wooo

Just when i thought i was through with cloth diapers/covers, i saw these... WOW! What pretty colours!

Hmm...i was just looking at Noah's Mummy blog (under 'Tried & Tested'), and i saw this link to maternity/nursing clothes. I havent bought "real maternity clothes" other than a few under the Topshop Maternity range. I just made do with my bigger/free-sized clothes, or by buying bigger sizes when i cannot resist shopping. Actually, this (local) website's stuff dont come cheap either...but i have to say that the nursing tops are really ingenious! Design/style-wise...err i might not wear them after i stop nursing and/or get rid of the extra pounds (namely the fat butt). So maybe i shouldnt waste any money on nursing tops - esp at a "crucial time" like this when we've spent sooo much $ already on all the baby prep stuff. ;p

Actually, i also think that i might not breastfeed in public too. When in Shanghai, travelling is usually by taxi, and since our house is conveniently located in town, i think it's ok to just pop home whenever "the need" arise! I'll probably just settle the leakage with breast pads! Haha! I also cannot imagine pumping milk in the filthy & smelly toilets! I think it's difficult to find nursing rooms in Shanghai - even in nice nice departmental stores/malls. For this reason, i've also given up the idea of buying this really good thermal bag that works like a fridge! (For mummies who pump breastmilk outdoors, click on it). Hmm...at the most, we'll just go out for a while. ;)

I hope our new life with baby will be fun & colourful - like a rainbow! Must try to visualize harder.

P.S. O ya, i'll tag Noah's Mummy's wonderful Singapore Nursing Rooms List here. Her blog is sooo informative that i always forget "what is where". Just realised that Noah has a camo bean sprout pillow too...and i'm glad to read that IT WORKS! Haha!

the disposables

On the same topic again... Elvis & i decided to just stick to disposable diapers since we both know nuts about cloth diapers. He read my blog, but he also didnt know it was so "advanced" that some of the text has links! Eg. > click here. So he was even more blur than me after reading. Haha... ;p

Then again, even buying disposable diapers is in itself a "big knowledge". I did a search and found a poll results (click).

His colleagues told him that Huggies is good, but i'm not sure if those sold in China are the same as in Singapore, so maybe we'll have to try out a few brands before deciding which one suits our little one's bottom more. With minimal nappy rash too. If anyone has any brand/style recommendations, do let us know.

Okay, 1 problem down. Dont need to order the cloth diapers online (and headache about the colours/style/size). Just need to buy 1 pack from the supermarket. Haha... ;)

shit!

Now that the baby's arrival draws nearer, i sometimes wonder how prepared are we (and/or am i) about looking after the baby - esp in the first weeks. Something that has been bugging me is diapering. Most people would suggest CLOTH Diapering - to ease the baby of nappy rash. Sounds like what a responsible mother would do...but I just cannot imagine washing the cloth diapers...n imagine the yucky stuff that STICKS on it! YUCKS! YUCKS! YUCKS!...and YUCKS!

Months ago (when I was still in Shanghai, and my mind wasnt even tuned to being a 'Mother' yet - least think about diapers), my sister gave me this website that sells my-current-nightmare cloth diapers. I wasnt interested in them (of course), so i didnt really bother to look into it other than the nice colours they carry (esp not about the "advantages" of cloth diapering). Frankly, i didnt know the difference. I only know Pampers = can throw = dont need to wash = convenience (but still yucks!).


Now that i only have a few months left to decide on the options, i kinda freaked out at the thought. Hmm... I took a look at them today, and realised that these "modern cloth diapers" not only come in attractive colours and designs, they are supposed to be comfortable, easy to wash, and save money too! In fact, there's as many as 10 Great Reasons (note: not just 'Good' okay). Somewhere on the website, it even says one can save up to S$1500/year on disposable diapers by using cloth diapers!!! WOW!!! But i really wouldnt know if it's true coz i dont know how much shit & urine a baby has.

Anyway, i browsed through some of the pages, and am pretty attracted to some of the coloured diapers. BUT the prices certainly dont come cheap too!!! It's S$25 EACH DIAPER!!! And just how many pieces is enough to hold all of the baby's shit & urine for the day/week/month/months??? Still need to consider about the diapers being in the wash, right??? What about sizing??? Too big...the shit will LEAK OUT!!! Too small...it wont fit, and waste $ already lor.

Ok, keep my cool... They have 5 Special Packages (i love discounts)... but the cheapest is still a whooping S$156 (after an 8% discount)!!! That's only for 4 diapers + 10 inserts. WAH!!! Still need to buy the "extras" eg. nappy liners at $5.50/box of 50. How many boxes then enough huh???

Being a kiasu Singaporean, i like to see/follow what's popular...and their best-seller (Package B) is S$229 for 6 diapers + 15 inserts (a mere 10% discount for an additional TWO diapers!!!). I really dont know how to do the maths...
(And FYI, the the most expensive Package E is S$527 a 15% discount for 15 diapers + 35 inserts! That's out of the question paying sooo much for diapers!!!)

So can really save $$$$ or not???
I think i'm going crazy soon thinking about all this shit!
Dont tell me the crap about being a responsible mother now!

Elvis, HELP!
Your maths is better & since u are paying for them too!
Can u decide what baby is going to use? Disposable diaper OR cloth diaper?

boy-to-man

Yday, i went to Holland Village with 2 friends and we saw a few shops selling "discounted" US kids labels such as Carters/Child of Mine, Pumpkin Patch, Gymboree, babyGap etc.

There's sooo many nice clothes for baby girls! Almost 90% of the shop are girls' stuff! I'm so envious! If u have a girl, u'll be spoilt for choice...only need to worry about not enough $ to buy. Kekee... ;p

I bought this cute Pumpkin Patch brown camo hooded jacket (tagged 6-12 months). Baby can wear it during autumn/winter in Shanghai and look as cute as Daddy. I guess the price is at least doubled in US. I paid only S$25 for it (the tag is intact too). Good deal? ;)


P.S. There was another with the same camo print with text 'ROCK STAR'. I liked it more, but stocks are for 3-6 months babies only. And Singapore's so hot huh...how to act cool?? Kekee...

this got to be the best

My nephew Xan introduced me to this yummylicious thing!
Ben & Jerry's New York Super Fudge Chunk

If u luuurrrvvveee chocolate as much as us (make it a double or triple chocolate), u'll know what we're feeling when it melts in the mouth! Of course must chew this also lah. HURRY! Must try!

mom's a fast food junkie

I've been eating quite a bit of fast food - partly coz it's convenient. McDonalds Filet-O-Fish, Double-Cheese burger, McNuggets, fries, chocolate sundae; KFC Meltz, chicken (has to be Original), Cheese Fries (so sinful)...and the must-have cola.

I wonder if baby will love all these food next time. Sure are my fav - anytime! ;p

Just happen to get this link via email too:
Calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index) here

sun with moon?

Realised that i didnt take much photos (of myself) when pregnant - i mean when i really got huge. The last was in August at Bintan at 19 weeks when baby was only 300grams. So i brought my camera out yday on my date with Janis, Josefyne & Celine.

We went to Sun with Moon Japanese Restaurant at Central ©. It was an alfresco lunch (facing the "new" Clarke Quay) so it was quite lovely sitting there on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

We were out till after dinner at Lai Lai Beef Noodles followed by desserts at Ah Chew Desserts, but we only took these 2 shots!

Should have taken pictures of all the yummy food too. Haha... Pretend we were tourists. ;p

P.S. My big-&-round-as-a-ball tummy is not in the camera's view.

minimalist hotel

I spoke to Elvis this morning, and he was complaining about the lousy hotel he's in. He said it's very very bare - only a bed, TV and the smallest table one can imagine with a telephone on it. Haha! NO couch, table etc. Made me wonder if it's as "basic" as the Japan hotels we stayed in.

He said the most ridiculous part is, it's US$300/night and the staff knows nothing! I am thinking either he's too pampered with nice hotels on all business trips or this one really sucks. I believe it's a bit more of the former. Kekee... ;p

But when i called his hotel, they also didnt ask me for the guest's name (before connecting to his room). Hmm... Anyway, hope his work will go smoothly, and there's time for play too! And... i'll see him in 2 weeks! ;)

UPDATED ON 16 Oct:
I just did a search on the hotel coz I was once again "pissed" by the operator's nonchalant attitude... Hmm...only found some exterior pix of the hotel - which looks very modern (nice!). But none of the rooms(??). Elvis said if they showed the rooms, no one will stay there at all! There's not even a cupboard to hang his shirts! He bought some fruits and no place to put them at all! No place to sit also! He has to eat them on the bed! Haha! That's BAD!
And the rates are from US$349-399. Gosh!

papa in NY

Elvis just called me! He's finally reached his hotel in NY - after 7 hours stuck in transit at Chicago airport. He didnt sleep on board (despite Business Class seats??) so he's got to rest now. O ya, it's 3AM over there.

I'm missing him so much already. Nite Nite!

kiss me not

I was just told of today's news that "Over the last three months, more than 20 million toys made in China have been recalled, mostly due to the use of lead paint... "

TWENTY MILLION!
TOYS!
MADE IN CHINA!

Elvis & i will probably freak out since we'll live in Shanghai - at least for the next few years - during baby's early years.

Hmmm...but then again, even upmarket brands in the US dont necessarily meet the protocol (for having lead in lipsticks!!!). And who would have thought of that?? I guess as Singaporeans, we feel "safer" with stuffs made locally. That's why i bought the baby teether etc yesterday coz it's from a reputable locally-made brand. Now, i'm beginning to worry about the cot we'll have to buy eventually from Shanghai! Hmm...safe or not??? BUT we already have lots of baby stuffs to lug back leh... Sure overweight big time. Elvis said not to worry coz he have SQ "priority status". But still need to worry about loading all the stuffs onto the small taxi boot...and unloading too. Headache man... ={

Kiasu & Paranoid Mom. ;p

bazaar sale

I just came back from the Metro Expo Sale. The hall was quite big, and i didnt really get to see everything (partly coz i had to rush home). Anyway, when i took out all the stuff from the HUGE plastic bag, i realised that almost everything is NOT mine!

I bought some tops for my sis and some baby items - fleece blanket, washcloths, teether, rattle (i couldnt resist another one esp when it's so cheap), 3 rompers, a 7-day bib set (babies need as many as possible, right???). I spent more than $100, and out of it, only a $5 bedroom slipper is mine! Haha! This is really rare for Shopping Queen. But the truth is, i kinda could skip the clothing section coz it wouldnt fit me anyway, and i didnt need any shoes for now.

I was very tempted to get a $15 bathtub (the type with a "rest" for the baby's body) and a $6 TweetyBird potty, but my friend said it was too early for that! Heehee...so much for Ganjiong Mummy. ;p

P.S. Anyone who's interested to pop down to the sale, it's ON till 14 Oct, 10pm. The Lingerie section is really huge (an awful lot of bras!!!) . So is the Children clothes/shoes section. Most of the Ladies clothes are outdated, so u can probably give that a miss - unless you wanna get "home clothes" like singlet & shorts etc, they are really cheap. Home section very extensive - some really nice white square/rectangle porcelain plates, lots of bedlinen & towels.
Might be worth a trip!

i'm so fat and warm

The weather in Singapore lately has been terrible! It's extremely HOT HOT HOT! In fact, it's been unbearable since 2 weeks ago.

To make things worse, sitting all day at home in front of the computer makes my fat butt and thighs perspire like crazy! I keep wondering if everyone else is feeling as warm as me...or am i really that FAT...or my tummy is too huge it's weighing on my thighs (no space to breathe)??? When i'm outdoors, i can feel my perspiration roll down my back!

I'm going nuts soon in this heat! ={

P.S. Elvis said the weather in Shanghai has started to turn cold. A light jacket is needed. Wish i was there with him.

the city that never sleeps

Tomorrow Elvis will be flying off to New York. It'll be for 2 looong weeks... But the good thing is, he'll be back in SIN after NY - even if it's only for 2-3 days. After which, we'll have to wait till we see each other again when baby arrives in Dec. :_(

With the 12-hour time difference, it might be difficult to talk to him. We decided i'll most likely catch him before his bedtime/my noon.

Hope he gets some time off work to see the sights too - Times Square, St Patrick's Cathedral, Central Park, Statue of Liberty, Metropolitian Museum of Art, Brooklyn Bridge... and/or do some shopping. Heehee... My mind is already wandering of to the sweet-smelling Victoria's Secret bath range, B&BW, Coach bags... ;p

ELVIS ♥ SHOPPING.
ELVIS will ♥ NY.

third and final trimester

Yippie! Didnt think i could tahan this far! This week is my third and final trimester! FINALLY! But but but still counting...arrgh...

Despite my built, baby's weight has been going up steadily from mere grams to the 1-kilo mark last week! My doctor says it'll be ideal if he's about 2.8/2.9kg at birth. As for me, i've almost reached what the doctor estimated for me (weight gain at end of term~10kg). Only 2kg allowance. Heehee... And it's likely that most women gain more than 5kg at the third trimester.

Oops...that means BUSTED! Coz baby's going to put on another 2kg too! ;p There goes my chance of squeezing into my almost-new grey skinny jeans that i bought just before i was pregnant! It's been lying inside the wardrobe forever!

Just how big can one's butt get!!??
Very big.


How your baby's growing:
By this week, your baby weighs a little over 2 pounds and measures almost 15 inches from the top of his head to his heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in his brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

Me:
- terrible heartburn esp at night
- feel slightly nausea (yucks! it's coming back)
- big and swollen feet
- baby moving all over inside my stomach, sometimes it can be really ticklish
- missing Elvis again
Baby♥Papa♥Mama♥Baby♥Papa♥Mama♥Baby♥Papa♥Mama

the stroller ++

During Elvis' 1-week back in Singapore, we had so much to do - (my last) holiday in Bangkok, the many medical appointments, looking at strollers after strollers...and finally deciding on THE ONE.

In fact, we were about to buy an Aprica when this Combi stroller caught our eyes! Seems like the functions not bad too (as if we knew what it all meant).


COMBI BU-720
- EG alpha can protect baby's bead by absorbing and dispersing impact evenly
- New cushion, dacco seat, can support baby's head, back and hip in a better position without obstructing the movement of baby's hands and feet.
- Height only 89 cm after folding as ultra compact design
- Air through system: canopy with mesh window, 3D mesh seat, moisture free and rapid dry polyester materials
- Egg Shock for ultra shock absorption
* that's what all the eggs above are about
- 170 degree full reclining angle
- Reversible handle
- Extra wide seat space (36 cm) for baby
- Front auto swivel wheel lock
- Large conopy with top window for 95% UV cut
- Impact absorbable structure by design of frame and soft suspension
- 5-point belt buckle and ultra-safe seat belt
- Detachable front guard with washable guard cover
- Equipped with shoulder strap and big basket
* this is not true coz the basket is NOT big at all
Angle adjustment: 125-170 degree
Main body: 5.1 kg (full weight equipped 5.6 kg)
Size Opened: W495 x D740~830 x H1000 mm
Size Folded: W390 x D340~350 x H890 mm
Applicable age: 1 - 24 months

What I like about this stroller is the large canopy. I guess it will feel shiok to be shielded from the sun esp when baby sleeps in the stroller. And the reversible handle which will make new ganjiong parents like us feel safe looking at the baby 24/7. Also, since the pollution in Shanghai is terrible, baby might be better "going against the wind" and/or the cold winter winds. And of course, i think Daddy looks very handsome and still stylish with the stroller! Dont u think so too?? Heehee ;)

Mummy also got saiko into buying this highchair cum swing for baby. So Papa has to spend more money. Sorry, Elvis. But my friend recommended it, saying that it's good blah blah blah...


Noah's lovely parents also recommended Elvis to get a baby sling, so i placed an order for it today! Cant wait for it to arrive! Papa Elvis chose this fabric so that he looks good with it! Yeah! ;)

dating baby

We went out on a date with baby again.

Daddy always buys baby yummy food.
Today, it's brownie & icecream!

Mummy has put on 8kg, and baby has reached 1kg at 27 weeks.
Photos taken on 6 Oct, Bali Lane.

yeah

We're at T2 now! Elvis is checking his email for some work stuff... So here am i typing nonsense before we take off at 1040hrs! Hehe... Will upload pictures when we're back from Bangkok! Bye! ;)

DAY 1
Realised that it's really been a looong time since i came to Bangkok - even the airport is new! Keke... So suaku. ;p

Novotel Bangkok On Siam Square that we're staying in is the "most grand" hotel i've stayed in (in Bangkok). Usually, my friends and i will choose the very cheap S$50/night AsiaHotel. Haha... This is very modern and the location is excellent - literally on Siam Square! The toiletries look damn cool too! I even took a photo of it (which i will upload next time).

After we checked-in, Elvis had to get internet connected in the room (for work as usual) - which is also why i can write on my blog during this trip. Anyway after he was done, we went to change our S$ to THB. Then Elvis called his friend who happened to be in the office, so we headed to Elvis' ex-co JWT Bangkok. He met many others there too - including an "aunty" who claims to be his ex-girlfriend! Haha! ;p

Then it's SHOPPING TIME! Elvis bought a really nice jacket, shirt and jeans (all ex)...and some toys. He felt "guity" spending so much $. Haha! I didnt find anything i like and worth buying - partly coz i didnt fit them lah. ;p

For dinner, we went to Elvis' favourite seafood place at Chinatown/Yauwarat. It's NOT the usual shop most Singaporeans go to...it's a few units behind the "popular one". We had black pepper crab, BBQ prawns, "lala", veg and tomyam-gong. Yummy! Tomorrow, we're going Siam Square! Yeah! Hope i can find some nice stuffs. Good night! ;)

DAY 2
breakfast-lunch-teabreak

Discovered an interesting bookshop B2S in the "new" wing of World Trade Centre (Central World Plaza), and we bought some really cool iron-ons - even 1 for baby too. Heehee...we can wear family-lovers tshirts next time! Haha! So corny! Had late lunch at another of Elvis' favourite eating places at Sukhumvit Soi 20 - very local, very yummy homecooked chinese food. Then we shopped around in Siam Square and the "new" Siam Paragon. Hmm...somehow the shops dont seem so interesting anymore... Walked until our legs damn ache man, so we decided to go for a foot massage. It was my first time trying....err was ok...not as painful as i had imagined. The effect didnt last too long coz my feet started to ache again shortly.

Then we went back to the hotel and rested until we went for late dinner at Zen Japanese Restaurant. Elvis ordered a huge plate of sashimi which i couldnt eat (and he couldnt finish! Haha! Serve him right!). Hmm...somehow the food also wasnt very nice anymore. We decided to head to Suan Lum Night Market to take a look. After walking for a while (managed to get some of the local tidbits eg gaosai/translated to "dog shit"), we headed back to the hotel...and again, Elvis had to work.

Tomorrow will be our last (half) day here. Not sure where else we should go... Leg very tired also... ;p

DAY 3
We woke up late for the hotel's breakfast again. We went to the "new" Siam Paragon and found a nice place for brunch instead. Vanilla Brasserie. Presentation very good, food very small portion. Had our 2nd crepe dessert - chocolate orange icecream! Very yummy & sooo satisfying - for me at least coz Elvis is a strawberry-anything fan. ;) After that, we just shopped around till it was time to go back to collect our bags and head for the airport.

Hmm...although this is the 1st time i go to Bangkok & end up buying only a few items (Elvis spent the bulk of the THB, and sign credit somemore! Haha!), i'm just so glad to be there...to see all the "not-so-new" malls!

We'll be back again
- with baby in tow! ;)

tick tock

Yeah! Elvis is going to touch-down at Changi Airport in about an hour! Yday, he suggested that we go for another short holiday before the baby arrives (he always give me "surprises" like this, and i need to rush to check the price/book etc). We decided on Bangkok from Mon-Wed since my gynae appointment is on Thurs (not forgetting the many baby errands we have to run within the week he's back).

I was so efficient! Booked the flight and hotel last night! Even though we're giving Chatuchap a miss this time coz of the rush...and i'm probably too fat+clumpsy+hot, i'm still very excited about the trip!

Today, i had to rush down to the gynae to get my approval letter coz it's Sat/half-day. Hai...

Hmm...and this trip i cannot buy clothes, bras, shoes...coz of my L-size! So can only eat & eat...to XL. ;p

UPDATED:
And the customs/check-in counters (both ways) didnt even ask how many months pregnant I was!!!??? Damn it! There goes all my trouble & cabfares in rushing to get the gynae's letter!

all aboard!

I didnt believe this when i saw the pictures from my friend's email! But true enough, there's indeed a Hello Kitty aircraft!

OMG! More for princesses!

Check it out! I love the downloads! ;)
http://evakitty.evaair.com/index.htm

in all the kingdom

So many people call their daughters Princess.
It sounds sooo sweet, sooo cute, sooo lovely...

What about the boys? Prince?
That just sounds so weird! ;p

How does this sound to you:
Our little prince has arrived
to spread magic and cheer.
To keep smiles on our faces
throughout the years.

HAHA! Corny!

CREDIT: Text and pictures













Click here for your FREE baby arrival announcement!

gulp...are u ready for this?

The dad difference: Labor and delivery (this is for u, Elvis)
Part 1:
http://www.babycenter.com/2_the-dad-difference-labor-and-delivery-part-1_1487036.bc
Part 2:
http://www.babycenter.com/2_the-dad-difference-labor-and-delivery-part-1_1487036.bc

The stages of labor:
http://www.babycenter.com/2_the-stages-of-labor_1287352.bc

An inside look at labor:
http://www.babycenter.com/2_an-inside-look-at-labor_1287325.bc

Watch an epidural procedure:
http://www.babycenter.com/2_watch-an-epidural-procedure_1287345.bc

Making the c-section decision:
http://www.babycenter.com/2_making-the-c-section-decision_1320925.bc

How c-sections are performed (illustrated guide):
http://www.babycenter.com/2_how-c-sections-are-performed-illustrated-guide_1287363.bc

And the VERY intense version NOT for the faint-hearted:
How c-sections are performed (a LIVE surgery):
http://www.babycenter.com/2_how-c-sections-are-performed-a-live-surgery_1286554.bc

Baby, mama's scared! Are u?
GULP!

baby's comfort object

1 of the item from the shopping list for baby is a 'comfort object'. Hmm...is this really necessary?? I checked with my sister's friend who just gave birth not too long ago, and she said it's good to buy one.

Almost immediately, i thought of the Bean Sprout Pillow (although i dont think i had one). The bean sprout husks inside the pillow are actually "shell" (kernel) from bean sprouts that we can buy from the market. When newborn babies/infant are shocked or frightened, they will feel a lack of security and will keep crying, easily agitated, difficult to handle and maybe a sleepless night. This pillow will serve to calm them.


I found a website that sells them. There's many designs to choose from, and this is what Elvis & i decided on! ;)
Papa & Mama ♥ our little one!

I guess u can make your own too (or get grandma to do it), but imagine all that work - just too tedious! More info on the making of the pillow can be found on the website - from the filtering to drying to sorting and filling. And imagine all the "dao gei" (bean sprouts) one has to eat! Must be a big plate at every meal! Keke... ;p

shop shop

Today i received more parcels in the mail - things i had bought online for the baby. It's always fun to unwrap them. Heehee... ;p

We even bought a pair of baby pink soft leather shoes with cherry design for baby's soon-to-be-born cousin! It's so pretty...and i'm so jealous! ;p

On the contrary to what my sis said (that it's too much), we divided the clothes into the "various months" eg. 0-3, 3-6, 6-9... to prove that it's not the case! Haha! The Result: It seems most fall under the section of 3-6 months. I think it's reasonable since that's probably the time we start to bring baby out more often anyway. 0-3 months would be wearing "ugly home clothes", and above 6 months, we'll be back in Shanghai where summer is really really HOT! Then, it'll be time to buy warm clothings for autumn/winter. But baby clothes in Shanghai might not be cheaper than in Singapore coz imported stuff costs more. Things in departmental stores can also be expensive - even for local Chinese brands. Heng, there's H&M baby stuff - sure cute and affordable! Haha! =)

I also went to Suntec today coz the Mothercare outlet is closing down. Storewide 20% & apparels less 50% (for those who wanna go, hurry down before 30 Sep). I had wanted to get a stroller if the price is right. BUT, the range at the store is quite miserable, so i decided to wait till Elvis comes back next week. Instead, i bought the Avent iQ 24 Electronic Steam Sterilizer at 20% off - that's a savings of $40! Seems like a good buy since we can sterilize bottles etc even until the baby is on formula milk. We also went to the Marina Square outlet to check out the full range of strollers, and again, Peg Perego is preferred over Maclaren range of strollers. Surprisingly, they both weigh about the same although Peg Perego looks a lot bulkier. After that, we went to see the Combi strollers at Kiddy Palace...hmm...still doesnt look good enough... Feeling confused again...

Anyway, cant wait till Elvis is back and we "settle" all the rest of the baby stuff together. He's going to Beijing tomorrow for 4 days, and Singapore will be his next stop! Yeah! =)

job description: parent

POSITION :
Mum, Mummy, Mama, Ma
Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :
Long term, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an often chaotic environment. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities. Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES :
The rest of your life. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5. Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf. Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers. Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects. Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks. Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next. Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices. Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :
None. Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :
None required unfortunately. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :
Get this! You pay them! Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that university will help them become financially independent. When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS :
While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.

super dad

Well, i wasnt exactly complaining yday...just feeling a little stressed up...

Elvis is a great husband and i'm sure he'll be a GREAT DADDY!

When we were in Shanghai, he accompanied me to every gynae's appointment. He was more eager than me, in fact, about seeing the baby. As each visit to the gynae is pretty expensive, i even asked him if we should just do the ultrasound scan every now & then (coz i understand that not all my friends in Spore do scanning every month). But he said that he dont mind paying to see if baby's doing fine. His theory: Just buy 1 less clothing will do! Haha! ;p

We had initially planned on giving birth to the baby in Shanghai (and could end up paying up to 3 times the price in Spore). Then upon discussing and trusting more on Singapore's HIGH medical standards, we decided for me to stay on till the October Golden Week holiday (by then i'll be in my 26/27th week of pregnancy), and then fly back to Singapore till i give birth. BUT becoz of all the flying around that Elvis has to do for his work this year, we changed our plans again. So, here i've been since July (15/16th week)! Yes, i'm alone without Elvis around...but at least with family and friends. And i can eat whatever Singaporean food i want. Shanghai has them too, but maybe it feels slightly less authentic...my fav Hokkien Mee, Fried KueyTiao, Carrot Cake, Meesiam, Chee Kuey, Dao Suan...

The Pros:
- I've found a gynae which i think is pretty good and attentive. And he's a Professor too!
- I've been going to church.
- I've been meeting up with friends regularly.
- I've been eating yummy chocolate sundaes (the "milk taste" in Shanghai is not that strong).
- I've had bubble teas WITHOUT milk (Shanghai only have the ones with milk).
- I've been shopping at my favourite Topshop! Heehee... ;D

The Cons:
- Elvis has to fly back every month, and in-between/en-route his work schedule.
- $$$$ spent on airfares (totally crazy if u fly anywhere out of China).
- Need to plan his annual leave very carefully (esp since they only have like 10 days/year due to the 3 Golden Weeks/holidays)

And the medical costs in Shanghai:
- Each gynae visit : minimum S$200 excluding supplements, tests etc. (We've spent S$1500 so far from May07 - July07!!!)
- Estimated total cost of gynae appointments till full term : S$5000
- Package price from 16wks till full term : S$3000 (a savings of S$2000)
- Detailed 4D scanning : S$300
- Estimated Doctor's fees : S$2000
- Estimated Hospital fees : S$X

VS costs in Singapore:
- 1st gynae appointment : S$120
- Subsequent visits under Package from 16wks till full term : S$600 (amazingly affordable!!!)
- Detailed 4D scanning : S$200
- Doctor's fees : S$1000-2000
- Estimated Hospital fees : S$1200-4000
* Still can off-set with Medisave claim

Putting costs aside, I also think that the machines which are used here are better than the ones our gynae uses in Shanghai. When i heard the baby's heartbeat for the 1st time! I was like "WAH!"...and still can zoom in/zoom out! I guessed i looked like a country pumpkin! Haha! ;p

anything but good

I've been feeling a little moody this week. Firstly, I've never felt so fat in all my life... Soon, i might not even be able to see my toes! ;p

The (hot) weather is also making me so lazy to go out - even to buy my lunch. Wet armpits! Arrgh... I've turned down SMS from 2 friends to meetup this week. Somehow, my feet seems to swell (edema) more these few days too. My Birkenstocks are getting tight...sometimes it hurts when i walk...so i dont feel like walking. =(

The thought of the baby arriving in just a few months is also stressing me out (a little)... Hmm...but it sure gave me a good excuse to shop more for him. I've been buying so much clothes online this week since i'm at the computer all day (even my sis is complaining)! But there's sooo many nice things, and at good prices too! Some even cheaper than in retail shops! How to stop looking?? I'm beginning to think that there's too many "going out" clothes (from 0-to-3-to-6-to-9 months), and none for "everyday home use". Hmm...do babies need cooling or warm clothes at home?? How many sets/change of clothes do they need each day?? Where do i buy them from - esp the cheap cheap ones since it's only to be worn at home?? Dont need so nice, right?? I'm really clueless.

Elvis said "baby told him" that he doesnt wanna wear hand-me-downs. Hmm... YEAH, RIGHT! So, i've asked 1 of his good friend's mom to help us buy those they bought for their baby girl. I read from their blog that it was really cheap and good - $13 for a dozen! Great, save money! Yeah, at least that's 1 more thing down. Gimme a five!

Actually, a friend offered to give me the hand-me-downs she's received, coz she's got sooo much that she can give some away. WOW! I bought my nephews nice clothes when they were young (which i would like my baby to wear), but my sis had given them all away. And i suppose Elvis' sister still have those from her son...passed on to her brother's son...passed back to her 2nd son...and soon to be passed on to her brother's soon-to-be-born daughter...and then maybe our baby in Dec (when their baby daughter outgrows them). Hmm...that would make it 4th hand...or 5th...??

The only thing i'm looking forward to is when Elvis comes back to Singapore next week (probably from 29 Sep-7 Oct), we can buy ALL the other necessities - the ultimate STROLLER (coz my head is exploding already)...and what else do we need?? Anyone can give me a shopping list??

He'll also be able to accompany me to the gynae maybe twice (coz he's coming back for a few days in end-Oct before going to a friends' wedding in Bali). I've arranged to view the delivery suite at Gleneagles too. And maybe sign up the 'Help with Breastfeeding Programme'. Will give the 'Antenatal Programme' a miss since i'll be alone (while others have their husbands with them).

Sometimes, i feel i'm like a single mom. The thought that i'll have to manage the baby for the first few months stresses me out more than anything. And i've never even carried a baby before!!! But i'm sure things will get better once we're in Shanghai to join Papa Elvis (who is busy earning money for us). Then we can wear all the nice nice "gai gai" (going out) clothes.

Cheer up, Jo! It'll be over soon! =)
Yea, 102 days...that's 3.4 months...

P.S. Just found this shopping list. Quite good! I'll tag it here: http://www.baybsupplies.net/shoplist.htm
and this too on choosing the right breastpump for u:
http://www.askdrsears.com/html/2/T025300.asp

i want i want

Yes, gimme that sundae!!! Extra hot fudge!

our 25 weeks baby

Looking at the camera again


I've put on 7kg
Baby: 700 grams, length 20cm

lantern festival

Here's a picture of me (2nd from the front) playing lantern with my sisters and neighbours during Mid Autumn Festival. We just kept walking to and fro along the corridoor, but it seemed like so much fun back then. ;)

playpen

Yday, i decided to buy a playpen instead of a cot. I was thinking that it'll be too much of a chore buying a baby cot here, only to dismantle it a few months later to bring to Shanghai, and then fix it up again. So, we might as well buy a cot when we're in Shanghai. Since i had my eyes set on 1 from BabyCraft a few weeks ago, i decided to go buy it. My sisters helped me lug it back. It was only a 5-mins walk home, but i regretted it coz it looked damn heavy as they carried it. Hai...we should have drove there instead. =(

It's in a very practical colour - dark blue - but what i liked about it is that part of it has cartoon rockets on it. (The other design is with brownish checks which i thought looks too boring.) The playpen comes with a bassinet, converting it into a baby cot! Hmm...very practical for short-term use. It also has a board which can rest on the top of the playpen, so that's like the "changing station". And it even comes with a FREE foam mattress! (But i will buy a thicker foam mattress next time when i setup the playpen.) Everything collapses or folds away to a rather manageable (though heavy) box, so it's just the right size to bring back to Shanghai!

Haha...so there we have it... baby cot + changing station + playpen (to use when baby is older)! Mama need to learn to think 'practical, practical' when it comes to shopping for the baby now... ;p

O! The best part is, it's only S$109 (usual price S$199)! Haha...

very confused mummy

I realised that more and more of my conversations with friends revolve around my baby (natural/cesarean birth), baby products (clothes, cot, pram, stroller, playpen, milk bottles, sterilizer...and the list really can go on), 1st month confinement, and yes, breast-feeding (manual pump, electric pump, breast pads, nipple cream)...

Maybe coz we're kinda "late" in being parents, people around me seem to have lots of advice on parenting, nursing etc etc... What i'm most puzzled about is breast-feeding esp when the pumps dont come cheap (probably ranges from $100+/- up to $600). Firstly, with so many breast pumps in the market - styles and brands - how would i know which is the "best" (or is there)??? What about its efficiency, ease of use, portability, pricing/cost-effectiveness, the design???

Another headache is which stroller/pram to buy. I think it's important to make the right decision since we'll be using it for a few years. Style & function are equally important. Prices can also range from the (reasonable) $200 up to $1000 (which i think is totally ridiculous). Any wrong decision (coz it's not sturdy, too heavy etc etc), and you'll end up having to waste $ getting another. My sis & i went to look at some, but those that caught our eyes costs a whooping $799! I've never seen this brand before, so when i looked it up the website, i found that it costs much cheaper (well, comparatively) in the USA.
http://www.albeebaby.com/pegperego.html

I think from all the advise given on baby products, it probably boils down to individual preference. Also, EVERYTHING will be more reasonable only IF u plan on having more than 1 kid.

But even after all is said about what kind of baby products to use, i'm just as confused as ever! And there's also the "what-if" factor:
- What if i give up breast-feeding after 1/3/6 months?
- What if the baby doesnt like to sleep in the cot?
- What if the stroller/pram is not up to expectation...not sturdy enough, too heavy, too light?
- What if the baby outgrows the clothes we buy for him now?
- What if we always stay home, and dont need any "gai gai" (going-out) clothes?
- What if...
- What if...
- What if...

I know i'll feel "guilty" wasting all that money on those stupid hi-tech looking machines and products, nice but perhaps unworn clothes (coz it's too big, too small, too thick, too thin)...

Maybe having a baby equals pouring money down the drain...for a loooong time... Papa Elvis!!!

the needy seat

Back to the same topic... I met up with my friends yday for dinner. When i boarded the train home at City Hall, i was thinking that since it's sooo crowded (i.e. no chance of sitting even though one is pregnant/old/handicapped), i might as well stand in between the cabins and read my magazine.

Then people dont need to:
1) pretend to fall asleep,
2) look down on the floor (admire their shoes),
3) have others sitting afar staring at them (perhaps thinking why arent they offering their seat),
4) or have their eyes wandering around everything except me...
Haha! Let's call it 'To save everyone of the embarrassment' (coz even the pregnant one will feel embarrassed).

So there i stood for a good 20 mins...until someone sitting at 1 (of the 2) "needy people seats" alighted... I took a step forward...but another lady was faster than me! Haha! The Musical Chairs! As i moved a step back, a guy who sat beside her offered to give up his seat for me! WOW! I said a 'Thanks!' and sat down. After that, i felt my face and ears turned red... Gosh, i actually BLUSHED when someone did the "right thing"! OMG!

P.S. I remember inside the Tokyo trains, there's cabin corner seats "reserved" for the elderly or needy. There's about 2 rows of 4/5 seats. Usually, people would stand even if these seats were empty - perhaps in case someone "needy" boards the train! Maybe Singapore's "needy seats" just look too similar to regular seats. Hmm...

SMRT need make their PRIORITY SEATS really obvious!

pests

Yday night, i went to watch Ratatouille with my friends. It was funny! A must-watch! But what i wanna write about is not about the movie, but the train ride home. Hmm... somehow, Singaporeans always fall asleep instantly when they see a pregnant woman board the MRT!

My tummy is so huge and round (like a rat's figure) that one sure wont wonder if i'm pregnant or just fat!!!?? (That's what my nephew Xan said when i told him no one has offered seats for me before.) But sure cant miss my 34-inch tummy on my petite limps mah... Actually, i'm not exactly hoping for a seat too lah, just wish people were more considerate and the men were more gentlemanly. Wait till their wives get pregnant next time! Kekeke... ;p

cool!

supposed to be the glitter text 'baby Joel' (but there was an error somehow)
A bit of lian, and a bit of cool! Keke...

the spree has begun!

Since i started buying those bermudas for baby a week ago, it's been getting kinda addictive!!! Haha! Everywhere i go, i'll tend to look at (some) baby stuff. O NO!!! NOW, even Papa Elvis said he bought cute tshirts for our little one from babyGap. Elvis Junior is such a lucky baby! Very much loved indeed! ;D

meet squooshy

This is Squooshy! He's a bear i bought for Elvis when he was living alone in Bangkok - made of super soft fabric and filled with millions of micro foam beads. (It's like Mogu products) Since i got pregnant and it became so uncomfortable to sleep with this (huge) tummy, i bought extra pillows and a bodypillow, but it still wasnt easy to find the right sleeping position.

But since i took over Squooshy one month ago, I found Squooshy to be PERFECT for sleeping! It literally conforms to the shape of my tummy, and curves...and even gives my baby a big bear hug! Haha! ;)

seasons change

A few days ago, i met up with a friend who's currently going through a divorce. And because they were married barely 2 years, they filed for annulment of the marriage instead - which would be better for her anyway. The collapse of the marriage was an ugly one right from the start - with the guy showing his true selfish, stingy, petty small-minded nature (even though he is from an extremely rich family background). Even the bling bling jewels which they bought for her for the wedding (probably to show off their wealth) were asked to be returned - including the wedding band and engagement ring. I would think that IF they were merely 'boyfriend-girlfriend', perhaps it's only right to return them. But since they were lawfully 'Married', it's ok for her to keep them. After all, those are not his family heirloom.

Although there wasnt any 3rd party involved, all these left me thinking of how Man's feelings can change so suddenly - and drastically.

Only God's love for us never change and never fails.
Thank you, Lord.

7000 miles

Elvis is about 7000 miles apart from us and with a 7-hr time difference in London, it's quite difficult to catch him at the "right time". I've been wanting to call him at the hotel (his bedtime) so that the IDD/mobile bills are less expensive, but that means i'll have to wake up before the sun rises.

Anyway, we've managed to talk during our day, and i was really glad to know that Elvis had time to enjoy London during this working trip. (During his previous trip to Beijing for 1 month, he didnt even get to do any sightseeing!) Over the weekends, they went to see the sights - Notting Hill, Big Ben, London Eye, flea markets and even watched The Police concert, and football match LIVE between London & Israel! He must have seen London in all its magnificence. He said that he should have brought me along for this trip, but i think i'll be too fat and clumpsy to roam around the streets. Heehee... Anyway, it'll also burn a hole in his pocket for me to fly from Singapore, and to bear with the 12-hr flight alone. Elvis loves the "British atmosphere", and said that he wants to bring baby & i there next time. I felt sooo touched and loved.
(I'm reminded once again of the wonderful time we had in Paris last year - that even the AIR feels different!)

The last time i went to London was 15 years ago, so to refresh my memory, i did a search to get a feel of what he's feeling at the moment...
http://www.urban75.org/photos/london/thumbs.html
http://www.photograph-london.com/
http://www.thehill.co.uk/photos.htm
http://www.earthcam.com/search/ft_search.php?s1=1&term=London%2C+UNITED%20KINGDOM&x=0&y=0

Thank God for such a ♥ loving, ♥ loveable and ♥ lovely husband and papa.

Baby, we've found the right sugar daddy who's sooo sweet...and he's missing us every minute - except when he's busy with work. But it's for yummy food, nice clothes and holidays, okay. Hahaha... Yippie! ;D

baby's first clothes

Yday, mama went for a detailed scan at NUH's Antenatal Diagnostic Centre. I had thought that it'll be a 3D (or rather 4D) scan, but turned out that's not done between 22-24 weeks, so it's just the "normal scan" plus detailed scanning of the organs etc.

Here's another picture of baby at 23 weeks - not very different from my usual scan pictures, but it's good to see baby again. ;)

After that, i met up with Janis & Gwen (with her 2 kids in tow) at IMM for lunch. We saw a FOX kids fair at the atrium, and Janis kept asking me to buy the baby boys clothes coz they were cute (though not half as cute as the girls'). I thought it was silly of me to buy so them so early, but she assured me it was OK.

Heehee... So, shopaholic mama ended up with these bermudas for baby (all blue, no baby-licious pink??) ...and some things for herself too! Oops... ;p


Papa Elvis is going to London today. It's a 12-hr flight from Shanghai. I've asked him not to buy anything for mama since i'm so fat now. Shop for baby & himself will do. =)

P.S. Hmm...I need to find some nice & cute baby tees to match the cool bermudas!

guilty mama

Yday i was out with some friends, and i lost control again. I bought more clothes! Almost everyone was late, so Becky & i splurged!

In fact, just on Friday, i reached Orchard a bit earlier (and my friend was late too), so i just walked around look-see-look-see & bought a dress - which i can wear from now until my fullterm. That is a really GOOD reason to buy it besides the fact that it was ON SALE! I was also very tempted to buy another dress which i could probably wear for the next 1-2 months, but decided to think about it coz it was kinda expensive - and not on sale. Now, i should stop thinking of it. God, please help to get that lovely white shift dress outta my mind!

I need to think more of BABY BABY BABY - the expensive bottle sterilizer, breast pump, baby cot, playpen, milk bottles, more milk bottles, baby clothes, more baby clothes, diapers, and yes, that LV diaper bag!

"Elvis! Baby & mummy needs a diaper bag! Do u read this?"

our 22 weeks baby

Went to see the gynae again, baby has grown so much! Almost double of what he weighed 3 weeks ago! Wow! Maybe it's time i eat less - chocolates, bubble tea, chocolate sundae & ice-cream. ;p

I think he has big eyes like Elvis' too...and a sharp nose. Heehee...

Gosh, i've put on 6.5kg...and baby is only 500grams of it!

I'll be going for my detailed scanning later this week, will update the pictures.