Little Angel

Please visit Shu-Yin's Sanctuary: http://tanshuyin.blogspot.com/

2009-04-24T13:02:00.004+08:00

This blog is being merged into Shu-Yin's Sanctuary: http://tanshuyin.blogspot.com/ for future updates!

My Pregnancy & Baby Care Bibles

2009-04-22T13:14:00.008+08:00

These are the 2 books I can't live without.

What To Expect WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING and What To Expect THE FIRST YEARS

1. What To Expect WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING - 4th Edition by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel - RM55.90 from Borders

- Although this book is an American book, it is still very useful.
- It is like having a personal gynae answering all your stupid questions mingling with your mind.
- A very organized book with easy-to-read format.

2. What To Expect THE FIRST YEARS by Heidi Murkoff, Arlene Eisenberg & Sandee Hathaway - RM44.00 from MPH

- Also have the same organized with easy-to-read format.
- Up-to-Date information on baby care, in-depth coverage on various issues such as health checks, vaccines, allergies, etc.

These are the only 2 books I bought (besides some magazines). It is nice to be able to flip through this and I always learn something new.

These 2 books not only help me understand more, but it also gives down-to-earth and practical advice and also give me confidence on what I am doing is right!

Pregnancy Update on the mother-to-be..ME!

2009-04-18T23:36:00.005+08:00

Belly
Small for 32 weeks, or so I've been told. However, my gynae said my baby is bigger by a week. So ahhh....baby is big, mummy is small.

Appetite
My appetite is good. I eat very frequently nowadays. I take breakfast, elevenses, lunch, tea, dinner and supper. But all in small portions.

Cravings
I dont have any (darlin, u better thank your lucky stars!) except for my normal Chocolate cravings which I have since I know how to munch when I was 2 years old!
I still love Kit Kats, Hersheys, Ferrero Rocher, Nutella, M&Ms....

Clothes
I don't have many to choose from. I only bought a low-hip long jeans and a 3/4 slacks as bottoms, and 2 tops and a dress from ModernMum. Other than that, I live on borrowed clothes from my family...mostly from my mum ;)

Skin
My complexion is OK. No large amount of pimples or acne breakouts YET (touch wood!). But I have those uneven skin tone pigmentation on some parts of my body...namely neck, breasts, and belly.

General Wellbeing
I feel tired more frequently. Night time sleep is often interrupted by having to go pee - more than 3 times every night.

Although people commented that my belly is small, it is still way bigger than it used to be. So it is rather difficult to find a good position to sleep. Lying on my back is a definite no-no. It makes me cannot breathe. I need to lie on my side with my body pillow in between my legs.

Mood
I feel happy almost all the time knowing the Little Angel is growing healthily inside my womb. I even feel happy when he kicks me hard! Many people comment that I have that 'glowy' look on my face, is it true? :D

Hubby
He is such a dear so far. He accompanies me to every pregnancy checkup and also attended all 3 ante-natal classes. He refuses to let me climb up the stepladder to retrieve things and always help me to carry all the heavy stuff.

He even created a profile in his hp called 'VIP' which only I can call in and not others. This is really important as usually he used to switch his hp to Silent mode when he is with his clients. So now with this VIP mode, I get to reach him in case of emergency.

In short, I don't know what I'll do without him! :)

Baby 'R' Us is On Sale!!!

2009-04-18T21:23:00.008+08:00

Baby 'R' Us is On Sale! So I flipped through the catalogue and thanks to my friend, I managed to get below items for Little Angel.

The First Years: Close and Secure Sleeper
MYR ~~169.90~~ save RM40 > RM129.90

The First Years: Sure Comfort Newborn-to-Toddler Tub
MYR ~~119.90~~ save RM40 > RM79.90

Nowadays I got all-hyped at viewing infant/baby stuff online - looking at those branded and quality baby stuff online.
Brands like Medela, MAM, Nuk, Lamaze, Fisher-Price, The First Years, Safety First, Bumble Bee suddenly sounds so familiar to me.

Tell me about all these brands 6 months ago and I will look at you with my blur face - absolute would have no idea what you are talking about!
Now I can sit down happily and talk about all these stuff for hours...tee hee!

32 weeks

2009-04-17T12:44:00.006+08:00

Went to the gynae yesterday. Little Angel is now 2.1kg. Want to know roughly how big is he now?
Well, he is about the size of a large turnip and he is taking up a lot of space in my uterus.

He now has toenails, fingernails and I can even see his hairs sprouting out on top of his head in the ultrasound image Dr. Eric showed me.

I am also experiencing lower-back pain nowadays...especially so when I retire to bed every night. The whole day of activities finally unwinds and leave me kind of breathless and tired at night. Even so when I spend the whole day shopping with my mum. Hehe.

Anyway, Dr. Eric asked me to walk more. So no harm doing more shopping, right?

Photo taken from: Baby Center

Wish List - Gifts

2009-04-16T23:44:00.010+08:00

I know I asked for Angpows. If you all give me angpows, below are the items I would buy.....

The First Years: Infant Car Seat Cappucino (with Base)

MYR ~~699.00~~ 499.00

The First Years: Magna Light Stoller Cappucino
MYR ~~699.00~~ 399.00
(these 2 items can be converted into Magna Light Travel System)

Kiddopotamus: Cradler Adjustable Head Support
MYR ~~69.00~~ 62.10

Munchkin: Voice Activated Crib Light
MYR ~~99.90~~ 89.91

Bumbo Baby Sitter
MYR ~~199.90~~ RM139.90

Pigeon Rapid Steam Sterilizer

Medela: Pump & Save Breastmilk Bags, box of 20
MYR ~~69.00~~ 62.10

Medela: Breastmilk Storage Bottles (3 pcs Polypropylene Storage Bottles)
MYR 69.00

So many things I want and so little money I have. Arigato in advance.

31 weeks Pregnant Lady with Swollen Feet & Fingers

2009-04-15T14:49:00.003+08:00

Now I have swollen feet and swollen fingers. Should be water retention (read about them from books and also from friends).

I know I need to drink more water.
I know I need to lift my legs up above my heart everytime I sit / sleep.
I know I must not stand for too long at one time.

My poor 'meeku' feet

My 'arthritis' fingers. I can't wear my wedding band now...so sad!

My HUGE bump. And to think so many people come and tell me that my belly is small...omg!
Look at my huge bump!

Off to Penang Dental

2009-04-14T22:41:00.002+08:00

I am always discipline to go for my 6-monthly dental checkup. This time around, the visit is short - only 15 minutes as Dr. Khoo Joo Ean said my teeth are well-maintained (except for the area where food tends to be lodged in between my wisdom teeth).

I showed Dr. Khoo a small lump on my lips where I bit on it about a few weeks ago. She said it is a lump caused by a clogged salivary gland. It is pretty harmless actually but if it does bother me, I can have it removed. An incision needs to be done and a few hundred ringgit needed to be spent! Sigh...

This 15 minutes dental session costs me RM60.

Pregnancy Ultrasound at 20 weeks, 24 weeks & 30 weeks

2009-04-03T14:35:00.004+08:00

I just realized that I did not post my visits to the gynae at week 20 and 24. And in a blink of an eye, I am now 30 weeks++ pregnant dee.

Let us see the milestones that Little Angel has gone through at that stage:

Little Angel @ 20 weeks @ 5th month

Little Angel's had been busy. At 20 weeks, his testicles have begun their descent from the abdomen. In a few months, they'll drop into the scrotum (which was still under construction at that time)

Little Angel @ 24 weeks @ 6th month

By 24 weeks, his face is almost fully formed - complete with a full set of eyeleashes and eyebrows and a good sprinkling of hair on his head.
Actually, little angel's head is still snow white in colour, since there is no pigment in that hair just yet at 24 weeks.

Little Angel @ 30 weeks @ 7th month

Little Angel is getting bigger by the day - also getting bigger is his brain, which is preparing for life outside the womb, and for a lifetime of learning.

This is where I am now..into my 30th week of pregnancy.
However, at the last scan which was 2 weeks ago, Dr. Eric said my Little Angel is growing on par with my pregnancy calendar except for his head which is 4 weeks bigger!

But rest assured, Dr. Eric said this is normal as sometimes the head grows faster than the body. At the next few scans, the body may continue to grow while the head growing may slows down. We won't know 'til the very end of the pregnancy.

But if the head is indeed bigger, then I may have a harder time pushing Little Angel out!!! *ooohhhhh......pray hard*

Fluid Retention

2009-04-02T15:44:00.005+08:00

For the past few days, my hands are in pain.
OK, not so much pain until I shout 'ouch' but then I can feel the ache at the joints of my fingers for both my hands.

I emailed Dr. Eric Soh and he replied me saying I am having fluid retention over the small joints of your fingers.

According to Dr. Eric, this is supposed to be quite common and unfortunately it gets worse as pregnancy progresses. But the good news is, tt will resolve spontaneously after delivery.

Dr. Eric suggests gentle constant massage over your fingers will alleviate the pain and discomfort. Soaking in warm water may also help if pain is bad.

Now I feel like a pregnant lady having arthritis!

30 weeks pregnant lady

2009-04-02T01:15:00.002+08:00

Look at me. My belly is getting bigger and bigger.

Front view

Side view

Swaddle Blanket

2009-03-29T23:15:00.001+08:00

Mum bought a swaddle blanket for Little Angel today. It was priced at RM39.90 but with a 20% discount, mum grabbed it.

A swaddle blanket helps with breastfeeding as it keeps little arms and hands tucked away. It also helps to relieve colic and calm twitches.

I've seen friends using lampin to wrap baby but baby grows big too fast and very soon the lampin will be too small for wrapping.

Thanks mum!

1st Antenatal Class

2009-03-23T00:21:00.004+08:00

Peter & I both signed up for the Island Hospital Antenatal Class. The classes will be conducted on Saturdays from 2.30 PM to 5.00 PM starting from last Saturday.

We went there with an open mind. I was feeling kind of excited to see what was in store for us.

We were greeted upon reaching the training/conference room and was told to register. Expecting mothers were given a goodybag each. Peter & I then went into the conference room and there was already a video showing on the projector on 'how to give your baby a massage'. The video is for those who came early so that they have something to watch and not sit there and do nothing.

The whole thing was very well organized. The programme for the session was also being displayed on the board....stating down the speakers and all their various topics.

I was especially interested in the 'Pain Relief in Labour' and 'Nutrition for Two'. I asked many questions on these 2 topics. Some of the questions I asked:

'Pain Relief in Labour'
- What are the side effects of epidural?
- Can we still feel the sensation to push if we opt for epidural?
- What are the charges?

'Nutrition for Two'
- Is liver a real no-no?
- What to avoid eating when we are breastfeeding? Is herbal tonic, ginger and sesame oil really OK?

They also showed us a few video clips on the labour and delivery process. They also showed the episiotomy procedure (a surgical incision through the perineum made to enlarge the vagina and assist childbirth). It is especially good for Peter who has no idea what it is like (because he doesn't read as many pregnancy and baby books as me!).

Breaktime is the highlight for Peter. They prepared lots of good and nutritional snacks. They have cheeese sandwiches, sardine sandwiches, a variety of fruits, fried mee, chicken, muffins, yakult and chilled milo. I drank 3 yakults!

I am looking forward to next week's 2nd session!

27 weeks old

2009-03-13T12:54:00.002+08:00

Interesting foetal factoid: My little angel has more taste buds than he will have at birth (and beyond). Which means that not only is my little angel able to taste the differencde in the amniotic fluid when I eat different food, he might even react to it.

My pregnany book tells me that some babies might even respond to spicy food by hiccupping. Or some by kicking.

But this mummy likes and eats spicy food quite regularly (but not too spicy ones). And I feel that little angel is kicking me all the time...so no difference! ;P

Vaginal Birth via Epidural or Ala Naturale

2009-03-10T17:21:00.003+08:00

I'm definitely going to try for vaginal birth if everything goes smoothly and if doc give me the green light. However, I still have the option to choose whether do I want painkillers to assist me during labour and delivery.

Well, of course if I can bear it throughout, I would definitely want to bear the pain and go all natural. The question is the big IF. IF I can bear it.

If I reject the epidural initially and when the pain gets unbearable, it will be too late to take the epidural jab by then because it needs time for the epidural to take effect. And if worse comes worse, I somehow have too much pain and have no more energy to push, caesarian would then by the next process...which is something I want to avoid!

On another note, although I read in all pregnancy books that epidural are relatively safe (of coz with some risks), but I heard friends who tell me that they have some side effects. I wonder if it is true.

My mum of course is all pro for me to go ala-naturale all the way. She even discourage me to take any form of painkillers. She says so with a point. She went through 3 successful deliveries via ala naturale.

But I do not want her to make me do something I am not comfortable with. I want to be able to have the options to choose what makes me feel the most comfortable.

My only Little Black Dress

2009-02-28T11:05:00.007+08:00

Peter & I attended the Public Mutual Branch Annual Awards Nite 2009 @ EQ yesterday night. I managed to find a Little Black Dress (courtesy of my beloved mum!) for the occasion!

It is difficult to attend such functions these days with my growing belly. It seems like every other part of me if not growing yet except for my belly and this ain't easy to fit into clothes.

Anyway, for future such functions, may it be annual dinner, weddings or parties....this is the dress I am going to wear.....because this is the only Little Black Dress I have!

Wish List - Ang Pows

2009-02-25T12:23:00.003+08:00

Friends and relatives have been asking me what I would like as a gift to my little angel. Well, it is a little intimidating and scary to put up my wish list for all to see because everything I want is so expensive!

From infant car seat to stroller to electric breast pump....everything is in terms of hundreds ringgit each.

So actually, I don't expect any of you to buy me any of the expensive items. So I am actually asking for Ang Pows aka MONEY! I will then just pool in all the money and then buy them myself.

So people out there, please start saving now. I still have ~100 days to go until my EDD!
Arigato :D

21 weeks & 23 weeks pregnant lady

2009-02-19T22:57:00.007+08:00

Here are some pictures of the sexy and beautiful me at pregnancy week 21 & 23. :P

21 weeks pregnant - a dress bought from Nichii

21 weeks pregnant - pants and a maternity top bought on sale from ModernMum

23 weeks pregnant - someone (whom I cant recall) gave me this dress.

My belly is definitely bigger now right? I'm happy to announce that I now weigh 49.7kg...almost 50kg now...wow!!!

Hand Made Baby Comforter

2009-02-14T16:12:00.007+08:00

Look what my little angel got for as her Valentine gift from Aunty June.....a hand-made Baby Comforter...filled with hand sewn cartoon dinasour, giraffe, teddy bear, froggy, etc.

I am so touched to see the effort she put into it. "...It's for your baby..." she said the moment she showed it to me. I was so surprised.

Aunty June is actually my collegemate Sue Mei's mum. We've been to her place from time to time to visit her just to keep in touch and not to mention that Peter is also their financial consultant ;)

Look at her delicate work...amazing!

Thank you very much Aunty June!

22 weeks old

2009-02-05T15:52:00.002+08:00

My little angel is developing his senses - touch, sight, hearing and taste. He may now even grab onto the umbilical cord (there is nothing else for him to grab in there, right?) and practise the strong grip that will soon be clutching my fingers!

Do you know that our little angel can perceive light and dark? Even with fused eyelids and even though it is dark in the uterine cocoon. My pregnancy bible tells me that if I shine a flashlight over my belly, I may be able to feel little angel squirrming away from the 'bright' light!
I haven't tried it yet though....

Little angel can also now hear his daddy and mummy's voice, my regular heartbeat, the whoosh-whoosh of my blood circulating my body, those gastric gurgles, and even the dog barking, loud TV (Peter's Iron Man and Ben10 cartoon noises), etc. He can now basically hear what I am hearing.
So now is time to play the Mozart!

What's In A Baby's Name?

2009-02-04T23:03:00.003+08:00

Many people have many reasons and preferences when it comes to naming their babies. Some followed the family generation name. Some named their babies after someone they admire. Etc.

For us, we don't have any family generation name to follow (phew!), which means I can name my little angel anything we like....let me rephrase....'anything I like' (Peter leaves this all to me!).

I haven't decided on a name yet (I change my mind every month) but one thing for sure is that little angel will not be having a christian name. I know! I know! Everyone has a christian name, right? It makes it easier to remember, right?

Well, I have nothing against christian names. I have even thought of a few names I like too. But then I feel that once a person has a christian name, his or her chinese name are often being neglected. No one seems to call you by your chinese name anymore.

I am someone very traditional. I like being a chinese and having a chinese name. So maybe I will just choose a 'modern' chinese name for my little angel! :D

Vaginal Candidiasis

2009-02-04T01:19:00.006+08:00

I was experiencing vaginal itch for a few days last week and was feeling very bothered by it. It is annoying to always need to 'scratch' below and thus makes the area kind of sore.

In the end, I emailed Dr. Eric and he replied saying that I may be having a recurrence of Vaginal Candidiasis. I went to see him on 29th Jan and he gave me some medication and I am feeling itch-free again now!

Isn't it cool to have a gynae who replies your emails? Do all gynaes in Penang reply emails?

*Candidiasis, also known as a "yeast infection" or VVC, is a common fungal infection that occurs when there is overgrowth of the fungus called Candida. Candida is always present in the body in small amounts. However, when an imbalance occurs, such as when the normal acidity of the vagina changes or when hormonal balance changes, Candida can multiply. When that happens, symptoms of candidiasis appear. (Source: excerpt from Genital Candidiasis: DBMD)*

20 weeks pregnant lady

2009-01-24T01:00:00.006+08:00

I am now in my 20 weeks pregnancy. As I mentioned in my previous post 20 days ago...I feel that my belly is growing exponentially. It is getting bigger every day. Yes, I mean it...EVERY DAY!

Many of you have seen me just a week ago or so, but you will be surprised by how big my belly is now.
So please savour the moment and scroll down to see the sexy and beautiful 20 weeks pregnant lady! :D

side view - what a huge bump!

front view: you can even see the bump now from the front view

full length: I've still got a teeny weeny waist...phew!

New Maternity Clothes

2009-01-16T23:06:00.002+08:00

After Soo Huey called to cancel our lunch appointment, I went shopping at Gurney with mum and ah yee. Ended up shopping for nearly 5 hours and I think more than 6 toilet visits :P

Highlight of the day - New Maternity Clothing for me.
I am so glad I went shopping for maternity clothes with my mum. She is not those old-fashion type. (in fact my ex-colleagues always comment that my mum is more 'YEH' than me!). Mum is modern yet decent...which is what I like!

Bought a few staples - basic beige pants and blue jeans. And also 2 tops. And 2 dresses.
I know maternity clothing are expensive...but didnt expected it to be SO expensive. I mean if there are no discounts, just a simple top costs more than rm100. And this is just top only.

Mum is so nice to 'sponsor' me a few hundred ringgit. Even after the 'sponsor', I still spent quite a lot (way more than what I would spend for clothes). Peter said he nearly pengsan when I told him how much $ i swiped with his card. Hehe. Birthday present mah...so he cannot complain, right?

I Felt His Kicks and Punches

2009-01-15T22:11:00.003+08:00

Today is another day of 'first' - I felt our little angel doing some kicks and punches inside my belly!

Actually, Dr. Eric did asked me whether I felt the baby move during my most recent gynae visit. I said 'No' as I felt nothing and even thought it is much too early to feel anything. I was like thinking that I may only feel it when I am 6-7 mths pregnant.

But then when I felt little angel doing somersaults in my belly, I felt so, so, so good. My sis, Shu-Min happened to be in our house and I let her feel it too. And of course little angel's daddy also felt him showing off his acrobatic skills.

It is such a contented feeling - such a miracle to feel our creation moving inside me. I think no one will ever know how I feel like.

Happy and amazed and contented.

Maternity Clothes

2009-01-10T15:59:00.003+08:00

I think I am in dire need of maternity clothes. Ok...not in dire needs...but in need definitely. I had been following some of the pregnancy blogs (of people I don't know) and some of their entries are really educational. I learn a lot from these blogs...and I am learning still.

Before now, I made up my mind to spend very little on maternity clothes. I mean, imagine spending a few hundred ringgit on each of the clothes which you can only wear for a few months. And then you start packing them away. What a waste of money, right?

So i set my mind to wear my usual clothes until they don't fit anymore. And then just buy some cheap baggy clothes that will do.

But after reading one of the blogger's post, now I have a totally different opinion when it comes to purchasing of maternity.

That blogger is now pregnant with her 3rd child. She was having the same thoughts as me during her 1st and 2nd pregnancy. She wore her usual clothes until they didn't fit. And you know what happened? She ruined all her usual clothes (because they stretched and went all loose in the tummy area) and all the cheap clothes also stretched and didn't last. All in all, she had a feel-bad pregnancy when it comes to fashion!

I think I learnt a lot from her. I am going to buy some basics and everyday staples...those in classic styles and basic colours. I want to feel-good during my pregnancy. Furthermore, I am going to have more than 1 kid, right? So I can still save them for my 2nd pregnancy! :D

I am going to ask for maternity clothes from darlin' as my birthday present! :)

It's Getting Bigger & Bigger!

2009-01-06T23:10:00.003+08:00

Golly! Suddenly I feel my belly is getting so much bigger. How can that be?
I mean it was just yesterday when I felt that my belly is growing too slow and today I find my belly so much bigger than I remembered!

I feel that my belly is so 'tegang'...if you know what I mean. I feel like my belly is going to burst anytime!

Belly getting bigger?

2009-01-05T14:19:00.004+08:00

The hourly maid that came to my house fornightly exclaimed this afternoon that my belly is getting bigger. Is that so? I can't seem to realize that my belly is getting bigger. It still seems a 'lil too small for an 18 weeks pregnant lady. I guess by looking at myself everyday, the changes will not be obvious.

Darlin' Peter too could not really see any difference in my belly. He kept on joking that our little angel would rather 'stay' inside daddy's 'bungalow' than mummy's 'apartment'! Hehe

Lower Abdomen Pain

2009-01-03T22:51:00.003+08:00

I am having cramp-like pain in my lower abdomen. I read somewhere that it may be caused by the stretching of ligaments that support the uterus. It says experience mild cramps, while others experience achiness or a pulling sensation. It may lasts for several hours, or even several days.

17 weeks old

2008-12-29T18:59:00.004+08:00

My little angel is about palm-size now, with a crown (or top) of the head to the rump (or bottom) length of about 5 inches.

This week, little angel is all about practice, practice & practice in preparation for birth. One important skill my little angel is practising is sucking and swallowing - to get ready for that first suckle at my breast.

Minor yeast infection / 16 weeks 5 days old

2008-12-24T17:51:00.007+08:00

My checkup appointment was not due yet until 2 weeks later but I had some itchiness in my vagina area and thus wanted to seek out treatment before it got really bad.
And sure enough, Dr. Eric said there is a minor yeast infection. He said it is nothing serious and a tablet will clear it.

Little angel is now 16 weeks and 5 days old according to his size during the ultrasound. Dr. Eric saw his willy again. I couldn't see it as my eyes were not trained to read the ultrasound screen and when Dr. Eric tried to point it out to me and darlin', little angel got shy again and crossed his legs.

My blood test results are out and everything is normal which I am happy. :D

Island Hospital Maternity Package

2008-12-12T18:34:00.004+08:00

Took a few brochures from Island Hospital during our last checkup. We wanted to plan our budget and thus looked at some of the maternity packages available.

The rates above does not include all the extras...not even forceps nor episiotomy. Everything else will be considered additional charges.

I would say it is rather expensive if we were to choose single room accomodation. We are not sure if husband are permitted to stay overnight if we choose 2-bedded room.

We plan to ask for a tour of the maternity ward sometime soon and we will then decide.

It's a BOY! - 14 weeks 3 days old

2008-12-10T17:32:00.003+08:00

Dr. Eric showed us little angel's willy today. He spread his legs apart and we could see it clearly and it looks huge to me. ;0)
Then when I asked to see it for the 2nd time, little angel turned shy and crossed his legs and refused to show us anymore.

Mum said it is pretty early to know the gender as little angel is only 14 weeks 3 days old. But I guess it is easier to detect a little boy compared to a little girl as boys have willies.

Peter is so happy. He said he is gonna pass down all his cartoon DVDs (transformers, masked rider, iron man, pokemon, etc) to his son.
Dad should be happy too to have a grandson to accompany him to play pingpong many years later :D

Dr. Eric also scheduled me for a bloodtest for antenatal screening (he already instructed me to go fasting during the last checkup). The nurse at the lab is very good. Usually my blood veins are very slim and it is difficult to find it, but he did it after awhile (not long in fact!). Great job!

12 weeks old

2008-11-25T17:09:00.001+08:00

Little angel has more than doubled in size during the past 3 weeks and measuring (crown to rump) about 2 1/2 inches.

Little angel's digestive system is beginning to practice contraction movements (so that little angel will be able to eat) and the bone marrow is making white blood cells (so that little angel can fight off those bad germs).

Miraculously, the pituitary gland at the base of the brain has started producing hormones (little angel will one day be able to make babies of his or her own!). WOW!!!!

Lumut 20-22 Nov 08

2008-11-23T15:43:00.002+08:00

Dad wanted to clear his leaves and so he booked an apartment in Swiss-Court Holiday Apartment in Damai Laut, Lumut.

It was a relaxing holiday with family. Surprisingly, my nausea was better the 3 days I was there. Maybe is because of the fresh air there or maybe because I felt so relaxed there.

Whatever it is, I am glad my mum persuaded me to go there in the end!

Hating my Supplements

2008-11-13T15:31:00.001+08:00

Dr. Eric gave me 3 types of supplement capsules.

1st of all is the huge gigantic Calcium pill called Calcium Plus Bio-Enhanced by Abbott. My god, it is so big that if I accidentally swallowed it horizontally, I could actually feel the movement of the pill slowly in my throat all the way to my stomach. It's a nasty feeling.

Next is the Fish Oil capsule called NeuroGainPB. It is supposed to come packed with concentrated fish oil with all the good nutrients such as DHA, EPA, AA, OA, etc.

Lastly is the smelly capsule called Sangobian Capsule by Merck. It is supposed to be consists of folic acid, iron, etc. This pill makes me slightly constipated and causes me to have black stool. And when i burp, the smell of this capsule is yucky!!!

I am supposed to continue with all these capsules throughout my pregnancy...sigh!!!

10 weeks 1 day old

2008-11-11T14:49:00.003+08:00

Time to visit Dr. Eric again. This time the ultrasound shows that Little Angel is 10 weeks. Dr. Eric now uses the normal ultrasound where the mouse-like thingy is placed on my belly (no more vaginal probe).

I always feel at ease after my gynae visit. Don't know why. Maybe it's because of the reassurance I get after having a chance to peek into Little Angel's world.

After all, my stomach is still so small and I can't feel that I am pregnant at all. Oh ya. I lost another kg. From 47kg, i now only weigh 44kg.

However, Dr. Eric says this is normal as I have nausea. He advised me not to eat things that are too sour (laksa, pineapple, tomyam) for the 1st trimester and also no bak kut teh and other herbs food for the meanwhile.

9 weeks - Foetus

2008-11-04T19:06:00.002+08:00

My little angel has by now officially graduated from embryo to foetus. This week, tiny muscles are starting to form which allows little angel to move his/her arms and legs.

Anniversary Langkawi 23-27 Oct 2008

2008-10-28T14:33:00.000+08:00

We had this 1st anniversary Langkawi getaway planned very early on, even before my pregnancy. A little bit regret because nausea started kicking just a day before our flight.

We booked 2 different resorts this time.
1) Casa Del Mar (CDM)
2) Tanjung Rhu Resort (TRR)

We chose Casa Del Mar after reading about the good reviews in tripadvisor.com. Casa Del Mar means 'home by the sea' in Spanish. However, it turned out to be a big disappointment for us. There were renovation works going on near the poolside. Although they upgraded us to a Junior Suite, the renovation was just directly below us. When we asked for a change of rooms, they said the resort was full. So we were stucked there with all the knocking and banging sounds.
However, I would say that CDM did their best and they even whisked willing guests to a nearby island by boat for their sun-tanning session. I was not so enthusiast by it because I hate boats - they make me seasick.

We returned to Tanjung Rhu Resort after 2 nights stay at CDM. As expected, TRR was fabulous like last time. This time, we spent more time lazing around the pool eating ice-creams and fruit juices. Win Win and John even came to take anniversary photos for us. Luckily my belly is not showing yet! :D

All in all, I came back from Langkawi feeling refreshed and energized to face my oncoming pregnancy!

Change Gynae to Dr. Eric Soh / 7 weeks 2 days old

2008-10-21T14:07:00.005+08:00

One of Peter's doctor friend recommended gynae Dr. Eric Soh to me. She said he is very gentle and patient and competent. As I have no comparison at all (as I only went to Dr. Nicholas Loh), I decided to give Dr. Eric Soh a try on my 2nd gynae visit.

Made an appointment and was one of the first few patients in line. The moment I see Dr. Eric, I felt so comfortable. He asked me many questions and was so thorough with me. (I like it! I like it!).
He asked for my health report, family health history, etc etc etc. He took his time talking to me and he didnt give me the feeling that he was busy and can't wait to say TATA to me.

Oh ya...because the pregnancy is still early, he did a vaginal ultrasound (endovaginal) for me. He 'probed' something which looks like a big pen inside me and - hey voila! I can see Little Angel - just a tiny dot with a loud and strong heartbeat. ' Lub dup lub dub'.
Dr. Eric said my ultrasound shows Little Angel is 7 weeks 2 days old.

I mentioned my breast lump to him and he said there should be no worries to leave it after my pregnancy - unless it grow really big and is troubling me.

I felt so on top of the world and feel so happy after this gynae visit that I'm sure Dr. Eric Soh is gonna be my gynae from now onwards.

Dental Visit

2008-10-14T13:42:00.003+08:00

Went to visit my favourite dentist Dr. Khoo Joo Ean @ Penang Dental. My 6-monthly checkup is already due. I figured out that I might as well have good dental health when I'm pregnant. I should not neglect my teeth!

Dr. Khoo commented that my gums are more sensitive with more bleeding while she did the normal cleaning.

I guess my whole body is changing and preparing for my little angel! :D

1st visit to the gynae / 5 weeks old

2008-10-06T16:49:00.002+08:00

We decided to go to Dr. Nicholas Loh from Loh Guan Lye Specialist Centre. A few of my friends recommended him after I told them I want a gynae who is not only competent but also friendly.
Dr. Nicholas turns out alright.

Dr. Nicholas say I am roughly around 5 weeks pregnant. My baby is about 5mm. the size of an orange seed.
He did an ultrasound on me and I saw a tiny black dot growing inside me. That is supposed to be my little angel!
I looked the the screen in awe...admiring the miracle of God. This tiny black dot is going to be our baby! Wow...

I got a BIG FAT POSITIVE confirmation today!

2008-10-03T16:32:00.001+08:00

Dr. Sally Ong from Koe Clinic confirmed my pregnancy. I was tested again with the pregnancy test kit and this time, it is not a faint line anymore but a very clear positive sign!

So am i happy? YES, I AM! YES, WE ARE! Somehow I am no more so worried about the lumps in my breasts. Maybe because the ultrasound report shows that they are benign lumps. Or maybe because I've gotten used to the fact that my breasts indeed have lumps. Guess I've learned to accept the fact.

So now I am grinning happily when Dr.Sally Ong said that I am very much pregnant! She even said that my hormone levels are high. Usually the hCG level is only significant a week after their period is due, but mine was already very significantly shown in the pregnancy test kit even though I am only 1 day overdue!

I am now dancing and singing with joy in my heart!

Anyway, I won't be telling anyone yet besides my family 'til the 1st trimester is over when possibility of miscarriage is lower. Sigh....

Well....i'm still dancing with joy! Tralalalalalala...!!!! :D

Ultrasound Report

2008-09-29T21:33:00.003+08:00

Went for ultrasound this morning at Loh Guan Lye Specialist Centre. Dr. Sally Ong referred me to Dato' Dr. Ragupathy (radialogist) and he is so good. He is also friendly and smiled and talked to me the whole time while doing the ultrasound on me.

He found some benign lumps in both my breasts. Actually, the computer says they are benign and should be. But we can never be too sure. To be 100% sure, the only way is to surgically remove them and have a biopsy on them.

But then I am glad the results turn out to be OK.

Am I Pregnant?

2008-09-29T13:24:00.003+08:00

I woke up this morning feeling like using the home pregnancy test kit to see if I am pregnant. I know my period is not due yet for another 3 days but basically it has already reached the 28-days cycle, right?

Anyway, I read somewhere that it is more accurate to test it first thing in the morning during your first pee as the hCG level is higher then.

So, what did I get? A faint line line of a positive sign. Is it a faint line or is it not?

As I have not missed my period yet, I guess I should have been a little more patient and test it next week to confirm if I am pregnant or not!

Let's wait for a more accurate result next week!

Lump in my left breast

2008-09-26T15:31:00.003+08:00

The little lump on my left breast is now getting harder and more significant. I used to have trouble feeling it there (because it is rather deep inside), but now it is so easy to feel it there.

Dr. Sally Ong just told me today to have it removed asap. But I need to be sure that I am not pregnant and I wouldn't know until sometime next week.

What an irony! Just until yesterday, I was hoping that I will be pregnant. And right now I am hoping not to be pregnant! God must be confused on what I want! :(

Aunt Flo visited me right on the dot

2008-09-02T18:43:00.000+08:00

Mine is usually a 30-33 days cycle. This month around, it is a 30 days cycle which means Aunt Flo visited me right on the dot - same date as last month!

With a glowing health report, I guess I am ready. Just waiting for Aunt Flo to go... :D

Pap smear & Hep B Results

2008-08-27T18:34:00.002+08:00

Just gotten my results from the clinic. A big smile on my face :D

OK, be prepared to read medical jargons!

Gynaecological Cytology (Pap smear)
Site: Cervix
Microscopic Appearance: Normal Epithelial cell morphology
Imflammatory Exudate: No evidence of significant leucocyte response
Candida/Trichomonads: Not detected
Micro-Organisms: Normal flora/No significant bacterial presense
Summary: Negative for Intraepithelial lesion or Malignancy

phew...i barely understand anything from above except for the 'No' and 'Not' which puts my heart at ease. Anyway, in conclusion, my Pap smear results turn out to be Normal!

Hepatitis Serology
Hepatitis B Surface antibody - HBsAb 154 IU/L
Evidence of protective immunity to Hepatitis B virus

This Hep B report is shorter and easier to understand. And I am real glad I now have immunity against Hep B virus...AT LAST!

Pap smear & Hepatitis B Vaccine

2008-08-20T20:37:00.002+08:00

I went for my first ever Pap smear test @ Koe Clinic. My heart was beating so loudly I am sure the other patients sitting next to me can hear them. The last time I was this nervous was when I was waiting for my SPM results when I was in Secondary 5.

So what is Pap smear or some called it Pap test? A Pap smear is a simple test that screens for cervical cancer. The test involves the collection of cells from the cervix to be examined under a microscope. It is not a diagnostic test, however, and if any abnormalities are discovered, more testing may be needed.

Since Peter & I are planning to start a family soon, I reckon we better check and ensure we are fit before we conceive. So besides Pap smear, I asked Dr. Sally Ong if there are any other tests we may have to do (i.e HIV, STDs tests). She said there is no such need as long as both of us are not in the 'concerned' group. Hmmm....both was staring hard at Peter at that time! :)

So I ended up doing only Pap smear test and had my blood taken for the checking of my Hepatitis B antibody. *prays that this time my body does not reject the antibodies*

Peter ended up taking his 1st jab of his course of Hepatitis B vaccine (3 jabs in total). His 2nd jab will be in a month's time.

My results will only be out next week. Pray for me.

Pre-conception Prep

2008-08-12T21:42:00.004+08:00

I bought a book titled "What To Expect When You're Expecting" by Heidi Murkoff. It is a very good book. Something like a prenancy and baby bible to me.

There are a few thing mentioned in this book some of the preconception steps one should take before we conceive. Some which I find practical are:

#1. Start looking for a prenatal practitioner - Hmmm, i haven't really seriously gone to this far yet. I didn't even ask friends about it. I just browse the net looking for info.

#2. Smile for the dentist - Pregnancy hormones can actually aggravate gum and tooth problems. So I should get my 2 wisdom tooth surgery done. Sigh...I'm scared. I guess they have to wait.

#3. Check your family tree - There is no history of medical issues regarding pregnancy in both our families as far as I know. The only concern is that my mum vomitted 7 times daily for all three of her pregnancies during the first trimester! Oh god...help!

#4. Get tested - Some of the tests which I want to do are:

> Pap Smear
> STDs and HIV test
> Thalasaemia
> Hepatitis B

I already made up my mind to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sally Ong @ Koe Clinic next Monday. I want to be as healthy as possible before I try to conceive.

Pray for me peeps!

1st or 2nd Wedding Anniversary ?

2008-08-08T14:27:00.007+08:00

It's gonna be a year since we our wedding dinner reception, and almost 2 yrs since we were legally married. Sigh...so should I say 1st or 2nd Wedding Anniversary?

Well, anyway, no matter 1st or 2nd wedding anniversary, we have decided to go back to our honeymoon destination to seal and to grow our love.

Tanjung Rhu Resort @ Langkawi took my breath away the moment I stepped into the resort last April. So we have decided to return there and celebrate our love.

However, we also wanted to try out a new place. We have chosen Casa Del Mar @ Langkawi after reading about the good reviews 'thru the net. Hope it won't disappoint us.

Win Win will also be following us there to shoot us and capture the moments...amazing huh?

So, Casa Del Mar and Tanjung Rhu Resort @ Langkawi are our wedding anniversary destination for 2008!

So if by that time I am not pregnant yet, we hope to conceive our little angel there....in the love nest ;D

The taste of Anmum powder milk

2008-08-05T23:05:00.002+08:00

It was way better than I expected. The taste is not only bearable - but kind of nice-smelling as well. I could not believe it! But I better don't say so too early, as I may have to drink it for the next year or so...and I may start to dislike it in the later months...*touch wood*

Anyway, I like to drink it with super hot water. (luckily, the hot water won't kill off the nutrients of Anmum, unlike honey!) The hotter, the better. So usually, Peter will boil water at night and I will make myself a mug of Anmum milk.

I am really proud of myself. One step nearer to healthier body! ;)

Breakfast Goodness

2008-08-04T13:49:00.002+08:00

I saw these oats and grain food and thought it will make a good breakfast meal. Bought them from Cold Storage and I will have them with cold fresh milk every morning.

I can't take real oats, so I need to be contented with these.

Yayar...i know Koko Krunch is not good. But they are leftovers and I will finish them and won't buy them anymore ok?

Pregnancy & Baby Mags

2008-08-03T23:37:00.005+08:00

Went to QB Mall to meet client and went over to Borders & Popular to shop for pregnancy & baby magazines.

Suddenly i have this urge to want to learn and know more on how to provide the best for my future bundle of joy. I want to be equipped with more knowledge so i grabbed at all the local mags i could find in the bookstore.

I did not buy those imported mags - they are expensive! Over rm20++ for each! I will just learn more 'thru the net!

Aunt Flo visited me today

2008-08-02T22:46:00.004+08:00

Aunt Flo came when I was in Peter's training. I was shocked to see a small staint on my shorts. Luckily, Min came with me to the training and she helped me clean my shorts in the restroom.

Now I know that I am not pregnant YET. This boost up my confidence to start making my body healthy before I get pregnant....so that my body is ready to become home to my future bundle of joy.

So every morning, I will eat cereals or muesli bars with fresh milk. And every night, I will drink a glass of Anmum milk before I sleep.
I also want to reduce my intake of carbonated soft drinks and fast food.
I will try to exercise (brisk walking) for at least half an hour 4 days a week.

Anmum Materna - for pregnant women

2008-08-01T23:36:00.005+08:00

Mum introduced her friend, Angie to me. Mum told me she should be able to give me plenty of good advice as she is someone who "ate quality, and not quantity".

Angie told me to start drinking Anmum Materna - for pregnant women, even though I am only at the stage of "trying to concieve". This is because Anmum has many nutrients (such as folate/folic asid, calcium & iron) to help make my body strong and healthy.

I listened to her advice and went over to Tesco, but it was out-of-stock. Drove to Sunshine Square and saw it! However, it was in a bigger pack of 900g and it costs RM41.80. (Angie told me it was only RM36 7 mths ago)! Arggh..inflation!

I initially wanted to try a smaller tin as I was unsure if I can consume milk in powder form. It has been more than 15 yrs since i last drank milk in powder form. I usually take fresh milk - cold!

So i bought the original flavour and not chocolate flavour (although i love chocolate) because there are reviews saying that chocolate flavour has cocoa powder which means lesser nutrient contents. I don't know how true it is but whatever is best for my future bundle of joy will be my choice!

Now I am going to get used to not only taking milk in powder form, but to have it hot as well!
Well, for my future bundle of joy, i am going to do it!

Perhaps Baby

2008-08-01T16:15:00.001+08:00

I name this blog 'Perhaps Baby' because this blog is dedicated to my future little bundle of joy. I decided to start this blog to jot down my journey of pregnancy and motherhood. Actually, I am not even pregnant yet! But I am excited yet nervous on embarking this new journey.

Peter & I were pronounced Husband & Wife on a sunny Sat morning on 9th Dec 2006. Almost a year later, we tied the knot and had our wedding ceremony. We even created a Wedding Blog to mark down one of our happiest moments.
You can also view our E-session Video and Wedding Day Video Highlights by weddingstory.com.

7 months down the road, July 2008, here we are decided to start trying for a baby....and hence, this blog is born! :)