sooo tired after delivering gifts all over the world :-)
i'm on all fours now - no need for flying deers
Happy 4th Birthday
Enjoyed cake and party with friends at daycare.
First few books
Enjoyed reading at a very early age.
Supposedly Iron Man
So cute! The background and setting are just toppings.
Feeding the seagulls
Picnic with Harbour Bridge in the background
First real bed with wheels
The best Christmas present ever!!
29 December 2007
24 December 2007
23 December 2007
Fish in the Water
Jens take the water like fish. The only time that I remember that he whinge on his bath was the first time he had at the hospital.
He likes the water soo much that when even when he is whiney and I ran the water in the tap, he would stop being cranky and listen to the sound of flowing water.
Look at the love handles! :)
He likes the water soo much that when even when he is whiney and I ran the water in the tap, he would stop being cranky and listen to the sound of flowing water.
Look at the love handles! :)He hasn't had a bubble bath yet as I'm still using a bath oil - he was using it since he was born.
20 December 2007
18 December 2007
Birds In the Sky
Birds were hanging out in our place twice a day for food. Jens and I were always sitting outside on a warm afternoon when the birds hang out and my little boy loves to watch them and the sound they make.
And look here. He was straining his neck looking up to see the birds on the cable (he looks sleepy :D).
And these are some of the birds that he was soo keen on. There were almost a dozen before I took this photo but some flew away, thinking maybe that I will shoot them. :P
And look here. He was straining his neck looking up to see the birds on the cable (he looks sleepy :D).
And these are some of the birds that he was soo keen on. There were almost a dozen before I took this photo but some flew away, thinking maybe that I will shoot them. :P
16 December 2007
A Mini Baby Massage
I know that massage helps baby relax and unwind. I've been giving this treat to our little boy but I don't really know the tricks in this indulgence. I am also not consistent.
Then I read in the magazine the pluses of giving baby massages, which convince me to be religious in doing so to our Bub. I really didn't ask myself, why do I need to read it somewhere before doing so but I just realize now that I need a little push and nudge and badge to do something that I already have an idea. Sometimes, I reckon I don't trust my instinct at all. Oh well, we need assurance sometimes, aren't we? :)
I found this little tip very useful and my little boy enjoys it especially the back combing.
credit
Then I read in the magazine the pluses of giving baby massages, which convince me to be religious in doing so to our Bub. I really didn't ask myself, why do I need to read it somewhere before doing so but I just realize now that I need a little push and nudge and badge to do something that I already have an idea. Sometimes, I reckon I don't trust my instinct at all. Oh well, we need assurance sometimes, aren't we? :)
I found this little tip very useful and my little boy enjoys it especially the back combing.
Using both hands, stroke top of baby's head in a circular motion. Using flat fingers, massage from brow to templates. With fingertips, massage around jaw in small circles. With flat fingers stroke chest/tummy in a heart shape.
Milk the arms one at a time, from shoulder down then gently massage hands and fingers. Massage tummy in clockwise circles. Milk legs, then massage soles of feet with your thumb. Gently rub toes. Lay baby on tummy across your thighs. Support buttocks with one hand while stroking from shoulders to bottom. Comb his back with fingertips. To finish, enjoy a cuddle.
credit
15 December 2007
At Five Months
Time flies sooo quick, our Big Guy is now 5 months and getting bigger and heavier by the day. He doesn't ran out of tricks to make us laugh. And he's a rotten young man, he got Mummy at his beck and call.
Some of the photos taken during the month:
the bookworm
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Some of the photos taken during the month:
I love my fish
yum yum yum - i love my cereal
the bookworm
my book taste nice
first christmas gift
And speaking of gifts, MCJ one afternoon was making a mental list and I fall on the category of naughty. Hummmm, I wonder what will he give me. I really didn't want any, but it came to my mind to have an ipod especially when I see a sale one on the catalogue. But I don't really need one. Have to re-think on what I really want.
05 December 2007
Smurf in the Backyard
One warm afternoon, went out the backyard to have a breath of fresh air.
The little boy doesn't want to feel little so Mummy placed his "bumbo" on a delapidated backyard chair.
Then it started to drizzle, "hurry up inside for my beanie Mum".
"Birds are twitting, wanting their food. I look up the sky, and there they are perch on the electric cable. "
"Careful Bub that Magpie won't pluck your eyes."
Mum said, I'm too adorable that paparazzi swarmed in.
When it was time to take my beanie off, I'm already sweatin'.
The little boy doesn't want to feel little so Mummy placed his "bumbo" on a delapidated backyard chair.
Then it started to drizzle, "hurry up inside for my beanie Mum".
"Birds are twitting, wanting their food. I look up the sky, and there they are perch on the electric cable. "
"Careful Bub that Magpie won't pluck your eyes."
Mum said, I'm too adorable that paparazzi swarmed in.
When it was time to take my beanie off, I'm already sweatin'.
01 December 2007
Baby Books
I was planning to subscribe for baby books here. I found an insert in the magazine that I bought two months ago - the store has a promo sort of like buy two get two free with days trial. It was a very attractive offer - not so dear, I reckon compared to the prices of baby books that I saw in some stores. It was two months ago when I liked the offer. I haven't made a move. I was not stalling yet I'm not in a hurry either.
Then yesterday, I was able to drop by the second hand book shop - I've been wanting to for months now, to check if there are second hand baby books available. I don't mind buying second hand books as long as they're recent series and in good condition. Look here, $6 for four books. Not bad eh!
But I'm still thinking of subscribing for some baby's first book. The offer is still standing.
Then yesterday, I was able to drop by the second hand book shop - I've been wanting to for months now, to check if there are second hand baby books available. I don't mind buying second hand books as long as they're recent series and in good condition. Look here, $6 for four books. Not bad eh!But I'm still thinking of subscribing for some baby's first book. The offer is still standing.
I tried to read to our Big Guy this morning and I can't even finish one page. He wanted to flip the pages himself. He likes the noise that flipping and crumpling papers make. As a matter of fact, that's his new toy. :)) If he'll carry-on like this for years, we won't spend a penny for a toy! Whooppeeeee! Talking of a scrooge Mummy. lol.
New Sleeping Position
Since birth, Baby Ian used to sleep like this but recently, he had been sleeping on different positions. He would sometimes sleep on his side, ready to roll-over. Yeah, when he's alone in the room when he wakes up, tendency is to roll-over - either looking for food or he wants to play.
This was the latest. It was a funny story how did he end up in this position. See that white cloth he's holding? That's his chuck-up cloth. I reckon, he goes to sleep faster if he has that, so when I put him on his bed, I placed it across his chest while his arms were on his side. A short while later, he moved his arms up taking the cloth with them covering his face. He was fumbling and shaking his head to get rid of the cloth so I went for a rescue. He then decided to roll on his side. I had to haul MCJ from the bed to see this position and had to play paparazzo again. MCJ said, he got this sleeping position from me. :)
This was the latest. It was a funny story how did he end up in this position. See that white cloth he's holding? That's his chuck-up cloth. I reckon, he goes to sleep faster if he has that, so when I put him on his bed, I placed it across his chest while his arms were on his side. A short while later, he moved his arms up taking the cloth with them covering his face. He was fumbling and shaking his head to get rid of the cloth so I went for a rescue. He then decided to roll on his side. I had to haul MCJ from the bed to see this position and had to play paparazzo again. MCJ said, he got this sleeping position from me. :)
28 November 2007
Family's Refreshment
It's not summer yet but it feel like it already, for more than a month now. Blame it to the degrading condition of our Mother Earth, global warming is right here but blame it first to US - the stewards of nature.
It was sweet... but not very very sweet. Maybe, watermelon in summer will be that.
I remember to eat it sliced like this when I was young. Imagine my face and nose covered with juice. lol. Those were the days.
MCJ taught me to cut it like this as it was easy to do and not messy to eat. Plus you can store the sliced watermelon in a container and keep it in the fridge ready to eat whenever you like. A good idea though.
Our Little Man had his suck of the juice. He liked it as it was cold, soothed his aching gums.
He bit a portion and I had to deep-in my finger to his mouth. Scary as he could choke himself.
And what better refreshment you can have in a hot day? Iced cold cola? Halo-halo? Frosties? Fruit shakes? Ice cream? Nah! Ours is cooled water melon.
We bought our first water melon this season. It has been available in the shops for a month already but we didn't buy yet as it was tad dearer and it wasn't seedless. When we saw that seedless watermelon was less than a dollar a kilo, we gave it a go.
It was sweet... but not very very sweet. Maybe, watermelon in summer will be that.
I remember to eat it sliced like this when I was young. Imagine my face and nose covered with juice. lol. Those were the days.
MCJ taught me to cut it like this as it was easy to do and not messy to eat. Plus you can store the sliced watermelon in a container and keep it in the fridge ready to eat whenever you like. A good idea though.
Our Little Man had his suck of the juice. He liked it as it was cold, soothed his aching gums.
He bit a portion and I had to deep-in my finger to his mouth. Scary as he could choke himself. 25 November 2007
23 November 2007
The First Solid
Ian showed signs that he was ready for solid even before he turned 4 months. And the naughty Daddy would let him lick the spoon when we were eating ice cream which Ian loves. One time, I was eating junk food while sending him off to sleep, he was shifting his look from the packet to my mouth and to my hands. After a while, he cried because I wasn't sharing to him. Waaaaa! I have to stop eating. From then on, we are hiding when we eat junk food.
He is now four months plus and is really ready to eat solids. He can sit and with the help of his bumbo (the chair) feeding is quite easy.
I started to give him baby rice cereal two days ago - one teaspoon first and increased it the next day. He is a garbage guts, slurped down faster a teaspoon of cereal. He loves it and wouldn't let the spoon away from his mouth. If I do, he'll quickly replace it with his thumb or sometimes scream.
On the first day, the very novice Mummy took the spoon out of his hand and there was really a big screaming match. He can't be settled down until he had booby juice. Then, it happened again yesterday during his lunch. His cry sounded like he was really hurt or deprived of something. Gahibubun-ot gid.
I'm also giving him diluted diluted pear juice - pantulak. And I'm very happy as he had learned the art of drinking from the bottle. He drunk more than 100mls from the bottle for the first time.
I'm excited of the prospect of giving him other solids in the coming month.
*will take photos on the next feeding session
He is now four months plus and is really ready to eat solids. He can sit and with the help of his bumbo (the chair) feeding is quite easy.
I started to give him baby rice cereal two days ago - one teaspoon first and increased it the next day. He is a garbage guts, slurped down faster a teaspoon of cereal. He loves it and wouldn't let the spoon away from his mouth. If I do, he'll quickly replace it with his thumb or sometimes scream.
On the first day, the very novice Mummy took the spoon out of his hand and there was really a big screaming match. He can't be settled down until he had booby juice. Then, it happened again yesterday during his lunch. His cry sounded like he was really hurt or deprived of something. Gahibubun-ot gid.
I'm also giving him diluted diluted pear juice - pantulak. And I'm very happy as he had learned the art of drinking from the bottle. He drunk more than 100mls from the bottle for the first time.
I'm excited of the prospect of giving him other solids in the coming month.
*will take photos on the next feeding session
19 November 2007
One Sleepy Afternoon...
Ian had his nap and I did some house chores.
Despite being sooo sleepy, he still managed to cross his legs - something that he took from MCJ.
Despite being sooo sleepy, he still managed to cross his legs - something that he took from MCJ.
I wasn't finished with what I was doing when he woke up so I just let him know that I was nearby - he can also see me. He didn't whinge at all, rather look at what I was doing and sometimes do his exercises - kicking and punching.
Short while later, I was done and checked on him. This is what I found:
His legs dangling and it was just his little bottom stuck at the end of the bouncinette that kept him from falling.
And he thought it was funny. :) Talking of kids who can laugh at themselves.
14 November 2007
13 November 2007
The Big Needles
I dread the day that Ian will have his shots from the many that's lining up. First, I can't look at him getting pricked and yelping after. Then the most, running a temperature and feeling the pain of the shots. As a Mum, you can't help to feel sorry for your child plus the fact that you have limited ways on how to help lessen the pain - it really twists my heart.
Yesterday, Ian had his second dose of four vaccines (can't remember what are they). The experience was a tad better than two months ago. Yesterday, we were able to do some shopping after the visit to the GP. I gave him paracetamol after his feed then he went to sleep. He just started to whine when I was feeding him again after he woke up. But the whinging didn't last long. The family just went for a walk and then I feed him again soon after. Then he was all smiles again. I gave him another dose of paracetamol before going to sleep as he's running a temperature. We cooled him down - tapping wet cloth on his head. He had his usual night sleep but Mummy didn't.
I was sleeping like a chicken, noticing every sound he and MCJ made. I was not worried but I just wanna be awake incase he made any noise of uncomfort. Good heavens, he didn't. Still I didn't get to sleep until the wee hours in the morning.
I took his temperature this morning and it was 39 degree celcius - I know it's too high so we cooled him down again, stripped his pjs.
So far, the whinging is just the usual and his fever had gone down.
Yesterday, Ian had his second dose of four vaccines (can't remember what are they). The experience was a tad better than two months ago. Yesterday, we were able to do some shopping after the visit to the GP. I gave him paracetamol after his feed then he went to sleep. He just started to whine when I was feeding him again after he woke up. But the whinging didn't last long. The family just went for a walk and then I feed him again soon after. Then he was all smiles again. I gave him another dose of paracetamol before going to sleep as he's running a temperature. We cooled him down - tapping wet cloth on his head. He had his usual night sleep but Mummy didn't.
I was sleeping like a chicken, noticing every sound he and MCJ made. I was not worried but I just wanna be awake incase he made any noise of uncomfort. Good heavens, he didn't. Still I didn't get to sleep until the wee hours in the morning.
I took his temperature this morning and it was 39 degree celcius - I know it's too high so we cooled him down again, stripped his pjs.
So far, the whinging is just the usual and his fever had gone down.
11 November 2007
My New Chair
I'm a BIG Guy now!
Baby Ian loves upside down position. He can also haul himself faster digging on his heels and head. I'm more scared of him to fall off when he's lying on his back than on his tummy. So we bought this chair so he'll know which is up and which is down. Also, he wants to sit up when you're holding him especially when watching telly.
He rewarded Mum and Dad for buying him a new toy by sleeping through last Friday night from 630pm to 5am the next day. How wonderful is that? Mum and Dad enjoyed two movies and had a good sleep. But imagine how hungry he was when he woke up. :)
Baby Ian loves upside down position. He can also haul himself faster digging on his heels and head. I'm more scared of him to fall off when he's lying on his back than on his tummy. So we bought this chair so he'll know which is up and which is down. Also, he wants to sit up when you're holding him especially when watching telly. He rewarded Mum and Dad for buying him a new toy by sleeping through last Friday night from 630pm to 5am the next day. How wonderful is that? Mum and Dad enjoyed two movies and had a good sleep. But imagine how hungry he was when he woke up. :)
07 November 2007
Safe Toys?!
Toys help a lot in the development of children even at a young age. Sometimes they can be the best buddy when Mummy and Daddy are busy. They can also encourage kids to be independent early on in life.
But how sure are we that the toys we bought are safe for our kids, given that we consider the size not to choke our loved ones, the surface not to cut their skin, the weight not to burden them too much, etc?
Just yesterday or so, the Australian 2007 Toy Of The Year, includes "magic beads" containing a chemical that when swallowed converts into fantasy - a date rape drug was banned in some states here. As of today, there were three casualties in children who swallowed them. Common symptom is the victim falling commatose.
A few months ago, Mattel had to recall a Fisher - Price Chinese-made toys because they may contain excessive amounts of lead paint or had small magnets that could easily be swallowed by children.
These incidents really scare me. However you may protect your children, they still are not safe with those stuff that you buy with good intentions.
We haven't bought much toys for Baby Ian yet.... and I am very adamant to do so in the future. You can't be certain what is safe or not. Oh well, Baby Ian will just suffice with Daddy and Mummy playing with him for now. It is more educational than playing with toys. :P
But how sure are we that the toys we bought are safe for our kids, given that we consider the size not to choke our loved ones, the surface not to cut their skin, the weight not to burden them too much, etc?
Just yesterday or so, the Australian 2007 Toy Of The Year, includes "magic beads" containing a chemical that when swallowed converts into fantasy - a date rape drug was banned in some states here. As of today, there were three casualties in children who swallowed them. Common symptom is the victim falling commatose.
A few months ago, Mattel had to recall a Fisher - Price Chinese-made toys because they may contain excessive amounts of lead paint or had small magnets that could easily be swallowed by children.
These incidents really scare me. However you may protect your children, they still are not safe with those stuff that you buy with good intentions.
We haven't bought much toys for Baby Ian yet.... and I am very adamant to do so in the future. You can't be certain what is safe or not. Oh well, Baby Ian will just suffice with Daddy and Mummy playing with him for now. It is more educational than playing with toys. :P06 November 2007
Updates on Baby Ian
It's been a long while that I haven't written something about our Big Guy. It's not that nothing is happening, actually he showed new tricks and stunts everyday, only that I forgot about it. Been busy in pro-blogging, doing tags and memes, I guess. :)
Anyway, these milestones are common for every baby but Baby Ian is special. Hahaha!
***He is now teething.
Three weeks ago, he had been so fussy in the afternoon until his bedtime. Just wanted to eat, to be cuddled or move around. Good thing we bought a teething gel and baby paracetamol before, they were handy in these times. I rubbed some gel to his gums and gave him paracetamol.. only then he settled down and went to sleep. Then he has this new face, biting or chewing his lower lip.. like an old man - makes his Nanna laugh. Lately, he his pushing his tongue to his lower gum and at the same time dribbling. :) I know, this is just the start. There would really be big sleepless nights when the teeth come out.
***He can now roll-over and crawl.
The first rolling over from lying on his back to his tummy by himself happened three days ago. Then while on his tummy, he crawled just a few inches. Two days prior to that, MCJ had been teaching him how to crawl, and Baby Ian found it funny because he was laughing at his Dad. Also, before rolling over, he can shift himself while on his back by arching his chest and digging his head. He can well haul himself off his bouncinette even strapped. He can't be trusted if left alone.
***He grabs and eats anything in his hands and close to his mouth.
He can well grab some things now and put in his mouth. He is still using the cradle for his bed and it he can reach both sides with his two hands at the same time and he hangs onto the bars strongly. One day, I found him sucking the bar while lying on his side. :) The problem in this milestone is, we can't find a teething ring that doesnt have rough edges or any toy that is round and wont hurt him. Most toys that we saw also have fluffy animals attached to them. Hummmm.
***He talks alot.
He cooed a lot when he was two months but these days he is sooo engaging. He talks a lot, as in really conversing with you. When he's eating and wanted to be burped or just having a break, he would look at me and smile and then "talk". He is very appreciative too. He would giggle when you pick him up or just play with him.
Hayyyy, I can talk endlessly about him but he's now awake and playing "feet-up" with his Dad - also a bit whingy. His ears might be burning. :)
Anyway, these milestones are common for every baby but Baby Ian is special. Hahaha!
***He is now teething.
Three weeks ago, he had been so fussy in the afternoon until his bedtime. Just wanted to eat, to be cuddled or move around. Good thing we bought a teething gel and baby paracetamol before, they were handy in these times. I rubbed some gel to his gums and gave him paracetamol.. only then he settled down and went to sleep. Then he has this new face, biting or chewing his lower lip.. like an old man - makes his Nanna laugh. Lately, he his pushing his tongue to his lower gum and at the same time dribbling. :) I know, this is just the start. There would really be big sleepless nights when the teeth come out.
***He can now roll-over and crawl.
The first rolling over from lying on his back to his tummy by himself happened three days ago. Then while on his tummy, he crawled just a few inches. Two days prior to that, MCJ had been teaching him how to crawl, and Baby Ian found it funny because he was laughing at his Dad. Also, before rolling over, he can shift himself while on his back by arching his chest and digging his head. He can well haul himself off his bouncinette even strapped. He can't be trusted if left alone.
***He grabs and eats anything in his hands and close to his mouth.
He can well grab some things now and put in his mouth. He is still using the cradle for his bed and it he can reach both sides with his two hands at the same time and he hangs onto the bars strongly. One day, I found him sucking the bar while lying on his side. :) The problem in this milestone is, we can't find a teething ring that doesnt have rough edges or any toy that is round and wont hurt him. Most toys that we saw also have fluffy animals attached to them. Hummmm.
***He talks alot.
He cooed a lot when he was two months but these days he is sooo engaging. He talks a lot, as in really conversing with you. When he's eating and wanted to be burped or just having a break, he would look at me and smile and then "talk". He is very appreciative too. He would giggle when you pick him up or just play with him.
Hayyyy, I can talk endlessly about him but he's now awake and playing "feet-up" with his Dad - also a bit whingy. His ears might be burning. :)
31 October 2007
Isn't SHE Beautiful?
We went to the shop the other day. Instead of using a pram for Ian, we just left him on his capsule and prop it on top of the shopping trolley, so he was sort of like very exposed. He was wearing a white jumpsuit with blue piping and there was a yellow blanket on top of him.
While MCJ and I were busy comparing stuff, there was this woman who cooed Ian. She was kind of like talking to her daughter or MCJ saying, isn't SHE beautiful? isn't SHE gorgeous?. She stayed for about a minute and after they passed us, MCJ made a remark, she called Bubby a SHE. The woman might have overheard us that she went back and said sorry. Well, we're not really offended or whatever. Actually, we find it funny. It wasn't the first time that Ian was called a SHE and if not, people would ask what's his gender first.
The first time MIL saw Ian, she said, he was too beautiful to be a boy. She might be right as most of the time, Baby Ian is mistaken to be a girl given the boyish clothing and stuff.
With Ian's mistaken identity, I would always be reminded to buy more masculine stuff for him. :)
While MCJ and I were busy comparing stuff, there was this woman who cooed Ian. She was kind of like talking to her daughter or MCJ saying, isn't SHE beautiful? isn't SHE gorgeous?. She stayed for about a minute and after they passed us, MCJ made a remark, she called Bubby a SHE. The woman might have overheard us that she went back and said sorry. Well, we're not really offended or whatever. Actually, we find it funny. It wasn't the first time that Ian was called a SHE and if not, people would ask what's his gender first.
The first time MIL saw Ian, she said, he was too beautiful to be a boy. She might be right as most of the time, Baby Ian is mistaken to be a girl given the boyish clothing and stuff.
With Ian's mistaken identity, I would always be reminded to buy more masculine stuff for him. :)
18 October 2007
The Big Guy!
Baby Ian turned 3 months last Sunday! It only seems a few weeks ago when he was born. :) But with the nappies that we've changed.... it wasn't just a few weeks. lol.
He's on 5-11kgs nappy size now... means he's growing?
17 October 2007
Bilingual Babies???
I speak Ilonggo, Tagalog and English. MCJ speaks English. We live in Down Under and talk English at home, so obviously Ian will learn and speak English. But do I want him to speak or learn a second language, Tagalog maybe? Yes, but I haven't given a thought on how or when to teach him when I was pregnant nor after giving birth.
I read him stories, recite or sing nursery rhymes in English and sometimes in Tagalog inconsistently. I really didn't have a BIG goal in mind in doing those exercises but I know my/our efforts will not be futile in the future.
Teaching kids second, third or fourth language has advantages and disadvantages:
Seems the advantages out-weighed the disadvantages, but is it really worth giving a try?
I've had a big discussion with MCJ about it, and actually.. a bit of dis-agreement, as he doesn't want me to teach Baby Ian a second language. His reason? English is already as complicated as it is. We must stick to the basic first and work our way up. Okay, so it is status quo for us. There might be a school that teaches Tagalog in the future, I'll enroll Ian there surely. lol.
But I want to share these tips in going through this exercise:
Credits
I read him stories, recite or sing nursery rhymes in English and sometimes in Tagalog inconsistently. I really didn't have a BIG goal in mind in doing those exercises but I know my/our efforts will not be futile in the future.
Teaching kids second, third or fourth language has advantages and disadvantages:
Learning other languages alters grey matter - the area of the brain that processes information - in the same way that exercise builds muscles. What's more, the younger the adults were when the learning started, the smarter they were. Those who started when aged five and under had the highest IQs. They not only learn a second language, they also obtain "softer" skills, such as better socials skills and self-confidence.
Babies who hear two languages from birth often start speaking later than monolingual bubs. But even though might experience a few month's delay, once they start, they catch up quickly. The child can also show signs of confusion by using word from one tongue while speaking in another. This usually takes a few months to overcome, and certainly doesnt put them behind in their development.
Seems the advantages out-weighed the disadvantages, but is it really worth giving a try?
I've had a big discussion with MCJ about it, and actually.. a bit of dis-agreement, as he doesn't want me to teach Baby Ian a second language. His reason? English is already as complicated as it is. We must stick to the basic first and work our way up. Okay, so it is status quo for us. There might be a school that teaches Tagalog in the future, I'll enroll Ian there surely. lol.
But I want to share these tips in going through this exercise:
1. Whatever approach you choose to adopt, they key is to be consistent.
2. The more your child is exposed to both languages. the better the results.
3. People are more effective as teachers than CDs and DVDs.
4. One language might become dominant for a while, but that will change with time.
5. When teaching at home, adopt the dame approach for all your children.
Credits
15 October 2007
Smile!
Ian was a whingy yesterday morning... actually, we had a big drama as he was fussy while eating so to lighten him up, we both looked at the mirror and coo him. That always did the trick but that time, it didn't. He was not even looking at the mirror yet he was looking down to the magazine with a baby cover. The baby was smiling in the photo.. and Ian did exactly the same, smiled while looking at him. It was soo surprising for me. I think, it's a sign that he's ready to socialize with other babies.
I know he smiled because the baby in the photo was also smiling. From what I've read, babies will smile at you when you talk to them smiling. And you develop their social skill by doing so. So Mummy always gets a big smile from the Little Man because, I'm always smiling while looking at him.
Since, Ian had been showing some signs of liking others, I am planning of joining a Playgroup soon... maybe, when he turns 4 months.
I know he smiled because the baby in the photo was also smiling. From what I've read, babies will smile at you when you talk to them smiling. And you develop their social skill by doing so. So Mummy always gets a big smile from the Little Man because, I'm always smiling while looking at him.
Since, Ian had been showing some signs of liking others, I am planning of joining a Playgroup soon... maybe, when he turns 4 months.
15 September 2007
The Way!
... to Mummy's heart, that is!
Ian woke up around 2 this morning for his feed. He hasn't learnt to sleep through the night yet.
He ate for at least 30 minutes and dozed off while in my arms. Thinking that he was already in deep sleep, I decided to put him to his bed.
But the moment his back touched the mattress, he stirred and opened his eyes. He didn't cry though. I rocked his cradle and told him to go back to sleep, to which he replied with his sweetest smile.. a smile that melts Mummy's heart.
What can I do?
I picked him up, played and talked to him for a couple of minutes and topped his feed up so he'll go to sleep. And he did eventually.
He's been doing his charm to me especially when he's tired playing by himself.
I'm afraid, he has me in his fingers err.. smiles.
Ian woke up around 2 this morning for his feed. He hasn't learnt to sleep through the night yet.
He ate for at least 30 minutes and dozed off while in my arms. Thinking that he was already in deep sleep, I decided to put him to his bed.
But the moment his back touched the mattress, he stirred and opened his eyes. He didn't cry though. I rocked his cradle and told him to go back to sleep, to which he replied with his sweetest smile.. a smile that melts Mummy's heart.
What can I do?
I picked him up, played and talked to him for a couple of minutes and topped his feed up so he'll go to sleep. And he did eventually.
He's been doing his charm to me especially when he's tired playing by himself.
I'm afraid, he has me in his fingers err.. smiles.
14 September 2007
Happy 2 Months
Ian turn 2 months today. Time really flies so fast. He's growing fast also!But when I think the stuff that he's capable of doing and the happiness that he brought in the family, it feels like more than a couple of months.
At barely 2 months, he weighed 5.25 kg and 58cm long (as of Sep 10).
09 September 2007
Happy!
One fine day, Ian had a good afternoon nap. I put him in his pram to take him for a walk.
Then, MCJ cooed him and he smiled, a lot. I tried to catch it in snap but nah!
We had a rest in the shady area and I cooed him while I'm holding the camera infront of him and it just amazed me that he's actually looking at it and smiled. Hummm... I did the trick.
Then, MCJ cooed him and he smiled, a lot. I tried to catch it in snap but nah!
We had a rest in the shady area and I cooed him while I'm holding the camera infront of him and it just amazed me that he's actually looking at it and smiled. Hummm... I did the trick.
I want the real thing!
I've read a lot about using dummies (pacifier) for babies and even if there are advantages, I still don't approve Ian to use one. Which was seconded by MCJ.
But there were times in the first month that we got too desperate and overtired at day time, thanks heavens it's not at sleeping time, and wished that we could have bought a dummy for him.
Then, one day Granddad bought Ian dummies and told us to just use it during desperation. lol.
Then "desperation" came, I put a dummy to his mouth and again he just spit it out. And it made him more aggitated and whingy, sort of like screaming "I want the real thing!".
I didn't gave up. I still tried several times but to no avail.
But there were times in the first month that we got too desperate and overtired at day time, thanks heavens it's not at sleeping time, and wished that we could have bought a dummy for him.
Then, one day Granddad bought Ian dummies and told us to just use it during desperation. lol.
Then "desperation" came, I put a dummy to his mouth and again he just spit it out. And it made him more aggitated and whingy, sort of like screaming "I want the real thing!".
I didn't gave up. I still tried several times but to no avail.
We've concluded that he's not a dummy baby. lol. After all, he's not whingin' as long as he's full, has a clean bum, had burped and warm and comfy.
-----
We've been topping up his feed in the afternoon when my milk supply was getting low for 2 days now. He was doing the same thing as what he did to his dummy, spitting it out of his mouth but after a few minutes, I reckon, he found out that there was something dripping out of the teat so he just let it stayed in his mouth but still he was not sucking it - just letting the milk drip. Just a lazy sucker. lol. That was the first day.
The second day was pleasant. He knew how to suck the teat properly and he had finished the 60ml formula and still wanting more - but we are taking the topping-up slowly so it's just one 60ml a day.
We are using the close to nature teat and it helps, as it feels like breast when he's sucking it except of course, he has to do it harder in silicon.
08 September 2007
The Biggest Showoff
Ian was the biggest show-off for a 7-week old baby.
We had visitors last Saturday, MCJ's sister, C, and her daughter, M, who wanted a baby bump soon. They came handful - presents for Mummy and baby.
Ian had just gone to asleep after a long walk when they arrived. We want him awake but didn't intentionally do. Oh well, he eventually did after being passed around.
At first, he looked around at everybody's faces and listens to the voices. When M put him lying on her legs, he showed his exercises - punching in the air, kicking and cycling. C cooed him and he showed his big dimply smiles - smiling like he was a push-button laughing machine. Much to the joy of everybody when he was facing the camera, smiling.
MCJ showed his buddha look - sitting on his legs while C took several shots and Ian was just at his best.
C was amazed at how strong he is that he can stand straight on his two legs or one at times. He also pushed himself up when he was on his buddha position.
He was so alert and entertaining. He had everybody's attention and affection.
I reckon, Ian had known at an early age the art of entertaining and how to be grateful for attention bestowed on him as well as for the goodies he gets. lol
So far, that was the longest time (2 hours) that he was awake and not whingin'.
We had visitors last Saturday, MCJ's sister, C, and her daughter, M, who wanted a baby bump soon. They came handful - presents for Mummy and baby.
Ian had just gone to asleep after a long walk when they arrived. We want him awake but didn't intentionally do. Oh well, he eventually did after being passed around.
At first, he looked around at everybody's faces and listens to the voices. When M put him lying on her legs, he showed his exercises - punching in the air, kicking and cycling. C cooed him and he showed his big dimply smiles - smiling like he was a push-button laughing machine. Much to the joy of everybody when he was facing the camera, smiling.
MCJ showed his buddha look - sitting on his legs while C took several shots and Ian was just at his best.
C was amazed at how strong he is that he can stand straight on his two legs or one at times. He also pushed himself up when he was on his buddha position.
He was so alert and entertaining. He had everybody's attention and affection.
I reckon, Ian had known at an early age the art of entertaining and how to be grateful for attention bestowed on him as well as for the goodies he gets. lol
So far, that was the longest time (2 hours) that he was awake and not whingin'.
02 September 2007
Happy Father's Day, Dad!
My proud Daddy!He shows me off with my new stunts to Nanna and Granddad and to all our visitors.
He carries me almost all the time when we're out.
He pushes my pram whenever he can, that is almost all of the time when we're out.
He has more photos with me than Mummy.
He's my Dad and we love him!
The Boss
Some of Ian's latest photo op.
Daddy says this is my cutest photo of all. Do you agree?
I'm serious, really! Can't you see it with my big eyes?
The eyebags! Got them from Dad according to Mummy!
The fourth soprano. I'm not Spanish nor Italian... I'm filoz.. and my voice is ear-piercing. Just ask Mum. See my little dimple?
18 August 2007
Musings of a Proud Mum
I carried him in my belly for 9 months, suffered pregnancy sickness, went into excruciating pain and had 4th level tears to deliver him in this world, had sore nipples for feeding him, woke up several times at night or worse even stay awake all night and be tied-up for more than an hour feeding at times. Despite all these that I've been through and how dependent he is to me, I know that whatever my little one is capable of doing isn't entirely because of me. For some extent, I may have contributed to his good health and his looks but most of what he is now and what he can do are from HIM and the course of nature.
But being the medium to bring him in this world and just being a "cow" for him (in the meantime), you can't take it from me to be proud and take credits for his achievements (as if he won an award.. lol).
Our Big Guy constantly gets attention from women where ever we go.. one lady had even asked if he can give him cuddles. Maybe because he's sooo tiny? Or because he has beautiful bright eyes? Or he's soo alert? One way or another.... it just warms my heart everytime people notice him. It's only been over a month and I'm already a stage mum. Shame on me. lol.
These days, I want him to be awake most of the time except late at night. He can now perfectly see things and people and he can recognize us especially me. My heart leaped when he gave us his first real smile three nights back (not the wind smile). He seem to be talking back to you when you talk to him and well, never miss to give you his soundless laugh.
For all the "firsts" that he had and will have.. I will always be the proud mum who will remember them in my heart. I may not be able to catch them in snap or record them in my diary but they will forever be stored in my heart and mind for me to dig and reminisce in the future.. or even tell him how great he was as a baby.
But being the medium to bring him in this world and just being a "cow" for him (in the meantime), you can't take it from me to be proud and take credits for his achievements (as if he won an award.. lol).
Our Big Guy constantly gets attention from women where ever we go.. one lady had even asked if he can give him cuddles. Maybe because he's sooo tiny? Or because he has beautiful bright eyes? Or he's soo alert? One way or another.... it just warms my heart everytime people notice him. It's only been over a month and I'm already a stage mum. Shame on me. lol.
These days, I want him to be awake most of the time except late at night. He can now perfectly see things and people and he can recognize us especially me. My heart leaped when he gave us his first real smile three nights back (not the wind smile). He seem to be talking back to you when you talk to him and well, never miss to give you his soundless laugh.
For all the "firsts" that he had and will have.. I will always be the proud mum who will remember them in my heart. I may not be able to catch them in snap or record them in my diary but they will forever be stored in my heart and mind for me to dig and reminisce in the future.. or even tell him how great he was as a baby.
12 August 2007
Burpies
"Give Mummy big burpies". That's what you can often hear from me while our Big Guy is on my shoulder.
He must really burp in between feeds and after, though it would mean waking him up or disrupting his feeds. Often times, he burp right away or burp while still feeding but if not after a couple of minutes he'll get hiccups. If I put him to his bed without burping him, those nasty hickin'-ups would wake him up. I can't win.
Our little one has really a big appetite and I would say a glutton. He swallow his milk too fast and gulp some wind.
One thing I learned though that if he's thumb is inside when he's making fists, he's in pain. And a burp is a must.
He must really burp in between feeds and after, though it would mean waking him up or disrupting his feeds. Often times, he burp right away or burp while still feeding but if not after a couple of minutes he'll get hiccups. If I put him to his bed without burping him, those nasty hickin'-ups would wake him up. I can't win.
Our little one has really a big appetite and I would say a glutton. He swallow his milk too fast and gulp some wind.
One thing I learned though that if he's thumb is inside when he's making fists, he's in pain. And a burp is a must.
11 August 2007
100gms a week
Bubba had flying records in all his weigh-in (midwife visits and GP) except at the pediatrician in the hospital. A week prior to the pedia's appointment he weighed 2.95kg and only weighed 2.96kg then. That made me worried that he's not gaining enough weight and question if I am a reliable "cow". The GP used the manual and conventional scale while the pedia had the electronic. According to the pedia, the manual is more reliable and fool-proof but that fact didnt relieved me. The pedia suggested that I express milk in between feeds so I would produce more which we consider doing but didnt actually did.
For a week I was anxiously waiting for the next weigh-in at the GP to know how much weight did he put on for two weeks.
And so we had yesterday. Everyone was happy with the result as Bubba gained 200gms in two weeks.
Now the "cow" is not doubting her capacity.
For a week I was anxiously waiting for the next weigh-in at the GP to know how much weight did he put on for two weeks.
And so we had yesterday. Everyone was happy with the result as Bubba gained 200gms in two weeks.
Now the "cow" is not doubting her capacity.
06 August 2007
31 July 2007
First GP Appointment
Because we stayed in the hospital for less than 3days and the fact that Bubba's fontanelle had still a wide gap, we were advised to a see a General Practicioner within 5-10 days from discharge. And we did last July 23.
The GP had a thorough check and gave him a clean bill of health. And a very good news that Bubba had gained his birth weight just in one week after discharge from the hospital. He lost 10% of his birth weight when we were there because my colostrum was really nowhere in sight. That due to my traumatic delivery of him. We even gave him a top-up formula of 10ml 3-hourly in our first night there as he was so unsettled.
Bubba marked his territory in the GP's office when he pissed on the bed and to the doc while being checked. :)
The GP had a thorough check and gave him a clean bill of health. And a very good news that Bubba had gained his birth weight just in one week after discharge from the hospital. He lost 10% of his birth weight when we were there because my colostrum was really nowhere in sight. That due to my traumatic delivery of him. We even gave him a top-up formula of 10ml 3-hourly in our first night there as he was so unsettled.
Bubba marked his territory in the GP's office when he pissed on the bed and to the doc while being checked. :)
26 July 2007
First Day Out
Of Bubba, that is.. at 6 days old.
Last Friday (July 20), Bubba had his first excursion. MCJ was going to mail Bubba's birth registration and go up to Medicare to have Bubba's name added to his card. Since the Medicare's office is in the mall, we decided to tag along. And while we were there, we changed MCJ's private health insurance cover to include our cherub.
Bubba was asleep when we left the house and was partially awake when we were at the Medicare.
He is on a 3-hourly feed and it was due when we were at the MBF's kiosk that we have to rush to the parent's room to gave his dose. He was busting his lungs out calling the attention of others at the mall. It's not uncommon to see babies crying but because ours is really obvious as newborn, strangers have to stop and look at him. Three oldies have even exchanged small talks with me.
After almost an hour of feeding, he was settled comfortably and despite tha overly loud noice and chaos in the mall, we were able to enjoy our lunch and shopped for almost three hours.
(We went out again today and he was sound asleep until the end of our lunch. Had to fed him in the car before rushing home just to pacify him. Hopefully, he'll behave nicely tomorrow.)
Last Friday (July 20), Bubba had his first excursion. MCJ was going to mail Bubba's birth registration and go up to Medicare to have Bubba's name added to his card. Since the Medicare's office is in the mall, we decided to tag along. And while we were there, we changed MCJ's private health insurance cover to include our cherub.
Bubba was asleep when we left the house and was partially awake when we were at the Medicare.
He is on a 3-hourly feed and it was due when we were at the MBF's kiosk that we have to rush to the parent's room to gave his dose. He was busting his lungs out calling the attention of others at the mall. It's not uncommon to see babies crying but because ours is really obvious as newborn, strangers have to stop and look at him. Three oldies have even exchanged small talks with me.
After almost an hour of feeding, he was settled comfortably and despite tha overly loud noice and chaos in the mall, we were able to enjoy our lunch and shopped for almost three hours.
(We went out again today and he was sound asleep until the end of our lunch. Had to fed him in the car before rushing home just to pacify him. Hopefully, he'll behave nicely tomorrow.)
What's in a Name?
We've been brainstorming for his name even while I was preggy, may he be a boy or a girl.
Now that he's out, it took us almost a week to decide the spelling of Bubba's third name hence the registration of his birth was a bit late.
We've finalised his name but we haven't decided what would be his nickname. MCJ suggested that we stick to what is familiar, that is Bubba. That's what we call him while he was still in my belly.
Maybe will just decide himself what he wants us to call him later on.
Btw, Bubba's name is Jens Christian Immanual. (I'm planning to call him Christian.)
Now that he's out, it took us almost a week to decide the spelling of Bubba's third name hence the registration of his birth was a bit late.
We've finalised his name but we haven't decided what would be his nickname. MCJ suggested that we stick to what is familiar, that is Bubba. That's what we call him while he was still in my belly.
Maybe will just decide himself what he wants us to call him later on.
Btw, Bubba's name is Jens Christian Immanual. (I'm planning to call him Christian.)
19 July 2007
Hello World!
I'm Jens! I joined you in this world last July 14 around 0056. Daddy was too anxious that I will be born on Friday the 13th so, Mummy and I collaborated for me to come out a little bit late. :)
I weighed 6.8lbs and 49.5cm long.. with Mummy's build I was way too big for her so expect to see her walking like a duck until now. :)
Thanks for all your messages.
21 March 2007
11 January 2007
Big Mosquito: Another One Down
Yesterday, Jens had his BCG (Tuberculosis) vaccine. Normally, it isn't listed in the red book (baby's health book) as necessary vaccine for all babies. But since, I came from Asian country where according to them, TB is common, my Bub should have the shot so he has defence against the disease.
Actually, we didn't have an idea about BCG. We went to Princess Alexandra hospital two months ago to have my lung x-ray there for visa apps. One of the receptionists was a Filipina and while I was in for the x-ray she played with Bub and talked to MCJ and eventually told us to have Jens get BCG shots.
Supposedly, the midwives in the hospital where my baby was born will be the one to inform the Tuberculosis Control Center (or the like) that my baby needs the shot and I will just be informed of the date when will it happen. Apparently, the midwives at the hospital didn't seem to know that I am Asian. Lolz. I did the coordination myself.
The shot should be given before the baby turns 6 months so it should just be in one dose, otherwise, it will be three doses. I've coordinated this stuff late because I want the timing to be right as Jens has vaccines every 2 months that causes fever and pain to him. I don't want them to be overlapping each other and let my Bub suffer. But actually, as things caught up, Jens will have three more vaccines on Monday - vaccines that surely hurt because they go to the muscles. Thankfully, BCG is just skin-deep but will have scar and will heal for up to 12 weeks.
Actually, we didn't have an idea about BCG. We went to Princess Alexandra hospital two months ago to have my lung x-ray there for visa apps. One of the receptionists was a Filipina and while I was in for the x-ray she played with Bub and talked to MCJ and eventually told us to have Jens get BCG shots.
Supposedly, the midwives in the hospital where my baby was born will be the one to inform the Tuberculosis Control Center (or the like) that my baby needs the shot and I will just be informed of the date when will it happen. Apparently, the midwives at the hospital didn't seem to know that I am Asian. Lolz. I did the coordination myself.
The shot should be given before the baby turns 6 months so it should just be in one dose, otherwise, it will be three doses. I've coordinated this stuff late because I want the timing to be right as Jens has vaccines every 2 months that causes fever and pain to him. I don't want them to be overlapping each other and let my Bub suffer. But actually, as things caught up, Jens will have three more vaccines on Monday - vaccines that surely hurt because they go to the muscles. Thankfully, BCG is just skin-deep but will have scar and will heal for up to 12 weeks.
