A Baby's Tales

Danielle's Attempt: Tummy Position

2011-11-12T04:59:00.000+08:00

At 2 1/2 months, Dannie's attempt to try the tummy position was succesful, congratulations my little sister. job well done.

Have a nice day to all,

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Tomorrow is a Very Special Day

2011-10-21T20:20:00.000+08:00

Tomorrow will be an exciting and busy day for me and my little sister Danie. I will be celebrating my 2nd birthday and at the same the the Christening of Danie.

Daddy and Mommy is so busy up to this very day preparing for this very special day. I hope everyone who we invited will enjoy the party. they wish they have more time preparing.

I will be missing my godparents who can't join us.

C'mon Vamonos, Let's Celebrate.

Have a nice day to all,

Happy Days Are Here Once Again...

2011-09-16T13:05:00.007+08:00

A Daddy's Tale:

After Gabby, my elder daughter was discharged from the hospital, We saw a significant changes in her behaviour. We know that this will come, even if we tried preventing it to happen or even if we read all sorts of articles on how to deal with it before it become a problem. No matter how you prepared on it, it will certainly happen, it's inevitable.

Our 2nd baby was born a month ago, our daily routine changes and it affects my older child significantly. For almost two years, our attention is on her all the time but now it's divided. Even if we tried explaining everything, even if we know she was trying to understand the present situation, eventually she will feel jealous. The smile, the sweetness and the affections is somehow reduced. She became moody and sad. Even if we see her smiling while watching her favorite show, we saw in her eyes that she was sad and she knew she can't do anything to change the situation.

Our hearts are wounded because of these. Where is our Gabby, where is our sweet baby? we hoped for her return sooner.

One night while we where sleeping, she was suddenly awaken by the cry of her little sister and saw her mom nursing our child. Gabby sat, put her hand on her face and sob. It was really a painful scene to see her having a hard time coping.

My wife sent me a message and, " I can't help but cry to see our daughter feeling sad, I hope she will be okay, sooner because I missed her a lot". I just told my wife to spent more time with our elder daughter just like the old days (if there is a chance) and involved her more in taking care of our little child.

One day, My wife did a brilliant idea to bring Gabby with her for some errands and told Danie to sleep longer because she will be out for a while to be with her big sister. Great!, it worked, Danie cooperated.

Gabby appreciated their date a lot. They both went home happy and we know she was happy because she kissed her mom repeatedly and said "I love you". That sort of "date" made the difference, an assurance for Gabby that mom love her the same way just like before.

Our sweet and loving Gabby is back and I love it to the max.

Hospitalized

2011-09-06T06:45:00.001+08:00

It was just a scheduled follow up check-up due to couch and fever (thank God it's not Dengue). I was diagnosed to have pneumonia but because of loss of appetite and low to zero-liquid intake, my pediatrician advised my dad that I must be confined and treated in the hospital.

Needles are not a problem but restraining me (daddy's note: you almost broke my nose a while ago) is another but the nurses did a good job, I did not cry at all when they put the IV though the skin test really hurts.

I was officially confined at 3:55 in the afternoon and I am not sure of when will my doctor allow me to go home. I have a hard time eating and drinking. No milk intake yesterday, a few ounces of water and 2 meals (daddy's note: you must drink a lot of fluid if you want to go home as soon as possible). Labored breathing occasionally, thanks to my nebulizer (daddy's note: this is where Gabby almost broke my nose), it helps a lot.

I'll be missing my mom (she visits me when able) and my little sister Dannie, hopefully I'll see you in a couple of days.

Have a nice day to all,

Dannie Is Coming Home...

2011-08-20T12:51:00.000+08:00

After two days of waiting, finally Dannie is coming home with Daddy and Mommy, I missed them so much. They're just waiting for the final billing. I am so excited to see them, in less than an hour they're be here.

I am Dannie's big sister and I welcome her, finally she's home.

I love you Dannie, Daddy and Mommy.

Hugs and kisses.

Have a nice day to all,

Dannie's Birth... My little Sister

2011-08-18T12:39:00.003+08:00

Today, I welcome my little sister Dannie. She was born at around 9:10AM in St. Victoria Hospital in Marikina. She weighs 7.15 lbs. She looks like me as if she is my twin.

Mom, once again you did a great job. I know you sacrificed a lot. See you in a couple of days together with my little sister. I am not sure of what would be my reaction when I see her face to face but for sure I will welcome you with an open arms.

I will share my toys with you, we will play together and grow together. It would be more exciting when we play together with daddy.

I am excited to see you Dannie. I love you and see you soon.

Have a nice day to all,

A Letter for my Little sister Danny

2011-08-17T13:17:00.005+08:00

Hi everyone,

I'm sure most of you already knew the day of my sister's birth, it's on August 18, 2010. I am so excited for this day. In the meantime, I am sharing with you a letter from my Daddy for my little sister Danny. Tomorrow is D-Day 2.

Have a nice day to all,

Dear Danny,

First, sorry for the confusion because I was calling you "Rhian" for the past 3 months or so but I gave in to your moms request to call you Danny, it's to boyish but I guess it doesn't matter anymore. After more than 38 weeks of waiting, finally we will meet face to face. Sorry, if I was not able to talk to you while you are still in your mom's tummy but don't worry I'll take good care of you as much as I take care of your sister Gabby. I'm sure we will have a lot of good time together.

I am not sure of what will be the reactions of your sister when she sees you for the first time, though I'm sure she will welcome you with an open arms, she will surely take care of you. Together you will grow up to be a fine young ladies.
You and your sister will share this site where you can post anything under the sun specially our family getaways. It' s going to be more exciting, bigger and better family trips.

Today, God let me experience heaven once again and I am overjoyed and blessed because of you. I can't wait to hug and kiss you. I thank God for another blessing in my life. See you tomorrow my little girl, rest for now for tomorrow will be a busy day.

I love you,

Daddy

Playing @ Pasig Eco Park

2011-08-07T23:21:00.003+08:00

A few weeks ago, our family went to a party in Pasig Eco Park. After the party we went to the playground where my dad and I had a bonding moment while mom was watching us.

I love the slide so much, dad just let me play on my own and I did enjoyed playing. I tried the mini tunnel and the swing.

I hope there are similar playgrounds in other places like Pasig Eco Park that kids like me would enjoy. It's a perfect place to have a quality time with my parents.

Have a nice day to all,

A Run to Remember

2011-06-10T12:55:00.000+08:00

Excited, I run on a sloping pavement... I tripped, then I got this bruise on my knee. I did not cry but I felt the pain... (dad's note: we felt the pain too)

It took a few days before it was healed but left a scar.

It was a run to remember...

Have a nice day to all,

My Little Sister's Name

2011-05-31T00:13:00.007+08:00

Dad wanted to name my sister Adrianne, it was a nice name but when dad researched for its meaning, and the meaning is not good, it means "dark". It is very important for dad that a particular name has a good meaning because he believes that we will carry our name's meaning when we grow up. So dad, finally gave in to mom's suggestion.

Here is a brief etymology of her name.

~~Rhianne~~ Rhian - originated from welsh, other form of Rian which means, God's Gracious Woman.

Danielle - female form of Daniel, the whole name means God Is My Judge or, more interpretively, God Rules Me.

May the Lord rule my little sister's life...
Meet my little sister...she is ~~Rhianne~~ Rhian Danielle or simply ~~Rhianne~~ ~~Ely~~ ~~Rhian Danny~~ Dannie.

She will be born on August 18, St. Jane Frances de Chantal's Feast Day.

Have a nice day to all,

Boracay (Day 4)

2011-05-30T12:40:00.001+08:00

May 24, 2011: Day 4 in Boracay, the final day. It was mom and dad's turn to spent their time together, while I was still sleeping they walked, hugged and kissed along the shore. Too showy?, not at all, they just missed each other, besides it was our last day here so they took the opportunity to explore the beach of Boracay. I wish we could stay here longer but it was time for us to go home.

I was awake just in time for our breakfast, after which we posed with our friends for a few more shots before going to the port. The weather was fair at least but the boat ride is a little bit rough. Mom got an injury on her foot while disembarking because of a strong wave, the platform pinned her foot. Luckily she only got a minor bruise.

We arrived safely at Manila Domestic Airport at 3pm via Zest Air. 3 1/2 days of vacation is enough for our family to renew our bond and refreshed my parents' tired body because of heavy workloads. Busy days ahead for my parents again, I hope to have a vacation like this in the future.

Have a nice day to all,

Boracay (Day 3)

2011-05-27T12:52:00.000+08:00

May 23, 2011: Day 3 in Boracay, the sky was gloomy maybe because of the impending typhoon Chedeng, in fact it was heavily raining the night before but still the sea is so beautiful as if inviting us to swim.

I played in the sand, testing my new toy until I got tired. Dad and I went to the sea and swim. The water is perfect and we swam for hours.

Later in the afternoon mom join us, We played peek-a-boo. I laughed out loud whenever mom and dad emerged from the water. We stayed until 6pm, I was chilling but enjoyed every single minute with my mom and dad.

Have a nice day to all,

Boracay (Day 2)

2011-05-24T16:13:00.001+08:00

May 22, 2011: Day 2 in Boracay, we woke up a little late, ate our breakfast after which we walked on the shore, visit Willy's Rock and took a few photos as a souvenir

At first I did not want to walk on the sand but later on I enjoyed running, walking and playing on the sand. I did not swim but still enjoyed our 2nd day here. It was fun being with my mom and dad.

We ate our lunch at Andok's because the day before we over spent for our dinner. Aside from Andok's, there are few more restaurant and fast food in Boracay, you can take your lunch or dinner at an affordable price, so no worries if you have a tight budget like us.

Luckily, during the night dad and our friends were able to watched fire dancers, though he was not able to bring his tripod for a better shot, he still enjoyed taking photographs.

That's all for now, I will tell more about our vacation in Boracay later.

Have a nice day to all,

Boracay (Day 1)

2011-05-23T01:20:00.006+08:00

May 20, 2011: All our bags were packed and ready to go to the pristine island of Boracay. Our family were so excited. Mom and dad deserves to rest and be with me for four days.

We arrived in Kalibo, Aklan at around 5 pm. a very smooth travel via Zest Air, then a 1 and a half land travel going to Caticlan, 5 minutes boat ride and lastly a 10 minute land travel going to our destination.

We enjoyed the night walking on the fine sand of Boracay. Nothing much to do but eat. I was able to posed for a few photos like the one posted here before we go to bed.

That's all for now.

Have a nice day to all,

3 Months to Go...

2011-05-17T02:18:00.002+08:00

The time is ticking, and my little sister's birth is getting near. Yes, she's a girl after all and the next thing to think is her name. Please help my mom and dad to come up with a name. The only prerequisite is that the first name should begin with the letter "R" and the second name should come or based from the Bible. Please post your suggestions.

Countdown Clock by Zoodu.comHave a nice day,

Outing @ 9 Waves

2011-05-12T12:49:00.005+08:00

Two Sundays ago, our family went to 9 waves(Ciudad Cristia) to beat the heat of summer. The resort was a little bit too crowded, to maybe because it was Mothers' Day or it was just too accessible. It is about 15 minutes from our house and around 30 minutes from Marikina City.
The sky was a little bit gloomy because of the impending typhoon but we still enjoy our short stay there. I was enjoying the water but a little scared to let go of my dad's (and mom's) arms even if I had a "salbabida" or life buoy/preserver.
I also enjoyed the slide and felt safe trying it because my uncles were waiting for me at the pool to catch me while dad is with me inside the whale slide.

It was indeed fun and exciting outing knowing that i spent it with my family. This ouhing was just a preview of a much awaited trip to Boracay.

Have a nice day to all,

Ortigas Feast

2011-05-05T12:46:00.004+08:00

This should have been posted a long time ago but since dad is too busy with his work for quite a long time and he can't assist me on posting and uploading pictures regularly (dad's note: so many backlogs) .

Anyway, the photo on the left was taken during the Ortigas Feast's 1st Anniversary Celebration held in Robinson's Cinema 4 last January 2011 (I forgot the exact date) with my dad, mom and Bro. Bo Sanchez. That long?, it was also the last time I attended Ortigas Feast, hopefully we could attend the Feast again (dad's note: I hope so, I tried but my schedules wont cooperate).

See related post here.

Have a nice day to all,

Photo Credit: Mr. Allan Sancon

Side Trip @ Rizal Park

2011-04-13T01:41:00.016+08:00

After a very tiring and scary marathon experience, our family took a short tour at the Rizal Park. It's more of a preview of what are we going to expect when we visit the park and find some time to explore it.

My dad wishes to go there since last month but for some reason we were not pushing through with our plan not until we joined Hyundai Run (dad's note: I really wanted to go there because I was only 6 years old the first time I visited Rizal Park).

While dad was taking some photographs and mom took some rest, I took the opportunity to play right in front of the monument. We continue walking, a fountain caught my attention for it is huge. The fountain's movement is in syn ch with the song being played (dad's note: I remember this fountain, I am glad it is still working). There are lots of things you can do as a family at the Rizal Park. I believe it is still one of the most visited place here in Manila. More of Rizal Park when we go there some other time.

Another fun-filled day for our family.

Up Next: Baguio, The City of Pines

Have a nice day to all,

Hyundai Run For a Cause

2011-04-12T08:05:00.027+08:00

It's been a while since I last joined a marathon. Together with my mom and dad, we went to the Quirino Grandstand for the Hyundai Run For a Cause, a run for the benefit of Gawad Kalinga Center for Social Innovation (GK-CSI), St. Scholastica’s Priory, Habitat for Humanity, and the Haribon Foundation.

It was already 5:30 in the morning and we were hoping that we wont be late for the gun start. Luckily, we arrived just in the nick of time. Wave E just started and Wave F (our wave group) was about to begin.

Equipped with my stroller and 2 pieces of pandesal, I was ready for this monumental event. The gun fired and we started running (I mean dad started running). After two (2) kilometer of running, dad experienced numbness on his left arms, then left leg and as we approached the final kilometer dad experienced numbness on his left face. So dad decided to take a rest and went to the First Aid Station (dad's note: thank God that the organizers had first aid stations every 500m).

While I was waving and clapping at the same time, I did not realized that there was something wrong with my dad. Thankfully, nothing serious about it and it was not a sign of stroke. The day before the event, dad went home around half past one in the morning of Saturday so he got only 2 or 3 hours of sleep. Anyway, we finished the race 58.19 minutes way below our 30 minutes average time for a 5 kilometer run.

Registration was free that is why more than 20,000 runners joined this event. Hyundai promised to hold another free run and we will join this again, hopefully dad is fit enough to join (dad's note: I'll make sure that the incident wont happen again, it was so embarrassing, ha ha ha).

Next: Side Trip @ Rizal Park

Have a nice day to all,

Weekend @ Nuvali

2011-03-27T10:32:00.029+08:00

Last week, our family went to Nuvali in Laguna together with Ninang Cla & Ninong Joper. It was also thier prenuptial photo shoot with my dad (dad's note: ehem!). Nuvali is a 1,840 hectare premiere eco-city development owned by Ayala Land.

While dad was busy with his camera, I took the opportunity to play, run and watched hundreds of koi with mom. Some where actually on top of the others while scrambling for food. It was awesome!!!. After a a couple of hours, dad joined us.

We thought that this place is ideal for families who are on a tight budget and want to spend their weekend differently. Dad is so busy with his work for months now and so he deserves this break and enjoy his time with us. (dad's note: I thank God that work is getting better now and I'm glad that I was able to go home at 8pm).

Up Next: Hyundai Run for a Cause

Have a nice day to all,

Interacting With Other Kids

2011-03-10T12:46:00.013+08:00

My favorite days are Saturdays and Sundays because on these days I have an extended bonding hours with my parents and aside from this, I have an extended hours of playtime outside our house.

Just like last week...

I got the chance to play with other (older) kids. They were playing "Chinese garter" when I interfere their game. Thankfully, the were all accommodating and welcome me with an open arms. I watched them first on how to do it they even lowered the garter to ground level for me to cross, back and forth. It was tiring but awesome.

Dad took a few shoot with my new friends.

After a couple of hours of playing we went back to our house and ate our snack.

Have a nice day to all,

Merienda-All-You-Can

2011-03-10T12:42:00.004+08:00

I ate pancit, lumpia, hotdog, chicken mami, bread and many more at Kamayan Restaurants' Merienda-All-You-Can.

Daddy was too hungry because he only ate bread in the morning and it was already 2:30PM. He was waiting for us to arrived at SM Megamall for my first haircut. He thought of eating in an Eat-All-You-Can Restaurant.

Daddy was already eating when we arrived. We understand because he's too hungry. I started with an appetizer. Then I ate 2 servings of Pancit, 2 pieces of lumpia, a portion of spaghetti and carbonara,, 2 hotdogs and a little serving of chicken mami. Whoa!, that's too many, besides, I need to gain more weight so I eat a lot.

Up Next: Interacting with other Kids

Have a nice day to all,

My First Haircut

2011-03-06T22:09:00.012+08:00

March 5, 2011,... Me and my mom went to SM Megamall (where my dad was waiting) for my very first haircut.

Before we went to the kid's hair salon. Since dad was so hungry we opted for an eat-all-you-can meal at Kamayan Restaurants. I ate pancit, lumpia, hotdog and many more. I enjoyed our meal together (I'll talk more about this in my next post).

We then went straight to "Cuts4tots Hair Salon for Kids" for my haircut. Sounds scary, not for me. Thanks to Barney. I watched Barney while the staff was cutting my hair. No scratching of head, I just sat, relaxed and watched Barney and after 15 minutes, I have a new nice and neat haircut. (see left photo).

It is quite expensive at P295 plus P195 for certificate but it's fun.

It's a worry free haircut.

I love it a lot

Have a nice day to all,

A Musician Someday

2011-02-23T20:00:00.010+08:00

At one year old, dad exposed me to music. He let me play his 10 year old Yamaha keyboard (electronic organ). Even without any melodic pattern I continue tinkering the keys or most oftentimes, banging the keys. With much enthusiasm, he encourage me to continue playing.

As if I know all the buttons and keys in the keyboard, I play my own style (LOL) of music. Dad is planning to enroll me in piano lesson when I turned 3 years old, that's exactly 20 months from now.

Another instrument he bought for me is a mini xylophone. Sorry dad I broke one of the keys. Sometimes dad played his guitar while I listen, clap and cheer.

Someday, I'll be a musician and a singer. Who knows, I might be serving with him in our church and parish.

Have a nice weekend to all,

A New High Chair & Barney DVD's

2011-02-21T12:17:00.010+08:00

Last month, Me and my amiga Zia went to the Baby Fair at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong. Lots and lots of baby stuffs to buy for an affordable price. They offer up to 70% off on selected items. Zia and I (our parents I mean) bought a high chair for P1,200 (regular price is P3,900). For me it's a little bit late but nevertheless I still need it until my little sibling arrives. I also use it when I want to relax while watching educational DVD's and oftentimes without me knowing it, I fell asleep while siting.

Dad only took some pictures of me on the high chair last Saturday. Equipped with his new acquired external flash (canon 480 EXII).

Dad also surprised me with 2 new DVDs of Barney. I really love Barney. I giggle, jump, clap, dance, sing and shout "yehey!!", everytime I watch Barney. He's number one (1) on my list. Aside from Barney, I love Dora and Sesame Street (dad's note: Gabby, watch them in moderation, okay?).

Have a nice day to all,

I Like...

2011-02-16T01:20:00.008+08:00

I love see foods,..when I see food I eat. LOL

I like eating solid foods rather than drinking milk. I use to drink a lot of milk before but when I turned one last year, I seldom drink my milk. In fact, I only consumes around 12 oz of milk a day, sometimes 16 oz, way below the average milk intake of my age.

I love fruits like grapes, mango, orange, poncan, apple, melon, water melon, banana, hmmm.. what else?, I think I already tried almost all popular fruits.

I also love to eat vegetables. I already tried ampalaya (bitter melon) which is hated by many kids, squash, cabbage, cucumber, carrot, potato and many more. One time, dad bought me blended watermelon & carrot and I drunk it to the max, err use teaspoon (see left photo).

My all time favorite snack is magic flakes and apple. I am slowly gaining weight though still underweight at 10 kilos.

Have a nice day to all,

My Tita Shane's Wedding

2011-02-14T21:17:00.000+08:00

Its been almost ~~a month~~ two months since my Tita Shane got married. The wedding was simple but festive. Sadly, my Momsie (grandmother) was not here to witnessed her daughter's wedding because she is currently working abroad.

My dress was bought in Marikina Market. It is not expensive but elegantly made. It is also my first time to become a flower girl. practicing walking was perfect but it was scary during the wedding. I did not walked much because of the attention I got from the guests. Luckily dad was able to capture the practice walk.

The photo on the left was the one included in the album.

Congratulations to Tita Shane and Tito Jay. Enjoy your married life.

Have a nice day to all,

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual/Chie Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Celebrating New Year (2011) in Batangas

2011-01-03T08:34:00.012+08:00

Our family went to Sto. Tomas, Batangas to celebrate New Year with relatives (grandpa's siblings). It was a very smooth travel, arriving at our destination after only an hour and 15 minutes.

Our plan was to wear a Chinese inspired costume but we bought was the wrong colors. So we scrapped the idea and mom bought me this dress (see left photo) instead made by Ms. Devi (Divisoria)

I met some of my relatives for the first time and enjoyed every minute of my stay there, especially the weather. They grilled barbecue and bangus (milkfish), cooked spaghetti and made the ever popular fruit salad. Mom also cooked maja for our desserts.

Year 2010 was indeed a happy and blessed year for our family though there were some struggles financially and I got sick more than once and still below the normal weight of my age. I am optimistic that this year is overflowed with blessings from God.

Have a blessed year to all,

with relatives from Batangas and Lucena

Christmas in Our House

2010-12-25T16:25:00.012+08:00

Last December 25 was my 2nd Christmas with my family but it was a lot different from the first because I am now an active toddler playing with my cousins and relatives. We celebrated Noche Buena at my grandparent's (my mom's parents) house. It was a fun filled night with games and prizes from my parents.

I wore a Santa Clause-inspired red jacket.

Who was missing: Tito Bernie and Family, Tita Luz and my momsie who are working a thousand miles away. We missed them all.

Before we continue our merry making, we offered a Birthday song to our Savior Jesus Christ. the night was like a Birthday Party for Jesus.

We ended the night with gift giving. It was indeed a very Happy Christmas for all of us.

Have a nice day to all,

Play time @ Gymboree Play & Music

2010-12-12T23:36:00.011+08:00

After attending a birthday party last Sunday in Shangri-la Mall, we went to Gymboree Play & Music* for an hour of fun and playtime. Unlike other "play zones", Gymboree offers a variety of activities and obstacle courses. It's like a Gym for kids like me, where you could flex some muscles and learn at the same time.

I was in awe because there is so much room to move and so many things to play with but my favorite is playing the ball with my dad (I wished that mom was with us inside the playroom, she took the photos instead).

I got a couple of bumps while playing but I was not hurt at all. I did not finished the 1 hour allotted time for me because I was already tired and we have to hear Mass at 4pm.

Both my mom and dad is contemplating on enrolling me at Gymboree, if budget allows it (dad's note: it's a little expensive but I might enroll Gabby in one of the classes they offer if budget permits it).

Rate:

Non-members: P320/hour

Members: 20% less

Membership fee: P3,200 (lifetime or until 5 years old) includes 10 game coupons

*Created in 1976 by Joan Barnes, the play centers' main purpose is to help children (in this case me) stimulate their development through music, exercise, art, and other activities as well as helping parents know how to participate in furthering their children's mental and physical growth (Source: Wikipedia).

Have a nice day to all,

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual/Chie Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Let's Play!: Bubbles

2010-12-05T23:30:00.009+08:00

Let's Play!: Block That Move (Source: What to Expect)
Appropriate for: 1 year and up
Skills developed: Hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills & language development
What you'll need: Bubble Solution, Bubble Wand

Every child enjoys playing with bubbles. To take this activity to the next level (the learning level, that is), invest in a set of wands in a variety of shapes and sizes so your toddler can explore the concepts of big and small. Then take your gear outside so nature can play a role in the game, too. Explain how the wind carries the bubbles away, the same way it blows the leaves around in your yard.

Add the thrill of the chase, and the fun grows exponentially. Encourage your child to crawl or toddle after the blowing bubbles and reach for them on his own. Then show him how to let a bubble land gently on his arm (he probably won't need any instruction when it comes to popping those magical orbs!). If you want to concoct your own bubble solution, make that part of the activity, too. Let your toddler watch you mix a cup of water, a tablespoon of glycerin (readily available online or at your health-food store), and two tablespoons of dishwashing detergent. Then let him take a turn at dipping the wand into the solution. Don't forget to show him how to blow!

Playing bubbles became one of my favorite games, I love popping the bubbles. It is really a very fun-filled activities for toddlers like me. CAUTION: You will experience dizziness after the activity (I don't know why, my dad, uncles, lola tita and mom experienced it)

Have a nice day to all,

Nursing Strike

2010-12-03T12:07:00.008+08:00

According to Baby Center, a baby who refuses to breastfeed, and is not in the process of being weaned, is said to be on a "nursing strike." A nursing strike is a baby's way of telling you that something's wrong. And it'll probably take a little detective work to figure out the problem.

It happened to me last week when I refused to drink milk/breastfeed (or even eat) for two days because my tongue was infected with chicken pox. I was just recovering from pneumonia so it was really hard for me to have chicken pox, my appetite was affected and I lose some weights because of these back to back infection. Dad wanted to bring me to the hospital for fear of dehydration because I only sipped 4 ounces of milk (with the help of a teaspoon) for the entire day. (dad's note: visit my blog for related story)

Anyway, I am now okay and my appetite is back. Though right now I only drink less than 10 ounces of milk a day, I eat a lot of food especially fruits (dad's note: I hope you will drink a few more ounces of milk a day)

P.S. Goodbye feeding bottle, I am drinking my milk strait from a cup.

Have a nice day to all,

Run United 2: RunRio Trilogy

2010-11-26T12:50:00.010+08:00

This run was our first since March 2010 (dad's note: I rested for a while because of terrible back pain) and our 3rd time to join a marathon with my mom and dad. As usual, dad pushed my stroller for 3 Km. We ran previously at the Kerygma Fun Raiser and Condura Run for the Dolphins, both at the 5 Km category.

I was not sure then if I could join my parents because I was still having a cough caused by pneumonia but dad decided to bring me with them on the day itself. We arrived a little late, in fact, almost all of the runners already finished the race but still we ran together with the 21K runners.

We finished the 3K race after 24 minutes of running, oh well, walking most of the time I guess. A far cry, from our 34 minutes finish for a 5K run. Anyway, We'll do better on our next race. Dad and I will run on the 5K category while mom will run on the 3K category at the ING Running 20, a run for a cause in partnership with Habitat for Humanity.

Marathon will be our regular activity together as a family. (dad's note: Ok, though I am still feeling some pain on my back after running, but it's tolerable now)

Have a nice day to all,

Walking on My Own

2010-11-16T12:59:00.001+08:00

Last Sunday, November 7, after the 8 am Mass at chapel of Sto. Niño, I begun to make my steps. One , two, three, four, five: I was amazed and begun giggling. Six, seven, eight nine, ten: I was in awe and shout with gladness. I did not notices that I made a few more steps before I stopped. I am walking on my own, yahoo!!!.

I was practicing it for weeks and now I could explore my world in a different way. I can now go shopping with my mom (dad notes: I now believe that shopping is therapeutic to women, Gabby looks okay now. She was diagnosed to have pneumonia a while ago), walk with my dad and play football (at home).

I am off and running, leaving babyhood behind. My first baby steps are, after all, my first major move toward independence.

Have a nice day to all,

Celebrating My 1st Birthday

2010-10-22T01:30:00.005+08:00

Today is my 1st Birthday, I am now a full pledge toddler (yippee!!). It's going to be a very exciting day for me and my parents. They were busy preparing for my birthday celebration, sleepless nights, calling one supplier after another, watching tens of videos of different party host, finding venue and all other stuff needed for my birthday. After two or three months of planning, all are set. (dad's note: LCD Projector, anyone???)

For now, I am still mastering the art of walking, I could make a step or two but still hesitating to make a few more step.

Thank you Lord for all the blessings. Thank you Lord for making me happy each day with my friends and family.

It's party!!! time.

Have a nice day to all,

Costume Fitting and More

2010-10-19T00:50:00.009+08:00

Five more days to go before my 1st Birthday but there are more things to be done (dad's note: finally, everything is set after two grueling months, my back is aching so is my feet). I was so busy last weekend in preparation for my upcoming party.

We woke up as early as 5:30 to hear Mass at the Monasterio de Sta. Clara (see dad's blog site) in Katipunan where we also offer the traditional eggs for good weather (yellow cellophane). I wrote my own petition and thanksgiving. After hearing Mass, I practiced walking around the vicinity until my parents were tired.

Right after our short stay at Monasterio de Sta. Clara, we visited my grandmother and enjoyed our breakfast with them then we proceeded to our mananahi (tailor or fashion designer) (who incidentally made the gowns of my parents' secondary sponsor) to fit my costume. It is indeed beautiful! , I like it a lot (dad's note: you did a great job once again, manang).

After the costume fitting, we went home and slept for a while while my dad went to the market to buy for our food for this week (dad's note: after eating, I went to Divisoria* to buy more fancy hats and wigs). The moment dad arrived from Divisoria we tried all the fancy hats, wigs (see my photo below) and eyeglasses for a few minutes of fun and pictorials. We end the day by making the finishing touches on my party favors (No loot bags this time for kids but instead a usable item for them).

It was indeed a very tiring day for us and we only hope that all things will go smoothly as planned. Ahh!?, I can't wait to see my friends on Saturday.

*Divisoria-is the mecca of valued shopping and Manila's bargain haven.

Have a nice day to all,

Milk from Ninang Agirl (Zia's Mom)

2010-10-06T01:14:00.010+08:00

I just want to thank Ninang Agirl for giving me some of her baby's (Zia's) milk supply. Actually, Zia wont need it since my Ninang Agirl is bless to have more than enough milk supply for her baby. Instead of throwing it they gave it to me as supplement to my milk supply (mom's milk is not enough to sustain my daily milk need).

Thanks for sharing your milk, Zia and thank you Ninong Joel and Ninang Agirl for bringing it at our house. Mwah!!!.. more milk...LOL

Eighteen (18) more days to go before my first birthday and the preparation is almost done. We're done with our caterer, photographer, face painter, food cart and souvenirs. There are two things we need to finalize, these are party host and my costume. Mom and dad is still searching for a good party host/magician/puppeter who is good and affordable. Distribution of Invitation is on going, we hope to finish everything next week.

Have a nice day to all,

We've been framed!!!

I am now Eleven Months Old

2010-09-25T00:11:00.004+08:00

Time really flies and I am fast growing like a blink of an eye (dad's note: let's go to Neverland, were kids never grow old). One month left and I will be celebrating my first birthday. I know it's going to be exciting. As a preparation, dad will begin our "Blowing a Candle 101" tomorrow and I hope I could master it quickly.

At eleven months, I could stand on my feet without help or support and I am expecting to make my first step (and second, and third and so on) anytime. I am enjoying exploring our house, I can't last playing in the crib and bruises and bumps can't be avoided.

I also gained weight and I am now at 18.50 lbs from last month's 16.72, almost 2 lbs. gain weight.

Dad and mom is finalizing the list of suppliers they are going to hire for my party needs.

Twenty eight (28) more days to go before my birthday, I know it's going to be an exciting and fun-filled party.

Have a blessed weekend,

Welcome to My Amiga Zia

2010-09-17T12:48:00.006+08:00

After waiting for almost forty one weeks (dad's note: the last couple of days of waiting is more excruciating), baby Zia was born via normal delivery at Polymedic Hospital (now Dr. Victor Potenciano Hospital) last September 16, 2010. She's 5 lbs. and 4 oz in weight (dad's note: based on what I read in Zia's chart).

Great! job Ninang Agirl. I'm sure everyone is very proud of you.

To Zia: Welcome to the outside world. I am looking forward to our playtime and gimmick(??)

Have a nice day everyone,

Photo(s), courtesy of Ninong Joel Saludares except for my photo courtesy of my dad, ricky pascual

Starstruck

2010-09-07T12:27:00.009+08:00

Two Saturdays ago our family attended Kuya Enzo's (Mommy's officemate's son) 7th Birthday. Before we go to the venue, dad and I went to Ortigas Center to find a venue for my upcoming 1st birthday. Most of them were already booked the other one was already ceased to operate (sigh!?). I hope we could find a venue the soonest time possible for we are running out of time. (dad's note: as of today, we found two possible venue here in Marikina).

As we were waiting for my mom to arrived from work, dad and I proceeded to Robinson's Galleria to eat lunch (I ate cucumber while dad ate chicken with rice). Dad took the opportunity to bond with me. We went to Tom's World to enjoy some of the rides. It was my first time to ride on a carousel and I also tried some ride like the moving (stationary) boat. There was this plane ride that I was supposed to try but dad hesitated to insert a coin since it might move a little bit shaky. Luckily, his hesitation was right because the plane rises up to 6 feet high before it moved(dad's note: whew!!!)

After an hour of waiting for my mom, we went to Kuya Enzo's Birthday celebration at Jollibee Vira Mall in Greenhills. It was my first birthday party which I really enjoyed and It was my first time to meet Jollibee in person (I mean in mascott, ha ha ha). I was in awe as I watched him danced and moved, In short I was starstruck. I gave him a flying kiss and high five.

You may notice that I haven't uploaded any photo from these activities because dad wasn't able to recover every single images of Kuya Enzo's Birthday celebration and my little bonding with dad at Tom's World (dad's note: sorry Enzo and Mommy Lheng, sniff! sniff!)

Have a nice day,

Different Faces

2010-08-27T12:47:00.007+08:00

And the countdown begins, 54 days to go before my first birthday and here's a sample layout of my photos. Dad is still working on it and is still ten pages short before the photo book is finished (dad's note: I am still learning to use Photoshop and it's going to be tough since I have zero knowledge about the software).

Dad captured my portrait in different expressions and the above collage are some of it. There are lots of photos to choose from the thousand or so pictures and I'll be sharing it with you in a couple of months.

Both my parents are preparing for my 1st birthday and they're having a hard time looking for a venue preferably located in Ortigas. They've found one but they only allow in-house catering. Anyway, they hope to find a suitable venue within the week or early next week so that they could move forward.

In other matters, I already got my passport (yippee!!) last Friday in time for our November Hongkong Trip. We all hope by that time the anger of the Chinese communities because of the hostage crisis here in Manila will dissipate so that we could enjoy our vacation even more.

Have a nice day everyone,

I am now Ten Months Old

2010-08-24T09:21:00.013+08:00

It's been a while since my last blog post. Anyway this will break my almost three weeks of silence.

At this point I am just beginning to understand many simple words and phrases, so it's more important than ever to keep talking to me. Give your chatterbox a head start on good speech patterns by repeating my words back to me using adult language. Try to avoid the tendency to use baby talk — it's fun, but hearing the right words is better for my development.

Though it may sometimes feel silly, having conversations with me baby is a great way to encourage my language skills. When I rattles off a sentence of gibberish, respond with "Oh, really? How interesting." I'll probably smile and keep chattering away.

I start to make the connections. I clap my hands together, specially when we are going to the park or to a mall or just outside our gate (daddy's note: she can now imitate what we are doing like clapping of hands, high five, raise of hands in the air, different sounds among others, I am more than amazed). Teeth are coming too, as of today two are partially visible and the other two are also ready to come out.

By the way, last Friday, dad and I went to Marikina River Park for a 5 km jog (See photos below and above).

Have a nice day to all,

A Little Chat with Dad

2010-08-06T12:10:00.014+08:00

Yesterday, I had a little chat with my dad while he was eating his breakfast and it goes something like this:

Dad: Hi Gabby, Will you allow daddy to work abroad?
Me: NR (No Reaction)
Dad: Gabby?!, Will you allow daddy to work abroad?
Me: Hmmm. (high pitch, like Ina Magenta of Okay Ka Fairy Ko)
Dad: (amazed and resigned) Gabby, Will you allow daddy to work abroad?
Me: Hrrrrr (in low voice like Gollum of the Lord of the Rings)

End of Discussion.

Dad's Note:

I wonder if she really understood what I was saying. To validate it, I asked her again last night (with her mom as witness):

Me: Gabby, Will you allow daddy to work abroad?
Gabby: Hrrrrr (in low voice, again like Gollum of the Lord of the Rings)
Mommy: Ha, ha, ha!

Honestly?, I don't have any plans of working abroad though it sometimes made me thought about it. I can't imagine myself leaving the two important person in my life just to work abroad. In this time of crisis I just hold on to God and hope that He will provide for our needs. Four months had past and our company is slowly recovering causes by the recession (I too, am slowly recovering from financial setbacks).

My wife said, "di ka makakatagal mag trabaho abroad" (you wont last working abroad). I believed her, just imagining it made me cry. These too special people in my life keeps me going, keeps me on dreaming and working hard. Maybe if my family is with me, I will reconsider working abroad.

I knew that dad was only joking when he asked me this question.

P.S: I am now a member of the "Facebook" community, thanks to my dad for creating my account

P.S. 2: Baby Zia, see you soon!

Have a nice day,

Family Day @ Fun Ranch

2010-08-01T20:40:00.015+08:00

Last Thursday (July 29, 2010) was my Dad's 35th Birthday. We went to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Parañaque (along Macapagal Avenue) to apply for my passport as a preparation to our Hongkong trip this coming November 2010.

There is a courtesy lanes for infants (less than one year old) so we finished the whole process in less than 2 hours (dad's note: Though still far from their 30-minute per transaction target, I may say that it is still fast compare with the old system, not to mention the new facilities we enjoyed). Anyway, after DFA we went straight to Tiendesitas in Ortigas for our lunch and afterwhich we went to the "Fun Ranch" to enjoy some rides there (yippee!).

I rode an electronic pony to my delight, all you have to do is insert a 10-peso coin (dad's note: though I did not insert a coin, my Gabby enjoyed it even better) . I even shout "ya! ya!" as I moved my hands and feet as if I was riding a real pony. Though I bumped my lips on the pony's head a couple of times, it did not bothered me that much (dad's note: we thought that Gabby's lips was badly hurt but nothing was serious, whew!)

We also rode the train and enjoyed it for a couple of minutes then we crossed a hanging bridge, dad was carefully crossing the bridge when mom intentionally shook it to scare my dad (dad's note: she was successful, she knew that I'm too scared crossing a hanging bridge)

It was an enjoyable day for us (dad's note: and most of all for me)

Have a nice day,

A Beauty Queen and/or A Model?

2010-07-19T08:44:00.019+08:00

Another weekend with full of surprises and fun, This time an unplanned pictorial which made my parents and relatives smile with glee. Two of the many poses I've done in front of my dad's Cameron (that's what dad called his Canon Camera) is the topic of my blog post today.

The above photo was choreographed by my dad, he let me stand on a chair while I was holding on the handle and dad told me that at the count of three to turn my head in front of the camera, it was not an easy pose though.

The 2nd photo was a bit free flowing, dad just let me play and shoot several shots and this was the result . I was wearing a crown on my head and waved my hands as if I won in a beauty contest.

Dad love these photos and she thank me for being cooperative (whew!). Am I going to be a Beauty Queen or a Print Model?. But I am afraid non of the above, dad told me that I should not consider it as a profession and I should only do it during my free time (dad's note: I prefer you should be a print model and I am your photographer, LOL. Honestly?, I am praying that you choose a profession/career wisely, I'll be there to guide you every step of the way though I have my own biases).

That's how we play, we've learned from each other even if I am just 9 months old.

Have a nice day everyone,

I've Learned to Stand and Sit

2010-07-15T07:54:00.008+08:00

I am getting closer and closer to full-fledged walking. I can crawl and cruise, moving around upright while holding onto furniture. I also learn how to bend my knees and how to sit after lifting my tummy and stretched my knees. It's harder to master than you might think! (dad's note: Gabby is just too excited with the things she learned. Most often than not, she just moved around as if she is a grown up kid and our heart sometimes pumps nervously.)

It's time for dad to move down my crib's mattress (I might try climbing soon) (dad's note: already did it this morning).

Yesterday I had some minor head bumps because of this new routine, it's part of growing up I guess (dad's note: be careful Gabby) and tear off a small portion of our linoleum (dad's note: oops!!)

Have a nice day,

Emir: The First Movie I Watched on the Big Screen

2010-07-13T00:09:00.001+08:00

Mom and dad love to watch movies. They watch all but one genre (horror movies). This is one of the many thing they want to do together and when they watch "Emir", they tag me along.

It's a nice movie because I love music very much and it's very entertaining though I only watched the first 30 minutes of the movie (I slept until the movie was finished). I'll let dad write his review.

Thank God, almost all of the rashes on my body was gone. I've got this so called "tigdas hangin" (dad said it's air measles, ha! ha! ha!) and I don't have a cough anymore, yipeee!!!

Have a nice day,

While My Baby Sleeps (My Daddy's Tale)

2010-07-08T12:05:00.028+08:00

Let me share with you a short tale from my dad.

My baby had a cough for more than two weeks now and it was a little uncomfortable (or traumatic I guess) for her to take her medicine. She automatically closes (or bite) her lips whenever she saw the medicine dropper. We don't have a choice but to force her to open her mouth (have you imagine 8 month old baby struggling not to drink her medicine?) she cries eventually.

After giving her the antibiotic for her cough, I carried her (though my lower back really hurts) and explained to her why she needs to take her medicine. I talked to her as if she was an adult kid, showing her the dates and frequency of taking her medicine. I told her that in three days she will stopped taking her medicine. I thought she understood it well, she stopped crying and leaned her head on my shoulder.

I hummed to let her sleep, a few times she will lift her head and stared at me as if she was saying "daddy, promise 3 days to go?", I kissed and embraced her. We go to bed and I sung her songs to help her sleep, after a few more minutes she was sleeping soundly as if nothing happened.

I had teary eyes while watching her fall asleep and I was just too proud that I did help her sleep again (it's difficult for me to do it most of the time). Looking at her innocent face made me wonder. How could a small baby like her made her parents so proud and at the same time make us happy and blessed even if she is just sleeping? I guess, that's the blessing of being a parent. A child takes away all her parents' problems, anxieties, sadness, name any negative emotions and these will fade away just by seeing your child get excited to hug and kiss you as you arrived from work.

While my baby sleeps, I watched her serene and worry-free face. After all the crying, she knew that everything will be okay because we say so, that the difficulty of drinking her medicine is just temporary and necessary. She just trust what I had said, because I am her father. I wonder when will I become like her, like a child, trusting our Almighty Father no matter how difficult life is. Though I've heard it many times, I learned the lesson from a child, to trust God even more because He said it. With this, I embraced my child and I fall asleep.

"He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."- Matthew 18:2-4

Have a nice day to all,

Twelve Reasons Why Babies Cry

2010-07-07T23:07:00.011+08:00

Here are the twelve (12) most common reasons why babies cry.

Hunger - this is probably the first thing parents think when babies cry. Better learn and recognize the signs of hunger. In my case I have feeding time. Now that I eat solid foods, i am eating with them during lunch and dinner to establish eating habits. So far it works.

A dirty diaper - some babies let you know right away when they need to be changed. Others can tolerate a dirty diaper for quite a while. In my case I tolerate it most of the time.

Needs sleep - babies need a lot of sleep for sure and we often cry when we are overly tired. I usually don't have a problem sleeping at night because I know my cue (when dad prepare our bed).

Wants to be held - babies need a lot of cuddling. We like to see our parents' faces, hear their voices, and listen to their heartbeats, and can even detect their unique smell. Crying can be our way of asking to be held close.

Tummy troubles (gas, colic, and more) - tummy troubles associated with gas or colic can lead to lots of crying. I have my own experience of tummy trouble. Believe me, it's a very uncomfortable feeling.

Needs to burp - this is one of the solution to tummy troubles because we swallow air when being fed. if the air isn't released it may cause some discomfort.

Too cold or too hot - most of the time I cried when it's too hot.

Something small - Babies can be troubled by something as hard to spot as a hair wrapped tightly around a tiny toe or finger, cutting off circulation. (Doctors call this painful situation a "hair tourniquet," and it's one of the first things they look for if a baby seems to be crying for no reason.) And some babies are extra sensitive to things like scratchy clothing tags or fabric.

Teething - teething can be painful as each new tooth pushes through tender young gums. Some babies suffer more than others, but all are likely to be fussy and tearful at some point along the way.

Wants less stimulation - babies learn from the stimulation of the world around them, but sometimes we have a hard time processing it all — the lights, the noise, being passed from hand to hand. Crying can be our way of saying, "I've had enough."

Wants more stimulation - a "demanding" baby may be outgoing and eager to see the world. And often the only way to stop the crying and fussing is to stay active. This can be exhausting but luckily my parents often bring me as often as they can. My parents doesn't want me confined just in the four corners of our house 24/7. (dad's note: it helps stimulate our baby's senses, we go to the park or mall most of the time and the opportunity to learn is very big)

Not feeling well - check her temperature to rule out a fever and be alert for other signs of illness. The cry of a sick baby tends to be distinct from one caused by hunger or frustration.

Source: Baby Center

Have a nice day,

Bonding with My Dad on the Day of P-Noy's Inauguration

2010-07-01T12:12:00.018+08:00

Right after President Noynoy's (P-Noy)Inauguration, dad and I went to Marikina River Park for a short bonding while my Tita lola was disinfecting our house.

I always enjoy siting (or riding) on my stroller because I am more free to look at my surroundings and love it at the same time. Of course, I love spending my time with my mom and dad. We sing, we dance, we play peek-a-boo, we go to mall and park and most of the time we tickle each other.

After a few minutes of staying under the Marikina bridge while watching some people catching fish, we went to Marikina Sports Park and enjoy the fountain. We wanted to stay a little longer but it was about to rain so we run back home (the rain poured about an hour after we arrived home).

We stayed outside our gate waiting for the disinfectant's smell to subside. We played once more, laughing and laughing until we got tired. That was how we spent our weekend most of the time.

Have a nice day,

2nd Shot of Flu Vaccine

2010-06-30T13:00:00.011+08:00

I was again given a flu vaccine, it was the 2nd and the last flu vaccine administered to me. The next flu vaccine will be a year thereafter. As usual, I don't even cry and just looked at my pediatrician.

I weigh 7.40 kilos ( 16.28 lbs.), I lose some weight since last month, I don't know if it because I was sick a week ago and now I have cough (again). The doctor just advised mom to continue giving me salbutamol, she doesn't heard on her stethoscope any indication that I have phlegm. I am still being observed if the couch and phlegm was due to allergic reaction. The funny thing was, I am not coughing whenever I am seeing a doctor and the moment I step out of the clinic I start to cough again (dad's note: are you preventing it, Gabby?).

After my check-up, we went to a supermarket to buy a few stuff needed like laundry soap, bath soap, biscuits among others. I was enjoying riding in the grocery cart, whoosh!!!. Dad did not realized that the cart actually has a seater for babies to ride in the cart comfortably.

But dad wondered, if it is safe for babies, to ride in the grocery cart, specially with bacterias. The cart is exposed to such because many are using it and the chance of spreading germs is high. An independent body tested the cart by swabbing some of the area usually touched by shoppers. The swab was sent to a lab and was tested positive with bacteria and fungus that can cause disease.

The solution: shopping cart cover. (dad's note: it's a little bit expensive but it will protect our baby from germs because chances are without this kind of protection, they might get sick. Babies often put their hands in their mouth and There would come a time that we can't prevent our baby to ride in the shopping cart).

I hope I'll be okay soon. I am missing some gatherings because of the cough.

P.S.: I was able to sit on my own last night, I wonder if I could repeat it again the soonest time without any effort. Anyway I am still practicing more to make it perfect.

Have a nice day,

I'm Eight Months Old

2010-06-27T14:02:00.002+08:00

I turned eight months old last Wednesday and we simply celebrated it with some pizzas. Let me share with you on how far have I accomplished for the past four months.

I am now creeping (pushing myself around on my belly), and sometimes practicing lifting my belly, as if I am doing push-ups. I was able to figure out how to move forward and backward by pushing off with my knees. I usually do the"combat crawl", a variation in which one leg is the pusher and the opposite arm the lead puller.

All of these variations on crawling strengthen the muscles that will soon enable me to walk. It's fascinating to see how I solves the problem of getting around (dad's note: she made us all smile in awe, she has so much courage to try new things).

I am able to pull myself up to a standing position while holding on to furniture or on my crib's railing. I also let mom and dad watch my tricks which made their heart jump. I could sit without any support but I am still practicing to sit on my own from lying position.

At this stage some parents put their children in baby walkers, but that's not a good idea. Walkers are unsafe: they discourage floor play, which helps her learn to walk by giving her opportunities to crawl, pull up, and cruise while holding on to furniture — all activities that lead to walking. (dad's note: we've learned this in a seminar, pacifier is another item which is not in our list to buy).

That's all for now.

P.S.: In less that 3 months I'll be having a new playmate. See you soon baby Zia (soon to be child of Ninong Joel and Ninang Agirl).

Have a nice day,

Side Trips

2010-06-21T12:22:00.005+08:00

Here are some of the places we visited during the night, just to relax some more and to eat some more.

Baker's Hill - Located at Mitra Road, Barangay Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City . Home of special Hopia and other pastries. They also have a restaurant and a theme park. Visit my Dad's blog site for more information.

Above photo shown was a swing (for age 3 and below) at Baker's Hill playground. I mostly enjoyed the ride. whoosh!!!

Puerto Princesa City's Baywalk - a suiting place to relax and a nice place to bond with my (your) family. Here we enjoyed strolling and eating chicharon (fried pork skin), balut (fertilized duck embryo) and fresh fruit shakes.

I was riding on a rented bike with my Tito Renz on the wheels. I love it...whoosh!!!

Happy Belated Father's Day to all the fathers in the world, specially to my dad. Tomorrow, I'll be turning 8 months old.

Have a nice day to all,

Day 5: Our Last Day in Palawan - A Milestone

2010-06-17T02:29:00.008+08:00

June 6, 2010 - All our bags were packed, we were ready to go. Our relatives were standing outside their door. They hate to see us going.

One final day in Palawan was an exciting (and sad) day because I've learned 3 new things on our five-day vacation. The third was evident on the photo on the left (I will elaborate more later).

First I've learned to kiss people whenever they put their cheek in front of me and says "Kiss ____ (name of the person). Mommy said not to kiss people on their lips except her (LOL).

Second, I've learned to say "babay" (bye).

The third one happened in Badjao Seafront Restaurant where we ate our lunch with some of our friends. After eating our lunch, we posed for some photo as a souvenir, as usual dad took the opportunity to let me posed in front of his camera. They put me on a high chair, while I was facing the sea dad instructed me (as if I already understand what he was saying) that at the count of three (3), I should be turning my head on him and smile.

The unexpected happened, Dad counted "one, two, threeeee", I turned and smile (see above photo).

He repeated it again "one, two, threeee" and the result is the same, It is not tsamba (luck) after all. Now, dad is not having a hard time making me smile in front of his camera. No need for fancy faces or clapping of hands or calling my names. It's effortless, he just count "one, two, three" and voila, I smile and look at him (dad tried it even if he doesn't hold his camera to check if I will still smile and the result is constant).

Try it for yourself, you wont be disappointed.

We left the restaurant at 3pm. Our departure was scheduled at 5:55 in the afternoon via flight PR 195 of Philippine Airline. Dad need to buy a last minute souvenir for him and mom. He bought 3 shirts and 3 bracelets for P330 only.

We went back to St. Mary to get our bags. It was raining but the rain stopped before our scheduled flight, so we didn't experienced any turbulence.

We arrived at the Centennial Airport at 7:19 PM and was able to get a cab at around 9:30 PM (dad will tell more about it in his blog site Travel and Photography).

Finally, home sweet home, then we got sick. Cough!, couch!, couch!... Dad, me, Tita lola and Momsie, sigh?!.

Have a nice day to all,

Day 4: Aborlan Road trip

2010-06-14T00:45:00.003+08:00

June 5, 2010 - Our last day before our departure. Since it's Sunday, we went to a church first to hear mass (very important for us even if we're on vacation) before we continue our activity for the day.

We travelled in the afternoon (2PM) going to Aborlan, my lolo jay (momsie's younger brother) home town. Originally, we were set to travel at 7am so that we could still go to Estrella Falls (3 hour road travel from the City of Puerto Princesa) but we changed the plan and decided to just visit lolo jay's farms.

Our first stop was at the mango farm of lolo jay. they harvested quite a number of Palawan mangoes as well as Indian mangoes for our (or rather for their) own consumption. I posed for a photo as if I was picking a mango from the tree.

Dad also, took the opportunity to bond with me while we were riding on swing. It was fun actually, those giggles Which were not captured by dad's camera was between me and dad. I also bonded with my Tito Renz while others were eating mangoes.

After they (my relatives) were done eating mangoes, we continue our trip going to the 2nd farm.

It is a coconut farm with a number of animals like pig, chickens, ducks scattered all over the place. It is a bigger farm compare with the mango farm.

As usual, they harvested a couple of dozens of coconut and drunk the juices. I cannot eat with so I just stared at them while they were eating and drinking.

After filling up all their stomachs (I settled for 2 pieces of Mari biscuits) we proceeded to our final destination, my lolo Jay's house. We rested for a while (I took a nap and a round of breast milk) then we went back to the road for another 2 hours of road trip going back to Puerto Princesa City.

Next: Our Last Day in Palawan - A Milestone (I've learned 3 new things on our final day in Palawan)

Have a nice day to all,

Day 3: Honda Bay Island Hopping

2010-06-10T15:42:00.012+08:00

June 5, 2010 - After a much anticipated Underground River exploration yesterday, comes another breathtaking tour for me. We were set for an 8am Honda Bay Island Hopping and everyone were busy preparing for their stuffs (swim suit, snorkel, sun block etc.). I, for one was excited to wear my new customized bathing suit (P500++) because for the second time mom and I have the same bathing suit design courtesy of her office mate.

There was a slight delay to our schedule because our boat was overloaded. We almost left 6 of our relatives including my grandparents because we were having a hard time looking for another boat. Finally, after an hour of delay the boats sailed going to one island to another.

First stop was Starfish Island where we did a lot of picture taking for souvenir. The left photo shows me and my mom posed for a photo behind a giant clam. I saw a number of starfish in the water as well as in the hands of the tourists. After a couple of shots with my family and friends, we proceeded to the next island.

20 minutes later, we arrived at Snake Island.

This island is a government owned island (according to the boat guides) so there is no entrance fee. We only pay for the cottages rental for P50 each.

Here we ate our lunch together. We grilled fresh fish, we have "enasaladang talong at manga" (eggplant and mango salad) and alimasag (crab) for our lunch. After we ate our lunch, I changed my cloths and wear my bathing suit (yahoo!).

I posed again for a few photo wearing my new bathing suit (see left photo, I could sit without any support and posed like a pro).

Popsie took me from my mom and we both went to the sea to take a dip, it was my first to got wet with salt water. Unluckily, after just a couple of minutes, I felt itchiness in my whole body.

They all enjoyed snorkeling while I was sleeping. After a couple of hours more, we prepared for our departure going to our last stop before we go home.

Our last stop was Pandan Island. We planned to stay only for a couple of minutes and took some photo but as we were about to leave the island, a sudden change of wind prevented us to sail. For our own safety, we delay our departure.

The last photo below is one of the many photos of me while I was in the sand.

After the wind was weakening we continue our sail. The trip was scary because of the strong waves but we arrived safely, thanks to our experienced boat guides.

For more information on Honda Bay, see my dad's blog post at Travel and Photography.

At night we went to Baker's Hill, famous for their delicious hopia (bean-filled pastry). I'll let dad tell more about this place. That ended our Day 3 in Palawan.

Next: Aborlan Road Trip

Have a nice day to all,

Day 2: Underground River, Sabang

2010-06-09T23:18:00.015+08:00

June 4, 2010 - We prepared for this trip as early as 5 am since our time of departure was scheduled at 7 am. It took us one and a half hour of road trip before we arrived the town of Sabang, home of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) (or most commonly called The Underground River)

At around 9 am, after we showed the necessary permit for this exploration, we hopped on a boat. It was a 30 minutes boat ride going to the Underground River.

Since I am under 5 years of age, I was not allowed to join the exploration of the cave. Anyway, My mom did not joined the exploration. As they were waiting for their turn, we took the opportunity to posed for a few photos (that's the least I could do).

Dad would have wanted me and my mom to join this exploration but I am still too young to join, maybe next time dad. Finally, after waiting for another 30 minutes, then boat arrived.

The exploration lasted for 45 minutes and I took that opportunity to drink my milk (from my mom, off course). We went back to our boat and waited for them.

Afterwhich, we returned to Sabang Port and eat our lunch and my young relatives took a quick dip before we left the town going back to San Jose.

We arrived San Jose and 4 pm, took a bath and ate our dinner before we went to stroll at Baywalk (not the Baywalk in Manila. Dad will tell more about Baywalk soon).

We went home at around 10 pm. That ended our Day 2 in Palawan

Next: Honda Bay Island Hopping

Have a nice day to all,

Day 1: Departure (Our Palawan Vacation)

2010-06-08T00:11:00.028+08:00

June 3, 2010 - We woke up at around 5 am, for our scheduled flight via Philippine Airline PR 198 bound for Puerto Princesa, Palawan. It was raining when we left home going to the Centennial Airport (NAIA 2).

Dad thought that we were going to ride on a Cebu Pacific Plane, so he thought that we were going to NAIA 3. The taxi we hired doesn't know how to get at NAIA 2. Finally, after asking for the right directions we arrived at 6am in time for check-in of luggage.

After checking in our luggage, we proceeded to the waiting area for our flight at 8am. As we were waiting for our flight, mom and I played pick-a-boo and all other games to ease our boredom in waiting.

Boarding should be at 7:30 am and it was already 8am and boarding is not yet in effect. Dad, decided to asked a staff on what was the reason for the delay. The crew said that they were waiting for the clearance to be released for them to fly.

And we waited for an hour and a half more.

Finally, at around 9:40 am, we boarded the plane and we left Manila at 10 am (Dad's Note: Thank God that Gabby is with us in this trip, I just waited patiently while I was playing with her).

The rain stopped and the weather was fair. We arrived Puerto Princesa Airport at 11:08 am. It was my first time to ride on a plane so it was pretty an exciting experience.

Popsie, Tito Reggie and Lolo Elvis fetched us at the airport. It was another 30 minute tricycle ride before we arrived to our destination (my great grand parents' house).

All my tita's (mom's cousins), were all excited to see me. It was mom's first visit since 2005 (my great grand parents were still living at Narra, Palawan, a two hour ride from Puerto Princesa), so it was sort of a reunion for the family and their first time to saw me.

It was a not so busy Day 1 for us since our first day of exploration really started on Day 2. We had enough time to rest and to meet and chat with my relatives.

This ended our Day 1 in Palawan.

Next: Subterranean Underground River, Sabang, Palawan

Have a nice day to all,

Figuring Out How Objects Relate + Crawling

2010-06-01T15:52:00.008+08:00

I am beginning to understand how objects relate to one another in three-dimensional space. I admire my reflection in a mirror and the way dad and mom suddenly appear behind my image, I turn and look for them instead of believing that they're in the mirror itself.

A simple game of peek-a-boo is absolutely fascinating to me. That's because I am starting to understand object permanence (that an object I can't see can still exist) and loves games in which people or things appear and disappear.

I could straighten my back and twist my trunk as I sits (with a little help and support from mom and dad). I hope I could sit on my own the soonest time.

Finally, I can crawl now with my tummy on the floor. Maybe in the next couple of week I can crawl by pushing off with my knees and by balancing my hands. It will strengthens my muscles for me to walk sooner.

Upcoming Activities: Puerto Princesa, Palawan (June 3-7, 2010)

Tomorrow: Bisolvon Alagang Supermom Photo Contest, announcement of winners (I hope we're one of the 7 winners)

Here's a photo from the 2010 Kerygma Fun Raiser courtesy of http://www.iflick.ph/, the fruit of our labor (it took us an hour and a half of waiting).

Have a nice day to all,

The 2010 Kerygma Fun Raiser

2010-05-30T22:42:00.016+08:00

The 2010 Kerygma Fun Raiser is my 2nd 5K Marathon (Condura Run is my first), off course, dad was with me to pushed my stroller for 46 minutes (unofficial, dad's best is a little over 30 minutes when he's alone).

I was still too sleepy when we left our house at 4:30 in the morning, we arrived at around 5:15 in time for Community Worship.

We did a lot of stretching prior to the actual run (see left photo, I was stretching my legs to prevent cramps, ha! ha! ha!).

I have my own race bib number (5637) this time though I registered under my mom's name.

The race started at around 6:30am, dad and I were in the middle of the pack and waited for our turn to run. Thank God that the sun showed up (the sky was a little gray when we arrived) very timely and I was able to joined my dad.

It was getting hotter because the race started way too late (it usually starts at 5:30am) but thankfully there were 5++ water stations around the race track and was helpful to quench dad's thirst.

Dad was too proud everytime people saw us running and greeted us (Dad's note: I am very proud indeed and this is not going to be our last marathon together).

I was enjoying the race because I was seeing a lot of faces and places. Right at the middle of the race, I took a nap and rest. Dad left me on the side of the street to drink another cup of water.

As we approached the final 50 meters of the race, dad tried to wake me up but to no avail. We finished the race in 46 minutes (it's not our personal best together but it is still a lot better than the other finishers' official time).

After the race, dad went to the photo booth for a photo opportunity and souvenir. Dad was too persistent to wait. We waited for an hour and a half though we almost went home frustrated because the power was cut off as we were waiting for the couple (Tito Ryan and Tita Laly, mom and dad's friends) ahead of us to finished. Luckily, there was a crew member who told the generator provider to turn the power on again.

Though I was tired already, I still managed to give my best smile while we were being photographed. Afterwhich, we headed to mom's office for she still needed to report for work (she was late from work, thanks mom for your patience and by giving in to dad's request).

This event is for the benefits of the different ministry's of the Light of Jesus Community. See you again at the 2011 Kerygma Fun Racer.

Have a nice day to all,

My 7th (Birth) Month Celebration

2010-05-27T00:37:00.008+08:00

We spent this very special day at Pan de Amerikana in Marikina City. My lola's, lolo, titos and tita and cousins joined me in celebrating my 7th birth month.

For less than P1,000 (for 12 persons), we enjoyed the day, with their yummy breakfast (tocino, omelet, tapsilog and a lot more) and off course with their tasty pandesal (mega sized wheat at P5.50, giant Pandesal Pan Amerikano at P55). Plus enjoying some of their amenities, like this gigantic chess and hanging bridge.

Pan de Amerikana is a restaurant in garden setting with water falls, tree house, rope bridge, koi pond, traviesa benches, old antique wood tables, batibot chairs and tables, tropical rain forest plants, wishing well and Italian colonnade European ruins. It's ideal for any occasion and it will work on your budget.

I Will share some more photos in a while.

Pan de Amerikana opens from 6am to 7pm daily except Sundays which only opens from 6am to 3pm. Located at No. 92 Ordoñez Street (Molave Street) Concepcion Dos Marikina City (Tel. 475-2398)

Have a nice day to all,

Supplementing With Formula Milk

2010-05-25T12:46:00.010+08:00

Two days ago, I consumed all the milk mom had left for the day's supply. She went home late from work, so I don't have a choice but to drink formula milk (dad bought formula milk for emergency use only and provided I will drink only one bottle per day or as needed, they still prefer breast milk for me).

After just a few minutes of consuming the milk, I vomited all of it. My digestive system reacted and it caused me discomfort for the rest of the night.

One of the reason is my digestive system can't digest cow's milk proteins. Cow's milk also has too much sodium, potassium, and chloride, which can tax my kidneys.

Giving me cow's milk (I haven't seen any formula milk which does not came from cow's milk) could even cause iron deficiency and internal bleeding and it can increase me risk of an allergic reaction. This was the root cause why I vomited and why my face turned reddish. My pediatrician recommended that I drink formula milk with HW to prevent vomiting again (I don't like the taste but it doesn't cause me any discomfort).

But once my digestive system is ready to digest it (usually at age 12 months) milk becomes a powerful ally. A great source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin A, milk will build my bones and teeth and help my body regulate my blood coagulation and muscle control. Almost all milk is fortified with vitamin D, which helps the body absorb the calcium it needs.

I hope (and pray) that mom would produce more than enough milk for me daily so that I wont be drinking formula milk anymore.

P.S.

In line with this, I am selling my milk (Enfapro A+) at a discounted price of P600 only (Dad bought it at P880), I only consumed 3 oz, so I barely touched it. Just leave a comment if you want to buy it.

Have a nice day to all,

I'm Seven Months Old

2010-05-22T22:39:00.002+08:00

I just got home from my monthly check-up and immunization. As usual, I did not cry at all and let my grandma (momsie) witnessed how brave I am.

I am still frustrated crawling at a long distance. I prefer rolling over to get an object far from me but mom and dad is teaching me and let me practice crawling.

One clear sign that I am getting ready to crawl is an ability to sit on my own (though some baby skips crawling, Whoever said babies have to crawl before they walk is actually wrong). With this, I'm still on schedule and within this month I am sure I'll be sitting on my own and eventually starts crawling (or skip it).

Tomorrow, I'll be turning 7 months and we'll be having another simple celebration with my family.

Have a nice day to all,

Dad's Lullaby

2010-05-19T00:38:00.005+08:00

A lullaby is a soothing song, usually sung to children before they go to sleep, with the intention of speeding that process. As a result they are often simple and repetitive. (source: Wikipedia).

I don't know if this song fits the definition above but this song was composed by my dad instantly and sung it to me before he left for work. Dad realized that I need a song like this because mom and dad noticed that I am experiencing ''separation anxiety"at this point. Though I'm not crying when they are leaving for work, my eyes can't lie that I want to be with them.

I thought of sharing this to you though the lyrics needs fine tuning.

See music sheet below, click the image to enlarge: (dad just finished it a while ago)

Have a nice day to all,

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image/music sheet may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos/song were taken/composed by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer/songwriter. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

My Pahiyas Festival Experience

2010-05-17T22:03:00.008+08:00

Me, my parents and grandmother (momsie) went to my ninang Clarissa's hometown in Lucban Quezon and spent our weekend and celebrate with her family the Pahiyas Festival.

Pahiyas Festival is a whole weekend celebration in honor of their patron Saint, San Isidro Labrador, It is my first ever festival. We walked and hopped from one house to another and enjoy the beautiful and fascinating decorations of each houses, there are hundreds of houses who participate in this festival every year.

There were a variety of gimmicks in each houses just to catch the attention of the judges. After a a couple of minutes of walk we watched the town's parade, I saw different "karosa", pansit habhap carts, carabaos and fashion outfits made of native materials.

I also saw familiar faces like Ninang Lilet, Tito Joseph, Tito John and a few more friends in Lingkod, we also saw Tita Mara with her Sam.

The following day we went to "Kamay Ni Hesus" (Hands of Jesus) to attend Mass. We climbed a couple of steps before we let momsie and dad continue climbing. We waited for them in a nearby canteen.

The trip may be tiring but I obviously enjoyed my stay in Lucban. A whole new experiences and learning once more.

Have a nice day to all,

Let's Play!: Sound Off

2010-05-14T10:48:00.001+08:00

As I gets older, new sounds from unexpected places engage my attention. In addition, at this age I am starting to understand that a movement made here results in a sound made there. Coming up with novel ways to produce sound is as easy as rummaging through our kitchen cabinets.

Let's Play: Sound Off (Source: Baby Centre)
Appropriate for: 4 to 8 months
Skills developed: Auditory
What you'll need: Various kitchen implements

Give raspberry blowing a new twist by filling a glass or a clear plastic cup with water and blowing bubbles into it with a straw. Your baby will not only like the sight of the bubbles, but she'll also find the noise most intriguing. (Don't let her handle the glass or straw herself.)

Swirl a metal spatula or spoon around inside a metal bowl for another captivating sound. Crinkle some tinfoil or wax paper, set off the kitchen timer, or open and shut the trash can. As long as your baby is supervised, there's no reason the sounds of the kitchen shouldn't entertain her safely.

I was relay curious with the sound and the bubble as my dad blew the water in the glass. At this time of my growth, I am really curious in everything I hear and see. Dad also imitate sounds of a cat, dog, goat and horse to my delight. It is pretty amazing hearing those sounds.

Have a nice day to all,

Let's Play!: Jack-in-a-Can

2010-05-09T18:37:00.010+08:00

When a baby is getting the hang of object permanence (the idea that something still exists even when it can't be seen), any game where things appear and disappear is a hit. While traditional windup jack-in-the-boxes can still be too startling or scary at this age, you can make a baby-friendlier one yourself using simple materials from around the house.

Let's Play!: Jack-in-a-can (Source: Baby Centre)
Appropriate for: 6 to 10 months
Skills developed: Understanding of object permanence
What you'll need: A coffee can, yogurt carton, or large paper cup; a chopstick, pencil, or ruler; a small colorful toy (a finger puppet works best); some tape or glue

Punch a hole in the bottom of the container. Insert a chopstick, pencil, or ruler (even a stick from your garden will do) through the hole, then glue or tape to the tip a small stuffed animal or plastic figure. Even better, use a finger puppet (just slip it over the end of the stick and secure it with a bit of tape).
Now you have a hand-operated pop-up toy: Pull the stick down so the toy or puppet is hidden inside the can or cup, then push it up suddenly when you want the jack-in-the-can to greet your baby.

Dad bought a small bear key chain for this activity and reused the cup and the straw from "Fruitas" (he can't find one red cup in the supermarket so he improvised). Dad spent P74 only for this activity (P39 for the bear and P45 for the fruit shake).

Dad forgot to wash the used cup before he went to the PPCRV meeting in our Parish, so when he arrived home, he saw a lot of ants feasting on the cup. Anyway, it took him a couple of minutes to finished his props then the activity begun. At first, I was just staring on what my dad was doing, I was so curious on what was happening. I was grabbing the toy as soon as it popped out from the cup and even grabbed the cup when dad stopped and hide the toy. I was wondering where was the toy, hmmm.

After a couple of minutes of trying to grabbed the toy, dad finally let me hold on it and there was a grin on my face. Surely, this activity is a hit because at this stage of my growth I am curious on my surroundings and the sound I am hearing.

After this activity, we do the "Sound off" activity but I will share it some other time. In the meantime sleep well and wake up early for tomorrow is our country's National Election Day. Let us all pray for wisdom so that we could choose and vote wisely. Remember, it's our future that is at stake.

Have a nice day to all,

Coming Soon!: My First Tooth

2010-05-05T23:08:00.011+08:00

I've got a feeling that I'm going to have my first tooth really soon.

Experts disagree about whether teething actually causes symptoms — like fussiness, diarrhea, and fever — or whether these common symptoms are not related to teething at all and just coincidentally appear at the same time as emerging teeth. Regardless, many parents maintain that their teething babies do experience discomfort (though some babies get through the process with no problems at all). (Source: Baby Center)

The symptoms most likely to trouble a teether like me include:

• Drooling (which can lead to a facial rash) (ah!, it's really a mess, LOL)
• Gum swelling and sensitivity (Ouch!)
• Irritability or fussiness (Not Much)
• Biting behavior (Absolutely)
• Sleep problems (There are some moments)

Have a nice day to all,

Let's Play!: Block That Move

2010-05-02T02:35:00.011+08:00

It might be a while until I can stack blocks, but long before that I'll enjoy knocking them over. And if I make a loud sound when they fall, what could be better?

Let's Play!: Block That Move (Source: Baby Centre)

Appropriate for: 6 months to 1 year
Skills developed: Hand-eye coordination
What you'll need: Stacking blocks

Seat your baby on your lap, facing outward. Using a set of wooden or plastic blocks – ideally set upon a bare wooden or tile floor, for acoustic effect – build a tall tower. Don't worry too much about stability, because your baby is just going to knock it down.

Let her swat at the structure, reach for lower blocks, or otherwise demolish your creation. She'll not only enjoy watching the blocks fall, but if they're set on anything but carpet, she'll also relish hearing them crash. Keep stacking them and letting her knock them down; she'll just get better and better at it, and you'll get faster and faster at the construction!

Dad bought plastic blocks for only P129 and we tried this activity several times but the result is not favorable at all. I was bored quickly and I just play/pick it one at a time and sometimes put it on my mouth (dad's note: parents be careful of what you are giving to your baby at this age). Mom discovered that I like books so they gave me my books which my Ninong Joel gave. They also read the story to me.

We will try this particular activity later, maybe when I turned 8 months old.

Upcoming Activities: Jack-in-the-Can, Pahiyas sa Lucban

Have a nice day to all,

Happy 4th Wedding Anniversary

2010-04-30T09:33:00.010+08:00

Today marks the 4th wedding anniversary of my parents, so allow me to share with you a letter from my dad:

Ever dearest Mommy,

Do you remember the first (?) greeting card I gave you when I was still courting you? Here's what it said:

"Your Heart is like a door, locked from top to bottom...hope I've got the right keys to open it."

Finally, after two years of searching and trying for the right keys, you opened the door of your heart to me and the rest is history. I am always comfortable inside your heart and I hope you wont kick my b*** out from your heart (LOL).

Fourteen years (14) (including 2 years of courting and 8 years of being steady) of loving you is not enough, I need eternity for me to show you how much I love you, how much I am blessed and how much joy my heart feels.

Four (4) years of marriage is not long enough to prove that we are strong to face challenges and difficulties but for sure we could face it with much confident knowing that we are together every step of our journey.

For some, marriage is not a word, it's a life sentence, but for me marriage is a lifetime happiness knowing that you are the one person I am with. I can't imagine myself a Chie-less world.

Others said that love is one long sweet dream and marriage is the alarm clock, but for me marriage is the fulfillment of that "sweet dreams", I dreamt of you for a long time and God made that dream a reality.

Today, we celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary, it may be simple as it is but for me this day is not just an ordinary day for us because we celebrate our marriage each day and each moment. We are blessed with much joy, we are blessed with a beautiful and charming daughter and we are blessed by our love for each other.

You opened the door of your heart for me 14 years ago and I don't have any plan of getting out from it, my only plan is to stay in your heart forever.

I love you always.

Happy 4th Wedding Anniversary to us.

Loving you,

P.S. 1: Here's an AVP of some of the photo taken during April 2009 to April 2010, just click here

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad. I love you both.

P.S. 2: Please continue to vote for our entry at Alagang Supermoment Photo Contest, you need to sign up before you could vote (you don't need to buy Bisolvon to vote, but if you want to buy, it's much better because it's worth 50 votes). Our entry is currently at No. 17 spot. click here.

Have a nice day to all,

Breaking News!: Baby Magazine

2010-04-28T16:42:00.008+08:00

Watch out for the June 2010 issue of Baby Magazine. This photo of me will be featured in the "Baby of the Month" section of the said magazine.

Dad sent this photo 3 weeks ago and the person in-charge e-mailed him yesterday and it says:

From: Adpromo
To: ricky pascual
Sent: Tuesday, April 27, 2010 15:36:04
Subject: Re: Baby Photo for Baby Magazine

Sir,

Please email the name of this baby. She will be featured in Baby Magazine "Baby of the Month" June issue.

Dad is very much happy to broke the news to my mom and mom said that daddy is indeed a "stage daddy". Who knows, in the near future you will see me on the cover page.

Have a nice day to all,

My First Shoes

2010-04-27T12:47:00.001+08:00

The shoes in this photo was given to me by my auntie's friend when they visited me in our house 3 days after I was born and I only wear this for the first time today.

I don't actually need shoes for the time being since I haven't start learning to walk (for now, it's for pictorial purpose only). In fact, experts said that supportive shoes may actually impede baby's developing mobility. Socks, booties, or soft-soled baby shoes are useful for warmth (actually these are my regular outfit), and bare feet are fine, too.

Once I take my first momentous steps, it's time for me to wear this pair of shoes regularly (or any other appropriate shoes).

Have a nice day,

I'm Six Months Old

2010-04-24T12:43:00.015+08:00

Yesterday, I turned 6 months old and we held a simple celebration here in our house, together with my grandparents, cousins, uncles and aunties. Momsie (my grandmother) cooked pasta in white sauce and cheese cake for our dessert, while dad bought one whole roasted chicken.

The next 6 months is going to be exciting before I turned one year old. I am expected to crawl and sit on my own in a couple of weeks as well as learning to imitate sound (talk), walk, get up on my hands and knees and a lot more of exciting development.

This afternoon, I'll visit my pediatrician for another immunization (Dtap, Hib, Pneumococcal, Rotavirus), it's a combo vaccine so it wont hurt a lot (I hope so).

After immunization we'll go to the "Leadership Gathering" of the Ortigas Feast. I'll be seeing a lot of familiar faces there including my three godfathers. I'll tell you all about it when I got home.

This week's activity: Block That Move (It might be a while until I can stack blocks, but long before that I'll enjoy knocking them over.)

Upcoming Activities: Jack-in-the-Can, Pahiyas sa Lucban

Have a nice day,

Let's Play! : My Photo Album

2010-04-22T03:39:00.011+08:00

Recognizing familiar faces is an enormous treat for me as I learn to identify people by name and association.

Here's an exercise to boost this skill.

Let's Play!: Block That Move (Source: Baby Centre)
Appropriate for: 6 months to 1 year
Skills developed: Pattern recognition
What you'll need: A small photo album – the type where the photos slide into clear plastic pockets

Buy a small photo album (one that holds 3-by-5- or 4-by-6-inch photos – one photo per page is the best) and fill it with snapshots of your baby and the people in her life. In addition to relatives and family friends, make sure you include pictures of babysitters or caregivers, neighbors, and other babies and children you know, along with favorite pets and toys.

Give the album to your baby and tell him it's her very own. Sit with her and show her the photos. Since her pincer grasp (with forefinger and thumb) is starting to develop, she’ll soon learn to grab the pages, and as she gets older she'll start to really look at the pictures and point at them.

She may react to familiar faces with excitement, or she might just be mesmerized by the parade of colorful images. Either way, store the album on her bookshelf or in her toy box, for later viewing together. It'll quickly become a favorite.

I was in awe the first time dad and I do this exercise, he sat with me and pointed each person on the photos, sometimes I make some, "oohs" and sometimes I gave a loud laugh. It was fun doing this exercise and recognize people I know. It's true, it became my favorite activity.

The photo above was shot yesterday for visual on how I responded well in this exercise.

Have a nice day to all,

Praying for H.O.P.E.

2010-04-20T04:37:00.010+08:00

Almighty Father, I thank you for all the blessings you are giving me. I thank you for allowing me to be born here in the Philippines, a country of democracy who believe that all things are possible in Christ alone.

We thank You for the privilege of being able to organize ourselves politically. May our nation be awaken and exercise our duty and vote with a sense of thankfulness. May they choose for the rightful person and not commit another mistake.

I pray for an honest, orderly and peaceful election. Lord, I can't cast my own vote, I could only pray that my fellow Filipino will exercise their duty and vote wisely and correctly. Give them the wisdom to choose for a worthy candidate and discern for the rightful person who will lead our nation for the next 6 years.

Our Nation doesn't need a leader who is just intelligent, who uses the weaknesses of my poor countrymen or who just tell lies and empty promises. I pray for a President who fears the Lord, righteous, just, who has integrity and wisdom, and who will serve our country above all else (only second to you) and not thinking anything for his own advantage and gain.

I pray for all the election officers, Parish pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), Philippine National Police (PNP), Arm Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Commission on Election (COMELEC), who are given the responsibility of ensuring an honest, orderly and peaceful election. Give also those people who will not be allowed to vote because of unforeseen events a forgiving heart and understanding.

I acknowledge You today as Lord, not only of individuals, but of nations and governments. I rejoice today that we are citizens of Your kingdom. May that make us all the more committed to being faithful citizens on earth. The decision of this generation will affect my future. May my generation enjoy a first world and renewed Philippines.

I ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord who lives and reign forever and ever. Amen!.

Let Your will be done, O Lord.

Have a nice day to all,

A Letter From My Dad

2010-04-15T12:50:00.022+08:00

Here's a letter from my dad, he's in senti mode right now, dad, are you okay? (dad's note: Aside from migraine, I'm fine).

To My Adorable Daughter:

I am sitting right in front of my computer looking at your photos and I can't help but mesmerize by your charm and sweetness. Your smile is so addictive, it made my day complete. Your eyes speak a lot of words, like "mom, I love you" or "dad, you're so loving" and so on.

I am soooo blessed and honored to have you as my daughter, it's simply amazing. Thinking about you each and every second of my day. I am excited to go home knowing that you are there waiting for me and mom, ready to throw your arms around us.

Our summer getaway last week is unforgettable, you made me prouder. Our friends adore you so much, your sweetness melt their heart away and you made our long trip a lot easier because you entertained us all with your giggles and laughter. I hope you enjoyed riding on your pool cruiser, next time we will swim together (mom's note: learn to swim first).

Next month is a new adventure for you, it would be your first Festival.

I love you Gabby, I know you will grow a fine young lady, loving God and loving us.

************************************************************************

To My Loving Wife:

It's been more than a year since our very last trip before we rest for a while. Our summer outing in Subic is unforgettable because it's our first trip with Gabby.

I just loved watching both of you while enjoying each other's company. I just adore both of you. You mesmerize me with your charm.

You are doing a great job taking care of our daughter. Purely, breastfeeding her is really a big task for you. Look at our Gabby, she's healthy, adorable and charming. Both of you are my strength and my "happy thoughts". I can't wait spending another weekend getaway with both of you (our next trip: Pahiyas in Lucban, Quezon)

I love you always.

Have a nice day,

My Sense of Hearing

2010-04-14T09:24:00.003+08:00

The inner ear is fully developed by the time the mother is about 20 weeks pregnant, and babies are born with fully developed hearing – so I am ready to listen and learn from the get-go.

From birth, babies pay close attention to voices, especially high-pitched ones. Babies will respond to familiar sounds (I am already familiar with my parents' voices and I startle at loud or unexpected noises.)

How babies respond to sounds depends in part on temperament. A more sensitive baby (like me) jumps at every little noise.

By around 2 months, most babies get quiet when they hear familiar voices and make vowel sounds like "ohh' and "ahh".

At about 4 months, I started to look for the source of a sound, and by now I am trying to imitate sounds (dad's note: can't wait to hear Gabby to say single words like "ma-ma" and "da-da".

Have a nice day,

Just for Laughing

2010-04-11T23:39:00.003+08:00

Playing and laughing with my dad. Dad didn't capture much of my "laughing trip"

Have a nice day,

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of this video may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above video were taken/edited by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the videographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Our Summer Getaway in Subic

2010-04-10T19:03:00.010+08:00

We've just arrived from our summer Outing in Camayan Cove Beach Resort in Subic and here's what happened yesterday and this morning:

My bathing suit is identical (almost) with my mom's bathing suit. Not enough fabric to make it 100% identical. I was so excited to ride on my pool cruiser but we need to wait time around 3pm so that it wont be to hot to take a dip in the water.

We spent the night at Subic Homes the house is fully air conditioned, so I slept soundly after i spent a couple of hours with my mom's officemate. They were all fond of me and I smile and show them how cute I am (dad's note: I am very proud).

This morning we went to Boardwalk and The Lighthouse, a lot of pictures where taken and after a couple of hours we went back to Subic Homes and prepare going home. We arrived at around 6pm. That's all for now, we are still going to my Ninong Joel's place for their CG (Caring Group)Meeting.

I'll let my dad tell more about our summer trip (dad's note: visit my travel blog and my photo blog).

Have a nice day,

My First Summer Getaway

2010-04-07T23:44:00.007+08:00

Our family is preparing for our first summer getaway (my mom's company outing) this coming Friday in Subic. Mom bought me sunglasses to protect my eyes from the heat of the sun.

They also bought me a sunblock to protect my skin and also a pool cruiser (fish design) For me to travel around the pool (or sea). Hopefully, my bathing suit will finished on time (Made to Order). My parents can't find a RTW bathing suit that fits my size.

Just this evening, Dad inflated the pool cruiser for me to have a feel of it and as expected, I've enjoyed riding on it. I think I am ready for this weekend's summer outing. I'll share about it in a couple of days.

Off course, all of these items are for picture taking purposes only. I won't take a dip into the pool and get wet (I'm still to young for it), I'll do it next time, but who knows, I might end up swimming after all. So here are some tips I got from Baby Centre:

Before your first trip to the swimming pool, phone ahead to find out if there's a playpen, pushchair access and changing tables in the changing room.

To keep babies like me safe while swimming:

Check that the temperature of the pool is between 84 degrees F and 86 degrees F -- if necessary, the swimming pool attendants can check it for you.
As soon as your baby starts to shiver, get her out of the pool and wrap her up warmly.
Start off with sessions of 10 minutes and build up to 20 minutes. If your baby is under one, avoid staying in for longer than 30 minutes.
If your baby has a cold or seems unwell, avoid going swimming.
If your baby has a skin complaint, check with your GP to make sure that the chlorine won't irritate his skin.

Check out for more tips here.

Have a nice day,

My First Meal

2010-04-04T14:06:00.012+08:00

Since I already showed my parents many signs (head control, sitting well when supported, chewing motions, significant weight gain, growing appetite and curiosity about what my parents are eating) that I am ready to start solid food, they scheduled my first meal this morning.

I haven't got my highchair (I hope dad could find a not so expensive chair for me) as of this moment, so my dad put me in my new stroller (courtesy of my momsie), Set-up the video and camera and voila!. They gave me about one or two teaspoons (or maybe more) of home-cooked lugaw (rice porridge).

It's very yummy!! and it's very evident that I am so excited to taste my first solid food (see left photo). Mom had the privilege to feed me first, followed by my momsie and lastly my dad.

Note: If a child learns to associate eating with mealtime and the dinner table, she's more likely to develop the good eating habits that can make mealtimes a family joy.

For mom and dad: According to a baby's website I read, you should feed me 2-3 times a day until I turned 9 months old after which you could give me finger foods such as "Marie" (it's a soft biscuit here in Manila) as my merienda (LOL). Off course breast milk is still part of my daily diet.

Easter is a new beginning, a new life; and it is timely that on this day marks a new chapter in my growth as a child. Happy Easter to all.

Have a nice day,

Rolling Over

2010-03-31T09:18:00.004+08:00

I was able to kick myself over, from my back to my tummy, when I was 3 months old. I eventually learned to flip over from my back to my tummy and vice versa.

At about 3 months, when placed on my stomach, I lift my head and shoulders high, using my arms for support. This mini-pushup helps me strengthen the muscles I use to roll over. It amazes me the first time I flips over. (While babies often flip from front to back first, doing it the other way is perfectly normal, too.)

At 4 months I was able to push up on my arms, and arch my back to lift my chest off the ground. I even rock on my stomach, kick my legs, and swim with my arms. All these exercises help me develop the muscles I need to roll over in both directions — I did it when I was 4 1/2 months. Rolling would be my primary mode of ground transportation for a while.

My developed leg, neck, back, and arm muscles will be same muscles to work as I learns to sit independently and crawl (most babies have mastered sitting up by 6 or 7 months; crawling comes a little later.)

As always, Dad will share this video in a few days.

Have a nice day,

P.S.

Congratulations!! to my two uncles, Tito Regie and Tito Renz, they graduated from elementary and highschool, respectively. Job well Done!, I'm sure momsie and popsie are proud of you.

Solid Food

2010-03-29T12:50:00.002+08:00

You can introduce solids any time between 4 and 6 months if your baby is ready. Until then, breast milk or formula provides all the calories and nourishment your baby needs and can handle. His digestive system simply isn't ready for solids until he nears his half-birthday.

How Mom and dad will know when I'm ready?

I will give them clear signs when I'm ready to move beyond liquid-only nourishment. Cues to look for include:

Head control. I need to be able to keep my head in a steady, upright position. (check!)
Losing the "extrusion reflex." To keep solid food in my mouth and then swallow it, I need to stop using my tongue to push food out of my mouth. (check!)
Sitting well when supported. Even if I'm not quite ready for a highchair, I need to be able to sit upright to swallow well. (check!)
Chewing motions. My mouth and tongue develop in sync with my digestive system. To start solids, I should be able to move food to the back of my mouth and swallow. As I learn to swallow efficiently, you may notice less drooling — though if I'm teething, you might still see a lot of drool. (check!)
Significant weight gain. Most babies are ready to eat solids when they've doubled their birth weight (or weigh about 15 pounds) and are at least 4 months old. (check!)
Growing appetite. I seems hungry — even with eight to ten feedings of breast milk or formula a day. (check!)
Curiosity about what they're eating. I may begin eyeing mom's bowl of rice or reaching for a forkful of fettuccine as it travels from dad's plate to his mouth. (check!)

I am 5 months and 1 week old and it is still best to wait until I reaches 6 months before I could taste my first solid food. But since, I show all the indications above, I might have my first solid food in a couple of days (yipeee!).

Have a nice day,

P.S. My momsie (grandmother) just arrived this afternoon and I'll be sharing with you our first encounter

Socialization

2010-03-16T07:54:00.014+08:00

Previously: Leaning to Grasp Objects

Even though crying is still my strongest form of communication, I am also developing my sense of humor during my fifth month (I am on my 4th month). I start to laugh at pleasant surprises such as my dad's face appearing from underneath a blanket or a toy popping out of a box, provided it isn't too loud or startling. I laughs, giggles, and smiles with funny faces and lots of general silliness.

I do enjoy hearing a variety of sounds and don't need special toys or instruments to provide them. By just simply clicking your tongue, whistle, or make animal noises — I will surely love it!

I delights at the sound of mom and dad's voices, the sight of their faces, and the touch of their hands. With their help, I will become familiar with others and begin to enjoy their company, too. This is the beginning of the development of my social skills.

I am becoming more open to new people at this age, greeting them with squeals of glee. Still, no one comes close to Mom and Dad. I will reserve my most enthusiastic reaction for them, a sure sign that we've bonded.

My favorite baby Activities:

I'm Gonna Get You!

Tummy Time

The Diva Within (an all time favorite)

Peek-a-boo

Have a nice day,

Learning to Grasp Objects

2010-03-16T06:59:00.007+08:00

Learning how to hold things enables me to play. Being able to grasp things is also my first step on the road to feeding himself, reading, writing, drawing, and self-care.

Give me a light rattle and see me delight in the sound it makes when I shakes it. An activity center or crib gym is a good choice for this stage, as I begins to explore the cause and effect of moving a lever and hearing a bell ring. Dad let me hold my feeding bottle and it was a success holding it on my own (see photo on the left).

For now, I won't be able to grab smaller objects, like peas, until I develops better finger dexterity.

For mom and Dad: It's a good idea to keep valuables out of my reach from now on. And make sure our home is now childproofed with respect to small objects that I could choke on.

Have a nice day,

One Weekend with My Mom and Dad

2010-03-06T22:47:00.020+08:00

Last night mom cut my finger nails, it is a routine that I need to undergo for me to avoid getting hurt. I got a share of bruises because of my nails (mom and dad got their shares too). While mom was cutting my nails, dad take some photographs and did a short pictorial.

Its seems that I already knew if and when dad got hold of his camera and started to take photo. I am always ready to smile and pose for him. Dad told me to look at mom at the count of three (3) and the result is the photo on the left.

This morning, I woke up very early...

As my dad had promised, we went to River Park together with Nanay, Kuya Luigi and Tita Luz. It was a little late because dad woke up late (dad, you should wake up early next time). It was my first time going there and we strolled for an hour and took some photo. Kuya Luigi wanted to walk a little farther but it was getting late so we went home.

Hopefully , we could go at the park tomorrow, this time with my mom. See you later, got to sleep.

It feels good everytime I am with my mom and dad. I feel so secured. (Note: The photo found below was taken after my dad told me to wiggle at the count of three)

Have a nice weekend,

I'm Four Months Old

2010-02-24T12:13:00.020+08:00

Yesterday I turned four (4) months old. For now I am still purely breastfed by mom but in a couple of months solid food will be introduced in my diet (this must be exciting). I love sleeping on my tummy after learning to change position from my back to tummy position (wait until I could change position from back to tummy and vise versa).

On Saturday, I'll be getting another set of vaccine.

The photo on the left was taken this evening when dad arrived from work.

Some of the milestone I achieved:

Smiles, laughs
Can bear weight on my legs
Coos when you talk to me
Can grasp a toy
I might be teething, hmm (let's see if this is for real)

The symptoms (I experience 4 out o 5) most likely to trouble a teether include:

Drooling (which can lead to a facial rash)
Gum swelling and sensitivity
Irritability or fussiness
Biting behavior
Sleep problems

Have a nice day,

Condura Run for the Dolphins

2010-02-07T09:24:00.016+08:00

This morning we went to Global City in Taguig to compete, err...I mean to run for the "Condura Run 2010: Run for the Dolphins". Mom joined the 3K Fun run, while Dad and I joined the 5K run. You heard it right, Dad and I joined the race and ran for a total of 45 minutes (of course I was in my stroller), not bad for a beginner like me (LOL).

Fireworks display before each race begun surprised all the runners. Dad wished he had his tripod with him.

Definitely Dad is so proud pushing my stroller while many runners looked at me in awe.

After the race, we went to the Kerygma Feast to attend the launching of the "40 Stories of Finding Your One True Love", my parent's love story (page 9) is one of the 40 stories in the book. Isn't it great?. It took them almost a year to finish the book. Available at SVP book tables during the Feast, National Bookstore Branches and other leading bookstores nationwide. Grab your copy now and be blessed.

More photographs to follow.

Have a nice day,

Milestone-Tummy Position

2010-02-04T22:32:00.006+08:00

Daddy was having a hard time recording another milestone in my life, the tummy position. The first time I did it was in January 1, 2010 but I really mastered it a few more weeks later.

Finally, dad were able to record it after several times of saying ""action". I just stared at him as if waiting for him to say "cut" before I do the routine, dad almost missed it.

Have a nice day,

My Dad's Thoughts On Fatherhood

2010-01-28T16:03:00.010+08:00

Sharing with you my dad's thoughts on fatherhood:

It's been more than three months since our baby was born, but the joy in my heart never left me. Many times I found myself looking at her while she is sleeping. Praying silently over her for protection, for grace, wisdom, strength and good health. Often times I sing to her delight (thanks Gabby in listening to me while I am singing).

I know that being a father is a great responsibility, but with joy and love I hope I am doing a good job.

The first time I carried her fragile body made me feel nervous (scared was the exact word) but now I love to carry her and watch her while she is sleeping on my shoulder as if she's telling me that she's safe around my arms (so sweet) . I can't help it but smile everytime she does it.

Recently, she had an ear infection and we need to brought her to a doctor. We don't even know if she was in pain or not because she was still smiling. I couldn't help but to make it sure that she's okay, texting her Pediatrician of what we should do.

I know that I am going to be there with her through it all. To protect her from harm, pick her up when she fall while trying to make her first step, guide her and tell her some lessons in life as she grow and I will make it sure that no one hurts her.

No one can tell what it means to be a father, any words won't fit to describe it but I will show her what kind of a father is her daddy (I hope one day my daughter will say that I am the best daddy in the world)

I am so glad she's in our life, so glad to be a father.

ricky pascual