10 Months

Hooray for Today!  My baby is now 10 months old...  I greeted her early this morning (before going to work) and sang her the most famous "Happy Birthday to You" song.  She giggled as I do my "sing and make-a-face" act.  How time flies.  I still remember how delicate and little she was, during her newborn days. 

To celebrate the occasion, I attended a mass novena at the St. Jude Thaddeus Church. Ofcourse, I prayed for my baby's good health, our family's safety, and for more blessings to come our way. 

Today is also a rainy day (though March is a summer month), so i am hoping that blessings will also be pouring on my baby's life. 

Cheers for my baby's good health and happiness...! xoxoxo ^v^

Here are some helpful information/tips on what to expect on your 10 months old baby:

• Your baby can now understand simple words like "no" and "bye-bye". Having a conversation to your little one will encourage his language skills.  You can also sing nursery rhymes and play games.  Repeating words to your baby also helps.  Just continue talking to him.  Soon, he will see or make connections. 
• At this age, your baby can sit confidently.  He may even cruise or walk while holding into furniture.  He  may let go momentarily and may stand without support. He may also  take steps when held in a walking position and attempt to scoop up a toy while standing. 
• He can now also drink from his own cup.  He may also start picking up objects using his index finger or thumb.  He is also now aware of your approval or disapproval.

These are just things that your baby may be able to do at this age.  If not now, don't worry. Remember that each baby is unique/different, and meets physical milestones at his own time/pace. 

Separation Anxiety in Babies

My baby is now experiencing separation anxiety.  She cries whenever I leave her alone even if I am just going to the bathroom.  She is now 10 months old.  They say that it is normal for babies to feel this way.  Separation anxiety usually occurs around 6 to 18 months.  It is considered a healthy and normal phase of child development.  This also means that your baby has established a healthy bond with you and is developing intellectually. 

Separation anxiety is said to be related to the baby's developmental stage of object permanence (used to describe a child's ability to know that objects continue to exist even though they can no longer be seen or heard).  Just like when a baby learns that a person like mommy and daddy can disappear.  But unfortunately, your baby thinks that you have left him/her or that you disappeared for good and will not be coming back.  This is the point where your baby cries and separation anxiety comes in.  But don't worry.  Eventually, your baby will outgrow this behavior and he/she will learn that although you have disappeared from view, you will still come back.

Some signs of separation anxiety include: crying when a parent is out of sight, clinginess, strong preference of only one parent, fears of strangers, waking at night crying for a parent, and easily comforted in a parent's embrace. 

Tips on how to deal with separation anxiety:

• respond to your baby's crying and distress (There are studies which claim that children who are repeatedly, regularly and consistently picked up and soothed when they cry end up crying less.);
• play peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek games;
• give your baby a familiar toy when you leave him/her;
• when you are just inside your house doing chores, place the crib (also stroller or walker) where your baby can see you; and
• when you leave, goodbyes should be affectionate and brief, with a clear statement that you will be back. 

To top it all, just consistently give your baby love and support.  In time, she will slowly build confidence to stand on her own. ^v^

My 10 Years in the Government

Let me share you a part of myself.  I have not mentioned before that I work in the government.  I am not just a working mom. I am also a public servant.(^v^)

I have been in the government for almost 10 years.  (that's already a milestone on my part.. lol!).  My appointment was dated April 30, 2002 (that would be one month from now.. yey!).  It left me wondering what have I accomplished for myself after these years.  Well, there are many changes that took placed.  I got promoted thrice, awarded with a house and lot (from NHA), finished my master's degree, got married, and had a baby.  It may sound easy but really it's no bed of roses.  There are times when I had no motivation to go to work.  It got boring for a while. Every day is like a routine.  This is the time when I decided to go back to school. It took a lot of determination, focus, and patience on my part to pursue my studies.   It was in December 2007 that I earned the degree on Master in Public Administration. Finally, I graduated.  All my hardwork paid off . 

I also considered my work as a privilege.  To be of service to your country and fellowmen is a big thing.  Just to recollect, I have been formerly elected as a Barangay Kagawad (Councilman) in our district before entering government service.  I was the youngest who won during our term.  I served our barangay for five (5) years.   During my term, I learned to mingle with different kinds of people (from politicians to the less privileged ones).  I also gained a lot of inaanaks (godchildren) during those days.  It was definitely a humble and learning experience.

Going back... For mothers like me, working in the government is an advantage, since you only work for eight (8) hours (the usual schedule of an ordinary government employee).  You have  weekends to bond with your family.  There are vacation and sick leaves in case of emergency and filial obligation plus official holidays to spend with the family.  There are also some downsides though.  In terms of  monetary consideration, it really depends with the agency you are employed to.  I know you can earn more in private companies especially if you are an achiever.  But when it comes to job stability, having a career in the government is a wise move.

Let me also share with you.... Yesterday (March 22, 2012), was our office's 115th Founding Anniversary.  There was an awarding ceremony for the retirees who served the government from 15 to 30 years and above.  Our Head of Office was present to grace the event.  He delivered a speech.  It was a heartwarming one.  He thanked every employee for all the efforts and service rendered.  He also acknowledged the retirees' dedication and commitment to the job.  He also asked those who are still in the service (like me) for our cooperation, commitment, dedication, and continuous support.  It feels good to know that we are also appreciated in our work.

To end my story, I don't know what's in store for me in the future... what really lies ahead... maybe another 10 years or more in the government service...

Whatever will it be, only time can tell.  ^v^

Picture Perfect



Mommy and Babykoy

I just want to share this precious moment of me and my baby girl.   This photo is taken a few minutes after my delivery via caesarean section (CS). The nurse inside the delivery room took this shot using my mobile phone.  She managed to took four (4) pictures, and this one is my favorite.    

Recalling an adage saying, "a picture is worth a thousand words".  Indeed, that very moment means so much to me because it is the first time I felt my baby's skin.  Although I was not able to hold her by my hands, the feeling of joy is still overwhelming.  The doctor said that the baby needs the warmth of her mother's skin, so it is a must to lay her on my chest.  While she was there, I can feel her heartbeat. I began talking to her.  I told her that I am her Mommy and that I love her so much.  I know she can hear me because I felt her hands moved.  I was so touched that I did not realize I was already in tears.  God is really good.  He makes things happen.  He gave me a chance to bring out a new life.  This is a special blessing that I would forever cherish and nurture. 

Someday, I will show this to my little one for her to feel what a great bonding we had just a moment after she was born...  and this is our very first... and there will be more to come.. ^v^

Crazy Science

Yes, it's almost time to go home...  After a hard day's work, I felt treating myself.. What to buy.... Well, I think I will settle for a Happy Meal.  New featured toys are already available at Mc Donald's stores.   The theme is about "Crazy Science". The toys include a slide viewer, opti-illusion, ufo launcher, echo sound chamber, windforce generator, and gyro spinner... Pretty cool huh! Actually, I have already seen them but was not able to buy yet.  The toys are bigger than the previous ones I have collected. I started this happy meal craze, since last year.   I am collecting the toys for my baby. It would be such a delight to see her playing them once she has grown a little older. She is now very active. She loves to play, sing, and dance.  Her favorite moves include clapping, nodding, and bending her tummy.  I also let her play some of the toys from my collection. 

So after a few minutes from now, off I will go... will be meeting my husband and baby later...  Time for a happy meal with my family! ^v^

BC Bloggers

Writing is like a therapy for me.  It is my way of expressing myself, my views and opinions on certain matters.  Now that I am a mother, the more that I am inspired to write.  It is a good thing that through modern technology, you can easily share your ideas by making your own blog for the world to see. This is where your writing skills and creativity come in. 

What makes it more fun and exciting is that you can also earn through blogging.  Isn't this a great opportunity? You get to do what you love and at the same time earn some extra bucks. This idea encourages me more to blog.  Being new to the world of blogs, I have been getting tips from my blogger friends and searching the net for possible link-ups.  That's when I found out about BC Bloggers, which I understand more from Paula via Mommy Diary.

BC Bloggers helps bloggers fill their blogrolls the fast and easy way.  BC Bloggers motto is "We don't have to beg for Links."  This is a great news to bloggers like me.  This also serves as a great tool to put your blogs on the "map".   All blog rolls are also assured that they are being followed and linked to the homepage. 

If you are a blogger and want to be included in the BC Bloggers, you just click here. 

Happy blogging! ^v^

It's Bath Time!



A mother will always wants what's best for her baby. I'm no exception to it.  When I was pregnant, I am already thinking of what baby products I should use for my newborn baby.  Ofcourse, they should be safe and gentle to use especially if it concerns my baby girl's skin and hygiene.

One of the products that I am curious about is Zwitsal, which is distributed by the Sara Lee Direct Selling.    I did some research and found positive feedbacks and reviews. Now, my baby has been using it since newborn.  It works good on her.  She has no allergic reaction plus she smells fresh all day. 

Actually, this is not a paid advertisement.  I just want to recommend this product line to mothers who might be interested.  But ofcourse, you should always take into consideration that each baby is different from the other.  There are babies who have sensitive skin or allergic reactions.  You have to ask first your pediatrician before trying any product that will concern your child.

By the way, Zwitzal products include baby bath, baby shampoo, baby cologne, and baby lotion.   

Happy bath time! ^v^

Happy Meal Toys (Hooray for Today!)

Mc Donald's is one of my favorite fastfood chains in the country.  I absolutely love the chain's cheeseburger, fries, sundaes, and pancakes.   Mc Donald's has also a variety of value meals for their consumers.  They also have the "Happy Meal" which caters for kids.  You can choose one (1) toy to go with your chosen happy meal.  This marketing strategy is one good way to attract customers, since kids will always like toys, no matter how big or small it is, expensive or not, toys are toys... kids just love them. 

I noticed that adults also liked the idea.  I know some who buys them for their personal collection.  

Early last year, I began collecting Happy Meal toys.  I plan to give them to my baby girl for future use.  She can play with the toys once she grows up.  The toys are cute and safe for kids.  I like to see the look on her face once she sees all my collection.  I'm sure she will be delighted, and that will really make me happy.

To know of the latest Happy Meal toys, just click here.

Have a "Happy Meal"!  Happy eating! ^v^

Prayers (Food for the Soul)

I just want to share some prayers that greatly help me during my pregnancy, and in times of problems and down moments of my life.   Prayer for me is like talking to God.  It comforts me and gives me peace of mind.  I am not that religious but I can say that I am a prayerful person.  I believe in the wonders that prayer brings.  Whenever I pray, it makes me feel closer to the Lord.  You can also pray on your own, the kind of prayer that comes from your heart.

These prayers are included in a book entitled, "Straight from the Heart - A Prayer Companion" which is compiled and edited by Rev. Fr. Maria Jose C. Ladra. 

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Prayer to St. Gerard

Patron and Protector of Expectant Mothers

(Feast, October 15)

Great Saint Gerard, beloved servant of Jesus Christ, perfect imitator of our meek and humble Savior,

enkindle within my heart one spark of that heavenly fire of charity which glowed in yours and made you a seraph of love.

O glorious Saint Gerard, because like your Divine Master,You bore without murmur or complaint

the calumnies of wicked men when falsely accused of crime,you have been raised up by God as the patron and protector of expectant mothers. Preserve me in the dangers of motherhood and shield  the child I now bear, that it may be brought safely to the light of day and receive the sacrament of baptism.

Hail Mary… (3x)

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Miraculous Invocation to Saint Therese

(Feast, October 1)

O Glorious Saint Therese whom Almighty God has raised up to aid and inspire the human family, I implore your miraculous intercession. You are so powerful in obtaining every need of body and spirit from the Heart of God. Holy Mother Church proclaims you “prodigy of miracles…the greatest saint of modern times.” Now I fervently beseech you to answer my petition (mention here), and to carry out your promises of spending heaven doing good upon earth of letting fall from heaven a shower of roses.

Little Flower, give your child-like faith, to see the face of God in the people and experiences of my life, and to love God with full confidence.  Saint Therese, my Carmelite Sister, I will fulfill your plea “to be made known everywhere” and I will continue to lead others to Jesus through you. Amen.

“I will let fall from heaven.. a shower of roses” – Saint Therese

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Prayer to St. Jude Thaddeus

Patron of Desperate Cases

Feast, October 28

O glorious Apostle of Saint Jude Thaddeus, true relative of Jesus and Mary!  Paray for me who am so miserable; make use implore you, of that particular privilege of accorded to you to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of.

Come to my assistance that I may receive the consolations and succor of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly in this my present great need (Here make your request).  Grant that I may bless God with you and all the elect forever. Amen.

Saint Jude Thaddeus, patron of desperate cases, pray for us.

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Prayer to St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Beloved Padre Pio, Saint of Pietrelcina, today I come to add my prayer to the thousands of prayers offered to your everyday by those who love and venerate you.  They ask for cures and healings, earthly and spiritual blessings, and peace for body and mind.  Because of your friendship with the Lord, He heals those whom you ask to be healed, and forgives those whom you forgive. 

Through the visible wounds of the cross which you bore for fifty (50) years, you were chosen in our time to glorify the crucified Jesus.  Because the cross has been replaced by other symbols, please help us to bring it back in our midst, for we acknowledge that it is the only true sign of your salvation.  As we lovingly recall the wounds that pierced your hands, feet, and side, we not only remember the blood you she din pain, but your smile, and the invisible halo of sweet smelling flowers, the perfume of sanctity.  Padre Pio, the healings of the sick are the testimony that the Lord has invited you to join the holy company of saints.  In your kindness, please help me with my own special request (mention your petition, and make the sign of the cross).

Blessed me and my loved ones.  In the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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Prayer to Saint Anthony of Padua

The Wonder-Worker

(Feast, June 13)

To Find a Lost Article

Saint Anthony, perfect imitator of Jesus, who received from God, the special power of restoring lost things, grant that I may find (name lost thing/s) which has been lost, if such be the will of God or at least restore to me peace and tranquility of mind, the loss of which has afflicted me even more than material loss. To this favor, I beg you to add another: that I may always remain in possession of the true good that is God.  May I rather lose all things than to lose God, my supreme Good or suffer the loss of my greatest treasure, my immortal soul.  Amen.

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Prayer for Physical Healing

Heavenly Father, I call on you right now in a special way.  It is through your power that I was created.  Every breath I take, every morning I wake, and every moment of every hour I live under your power.  Father, I ask you now to touch Me with that same power of your Spirit.  Cast out anything that should not be in me.  Mend what is broken.  Root out any unproductive cells.  Open any blocked arteries or veins and rebuild any damaged areas.  Remove all inflammation and cleanse any infection.  Let the warmth of your healing love pass through my body to make new any unhealthy areas so that my body will function the way you created it to function.  And Father, restore me to full health in mind and body so that I may serve you the rest of my life.   I ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

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Prayer to Our Lady of La Leche

(Note: This prayer asks for a healthy pregnancy, delivery and a healthy child.  This is not included in the book.  I found it in the "net.")

O Lord Jesus Christ, through the intercession of Your tender Mother, Our Lady of La Leche, who bore You close to her heart during those long months before Your birth, I place my baby and myself entirely in Your Hands. Free me, I beseech You, from useless and consuming worry. Accept the sacrifice of my aches and pains, which I unite to Your sufferings on the Cross. Above all, most merciful and loving Jesus, protect this child You have given to me from all harm, bestowing the health and vigor every baby needs. Implant in my heart and on my lips the words and prayers of Your Mother and mine, our Lovely Lady of La Leche. All this I ask that my child and I may live to praise forever Your Holy Name. Amen.

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Thanks for taking time to read this article.  This is also my way of spreading the power of prayers.  Remember also to pray the Holy Rosary.  God is good all the time! ^v^

By the way,  "Straight from the Heart - A Prayer Companion"  is available at the National Bookstores. 

'Til my next post... ^v^

Morning Sickness

On my 10th week of my pregnancy, I had a terrible morning sickness (nausea and vomiting).  It became really persistent  (not only in the morning but in any time of the day) that I need to take a leave of absence in my work so I can have a full rest.   It was really that bad since I also lost my appetite. My sense of smell has also became sensitive.  I remember that each day, I was vomiting when I did not even take something to eat. I felt so frustrated at that time.  I really felt that I am like dying because the nausea and vomiting made me really weak.  I was always praying and asking God's help for our (me and my baby's) comfort and strength .  Due to my condition, I was confined for three (3) days as I was already dehyrated.  I am just relieved that my baby is doing well  inspite of everything I am going through.  At that time, I was afraid that my baby will not get enough nutrition.  But my OB told me that the baby will get food from the placenta and that my vitamins are sufficient for her nourishment and growth.  She also made sure that my check-up routine included ultrasounds and monitors of my baby's heartbeat.

After I was hospitalized, I was able to go to work.  I was already 15 weeks pregnant then.  Slowly, my condition is getting better.  I just make sure that I have something mint I can chew on.  I usually have Orbits with me or any sugar-free candies which I can take incase the nausea comes in.  My OB advised me to eat small frequent meals, to take my vitamins regularly, and not to worry (as this will not help me at all). 

My OB told me that the medical term for this persistent nausea and vomiting is hyperemesis gravidarum.  Based on my research, it is an uncommon disorder in which extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting occur during pregnancy and this condition might lead to dehydration. It usually occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy. (This is exactly what's been happening to me then).

I am just glad that I was able to overcome the said condition.  Thanks also that we now have the so-called "internet" so I can easily do some research.  "Google" has in fact been one of my bestfriends during that time and til present.

Ofcourse, never forget to trust in the Lord (have faith) as I believe nothing is impossible with Him as long as you also do your part.

To those pregnant women who has been undergoing the same, you may check out this website:  hyperemesis gravidarum or browse the net for more information.  I know your ordeal as I have been there too.  Don't lose hope.  Things will surely get better. Be strong for your baby!  ^v^

Mommy's Checklist

During my pregnancy, one of the things that I enjoyed doing is buying stuff for our baby. When I found out that my baby is a girl.  I excitedly told my husband that we can already buy her things.  We learned that there are so many feeding/nursing essentials that we need for our baby.  It's a good thing that some of them were provided by the grandparents (from both sides) so we only have to take care of the rest. 

You should also consider your budget, and the quality of the products that your baby will be using.  Remember that you should always think of your baby's safety.  I did some research too if I am buying the right things for her, especially with the feeding bottle and her body wash.  You should also consult your baby's pediatrician if you are in doubt or if you need to know something about your baby.

For expectant moms, I provided a Mommy's checklist which may be helpful: 

• onesies/frog suits
• sleeveless shirts
• sweaters
• mittens
• socks
• disposable diapers
• cloth diapers (gauze)
• diaper clips/nappy clamps
• feeding bottles (4 oz and 8 oz)
• bottle brush
• nipple brush
• abdominal binders
• bonnets/caps
• burp pads
• bibs
• digital thermometer
• nasal aspirator
• petroleum jelly
• baby soap/baby wash
• soap case
• towel
• rubber bath mat
• nail cutter
• bath tub
• cotton buds
• baby alcohol
• hairbrush/comb
• crib/play pen
• pillow
• bolsters
• mattress
• fitted sheets
• comforter
• stroller
• stroller pad
• nursery bag
• changing pad
• musical toys
• rattles
• mosquito net
• finger toothbrush
• breast pump
• nipple shield

These are just the basic stuff which I remembered and bought for my baby. There are a lot more which you may want to buy.

Have a happy shopping! ^v^

EQ Birthday Party Raffle Promo

When I was still single, my shembot friend kumare "Hya", who is also my officemate and a mother of two (2) adorable kids, advised me that in the future if I already have my own baby, I should try EQ diapers.  She believes in the quality of the product.  Plus, the price is very reasonable. She also informed me that EQ has various promos and freebies that consumers can avail.

Following Hya's advice, I tried EQ Diapers for my newborn baby.  From then on, she has been using it until at present time.  My baby is now nine (9)-months old.  So far, we have not experienced any problem.  No rashes or any discomfort at all.

Just like what Hya told me, I have been keeping or saving EQ packs while waiting for its promo.

And now, finally! Last January, I learned of its new promo, which I readily joined, the EQ Birthday Party Raffle Promo.  This one is so perfect for me, because my baby will be turning one (1) this May.  That's why, I am hoping I would win. (*wink)

Well, let me share you some of its mechanics which may be useful to interested readers and consumers.

To participate in the nationwide raffle promo, you need to submit the required number of  EQ packs  (such as EQ Plus with Soft Cottony Cover, EQ Colors, and EQ Dry with Magic Tapes) in an envelope, together with the following information: name, address, contact numbers, e-mail addresses if any, and signature, as well as your baby's name and birthday on a piece of paper.

You can submit your entries through a major Mc Donald's Stores, mailing or hand-carrying to JS Unitrade (JSU) Office. 

Each winner will receive one (1) Mc Donald's Birthday Party Certificate worth P7,500.00.  Promo Period will be from January 16 to April 16, 2012. 

Draw Schedules:
 
                                               Deadline of Submission       Draw Date                       No. of Winners

• 1st Monthly Draw :     February 17, 2012          March 2, 2012                               75
• 2nd Monthly Draw:     March 16, 2012              March 10, 2012 (9AM)                75
• Grand Draw:                April 16, 2012                    April 27, 2012 (9AM)                  150

Promo participants can only win once within the entire promo duration .  Non-winning entries in the 1st draw will be carried over in the 2nd Monthly Draw while the non-winning entries in the 1st and 2nd Monthly Draws will still be included in the Grand Draw.  (This is nice...  participants will have more chances of winning.)

All entries received after the deadline will be included in the succeeding draws.  Mailed entries for Grand Draw will be accepted until 5 pm of April 26, 2012.  

Winners in the 1st and 2nd Monthly Draws will be announced in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.  Within a week after each draw, all winners will be informed through a notification of registered mail.  

Hope this information will be useful.

Go... and start looking for your EQ packs!  Who knows, you just might have a chance to celebrate your kid's birthday party this year at Mc Donald's, for free.

For more details, just click here.

Good luck! ^v^

Raising a Baby

Being a mother is certainly a wonderful and learning experience in a woman's life.   Raising a baby is not an easy thing.  It requires a lot of patience, care, love, and devotion (from  pregnancy and giving birth). In my case, when I first learned that I was pregnant, I had mixed emotions. I am very happy because it is my dream coming true.  I also considered it as a special blessing.  But, I am honest to say that I got scared along the way.  My mind is going nuts... because  of the thought of giving birth (the labor pains, injections, needles, lab tests, etc.)  plus the fact that I nor my husband does not know anything about babies.   In order to take away all my worries, I just prayed and think positive thoughts.  When I look back now, I know I will still go through it all, just to have my baby.  The pains are all worth it.  Now, my husband and I are raising a 9-month old baby girl.  I can say that we are learning each day.  Sure, there are tiring and crazy moments but we still manage to get through.  We have to be strong for our little sweet pea.  We want to give her a happy life and a bright future as well, with God's divine intervention. 

So for those soon-to-be mommies who are having doubts or worries, remember that your unconditional love for your little one will help you get through.  Carry on! ;)