Baby#2 Update: Week 18

I am currently at 102 lbs from last weeks 100 (oh no!!) and the belly's circumference is 32" round. All in all I feel fine. The baby's movement and kicks are more pronounced now. If you touch my tummy, you can actually feel the little kicks already. The baby is usually awake during 12NN to around 2PM and then 7PM and 12MN.

I sleep on the side now because lying flat on my back is not good for the circulation. Not to mention its really uncomfortable already. I also prop up my legs whenever I can to avoid those pesky cramps.

Baby Development from Pregnancy Hut:

In the 18th week the baby’s crown to rump length will be around 51/2 inches long and the weight will be about 5.25 ounces. The baby continues growing and developing fat layers however in this week the growth of the baby will slow down for a while. Heart abnormalities can be detected at this stage if you have an ultrasound examination in this week. If any abnormalities are detected further investigation might have to follow. There is still a lot of space in the uterus and the baby will be active with periods of rest from time to time. Your baby might somersault or sit cross legged at this stage. The baby will become more sensitive to sound as the bones which pass the sound to the inner ear harden. The part of the brain which that sends and receives nerve signals from the ears are also developing now so the baby reacts to loud sounds and can kick or prod in reaction. The baby will get used to familiar sounds such as the beating of your heart, familiar voices in your surroundings, other daily routine sounds and blood rushing through the umbilical cord. If you have a stethoscope at home you can check the baby’s heartbeat by yourself. The baby is busy flexing its arms and legs and you might notice the movements more clearly now. A protective layer called myelin begins to form around the nerves which will continue for a year after the birth. If you are having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed by this time and found in place.

I am still hoping to find out the gender soon. However, I would want to have the baby's 4D scan done with the gender determination to eliminate the cost of the usual ultrasound. Anyway, if that happens I need to wait until my 30th week instead of my 20th week to know the sex.

Do you think I can wait?

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Treasure in Old Stuff

One of the things I don't like buying are maternity clothes. The thing with it is I know if I use my brain hard enough I can make use of the things I have now than buy. For example all my dresses are put to use now because I can still wear them even with the expanding waist line. But my jeans and shorts are out of the question. I cannot close the buttons anymore so I never bother wearing them. However, cleaning out my closet has it perks all right, I found an old belly band which was in fashion when I was in college and I realized I can wear it! Just wear it at your waist over your un-buttoned pants or shorts for an instantly smooth look. Now, I can extend the life of my post-pregnancy outfits. I am so glad I didn't lose this one. Mine looks just like that in the picture but in white. I can wear it with the band showing for that cool layered look or I can opt to hide it. Either way I know I'll look fierce. Then I realized after I give birth I can still use it to hide the flabs!! I should have bought more maybe in black and also in another eye popping color. Ow I wish I won't have to resort to diet pills after giving birth though I hate to have to buy new sets of clothes. I know my closet has more treasures in there.

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Hot and Cold

I am scheduled to visit my OB this afternoon. But with the crazy weather, I am contemplating on rescheduling. One of my pet-peeves is getting my feet wet or clothes wet because of the rain! Such a real outfit ruin-er. I know, I am extra whiny because it was scorching hot earlier and now its looks like its going to pour! My mood changes when it rains. I hate the rain..I could only wish I was in a nice dry place right now, checked in a luxury hotel somewhere far and somewhere away from work.

I wish, I wish. Reality Bites. I have a few more deliverable's until EOD and I've not finished anything. Whoop-pee.

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Kicks & Cramps

The baby has been kicking really hard earlier. It was around noon until 2PM. I even think its little kicks already made my tummy move. I am pretty sure it was NOT air; bad thing no one was there to feel it with me. The little boy was beside me sleeping and I would never wake him up.

Cool picture huh?

I had this picture in my archives since pregnancy #1. When Ozzy was on his 7th month in tummy you could see body parts inside me but not THAT detailed. Amazing. How did they capture that? Did they wait the whole day for that or is that photo shopped???

Anyway...last night I woke up middle of the night with extreme pain in my left leg. I was having leg cramps. Leg cramps during pregnancy was present during my first pregnancy and now at 17 weeks I've started getting one again. I wanted to scream in pain at the same time I wanted to go back to sleep. Good thing I have an idea already how to relieve the pain on my own.

What you do is stretch your calf muscles: Straighten your leg, heel first, and gently flex your toes back toward your shins. It might hurt at first, but it will ease the spasm and the pain will gradually go away. You can also try to relax the cramp by massaging the muscle or warming it with a hot water bottle. Walking around for a few minutes may help too.

In my case I just stretch my calf muscles. It works every time and heck yeah it hurts but once you get past the pain and agony it will slowly subside.

To prevent the cramps you can do these simple tips:

• Avoid standing or sitting with your legs crossed for long periods of time.
• Stretch your calf muscles regularly during the day and before going to bed.
• Rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes when you sit, eat dinner, or watch TV.
• Take a walk every day, unless your midwife or doctor has advised you not to exercise.
• Avoid getting too tired. Lie down on your left side to improve circulation to and from your legs.
• Stay hydrated during the day by drinking water regularly.
• Try a warm bath before bed to relax your muscles. - Source
  

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Random Questions #24

I love the questions. So here I am answering some random things.

1. If you were given a paper and a pen, what would be the first thing you’d draw or write?
::: I would probably write my name first on top. Just like in school. :::

2. Have you ever done something you said you would never do?
::: Yes, when I was younger I said I'd never ever EVER be a parent but now I won't even stop at 1. :::

3. Do you have piercings in other places aside from earlobes?
::: Nope. However I have 5 piercings in the ears; the one on the tippy-top of my ear has just closed up. :::

4. Who would you allow to read your thoughts for one day?
::: No one!!! :::

5. Anything you’re giving up on?
::: I am giving up ... on...let's see...TOO MUCH COFFEE :::

6. When you go to the beach, do you write your name in the sand?
::: Nope. I wrote Ozzy's name in the sand beside him and he looked super uncomfy :::

7. If you could wish for something over a birthday cake what would it be?
::: That hubby's home even for only a week. I'm hitting my head ever agreeing to this Long Distance thing......wahhhh *sniff* :::

8. Are you satisfied with what you currently have in life?
::: Yes, I am very much satisfied :::

9. Do you think boys truly understand girls?
::: Nope! girls don't even understand themselves! hahahaha :::

10. What’s something you really want right now?
::: I want a tall ice-cold drink :::

Snagged from Chikai.

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Online Fun Ideas

There are many things to do online to have good clean fun. There's video streaming, research, gaming and even casino games and slot machines. Right now I am hooked on facebook. A social networking site; they have online games too and pet society even. Everyone seems to like that application except me. Anway, I prefer to play other games like bingo for example. I really want to join one local channel's game who knows I hit the jackpot of 1M. I can think of a million things I'd do with the money.

Anyway, back to the topic about online gaming and online bingo and even slot machines information there are many available sites to choose from. All you have to do is look into the online slots guide to read all about it first before going into a roll. Who knows you may double or triple your money with the right strategy.

As for me - I have to wait for my hubby to arrive from Norway before I can go visit those casino in a nearby hotel. I don't know any friends of mine who'd go with me anyway. So, better stick to playing online for now and be patient.

I miss hubby. T_T

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Careful

Seems like everyone has a cancer story somewhere. A parent, a grandparent, sibling, friend, family friend, child, classmate - everyone actually, no one is exempted. Even the most careful with their diet and lifestyle can be struck with cancer because it runs in the family. Bummer. I know. Even our very own Mayor O has cancer. Too bad because I feel he's doing a good job in running Cebu. Hopefully he'll get better soon.

Anyway, there's this type of cancer I've never heard of before until now. Mesothelioma cancer which is defined as an asbestos caused cancer of the serous membranes that surround many of the body’s vital organs. Individuals who work with asbestos have a high rate of getting conditions like lung cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos is generally used for Insulating materials, Floor coverings and Household appliances (toasters, irons, deep-fryers, slow-cookers, dishwashers, refrigerators, oven, range hoods, clothes dryer, etc.). So were all pretty much exposed.

Like I said. Everything is hazardous. Cellphones, the kind of food we have and many more. Information is the key. Empower yourself by asking questions and knowing.

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Ring Sling

Got myself a little something for Baby#2. Its somewhat a reward - a motivation for myself to keep on blogging too because lately, all the inspiration and drive to write is lost with all the tasks (I know you don't read those posts and just skip it - go ahead ^_^). Anyway..I got a Next9 ring sling from Indigo Baby! Oh yeah, been talking about it last week and I finally decided to give it a go. Why not? I can use and if I won't be using it anymore I can #1 Sell it or #2 Give it away.

So..how to wear the sling? It's easy.

1. Secure the Sling at the ring
2. slip sling over one shoulder
3. wear sling comfortably
4. place your baby inside the sling
5. then choose with the different carrying positions available: tummy to tummy, cradle carry, kangaroo carry, hip carry and back carry.

Anyway - with the sling comes in instruction pamphlet and even an instructional video to make sure the mum knows what she's doing. It can carry up to 35 lbs (basically newborn up to 2 years) and its made with breathable and lightweight material. It is adjustable and fits all.

Wearing a ring sling can be very beneficial for the parent and baby. For the baby, it actually reduces fussiness and crying. For the parent, it makes the hands free, there's constant parent-child bonding and if your breastfeeding you can do it discreetly.

I'm just sorry I didn't have this one with Ozzy. I was the type of parent who kept carrying him everywhere because he disliked being left. Even until now when we go to bed he must make sure I am beside me by holding my hand!

Boy I am so excited to use it that I'll practice on a stuffed doll tonight.
You can order here.

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Are You Going to Heaven or Hell?

You Are Going to Heaven

You're so saintly you're practically an angel, and there's no other place for you than heaven. You are always concerned with doing the right thing. You consider being a good person a joy... not a burden. You're not perfect, and you don't expect anyone else to be. You are ethical without being sanctimonious about it. You are happy with yourself and the decisions you've made. And that's what's important.

Are You Going to Heaven or Hell?

Hahahaha!! I thought so ^_^

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Corporate Credit

Running a business is hard work. Maintaining the inventory, expenses for the office and staff, guarding the inventory and marketing can drain you of your capital and revolving fund. I should know, I handle the collection and bank transactions for our company - I know how important it is to have cash-on hand for stock replenishment and miscellaneous expenses. Sometimes, it gets to be problem if some customers with Corporate Credit pays longer than expected. So - incoming receivables are less than the target. When this happens, oftentimes we rely on Unsecured Financing for the Business - one of the company's out there that can be trusted is EZUnsecured.com. Also I read somewhere that when you need to build your Business Credit, BusinessCreditMagic.com is the best option wherein you can obtain the most Financing possibilities for your the business.

When having a new business the positive thing about obtaining Aged Corporations is that you immediately have recognition and it can be up and running within 24-hours because you don't need to obtain a lot of those paperwork anymore. But more importantly lenders do not consider business younger than 2 years so an aged corporation (also known as Shelf Corporations ) is a good way to go especially if you need start up financing.

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Online Education

Been browsing through the different online schools lately and I was pleasantly surprised they offered a whole lot of variety in their courses offered. They too offer Masteral and Doctoral Degree's. Cool. Anyway, I have been interested in pursuing an online degree lately and there's no harm in doing a little research before I decide on anything. There are even online degree scholarships being offered to students who are qualified. How do you know if you are qualified? Its simple, the individual first must download an application form which includes various details about the academic career of the student then mail it. The students must also take an online test and basing on the scores availed in these exams the student is provided a scholarship. Easy right?

As long as the student makes sure to apply in accredited online degrees since there are a lot of scams out there were the applicant for the scholarship is asked to pay for miscellaneous fee's which are totally unnecessary. With accredited online degrees students can be assured of the quality education that he or she gets and that his level of learning has met the standards. Also, since they are accredited the students can be protected from exorbitant fee's and charges. So generally it is cheaper and students are even offered the option to pay in installment with their fees or get reductions through scholarships.

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Preggy Healthy Snack Options

As as I was saying in this post I am looking for healthy snack options for myself. I have gotten my appetite back - and in full force. It seems I cannot stop thinking about food. Burgers, pizza, ice cream and chips to be exact! I tend to munch on a little something every 2 hours lately. And to make it worse; I munch on chips and chocolates. Aaarg.

Must.Resist.Temptation.

So..in my search for healthier snack options I've come up with a list of edible things I will consider eating:

1. Carrot Sticks - I love raw carrots. When I have the munchies, I just slice one up and eat away without worrying about the calories. You can also try celery.
   
2. Apple - They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
3. Yogurt - I love Nestle's Fruit Selection Yogurt Buko Pandan! Yumm.
4. Crackers and cheese - (I don't eat cheese so much so crackers) but they say its a great source of protein and fiber. So it would be worth a try.
5. Banana - and other fresh fruits available to you easily. You can never go wrong in eating fruits, right?
6. Hard boiled eggs. These are compact snacks to carry with you, but do require a fridge. If you like these, they can be an easy way to increase your protein. Some moms I know also swear by their ability to quell morning sickness.-source
7. Nuts/Raisins - This is if you're not allergic to nuts. You can try a handful of raisins, dried apricots, and nuts(almonds).
8. Greens - Fresh salads with yummy dressing. But make sure not to overdo the dressing!

Any other suggestions yummy mums?

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In The Mood To Shop

In my search for pre-loved baby cribs/playpens I've come across a great site which offers a lot of Babies and Toddlers stuff. There are so many choices that I get confused. My first stop of course, was the Nursery Furniture, specifically the Baby cribs and changing tables. I've noticed most cribs out there are made of wood.

We only borrowed Ozzy's crib from a family friend and it was a great crib actually. However it I felt it was too bulky and hard. I always feared Ozzy might hurt himself. So we ended up not using it as much. If I do use that crib again I will just make sure to get better crib bedding and crib bumpers to ensure the baby won't get stuck in the bars of the crib. Or, I can always get a playpen instead of a standard crib. Something like this:



Nice stuff right? They also had a lot of Infant clothing and even choices for baby's toys and games. I already have most of the things I need like stroller, baby bath tub, breast pump and some old clothes. Some of the new things I might need for the new baby are new feeding bottles, additional clothes and baby booties.

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Baby#2 Update: Week 17

I'm feeling fine. Aside from the heavy feeling and the duck like walk; I am okay. My appetite is 100% back and now I can't help but snack every 2 hours. I dread checking my weight because I fear of how much I weigh now!!!

Right now, my bump measures 31 inches around and I still (!!!) 100 lbs (yahoo). I remember with my first pregnancy though my bump didn't get that big until my 21st week. Meaning I am a month ahead this time (in the bell bump-size) department. I really don't want to be too large because I want to be able to still move around and play with Ozzy.

Now..I was thinking of healthier snack options for myself to relieve the munchies.

Anyway...According to Pregnancy Hut:

Baby’s Development

The baby is about 61/2 inches long and weighs 4 ounces. The umbilical cord becomes stronger, thicker and longer as the weeks advance and carries blood and nutrients to the growing baby. The baby’s sense of hearing is progressing as the ears move to their final position and the internal parts are well developed by now. The baby develops adipose tissue which helps in regulating the baby’s body temperature. The baby has distinctive features now and holds up the head more erect. The body and limbs of the baby are longer than the head by now making the whole body more proportionate. The baby develops pads on the tiny fingertips and toes. The eyes are well developed now but remain firmly closed. Meconium or the excretory waste is formed which consists of a black gooey substance. If the baby is a male fetus the prostate glands start developing. The skeleton transforms from cartilage to bone and the bones remain flexible to be able to pass through the birth canal. The baby’s skin develops further but is transparent as yet. A protective cover starts developing around the baby’s skin called vernix. Brown fat deposits will start forming under the skin which will help to maintain the body temperature of the baby when the baby is born. The baby now weighs more than the placenta and loud noises can actually startle the baby.

23 weeks more! ^_^

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Weird Dream

I need a long, relaxing vacation! But who doesn't right?? I remember back when I was still in school I used to love summer because that meant 2 months of no responsibilities. I don't get breaks like that now; I am already very happy with long weekends - that's it. If I get the chance to have a break for at least a month or so I would want to travel, maybe go to the US and stay in a nice hotel or resort and just relax.

I had this weird dream a few days back; I dreamt that I was in the US Embassy with my family applying for a US VISA. We were planning to go and have a vacation there and I was freaking out (secretly) because I didn't want to be rejected. I remember in my dream I was shocked to see the Philippine US Embassy looks old...(which was right according to my sister!)

Just when the Officer was about to tell me if I was rejected or not - I woke up! Now, even in my dream, I don't know if I will ever get the Visa.

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New Laptop

Oh yeah...I am crossing my fingers on this one. Hubby's planning to get me my new laptop as birthday present this week. We are still unsure which one's to chose but the choices are down to 2 models.

I don't really mind which one, I told him as long as it looks pretty I am fine with it. Hubby want me to have something with at least a larger computer memory and a dual core processor (what the heck is that?). I told him, as long as it fits your budget, it looks sleek and I can surf, go online and watch my videos I am happy with it.

Ow, I can't wait!

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Friendly Blogger Award

A little something for my friend, Mhay of Various Words, Mixed Thoughts. She said," I'm passing this award to some of my online buddies that I'm thankful to have met and known. Their lives inspired and bless me so much."

Thanks for the kind words Mhay.

"Let's Spread the Spirit of Friendship to all the Blogosphere all over the World."

Here are the rules for this award :

1. Take a Photo or install one now .
2. Do not change clothes,do not trim the hair,the main image is to be captured (we want to see the real you...he..he..) .
3. Post a picture that is in edit .
4. Post these instructions (required).
5. Tag people to show appreciation to them that touch your heart because of their friendly attitude (required).

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I'm Vannie, I'm real. Blackheads and all. This was taken earlier during my lunch break (Ozzy wanted to be in the shot as well) when I was putting the boy to sleep.

I am passing this one to : Abie, Archt Joanne, Toni, Tet and fellow preggy Vina !

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Major Cramming

When I was still in school I dreaded making research papers and term papers. I could handle these kind of work at times but on other times, teachers tend to forget that they are not our only subject and then dump all the assignments and exams to the students at one time - usually during the finals. Talk about major cramming.

Why? Why wasn't this available when I was still in school? Well...fine maybe it was but I didn't hear about it.

Anyway - for all students out there then this information may be beneficial for you! Yes you! If your still in school, in college or in high school, and squeezing your brain for an essay, research paper, review, term paper or more then squeeze that brain no more.

If you need help coping up with your assignments you can always turn to free college term paper online for the much needed help. They can write your term-paper in a record breaking 3-12 hours. Think of all the sleep you would have lost and cups of coffee you would have gulped down if you forced yourself to make the essay which would probably give you an F because anything done in haste can never be an A+ right? I would know, I've been there. My teachers stopped counting the typo's for the sheer number of it.

Their writers even offer a 24/7 live support. If your worried that you need to have revisions for the paper; then they even offer unlimited revisions. Isn't that just good news?

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Saturday Special : The Very Last

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~One Word To Start A Sentence Or Statement~
~Fill In The Blanks~

1. Goodbye 's are always hard to do.

2. Saturday is special because I can get to relax and spend time with Ozzy.

3. Special friends and family will always be in my heart and mind.

4. Meme 's have been part of my blogs since forever so I will miss Saturday Special for sure, thanks Toni.

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After 5 1/2 years online, the Saturday Special meme is saying goodbye. This is the last one I'm putting online and I want to thank the few faithful who have enjoyed participating each week. I've truly enjoyed creating and sharing my meme with you but I haven't the heart or time for it anymore. So, thanks again my friends.

~*~ Toni ~*~

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I didn't want to miss this one last Saturday Special Meme! Join us!

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Wishin' and Hopin'

My birthday is coming up in about 2 weeks. Yes yes, I will be 2-6! OMG. Anyway, I've been thinking hard about what I want for my birthday and here's a list of the runners up! These are only material wishes okay any other wishes like good health are not included. Lol.

1. Laptop - this is choice#1 since my laptop crashed on me a few weeks ago. Hubby has still not found the perfect one for me though. He is still waiting for a good sale. I can't blame him; with the Global recession and all one should never be too careful with hard-earned cash.
2. A new phone - Well, mine is actually working fine and it serves its purpose and more, however I really would like to own an Iphone someday. With its cool features and all (found a nice video in youtube) who could resist?
3. Free sessions for hair removal somewhere - I really want to get rid of hairs especially in my legs and some private parts. Why is it even there!!?
4. Round trip ticket to Norway - For me and Ozzy. I miss hubby so muchhhh! If he can't come home then maybe just maybe we can visit him there? Argg.
5. Diamond Ring - What?It's free to dream right?

What else? what else??

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Happiness!

Ozzy and I are spending a lazy Saturday here at home. He has no Gymboree classes today. His classes will resume next week and I plan to enroll him for a month in music class, a month in art class then the last month in play and learn class. After that he would be too big for the Gym so I will have to think of a place for him to go - but not preschool yet because I feel it would be too soon for him.

....right now I'm eating my slice of Leona's chocolate cheese cake *yumminess* hehe. The point of this post? None really. I just feel like rambling on about my search for a nice pre-loved crib. Also, I want to share that I found a wonderful site for yummy mommy's!!! It's called Indigo Baby and they are selling ring slings. Happiness!!!! I've been looking for this product before Ozzy was born but I never found one here in the Philippines so I forgot about it until I found the sellers being featured in a local Entrep Magazine. I immediately added them in my Multiply contacts and asked about the availability of the ring slings. As an added bonus for me - they even accept payment thru paypal! Yipee.

Now if only I can decide on the color. I like the pink one but I am not sure if I should...maybe I'll just get a yellow or black...choices..choices!!

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Our Errand Boy

My brother has started working for our company just this month. Initially he really did not want to start working yet - however my Dad feels he is too lax and undisciplined right now. Always on his computer playing online games - going out late and waking up in the afternoons! So he wanted to have him work here first; have a feel of how it is to be given responsibility and then when he finds what he wants to do in life; he can leave. So, basically he's our errand boy and all around assistant. I don't know if he's cut out for admin careers though because I know he's a sales man by nature like my mother. I know staying inside an office for 8 hrs is not his kind of thing. My dad is into sales too but on a more specialized product which are agricultural equipment. I don't think that's what my brother's into. We all know that when one goes into business then that individual should go for what he loves. Or else, he won't enjoy his work as much.

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Baby Names!!!

Okay so its pretty early for names .. but I can't help it. Can you blame me for taking a peek? Hubby still wants the initials to be JV since that did not materialize with Ozzy. Anyway...checked out some site and there were hundreds of baby girl and boy names to choose from. Here are my favorites so far....(I'm sure my choices may vary from time to time)

Baby Boy:		Girl Names
1. Jacob		1. Jessica
2. Lucas		2. Vivienne
3. Jerrick		3. Zahra
4. Joaquin		4. Amber
5. Jiro		5. Viah
6. Luke		6. Victoria
7. William		7. Valerie
8. Nicholas		8. Jayla
9. Vance		9. Emma
10. Vaughn		10. Jillian

I've pretty much decided on what I would name the baby if it were a SHE. ^_^ So the confusion would be if I am having another HE.

Any other nice name suggestions?

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Pregnancy Do's and Dont's

Apparently, there are still a lot of things that I don't know about the do's and dont's of being pregnant.

Top Ten Would be:

1. Do have regular prenatal care appointments with a health caregiver who can check on you and your baby.
2. Don’t smoke, drink alcohol, or take street drugs.
3. Do take your prenatal vitamin each day.
4. Do follow your caregiver’s advice about taking medications.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask your caregiver or healthcare professional questions you have about your health, your pregnancy, or your baby.
6. Do try to stay away from toxic chemicals, like pesticides and some cleaning agents, by washing fruits and vegetables, wearing protective gear such as gloves or a mask, or asking someone else to do the task.
7. Do keep a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and wearing a seatbelt.
8. Do get enough sleep and rest and try to reduce stress.
9. Don't take too much caffeine. Caffeine reduces calcium and water in your body, raises stress hormones, and can change your baby’s heart rate. Do limit caffeine consumption to 1-2 cups a day.
10. Do create a birth plan describing your wishes, concerns, and how you’d like to be cared for during labor and birth.
    

Pretty basic stuff right? So I will just add to that all those I've picked up so far. Apparently, pregnant women should avoid fish that are high in mercury like Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel, or Tilefish because they contain high levels of mercury. A friend once told me I can't eat tuna but canned light tuna is okay as long as I eat around 12 ounces (2 average meals) a week only.

Also, women should avoid hot sauna's, bubble baths and perfumed vaginal wash. Sauna's may be harmful for the baby an can cause the mother to faint and perfumed vaginal wash - even douching can cause an increased risk in yeast or vaginal infection. So simple avoid those all together.

DO drink lots of water. Even though you have to pee every 30 minutes.

...I initially planned to color my hair but because pregnant women should stay away from chemicals, and even though they have not proven that it is entirely bad, I would rather be safe and wait to have my hair done.

Do you have more do's and dont's to share? Do let me know! Don't be shy ^_^ I have to go and read up more on Lortone rock tumblers and maybe some online window shopping. Tata!

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How I Met

I am a big fan of the show How I Met Your Mother. At first it was because I found out Neil Patrick Harris starred on it and I would want to see something different from Doogie Howser; but eventually I ended up loving the cast and the funny episodes.

If you haven't had time to catch it, please do.

Anyway...I knew the star Alyson Hannigan (from American Pie) was pregnant and was expecting her first child this spring but I didn't know that her co-star Cobie Smulders is pregnant too....she's due spring as well. She knew about the pregnancy a month after Alyson confirmed hers.

I really don't mind if they don't incorporate both pregnancies in the show because as far as I can tell they are doing a good job hiding both girls bumps with dark coats and over-sized purses. Besides, both girls look glowing and fit its like you won't even notice their pregnant neck up. (that's my dream by the way...hopefully THE nose won't get any bigger in time....^_^)

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Baby#2 Update: Week 16

My belly button has started protruding and Ozzy finds it fun poking it! My gosh..and since the tummy is quite large I have officially out grown all my pre-pregnancy shorts and pants. Good thing for me I have a few dresses so those can last me for a few months more.

Anyway..they say at week 16 the mothers would have this glow.......

"There is a glow on your face and people start complementing you, this glow is due to the increased blood flow to the skin. This is the time that you will enjoy yourself much more as the hormones have stabilized by now and the nausea and morning sickness symptoms have eased."

....Yeah....well...nope. I don't have that. Besides the obvious weight gain, the renewed appetite and much clearer fluttering of the baby nothing much has changed for me. Except that I feel hot all the time; but I think everyone is feeling the heat of summer around here.

Baby's Development according to Pregnancy Hut:

• The baby is around 17.5 cm in size and 160 g in weight. The baby has more space in the uterus to move now and will be moving around quite a lot.
  
• The baby can grasp with its hands, kick or even somersault by this time.
  
• The baby acquires reflex of suction and you can notice the baby stopping the swallowing action if a bitter solution is introduced into the amniotic fluid. The baby can even get hiccups in this stage.
  
• The baby reacts to visual stimulation and will use its hands to protect the eyes when violent external light falls on it. The baby develops fat under the skin to provide the baby with insulation.
  
• The baby and the placenta are of the same size now.
  
• The genitals are fully developed and a sonography might be able to tell you the sex of the baby. The head and the neck are held straighter now and you might hear the thumps of the heartbeat with an external monitor.
  
• The baby has developed reflexes like sucking, blinking and swallowing. The regular movements of the chest show that the baby is now able to breathe underwater by inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid.
  
• The baby develops fingernails and the legs are longer than the arms now.
  
• The baby’s urinary and circulatory system begin functioning more efficiently and the baby pumps about 25 quarts of blood daily. By the 40th week it is expected to increase to 1900 quarts per day.

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3 Already!

In 3 months, Ozzy will be celebrating his 3rd birthday. Now I am not sure if we are going to have a big party for him or a simple one. I am still not sure if Hubby will be around to celebrate it - if not, it will his first time to miss his 1st borns birthday. Of course, he has a valid reason for missing it but that does not discount the fact that I still feel bad thinking about it..

..much like the fact that I am sad thinking maybe he can never hold my tummy while I am pregnant with his second........

Anyway...to more upbeat news, if we ever decide to throw a big party for the little one it would be nice to have magicians, maybe some nice Party Rentals like inflatable slides. I am sure he'd love that.

I saw many ideas while browsing which offers Corporate Event Planning, kiddie parties, and even Company Picnic Games. They have inflatables, the option of carvinal games, casino games and many more. They have entertainers, complete with catering and themes.

Woah. Services like these are heaven sent to busy moms like me who have no talent in planning birthdays and events whatsoever.

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Thursday Thunk!

1. What was the last thing you ate?

Veggie roll, soup and rice.

2. I say the color purple.. what do you think of?

Barney.

3. Lamps or ceiling lights?

Ceiling lights. I want my surroundings bright.

4. What color rabbit is your favorite?

White!

5. Your car breaks down on a deserted road and your cell phone has no signal - what do you do?

Pray to God I don't get mugged. Then maybe start walking and looking for someone to help.

6. What is one thing most of your friends do online that you just can't understand the fascination and do not participate in?

Pet Society in Facebook.

7. What do you need right now?

A nice body massage. But pregnant women can't get massages :(

8. And your most serious injury you've had was....?

When my foot got pierced with a rusty big gross nail.

9. What is the most evil thing you've ever done?

......None that I can think of right now.^_^ I am an angel most of the time. Lol.

10. Give us some random fact about you.

I am terrified of lizards.

Join us!

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Just for Fun

My laptop crashed on me. Then my mother's laptop, whom I used after mine crashed seems to be having problems too!

Now I am here stuck inside my brothers room using his PC. Good thing my brother is out of town if not I cannot sneak some internet time for sure. Today is a pretty slow day. Ozzy and I stayed home most of the time, reading books, playing and watching TV. We went out for bit in the morning to visit hubby's dad though and Ozzy had fun with his lolo. Anyway, I had to sneak in some online time to read those suggested usa casinos review & guide site if I want to start playing online casinos. Well, I am not really fond of it as much as hubby is though but I want to give it a try, who knows I may be better at some of the games than him?

But of course, for those people who are truly into this kind of computer interaction they should try to read more about online casino's and its ins and outs before getting hooked. It is important to chose what is best suited for your taste. There are many sites to chose from and once you find your favorite I am sure you will get hooked like my hubby.

As long as you play in a reasonable amount of time though. Games and entertainment like the dmoz usa casinos should be only for recreation and not a full time thing. Something to keep our minds busy when we have free time or when were not working. Its something to help us relazx, Right?

Anyway..I am off! Going to sleep early tonight~.

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Baby#2 Update: Week 15

.I feel bloated.
..I pee all the time.
...I cannot walk fast.
....I cannot stop eating.
.....I waddle when I walk.
......I cannot fit all my regular pants/shorts.
.......I have to wear my maternity jeans already.
........I stop every few minutes or so because my feet hurts.

Pregnancy and its ups and downs. I sometimes wonder why I got into it in the first place. ^_^ But of course there are lots of reasons.

.I can feel the baby moving.
..Seeing Kuya Ozzy's face when talking to the baby.
...and being a parent is fulfilling. It made me have direction.
....A baby in the family always brings joy and a new dynamic to the family.


So..how's my baby doing? According to www.pregnancyhut.com

• The baby is around 4 inches long and weighs around 1.75 ounces by now.
  
• The reddish and wrinkled skin gets covered with fine hair called Lanugo, though experts say that each baby develops differently even in the womb. This Lanugo enables the baby to maintain a constant body temperature and it almost disappears by the time the baby is born.
  
• The baby can swallow food and hear you and other sounds by now. You might be able to feel moments of activity and periods of rest as the baby moves, kicks, sleeps and wakes. You might notice some fluttering movements but they might not be so profound. The baby can grasp, squint, frown, grimace and suck the thumb at this stage.
  
• The skin is very thin and the blood vessels are visible.
  
• The baby’s legs have grown longer than the arms and the body is now longer than the head. Fingernails and toenails are growing and the eyebrows develop including some hair growth on the head.
  
• The baby has taste buds and can develop hiccups from time to time.
  
• The three little bones in the middle ear start hardening. The auditory centers in the baby’s brain do not develop so soon so the baby might not understand what he/she hears but the hearing capacity is developing very rapidly now.
  
• The amniotic liquid that surrounds the baby carries external sounds to travel to the baby especially the mother’s heart beat, stomach and voice.

So, let's talk about weight gain shall we??? 2 weeks ago, I weighed 100lbs. I dreaded stepping on the weighing scale. It was said that an average of 5lbs would have been gained by the mother during this stage. I started @ 96lbs so I should be 101lbs...

Guess what? I still weigh 100lbs. Hahaha. Despite eating 2 cups of rice (fine 2 1/2) each meal during my weekend getaway in Alcoy. I guess I burned the calories swimming.

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Got The Green Thumb?

My grandmother has a green thumb. It's pretty obvious once you step into their residence. There are trees, some fruit bearing trees, plotted plants, pretty flowers and orchids everywhere. I wonder how my lola feels about Blackberry plants? I heard they were yummy to make pies with. Anyway, it came to a point where she had to sell many of her potted plants because they are just too many to maintain. It was actually a nice business if you think about it right?

But that is if you have a green thumb.

I don't. I tried growing plants before but they died on me! Heck, our 2 pet turtles died on me too.

I better stick to what I do best, parenting. ^_^ And leave the gardening to the experts.

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My 10 Least Liked Foods

First off..this is hard for me because I eat almost anything! After I hit my 14th week (2nd trimester) my appetite came back.

1) Liver
2) Balut (it's a Filipino thing, I am Filipino but I can't take it!)
3) Corned Beef
4) Pork and Beans
5) Century Egg
6) Okra (slimy veggie! - I eat most veggies)
7) Beer
8) Mushrooms
9) Cheese
10)Asparagus

Join us.

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