Full-Term Breastfeeding and Beyond: With Gratitude and Joy

D has just turned 15 months and he loves to walk around, explore and get himself into all kinds of mischief. It's something that I've slowly prepared myself for and somehow, we're all amazed at how he can learn so much in so little time. I can sense that he's a lot like L when learning things, he needs to touch them and do things rather than just observing. But sometimes, I also catch him observing me doing something and then later on, he'd be doing it as well! Such a sponge this little dude!

I've been breastfeeding D since Day 1 of his life and up to this day, there hasn't been a stop to his insatiable love and appetite for my boobies. He's a little more protective of me now since he doesn't like it when L would hug me or even just put his hand on my lap. You can expect a whine or he would literally remove the hand from me. But breastfeeding is a different story for the three of us. It's something that has bonded us ever more and I think that we're reaping the benefits now, more than ever.

D loves his food...and I mean LOVES it! An hour right after his breakfast, expect him to be munching on his biscuits again while trying his hand at the vacuum. Or right after dinner, he'd be asking for my milk in a bottle (since we're getting into a routine that he doesn't see me until nighttime to get him used to me working). Yaya W adores D because he's happy when he's full and satisfied. But yes, he throws tantrums especially when he knows he can control the situation, or when it's L who's looking after him.

Having had the chance to breastfeed D full-term has been such a blessing and I can only express gratitude to my support group. I don't think I would be able to last this long if it weren't for their kinds words, strength and support. I happen to be breastfeeding a piranha too, since D already has eight teeth and is sprouting a couple of more in the coming weeks. There are instances (especially the night feedings when I noticed that he would catch up on his feeding) that I just wish he'd let go of my sore nipples but I also know that's the only time he can have me all to himself. The moment the sun comes out, he knows that I am playing three roles, mom, wife and sister (let's change the sister to trainer next year!).

It is indeed with gratitude and joy and I have come to embrace this advocacy that is so near and dear to my heart. I have learned so much about being a mother and I know that I have more to learn and to share to other moms and moms-to-be.

I believe that breastfeeding is the best start of any baby's life because it is simply Mother Nature working. There's nothing to be scared about it. There's nothing to doubt about it. And there's definitely nothing weird about it.

julie

Sticking To A Routine

When the decision was made that I would go back to my old job (a job that I truly love), we knew that we needed to transition D to a routine that we all could slowly ease into and that he can handle. Tots love and thrive with routine. Of course, he can make his own routine and God only knows it takes me a while to understand what he actually wants but as long as he's happy...we're all good.

Though my job would be in shifts, morning shift would be a priority for me since I'm still breastfeeding D and I'm also pumping in between for his stash, and also he's still young. He just turned 15 months a few days ago and I've noticed that he doesn't drink as much milk as he would from a bottle or from a cup, he would only drink if he's about to take his nap (which he would take it from a bottle) and then doze himself to sleep. Then, after my online classes...that's the time he would catch up with his feedings. I totally get it now...though I still pump for extra stash and to make sure that I won't get plugged ducts and all, the transition to feeding him has definitely been a major change in my routine.

I'm pretty lucky to have an online gig right now that simply requires me to sit and I can power pump during my classes. I can pump about 4-5oz for each afternoon that I power pump and D only consumes about 3-4oz so I still have a bit of the stash left. When I don't have classes (Korean holidays or when I am absent) then I make it a point to directly feed D coz I'm way too lazy to really pump. So weekends are really just directly feeding him and then he eats A LOT OF solids.

I haven't really thought of how my pumping routine will be in the office since we're really focused on getting D to get used to not seeing me for longer hours. He does get used to it at some point but when he sees me in the family office then all hell breaks loose because he'd demand that I spend time with him. Also, we're still trying to calm him when he wakes up at night for feeding. I have yet to introduce the bottle with him and L but we're planning to do that in November. I'll leave the cooler in our bedroom with a bottle or two and hopefully, they'll both manage to soothe and calm themselves. This is for when I have the midshift (2pm-11pm) schedule coz I'd be home by 11:30pm and be in bed by 11:45pm...that's about 10 hours gone so it'll take some getting used to for D and L given that they're both used to just having me in between them. Good luck to the boys, huh?

Not only am I getting D to a routine...I also need to get myself in a routine. I've been staying at home for almost 2 years now so that's almost 2 years of not really waking up early or prepping myself to go out (that's such too much prepping!) so I need to get myself into a quick but foolproof routine where I can still be a wife, mom and a trainer...hahaha! Good luck to me, huh?

All these talk about routines have definitely made me feel excited but at the same time anxious because gone are the days where I can actually play hooky and plan the whole day on a whim...this time around, there's a need for a schedule and there's a need for cooperation (and I mean serious cooperation) so that everyone can leave on time and not be late. Aha! Good luck to all of us, huh?

But I'm sure that we can all manage somehow, we still have two more months...I'd want to be optimistic about this...

julie

Think About It

I'm at a crossroad right now...

I've always wanted to be a hands-on mom, like hands-on to a point that I stay home and make sure that I see every single milestone that D will go through. Then again, I look back and see how my life was before I became a mother, I was part of the corporate world and loved being there as well.

Now that D is a toddler, I've always told myself that I might seriously consider going back to work as long as I can handle the pressure and that L and I have thoroughly talked about it.

Right after our usual weekly playgroup this morning, I had lunch with a very good friend of mine from my previous office and she also happens to be D's godmother. She also asked me to be the godmother of her youngest son's confirmation and of course, I obliged with a huge smile. She updated me with the happenings in the office and how much it has changed and how many have come and gone. Then, right there...I can still vividly remember how fun the office was. It was a family and I miss it every single day.

She told me that because of the recent changes of the line-up in the office...some people have decided to leave and some are about to leave. Of course, there are new faces and that's also great and refreshing. Then I asked her, "Do you need me there?" And with her usual expression in her eyes, "Yes...but think about it..."

Ah yes...think about it...

I cannot quite grasp the idea of me about to leave for work everyday when I know that I'm leaving D. I trust Yaya W completely, don't get me wrong, but I've always wanted to be a hands-on mom. I've always wanted to see every single milestone that he'll go through. I wanna be the one who will teach him all the firsts in the world. I'm relinquishing that...and I'm not sure if I can fathom the idea, just yet.

I know that this is going to be a long process of thinking and weighing the pros and cons. I listed down the first few comparisons that came into mind and everything that was under CON was about D. Am I wrong for wanting to be with my son? Am I wrong for wanting to go back to work? Where am I supposed to put myself in this situation? I'm confused because I'm battling with my own reasons even though the world around me is telling me that it'll be all right.

This is battle between the mother in me and the wife in me...mother because I want to take of D and be there for everything that he will go through, wife because I know that we can work together better if we both are employed and we can actually save more and have a fund set for D.

I don't know...I'm still lost...

I have until the end of the year to really think about this carefully...I just hope that whatever I decide, I will be happy about it. I know that my family will be supportive of whatever choice I make...I just need to be sure that I AM okay with the decision.

Milestones and Comparisons

I've heard it more often than I want..."How old is he? Can he talk? Can he walk? Can he say his name? Can he recognize people?" WHOA! Slow down, I have a 13-month-old, not a senior citizen! What's wrong with you people?

I've been looking through tons of baby/toddler websites and I know by now that tots grow up very differently even though they live in the same area. Let's take D as an example...he's about to hit his 14th month in a couple of days and he just loves to be all around the place! I read him books (well, he has a favorite book) and he loves to play with his blocks and puzzles and all sorts of toys. He likes to stand more than walking, and if he does walk...he'd rather do it when he's on top of our mattress, knowing that if he'd fall flat on his bum, it's soft (smart kid!). He has tons of syllables in his vocabulary but a complete word is uttered by accident and happens once in a blue moon. He has his mood swings and will definitely let the world know how he feels. He just hit his 9-kg mark on the scale on his last pedia visit and is still cheerfully breastfeeding whenever he wants to. He eats three full meals a day (and more snacks in between) and loves to try new food, as long as he can take the taste. His eyes beam whenever he sees the most familiar faces (me, L, Yaya, Lolo, Lola and Tita J). He adores it whenever he is near our dogs, Spark and Sam, and would love to pull their tail if he had the chance. He knows that crawling is a faster way of getting to what he wants than walking. He loves it when the faucet is turned on and we have to wash his bum. He points out to whatever he wants us to bring him and will let us know if it's the right thing.

For this wonderful little dude, he is slowly and surely learning his way around the world. He's unlike any other tot in the world and I wouldn't change that. Should I worry that he insists in crawling rather than walking? Nope, he'll find his footing in the world. Should I worry that he hasn't uttered words yet? Nope, he'll soon mutter them nonstop once he has found his syllables. Should I worry that he's choosy with people? Nope, he recognizes faces and beams when he knows them.

I've learned (the hard way) that I cannot push D to be just like any other tot because he's not like any other tot. I can't compare him to his peers and I can't force him to fit in to the "standard" when he has his own way and footing in the world. I love it that he's teaching me the one lesson that I've learned myself, "Why do I need to fit in when I am born to stand out and be a different person?"

Yes D, I understand. And I will try my best to keep that in mind. You are your own being and you are your own person. And I will be as patient as I can be with myself and my expectations so that I can give you the best that the world has to offer. I trust that you will learn how the world works and you will also teach me how you are as a being in this world.

D's Bash: Capturing Moments by CJ Liamzon

A picture is worth a thousand words...to a mom, a picture of her baby is worth a milllion and more. I never pass up a good photo op and D's big bash was the biggest photo op in my calendar.

When Anj of MustLoveBabies had to fly to Manila unexpectedly, I was happy that she was able to contact a photog friend of hers who happens to be a highschool batchmate of mine. So the meet & greet wasn't really problem anymore.

CJ Liamzon loves photography like babies love sleep and you can see it in his way of capturing shots, especially the candid ones. Everything is self-explanatory, from the expressions on the eyes to the simplest hand gestures...it is indeed a thousand and more words. His extensive background and experience also shows his professionalism, I hardly noticed him taking the photos during the bash...which is rare for someone who loves the camera (ehem!).

Here are some of my fave shots that he took during the bash:

The look of a Dad to his son.

A baby's smile to his mother is as priceless as the biggest diamond in the world.

Both photos are as candid as they can be as I try to remember where CJ and Tonn were at this time, maybe because I was too busy thinking whether I've finished everything for D's big bash that I hardly really noticed them.

The awe in the eyes of the audience as the magician concentrated on this one act of surprise, he has achieved what magic is all about...awe and wonder.

I particularly adore this black and white photo of James and the audience, it's when the dove seemed to have magically come alive and out of the frame. The audience, kids and adults alike, had wonder and awe in their faces as mouths opened and jaws dropped. Such a classic photo...

Smiles radiate from these children as they dance their hearts out...

These kids definitely know how to strut their stuff as they dance...definitely loving the motto, "Dance like no one's watching..."

The Peas in the Pod with their moms

Love, love, love this photo of the moms and the babies of our playgroup. A support group of moms in all aspects of mommyhood, I can't help but think what I'd do if I didn't know these wonderful and amazing moms! I love how CJ captured our smiles and even though some of our babies weren't looking through the lens, they're definitely smiling all on their own.

To check out CJ's FB page, here's the link.

If I could only have all of these photos framed, they'd be strategically placed in our bedroom so that D will know how much love there is all around him.

Thanks CJ and till our next photo op!

A Different Normal

Now that the big bash has ended, a different kind of normal has set in. Not only do I have a toddler who scurries and is almost at the brink of running after our Chinese Sharpei, Sparkle, I have fully committed myself to my online teaching and planning to get more students in the coming months (well, I'm still easing into the idea anyway).

I looked at myself in the mirror and finally noticed my naturally wavy hair which hasn't been treated (rebond) for the past four years (WOW!), I noticed my eyebrows screaming for another session of threading, I noticed my face yearning for its usual facial treatment, I noticed my teeth that are asking for another scary and potentially annoying session with our dentist...alas, I finally noticed myself! Well, looks like I need a major overhaul! Hahaha...I could have laughed at myself but then again, I was kinda right.

Look, before I got pregnant...I made it a point to really dress up and look at the part of a communications trainer back in the corporate world. I loved it. I love dressing up and working the corridors with my "clacking" heels, yes...they were painful but I felt good. Everything, and I mean everything, changed as soon as I found out I was pregnant. It took awhile for me to really keep all my heels but when L noticed that I was wearing them while sitting down (HAHAHA!), he himself stowed them away where I could not reach them. My corporate attire rested for about a year before I was able to fit in them again but I opted for a more relaxed kind of wardrobe since I was still in my post-pregnancy body.

I'm now embracing a different kind of normal. It's when I wake up in the morning not because I woke up by myself but because D is waking me up and I look at the clock and it's 5:30...yes, I have my personal alarm clock and he's as cute as a button. We have already a schedule all set up, I have classes in the afternoon but I still make it a point for him to socialize with his playgroup once a week. I also find time to pump milk at least three times a day for his personal stash...anything that is more than what I usually pump is donated. Also, I spend as much time on the floor playing with him. There's nothing more in the world that I want to do.

When it's time for class, I make it a point to still have at least 15% of my brain on D...although Yaya Wilma has complete eyes on him, I still sneak in a peek whenever I have the time. My Skype profile picture is him so naturally my students will always ask about how he is and all. I'm so blessed and thankful to have this online gig since it gives me the best of both worlds, I can still do what I love and be at home with D.

For the next few days, my personal assignment is to SLOWLY (emphasizing as it will take a long time) arrange my accessories in my dresser. I noticed my dresser and our closets (his-and-her) and they're not exactly up to my standards of OC-ness, hahaha! I know that it's going to take some time since I juggle a lot on my plate but I am quite happy that I am slowly easing into motherhood. Yes, you might find it strange that I've only just eased into it. It's not easy having a baby...but now that D is a toddler and is beginning to realize that he is a being on his own, I can actually have some time for myself and remember that I am a being too.

Although it can take me months to be able to book a salon appointment to have my hair done, or weeks before I can head to my facialist for my treatment...it's only because I am still adjusting to motherhood. It's never easy leaving D behind, even though I have already left a stash for him and made sure to have explained to him where I am going. It is me who is feeling the anxiety because there is a certain guilt of wanting to spend some time alone when my baby needs me...but now that he'd a toddler, I can fully understand why it took so long, it's because I needed to feel comfortable enough as a mother to be able to leave him and know that he can fend for himself. He knows when he's hungry and can give cues to his nanny, though I am at his beck and call...he knows that if I need to have time for myself, he doesn't get mad. It took me a long time to be able to get it...but now, I finally have.

I'm not so sure if I fully make sense in this post but I am smiling but I can slowly plan things for myself and L. I can call for a movie date and not worry too much. I can book a salon appointment and know that D will be fine. I can head on to my facialist and pamper myself. And I can come home knowing that D is waiting for me with the biggest smile and open arms...heck, a few tiny steps with it as well!

The evolution of normal will always have its stages. I'm glad to see myself in a different stage...in a different normal.

D's Bash: MustLoveBabies c/o Tonn Navales and Anj Quejada

We all know that our babies cannot remember every single detail of the party, hence...the importance of photos and videos. And if there's anything important to parents, it's that our babies have to be amicable and happy when their photos are being taken. It's a challenge making them smile but making them smile on cue is even harder!

I remember growing up watching home videos, how great if D would get the chance to watch home videos of himself as well? This time, though, I needed a professional to take shots of the party itself as I was already prancing around the bash like a maniac worrying about every single thing.

Tonn is the younger brother of a mom from our playgroup, Peas in the Pod. His passion and love for photos and videos can be seen through his YouTube channel. Also, having a niece like Malaika who loves the camera, you know that he's had extensive experience in shooting babies! He and Anj had more patience during D's shoot for his invite and I was more than happy with the outcome.

One of D's shots for his invite

Though D wasn't in the best of moods (notice the tear in his left eye), Tonn and Anj still managed to make him smile and take the best shots.

Here's a link to D's big bash video that Tonn has made for us. D's Big Bash

If you'd like to contact Tonn, here's is a link to his FB page.

Do-It-Yourself: The 3D Letters for the Candy Buffet

Spelling out my bubba's name has been a favorite of mine ever since I found out that I was pregnant and it was something that I wanted to do for his birthday as well. I've searched online on how to make 3D letters for the table and it seemed pretty easy.

My initial plan was to put the letters on the candy buffet but we decided to scratch that out given that the candies were already looking good on its own. But I had other plans for the letters after, it's perfect for the room as a wall decoration.

I would've wanted to cover it with washi tape but to be honest, I was too overwhelmed and confused with all the designs of the tapes online that L and I just settled on solid sticker paper on each letter and then go from there. Hahaha! If I had more time and patience on my hands, I might be able to muster the courage to look at the hundreds of designs of washis and then choose at least 20! LOL!

Anyway, I printed out the letters from MS Word and just made sure that it was one huge letter on each page. I believe the size was between 900-950, depending on the letter, and then printed it out. We used Gibson chipboard and then traced it on there, made two traces of each letter and then backed it up with an inch long chipboard to make it 3D. Covered it with the sticker paper and then voila...3D letters for the candy buffet!

It's perfect to be placed on the dessert table with the cake and cupcakes as well coz it makes a great statement and people would wanna take pictures of it too!

Do-It-Yourself: The GIANT 3D Letters

Blame it on Pinterest and Martha Stewart but I wanted D's bash to be as picturesque and as picture-perfect as possible...given the situation that we were DIYing the whole event, you can imagine my stress level during the last week of preparations!

I've always wanted those giant 3D letters that I see in Pinterest birthday bashes. First, it's such a nice statement piece and people can always have their pictures taken there. Also, I love the idea that D's name is spelled out in huge, ginormous letters! It was a week-long battle between L and I since he wasn't sure that he can do the letters in the way that I wanted it to look. He made small-scale samples of other ideas, of which I was okay with it (but I was still praying that he would do the giant 3D effect that I wanted). In the end, I was able to get the letters that I wanted...and more!

L's sister suggested that they make the letter A into a house from the movie itself so that it'd look cooler. I was all for it as long as they do it before the allotted deadline so that I wouldn't be too stressed about it. It took them a weekend (sleepless, at that) to finish all six letters and the house. I am proud as it looked fantastic and everyone raved about it as well.

The materials used were:
- Gibson chipboard (the ones that are used for cake boxes)
- white satin sticker paper
- scotch tape
- a whole lotta PATIENCE!

This is what I also loved about Las Terrazas, it had the perfect backdrop for the 3D letters.

D's Bash: Bonjee Entertainment Services

A children's birthday party will always have a host and a bit of magic...

One summer in high school, my sister J and I decided to enroll in magic classes run by James Infiesto. Little did we know that we would have to perform magic in front of a lot of people at the end of our two-week training! Waaah! But it did open our eyes to what magic is all about, it's just about having fun and making kids smile. Sure, you know the trick but the part that I loved the most is when the kids open their mouths in awe and clap their hands. There's just something about making kids laugh and smile that tugs at my heartstrings.

I've been at a lot of kids' parties throughout the years and I've always been a stickler for grammar especially for the host. I cringed my teeth the moment I hear a mistake and L simply holds my hand as I roll my eyes, I can't help it especially since I was an English teacher to Koreans and a communications trainer for 4 years in total! It just sounds so wrong!

Then we all have heard about David Blaine and Criss Angel, now these magicians are on the dark side and it simply confuses me as to why magicians dress up like them at a kid's party! Be happy, wear happy colors! What's wrong with a little rainbow? Hahaha!

When I contacted Jymmez Infiesto of Bonjee, I was so happy that she remembered me from a long time ago. Her dad and my brother are good friends and also happens to be family friends for quite some time. I booked her and her dad for D's bash. She was quite excited as I told her how hands-on I was going to be with the preparations and all...I was also very happy to hear that they have already hosted an Up-themed bash and she has the costume for it.

Ate Jymmez as a Wilderness Explorer in her element with the kids during D's bash

Her dad, James Infiesto, is a well-known magician around the city absolutely loves doing magic for kids. You can tell it's his passion and it's something that he was born to do. Being that he was our magic teacher, I couldn't wait to see him at his best during the bash and I was all eyes on him, as are everyone else. What makes his different from all the other magicians that I have seen in other kids' parties is that he doesn't make it so secret. He makes it happy, he makes it fun...he makes the kids eyes go big and their lips curl into a smile.

He also brought with him his 2-year-old Burmese Python, Snakee. I wasn't up for pics with Snakee but I was carrying D and got the chance to have a pic taken with Snakee but I couldn't dare touch the python. All the other guests were so excited to have pics taken with Snakee, it's something that the kids never thought they could do at that event so I was very happy at that.

Jymmez and I were able to customize the games for the party as the kids were going to earn badges so we made it a point that the games would be in line with the party theme. I was also glad that I really didn't think much about the program or the party itself (in terms of entertainment and even the music) as Jymmez and her team were on top of it. I am very glad and quite relieved that that was out of my hands.

There's nothing more that I could ask for the best in entertainment...this tandem of father and daughter beats any other entertainment service provider in the city.

For more information on their packages, you can check out their FB page at Bonjee Entertainment Services or contact them at 297-6776.

D's Bash: Tina's Candy Buffet

Everyone loves chocolate and candies...what more if it's a buffet!

Whether it's a wedding, a baptism or a birthday party, people will always have their sweet cravings and nothing beats it with a candy buffet.

Tina is a good friend of mine from high school and I was able to get in touch with her for D's baptism. I wasn't sure about a candy buffet on a baptism since I was expecting that kids would be the ones swarming around the table...boy, was I wrong! The adults loved it so much!

D's personalized Elmo candy buffet during his baptism (November 2012)

Most of the chocolate fountain packages would only include the dips but Tina's services go beyond that. She makes it a point to personalize it and go with the motif and theme of the party. With D's bash, she had personalized water bottles for everyone and also incorporated the names of the candies, dips and fountain to our theme of Up.

D's personalized water bottle for his birthday! Too cute!

She also added personalized lootbags so that the guests could bring home more treats. Our creative juices came out since we were too excited and wanted to put everything into the buffet! Our kids (about a year old apart) will be attending more parties soon so we needed to keep ideas fresh and unique as well.

You can contact her through her FB page at Tina's Candy Buffet or her mobile number at 0922-996-0092 or 0926-730-8531.

D's Bash: Porky's Lechon

A birthday is not a bash without lechon...especially when you're in the Philippines!

Naturally, we knew that we wanted to serve lechon during D's bash and there was only one name that popped in our minds, Porky's. It's a family-run business and also happens to be good friends with my Mum. The nice thing about Mila's is that when you ask for lechon to be served, they always call Porky's and they already put it in their choreography the cutting and serving of the lechon so that everyone can get a piece of their scrumptious roasted pig! Each lechon comes with dinuguan as well...

All their yummy lechon being roasted
(photo grabbed from their FB page)

Feast your eyes on these!

Prices range from P3500 and above depending on how many people will be served. They also do deliveries within Davao City.

They are located at #003 Singkil Street, Bayanihan Community, Matina. Contact the Del Mundos at 296-1289 or 297-3267.

D's Bash: Alternative Catering Services by Mila's

In our family, whatever occasion it may be...when it comes to catering, we just had one caterer to call and that was our friendly and close neighbor, Mila's. They changed their name to Alternative Catering Services by Mila's but we still call them Mila's. Hehehe! It was started by Mrs. Mila Teves and is now being run by her daughters, Langga and Honey. They were also the ones who did our wedding reception and D's baptism.

I'm a loyal customer and an avid fan especially if the service is good and consistent. Mila's is proud when it comes to their food as they do not use MSG (vetsin) and their drinks are very healthy, they do not serve soda or carbonated drinks.

When you book them, they will be the ones bringing in their long tables for the buffet and also the table cloth and decorations on the table (just a simple flower centerpiece) that is a match and in coordination with the theme of the occasion. It's an all-in kind of service with them, their buffet ranges from P220-P270 inclusive of rice, drinks and your choice of dessert.

Assorted fruits in season for dessert

All-in buffet by Mila's

As with any catering, there are instances that you would have more guests than usual...no need to worry since Mila's has covered that. They usually put a buffer of about 5-10% of the number guests in case of such situations. They also bring extra plates, spoons, forks and glasses so that you won't have to worry.

You can visit their booking office along Bacaca Road at Partyholics and inquire about their packages, their contact number is 224-3081, look for Langga.

D's Bash: Las Terrazas Clubhouse

D's venue was something that L and I have thought about long and hard. Given that it's going to be a children's party, we needed a space where they can easily go around and maneuver their way through and we also wanted the parents (especially with babies) to be able to run out in case their babies have a wet nappy or already in the midst of their tantrums. We also wanted it to be a big space and not enclosed so that the loud sound system would not scare some of the babies and kids (as D hates it when he's in an enclosed space and the sound system is blaring).

Las Terrazas Clubhouse was where we had our wedding reception. I wanted it because of the view and also because guests can have their pics taken everywhere and anywhere and still have a great background of Davao City. I also loved the fact that we had our glam shots taken during the wedding and our photog didn't have to edit the photos anymore.

We needed to move the area from the second floor to the ground floor since the stairs was something that I was wary about. I didn't want the babies and kids going up and down the stairs during the party, that's extra work for the parents and nannies! Also, I wanted it to be a worry-free kind of party since the kids can just wander without really getting lost. And it doesn't hurt that the backdrop is simply the view of Davao City...nothing can beat that.

Las Terrazas Clubhouse (photo grabbed from their FB page)

The rates of their function room rents aren't as bad as well. We booked the lower left function room but we were free to use the corridors and space surrounding it (ground floor) so we were able to maximize the space. There was a veranda right outside the function room but I opted not to use it since it was raining the night before the party and water was leaking through, I didn't want the horror of putting the guests there and having to move them in case it was going to rain hard on D's birthday night.

Along with the use of the function room, they have a wet kitchen where the catering staff can use to store their food (of course, clean as you go policy), it also includes the use of the 25 square-shaped tables and 100 chairs (rattan and wrought-iron), a marble-top table for the gifts or cake, lattice divider (that we used as the backdrop for the stage) and the platform as the stage. We were also lucky that one of our moms from the Peas in the Pod group put the event under her name so we were able to get a 20% discount on the use of the clubhouse (whee!).

Were there any other events booked together with D's party? Nope. They make it a point to book only one event per day so that they can also maximize the use of the facilities. And they allow decorating of the place a day before the actual event as long as there are no other booked events. Their sound system was available though you need a back-up in case their sound system would not be working, we were able to bring a back-up sound system from our godmother so that was ticked off our list.

If you'd like to contact Las Terrazas Clubhouse, call them at 244-0432. Also, make sure that you call them before heading there so that they can set an appointment with you for an ocular inspection and if you wanna check the place out.

The First Birthday Bash

The day has finally arrived as we celebrated D's first birthday last Saturday, July 27.

I will try to write a post for each of my suppliers as well as post some pictures as well.

Here are the details of his bash:

Location: Las Terrazas Clubhouse
Dinner Catering: Alternative Catering Services by Mila's
Lechon: Porky's Lechon
Candy Buffet: Tina's Candy Buffet
Video Highlights: Tonn Navales
Photos: CJ Liamzon
Party Host and Magician: Bonjee Entertainment Services

Everything else, including the physical arrangement and decorations, were done by Team Damien (me, Lau, Jam, Shimran, Rap2 and more relatives and friends). We made it a point to hire the professionals that are already good at what they do and have been part of our occasions through the years. D's godmother was nice enough to offer that she be in charge of the cupcakes for his big bash. We opted not to have the cake as it wouldn't be enjoyed by everyone since that would mean slicing it and putting it in platters and then distributing them to everyone and also because there's no space in the refrigerator for the leftovers.

Being the OC that I am, I made sure to book the suppliers at least 2 months in advance (except for the catering as they live a block from us and we know that they can be booked last-minute). It was around April when I was already full-on party-planning mode (see my previous posts) and have finished almost all of the things for the party itself.

There were definitely a lot of kids at the party and that made me happy because the party program and magician were really meant for the kids. I was also very happy, though terrified at the same time, that James the magician brought along Snakee, his 2-year-old Burmese Python at the party. A lot of kids and parents were ecstatic and happy to have pics taken with Snakee but I was a scaredy cat. Hahaha!

If there's anything that I am proud of, I am proud that L and I didn't kill each other with the decorations (LOL!) and also that it really made us more patient with each other as we work in very different ways. I was planning for the worst (given that it was supposed to be the rainiest night of the week) and L was planning it to be the best bash in pictures...in the end, we both wanted the best for D, who was very happy and was smiling in almost all of the photos!

Speaking of photos, I have yet to get the photos and video highlights of the big bash but I'll be posting separate posts with my suppliers and how our relationship evolved to being good friends.

(Extended) Breastfeeding: A Habit Hard To Break

I've been breastfeeding D since Day 1 and now that he's about to turn 1 year old, there are tons of bumps that we've already crossed and tons of happy moments that we've shared. Nearly all of what I wear in public is thought of in such a way that it should be easily accessed by D's mouth so that when he cries or demands or simply wants to comfort suckle...it's ready and available right then and there. Somehow, it's become a habit of ours to just be in sync with each other's moods and feelings. I guess that's what happens when you're attached to your baby because of breastfeeding.

L, D and I co-sleep and even though a queen-sized mattress is big...looks like we need something bigger because D can sleep in half of the space. Yes, how can little babies take up A LOT OF SPACE is beyond me but we manage through it. He has yet to stop his night feedings and it's been a couple of months since I've been actively pumping for his stash during the day when I have classes or when I have to run errands. I still make it a point to pump at least twice during Saturdays and Sundays so as to keep up with the stash.

First thing that people ask me when they find out that I'm breastfeeding D, "How many teeth does he have?" I smile and answer, "He has six teeth and more coming too!"

Yes, the biggest fear of most moms who breastfeed directly is the eruption of the teeth. Actually, I noticed D's teething stages as early as 3 months but I didn't feel any "pain" or discomfort until he had actually bitten me (by accident, of course) when he was 9 months old. The biting pangs and incidents simply happen when I don't get to read his emotions and his cues...but when we're both in the moment, I can quickly tell if he's fussy or if he's already bored and that's usually the time when he feels like my nipples are made of rubber and can be pulled and tossed around and all that.

As of writing, I have wounds on both nipples...I actually clench my fists when D latches on these days only because it still stings. But the pain's manageable. Don't get me wrong, it's painful but I'm looking at it this way...I've been through labor and back and was able to go through the whole 10cm and effacement with no medical intervention, the latching and wounds are simply part of the process of breastfeeding. I am in no way going to stop because of a few winces and stings. I'm not hardcore...I just have a high tolerance for pain and I'm quite thankful for it too!

I keep on looking back to Day 1 until today and I look at L and D while they're playing...I don't think that I'd be this attuned to them if it wasn't because of breastfeeding. I was able to learn how to be patient with myself and with D (it was quite a rough start for the both of us) and I was also able to learn how to be thankful for my family as my support group.

It truly is a hard habit to break, I don't know when we will stop and I don't know how we will stop...I don't even wanna think about that because...it's not something that I'm looking forward to, though it's something that is bound to happen, hopefully not too soon.

Transitioning to Toddlerhood

D is turning 1 year old in 24 days, hence the countdown to his big O-N-E has begun. I'm quite excited at the commitment that I have for his birthday party but at the same time, the undeniable fact faces me...I am about to have a toddler in the house (insert sarcastic and funny remark...).

I'm quite excited with the prospect of having my very own hurricane in the house. I know that a lot of moms and dads who have had toddlers (my parents included) will always tell me ALL THE HORROR stories that they can tell me about what life is like with a toddler. Wow, thanks so much! I'm not sure if you're happy about it or you just wanna make me feel miserable. I hope it's the former but I do know where they're coming from...I just wish that it was put more delicately, like not scaring the first-time parents. Instead, supporting them and telling them the tricks of the trade of being a parent to a toddler. It doesn't hurt, right?

I remember when I gave birth to D and all my other high school batch mates were also pregnant and about to pop...I was more than happy to tell them about my birthing experience but I was also careful with my words, I wanted them to anticipate it with excitement, happiness and joy as opposed to dread and fear. Why put so much negativity into such a happy occasion? I've always believed that if you really want to support someone, you give them a nice picture but also give them warnings but without discouraging them. It's a balance but I make it a point to do it.

I'm starting to hear a lot of "horror" and "terror" stories about having a toddler in the house:

"Halaka, samok na kaayo ang balay!"
"Nah, payat jud ka ana samot ba!"
"Goodbye na lang sa mga gamit ninyo..."
"Kapuy kaayo ang bata uy...purye gaba lang..."

Hmmm...anything positive about having a toddler? Like maybe when they pick up their toys and put them in their respective boxes? Or when they try to help you with other chores? Or when they start talking and babbling as if they're in a conversation with you?

I appreciate all the stories but I wish that people, in general, would be more positive when giving stories. I know that D will be a handful and I'm already expecting that. I thank God, everyday, for Yaya Wilma as she can always carry half of the load during the day. We're already expecting the worst (not really) but we're definitely hoping for the best.

Toddlers are expected to make a mess...they're expected to be noisy and loud...they're expected to be kids and just run around and play...what else do you expect of them? They're kids...they're learning and exploring and they want to have fun.

Right now, I can see that D is slowly transitioning from a baby to a toddler and I can't help myself but wonder, how fast time flies. Last year...he was still in my tummy, kicking and punching and basically telling us he wants to see the world. And now that he's out and about, I'm sure he wants to see more.

This sure transition to toddlerhood is something that every parent will go through...this time, with us, we want it to be a memorable and positive experience for everyone. Are there going to be bumps? Oh yes, a lot of them. But in the end, it's all about D exploring how wonderful and great the world is. And yes, I will be there...every step of the way.

Do-It-Yourself: How Hardcore I Am

D's birthday is a month and a half away...yes, time is fast and it flies like the man of steel and the question that all mothers ask, 'What kind of party should we throw for our little one?'

If you ask any mother, they would love to splurge and go all out...who doesn't? Our babies only turn one ONCE and even though they're not going to remember it and all (that's the point of photos and videos, hello!) but we, as parents, do. We remember every single detail and the happenings and we will always tell them in detail when they're all grown up.

My parents didn't have a lot when they started their family...in fact, they barely had the essentials! So, it was very natural for them to DIY the first birthday parties of Paul, me and Jam. They have all the pictures to prove it and some videos as well. What made it so special was that everyone appreciated it and it was unique...no one could follow what they did! Hence, the inspiration came to mind!

I was hellbent (hahaha!) to prepare for D's first birthday party myself, maybe because I felt that most of the decorations were very generic and I thought to myself, 'I think I can learn how to do it.' I'd like to believe that I'm creative enough that I can whip up something and besides, L has the artistic hands and can always carve something out of nothing (that beats any basketball-hungry husband, anytime!). Right after D's baptism last November, I was already busy looking for possible themes for his birthday. We already had a rough estimate of the budget since we knew that we would be contacting the same suppliers, but I wanted it to be lesser so I knew that DIY was the road I was going to take.

After the holidays and having settled down after New Year, I was busy looking through different ideas and possible decors...for me, I wanted a theme that would reflect the same passion that L and I share and something that D would be able to look back and say, "That was a good theme Mum...excellent choice." It took me about a couple of weeks before I was able to confidently say that his birthday theme was going to be Disney Pixar's movie Up.

Here was the fun part: gathering all ideas and information for his birthday party. From the decor, to the lootbags and giveaways, and even the shoot for the invite! All of that was playing in my head and I needed to make sure that it was organized in my laptop, thank God for Pinterest since I was able to follow boards and mix different ideas. Also, it was great that the website of Disney had TONS of printable designs and templates. My parents were very supportive as well since they knew that it would slash the budget in half, yes, half!

Last month, I was able to convince my Dad to help me in financing the fee for a DIY Balloon Decor Workshop here in the city. I figured, I wanted to make a statement and be as creative as I could be...might as well do our own decor and trimmings! Being OC, I didn't want it to look so DIY and amateur, I wanted it to look good on photos and look as if it could be featured on Martha Stewart's website! Hahaha, being domesticated has never been this fun but trust me...you'd want it to be picture perfect!

People ask me, how DIY is the party? The only professionals that I hired were the caterer for the dinner buffet, the candy bar buffet that my high school friend did for D's baptismal, the character host and magician tandem and the photographer & videographer. Everything else is on me, well...me and my team (family!), that is.

Was it at all difficult? Of course it is! Which decor? What kind of giveaway? Which lootbag? What design? Tons of questions and quite difficult to answer since I wanted to put everything! But reality (in the form of my husband, L) came into picture and told me to calm down. Haha, thank God because imagine how the party would look like! He definitely made things easier in terms of pinpointing which ones we can handle in making ourselves and the time frame. In the end, most of the ideas that I wanted were put in place...he just ironed all my ideas out so that I won't look so frazzled.

I guess it pays off to be OC and really organized because while L was at work, I was busy already making the giveaways and doing mock-ups of the centerpieces and lootbags (yes, we're making the lootbags!). He never really saw this side of me given that we only met in college, but it was also nice that he saw a different side of me...where I was really into it and I was crazy about it, I even dream about it (no kidding!).

Most of D's playmates are also turning 1 this year...I love sharing ideas to other moms especially those who want to DIY their babies' parties as well.

My Dad always told me that parties (whether it's wedding, birthday or any other reception) is a communal celebration...have people who care about the celebrant and celebrate happiness together. I can't wait for D's party! A celebration of his life and a celebration of our parenthood as well!

Biting The Nipples That Feed Him

Been almost a month since my previous post but I've been very busy with the preparations for D's first birthday and I got back to online teaching this week, needless to say...it's been quite hectic.

Amidst all the "chaos" that's been happening, D is pretty much growing in front of our eyes. My parents were away for just a few days and got extended for another 24 hours due to the airport mishap (they were rerouted to Manila then GenSan and took a 3-hour bus trip back to Davao). They noticed D's sudden growth and mentioned it to me, the moms at our weekly playgroup also noticed and well...as much as I want to deny it, my little boy's growing up!

And with growing up comes those little tiny instances that really try my pain tolerance, yes...breastfeeding mothers can definitely relate to this...biting! He doesn't do it on purpose, at least I don't think so, and it doesn't happen often but when it does...WOW! I'd rather go through labor than deal with those nipple bites! Whew!

Did it seem bad? Yes, I felt like I was going to lose my nipple when I felt it. I was imagining this bloody image in my head where in the actual nipple is between his four incisors and he's smiling at me with that snarl that he always gives when he's feeding off me (too bloody?!). Then I look down and it's just red, sore and bleeding a little...I looked at D and there he was, smiling and giggling. I know he didn't do it on purpose but that was just one of those VERY RARE moments that I wish I could stop breastfeeding. I didn't stop...trust me, I wasn't going to stop just because there was a tiny wound.

The best cure was to let D latch and let his saliva heal it, true enough...it was all right. Took about a couple of week for the soreness to completely go away but I was still able to pump and express milk for him. That didn't discourage me from breastfeeding...but it did make me flinch every once in awhile whenever D would latch. Somehow, those little teeth are definitely not stopping at biting everything it can get in contact with. How do I stop him though? Well...pinching his nose definitely stops it, the "suffocation" trick doesn't really work on his as he was push me away and it's more painful. So pinching works for us...

I know that this will be just be a phase, and I'm in no way deciding to stop breastfeeding. But yet, babies do bite the nipples that feed them...mommies, trust me...they still love you no matter what and they're not doing it on purpose.

Pumping It Up

D's already 9 months and 13 days as of writing and he is as active as he can be! Semi-cruising and already showing signs that he's ready to let go of whatever he's holding to stand up on his own, I only have a few more months to spare before all of us will be running after him. With his constant growth, I've seen him chow down more food than I thought I could see him eat...and his milk input hasn't changed either! Love the idea that I can just pull it out and he can latch onto it, anytime and anywhere.

I've been meaning to build up a stash but since I stay home with him, laziness has come over me and pumping hasn't been a priority unless there's a need to donate some. But a few days ago, I was contacted by my former headteacher and asked me if I could start teaching again next month. I've missed teaching and if there's anything that I love to do (before I became a mom), that's teaching. I jumped to the chance and agreed to start teaching again.

My classes will start as early as noon so that would mean D will be spending the afternoon and early evening with his nanny, Yaya W. The thought of having to build a stash was already looming and quite urgent since I know that my supply would need to be reprogrammed. I wasn't too worried but I also knew that it'd be a great practice to already start the soonest.

This afternoon, I was able to find the time to actually do some sessions. I was quite surprised since I was able to pump around 3oz. during my first two sessions. I'm due for another session tonight after I post this. But with the way things are going...I'm actually happy that I'm slowly and surely building a stash. It's also perfect timing since the balloon workshop will be on the 25th of this month and I'll be away for a whole day, a stash would be perfect so that Yaya W will be relieved as well.

Such liquid gold is achievable. I'm quite glad to have the support system around me. It's not a numbers game, it's more of consistency and practice...with a whole lot of patience!

By the way...D isn't used to bottle feeding so we're skipping all those and going straight to the glass! Besides, he loves putting his mouth to the rim and feel the glass...

First Mother's Day

As this is my first Mother's Day celebration, L asked me a question that he's been asking me ever since I became pregnant, "What do you want for that special day?" Whether it be Christmas, our wedding anniversary, my birthday or Mother's Day...I'm still stumped, speechless and at a loss for words. I'm not so sure what I want...then I started thinking about a couple of new designs from GroVia or the Skip Hop bags that would look perfect on D instead of his usual diaper bag or go over the list of things that we need for D's first birthday...wait a sec, didn't he ask what I wanted for that special day? How come I couldn't think of MY wants and instead think of D's wants instead...right, I'm a mom.

Ever since I became pregnant, everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) has shifted to D. I was lucky enough to be able to enjoy perks of being single and think of no one else but me, then L and I decided to get married and we were still lucky to be able to travel to KL and SG before we got pregnant...I had a closet full (and I mean full!) of clothes and shoes...not to mention purses and bags (I even forgot that I had more bags and purses that I stashed in my sister's closet!). How quickly has my focused changed to this one little human being is beyond me...but I don't regret it nor do I miss my former self at all.

This evolution of myself has been gradual, I believe. And I think that's the beauty of being pregnant! The first trimester tells you that you are carrying someone...but it doesn't make you look like it, just feel like it (morning sickness, tummy aches). The second trimester slowly comes in and you look too full to not be pregnant but look like you ate a melon to be pregnant, I call it the ugly side since you're in the middle of the cycle! You still get to enjoy your time with your husband, family and friends! Then third trimester kicks in where you slowly ease into being a mother since the baby's obviously kicking you hard enough to constantly remind you that he's about to be born. I saw myself evolve while I was pregnant...I gave up my stilettos and wedges, clothes that hugged my body and my career as a trainer. I knew I needed to shift focus and D helped me ease into it.

"Lain na jud basta mommy na noh? Wala na'y freedom."
"Lahi na ang priority...wala na'y shopping2."
"Dili na ka ka-laag!"
"Kasayang sa trabaho nimo...sa balay na lang ka."

Yes, I have heard all of these and more! But in the end, I really don't regret resigning from my job (quite blessed that L is very supportive of me staying at home and being very hands-on with D), nor do I consider myself "trapped" because I don't get to go out anymore (D's godmother and I always have lunch dates every two weeks). Priorities do change, but that doesn't mean that I'm saddened about it. In fact, I welcome the change! I welcomed another part of me that I never thought I could actually do. Though I stay home to take care of my son, I am very blessed to have Yaya Wilma to take charge when I need to run errands or simply rest. It doesn't make me less of a mother that I'm not working in an office (being that I just take a few online classes on the side), it doesn't make me less of a mother that I have a nanny to help me (Yaya Wilma only came to us when D was 6 1/2 months), it doesn't make me less of a mother that I have prioritized him over the things that I usually do (isn't that evolution of being a woman?)...

A mother is a mother. No other labels will come out of that. It is a woman who had prepared herself for 9 months to become one. A little being grew inside her and she was tasked to take care and help him/her come out of the world. In the end, that's really just the point.

Having had the chance to meet so many moms...in the end, our babies are our life...everyone and everything else just comes in second.

My Breastfeeding Advocate Hubbie Part 2

This happens to be another experience that L shared about his advocacy for breastfeeding (yes, such a wonderful world that husbands are very vocal and supportive of such an advocacy!).

He had a customer this afternoon who was carrying her 8-month-old baby and she got her 3-year-old toddler to tag along when they were buying a motorcycle unit. Of course, heat was crazy so L told the mom to come inside the cool office so that it would make the baby feel less fussy. His staff were a little hesitant to approach the mom since she was breastfeeding her baby, L motioned the mom to sit down and he asked what unit they were looking for and all.

"Sir, okay lang ba na magpa-dede ko diri?" the mom asked.
"Okay lang ma'am. Wala'y problema na. Init pud kaayo sa gawas, basin ma-subawan ang mga bata especially ang baby, kasabot kaayo ko ana ma'am." L said respectfully, "Akong asawa man pud, gapa-dede man pud."

The mom simply smiled and L said that she felt more relaxed as she fed her baby and they were discussing about the unit that she wanted to purchase. After having purchased the unit, signed the contracts and she asked a couple of relatives to pick up the children (she was driving the motorcycle), she got onto the motorbike and left the store.

L's staff approached him and just smiled.

"Sir, dili man gud namo ma-istorya ug tarong kay gapa-dede man gud. Di mi katan-aw." one of his male staff said (probably felt a little uncomfortable breastfeeding in public).
"Sus, kung kamo gani magka-anak na pud...dili na issue na sa inyo." L said and looked at his female staff, "Kamo magka-baby, wala na'y ulaw2 kay ang pagpa-kalma sa bata ang inyong focus."
"Mao ka sir? Dili maulaw si ma'am na pa-dede sa mall?" his female staff asked.
"Ngano man pud siya maulaw? Libre na gani...maulaw pa?" L asked with a smirk, "Atong mga inahan kadtong una man gani...pa-dede lang habang manglaba, magluto ug uban pa..."

Ever since D was born, I've always breastfed him on demand and that's wherever we may be. L has been the most supportive husband by making sure that I have my sling so that my arms won't get as tired (especially when we're out and about). Kudos to the mom coz she got her baby and a toddler in tow!

Yes, moments like such make me a proud wife! You go L!

Postpartum Ride

Moms, from all corners of the world, will always remember the feeling after having given birth. Whether it's their first child or their last...I think it's imprinted in their minds what ride that they have gone through postpartum. Yes, we are all in agreement that it's not in any book or manual as to what will happen and what we go through after giving birth. We all have different situations and stories and we all have different approaches to it.

If you have read my post about my birth experience, you will know that I DID NOT like the fact that I gave birth via stat CS. I HATE (yes, I use such a word) it when people (especially random people) ask me as to why I gave birth via CS.

"Ngano ka na-CS? Diba nag-Lamaze2 pa mo ni Lau?"
"Hah? Ni-abot ka ug 10cm tapos CS gihapon? Kapuy uy!"
"Deretso CS na lang unta ka kung ingon ana ra diay ang nahitabo..."
"Dako siguro kaayo ang bata noh? Mao siguro na CS ka..."

Lau and I were blessed to have had taken childbirth preparation classes with Alex, we are more blessed that my parents gave us endless and priceless tips about Lamaze (being self-taught themselves), and yes, we are blessed that my labor only lasted for about half a day and I was still able to manage the pain...riding the waves and smiling all along. All of that was worth it.

We got home from the hospital on the 30th of July, three days after D was born. I'm very thankful that my Dad and sister (Jam) made all the effort of cleaning the house before we reached home to make sure that everything was all set for D. Our house happens to have three dogs so imagine the trafficking and dynamics! I was also trying to ride the breastfeeding wagon and hoped that it'd be easier than I've anticipated.

The first 24 hours at home was a whirlwind. My mind was a blank. I was, technically, on autopilot mode. I carried D when he cried and hush him back to sleep. Latching wasn't the problem...it was positioning because of my scar. So, football hold was something that I've mastered for the next two weeks. I had this notion that my Mum and Dad were able to do it all by themselves so I should be able to do it as well, right? WRONG! I was tired, I was physically tired having gone through a major abdominal surgery and still recovering. I wanted so much to do everything that a new mom should do, because it's what we expect of ourselves, right? Sure, in the ideal world...but this is the real world.

The first month was an autopilot life for me. Of course, I had expectations of myself that I didn't do and I was frustrated. I got mad at Lau for having the peace of mind in sleeping while I was engorged, in pain of my scar and still lost at what had happened in the DR/OR. Yes, if there's anything that kept on haunting me...it was the fact that I wanted to give birth as naturally and as normally as possible...and I didn't.

I remember calling Mum a few hours after giving birth. We were already in our room and I told Lau to sleep, the time was 3:45AM. I called Mum and the first thing that came out of my mouth was, "I'm sorry Mum, I tried. I really did..." and yes, I tried to stop the tears from falling. She assured me that everything was worth it as long as D is healthy. Unknown to me, my Dad already found out that I gave birth via CS. My anesthesiologist, Doc Jean, sent D's newborn pic to Dad at early morning (2AM). I called him up after Mum and said the very same thing, Dad simply wished that he would've been there given that he was at Maragusan.

I can't really explain in the right words the feeling that I had...not being able to give birth the way that I wanted. Maybe defeated? Probably disappointed? Could be angry? I was, for the first time in a long time, at a loss for words. I knew L wanted me to talk about it...but I too...I was disappointed at myself and angry at what had happened and I felt so defeated with the situation, maybe that would be the best explanation of it all. Yes, those were my postpartum blues...well, the bulk of it anyway.

I had such a fantastic support group behind me. L was very supportive especially while D and I were mastering breastfeeding (all the positions that would make us as comfortable as possible), Mum and Dad made sure that my diet helped in my milk production, close friends sent messages of encouragement and visited us...such positive thoughts and words really helped me get through what seems to be hell for me after giving birth. I was also very thankful that my OB assured me (endlessly) that I did all that I could in order to push D out as naturally and normally as possible...

It was small successes every single day that made me survive...it's as simple as being able to sleep 4 hours straight, the three of us. Or being able to eat a full meal without D crying...those small successes that factored in a good day...those were what I counted, and those were what made me smile and made me realize that I gotta just ride it out and it'll be all okay.

Do I wanna get pregnant and give birth again? Yes! It's all about riding the waves and enjoying the journey...pregnancy, motherhood...all of it is worth it.

Getting Back To My (Dancing) Roots

I've been dancing ever since I could remember...of course, little girls start out with ballet and yes, I fell in love with ballet. I was in awe with the way the dancers would carry themselves in pointes and they look so beautiful in their tutu costumes! I just stared at them and smiled...imagining that I would be, one day, dancing and looking as graceful as they do. I remember this one conversation I had with one of the dancers in pointes...

"Hi..." I said shyly behind the curtain.
"Hi...ganda naman ng ballet shoes mo." the girl said and smiled at me.
"Thank you po." I replied and looked at her retying her pointes and I couldn't help myself, I touched her tutu skirt, "Nice, so pretty."
"Thank you too. Don't worry, you will wear this one soon." she said as she motioned me to come closer to her, "It's okay, it's actually heavy." she said and jumped lightly as I saw the tutu skirt closer.
"Really? But you look so great...I can't even split yet." I said (yes, I was that desperate to do the split at 3 1/2 years old!)
"You will..." she said and winked at me.

True enough, three weeks later...I was able to do my first split! Whoa...it doesn't feel comfortable at all! And trust me, I felt like the stick that my teacher kept on pounding on the wooden dance floor is right between my legs! Ugh! But I felt so happy and felt like I made my first accomplishment...the split!

After that...I never looked back and continued on to dancing. Ballet has always been my foundation and boy, did I fall in love with it. I memorized The Swan Lake music even before I learned the multiplication table!

Having been born different, I was able to make the stage my home. I loved the lights and no, I wasn't born with stage fright...instead, I felt happy. I was just being myself and it was the best feeling in the world.

When I found out I was pregnant, I knew that I wasn't at my best in terms of body strength so in order to prep me for the possible long hours of labor...I got back to my belly dancing days mixed with a little bit of Polynesian movements. I love the hip movements of belly since it soothed my backaches during my third trimester...and it also strengthened my core muscles because of the isolation movements. The Polynesian mix was just to help me relax and feel okay while dealing with Braxton Hicks'.

True enough, D loves to listen to different types of music and sounds. This time...we're practicing our routine for a session and he's swaying his arms and kicking his legs like crazy! I hope he gets my passion for dance and movement as well.

Going back to my roots has taught me that even though it's been awhile since I've put on my dancing shoes...when I do put it back on, it's like being a kid all over again, on the stage...just me and the music.

Learning A New Skill

I love learning new skills! If it's anything that I wanna do, it's adding more skills in my arsenal and then get to use them anytime!

I found a page on Facebook offering a Balloon 101 Workshop, D.I.Y. (Do It Yourself) Party Balloons and Party Supplies. I jumped (literally) out of my chair and carried my laptop to my Mum and told her about it. I was so game because it would come in handy for D's first birthday! Hello, I get to actually decorate my own son's birthday...how cool and fun would that be?!

I suddenly had this flood of ideas as to how the set-up was going to be and how the stage is going to look like, and yes that includes the backdrop and centerpieces. I felt like a migraine was coming pretty soon but good thing my Mum slowed me down and giggled. I asked my Dad if he could help me finance the registration (it's P3000) and he agreed that we split it 50/50. Whew!

L was giggling and was really happy when I told him about it during lunch. It's probably not a surprise to him that I'm all giddy with the party planning...up to the tiniest details! Again, that's my ever-supportive hubby!

If you guys wanna join me in the workshop, just head on to their Facebook page and check out the details!

Looking and Being Different

Most people who know me don't really know what goes on in my brain, unless you've been with my crazy self for more than half of my life. So let me take you to my journey as someone who has been on the side of not only looking different but also being different.

I was born with a congenital defect, it's pretty obvious when you look at me long enough...I am a cleft, both lip and palate. No, don't believe those myths that my Mum slid and fell while she was pregnant and all that because our family can prove that that's all crap (pardon). Mum was at her healthiest and fittest when she was pregnant with me. She slid and fell while she was pregnant with both Paul (older bro) and Jam (younger sis), and they were born without any facial congenital defects.

I've always been very expressive of my feelings. When I feel lonely, you'd know...when I feel happy, you'd know...when I feel sick, you'd know...so my face is a dead giveaway of what I'm feeling (especially my eyes). And I always remember my Mum and Dad reminding me that I'm special, that I've got something special in me to show everyone. I didn't really get that...I just knew that I was special in their eyes.

Then came school...yes, the one place that taught me how to deal with real life. I grew up in the realm of the Jesuit way (you can guess by this time which alma mater I came from). Kindergarten was the best years of my childhood! I had teachers who showered us with compliments, classmates whom you were friends with, nannies whom you trusted your life with. A little segway here, I demanded that my nanny be right outside the classroom door for a whole week during my first days in school since I was SCARED TO DEATH that I would go home by myself! So needless to say, I grew up with my nanny by my side until my high school years!

Did bullies exist? OH YES! They did exist and in many different forms too! There were those bullies who would outright point and laugh at you, reminding you that you look different. There were those bullies who just randomly pick on people (whether they look different or not) to make their lives miserable for that one moment. Then, there were those bullies who just targeted YOU and only YOU. Their world revolved around YOU. That was me a year in high school.

What I love about the world that I have is that...school is so different of a world that as soon as I get home, I'm at peace. I don't care about what other people say...I'm in my zen place, my abode, my zone. I guess that's why we're such a tight-knit family and that we share a lot of our thoughts and ideas so openly because my parents made sure that our home is our cocoon, our sanctuary, and that we're safest there. My closest best friends in school know me so well and they know my dreams and ambitions...of course, I have to show a different side to acquaintances and classmates.

How did I go about life looking and being different? Well, it's something that I got used to. Being stared at, no biggie. People stopping in their tracks and pointing at me...I could care less. Why? Well, because I knew who I was. I knew what I wanted and I knew myself well enough. I love to dance, I love to perform, I love to watch movies, I love to eat pasta, I love pretty things, I love crafts, I love it when people smile at me and compliment me (whether small or big)...that was all that mattered to me. I have Mum and Dad...they're my biggest fans!

College was a different story...because of my experiences in high school, I learned the art of putting a HUGE and MASSIVE wall that would block people from actually getting to know me. I was snobbish, I was strict, I was closed...hardly anyone would dare speak to me when I would enter a classroom and I could always intimidate them with the way I talked. If there's anything that I am really good at, it's expressing my opinion through speaking and writing. A few people "dared" to befriend me and true in form, they became great friends of mine. Heck, I met my husband back in college! But I knew that I was a completely different person in college...I transformed myself into someone who knew how to do a very nasty and sarcastic comeback from an ignorant classmate.

"Classmate, gwapa unta ka...kung dili lang ka bungi." said a classmate.
"Mao ka?" I replied, looking at her with the purest sarcastic sneer, "At least puwede pa nako ni mapa-surgery...imong dagway, unsaon na lang na? Dili gud ka bungi...dili pa jud gwapa!"

I know...I shouldn't have stooped to her level but she was asking for it. After that, everyone (and I mean everyone in our department, heck the whole campus!) knew the attitude that I had. They were scared. But to me, and to my friends, I wouldn't have said that if she wasn't being tactless. Seriously...what would you have said?

After four major operations to repair my palate...the only thing left is the facial reconstruction to make me look as if I wasn't born with a cleft lip and palate. Why didn't I have it? Well, I spoke well. Heck, I was an English teacher to Koreans and I was a soft skills and communications trainer...I'm sure that I speak well. I don't need to blend in and look just like everybody else. Besides, I'd rather focus on my D who now has so many syllables in his vocabulary that I'm catching up every single day!

My parents taught me how to be strong. I grew up to be stronger. Looking and actually being different has always been something that I consider a positive for me...and that's exactly how I'm going to teach D as well.

Wedding Anniversary Year 2

Two years ago...I walked down the aisle and married the man I was going to spend the rest of my life with. Whoever thought that a girl like me would be able to settle down? Whoever thought that someone like me would ever find someone who was willing to take me as I am? Well...he was there.

This is the first time I am going to write about L and I as a married couple, perfect timing as it's our second year wedding anniversary.

He's the ONLY boyfriend who gave me flowers and the ONLY boyfriend who paid for our dates. That should give you an idea as to what type of guys I had before him. He's also the only guy who would be able to stand my snobbish and very often "high-maintenance" ways, only because I was the most comfortable with him. I didn't need to be someone else around him, I was all right. I was myself and I didn't need to hide anything.

What sealed the deal? Well...I know that we'd grow old together and still act like high school sweethearts (who wouldn't want that?). He's now the husband, the father, the first man who made my heart skip a beat (D being the second!).

Happy second wedding anniversary L! We have been blessed with so much...I hope you could still love me the way that you did the first you time you said those words...

L and I on our wedding day...

Birthday Prepping Part 3: Lootbag Ins and Outs

I've always loved doing handmade gifts so it came to naturally to want to DIY almost everything for D's first birthday, that included the lootbag!

With so many ideas swarming in my head, I needed to type it all down and finally get to researching the how-to's and methods. I was thinking of maybe doing a unique lootbag and putting all kinds of different goodies that the kids will enjoy!

So, I found the template online (seriously, everything is found online!) and got started but realized that the lootbag was a little too small to fit the giveaways that I was thinking of. So I made the template a little larger...to make a long story short, I've made three samples before actually getting into a size that L and I were happy. I tried placing the mock-up giveaways and found that there was still enough space for the food goodies!

I was too excited. That night, I showed it to L when he got back from work and all he could ask was, "You had time to make three samples? Wow...you really are crafty huh?" I wasn't too sure what he meant by that but I'd like to believe that he was being nice and sincere. He smiled and gave me a hug (aww, trying to make up for what he said probably!). L has never seen me do a lot of crafty and DIY stuff so I'm sure this is such a surprise for him.

I've also listed down the DIY giveaways that I'll be making as well. So far, I've gotten them in the list but I still need to do a little canvassing so that I can start buying them soon. With the way that I'm going...I might be able to finish the lootbags before booking all the rest of the suppliers! Haha!

At least I've ticked another item off my list of things to prep for D's big day!

MomBa: The new exercise for moms and babies

Last Saturday, April 20, was such a fun day for moms and babies alike (of course, more of the moms!). A very good mom friend came to Davao City and FINALLY taught us MomBa. What is that? Well, it was coined by Nadine when she decided to put her exercise routine together with playtime with her baby Rae. It's like Zumba but with moms and babies (babies being worn!).

MomBa at The POD: (from left to right) Julie Lapaz with D, Alex Hao, Nadine Casino with R, Ella Misa with M, Althea Robin with Z, Kooky Hao with K and Keryl Tan with K. 

There were six moms in all who joined in the class (including Nadine) but my baby D was the only baby boy! Hehehe. Yaya Wilma and I made sure that D would have enough rest before the MomBa class so he had the whole afternoon to take his nap, which he did...thank God!

Miel decided to crawl away from Mommy Ella to play with Rae!

What I loved about MomBa was that it incorporated the imagination of the babies! Never mind the age of the baby because the youngest was Kaley at 5 months and the oldest was Zoey at around a year and a half of age so it was really more of the moms also getting their babies to participate in the activity. Nadine told us not to worry if the babies didn't want to join in the exercise because they could just run around, or in this case for most of the babies...crawl around!




She started with all the moms and babies forming a circle because the story is about to start...we were going to travel! We were walking and then slowly started running (yes, with our babies in tow!) since we were already late for our flight at the airport. I love that there's a story to this so the babies and toddlers would also get to play along.

Doing our warm-up with Pearly Shells as our background music...
Ate Zoey was having fun dancing as well!

From Hawaii, the music started with Pearly Shells as we warmed up together with our babies. We then went to Egypt for the more serious toning and cardio (our weights were our babies!).

Doing our squats while babywearing our babies!

We had to do squats while babywearing our "weights"!

Toning our arms while suffering in silence...waaah!

We also had several minutes with arms exercises that I'm sure every mom would agree was tough (talk about sore arms for two days!).

Toning down the very tired muscles...

Then for the cool down, we had a softer blend of melodies. It was supposed to make the babies sleep but only Kaley fell asleep...the rest were either tired or wide awake...hehe!

It was the best hour for us since we were really sweating it out and seriously doing cardio and toning of our muscles! Who would've thought that carrying our babies and exercising at the same time would be both super fun and so tiring?! I'm sure all of the moms would agree that we ate A LOT MORE than the usual because we were THAT tired.








I particularly loved getting back to dancing because I've been doing that since I could remember...yes, I did have ballet training with a bit of jazz and hiphop on the side but what I really missed was belly dancing. Around my third trimester (yes, very heavy and pregnant) was when I got into serious pregnant belly dancing because it eased my back aches A LOT! So when Nadine incorporated a bit of belly...I was too giddy and excited that I knew Damien was all too familiar with my hip sways! Oh, what a wonderful moment that was!

Reliving my belly dancing days...that was too much fun!

The next few hours were funny and hilarious as I felt each muscle getting more and more sore...waaah, the price that we pay for not exercising as much as we should have. Being that we're moms...I don't blame anybody but that was the perfect excuse since our babies had fun as much as we did!

The next MomBa will be at the Mommapalooza on Mother's Day! We hope to see more moms then...don't forget your Rai Ties and babies too!

Before I end this post...let me indulge in this photo taken from Ella's camera where I was doing my push-ups...of course, the reward is that I get to kiss my D!

Push-ups with a great reward...kisses for my D!