I thought I can finish my countdown to the last day but I've started my new journey 5 days earlier. It was the eve of Sunday (Aug 14) when I felt the urge of going in and out of the toilet. I know that it could be the sign but I also know that it'll be too early to head to the hospital. After all the water bag hasn't burst. So I started my countdown (how many contractions at what interval). Based on our antenatal class, the contraction should be every 4-5 minutes lasting 40-60 seconds each contraction. But mine was erratic, it was 15 then 10 then 7 then 5 then 10.
Counted the sheep all night. The pain was really excruciating but managed to end the night. Early morning the next day, I told hubby that just in case the pain won't go away before lunch time, I will be heading to the hospital. If it's a false alarm, then at least I am assured that the baby is safe.
So I started getting ready as early as 8 and waited for my in-laws to wake up. An hour after, we headed to the hospital. It was a gloomy day. The rain was heavy and the jam was so bad at PIE but we managed to arrive KKH safe and sound.
I was admitted for check up (fetal heart rate) at 10:30. Thirty minutes later, the nurse told me I was 3 cm dilated and that I need to be admitted to the delivery suite. Although the pain was unbearable, I thought it was too early to ask for epidural so the nurse gave me the laughing gas. It helped ease the pain a bit but I didn't really laugh. :P
At 5PM, I was 9cm dilated. Dr Wong said, that I can give birth anytime. But after 2 hours of pushing, the baby didn't engaged and decided that I need to go for Cesarean. It was a hard decision for me because we've already surpassed the problems concerning low lying placenta and the baby position but here we come, we still have to go to the operating Theater. Although it was tough, my baby was my first concern so I agreed.
At OR, I wasn't sure if it's because of the effect of the medicine or it was my fear that made me shiver. Although smooth, I was shivering the whole time. I can feel every movement, cutting, the pulling the pressing, the stitching but I never felt the pain. Dr Wong was really good. :)
My lil Sofia came out at 8:25 PM on 15th Aug 2011 weighing 2.945kg, 51 cm tall. I was teary when I heard her cry and seeing her for the first time made me forget all the pain that I've went through.
... Sofia is a week old now. I am still struggling with the timing (breastfeeding, sleeping) but each day makes me feel relieved and fulfilled.
...join me as I embark into a new journey
... a journey to motherhood.
NB: I thank our families for praying with us especially to my hubby who kept me company during the whole ordeal. And most importantly I give glory to Allah for seeing us through.
No, not my age but my waistline.
Figures have changed dramatically.
Waistline from 27 to 40
Blood Pressure from 90/59 to 124/70
Weight from 50 to 68.2kg
It's harder to breathe, to walk, to sleep, to move around but 2 weeks more to go. It must be a joy to welcome this little bunny inside me.
Daddy, daddy are you ready?
When hubby came home last night from Tarawih, the first thing he told me was, 'let's buy a baggy jeans this weekend'. This Levis 509 won't do, it's so uncomfortable. He was referring to the jeans I bought for him from US in which I find it sexy because it's slim fit. It really look good on him especially when he wears it with a folded-long sleeve but tuck out.
... and so I asked him (laughing), is it really baggy or biggie?
What I didn't realize is that, my cHubby has grown bigger sideways and front (along with me). I know how that feels especially when I open my cupboard (although bursting), I won't find any that fits me. Hopefully he'll shed some weight during the fasting period.. :P
So over the weekend I am gonna indulge him with his favorite biggie (este baggy) jeans Levis 512.
NB:
Tarawih (Arabic: تراويح) refers to extra prayers performed by Muslims at night in the Islamic month of Ramadan. They are not compulsory; however, many Muslims pray these prayers in the night during Ramadan.
During the entire month of Ramadan, Muslims are obliged to fast (Arabic: صوم, sawm), every day from dawn to sunset. Fasting requires the abstinence from food, drink and sexual activity.Yesterday marked the first day of Ramadan and it should be my first official fasting period but unfortunately I won't be able to take part in this celebration.Hopefully next year, I will be able to enjoy the benefit of having to fast. To the Muslim community, Ramadan Kareem! (That is the common greeting to wish a bountiful or generous month at the start of Ramadan)  | name? | Jul 26, '11 5:11 AM
for everyone |
Even before I tied the knot, I have already in mind the names I would want my kids to have. But because I have embraced Islam, choosing a name is not as easy as what I've perceived to be.
I have sent the names to my cHubby today for approval but it seems like he doesn't want any. He said, it's too exotic (never heard). That' exactly my point. I want to it to be uncommon.
Because of our differences in origins, we are in dilemma. A few days more to go and we still haven't come up with anything.
Choosing a baby name, is it really this hard?
We religiously attended the antenatal class for 10 weeks to help us go through a smooth delivery but at times, I feel cheated because if I will go for C-sect I won't be able to use the things I've learned from the class. But somehow there's that hope in me that Allah will eventually answer our prayers and He just did.
I am not sure if it's the food or the way of life or talking to bunny everyday or it is because of God's grace that confirms the possibility of not having to go for the C-section. We are delighted that the baby along with the placenta are now in perfect position. We are ready for normal delivery (yahooo).
And the scan also confirms the gender of the baby. For the many times that we went for the scan, this little fella was always shy to show it. We might be surprised that during the delivery instead of a girl, we will have a boy. Now we are certain (100% sure) that we are having a girl.
As new parents we are excited (at the same time scared) as we patiently await for bunny's arrival. We are just hoping that things will be smooth for the remaining 5 weeks. I would like to thank friends and family members for praying with us and to my mum-in-law for accompanying my every visit to the doctor especially to hubby for taking an early off during every scan.
I didn't know that preparing for bunny's arrival will make us this busy. Add to that the decision making which I think is the hardest.
I've got the checklist from a baby shop and there are bunch of items that have to be purchased/taken.
1) Baby's Clothes and Accessories - checked
2) Baby's Nursing needs (mostly except for Breast Pump. Cheaper to order online)
3) Baby's Bathing Needs and Toiletries - mostly
4) Baby's Bedding Needs - mostly and Cot has been erected which is making our room smaller
5) Baby's Sundries
6) Diapering Accessories
7) and more diapers - mostly
8) Baby's car Seat - not for now
9) Baby's Pram - not for now
10) High Chairs - not for now
11) Play Yards/Pens - not for now
12) Carriers - not for now
13) Cord blood Banking - a must (settled)
14) Antenatal Class - almost done
and they don't come cheap.
Not forgetting Maternity Needs for Mom (prenatal massage, postnatal massage, Mom's necessities) and oh also the name. If not for being traditional, I could have chosen a thousand :P
Did I miss any?
| Relieved | Jun 17, '11 5:24 AM
for everyone |
After the growth scan yesterday, I kinda feel relieved that the placenta is slowly moving up. For those who didn't know, I have a placenta previa.
Placenta previa is a complication of pregnancy in which the placenta grows in the lowest part of the womb (uterus) and covers all or part of the opening to the cervix. This has been my worry for the last few months because I was asked by the doctor not to move so much and there might be a possibility of Caesarian section.
Although even today, the baby is still not in position, I am hoping that she will make her way down (head down, feet up) and the placenta to move further away from the cervix.
The baby also have grown from 780 grams last month to 1.65kg as of yesterday. My gynae has been complaining a lot about the baby's weight but Alhamdullilah she's now grown to be a very active big bunny.
I am also thankful that I am no longer restricted to walking/moving around. I still definitely have my limits but to know that I don't need to go on bed rest, that's really a relief.
I didn't realize that for C-section, doctor can schedule for the baby to come out at any day for as long as it is close to the EDD. It could be 2-week earlier than EDD for as long as the baby is full term (37 weeks onwards). I can also opt for Singapore National Day so that my bunny's birthday will always be celebrated by Singaporeans but with hubby's strong objection, Dr. Wong (my gynae) scheduled for my C-section on 8th of Aug. Oh well... I am just hoping that I don't need to go to that extent.
God is good all the time.
@ 30 weeks....
 So astonished that this year I've got bunch of friends multiplying and it seems like 2011 is the year for the girl bunnies. Will this add up to the 2:1 female:male ratio?
And to carry out this little fella for 9 months is not an easy job. Believe me, I think sitting down for the whole day and work is far a lot easier :P
The first trimester is the most consuming for many women because everything is so new, so exciting, and so overwhelming all at once. The first trimester is also one of amazing development in the baby.
The second trimester seem to be the smoothest because all the discomfort is gone. This is also what they call the golden trimester.
The third trimester means you are almost there but it can be physically and emotionally challenging. Your baby's size and position may make it hard for you to get comfortable. You may be tired of pregnancy and anxious to get it over with.
At the end of this journey, to be able to bring out a creature out into this world is such an amazing experience. Behind all the challenges, the frustrations, the struggles, is a sense of fulfillment, contentment and an excitement to finally hold this little child and say, we both made it.
My little bunny at 5 mos.
If there's something that I regret not doing is to visit my dad. His resting place is always my first stop whenever I go home but didn't get to do it this time. Our schedule in Phils was really hectic. We barely have time to do our list of errands.
I guess this is why I am feeling pathetic. I saw some pictures which I got from my old Acer back in Manila before hubby reformat that old pc. I am really missing this guy. Sorry paps, didn't get to visit you but you should know that you are missed.
| weekend | Apr 18, '11 3:00 AM
for everyone |
It used to be that ex-bf now my hubby and I would spend weekends full of activities. On Saturdays, it's either we go Sentosa and chill out or would meet up right after noon for my Body Pump and Body Combat Class while he reads magazine and drink all the sinful drinks from Fitness First. After my class, would run for another 30-45 minutes and that's when he starts working out. Lunch and movie will follow after that. As for Sundays, I would either go swim or run a marathon.
But this year, we became lazy. We would wake up quite late and just watch movie at home. Eat and sleep again. We will only go out for dinner at a nearby hawker center or Jurong Point which is the nearest mall from JW. I actually miss it especially when marathon organizers sends me an email for early bird registration. But how can I at my current state?
Last weekend, we attended hubby's monthly family get-together. This is something that I envy from his relatives because of the close family ties. His dad's siblings including kids and grand kids will get together on a monthly basis with so much food on the table.
Yesterday, we did our last minute errands before we had off to Manila over the Lenten season. Met up with Uly and Mike at 313 @ Somerset after that and we ate to our stomach's content. I am glad to see Uly is losing weight. Is that because of too much working? And Mike came in late. Didn't know Mike is quite active in church now (which is good). You should infect people to come withy Micky :P
Weekend is just too short. Can we add another day to our weekend or betteryet a midweek day off?
Realized that I haven't updated my blog for a long long time. Not really busy but been lazy these days. Don't have much update except that: I've just celebrated my 6th year in SG, married mah-man, bought our simple abode (but still under construction and my CPF is set to zero) and expecting my bundle of joy soon.
Here's hoping that I will be able to update this blog religiously.
We've come this far, I guess there's no turning back (right dear?).
We had an interview with ROMM on Monday. Didn't know that they have such thing.
Last 4 days of singlehood.
While cHubby and I were discussing the details of the wedding, we started discussing as to when is the best time to get married. It might be too late for us but I think we really didn't consider the date. December is a peak period and so Jan and Feb for Chinese New Year. Most girls want to be a June Bride. 10/10 is a hit. It saddens us that some good friends and families cannot make it on that day but can we really bring all of them together at one time? I guess we have to accept that fact and just enjoy the day.I also didn't put into consideration that during this period the company is busy with Performance Reviews, Bonus Payouts and Benefit claims. I am not sure why they just make everything urgent and pack it during this time of the year. So in as much as I want to concentrate with the preparation, I can only do errands in the evening and get back to work late evening to early morning. Eating is not even a luxury so if you see me somewhere looking like a zombie, then don't ask. I can't get my a restful sleep :( Wedding prep is not really smooth sailing. I'm in a battle with wedding planner because of big decisions that she's supposed to consult with us before proceeding. It pisses me off that she does her own thing without even speaking to us.
And work has been stressing me out lately. It sucks that I don't even have my alone time anymore. And I've got tons to pack and to move...
Oh I wish.. I just wish...
... when I woke up one day, these crazy days are gone.
I was able to keep my emotions for 2 days but I think I really have to let it out.
It's unfortunate that people starts to point finger when a misfortune happens. If one is so confident to commit, this person is expected to deliver no matter what's the cost. If one disaster comes with another disaster, the saying "learn by mistake" or "experience is the best teacher" will always apply.
Don't put a frowny face for causing such a state for there is no one to blame with the result. You should be ready to face the consequences of your actions That behaviour is just unacceptable.
You should learn how to handle things in a way that you don't inconvenience others. At the end of the end, it's not other people but you who get the credit.
I won't consume myself with your immaturity. Your concern will never be my business so don't piss me off cos I have my limits too.
Reality check. If you commit, ask yourself. Is it doable? Will you be satisfied and fulfilled with the outcome?
Know thy self.
Picked up the dress for the photo shoot but it's not ready yet so we are going back tomorrow. The dress is so simple yet too expensive. But the price is worth paying for because it was made with passion. If only it's not that expensive, I would love this shop to make all my baju.
Had last minute shopping in Orchard. Aside from Adi totally changing his wardrobe as he has moved to the city, we are also buying gifts for the wedding. For Malays, they have this tradition that bride and groom should exchange gifts for the wedding. They call it gubahan. The gifts are according to your taste and liking. I can ask for hundreds but I'm finding it hard for Adi to decide what he wants. <haiz>
I still have lots on my lists. I guess I need more weekends to shop but I only have 6 weekends left. Can I stop the time from ticking?
20th Oct 2010
A day of selection and fitting among hundreds of wedding dresses. It was really a tough day.
A note: Still waiting for something. I pray that it'll be sent soon. Insha'Allah.
19 Oct 2010
I didn't know how hard it is to select gowns among hundreds and to try each one. But the hardest thing is to decide the final dress after trying a few.
Adi just tried 2 colors and 2 sizes and he is good to go. Quite unfair.
Is that why there's a bridal gown, a bridal car, a bridal boquet, bridal entourage and the guys don't have it? :P
18th Oct 2010
As part of the requirement for Registry of Muslim Marriages (ROMM), we have to attend and obtain a certificate for the Marriage Guidance Course for 2 full days.
Although the topic is quite common, I think this course is a good reminder for young and old couple alike. Sometimes we fail to remember that with small things, when they add up together, it becomes big. And when it's too big, it's too overwhelming that it become too hard to handle.
I know life ahead won't be that easy but with God, everything is possible.
17th Oct 2010
Had seafood lunch with Apo, ate (Apo's sis), She and Ramil at Kembangan. Since Sherry and Ramil were the first to arrive (I think they opened the shop), they ordered Chilli crab, steamed fish, kailan, Oats Prawn, 2 sets of bun, rice each, longan, lychee and Watermelon drinks. It was a fun, tummy-filled lunch.Pix courtesy of Ramil:  Picked up my Race pack for Great Eastern 10km run at Kallang Leisure Park with She and Ramil. This is my last race for the year. Followed by a movie Eat, Pray,Love but have to cut short because Adi is touching down SG at 555pm------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15OCT SINGAPORE AIRL LONDON SINGAPORE 2205 1755 DURATION FRI SQ 321 E HEATHROW CHANGI 16OCT 12:50 ECONOMY CLASS TERMINAL 3 NON STOP NON SMOKING AIRBUS INDUSTRIES A380-800 MEAL RESERVATION CONFIRMED
Had my first GG bag. I had that the biggest smile. :) Above of it all, I'm very thankful that my dear Adi is finally back safe and sound.... | |
