Last Thoughts Before Christmas

I would like a place of my own.

There, I said it.

It's not bad living with my parents... to tell the truth at least it's not my in-laws. Not that they're terrible people. It's just that I'd rather have a spat with my side because I know how they are, plus I know all their quirks and such; as opposed to hubby's family with whom I'm not as familiar.

But I miss having our own SPACE. Think of all that entails. Use your imagination. Everything you own has a place and every place has things you own. Our stuff is in storage. We hardly buy anything because we know we don't have any place to put it.

Today was another reminder of the lack of our own space. We went to the mall to buy one last minute gift and found this wonderful buffet set that keeps your food warm for parties. Hubby wanted to buy two; one for us and one for our gift recipient. I had to gently remind him that we're not likely to hold a party anytime soon (I don't feel comfortable doing it at someone else's place and my parents aren't big on entertaining), and we don't have a space to store it in until we do have our own place again. I really felt so sad and nostalgic for our old house. I just googlemapped it and did a street view right now actually. Sigh.

I miss choosing furniture. Woody actually detests our presently too-high (in his opinion) bed, and wants a low bed. I saw this beautiful espresso sleigh bedroom set online that should pass his standards :). The price isn't bad at all for everything it comes with.

I would love to be practicing cooking and baking right now in my own kitchen. Right now I can't bake because my parents don't have the necessary tools so I could experiment.

I would even get a thrill from decorating a bathroom. :)

Is this a dreary post or what? Don't worry. I plan to always keep my mind on the positives in life. For a Xmas cheer from my home, visit my other blog.

Happy Holidays!

Christmas Shopping Musings

I am done with Christmas shopping. Last year, we bought a gift through the charity World Vision in all our recipient's name. Yes, we felt good that we contributed to charity and didn't go overboard with the budget. Didn't buy into the commercialism either. BUT. It felt weird. It felt really weird.

No one except my Tita L. said something nice about this gift. We got zilch acknowledgment from other people. So we're scrapping that idea this year. Plus, it's not any other day that we think of something thoughtful for one person. We usually send just a card for birthdays for example. So, this is a nice gesture. My mom, dad, aunt and grandma in particular, have been so helpful with us being new in San Diego. The long short of it is we bought honest-to-goodness presents and kept it all under $300 so far. Not bad eh?

Now if only I could afford an honest-to-goodness Tag Heuer watch for my husband like this one found in The Watchery. Talk about a gift everyone would appreciate. Check out their holiday gift guide. They have watches in all price ranges. You can find something someone would like and be the most popular gifter this season ;).

The thing with the Tag Heuer watch is, Woody had a chance to buy it years ago but then stopped himself, because he always thinks of others instead. He's regretted it ever since because the deal was a great deal. Now, I wish I had the funds to get this for him. He's not into much material stuff but he does like good quality watches.

Someday, once I'm done with school, passed the NCLEX, etc. Some other Christmas, I'll surprise him with a watch like this, from a site like The Watchery.

More Mina News

Mina's vocabulary is EXPLODING!

She mimics everything. Even tries to speak Tagalog at times. LOL!

"Good girl"
"All right"
"Ay ay ay"
"Aba!"

She knows what sounds animals make: cows, dog, bird, monkey, duck

She knows where her front and back is, her elbow, her fingers, her shoulders, on top of the other body parts she points to in her video.

At this point, she knows so many words like moon, noodle, pasta, I can't keep track. I'm expecting her to say sentences soon. Hehe.

She loves watching the video Didi by Milk & Honey (it's an homage to her Moroccan background). She loves, loves dancing and I've watched her go round and round in a circle so much that she gets dizzy and falls over when she tries to walk.

She laughs a lot, is interested in other kids now and tries to hug them (most times without success), and says hi.

She's so excited when she sees a tiny baby. She kisses them, and caresses them and tries to talk to them. I love it! She'll make a great baby sister.

Now, how many times did I use the word "love" in this post again? ;)

Don't Call My Daughter Pretty

Yes, I am her mom and I know I am biased, but I do think she's a striking girl. Nevertheless, I try not to focus on her looks but on her personality instead. I want to instill in her that your integral self is more important than your looks. I want her growing up without thinking she must be a little princess, a damsel in distress, or that her value lies in her looks.



I am at a loss however, in how to deal with other people's compliments. I guess I'm not so biased because other people seem to agree that she is beautiful. I have all sorts of people coming up to me in public telling me how gorgeous she is. I think it's partly because people are so drawn to babies, but anywhere from Target, to dining out, to people on the streets, they stop and tell her how pretty she is.

I'm no scrooge, I don't go tell them off and spout off my beliefs. They're just being kind. I guess I have to take it for now, and explain to Mina as she grows older that her worth is firmly in what she does, and what she is, and now how she looks.

And for the record Moms out there, if you wish to do the same, the first thing you have to be prepared to do is to not let your daughter watch TV or monitor it very closely. We're not planning on getting cable but will have the TV for DVDs, which can be pre-approved before watching. There's so much fluff out there, and parents aren't as dilligent as they could be in what messages filters through their daughter. The second, no fashion magazines. They are truly a haven for unrealistic expectations to go roost.

I'm planning to treat my daughter as if she's a kick-butt, tough, heroine. She can still be feminine and strong can't she? Like Cinderella in Ever After, not Cinderella in the usual fairy tales.

Mommy Wears Glasses

I've worn glasses since I was 15. The first pair I had was a terribly old-fashioned gold-framed one that I was forced to wear for years. Once I got my first full-time job, I got myself a Guess frame glasses and it cost me. Not as much as my D&G update that I got just last year. Those cost me a whopping $500. I'm now wondering, what the heck was I thinking? If I had known that I could have gotten a pair of eyeglasses from Optical4less I would have saved that money and parted with as little as $15, $25, $39 instead.

I know there's always that unknown factor when ordering online, but they have a virtual try-on system, free shipping (worldwide!), and you can read testimonials regarding their service and quality. Believe me, they're options are not geeky some gold frame ones. And they have all the features you would need in your prescription lens: whether it be anti-reflective, bifocal, or tinted.

In these financially uncertain times, you'd do very well to visit their site and order from them instead of the usual places. I'm really kicking myself for not going with a more reasonably-priced glasses. But oh well, at least you won't have to live with my mistake, right? :)

Words Mina Can Say

They're not perfect, but she's definitely saying the right words for the right objects.

Apple
Elmo
pasta
light
Bye
Hi
Uncle(!)
Mommy (Meh-meh)
Mama
Papa
Daddy
Book
Nose
Eyes
Please
Up
Puppy
Water

Incidentally, Belated Happy Halloween!

Feist on Sesame Street Sings 1-2-3-4

My daughter and I can watch this show over and over on Youtube. It's of Feist singing up to 4, but kiddie-centered. I just love her voice! Mina is fascinated watching it and I comply by keeping on hitting the play button.



One thing I noticed about Sesame street, they don't use the multiple cut to different scenes that an animated show or some other type of TV show uses. It's pretty much one camera that moves to different angles. I have written before that I won't be letting my kid watch TV for various good reasons, one being the abnormal pace and the multiple cut scenes in programs, which have been linked to short attention span and at worst, ADD. I wonder if the type of camera work done in Sesame Street for example, can be attributed to these problems that may be common among children that watch TV on a regular basis?

The other reason experts tell parents to avoid TV is because children need physical engagement much more than the less than ideal engagement with fictional characters on TV. And for the record, we watch A video like this one for only about 20 mins. a day. I usually show her videos of herself, but sometimes she gets bored of those too.

Mina Signs

I taught my daughter several signs from the American Sign Language (ASL). She does not have a full ASL vocabulary as she only knows 7 signs. But you know what, just three of those signs have saved us so much grief. I know when she wants "more", I know when she's hungry and wants to "eat", and I know when she wants her sippy cup to "drink" from. I don't have moments of frustration at meal times (okay, maybe some frustration sometimes..we're both human after all). The short of it though, is that sign language has helped us communicate better, even with just a few signs.

Has it hampered her speech? No, not really. I think it wires the brain to connect that all objects have names. And the words she can say, she says. She can say more for example, while signing. But she can't say the hard word "cracker" yet, so she signs that (it's incidentally her favorite word). Other words I didn't teach her the sign for but she instead says is "bird" and "water".

It would be the ultimate understatement to say I'm proud of her. Here she is:

Thriving Business For The Business-Minded Mommy

My husband has long had his dream of opening up our own family business. Of course, I didn't really back him up too much on the business idea because we all know how volatile self-employment can be. Businesses seem to fold so quickly. And it didn't help that he flip-flopped on his ideas. From a restaurant, to a pizza joint (out of our garage!?! seriously this was an idea), to a spa, that became a "wellness center" instead, to a tea shop that offered massages (now don't go to those jokes pls). Woody is certainly full of ideas.

I have ideas too. As a mom of a family on one income, and one who's going to school, every little bit of extra income helps. If I had any online asset and marketing panache, I would have jumped on so many opportunities by now. I know several female bloggers I admire with their hosting and web design business. Business like Heritage Web Solutions would be a good venue for me...if I knew how to design websites. In fact, the Economic Report will be featuring businesses that are thriving in the 21st century, including Heritage Web Designs.

I'd say anything online, with its limited overhead, is a GREAT business idea. Better than Woody's pizza joint in the garage one :).

Without the web design, or even web coding knowledge, I do what I know how to do...write. I may just check the Economic Report issue for ideas for writers in the 21st century.

Here's the press release:

“The Economic Report” show to feature Heritage Web Solutions

October 22, 2008, Deerfield Beach, FL – The producers of The Economic Report are pleased to announce that Heritage Web Solutions will be featured in an upcoming episode as part of the show’s Business and Technology series on The Power of the Internet Supporting the 21st Century Business Environment.

The internet has revolutionized the ways businesses market themselves. It is essential for businesses, both large and small, to have an effective web presence. A company’s website essentially serves as their electronic store front, communicating the company’s identity to website visitors.

Today, there are approximately 970 million internet users thus making internet marketing the most effective way to appeal to customers from around the world. Websites overcome the limitations between countries and continents thus making a company international. Having a website also means that a business is open and reachable at any time and allows for quick customer response time.

But, it isn’t as simple as just setting up a website. The only way for a company to be set apart from other online competition is unique website design. Businesses turn to internet technology companies for the development of a professional and search engine friendly, website.

Utah-based Heritage Web Solutions specializes in designing and hosting affordable websites for small and medium size businesses. In business since 2001, Heritage designs all websites to custom fit each company, giving each client a unique, original and authentic design. Customers of Heritage also have access to custom flash graphics, Ecommerce development and assistance, database creation and management, traffic driving resources and more.

“As a global community, we are evolving into a technology-based world,“ said Brad Stone, Managing Partner, Heritage Web Solutions. “Rarely we pay cash or write a check anymore. More of our purchases are made online, or at least we research online before making a purchasing decision. Our checking, savings and credit card accounts are maintained and paid for online. Our socializing has moved to FaceBook, YouTube and MySpace. Our communications are emailed, texted or Skyped. Breaking news can now be fed instantly via RSS feeds to our computers or cell phones instead of waiting for the six o’clock news. The Internet is very much a main part of human society today.”

For more information, please visit www.heritagewebdesign.com

Mommy's Skin Isn't As It Used To

When I was pregnant with Mina, I had perhaps THE best complexion I've ever had past the age of ten. I remember having blackheads sprouting at 11, and I did have acne during my teen years. So truly, my complexion couldn't be beat during my first pregnancy. I always felt like I was in bloom. I felt like my face was glowing. I could have volunteered for a skin commercial, so confident was I in my skin.



Fast-forward one year later, and that's not the case anymore. In all my life, I've never had to use anything on my face other than Noczema when I was a teenager. My mother is at me to start using some face cream to stop the aging process. I resisted. But I think it's time. I need to start using something to generate that earthly glow. Cause my skin right now is as dull as the bottom of a murky pond. Dr. Lark's website of Squalane Products looks promising.

"Helps skin cells regenerate

The reason Squalane is so different is because it’s the same ingredient found in sebum, a natural compound in your skin that helps your skin cells regenerate. It’s what keeps your skin soft, moist, and young."

I need something to keep my face soft, moist, and young. They even have a sale where you can buy three bottles for a low price. I can keep em coming with an automatic order plan too. I have a feeling I'll be having to take care of my skin from here on out.

You know my mother has GREAT skin, but even she does put cream daily on her face. So I guess I shouldn't feel too bad. Mina, I hope you have great skin genes. Your dad's side of the family's not so bad and neither is mine. Here's to you kid, and to mommy's skin looking a bit better.

Mina's Smile

I was about to write something a bit depressing. I've noticed my posts lately aren't as chirpy and positive as they used to be. So I decided this one wouldn't be more of the same. In fact, I dare you not to crack a smile!

Here's my daughter at 13 months. I've got more vids of her that are absolutely hilarious. Those will be published later...

Mina's Second Halloween: Costume Decision And Should We Trick or Treat

It's Mina's second Halloween. We stayed in last year, cause she was toothless and blissfully ignorant that people would hand her sweets and treats that day if she knocked on their door. We had kids coming to our house instead, and we did dress her for that. She was dressed as a lovely pea in a pod.




This year, we're wondering if she's old enough to go trick or treating. She can walk, and follow simple instructions. But then, who's gonna eat all that candy? Certainly not us. We are determined to dress her in another costume though. I checked out Halloween Costumes which has a ton, and I mean, a ton of costumes. They've got categories galore too so search is easier. Because she is so beautiful, and Daddy calls her a princess, we're tempted to get her a Disney princess costume. Or she may just wear her birthday outfit, the ballerina outfit.


As for her Daddy and me, it would be nice to get one of their couple costumes. I like the socket and plug one. LOL! Although personality wise, a ninja costume would fit Woody's personality best. He's a ninja at heart, and has dreamed of being a ninja or a Wushu master since he was a little boy. One of his heart's desires is to be able to visit China's martial arts academy. There's an actual trip package like that but it's very expensive.

For me? Since I'm studying to be a nurse, maybe I wear one of those sexy nurse costumes eh? Yea right.

No matter what, I'm looking forward to Halloween this year, even without the candy.

Note to Mina

Hello daughter. Yes, I'm your mommy, though you seem to think it's Grandma that's your mom. Sometimes I try to act immature about it all, and can't seem to stamp down my feeling of jealousy. I hope you forgive me. It really hurts Mommy.

Sometimes when Mama leaves the room, you cry like with a keening sound, like a hurt animal, and then run as fast as you can to catch her. I had hoped, when I was just dreaming about you, when you were in my womb, when I first cradled you in my arms, that you would cry like that and run like that for me.

Sometimes you'll look up at Mama and demand to be carried, and she'll put you in her arms talking, while you sit contentedly in her lap, leaning your head against her. I had hoped, when I first found out you were a girl, when I first felt your kick, when I would whisper to you as you lay in my womb, that you would sit and lean your head contentedly in my lap.

Sometimes when I come and try to carry you from Mama, you'll shake your head vigorously and cuddle up even closer to Mama. I had hoped, when I first saw your smile, and spent nights just looking at your face as a newborn, that you would refuse to leave my arms, your Mom's arms.

So, I hope and I wait, and I hope and I wait. Meantime, I remind myself it's better that you love your grandma, than if you couldn't stand her.

Mina Likes Me!

I don't know what's changed, but Mina suddenly likes me nowadays. She's so cute!

I don't have anything new, so please visit Babies Online Blog this weekend!

Thumb Sucker

Here she is, still sucking her thumb. Never took to the pacifier this one, and 'm glad.

Preparing To Conceive?

Try these tips on getting yourself ready.

Children And Body Image

A relatively small study out of Australia has found that preschool aged children are already aware of body image. 53 children in four kindergarten classes were surveyed, and it was discovered that parents, especially mothers, are unintentionally impressing their own image issues on their children. The study found that children learn by watching their parents, and so if their mother is constantly verbalizing her dissatisfaction with her body, they internalize it and make it their own.

From Babies Online Blog

My Child Reflects Upon Me

Does every parent believe that?

When Mina screams and hollers impatiently outside I think it's a failure on my part to instill self-control in her. It doesn't help that my mom says all the time that I and my brothers never did that (i find it hard to believe, selective memory perhaps?). And I know its ridiculous for me to think that my 1 year old will have self-control. Quite impossible. Still the feelings sometimes comes unexpectedly and persists.

Another example of reflection. If Mina goes outside, I always make sure she's dressed well. I mean, always! If she's madungis (unkempt), I feel like people will look down on her, and on me as a parent. At least I don't buy her Baby Dior or something crazy like that. Still, she definitely has a better closet than I do. What does this say abut me? I want to teach Mina not to be ruled by what others think. Am I being a hypocrite?

Questions, questions.

Why Does She Like Grandma More?

Sometimes, emphasis on some, Mommy trumps Grandma in terms of who Mina prefers. She'll put up a token effort in going into Grandma's arms, and cry for me. She'll squeal with delight when she sees me. Then in a few days, it'll be back to normal. What I mean is, everything is back to it's opposite. She'll put up an effort going into MY arms, squeal with delight when she sees Grandma, cry for Grandma.

Why?

Dang, it hurts.

At the Bookstore

To pass the time, I sometimes let Mina run around in bookstores. I have to do my share of running around, picking things up and putting it back from the shelves she just tore it from. It's worth it though as she simply loves being at the bookstore! Beats the library, as she can usually scream and squeal more.

Read Up!

For more articles on Babies, Pregnancy, Toddlers, and anything else MOmmy-related, head on over to Babies Online Blog. I am a writer for them, and a reader too!

How Can My Daughter’s Closet Be Better Than Mine?

Posted on September 12th, 2008

Because I’m back in school, we’re living on one income. As a family, we’ve had to cut back on many purchases and expenditures, and on top of that list is clothes. My clothes are so passe I think I hear last two seasons calling, asking for them back.
I like shopping like anyone else, [...]

10 Things To Do Before Getting Pregnant

Posted on September 11th, 2008

Have you and your partner decided to get pregnant? If you have, congratulations. Trying to get pregnant can be a snap for some couples, but for others, it may take awhile. Before you and your partner take the plunge however, you’ll be ahead of the curve if you try to at least [...]

5 Things I Hate and Love About Being a Student Mom

Posted on September 10th, 2008

I’m going to school right now to pursue another degree. I’m one of those whom statistics cite as changing their field of career at least once within their lifetime. With that comes a lot of sacrifice, juggling of schedules, and many other unique stressors that accompany being a “student mom”.
5 Things I Hate:

Having [...]

Entertaining Your Kids

I feel guilty when I just leave Mina to play with her toys and wander around the house. I'm not really good at unstructured play. I can only read so many books, sing so many songs, tickler her for so long. Maybe some people would say she's too young for structured play, but I feel better when she actually has something to do.

Here are my top favorite activities for Mina:

1. Sign her up for an affordable community class. Last month we were at a Parent and Child Music class at one of our local community center. At $50/mo, this once a week class was fun and Mina, being the youngest in the class, still thoroughly enjoyed it. I plan to enroll her in a baby gym class the end of this September.

2. My Kid's Clubhouse which is just several miles away from us. It's a good-sized indoor play area, with mazes, kiddie toys, snack bar, for $8 per play. It goes down to $6 if you're with a playgroup and and you can also get punch cards of a membership. It beats another play area, My Gym which charges an exorbitant amount in my opinion.

3. My mall has an indoor play area for little kids. Mina loved it at first, but I think she gets overwhelmed with the big kids that go there the last few times we went. I may have to take her in the morning only, when the bigger kids are usually at school and only the little ones are there.

4. Just let her roam around the mall. She loves walking now and sometimes even refuses to hold my hand. I have to tell her that she has to hold Mommy's hand and I make sure I have a tight grip.

5. We still have the outdoor parks, but I don't usually take her there anymore. She has tons of bungang araw (don't know the English translation) and so I try to avoid the sun for her nowadays. I could go early morning but -- I'm sorry baby -- I usually get up too late.


I've noticed that Mina is getting an attitude nowadays. I try to keep my calm because she mimics so much, I dont' want her to add any frustrated action I show to her repertoire. Right now she screams when frustrated, pulls on your face, or other parts of your body, squirms etc. And she gets frustrated often. I keep asking her, can I have my sweet baby back?

Here's Miss Attitude:

The Worry Never Ends With a Child

I don't know why I ever worried about Mina being fat before. Babies are supposed to be fat! If a mom isn't worrying about her baby being skinny, she worries that her child is on its way to experience the cruelest teasing from her or his classmate about their overweightness by having the tiniest bit of extra fat.

I'm serious. I just watched a show on FitTv.com where this obese mom watered down her baby daughter's milk because she doesn't want her daughter to be overweight. I think the baby was less than a year old.

So I never watered down Mina's milk, but I worried she was on the path to weight problems. See, I hadn't watched my diet when I was pregnant with her as close as I would have liked. I gained 40 lbs. To me, that was a heck of a lot. And I ate fried foods. I couldn't help it, I was craving fried chicken strips from Chili's all the time! So Mina came out bigger than any baby in my family had come out. 8 lbs. 3 oz. Nice and healthy right? I couldn't be happy, I had to worry.

Now Mina's leaning towards being a skinny string bean at 1 year old. Boy, my breastmilk must have packed a punch. We can't seem to feed her anything that will put some fat back in her bones. She's 21 lbs. 6 oz at her 1 year check up. Based on projections, she should have tripled her baby weight. She's missing an extra 3 lbs.

And still I worry, though she's fine on the charts of normalcy. I think it's a parent's perogative. If she were to gain weight and keep gaining, I would probably swing to the other side of the pendulum again.

She has a runny nose now too. I'm sure if I tried hard enough, I could come up with a terrible thing to worry about that might be causing this runny nose.

Note to Mina

You're getting more and more mobile now. At first, you insisted Mommy hold your hands, sometimes even both hands when you walked. Now, you get irritated when I try to grab your hands and you give a little shriek. It's quite ear-piercing.

I have to remember to make sure to keep calm. You're very keen on imitating now, and yo imitate the good as well as the bad. I'm really puzzled because you somehow learned the work "kurit" without me teaching it to you, and everyone else claims they didn't teach you either. When we say "where's the kurit", you lift your hand up and make a pinching motion. *scratches head*. It's cute cause you don't really know what it's for. YOu make the pinching gesture but don't know to pinch anyone.

We visited the pedia (I miss your old pedia Dr. Jackson) and you're only 21.6 lbs. I am sorry I ever fretted over you being tabaching-ching. You're too skinny in my opinion. I miss the folds in your arms and your thick thighs and legs. I miss your chubby cheeks! We're trying to fatten you up, but you're metabolism has definitely gotten much faster. We'll keep trying though.

Your favorite food right now is grapes, and yes, rice as well. You will absolutely stuff your face with grapes one after the other even if you haven't swallowed the rest. You're so funny.

You've definitely got a little personality. Sometimes, when we're in the parks or at the playground, older toddlers will cozy up to you. If you've had enough of them, you have no problem pushing them away!

I love you baby. Don't grow up so fast okay. What's the hurry? Cuddle next to mommy a little bit longer.

New Blog Addie

Please update your links and pay a visit to my new main blog: http://pinayhekmi.pansitan.net. Thank you!

I'll still be blogging about mommy-related things here of course. So keep visiting this one too!

Happy 1st Birthday Mina

I am so happy I get to be your Mom. It's an honor being a Mommy to such a lovely little girl! I can't believe it's been one year since I gave birth to you via an unplanned C-section. Even longer since I first learned I was pregnant with you. You've brought us so much joy. You've brought me closer to my mom, your grandma, and you're Daddy's little princess even though he vowed he wouldn't treat you like a girly-girl. We love you, and by the smiles and laughter you shower us with, I think we're doing an all right job raising you so far.

All I Want For My Birthday Is My Two Front Teeth

Well, if you aren't the easiest child to deal with when it comes to teething. Your two front teeth came out the other week. You gave us a few night of H-E double hockey sticks but we did ok. I missed your gummy smile but you're as pretty as ever with your two front teeth peeking out.

Your Steps To A New Adventure

A few days ago you took your first few steps my dearest Mina. Two steps that made Mommy cry out loudly. I clapped and you crowed and smiled proudly.

Man, what will you do next? I can't wait to see you soar.

By The Grace of God Let Me Raise You Well

Recently, I found out some rather disturbing news about a relative of mine. I don't want to go into details, but I will share how I felt upon hearing it. Heartbreak, bewilderment, confusion, and when I watch my daughter's innocent, sweet face and I wonder, will she break my heart the same way? If she makes a wrong turn in the crooked road to a life well-lived, will her wrong turn be all my fault? Am I making mistakes even now?

I know that parents can do everything right and still have an unhappy child. I know adults who came from messed up families and by the grace of God they turned out well. Is it all luck of the draw? The temperament that your child is born with will make them or break them? Do we as parents, have so little influence in how they turn out? I'd like to think that we, as parents, are everything in relation to how our children will turn out, but I'm not so naive to truly believe that we are the end all and be all.

What is the right formula? I don't know. I just hope that I can muddle through this whole parenting thing, with Mina and our future other children coming out in the end of it all, happy and for the most part, unscathed.

When those pivotal moments come in my parenting journey, let me always listen to that still, calm, inner voice to guide me.

Mina In Styletots.com

Please visit Styletots to see a feature of Mina written by feisty momma, Dexie!

Almost One!

I'm feeling a bit sentimental. I know it's 1 month away but I can't believe Mina is about to turn 1. One year old. ONE. YEAR. OLD.

Already she's losing that "babyness". Books, clothing labels, etc. insist on calling her a toddler. I want her to remain my baby!

I know I can't stop time. Well, I'd like to share something I created to show how she's evolved this past year, and also a little poem that I created. Since I"m not a poet, you'll have to bear with me:

Who knew
Who knew that the sun
Would rise and set on you
Who knew that slumber would not be missed
While sunrise found me watching you

I never knew that time could stop
Or my heart would too as you smiled at me
I never knew that time could move so fast
Or my eyes would tear as you bloom before me

As a seedling shoots and grows
As each of your petal unfolds
Little did I know, I knew so little
Slowly you are teaching me

I have so much to learn of you
Who knew

For your Info, Mina

Hi my Meaner Beaner! I forgot to write here that you attended your first swimming lesson last Saturday. You were the youngest and most fearless. Thatta Girl!

Mina's Hair, Toes, and Body Temp

Is Curly. I call her my little curly-haired girl. I find her curls such a novelty although my goodness, does it get messy so quickly. After a nap, forget it, it's all over the place.

She's got my toes, as my friend Jet noticed when we were both walking around (I was holding Mina up of course) barefoot in her and Jay's place last night. Tee hee. Luya toes, and she's also fat and flat footed like me. Poor girl.

And here's another thing she got from me. She's extremely prone to being sweaty. Another poor girl. I wanted her to only get everything good from each of her parent and none of the negatives. You'll be needing a bath everyday Mina. Unfortunately, your lazy mom can't quite keep up with your bathing demands. Hahah.

I love her to bits.

Note To Mina, My Crawling Fiend

As I struggle to type this up, you're crawling all around me, through my legs, cooing, playing. You're a really happy child. You still like to dance although because you've learned so many things recently you're not dancing with as much gusto.

Here are the things you've learned: the phrase "no more", complete with hand gestures and just the funniest expression. We tell you this to let you know you've been cut off food-wise. You're kind of a bottomless barrel right now.

You know champion! And you raise your hands with a look of triumph on your face. When we ask you "where's your kilikili?", you raise on arm knowingly.

You can point out Mommy, Daddy and Mina in a picture. When we ask you where uncle and Papa or Maam is, you turn to the right person. People would say I'm biased but I think you're a freakin genius.

I took you to the beach yesterday and you're still not crazy about the water. You like the sand though and have no problem crawling around in it. And you know what, it's one of the few things you don't put in your mouth automatically. Hehehe.

Last time I measured you you were 26 inc long. We'll need to find you a pedia soon for your follow-up shots.

My little Meaner Beaner, thank you for being such a joy to be around. I love bringing you to places because you're so easy. We don't even have to give you THAT much entertainment and you're entertained. And no matter where we go, there's someone who's got to comment about you, or stop us to stare and coo at you. YOu're not fazed about it at all! Seems like a good sign you're read for stardom (that's the stagemommy talking, sorry).

Right now you're such an mimic that we have o be careful what we do around you, lest you pick up bad habits. Oh and Daddy's got some wonderful nicknames for you: Godzilla and monkey. You know your Daddy wants you to grow up to be a ninja right? Everytime you pull at his face, and other parts with your iron grip and vicious nails (cause mommy gets a little delayed in cutting them), Daddy just laughs and encourages you. Everytime time you make something tumble down, that's when Godzilla is referred to.

We love you! You're birthday is in two months. It's coming too soon.

Does Parenting Matter In a Child's IQ?

Well does it? Read here and find out.

Mommy Stuff

Cross-posted from my other blog.

I'm trying my hardest these days not to say "I'm bored". I know I won't be saying that next month when I've got classes starting, and I get to do homework for one of my weakest subject in HS, Chemistry. Homework along with keeping up with balancing time with Mina, relationship with my husband, some breathing time, and planning Mina's b-day. I think some people think I've got the birthday/christening all planned but all we have settled on is the Date and recently what favors will be available. Location, menu, etc, etc. are still all up in the air.

So yes, I'm trying not to utter those words. To be completely honest, I feel I am not cut out to be a SAHM. I like being available for Mina, but I have this tugging feeling at me that I'm not mommy-like enough. By now I should have already enrolled the little one in Gymboree, Swim class, set up playdates. I should be mashing her foods instead of buying jars of Gerber/Beech Nut/Earth's Best baby foods. I should be wheeling her to children's museums. I should not be avoiding attending my mommy group events (I haven't gone to one event). She should have baths everyday and not whenever I think she's too dirty. I should have home-cooked meals ready for the hubby every night, laundry done like clockwork. I feel like I'm doing everything wrong.

Sometimes, just sometimes, I wish I was back at work and so I can say, "hey I'm too busy for these things!". Instead I'm pretty much on vacation mode feeling still hence the utter lack of motivation to get anything in gear.

Rest assured readers Mina is happy and healthy. My husband does not starve and I do do the laundry. Everything has a "I'm winging it" quality to it though. Anyway, I have to remind myself I've only been doing this for 2 months. (that's it?!) so I'm giving myself a pass).

New Goals:
1. Sign up Mina for swim class
2. Attend at least 1 mommy-group event next week.
3. Cook at least 3x next week.
4. Get Mina fresh air at least 4 days out of the week next week.

There you go, hopefully this gets me in gear.

And below is a picture from La Jolla on Memorial Day. Damn these beaches. How am I ever gonna shake this vacation-mode feeling?

Mina is how old?

Mina is 9 months.
Nine Months.
NINE MONTHS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where the heck did the time go? A few nights ago the little devilish angel woke me up demanding to be nursed and I was still up two hours later after she had already gone to dreamland. I was obsessing over details of her 1st birthday/christening ceremony. If I had loads of money I will hire someone to do this for me, part with my money with glee and never worry my pretty little head about party planning EVER AGAIN. It stresses me the heck out.

Honestly, I had to lierally count freaking sheep so I could go back to sleep. And you know what, it's those details that drive me mad. I have the table layout already fixed in my head, the cake decor, the favors, the other cake decor, flowers, balloons. Now I just need to find a proper location, invitation, and oh the menu. It'll be an asian menu of some sort. I really don't want the typical Filipino food but it may end up that way.

Aaarggh! I'm looking forward to it but I'm also dreading it. August 16th. Save the date.

Note To Mina

It's been a while baby girl, since I've posted here about you. You're everywhere though so don't worry. You're in Mommy's Flickr account, you're also in my other blog. So don't worry, we're immortalizing memories everywhere!

So what's going on with you? As usual, you are getting heavier. Taller too. You're appetite is voracious, and anybody feeding you better have a quick hand as you complain very loudly whenever you're not fed fast enough. You're quickly losing interest in baby food as you notice more and more that the rest of the household does not eat what you eat. Ours look tastier does it? I've server you rice with munggo, which you seem to love, but honestly you like rice in general. You've eaten avocadoes, bananas, all sorts of crackers and bread, shredded chicken, even a bit of chicken corn soup. So far, no tummy troubles.

You're having some teething issues though, and had a fever last weekend I think because of it. Poor baby, we're trying to keep you as comfortable as possible. One night, I nursed you three times! Whew, that was a trying one for all of us, as you're still in the same bedroom as Mommy and Daddy. You like your crib though, you just stand and look over the railing at us when you've had enough of it and you're not afraid to voice your displeasure.

The best thing about you is that you are so funny with all the funny noises you have discovered you can make, and all the dance moves in your repertoire. You love music, you love to dance, and it's such a joy to watch you. Sometimes you'll make your own music when there is none so you can start dancing.

Keep it up, keep growing, keep learning. We'll never stop although you may hear us say "No" at times, its because we're trying to keep you from hurting yourself!

Here are some words you can say. I think I can officially announce that your first word is Mommy! Well, Mama but you know what I mean.

Mina's Gotten Clingy

I'm sure it's just par for the course of being a SAHM. She's extremely attached to me, and to being held in general. I try to put her down as much as possible but i have a sneaking feeling that when I leave her with her Lola Mama, my mom, about a couple of hours every few days, she's not put down at all. Heheh...I do remind everyone that she needs exercise, but I guess she's just so darn adorable they can't!

On the developmental front, I am not sure if this is normal but Mina's been scooting for the longest time now. When I noticed her crawl for real Apr. 28, I was finally halleluia! she's crawling now. Well a halleluia and a yikes...but most times she still insists on dropping on her belly and scooting. She kinda shakes her head while crawling and decides that no, she'd rather scoot. But then it hurts her a bit, because it's a wooden floor and her skin scrapes against the wood. I just don't get it.

Another development I'm thrilled about is her amazing love of music. I first noticed it months back when she'd be quiet and calm when I sing, or play Colby Caillat's Bubbly. And she'd get all excited when we'd play music in the house or dance around.

Now, she will go completely still if my brother Jedd, Mom, or Dad play guitar. She'll stare and stare and then start shaking her head. At Home Depot a few days ago, I was holding her, and when I'd start singing she would start dancing in my arms just absentmindedly. Gah! So cute! Kakagigil!

Here's a bit of what she does:

Tagged Reply: Now and Then

I was tagged by Christine so so long ago, about posting a picture of my baby. I'm supposed to post a Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, and then a Now picture of my dearest baby Mina. So I guess I better hop to it. Sorry it took me so long Christine. I enjoyed seeing pics of Amelie, and hope you enjoy comparing Mina!

Day 1. She was adamant in staying inside me, and after about 20 hours of labor, we had to do a c-section. She was not happy coming out.


Day 2. Here she is looking a bit more peaceful. She doesn't look Filipino at all does she?


Day3. She is in her going home outfit here. Lovely girl. We were very excited to bring her home.


And now. She is a carbon copy of her dad, but she's showing off her Asian side by wearing this Chinese outfit. She continues to bring nothing by sunshine into our lives.


Look at her Daddy's adoring look:


And here's the two of us...is there a hint of me in her?

How to Handle Unwanted Advice

I need advice:

“Don’t feed her solids yet, she’s too young!”

“She should have shoes on when she goes out.”

“Stop touching her cheeks and she’ll stop drooling.”

“You should supplement with formula, it doesn’t look like you have enough milk.”

Some of this advice comes from well-meaning friends. Some of them come from meddling relatives. What do all these phrases have in common? They are unsolicited, and often unwanted advice. I am now living with my mom, and believe me, there’s a never-ending list of mother’s knows best advice streaming from her. The thing is, she may be my mother, but she is not my baby’s mother. It’s a little hard for her to make that distinction :). When our family lived on our own, advice from anyone was like water off a duck’s back. We went home and did exactly what we wanted with regards to raising our daughter. Now, it’s a slightly different story, and I find myself having to inhale and exhale a few times to keep my calm daily.

Please read more at Babies Online Blog.

Mina Likes Bread!

She's a foodie in the making. Well, she had no chance having us for her parents. :)

Confession: I have a temper problem

This post is a confession, a venting, a raw look into my heart all in one. I wrote it for Babies Online Blog but I wanted to share it here too. Here's an excerpt.

When my 7 mo. old gets fussy in the evenings, there’s no Dad to take over soothing her. When I wake up groggy in the mornings because she woke me up demanding to nurse every 2-3 hours at night, Dad isn’t there to take over and let me sleep in for a little while. There are no extra hands to haul the stroller or baby bag while I grab all 20 lbs. of her from the car seat when I make a grocery run.

It’s been stressful, and I have to admit I struggled with my temper a few times. They were short-lived, and thank God she won’t remember my shout of “What are you crying about!”. I’m very ashamed that I struggle so much with my temper, but also feel proud that I don’t let it overpower me. I am adamant that I never raise a hand against my daughter, and this is especially difficult for me, coming from a home that practiced corporal punishment even at an early age. In short, shouting, spanks, loss of temper was modeled for me and I don’t want that legacy passed down to my daughter.

Read more here.

I am extremely happy to have my husband back home. Having him away makes me acutely aware just how lucky I am to have him in my life.

You can also check out more of my articles by clicking here.

First tooth

What, already?? Oh little one, you have a bottom tooth to show off once Daddy gets home. I usually try to get a pic of your milestone but Daddy's got the camera. When he comes back, I'll snap one and post it i promise.

In the meantime, enjoy this video of you, showing off how well you can sit up now and how well you can blow a raspberry.

I need a new baby bag and need ideas

This is reposted from Babies Online Blog

JJ Cole’s System Bag Review

I bought this diaper bag when my daughter was 3 months old. The bag is touted as a system bag that can work well with strollers, or without. It comes with a sizable diaper bag which when folded, includes a handy wristlet handle and creates a pocket into which you could theoretically stuff a few diapers. The bag itself has many compartments, and comes with convenient attachments for the stroller. I like the variety of color too and found one that matches the color of our current stroller.

It’s a great bag BUT:

1. With all the little compartments, I sometimes lose track of where I stuffed which item. There’s about 15 or so pockets and such and no, I haven’t used it all.
2. Once I put a bottle in there, a change of clothes, two diapers, wipes container, my nursing cover, a toy, her little hat, extra bibs, baby food and spoon, diaper pad and a tiny bottle of disinfecting hand-gel it is simply TOO STUFFED. The little pockets don’t help when you simply have too much baby gear to bring.

With the price I paid for it, I have forced myself to use it exclusively all this time. Recently though the extra jars of food I added to the list of baby gear is making it much too crowded for comfort. I’m on a quest for a new, and roomier baby bag. Hopefully just as stylish (and yes, I do love the style of this diaper bag). Does anyone have any suggestions?

Hello Mina, Mommy's Sick

I know I sound weird to you....my voice is hoarse and at times I can't speak cause my throat hurts.

I know I look weird to you...my hair is unkempt and I've got under-eye circles darker than usual and my nose is red and puffed up...and and....well, it's not pretty. I've also got these glasses on. Doctor said to lay off the contacts.

I know I smell weird to you...vick's vapor rub, eau de sweat and halls is giving me that new smell.

I know I haven't played with the same energy. I'm sorry. Mommy's gonna get better soon. Soon. Soon. I hope.

In the meantime let me drop you off at the daycare so I can crawl into bed.

Mina's Laughfest

I'm a bit miffed that you seem to like Daddy better than me...Hmmp...I mean have I not been supplying you with liquid gold all this time? But then, when I watch the following video, I can't say I blame you...

Note To Mina: Happy 6 Months!

Hello my little gem. We visited your pedia yesterday for your 4 month shots, except we're late as you're already 6 months. Long story, not important. The important thing are the following:

Weight = 18.8 lbs., 96th percentile in weight.
Height/Length = 27 in.
Head circumference = 17 in.

You're chugging along so wonderfully. You're trying to crawl. You can fall asleep on your own once you're tired from playing. Your sleeping habits at night is still spotty but you spend about half the night in bed now, half the night/dawn/morning beside me. Last night you kept waking up though. It wasn't a good night for me, because every hour you would go ehhh-ehhh-ehhh and squirm around. Please Mina give your Mommy some sleep tonight!

Apparently all that squirming didn't bother you because you woke up in one of the best moods that I have ever seen you in. You were all coos, laughs and smiles this morning.

This weekend you're getting your ears pierced. What? More pain, you say? Trust me, you'll forget all about how painful it is once you see the darling studs on your lobes. Love you!

Win a Book!

From Babies Online Blog

"I want to walk out of Target and leave Blair there, wailing…. Nice people work at Target. Surely someone would take her home and care for her and buy her pretty things."

So begins Vicki Glembocki’s brutally honest yet hilarious memoir of her agonizing transition into motherhood. Why agonizing? Because no one told her how tough it would be. Finally, Glembocki lays out the truth about those first months with baby: the certainty that you’re doing everything wrong; the desire to kill your husband, your mother, your dog; the struggle to balance who you were with whom you’ve become-a mother.

Unlike any other book on motherhood, Glembocki breaks the New Mother Code of Silence, proving that “maternal bliss” is not innate, but learned. Funny and wise, she connects with new moms on a shockingly intimate level, letting them know that they are not alone.

For more information see TheSecondNineMonths.com or click here to buy the book!

Babies Online will be selecting someone to receive a FREE hard-copy of The Second Nine Months.

Click here to find out how.

Close/Open Hand Trick

When I was little, I know my Mama eagerly taught me the close/open hand trick. Probably in tandem with singing "twinkle, twinkle, little star". Is this a Filipino Mom thing? Or is it all moms?

Now that I'm a mom, I find myself teaching Mina the same trick. At 5.5 mos, she was able to "get it" and mastered it recently. Honestly, I'm obsessed with comparing her development with the "normal" developmental charts. Is she ahead of her peers? Is she ahead of me when I was a baby? Because according to the link I followed from this article earlier than normal development may indicate a gifted child. I know I know, overboard huh?

I think it's still interesting to know though. According to research, it's not just talking early, or reading early that's indicative of a gifted child. Rolling over, crawling, any early motor skill milestone can be an indication.

No need to remind me to chill. I simply observe her, letting her set her own pace. But I know I am thrilled with every thing she learns. Here she is with her latest trick:

Movie Tag

More tags! I've been tagged by Bing

She'd like to know what movie our family has watched and enjoyed recently. Bing and her family enjoyed Jurrasic Park and Harry Potter, what about us?

You know what kind of movies we enjoy? Movies that Mina won't screech through, movies that preferably, she'd sleep through :)

With this rule, the only movies we've watched as a family, with no screeching or minimal protests from Mina, and which she eventually slept through is Stardust! I can't say enough good things about this movie. There are mature themes like death, revenge, familial murders, hints of bedroom tango if you know what I mean, so keep it in mind when choosing the movie. Your 13 year old would probably be fine, 7-12 would have lots of questions, 6 and under this movie may just fly over their head. Luckily, Mina is too small that we don't have to worry about all that. :)

The acting and writing is superb, plot wonderful, the climactic scenes are amazing, Claire Danes is lovely, and it has a happy ending. Nuff said.

I'm a bad tagger, I didn't follow the rules of this tag at all, and I'm not tagging anyone. But feel free to share your favorite kiddie movies. I'll soon be introducing Mina to them!

5 THINGS I WANT MY ANAKS TO KNOW BEFORE I"M GONE

Anak = Kids

I was tagged by the lovely Mec.

So here are the thing I would love Mina to know before I go. I'll just write it with a girl in mind for now; we'll edit if we have a boy later. :)

1. Keep your sense of humor. If you don't have it, hone it. No matter the situation, no matter the stress, the frustration, you'll always find relief if you can find humor in it. Always be ready to laugh at yourself. No one is too big or too important that they can't laugh at themselves. If you trip, and others laugh, and you get offended they didn't help you; you're the one missing out. Laughter defuses the tension, it makes you feel good and could drive away the embarrassment, and it's also good for the abs ;) .
2. Keep away from negative people. No matter what protective positive shell you coat around you, their negativity can still rub off. Surround yourself with people who live life with candor, courage, care, kindness and -- this one won't have the "kuh" sound -- laughter.
   
3. Find a man who treats his mother well, and who treats other women well. You don't want a Mama's boy necessarily (though not all mama's boys are bad). I guess what I'm saying is, find someone who'll treat you like a princess, you know, like your Dad!
   
4. This is really important baby: remember that your outlook on everything is the most important thing. If you think you can, you can. Everything is a neutral event, it's up to you how to react to it; how to handle it. It's up to you how to perceive it.
   
5. Don't let others dictate how you live your life. No one's acceptance, approval, affection is worth living sacrificing your own happiness; or being untrue to yourselves. Yes, even us. We'll love you no matter what; we'll always support you short of murder (unless you had good reason ;) ). But if ever there comes a point where what we desire, conflicts with your true heart's happiness, well politely say "I'm sorry, but this is what I decided." Then be ready to deal with the consequences. OK?
   

Then and Now

Where did the time go? Was it just a few months ago that I was lamenting the overwhelming responsibility of taking care of a newborn. That I was wishing she would already be 6 mos. so she would sleep through the night?

That can't be. Because now the only time I get to nurse her on the weekdays is at night. So many "experts" are saying she should be sleeping through the night and that I should wean her middle of the night feedings now. Why should I? That is our bonding time. I'm not quite as eager for her to sleep through and miss that special time.

Slow down, slow down growing. I'd like to keep you a baby just a little longer. Crap, I'm just a tiny bit sentimental right now, couldn't you tell?

At 3 days old, and now at 5 mos.



At 3 weeks and 3 days, and now at 5 mos.



At 1 month, and now at 5 mos.



Growing up too fast...

My Little Thumbsucker

Mina is a thumb-sucker. A lot of Moms get panicked when they see their infant starting to suck their thumb. Nearly all experts agree that thumb-sucking doesn't cause jaw malformation or do damage to the thumb if they stop before age 5, which a great percentage of kids do. They stop on their own. Personally, Mina is 5 months (where did the time go?) and I'm proud she can self-soothe. I won't try to discourage her unless she gets near the 5 year stage.

Here she is, my little sucker.

Updates in Other Blogs

I don't have much to write so I'll update you on some stuff I've written elsewhere. I've started writing for a blog called Babies Online. For any new mom, seasoned parents, expecting parents, or any parents, there is a mine of information on interesting subjects; from celebrity baby news, feeding, bath time, baby gear, weight loss tips, games...and so much more.

Some of my articles:

Know the Signs of a Bad Babysitter

Most Common New Year's Resolution: Lose Weight

In Sight, In Mind

Please visit and comment!

Note To Mina

Before I forget all the wonderful moments that may be overshadowed by the teething nightmares.

You have definitely discovered the power of your hands. You swipe, grab and put everything in your drooly mouth now. I've felt your hands gripping my hair once or twice and I'm glad I cut my hair short after you arrived.

You were such a good baby on our flight to visit Papa and Bongga Mama in San Diego. Almost everyone that passed by us cooed and praised you on your good behavior. The folks on the flight back weren't as overflowing with their praise...maybe because you discovered the power of screeching your displeasure. Yes, this screeching thing you recently learned, hope you forget it soon.

You have no awareness of Christmas and of all the loot you came away with, but soon that will change. You'll be pleased to know though that you did come away with the most loot. You were definitely doted upon; you were a star, a princess, the apple in everyone's eyes. Mommy is ashamed to admit this but I was a bit jealous...I mean what am I chopped liver? Although to be fair, you didn't seem to enjoy your VIP status. You seemed a bit irritated at being passed around incessantly and of the constant newness in the environment. Of course you obliged them with a smile and a laugh still as you are so generous with your fanbase. :)

Okay, let's get back to your achieved milestones: you've mastered the art of turning over from stomach to back, and you're seriously working on turning over from your back to your stomach. You're determined and I'm amazed at how intently you try to do the latter everyday.

And over the holiday break you started on solids. Just like Mommy and Daddy thought, you loved it. You're inhaling the stuff like it was nectar of the gods! If you're wondering why the following video is cut off so soon it's because the battery conked out on the camera. :)

Mommy is super excited at your milestones. You've definitely got a personality emerging: determined, analytical, happy. I can't wait to get to know you even more!

Edited to Add:

As of January 6th, 2007, you can also roll over from back to tummy! Daddy had placed you on the comforter on the floor on your back. We looked away, and then he looked down, saying, "Uh, Tin she's on her stomach now and I placed her on her back". We promptly put you on your back again and you were happy to oblige by turning over once more. My baby's growing up. Sigh.