it would be so easy for us to get along well, but when I got to talk to you more, I realized where I got my personality and joyful disposition.
Just like with Mom, I am so blessed to know that all these years, you were also looking for me; and now I am more blessed that we have found each other. Since that time, I thank you so much because you have never failed to express to me your longing to shower me with a father’s love.
I love you, Dad, and I’m really looking forward to the many years that we will be spending together as you retire here in the Philippines.
MAMANG,
I want you to know how much I admire you for raising such a good man as Ariel. I look up to you because I’ve seen that in the many times we’ve been together, you have always been so warm and loving to me. Thank you for making me feel at home whenever I would pay a visit to Gen San, and for always cooking great food to keep my stomach happy.
My heart is filled with so much gratitude for you and the rest of Ariel’s family for accepting me and the kids wholeheartedly and for being very understanding of our situation. I’m so blessed and thankful for how all of you have welcomed me into your family.
I appreciate you more than I could ever express! I pray that our relationship will grow and continue to flourish in the coming years. I love you, Mamang!
ARIEL:
Dear Daddy Ben, Mommy Shirley, Daddy Marty & Mommy Lilian,
Thank you very much for raising up a wonderful and gorgeous woman in Karen. She is truly all that I’ve ever hoped and prayed to marry. Thank you for your blessing and entrusting her and the kids to me.
I really look forward to spending time for us to get to know each other more, because I’m sure that I will enjoy all of you as much as Karen did.
I promise to take special care and do my best to provide for her and the kids. I am committed to love Karen unconditionally before God and before all of you.
Dearest Mang,
First of all, I would like to thank you for carrying me in your womb for 9 months. I know it was not an easy experience for you considering you had to do this for all of my siblings. I also would like to thank you for raising me up and teaching me how to become a responsible man. You have sacrificed so much for me and my siblings. In fact, I distinctly remember the times when we ate at the dining table making sure that all of your children ate first before feeding yourself. “Kahit ulo nalang ng tortang talong ang natira sayo”, not even once did I hear na nag reklamo ka. That simple gesture only shows how much you love us. I praise God for giving me a mother like you. I would not forget how you thought of us first before yourself.
Second, I want to ask for forgiveness for all the hurts and disappointments I have caused you. I know it was very painful for you to see your children disobey you at times. As far as I can remember, when I used to ask permission from you, it was always a last minute thing. Then you would say “nag papaalam ka ba o nag sasabi ka lang?”.
Mang, today, I will become a husband to my wife and a father to my children, I pray that God would give me the strength and perseverance to love and raise my family the way God has strengthened you to raise our family. Mang, I know that it is your desire that all of your children remain united by respecting and supporting one another. I will continue to keep that in mind even after I get married. I want to assure you that you have not lost a son rather; you have gained another beautiful daughter in Karen. I love you!
Karen's Testimony
KAREN'S TESTIMONY: I’ve always known that I was an adopted child of the Timbol family. I looked different from all of them but I was too shy to even ask them about it.
My biological dad is Martin Marek, a former U.S. Navy man stationed in Capas, Tarlac. And my biological mom is Lilian Broqueza.
After my parents got married, my mother (who was only 17 at the time) gave birth to me on Aug. 23, 1974. My dad went ahead to the U.S., and my mother & I followed shortly. For some reason, my mother & I had to return to Angeles City, Pampanga.
I was a sickly baby & my mother could not afford to take care of me. So she gave me up for adoption, unbeknown to my Daddy Marti. Mommy Shirley and Daddy Ben took me in. This is something for which I will always be grateful to them. Soon after she handed me over to my adoptive parents, Mommy Lilian went back to the states. For some time, she stayed in touch w/ Mommy Shirley. But eventually, my two moms lost contact w/ each other.
Growing up, I developed insecurities. I felt very different from my adoptive family. No matter how much they assured me that they loved me, I always felt left out. As a result, I responded negatively to Mommy Shirley’s discipline. I had this mistaken notion that she didn’t truly love me because I was just adopted. I felt that she was over-protective, and I resented her for it. I now realize, of course, that she was just looking out for me. But when I was younger, my insecurities got the better of me and they distorted my perceptions.
During that time, the opportunity to join showbiz came along, and I grabbed it. I enjoyed the limelight because of the acceptance and financial freedom it provided me. However my success just gave temporary happiness and fulfillment, because deep down inside me, something was lacking. My resentment towards mommy Shirley’s discipline led me to rebel & leave home.
In my confusion and search for security, I got involved in a wrong relationship. Not knowing then that the man I was involved with was married, I thought our relationship would give me the security and happiness I longed for. I thought all the while that what I had was love. Even after I learned that he was married, I stood by him- knowing that it was wrong. I knew I was making his family miserable. In time, I started to feel uneasy. I realized that that wasn’t the life I wanted.
Out of desperation, I cried out to God and said, “Lord please speak to me. I will open the Bible now. Give me your message.” So when I did…the first thing I saw was “Warning against adultery”. I was stunned! I cried & cried & asked God to help me. After that night, I woke up & noticed that I really felt cold towards my boyfriend. I decided to let go of our relationship. But I had worries & fears. I knew I couldn’t sustain my children financially, and I was apprehensive about being a single parent. That was in the year 2001.
After 2 years, my doctor, Dra. Sapaula-who happens to be one of my principal sponsors, gave me the Purpose Driven Life book. When I read it, the impact on me was so strong. It answered all my questions. The lessons in the first 3 chapters were my favorite: “You are not an accident”, “Your birth was not a mistake or mishap” & “Your life is no fluke in nature”, “Your parents may not have planned you but God did”. I learned that God loves me & has a plan for me.
It says in Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you & not harm you, Plans to give you hope & a future.”
I started attending Bible studies at CCF & surrendered my life to God. My desire for showbiz started to fade away. I was not after fame & popularity anymore. I just wanted to share my talent. God started to work in my life & He even took out the shame from my past. I’m even proud to say that I am a mother of 2 beautiful, kind, God-fearing, loving, morally excellent, obedient, children.
God started to bless my singing career. I sang w/ the Hotdog Band & toured around the US, Canada, & Australia.
During one of our tours in July 2004, I visited my friend, Aubrey in San Francisco. She & her husband helped me search the internet, & found the website of a band w/ a member named Marti Mars. We got in touch with him and he gave us my dad’s mobile number. My friends then called the number. I was so nervous!
When a man answered, I asked, “Is this Martin Wayne Marek of the Teezers & the Firecatz band?” He said, “Yes”. I asked, “Have you ever been to the Philippines?” and he said yes again. My heart beat so fast. I asked again, “When was that?” He said sometime in the 70’s. I asked, “Did you ever know a Lilian Marek?” & he said yes. I thought to myself, “my gosh eto na sya!” I was afraid that he would deny me. So I immediately said, “I’m her daughter!” then he asked, “Karen?” & I replied, “Dad? “You remember my name?” & he said yes, “I have your picture on my refrigerator & I been searching for you.” We exchanged hellos & I told him I saw his photo on the website of the band. From then on we kept in touch. A few months later, I met him and his family when I traveled to California. It was a tearful reunion: I cried and hugged him.
God is really good! I never thought in my wildest dream that this would happen. When I met my dad I didn’t feel any hatred, only love.
My dad wrote my mom & told her that I was in the States at that time, maybe she would want to see me, but there was no reply. My dad tried to call her but she didn’t respond. My dad said her new family didn’t know I existed.
I went back home to Manila without hearing from my mom. Then in December my dad received a phone call from my mom. “How’s Karen?” she asked him. My dad told her how we spent time w/ each other. In December 23, 2004, I got an email from my step dad. He introduced himself as the husband of my mother and related to me my mother’s sorrow over what happened before and her longing for me. It was only recently that she learned about me. I emailed him back & shared my feelings towards my mom. I told him that I had nothing against her, and that I am grateful to God for the opportunity to have her back in my life.
She called me one day & said sorry. I forgave her right away. I know that it is by God’s grace that I felt complete in Him & did not feel any anger or resentment towards them. For me, the past doesn’t really matter anymore. I told her that everything happened for a reason.
Last May 2005, my kids & I went to Florida to visit my mom & her family. I could not express how happy I was, the first time I saw her. We had so much fun getting to know each other. I noticed some traits that I inherited from her. She loves to laugh hard like I do. I saw also that she is kind hearted. When I bonded w/ her, it felt so natural that it seemed like we were never apart.
It is true that God knows the desires of your heart & He is faithful in His promises. By God’s grace I have also started rebuilding my relationship with my adoptive parents. I reassured them that they will always be an indispensable part of my life & that I love them immensely. I know better now than to blame them for what I went through.
To close, I know that from the time that I was born, God has always been w/ me, orchestrating the events in my life perfectly. He’s been very faithful. He has healed all the wounds in my heart. Everything that happened in my life is according to His will & I will always be thankful & blessed to share His love & goodness. Indeed, God is my only hope!!!
My biological dad is Martin Marek, a former U.S. Navy man stationed in Capas, Tarlac. And my biological mom is Lilian Broqueza.
After my parents got married, my mother (who was only 17 at the time) gave birth to me on Aug. 23, 1974. My dad went ahead to the U.S., and my mother & I followed shortly. For some reason, my mother & I had to return to Angeles City, Pampanga.
I was a sickly baby & my mother could not afford to take care of me. So she gave me up for adoption, unbeknown to my Daddy Marti. Mommy Shirley and Daddy Ben took me in. This is something for which I will always be grateful to them. Soon after she handed me over to my adoptive parents, Mommy Lilian went back to the states. For some time, she stayed in touch w/ Mommy Shirley. But eventually, my two moms lost contact w/ each other.
Growing up, I developed insecurities. I felt very different from my adoptive family. No matter how much they assured me that they loved me, I always felt left out. As a result, I responded negatively to Mommy Shirley’s discipline. I had this mistaken notion that she didn’t truly love me because I was just adopted. I felt that she was over-protective, and I resented her for it. I now realize, of course, that she was just looking out for me. But when I was younger, my insecurities got the better of me and they distorted my perceptions.
During that time, the opportunity to join showbiz came along, and I grabbed it. I enjoyed the limelight because of the acceptance and financial freedom it provided me. However my success just gave temporary happiness and fulfillment, because deep down inside me, something was lacking. My resentment towards mommy Shirley’s discipline led me to rebel & leave home.
In my confusion and search for security, I got involved in a wrong relationship. Not knowing then that the man I was involved with was married, I thought our relationship would give me the security and happiness I longed for. I thought all the while that what I had was love. Even after I learned that he was married, I stood by him- knowing that it was wrong. I knew I was making his family miserable. In time, I started to feel uneasy. I realized that that wasn’t the life I wanted.
Out of desperation, I cried out to God and said, “Lord please speak to me. I will open the Bible now. Give me your message.” So when I did…the first thing I saw was “Warning against adultery”. I was stunned! I cried & cried & asked God to help me. After that night, I woke up & noticed that I really felt cold towards my boyfriend. I decided to let go of our relationship. But I had worries & fears. I knew I couldn’t sustain my children financially, and I was apprehensive about being a single parent. That was in the year 2001.
After 2 years, my doctor, Dra. Sapaula-who happens to be one of my principal sponsors, gave me the Purpose Driven Life book. When I read it, the impact on me was so strong. It answered all my questions. The lessons in the first 3 chapters were my favorite: “You are not an accident”, “Your birth was not a mistake or mishap” & “Your life is no fluke in nature”, “Your parents may not have planned you but God did”. I learned that God loves me & has a plan for me.
It says in Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you & not harm you, Plans to give you hope & a future.”
I started attending Bible studies at CCF & surrendered my life to God. My desire for showbiz started to fade away. I was not after fame & popularity anymore. I just wanted to share my talent. God started to work in my life & He even took out the shame from my past. I’m even proud to say that I am a mother of 2 beautiful, kind, God-fearing, loving, morally excellent, obedient, children.
God started to bless my singing career. I sang w/ the Hotdog Band & toured around the US, Canada, & Australia.
During one of our tours in July 2004, I visited my friend, Aubrey in San Francisco. She & her husband helped me search the internet, & found the website of a band w/ a member named Marti Mars. We got in touch with him and he gave us my dad’s mobile number. My friends then called the number. I was so nervous!
When a man answered, I asked, “Is this Martin Wayne Marek of the Teezers & the Firecatz band?” He said, “Yes”. I asked, “Have you ever been to the Philippines?” and he said yes again. My heart beat so fast. I asked again, “When was that?” He said sometime in the 70’s. I asked, “Did you ever know a Lilian Marek?” & he said yes. I thought to myself, “my gosh eto na sya!” I was afraid that he would deny me. So I immediately said, “I’m her daughter!” then he asked, “Karen?” & I replied, “Dad? “You remember my name?” & he said yes, “I have your picture on my refrigerator & I been searching for you.” We exchanged hellos & I told him I saw his photo on the website of the band. From then on we kept in touch. A few months later, I met him and his family when I traveled to California. It was a tearful reunion: I cried and hugged him.
God is really good! I never thought in my wildest dream that this would happen. When I met my dad I didn’t feel any hatred, only love.
My dad wrote my mom & told her that I was in the States at that time, maybe she would want to see me, but there was no reply. My dad tried to call her but she didn’t respond. My dad said her new family didn’t know I existed.
I went back home to Manila without hearing from my mom. Then in December my dad received a phone call from my mom. “How’s Karen?” she asked him. My dad told her how we spent time w/ each other. In December 23, 2004, I got an email from my step dad. He introduced himself as the husband of my mother and related to me my mother’s sorrow over what happened before and her longing for me. It was only recently that she learned about me. I emailed him back & shared my feelings towards my mom. I told him that I had nothing against her, and that I am grateful to God for the opportunity to have her back in my life.
She called me one day & said sorry. I forgave her right away. I know that it is by God’s grace that I felt complete in Him & did not feel any anger or resentment towards them. For me, the past doesn’t really matter anymore. I told her that everything happened for a reason.
Last May 2005, my kids & I went to Florida to visit my mom & her family. I could not express how happy I was, the first time I saw her. We had so much fun getting to know each other. I noticed some traits that I inherited from her. She loves to laugh hard like I do. I saw also that she is kind hearted. When I bonded w/ her, it felt so natural that it seemed like we were never apart.
It is true that God knows the desires of your heart & He is faithful in His promises. By God’s grace I have also started rebuilding my relationship with my adoptive parents. I reassured them that they will always be an indispensable part of my life & that I love them immensely. I know better now than to blame them for what I went through.
To close, I know that from the time that I was born, God has always been w/ me, orchestrating the events in my life perfectly. He’s been very faithful. He has healed all the wounds in my heart. Everything that happened in my life is according to His will & I will always be thankful & blessed to share His love & goodness. Indeed, God is my only hope!!!
Vows
Karen: I love you, Ariel and I know that you love me so much. Because of this, I desire to be your wife. For 6 years, I have prayed that God would lead me to His choice and I am confident that His will is being fulfilled today. I praise God continually for you, honey, and for your love and friendship. I was stunned by how naturally you welcomed the responsibilities of being a father.
Besides the gift of salvation & my kids, you are the most precious gift God has given me. You make me want to be a better woman & I need you to help me become the woman God created me to be. I know that along with the new joys God has given me, I face new responsibilities that I cannot fulfill in my own strength. But by God's grace and power working within me, I desire to be trustworthy as your wife, to serve and love you in all circumstances, to obey you & respect you, to allow God to use you to build His qualities in me, as long as God gives us life on this earth. Through the pressures of the present and the uncertainties of the future I promise to be faithful to you & respect you unconditionally.
I give you my absolute commitment, that we will model the kind of commitment & responsibility that will communicate to our children the permanence of marriage & our vows.
I vow to be patient with you and the circumstances in our lives. I vow not to be boastful of our love or about our accomplishments.I promise to be proud of you, but not proud in love for though I will strive for perfection, I know I can never reach it. I promise not to be quick to anger, but to think before I speak and act. I vow not to keep a record of wrongs, but to always keep the happy memories alive. Through God, our love will never fail. I pray that God would use us as a team to be more effective than we would be individually. God’s Word will always be our guide in decision making & our rock in establishing family values & priorities.
I love you so much, honey.
Your lovely wife,
Karen
8.23.08
Ariel:
Honey, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for! We have been praying for this and finally, God has made it come into reality and made a wonderful love story out of our lives. We have the same dreams, and I’m excited to fulfill these with you.
As God has commanded me, I promise to provide for our family, protect it, and love you the Way Jesus loves us.
I want to share your laughter and be supportive during your trying times.
I will always ask you first, if you have your period so I would know if you’re being irritable is because of me or your period.
Honey, you know that I’m a man of few words, and what’s inside the heart is what really counts, so I’ll show you my heart later..
Now that our prayer has been granted, I want to share the rest of my life with you. To cherish every moment we spend with each other, and to make you my # 1 priority in my life next to God until the day I die.
Honey I will love you and I will always choose to love you!
Besides the gift of salvation & my kids, you are the most precious gift God has given me. You make me want to be a better woman & I need you to help me become the woman God created me to be. I know that along with the new joys God has given me, I face new responsibilities that I cannot fulfill in my own strength. But by God's grace and power working within me, I desire to be trustworthy as your wife, to serve and love you in all circumstances, to obey you & respect you, to allow God to use you to build His qualities in me, as long as God gives us life on this earth. Through the pressures of the present and the uncertainties of the future I promise to be faithful to you & respect you unconditionally.
I give you my absolute commitment, that we will model the kind of commitment & responsibility that will communicate to our children the permanence of marriage & our vows.
I vow to be patient with you and the circumstances in our lives. I vow not to be boastful of our love or about our accomplishments.I promise to be proud of you, but not proud in love for though I will strive for perfection, I know I can never reach it. I promise not to be quick to anger, but to think before I speak and act. I vow not to keep a record of wrongs, but to always keep the happy memories alive. Through God, our love will never fail. I pray that God would use us as a team to be more effective than we would be individually. God’s Word will always be our guide in decision making & our rock in establishing family values & priorities.
I love you so much, honey.
Your lovely wife,
Karen
8.23.08
Ariel:
Honey, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for! We have been praying for this and finally, God has made it come into reality and made a wonderful love story out of our lives. We have the same dreams, and I’m excited to fulfill these with you.
As God has commanded me, I promise to provide for our family, protect it, and love you the Way Jesus loves us.
I want to share your laughter and be supportive during your trying times.
I will always ask you first, if you have your period so I would know if you’re being irritable is because of me or your period.
Honey, you know that I’m a man of few words, and what’s inside the heart is what really counts, so I’ll show you my heart later..
Now that our prayer has been granted, I want to share the rest of my life with you. To cherish every moment we spend with each other, and to make you my # 1 priority in my life next to God until the day I die.
Honey I will love you and I will always choose to love you!
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