pinaymommy

Sabine Mina updates

2011-02-07T00:53:00.000-08:00

So long since my last post! I am so glad to be posting here.

I wanted to write down your stats quickly:

Age: You're 3.5 mos old.
Height: 3 ft 5 inc (according to Kaboose height predictor you should grow to be 5'7...let us hope!)
Weight: 34 lbs.

You can do everything you set your mind to little girl! Your drawings are chicken scratch still unless I really encourage you to set your mind to it. You want the drawings to be representative of how object actually look so you get dismayed when yours don't. We'll keep trying baby girl! Except you're not really a baby anymore!

You're not very physically adventurous or aggressive so you remain relatively scrape/cuts/bruises free :D

Ignore the color, it's from an iPhone. That is you pretending to be a cat.

You have a very vivid imagination tho and love pretending you are different types of animals. Cats, dogs, pumas, lions and tigers are your favorite animals with which to play pretend. You like making up words to your own songs, love reading, lip gloss, this show called Horseland, shoes, clothes, and every girlie thing imaginable.

Your Daddy isn't here right now and you're acting out a bit. We've made an agreement. You will listen and I will stop yelling! Great idea right? <--your favorite phrase when trying to sell me on an idea.

You're so-so on ballet but I keep taking you because i want a solid foundation for your posture. You don't want Mommy's slouch. Also, it's good discipline.

Mommy and Daddy love you so much. You are our precious girl!

Before I forget

2009-12-23T00:52:00.000-08:00

At your doctor's visit on the 14th of December here were your stats:

Weight: 29 lbs. 50-75th %
Height: 37 inc. 75-90 %

I don't remember your head circumference but it was big :b

You're in full contrary mode right now. It's very difficult. Mommy always feels like the bad guy. Your Mama never scolds you. Your dad is a softie (just cause he's such a dear), and I am always the one yelling, disciplining you. Now whenever I start telling you "NO", you start whining immediately for Daddy. Breaks my heart. Let's hope this doesn't continue when you're older. Here's to wishing.

P.S. Mommy has her days but I love you so much.

Missing My Daughter

2009-11-14T23:24:00.000-08:00

I don't work but I go to school full-time. It's tough. I am in an accelerated program and it is busy as busy can be. True, we are in class only 2x a week from 5:30-10p but when you've got two tests in one week, each covering 10-14 chapters EACH, you better be hitting the books in between. Those 2 days, I already miss dinner, storytime and bedtime. Those other days when I'm with my study groups, or I'm in a library or book store studying all by my lonesome, I miss a heck of a whole lot more.

So I miss Mina. My husband, yes I miss him too but he doesn't go around preferring someone else when I'm not around as much (I hope hehe). Mina does. She's Daddy's girl. I want her to be my girl because she is the absolute most adorable thing in my life.

Yesterday I took her to the park to make up for it. We brought food to feed the duckies and she looked so funny trying to throw it to them and having it land only a few feet in front of her. The ducks would go nowhere near it. Then I had her on the swing for a while. And she did the slides a few times. But her favorite part was the sand in the playground. She just sifted through her closed fists again and again, fascinated. She was barefoot, insisting I took off her boots and socks. This girl does not like playing in shoes anywhere except the house. I know some parents would have had a fit at the thought of all those germs in such a common area as a playground. But what the heck, I wanter her to play. I followed her, and played with her a little bit while messing with the sand but mostly I just watched. I wanted to take a picture of her but I remembered that I forgot to bring it. So the image of her just rolling the sand through her fingers will just forever be in my mind. Her hair in a ponytail, her pink tracksuit smudged with dirt and chocolate, her bare toes peeking out from under her bottom. It's all in my mind. And I hope to never forget it.

Dressing A Daughter

2009-11-03T02:54:00.000-08:00

Things have been a bit crazy for us this past well, couple of years. What with my change of career and going back to school, and Woody's joining of the Army. Finances have been tight, schedules have been hectic. Vacation's been scarce (Waaaah! Enough about that). I used to have money to buy not just practical outfits from Target and Old Navy, which are cute but let's face it, a bit uninspired, to more stylish baby clothes from Baby Gap, Ralph Lauren, Lucky Kid, and Baby Dior (kidding about Dior). See, Mina for the fist 1.5 year of her life had no shortage of cute outfits. We had clothes galore from my baby shower, from gifts for her first birthday given by relatives and friends. We had a huge birthday party for her 1st one so that comes as no surprise.

Behold, an absence of pink!

Her second was a bit more understated. We got mostly cash. Her cute outfits are dwindling. Most of the stuff in her closet are proudly marked Target and Old Navy. Both stores like a lot of pink and I vowed to NOT dress her all pink before I had her. I tell you, it's hard!

I've been delegating her care to her Dad a lot more these days, since I'm so busy with school. Once he's gone, care will go to my Mom most likely, who has no problems with pink. But I was inspired lately by Sweet Fine Day's Jenna, who dresses her kids in stylish, low on pink fashion. I love it. I must admit I whipped out the credit card and just dropped a little over a hundred dollars on 5 pieces of clothes and shoes for the little one over at Crewcuts and yes, Baby Gap! This after already dropping some cash for more (pink!) stuff at Target the other day.

No, I didn't buy her Stella McCartney's new collection for babyGap (Lord, they are expensive!). I noticed most of the stuff I ended up buying were still in the pink family, but they call it guava, and light flamingo. I bought her pink shoes too. Ok, so that was a fail in no pink. But they were the only cute things on sale. Crewcuts isn't in the vicinity of Old Navy pricing.

Anyway, what's my point? My point is, I am overly concerned with how my daughter dresses. I secretly gloat that she is one of the best-dressed kid in her class. I love, love, love that she's a girl. Cause no matter how many cutesy things they try to come up for boys, it's just not as fun. For example, look at this cute picture:

I think that picture says it all. She insisted on adding the flower and tutu to the outfit by the way.

Mina, when you're older and read this, I hope you appreciate how cutely I tried to dress you.

Hi Mina Bina

2009-10-15T22:03:00.001-07:00

Here's mommy popping in for a quick update again.

Your stats:
Weight: stuck at 28 lbs. You've gained like 4 oz. in 1 year.
Height: 3 ft! According to the height predictors you should be at least 5'6 as an adult. We'll see.
Mood: most of the time, very contrary but tonight, extremely cooperative, cute, charming. We were at a Pho restaurant with your Dad and you charmed the pants off everyone. Why we didn't get a free meal out of it I'll never know (hehe)
Achievements: You made a stack out of 4 thin cylindrical sticks! Very impressive. You recognize and name the letters M and O. You know your colors except you don't have brown, gray and purple down yet. Your favorite song is Shakira's She-Wolf. Don't ask me why. You like to play ring around the rosy.

The other day you made a swipe at me as if to hit me, but you missed on purpose. Then you asked "Are you happy, Mommy? I didn't hit you!" Hahah! Classic.

We love you. Till the next update.

Where Have I Been?

2009-09-27T23:17:00.000-07:00

Guess I've been guilty living life, twittering, facebooking to a lesser degree, going back to school, writing, studying, watching Mad Men, etc. etc.

But this was intended for Mina to have a look-back on her childhood years and get a sense of her accomplishments and milestones. Mommy's doing a poor job baby.

First, you're in the full throes of your terrible two's. You've yet to throw a full-blown tantrum, I think except once. But you'll say the sky isn't red if I say it is, and you'll say it is if I say it wasn't. You want everything opposite of what everyone else says, and you are very vocal about it. You have me tearing my hair out frankly...Where'd my sweet girl go?

As for actual milestones, you're either 2'9 or 2'11 as of right now. Two different measuring devices give me two different readings. You're 27.6 lbs. You're just growing taller and not gaining weight as fast...Mommy's a bit worried about that but you're in the normal range so I guess that's ok.

I start potty-training you tomorrow, with the help of the entire household (so I hope). Here goes nothing....

Mina Turns Two and I Brag

2009-08-13T22:49:00.000-07:00

Hey if there's a time in a Mom's life she can brag about her child, it has to be around her child's birthday. I've mentioned before how adorable she is right? Right?

She is so charming, she charms the pants off people. In fact, I've had to make several trips to Levi's to buy myself and other people pants that she's charmed off, that's how charming she is.

She has the best eyes. Large and dark, and long-lashed.

She has the prettiest curls. I can literally stare at them for hours. I twirl the ends of her hair on my forefinger and they turn into little ringlets. Little ringlets that stay until she jumps up and down and bounces the heck out of them.

When she was 18 mos. old I found this article about gifted children (not that I was searching for articles like that, who me?). One of the traits of gifted children is apparently advanced vocabulary. By 18 mos. Mina was speaking in 2-3 word sentences. I mean, pretty advanced is what I thought. Apparently, a vocabulary list of 100 before age 2 is almost always a sign of giftedness. I stopped at 100 even though she knew even more words than that. I was tickled pink.

Now at almost two (Aug. 15th!) I can pretty much hold a conversation with Mina. We negotiate, she tells me stories, she tells me what she's thinking. It's pretty amazing.

We are having a little get-together with just family this Saturday for her official birthday. Next weekend we are going to Disneyland! I can't wait!

She starts preschool on Tuesday. Yes, preschool. This is one baby that is really craving for companionship and more challenge, and I hope preschool gives it to her. I feel really good about the idea of preschool right now, but a part of me can't believe she's already going.

My baby is growing up!

Mina, know that you are beloved, adored, and yes, even spoiled. We are proud of you. Most of all, know we are all trying to do our best by you.

Something to Post

2009-07-18T01:21:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post something new here. What else can I say except more glowing things about you? You're a complete sunshine that overwhelms any grays that may descend on our household from time to time, and we all appreciate you for it.

You'll be two in a month, and I honestly can't believe it. I'm excited that you're growing up, but mourn the loss of my "baby". You'll always be my baby girl, and just get used to the idea, but I miss the baby babble, the chubbiness, the roundness, the creases in your arms from too much fat. I miss your wide-eyed helplessness and trust as you looked at me to just know what you needed, without you having to say anything. Now, you are very vocal, and clear in your speech to ever be misunderstood.

You'll be starting preschool next month. I decided to put you in preschool so early because you clearly love other kids, love to play and socialize, and I don't think you get enough of it. You have no cousins and, obviously, no siblings. You can follow commands pretty well, and are really good at sharing...I think you will love preschool. Since it's only 2 days a week, half days, it's a reasonable starting point. Anyway, I will miss you terribly. You will have to tell me everything you learn. :) Of course, it's about a mile from your Mama's place, so it's really more than ideal.

Terrible Twos

2009-06-29T22:30:00.001-07:00

I was crossing my fingers that you won't go through the terrible twos but today you threw your very first full-blown tantrum.

And it didn't get any better tonight. Basically, you've got 3 adults scrambling to see what will calm you down. I think next time, we're just gonna have to ignore you.

You've been increasingly contrary this past week. Won't hold hands while walking, needing a specific fork or spoon when eating, wont' let us help you eat even when your food is falling all over the place, won't let us help you drink. No, no, no on everything. You're getting on my nerves but I still love you to pieces.

Hope this storm passes quickly. Love you, sweetie.

Daddy's Home

2009-06-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

Dad's home for a few weeks before he's off to...gulp...Iraq. I'm going to enjoy our time together. That's what I'm gonna do. Then later, he'll be off to do the job that WE BOTH went into with our eyes wide open. Someone's gotta do it, and he will do it well, like he does everything.

I could hardly contain my excitment at the airport! Here's what Mina did when she saw her Dad. I think it's safe to say she remembers him.

The next day, he prepared breakfast for us. Here's Mina's plate. I love how he always emphasizes aesthetics when dining.

Here's the father and daughter duo playing! I love and have missed seeing this!

Woody at his favorite store: Teavana:

I have really missed going out as a family, sharing meals, watching movies and TV together, and just spending time all together. I feel complete.

Veggie-Eater

2009-05-28T01:28:00.000-07:00

It's really a gratifying feeling seeing you eat your veggies! I mean, sure you ask for cookies and chips for breakfast (and no, I don't give them to you) but when presented with veggies you do your share of eating. Even eagerly opening your mouth and chasing the spoon full of veggies on it if we aren't fast enough to feed you.

Mommy really tried hard to make sure you love your veggies. From 6 mos. and on, I gave you a variety of strained veggies, and I've made a concerted effort to serve you with fruits and veggies every day. Most days, you have adequate servings of fruits and veggies, even though we may lack variety sometimes: we're partial to carrots and broccoli. But I've just recently discovered you love green beans, snap peas, peas, even cauliflower.

I am very happy. I make sure I savor my veggies around you too, to encourage love of veggies even more.

I hope this doesn't change as you grow older.

Smile and Laugh

2009-05-12T23:42:00.000-07:00

Reposted from my main blog.

Had a really good Mom's Day on Sunday. Had good food, conversation, did I mention the food?

Plus, something I dreaded would happen didn't end up happening. In fact, quite the opposite occurred and I was very pleasantly surprised. I know I'm not posting much of consequence, but you'd be bored with what I'm obsessed with right now anyway. Suffice to say that life is good, I'm itching to finish school. Our last day will be next week! I should get 1 A and 1 B. That's good enough for me.

Here's a picture of the three generations of Mom/Daughter sets. Taken on Mom's Day. I heart my family!

And for a good laugh, and a big clue to my current obsession, here's a video:

Dentist Visit

2009-05-05T00:37:00.000-07:00

I forgot to write that two weeks ago, you visited a dentist for the first time!

Great office, it was made especially for little kids. I have never seen a more child-friendly office, with a video game nook, carpeted walls, and floor and a forest decor. Lots and lots of toys and books. Dr. Dino is great! I didn't know he would turn out to be Filipino either. :)

Inevitably, you cried while we held your mouth open so he could look in. But when we started to sing the Barney I love you song, you immediately went quiet and then went, "again!" through the doctor's hand in your mouth after we were finished. It came out sounding "agah!" but it was so hilarious.

No cavities, just a little plaque build up. Your next appointment's in October. :)

Note To Mina

2009-04-27T23:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Mina,

You're growing too fast. You're growing too soon. Haven't I asked you repeatedly, with plenty of pleases to please stay my baby a little while longer? Why must you break Mommy's heart so soon. You're running toward the Two's with open arms, a glint in your eye and a Wheee! to accompany it. I don't like it. Pause a little, sit here on Mommy's lap. There, was that so bad.

Oh dear, there you go again.

Tonight I told you two bedtime stories. Not one I read from a book, but one I made up myself. The lead character was Mina of course, and in both stories she was fighting Moomoos (monsters)and winning because she is tough and strong. I cradled you in my arms and you looked up at me with wide eyes, but with no grin. Just a very serious look, like you understood every word I said. And you did because you're so smart.

Daddy will be home in a month or so. He's gonna have his socks knocked off by how cute and adorable, and smart you are. I have never met a baby as charming a you and that is God's honest truth.

A baby. Soon to be a toddler. No hurry, ok? No hurry. Sit on my lap, in my arms and I'll tell you more stories.

Happy Easter

2009-04-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hey baby girl,

You had your first Easter Egg hunt a week before Easter Sunday. What a great practice. It was through our local playgroup at the Veteran's Home and you went home with about twenty eggs or so. The actual Easter Sunday egg hunt we went to wasn't as organized and was quite rowdy. You made out with four eggs.

You're talking a lot more these days and even pretend to tell us stories at 20 mos. You have christened anyone starring in your stories the name "Malia". We know a Malia but no you don't play with her, not really.

We have signed you up for another round of Gym glass with Ms. Jenn, and dance class with Ms. Claudia. You're enjoying yourself as usual.

Let's see, at this point in time you weight 26 lbs. and you're 34 inc. in height. That's pretty good, you're a tall girl! I'll leave you with a photo of yourself in my favorite dress so far:

Raising a Girl in Today's World

2009-04-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

Recently, I posted something in my main blog about the perils of raising a girl in today's world and what I plan to do to avoid them. I thought it fit here perfectly, so I'm reposting.

Recently, Connie aka Sassy Lawyer wrote about a program at her daughter’s school with words “Becoming Men of Value” printed on it. This was dispensed to the graduates’ guests for their graduation ceremony. Connie does a good job raising different points about both the written program and the program itself. My main contention is the word MEN. For a mixed class of males and females. What happened to the females in the group? Didn’t anyone take a second look at those words and second-guess its propriety? Its accuracy? It tells a lot about the school. And I’m wondering why a loud hue and cry wasn’t raised from the students and parents alike about it. That tells me something too. IF there wasn’t enough complaints generated (and I don’t know if this is the case), then it tells me that enough parents and their daughters (and the men too) found nothing wrong with the words printed for a graduating class of mixed gender. Do they subconsciously hold their daughters’ worth as lower than the sons’?

You can tell it bugs me. I’m not really a feminist, but I’m a huge fan and a huge proponent of the idea of a strong, confident, competent female. A girl, a lady, a woman who is able to hold her own in a “man’s world”. I have strong women in my family. I didn’t grow up thinking I couldn’t do something because I’m a girl. I was expected to be smart, to be top in my class, to be talented…I was probably overindulged a bit. :)I grew up reading books about strong girls with amazing personalities and ethics. God bless Austen, and Lucy Maud Montgomery, and many others.

When I found out I was having a girl, I was delighted, and knew exactly the values I would emphasize for my daughter, and the values I would not.

No princess stuff. She is our world. We don’t have to emphasize that sentiment with stories of little princess who more often than not, are usually rescued by some prince charming. Screw that fantasy. My favorite version of Cinderella is the film Ever After, where the Cinderella character saves herself, because she wasn’t helpless. I am not against other moms who choose to do the princess things with their daughters. A strong character doesn’t necessarily exclude a love of princessy stuff. It’s just a personal choice with me. The backgrounds of each of these princess just smacks of damsel in distress. Ariel can’t return to normal unless a guy loves her and kisses her. Aurora of Snow White needs to be kissed as well to be rescued. Cinderella had to wait around for the prince to find her and put a slipper on her feet before she could get out of her miserable life…get the picture?

Give me a heroine with a bit more personality than these and I’ll promote them to Mina, no problem. Otherwise, I’ll continue to buy Winnie-the-Pooh paraphernalia from the Disney store.

NO TV. At least no cable TV. We’ll survive. Without TV, we’ll be forced to do some other activities for our entertainment. Mina does watch videos on the internet, of things like an Elmo Song on YouTube, or her own uploaded videos, or the occassional hip hop video (she really loves dancing), and videos of other kids dancing. I take her to dance and gym class a few times a week, I take her to the park. We read books, we draw, etc. I know she’ll probably be lured by a program or two when she’s older, but I hope by then I’ve instilled the joys of other activities in her.

When she’s older, we really may cut TV out altogether. Things slip through the cracks, as I’m sure you know. Even cable shows that are supposed to be family-friendly have a lot of sexual undertones to them nowadays. Who knows how much worse they’ll get in years’ time. I plan to talk to Mina about sex, but I don’t necessarily like how sex is portrayed on TV. Casual sex is portrayed as OK on television and movies.

Avoid Women’s/Teen Magazines. Is it possible? Probably not altogether. But I really hate the standard of beauty portrayed in those magazine. I’m sure you know what I mean already. I won’t bring them to the home and I’ll actively discourage her from buying them. Or if we buy them, we’ll discuss their level of reality.

Communicate. I plan to be frank about sex. I plan to be frank about issues surrounding women. The pressure to be thin, to look a certain way, to act a certain way. I will also listen. Probably the more important part. I plan to instill in her an understanding that how she feels and what she thinks matter. The goal is for her to want to communicate back once the iffy teen years come. Plant that sense of openness early on, and hope they remember it when their hormones are running amuck.

Stay with her Dad. I”m not joking. Statistics show again and again, that a girl without a father figure tries to find that father figure elsewhere, and it’s not always in a jovial and kind grandfather or uncle. It’s not always in positive ways. In fact, if you look among pregnant teen girls, and those who are sexually active early, statistics have the majority of them coming from single-parent homes headed by moms. I don’t propose staying in an unhappy marriage either. I have no advice. I just am glad I’m with a good man, who is an enthusiastic father who takes fatherhood seriously. I hope my Mina sees that and would want a guy just like her dad. I would have no problem.

Encourage. I don’t ever plan to say something like: “Are you sure you should do that? It’s only for boys.” To me, a girl - barring limitations based on physical differences - can do anything a guy can do. They can become anything they want to be.

I’m not naive. I know that there are a hecka of a lot of places where these sentiments aren’t shared; that in fact there are places they are actively repressed. I hope that changes some day soon. And I’ll do my part by starting at home, and raising a strong, confident, powerful girl.

Mommy (and Daddy) Resources

2009-03-25T19:57:00.001-07:00

Now that Mina is older (almost a toddler! Ack!), I don't have a compulsion to check every single milestones, events, acts, that happen for her against sources like the BabyCenter, Babiesonline Blog, and other parenting sites like Parents Connect. I think the first few weeks I had her I would literally check every parent site on a daily basis, as well as my trusty What to Expect the First Year book. And now the compulsion has died down. I've gained confidence in my parenting abilities.

If you're a new parent, know that there are resources out there, online, literally a few clicks away. Remember that parents have been there before you and have survived. You will too. I promise.

You're guilty about feeling angry, frustrated. You're worried about your baby's poopy diaper, about how much or how little they're eating or drinking. Whatever your worries are. Don't panic. Check out the resources available to you. Your questions probably all have simple answers.

Now that I'm a parent of soon-to-be-toddler, I have a new set of questions. When should she start preschool? Is really that important? How do I get her to practice her large and fine motor skills? I start noticing differences between her and kids her age. Should I work on the things she isn't good at, and other kids are? Am I being too authoritative in my discipline style, or am I doing it just right? She is a really well-behaved baby, my little Mina; have I stifled her too much?

Like Baby Center, Parents Connect have resources for babies and toddlers, but also for kids, preteens and teens. Because we all know that as parents, we'll need all the help we can get, right?

Melting Hearts

2009-02-28T22:57:00.000-08:00

Mina is the most charming, funniest, cutest baby I know. I know I'm biased okay, but she's really hilarious. I used to read that nothing can prepare you as a parent for the love and joy that your children can bring into your lives. All I can say is they were right.

For every innocent joyful laughter, every request for a "kish" complete with both hands on my cheeks. For every request for a hug complete with a pat on the back. For every smile, for every new expression, new word learned, new developmental milestone crossed...for everything there is an exponential burst of just amazing feeling. She is joy encapsulated. She is wonderful, and loving. I am glad of all of it because it means I must be doing something right, right?

She is developing at warp speed and surprises me everyday with the phrases she can complete. She can express herself so well and according to the books she is months ahead of schedule. Most toddlers start with 2-word phrases at age 2 years of age. She can speak in 3 and sometimes 4 word sentences at 18 months.

She loves dancing, she loves singing, and watching videos of herself. I need to take her outdoors more often as we don't always go on our morning walk anymore. I used to take her 3-4 times a week but I'm sure we'll get back to that as the weather progresses. She goes to two toddler classes which end next week. Meaning I have to sign her up for something else soon.

She eats like crazy. I see no evidence of a stop-i'm-full signal. If she sees something new she will eat it. I have to really firmly tell her no a lot. And hide food. Oh boy, that is no joke. I'm trying not to worry. A parent can always find something to worry about. She's in the 50th percentile for weight actually so there is no reason to worry. Her favorite food group is carbs but I'm glas she likes healthy stuff too like cheerios, apple, and carrots. Broccoli has to be cooked exactly right to be accepted, not too hard, not too mushy. Same goes for zucchini and squash.

I'm kinda stagnant in introducing new and healthy foods to her like, I don't know, legumes and such. I tell myself I have no time but I know I can find the time if only I organize myself better. But her diet is at least pretty good most of the time. She gets her portion of fish, and meats, and fruits and veggies. She eats a bit too much rice still in my taste but I've decided not to worry about that. Once we are living on our own, we'll have much more control of what goes into her tummy, and rice will be curbed to no more than one serving a day. She does like noodles though.

Well, if you've stayed here this long, I should reward you with a video of the charming one.

Here she is in her dance class for toddlers.

The BIG errrr....TWO-NINE

2009-02-11T23:25:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I'm not quite the Big 3-0 yet. To be honest, I'm okay staying 29. Or even my current age (for two more days) of 28. Really, I'm okay. I'll stay that way if you please. You, being the collective universe, father time, mother nature, the fountain of youth, etc. etc.

I always thought I'd be one of those people who would age gracefully. I would look at wrinkles as a sign I've smiled too much and lived a lot. I would never be one of those people who lied about their age, or admitted their age with regret. I never thought I'd care, but it turns out I'm as flawed as the next human being. I do care very much. Maybe if I'd done everything I wanted to do, I'd actually be looking forward to planning a 30th b-day looming a year from now; and be a pro once I got to a point of time to start gathering 50th birthday party ideas. The problem is I feel like I haven't done much. I wanted to go to Paris by my 30th bday party and that's probably not gonna happen. I promised myself that trip when I was 15 years old! I was also supposed to go white-water rafting, and sky-diving. I'm supposed to be fitter than ever, and rich. Yes, I know money isn't everything but my imaginations always had me living a fabulous life. I'm supposed to be published already, or at least with a fluorishing career I could be proud of....

I better stop. My life may not have turned out the way I imagined it to (I mean, I was in High School when this fantasy life was planned) , and maybe time is passing by too fast, but I am happy and have much to be grateful for. Kids, this is Mom being self-pitying and being an ageist. I mean, 29 isn't old. It's the new 19...riiiiiight?

I won't be celebrating big for my 29th, and I'm not holding out on a special 30th. Woody will probably still be in Iraq, so I don't think he'll be able to throw me a 30th suprise party. I refuse to get depressed over something that shouldn't be depressing. I'll just browse this website on unique party ideas to mark the special time. What could I do different? Maybe a trip to Hawaii, and a few special friends to hopefully join me in an intimate luau on the beach. Everyone has to have a lei, or a Hawaiian shirt/clothing. I'd be really fit from working out hard and steady for a year (haha!) and I'd be in a fabulous sarong and bikini top. My cake will be a mango cake, and a Hawaiian ukelele will be playing Happy Birthday by a Hawaiian dude.

Or who knows, maybe Woody WILL be back by then, and then we're off to freaking Morocco and Paris like I always wanted!

Note to Mina

2009-02-09T22:26:00.000-08:00

Hi little girl,

I sure miss your Daddy. I'm not sure if I'm doing a good job balancing school, spending time with you, and keeping up with everything else. I hope I am. You're smiling a lot, not losing weight (not gaining a lot of weight either though), you're happy. I try to get you some fruites and veggies everyday, although you're still getting a lot of rice in your diet. That's ok, one step at at time. We go to a dance/movement class called Toddlers Tango, Babies Boogie, and you love it! We also go to a gym class on Saturdays which you do ok with. Next time, we're putting you back with Ms. Jenn's gym class though. There's something off-putting about this teacher.

You just love watching any type of videos on the computer, but most especially videos of yourself. We're cranking out videos at a rate of two per week, and you lap it all up. :)

You enjoy crackers and cookies now, and repeatedly ask for them for breakfast. I have to say no of course. Note though that I only give you organic crackers. We don't have any cookies in the house, but you usually get one or two from your Lola's (Papa's sister) house on Sundays.

You're bored with your toys already, and really have no favorites, although you still find joy in the newest one, a finger bunny puppet.

You talk a lot, and regularly say 3 word sentences. You can identify a lot of objects from pictures, like pigs, cats, elephants, socks, spoon, airplane...a lot more hun. I can't remembe them all. I think you're smart and gifted and I along with everybody else, pretty much adore you. I better follow up with a sibling soon so you won't get completely spoiled.

Mina Can Count!

2009-01-23T20:08:00.000-08:00

Watch her count...if you're not Filipino, the language she's counting in is Tagalog :)

Sleeping Blues

2009-01-16T21:28:00.000-08:00

I have back issues. I hate to admit it because I sound so old! Only old people, and lame people talk about having back problems (no, you're not lame or old; I am).

Since I've had Mina though, my back has definitely grown weaker. I need to work out, maybe do Pilates and other strength training exercises. And I need a better bed. I have a firm mattress. I don't know if that's good for me. Maybe I need a softer one? I have no idea. I may have to get an evaluation with my chiropractor.

Aside from my back and bed not getting along, I have a thief in the night who continuously steals my sleep away. That would be a 32-inch, 17-month old, curly-haired terror (no, she's not reallyl a terror). My mom let Mina sleep next to her last week when I started school and I couldn't get home until 9:30 pm. BIG MISTAKE. Let me say that again, BIG MISTAKE!

Now all Mina wants is to sleep beside me. But does she stay sleeping next to me, unmoving, peacefully, like a normal person would? No, she squirms and kicks and pushes, and wakes up and then asks me to kiss and hug her about 20 times. Now I looove kissing and hugging her, but not at 2 in the morning.

If I had a lower bed, maybe I wouldn't mind having her in bed with me. I could get one of those low divan beds and I'd just roll off and lay on the floor and not worry she'll fall off. She can kick and squirm all she wants, and I'll just surround her by pillows. On second thought, a floor is harder than my mattress.

How do I get a better night's sleep!

What makes a good sleep? Does it matter what a bed looks like? In the beginning, yes, it does. They're definitely what gets you to buy them in the first place (and Time 4 Sleep has a wide selection of pretty beds; too bad they're in the UK).

In the end though, what matters is whether you have a good mattress and whether you have an agreeable bed partner.

Eat Healthy So You'll Grow Healthy

2009-01-12T23:56:00.001-08:00

Peacekeeping Note: I don't mean to offend any parents out there. This is strictly to encourage and educate.

I am reading a book right now called the Baby Book Bible, and it's quoting some really sad statistics of rising number of kids who are overweight and eating junk food.

As a Filipino, I have noticed that our culture has a penchant for adding a lot of salt via actual salt or patis (fish sauce), and frying our dishes in a lot of oil, and eat a LOT of pork. We usually top all of that with a lot of rice. And veggies in our diet are more likely to be in dishes that have been boiled and have therefore stripped the veggies of most of it's nutrients.

For my non Filipino friends, they have their own dietary problems, usually concerning the same thing: lots of fried, lots of carbs, and lack of veggies and fruits in their diet. It's a sobering reality in my life right now that a lot of people I know have diabetes, are overweight, have kidney problems, etc. etc.

I went to a Christmas party last season, and Mina and I wandered to the "kids" area. All the kids were 11 and under, some just 2 and 3 years old. They were all watching TV and had been for hours. Either that or playing video games. I've given my opinion on TV watching but I understand it's the holidays. Even if the parent's rule were no TV, or limited TV, the rules may have been relaxed for the vacation.

There was a 2/3 year old there who had her own bag of chips. Mina loves crackers and corn chips, and when she saw the girl's bag, she wanted some. I let her have two. Mina wandered away, and I followed her only to follow her back again some time later. The little girl now had another bag of chips, this time a flaming hot cheetos. This, I wouldn't let Mina taste.

Chips as snacks. Fried foods as snacks. This is the normal snack for a toddler in many household.

I don't think it's too much to for parents to limit these things EVEN during the holidays. Is it?

Parents need to be simply more dilligent in watching what their kids eat. What you eat, and what they eat now, is what they'll be eating the rest of their lives. Learn recipes to make veggies more palatable for you and then introduce them to your kids before 18 mos. old. Insist they finish their veggies, and make it delicious, and show them that you have fun eating it, so they will too.

Start with something easy that all kids will love, like carrots and corn, and broccoli. Broccoli is easy to make delicious. Just steam, put a pat of butter on top and sprinkle with cheese. Mina loves it!

Then start branching out to zucchini, squash, bell peppers, etc. Remember, it takes at least 8 times of trying to feed your child a food before you can really conclude they don't like it. That's how long they make take to get used to it. Other experts say 16 times. Just keep trying and don't give up.

For afternoon snacks? What's more nutritious and delicious than a bunch of cut up apples, pears, strawberries, or wedges of oranges? To make it even more appetizing, whip it into a yogurt smoothie using a blender and serve it as dessert. They'll get the sweet but with loaded nutrients than just a slice of chocolate cake.

As a parent, it is up to you make sure you child grow up happy and healthy. One of the best ways to do that is to give them a foundation of healthy eating. It will "school" their tongue to always crave fruits and veggies instead of friend snacks, junk foods and processed foods, if you start them as young as possible.

If you child is all grown up, it is not too late. It is never too late. Let's all make 2009 the year we cut down on the junk foods and pile up on fruits and veggies!

More Mina News

2009-01-05T13:08:00.000-08:00

Mina, you Dad has gone away for a few months and he'll be back. In the meantime, he is entrusting me your complete well-being; your healthy, your eating habits, your social and emotional happiness. I am honored to step in when he can't for now.

I don't know if you're aware of this, but your Dad simply ADORES you. Everyone does, but it's pretty special coming from your Dad, because your Dad is pretty special. You've got his heart cupped firmly in the cusp of your hand.

What makes your Dad so special?

He is funny, patient, generous, considerate, loving, loves being with his family, loves us above all, takes care of us, is very unique...Trust me on this little one, there is no one like your father out there. He defies category, and can't be boxed down.

As for you little one, you are currently 23 lbs. and 32 inches. This places you in the 59th and 93rd percentile for kids your age!

You can do somersaults.

You can say three-word phrases like "I like it".

You've done the potty a few times but we're not rushing you, and you haven't mastered it.

YOu love dancing.

YOu love watching videos of you!

YOu like singing; like, not love but that's good enough for me

Your love affair with Elmo seems over.

YOu're very affectionate. I am soaking it all up because I know you won't be like this forever.

This is officially my favorite age of yours! :)

Last Thoughts Before Christmas

2008-12-22T19:36:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-18T20:09:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-10T00:05:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-20T22:17:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-20T22:06:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-02T23:26:00.000-08:00

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

2008-10-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

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

2008-10-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-23T11:33:00.001-07:00

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

2008-10-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-20T16:58:00.001-07:00

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

2008-10-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-14T11:41:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-09-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

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

Preparing To Conceive?

2008-09-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

Try these tips on getting yourself ready.

Children And Body Image

2008-09-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-09-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-09-13T11:49:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-10T02:10:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-08T17:33:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-11T12:44:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-15T18:23:00.000-07:00

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

Almost One!

2008-07-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-22T22:04:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-19T09:50:00.001-07:00

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?

2008-06-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

Well does it? Read here and find out.

Mommy Stuff

2008-06-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-05-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-04-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

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

Confession: I have a temper problem

2008-03-24T19:56:00.000-07:00

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.

First tooth

2008-03-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

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:

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.
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

2008-03-06T14:40:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-16T19:47:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-02-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-02-14T17:34:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-10T10:28:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-05T08:34:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-30T10:59:00.000-08:00

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. :)

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 ;) .
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.
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!
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.
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

2008-01-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-01T23:51:00.000-08:00

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.

My Thoughts on Spanking

2007-12-03T08:55:00.000-08:00

Answering a question posed by Rhada and Sunshine4Life.

I was spanked as a child. I had one of those wooden back scratchers -- with an indian head design on the scratching portion -- used on me. I can still envision that indian head with its insidious smile. It finally got broken spanking me one time. I was partially raised by my aunts, and they, along with my mom, wholeheartedly believed in spanking. As the recipient of the spankings, I didn't.

I can never say never of course. Perhaps a couple of years from now, one frustrating afternoon when Mina finally gets on my last nerve, I may take a swipe at her butt. What I plan to keep in mind though, is how young and helpless I felt being spanked as a child. How terrorized. Because the spankings usually happened when the spanker was angry at me. I hope I have the resolve never to resort to the same angry spankings I received. I know I turned out well, and I don't hold a grudge against my mom and aunts for spanking me; it was what was done in the family. But I can't quite stand the thought of spanking my little girl.

So in summary, my plan is to spare the rod right now.

What Kind of a Mom Will I Be?

2007-11-27T08:26:00.000-08:00

Admit it moms, most of us at one point or another, have looked at our mothers and thought "I will never be like my mom." Only to realize that little by little, we have become, or are already exactly like our mothers.

Not to say that some of us didn't have great Moms that we want to emulate. But I think the majority of women out there know what I'm talking about. Whether we promised not to be as impatient (me), not to spank, not to be so strict, there's always something we hope to improve when it's our turn to mother our child(ren).

I'm not exactly like my mom. I think part of it is the temperament I was born with. But I do have her tendencies, especially the easily frustated, easily impatient part. I'm aware of it, and so I already have half the battle won. I just need to continually work on my temper when things aren't going according to plan. Let me repeat, it is continuous work. Since I have this tendency, it's not all of a sudden going to get fixed, and there will be moments when my temper will get the best of me. I just never want to resort to yelling or spanking my little one. I have regretted very little in my life, but that is sure to be something I will regret if it ever happens.

But what kind of a Mom do I wish to be? I have a very good sense of humor, so I hope to impart that to baby Mina. Her dad and I are goofy, so I most likely will be the jokey, laughing type. I would like to be the kind of mom with whom she can feel free to share most things with and not feel like she has to hide them. I would like to be a trusting mom, making sure of course that I raise a trustworthy, critical thinking, responsible, daughter. I want her to see me laugh often, hear me praise her often, and know I'm not one who's easily fooled.

I want to be a loving Mom, a Mom who she can trust to protect her. I may not be able to whip her up a gourmet meal like her daddy, but I will always do my best to give her rich and rewarding experiences.

We'll most likely have our battles. But whatever they are, we'll get through it with humor.

Picture of a Happy Mother and Daughter team?

Monogrammed Clothes for Kids

2007-11-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to give this as a tip but it just didn't fit in my other site.

I've been obsessed with baby clothes recently. The coming colder weather (yes, still coming; hasn't come yet even in November) will create a need for cold-weather clothes. I've been scouring the web and happily stumbled upon two sites that allows you to monogram your clothing order. I think it's cute, though not all parents think so.

The first, Ralph Lauren for Kids, has a Create Your Own section. I can just picture baby Mina in a cute polo. Their items aren't cheap, but they do have some items on sale.

Next, is Potter Barn Kids where for $6 more, they will personalize a lot of their clothing.

(The sites above are for U.S. residents only)

You know, if you view my browsing history, it's almost all baby clothing sites, babies r us, babycenter.com, etc. Major baby on the brain.

Note To Mina

2007-11-14T10:19:00.001-08:00

Hi Mina. Just wanted to let you know that we visited your pedia last Tuesday, and you are a whopping 15.4 lbs. I was carrying you over the weekend because you never wanted to be put down and I swear I could see you growing right before my very eyes.

My nicknames for you these days:

Tabaching-ching - still a favorite
Chunky monkey
Fatty (gosh don't hate me when you grow older)

Your also now 24 inches long. Your head has grown too but I can't quite remember how big.

The nurse gave you a shot and you cried little head off. I cuddled you and put up with the snot drooling all over me because it hurt Mommy's heart to see you cry. Mommy's a sucker for her little baby girl!

I'm also delighted to report that last Friday, I noticed you watching your hands. And now, you're holding them together! I am so proud of you. Even though billions of other babies can do the exact same thing, I am positive you are holding your hands together in the correct manner; that is, perfectly.

I've had to delete quite a few exclamation points from this note. Mommy is fond of them see. She often feels that exclamation points match her energy!!!

That's it my love. I hope you are able to turn over soon, cause honestly, you need the exercise.

Baby Gear Review

2007-11-13T16:27:00.000-08:00

I know first-hand how helpful gear reviews can be. The manufacturers and sellers can hype their goods all they want, but getting an honest to goodness first-hand account of how a product performed is a gem. Well, for me, anyway. I have read, and keep reading baby gear reviews. I mean, if we’re gonna spend so much on our little ones, might as well spend it on gear we know we’ll like, or at least have a good idea of how it will perform.

I don’t claim to have first-hand knowledge of every baby gear out there. All products will be products I’ve tried myself and I no, I haven’t tried them all. I’ll keep updating this as my little one grows.

Boppy Pillow versus My Best Friend Pillow.

It’s hard to declare a winner because each has its pros and cons. For nursing my baby the first two months of her life, the My Best Friend pillow wins out. Its sturdier, and better-shaped to hold my baby, plus it stays put because it belts around your waist. The Boppy kept sliding and shifting. I had the Boppy first and had to buy the Best Friend later when the Boppy didn’t work quite like I hoped.
For longevity, I think the Boppy wins out. I’ve used it to prop my baby up in bed while she’s awake, and while she’s been congested and needed to be reclined so she could breathe better. I can see her using this pillow as she grows. I sometimes even use it to cuddle with in bed. Because my baby is so big now, she can sort of sit up while nursing, and the Best Friend has been relegated to the baby’s closet.
I’ve heard from others though that have made the Boppy work for nursing. If you can make it work, then great. If not, buy both? :)

Bassinet – put this on your registry list or buy it used on Craigslist. I got mine as a baby shower gift. Mina used it about ten times and I have sold it on Craigslist since. She just didn’t like it. We ended up co-sleeping. Bassinets don’t have the same safety issues as cribs so it’s okay to buy it used. In any case, no need to drop $ on a new one. They will not use it long anyway. It is recommended that you stop using a bassinet once a baby can turn over or exceeds 15 lbs. I used Kolcraft Cuddle 'n Care™ Rocking Bassinet.

Bottles, if nursing. You will need bottles even if you’re nursing. Buy or register for bottles with nipples that are shaped close to a mother’s nipple. The ones shaped most like a nipple confused my baby the least. Every baby is different though so you may want to try different nipples to see which one your baby handles best. Mine liked Playtex Ventaire’s Stage 1 nipples, and she uses the wide regular bottles when at daycare.

Breast Pump. I used Medela Pump-in-style. The system is great for moms who pump at work. For occasional use though, buy something that is less heavy. Mine is supposed to weigh 15 lbs but feels much heavier. Other than that, this product performs very well. I feel good walking around downtown with the stylish black case.

Storage for breast milk. I bought Medela storage containers. It’s the cloud plastic type and I’m not that happy with it. I bought it because the bottles go with the pump I purchased. But when stored, the cream separates from the milk, and it cakes the insides of the container. Shaking does not easily settle the cream back in. You’d have to warm the milk in that container, and then transfer to the bottle your baby is using, or use the nipple that comes with it (which I don’t like). I keep thinking she’s missing something important when I can still see gobs of cream left in the storage container.

If you plan to buy storage, experts recommend glass, apparently safer than plastic; or those clear plastic ones. If you’ve ever seen a Dr. Brown’s Natural bottle, it is that type of plastic I’m talking about. I’ve used my Dr. Brown bottles as storage and the milk doesn’t stick as fanatically to the sides as the cloudy plastics.

Chicco Key Fit Travel system with both stroller and car seat. They work great. I wish the stroller would fold down more compactly and that there were more room in the cargo holder. I love the stroller though, for its maneuverability, suspension system, and light weight. My complaint about the car seat is that it doesn’t have a hook on the bottom of the car seat. When you go to restaurants, they need to have a sling or your car seat ends up going on a sometimes too tiny chair. It’s a big car seat. Other car seats I’ve seen have these indentations on the bottom so you can safely prop it on a high chair at most restaurants. The bottoms align with the high chair backs and fronts. I’ll take a picture later for illustration purposes. You know what though, I feel Mina is safer in a sling anyway.

Wow, this is getting long! I’ll get a part two later.

Baby Fat

2007-11-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

On baby Mina's 2 month check-up (she was 2.5 mos old during the visit), she weighed in at 15.4 lbs. This puts her at the 95th percentile for weight.

Did you get that? Mina is 15.4 lbs. at 2.5 months. Whoa!

Apparently, the main cause for this is high-fat content in mother's milk. My milk packs a punch!

The doctor told me not to worry and that it's not something I'm eating. However, I can't help but worry a bit. Will this hinder her mobility? Will this mean that she'll be fat when she grows older? I can't put her on a diet, she already eats on the low end of the average. The average is 19-32 oz. and she gets probably 19 oz. or less a day. She eats no more than 3 oz. and eats about 9 times a day. That is with feeding in demand already.

Sigh. I know a lot of fat babies end up being average in size later on but a mom can't help but worry. Questions of is this normal dance in my brain?

Mommies, any feedback?

Generating Extra Income

2007-11-07T13:50:00.001-08:00

With a baby comes inevitable added expense. I've cut way back by doing the following:

Breastfeeding. Do you know how much this saves? Lots. Lots and lots. According to some sources, $2000/yr. on average. Added bonus: I lose weight in the process.
Asking for diapers as gifts. I've had to buy only 2 bags of diapers since Baby Mina was born. She is almost 3 months old! She'll be moving on to Level 2 diapers soon. I've got a huge box of it from my baby shower.
Making do with clothes we've received from friends and family. I've purchased 2 going-home outfits for Mina and a special dress for a wedding. Since the weather has been turning colder and we have very little sleepers for her, we visited Once Upon A Child and bought some sleepers at $4.50 each. Compare to $7-15 at Target, and even more at more upscale shops.

Every little savings has helped. But now comes the other half of the coin: generating more income. I have been against paid blogging for a long time, but I have seen some who have made it work seamlessly. My main gripe was that the paid posts were not the reason I started visiting others' blog in the first place.

I've decided to revisit my stance on this as the practice gets more and more lucrative. But I decided to leave my old blog alone and create a new one. Be up front and personal as to what it is. A mutually beneficial site where I will talk about tips on mommy-hood for others to learn from as well as generate extra income for my family. We'll see how it works out shall we?

With that said, I am claiming this blog for Technorati.

Pinay Mommy

2007-11-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

Allow myself to introduce....myself. :)

I am a Yummy Mummy, with a healthy self-confidence (can't you tell? ;) ). After having recently given birth to a healthy baby girl, SMH, I constantly find myself surfing the net for information on baby development and problems; constantly thinking about how to raise my daughter, how to manage my finances with a pricey baby to think about, how to keep the passion alive in my marriage with a baby who keeps clamoring for attention.

This blog is in tandem with my other blog where I also write about more mundane things. I hope to keep this strictly mommy-related, while I struggle to hold on to a piece of my pre-baby identity in the other. :)