Milk Station

It's Official

2010-06-14T11:52:00.006+08:00

It's been exactly a month since Little S nursed. It's official -- at 2 years and 6 months, Little S has been weaned from the breast.

It had been surprisingly easy. I had been expecting him to cry his lungs out or throw tantrums, and be unable to sleep at night without his organic pacifier. He did cry a bit the first night, but when I reminded him that mommy already took the medicine, and showed him the injection site on my tummy for good measure, he stopped crying and started to giggle instead, poking at my tummy for fun. And that was it.

I also wasn't expecting it to be easy for me. When I first realized that I would have to wean Little S, I felt this overwhelming sense of sadness that I started to cry. I felt like I was about to lose a special bond with my child. My eyes would well up with tears every time I thought about it. I went to the La Leche League forum and read other women's accounts on weaning. Those who were forced to wean (because of medication, or gruelling work hours, or because their child suddenly self-weaned) talked of having the same feelings. One woman whose child self-weaned described the feeling as being dumped by the love of her life, who refuses to get back with her -- which was exactly what I felt like when Little S had a nursing strike. So I was expecting more or less the same crushing feeling when I finally stopped nursing.

But, to my surprise, I don't feel anything at all. Yes, I do miss breastfeeding, I do miss the closeness and the special time we had together -- it's all just a memory now. But, it feels like nothing major happened. Like this was the way things have always been.

I think it helped that Little S had gradually been weaning himself over time. During the last few months he had been nursing only once at night, and only on one breast. So, the transition to not nursing at all wasn't that hard.

Also, since I knew the exact date when I would be getting the shot, I did a countdown with Little S. I would tell him, okay, this is day 1. When we reach day 15, mommy will take the medicine, and you cannot nurse anymore. You will have to say bye bye to dede. And during that period, I would sometimes skip nursing for a night, so he would only be nursing every other night. I think all that gradual transition made everything easy and relatively tear-free.

Little S still asks to nurse sometimes, but I think he only says it for fun. The other day, I did an experiment. I pretended to give in and offered him my breast. He mouthed it for a second, then giggled and pushed away.

"Noooo..." he said, "I don't want to dede."
"Come on," I said, "Didn't you say you wanted dede?"
"Nooo..." he said, shaking his head and laughing.
"Why not? Have you forgotten how to do it already?"
"Yes."

I repeated the experiment this morning, with the same result. I think my breast grosses him out now. He mouths it for a second and then his face goes, "Ewww..."

Still, I think he remembers nursing as something special, something that he loved, otherwise he wouldn't be asking for it, even though he doesn't really want it anymore.

And that's enough for me.

Two and a Half

2010-05-03T17:39:00.000+08:00

My little one is now two and a half years old. He is the apple of everyone's eye, the center of attention. He never fails to brighten everyone's day. Here are his latest funny antics:

1. His dad bought him a set of books. One of the books is entitled, "When I Grow Up." My mom was telling me how nice the book was, describing it and saying, "When I grow up, I want to be a blank... when I grow up, I want to be a blank..." (What she meant to say was, in the book, there were a lot of things that the kids wanted to be when they grow up, such as an astronaut, a doctor, etc.) So I asked little S, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" And he promptly replied, "A blank." God, I hope not!

2. Little S is such a night owl. He likes to sleep late and wake up late. So I told him, "You should start going to bed early and waking up early. Or else how will you cope when you start going to school?" He replied, "SS sleep in school na lang." (He will sleep in school instead.) I hope this doesn't mean I'll be called into the principal's office a lot!

3. Little S really loves Disney's Cars movie. His grandma bought him Lightning McQueen, Sarge and Fillmore toy cars, which made him really happy. One day he said to me, "Mommy, you want to buy Chick Hicks and The King." (What he meant was he wanted to buy them. You = I.) So I asked him, "Do you have any money?" And he said, "Yes." I asked, "Where?", not expecting a real answer. He said, "In Pat the Cat book."

A few days later, his grandma gifted him again with Chick Hicks. As I was opening the packaging, he quickly went to the bookshelf to get something. I was wondering why he was in such a hurry and why he wasn't hovering over his new Chick Hicks toy. Then I saw that he got his Pat the Cat book. He quickly opened it, got the money and paid his grandma. That was pretty funny! But I think I will need to teach him that money doesn't grow on trees -- or books!

Bad News

2010-04-21T08:29:00.002+08:00

Well, this is no big surprise, but I didn't expect this to happen so soon.

My endometriosis is back. The cyst on my ovary is big enough to warrant medical intervention. And to think 3 months ago there was nothing, just a mild case of adenomyosis. I am now taking Primolut-N to try to control it before we take out the big guns. I will have to have Zoladex shots.

And I will have to wean Little S completely.

He now only nurses once at night when going to bed, on one side only. I would alternate sides each night. I have told him that mommy is sick and needs to take medicine. I explained to him that when I do, he cannot nurse anymore. Whenever I ask him, "What will happen when mommy starts to take the medicine?", he will say, "SS cannot dede anymore." I guess he understands, but I am not sure if he will really accept it when the day comes. I estimate I have less than a month before I will need to have the shots.

I'm sooo not looking forward to it.

Expanded Breastfeeding Act

2010-03-25T14:41:00.001+08:00

Love her or hate her, there is now at least one thing that President Arroyo has done right: signing the "Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009".

The new law mandates all government and private institutions to provide lactation rooms where working mothers can comfortably pump or express milk. It requires the rooms to come fully equipped with a sink for hand-washing, a refrigerator for storing expressed milk, electrical outlets for pumps, a small table, and comfortable seats. Tax incentives will be given out to establishments that provide a lactation station.

Furthermore, the law requires employers to grant breaks to breastfeeding employees to pump their milk -- at least 40 minutes for every 8-hour working period. Hooray for working moms who breastfeed!

It also aims to promote breastfeeding by integrating it into relevant subjects in the school curriculum. What a neat way to raise awareness about breastfeeding to children who otherwise have never been exposed to it! I know this from personal experience -- it probably wasn't a conscious decision at that time, but back in high school, when we were studying about diseases and antibodies in science class, I read in my science book that breastmilk contains live antibodies, and that whatever the mother is immune to, she can pass the immunity to her child through her breastmilk. I thought that was really amazing, and I immediately asked my mother whether I was breastfed. I was disappointed to hear her say no (I don't blame her, formula was -- and actually still is -- the norm. It was automatic, no need to think about breastfeeding vs formula), so I thought to myself that if I ever had a child I would breastfeed.

But, based on some of the inane comments left on the article, we've still got a long way to go in raising breastfeeding awareness. But at least this is a step in the right direction. According to Senator Pia Cayetano, who authored the law, "this is the 14th Congress' gift to all Filipino mothers on women's month."

Fruit Loops

2010-03-19T17:12:00.002+08:00

I have been trying to sing the song "Return to Pooh Corner" to Little S, but couldn't remember the lyrics. So I dug out my old Kenny Loggins Greatest Hits CD and played it for him. I let him listen to "Return to Pooh Corner" a few times, then I started playing the rest of the tracks. When "Footloose" came on, I started dancing, and little S danced and laughed with me. Then I heard him sing, "Loops... fruit loops... everybody fruit loops."

LOL

A Sign of Growing Up: Wearing Real Underwear

2010-03-06T14:48:00.003+08:00

As promised, here is an update on how little S's potty-training went. I'm proud to say that he is now almost completely toilet-trained! He only wears his cloth diapers at nap time and at bedtime. The rest of the time, he wears briefs. (I know there is a whole debate on briefs vs boxers, but right now, I'm just happy that he's almost completely out of diapers.)

Remember that idea that I had to get him to want to pee in the toilet? I would take 1 square piece of toilet paper and draw a fish on it with a marker. Then I would put it into the toilet bowl. This is to entice him to pee into the toilet bowl and make the fish "swim". I can't say that it really worked. He liked it at first, but after a few times, he resisted going to the bathroom.

Finally we just took off his diapers and put him in his briefs. We repeatedly told him to tell us if he wanted to pee so that he could do it in the toilet. After a few days (and a lot of accidents), he started verbalizing his need.

He's been wearing his briefs for about a month now. He's now gotten used to peeing in the toilet and knows that that's where he needs to be when he has to go. Accidents still happen sometimes, when he would say that he wants to go and it's too late. But instead of stomping on his pee, he would now wail and keep his legs apart like he's all grossed out. Hehe.

15 Minutes of Fame

2010-02-25T12:40:00.001+08:00

I got a very interesting email the other week. Apparently, my blog has caught the interest of someone from the show MOMents on Net25, and they're going to feature me on their show as a breastfeeding mom. I'm going to be on TV!

They came over to shoot yesterday, and my interview will air either this Saturday or next Saturday. So do watch out for it!

Race Against the Clock

2010-02-05T10:20:00.001+08:00

I hear something ticking. Oh wait, it's my biological clock! Darn, I guess I really have to think about whether to have another baby or not....

On one hand, I would love to have another child. I would love for little S to have a sibling to play, share and grow up with. And if ever something happened to me and hubby, he wouldn't be all alone.

On the other hand, I don't know if I'm ready to have another one. As it is, little S no longer has my undivided attention. If I were to have another child, my attention will be further divided. Also, it might hamper or slow down the growing of my business. And of course it will put more strain on our finances.

But the tick tock is getting harder to ignore. Because, along with the reappearance of my monthly visitor, came an old enemy -- endometriosis. Although it has recurred in a gentler form this time, adenomyosis, it makes more sense not to wait if we want to have another child. Oh, the pressure!

By the way, I am still breastfeeding little S. And I would like to clarify, as some people have suggested otherwise, that breastfeeding will not prevent me from getting pregnant.

Breastfeeding is only considered a form of birth control if all of the following conditions are met:

1. Your baby is less than 6 months old.
2. Your baby is exclusively breastfed -- no formula or solids.
3. Your period has not returned.

So, since I checked none of the above, it is possible for me to get pregnant. The question is, will it be easy?

Fallen

2010-01-27T14:15:00.004+08:00

I have fallen over to the dark side. Little S has gained a total of 1 kilo from his 1st birthday to his 2nd birthday, and I have given in to the pediatrician's advise to try giving him formula.

Little S has been drinking formula with his breakfast and afternoon snack for about 3 months now. And let me tell you, absolutely nothing has happened. No weight gain, nothing! I have spent a lot of money for those expensive cans of oil and sugar -- I checked the ingredients label, and that's what they're made of -- and all that has happened is the devirginization of little S's gut.

I do wish that he would gain more weight, but I guess I will just have to accept that he's naturally small. I shouldn't be surprised anyway, considering that I'm pretty small myself.

So now I regret giving in to the pressure. I guess it's because I know how it feels to always be compared to other kids, to be made fun of because as a child I've always been small for my age. I didn't want little S to face the same ridicule.

But as long as he's healthy and happy and smart, then I'm not going to dwell on it. After all, size isn't everything.

Reflections and Resolutions

2010-01-08T21:46:00.005+08:00

It's the start of a new year once again, and I find myself thinking about the major things that had happened to me the past year:

1. Acquired a business

2. Created a maternity/nursing wear line

3. Experienced a nursing strike

4. Got my period back

5. Got flooded

6. Took an unforgettable trip to a dream destination with hubby and little S -- I know I didn't get to post about this -- we flew the day after the flood!

All in all, 2009 has been a pretty interesting year! I wonder what 2010 has in store... good things, I hope!

My goals for this year:

1. Grow my business

2. Stick to my earlier resolutions -- I hate to admit this, but I never got to do either resolution! Because of my online business, I got glued to my computer pretty much everyday. And also, meat is so hard to resist! But after reading this article about diet for endometriosis, I swear I will cut back on meat. My period pains have so far been just uncomfortable at worst, and I don't want to experience debilitating pain ever again.

3. Potty-train little S completely -- this is actually my goal for the next couple of months. Little S is still not completely potty-trained because of two reasons:

- I didn't push through with it because I had to let him test out different cloth diapers (yes, I've been using my son as a guinea pig)

- He doesn't mind even when he's completely soaked! In fact, when he's not wearing a diaper and ends up peeing on the floor, he will stomp on his pee with glee.

I do have an idea on how to get him to pee in the toilet, and I will write about whether it's successful or not soon.

Oh, and you might have noticed that weaning little S from breastfeeding is not one of my goals. If that were to happen, I'd be okay with it, but let's just say it's not something I am setting out to do. I would rather let it happen naturally.

So, here's to hoping I will achieve my goals for this year! Care to share yours?

Not A Girl, Not Yet A Woman?

2009-12-14T12:09:00.007+08:00

I can't believe I just turned 31 over the weekend. Thirty one! I still can't wrap my mind around it.

It's not that I'm afraid of getting old. (Okay, maybe a little -- who isn't?!) It's just that inside, I feel like I'm still twenty one!

My theory is that in my parents' generation, most of them had to grow up fast. They were earning a living by the time they were eighteen. They married young. They had to be mature and responsible at an early age. They were men and women at eighteen.

As a result of their hard work, their children, our generation, didn't have to work so hard. We also married late, and had children late, which means we spent most of our lives being single and thinking only of ourselves. In our thirties, we're still just guys and girls.

The other day, I heard about my high school reunion; it's been almost 15 years since our graduation. I did a double take and gasped, has it been that long?! I think about my former classmates and I still remember them as kids. It's hard to imagine they now also have kids of their own. Sometimes I still can't believe I have a child of my own.

I wonder if I will still feel the same way when I reach 40. Right now, it seems so far away in the future. But I don't think I will have to wait a long time to find out -- based on the way time flies, it will come much sooner than I would like!

Mama Au Lait

2009-11-19T10:34:00.000+08:00

Remember that "something big" that I've been working on? It has finally reached completion! Or should I say, it has finally begun.

I have launched a new maternity/nursing wear line called Mama Au Lait! Each piece has been designed so women can wear them from pregnancy, through nursing, and even beyond! This gives each piece a lot of mileage, which means value for money!

Here are some of my favorite pieces:

Visit www.terrababiesboutique.com to view the whole collection!

Recalls

2009-11-11T11:54:00.004+08:00

Do you frequently plop your baby in front of the TV? Do you believe that "educational" videos will make your baby smarter? Think again. Here's a study linking TV viewing with slow language development.

Which is why, after much pressure, Disney is now issuing a refund for Baby Einstein DVDs, for parents who mistakenly (or rather, were led to) believe that letting their baby watch the DVDs will actually turn them into little Einsteins. (Although seriously, do people really believe that?) The refund is only for those who live in the US. For other parts of the world, sorry, but you're stuck with your noneducational DVDs.

Another company issuing a recall is Maclaren. Seems that the hinge mechanism that folds up the stroller has a potential fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to children. If you have Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, Techno XLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno or Easy Traveller, you can contact Maclaren to get hinge covers for your stroller. Again, only if you're in the US. For the rest of us, better keep those curious little fingers away from the stroller when you're folding/unfolding it.

Update: Maclaren Philippines is now offering the hinge cover kit as well. You can read about it here. Thanks to Mandy for the link!

Turning Two

2009-10-26T14:41:00.000+08:00

Wow. I can't believe how fast time flies. Little S is turning two this week! I forgot who it was who said that "the minutes and the hours drag on, but the years fly by" -- so true! It seems like just yesterday that I held my little newborn in my arms.

We're keeping our celebration simple this year. We're planning to take the birthday boy out, maybe to Manila Ocean Park. Then we'll have a dinner party at home with family. It's going to be a total opposite from his grandma-sponsored first birthday party, where it seemed like the whole town was invited.

Here are a few pics from his first birthday party. It was fun! It was expensive. It was exhausting! We're keeping it simple from now on.

Party area decked out with balloons

Table centerpiece

Live parrots

Lou Hilario -- one amazing magician

Parrot performing tricks

Kids of all ages (and adults, too!) enraptured by the magic show

Little S having fun -- he looks so different now!

Flooded

2009-10-06T21:09:00.006+08:00

Like a lot of families, our house got flooded last September 26, during the tropical storm "Ondoy" or "Ketsana". We're considered luckier than others though, as the floodwater inside our house only rose to knee-deep, and we have a second floor -- whereas others have lost their entire homes.

Still, it was quite a shock. It was one of those things that you only hear of from other people, or something that you only see on television. The raging river just outside our door seemed unreal.

As the water started to seep inside our house, I quickly grabbed little S's things -- his toys, books, and most importantly, food, and ran upstairs with him. At that time, little S hadn't had lunch yet. He was also being especially grouchy, so I breastfed him to sleep, while downstairs the water slowly rose.

Little S never got to eat a proper lunch or dinner that day. I fed him cereal, biscuits, crackers, and I breastfed him. I was so glad I was still breastfeeding him. If God forbid the situation became critical and we had to escape to the roof, then at least little S wouldn't go terribly hungry. He'd have a constant supply of food, as long as I was with him.

That's another reason why I highly encourage breastfeeding. In times of emergency, when food and water are scarce, you can still provide your child the best nutrition, AND protect him from illness and disease.

As usual, little S provided comic relief during that stressful time. Upon seeing the water in the living room, he said, "Swimming pool inside house! SS put on swim trunks, go swimming!"

Heading Off the Charts

2009-09-22T23:25:00.006+08:00

When I said that it looked like Little S would wean naturally, maybe I spoke too soon. He's now back to asking to nurse -- a lot.

I have no problem with it, though. Anything to help him gain more weight. He hasn't gained any weight for a few months now. He's only growing taller. But that means he's getting thinner. His weight is below 5 percentile now.

I am puzzled by his lack of weight gain. He eats a lot. I also give him fresh cow's milk now, something which I'm loathe to do, but I am afraid that my milk isn't enough anymore.

Only one thing I can think of -- worms! Well, either that, or maybe it's just genetic.

My Funny Almost-Two-Year-Old

2009-09-12T15:01:00.005+08:00

Here are some things Little S did that made me laugh:

- I opened a door, and said, "Open Sesame!" Little S then said, "Close Sesame!"

- I had his head shaved again because he's always perspiring and his pillow always gets soaked. One day he was walking outside, and saw another baby with his head shaved. He quickly touched his own head, remembering that he also has "no more hair."

- I let my hair down one day and it fell over my shoulders. Little S touched it, and then quickly touched his own head again. I said, "Where's your hair?" He said, "No more. Only mommy has hair."

- I threw little S's waterproof rubber mat into the playpen. Little S then said, "SS [his name] gulat." So I asked why he got scared. He said, "Mommy throw rubber in playpen. SS gulat." He then took his yaya's hand, put it over his heart, and said, "Yaya hold. Dig-dig-dig-dig."

- He always makes me laugh whenever he sings the whole "Bahay Kubo" song.

Little Big Changes

2009-09-01T00:14:00.003+08:00

I'm feeling a little guilty. I've been so busy these days, I hardly have time to talk to or play with little S anymore. I've practically left him under the care of his nanny and his grandma. Which leads me to wonder whether working from home actually allows you to spend more time with your kid. Yes, you're physically there, but your attention is elsewhere.

I'm working on something big (for me, anyway), and things are pretty hectic right now. Hopefully when everything settles down, I will be able to set a schedule so that I have time to block out everything and just be with little S and give him my undivided attention.

Little S is also breastfeeding less and less now. He still nurses to sleep, but there have been times when he just went to sleep on his own and did not feed until the next morning. He's now mostly sleeping through the night, skipping the all-night nursing marathons. During the day, he only nurses twice, sometimes only once when I am out doing errands. I feel that my milk supply is dwindling now, and I feel that it's possible that little S will wean himself naturally.

Such small changes, but such a big impact.

Help Dr. Fabella Hospital

2009-08-14T12:11:00.008+08:00

I have no words to describe how I felt upon seeing this. I will just let these photos by Jorem and Sheila Catilo speak for themselves.

Here is Sheila's story:

About the photos
By SHEILA JUAN-CATILO

I've always loved photographing children. It's such a joy to be able to capture them whether they're in their most innocent or most mischievous moments. But this experience was different, and definitely one I would never forget.

Last Tuesday, Jorem and I went to the Dr. Jose Fabella Hospital with Rea Gomez-Harrow to shoot some pictures to post on the Moms for Moms site. It was probably the hardest shoot I've ever been through in all my years of being a photographer.

"Are you ready?" She asked, as we walked across the entrance of the ER right after a woman was brought out of the ambulance in a stretcher, her legs stained with blood, ready to give birth. There were pregnant women everywhere - in the hallways, sitting on the steps, walking around just waiting for their turn. I knew I had to brace myself for this.

The scent was familiar. It's only been 6 months since I got out of the hospital after giving birth to our first baby. Had I been there a couple of years ago, it would have been different. But as we walk into what was 4 rooms full of maybe a hundred bassinets or more, I felt my knees weaken and my heart crumble. I look through the viewfinder and get ready to shoot, but all I see is a blur as tears start to well up. My heart was pounding to the rhythm of infants crying in chorus. I turn my head, three babies are sharing one bassinet while the other had two. One baby's face is already pushed against the other's knee. Can he still breathe? I look the other way and one baby's arm is as thin as my finger. There are tubes and needles, bottles of fluids running through their tiny bodies. Due to the lack of linens, three newly delivered babies share what looked like an old hand towel to keep them warm. Each was labeled with a medicine box cutout attached to their wrists with a string like a piece of evidence. It was hard to believe all of it was real. I knew there were going to be a lot of babies, but not like this. It was beyond what I expected. To say it was heartbreaking would be an understatement.

I've never seen so many babies all in one place at the same time, and seeing them in this condition just didn't feel right. But this is how it's always been in Fabella. Everyday, mothers flock to this place to give birth because it's the only place they can go to. Due to the sheer volume of women giving birth each day, some have to go home a few hours after delivery while others who can't share a tandem bed with 2-3 others to be able to rest. According to a social worker we talked to, some of them don't even want to leave. To them, it's a roof over their heads, a soft bed and regular meals. For their children, it's a far better environment to survive in for their first few days of life.

It's a sad reality to face, but it's real nonetheless. So if these images move you to help, please do with what you can, in any way you can. Feel free to repost, link or contact us about it. Help us help Fabella.

If you would like to help, you can send a donation here. If you love designer bags, you can also bid for an Hermes Victoria bag, where the proceeds from the auction will be donated to the hospital. You can also deposit your donation into the Shepherd of the Hills bank account.

World Breastfeeding Week/Month 2009

2009-08-04T00:15:00.011+08:00

It's World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) and World Breastfeeding Month once again. I can't believe a year had gone by so fast!

I am still breastfeeding little S at 21 months. I am proud to say that he has not had a single drop of formula since day 1. Sadly, I am among the minority here. Surveys show that only 16% of Filipino mothers are still breastfeeding at 4 to 5 months. Why is the breastfeeding rate so low? Blame it on the formula companies, whose aggressive marketing strategies (in flagrant violation of the Milk Code), mislead many Filipino families into thinking that formula is equivalent or even superior to breastmilk.

It is so sad to think that most of these families belong to the lower classes. They spend a good portion of what little income they have in buying formula, when they could have been breastfeeding at no cost. Such irony.

A very well-made documentary called "Formula for Disaster," by UNICEF Philippines, shows the conditions these families face on a daily basis -- extreme poverty, unsanitary surroundings, no access to clean drinking water, disease, malnutrition. It's infuriating how formula companies are milking them for their money. These companies' advertisements make false claims about their formula that dupe the masses, who are most likely to believe everything they see on TV.

The only way to protect the thousands of children dying each year from NOT being breastfed is strict implementation of the Milk Code, and education about the superiority of breastmilk.

The Parenting Task I Hate the Most

2009-07-27T09:19:00.001+08:00

As much as I love being a mom, there is one parenting task that I really have no patience for. I dislike doing it, even more so than changing little S's diapers or washing his dishes.

The parenting task that I hate the most is feeding little S! Of course I'm not talking about breastfeeding. Even the frustration of the early days doesn't compare to the irritation I feel when feeding little S his lunch and dinner. Why do I detest this task? Because it can take him over 2 hours to finish his meals!!!

When little S eats his meals, he has to have toys and books on his table to keep him occupied, otherwise he won't sit still in his chair. The problem is, oftentimes, he'll be too busy playing and reading, and he'll stop chewing and will just let his food sit in his mouth. No amount of pleading or threatening will make him chew and swallow. He won't stop talking either, and will say anything that pops in his head, things like, "Yaya kitchen cook babo-babo (adobo) for SS (his name)." Or he'll suddenly chant, "Rain rain go away, come other day, little SS play!" And of course when he talks sometimes the food will drop from his mouth. Sigh.

My only consolation is at least he finishes his food most of the time.

What's the parenting task you dislike the most?

The Return of Aunt Flo

2009-07-16T12:24:00.010+08:00

This is my 100th post. Yay! Originally, I intended to have a giveaway contest to commemorate it. But then something big happened and I decided to write about it instead....

I just got my period back!!!!! After more than 2 years of being period-free, at 20 months postpartum, I got my period. I'm NOT happy about it. But at least I'm pain-free, for now.

Having endometriosis, I always dreaded the return of my menses. For me, having my period equals days of debilitating, excruciating pain. There were times when the pain would be too much to bear, and I wished Misters Smith and Wesson were around to just end it all for me. Yes, it was that painful. It was even worse than labor.

I am thankful though, that even with this fertility-impairing disease, I was still able to give birth to a wonderful baby boy. He is now my reason for breathing, and I vow to give him the best of everything. I'm also thankful that I'm able to breastfeed him for so long, and that has definitely helped delay the return of my period. But now that my period is back, should hubby and I now try to give little S a sibling? Hmmm... well, that's something to think about.

Another thing about getting my period back, I finally got to try my cloth pads. Yes, cloth. As in reusable, washable cloth pads. They're shaped just like disposable sanitary pads, with wings and snaps to hold them in place. To guard against leaks, they're lined with a breathable, waterproof layer. I got them a few years back, and then I discovered I was already pregnant, so I never got to try them until now. I know, you might be thinking it's weird and gross. But it's actually not that bad. I just soak the used pads in a basin of cold water, and that prevents staining. The blood will just seep out into the water, and I just change the water regularly until it's time to wash them. Then it just takes a few minutes to wash.

Why am I using cloth pads? For the same health and environmental reasons as using cloth diapers. Now that I know that there's a link between endometriosis and sanitary pads, I don't want to continue using products that contribute to this disease. Plus it feels great to go to the supermarket and skip the disposable pads section. That's one thing I won't be wasting money on anymore! When you compute how much you'll be spending for sanitary pads and panty liners your whole fertile life, you'd be surprised. Oh, and also? Cloth is so much more comfortable. No more hot, sticky plastic for me!

Okay, enough about pads and periods. Let's talk about the giveaway contest. Yes, I am having one! Hop on over to Fab Fab Finds! for the contest details!

IYS Penpals

2009-07-02T17:55:00.001+08:00

I was cleaning out my closet the other day, when I stumbled upon a packet full of stationery. When I was a kid, my friends and I used to collect them -- we treasured these pieces of paper. If you had the cutest or most beautiful stationery, you were the coolest kid on the block.

Now, why on earth would we collect stationery? Because we would use them to write to our penpals! Back then, there was an organization based in Finland called the International Youth Service or IYS, which provided a penpal matching service for students aged 10 to 20, for a fee of one US dollar per address (about 25 pesos back then). If you get a group of 10 students to apply for a penpal, you also get an additional address for free. You can choose whether you want a boy or a girl, their age, and the country they live in. You also indicate your interests, and the IYS will search their database for a penpal suitable for you. When you sign up, your name will also be included in their database, so you can actually get more than one penpal for a one-time fee!

I remember we would all get very excited whenever we got a letter. It was just fun reading a letter written by a kid from a faraway country.

I had penpals from the US, Finland and France, but my two best penfriends were Canadians. One was named Laura and the other was Amanda. Laura is from Vancouver and she has 5 sisters. We're the same age (12 at that time). She had terrible handwriting (if you're reading this, Laura, sorry!) but we managed to exchange a lot of letters. We even got to meet each other when her family came over to the Philippines! But sadly, for some reason, we never wrote to each other after that again. Amanda is from Manitoba, and we wrote each other until we were in high school. She was so excited when she had her first boyfriend, she sent me a picture of the two of them together. We signed our letters with LYLAS -- Love Ya Like A Sister.

I still have all their letters -- I kept them after all these years. Their letters are a part of my childhood, and I just can't bear to throw them away. I do wonder where Laura and Amanda are now, and what they have become. They're probably married now, too, with kids. I tried searching for them on Facebook, but had no such luck.

Now that we have the internet, letter-writing has become almost obsolete. We now have email, instant messaging and chat. Who wants to wait for snail mail when you can send and receive messages in an instant? And so the IYS has shut down. (Try to Google them, you won't find them anymore.)

It's a shame, though, isn't it, that kids nowadays won't know how fun it was to send and receive real, personal, hand-written letters and even gifts and keepsakes with special friends from abroad.

Bad Boy

2009-06-24T19:01:00.003+08:00

Little S's latest antic:

When asked whether he is a good boy or a bad boy, he will say loudly, "Good boy!" Then he'll whisper to the person beside him, "Bad boy... bad boy."

It's pretty funny, although I do hope he doesn't mean it!

House Arrest

2009-06-14T16:47:00.006+08:00

With the Philippines now leading Asia in having the most number of cases of swine flu, is it time to panic? Should we all just stay home, and forgo trips to the mall, eating out, having get-togethers, and basically having a life?

While I do think that the whole swine flu business has been hyped up by the media, naturally I wouldn't want my little S to contract it. So, for now, we're avoiding going out unless absolutely necessary. Little S has been placed under house arrest.

BUT, I want to have a balance between "Live in Fear - Better Safe Than Sorry" and "Live Life to the Fullest - Cast Your Fate to the Wind", so I am allowing certain exceptions to his house arrest. For instance, he can walk around our subdivision, and he can go to relatives or friends' houses, and he can go to the playground as long as it's not crowded.

After all, being cooped up at home all the time can't be healthy either, right?

Little Einstein

2009-06-04T17:34:00.008+08:00

I know, I know... every parent on the planet is convinced that their little one is a genius.

But I really am amazed at how much information is crammed into little S's 19-month-old brain, and the rate in which he absorbs them.

For instance, a mere two months ago, I could quantify how many words he was able to say, but now, he is able to say so many things that I've lost count.

He can now form simple sentences, like "Mommy get book," or "Watch Elmo, please."

He has memorized the alphabet, and can read all the letters. He can also give you a word that starts with whichever letter you pick.

He can count from 1 to 20, and can read the numbers from 1 to 10. He can also countdown from 10 to 1.

He knows almost all the days in a week.

He knows which animals make which sounds.

He can identify shapes. We're still working on colors.

He knows all the nursery rhymes and songs we sing to him, and we let him fill in the blanks when we sing.

He knows how to say and spell his name. He knows his mommy and daddy's names. He knows each and every one of his family members, including aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is also aware of the things happening around him, and when we ask him what transpired during the day, he can recall and answer. He has pretty good memory too, he can remember people he met only once, months ago.

Yes, I am proud of my son... and this is my mommy blog, so I should be able to brag a little. ;)

Me Time

2009-05-25T16:41:00.000+08:00

Since Little S's birth, I have not had the time to read a perfectly good book -- you know, the kind that you cannot seem to put down. I can't even remember the last book I read that didn't involve babies or breastfeeding. That is so unlike me, because I used to be such a bookworm. My mom used to scold me when I was younger, for having my nose buried in books all the time.

I had forgotten how enjoyable reading is, which is something I rediscovered just recently. Guess which book I'm reading -- Twilight! I wanted to know what the hype was all about. I saw the movie, and thought it was just okay. Nothing spectacular. But I suspected that like most books turned into movies, the book would be infinitely better. While I can't say that I'm crazy about it -- some people seem to be obsessed with this stuff -- it is a fascinating read. Never mind that this book is for teenagers. Reading it makes me feel young again. I am transported into the little town of Forks, experiencing the thrill of first love through the character of Bella. That she's in love with a vampire makes the story all the more exciting.

Once again, I am thankful for little S's nursing strike coming to an end. Because it is during the time that I nurse him to sleep for naps that I get to read the book, and have a little "Me Time".

Strike Over

2009-05-18T08:37:00.011+08:00

I am so glad to say that Little S's nursing strike didn't last long. It was over in two days. The night I wrote my previous post, he woke up around midnight and nursed to sleep. The next day, he was still very cranky, and had red spots all over his face and body due to the roseola infection. He didn't ask for it, but I managed to nurse him during his nap times, by slipping my breast into his mouth while he was asleep. Come nighttime, he still didn't ask for it, but he expected it. The next day, everything seemed more or less back to normal. (Except for the rashes, which didn't totally fade until about 3 days ago.)

I must say, I felt so lonely during those two agonizing days when little S went on strike. I felt that I didn't have anyone to talk to, that nobody would understand how I was feeling. I could imagine how some people would react and say, "You've nursed him for 18 months. Isn't that long enough?" Or, "That's great! You can wean him now. Don't you want to be free?"

Well, if being free meant that I would have to give up a special bond between me and my son, then no, I don't want to be free. At least, not right now. One day soon that time will come, but right now, this is what feels right: my son in my arms, getting comfort and nourishment from me.

During the strike, I did worry whether I would be forced to wean little S prematurely. I wasn't used to pumping/expressing my milk, and I could only squeeze out a few ounces each session. I wondered how I would be able to feed little S without supplementing, and how I would be able to keep up the supply if the strike goes on for more than a few days.

This brought all sorts of questions on things that I once took for granted. How was I going to put little S to sleep? How was I going to comfort him when he had a meltdown? Breastfeeding was like a magic wand that made everything all right. Baby is hungry? Breastfeed! Baby is sleepy? Breastfeed! Baby is cranky? Breastfeed! When little S refused the breast, it was like my secret weapon suddenly flew out the window, and I was left with nothing. I had no clue what to do.

To top it all off, I felt rejected and worthless. I think the feeling would be something like your spouse suddenly divorcing you with neither warning nor explanation, and yet expects that you're still friends. You're left bewildered, angry, and hurt, wondering whether it's something you did, wishing that things would go back the way they were, yet all the while pretending that you're okay.

While little S was on strike, he would sometimes run to me and want to play, and I could only do so half-heartedly. It felt like he was suddenly a completely different person, and that he wasn't my real son. I felt a tremendous loss, and I grieved over this lost connection with my child. I cried over it, and my son, oblivious to my pain, expected that nothing has changed. He was right there, and yet I missed him.

One thing I have learned from this experience, is that all the more I am convinced not to wean little S abruptly. If I, an adult, experienced devastating sadness at a breastfeeding relationship cut short, then how would my son, a child, feel? Plus, of course, I don't have to tell you again about the benefits of extended breastfeeding, do I?

Things are pretty much back to normal now. But, whereas before I used to get impatient whenever little S would take a long time to nurse, now, I savor each moment, his little body wrapped in mine, reminding myself that in the blink of an eye, little S will grow up, and this will be gone all too soon.

Baby On Strike

2009-05-10T23:38:00.007+08:00

Before I begin, let me just say what a crappy Mother's Day this has been!!! Actually, it's been a crazy week.

Little S has contracted roseola, is eating very little, is having lots of meltdowns, and worst of all, he suddenly went on a nursing strike! He refuses to breastfeed, sometimes even arching his back and screaming at the mere sight of my breasts.

It all started with a fever last Wednesday. He woke up with a temperature of 38.1 degrees Celsius. But other than that, he was his normal self, happy as a clam. He still ate voraciously, and still nursed contentedly.

The fever went on for several days, sometimes reaching as high as 40.6 degrees. Little S still seemed okay, though, until last Friday, as I was putting him to sleep. He must have started feeling uncomfortable, and was very fussy. I began to nurse him to sleep, something which I had been doing since he was born. He emptied one breast, and I started to switch him to the other one. That was when it happened. For some reason, he suddenly got very upset and started screaming. He refused to breastfeed, and it took a while to calm him down. He slept finally at 2AM, without breastfeeding.

The next morning, which was yesterday, it was pretty obvious that he wasn't feeling well. He didn't want to play, and just wanted to be carried all the time. He still refused to breastfeed. He also refused to eat and drink, which had me pretty worried. If he would just breastfeed, it would be okay even if he didn't want to eat. I wouldn't have to worry about him getting hungry, or worse, becoming dehydrated, and ending up being confined in the hospital with an IV.

It took plenty of cajoling and a few distractions from Your Baby Can Read, but we managed to get some food and soup into him. By afternoon, he was playing again, back to his energetic self. I then managed to get him to nurse twice -- once on each side. I thought then that the nursing strike was over.

Later that day, he settled in for a late afternoon nap. Then he woke up, and I did what I usually do when he does that -- lie down beside him and offer him my breast. He would usually suckle and go right back to sleep. But this time, he refused again.

That night, his fever broke. As we got ready for bed, I felt so anxious, wondering whether he would nurse or not. He did, and I felt so glad, hoping that this time the strike would really be over.

It's not. He woke up this morning, said "Dede," but when I offered him my breast, he mouthed it without really latching on, and then let go. I said, "Don't you want to nurse, baby? Okay, I'm closing my shirt." I then buttoned up my top. "Dede?" I said hopefully, and unbuttoned my top again. "No. Close," he said. Ouch.

I hadn't nursed him all day. I did express my milk and he drank them from his cup. He is now sleeping, and I don't know whether he will nurse when he wakes up. I am tempted to slip my breast into his mouth while he's sleeping, but I'm afraid to wake him up, and get him all upset and refuse to breastfeed, and refuse to go back to sleep as well. I guess I'll just have to wait until he wakes up on his own, which he usually does, at which point I would just nurse him back to sleep.

I know it's not his fault, and that he's not doing this on purpose to upset me. But I can't help feeling sad and rejected, and even a little angry. I do hope that this is just a temporary thing, and that little S will be back to his normal self in no time.

An Actual Conversation With My 18-Month-Old

2009-05-05T22:29:00.002+08:00

You know how kids enter a phase where they ask you questions like "Why?" over and over again? I sometimes get a preview of that with my little S.

*Here is an actual conversation between us:

Me: No baby, don't pull mommy's hair.

Little S: Papa.

Me: No, you cannot pull Papa's hair.

Little S: Jo.

Me: No, don't pull Jo's hair. You cannot pull other people's hair.

Little S: (Pulls his own hair)

Me: No, baby, don't pull your own hair.

Little S: Mama.

* Rinse and repeat.

Nanny From Hell

2009-04-27T15:48:00.004+08:00

I just saw something which made me sick to my stomach. It's a video of a nanny physically abusing her ward, who looked to be 2 or 3 years old.

For no apparent reason, the nanny kicked the child as she passed by. The child fell down, but got back up. Not contented, the nanny followed her, and kicked her again. And again and again! What's even worse, the psycho nanny stepped on the child, and jumped upon her like she was a trampoline!!!

I almost shouted in horror when I saw that. My heart really goes out to the poor girl. It was really hard to watch, but if you want to see for yourself, here's the link.

The parents of the girl, perhaps in suspicion, installed a secret camera in their apartment, and caught the nanny in the act. She was convicted and sentenced to jail, but for only 24 months!!! I think that's too light of a sentence. People like that, who prey on defenseless and innocent children, deserve to rot in prison for the rest of their lives!!!

I'm really thankful that little S's nanny is trustworthy, and that she loves little S like he's her own. I'm also thankful that I get to stay at home and watch over little S myself, and supervise the nanny when she's watching him.

But if I were not a stay-at-home mom, I would probably have hidden cameras installed in my house, even if I trust little S's nanny, just for my peace of mind. You never really know what goes on with your kids when you're not around.

Meltdown Madness

2009-04-21T14:45:00.004+08:00

Lately little S has been having major meltdowns a lot. My little angel has been turning into quite a monster with all his tantrum-throwing and hysterical crying. I wonder if this is the onset of the so-called Terrible Twos?

His meltdowns usually happen when he misses a nap. He gets so preoccupied with playing and running around that sometimes he forgets to -- or just doesn't want to -- stop and rest. Then, when you interrupt his activities so that he can focus on boring tasks like sleeping, eating or sponge-bathing, he'll resort to his usual tactics of running to the farthest corner of the room and saying, "Bye bye!" Then, when you force him against his will, that's when he'll explode. The dam will burst and the tears will come gushing out, accompanied by endless screaming. After that, no matter what you do -- distract him with toys, or rock him in your arms -- the crying won't stop. It becomes uncontrollable, taking over his whole body, sending him kicking and flailing, and leaving him all flushed and sweaty and snotty.

Recalling my own childhood meltdowns (yes, I can remember some of them, back when I was 3 or 4), I think it's not that he doesn't want to stop. He is unable to stop. He needs something soothing to calm him down. Guess what it is... "Dede," he would gasp. "Dede!" He wants his milkie. With a sigh, I end up giving in to him and nursing him down. Soon, he will fall sound asleep, his earlier desperation becoming a distant memory.

Little S is also starting to assert his wants. When he wants something, he wants it and he wants it now! If you don't give it to him, he will stomp his feet and complain.

I don't want him to turn into a spoiled little brat, so I don't always give him what he wants. But what should I do with the meltdowns? They're really not fun at all.

Angels Breast Milk Bank for the Premature

2009-04-15T17:31:00.006+08:00

Last Sunday's issue of the Inquirer Magazine featured a story on Rosanna Henares Angeles and her home-based milk bank, Angels Breast Milk Bank for the Premature.

She started it in 2002, and to date, she has helped an estimated 300 babies. Isn't that amazing? What's even more amazing is that she does it all for free! Hospital milk banks charge around P200 an ounce for their pasteurized breastmilk. Mrs. Angeles could easily charge a minimal amount for her time and effort. Yet, she chose to help families in need without asking for anything in return. Nonetheless, she is quick to deflect praise, saying that “My breast milk bank is dependent on generosity. I take every opportunity to encourage more people to rediscover this modern day version of wet nursing, a tradition where mothers with more help other mothers with less.”

It's too bad that the article did not give out the contact information for Mrs. Angeles' milk bank. If anyone out there knows her contact number, please do share it with us. I'm sure it would help a lot of babies in need!

Updated 4/18/2009
Thanks to Jenny for the info! You can find the contact numbers of Angels Breast Milk Bank for the Premature and other milk banks through her blog, "Chronicles of a Nursing Mom".

Potty-Training Progress

2009-04-10T15:31:00.004+08:00

If you recall my previous post on toilet-training, I wrote that little S poops in the toilet but still pees in his diapers. Since then, however, he has made good progress -- he now pees in the toilet, too, although not all the time.

I tried to apply the Elimination Communication method of watching out for cues, just as what I had done before with number two, but I couldn't tell when he had to pee. He also didn't have a regular schedule. Nature called at random times. Sometimes he peed at 45-minute intervals, sometimes at 5. It was pretty erratic. I found this out when I didn't put diapers on him for two days.

So what I did was, as soon as he woke up in the morning, and right after his naps, I let him pee in the toilet. (Yes, complete with the shh-shh sound.) Also, since I use cloth diapers, I change them every two hours or so. So I let him pee in the toilet again before changing him into a new one.

I think he is getting used to the idea of peeing in the toilet, because he pees as soon as he is positioned over the toilet bowl and hears the cue sound. Also, his diapers are sometimes dry even though it's been a couple of hours since his last change. He can now also say "Wee-wee," and has said it a few times to signal his need to go.

Of course, there are times when he is taken to the toilet but doesn't want to pee. When that happens, I don't force him. (Unlike someone I know who spanks kids into peeing!) I just trust his signals, and I think that's what EC is all about. I do hope that he'll soon have no need for diapers, because as we all know, diapers can be a pain in the bum. Literally.

Free Breastfeeding Class

2009-03-31T08:20:00.000+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding class on April 4, 2009, at Gymboree Serendra, from 2 to 5 PM. For more information, please call or text 0919-7028619 or 0926-7138377. Registration is a must.

Are Stay-At-Home Breastfeeding Moms Worthless???

2009-03-25T19:35:00.008+08:00

That is what the article "The Case Against Breastfeeding," by Hanna Rosin seems to imply.

As a stay-at-home mom who breastfeeds, that insinuation just infuriates me. I feel that her article, which supposedly looks at breastfeeding from a feminist point of view, is actually a disservice to women.

Rosin states that:

The debate about breast-feeding takes place without any reference to its actual context in women’s lives. Breast-feeding exclusively is not like taking a prenatal vitamin. It is a serious time commitment that pretty much guarantees that you will not work in any meaningful way.

Excuse me??? I may not be earning a hefty paycheck, but I think my "work" as a full-time mom is anything but meaningless. It may not be measurable in financial terms, but the rewards are priceless!

Besides, who says that you can't work while you're breastfeeding exclusively? Yes, it is a serious commitment. And it could be hard in the beginning. Rosin makes it seem like it is impossible. But lots of other women have done it, with just a pump and a dash of resourcefulness.

She goes on to say that:

This is why, when people say that breast-feeding is “free,” I want to hit them with a two-by-four. It’s only free if a woman’s time is worth nothing.

Time spent nourishing your child is worth nothing??? Is a woman's time only worth something if she is spending it as a drone in the corporate world?

In Betty Friedan’s day, feminists felt shackled to domesticity by the unreasonably high bar for housework, the endless dusting and shopping and pushing the Hoover around—a vacuum cleaner being the obligatory prop for the “happy housewife heroine,” as Friedan sardonically called her. When I looked at the picture on the cover of Sears’s Breastfeeding Book—a lady lying down, gently smiling at her baby and still in her robe, although the sun is well up—the scales fell from my eyes: it was not the vacuum that was keeping me and my 21st-century sisters down, but another sucking sound.

If Rosin's idea of being a feminist is to have no breasts, and to be just like men, then I wouldn't call her a feminist at all. My idea of being a feminist is celebrating being a woman and everything that comes along with it -- womb and breasts. She could choose to do whatever she wants -- work outside the home, or stay at home and take care of her kids -- and not feel that she is any less of a person either way.

Being a full-time mom was my choice. I chose to invest my time on my son. And breastfeeding did not shackle me. It empowered me. For the first six months, my son grew -- no, thrived -- on my milk alone. I did not have to depend on some big conglomerate run by men to feed my baby.

Her statements that a woman only has valuable time and does meaningful work outside the home is a fallacy. I have never felt more valuable and my life more meaningful than when I became a mother. To my son, I am his source of love, comfort, and nourishment. I am the whole world to him. I am irreplaceable.

When a person's entire well-being depends on you, does not that make you powerful? Can you say the same thing about the company you're working for? Are you worth that much to your boss? Or are you just one of the many employees, ready to be laid-off or replaced the moment the going gets tough?

To think that this article came from someone who breastfed her own children.

I dutifully breast-fed each of my first two children for the full year that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends. I have experienced what the Babytalk story calls breast-feeding-induced “maternal nirvana.” This time around, nirvana did not describe my state of mind; I was launching a new Web site and I had two other children to care for, and a husband I would occasionally like to talk to. Being stuck at home breast-feeding as he walked out the door for work just made me unreasonably furious, at him and everyone else.

If she is so furious at being stuck at home and having to waste her valuable time breastfeeding, then why have the third child in the first place? In fact, if she is so desperate to be free from the responsibilities of parenthood, then why bother having children at all???

She expounds on the idea that breastfeeding causes an imbalance in the domestic duties of the husband and wife:

Even in the best of marriages, the domestic burden shifts, in incremental, mostly unacknowledged ways, onto the woman. Breast-feeding plays a central role in the shift. In my set, no husband tells his wife that it is her womanly duty to stay home and nurse the child. Instead, both parents together weigh the evidence and then make a rational, informed decision that she should do so. Then other, logical decisions follow: she alone fed the child, so she naturally knows better how to comfort the child, so she is the better judge to pick a school for the child and the better nurse when the child is sick, and so on.

Would it be any different is she were bottle-feeding? And just how do you divide the parental duties? Do you tally who did the most diaper changes, who cleaned up the most mess, who gave the most hugs?

And even if dad cannot breastfeed, he can still rock the baby to sleep, sing to him, play with him. He does not have to be a passive observer, unable to touch the baby.

... I recalled her with sisterly love a few months ago, at three in the morning, when I was propped up in bed for the second time that night with my new baby (note the my). My husband acknowledged the ripple in the nighttime peace with a grunt, and that’s about it. And why should he do more? There’s no use in both of us being a wreck in the morning. Nonetheless, it’s hard not to seethe.

Again, would it be any different if she were bottle-feeding? One of them still has to get up to attend to the baby. Or does having work the next day excuse her from her parental duties as well?

And I don't see how breastfeeding can make the nighttime feeding difficult. Wouldn't it be easier to just turn over, pop out a breast, and go back to sleep, than to have to get up and mix formula?

And in any case, if a breast-feeding mother is miserable, or stressed out, or alienated by nursing, as many women are, if her marriage is under stress and breast-feeding is making things worse, surely that can have a greater effect on a kid’s future success than a few IQ points.

She seems to imply that most women feel miserable, stressed out, or alienated by nursing. Really? Did she ask each and every one of the breastfeeding women in the world? Or is that just her personal experience and her personal opinion? Because if that is so, then she shouldn't make generalizations and make it seem like fact.

Rosin's article also attempts to discredit breastmilk as healthier than formula, saying that there is little evidence that supports the notion. In the end, however, she concedes that:

... overall, yes, breast is probably best. But not so much better that formula deserves the label of “public health menace,” alongside smoking.

No, formula is not poison. Yes, it has nourished millions of babies. But that doesn't take away the fact that breastmilk is better. Breastmilk is natural. Formula is artificial. And artificial can never be better than natural.

Breastfeeding is hard enough at the beginning. What women need is support: from the government, from their own families, and from other women. Rosin, who claims to be a feminist, shouldn't be putting out articles like this. It only serves to bring other women down with her.

What Did You Learn Today?

2009-03-22T17:16:00.005+08:00

Everyday, I am so amazed by the amount of stuff little S discovers and learns.

He learned to walk by himself at 14 months, but it wasn't until about a month ago that he finally mustered enough courage to walk without holding onto someone else's hand or finger. Now, he walks/skips so fast, sometimes it's hard to keep up, especially when you're also scooping up things he drops on the floor, or getting a toy that's out of his reach. You think he's just standing beside you, but when you look up, you realize that he has already zoomed to the other side of the room.

Here's a video of him waving his arms around while walking:

His vocabulary has vastly expanded, too. He learned to say "Papa", his first word, at 12 months, then "Mama", which, for some reason, he wouldn't say again until he learned to say "Yaya". Then, at 14 months, he suddenly said, "Dodo", his own invention, and his accumulation of words went on fast-track from there. These are the words he now utters:
- "Dede" (milk)
- "Vroom-vroom" (car)
- "Bo" (no or nothing)
- "There"
- "Poo" (poop, and also for Winnie the Pooh)
- "Book"
- "Nana" (banana)
- "A-aya" (papaya)
- "Ba" (for tumba -- fall and laba -- wash)
- "Ball"
- "Hi"
- "Bye-bye"
- "Baba" (down)
- "Babo" (adobo)
- "Da" (duck)
- "Dook" (dog)
- "Da-gen" (dragon)
- "Bat"
- "E-bow" (elbow)
- "Dai" (malunggay -- his latest when I started writing this post)
- and his very latest, "Dagu" (tago -- hide)

He can now also pronounce the letters A, E, I, O, U, N, S, and Y.

His favorite activities are walking, reading books (and tearing the pages, then pointing to the Scotch tape), and playing with Lego blocks, balls, and toy cars. He loves music, and will dance or bop his head to any beat. He is mesmerized by the Your Baby Can Read series.

Sometimes he can be very naughty, but his antics make us all laugh. For instance, if you call him and say it's time for bath, or lunch, or sleep, but he's busy playing and doesn't want to stop... he would run to the farthest corner of the room, attempt to hide, and say "Bye bye! Bye bye!", sometimes with matching flying kisses. He means to say, "Go away! Disappear! Don't bother me, I'm busy!" That just cracks us all up. I don't know how he got the idea to do that!

Generally though, he is well-behaved, quite content to sit quietly (well, maybe not so quietly -- he loves making sounds) with his books and toys. He is a sweet and happy little boy, and I love him to pieces!

If only he didn't grow up so fast. Well of course I want him to grow up, but how I also wish he could stay this way forever!

We're Not Ready

2009-03-13T22:30:00.004+08:00

I'm not one to air my dirty laundry in public, but lately a certain irksome individual has been bugging me to wean little S. She has been going on and on about how little S is too old to breastfeed, and how he should be drinking formula by now, and how extended breastfeeding is bad especially if the baby is a girl, because she would supposedly have a hard time giving birth.

What a bunch of nonsense! If only that certain person and I didn't have a language barrier, I would have told her a few things. Namely, that little S is not too old to breastfeed, and that the longer he breastfeeds, the more benefits he will receive! I would have shown her the study done by the World Health Organization, which recommends breastfeeding for two years and beyond, as long as mutually desired by the mother and child! I would have told her that biologically, we are expected to breastfeed until the child self-weans. As for switching to formula after the age of one? Come on! Formula didn't even exist before the 19th century, and wasn't widely used until after World War II! How in the world did humans survive then? And would it be logical for nature to intend that human babies stop drinking human milk after the age of one and start drinking the milk of other species??? Plus, why should I spend money buying expensive crap when I have the best milk right in my own breasts?!

In any case, little S is not ready to give up nursing. And neither am I.

SM Manila's Breastfeeding Station

2009-03-03T16:38:00.010+08:00

I don't often go to the malls in downtown Manila (not very kid-friendly, in my snobbish opinion!), but recently I ended up in SM Manila, with little S in tow.

I knew that most SM malls now have areas specifically designated for breastfeeding, and with little S getting hungry after running around and pulling on clothes hanging from the racks, I had the opportunity to check this one out.

Due to a nasty experience with SM Mall of Asia's breastfeeding station, I kept my expectations low. To my surprise, the room was neat and spacious. Naturally, it wasn't as nicely decorated as the one in Rustan's Makati, but it was okay. Check out the pictures below:

SM Manila Breastfeeding Station

Minimally decorated, with posters advocating breastfeeding.

A changing station and a play-area (albeit pitiful) opposite the couch.

As you can see, it's neither cute nor posh, but hey, at least it's a room where you can nurse comfortably. The downside to this breastfeeding station, though, is that it is located inside the clinic. So, if the clinic is closed (like if the nurse is on a break, for instance), the nursing station is no longer accessible.

SM Manila's breastfeeding station is located on the third floor, next to the cinemas.

Don't Say I Didn't Warn You...

2009-02-21T14:42:00.005+08:00

Why is it that we always ignore warning signs? Signs that tell us he's not the one, or that we're getting too heavy, or that our computer is about to crash?

My old Vaio laptop did just that. Worst of all, all my photos of little S were saved there!!! And I have no backup files!!! It nearly sent me into tears.

I tried to resuscitate it using the recovery disk, but to no avail. And there is no qualified Vaio service center here in Manila. I might have to bring it to Hong Kong. (What a great excuse to go shopping in HK! But between shopping in HK and staying home with little S, I would choose little S, of course.)

I'm still hoping that I'll be able to get all of little S's pictures back. Right now, I don't care about the laptop itself, since I got a new one already. I JUST WANT MY FILES BACK!!!

So, if you have precious files in your computer, better back them up. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Share Your Breastmilk

2009-02-14T10:53:00.002+08:00

What would you do if there's a hungry baby right in front of you, and its mother, a complete stranger, has no milk, and there's no formula, but you have plenty of milk right in your own breasts? Would you do what Salma Hayek did -- nurse the stranger's baby?

Salma Hayek preparing to nurse an African baby

Before milk formulas came into existence, it was pretty common for mothers who couldn't (or wouldn't) breastfeed to let other women, such as wet nurses, breastfeed their babies. It was a matter of survival -- babies who were fed milk substitutes such as cow's milk often died.

It's probably a good thing that formula exists now, for mothers who cannot breastfeed. Still, it is only the fourth best milk for babies, the first being milk direct from the mother's breasts, second being the mother's expressed breastmilk, and third being donated breastmilk.

I have shared little S's milk with a few other babies, and I would like to encourage other moms with plenty of milk to spare to donate as well. Recently, I came across a mom of preemie triplets who needed breastmilk, and I gave her what I could. (I hardly pump anymore.) Does anyone want to donate to the triplets? Please send me an email by clicking the kontactr me button at the left sidebar. Thank you!

Back to Salma Hayek. I think she did it because it was the right thing to do, and I applaud her for her compassion and for her selfless action.

Toilet-Training by Elimination Communication

2009-02-07T16:56:00.007+08:00

I'm happy to say that at 15 months, little S is now partially toilet-trained. He has been using the sign language for "poop" (think baby Jack in Meet The Fockers) for quite some time now (around 2 months perhaps?). When he does that, we rush him to the toilet, make an "ooo-ooo" sound, and true enough, he will do number two (and frequently, number one, too.) Just a few days ago, he has also started saying "poo" while making the sign.

How did we get him to train so early? Well, we have been practicing Elimination Communication without knowing there was actually such a concept! It was actually his nanny's idea. When little S was around 9 months old, we noticed that whenever he would get the urge to poop, he would pause and strain. His nanny suggested that we rush him to the toilet whenever he does that. I agreed, and since then, little S rarely pooped in his diapers anymore. I also taught him how to make the "poop" sign (along with the "milk" sign, which he started using when he was around 11 months old).

This has saved us a lot of diapers. About two months ago, I also began using cloth exclusively during daytime, and using disposables only at bedtime and when going out.

My only problem now is how to teach little S to make a sign when he has to pee. He gives no indication whatsoever when he's peeing, except for a little shudder when he's done.

Last night, as I was changing his diaper, I made a "ssshhhhh" sound to make him pee into the wet diaper first before changing him into a new one. He quickly got up, butt-naked, then sat down on a corner of the bed and promptly peed!!! Well, he may have wet the bed, but I have a feeling he will soon be peeing in the toilet as well.

Noblesse Oblige Award

2009-02-07T13:50:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Mandy for this award! :)

This Award is presented to bloggers who display consistency in any one or a combination of these conditions:

1. The Blogger manifests exemplary attitude, respecting the nuances that pervades amongst different cultures and beliefs.
2. The Blog contents inspire; strives to encourage and offers solutions.
3. There is a clear purpose at the Blog; one that fosters a better understanding on Social, Political, Economic, the Arts, Culture and Sciences and Beliefs.
4. The Blog is refreshing and creative.
5. The Blogger promotes friendship and positive thinking.

The Blogger who receives this award will need to perform the following steps:
1. Create a Post with a mention and link to the person who presented the Noblesse Oblige Award.
2. The Award Conditions must be displayed at the Post.
3. Write a short article about what the Blog has thus far achieved – preferably citing one or more older Post to support.
4. The Blogger must present the Noblesse Oblige Award in concurrence with the Award conditions.
5. The Blogger must display the Award at any location at the Blog.

I started this blog to help and encourage other moms to breastfeed their babies, and also to share my parenting experiences. I think my most popular post to date is What To Expect When You're Breastfeeding.

I'm now passing this award onto fellow mommy bloggers Suzette and Sonja.

Free Breastfeeding Class

2009-02-02T13:29:00.000+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding and infant massage class on Feb. 7, 2009, at Gymboree Shangri-la Mall, from 3PM to 6PM. Please call or text 0919-7028619 or 0926-7138377 for more details. Limited slots!

On the Road to Gluttony?

2009-01-25T10:08:00.008+08:00

I've been browsing articles online on feeding toddlers, and I've noticed that the most common concern of parents is that their toddler is not eating enough. I have a different concern. I'm wondering whether my little S is eating too much!

Little S eats three square meals a day, with two or three nursing sessions in between (not counting the nighttime nursing sessions). Sometimes he also snacks on fruits or bread.

His breakfast typically consists of oatmeal (about 4 teaspoons dry) with fruit (a small banana, or half an apple).

Lunch and dinner typically consist of brown rice or pasta (around 9 ounces) with pureed meat and vegetables (about 3 tablespoons), another vegetable (another 2-3 tablespoons maybe), and about 2 or 3 ounces of soup. Per meal.

Little S's standard fare.

His (baby) plate is literally filled to the brim, and he almost always finishes everything! He eats more than what two of his cousins eat combined. Which leads me to question whether I'm overfeeding him.

I've been thinking that maybe I'm not producing a lot of milk anymore, and therefore little S has to compensate by eating a lot of solid foods. Sometimes even with a 12-hour gap between feedings, my breasts don't feel as full as they used to be. I hardly get engorged anymore.

To test this theory, I pumped a few times, something which I hadn't done in a while, because I still have a few bags of breastmilk left in my stash, and little S doesn't want to drink from a bottle anymore. (He prefers a cup, but sometimes the milk spills, so we end up using a dropper, but still he doesn't consume more than 2 ounces.) I was surprised to still be able to pump 3 to 4 ounces from one breast, which means that little S is able to drink about 6 to 8 ounces per feeding, since he nurses on both sides. Which means my milk production is not lacking.

I've also been thinking that if little S is being overfed, then shouldn't he be obese? And shouldn't he be throwing up all that food? But his weight is just right for his height, and save for a single incident, he's never thrown up.

Therefore, I conclude that maybe little S is just a voracious eater. Sometimes right after a meal, he would ask to nurse! (I would refuse, of course.) And whenever he sees me eating bread or fruits, he would nod enthusiastically (which means he would like to have some, too), even when he's just finished a meal.

Well, I guess I would rather have this problem, than the problem other parents are having with their child not eating. As long as little S remains healthy and has the right weight for his height, then I will let him eat to his heart's content.

My Little Shaolin Monk

2009-01-20T15:57:00.015+08:00

Little S had his first trip to the kiddie salon yesterday! It's technically not his first haircut, since I had taken several snips a few times before, to keep his hair out of his eyes and ears.

My MIL has been urging me to shave his head for quite some time now (since he was a month old, actually), because it would supposedly make his hair grow thicker. Frankly, I think this is an old wives' tale... my siblings and I have never had our heads shaved when we were babies, and we all have really thick, abundant hair. My hubby has had his head shaved twice (or maybe more), but still has fine, limpy hair. It's in the genes! Shaving won't make your hair follicles magically multiply in number. It will just make your hair appear coarser because the ends become blunt when they're cut. This is what I keep telling my MIL, but she will have none of it. Little S has to have his head shaved! Before the Chinese New Year!

So, in order to appease her, off to the kiddie salon we went. Little S's hair will grow back, anyway. And at least he won't have hair tickling his ears anymore.

Here are before and after pictures.

Before

Going...

Gone

After

I have to admit, I like the new bald look! It made little S look like a big kid already.

Better Late Than Never

2009-01-18T16:02:00.001+08:00

More than half of the first month of the New Year has come and gone. Is it too late to make New Year's resolutions? Maybe not... the Chinese New Year is still a week away!

I stopped making resolutions a long time ago. Because I knew that I couldn't keep them. From what I remember, my resolutions back then were: to start eating veggies (I was a carnivore), to stop procrastinating (I still do every now and then, but not as often), and to stop daydreaming (hey, I was still a kid at that time), among others. I failed miserably year after year, so I finally stopped making resolutions altogether. Eventually, though, I started keeping those resolutions, without even making them in the first place! I now eat veggies, I don't procrastinate as often (well, maybe I still need to work on this one), and daydreaming is a luxury I have no time nor energy for -- a sign of getting old, maybe?

Anyway, a few days ago, I discovered the highly entertaining blog of Kristen, Motherhood Uncensored, and in it she invited fellow mom bloggers to post on their blog how they're going to take better care of themselves in 2009. She calls it the Year of the Mom. So I thought, why not accept her invitation and come out from my resolution-making hibernation?

I'll keep it simple. Just 2 resolutions on how to take better care of myself for 2009.

1. Get off my butt and exercise more -- I may be slim, but I do need some muscle tone. Especially on my flabby mommy abs.

2. Start the process of becoming a vegetarian -- or even a vegetarian who occasionally eats meat.

So, here's to hoping I'll get to keep them!

Should You Drink Milk?

2009-01-15T13:03:00.002+08:00

I don't know if you are aware of it, but there is an ongoing debate on whether milk, specifically cow's milk, is good for you or not.

On one side, there are those who encourage milk consumption, touting its calcium-loaded goodness, and dazzling the public with celebrities and their milk mustaches.

Does Catherine Willows make you want to drink milk?

On the other side, there are groups like PETA, who say that milk sucks, for your health, for the environment, and for the animals.

With all this propaganda, it's hard to decide who to believe. But recently, I came across a great article by Syd Baumel, who sought to "separate the curds of confoundment from the sweet whey of truth."

In a nutshell, he discussed whether milk is good for the:
- bones (most significantly only when you're young)
- heart (low-fat milk may be beneficial)
- breasts (more studies are needed to determine whether milk promotes or prevents breast cancer)
- prostate (milk promotes prostate cancer)
- ovaries (people with a family history of ovarian cancer or galactosemia might want to avoid milk)
- colon and rectum (milk seems to protect against colorectal cancer)
- stomach (a bacteria called Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis infects dairy herds, and causes an incurable bowel disorder called Johne's disease, which is similar to Crohn's disease -- and the bacteria survives pasteurization, and is transmitted into milk via pus cells! I know, ack!)

He also discussed whether milk affects:
- type-1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis (better to avoid milk)
- gastrointestinal, dermatologic, ear and respiratory allergies (avoid milk and see if your symptoms improve)
- children (cow's milk is not recommended for children under 1 year, and is a common culprit for allergies)
- the environment (factory farms are big polluters, producing millions of tons of waste, which spill into waterways, and create smog, acid rain, and global warming)
- the animals (factory farm cows aren't treated with compassion -- they are locked in small stalls, barely able to move, and are forced to stand in their own waste. To increase their yield, they are artificially inseminated, injected with hormones, and milked by machine. They frequently get mastitis. Their calves are separated from them right after birth, and shipped to the veal industry if male. Sounds like a horrible life.)

Personally, I never really liked the taste of milk, and I didn't drink it often. I totally stopped drinking it around the time I got pregnant, although I continue to consume other dairy products.

After reading Syd Baumel's article (and the links from that article), however, I'm considering switching to a dairy-free diet. I think I'll get my calcium from vegetables, thank you. In fact, I think I'll consider becoming a vegetarian, which is hard to believe, as I used to be a carnivore! My reasons are for health (especially with having endometriosis -- meat is a major source of dioxins, which is proven to promote endo), and because of squeamishness over where meat comes from (I mean, the cows and pigs and chickens in factory farms are frequently sick and they swim in their own feces, and we're supposed to eat them?!?)

Well, good luck to me, I don't even know how and where to begin.

The First Fall

2009-01-11T11:34:00.002+08:00

A few days ago, my worst fear as a parent of a toddler who's just learning how to walk came true: little S fell and hit his head. It was totally my fault; I had been distracted, and less than attentive. One minute he was cruising, and the next he was lying on the floor, face up. It all happened so fast, yet in my mind it seemed to play in slow-motion, little S toppling on the ground, and hitting his head on the floor with a loud thud. It was a fall which I could have prevented, yet could not save him from. All I could do was shout his name.

A look of shock spread over his face, then he started to cry. I rushed to pick him up, and he cried so hard, it seemed like forever before he gasped for air. Then he seemed to become sleepy, falling silent, with eyes half-closed. I started to feel really scared and panicky, having read somewhere that if a child is hurt, it's a better sign if he's crying loudly than if he becomes lethargic. Then he started crying again, and I felt sooo relieved! By then his grandpa and grandma were also trying to comfort him, and I handed him over to grandma, then quickly called the pediatrician. The doctor told me to put ice on his head, and watch out for vomiting, excessive sleepiness, and irritability. She also advised me not to put him to sleep, and to observe him for an hour.

On a side note, while placing a call to the doctor, little S was reaching out to me and pulling my shirt. I remember thinking that I was glad he wanted me to hold him, and not somebody else, but I was too busy trying to contact his doctor to respond. Now I wish I held him for a while that time, lest he run to somebody else (like his nanny) next time!

After little S calmed down, we let him play with his favorite toys, and it seemed like nothing had happened at all. He was back to his happy and energetic self, engrossed with his activities. An hour later, he showed no signs of stopping his playing, and he wasn't sleepy nor irritable, and there weren't any vomiting. Again, I was so relieved! I sent a text message to his doctor, and she told me to observe him for 48 hours.

Making sure that I covered all the bases, I read what I could about toddlers with head trauma, and they said to try to wake the child up at night, just to be sure that you can. If he's unable to wake up, or seems overly groggy, then there's a problem. That night, as I was planning to wake little S up, I found that I didn't need to. He had already woken up by himself, seeking for my breast!

The next 48 hours passed by uneventfully, and I thanked God that little S is okay. So maybe the fall looked and sounded worse than it really was. (As a matter of fact, we were all looking for a bump or a bruise on his head, and couldn't find any.)

Still, this was his first major fall, and it was scary -- for him and for me! I know that he's not the first toddler to hit his head, and that this probably won't be the last fall or bump he'll have. And I don't want to become an overprotective parent, shielding my child from every possible harm or danger, and in the process, preventing him from exploring and learning about his environment as well.

So, with this fall, I will take this lesson with me: let little S crawl, cruise, walk, run, jump, and explore, but always keep an eye on him -- even when there's something good on TV.

Fun in the Sun at Christmastime

2008-12-31T15:34:00.015+08:00

We're back from our Boracay trip. Little S had a GREAT time!!!

Here are a few pics from our trip.

Little S and mommy enjoying the view

Look how fine the grains of sand are. They really feel like powder!

Little S having a blast playing in the sand.

Little S crawling into the sea.

Taking a dip in the sea.

Now, we're off to grandma's to welcome 2009.

Happy New Year!

Dreaming of a White Christmas

2008-12-21T16:35:00.009+08:00

With the white sands of Boracay, that is. We're spending Christmas at the beach!

I'm so excited for little S, who will be experiencing many firsts: his first real travel experience, first plane ride, first frolic in the sand, and first dip in the swimming pool and the sea! I'm pretty sure he will love swimming, since he loves taking a bath and complains when pulled out of the tub.

Hubby and I will be lugging a ton of stuff, though. I have made a list of things to bring, and hopefully I haven't forgotten anything.

Beach gear:
- Swim diapers
- Sun top (shirt with UV block)
- Hats
- Sunblock
- Bathrobe
- Beach bag

Bathing and toiletries:
- Inflatable bathtub
- Shampoo/body wash
- Dipper
- Towels
- Hairbrush
- Nail cutter
- Lotion
- Wash cloth
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Diapers
- Diaper rash ointment
- Wipes
- Rubber mat
- Laundry detergent

Feeding:
- Baby food jars (I am forced to buy ready-made baby food, as the hotel room doesn't have a kitchen, and I'm not sure if there are any foods suitable for little S in the restaurants.)
- Baby food warmer
- Spoon
- Cup
- Feeding bib
- Sponge and cleanser

Clothing:
- Shirts
- Shorts
- Sleep suits
- Socks
- Bibs
- Sandals

Medicine kit: (List given to me by the pediatrician)
- Vitamins
- Droppers
- Thermometer
- Salinase drops
- Nasal aspirator
- Sterimar
- Nasatapp drops
- Ambrolex drops
- Virlix drops
- Hydrite tablets
- Amoxicillin drops
- Paracetamol drops
- Betadine
- Bactroban
- Alcohol
- Cotton balls
- Cotton buds
- Band-aid

Others:
- Playpen
- A few toys
- Birth certificate (as ID)

And most of all, I hope I don't forget to bring:
- Little S! :D

Thankfully, I don't need to bring a sterilizer, bottles or milk formula since I'm still breastfeeding. That also gave me a good excuse to buy a new halter tankini. ;)

Watch out for the pics! I will be posting some after we get back.

Merry Christmas!

Milk Production Index

2008-12-13T10:11:00.002+08:00

I just recently came across Suzette's blog on parenting and breastfeeding, and she posted about calculating your MPI, or Milk Production Index. (Not an industry term, though.)

It never occurred to me to calculate my MPI, probably because I don't need to, since I nurse directly most of the time. For working moms, though, or for exclusive pumpers, this could be useful in determining whether you are producing enough milk for your baby's demand.

To calculate your MPI, count the number of hours between your last feeding and your last pumping session. Then divide the total number of ounces you pumped by the number of hours. The result is your MPI. For instance, your last feeding was at 6am, and you pumped at 8am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm. You were able to collect 24 ounces. The number of hours between 6am and 6pm is 12 hours. 24 divided by 12 is 2. This puts your MPI at 2 ounces an hour.

A word of warning, though. This is just meant to gauge whether you are able to pump enough milk for your own baby's demand. This is not meant to be compared with other moms', since different babies have different demands. Also, I think it would be useful if you calculate it on a daily basis for a certain period, like say about 2 weeks, and determine the average, because the amount that you can pump daily would probably fluctuate. Once you determine your average MPI, and if it's enough to feed your baby while you're away, then you can use this as your gauge. You can calculate your MPI regularly, and once you fall below this average, then you need to do something to boost your supply.

Wonder Woman Award

2008-12-10T23:41:00.004+08:00

Thanks, Mandy! :)

I'm now passing this onto Ree.

Disciplining My One-Year-Old

2008-12-05T12:38:00.006+08:00

How do you discipline a one-year-old? Is a one-year-old too young to be disciplined?

I find myself grappling with these questions as my toddler starts to test his limits, and my patience. Not that he's a bratty kid. He's actually quite well-behaved, if I may say so myself. He's quite content to sit by himself and immerse himself with his toys. When asked to wait while mommy does something, he nods yes and sits patiently without moving. (Isn't he amazing? I'm so proud of him. Heehee!)

What I don't like is when he throws things on the floor. I also find it irritating when he blows raspberries, while drinking or eating. And when I say "no," he'll do it again, on purpose. Like I said, he's testing his limits, testing what I will do as he blatantly disregards my orders.

For the record, I believe in corporal punishment. I don't believe that sparing the rod will actually result in a better-behaved child. I believe that the most effective way to learn a lesson is through pain. For instance, you can tell a child not to touch a flame because it's hot, but the only way he'll truly know how dangerous it is, is when he gets burned. My siblings and I were all spanked as children, and none of us have any behavioral problems, feel less love for our parents, or feel less loved by our parents.

That being said, of course I believe in corporal punishment only when it's necessary, for instance, when there's blatant disrespect, disobedience, or acts of cruelty (although it is ironic that you need to act cruel in order to punish cruelty -- but that's just the way it is). And I certainly don't agree with severe corporal punishment, which borders on abusive, and can be traumatizing.

Back to my problem with little S. Blowing raspberries with his mouth full, food and spit flying everywhere -- on the table, on the floor, on my hair. I thought that he's too young to be spanked, and he might imitate it and hit other people. So what I did was flick his cheek with my finger. He looked stunned, but didn't cry. He blew again. I flicked his cheek again. He hesitated. Then he blew a third time. I started to flick his cheek, and he flinched even before my finger touched his cheek, confirming that he already knows about action and reaction, cause and effect. He stopped blowing, and finished his lunch without a sound. Whew! I thought, finally he stopped. But I felt a twinge of guilt, and worried that I had put out his passion for playfulness. A few moments later, he started blowing raspberries again. I rolled my eyes, but this time I let it go. I guess I can let him be for a while longer, and save the disciplinary actions for when he can truly understand them.

Free Breastfeeding Class

2008-11-28T16:22:00.003+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding class on December 6, 2008, from 4pm to 6pm, at Gymboree in Shangri-la Mall.

Bring socks and snacks. Text 0919-7028619 or 0926-7138377 to register.

Fab, Fab Finds!

2008-11-27T09:47:00.004+08:00

I am a shopaholic. There is just something thrilling about the purchase of an item, especially one so fabulous that you can't wait to use it!

Before little S was born, I couldn't imagine going shopping and not buying a single thing for myself. I marveled at how my mom would do that -- take her kids to the mall, visit their favorite stores, and skip her favorite stores entirely. I thought about how selfish I was, and how I would make a horrible parent.

Well, now that I have little S, I find that I'm becoming like my mother. I still love shopping, but the things that I buy now are for little S. Yes, I still love to browse at Mango, but it has now become a lesser priority than browsing at Mothercare. I can now spend hours looking at the baby stuff at SM and Rustan's.

Since shopping inevitably leads to an anorexic wallet, everyone wants a good deal. A good deal doesn't necessarily equate to a cheap price, but more on good value for money. In my one year of mommyhood experience, I have come across several items which are, in my opinion, good deals. Some have made my life easier, while others are just simply cute and have made me happy every time I look at them. ;) Want to know what they are? Take a look at my fabulous finds at Fab Fab Finds!

Melamine in U.S. Infant Formula

2008-11-26T16:16:00.003+08:00

The FDA has found trace amounts of melamine in top-selling U.S. infant formula. These include formula from Abbott Laboratories, Nestle, and Mead Johnson. Scary, isn't it?

No safe level for melamine has been established, and the tiny amounts found in the U.S. formula seem to pose no harm. But there's no telling what effects will be seen for long-term exposure, since no study has been done yet.

Another reason to breastfeed.

Rooming-In

2008-11-22T15:56:00.001+08:00

To those who are wondering whether they should room-in their baby or not, here's my two cents.

A few hours after baby S was born, he was brought to my room. I had specifically requested for him to be roomed-in with me as soon as possible after birth. My reason was to facilitate breastfeeding.

Some moms may prefer to leave the baby in the nursery so that they can rest, and just go visit the baby when it's time for feedings. But for me, it seemed easier to just have the baby in the room with me, so that I didn't have to get up and go all the way to the nursery every 2 hours.

One thing I wish I had done in the hospital was nurse baby S in the bed with me, using the side-lying or Australian position. That way, I could've gotten more rest.

Having baby S in the room with me also ensured that the nurses weren't giving him any supplements such as glucose water or formula, which would make him too full to breastfeed.

Some people may be concerned about germs the baby may come into contact with from visitors if they room-in the baby. In my opinion, the baby can just as easily come into contact with germs in the nursery: from the nurses, and from the other babies, especially those who have illnesses.

Plus, if the baby is roomed-in, any germ that comes into contact with the baby is sure to have come into contact with the mother as well. And the mother's body will produce antibodies, which she will then pass onto her baby via her breastmilk. If the baby stays in the nursery, the germs that come into contact with the baby have a lesser chance of coming into contact with the mother, and her breastmilk won't contain the antibodies to those germs.

Besides, you can easily limit your visitors. You can politely tell well-meaning relatives and friends that they're welcome to visit you at home. You can get your talkative aunt Hilda to help spread the message. Or, you can simply say that you're rooming-in the baby, and your doctor advises that you limit your visitors -- who would dare defy doctor's orders? ;)

Some people, especially first-time parents, may think that leaving the baby in the nursery will ensure that they're better taken care of. But what is the ratio of nurses to babies? You can bet it's not 1:1. Or even 1:2. With so many babies to take care of, the nurses won't be able to give everyone their complete attention. Besides, the babies aren't their own. I don't think that they'll give more love and care than the babies' own parents.

Also, if you room-in your baby, you can practice diapering, changing clothes, cleaning the navel, etc., with nurses to guide you. If you leave the baby in the nursery, you won't get to practice those things, and when you get home, you'll be overwhelmed by so many things you have to learn.

Another advantage of rooming-in is that if your baby has any peculiarities, like say, he makes a strange noise while sleeping, you would know about it, and you can immediately ask the nurses or your doctor about it, while the baby is doing it. Whereas if your baby stays in the nursery, and you only get to see him during feedings, you won't be able to know everything there is to know about him. Then, when you get home, and you discover that he makes that strange noise, you panic. So you call your doctor, and you try to describe it... "It's like a strange gurgling sound." So the doctor, not knowing what it really is, asks you to bring the baby to the clinic. Additional hassle, and additional cost.

So, am I convincing enough? :)

Breastfeeding and PCOS

2008-11-18T16:09:00.000+08:00

I didn't know that PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can affect milk supply, until I came across this blog: Breastfeeding with PCOS.

Here is another helpful link on breastfeeding and PCOS.

I have several friends with PCOS. One just recently gave birth, two are about to give birth, and another is trying to conceive. I hope they're reading everything they can on the subject, because it helps to be prepared.

Fortunately for me, there is no problem associated with having endometriosis and breastfeeding. In fact, breastfeeding helps delay the return of the symptoms of endometriosis, as long as the menstrual cycle hasn't resumed yet. I wish pregnancy and breastfeeding could totally cure endometriosis, but sadly, there is no cure.

PCOS and endometriosis may be two different diseases, but they are similar in that they both wreck women's lives. I hope that there will be a cure for both diseases soon, so that those who suffer from them can go on having normal lives.

Free Breastfeeding and Infant Massage Class

2008-11-14T15:15:00.003+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding and infant massage class on Nov. 15, 2008, Saturday, from 2-5pm, at the Bulwagan Room of the Department of Education bldg. (formerly Ultra), Meralco Ave., Ortigas Center. There will also be a bazaar with discounted baby stuff, and lots of giveaways. Pre-register at 0919-7028619 or 0926-7138377.

The Newborn Stage

2008-11-13T16:36:00.003+08:00

Visiting my friend Marissa reminded me of the days when little S was a newborn. I can't believe that was already a year ago! I told her to savor this stage, because it passes by so quickly. I can imagine how hard it must be for her, though, because the newborn stage is probably the most difficult, especially when you're a new parent. (I hope it gets easier the second time around!)

The first thing she said was exactly what I said to her when she came to visit me after little S was born: "He's permanently attached to my chest!" She wonders how I managed to exclusively breastfeed. One thing I can say is that it doesn't take any special talent, you just need lots and lots of patience and perseverance. I told her to just hang in there, and that it will get better.

Looking back, I remember the tiredness, the sleepless nights, the cluelessness, and the frustration. One time, while attempting to breastfeed, I was so frustrated with baby S, because he kept mouthing his fingers while trying to latch on. He was already crying, and not being able to nurse just made him angrier. I was so frustrated that I threw him down on the bed! Okay, maybe not "threw" him down, but I put him down on the bed in a not-so-gentle manner. Of course, that just made him cry even harder, and I felt so guilty, certain that I just garnered a nomination for the Worst Mom of the Year Award. (Sorry, baby!) So I took a deep breath, wrapped him in a Swaddle Me blanket (the one with the Velcro), and tried again.

Before little S was born, I couldn't understand how people could get angry at their own babies, these cute, defenseless little creatures. When one of my sisters-in-law confided in me that she sometimes felt angry at her newborn baby, I couldn't understand how she could feel that way about my cute little niece. Well, now I do. Now I get why there's a joke about throwing your baby out the window. And it must be especially hard for moms going through postpartum depression.

As difficult as it was, I sometimes miss those days when baby S would be content just being in my arms. But, having a toddler is definitely more fun! It's true that at this age the mind is like a sponge. Little S knows so many things already (his latest "trick" is wiping his own drool with his bib when prompted), and sometimes I'm amazed that he actually understands what the people around him are saying.

So, to first-time parents taking care of hell-raising newborns, just hang in there! Your newborn won't be a newborn forever.

The Yellow-Nosed Boy

2008-11-08T13:29:00.001+08:00

Look at this picture of little S:

His nose is yellow-orange! And his skin has a yellowish tint. Oh dear. I think we'd given him too much pumpkin, sweet potatoes and broccoli (who knew that broccoli had a large amount of beta-carotene?!).

I did some research on the internet, and I read that it's called carotenemia, and that it can take months for the skin to go back to its normal color. Ack!

Good thing it's a harmless condition. I just hope that it is carotenemia, and not some side-effect from the medicine he's taking for primary complex.

Little S also has a skin rash, and after 5 days of Iterax, it hasn't improved. We're switching to Virlix tomorrow. The doctor said it's probably from a new food. It's hard to keep track of which new food we've given him on which day, because I have lapsed in jotting them down. What's more, the 5-day-wait rule hadn't been strictly implemented these past few weeks, and little S hasn't had any new foods... aside from fish soup with leeks and ginger, tomato-flavored pasta, mashed grapes, and a taste of orange.

I guess I will have to faithfully write down everything that goes into little S's mouth, and lecture the two grandmas, who keep wanting to feed him everything! They're the ones responsible for the leeks and ginger, grapes and orange.

Little S doesn't seem to be bothered by the rash, though, and that's a good thing.

What to Pack for the Hospital

2008-11-05T23:22:00.004+08:00

I wrote about my baby checklist before, and now I thought I'd just share with you my hospital bag checklist. If you're one of those women brave enough to give birth at home, you can skip this one. :)

Actually there is a reason for this post. A few days ago, I visited my friend Marissa, who recently gave birth, and as we swapped labor stories, she mentioned how nobody told her to bring maternity pads! I asked her about the checklist her Lamaze class instructor handed out, and she said it wasn't mentioned there. Okay, so if childbirth instructors are giving incomplete checklists, then maybe this would help. (Too late for my friend, though.)

Things to pack for mom:
1. Underwear
2. Socks
3. Maternity pads (You can actually just use ordinary sanitary pads, but choose the extra long ones. Oh, and this is because you'll be having postpartum bleeding, or lochia, for about a month.)
4. Nursing bra (If you bought one already.)
5. Nursing gown (You can ask the nurses if you can change into your own gown instead of the hospital gown.)
6. Towel / Wash cloth
7. Toiletries
8. Breastpump and small cup (Just in case you can't nurse directly.)
9. Camera
10. Cellphone
11. Chargers for the camera and the cellphone
12. Baby book (If you have one, and it has a page where you put your baby's hand and footprints. You can give it to the nurse beforehand and ask them to get the prints for you.)
13. Going-home outfit (You'll still look about 6 months pregnant at this point, so bring maternity clothes, not pre-pregnancy clothes.)
14. Pre-natal vitamins (You'll still be needing these when you breastfeed.)
15. Birth plan
16. Papers (Admission letter, marriage certificate, Philhealth, SSS)
17. Snacks for dad

Things to pack for baby (assuming you're rooming-in):
1. Diapers
2. Receiving / swaddling blankets
3. Clothes (For first-time parents who aren't experts in the science of diaper changing yet, expect poop-filled disasters and around 2-3 changes of clothes a day.)
4. Socks
5. Mittens
6. Caps / Bonnets
7. 70% Isopropyl alcohol
8. Cotton buds
9. Cotton balls
10. A small container for water (For diaper changes)
11. Baby wipes (If you opt to use these instead of cotton balls and water.)
12. Burp pads
13. Wash cloth
14. Going-home outfit (If you want to dress your baby in a special outfit for going home and taking pictures.)
15. Car seat

I hope this gives soon-to-be moms an idea of what to bring. You might want to add things that you think you'll be needing, but basically these were what I brought and actually used.

Updated 11/06/08, 4:51PM
My friend just told me that sanitary pads were included in the checklist, after all. :)

Extended Breastfeeding

2008-10-26T13:05:00.003+08:00

Found this on YouTube:

Extraordinary Breastfeeding

It's the documentary on Veronika Robinson, who breastfed her daughters until ages 7 and 8. Based on the comments left on YouTube, it's considered by most people as weird, abnormal, disgusting, and some even went so far as to call it incest or cannibalism. Okay, it may be a bit shocking to see a big, school-age child breastfeeding, but to label it as incest or cannibalism? That just goes to show how ignorant and imbecile those people are.

I would agree that breastfeeding an 8-year-old would be considered as abnormal -- in our society. But what is normal? Normal can be subjective. In other societies where children are allowed to wean by themselves, maybe breastfeeding an 8-year-old would be considered as normal. In surveys on various tribes around the world, the average duration for breastfeeding is 3 to 5 years.

Think about it. Humans are mammals, and mammals nurse their young. That's what the mammary glands are for. Biologically, we are supposed to breastfeed our babies. As for the duration, if we look at it from an anthropological viewpoint, the natural age for weaning would be around 2.25 to 7 years. The article A Time to Wean, by anthropologist Katherine Dettwyler, explains the natural age of weaning:

Weaning according to tripling or quadrupling of birth weight. The idea that mammals wean their offspring when they have tripled their birth weight is widely reported in the breastfeeding literature (Lawrence 1989). This rule of thumb holds true for small-bodied mammals, but not for larger ones. Recent research has looked at age at weaning and at growth among large mammals, including primates. The research shows that weaning occurs some months after quadrupling of the birth weight, rather than tripling (Lee, Majluf and Gordon 1991). When do U.S. infants typically quadruple their birth weight? For males, the average age is around 27 months, and for females, around 30 months.

Weaning according to attainment of one-third adult weight. Other studies suggest that primates are like other mammals in weaning each offspring when they reach about one-third their adult weight (Charnov and Berrigan 1993). Humans come in different sizes, but 4 to 7 years of nursing would be the weaning age for humans using this method of comparison, with boys generally being nursed longer than girls, and large-bodied populations nursing longer than small-bodied groups.

Weaning according to adult body size. Harvey and Clutton-Brock (1985) published a study of life-history variables in primates, including a formula for calculating age at weaning based on adult female body weight. The equation predicts an age at weaning for humans at between 2.8 and 3.7 years, depending on average adult female body weight, with larger-bodied populations nursing the longest.

Weaning according to gestation length. It is often reported in the literature that, among mammals in general, weaning age is approximately the same as the length of gestation (Lawrence 1989). By this criterion, weaning in humans might be expected to take place after only nine months of breastfeeding. However, this one-to-one relationship is greatly affected by the adult size of the animal. For many small-bodied primates, the duration of breastfeeding is shorter than the length of gestation. Among large-bodied primate species, the duration of breastfeeding far exceeds the average length of gestation. For humankind's closest relatives, the chimpanzee and the gorilla, the duration of breastfeeding is more than six times the length of gestation. Humans are among the largest of the primates, and share more than 98 percent of their genetic material with chimpanzees and gorillas. Based on these comparisons, an estimated natural age at weaning for humans would be a minimum of six times gestational length, or 4.5 years.

Weaning according to dental eruption. According to the research of Smith (1991), many primates wean their offspring when they are erupting their first permanent molars. First permanent molar eruption occurs around 5.5 to 6.0 years in modern humans. It is interesting to note that achievement of adult immune competence in humans also occurs at approximately six years of age, suggesting that throughout our recent evolutionary past, the active immunities provided by breast milk were normally available to the child until about this age (Fredrickson).

Here is another wonderful article on breastfeeding beyond toddlerhood.

Don't you find it funny that we force our children to wean from the breast at say, 1 or 2 years of age, saying they're too old to be breastfed, then turn around and offer them formula or cow's milk? If they don't need to drink any more milk, then what do we give them formula or cow's milk for? Why don't we just continue to give them breastmilk, which (a) is designed for humans, and (b) continues to provide numerous benefits both to mother and child?

Personally, I can't see myself breastfeeding an 8-year-old S. Even though I would like to breastfeed little S for as long as I can, my upper limit would probably be around 3 or 4 years. Call me selfish, but I've got places to go, cosmetic procedures to do (like have my hair straightened, and get a couple of tattoos -- eyebrow tattoos, that is). I also miss eating smoked salmon, a favorite food, and I'm a little sick of wearing my breastfeeding clothes.

That's why I applaud Veronika for nursing as long as she did. As she said in the video, a few years of her life set aside for her children is really a blip compared to the lifetime of benefits her children received while nursing. I also applaud her and her family's bravery, for they must have known that if they came out with their story, they would be ridiculed by modern society.

I am reminded by the episode in Desperate Housewives where Lynette Scavo sticks her nose in a breastfeeding colleague's business. She and her co-workers spy on the woman breastfeeding her 5-year-old, and Lynette's boss tells her the breastfeeding has to stop because it's too weird. Lynette intervenes by offering the kid milk from a carton, and the kid decides to self-wean. Well, in reality, I don't think it will be that easy to get a child to stop breastfeeding. In any case, I thought what Lynette did was wrong. At the time the episode aired, I wasn't a mom yet, and I was only vaguely aware of the benefits of breastfeeding. Yet, I felt that Lynette should have minded her own business, and if she didn't want to see a 5-year-old breastfeeding, then she should stop spying! I also noticed that the breastfeeding co-worker was portrayed as selfish, saying that she was breastfeeding in order to keep the weight off. I think it's a reflection on what modern society thinks of extended breastfeeding, and I'm glad there are people out there like Veronika who are actively getting people to open their minds.

Officially a WAHM

2008-10-20T11:39:00.006+08:00

For the past few weeks I have been working under probation for a company, as an editorial abstactor. Yeah, I can imagine your reaction -- uhhh... what? Simply put, editorial abstracting is writing a concise summary of an article. Sounds easy enough, right? Not. There are special rules you need to follow, and it's not that easy when the articles assigned are 10 pages long, and you have no background on the subject it's talking about.

But what I like about this job is that I get to do it at home. There's no need to dress up for work -- even I if worked in my pajamas, nobody would care. I can munch on tidbits and take little breaks if needed, with no boss hovering over my shoulder. And best of all, I can stay with my little S while working!

Anyway, this morning, I received an email that after reviewing my work, I have been officially accepted into the job. So I now have a new title: Work-At-Home-Mom!

Angelina Jolie Breastfeeding in W Cover

2008-10-13T11:02:00.003+08:00

Lifted this from fellow mom blogger Hobo Mama:

Angelina Jolie nursing one of her twins

I've always admired Angelina for her beauty and compassion. She may have been a Hollywood wild-child in the past, but that image has been replaced by that of a mother and a humanitarian. And yes, Hobo Mama, she does make breastfeeding look glamorous!

Updated 10/13/2008 6:37PM
The news about the magazine cover just made it to the front page of Yahoo. I don't understand what is so "controversial" about it. So you can see part of Angelina's left boob. So what? She has bared more than that. And you can't actually see much in this photo, and her nipple is covered by the baby's hand. I think it's a beautiful picture of a mother giving her child time, nourishment, and love.

Getting on the LVoe Train

2008-10-12T12:19:00.015+08:00

Look what my husband got me as an advanced Christmas and birthday present! A Louis Vuitton bag!!!

Bellevue PM in Monogram Vernis Amarante

Ain't she a beauty? Thanks, honey!!! :*

I love bags, but I don't collect designer bags. They're way too expensive! I'm not rich enough to be able to afford a collection. Maybe someday. Heehee. The only other designer bag I have is a Celine clutch my mother gave me.

But now that hubby presented me with an LV, I find myself constantly checking out their website for other delicious creations. Drool...! And I now know what vachetta and patina are, words that previously did not exist in my vocabulary! Did hubby just start me on a path towards LV addiction? Well, don't think I'll be buying any new bags soon, but if money were not an issue, I would love to have this:

Le Precieux in Suhali leather

and this...

Montaigne clutch in Epi leather

and isn't this just cute?

Pastilles Chains Key Ring/Bag Charm

Why not throw in some jewelry as well? Though they're too freakin' expensive for something that's not even real gold!

Sweet Monogram Earrings

Sweet Monogram Pendant
Photos taken from the Louis Vuitton website

Sigh. I can dream, can't I?

By the way, the new ad campaign of LV features supermodel Eva Herzigova, who breastfed her son George.

Upcoming 1st Birthday

2008-10-06T15:59:00.006+08:00

I can't believe my baby S is turning one year this month! Time sure flies by so fast!

I have been busy preparing for his first birthday party. I swear, it's even more stressful and time-consuming than preparing for a wedding! My husband and I originally just wanted a simple lunch party. No games, no frills, just lunch. S is too young to remember anything, anyway. But my mother-in-law insisted on a grand party with all the works. (Well, as long as she's paying for it... heheh!) So now, we have over 300 guests, and face painters, magicians and acrobats are part of the program.

I still think the money spent for this party can be put to better use, like say, S's education perhaps??? But I guess I'll just think of this party as a way of giving thanks for the blessing that is baby S.

On How Long I Plan To Breastfeed

2008-10-02T23:50:00.006+08:00

People keep asking me how long I plan to breastfeed. I tell them, "For as long as I can." It's hard to put a definite time, because as we all know, sometimes things don't go according to plan.

I hope I can go on breastfeeding for at least two years, because that's the minimum as stated by the World Health Organization. Unless I get pregnant first, which right now seems unlikely, because I still haven't had my period yet -- yay!!! Some moms have managed to breastfeed while pregnant, but I'm not sure if I could do it. I had premature contractions while I was pregnant with S, which forced me to be on partial bed rest.

I guess right now my plan is to let S wean when he's ready. Although I hope it won't take as long as eight years, like the daughters of Veronika Robinson! But I must say, those girls are very, very lucky!

Free Breastfeeding Class

2008-09-27T19:01:00.002+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding and infant massage class on Oct. 4, Saturday, from 4 to 7 pm, at Gymboree in Fort Bonifacio. Please text 0919-7028619 or 0926-7138377 to register. Limited slots.

Propagating Friendship Award

2008-09-26T21:07:00.006+08:00

I've just been given my first blog award!

Thanks, Mandy!

I'm supposed to pass this award to eight other bloggers, but unfortunately I'm fairly new to this and I don't know too many bloggers! So I now pass this on to all the people on my blogroll. Yup, all five of them. Wait, make that four because Mandy is one of them! Cecil, Marissa, Michelle and Zeny, hope you enjoy this award!

What To Expect When You're Breastfeeding

2008-09-24T14:10:00.007+08:00

One of the books I read over and over again when I was pregnant was "What To Expect When You're Expecting". Well, I wish somebody had written a "What To Expect When You're Breastfeeding". I'm sure it could save some trouble for a lot of moms. So, why not write it myself?

Based on my own experiences, and on the experiences of moms that I know and talk to, here's what (and not) to expect when you're nursing:

1. Expect breastfeeding to be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. But, it takes time and commitment, and a lot of practice and patience.

2. Don't expect milk to be flowing out of your breasts the moment your baby is born. During the first few days, they will be producing colostrum, which is a thick, yellowish substance full of antibodies. A few teaspoons per feeding is all your baby needs at this time. Mature milk usually comes in on the 3rd or 4th day. In my case, my milk came in on the 5th day.

3. Don't be disappointed if you can barely pump an ounce of milk. Just as Rome wasn't built in a day, milk supply takes time to increase, too. As long as you're nursing frequently, your supply will build up over time.

4. Don't compare the amount that you can pump with other moms'. Just as breasts come in different sizes, storage capacity differs, too. Some moms may have more storage capacity, some may have less. But storage capacity has nothing to do with the amount of milk that you can produce. Moms with smaller storage may just need to nurse more frequently.

5. Breastfeeding can help you bond with your baby, but if you're expecting a gush of wonderful maternal feelings, so much so that you'll positively radiate with a warm glow, well, don't be surprised if instead you're up at 3 am, tired and frustrated at your baby's inability to latch, or seemingly insatiable appetite, etc., etc. Don't worry, just hang in there, and think, "This too shall pass". It will get better!

6. Expect your nipples to feel raw and tender for the first few weeks. As long as your latch and positioning are correct, the soreness will eventually disappear. In my case I think I had sore nipples for about a month.

7. When your milk comes in, expect to look like you just had a boob job. They will become a little smaller once your milk supply is established.

8. Expect your baby to be "hungry all the time". Unlike formula, breastmilk is digested easily, which is why it's the perfect first food for your baby. Of course, this means that breastfed babies need to be fed more frequently, every 2-3 hours, or by demand. However, don't always assume that if your baby is crying, then it means he's hungry. Babies cry for a whole lot of reasons. Sometimes you won't even find a reason. Well, that's what babies do. They cry. It's normal. No need to panic (and give formula).

9. Expect to be "hungry all the time" yourself. After all, you are still eating for two. Always have a snack and a glass of water ready.

10. Expect your baby to use your breast as a pacifier. While your first instinct might be to object to this, in my opinion, it's better to just surrender to it. It's good for your milk supply, anyway. Plus, it's better for your baby to get comfort from you than from plastic and silicone.

11. Don't be surprised if your baby often falls asleep at your breast. Don't be surprised if you find yourself nodding off, too. Breastfeeding releases hormones that relax both you and your baby.

12. Expect your baby's poop to change from black to green to yellow. It will be soft and mushy, and it's normal to have some stuff that look like seeds. Expect around four to six wet diapers a day, and at least two poops a day. Some breastfed babies poop after every feeding. That's normal.

13. Don't worry if you get stomach cramps, especially while you're nursing. Breastfeeding helps contract your uterus, bringing it back to its original size. That's what's causing the cramps.

14. Expect your baby to get better at latching as time goes on. It took my little S about a month before he learned how to latch. At 3 months, I didn't even have to guide him anymore. There were times when I'd be moving around, and look down in surprise to see him latched on already.

15. Expect your baby to get more efficient, too. Starting around 7 months, what used to take little S an hour (or two) now takes him under 10 minutes to finish.

16. As your baby grows older, expect him to get easily distracted. This started at 3 months for baby S. If you find this irritating, nurse in a dim, secluded area.

17. Expect your older baby to be able to nurse in positions that will amaze you. (And lift your shirt up himself, too!)

18. And the warm gush of maternal feelings? Yes, they will come, especially when your baby caresses you while nursing, or smiles at you after he's full. My little S likes to be tickled while (comfort) nursing. It's our way of bonding, and I'm sure you'll create your own special nursing ritual, too.

I hope this helps some first-time breastfeeding moms out there.

Happy breastfeeding!

Milk Blister

2008-09-20T14:08:00.005+08:00

Remember my experience with a plugged milk duct? It didn't totally heal until yesterday. Even after baby S was able to drain the clog, I still had a milk blister, and I was in agony for more than a week. It hurt to nurse, especially when I had a let-down. It was like a burning, stinging sensation. I did everything I could think of: I applied expressed milk on the blister, slathered PureLan on, and took hot showers (as hot as I could stand) and massaged my breast under the running water, in hopes that the blister would somehow fall off. (I followed this with a cold shower because I read somewhere that a hot shower/hot compress can actually stimulate milk flow and thus engorgement.) But nothing worked.

Again I was tempted to prick it with a needle. But I was afraid of the possibility of the blister getting infected. So I searched the La Leche League forums whether somebody had the same experience (and the answer!). The mommies at the forum suggested rubbing it with a washcloth. I hadn't tried that yet because I imagined that it would hurt. But I was desperate, so I did. I first soaked the washcloth in hot water, and then I rubbed it on my nipple. Lo and behold, the skin loosened and I was able to peel it off! And it didn't hurt a bit! I was so happy I was singing hallelujah!

So now, I promise I will never again go too long without nursing or pumping!

Update on Tainted Milk Formula

2008-09-17T15:11:00.004+08:00

As of today, more than 6,200 babies have gotten ill, and 3 babies have died after drinking formula tainted with melamine. Read the full story here.

I can't believe how some people can be so morally corrupt. Knowingly, and deliberately supplying a contaminated product that thousands of babies will be ingesting, just to cover some losses? Those businessmen must be the lowest of the low.

Fake Artificial Milk

2008-09-13T22:58:00.005+08:00

Can you believe this?!? Here is the latest screw-up from yet another factory from China.

What really got me was the story at the end about the phony formula with no nutrients. How ironic. Formula is actually artificial milk. So a phony formula would be a fake of a fake.

If those babies had been breastfed...

Nursing blouse: RMB 118
Breast pump: RMB 1,912
Never having to worry about fake/tainted formula: Priceless

Medela Freestyle

2008-09-12T09:41:00.011+08:00

I'm eyeing the new Medela Freestyle the way my husband would ogle a luxury sports car. It's like the Ferrari of breast pumps -- small, sleek and powerful. And just like cruise control, you can pump with Freestyle hands-free!

Images from http://www.medelafreestyle.com/

Here are the features according to the website:
1. Hands-free accessories to be attached to your nursing bra straps
2. Battery rechargeable for up to 3 hours of pumping
3. Pump weighs less than 1 lb.
4. 2-Phase Expression technology that mimics your baby's natural nursing pattern
5. LCD screen with digital display
6. Memory button to save your pumping pattern
7. Comes with a tote bag and a cooler with ice pack

Of course, with all these features, it doesn't come cheap at around US$380. Well, maybe when (if!) I have my next baby.

Plugged Milk Duct

2008-09-09T23:15:00.008+08:00

I had the worst plugged duct of my breastfeeding life today. It was really bad. There was a humongous lump; it was so hard and it covered almost half my breast. And it was sooo painful! Even baby S couldn't drain it. This is what I get for shopping and leaving him at home.

A plugged milk duct usually forms when you go too long without nursing or pumping. Even when your breasts are full, milk production continues. The result is engorgement, and if you don't nurse or pump immediately, a milk duct could get clogged, and the milk gets trapped inside, resulting in a painful lump. You can actually see the plug. It's like a whitehead, only it's on your nipple.

I was in desperate pain earlier, and was so tempted to prick the plug with a sterilized needle. However, I was too chicken to do it, so I resorted to doing a hot compress, followed by a massage (I just applied pressure to the area, like a shiatsu massage), then I did a manual expression, and followed with a cold compress. For some reason, the plug suddenly got a teeny tiny hole (okay, I might have fiddled around with it a bit), so I expressed some more, and then let baby S finish the job. Ah, relief!

My nipple still hurts, though, whenever I nurse S. But I need to continue breastfeeding in varying positions, to completely drain the clogged duct, and also to prevent it from happening again. Thank God it didn't progress into mastitis, which I hope I'll never experience.

Post-Pregnancy Figure

2008-09-08T13:43:00.004+08:00

I'm happy to say that I am now finally back to my pre-pregnancy weight, 10 months after giving birth (without any form of exercise). Yipeeee!!! Breastfeeding probably helped me lose weight, although I must say, I feel hungry all the time! Especially in the middle of the night, when it's such a drag to have to get up and eat.

I like my post-pregnancy figure now, in fact I like it better than my pre-pregnancy figure. Mostly because I now have boobs. Heehee! And my arms are now toned, thanks to baby S, who likes to be carried a lot.

The only thing I don't like is the pouch in my belly. I'm too lazy to do sit-ups, though. Guess I'll just have to do Hip Hop Abs regularly.

Drowning In Diapers 2

2008-09-03T15:31:00.002+08:00

As I mentioned in my previous post on diapers, I use both cloth and disposable diapers. Basically I change S's diapers about 5 times a day, and 2 of those times I use cloth.

I use cloth in the mornings, before S takes a bath, and sometimes during the day when I'm sure that I will be able to change him in the next 2-3 hours (like when he's not sleeping).

I have several kinds of cloth diapers. I have pre-folded diapers, which are basically pieces of cloth that are sewn together in such a way that they're thicker in the middle for more absorbency. I also have fitted diapers, which are easier to put on because they're constructed like disposable diapers. The pre-folded and fitted diapers are not waterproof, however, so I have to use cloth diaper covers to prevent leaks.

Prefolded diapers. At the right is how I fold it (boy fold) to fit inside a diaper cover.

Fitted diapers

Cloth diaper covers

I also have pocket diapers, which are diapers that come with a pocket for stuffing cloth. These already have covers sewn with them, so they're the easiest to put on. The disadvantage with pocket diapers, however, is that if they're soaked, you have to change the whole thing, unlike with separate diaper and cover, you can just change the diaper and reuse the cover, unless it's soiled.

I use disposable diapers when it's time for S's nap, at bedtime, and when going out.

S is a heavy wetter so I use the better brands because they are more absorbent. I use Huggies Dry Comfort during the day and Mamy Poko at night. I love Mamy Poko because it absorbs so much, I can leave it on S overnight, and it still looks neat (although bulky) the next day. Other brands I tried either leaked, or smelled like pee and looked crumpled the next day. Mamy Poko is expensive, though, that's why I only use it at night.

Huggies Dry Comfort (left) and Mamy Poko (right)

Other brands I tried are Prokids, Drypers and Huggies Dry. I used Prokids when S was a newborn. Since he was exclusively breastfed, his poop was soft, almost watery. It always exploded out the back of the Prokids diapers, leaving S with a messy back and shirt. I rarely had the same problem with other brands. I haven't tried Prokids again, now that S's poop is more solid, but I don't think I ever will, because I also find Prokids to be a bit stiff, not as soft as Huggies or Mamy Poko.

I also tried Drypers when S was a newborn. My problem with it, however, was that one time, while changing S, I noticed some blue crystals on his bottom. I think they're the chemicals that make the diaper absorb pee. Needless to say, I never bought another pack again.

My problem with Huggies Dry (different from Huggies Dry Comfort) was that it looked and felt like plastic. It's very hot and humid here, so you can imagine what wearing plastic in this weather feels like. Other diaper brands are also made of plastic, but at least they looked and felt like cotton. I think if your baby is going to be in diapers 24/7, it's important that they're comfortable to wear. (Can you imagine if you have to wear sanitary pads 24/7 for 2++ years?!)

Anyway, whether I use cloth or disposables, one thing's for sure: I'll be glad when S is toilet-trained!

Free Breastfeeding Class

2008-09-02T15:20:00.005+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding class / support group meeting on Sept. 6, 2008, 2-5pm, at Unit 401 Emerald Place, 604 Shaw Blvd., Pasig City. Topics include "Why Fathers Should Encourage Breastfeeding", and "How Fathers Can Take Part in Breastfeeding".

Register at 636-2721, loc. 529. Look for Olive. Limited slots.

Breastfeeding Classes

2008-08-26T18:58:00.004+08:00

There will be a breastfeeding class marathon on Saturday, August 30, 2008, at 1503A West Tower, Tektite Bldg., Ortigas Center.

Schedule is as follows:
8:30-9:00am Registration
9:00-11:00am Breastfeeding 101
11:00am-12:00pm Lunch
12:00-2:00pm Breastfeeding 202
2:00-4:00pm Breastfeeding 303
4:00-6:00pm Afternoon cocktails and celebration

Text your name, contact number, and the classes you wish to attend to Abbie 0922-8292268, or Cindy 0922-8824639.

Membership fee for the breastfeeding club is PHP500, which will entitle you to access to all the classes and all the benefits of being a member. To attend one class only, the fee is PHP300 per couple.

There will be prizes and giveaways. Slots are limited to 25 couples.

Drowning In Diapers

2008-08-25T17:42:00.013+08:00

Inspired by Mec's post on diapers, here are my thoughts on diapers.

I'm sure that like most parents, changing diapers is the parenting duty I look forward to the least. Well, who would enjoy it? You've got a poop-filled diaper and a squirming, struggling, and sometimes bawling baby (unless you have a baby who actually lies still while you change him). It wasn't so bad when S was exclusively breastfed, because the poop didn't really smell that bad. But now that he's eating solids, I have to hold my breath whenever I change him. My husband, who was so helpful with this task when S was a newborn, now disappears whenever S needs to be changed.

It's easier when the diaper is just wet, not soiled, because there's no washing involved. But when S poops, it has become our routine to wash his behind with soap and water. Merely wiping with baby wipes and wet cotton balls just doesn't seem to be enough anymore.

I use both cloth and disposable diapers. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of cloth:
1. Breathable - the disposable diapers say they have breathable covers, etc. etc., but I don't know... they're made of wood pulp and plastic. I would think cloth is still more breathable.

2. Cleaner - in my opinion, since you wash the cloth diapers, they're cleaner than the disposable ones, which aren't exactly sterile. But you'd have to rinse the soiled cloth diapers in an antibacterial solution, or boil them.

3. Healthier - disposable diapers are filled with chemicals, which is what makes them so absorbent. They're also chlorine-bleached, which means they contain dioxin, which is a known carcinogen. According to the Dioxin Homepage, dioxin is also linked to reproductive problems (like endometriosis), immune system problems, lung problems, skin disorders, among others. I suppose cloth is also bleached, but at least you can wash it. Plus, you can buy organic, unbleached ones.

4. Economical - using cloth diapers is cheaper in the long run.

5. Environmentally friendly - according to Donella Meadows of Sustainability Institute, in the U.S. alone, 18 billion diapers are dumped into landfills each year. And a lot of those diapers contain excrement, which could contaminate the water that leaches out of the landfill with various diseases. Most parents don't know that even if they're using disposable diapers, they have to flush the poop into the toilet, because the poop should go into the sewage system, not the landfills!

6. Easier toilet-training - babies who are cloth diapered feel uncomfortable when wet, which could encourage the baby to signal when he pees, which could lead to easier toilet training.

7. You won't run out - that is, if you do your laundry regularly, which I hope you do.

Disadvantages of cloth:
1. Can be a hassle because you have to wash it. And washing uses up water resources.

2. Not as easy to put on as disposables - but the newer, fitted designs can solve this problem.

3. Don't absorb as much as disposables - you have to change more often.

4. Can leak - well, so do disposables. Using a cloth diaper cover can solve this problem. There are breathable covers available that don't look and feel like plastic.

Advantages of disposables:
1. Convenience - this is probably the main advantage of using disposables.

2. Ease of use - easier to put on than cloth. But the new designs of fitted cloth diapers are as easy to put on.

3. Super absorbent - can soak so much pee, your baby is literally sitting in a huge puddle of pee and you wouldn't even know it.

Disadvantages of disposables:
1. Expensive - using disposables can seem like you're throwing away money.

2. Not environmentally friendly.

3. Not as clean, healthy and breathable as cloth.

4. Disposable diaper-clad babies tend to wear them longer - until they're 3 or 4 or even 5 years old. That's why there's a market for size XXL diapers.

To be continued....

Medela Bottles

2008-08-22T15:35:00.004+08:00

I finally got new Medela bottles! Looks-wise, the new bottles are so much nicer than the old ones that came with my pump. With the old ones, it was hard to tell how much milk was in the bottle, because the lines and marks for the amount were the same color as the bottle. Here's a picture of the old bottle. The new bottles are clearly marked, with color.

5-oz. bottle

I'm really happy with my new bottles because I can finally pump without spilling milk. (I used the old Medela bottles for storage only because they didn't come with nipples. And I only had one because the other melted while being boiled. Long story.) So now, I can finally say goodbye to Avent.

The question is, can little S? Will he accept the new bottle?

I let him try it out yesterday. At first, he was hesitant. He looked puzzled with the new nipple shape. He toyed with it with his teeth and tongue. Then, finally, he took it in his mouth, and guzzled all the milk up. Hooray! Successful conversion!

The only problem I see with this bottle is the size. It can only hold 5 ounces. But, according to the Medela distributor, they will come out with bigger bottles by the end of the year.

X-Ray Results

2008-08-19T17:17:00.003+08:00

We finally got the chest x-ray results today, and everyone, including S, is clear. Whew!!! Thank God thank God thank God!!!!!

So that means S just has to take 1 medication for 9 months (as opposed to 3 medications for 6 months), to prevent the bacteria from infecting his lungs and developing into primary complex.

Breastfeeding Saves Lives

2008-08-18T08:39:00.004+08:00

I was watching CNN yesterday, and they featured a segment on breastfeeding, focusing on an island in Indonesia. I think it was called Lombok. Anyway, it said that an estimated 50,000 children die each year due to poor feeding and malnutrition. And the one thing that could help prevent those deaths is breastfeeding.

The midwives in Lombok, who play a crucial part in new mothers' lives, are said to have joined the government's efforts to encourage breastfeeding. A midwife said that before, formula companies would pay them to promote their products. But now, they teach new mothers to breastfeed exclusively for the first 6 months, then continue breastfeeding while feeding solids for up to 2 years and beyond.

That's good news, don't you think?

Testing For Primary Complex / TB

2008-08-17T15:13:00.009+08:00

We took baby S to the hospital this morning for a chest x-ray. He had to have one because sadly, his skin test for primary complex was positive.

He was tested last Wednesday, and yesterday we went back to the doctor to get the result. She measured the bump on his skin. For the test to be negative, the bump has to be less than 10mm in diameter. S's bump measured 22mm. It was a big, angry red bump. The doctor actually just took one look at it and already concluded that he needed an x-ray. The measurement was just for the record.

The x-ray result will come out tomorrow, as a pediatric radiologist will read the image. I hope it's a negative. In any case, S has to take medicine because his skin test is positive. It'll just depend on the x-ray result what kind of medicine he'll take and for how long.

The bump was actually bigger than the darker red spot. It was between those 2 red lines. (The lines were drawn with ballpoint pen. I guess they ran out of blue or black ink.)

Thankfully, S is still growing and gaining weight. I think that's a good sign. And I'm also thankful that primary complex is curable, and not physically and emotionally draining.

Still, I hope his x-ray result will come out okay. Actually I hope everyone's results will come out fine. Everyone in the family had an x-ray as well, including me. (The pediatrician said it's okay even if I'm nursing.) Because who knows, S's nanny could have passed the TB on to us, or maybe one of us passed it on to her.

Dumping Precious Breastmilk

2008-08-14T15:53:00.007+08:00

I could kick myself. Aaaaarrrrggghhhhhh!!!!!

Last night, I was so amazed because I was able to pump more than 5 ounces of milk from one breast. I usually can only pump about 4 ounces from one breast. Well, guess what? I failed to put my expressed milk in the fridge!

After I finished pumping, I put S to bed. As usual, he wouldn't sleep without his mom as pacifier. So I had to lie down beside him to nurse him in the side-lying position. My plan was, once he fell asleep and let go of my nipple, I would get up and store my milk in the fridge.

But... I also fell asleep! When I woke up this morning (about 10 hours after I pumped), I discovered my bottle of expressed milk still sitting on the table. I hadn't even removed the pump funnel yet and replaced it with a cap!

Still mentally kicking myself....

In loving memory...

Rustan's Nursing Station

2008-08-11T19:38:00.015+08:00

Yesterday, I went shopping with my mom, and we brought S along. We went to Glorietta in Makati, and we stopped by Rustan's department store. I hadn't brought any bottles of expressed milk along, so I was extremely happy to discover that they already have a nursing station!

It was clean, spacious, nicely decorated, and there were even cotton buds, baby wipes, tissue paper and other baby products for your free use. (It would be even better if they had a sink for washing up, though.) It was so nice, that most people actually thought it was a showroom. While I was nursing S, some shoppers, including male ones, went in to have a look at the products displayed. (On hindsight, maybe I should've closed the door, but it didn't matter because none of them realized I was breastfeeding anyway. Even the sales staff thought that S was just sleeping.)

I suppose it would be unfair to compare SM Mall of Asia's breastfeeding station to Rustan's. Needless to say, MOA's pales in comparison to Rustan's. But I think SM better step up. The last time I used their breastfeeding station, it gave me the shivers because there were creepy crawlies on the sink and on the changing table!

I wish I had taken pictures of SM's breastfeeding station. Luckily, I brought my camera with me yesterday, and I have some pictures of Rustan's nursing station.

Free stuff

The nursing station is located at the 3rd floor of Rustan's, near the babies' section.

Breastfeeding Annoyances

2008-08-08T17:23:00.014+08:00

Though I'm really glad I chose to breastfeed my son, and have no regrets whatsoever, I'll be the first to admit, it can be really annoying sometimes.

During the first month, it was so annoying when S flailed his arms around while I was trying to get him to latch. Just when I thought I could finally shoot my nipple into his mouth, his hands/arms would get in the way. It was also very annoying when I would bring him to my breast, and he would open his mouth wide, and then turn the other way!

It was also annoying when he took so long to nurse, that he obviously wasn't drinking milk anymore, but was just using me as a pacifier to get himself to sleep, and I had other things to do, and when I unlatched him, he'd search for my nipple with eyes closed, and when he didn't find it, he'd finally open his eyes and cry. (He still does that up to now.)

Starting when he was about 3 months old, he would easily get distracted by other sounds, other people, etc. while nursing. Not only do I find it irritating because it hurts whenever he pulls off my breast, but also because it is potentially embarrassing if it left me exposed in front of other people.

I also find it very irritating whenever his hands start getting busy while nursing. He loves to pinch, slap, squeeze and scratch whatever flesh he can find: my lips, my chin, my neck, my chest, my stomach, my back. Sometimes he would also pull my hair and my glasses. I also hate it when I'm pumping at the same time, and he swats at my pump, and pulls at the tubing. He even kicked my pump once, causing the milk to spill. I was very, very upset when that happened. (I think only other nursing moms can understand why spilling breastmilk is very upsetting. Others would just say, oh it's free, you can just pump again. They just don't understand how precious every drop is!)

It is also irritating whenever S decides to head-bang while latched on. It's like he hears a rhythm in his head and dances to it while nursing.

The thing that I find most annoying of all is when he latches on, then pulls off. Then latches on again, then pulls off again. And again, latch on, pull off. It hurts when he does that. If we were just starting out with breastfeeding, I'm pretty sure my nipples would be bleeding.

But I guess I should be thankful that he still doesn't bite.

Latch, Inc. Event

2008-08-06T22:41:00.004+08:00

To celebrate World Breastfeeding Month, Latch is holding a get-together at the Medical City, on August 9, Saturday, 5-8PM.

Show your support for breastfeeding and mingle with other breastfeeding moms! Dads and kids are also welcome!

What Happened Here?!?!

2008-08-05T16:54:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, something happened that was a complete shock and mystery to me.

I put S to sleep for his afternoon nap. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. He slept soundly, and I even got to trim his nails. Then my mother-in-law called, and I stepped outside the room to take the call, so as not to wake S up. We talked for maybe 5 minutes.

When I returned, I checked on S, and I got the shock of my life. He was covered in vomit!!!!! His clothes, his pillows, his blanket, even his hair was soiled! Yet he was still sleeping soundly!

I have no idea what happened, and how it happened. Did he have too much to eat during lunch? Was it because I sprayed saline solution into his nose while he was sleeping? (Because otherwise he wouldn't let me.) Or was it because the other night, he ate a piece of paper??? (Felt like a lousy parent when that happened, because it was my fault -- I hadn't taken a tag off a toy.)

Whatever happened, I'll never know.

Baby Stuff Essentials 2

2008-08-04T20:48:00.004+08:00

Okay, here's the continuation of my baby checklist.

Bathing, Cleaning and Grooming
Can't live without...
1. Hooded towels - 4. When S was a newborn, I used a new one everyday. But now, I use it twice before washing.

2. Thick face towels - 6. For sponge baths.

3. Thin face towels - 6. I use these for bathing. It was sold as a set, 3 plain ones and 3 printed ones. I use the plain ones for washing S's face and hair, and the printed ones for the body.

4. Baby shampoo - I used Canus Li'l Goat's Milk Shampoo and Body Wash before, because somebody told my mother-in-law that this shampoo thickens hair. (Although I doubt it. Hair is determined by genes.) Then I found out from Cosmetic Safety Database that it contains an ingredient best avoided by babies. So I switched to Burt's Bees. Expensive, I know, but I can rest easy knowing that I don't put harmful chemicals on my baby's head/skin. Besides, a little goes a long way. I have been using the same bottle (everyday) for almost 5 months now, and it still looks as if I just bought it yesterday.

5. Baby soap - I also used Canus Li'l Goat's Milk as S's body wash before, but when I switched to Burt's Bees I decided to use their soap as well. For the face I use Cetaphil. I put a pea-sized amount on a cotton ball and apply to S's face, then wipe off with a wet face towel. (I call it S's facial.)

6. Bath tub - this is where I let S sit while soaping him. I fill this halfway with water for the first rinse.

7. Small tub - to contain the water for the final rinse. I also let S sit on this after rinsing, as he likes to play with the water.

8. Safety net - after the first rinse, I put the net over the bathtub and let S sit on it so he won't touch the already soapy water. I then use a dipper to pour clean water from the small tub for the final rinse.

9. Dipper - actually, my dipper is a plastic mug.

10. Small basin - for containing water for sponge baths.

11. Isopropyl alcohol - useful for the first few days, for cleaning the umbilical stump.

12. Cotton buds - for cleaning the ears and nose (outer areas only), and for drying the area in between fingers and toes.

13. Cotton balls - for cleaning the face with Cetaphil.

14. Hair brush - even if your newborn doesn't have much hair, it's useful to have a hair brush to brush off dandruff.

15. Nail cutter - babies' nails grow so quickly! S needs to have his nails clipped every other day.

Nice to have...
1. Virgin coconut oil - said to thicken hair when you slather it on the scalp. I don't know if that's true, but it's useful for preventing/treating cradle cap (newborn dandruff). I also use this to clean S's ears. I dip cotton buds into a little oil and use them to clean the outer area. (Never insert anything into the ear canal!)

2. Bath thermometer - to check the temperature of the bath water. Should be 35-37 degrees Celsius. If you don't have this, you can just use your elbow to test the water temp. Don't use your hands to test, because adults' hands are used to and can tolerate heat more.

3. Bath toys - to keep the little one busy. And to use as a "bait" to get S to lift his head up so I can wash his neck.

Waste of money...
1. Nail file - this was actually sold with the nail clipper, hair brush, bath thermometer, etc. as a grooming set. I used this a couple of times, but I found that S's nails tended to break after I used it, leaving jagged edges which made his nails sharper than if I hadn't filed them.

2. Bathrobe - this was a gift, and never used. Maybe when S starts swimming. I don't see the point in letting S wear a bathrobe after taking a bath. It's already hard enough to get him to wear his clothes sometimes, and letting him wear a bathrobe would only mean additional struggling.

Solid Food Feeding
Can't live without...
1. Baby plate/bowl - one for soup and one for the main course.

2. Baby utensils - I like the Pigeon soft-tip spoons. It comes as a set of 2, one for solid foods and one for soups/juice. I like that it's small and shallow enough for babies just starting solids. I also have a set of stainless steel spoon, fork and knife. They're pretty useful for cutting up and mashing food.

3. Glass bowl - for steaming. I place vegetables to be steamed inside the bowl and put the bowl inside a double pan for steaming (you know, a pan with holes and another pan under it to put water).

4. Small-sized pot - exclusively for cooking S's food.

5. Blender - for pureeing proteins like chicken. I usually just mash veggies.

6. Ice cube trays with cover - for storing soup in the freezer. No wastage and easier to defrost. Just dip the underside in warm water, and the cubes will pop out easily.

7. Avent VIA cups - I use these to store pureed foods in the freezer. I will probably buy more ice cube trays, though, so I can switch to those. The VIA cups are too big and store more servings than S can finish in 3 days.

8. Plastic box - for storing plates and utensils.

9. Plastic bib with pouch - for protecting clothes and for catching drips and mess.

10. Feeding chair - I use the one which you can strap to your regular adult chair. It takes up less space and is more portable. I sometimes also use the Bumbo chair.

Going Out
Can't live without...
1. Diaper bag - to put everything your baby might need: change of clothes, diapers, wipes, waterproof mat, bibs, burp cloth, toys, etc., etc.

2. Insulated bag - for carrying breastmilk.

3. Stroller - to give your arms and back a break.

4. Sun shade for car - to protect your little one from the harmful rays of the sun.

5. Car seat - this is not required by law here in the Philippines, but it's safer to put your baby in a car seat when on the road.

Waste of money...
1. Baby sling - I know some moms can't live without this, but I never used it. I found it so hard to use and S didn't seem to like it, either. It was too warm as well.

Medicine Chest
Can't live without...
1. Thermometer - for taking baby's temperature. Rectal thermometers are said to be the most accurate. And while less accurate, digital thermometers are safer than the glass ones with mercury. (I shudder now when I think of the times I spent giddily playing with mercury as a child.) The toiletry package provided by the hospital where I gave birth had one, and this is what I use. Which makes the one I bought practically useless. More on that below.

2. Nasal aspirator - for suctioning out mucus.

3. Salinase drops - for softening snot so you can suction them out with the nasal aspirator.

4. Medicine dropper - most medicines for babies include a dropper, but trust me, you'll need at least an extra.

Waste of money...
1. Digital ear and forehead thermometer - like I said, I use the thermometer provided by the hospital, because I can insert it between S's armpit. It's hard to take the ear and forehead temperature of babies, especially when they keep shaking their head.

That's it! I hope I didn't forget anything. Mommies, what are the baby things you can't live without, and what was a waste of money? Let's help the soon-to-be first-time moms out!

Nanny with TB Update

2008-08-01T15:06:00.006+08:00

My baby's yaya is back from her check-up with the doctor, and there are good news and bad news.

The bad news is, she does have TB. The good news is, it's still in the early stages, and not as contagious. However, she can't go near children for 2 weeks, while her medication is just starting to take effect. She'll have to take her medication for 2 months, then have a check-up again and go through the 2nd phase of her treatment for 4 more months. I guess she'll have to return to my mother-in-law in the meantime.

Another good news is, the doctor said that S is most probably protected from the disease by his BCG vaccination. It is said to be effective for 12 months, and S is only 9 months old. WHEW!!! I can breathe easy now, although I will probably still have him tested just to be 100% sure.

On a lighter note, I asked S's pediatrician why he has a cough. I thought breastfed babies weren't supposed to get sick? She said that while breastfed babies are healthier, it doesn't mean they have superhuman abilities. Well, we wish, don't we.

Sick Baby/Nanny with TB

2008-07-31T14:01:00.007+08:00

This morning, I got a big, big scare. My baby's yaya (nanny) had been diagnosed with possible tuberculosis. I am very worried that she may have passed it on to my baby. He's had a cough for the past week now.

I am so regretful that I didn't think to screen her earlier. She is originally my mother-in-law's household help, and she's been with them for more than 10 years now. Her father recently passed away and she just came back a few weeks ago from her province, which was hard-hit by typhoon Fengshen. She said that dead bodies littered the streets, and most of them went unclaimed. I thought then that I better have her checked, but due to the happenings of everyday life, I completely forgot.

Until S got sick and we went to see the doctor. She reminded me to have his yaya (and other household help) x-rayed. This morning, we got the results, and it showed what I feared: possible PTB.

To those with household help, especially those caring for children, be diligent in having them take a medical exam. Tomorrow, I will have my yaya see a doctor. I hope she's okay, and I hope S is okay.

Free Breastfeeding Class

2008-07-30T12:25:00.004+08:00

There will be a free breastfeeding class/support group meeting and baby massage class on August 2, 2008, 3-6pm at Gymboree Alabang. Register at 636-2721, loc. 529. Look for Olive. Limited slots.

World Breastfeeding Week/Month

2008-07-29T21:04:00.008+08:00

August 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week and the whole of August is World Breastfeeding Month!

To celebrate:

- Enter an essay writing contest sponsored by Latch, The Medical City, Baby Mag and Mom Exchange. All entries will be published on Mom Exchange, and the winning entry will be published in Baby Mag. For more details, click here.

- Join the "Mommy Milkshake" marathon on August 10 at 7:30am, at the Fort. Participants get a free t-shirt. Dads and kids can join, too! Register at 780-9898.

Baby Stuff Essentials

2008-07-26T14:18:00.013+08:00

Several of my friends are about to become first-time moms. One has endometriosis like me, and two others have polycystic ovarian syndrome. Talk about small miracles!

Some of them have been asking what baby stuff I found to be essential and what I found to be practically useless. There are so many baby things out there that it's easy to go crazy when shopping, especially when they're so cute and hard to resist!

Here's a list of things I personally found to be what I can't live without, what's nice to have (but not necessary), and what's a waste of money:

Breastfeeding
Can't live without...
1. Read my previous post regarding breastfeeding equipment.

2. Electric steam sterilizer - for germ-killing. You can also boil your pump parts, feeding equipment, etc. for 5 minutes, but if you're not careful, they could melt down.

3. Washing-up liquid, scrubs, bottle brush - obviously if you're using pumps and bottles you need to wash them prior to sterilizing.

4. Bottle keeper - for storing pump parts and feeding equipment.

Nice to have...
1. BPA-free bottles - for feeding expressed milk when I'm not available. If you opt not to use bottles (to prevent nipple confusion, for instance), you can actually use a small cup. Most people don't know that babies can actually drink from a cup, even newborns! I can attest to that, since I used to catch leaks from my other breast with a cup while nursing S (when he was a newborn and I could leak up to an ounce of milk), and feed it to him afterward.

Waste of money...
1. Breast shells - inserted inside the bra, to catch leaks and to prevent sore nipples from rubbing with clothing. I thought at first that these would be cool to have, so that I could catch leaks hands-free. But then they leaked, when the milk started to spray.

Nursery
Can't live without...
1. Dresser - for storing all my baby's clothes, blankets, and other things.

2. Hamper - for my baby's dirty clothes. They're washed separately from adults' clothes

3. CD player - for soft background music while sleeping, so that my baby won't get startled by other noises easily.

4. Lamp/lampshade - for dim light when sleeping during nighttime.

5. Water jug - for clean, purified water, which I use for sponge baths and diaper changes, and for drinking (for me, not the baby).

6. Thermos - for hot water, which I use to warm the water for sponge baths, and for warming expressed milk.

Nice to have...
1. Bassinet/playpen/changing station - I was able to use only the changing station for the first few months, since S co-sleeps in the family bed. He's slept in the bassinet only a few times, and now mainly uses the playpen for play time.

2. Air filter - for filtering dust in the air. Probably not really necessary, but it's nice knowing that my baby is breathing clean air.

Wardrobe (for newborns)
Can't live without...
1. Side-snap shirts - I guess the number would depend on how often you do the laundry. 5 was enough for me.

2. Pants - to pair with the shirts.

3. Sleep suits - to wear at nighttime, when it's colder.

4. Socks - I had 5 pairs. It was sold as a set.

5. Mittens - I think I had a dozen. S liked to mouth them so I had to change them often.

6. Hats/caps - when going out.

7. Thin receiving blankets - 5.

8. Thicker blankets - 2.

9. Big cloth to put over the rubber mat when S sleeps on the bed - 6. This is just flannel fabric that's been cut to size.

Nice to have...
1. Bibs - didn't start using this until S was 3 months and drooling. He can now go through 5 a day.

2. Burp cloth - to protect your clothing from drool and spit-ups. Although S has never had a spit-up.

3. Swaddle Me blanket with Velcro - used this only for the first month. After that, S didn't want to be swaddled anymore. I should've bought size small only. The larger size I bought was never used.

Waste of money...
1. Jacket - never got to use this. When it was cold, S wore long-sleeved shirts, anyway. Putting a jacket on would make him too warm.

2. Wearable blanket - never really got to use this, either. It was too warm as well.

Diapering
Can't live without...
1. Cloth diapers - I planned to use mostly cloth diapers, so I bought different kinds to experiment which one worked best. I have bird's eye cloth diapers, which I now use mainly to cover the changing station so that S always has a clean area to lay on. I also use the smaller ones to cover him when changing his diaper because he likes to pee while changing (caught his dad once in the mouth, too!). The gauze cloth diapers are used as burp cloths and as S's "pillows", and also for wiping tears and sweat and snot and whatnot. I also have pre-folded diapers and fitted diapers, which I actually use as diapers.

2. Cloth diaper covers - to prevent leaks when using cloth diapers. I have ones made of wool and ones made of PUL. I also have All-In-One diapers (cloth diaper and cover in one). I like the separate diaper and cover better, because you can use the cover again if the diaper is just wet, not soiled. But the AIO's are easier to put on.

3. Diaper rash ointment - I use Vandol Ointment for preventing diaper rash. So far S hasn't had any rashes.

4. Cotton buds - for applying the diaper rash ointment.

5. Cotton balls - soaked in water, for wiping the diaper area.

6. Baby wipes - when there's a lot of poop, for faster cleaning. Also used when out and about, since it's more convenient than bringing water and cotton balls. Also for wiping hands and toys.

7. Disposable diapers - I wish I could put this in the "nice to have" category, but disposable diapers have become essential for me, especially at night, because I don't want to wake S up just to change a wet cloth diaper. I have tried several brands, namely, Mamy Poko, Huggies Dry Comfort (red packaging), Prokids, Drypers, and Huggies Dry (blue packaging). That's the order I would rate them, from best to worst.

8. Trash can with lid/diaper pail - for dirty diapers.

Nice to have...
1. Changing station - this is a real back-saver because I don't have to bend down to change my baby's diapers. But if you don't have one, just a waterproof mat will do. You can change your baby on the bed (or on the floor, if you're afraid of your baby falling off the bed).

2. Diaper organizer - this also comes with the playpen, and is very handy for keeping all diapering essentials in place, right beside the changing station.

Waste of money...
1. Diapering kit - a small waterproof mat that folds into a pouch, with a container for wipes. This was given to me as a gift, but I never got to use it.

That's it for now. My little big boss is calling.

To be continued....

Breastfeeding Paraphernalia

2008-07-23T22:12:00.013+08:00

Things that make breastfeeding easier:

1. Nursing pillow - a U-shaped pillow that you put around your waist, to help support the weight of your baby. I found it hard to use at first though, when S and I were just learning how to breastfeed. I think it has to do with the position of the baby when on the pillow -- he lies flat. It seemed more comfortable when S was positioned at a 30 degree angle. But now, this pillow is an indispensable tool for me, especially when multi-tasking!

2. Lanolin for nipples - when your nipples are so sore and cracked that even the slightest touch can send you screaming, nipple creams will seem like a godsend. However, you can't just put any cream onto your nipples. It has to be 100% pure, medical-grade lanolin. Medela PureLan and Lansinoh are good brands.

3. Breast pads - nothing screams "Breastfeeding Mom" more than two wet rings on your shirt. Insert breast pads in your bra to soak up leaks. Just like diapers, there are reusable and disposable ones. I use reusable breast pads while at home and disposable ones when going out. Disposable breast pads absorb more, making it useful when you have to express a bit to relieve engorgement. Leaking lessens with time though, so there's no need to buy tons of disposable pads.

4. Breast pump - so useful, I have a whole post about it.

5. Breastmilk containers/storage bags- for storing expressed breastmilk.

6. Nursing bras - have drop-down cups for convenient feeding.

7. Nursing blouses - allow you to discreetly breastfeed in public.

8. Support from family and friends - although not a "thing", probably the most helpful of all. Their encouragement (or lack thereof) can make a huge difference.

Breastfeeding in Public

2008-07-19T15:03:00.009+08:00

My first encounter with a woman breastfeeding in public was in Disneyland in Florida. I was 12 years old. I liked to look at babies, so when I saw a woman holding a baby, I was transfixed. Then the woman casually opened her blouse and started nursing the baby. She saw me looking at her, and she smiled. Embarrassed, I quickly looked away. I thought, wasn't she ashamed to reveal her breasts in public?! (Although with the baby covering her, you really couldn't see much.) Little did I know that years later, I would be doing the same thing. (And embarrassing somebody else!)

Whenever I go out with S, I usually nurse him in the car, on the way to our destination and on the way back home. I usually bring a bottle or two of expressed breastmilk, so that I wouldn't have to find a secluded spot to nurse him when we're out in public.

One day, I forgot to bring milk. (Another advantage of breastfeeding -- whereas a formula-feeding mom would panic if she left her baby's milk at home, a breastfeeding mom has milk wherever she goes!) So when S got hungry, I had no choice but to nurse him in public. We were in a mall, eating at a packed McDonald's. Good thing I was wearing a breastfeeding blouse, with secret openings for nursing (which I always wear whenever we go out, just in case). I proceeded to nurse S right then and there, and nobody even noticed!

Since then, I have nursed S in fitting rooms, the ladies' room (a clean one with a huge couch), the doctor's clinic, a ladies' locker room in a country club, several restaurants (one where a waiter realized what I was doing and was terribly embarrassed), and a special breastfeeding room in a mall (SM malls are now making a huge effort to accommodate breastfeeding moms).

During all those times I nursed in public, nobody really noticed (except for the waiter). But I wonder what other people's reaction would be if they did. While I was nursing S in the breastfeeding room in the mall, I watched as other shoppers passed by. (I could see them, but they couldn't see me). Outside the room, there was a poster of a woman breastfeeding, with text explaining that breastmilk is best for babies. I noticed that some of the passers-by would point to the poster and start laughing. To this day I have no idea what they found so funny. Was it the image of the woman with the top of her breasts exposed? Come on. Movie stars show more cleavage than that. Was it the idea of feeding a baby with your breasts? Maybe. Breasts have been so over-sexualized that people forget that's what they're for.

Starting Solids

2008-07-18T11:18:00.010+08:00

I wasn't too excited when S turned 6 months. Passing the 6th-month mark meant starting solid foods. And I wasn't too happy with that. I had been content with just breastfeeding. Other moms might see the introduction of solid foods as freedom -- they can now cut back on nursing -- but I saw it as an intrusion. I had settled into the simple routine of breastfeeding, and solid foods seemed to complicate that. Before, I could just lift my shirt up, unclasp my nursing bra (if I were even wearing one), and food was ready. Now, I have to mash, grind, puree, boil, bake or steam.

I suppose I could easily feed S with commercial baby foods. But I don't like the idea of not knowing exactly what is in the jar. For instance, the label might say, "rice and chicken", but how much chicken is exactly in there? And how can I be sure that there are no preservatives, additives or fillers? Plus I don't want to have to be concerned if there are news of tainted products and of product recalls. Home-cooking baby food was the way to go.

So I skipped the rice cereals and gave S mashed pumpkin softened with breastmilk as his first solid meal. He loved it. Since then, he has been eating solids twice a day. Aside from pumpkin he's so far had carrots, chayote, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, avocado, papaya, persimmon, chicken, brown rice, and even a taste of ampalaya (bitter gourd). I waited 5-7 days before introducing new foods, to detect allergies easier (none detected so far). I introduced the vegetables first, because if I started with fruits he might get used to sweet tastes and refuse to eat veggies.

Preparing baby food wasn't as hard as I thought. I could make it in batches and freeze the excess. It can keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. If kept in the refrigerator, I fed it to S within 48 hours.

Initially, I was worried that with the introduction of solids, my milk supply would decrease since S would be nursing less. But so far, I haven't noticed any changes. I think this is probably due to the fact that I still don't give S any water. This may sound strange, but his pediatrician advised me not to give him anything to drink (aside from soup) with meals, because that will dilute the digestive acids in his stomach. (But I suppose that makes sense, maybe that's why the Chinese and Japanese drink soup and tea with their meals, and the Europeans drink wine, not water.) I would have to wait 30 minutes after his meals before I can give him any liquids. So I might as well breastfeed him, the foremilk is like water anyway.

My problem now is how to keep grandparents from sneaking him sweets.