Last Week in Review

I've been up since 11:30 PM. I can't go back to sleep anymore so I might as well put these thoughts of mine into writing.

It's Monday already and the start of Week 19. Remember last week, I posted my weekly planner spread for Week 18 and Week 19? Well, here's the post-Week 18th page:

The aftermath of Week 18.

What can you say about my week page? As I have mentioned before, it's mostly work-related and my personal entries or activities were only added on tiny spaces in between my client's appointments and other office-related stuff. I'm going to share to you what transpired during this week:

Monday - this is usually my "checking-in" day with my clients. Since I have a 3-day off, I make sure to follow-up on my clients by calling them, checking-in on their conditions, and try to determine if all went well during the weekend. I usually ask about their current physical and medical conditions and monitor their treatment processes. For this particular day, I had 3 client calls only.

Tuesday - Ahh..this was Didi's 44th birthday. The original plan was to go to a comedy bar and celebrate with small and selected friends. But since, it's the height of the election fever, every one has their own red alert statuses and we decided to have a home celebration on Friday instead. Here's my birthday message to my loving husband over Facebook with matching video that I made over Blackberry:

Who knew that the day you were born 44 years ago today was the day the stars would laugh in the face of fate, for they knew they had already planned a match for you✨

You are my advisor when I'm lost, you are my clown when I'm unhappy, you are my companion when I'm lonely, you are my all in all.

Thank you for being a very supportive and loving husband; for being a number one fan and cheerleader to our children, and for taking good care of us despite of all the hardships and tests of life. I pray to God that He will continue to give you the spark of life, the endurance, and vitality to go on till we see our children grow old together.

I love you infinitely beyond all the galaxies!

Wednesday and Thursday - As my weekend is fast approaching, the amount of work is also increasing. I reviewed medical reports and provided status update reports, called doctor's offices to schedule medical appointments for our crewmembers then called them to ensure that they attend these appointments, and tried to contact a doctor in Argentina to discuss a medical management. I really don't like Thursdays!

I was reminded by Facebook that it was Sr. Marilyn's birthday. She's my former Dean and a musical genius who can play several musical instruments. Several years ago, I wrote a poem in honor of her birthday.This time, I decided to write her a letter: 

Dear Sr. Marilyn B. Bacsain Dc,

I remember vividly the first time I met you during our choir practice for our Capping and Candlelighting ceremony. Boy! I was so nervous of missing a note because we have to repeat the whole song again until we finally get it right.

Yes, you are that person who do not settle for "Ok na yan" philosophy. You always make things perfect, pristine, in order, organized, and leaving no trace of breadcrumbs in any undertakings that you are involved in. A lot of people misunderstand (and not like) you because of this - that perfectionism attitude. Nonetheless, this is the best thing that I learned from you -- Always strive to be the best and not settle for just "Ok na yan".

I will never cease on thanking you for all the wonderful experiences that we shared together and thanking God that He allowed me to meet and learn from you. Happy, happy birthday to you! I pray that you will be more blessed than ever....

Love you! heart emoticon heart emoticon heart emoticon heart emoticon heart emoticon

Friday - I slept for 5 hours only and then Gabie and I went to SM to buy our mini-birthday meals for Didi. I did not cook any fancy this time because I was so tired from all the week's work. I also paid our PLDT and electric bills.

We had crispy pata and pancit canton from Kuya J's, the pork and shrimp siomai from Rustan's supermarket, my own version of Dynamite, and the Chocolate Indulgence cake from Red Ribbon. Plus 2 bottles of Franzia California Red Wine to cap this celebration. 

Saturday and Sunday - lazzzyyyy days....well, it's a long weekend for us since Monday, which is today, is National and Local Election Day. Last Saturday, each political parties went out to stage their last campaign rallies and by the looks of it, it is already expected that there's going to be heavy traffic on the road. We stayed at home, watched movies, and the news after that. As I have said...lazzzyyyy days!

Oh, before I forget, Sunday is Mother's Day! Here's what I wrote for this occasion:

10 Superpowers that Mothers possess:

1. We have X-ray vision that we see microbes whenever you touch unidentified objects.

2. We have heightened senses that allow us to anticipate what's going to happen.

3. We have the strength of Strennua and can carry loads of groceries, baby bags, and other shopping bags at the same time.

4. We have the angst of Bellona and will fight for our children until our last breath.

5. We have the wisdom of Athena, as we teach our children the knowledge that will bring them wealth as they grow old.

6. We have the patience of the monks as we can hold on to anything thus allowing everyone to be at peace. But if all goes unwell, you can always go back to #4.

7. We can be at 2 places at the same time -- believe me, we can do that.

8. We have been taught by the world's Master Chefs that we can cook and whip delicious food for our family to eat even if the ingredients are not complete.

9. We have developed special skills like speaking different language, deciphering wall paintings, and sing like opera singers.

10. We have the biggest heart that we give our children all the days of their lives.

Ain't that cool? Happy Supermom's day!

So, that's all folks! I hope and pray that today's election will be peaceful and whatever will be the results, I pray that we will all be blessed.

Our Victoria Aveyard's Book Signing Experience: #VictoriaAveyardinPH

Hello there, Lovies!

Well, first of all, I am sorry for not blogged since last week. I have been caught up with office work like our month end reports, the arrival of my CEO from New York and the 18th birthday of my eldest -- Gabie. In my planner, I did swear that I am going to blog on these happenings, unfortunately, I got sick during the end of the week and my brain cells are not really cooperating in finding the words to write a blog. Oh well, these are all under the bridge now and I am starting this week with positive vibes! So, to start with, allow me to share to all of you our book signing experience yesterday.

Happy Birthday, Aryanna Mikaela!

Last February 4, my second daughter, Aryanna Mikaela, celebrated her 15th birthday. It was a class and working day for all of us so we get to celebrate it last Friday where I prepared Baked Penne with Bolognese and Bechamel Sauce, Turbo Chicken in Pandan, and Crispy Tadyang ng Baka.

I can't believe that she's already 15 years old. As the old adage goes, time flies very fast.

I created a slideshow below using Smilebox. Most of the photos date back five or six years ago. My motherly-hormones were acting up when I made this photo slideshow. Well, that's life. We have to accept that our children are growing up pretty fast and we have to make the most of our time together as long as they are with us.

Happy 15th Mika!

This photo slideshow customized with Smilebox ARYANNA MIKAELA A collage of wonderful experiences! Remembering how you were born, as if it was only Yesterday that We heard your first cry. Our little precious Athena, Our "Little Lady Tate." Now that you will be facing  Novel challenges, and experiences Another round of showing to the world your incredible being! More than ever, as you continue to traverse life and If We can only hold your fate, We will Keep you here in our hearts so that no one and nothing can harm you. Amidst all these,  We know that you can make it. Every now and then, your sweet smile and endearing ways Linger in Our tiring mind, taking away All our worries and burdens. Beautiful and charming MIKA, your  Enigma will surely enthrall the world. Nobody could detest you, much more Grudge you. Because you are like a SWEET ANGEL, so pure and meek.   Never forget that WE ALWAYS LOVE YOU         and will ALWAYS BE HERE FOR YOU...  Hope you love this post!

Miggy's Immunization Schedule

We went out to see Miggy's Pediatrician yesterday for his scheduled immunization. It's his 2nd shot of Pentaxim (Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, and Polio Myelitis). Last month, he had Rotateq oral vaccination for Rotavirus. He's 2 months and 18 days today. He's grown so fast and I feel that a little bit heavier too. 

Here's our photo documentary of what transpired during our short trip.

His outfit for the day (OOTD). Clothes by Tita Arni Florencio, shoes by Tita Nene, socks and handkies from my Future Care Inc. family.

Well, how do I look? Stunning, ei?

And here's little Maxime's OOTD as well...

 We arrived at Cardinal Santos Hospital around 9:30 AM. While waiting for our turn, the big sister is busy playing with the big calculator and weighing scale. As if she's computing the things around her.

Echoserang Bata! 

And it's confirmed! He gained weight over the month. He is now 6.9 kgs. Almost a kilo was added to his previous weight.

Father-daughter time.

Yes, I cut my hair short. Miggy keeps on pulling and tagging it so I decided to cut it short. And of course, just getting ready for the summer season.

Meet the Doc!

 Meet Miggy's lovely and elegant Pediatrician - Dr. Angel Aquino Gonzales. No, she's not a showbiz personality, although you might get an inkling feeling that she's one because of her almost silver screen name and flawless face. But she does numerous TV guestings already for "Mars" where she gives advises and answers questions pertaining to medicine in general and most especially infant and children care.

Little Munch Time

We grabbed a quick meal at the hospital's Food Court before heading home.

Food Court of Cardinal Santos Hospital.

On Our Way Home

Maxime's munching her Honey Glazed doughnut which we bought at the Foodcourt of Cardinal Santos Hospital.

Thank you Doc!

The check sign band-aid over Miggy's thigh is where the vaccine was injected. Thanks Tita Doc for the care. See you next month...

Day 78: My Last Day With You

Tomorrow, I'm back to work. 

I will miss our daily routine together. 

I will miss your cuddly cheeks and sweet smell of innocence. 

I still want to spend more time with you, my adorable one. 

Be good always...I love you!

My Litlle Prince Charming

Boy, he's growing up so fast!

Fifty-seven days after I gave birth to a wonderful healthy baby boy, he is now sharing his precious heart-melting smiles to everyone.

Barely 5 more days till he turns 2 months old, he now weighs 5.8kg (12.76lbs) and is 66 cm in length. His developmental milestones include following objects with eyes past midline, responds to voices and stops activity when talked to. What I love the most is when he smiles and burst into little laughs. He now also makes sounds. I have the feeling that he is already making a short conversation with us every time we look at him.

This smile is just to die for!

This photo was taken this early this morning by his Tatay. If you wake up to this every morning, the rest of the day will be just as magical as his smile.

Sealtiel's First Week

Our first photo together.

Our baby boy is a week older. It has not been easy since I delivered via C/S and I have only my husband with me to help me with things around the house. It's good that our daughters are spending the Holidays here in Manila with us. They are helping in taking care or Maxime while I gave my full attention to Baby Miggy.

Week One

So far, Sealtiel is not such a fuss baby. He sleeps most of the time and only gets to stir and wiggle his tiny body when he's hungry. I am breastfeeding him and he likes it very much. I think the most tasking part during the first week is the changing patterns of bowel elimination. A baby's body need to eliminate the meconium (first stool) from his system or else this can cause some toxic effects. 

Peaceful sight. Taken in the hospital.

Meconium is fecal material that the baby passes out after birth. It is blackish to dark green in color. On Day 2, we have 8-10 poops (in little amount though) and diaper change is just like a taxi meter. I read from Babycenter.com that this is normal especially if the baby is breastfed. The colostrum  from breast milk has a laxative effect and causes the baby to poop frequently. In Sealtiel's case, it is helping him get rid of the meconium. 

Days 3 and onwards is mostly sleeping time for him. Every morning around 9-10 AM I bathe him with Lactacyd blue making sure that I am not washing his umbilical stump to prevent infection. After his short bath, I breast fed him and he goes to sleep again. I chose EQ diapers (newborn) for his nappies because its affordable.

His umbilical stump fell off on Day 7. Below is the photo showing his stump. I'm glad that no infection transpired when it was still attached to his belly.

Umbilical stump fell off!

My Christmas Gift Came Early

I finally get the chance to write a week after I gave birth to our little boy, whom we consider as our early Christmas gift.

I am supposed to deliver on December 23, 2013, according to my estimated date of confinement (EDC). But as the days progress, I easily get tire and can't move easily. It's already a burden for me to wake up every morning and go to work. All I want is to lie down and rest my very pregnant body. My OB-GYN is not even convinced that I will go into Cesarian Section by December 18 (although I am already 38 weeks). But I pleaded and finally she gave in to my demands. So, I got admitted last December 17 at 1:00 PM.

My actual C/S schedule is December 18 at 9:30 AM. But I did not reach that schedule. After I finished reciting the rosary that night, I suddenly felt a pop inside me and I knew that my BOW (bag of water) is now leaking. I called for the Resident-on-Duty and she did confirmed that I am going into labor. Talk about timing! By 11:30 PM they prepared for STAT C/S and I was rolled into the OR.

Our Baby Boy

The only thing that I remember was hearing the cry of a baby as they are doing their own businesses with me while I was on the operating table. I heard somebody saying "It's a baby boy." Seriously??? Yeah, my mind is still intact and I felt that I cannot hide my excitement if indeed it was a boy (or was I just having a haze consciousness due to the anesthesia). Nonetheless, I have a strong conviction that we have a baby boy this time!

And it's indeed true! AT 2:29 AM, I gave birth to a 7.7 lbs baby boy and 53 cm in length. My husband is very much surprised about the revelation. He even insisted that I planned all of this as a surprise for him. I told him that I did not underwent an ultrasound. Why? Aside from the monetary part (it's Php850), I decided not to have one so that I will not feel frustrated and  pass it on to my baby if ever it's going to be another girl. No offense, but of course, we are aiming for a baby boy this time after having 3 girls already. It would be such a blessing to have a baby boy. So, to spare my unborn child with this feeling, I sad that whatever gender he/she will be, I will accept wholeheartedly.

We named him - Sealtiel Jude Miguel.  Sealtiel is the archangel for Holy Orders, Jude from St. Jude Thaddeus, and Miguel (also known as St. Michael) the archangel. Here are his first photos taken in the nursery of The Family Clinic Hospital. I personally would like to thank Ms. Catherine Cipe, RN who personally attended to his newborn care.

Our Christmas gift.

After settling all of our financial obligations with the hospital and my doctors, we went home on December 20, just in time to celebrate Christmas as a whole family. My two daughters, Mary Gabrielle and Aryanna Mikaela arrived the following day.

Preparing for the Big Day

My admitting notes for tomorrow's C/S.

This is it!

This is my admitting notes from my OB-GYN. I can no longer tolerate the heaviness of pregnancy. I can barely move because of my present 172 lbs. weight. This is the first time that I will deliver (via C/S again) only with my husband and Maxime beside me. How I wish my parents are present to give me emotional support.

This is my 4th delivery, my 3rd C/S (my eldest, Mary Gabrielle, was born via NSVD), and my 4th to go under surgical blade. How come? Walk by me:

• 1987 - Appendectomy
• 1997 - Explorative laparostomy secondary to adhesions. (I was 7 months pregnant with Gabie then. But I delivered her normally after 2 months)
• 2001 - Aryanna Mikaela, my 2nd daughter was born thru C/S because of unprogressive labor.
• 2011 - Maxime Danielle, was born via C/S at 35 weeks because of breech presentation.

Now, despite all these surgical experiences, plus the fact that I am a nurse, my level of anxiety today is traversing from moderate to panic level. I still have deadlines to meet and I am doing some final drafts to submit tonight to my online courses. This helps in diverting my anxious laden mind. After 12 tonight, it's going to be pre-operative mode.

I am entrusting everything to you, O Lord...Guide me through this ordeal and guide my love ones as well.

Chapter 38

Last November 22, I turned 38 years old. Aptly, I came up to this title of my first post for this new blog that I am about to start. Two years more to go and I'll hit the 40's. So before that thing happens, I want to record everything that goes on with my life in this new blog of mine.

Unlike my other blogs or websites, this blog will be more personal ~ more about me, my children, my family life, my work, my interests, my feelings and my emotions throughout the day or week. No pressures here in making an impression nor thinking of SEO words just to make a presence in the social media. Whatever comes along into my life, I will write about it. Of course, I still maintain my other sites (when other work does not hamper the thoughts).

So, what ever happened the past year? Well, I resigned from my previous work of being a Clinical Instructor (12 years of molding nursing students) and came to Manila to accept the job position of Training Officer/Assistant Chief Nurse at The Family Clinic, Inc., now being managed by Caritas Group of Companies. The transition period is quite dragging and I sometimes miss the academic life and be with students. Being with students, you get to maintain that youthfulness and worry-free attitude and it makes me energetic as well. Now that work is more collegial and serious, sometimes at the end of the day, all I want is to lie down and drift away to lala-land. But as they say, life has to go on. So I did.

Maybe some of you don't know this yet, since I keep mum about my present state (except my family and close friends). At 38 years old, I am pregnant with our 4th child. Yep, this is something that we did not expect to happen. But hey, it does not mean that our bundle of joy is not wanted. In life, there are things that happen unexpectedly. And this is one of those things. I am about to pop anytime this month; he/she shares the same birth month with Max. As of this writing, we are 36 weeks already. Gender has not been determined yet. I'm still waiting for my OB's prescription for ultrasound. As what other parents wish for their unborn child, whatever the gender the baby maybe as long as he/she is healthy and with no other physical problems, that is already a blessing. We are hoping to have a baby boy this time, but God knows what's best for us and I can't wait to see and hold him/her in my arms.

Well, that's all about me for now. I am planning to post every week and keep you all updated. I basically want this to be interactive, so I welcome all your comments. See you this Friday!

Photo credits: 1