Week 23

Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With her sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that she's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see her squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing her for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze her when she hears them outside the womb.

Week 22

Forget about ounces, baby. This week we're talking a whopping weight of 1 pound and a length of nearly 8 inches, about the size of a small doll. But your doll is a living one - with developing senses, including touch, sight, hearing and taste.

What's your baby touching? He may grab onto the umbilical cord (there's not much else to hang onto in there) and practice the strong grip that will soon be clutching your fingers (and pulling on your hair).

What your baby seeing? Though it's dark in the uterine cocoon - and even with fused eyelids - fetuses this age can preceive light and dark. If you shine a flashlight over your belly, you might feel your baby react, perhaps trying to turn away from the bright light.

What's your baby hearing? The sound of your voice and that your partner, your heartbeat, the whoosh-whoosh of your blood circulating through your body, those gastric gurgles, the dog barking, sirens, a loud TV.

And, what's your baby tasting? Pretty much everything you're tasting


My feeling over the week:
I love the feeling of my baby moving inside me... it makes it so real and it tickles sometimes :)

Thank you dear Lord for taking care and looking after my baby . I hope Lord Jesus will continue to shine His magic upon him. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

TAG HEUER

After much research (since last year), debate, thinking and comparing... finally, we decided that was it! :D I decided to buy the watch for my sweetie for his 31st birthday this year which will be coming very very soon. So, I guess this year he will be receiving his birthday present very early this year :)

Looking back at those two watches which (also) I bought for him (Guess & Casio) in the UK 10 years ago (money well spent ;-) ), I must say it's time to change! :) If it wasn't because the casio watch had died (even after we brought it for repair in two different outlets, according to the salesmen my hubby's watch had gone haywired... it cannot be used anymore.. even replacing it with a new battery..) & the Guess watch bracelet which was always loose according to him.... I think my hubby still hesitate to get a new one for himself. As for me, I think the salesgirl gave me a very good bargain for the watch and I think the new watch suits him very well :)

Well, hope he will cherish the present I bought for him and enjoy using it as long as he wants... heheh... BTW, this piece of watch cost more than thos two but it's an automatic watch which means you do not need to change battery and the bracelet locked in very tightly and safely (no loosing here and there after sometimes). All those two worries were solved in one watch! :D

Below were the product specifications for the watch which I bought for his birthday present -
TAG Heuer Men's Aquaracer Automatic Watch:
Dial window material type: scratch-resistant-sapphire
Clasp: fold-over-clasp-with-safety
Case material: stainless-steel
Case diameter: 40 millimeters
Case Thickness: 11 millimeters
Band material: stainless-steel
Band length: mens
Band width: 20 millimeters
Dial color: black
Bezel material: stainless-steel
Bezel Function: unidirectional
Calendar: Date
Movement: swiss-automatic
Water resistant depth: 984 Feet

Baby Strollers - Part 2

Here are some of the stroller which fancy my liking. Which one do you think I should buy for my dearest baby?

Taga 2-in-1 stroller bike - BP 1549


Quinny Speedy XS3 wheeler - BP250


Chicco for me stroller - BP299.99


Graco Vivo system - BP249


Baby jogger city single 3wheeler - BP280

Bugaboo bee - GBP 491


Do visit the site below for more info on baby stroller. It's an interesting piece of research done by University of Dundee, Scotland:
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/03/02/talking-to-baby-in-the-stroller/

Baby Stroller - Part 1

Here are some useful tips (especially to those first time parents like me) when considerations which kind of stroller/pushchair suitable for you and your baby needs. Happy shopping! :)

5 questions to ask before you choose a pushchair

1. How old is my baby & will I be pushing one or more?
Until three months, newborns need a lie-flat option to support and protect their backs. Choose from a two-in-one, travel system or 3-wheeler. A forward-facing pushchair is only suitable if it can be laid flat. If you're having twins or will be pushing a toddler as well as a newborn, a two-seater is the answer. A side-by-side pushchair is great for twins; a tandem (one seat in front, one behind) is best for a toddler and a baby (the baby goes in the lie-flat seat at the back). When your baby is between three and six months, you can choose a lightweight stroller.

2. What will I use the push chair for?
If you prefer the car to pounding the pavements, choose a lightweight model - a two-in-one may suit more than a 3-wheeler which is heavier to lift in and out of the boot. A travel system would be ideal for getting in and out of the car with minimum disturbance to you baby. If you do a lot of shopping on foot, you'll need a large shopping basket underneath, such as those on a two-in-one or forward-facing pushchair. Strollers give you little room for purchases. Pushability, manoeuvrability and a smooth ride are essential for country walks and can be a plus for uneven city pavements.

If this is your lifestyle, choose a 3-wheeler. If you use public transport or hop on and off planes for holidays, a lightweight, easy-folding, compact pushchair is important - check out the forward-facing options.

3. Where will I keep my pushchair?
Consider the size of your home. You need to make sure you can get your pushchair through the front door and up or down any stairs. You'll also need space to store it. And check your car-boot size. Sounds obvious, but if you can only just squeeze the pram in there, where's all your shopping going to go? Check the fit before you buy. If size and weight is an issue, move on to a stroller as soon as your baby is old enough.

4. How long will I use the pushchair?
If you plan to pass it on to your next baby, invest a little more for durability. A two-in-one, 3-wheeler or a travel system may be your best bet. If you want to move to a stroller at three months, don't spend quite so much.

5.How much can I spend?
The more you spend, the more features you'll get, and if you go for top-of-the-range, both looks and functionality will be maximised.

First Respond

Today, in the afternoon while I was taking my usual afternoon nap, I felt my baby was trhing to hold my hand (!!) :) Well, the story goes like this...... While sleeping, I put my hand at the left hand side of my stomach then suddenly I felt a kick / bump pushing my hand up... I was suprised and smile... I think my baby is trying to hold my hand or he wanted to play :) Oh my sweetie pie, mummy & daddy love you so much... hope you are doing well inside mummy's little tummy.. :)

God is Faithful

Today was a special day (date: 29.09.2009) for both, me & my hubby... and before I get the details all faded away in my memory, I wanted to record it down. Today was our first day visiting to a new gyne (namely Dr. Wong) at a nearby private hospital. Both me & my hubby were very anxious about visiting this gyne caused very seldom we came acrossed a female gyne before(!). This is our first one, after researching so many private hospitals.

Luckily, we do not have to wait for too long till our turn to see the gyne. There only one patient before us and they were already inside the room with the doc. After waiting about 30 mins, it's our turn!!! :D *so relieved that we do not need to wait too long till our turn......*

Well, my first impression this female gyne was she is nothing girly nor she has a long hair nor wearing any skirt nor her hair is permed (typical doc you will always see in the movie). But one thing which is spot right on was that this gyne is wearing glasses... (Huh... apart of so many things I expect only this came out to be matching?!? hahah..) During our consultation hour, while the gyne trying to record my medical details... my hubby suddenly became very pro-active in answering all the questions that my gyne wanting to ask me (??!) This is very nice of him... *I guess he is also very anxious like me*. :)

I must say this gyne is very straight forward with all questions and answers. No twist-and-turn! After that, we proceed to having my ultra-sound scan. This was the moment I was waiting for... to see how my little baby was doing in my tummy :) As the gyne was expalining the baby structure at her ultra-sound screen... suddenly my hubby (again) abrupt with another question... "Can we see the gender of the baby now doc???" asked my curious hubby wanting to double confirm. My gyne then proceed to scanning my baby genital part and said "Well, it depends if the baby opens it's legs or not..." And continue saying "It's a boy!" and I was suprised and wanting to see it myself to double confirm! So, my gyne tried to scan different angles of my baby body to let us see his... yes, penis. :) To get a clear and better view :)

Overall, we were very happy and satisfied with this gyne compared with the gyne we had on our previous visit. Just one drawback, this gyne will be away from the eve of CNY till the whole week :'( If only she will be availabe when my baby comes out. I guess there won't be any Chinese gyne around at that time of year. Who want to work during festive season... sigh..

After coming out from the gyne office, I still haven't got through with the news that "I WILL BE HAVING A BABY BOY AS MY FIRST CHILD.." It took some time for me to digest what my gyne just told me... until I reached home. I felt blessed that the Almighty Lord has hear my prayers and granted me with a healthy baby (no matter what the gender is). Feels like I want to shout it out loud tothe whole world but I think this one I just kept it to myself... for my own contemptment :)

He who puesues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor. PROVERBS 21:12 NIV

You, Lord, are my God! I will promise you for doing the wonderful things you has planned and promised since ancient times. ISAIAH 25:1 CEV

God os all that is good, I want all of you. SHow us how to seek you in every way, to experience you every day, and grow closer to you. AMEN.

Everlasting God, you have shown yourself to be the only one I can truly count on. Make me as faithful as you are. AMEN.

Second Trimester

The second trimester of pregnancy consists of weeks 13 to 24. Many women consider this trimester to be easier than the first, in part because the moodiness of early pregnancy sometimes lessens. Although many symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue, begin to disappear, a number of more evident changes will emerge. Common changes and symptoms of the second trimester include:

- Expanding abdomen.

As pregnancy progresses, the uterus becomes heavier and expands to create room for the fetus. By the 12th week of pregnancy, the growing uterus may cause a woman’s abdomen to slightly protrude. In addition, women may gain up to 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms) a month until the end of pregnancy. The uterus will continue to enlarge throughout pregnancy as the expectant mother gains weight and the fetus continues to grow. By the 20th week of pregnancy, the expanding uterus will extend to the level of the navel.
Continued breast growth.

As pregnancy progresses, the breasts begin to prepare for breastfeeding. Estrogen and progesterone stimulate the milk producing glands in the breasts to enlarge. A small amount of fat may also accumulate in the breasts. As a result, there may be as much as 1 pound (454 grams) of breast tissue, and the woman’s bra size may increase up to two cup sizes. The breasts may continue to be tender during this period of the pregnancy. Pregnant women may improve their comfort by wearing proper fitting and supportive bras.
Tingling. Many woman experience tingling and numbness in the fingers during pregnancy. This is due to swelling of tissues in the narrow passages in the wrists. These sensations often disappear after delivery.

- Itchiness
Many women experience itchiness as their pregnancies progress. This is due to hormones and stretching skin in areas such as the abdomen. Some women also develop itchiness and redness on their palms and the soles of their feet. These symptoms usually vanish after delivery. Women may benefit from moisturizing and using soaps for sensitive skin. In addition, women should avoid taking hot showers or baths, which can cause dryness. Since heat rash can worsen itching, women should also avoid becoming overheated. Women experiencing itching in combination with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) or fatigue should contact their obstetrician-gynecologist (ObGyn) immediately. This may be a sign of cholestasis, a condition that indicates a serious liver disorder.

- Nasal problems.

During pregnancy, the lining of the nose and airway may swell as more blood flows to the mucus membranes. This can result in restricted airflow. In addition, hormones affect the tissues of the throat, mouth and nose. As a result, pregnant women may experience snoring, congestion and nosebleeds. Women may benefit from drinking water, sleeping on their sides and using a cool mist humidifier in their bedroom. Although these conditions are typically harmless, women should contact their ObGyn when nosebleeds occur often or continue longer than a few minutes.

- Dizziness.

A woman may experience dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting at any time during her pregnancy. These symptoms may be especially noticeable early in the second trimester. This is due to the additional blood heading toward the uterus and legs and the dilation of blood vessels in response to hormones. Occasional dizziness may occur until the volume of blood expands to fill the vessels. Women may benefit from avoiding prolonged standing, lying on their left side (to relieve pressure on blood vessels) and rising slowly after sitting or lying down. In addition, women should avoid sitting or standing in one position for an extended period of time.

- Leg and foot cramps.

It is common for pregnant women to experience leg cramps during the second and third trimesters. Frequently occurring at night, these cramps may result from the pressure the uterus applies to the veins that return blood from the legs. Changes in circulation and stress on the leg muscles due to carrying additional weight may also be to blame. In addition, cramps may also be due to changes in the way the body metabolizes (processes) calcium. Women may benefit from stretching the affected muscle or walking, and consuming an adequate amount of calcium.

- Vaginal discharge.

Pregnant women may produce a thin, white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea). Consisting of cells from the vaginal lining and normal vaginal moisture, this type of discharge is not a cause for concern although the amount may be greater than before pregnancy. However, women should contact their ObGyn if they produce a strong-smelling green or yellowish vaginal discharge or any vaginal discharge accompanied by redness, itching or irritation. These symptoms may indicate a vaginal infection.

- Bleeding gums.

The increased blood circulation experienced during pregnancy can cause the gums to soften. As a result, a woman may have minor bleeding when she brushes her teeth or flosses. Pregnant women may benefit from flossing daily and brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush. Women experiencing persistent bleeding from the gums should contact their dentist.
Braxton Hicks contractions. During the second trimester, the uterus may begin flexing to build up strength. As a result, a woman may feel contractions in her lower abdomen and groin. These contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are usually painless and unpredictable. Women should immediately contact their ObGyn when contractions become painful or regular. This may be a sign of premature labor.

- Glowing skin.

Pregnant women may experience a “healthy glow” resulting from the increase of blood circulation. In addition, some areas of the skin may continue to increase in pigmentation, including the nipples.

Major developments in the fetus continue to occur during this trimester, including the complete formation of many chief organs, such as the heart. In addition, the mother may be able to feel the fetus move.

Major fetal developments during the second trimester include:

Week 14
The fetus’s gender can often be identified during an ultrasound
The fetus is able to hear

Week 16
The fetus’s fingers are able to grasp
The fetus moves more vigorously, and the mother is able to feel it
The fetus’s body begins to fill out as the result of fat depositing beneath the skin
Hair emerges on the head and skin, including eyebrows and eyelashes
The placenta (the organ that connects the fetus to the uterus to provide oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products) is completely formed

Weeks 23 to 24
The fetus is potentially capable of surviving outside the uterus

For more info please check put this website: http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/pregnancy-basics.html?pageNum=4

Fetal Development

I'm back! Hey everyone! How are ya'll doing so far? I hope you had a great day.. As for me, I'm busy dealing with my pregnancy as I'm new in this role. This week marked the 19th week of my pregnancy. Thank you Lord for the save and healthy development of my baby in my womb. I pray that Lord you will continue to look after my baby and bless me & my hubby with all the wisdom on how to deal with my pregnancy. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Week 19:

You're halfway there! The top of your uterus now reaches your belly button and will grow about a centimeter per week. The fetus measures around 6 inches/ 15 centimeters long from crown to rump and weighs about 9 ounces/ 240 grams. She has started to swallow amniotic fluid, and her kidneys continue to make urine. Hair on the scalp is sprouting. Sensory development reaches its peak this week. The nerve cells serving each of the senses - taste, smell, hearing, seeing and touch - are now developing in their specialised areas of the brain. Nerve cell production slows down as existing nerve cells grow larger and make more complex connections. If you're carrying a baby girl, she already has roughly six million eggs in her ovaries. By the time she's born, she'll have about one million.

Information you need, just when you need it:

You may have felt the kicking and somersaulting of your growing baby. At times, you might find that she is so mobile that you can't sleep. The next 10 weeks or so will be your baby's busiest and most active time, until the womb gets too crowded. Two will soon be three and that will mean lots of changes, so have a look at our sex and relationships section.


• Note: Experts say every baby develops differently - even in utero. These fetal development pages are designed to give a general idea of how a fetus grows in the womb.

Faith in Numbers

"For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faithfrom first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteousness will live by faith.' " ROMANS 1:17


These are the wonderful words by God that inspired me everyday of my life especially today. Hope you can benefit from it as well. :) happy reading!

With only 3 weeks left in the first trimester, you may be anxious to jump ahead, looking forward to the relative security of the next phase of pregnancy, when the risk of miscarriage is decreased. You love this baby so much already, and even though you've been praying throughout your pregnancy, your thoughts may return to fear from time to time. May be you try to reassure yourself by looking ahead on the calendar. "If only I get through the weekend, I can stop worrying." Or "If I can just make through the next doctor's appointment, I'll feel more assured that everything is ok."


Where do you place your faith: in a living God or in a number on a calender? Which is able to offer you actual security or protection? Of course, it is God.