Oranges

I simply can't get enough of fruits! I've been eating a bunch of them regularly. But of course, once in awhile I feel lazy to move around and do all the washing, peeling, slicing so I'm glad to have found this instant fruit in a bottle! *beams*

My latest addiction:

Which I can finish in three one sitting! *blushes*

Dreams during Pregnancy

Something strange happened this morning (around 6am). I was in deep sleep when suddenly DH woke me up because I was crying in sleep! When I opened my eyes I was in tears, still crying and sobbing... I couldn't talk (very typical of me when crying). DH already knew I had a bad dream. He hugged me and tried to get answers from me but all I did was cry-sob-cry. Weird.

DH made me drink water then I started to talk. I dreamt of a pool and a cat chasing me! He even asked if it was a black cat (trying to decipher reason for my crying...). No, it wasn't. Just the ordinary cat you see on streets. I know he tried to hide his laughters from me because this is so mababaw for me to cry. I myself couldn't grasp the idea on what made me act like that.

Babycenter.com got answers for me.  *click to enlarge*

What a bizarre FUNNY experience! *haha*

To my fellow expectant mothers, do you also experience such?

Christmas 2009

Merry Christmas!

~3:43am~ Babies at 16 weeks 3 days

Week 16

Pardon me for the bullets. I had to do this quick post to continue wrapping gifts. Time flies so fast, it's already Christmas Eve and I'm not even half done with the wrapping.

• babies are about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces.
• heads are more erect than they have been, eyes have moved closer to the front of their head, ears are close to their final position.
• toenails are starting to grow!
• heart pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day and will continue to increase as babies continue to develop

Take a look on how the babies look like inside my womb (can't see pictures of triplets...)

I have already experienced one of the most wonderful moments of pregnancy --- feeling my babies move. It's called quickening and felt it as early as 15 weeks. Others don't feel their baby move until about 18 weeks or more. The earliest movement I felt was the little flutters like popcorn popping. Just last night, the feeling grows stronger and more frequent.

Can't wait for next year, excited to know their genders already.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Christmas Gift

So happy to receive a gift for my babies from a long time friend. I was even more happy to see that the gift is for a boy and a girl. They're so cute! The exact feeling is nakakaaliw!

Our babies are so lucky to be loved and appreciated while they're still inside me. *hehe* Most of my friends are more than excited than us to see our little ones. After new year, we'll be able to know the gender already. This experience is getting more and more exciting...

To Tita Jeng,

Thank you very much for the cutie tops. Can't wait to see you...

Happy Holidays!

Love,

The Little Ones

Week 15 with video!

Here's how a baby looks like at week 15.

Looks more human now...

Photo credit: www.babycenter.com

DH and I are so happy to know that the babies are doing great. What a great relief! Had to cut the video in two parts. In the video you will hear me, DH and Dr. A. talking, laughing.

My next check up is on the first week of January 2010. By that time, we'll be able to know the gender already. We just can't wait and we don't know if we can contain our excitement...

We are so loving the moment.

Week 15: Quickening

Yesterday, I felt butterflies in my stomach at the lower abdomen to be exact. DH and I got worried so we decided to see Dr. A. a day earlier. Ultrasound came out great and sizes, perfect!

*See encircled figures for their sizes ; click to enlarge*

So what was that poking feeling? Dr. A. said the babies are moving and I can feel them already! Wow, unbelievable.

True enough, the ultrasound showed active babies (I will share video on my next entry). One baby stood out and Dr. A. named it baby kulit *haha* and suspects it to be a baby boy. They are all so CUTE! What a heart-melting experience to see them again.

*click to enlarge*

Up next: week 15 video

Sterilizer

I'm lucky to have friends who don't plan to have more babies and give hand-me-down baby stuffs. The first ever baby stuff I got was a Chicco electric bottle sterilizer which was given by a very good friend, Melanie who by the way will be my coordinator for my upcoming baby shower. *beams*

Since we are having 3 kids, 1 sterilizer might not be enough. So, I did my research again and after reading quite a number of product reviews was able to shortlist 2 brands:

Pigeon Rapid Steam Sterilizer

*click to enlarge*

Philips Avent iQ24 Steam Sterilizer

Pigeon vs. Avent:

1. Both are electric and fit the Born Free bottles.

2. FAST! Both take 6 minutes to sterilize bottles.

3. Pigeon keeps contents sterile for up to 6 hours; Avent 24 hours!!! Wow.

Actually, no much difference between the two but I was drawn to Avent over Pigeon because of its availability and price in Amazon. It's on sale, 34% off and free shipping! What a steal! *smiles* Price does matters.

Initially, I was considering to get the microwavable ones. They are more compact compared to electric and can be stowed anywhere, anytime. However, I made a consideration on our lifestyle as well. We always move around. Manila-Bataan-out of town-Manila and I cannot guarantee to have microwaves all the time. (read: some beach resorts don't have microwaves in the room even hotels). So electric is the way to go...

I'm bothered on the bulkiness though...

Update: Avent Sterilizer that was on sale in Amazon was at 110v. *sigh*  We prefer to get the 220v. Can't imagine bringing the transformer with us wherever we go. *LOL* So, we'll get it somewhere else...

Feeding Bottles

Now that my morning sickness is over, I can spend more time infront of my computer. Which means, more time to research about pregnancy and browse baby stuffs from online stores. I'm beginning to start my newborn checklist and start shopping by my 4th month (2 weeks to go...)

I was advised to splurge on baby stuffs that has to do with feeding and sleeping and save on everything else.

Since there are still BPA issues on plastic feeding bottles, I had to research on which brand to buy that will not be put to waste. Initially, I thought of glass bottles but I feel it would be difficult to manage (read: breakage, heavy, etc.) so I resorted to plastic ones but BPA-free.

To those mommies or soon-to-be-moms out there, take time to read THIS. I have to give credits to Daphne Osena-Paez for this very informative blog on baby plastic bottles. I was aware of this issue even before I got pregnant and shared it with friends. Better be safe than sorry...

After much research, I'm getting Born Free plastic bottles.

*click photos to enlarge*

For more info on Born Free bottles, click here and here.

*****

Here is a list of BPA Free Bottles - considered safe by Canadian standards (if your baby bottle is not on the list, it may have BPA and therefore be unsafe. check the bottom of the plastic bottle if there's a #7 sign, it means it has BPA):

* Adiri Natural Nursers
* Avent “Via” disposable bottles
* BornFree: All bottles and cups BPA free
* EvenFlo: Glass bottles, Classic Tinted Polypropylene bottles
* Playtex: Original Nurser,Opaque Soft Bottle (discontinued), Playtex Drop in liners
* Gerber: Gerber Clearview, Fashion Tints (also called “Plastic Pastels”), Gerber GentleFlow
* Medela: All bottles
* Sassy MAM bottles (UltiVent), Baby Food Nurser Kit
* Green to Grow Bottles **see note
* Sassy Baby Food Nurser Kit
* ThinkBaby Bottles
* Momo Glass Bottles
* Munchkin: Dora the Explorer Classic Bottles
* Nuby: Standard Neck Non-Drip Bottle, Wide-Neck Non-Drip Bottle, Wide-Neck Bottle with Handles and Non-Drip Nipple, Standard Neck Bottle with Handles and Non-Drip Nipple, 3-Stage Wide Neck Easy Grip Feeding System with Non-Drip Nipple.
* Nuture Pure Glass bottles
* Babisil Silbottles
* Weego Glass Bottles
* Siliskin Glass Bottles
* Dr Brown’s: Glass Bottles (all vent system pieces BPA Free), Dr. Browns Polypropylene bottles (due in store’s April 15th)
* Parent’s Choice Bottles (available at Walmart) - box is marked BPA Free

list source: http://daphneosena.livejournal.com/tag/baby+bottles

The Role of Music

Researchers believe that musical training actually creates new pathways in the brain. Classical music is good for building baby's brain and best time to listen to music is when the babies are still in the womb. It can stimulate their senses and help mommies and babies to relax. Music has a powerful effect to our emotions.

Why classical music? The music most people call "classical" --- works by composers such as Bach, Beethoven or Mozart -- is different from music such as rock and rnb. Classical music has more complex musical structure. Babies as young as 3 months can pick out that structure and even recognize classical music selections they have heard before.

Researchers think the complexity of classical music is what primes the brain to solve spatial problems more quickly. So listening to classical music may have different effects on the brain than listening to other types of music.

Having this in mind, DH and I bought some CDs to listen and share with our babies.

I agree, classical music can do magic!

Swerte daw ang buntis?

Proven and tested!

In many years of my existence I never won in any game of luck, not a single raffle. The other day, DH and I passed by a Bingo station in Megamall and I asked him if we could just play since I was so dead tired walking for hours. He agreed, a good way to kill time.

Guess what? We won twice! The next day, MIL joined us and she also won! *haha* We got complimentary tickets for a big game on a weekend and played. We won again!

Now, I'm very much convinced --- swerte nga ang buntis; swerte ang triplets! *weee!*

Week 13: Buh-bye sickness...

Yey, my evening sickness is over! My appetite is back and I can now eat well but not 3 full meals, 5-6 small meals instead! Yes, I'm always hungry! *haha* Though I still hate anything fried. My sense of smell remains very sensitive. My tummy is growing bigger. I"m more irritable and and sensitive. I'm starting to miss my waist, it's barely there now! *haha* But who cares? I'm lovin' every moment of this journey.

Sometimes, I wish this to be over now (hello, morning sickness!) so can see my little ones already. One the second thought, I want to savor each moment of my pregnancy. Why not? This would be my 1st and last pregnancy so I want to relish the experience to the fullest! I failed to buy a baby book to document my pregnancy milestones, I prefer to have this blog instead so I can share with friends.

I will soon post pictures of me with my baby bump.*beams* So, watch out for it!*hehe*

More of week 12 w/ video!

Here's how a baby looks like at 12 weeks. Click photo to enlarge.
Credits: www.babycenter.com.ph

Baby is about 2 inches big and weighs about a half an ounce. Baby's fingers will soon open and close, the toes will start to curl and the baby's mouth will start making sucking movements. The sex organs are starting to take shape.

Now, here's a video taken by DH while we were doing the ultrasound yesterday. You will hear Dr. A.  as he speaks and explains what's going on inside my womb. Our doctor is also a blessing to us.

Good news is I'm 'safe' already. 1st trimester is over.



What an amazing miracle of life!

Week 12: 1st Trimester is Over

I’m nearing to my month 3 already *yay!* I hope my morning sickness will go away as well. It’s been a great struggle…

Had my 3rd ultrasound. What a heart-melting experience to see the babies! They are growing rapidly! I still couldn’t believe they exist inside me. My tummy as well is growing fast and surprises me everyday. ☺

I’m taking new set of prenatal vitamins --- Caltrate D+ (for calcium), Expecta Lipil (for babies' brain development) and Centrum Materna (for iron) plus vitamin C since I’m so prone to colds. This pregnancy is helping me to be disciplined. Since I was a child, I’m so lazy to take any medications. It has never been in my system to do anything routinely. I want everything at my own pacing but definitely NOT this time.

Actually, this journey is a good training for me. I never imagined myself to be this obedient to Dr. A. *hehe* I follow everything he advises and I know all these will pay off. ☺ Its not only for me but for the babies.

If there’s one person who is having a HARD time during this journey, it’s not me but my husband. I tend to be OVERLY demanding and difficult to handle (blame it to the hormones!) I’m just so lucky to have him. ☺ Every night after we say our prayers, good nights and I love you’s, DH would kiss us (me and my tummy). He often talks to the babies. How sweet isn’t it? I know he’ll be a good dad. ☺He's more excited than me, actually.

Here are the pictures of our babies at Week 12. Click the photos to enlarge.

baby 1 (looks more like a human now...)

baby 2 (top view showing its back)

baby 3 (shy baby? hehe)

A few more weeks and we'll be able to know the gender already, how exciting!

Week 10: One, Two, Oh wait...One more???

Nice picture and cute babies!!!

Had my 2nd ultrasound today. It’s so amazing to see the babies moving! ☺ Guess what? I’m not having one, not two but three babies! Fraternal triplets! ☺ I still couldn’t believe that I have 3 babies inside me. What a blessing from God! ☺ We are praying that we’ll have 2 girls-1boy or 2boys-1 girl and of course all healthy.

Based from the ultrasound, babies are doing great and their sizes are all the same which is a very good sign. No signs of possible spotting or bleeding as well. Whew, thank God!

Snapshots: (click all pictures to enlarge)

*click to enlarge*

Week 10 baby

Photo credit: www.babycenter.com

Just to share some changes in me:
- morning sickness started Week 8 to present and I usually have it at night
- nausea, vomiting, excess saliva,
- irritability, food cravings and aversions
- clothes are getting tight

We simply feel soooo blessed! ☺

Week 6: First Ultrasound

I’m on my week 6 day 6. Had my first ultrasound today. Normally, before any procedure Dr. A. would talk to us and ensures expectations are set straight.

On this ultrasound, we were told that we should expect to see the sac already. Lucky to see the baby, and an awesome bonus if we see any heart activity.

Guess what? We were soooo blessed to see all --- sac, baby and the heart beating! Thank God!

*click to enlarge*

If you are good in reading ultrasounds, you might find something strange on the photo *smiles*. I have to keep my mouth shut for now... It's too early to spill the beans but we are so happy. The feeling is PRICELESS!

Take a look:

week 6 baby (*click to enlarge*)

photo credit: www.babycenter.com

Will be back on November 10 for my second ultrasound. Baby should be bigger by then.

Shopping

It’s always fun to window shop stuffs for the baby. Since my nephew Eon was born, DH and I are so fond of baby stores. We are always on the look out of what’s nice to give him.

Now that I’m already preggo, things will change and be more exciting! It’s such a different feeling to shop for yourself! DH brought me to Shangri-la mall to shop for some maternity clothes. Most of my jeans and shorts don’t fit anymore.

Here’s my loot.

Gingersnaps and Havin' a Baby

maternity shorts, belly belt & bra extenders

Belly belt is very useful for old jeans to be wearable again. Same goes with the bra extenders when you'd need to adjust your bra one size bigger. All these were advised by my No. 1 shopping adviser-slash-doctor, Dr. A. Hehe.

We can’t help but peek on some baby stuffs, too! --- clothes, shoes, cribs and strollers. We are eyeing on the Quinny Buzz stroller.


There’s a Buzz and a Buzz 4 but it is still too early to grab one well for sure, better ones will come out sooner or later. Hehe.

We are just so happy, excited and enjoying this beautiful journey!

Week 4

I’m noticing some changes in me. Let me share some:

- minor cramps
- sleepy/always tired/lazy
- frequent urination
- hunger

I always want to see my dear hubby (DH) and cling to him. Hahaha. I feel my tummy is getting bigger since I can no longer fit in my old jeans and shorts but I don’t mind. I’m enjoying my pregnancy!

I was advised by Dr. A. to use Aveeno moisturizing cream for stretchmark prevention.

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Cream

I had it with me many months ago, I’m so well-prepared! Hehe.

Can’t wait for my 1st ultrasound which will be in 2wks time...

The Stork Has Come!

Today marks a very special day for us.

Had my blood test this morning and after 2 hours result came in positive. Yes, I’m roughly 4 weeks pregnant! ☺

We paid a visit to the Philippine Center of St. Pio and said our thanksgiving prayers then off to Medical City for my 1st check up.

My OB, Dr. A. gave me pre-natal medicine prescriptions and guess what...a prayer! He's so bait talaga. It was such a good news and blessing after the big typhoon.

This photo was taken on the same day in Astoria Plaza where we are staying for 2wks due to flood.

We just thought of taking this shot so I can have something to post here in my blog and on my pregnancy orgnanizer. Hehe.

Praying for a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.