Going Back to Work After Childbirth

I'll be going back to work tomorrow. And like most working moms, I have several questions that bother me up to the point that it would make me feel guilty about leaving my son at home. It's not a nice feeling when you think about it but nowadays, it's only practical to have two working parents in a household in case something happens to one of them. It's a security that my husband and I can't afford to lose.

Honestly, when I was still single, my career has been my priority. I have always made myself be on my toes for a chance to climb the corporate ladder. Everything's going well for my career --- I'm an OIC being groomed to be the next leader. Then it happened; I got pregnant.

Pregnancy changed my views about my career. Once I heard my son's first cry, I knew that he'll be on top of my priorities and it will never be changed. At first I tried to convince my husband to let me stay at home. Instead of instantly agreeing, he gave me the pros and cons to make sure that I'm making the right decision. The cons of being a stay-at-home mom outweighed the pros. And besides, I'll be home before 4PM so I would still have time to play with Zeke and yes, breastfeed him. Also, my husband's mother will be the one to take care of my son so there's no need to worry about him being taken care of by a complete stranger (I heard the most horrible stories so at least less anxiety attacks for me).

So now I'm preparing myself to go back to work. It'll be different because I need to juggle my family and my career. I'll need to keep in mind that sacrifices have to be made. I'll be a super working mom.

Postpartum Mymy

Anyway, this blog post hopes to help young mothers (like me) out there who seem troubled in making the right decision. Before you decide on anything, consider the following factors:

Emotionally, how will you feel about being away from your baby? (You might not know until you do it and that's okay.) How comfortable are you with the idea of someone else caring for her? How important is it to keep your career on track? Can you live without the unique fulfillment that a career brings, or is it too important a part of who you are? How will you feel about missing any of the major milestones in your baby's life — first words, first steps?

Logistically, if you do choose to go back to work, will you put your little one in daycare or hire a nanny? Is there a relative who can tend her? Or is your partner willing (and able) to take over the reins? How many hours are you willing to work? Even if you're not headed back right away, it's a good idea to think now about what type of arrangement would work best for you. If you can't come up with a scenario that will allow you to comfortably leave the home, your choice might be not to.

Financially, staying at home (even part-time) isn't an option for many mothers; they simply must work. To find out if you can afford to quit or reduce your hours, make a budget. List how much you require for fixed expenses — mortgage or rent, insurance, loan payments, utilities, food, etc. — and how much you need for extras like dinners out. Now determine how much money you absolutely must have to be modestly comfortable (with a cushion for emergencies). Consider whether the money you'll make will offset the costs of earning it (gas, clothing, childcare, lunches — and time away from your baby). Are there options to cut your time away from home — like working part time, or full or part time from home, or job sharing?

Once you've decided, don't feel guilty about it because it will only cause anxiety and depression on your part. I know it's hard to leave your bundle of joy (trust me, that's what I am dealing with now). Just keep in mind why you're doing this.

I'm going back to work to give him a better future :)

Let me share this article that I got from the website of Mayo Clinic. I found this very helpful and I'll stick to it if possible:

Maternity leave: Tips for returning to work

Maternity leave passes quickly. Find out what you can do to ease your transition back to work — and how to stay connected to your baby.

By Mayo Clinic staff

Are you dreading the day your maternity leave ends? Don't despair. Working mothers face many challenges, but with careful planning you can make your transition back to work a smooth one.

Before you return to work

While you're still on maternity leave, set yourself up for a successful return to work:

• Let go of the guilt. Returning to work after maternity leave can pose emotional conflicts for new mothers. Working outside the home doesn't make you a bad mother — and it's OK to look forward to the challenges and interactions of your job. Remind yourself that you're doing what's best for you and your family.
• Find dependable child care. Consider local child care providers and facilities or make other arrangements for child care, perhaps before the baby is born. Look for a safe, stimulating environment and qualified caregivers. Ask your baby's doctor, friends, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations. Trust your instincts when interviewing potential caregivers. Also check caregivers' references.
• Talk to your employer. Clarify your job duties and schedule so you'll know what's expected of you after your maternity leave. You might ask about flexible hours, telecommuting or working part time.
• Prepare to continue breast-feeding. If you're breast-feeding and plan to continue doing so after returning to work, tell your employer that you'll need to take breaks throughout the day to pump. Ask about a clean, private room with an outlet for breast pumping. Consider buying or renting an electric pump that allows you to pump both breasts at once. About two weeks before returning to work, adjust your nursing schedule at home so you're pumping two or three times during the day and nursing before and after your upcoming work hours. Have someone else feed your baby a bottle of stored breast milk to help your baby adapt. If you happen to have on-site or nearby child care, consider the logistics of breast-feeding your baby during the workday.
• Set a return-to-work date. If you can, go back to work late in the week. That will make your first week back to work a short one.

  Once you're back at work

  When you go back to work, expect ups and downs as you become more adept at managing multiple demands. These tips can help:
• Get organized. Make a daily to-do list. You might divide the list into tasks for work and tasks for home, or tasks for you and tasks for your partner. Identify what you need to do, what can wait — and what you can skip entirely.
• Provide continuity of care. Develop a good relationship with your baby's caregiver. Spend time talking to him or her when you drop off or pick up your baby. Share family stresses — both good and bad — that might affect your baby. Before you take your baby home, ask about any important events that occurred in your absence, such as a change in bowel movements or eating patterns or a new way of playing. Take time to periodically discuss your baby's progress and any problems or concerns.
• Stay connected. Consider a daily phone call or text message to your baby's caregiver to find out how your baby's doing. Place a favorite photo of your baby on your desk or in your work area. Set aside time after work to reconnect with your baby.
• Make backup plans. Know what you'll do if your baby is sick or your baby's caregiver is unavailable on a workday — such as taking the day off yourself, asking your partner to take the day off, or calling a friend or loved one to care for your baby.
• Honor your commitment to breast-feeding. Bring your breast pump, containers for expressed milk, an insulated bag and ice packs to work. Keep a stash of breast pads and extra blouses handy, in case your breasts leak. If finding time to pump is a concern, consider alternatives — pumping during your breaks or working from home to make up for the lost hours, for example. If you can't express milk at work, breast-feed your baby or pump just before you go to work and as soon as you return home. You could also pump between feedings on your days off for extra breast milk to be used while you're working.
• Seek support. Don't try to do everything yourself. Accept help from your partner, loved ones, friends and co-workers. Speak up if you're feeling guilty, sad or overwhelmed. If you're having trouble pumping milk at work or nursing your baby at home, contact a lactation consultant from a local hospital or clinic.
• Nurture your own well-being. Relax in the tub after you put the baby to bed, or unwind with a favorite book or soft music. Cut down on unnecessary commitments. Pick a reasonable bedtime, and stick with it. On your days off, sleep when your baby sleeps.

Above all, maintain a positive attitude. Tell your baby how excited you are to see him or her at the end of the day. Your baby might not understand your words, but he or she will pick up on your emotions.

Let's cross our fingers, working mommies! We can do this!

Zeke's 2nd Month Development

On my last post, I provided a detailed week by week development chart for my Zeke. Now that Zeke's on his 11th week (can you believe it?), he's growing up too fast that even I can't believe that he's able to do this and that!

Most people who would see him often comment "Wow, are you sure your baby's only two months?". This kind of compliment would touch my heart and of course, can't help but make me proud of my little one. Actually, if you'll check his new photos, you might say he's no longer little.

2nd month, playing with his Lola (my mommy)

9th week, stroll around the subdivision on his Chicco stroller

10th week (look at him, he's so BIG)

can now use his bath support sitting down at 10 weeks old!

now wears sando and shorts at 10 weeks old!

Zeke at 11 weeks with Mommy and Daddy

As you can see, he looks (and feels) old for his age. I'm not sure how much he weighs now since his next pedia visit is scheduled on the 1st of October (which reminds me, he'll have his PCV vaccine, which costs around Php 5000).

Okay, time for his weekly development chart:

during his 2nd month:

• his sleeping pattern has been changing ---- he's sleeping for 6 hours at night and he's now starting to develop a sleeping habit
• he loves to "coo" and "gurgle" and would often talk to himself
• responds energetically by "cooing" to whoever is talking to him
• gets entertained by his toys

Mrs. Hippo and Mr. Lion

• looks intently at bright colored object ie his scrub buddies, the fluorescent lamps, and TV shows that shows bright colors and dancing or singing like the Mickey Mouse club

his bath time scrub buddies Mr. Tiger and Mr. Monkey

during his 9th week:

• he now recognizes my voice and would often smile whenever he hears me calling his name. He also knows the meaning of the word "ayan na (here it comes)" because whenever he hears it, he knows that his food is coming (my breasts, to be exact) and he would gradually lower down his screams and eventually stops crying
• he drools a lot --- loves to taste whatever comes in contact with his mouth
• sucks his fist, arm, thumb, and fingers
• starting to rock and roll — well, maybe just roll. At this age, he's able to move from his side to his back and his back to his side

during his 10th week:

• he could touch his toes and could almost bring his feet up to his mouth
• can sit on his bath support and doesn't cry during his baths anymore. He ABSOLUTELY loves warm baths!
• he could touch his winky during diaper changes (HAHA)
• tries to lift his head when he's lying down and when he's on his tummy, holds his head steadily
• wears sando and shorts because his 0-3 months clothes no longer fit!

new clothes for Zeke (3-6 months)

during his 11th week:

• he sleeps less during the morning and sleeps soundly at night. I believe he has now established a sleeping pattern. He knows that whenever I give him a warm sponge bath at night and a final diaper change, it's time for bed
• he wakes up at the same time my husband and I wake up
• his jerky arm and leg movements when he was just a newborn have given way to smoother, more circular motions, especially when he's watching people
• loves to coo, gurgle and play with his lips especially when he hears his name 

Oh, I can't wait for my baby to develop some more. Of course, I could help him by reading books to him. Since I'm going back to work on Monday, I could buy him books that have big and bold letters.

By the way, we have finalized his christening date. It'll be on October 23rd. I'll blog about it as soon as we're done with the reservation of the church and reception place. But, I'll let you take a peek on what he's wearing:

mini barong tagalog! :D

Requirements for Change / Update of Status

Okay, now that everything's almost in order and I have a week before going back to work, I think it's about time to finally organize all my change of status requirements.

Before filing for my maternity leave back in June, our HR Specialist gave me a bunch of papers to accomplish for all updates necessary --- change of status from single to married, change of last name, etc. It was a bit confusing at first but I didn't have the time to process them all since I became busy with my baby for the past two months.

Now that I have adjusted with the chaos and bliss, I have listed all the important forms to be filled out. Take note working moms, THESE are all important because it may affect your tax, beneficiaries and of course, in the Philippines, these are required by law:

• BIR Form 2305 Certificate of Update of Exemption and of Employer's and Employee's Information -
  
  Description. A Certificate to be accomplished and issued in case of increase or decreases in exemption, change of status, change in the person of employer, change in the type of employment, acquiring employment after having registered as engaged in business or exercise of profession, change in the working status of the spouse, execution of the "waiver to claim the Additional Exemption" by the husband, or revocation of the previously executed "waiver to claim the Additional Exemption" by the husband. Filing Date. File this form with the RDO where the taxpayer is registered, within ten (10) days after such change or event. (This form is given to the main employer, copy furnished the secondary employer).
  
  
  

• BIR Form 1905 Application for Registration Information Update (you only need to fill this out if you're changing RDO codes --- that means if you have recently changed your employer) Description. This form is to be accomplished by all taxpayers who intend to update/change any data or information, e.g.  transfer of business within the same RDO, change in registered activities,  cancellation of business registration due to closure of business or transfer to other district, or replacement of lost TIN Card/ Certificate of Registration.To be accomplished with the RDO having jurisdiction over the taxpayer, whether Head Office or branch.Filing Date.Filed each time taxpayer needs to register the change in registration such as but not limited to change in registered activities, change in tax type details etc. except those changes to be filed under Form 2305; replacement of lost TIN Card / lost Certificate of Registration or cancellation or registration and/or TIN. 

• Philhealth Membership Information Update. For update of last name and of course, your dependent. As of this post, a new PhilHealth card will be released called the "i-PhilHealthy Card". You may view this link for more information about the said card.

•  SSS Member's Data Amendment Form E-4. You must fill up the first page of Form E-4 using black ink and submit it in two original copies in person to the nearest SSS branch. The SSS requires the submission of a photocopy of the supporting document, but the original or a certified true copy of the document must also be presented for authentication purposes. You will also need to get a new SSS card since in the Philippines, SSS ID card is considered a valid ID. You may view this link on how to obtain a new ID.

Now that all your information has been updated, you can now truly consider yourself as a married woman in the Philippines! Enjoy your new status!

Why Swaddle?

Before I start this entry, let me just greet my husband HAPPY 6TH WEDDING MONTH! I can't believe it! We've been married for half a year now and nothing has changed! It's like we're still dating. I feel so lucky to be married to my best friend. It's the best feeling in the world. I love you Dydy!

look how young we were! *reminiscing* now married and have a baby together :') life is definitely A-MAZING!

So, on to the real purpose of this blog post...

I've been getting a lot of questions from mommies asking me what the heck is swaddling. It seems to be unheard of in the Philippines but is a common practice around the world. Let me first define swaddling your baby:

Swaddling is the art of snugly wrapping your baby in a blanket for warmth and security. It can keep him from being disturbed by his own startle reflex, and it may even help him stay warm and toasty for the first few days of life until his internal thermostat kicks in. Most important, it can help to calm your baby.

Nurses in hospital do this to your newborns (remember seeing them snugly wrapped in a blanket? Yes, that's swaddling) but new moms forget about this extremely comforting act when they get home. Nowadays, there are baby blankets that are specifically endorsing swaddling like SwaddleMe by Summer Infant, etc.


My baby Zeke has two SwaddleMe blankets and he loves them! These blankets were my lifesavers especially during nights when Zeke is particularly having difficulties in sleeping.

Zeke wearing a SwaddleMe blanket

However, if this blanket is not available at your favorite store, you could always use an ordinary blanket. That's what my hubby and I do now since Zeke's SwaddleMe blankets are getting too small for him. Here's an easy step-by-step way on how to properly swaddle your newborn using an ordinary blanket (thank you, Baby Center!):

• Lay a blanket on a flat surface and fold down the top-right corner about 6 inches.
• Place your baby on his back with his head on the fold.
• Pull the corner near your baby's left hand across his body, and tuck the leading edge under his back on the right side under the arm.
• Pull the bottom corner up under your baby's chin.
• Bring the loose corner over your baby's right arm and tuck it under the back on his left side. If your baby prefers to have his arms free, you can swaddle him under the arms. This gives him access to his hands and fingers.

Voila! You have now successfully swaddled your baby. Trust me, once you've learned this art, you'd be able to minimize those sleepless nights. However, once your baby is about a month old you might want to stop swaddling him while he's awake, as it may interfere with mobility and development in older babies. It's fine to keep swaddling your baby for naps and nighttime if he seems to sleep better that way. He'll let you know by crying or kicking when he no longer wants to be bundled up.

How to Bathe Your Little One

Zeke is now two months old! *clap clap clap* He has been very energetic lately and his sleeping pattern is changing as well. He's now awake (again) mostly at night but can sleep up to 6 hours. His nap times are mostly under 2-3 hours and three times a day.

Zeke at 2 months in his Moses basket

Anyway, my husband and I are planning another party tomorrow to celebrate his second month and since it's my birthday, it'll be a double celebration! I'm thinking of doing like a pica-pica theme (this means no huge meals, just a little something-something to be eaten by hand). Of course, there will be chips and salsa, pizza and who knows what else! I want a cake too or maybe ice cream.

Spaghetti Party for his 1st month

Pizza and Chips Party for his 2nd month

So, this means another thing. We need to bathe our little baby to make sure that he smells fresh and is presko since it's hot during the afternoons. It's a bit tricky to bathe a baby especially my Zeke since he's wiggly and malikot. Good thing he loves the warm water in his tub or else the whole experience would be a disaster.

Here's a step by step guide on how we bathe our little Zeke:

1. Assemble all necessary bath accessories (his tub, top-to-toe wash, baby towel, hooded blanket, wash cloth and dipper). Make sure you have his clothes ready as well (including his brush, new set of diapers, cotton buds for his ear

2. Make sure the room is warm and the bath water is comfortably warm but not hot. To check if the water's in it's perfect temperature, use your wrist or a bath thermometer (about 38 degrees Centigrade / 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit has been shown to help babies to retain body heat)

3. For newborns and babies up to 6 months old, fill the bath with about five inches of water, or enough to allow your baby to settle in the water with his shoulders well covered. Never fill the bath more than waist-high (in sitting position) for older children.

4. Bring your baby to the bath area and undress him completely.

5. Gradually slip your baby into the bath, using one hand to support his neck and head.

6. Use soap sparingly as you wash him with your hand, a face towel, or sponge from top to bottom, front to back. Wash his scalp with a wet, soapy cloth. Use moistened cotton wool to clean his eyes and face. As for your baby's genitals, a routine wash is all that is needed. If dried mucus has collected in the corner of your baby's nostrils or eyes, dab it several times with a small section of a moistened cotton wool to soften it before you wipe it out.

Gently yet thoroughly clean him

7. Rinse your baby thoroughly with a clean face towel.

8. Wrap your baby in a towel and pat (don't rub) him dry. Dress him.

Now, don't get too excited when bathing your baby. Newborns don't need to take baths everyday. According to Zeke's pedia, 2-3 times a week is enough since he's not yet crawling. But do give your baby warm sponge baths daily since washing your baby's eyes, face and genitals are essential.

Okay, that's about it. Ciao bella!

Miss-Match.com: A Virtual Closet Website

I got the news about the virtual closet site from one of my favorite bloggers, Jenni Epperson. She inspires me so much because she is able to balance fashion, family and fun lifestyle.

Anyway, I know this is another non-Zeke related post but heck, I want to share the good news with my fellow fashionista mommies out there. I have recently signed up for a free account at their website and so far, I am loving it. I took all their quizzes and look at the fun results:

I also adore their advice column that answers members' questions. Take the "Dressing Dilemma" articles that I found very insightful:

The Corporate-to-Cocktails Look

"How do I put together an outfit that can look professional at work, yet stylish enough for an evening date or gimmick?"--Missy from Makati

We asked Liza Ilarde, Manila Bulletin's Style Weekend editor and all-around fashion guru, to answer Missy's dressing dilemma. Liza says:

"As an editor, I'm always invited to store openings and product launches—and since I'm always chasing deadlines, I have no time to go home from work and change! So I have three tricks to achieving an AM-to-PM look in an instant. First is layering: You can wear a pair of slim-cut trousers or a pencil skirt and a sexy halter or tube top, BUT top the outfit with a tailored jacket, which you should keep on during office hours. After six, peel off the jacket and no one will suspect you came straight from the office! Second trick is all in the accessories. Corporate attire requires proper pumps, understated pearls, and a no-nonsense tote. Stash a pair of killer heels, over-the-top bling, and a sleek clutch in your desk drawer for those spur-of-moment hook-ups with your barkada! Lastly, your makeup can make all the difference. Smokey eyes and/or neon-pink lips may not be appropriate in the boardroom, but at your favorite bar or club, anything goes!"

The best thing about the website is you can pile up on clothes on their stockroom, choose to put it in your closet but you don't have to buy it! It's like playing dress up for free!

I think this would help working moms figure out what to wear to the office on a weekly basis or when going out with their husbands on date nights. This would be helpful for me because I don't have the time to window shop or look at magazines as I used to since my schedule now revolves around chores, Zeke, work and hubby.

So, I encourage all fashionista mommies out there to try this website. Go on, sign up and enjoy!

SM Baby Company

When I was pregnant, I fell in love with MotherCare. This store was like my new Forever 21! Now that I have finally given birth, I discovered a new store that offers a variety of baby items and baby brands.

Meet my new love ----- Baby Company. It was my newest haven and since I am still at home taking care of Zeke, I'm excited to visit their store at SM North during the last week of September.

NURSERY CARE CORPORATION COMPANY PROFILE

HISTORY    Infant's Accessories and Furniture started to operate as one of the sections under SM Department Store at Sta. Mesa and Ortigas branches in the year 1990.

On September 1991, Baby Company became an independent company, duly registered under the name of Nursery Care Corporation.  Baby Company, is primarily engaged in and carries on the business of trading all kinds of baby and/or infant products.

On January 1992, its' 3rd branch opened at SM North EDSA, and another one followed in SM Cubao on the same year.  Since then, Baby Company has expanded and continues to open its branches inside all SM Department Stores. Aside from these branches, Baby Company also opened specialty stores in Powerplant Mall in December 2000 and The Podium in August 2002.  It has also opened inside all SM Hypermarket stores.

PHILOSOPHY    It is the company's major concern to provide our customers easy and convenient shopping for quality infant's or baby's needs at reasonable prices.

Baby Company offers a wide range of merchandise to match a newborn's checklist - from feeding essentials to nursery furniture and carriers, from clothes to toys, and even educational media for the enhancement of baby's mental development.  It answers the needs of busy and career-oriented parents, especially mothers, by offering them a one-stop, easy shopping experience.
  
The store carries parent-trusted brand names and baby-tested feeding accessories from Pigeon, Medela, Avent and Playtex. wheeled goods from Maclaren, Graco and Chicco, linens from Owen and Basic Comfort, toys from Lamaze, V-tech, Fisher Price and Megablocks, toiletries from Curash, Nivea and Johnson & Johnson, apparel from Enfant and Carters as well as Brainy Baby educational materials.

Baby Company is the parent's partner in rearing healthy, active and happy children.

I love their website and guess what? I have great news for all mommies out there. Take a look at this:

Woohoo! I can still go and splurge my remaining 14th month for Zeke! What more, I can finally avail of the Baby Company Mom Card (like an SM Advantage Card).

ABOUT BABY COMPANY MOM CARD

1. What is the Baby Company Mom Card?
   Baby Company Mom Card is a membership loyalty program that rewards customers with points for every purchase in SM Department Store and Baby Company stores. Points can be used to redeem Baby Company items ONLY in any SM Department store and Baby Company stores.
   
   Points can be used to redeem Baby Company items ONLY in any SM Department store and Baby Company store.


2. What sets the Baby Company Mom Card apart from other loyalty programs?
   
   1. Baby Company Mom Card rewards Moms for every purchase they make at Baby Company. The Baby Company Mom Card offers 4 points for every P200 peso purchase. Other cards offer only 1 point.
   2. Baby Company Mom Card also rewards customers for buying even non-Baby Company items. 1 point for every P200.00.
   3. Exclusive privilege and treats are given to Baby Company Mom Card members:
      1. Exclusive and special discounts and freebies
      2. VIP access to special events
      3. Tips from Mom and Health Experts
      4. Meet and Greet with Celebrities
      5. Reward points earned every time they buy at Baby Company
      6. Members–only sale events

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION / RENEWAL

1. Who can apply?
   Moms with kids aged 0-3 years old may apply for membership in Baby Company's Mom Card.
   We also encourage relatives and friends who simply adore babies and enjoy giving gifts to their grandkids, nieces, nephews, godkids, etc.


2. How can I apply?
   1. Go to any Baby Company Specialist/Personnel and ask about the Baby Company Mom Card.
   2. Baby Company Specialist/Personnel will inform you that you need to purchase a minimum amount of Baby Company items worth P500.00 in a single-receipt transaction.
   3. Baby Company Specialist/Personnel will give you the Baby Company Mom Card Membership Application Form which you will bring to the cashier together with the Baby Company items you will purchase.
   4. Fill out the Baby Company Mom Card Membership Application Form (MAF).
   5. Submit the filled-out Membership Application Form to the Baby Company Specialist/Personnel.
   6. Make sure you sign at the back of the card and indicate the date of signing. This will serve as the start date for the 3-month warranty of the card.
   7. Your card will be activated in the next ten (10) working days.. You will be notified by email based on the email address that you wrote on the MAF.
   8. You can earn points even if the card is not yet activated but you can only redeem the points upon card activation
3. How long does my membership last?
   Baby Company Mom Card membership is valid for three (3) years. The Expiry Date printed on the front side of the Baby Company Mom Card means that the card is valid until the last day of the month.

EARNING OF BABY COMPANY MOM CARD POINTS

1. How do I earn Baby Company Mom Card points?
   Members can earn reward points by presenting their Baby Company Mom Card to the cashier before payment of:
   1. Purchase from Baby Company
   2. Purchases (any item) at SM Department Store

USING BABY COMPANY MOM CARD REWARD POINTS FOR REDEMPTION

1. What is the value of my Baby Company Mom Card reward points?
   The value of 1 point is P 1.00.


2. How can I use my points to redeem rewards?
   Like cash, you can pay for your Baby Company purchases ONLY at any cashier counter of the SM Department Store using your Baby Company Mom Card points. You can also pay for your Baby Company purchases at any Baby Company mall outlet.


3. When can I start using my Baby Company Mom Card reward points for redemption?
   A member can start using points to redeem reward upon accumulation of at least 50 points. However, there is no minimum on the value of the reward that can be redeemed. Also, the member may choose to accumulate more points to redeem higher-value items.

FREEBIES AND PRIVILEGES

1. What are the privileges of becoming a Baby Company Mom Card member?
   Aside from the reward points that members earn every time they shop at Baby Company and SM Department Store, they are entitled to exclusive privileges from establishments inside and outside SM Malls nationwide throughout the duration of their membership


2. How do I know what these other exclusive privileges are from establishments inside and outside of SM Malls?
   Customers are encouraged to check the Baby Company website (www.babycompany.com.ph) and Facebook page for an update on these exclusive privileges.


3. How do I know what the special offers are from Baby Company store itself?
   Customers are encouraged to visit the Baby Company store monthly as these are posted at the Baby Company Mom Card booth. Special announcements can also be seen at the Baby Company website (www.babycompany.com.ph) and via their Facebook page.

BTW, my husband and I have decided to do Zeke's christening on October 16th. We'll go for the Max's Restaurant package but still unsure what menu to get. I'm so excited that I totally forgot it's my birthday today.

I've just realized something. When you're finally a parent, the things that you usually do don't matter now. It's now about your little one. Of course you still have to look after yourself (which is why I'll still post a fashion entry next time).

Diaper Changing 101

For almost two months now, my husband and I have been changing Zeke's diaper round the clock. I know diapers cause environmental problems so we make sure that we only use them at night and when we go on pedia visits.

My husband is now an expert at nappy changing so I thought I'll blog about how he does it. Of course, I'm still better that's why I'm the one doing the 101 lesson

But before I go and walk you through the process, let me just give out a personal opinion on two diapers we've used --- Pampers Newborn v. Huggies Newborn.

Pampers Newborn

We used this diaper because it was the one given at the hospital when I gave birth to Zeke. At first, we liked it because it seems comfortable and budget-friendly at Php 202/ 24 pcs. During Zeke's first few weeks of using it, he was able to sleep soundly and there's no mess on his bedding. It also has a snug fit that was perfect for his not-yet-fallen cord stump. Unfortunately, when Zeke turned a month old, his diapers started to leak! It always woke Zeke at night even though he has just changed. So, instead of being budget friendly, it's actually costing us more with each diaper change! One bag (consisting of 24) only lasts about 2 days without cloth diapers.

Huggies Newborn

We started using this once Zeke turned a month old and he loves it! He sleeps comfortably at night and it's matipid. It's more expensive than Pampers (about Php5 difference) but with the high performance it's showing, I can recommend this for all the mommies out there. I especially love the cord stump cover it features (Zeke's cord stump didn't fall off until August 21st so it was really useful). However, Huggies Newborn only caters for babies up to 4kg that's why we now switched to Huggies Small.  Anyway, Huggies Small is cheaper than the Newborn range (I don't know why) so yeah, it's cost effective too!

Okay, now that I got it out there, let's begin with the diaper changing tutorial.

changing station

things you will need

You will need:

• cloth or disposable diaper
• rubber mat
• baby wipes or cotton balls with lukewarm water
• alcohol (for you to use before changing baby's diaper)
• dry cloth (any for drying baby's tush)
• baby powder (optional)
• changing area (good thing Zeke's playard has one so it's a space saver)

How to: 

1. Unfasten the dirty diaper, but don't remove it yet.
2. Use the front half of the diaper to wipe away any poop. If your baby is a boy like my Zeke, cover his penis with a clean cloth so he doesn’t pee on you.
3. Grasp your baby by the ankles and gently lift his bottom off the changing table. Don't grasp him too hard or else he might get bruises.
4. Fold the dirty diaper in half under your baby, clean side up.
5. Use a baby wipe or wet cotton balls to thoroughly clean your baby's front.
6. Lift both of your baby's legs and clean his bottom with a wipe or wet cloth. Apply baby powder for comfort.
7. Remove the dirty diaper. Position the back half of the clean diaper under your baby’s bottom and the front half between his legs (spread as wide as seems comfortable). Try not to bunch the diaper between your baby's legs – it can cause chafing and discomfort. For newborns, avoid covering the umbilical cord. You can buy special disposable diapers for newborns with notches cut out for the stump, or fold down the front half of cloth diapers. For boys, be sure to tuck the penis down so they’re less likely to pee over the top of the diaper.
8. Fasten the diaper securely, making sure it's snug but not so tight that it pinches your baby’s skin. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific tips.

Okay, there you have it Happy diaper changing!

Immunizations, Pedia Visits, and Zeke's Milestones

Zeke turns 8 weeks today and of course, since he's nearing his second month, it means only one thing ---- another pedia visit.

Items inside Zeke's diaper bag: Baby Record book, baby wipes, alcohol, change of clothes, bib, blanket and of course, diapers

Zeke will get his 5-in-1(penta) and Rotavirus shots today. His pedia, Dr. Borja, already explained the reasons why he needs these shots but for everyone's sake, I've Googled these vaccinations and here's the information I got:

• Penta was one vaccine which is used to prevent five diseases - diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B and haemophilus influenza type B.
• Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea) among children worldwide.

I've also checked the Net for the immunization needs of Zeke. If I remember correctly, he has been given the first dose of Hepatitis B vaccine during his birth (7/9/11) as well as BCG (7/17/11). Then, when he turned 10 days old, the second dose of Hepatitis B vaccine was given (7/19/11). Your child should get the following immunization:

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO 

Okay, we just got back from the hospital and guess what? My son does not hate medicines! His pedia kept saying "Oh, very good!" when she was giving Zeke the rotavirus vaccine (it's actually taken orally). Now, I gave him Calpol (Paracetamol) at 0.3ml as advised by his pedia and he swallowed everything in one gulp! His pedia said that the 5-in-1 vaccine can make the baby feverish so to avoid the fever completely, he should be given Paracetamol. Anyway, I think I wouldn't have any problems giving my baby medicines. Good boy! I think that's the reason why he's now 10.78lbs; he's so matakaw!

Look at my Zeke at 8th week! :)

Anyway, let me list all of Zeke's milestone before he turns two months on the 9th:


During his first week:

Look at his Apgar score!

• responds in an automatic way when touched at various places (ie sucks when something touches the mouth)
• first sneeze
• first smile
• weighs 7.6lbs and he's 20 inches long

During his second week:

• has different cries when in pain, sleepy or hungry
• lifts his head wobbly when placed on his tummy

During his third week:

• puts finger and hands into the mouth

During his first month:

• makes different facial expressions in response to different tastes (like water)
• weighs 9.01lbs

During his sixth week:

• uses his eyes and head to follow things that move
• recognizes familiar face and sounds

During his seventh week:

• makes squealing and gurgling sounds (cooing)
• smiles sometimes when interacting with the person

During his eight week (almost two months):

• looks more at faces than other objects
• weighs 10.78lbs

7/20/11 - first bath

I love it when he stares back. :)

Look at his nostrils! He got that from me, haha

He has a birthmark! Angel's kiss!

Pedia visit outfit

Sleeping baby Zeke at 8 weeks :)

That's it for now, I think. I'll update the milestones as soon as he turns three months.

Nicholas Sparks is Coming to Manila!

Okay, I know this is a non-Zeke topic but I can't wait for my favorite author to come to Manila! I have a signed book from him given by my friend Aileen but it'll be a completely different experience if I go and meet him! Gosh, I'm really, REALLY excited!

Nicholas Sparks to visit PHL

By MAUREEN MARIE BELMONTE

August 15, 2011, 4:31pm

Celebrated novelist Nicholas Sparks tweets in Filipino (Photo courtesy of his Twitter account)

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino fans of “A Walk to Remember” author Nicholas Sparks have a reason to rejoice with his announcement of a forthcoming trip to the Philippines.
“I don't know where my events are, but I'll be in the Philippines on Oct. 27-28th ... and yes, I'll be signing,” posted Sparks on his official Twitter account (@SparksNicholas).


This revelation came after a series of tweets on the various languages that he said that he’s “still learning.”

“I'm better at the ‘latin’ languages (spanish, italian, portugese, romanian, french) and okay at northern European languages (German, Dutch).

“I'm not saying I'm fluent ... but I can get around and talk to people in those countries ... with effort on both our parts,” he said.

The novelist of Christian faith, love, tragedy and fate themes mentioned that, “Aside from a bit of Tagalog, my Asian language skills are non-existent. And I'm poor at Arabic (not even good) ... but I like the language.”

However, he did try his hand at composing a message in Filipino, “Aking tiyahin ay mula sa Maynila. Siya itinuro sa akin,” he wrote, which he translated for his non-Filipino followers to mean: “I tried to say that my aunt is from Manila ...she used to talk to me and taught me to say some stuff.”

Having learned the language on his own, he recounted, “My aunt ... she didn't set out to teach me. I just listened to her talk to her mom and her sisters ...”

And being a self-taught Filipino of sort, Sparks wished for his followers “not to be mean.”

“I know I get lots of stuff wrong ... and please, if I see you in Manila, talk slow so I can understand you ... I'm no expert ...” he said.

Sparks is the author of 16 published novels. Six have already been adapted to film, namely the Kevin Costner starrer “Message in a Bottle,” Mandy Moore and Shane West’s film “A Walk to Remember,” and the Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams’ film “The Notebook,” the Richard Gere and Diane Lane starrer “Nights in Rodanthe,” Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried’s “Dear John” and, most recently, Miley Cryus and Liam Hemsworth's “The Last Song.”

While two of his upcoming novels are in various stages of development, the film adaptation of “The Lucky One,” starring Zac Efron, is expected to be released in March or April of 2012. His other novel, "Safe Haven," is expected to begin filming by October, according to his website.

Hello September!

Finally, I've been waiting for my birth month to arrive. Not only does it signify the start of the BER months but also, we can finally have Zeke baptized!

Zeke will turn two months on September 9th and as my hubby and I have talked about during our sleepless nights, we would like to have him baptized before he turns three months. So, like an excited planner, I've scouted the Net for Baptismal Packages that would suit our budget and on top of my list is Max's Restaurant.

Since we want to have him baptized at the same church where we got married, we've decided to get in touch with the nearest Max's Restaurant, which is the Ampid branch.

We spoke with Bong, their Banquet Manager and he gave us the following options (good for 50 persons):

Menu 1

Menu 2

Menu 3

Max's Fried Chicken

Max's Fried Chicken

Veggie Lumpia Bites

Pancit Canton

Oriental Beef with Mushroom

Max's Fried Chicken

Sizzling Tofu

Sweet & Sour Fish Fillet

Kare-kare

Lumpiang Shanghai

Pancit Canton

Steamed fish fillet in light Soy

Plain Rice

Plain Rice

Lumpiang Shanghai

Caramel Bars

Roasted Nuts

Pancit Canton

Drinks

Buko Pandan

Plain Rice

Drinks

Buko Pandan

Drinks

Menu 4

Menu 5

Menu 6

Veggie Lumpia Bites

Veggie Lumpia Bites

Veggie Lumpia Bites

Max's Fried Chicken

Max's Fried Chicken

Max's Fried Chicken

Beef stroganoff

Kare-kare

Kare-kare

Steamed fish fillet in light Soy

Fillet in Black Bean Sauce

Steamed fish fillet in light Soy

Lechon Kawali

Embutido

Lechon Kawali

Pancit Canton

Sizzling tofu

Pancit Canton

Plain Rice

Plain Rice

Plain Rice

Buko Pandan

Buko Pandan

Buko Pandan

Drinks

Drinks

Drinks

Menu 1

30pax

50pax

80pax

100pax

130 pax

150 pax

200 pax

13,314.00

19,410.00

28,554.00

34,650.00

43,794.00

49,890.00

65,130.00

Menu 2

30pax

50pax

80pax

100pax

130 pax

150 pax

200 pax

16,020.00

23,920.00

35,770.00

43,670.00

55,520.00

63,420.00

83,170.00

Menu 3

30pax

50pax

80pax

100pax

130 pax

150 pax

200 pax

17,532.00

26,440.00

39,802.00

48,710.00

62,072.00

70,980.00

93,250.00

Menu 4

30pax

50pax

80pax

100pax

130 pax

150 pax

200 pax

17,790.00

26,870.00

40,490.00

49,570.00

63,190.00

72,270.00

94,970.00

Menu 5

30pax

50pax

80 pax

100pax

130 pax

150 pax

200 pax

18,282.00

27,690.00

41,802.00

51,210.00

65,322.00

74,730.00

98,250.00

Menu 6

30pax

50pax

80pax

100pax

130 pax

150 pax

200 pax

18,360.00

27,820.00

42,010.00

51,470.00

65,660.00

75,120.00

98,770.00

Amenities:

Baptismal cake

Balloon Centerpieces

Souvenir

Balloon Clouds

Signature Frame

Balloon on Stick

Invitation

Gift for the baby

Free use of Sound System,Program host,

Presidential set up, cake table,

function room arrangement,

Souvenir & gift table

We offer buffet for 50pax up...

Max's Restaurant San Mateo 298 06 04

As you can see, the package is already complete with invitations, souvenirs and even a cake! They also offer a buffet style of service if the guests will be 50 and up. My hubby and I are not yet decided on the menu but we'll definitely do the reception here.

Now, as for the church requirements, all we have to bring is a photocopy of Zeke's birth certificate. For the fee, if we want to do it on a Saturday and on our own, we pay Php 1000 for the first pair of godparents and an additional Php 60 for each succeeding pair. If we want to have it done on a Saturday but with other parents, it'll costs Php 500 for the first pair and an additional Php 60 for each succeeding pairs. On a Sunday, it only costs Php 200 for the first pair of godparents.

We're still looking at our available dates but we'll definitely have 4 pairs of godparents for Zeke. I'll keep you updated on when we'll do the baptism. Ciao for now.

My big baby :)