The Last One Standing

It's been a little crazy for the past days. Hubby is sick, as well as four other people in the house...(almost five, because mom-in-law is already showing signs). I don't know what hit them...it's some kind of viral infection or something. They have on and off fever, cough, colds, and a terrible headache. Our nephew was already brought to the hospital because he just wouldn't eat and every time he does, he vomits. He's the first one who got really sick. The doctor has no diagnosis yet, but I'm sure it's not dengue fever because it's not suppose to be contagious. 

This is the second day my husband is absent from work. Since he's not yet a regular employee, he won't get paid for his absences. :-( We also decided that it's best for us not to sleep in one room, so that I won't catch the virus. It's my 8th month of pregnancy and in case I get infected, this will be the first time I'll be really sick, and I don't want that to happen. 

As of today, I'm the last healthy person in the house...yeah boy, the last one standing! I just kept on declaring that Jesus' blood is covering me and my baby, and that no virus can touch us. I am also thankful to have complete prenatal vitamins because it really boosted my immunity. And, do you know what else helped? Frequent hand washing! I also "quarantined" myself inside the room. Yeah, it should be the other way around...I mean, the sick ones should be quarantined...but, what the heck! It's too late for them to be quarantined because almost everyone in the family is already sick. Besides, I can feel the virus all over the place, except in our room. Haha!

I just hope and pray that they all get better soon, especially my husband. As much as I wanted to hold him and take care of him, I have to let him take care of himself to avoid risking my and our baby's health. Because of what's happening, I realized that my husband should have taken some multivitamins or Vitamin C at the same time I started taking prenatal vitamins. This is the second time he got sick during my pregnancy (the first time was last October), and it's very difficult because it makes me and the baby vulnerable to whatever sickness he has. I also thought that we should both be very careful not to get sick especially when the baby comes out. As soon as he gets better, I hope we can work on something to boost our strength and immunity, so that we're ready to face the challenges of being first-time parents.

How about you? Did you have the same experience? What did you do when your husband got sick during your pregnancy? How about after giving birth? What did you do as a couple to make sure that you're fit to take care of a newborn?

At 33-34 Weeks: Happy New Year!

Hello there! Hope you had a great New Year celebration! I did and I have to say that in our neighborhood, not much people had fireworks or firecrackers, so there was less air pollution and accidents. :-)

This is my first post for 2012 and I'm looking forward to writing more about the good things God has in store for me and my family this New Year. Honestly, I still can't believe that it's already 2012! It's like, I'm having a hangover of 2011. The past year was filled with so many new experiences for me...getting pregnant, moving in with the in-laws, enjoying and sometimes hating being a bum, and starting this online baby journal. The year 2011 was a great year for us, filled with blessings, favor and God's continuous display of His love and provision.

For the year 2012, I believe, it is going to be even more exciting. In more or less than a month from now, we'll finally get to meet our baby, Euan Jedric. I'm sure that he will turn our world upside down, but in a good way! In about 6 to 8 weeks from now, we are going to be officially parents and technically, a family. 

:-) 

To start the year right, we went to visit the OB for my monthly prenatal check-up. Dra. Bendita based my AOG (Age of Gestation) on the latest ultrasound I had last month, making me 33-34 weeks pregnant today, as compared to the 32 weeks if based on my LMP (Last Menstrual Period). I gained a whopping 10 pounds from my December check-up, which makes me 138 lbs heavy. My blood pressure is 90/60 and the fundal height measures 30 cm. She strictly advised me to take daily walks as my exercise so that I won't have a hard time giving birth. There goes my first New Year's resolution! Haha! ;-)

The things is, I don't really believe in resolutions...hehe. But, I will definitely exercise regularly in preparation for delivery. We are also planning to buy some newborn baby essentials next week. We're not buying much for now because we're only gonna stay here for two months after Euan comes out. We're leaving out large items that we won't be able to carry back to Iloilo. We'll just purchase more baby stuff once we get back to Iloilo.

That's it for today. I have to sleep now for my early morning walk tomorrow. Good night everyone!

Shoe Fetish

”Really and truly you can never have too many pairs; they are all different. You need a pair for every mood – and everyone knows that women have a lot of different moods.” – Anonymous

My small but hopefully, growing collection of flats and sandals!


(Top Row, L-R) Finickee sandals cream, purple and black/brown
(Bottom Row, L-R) POSH Basics Lt. Gray, Janeo Black cap-toe flats, POSH Basics  Lt.Brown

I am slowly approaching the last days of my 7th month of pregnancy. One of the things I have noticed lately aside from the stretchmarks, are my feet! They seem to be getting wider and my finger toes are slightly getting fatter! I don't really have the thin, dainty, lady-like type of toes to begin with. This is why I've always had a hard time finding the right shoes. Over time, I've learned to accept and work around that flaw. 

I discovered that flat shoes are my best friend. They're comfy and they don't make my feet look that wide. I particularly like POSH Pocket shoes, which is a proud Filipino brand of flat, foldable and comfortable women's footwear. The cut, especially that of the POSH Basics, fit my feet very well. They somehow make my wide feet look slimmer, which is what I'm aiming for. 

This brand's owner, a young entrepreneur named Nadine de Guzman, is very nice and professional. She's easy to transact with and is very accommodating, even if I bug her with so many questions (haha!). She even helped me pick the right size the first time I ordered from her. Buying shoes online is not that easy you know, especially if you can't fit the shoes personally. 

On our second transaction, I texted her if I can have the shoes my sister bought for me at one of the Christmas bazaars they joined, exchanged to one size bigger. She responded immediately and gave me instructions. And since the light gray reptile loafers are not available anymore on size 9, she also agreed to have it changed to a different style. I just got the POSH Basics in light gray instead. :-)

I wasn't expecting to receive the replacement before Christmas, since I sent her the shoes I was asking to be exchanged late afternoon of December 19. I also knew that they were busy with their last bazaar for the year, so I was surprised when the shoes arrived two days before Christmas. Yay! 

POSH Brides (Light Pink)

POSH Pointy Bows (Red)

These are just some of the other styles I really like and hoping to purchase soon. I just wish they fit me as well as the Basics...hehehe. :-) If you want to see all of their fabulous flats, visit their website at http://www.poshpocketshoesonline.com or like them on Facebook.

Finickee Cream Flat Sandals from my husband

These flat sandals are my husband's Christmas present. Yeah, I was with him when he bought it. :-) It may not be the same item I posted on My Christmas Wish List, but I like this better! I realized that thong sandals don't really flatter my wide feet...they make 'em look like they're all over the place! Hahaha! 

I'm not a fan of open-toe sandals to begin with, but, I'm thankful to have found this flip-flop style slingbacks. It's seldom I find footwear that look good on my big feet. The best thing about them is that, they're on sale! I love them so much that days later, my husband bought me the other colors, too! I'm one spoiled wife. ^_^ They're the perfect alternative to closed shoes, especially at times when I want to make my preggy feet breathe.

So, now that my pregnancy is almost over, it's not advisable to buy new maternity clothes. But, thank God for shoes! Splurging on these accessories is not a problem because I'm sure they'll still fit me post-pregnancy. My next project though is to find some good nursing bras and tops.

Stay tuned!

My Christmas Wish List (Part 1)

Holidays are coming and my Christmas wish list is here! Haha! ^_^


Being pregnant during the holiday season has its highs and lows. The most obvious downside are the delicious foods (specially desserts!) that I can't eat. But, the definite high are the gifts, since I can ask for things that I've been dying to have while I'm pregnant or stuff that are going to be very useful after I give birth. This is what my wishlist is all about. I'm sure that many expecting moms out there are secretly wishing for the same gifts this Christmas.


All I Want For Christmas, Are These...(Part 1)

1. Olay Total Effects Daily Moisturizer

I've been using this product for how many years now and it really keeps my face moisturized, clear, glowing, young-looking and protected from harmful UV rays since it contains SPF 15. It's also safe to use during pregnancy. I'm just a little pissed off lately because I can't find it in malls here. So, if someone can give this to me on Christmas, I'll surely appreciate it! :-)



2. Electric Breast Pump

I believe that breastmilk is best for babies. That's why I'm planning to feed my baby exclusively  on his first year. An electric breast pump will surely come in handy when we travel or when I need to rest and let my husband do the feeding. According to most moms, the most efficient way to express milk is to use an electric pump. From the reviews I've read, Avent and Medela breast pumps are the best. 



3. Black Flat Sandals
I'm already on my 7th month and I don't think it's practical to buy more maternity clothes at this point. So, what's a pregnant girl to do if she can't have more clothes? Splurge on accessories  instead, like shoes! My feet are getting wider and it's time I let them breathe by wearing sexy and comfy flat sandals. 



4. Stylish Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is going to be useful when baby arrives, especially when we go out. Thanks to fashion forward people, diaper bags are now made stylish to look like the usual ladies' bags. Gone are the flowers and cartoon designs! I can even use it before I give birth. No one will know that I'm actually sporting a diaper bag without diapers in it. Haha! This is also the perfect accessory to match the new shoes.



5. Breastfeeding Poncho
This is a must-have for every mom who wants to have the freedom and comfort to breastfeed her baby anytime and anywhere, but in a modest and discrete way. This breastfeeding accessory is versatile enough to be worn in many ways such as a shawl, a scarf, turban or a simple cover-up even after baby starts to eat solid food on his own. 


         

See Part 2 of My Christmas Wish List on the next post.

At 28-29 Weeks: Miracles

I am now on my 28th week, which is the beginning of the last trimester! Yehey!

Dra. Bendita said something today that made me think that my pregnancy is indeed blessed and a miracle from God. She said that she was trying to remember who among her patients had a sub-chorionic tear early in her pregnancy and miraculously continued with a healthy one. Then, she finally remembered that it was me. Remember the bleeding episode during my first trimester? I was advised complete bed rest back then and not to push through with our return travel to Iloilo. That's the reason why we decided to stay here in Koronadal until I give birth on February. 

Even though sub-chorionic hemorrhage or tear is quite common among pregnant women, still, it's a condition that one should be careful to address. According to Dra. Bendita, not everyone is lucky enough to continue with their pregnancy up to full term. But for me, I don't consider it luck. I know that God healed me and He is the one who keeps me and my child safe and healthy. God has already seen our future and I believe that we are meant to have this baby. 

Finally, we were able to secure an ultrasound referral to the same radiologist who diagnosed me with uterine tear last July. We're going to see him tomorrow and we're going to find out our baby's gender! Finally! :-)

Here are the details of my prenatal check-up:

AGE OF GESTATION: 28-29 weeks
BP: 110/80
WEIGHT: 128 lbs. (I gained 2 lbs! The baby is definitely starting to pack some weight!)
OTHERS: Received 2nd shot of Tetanus Toxoid
VITAMINS: VitaZinc OB (in the morning) and Sorbifer (1 hour before evening meal)

From the clinic, we went to the SSS (Social Security System) office with the only intention of updating my membership status (including my husband's), for us to finally get an ID and continue voluntary contributions for future use (like another pregnancy or for retirement). I was already convinced that I won't be able to get any maternity benefits since I was not able to update it after I resigned from my previous employment. Little did I expect to receive another miracle today. The nice gentleman who advised me did a good job finding a way to make me eligible to claim my maternity benefits. Thank you, Jesus! He surely has His ways of blessing us.

Preggy Day-Out

Ready for my preggy day-out!

It's Bonifacio Day and the whole Philippines is enjoying a non-working holiday. Me, Eejay, together with Mama Daday and the kids (Eejay's younger brother and nephew) drove to General Santos City earlier today. We're also going to meet Eejay's older sister who works in one of the hospitals there.

On our way to GenSan

It was almost lunch time when we reached Polomolok, so we decided to stop over at Durian Garden. It was my first time to go there and I've always wanted to try their durian shake.

The Giant Durian at Durian Garden, Polomolok, South Cotabato

The restaurant is surrounded by a spacious garden. They also keep birds and other animals. We saw a talking parrot, lots of love birds, and rabbits. The kids had fun running around and looking at the animals. Eejay and I, on the other hand, enjoyed taking pictures while Mama Daday ordered our food.

Picture, picture!

Unfortunately, their blender broke so I didn't get to try their durian shake. But, I enjoyed the simple lunch we had which was native chicken tinola and lechon kawali, served with steamed rice. Busog! Now, off we go to GenSan. We really like going there because they have bigger and better malls than the ones in Koronadal.

Me and my husband

It's not everyday that I get to go out of the house, so I really enjoy  simple trips like this, especially with my husband. 

Breaking Dawn and French Fries Cravings

During the first trimester, I was so strict about what I eat because I wanted to have a steady pregnancy weight gain. Experts say that eating the right foods during pregnancy can prevent excessive weight gain and will ensure the health of the mom and the baby. Having a normal and gradual addition of pounds can also help prevent the appearance of stretch marks and make it easier to get back in shape after giving birth.

But, now, it's just so difficult to fight cravings, specially the unhealthy ones. Haha! Just in time for the screening of Breaking Dawn, my pregnant mind already knows the perfect snack to satisfy my pregnancy cravings...and these are french fries from NY Fries and Dip (NYFD). Gaaah! 

Hubby and I were supposed to watch Breaking Dawn last Saturday and I already told him that I really, really, really want to eat french fries for our movie snack. He didn't want to approve at first because it's bad for my health and the baby's. It's ok because we had to cancel our movie date anyway. He suddenly had to go home to Iloilo to fix some things in our apartment. We recently found out that there's been another termite attack and it's worse than before. Also, there's a couple from church who are arriving from Saipan and they'll be renting one of the rooms for two months. Hubby stayed there 3 days to clean, pack our things in boxes and instruct our friends staying there to take care of our house and to watch out for any signs of termites.

So, hubby got back today and we picked him up at General Santos City which is an hour-drive away from Koronadal. He arrived at 2:00 pm and we were just in time for the 2:45 pm screening at Robinson's Movieworld GenSan. Yay! As his way of making up to me for being away for 4 days, he bought me some NYFD french fries and I ate happily while watching Bella and Edward get married, go on a honeymoon, and have a baby. Good thing NYFD only uses trans-fat free canola oil to fry their potatoes. Cravings satisfied without the guilt! :-)

At 24-25 Weeks: The Pencil Test

Just got back from the long weekend. I'm not really used to going to the cemetery during the All Saint's day season because our relatives live far from Manila and also because my grandparents are still alive..oh, except for my grandfather (father side) who died only a couple of years ago. However, when I'm with my husband's family, I get to experience a trip to the cemetery.

Honestly, I just couldn't wait for the holiday to end and for the OB clinic to open again. It's because this is the month that we're suppose to have an ultrasound to find out the baby's sex. Unfortunately, my OB suggested that we reschedule it on my 7th month. She said that at that time, the doctor will be able to see more, like what will come out first- the baby or the placenta and of course, we'll know the baby's gender.

Today, we just went on with the usual prenatal check-up. I am now 24-25 weeks. My blood pressure is 90/70 and I weigh 126 lbs. Fundal height measures 20 cm and the fetal heart rate is RLQ. I also had my first dose of Tetanus Toxoid. The doctor also gave me new set of vitamins called Iberet Folic (500 g).

When we got home, we received a message saying that our friend from church, Klaris already gave birth to a healthy baby girl and that she didn't have a hard time bringing her out. She did it with only 2 pushes! Isn't that amazing? I pray the same for me, too! Haha!

Because of the news, my husband and I felt envious and the more we wanted to know if we're having a boy or a girl. So, we did the pencil test to make up for not having the ultrasound. We know that it's just an old wives tale and doesn't have any scientific proof for accuracy. However, our Chinese friend swear by it because her mom used it on their family and got accurate results. Just for fun, we tried it and the pencil predicted that we're gonna have a baby girl. Hahaha!

How To Predict Baby's Gender Using The Pencil Test


The pencil test is believed to have originated from Hungary during the time when ultrasounds haven't been invented yet. It eventually became one of the most popular gender prediction methods used by women today. It's not accurate of course, but anyone can try it just for fun!

• First, you'll need a pencil, a piece of thread, and a needle. Make sure that the pencil is sharp to help you see the movement easily.
• Thread the needle. Allow the thread to be long enough for you to hold on to something while dangling the pencil above your wrist.
• Pin the needle through the pencil eraser.
• Position your hand on a flat surface with your palm facing upward. Be still and stay away from any source of wind that could affect the movement of the pencil. 
• Hold the pencil by the thread over your wrist, with the sharpened tip facing downward and touching your skin. 
• Observe closely as the pencil starts to move. If it moves vertically, it means that you're having a baby boy. A horizontal movement indicates that you're having a girl. 

Someone Broke Into Our House!

I received a call last night at around 8:30 pm. It was my friend from Manila who was temporarily staying at our apartment in Iloilo. She said someone broke into our house. I thought she was just mistaken. She didn't go inside the rooms yet because she was a bit scared. But, from where she was standing, she said that she could see some of our things already scattered on the floor, and that the window screen from the next room was already open. I tried not to panic but my stomach was already hardening as we spoke.

The Halfway Mark: At 20-21 Weeks

Now sporting side bangs, I just hit the halfway  mark
of my pregnancy at 20-21 weeks!

It's OB time again and I can't believe that another month just flew. I am now on my 20th going to my 21st week of pregnancy. Babycenter sent an e-mail today reminding me that I'm already at the halfway mark of my pregnancy and it's definitely a reason to celebrate. Thank you, Lord!

"You're halfway there. Hooray! The first trimester is over, the second is well under way, and you've probably got your energy back. Celebrate by splurging on a pedicure, a prenatal massage, or a new outfit that shows off your baby bump. Now's also the time to hang out with friends, go on a baby moon, and live it up before the baby arrives about 20 weeks from now." - www.babycenter.com

For the past month, I actually noticed that my energy and appetite did increase (I think I'm eating 5 times a day!) and I feel hungry more often. However, I'm still suffering from constipation even if I drink lots of water and eat lots of fruits. 

I can also feel my baby move now and while I was lying down at the OB's examination bed, I felt the little one kick. It's really amazing and I can't help but laugh everytime I feel tiny movements inside my tummy. It assures me even more that my baby is alive, healthy and growing inside me! :-)

But, because of the sudden change in climate (from too hot and humid to rainy and damp), almost everyone in the family is down with the flu. My husband has it and I'm already feeling the symptoms as well...itchy throat, clogged nose and headache. But, I guess my immune system is still fighting it because the symptoms are still manageable. Nevertheless, Dra. Bendita gave me a nasal spray with 0.65% saline solution for my semi-clogged nose and prescribed Forvexine to fight the flu.

Here is a summary of my prenatal check-up today:

AGE OF GESTATION: 20-21 weeks

BP: 100/70

WEIGHT: 125 lbs. (Maintained!)

FUNDAL HEIGHT: 18 cm

VITAMINS: VitaZinc OB

Amazing Facts On How Babies Develop In The Womb

At times, when I'm just lying down and feeling baby move, I can't help but be amazed at how another life can be miraculously formed and grow inside my womb. Indeed, carrying a precious little being inside me is one of the best blessings I have ever received from God. It is also one of the most humbling experiences as I take part with our Creator as He form a new human being and chose me to be that person's mother.

Through the course of my pregnancy, I slowly found myself being protective and wanting good things not for myself, but for my child. Sometimes, I worry and become anxious, but God is faithful to remind me that He is always with us and will provide for us no matter what. True enough, we never lack and His provision is always on time.

I've also learned to be more careful, not just with what I eat, but with the things I do, think about and feel, because I know that these things may have an effect on my baby. My husband and I have become more prayerful, more patient, and more expressive of our love not just for one another, but for our baby as well.

I have just read an article about babies in the womb saying that even before infants are born, their five senses are already working so well, hence, giving them the ability to feel what their moms feel, taste and smell, and create visions in their mind who they think they are and what their life would be outside the womb. Ever since I've read this, I became more determined to let my baby know that he/she is loved, because for me, this is the first and only thing that our baby should know...then, everything else will follow.

Here are the other interesting facts from the Babies In The Womb article on how babies develop and use their senses even while inside the womb:

• A baby can distinguish between the voice of Mom and that of a stranger at the time of birth
• Babies dream about their life, experiences, and sensations while they are in the womb.
• Research has shown babies to be startled at loud noises while within the womb.
• Babies savor their mother’s meals, picking up the food tastes of a culture before they are born.
• Babies can remember and respond to a familiar story or song that was repeated to them while in the womb.
• Babies have been known to react to the experience of amniocentesis by shrinking away from the needle, or, if a needle nicks them, they may turn and attack it. 
• Babies react to pain, stress and the emotions of the mother.

Read the whole article by clicking HERE.


"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed."  


Psalm 139:13-16

Routine Break

For the past months, I have created a boring daily routine for myself which consists of the following:

Wake up
Eat breakfast
Sit in front of the PC/Read
Lie down and sleep
Wake up 
Eat lunch
Sit in front of the PC/Read
Take a nap
Wake up
Eat merienda
Watch TV/Sit in front of the PC/Read
Eat dinner
Watch TV/Sit in front of the PC/Read
Sleep

My First Morning Sickness (I think...)

Studies show that most cases of morning sickness occur from the 4th week of pregnancy until the 16th week at most. Experts also say that it is an indication that a woman is having a healthy pregnancy. But, this doesn't mean that there is something wrong if one doesn't go through it.

As for me, I'm not even sure if what happened this morning was an actual case of pregnancy morning sickness or a bad case of eye strain. ^_^ I said this because I have been spending too much time reading pocketbooks and playing Diner Dash and Plants vs. Zombies. Last night, I wasn't able to sleep well because of severe headache and itchy eyes. When I woke up this morning, the pain is still there. I went on to eat breakfast, drink Anmum and take my prenatal vitamins. I sat down for like 20 minutes in front of my computer just to check my e-mail and Facebook account, then I felt like I was going to be sick.

I tried to stop it but I couldn't so I rushed to the bathroom...and there goes my breakfast and my vitamins! It was a really huge red pill and it definitely clogged the sink...eeew! Throwing up is the worst feeling, ever!

My headache continued until late this afternoon. I literally slept all day.

No more reading and PVZ for 2 weeks... :-(

At 12 Weeks

It's the first day of August and it's time for another trip to the OB for my monthly prenatal check-up. I'm on my way to 12 weeks and entering my 2nd trimester of pregnancy. So far, so good. I think I'm doing great resting and that translates to sleeping, just lying down and eating...hehe. But, of course, I do get bored sometimes. At times when I really can't take doing nothing, I read pocketbooks and tinker with my laptop.

So, we did went to the OB earlier and this is the result of my check-up.

AGE OF GESTATION: 11-12 weeks

BP: 100/70

WEIGHT: 124 lbs (I lost 2 lbs!)

FUNDAL HEIGHT: 8 cm

FETAL HEART RATE: Center

The doctor also let me continue taking Duvadilan and gave me new vitamins called OB Smart.

9 Weeks

That's me at 9 weeks! Photo was taken during the 
12th T'nalak Festival street dance competition.  

I really didn't want to post this photo because I don't look pretty here. I look pale, I feel like my nose and face looks puffy, and I think I look like a guy! Hahaha! Maybe, I'm having a baby boy...hmmmm...

For the past weeks, I get tired easily, feeling sleepy all the time, and I've noticed that my appetite is not as good as before.But, thank God, I can still eat and I haven't experienced any morning sickness yet. I am also craving for sour and salty foods like green mangoes dipped in shrimp paste, calamansi juice, santol dipped in vinegar, and turnips dipped in vinegar with soy sauce...yum! I wonder what I'll be craving for next.

Separation Anxiety

I think I'm having separation anxiety! :-(

Last night, when my hubby called from Iloilo, I couldn't help but cry...(or maybe it's just the hormones kicking in!) I also found it hard to sleep. I'm not used to not having him around. When we got married, I was certain that I want to spend the rest of my life with him. Now that we're having a baby, I know that I simply can't live my life without him.

Good thing he's not an OFW (overseas Filipino worker), like our fathers who used to work as engineers in the same company in Dubai. They've been working there for more than 20 years. At present, my father is still with the company but my husband's dad already got a new job in Singapore. I can't imagine how our moms managed without them by their side throughout those years and even until now. They are definitely tough ladies who deserve all the good things in the world or be given the most prestigious award!

Both my husband and I spent more than half of our existence without our dads, and believe me, it has affected our lives in so many ways. Regardless, we love our parents to bits! We also thank God because we have come to know Him as our Abba Father who never left our side. Now that we have our own family, we resolved never to be separated from one another.

So, Honey, if you're reading this...just wanna say...

I love you. Come back to us safe and well. Baby and I are just waiting here. This is going to be the last night that I'm gonna sleep on this bed alone..and don't forget to bring me some cheese tarts. ;-)


See you tomorrow!


Love,


Joey

My Second Ultrasound

I had another ultrasound today. This time, it's a pelvic ultrasound. It was a little painful because the doctor had to press my skin with the device. According to the result, I am now 7 weeks and 6 days pregnant. Again, we heard our baby's heartbeat. :-) The bad news is the doctor saw a subchorionic hemorrhage in my uterus.

From there, we drove back to the OB's clinic. She insisted that I should take extra care, take my medicines religiously, have a complete bed rest and postpone our trip back.

After dinner, my husband and I talked, and we both decided to re-schedule our return and stay here for another 2 months until we get past the first trimester.

We didn't want to risk it anymore. Even though we just moved to a new apartment and there are several important things that we would have to sacrifice (church, business, house maintenance, etc.), we know in our heart that we are doing the right thing by staying here. It's a good thing that we are both home-based employees (online article/SEO writing), we can bring our work anywhere as long as there's internet connection.

We strongly believe that God is in control and He makes all things work together for our good.

:-)

Now, it's time to REST.

My First Visit To Another OB At 7 Weeks

Before we went to the clinic, I can't help but think...

"What's the doctor gonna say this time?"

Sorry for the attitude, but I'm done hearing bad reports saying that I might lose the baby. :-(

Dra. Bendita is a bit nicer than my first OB...probably because she's Mama's friend.. ;-) As expected, she did an IE on me. She said that my womb is low-lying and tender...which means I am prone to miscarry. She gave me a prescription for Duphaston (hormone pill which helps prevent miscarriage) and Duvadilan (uterus relaxant).  She advised complete bed rest and also said that it's not advisable for me to travel again while I'm still on my first trimester. Lastly, she said that I should undergo another ultrasound. Unfortunately, the doctor's clinic she referred us to won't be open until Tuesday noon. Another waiting game...

My real feelings about this?

Sad, scared, and frustrated. :-(

But, I'm trying my best not to give in to these emotions. I am also thankful for having a husband who is very supportive and a Father in heaven who is also my Great Physician.

Hang in there, baby...

***
AT 7 WEEKS

BP: 110/70
WEIGHT: 126 lbs

Another Spotting

At the Iloilo Airport while waiting to board

Arrived at my in-law's house yesterday afternoon. The 30-minute plane ride was ok, but the 3-hour bus ride plus another 1-hour drive was bumpy. I felt so tired when we got here.

Before we slept last night, my husband and I prayed and thanked God for keeping us safe. We entrusted everything to Him - especially our baby. We already received His peace and His healing. We know that He has a good plan for us and that includes having a child.

I also resolved to myself not to believe everything the doctors say. Just a little lesson I learned from when the OB-Gyne diagnosed "threatened abortion" the other day.

I guess, that's too much...hehe...I know she's just doing her job and speaking from years of experience. -_-

So, when I woke up this morning, I discovered that I had another spotting.

I didn't panic like what I did a few days ago. But, just to be sure, my mother-in-law wanted me to be checked up by her OB-Gyne friend, Dra. Bendita. She's the same doctor who delivered my sister-in-law's son. Unfortunately, she's out-of-town and will be back this Saturday.

I guess, we just have to wait.

Honey, There's Blood On My Underwear!

I've been very busy for the past days doing the usual household chores, writing articles and preparing our things (washing the laundry and packing)  for our trip to my husband's family home in Mindanao tomorrow. It's my mother-in-law's birthday on the the 11th and she already got us plane tickets a couple of months ago.

Yesterday, we just finished eating lunch when I felt a sudden gush. I immediately ran to the bathroom to check my underwear. I saw a discharge with a tinge of blood.

Is this normal or is there something wrong?!