tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36765786461325971782024-03-12T17:05:16.459-07:00Motherhood with an Oomph!A young woman's journey to the toughest job in the world.Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-60256102405542962832013-03-22T02:38:00.000-07:002013-03-22T02:38:33.996-07:00{Packing Ahead: A new reinforced habit}<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">One of the things I try
to avoid as a mom is cramming. I know it may sound a little school-y but there
are moments too that I cram especially when it comes to packing Inno’s stuff.
All the times that I’ve been unprepared for a short day trip or a long
vacation, I always missed bringing an essential thing or two. So I promised myself to
change that bad habit by always packing ahead whether it’s just a trip to the
church or mall, or a two-day out-of-town trip. </span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">I am given the
opportunity to practice or rather, reinforce this new habit. We will be
spending the weekend out-of-town; a trip to Manaoag to have the new family car
blessed then we’ll be heading to Baguio for an overnight stay in Camp John Hay
Forest Lounge. It’s just Thursday yesterday but I already packed Inno’s stuff
just to make sure I won’t forget anything. Here’s how I did it:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>1. A mental list of all the
essentials.</b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> I know writing
down a list would work more but I saved that for the stuff that I can’t
still pack ahead (i.e. snacks, diaper rash cream, water jug and the like).
Usually, these things include clothes and diapers. For the clothes, the mommy standard travel rule applies. I
packed two of each type. For example, for an overnight, I stuffed two sets
of jammies in the bag just in case he decides to mess up before hitting
the sack and would require a change. For the diapers, I just counted how
many times he changes in a day and bring an extra for special cases.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Even
if the trip is just short, I make sure to always bring a first aid kit. Better
be prepared for unfortunate cases (if God permits) than to rush on pharmacies
or convenience stores in the wee hours. </span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Of
course, another thing I shall never forget to bring are his travel toys. Since
it’ll be a 3-4 hour-long trip going to our first destination, we’ll need something to entertain
him and will stop him from wanting to go out of the car. I only packed small
toys and some books and placed them in a drawstring pouch so it won’t be scattered in his bag.
</span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">2. </span><b>A pouch for each kind. </b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Perhaps, this is the part where I always
fail: organizing the bag. No matter how I try and leave the house with an
organized closed bag, it ends up like a pile of sorts at the end of the
day. However, part of the reinforcement I wish to practice and will
practice is to keep a tidy bag. <b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">How will
I manage that? I got a pouch for each kind. I don’t care if they don’t
match at all. For the clothes, I used a zipped travel bag organizer that
was gifted to me by a dear friend. It comes in three varying sizes and
used the medium one to place all of Inno’s change of clothes. There was
also this small Kindermusik pouch from Teacher Suzette where I placed his
first aid needs. As for the toys, I repurposed a wetbag from one of his
dappy bags. For his snacks, I finally decided to buy him his own lunch box
just so his food won’t get mixed up with all his other things. I got him a
Skip Hop Doggie Lunch box at Mothercare.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b>3. The Stickie Rule. </b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">I still have a few things yet to stuff in
the bag and I could only prepare them the night or even an hour before
leaving for the trip. Being the forgetful person that I am, I want to make
sure that I won’t miss bringing a single important thing, so I wrote down in a
stickie all these little stuff and post it beside the door just above the
light switch so I could see it before stepping out of the room. I’ve
already tried this the night before Inno’s party and it was effective for
me. I crossed out all the things listed as I put them in the bag. Surely,
I never forgot a thing!</span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">It’s a good thing to be
prepared ahead. I am able to save myself from the hassle of pulling and stuffing things an our or so before the trip which I've always done for our past travels. I don’t have to worry so much about forgetting things and I
still have extra time preparing my own bag. I’ve learned so much from past
traveling experiences and I don’t think I’ll ever want to go through all those
bad stuff again. Besides, it feels good to be all geared up! </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">How about you? What’s
your secret to effective packing for your little one? </span></div>
Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-64349974708303987842013-03-20T07:28:00.000-07:002013-03-20T07:28:45.207-07:00Inno turns 1: A Superhero Party<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Inno's birthday party is finally over. Kali and I are super grateful to all the people who came and celebrated with us. I'm truly touched with the effort my side of the family showed after coming all the way from Laguna. They even rented two vans just so a lot of them could come amidst the distance and the weather. Of course, I would also like to commend Kali's side since most of them were present for the event. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our Saturday started, especially mine, early. Although I slept late the Friday night to finish the lootbags and to clean up, I still woke up early next morning to prepare for Inno's Kindermusik graduation. It was their last day for the semester and just like in big school, they'll be getting diplomas too. My father-in-law joined us to witness the certificate-giving. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After Kindermusik, we decided to kill some time first at our UP Bliss Unit before heading to the venue since it's still to early to go to Shakey's. While waiting, Kali and I decided to have our hair done. We left Inno with Tita Carol and Mika while we go downstairs. When we got to the nearby salon, the parlorista said that their blow-dryer broke down, the reason why they can't accommodate shampoo + blow-dry + haircut services for women. I had to walk to another salon just to get my hair washed and blown dry. Good thing though because I saw my FIL there getting his haircut and nails done and decided to treat me instead. Yihee!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Noon was approaching when I got back to
UP Bliss. Kali decided to leave for the venue already. On our way, Cats
of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TazzyCakes" target="_blank">Tazzy Cakes</a> called and said they're around the area already. I was
super excited to see the cake she designed for Inno. When we arrived at
Shakey's Tomas Morato though, Inno fell asleep in the car and so Kali
had to go down by himself to ask the manager if we could setup
already. Cats was super sweet to approach me in the car just to show me a
picture of the cake. Aside from the cake, I ordered two dozens of chocolate cupcakes with the baby Justice League designs. I wasn't able to take a bite of the cuppies but guests who were lucky enough to snag one were all commending how moist and delicious it was! </span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGUzvW0Vn5_GDdEAYeR0uO3RnZch97iS2l5b1sQHbkcX5IVor94kCv1eLBFl5U9U86IwM-k6jwGUqwFLTYRqIvSczda2DKdyRRSgMQARCaAZbLzMmWlwNiE_3RuTtwKZhqklS157ToN4/s1600/Cake+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGUzvW0Vn5_GDdEAYeR0uO3RnZch97iS2l5b1sQHbkcX5IVor94kCv1eLBFl5U9U86IwM-k6jwGUqwFLTYRqIvSczda2DKdyRRSgMQARCaAZbLzMmWlwNiE_3RuTtwKZhqklS157ToN4/s640/Cake+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Here's a collage of photos of the cake taken by our good friends :)</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During my previous post, I uploaded a photo of the set-up I want for the cake and I achieved it somehow. I reused old wine, milk, appliance boxes and covered it with Japanese paper. In order to have an organized look, I decided to stick with the three primary colors. For the windows, I cut black and yellow art papers and with the use of the very handy double-sided tape, stuck them to the boxes. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RRkJutzuxf-ShPjIK-5twSXBYFCb6lfBm0UEyezYqUrAxLXpsz2x6ymJcbnhlV6OxCGTPe69-VUJ6DgQqzHRgdEpaEd-i333_LOZfKc_gW2lNpsbQ-UzNgpkP2A1x3TTnCnsSbvrS6I/s1600/lootbag+1+volt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RRkJutzuxf-ShPjIK-5twSXBYFCb6lfBm0UEyezYqUrAxLXpsz2x6ymJcbnhlV6OxCGTPe69-VUJ6DgQqzHRgdEpaEd-i333_LOZfKc_gW2lNpsbQ-UzNgpkP2A1x3TTnCnsSbvrS6I/s640/lootbag+1+volt.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Photo courtesy of Ninong Voltaire</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the lootbags, I ordered cute and super chic cupcake cups and baker's twine from <a href="http://www.paperchicstudio.com/" target="_blank">Paper Chic Studio</a> and stuffed our sweet treats there. I had the tag designed and made by my youngest sister Angel. She also printed the straw flags and the photobooth props I made. I bought the clear pouch at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Chocolate-Lover-Inc" target="_blank">Chocolate Lover Inc., Main Branch</a>. Imagine, I only went there just to get these good quality plastic bags which can be used for stuffing bread, goodies etc,. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4H5EFUp27PGbrheLEAA4nzlnpsU471ggbz5phcsFXw6WA79W0YI-nVIHRapeBm3dhAMo_PHhc7LlDxMicNMjjeMOkzonfBWn3CdwlKHYHVWqCpe07WsTPP5SwoAWeWvj_BuW2M69D-o/s1600/Kids+1+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4H5EFUp27PGbrheLEAA4nzlnpsU471ggbz5phcsFXw6WA79W0YI-nVIHRapeBm3dhAMo_PHhc7LlDxMicNMjjeMOkzonfBWn3CdwlKHYHVWqCpe07WsTPP5SwoAWeWvj_BuW2M69D-o/s640/Kids+1+Collage.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Kids! :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio73ZA3y4a518DHa5EjtP6NZ3YdVgGwJbKCZUOmTZCah4rPlQ6E0c-eexatNqY5pZx-c9iEJlVjQgDkvzguqZgvpEP45pIFUtnPbUhaxcHetB4buMsyUH2rbGKONiRbUTz65vBRYAd5VM/s1600/Random+1+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="635" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio73ZA3y4a518DHa5EjtP6NZ3YdVgGwJbKCZUOmTZCah4rPlQ6E0c-eexatNqY5pZx-c9iEJlVjQgDkvzguqZgvpEP45pIFUtnPbUhaxcHetB4buMsyUH2rbGKONiRbUTz65vBRYAd5VM/s640/Random+1+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Random Pictures from the party :) </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some kids came in their favorite superhero costumes and we appreciate that so much. Those who didn't came with theirs were free to wear the masks I made. They were supposedly for the adults but the kids loved it so I didn't bother. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuCvKLx5Q-B4fUWBmSUgXFVcHjWqKko5dvyq_OUAswAjtweklfrVAY3hRzNrxzyKDgoGxLDOYot2h0OAumsDztfNuy1gsw9D9arWGmohKj5vNDTDLA6GztD1uzXiRy8PfZChvG6WI9qBg/s1600/Adult+Games+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuCvKLx5Q-B4fUWBmSUgXFVcHjWqKko5dvyq_OUAswAjtweklfrVAY3hRzNrxzyKDgoGxLDOYot2h0OAumsDztfNuy1gsw9D9arWGmohKj5vNDTDLA6GztD1uzXiRy8PfZChvG6WI9qBg/s640/Adult+Games+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The big kids had their share of F-U-N too!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Other than the kids, the kids-at-heart had their fair share of fun and games too. Everybody was in full competition mode. Unfortunately for the girls, after losing two rounds, they were asked to spell INNO using their butts while the boys get to watch in delight. Haha.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Hj8xwkDgFz00rcOxrGB8KDaTRXectAh90olSnIuRSir76BhOdFFLnc5gNVFi3yR4TAoNefP7ntNf2Ul21q13oLNyTuQVPKJ8IZ5ur9F_LXC88KNMYrr9O-OsMpEmkt_88PJYNTzr4/s1600/Batman+Julian+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Hj8xwkDgFz00rcOxrGB8KDaTRXectAh90olSnIuRSir76BhOdFFLnc5gNVFi3yR4TAoNefP7ntNf2Ul21q13oLNyTuQVPKJ8IZ5ur9F_LXC88KNMYrr9O-OsMpEmkt_88PJYNTzr4/s640/Batman+Julian+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Julian's turn for the longest 'Happy Birthday, Inno!'</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the hosts, we hired from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lenys-Party-Needs-Gen-Merchandise" target="_blank">Leny's Party Needs and General Merchandise</a>. They're tied up with Shakey's and they are also their accredited balloon supplier. Since we don't want the hassle and expense of finding a good party host, I just checked out reviews from fellow moms and found out that these two were great ones. They're clowns actually but since I am scared of clowns and not all kids enjoy seeing clowns as well, we requested that they wear tuxedos instead. I would definitely recommend these two since they brought a lot of laughter, fun and magic for both our young and adult guests.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWwDYvd3V6u_PqL1hwlJkFNPzrK_KPQC6Ncdz-WeW7ZDR1KlMAcznNx7_ExnZuN73s987pKSE0bGadgq_UNrsPj8aiV0vlDjYr1xPdHg7T3orloEPoWurZM6jEyHnhVNoOti_2ES-x40/s1600/family+pic+laguna+pat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWwDYvd3V6u_PqL1hwlJkFNPzrK_KPQC6Ncdz-WeW7ZDR1KlMAcznNx7_ExnZuN73s987pKSE0bGadgq_UNrsPj8aiV0vlDjYr1xPdHg7T3orloEPoWurZM6jEyHnhVNoOti_2ES-x40/s640/family+pic+laguna+pat.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My side of the family :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mjbHbLCs9s2YiZItd3UyUIHg-y7TSs_9wFVCRMb7GmscH3Pp_uZzT1sNWxbCKxGXdl4VSx3AtgWIH_IGCv-9AdNWcSSch_Sol9W8PpXeGJJbe5d_z6RBzwbFdrqsDWYVv_pLWbnNrHA/s1600/family+pic+quinones+2+pat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mjbHbLCs9s2YiZItd3UyUIHg-y7TSs_9wFVCRMb7GmscH3Pp_uZzT1sNWxbCKxGXdl4VSx3AtgWIH_IGCv-9AdNWcSSch_Sol9W8PpXeGJJbe5d_z6RBzwbFdrqsDWYVv_pLWbnNrHA/s640/family+pic+quinones+2+pat.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Kali's side :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRra6-rhrL7dSwC2ZbctPxuYYWCQT-7sPiPwzZSN0voe1haWOVDRKzIH82YkqSDjgpBR-uiZB1HJeagCxUv9SrxlvuZapKzszLVCq2YOChjf24m0KYfNQ8M5qekdwAFyO7vf8rWAPYII/s1600/pic+with+lolo+and+lolas+pat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRra6-rhrL7dSwC2ZbctPxuYYWCQT-7sPiPwzZSN0voe1haWOVDRKzIH82YkqSDjgpBR-uiZB1HJeagCxUv9SrxlvuZapKzszLVCq2YOChjf24m0KYfNQ8M5qekdwAFyO7vf8rWAPYII/s640/pic+with+lolo+and+lolas+pat.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">With the Lolos and Lolas :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHanoEN0M4Q7xhb835JKvwpLON-Uuc9ema1ItCJUVhdVJ3N6j-m2soyh_rYa40pEp80drj34FdR6RpyP3apHC9gQZDe_K_FgESzPiPAnRDBlFX8ZTrCG5FUg2jCiGU0QQt_nW5E-K9Eo/s1600/Thank+you+from+us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHanoEN0M4Q7xhb835JKvwpLON-Uuc9ema1ItCJUVhdVJ3N6j-m2soyh_rYa40pEp80drj34FdR6RpyP3apHC9gQZDe_K_FgESzPiPAnRDBlFX8ZTrCG5FUg2jCiGU0QQt_nW5E-K9Eo/s640/Thank+you+from+us.jpg" width="532" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Our sincerest gratitude from the bottom of our hearts :)</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We will surely never forget this very special day. :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Until Inno's next party! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-39831267753364237802013-03-08T08:43:00.002-08:002013-03-08T08:44:57.538-08:00{First Birthday Preps}<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I believe that firsts are always special.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And with Inno's first birthday just around the corner, I kinda turned that into a mantra. I want his very first birthday to be extra special with a lot of personal touches done by yours truly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our first plan was to have it in our village clubhouse, just have the food catered, hire a party host and rent some kiddie booths. However, we find it too costly and won't fit in the budget and so we opted for Option B which is to have it in a fastfood restaurant. At first, I was very much opposed at the thought but after some ocular visits, inquiries and research, I could say that somehow the choice was right. One, it fits the budget; two, I don't have to worry about the party host and games; three, I can still shower some fairy DIY dust.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the venue, we decided to have it at Shakey's Tomas Morato. Our first option was the Quezon Avenue branch because it can hold a good number of guests but when we checked it, our preferred dates were already booked. We were the least priority so we decided to check other branches. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since the TM branch only offers two themes, we chose the Justice League over Barney for Inno. So it'll be a Super Hero Party. I've checked some photos via Pinterest and got some ideas there. Here are some:</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4Mg1Z0nL7ZZesO_MBukebZhmpJ48jySr5ipcHIacigwYFlRyGcPG417Da6PHO0na4oSuV1jQuo_Xyx-QbUyJDa5SfXolOK9uUJTo6FOsU5gs2bhSAKKGbIRzCbNjphwYhRK0yUv9o9A/s1600/setup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4Mg1Z0nL7ZZesO_MBukebZhmpJ48jySr5ipcHIacigwYFlRyGcPG417Da6PHO0na4oSuV1jQuo_Xyx-QbUyJDa5SfXolOK9uUJTo6FOsU5gs2bhSAKKGbIRzCbNjphwYhRK0yUv9o9A/s320/setup.jpg" width="320" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This Photo isn't mine. I want to achieve this setup :)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We paid and extra amount for amenities such as loot bags, invitations etc., For the food, it will be served in a buffet style. The cake and cupcakes will be done by <a href="http://www.tazzycakes.com/" target="_blank">Tazzy Cakes</a> and shouldered by my parents as their birthday gift for Inno. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhweyygM9I7eftyWRM9zLQSZZh9WTmfcgaXHXVkLDFCW8mlB_WziTqTq9FQpCEUUPSt6MyxwV0rciUB0OrPSrxx5bOQzTPuHzascP5uZswIZX7Uw3J6UWuEn5GFhGzNEbALNfJrpuWco/s1600/SuperInvite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhweyygM9I7eftyWRM9zLQSZZh9WTmfcgaXHXVkLDFCW8mlB_WziTqTq9FQpCEUUPSt6MyxwV0rciUB0OrPSrxx5bOQzTPuHzascP5uZswIZX7Uw3J6UWuEn5GFhGzNEbALNfJrpuWco/s400/SuperInvite.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I made this web invite via <a href="http://picmonkey.com/">picmonkey.com</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixd98nYgFKt0U1-LEAw1pMiaXdJ4LU06UZF_331gd5EYL3J-ijxWwtgH8Owis6ihaQUiLHoHZJDOiz6rtrUPB-nWL8wd-AeeQOXSF7CbuH_fc1VUJgeDpaNv-M6f4dvIsN42yarDC0TBE/s1600/WelcomeSuperfriends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixd98nYgFKt0U1-LEAw1pMiaXdJ4LU06UZF_331gd5EYL3J-ijxWwtgH8Owis6ihaQUiLHoHZJDOiz6rtrUPB-nWL8wd-AeeQOXSF7CbuH_fc1VUJgeDpaNv-M6f4dvIsN42yarDC0TBE/s320/WelcomeSuperfriends.jpg" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I also edited this one :)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'll share more details on my next post. :) Meanwhile, I'll be collating materials to be used for my DIYs. I love DIYs and I can't wait to get my hands dirty. </span><br />
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<br />Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-16290514133468861212013-03-08T04:44:00.001-08:002013-03-08T04:45:54.740-08:00{Kindermusik: Our First Learning Haven}<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Way before Inno was born, I always thought of ways to help him become a bright kid. I think every parents' dream is to have an intelligent kid who is sociable and independent. When we were still kids, the only learning support we have before entering nursery is our parents. Well, at least in <i>my</i> case. We first learn how to babble, recognize sounds, make signs or walk with the help of our ever-loving parents. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, at this time and age of advanced learning, there are a number of institutions where we can send our children even before they reach their first year of life. I have to be honest, I never really thought of those schools back then. Not that I don't want to send Inno to any of them, in fact, I inquired to some and made research through their websites and testimonials of parents. It's just that, as a young mom who's just introduced to the role, I'm not yet as aware as now how those would benefit my kiddo. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I first learned about Kindermusik through Kali's nephew Julian who started attending a class at the age of two months. The venue of the class is very accessible to them and his Tita Tin was one of the instructors there. Kindermusik helped Julian advanced in his speech. Before even reaching the age of one, he could already say simple everyday words audibly. By his first year, he could already pick up melody and rhythm of songs and could sing/babble along. He loves music and memorize by heart a lot of nursery songs. Up until now at the age of three, he still takes Kindermusik class under Teacher Suzette. In fact, his baby brother Javier attends his own class too.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wanted Inno to learn and love music. As someone who never knew how to play any instrument and just practice her vocals with the help of a videoke machine, I want my kid to be fully-interested and capable of making music. Moreover, other than honing that love for rhythm and songs, I want him to learn more things through socializing with other kids. And we made the right choice because Kindermusik actually do just that and more. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although for some reasons, Kali was hesitant to send Inno to one before. First, because there's no accessible KM school in our area. We live in a far-off village inside a village with hassle means of going out without a car. He thought it might just stress Inno if we make him ride a public transport. (Btw, we do actually have a car at home but he's scared to drive and won't let me take driving lessons. Boo, I know.) During Inno's 4th month, we were offered to take trial classes at Gingerbread School just outside Congressional Village. We attended one and since the place is too far from home and the curriculum was a mix of infants and toddlers, we declined. Another reason was that the husband thinks Inno was too young for the program eventhough it seemed like he enjoyed the trial class. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So when Inno reached his eight month, I knew within me that there's no more reason not to send Inno to a Saturday class. First, he's eight months already. Other parents enroll their kids as young as a month old and I felt like he's missing so much already. Second, I found a KM Facility close to home and third, I am just determined to send him to a class. And so I texted KM Capitol Hills if they're accepting trial classes, which they really do. I also made my research beforehand, so I know during the time I inquired that a new class schedule is accepting applicants.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was late November last year when Inno started school and the first class was just awesome although we came in a little late. Hehe. During the first day, mommies get to introduce themselves and their kids and I wasn't able to do that because I'm looking for my socks. However, the little boy was eager to make a mark. He was humming and babbling every time Teacher Suzette talks and sings. He was also participative with exercises and plays and love getting along with other kids. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With Inno's age, he is currently under the <a href="http://www.kindermusik.com.ph/curricula_village.html" target="_blank">The Village</a> class. Babies zero until 18 months can enroll under this program. It is a 45-minute class with lessons that include routine or repetition which enables the child to remember certain exercises. There are reading, listening and playing activities as well. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every
week, Teacher Suzette injects more and more music, activity and fun as
the program progresses. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Other
than that, KM learning doesn't have to stop in the classroom because
kids get to take home materials which they can listen to, play and read
at home. </span>What I love about Kindermusik is we get to see
families each week and sing with them while our kids learn. Moreover, it
has become something we always look forward to on weekends. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Right now, we are on our final leg of the program. We are actually considering enrolling Inno to one of their summer classes for all the weekends of April. When it comes to Inno's holistic development, I don't think we will ever stop investing and looking for good 'schools' that will help him become the best that he can be. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want to know more about Kindermusik and what program suits your child? Click <a href="http://www.kindermusik.com.ph/find_curricula.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-1742470825661975462013-03-07T05:49:00.001-08:002013-03-07T05:54:58.902-08:00{Current Favorite} Christina Perri's Distance<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I always say that it's not actually easy being a full-time mom. Others think I have all my time in my hands and I sometimes believe that too but it's half true. With an active little boy who's learning to explore his surroundings and slowly practicing to walk when he's awake, I definitely have no time to do other things apart from looking after him. I only get to do my stuff when he's taking a nap or watching Baby Signing Time. [Yes, those three videos definitely never fails to catch his attention every time.] </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On a daily basis, my only constant companion besides Ate Jem and of course the little boss, is the internet. I get to know the latest scoops and stay in touch with my family and friends through the internet. On those lucky days Kali doesn't need to bring Macario to the office, I'm lucky to get to download music and videos, browse the net, edit and blog via Macbook. However, during PBA days, I have to extend some patience using our tablet since it's browser crashes most of the time. Boo me, I know. Now I actually can't wait to have my own money and gift myself the mini version. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, earlier this week, I was able to spend sometime browsing videos on Youtube. I bumped into Christina Perri's videos and man, I instantly crushed over her. I love her song 'A Thousand Years' not solely because I love the Twilight Series (I miss Edward!) but also because one of my dear friend's sister chose it for their first couple dance during their wedding. I hid my tears of course. I'm a sucker-for-weddings type, yeah. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After watching the MV of 'A Thousand Years', I wasn't able to stop myself from checking out her other videos as well and got fond of this song of hers with Mr. A-Z. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy, right? :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-6231549772236721162013-02-21T06:06:00.001-08:002013-02-21T06:06:49.865-08:00{Fulfilling a NY Resolution} Balik-Alindog Project<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Part of my 2013 <span style="font-size: small;">NY's </span>resolution is to go back to being fit. Not that I was really fit and fab pre-pregnancy but I feel like I need to get back to that old skinny-no-bulging-tummy body. I never really had a tummy problem back then. It was flat the way I liked it even if I eat gazillion cups of rice. Oh yes, carbo-loading is my hobby. I used to fool myself that it's magic how my tummy never really get's big no matter how big my appetite is. But of course, not until motherhood struck me, I bid farewell to that awesomeness nine months after.<br /><br />By the start of the year, I've been imagining myself exercising. Crunches. Dumbbells. Sweating. Jogging around the village. Things like that. Problem is: it remained an illusion. Not even close to reality. It seemed like my brain was the only one doing the exercising. I know I need to find a motivation to work<span style="font-size: small;"> this out</span>. I do actually want to start my own physical routine but it has been almost two years since I last worked out in a gym and I've totally forgotten the routine my trainer taught me. So the first question I asked myself is: Where do I begin?<br /><br />For a kickoff, I searched for effective workout videos on Youtube. Since I'm restarting, I looked for an easy set of exercises that would aim on the parts that I want to tone. I saved the links in my desktop so I could just copy + paste it on the address bar on my workout day. The husband's set of dumbbells and exercise ball were a good help too. I don't really have to hit the gym to start being fit.<br /><br />Would you believe that even a mom like me had conflict with my schedule? I know you think that I have all the time in my hands since I'm just a SAHM but apparently, I don't. A lot of people look at SAHMs that way. But when you're a SAHM, it's as good as getting employed too. You get your hands full too, only that: you don't get financially compensated. Since I have a growing baby boy who loves to explore around the house and likes getting his hands on just about anything he sees, I don't get to do things in my own time. I have to get him to sleep to be able to grab some time for myself. So to be able to push into my schedule some workout time, I send him to a morning after-bath nap first before getting in my trainers. If he frets, I move my workout time in the afternoon during his nap. <br /><br />And yes, even if I only workout in the house, particularly in our bedroom while the boss is snoring, I still sport a gym getup. It adds a dose of seriousness and motivation while I'm <span style="font-size: small;">at</span> it. I don't think I'll ever get myself doing crunches in my pajamas and bedroom slippers. Since I associate exercising with my trainer kicks, sock-less or not, I wear my rubber shoes to get the feel of it and it psyches me. <br /><br />Discipline is really the key. Seeing the bed while working out is tempting and whenever I feel like lying down after one set, I turn my back from it. And since I have a very limited time, I make most out of it. Also, part of my mindset is that I won't get to open the laptop or watch TV unless I'm done working out. Self-punishment/Reward system also helps. For example, there's a new episode already of the series that I'm watching. I told myself that I would only get to see it if after I workout. That's enough to keep me moving. Hello? We're talking Damon Salvatore here! <br /><br />At the end of each workout, I'm totally happy realizing that I did something for myself even if I'm just at home. It kinda gives a boost in my self-esteem department. I feel more inspired to do my usual stuff for the rest of the day. Truly, I could say that working out offers a punch of happy hormones and I don't think I'll ever stop giving myself a kick of those in the near future. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-36133385647303114822013-02-18T04:49:00.005-08:002013-02-18T04:49:39.427-08:00{Today's Reflection} Do it for Yourself <br /><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Oftentimes, I would always find myself mindful of what other people might think. Sometimes, I find it good but most of the time, not. It has torn me between doing and not doing something that I want and which most of the time, I would rather NOT do something just because I think that other people won't approve of it. And the end result: I feel regretful, unfulfilled and unhappy.<br /><br />I came across the The Happiness Project book by Gretchen Rubin. For a year, she wrote theories, did research, tested those and see if there's a change in her state of happiness. At the start of the book, she reiterated 12 commandments for herself that she would basically follow to obtain her goal which is as simple: to be happy. Her first commandment above anything else is: Be Gretchen. Yup, that's her first and priority rule, to be herself at all times. <br /><br />I want to take, remind and live out that rule myself. Be <i>Me</i>. I think no other person could best live out that rule but ME. It sounds way too easy but actually practicing it by a person like me who's very much conscious to what other people say is quite hard. One instance I feel really conscious about is most of the time about my career which is actually not applicable to me at the moment simply because I'm not employed, just a stay-at-home mom. I know for a fact within me that I'm still not yet ready to work or go back and try to work in a company again. And I also know that I actually don't imagine myself working again for some employer. But what am I doing? I'm currently scouting job openings that best suit me or I think I will be good at even though my heart is telling me that I'm not yet ready to take a dive on the working pool again. And why am I doing it? Because I know my husband will like it. Because I want to show my in-laws that I'm getting back on my feet again. But at the end of the day, I could hear myself telling me, "Who are you actually kidding?"<br /><br />See? I always try to please the people around me that I end up feeling miserable within. Today, I realized that it's time to put a stop to this kind of attitude. It's time to be true, to tap the inner me, to get back at the things that spoke well of me, to do things that won't compromise who I am and my happiness. I feel like it's a long way to go but nonetheless, I want to be happy and at home with myself so I am pushing this. It's time to do things for myself, not for other people. <br /><br />Be <i>Me</i>. <br />Be <i>Arianne</i>. </span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-51024584291757073702013-02-08T08:10:00.000-08:002013-02-08T08:11:32.229-08:00{My V-Day Wish: Safe Haven Movie}<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm a sucker for romantic-thriller novels. A few months ago, I updated our iPad library by downloading several books, a few of which are written by Nicholas Sparks. I have never read any of his books and have only seen his works </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">like <i>The Notebook</i> and <i>Dear John</i></span> through the big screen . I was a little curious with his other masterpieces and decided to get those that are not very much in the mainstream yet. I bumped into a copy of <i>Safe Haven</i> and right after reading the first few pages, I can't stop flipping over the next chapters. I think I was able to finish it in two days. Hah! After which, I Google-d about it and was surprised that they're actually turning it into a movie with Josh Duhamel as Alex and Julianne Hough as Katie. Win! Win! Now I've got more reason to really see it on the big screen. <span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">{Josh Duhamel is L.O.V.E.}</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Safe Haven</i> is a story about a girl Katie who's trying to escape her past. In her attempt, she settled in a small town of Southport where she met the beautiful family of Alex who was widowed and left with his two kids. In the process, they fell in love and just when things are already settling down, someone from her past haunts her again drawing the fear that she always tried to ran away from. This is a beautiful story about love, finding one's self, taking chances and searching for a Safe Haven.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a sneak peek. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I can't wait for V-day! :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Love Love Love! :) </span> </span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-15714558681137001742013-02-08T06:14:00.002-08:002013-02-08T06:14:43.317-08:00Breastfeeding at 11mos: No regrets!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I conceived Inno, I never really thought of breastfeeding him but also didn't ever consider giving him formula milk. My knowledge of breastfeeding is very much limited that time and I myself even question that small knowledge. Things like how would I position him to feed, do I really have enough milk, would it hurt and a lot more doubts flooded my mind most of the time and that triggered my quest for answers. I begun reading online resources about breastfeeding, proper latching, boosting my milk supply and what not to eat. I jot down notes and watch videos. A blog that thoroughly helped me on my journey is Jenny Ong's <a href="http://www.chroniclesofanursingmom.com/" target="_blank">Chronicles of a Nursing Mom. </a>It has mostly all the answers to my queries and a list of support groups that could help me on my way to breastfeeding. I am also thankful for having a sister-in-law who breastfed her kids. She was both an example and a challenge to me because from then on, I have always told myself that if she can do it, I can do it too. Having a mom and a sister who were not fans of breastfeeding is quite a disadvantage in a way but I am grateful because they were very much supportive of me when I took this leap. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />Just like in many other major things, it is also important to have a support system in breastfeeding. Why? Because it is not as easy as it seems (or atleast in the beginning) and a support system will definitely help you boost your confidence and guide you through your struggles. It is definitely easy to just say yes to formula milk because those who chose it say its more convenient, the mother could just buy a can, heat some water and rest or do whatever she wants not realizing that breastfeeding has it's perks too, perks that are way beyond convenience. Perks that you and your child will definitely be thankful for in the months ahead. Quick pre-pregnancy weight recovery, a boost in baby's immune system, a different kind of bond between the mother and the baby just to name a few. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have been breastfeeding Inno for almost a year now. I'm proud of that and so far, I've been enjoying the benefits this journey has showered me. Imagine, in less than four months post pregnancy, I'm back to almost 110 lbs from my 150+lbs pregnancy weight without any physical exercise. You could assume that maybe I am just really slim even before I got pregnant that's why I just went back to my old shape, that's true but also consider that short time of four months. I could easily slid on my jeans without having to do a jumping jacks here and there. According to studies, breastfeeding helps bring the uterus (which expanded 500x it's size during pregnancy) back to it's original size which is normally just three inches long. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With Inno, he never really gets sick fast. Just this week, we went to the doctor to have his cough for almost two weeks already checked. His pedia was quite astonished due to the fact that his case was close to bronchitis already but still, he was active and haven't got fever. Usually kids who are already with this type of cough do suffer from high fever already just like the case of Inno's cousin who was confined in the hospital for two weeks after convulsing due to Pneumonia. The doctor mentioned that Inno indeed has great immunity and that I should continue breastfeeding him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In Kali's case, he is very much supportive of me breastfeeding mostly due to economical reasons. You may think it's vague but I really believe that it also is an economical issue in a country that has more poor households than rich ones. Not to boast or whatever, but if we choose, we could really afford to buy a can of milk every week or two. Yet, here we are, sticking to the old school and healthier way. You could say we are just being practical or kuripot, and yes, I will agree in a way because it's true. We save Php3,000-4,000 a month from not buying canned milk and a lot more from hospitalizations or unwanted check-ups due to low immune system. We get to spend the money we save from buying canned milk on other things like Inno's school, clothes and booster shots. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will forever endorse and support breastfeeding. If given the chance to be a certified breastfeeding expert or adviser, no questions, I'll grab it because I know there are a lot of moms and moms-to-be who are willing to or afraid to breastfeed due to lack of support or knowledge about it. I want to be someone who could help them and make them believe that they can do it. I've been afraid once, and when I found out about modern moms who practice it, I stopped feeling alone and started to believe that I'm also going to succeed at it and I am. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now at almost eleven months, I'm still enjoying the wonders and joy of breastfeeding. This is one of the choices that I will never regret making in my life. :)</span><br />
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<br />Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-38924078026848978672013-01-26T06:34:00.001-08:002013-01-26T06:38:52.681-08:00<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear Tita Me, </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the first time since Wednesday, I am allowing myself to grieve over you… without crying. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or at least I would try.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Maybe it hadn’t sank just yet to me that you’re already gone, is that a good thing or a bad thing? I can’t tell right now. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last time I saw you while you try your best to hide the pain you’re going through, all I could think of is how I could help take away your pain. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know it’s something I could not do but I want you to know that I really wish I could do anything to stop it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hate to admit it to myself, but we all are aware that death is the only thing that could finally end it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still, we couldn’t wish that you just die because we don’t want to lose you. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not just yet.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know you don’t want people crying while looking at you and I’m really sorry for being a crybaby. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Believe me, I tried my best not to shed a tear but they just won’t stop because while they pour, flashbacks of you and how you lived back came with them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remembered the first time you brought us (your pamangkins) in a bar. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My first Baguio Trip that you had to bargain and ask Daddy to allow me to join you.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The watch you gave me as a High School graduation present.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The dinner-massage-coffee bonding treat you gave me when I went to Cebu.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The countless mornings I’ll join you to Manila and the stories we’d share during the drive.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The way you’d make ‘lambing’ with a kiss and a hug every time you’ll see me after a long time.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Looney Tunes shirt you gave me one Christmas when I was still a kid. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The crazy Bingo games you’re always giddy about every Christmas. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know there are still a lot to share. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And as I type this, I’m sorry for crying again.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s just that I miss you and it pains me because I know, I’ll never see you again.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love you and I’m sorry for not always being there for you.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope that you are in a happy place now free of pain and smiling down to us.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am crying because I miss you.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And because I am happy that you don’t have to suffer any longer.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don’t worry about Mama and Dada, we’ll look after them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know you’ll never be alone because Papa, Tito Bong and Tito Jun are there to welcome you. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love you, Tita Noeme.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You hold the spot for the Coolest Tita Ever. I’m being biased but I know your sibs would also say that. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will forever admire you for your strength and independence. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For your charm and wit,</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and for your zest towards life.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you for all the memories. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We accept this pain coming from your loss because it liberated you from all the suffering.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Goodbye, Tita Me.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Send our hugs and kisses to Papa.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Until we meet again.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Arianne</span><br />
<br />Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-84321285126615144622013-01-26T06:32:00.002-08:002013-01-26T06:32:56.183-08:00Goodbye, Tita Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Dear Tita Me, </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">For the first time, since Wednesday, I am allowing myself to grieve over you… without crying. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Or at least I would try.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Maybe it hadn’t sunk just yet to me that you’re already gone, is that a good thing or a bad thing? I can’t tell right now. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The last time I saw you while you try your best to hide the pain you’re going through, all I could think of is how I could help and take it away. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know it’s something I could not do but I want you to know that I really wish I could do anything to stop it. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I hate to admit it to myself, but we all are aware that death is the only thing that could finally end it. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Still, we couldn’t wish that you just die because we don’t want to lose you. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Not just yet.</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know you don’t want people crying while looking at you and I’m really sorry for being a crybaby. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Believe me, I tried my best not to shed a tear but they just won’t stop because while they pour, flashbacks of you and how you lived back then came with them. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I remembered the first time you brought us (your pamangkins) in a bar. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">My first Baguio Trip that you had to bargain and ask Daddy to allow me to join you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The watch you gave me as a High School graduation present.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The dinner-massage-coffee bonding treat you gave me when I went to Cebu.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The countless mornings I’ll join you to Manila and the stories we’d share during the drive.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The way you’d make ‘lambing’ with a kiss and a hug every time you’ll see me after a long time.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Looney Tunes shirt you gave me one Christmas when I was still a kid. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The crazy Bingo games you’re always giddy about every Christmas. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know there are still a lot to share. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And as I type this, I’m sorry for crying again.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">It’s just that I miss you and it pains me because I know, I’ll never see you again.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I love you and I’m sorry for not always being there for you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I hope that you are in a happy place now free of pain and smiling down to us.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I am crying because I miss you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And because I am happy that you don’t have to suffer any longer.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Don’t worry about Mama and Dada, we’ll look after them. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know you’ll never be alone because Papa, Tito Bong and Tito Jun are there to welcome you. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I love you, Tita Noeme.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">You hold the spot for the Coolest Tita Ever. I’m being biased but I know your sibs would also say that. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I will forever admire you for your strength and independence. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">For your charm and wit,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">and for your zest towards life. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>We accept this pain coming from your loss because it liberated you from all the suffering.</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Goodbye, Tita Me.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Send our hugs and kisses to Papa.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Until we meet again.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Arianne</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
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<br />Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-40782338440462676722013-01-04T04:54:00.000-08:002013-01-04T04:54:11.468-08:002013: A Year to Bounce Back<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">It is the
fourth day of the year and I am currently spending this cool afternoon with the
little man taking a cruise around the living room while patiently waiting for
me to shower him some attention and hand him a piece of cracker. </span>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">Finally,
2013 is here. In as much as I feel excited about how this new year’s going to
be like for me, I’m feeling a little anxious and pressured too when I think
about the career/money-making department. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">Last year,
my world mainly revolved around my small family particularly, with Inno. Being
a first time mom, there had been a lot of lessons that I learned and sacrifices
I had to make for the little one without even the slightest regret. I could say
that I have never been as selfless as I was last year and for that I give myself
a pat on the back. This year, I have no plans to change or stop that
selflessness but rather, I plan to continue it and put a little twist while
being at it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">My main
concern why I really never opted for a job last year was of course, Inno. I
wanted to be hands-on and even dreamed of becoming a Work-At-Home Mom for
that matter, but still, I had to try my luck on a new career path. The odds were never in my favor (and I'm somehow thankful with that) because I never landed on one. Well, that WAHM dream still remains a dream and hopefully, I’d be able
to finally make it happen this year. I know the journey wouldn’t be as smooth as
any other journey but with patience and perseverance, I know I could make it
through juggling motherhood, being a wife and chasing my dreams.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">This year, I
know is the time to finally step on the pedal and go after the things that I
really love doing. 2012 has given me a lot of time to ponder about what I
really want to do and to have in the future. It has been the pause that God has
planned for me to prepare on the great journey that He will soon reveal to me.
2012 was the rest that I had always longed for; it was the perfect time for me
to ready myself to what lies ahead. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">Therefore, I
claim that 2013 is my year. It is the year I am finally bouncing back, much
eager and braver to chase my dreams and conquer my fears. I know I’m trekking
an unusual path and that the thing I love to do for the rest of my life is
something that not all people would choose to walk on through, but nothing will
let me down. Because I know this dream is meant for me. No one could tell me
how I should live my life the same way that I can’t tell other people how to
live theirs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">How about you? What will you go after this year? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">Happy 2013!</span></div>
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Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-44337708698759965812012-11-15T22:18:00.001-08:002012-11-15T22:18:18.591-08:00Why I Shifted to a New Pedia <br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Inno celebrated his eight month last Monday. And as per routine, we had his monthly checkup yesterday too... with his new pedia. Yes. Finally, we are under a new pediatrician. I have to admit that I really waited long for this shift. And I'm very much glad that we did. It was just the first meeting but I already had a lot of comparisons between the new one and the previous one. And I'm not just talking about small comparisons, I'm talking about those that actually matter to a mom like me. </span></div>
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First, I'm happy to know that our new pedia is a breastfeeding advocate. Yes, that very much matter to me. Unlike the previous one, she encouraged me to breastfeed more and told me that I could already drop the formula can. That's good news to my pump and husband's pocket. It's a great feeling when someone professional supports you in your advocacy. She actually breastfed her baby too while she can so I guess that's the reason why she's in full support of breastfeeding mommies like me. </div>
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The second thing I like about her is that she measures everything -- as in everything necessary. From the seven months that I spent with our previous pedia, I've waited in agony for her to measure Inno's head circumference, height and ask about his milestones. That never actually happened because in reality, I was the one who's spoon-feeding her things that I think she should be asking me. She was never interested knowing if Inno could sit without support or if he's trying to stand up on his own. Never. All she did during check-ups was to measure the weight and give Inno his due vaccines. That's it.With our new one, she asked about all the things that Inno could do already, and after which, assured me that I have nothing to worry about with Inno because he is in the right track. </div>
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<div style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; text-align: justify;">
One more thing is she even plotted Inno's developments in a growth chart. What more can I ask for? Per month, I have a concrete chart to look at to check how my child is doing, not just something that I could imagine and track mentally. So far, according to Inno's chart, his weight is average the weight of eight month old babies. He may not gained a pound but she assured me that it's normal for breastfed babies because they usually absorb the nutrients. So, it's no cause for alarm. His height however is a little way beyond his age. He is taller than the average eight-month old baby boy. Wow. I think I'm breeding a future basketball player. Kali was actually happy when I told him about it. </div>
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I am very much happy that we finally changed our pedia for this incident. Last month, Inno's previous pedia told us that he is due for a Rotavirus vaccine on his next check-up. Rotavirus is actually an oral vaccine which protects babies from diarrhea leading to dehydration. I mentioned to our new pedia that Inno is due for a rotavirus vaccine this month and she was somehow alarmed when she learned that Inno wasn't given the vaccine yet at his age. Then she explained that the oral vaccine is usually given during baby's second month and cannot be given once baby reaches his eight month because according to studies, babies who are given the vaccine at eight months (or more), might encounter negative effects from the said vaccine. She also told me that although she never really had heard of any instances where a baby suffered from the bad side effects from the said cause, she doesn't want to try it with Inno and risk his health and she just encouraged me more to continue breastfeeding as breastmilk contains antibodies that fight against rotavirus.</div>
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If you could only imagine my wrath after learning about this. I am really never going back to that pediatrician ever. Imagine if she gave Inno the rotavirus vaccine and something happend to him? I could kill her! As a pediatrician, it's impossible that she don't know when the vaccines are due, right? I don't know why she still scheduled Inno to have it with the knowledge that it's been long overdue and Inno can't have it anymore at his age. </div>
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So, to all the mommies who are still having their little ones checked once in a while, please know your pediatrician well. Read a lot of resources on how to spot the right doctor for your baby. Once you feel uncomfortable or your clinic visits become 'lugi', shift to a new one. There are a lot of good doctors there who'll make your money and time worth-spending and support your advocacies on child-rearing as well. </div>
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How about you? Do you love your pediatrician? </div>
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Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-90623916977910298702012-10-24T22:38:00.002-07:002012-10-24T22:40:01.844-07:00On my way to WAHM-ing<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is Kali's birthday today. Unfortunately, I don't have anything for him. Well simply because I ran out of budget for it. October is pretty much a very pocket-wrecking month. With two anniversaries to celebrate plus Kali's birthday, I definitely expect to ran out of money given the fact that I don't have a job. I only make some out of the money Kali hands me (once in a blue moon). And yes, you're right to think that I don't actually hold our family budget. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think the heavens already heard my prayers and finally opened a door for me. Last night, I just had my first online job interview via Skype. I applied for this part-time and home-based job last week and they scheduled me for an interview. I'm very much happy to say that I finally got a shot and was called for a training which would last for around ten days. Not bad at all because after the training, everything will be home-based already. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am pretty much excited to work. I know it's not my ideal job but right now, for me, what is important is I could still get to look after Inno while making my own money. It's a lot different to have your own money to save and spend rather than waiting for the husband to hand his pay to you (which in my case, doesn't really happen). I've got things I want to accomplish in the future and the only way I could make that happen is to have my own money to study for it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kali already told me to set that 'dream' aside and find a job so I could help him with the saving thing. But I just cannot push myself to find a work that I know I would not enjoy and then resign (again) in the future, the reason I am finding ways to earn money without even having to sacrifice my time for Inno and tying myself to a job that I don't really like just for the sake of earning. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, Yes. I am on my way to becoming a WAHM and I'm finding more opportunities to increase my chances of earning while staying at home and taking care of our family. I don't mind what other people would think about it because in the end, it's still my life and I would live it the way I want. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-46463526737203290762012-10-16T06:22:00.002-07:002012-10-24T22:40:35.422-07:00Weekend Mishaps<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Weekend passed me by just like that but it's pretty okay with me since it didn't kick off the way it should be -great and fun. Aside from our quick movie date, we finally watched the The Perks of Being a Wallflower movie, nothing special happened. There were just a lot of mishaps which I intend to forget after this post. I swear. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First Mishap: The Pissing Checkup</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm sure that our checkup this month is something I would always take as a lesson. It was Inno's seventh month checkup last Friday. For months now, I always dread his checkups since I've aready sensed since the beginning that our pedia will try to let him take formula milk. My answer to her every time she asks me about that is I am still breastfeeding and have no plans to stop anytime soon. I have to admit that partly it was my fault why she was more gauged to offer us formula milk this time. It was because of an inquiry that I texted her earlier this month. Supposedly, Kali and I were to spend our first wedding anniversary without Inno but there was some miscommunication between Kali and me that I thought Inno would be coming around already because there's no one available to babysit him on that weekend. Well, the truth is there's Ate Jem and Mama but both were scared every time Inno would start to wail, so they asked us to bring Inno along. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Going back, since I thought that Inno will be coming with us, I decided not to pump the entire week since I'll be direct feeding him on the weekend. Friday came and Kali asked if I pumped enough for overnight away from Inno and I was surprised and told him that I didn't. There were around six packs of frozen breastmilk in the fridge but it won't be enough since he's feeding every three hours even with solid foods. Came Saturday, I told Kali that we could still leave Inno and provide a small can of formula milk alternately with the frozen ones only for that day. I texted our pedia what could Inno take for his age and she said this particular milk. Of course, with the turn of events, we didn't avail the formula milk. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Maybe she thought I'm willing to take formula after all, but even so, I think she could have first encouraged me to continue breastfeeding. What's worse is she told me that of all the breastfed babies that she knows, Inno was not the chubby/siksik type. What a way to support me on my breastfeeding journey, right?! Well, for those of you who haven't seen Inno yet, we could tell that he is tall for his age. The reason why every time he gains weight, it might not be visually significant. You just can't expect a tall baby to be chubby at the same time considering his parents' body frames. Nakakaloka talaga. And of course, being the praning mother that I am, I gave in to the idea of mix feeding which I intend to dispose after Inno finishes this one and only can of formula milk he will ever take for his entire life. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know what this mix feeding thing could do to my milk and in order to maintain my supply, I pump on the times he would drink by the bottle and direct feed him alternately. Also, I make sure to take lactation supplements to further boost my milk flow. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Update! I'm changing our Pedia next month! Thank You dear Lord!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Second Mishap: MY OB Checkup</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While waiting for Inno's checkup, I was able to drop a visit to my OB-GYN who also shares the same clinic with Inno's pedia. As you know, My menstrual period has not returned yet up to this time. It's one of breastfeeding wonders which they refer to as lactational amennorhea. It is a nursing woman's natural way of preventing pregnancy while breastfeeding. But of course, there's a safer way of avoiding unplanned pregnancy by doing safe intercourse. I'm not really bothered with the absence of my period because I've read that it's really possible if you are exclusively breastfeeding. However, my OB says that I should start having my cycle back so that we could start on family planning already. She asked me to take these tablets that she already prescribed to me before but I refused to finish because it was making Inno fussy. And this time, she's asking me to take 15 of them. Facepalm. That's not the end of it. She also asked me to start weaning Inno from the breast. Bingo! Of course, I am hesitant and my insides were raging. She was really a good OB the whole time I was pregnant but after what she just asked me to do last weekend, I think I will never be seeing her until my next pregnancy. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seriously, how can these doctors just have the guts to ask moms to stop breastfeeding when they should be advocates of it in the first place? Now I know why more and more mothers are choosing to let their babies drink canned milk. Its because of these doctors who patronize these commercial products over the natural one. Coming from these 'experts', the tendency of these new mothers is to believe that they don't have enough to nourish their babies and therefore choose formula over breastmilk. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">C'mon! Think! Why do you think these milk companies mimic the breastmilk? It's because breastmilk is a lot more healthier to take. Aside from the nutritional benefit breastmilk has, it is also rich with antibodies that help boost babies' immune system. Something formula milk cannot offer your child. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're a mom-to-be (or a dad-to-be for that matter), I hope and pray that you give breastfeeding a chance to nourish your baby first atleast before choosing formula milk agad. Don't believe everything your doctor says especially if they're against breastfeeding and of course, these professionals won't tell you if they are. What they'll do is convince you by offering you this certain can of milk and tell you that it has more nutrients over breastmilk. They may appear very much convincing but it will always be up to you to give in to them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Again, I don't have anything against mothers who choose to feed their babies formula milk. It is always a CHOICE. I just want to post a healthier (and yes, maybe old school) option to nourish your children. Nothing beats breastmilk and a lot of Filipina moms (and Hollywood mothers alike) have proven that. What other proof do you still need?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are already a number of breastfeeding support groups in the Philippines and Mr. Google can help you with it. During my pregnancy, I frequently visited the <a href="http://www.chroniclesofanursingmom.com/" target="_blank">Chronicles of A Nursing Mom</a> website. Jenny is a Filipina breastfeeding mom herself and a certified LATCH expert and could help answer all your questions about breastfeeding. In her site is a VIP Tab too which features other BF support groups. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mishap Three: A Bad-Tempered Hubby</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We capped the weekend in a not-so-nice way. It was just one of tampuhan episodes but what I really hate about it K's nagging temper. We were discussing about this upcoming family occasion which he's not sure about just yet. Well, I have to admit I made kulit him about it but only because I just want to spend my dad's birthday with my family in Laguna. For the past six years of our relationship, I have always prioritized K on his birthdays even if it would mean I can't celebrate my dad's because most of K's birthdays were spent out-of-town and in time for sembreaks. (Btw, K's bday is on the 25th, and my dad's on the 28th) I'm really torn apart now because I know dad would want Inno to be there on his birthday. :( And I badly want to make up for all those birthdays that I missed just because I chose to celebrate K's instead. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My family back home were already asking me if we're going home for Dad's birthday and I can't say 'yes' just yet. It hurts like H. I'm still trying to compromise with them to spend it In Manila na lang so we could go. What i hate about our argument last Sunday is his raging temper. I understand that I pressured him somehow but that is not enough reason to talk like that. :(</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You know Hon, I love you amidst all our countless differences but #1124 of the List of things about me says: I hate being shouted at because it triggers my tear ducts. (Take note of that next time)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So far, my week is doing just fine (minus the formula feeding time, of course!). I love how I've been able to catch some Me Time in the afternoon for two days now. Moreso, I'm loving how, aside from blogging, I'm having more time to write in my journal now the old school way. Pen + Paper are my good friends now.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You. Yes you reading this. Tomorrow's hump day already. I hope you're having </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Xo,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yan</span></div>
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Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-29576595242495945702012-09-24T07:37:00.003-07:002012-10-24T22:41:16.825-07:00Badeya-deya-deya<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Right before I started writing tonight, I just finished one Blueberry croissant which served as my after dinner snack. Grabe. I really could not believe how big my appetite is. If you have no idea, you should read my previous blog and learn what a rice monster I am. But anyways, I'm not writing tonight to talk about my huge love for eating again but rather about how September has been treating me and my small family. (Ugh. Blogging using an iPad is quite turning into a challenge to me.) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So.. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">{Laguna}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were able to spend a few days in Laguna for Xander's birthday party. thr last time we visited was during Inno's third month pa. Inno and I arrived Friday afternoon there with someone who drove for us by the name of Kuya Mar. Unfortunately, the car wasn't in tip-top shape the reason why we're sweating the whole trip and why Inno caught a cold after. The first thing I did upon arriving was to prepare the fondant. I wish I could bombard this post with pictures as I type but they're all taken via Mumc's ipad. I would have to ask her to send me those. I promise to update as soon as they're sent. Going back to the fondant, I didn't know that it was just easy to make one! Thanks to youtube and for Martha Stewart's recipes, I was able to perfect (atleast) the fondant. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have to admit that the kneading part is the most challenging part while making the fondant. Back to the days when we used to own a bakery, it was very much easy for me (and to the rest of the family) to knead a dough. I think I need to get those baking skills back. It took me atleast two hours to finally smoothen the fondant and another eight hours (to rest it) before I could finally use it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then we started making the cupcakes already. We had a bad start and I can't help but laugh and get annoyed too everytime I think about it. So to cut the annoyance and the long story, the choco chip muffins got burned in the oven because of wrong heating. Good thing though that we're able to perfect the next set which are the chocolate cupcakes. And yes, I also tried baking lactation cookies and they got a little toasted as well. Haha. But atleast they could still be eaten kind of cookies. In fact, everyone who passed by the dining table that time would pick one and upon eating half of it, I'd tell them that it's a lactation cookie. They were all close yo dropping it but I explained to them that it would take effect only if you're lactating prior to eating it. :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was way past midnight and Inno was snoozing soundly already when we finished baking. I love Inno because he'd get along with everyone in the house. He doesn't choose who he likes to carry him. And as I see, he loves being surrounded by a lot of people. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Saturday came and everyone was busy already. I was already up by six in the morning and started working on the fondant and cupcake decorations. Good thing that my other cousins and titas came to look after Inno while I help with the packing of things that will be brought to the resort. :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall, the party was a success because of all the extra helping hands and the love the whole family showed during the preparation and the party itself. Xander may not be able to appreciate it yet, but it's enough to show him that he is special on his birthday and even everyday. Here's a collage of Inno's first dip. :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Came Sunday and it's time to go home already. As usual, I was all teary-eyed when we're about to leave (and I didn't show them that, of course). I super duper hate saying goodbye to them. Brings out the drama queen in me. Haha.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">{Inno's Six Month}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Inno turned .5 years old already this month. I could not believe it somehow but time is passing by quickly. Imagine, in a span of another six months, I have a one-year old already. How exciting is that? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since he turned six-months, he started eating semi-solid foods already. I'm very much excited to introduce him to real food but I treat it as just a supplementary snack and make sure that he still breastfeeds on a regular basis. I also make sure to pump every so often so I could mix it with his food and keep my supply up. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">{Abby}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My sissy next to me turned 24 last September 21. I made her this collage. :) I hope she'll have a healthy baby girl. :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">{anniversary}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a few weeks it'll be our first wedding anniversary and 7th year as bf-gf. We'll be spending it at Trader's hotel where we held our wedding reception last year. I still don't have anything for Kali but I already have something in mind already. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How about you? How are you spending your September so far? :)</span></div>
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Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-84805853602016348982012-09-02T05:50:00.001-07:002012-09-02T05:50:06.749-07:00Brrrr for the 'Ber Months<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More than anyone else in the house, I have to admit I'm really excited for September because the Ber months are finally here. I'm actually not excited for myself though but more for Inno. It will be our first Christmas with him around. Just gives me more reason to make Christmas more special. As early as now, I could already imagine him looking allured at Christmas decorations and happily open his presents from the Santas. (Okay, okay. I'm being way too excited. He'd be a nine-month old by then so surely he can't open presents just yet!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On other news, our little Kuya Xander on my side of the family will be celebrating his 2nd birthday on Wednesday. It's a cliche but really, time flies. What's more is he'll be officially a big brother come January because Abby is expecting her second baby. At this time, I know things are a little rough between her and Zeus but I pray that she'll get past those and have a healthy and happy pregnancy. Moreover, I super duper wish that it'll be a baby girl this time. I can't wait to unleash my auntie kikayness if ever she turns out to be a princess. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>{Responsible Parenthood}</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Speaking of pregnancy, I still haven't come back to my OB-GYN for a check-up. I was supposed to go back after my first post-pregnancy menstrual visit but I wasn't able to because of, uhm. How do I put it into words? Well, I wasn't sure kasi if my bloody discharges were already my period because they don't last for a week. For months, it has been like that so I thought maybe the breastfeeding was the root cause for my still irregular period. I promise myself though to pay her a visit since we also need to talk about family planning and responsible parenthood. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've read a lot of stuff about family planning already. There are actually a number of methods to choose from but I guess only a few are being practiced in the Philippines like the traditional pills, condom and ligation. I haven't really tried taking up pills ever and I guess I won't be trying it for the next couple of years (or hopefully, the entirety of my existence) because I've read that it's not advisable to be taken by breastfeeding moms since it has a high boost of estrogen and could make the baby cranky. As a BFA, I strongly avoid taking anything over the counter. During days that I feel ill, I try to go natural and rely on home remedies. One reason why I think I would not settle on the pill. I just don't want to take anything that could affect the content of my milk. Although, there's actually a substitute for a pill (but still a pill), called the mini pill. (Did I just say pill?) It has less estrogen-content but I'm still not convinced to take it since I don't know what side effects it could have on me. So I guess, between Kali and I, he'll be the one to practice responsible parenthood method (aka the Rubber method). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Inno, I could say, is an enough reason to be more mindful of doing the act. We want to enjoy him and focus on him atleast for the first three to four years of his life. We want to make him feel special and loved before another chikiting comes around. :) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Um, okay. Rereading my blog, I think I just said too much tonight. Sorry, guys!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>{Hello, Old Me}</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, I think I'm soooo back to my old diet. That is, my two cups of rice per meal diet. Bad? I don't think so because I don't seem to gain weight. Good? Not much. Well, I know this may sound weird but I actually love my weight when I was pregnant. It was the only time that I actually felt and looked fat and I loved it. I swear. I prefer that over being skinny but with a <i>kargador</i> diet. I love my in-laws though because they always ask me to eat intensively but a part of me feels ashamed for eating almost half <i>caldero</i> of rice. (Yes, that means even more than two cups of rice sometimes!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, I have an excuse for having this big diet. I'm not preggy (and I think you already figured that out if you read this entire post). Thanks to breastfeeding I have all the luxury and necessity to have big meals. :) I've said before that breastfeeding is like being pregnant all over and up to now, it remains true for me. You have to eat and eat and drink a lot of fluids. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>{Sweet September}</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love how September started out for me and my small family. I love how things are slowly unfolding for me. I may not have a job yet but for now, being Inno's mommy is the best work I ever got myself into. And you know what's good? It's a lifetime job that I won't ever want to resign. And who knows, maybe the office life isn't really the path for me. There could be something more. There IS something more and I believe in that. ;)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Same way, I love how August brought so many things in our lives. One of the few things I appreciate and won't forget about last month is the time Kali and I got to go out without Inno. Don't get me wrong. We love having Inno around and going out with him, but sometimes it feels good being alone with Kali. Just like the good old days. I'd like to think that it keeps the fire burning and our marriage a little sweet and youthful (just like how it was when we were in college) but more mature this time. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-12473201980200018082012-08-18T05:52:00.000-07:002012-08-18T05:52:43.823-07:00Dream Home: Breakfast Bar<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To make up for the lost time of not writing and at the same time satisfy the urge to jot down some thoughts, I'm giving in and writing tonight. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to write about my dream home for my little family. If you were able to read my other blog (click <a href="http://www.motherhoodthoughts.blogspot.com/">here</a> if you haven't), I once wrote about how I, as a kid, was fond of sketching houses. Well, I admit up to now, I still love fantasizing about our future home. I don't doodle that much now but what I do is I list down particular details that I want in a specific part of a house. I have to say I am a frustrated architect and/or an interior designer and/or someone who's got keen eye for beautiful homes and furnitures. I guess I will always be but I don't think that could put down my passion for building my own sanctuary. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For tonight, let me share to you my ideas on my future kitchen thru this picture. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN69xe3j6DUX6Z7GJg1tSla10kANWbC8GJBu4f3twTkAyAU4TdClN1l-5OISxBZg3d8tHrsbE4Af-axa0__FXlv9hY8EymyL3_KJXrYsypOdR9OPL1hzSwAk08azwU3mYa3KCCI18gUjs/s1600/Breakfast+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN69xe3j6DUX6Z7GJg1tSla10kANWbC8GJBu4f3twTkAyAU4TdClN1l-5OISxBZg3d8tHrsbE4Af-axa0__FXlv9hY8EymyL3_KJXrYsypOdR9OPL1hzSwAk08azwU3mYa3KCCI18gUjs/s640/Breakfast+bar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got this one from the <a href="http://www.houseofturquoise.com/">House of Turquoise</a> website. I super adore her posts especially the fact that she was able to gather a lot of designs playing on the particular shade of blue that is Turquoise. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, what I love about this design is the spacious kitchen and the breakfast bar. I love the idea of having a breakfast bar in the house. It's nice having to two places to eat at. I could imagine Kali and Inno waiting at the table while I prepare breakfast for them. :) I also love the white paint for the kitchen. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's another one from the same website! :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3tr138B_KCmrMyBpoTLF4MSdGiAkUf-Dg_OKN7Wfw0v97-Udwal3TKbsRvQLzM52w23Fki4FE1ebnbU5NmIZZ_9TiWgvkLO0E3wUNe3KRYkWPX3gRNzDEKmPPznK0Xr0_zcK7AzLH9w/s1600/Breakfast+bar+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3tr138B_KCmrMyBpoTLF4MSdGiAkUf-Dg_OKN7Wfw0v97-Udwal3TKbsRvQLzM52w23Fki4FE1ebnbU5NmIZZ_9TiWgvkLO0E3wUNe3KRYkWPX3gRNzDEKmPPznK0Xr0_zcK7AzLH9w/s640/Breakfast+bar+2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So dainty! :) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More to come! :) I can't wait to work my butt and save up for our future home. I know it'll be fantastic and just the way I want it to be. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On my next post, I'll be writing and posting pictures of my ideal room for Inno. :) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a great loooong weekend, guys! :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xo</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yan :)</span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-35848103810257353062012-08-17T07:01:00.001-07:002012-10-24T22:41:40.381-07:00August: Breastfeeding Month<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, well, well.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We meet again my friends.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Okay, fine. I know. I'm sorry for not being able to write for more than a month now. I've been very busy with prospect job interviews while juggling it with mommyhood. Time flies! Inno just turned five months last Sunday. He's really getting a lot longer than the usual babies of his age (or so I think). I'm happy and super thankful to God for keeping him healthy. So far, he hasn't experienced anything major than a cold and a little coughing. No fever whatsoever giving me more reasons to love and stick with breastfeeding. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Speaking of breastfeeding, I've been itching to write a blog about it since August, as I've read in some mommy blogs, is considered as the breastfeeding month. But of course, as I've said, I have been focused on job hunting and landing down on interviews, giving me no time to write. So, what do I write here. Hmm..</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, each month that Inno celebrates his birthday, I also celebrate my breastfeeding milestone. I honestly could not imagine that I've lasted this long compared to other moms I knew who gave up nursing their babies as early as their 2nd month. I have nothing against moms who feed their babies formula milk. Just like anything in this world, breastfeeding is a choice you make as a mom and so I understand whatever reason they have for stopping it and opting for canned milk. I just wish I could influence my other friends who are soon-to-be mommies and those who just become one to atleast try and put effort in nursing their babies. Why? Because I want them to experience for themselves what I learned from breastfeeding Inno.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've come up with a list why I love breastfeeding. Let me share. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Breastmilk boosts Inno's immune system. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Breastfeeding gives us a special kind of bondage. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Breastfeeding brought me back to my pre-pregnancy weight in less than four months. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Breastfeeding serves as a discipline to me, making me watchful of what I eat. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Breastfeeding saves us from the P800/week cost of formula milk. :) That's more or less P80,000 in two years. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Our diaper bag is literally a diaper bag. No formula milk and bottles. Just my nursing cover and me for meal time!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. Breastmilk ensures Inno from being overweight or obese. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8. Breastfeeding lowers my risk for breast cancer. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9. Breastfeeding gives me a different kind of self-esteem boost as a mom. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10. Breastfeeding opened doors for me to change and become the best mom I could be for Inno. :) I learned to sacrifice my wants over Inno's needs. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I really wish that new moms and moms-to-be would try their very best first and prioritize breastfeeding before choosing to feed their babies formula milk. I know how instant formula milk could be, and it would be very easy to believe what doctors favoring formula milk and the media (TVC's) say, but give it a try before jumping into it. Not everything you see or hear or read about formula milk is true. Don't be afraid to ask for help. There are a lot of breastfeeding groups already in the Philippines and they are all willing to lend a hand and guide you on your breastfeeding journey. <b>JUST ASK.</b> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish I could share more about breastfeeding, but I don't consider myself an expert but rather an advocate. However, in any case you read this and you yourself is a mom or know someone who's about to become a mom or a new mom, and you want to encourage her to breastfeed, leave a comment. I will be willing to recommend you/them to breastfeeding groups. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">----</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More. More. More. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pumping Journey</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm loving August more. Why? Because I already got to purchase my Medela Freestyle Pump. Thanks to my dad who just received his retirement benefits, I got showered with some. Prior to my purchase, I was actually leaning on buying an iPhone4s to upgrade my phone, or rather, have my own phone (I've been using Kali's phone for months now.) But I've pondered about it and thought that I'd better get a good quality pump instead. The price of the iPhone4s is almost the same price with the pump but I know it'll be worth it. Besides, the phone could wait and I need to store milk for Inno so I don't have anything to worry about whenever I'm out of the house. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't wait for my pumping journey to start. So far, I'm doing some powerpumping sessions and taking a lot of galactagogues to increase my supply. :) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wish me luck! :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yan</span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-48375896959539163372012-07-03T06:03:00.001-07:002012-07-03T06:03:18.586-07:00Gloomy Tuesday<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How's your week so far? Well, me. I'm kinda starting to think (and feel) that I didn't nail the job position that I applied for. It's been more than a week since my interview and they haven't given me any feedback just yet. I'm not fretting, though. In fact, I feel awesome. I know it's weird but maybe its because I actually never expected any answer from that company. Not that I didn't give my best in the interview but I just think that landing on it would be like dreaming -- surreal. It's just too big and ideal for me, I guess. Plus, I think our household isn't ready yet with me working because we haven't searched for a nanny for Inno yet. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Excuses? Certainly not. I think it's not for me and I'm open to that. Just like all those fancy clothes in Forever21 stores that I can't put my hands on. (Hehe!)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not giving up. I know there's something that's meant for me. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, a thud of OC-ness struck me today. Remember that I mentioned on my previous post that we might spend the weekend in Baguio? Well, I've decided earlier to make checklist for Inno's travel essentials and I made one using a spreadsheet. It was fun in a very OC way because its a great help during packing to be sure that I won't forget anything. Also, I could use it over again for future trips.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hmm. What else, what else?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I started reading On the Road by Jack Kerouac (I don't know if I spelled his last name right). I'm still on Chapter 3 so I can't really tell if its a good read (but Kali said it is, so I'll see if it really is). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I joined an online contest which will give away a box of cloth diapers. I hope I'll win this time to add it to Inno's stash of cloth dappies. And did I mention already that Ate Cha gave Inno another bamboo dappy? Yep, another printed one. Inno now has ten cloth diapers. More to come! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today was a gloomy day. I hope the weather gets better by the end of the week so we could push through with our plans. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is all for now. I hope you're all having a good week so far. I can't wait to do more things for the rest of the week.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P.S.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today is July 3. I'm confused with what day today is? Is it a Tuesday or a Wednesday?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, Tuesday it is! I thought its midweek already. :p</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yan</span></div>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-65126584916148133112012-07-01T06:47:00.000-07:002012-07-01T06:47:00.220-07:00Goodbye, June!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh Why hello there, July!</span><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We're officially on the second half of the year. Time flies and soon enough it will be Christmas season again. I could say that June has been good to me in a way that it opened a few exciting doors but of course, with my priority now who goes by the name of Inno, I had to reconsider a lot of times before diving into the pool. I'm still in search of the best and fitting job for me, a young mom who'd like to make sure that her child gets all the time and attention he needs while balancing with her chosen profession. It's a bit hard and kind of a pressure but I know it's something I had to take my time doing. I actually just realized how tough it could be with all the interviews and exams I had to go through again, but I'm not actually in a hurry since I don't want to end up (AGAIN) with a job that I won't really love and enjoy in the next coming years. I have considered taking up classes and workshops of things that I actually enjoy doing like crafts, baking and fashion styling but with all the expenses that would go with it, I had to think about it twice. I haven't mentioned it to Kali actually since I kinda know already what he'll say about it. I've also thought of taking up MA in Creative Writing but like my previous excuse, I don't think it'll ever be possible. At times it downs my spirit but I know I have to be practical. I need to end up with a good paying job that I would enjoy at the same time, then maybe, if time and budget permit, I could finally do these "extra curricular" activities. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love June because it marked Inno's first quarter in his first year. I love how much he's changed already. From being that fragile bundled sweet pea, he's turned into an adorable little kid who's starting to show his genuinity. It's real happiness for me as a mom to witness how he unfolds himself day by day. The feeling is incomparable and priceless. For once in my life, I'm proud of myself for getting through the tough times and for that, I will always be thankful to Inno because he made everything worth it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love June because it was the month that I turned into a bookworm. I wouldn't say "bookworm AGAIN" because I wasn't really one back then when I read books only if I feel like it. Reading for me now has become both a necessity and a hobby. I don't think I'll ever stop in the near future. Last night, it dawned at me why I never actually thought about reading a lot during the time I was pregnant. Well, I actually did read a couple of fiction books when I was pregnant and the rest of the books were all about babies and pregnancy. You know. The Mommy Stuff. But anyway, I could say that reading a lot made me write comfortably. It's like when you get too accompanied with words from the books you read, you also gain that confidence in writing. It's like the words just come out freely. You don't have to think about it unlike before that I stumble with words. It put ease with writing. By the way, I was able to finish five books in a month. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While those are some of the things that made my last month memorable, June also offered me reasons to pause and remember two people I miss. Kuya Paul and Nana. It's been a year since Kuya Paul died and somehow, I still carry that regret. I still wish I was there for him when he needed someone to talk to or be with. Just like the good old days when he's there for me even if I don't ask him to. I still wish we could sit at McDo and talk about anything. But of course, its too late to even think about it now. Besides, he wouldn't want me to be sad when I think of him. I just can't help it. Its like there's always this hole in my heart and I could tell it would be like that for a while. I miss him, his weirdness, his sense of wit and humor. I miss how he talks and how he'd open up to me. I know wherever he is now, he's still figuring things out. Nonetheless, I try to be happy for him because this is how he wanted it to be. I just pray that wherever he is, he'll find the answers to his questions and that he'll be happy because in the end, we all deserve to be happy. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for Nana, its been months since she passed away and last June 28 was her birthday. Unlike Kuya Paul, Nana died due to old age and some minor health problems that come with it. We miss her but we know it is time for her to rest. I know Kali misses her too, but he's afraid to breakdown in front of me. I remember the time she died and we can't go home to Lubang to pay our respects because it was still less a month after Inno arrived and I'm still recovering from giving birth. We were already about to sleep when Kali suddenly spoke about Nana. He said that going home to Lubang would be different now since Nana's gone already. That sent me to tears because I felt his loss and I'm just not brave enough to hold back my tears. I know he was just being strong but deep inside, he mourned for his Nana. I miss Nana and her strong personality. I miss how she'd share stories and would scold when she's irritated. I'm lucky to have met her because I know she prayed for me too like she did for everyone in the family. I'm sad though that Inno didn't get to meet her but I know she's always looking over us. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm hitting the bed anytime now but before I go, I'd like to remember this day so I'd write a few about it. We head to Centris earlier to attend mass, but since the weather was too hot, Kali and I with Inno, stayed at ChaTime while we wait for the mass to end. We're able to take a short walk in the organic market, then head back at home for lunch. Kuya Bayan and Ate Cha arrived with the kids. It was a typical Sunday with Julian being hyper and all but there's something with today that makes it memorable. I can't tell what, but whatever it is, it feels good and positive. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, there's a possibility that we'll be spending the next weekend in Baguio. It's been a while since Kali and I have been there and it would be a lot of fun to be back on the road again. There are plans being brewed but we're still waiting for it to finalize. Whether it'd be a yes or a no, I don't really mind because after all, it's still a weekend. And weekends meant family time. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope the next half of the year goes well with you all. I can't wait to welcome new opportunities that'd arrive in my doorstep. Soon, soon. I know there's something good that's meant for me. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-55352058040977972592012-06-08T00:56:00.002-07:002012-06-08T00:56:54.939-07:00Still Professionally Jobless.<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few months ago, I was on a waiting game with Inno. If you read my other blog, you probably have imagined how impatient I have become during the last stage of my pregnancy. Inno not coming out that time was already getting on my nerves and since Kali had started his job then, I was left by myself at UP Bliss most of the time so I can't actually do more walking in as much as I wanted to. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, I'm again on a waiting game but not about Inno this time. For the past few weeks, I have been trying to land on a job. I've been submitting applications to jobs that interests me while being practical at the same time. By practical, I mean, office hours and time for my family on weekends. So far, according to my JobStreet record, I have actually applied to ten jobs already and as of this late, I have only gained one feedback from a job that sure is practical because it's home-based but with less growth. I am still thinking if I should submit my interview form already so I could have my final interview or wait for further feedbacks of the other jobs that I applied to. I know. I know. I definitely should set a deadline. By the end of this month, if I don't get a good job just yet, I'm accepting that home-based job while I try to convince Kali to send me to a fashion school for a short course on Basic Sewing and fashion styling. The thought of asking Kali about it actually scares me. What if he says no? I don't know. Good luck to me. :|</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyways...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">June has been running smoothly for us. I'm excited for Inno's fourth month. Time really flies. There's just so many new things that he could do already. He's been babbling and "talking" a lot. He could already hold his head up without us having to support his neck and his vision has improved as well. He could already recognize me from afar. He has developed a daily schedule as well and would go fussy if we don't meet his sleeping routine. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope things will continue to go well for us and I pray that impatience won't set in again. I wanted to work already (weh???!!!) or rather, I wanted to do something already. :| I know you might say I have the toughest job already and that is being a mom to Inno. But hello, practically speaking, I should start helping Kali in making moolah for Inno's future. Beside, I miss having my own money too. :| </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, Universe. Please be good to me. </span><br />
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<br /></div>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-48548959499849182002012-05-31T00:15:00.000-07:002012-05-31T00:15:39.433-07:00Sticking to a Schedule<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This week is passing by in a swift. Today is Thursday already and by tomorrow, I'm ready to embrace the weekend again. One of the things I look forward to weekends is bonding time with the boys (besides being able to do so much chores and things for myself because Kali is around). I love waking up on Saturday mornings with the three of us tucked in the same bed. Yep. You read it right, three of us since Inno won't sleep in his crib by three in the morning. That's a consistent thing. He won't stop crying until we transfer him to the big bed. He also already developed a morning schedule and I'd like to stick with that. He'll wake up at around five to half past five and would start to play with his dad. He's the reason why Kali's been leaving the house quite late than he would back then, but still I appreciate his effort of spending time with Inno. After he leaves for work, I will then send the little boy to sleep so I could prepare his bath time essentials. If he doesn't want to sleep, his Tita Asa or Lola May would bring him downstairs first to give me time to eat and ready his things. Before, Ate Jem would be the one to carry and bring him downstairs, but since she's not around and Tita Carol don't come that early, it's a good thing that in-laws are there to lend a hand. By the time they leave for work, I'm all ready to do mommy duties.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You may ask how I was able to keep this routine. Well, it's all about consistency. A routine won't become a routine unless it is consistent. To give you an outline, let me share some points on how I make a schedule for Inno. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. <b>Have a schedule in mind.</b> It all starts with plotting a workable schedule based on your baby's time . Write it down or save it on your phone and practice it. If things don't workout as planned, don't be hard on yourself but rather keep on trying until you finally discover how your baby works out his time.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Do not do a routine that is based on your time frame.</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> During Inno's first month, it was actually hard for me to wake up by the time he is up, what I do is I try to send him to sleep again so I'd have more time to slumber but things only turn wild. Inno will start to cry for attempting so hard to sleep again. I've learned from that and whenever he's up, I try to wake up and give him attention. The same with feeding, not all babies actually feed on exactly every two hours. If she begins to tell signs that she's hungry, don't delay feeding just because you think you have to wait for time to be precisely two hours. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. <b>Take cues from her actions.</b> Deciphering what your baby wants is quite frustrating especially if you are a new mom. But don't worry because as your baby grows, it will be easy to tell what she likes. When doing a schedule, take in consideration signs that tell if she's tired and wants to sleep like yawning and rubbing of eyes. Note or remember those cues and the time as well and observe if she does that the following day on the same time. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. <b>Be consistent.</b> Just like what I've said, routine won't become a routine unless it is done consistently. In order for your baby to understand time and recognize her schedule, you should atleast try to do it in a repetitive manner day by day. I was guilty of this back then. Before, I'd bathe Inno late in the morning and then early the following day. It was actually confusing for him since everything he's supposed to be doing like taking a nap after bath time is adjusted again and again. That experience made him fussy and that meant hours of non-stop unconsolable crying. With consistency also comes strictness but in a gentle way. I try to be strict with Inno (and his dad) when it comes to playtime at night. I always tell Kali to lessen playtime by night. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. <b>Be open to changes.</b> As your baby grows, expect that she'll have adjustments with her daily routine and be open with that. If you think that your baby has been skipping routines in a row, take note of that and try to adjust as well. My experience with Inno's sudden routine changes was every time he is on a growth spurt. Feeding becomes an hourly thing and he sleeps most of the time. What I did was I observed what time of the month he usually go under this spurt. By his second month, I was able to recognize it and adjusted with him.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. <b>Try to set a different environment for each routine. </b>Offering different environments per routine is helpful. During the day, we let Inno sleep on the big bed to teach him that sleeping on the big bed is only during daytime. At night, we let him sleep on his crib, lessen bright lights and noise. We usually spend most of the time inside the bedroom. So for playtime, we put his toys in the big bed and remove them when it's time to nap. As with bathtime, we put his bathing essentials on the bed and remove other things like his toys.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There you go. I hope this would be of help to new and young moms like me. The key is experiment things for your baby. Ditch things that don't work out and try again. Don't be scared to learn. You are mom enough, you just have to believe and be good at it. :)</span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-43724467383060510122012-05-24T20:41:00.001-07:002012-05-24T20:41:20.376-07:00Inno's Christening<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The week after mother's day was indescribable. Oh yes, it was hectic with all the errands we had to do for Inno's baptism. There was the clubhouse lady who said there were chairs and tables available for rent which turns out, they actually didn't own them and the true owner was doing some maintenance, we had to find another supplier. Since Papa and Tita Carol weren't here yet that time, we only get to finalize the menu by mid-week. Good thing that Tita Carol already have in mind her list of dishes. Hmmm, what else? Um, of course you all know that I practically still stay at home to watch over Inno while I look for a new job, and since mommy tasks are too crippling to do other tasks, I had to wait until weekend before I could put my hands on the preparations. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Saturday came and everyone was already busy with their roles. Tita Carol and Ate Jem went to the market, Papa and Kuya Tots hit the grocery, Mama was cleaning the house since Ate Jem can't attend to the chores. Kali was busy looking for a new chairs and tables supplier while I on the other hand, was doing mommy duties. Oh yeah, what's new? Afternoon came and we went to the mall to buy Inno his outfit. We found a nice set of barong which fitted him perfectly. Sadly though, he can't wear it again with the rate that he is growing. Mama came with us and that made Kali very happy because she paid everything that we bought for Inno. Hahaha. We also purchased some decors because the venue was too plain. By evening, it was a challenge sending Inno to sleep, I ended up doing the decors late. Good thing that Ate Mika was around to help. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We woke up early came Sunday. Hit the church for the 10AM Mass followed by the baptismal rites. I'm glad to see family and friends from Laguna. Anyhoo, I'm posting a few pictures below. :) </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIhhLsT_IKx7yBJi0J9ijSWWMvn2EnR7SuQ1eFvqNsQijHj5hCxNnnTnQ9exL1-pir6lsTESu4vp6nbSLrR9uEe-O4vr0FxoyzXaTORrrM0GhKpFTkNtEVoifG0b3VNVJOvSMRSqhVLds/s1600/Inno+Barong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIhhLsT_IKx7yBJi0J9ijSWWMvn2EnR7SuQ1eFvqNsQijHj5hCxNnnTnQ9exL1-pir6lsTESu4vp6nbSLrR9uEe-O4vr0FxoyzXaTORrrM0GhKpFTkNtEVoifG0b3VNVJOvSMRSqhVLds/s320/Inno+Barong.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My love in his barong. :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stage Daddy </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fussy :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ninong Aaron</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">HS Barkada Represent! Rae, Lots and Melle</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nursing time :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiqO_A3a0RZv0NQgLeFTtVtNOhZpkze6sNgaWulWrbQqBsr4jdcmIEeFWG0u1W7Eru1lMZWi1A1xjOnnhprZpAOkNl_9gd0vxijggw3bd3JTBA1Tp8bEo49x059wM9S1hg-CO8Knn5cU/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiqO_A3a0RZv0NQgLeFTtVtNOhZpkze6sNgaWulWrbQqBsr4jdcmIEeFWG0u1W7Eru1lMZWi1A1xjOnnhprZpAOkNl_9gd0vxijggw3bd3JTBA1Tp8bEo49x059wM9S1hg-CO8Knn5cU/s320/21.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still fussy we had to take his barong off.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With Father ________. Haha!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ninongs and Ninangs</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lolos and Lolas</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ninang Melle and Ninang Lots</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TpNqvV-JrMtHco9DEVgVzlbDQak_xOi2vm-5W9PS0HP5DVIXNeh7jqCTiyyD48okd3JmNk7LKh2qWMrAQu7uRQU0ibi-FqjdaOjnPm3z_cIx4rM7rUnsIDKHGjH3xtGRVzshmwEDAA0/s1600/31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TpNqvV-JrMtHco9DEVgVzlbDQak_xOi2vm-5W9PS0HP5DVIXNeh7jqCTiyyD48okd3JmNk7LKh2qWMrAQu7uRQU0ibi-FqjdaOjnPm3z_cIx4rM7rUnsIDKHGjH3xtGRVzshmwEDAA0/s320/31.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Family from Laguna :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJcxtXRsr0jkTGNQJusr39wKuLYt0cYYFyCgxw71g7PUX0-umDU8WiuCHEBt7XvBmy7tLSJwQOdyJja2KRYR-WmeKjXC3lWy9EiVpvYfHRuUL70SBvYLWRZ9Hl4vEN8mX5jTOYmKTdFY/s1600/32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJcxtXRsr0jkTGNQJusr39wKuLYt0cYYFyCgxw71g7PUX0-umDU8WiuCHEBt7XvBmy7tLSJwQOdyJja2KRYR-WmeKjXC3lWy9EiVpvYfHRuUL70SBvYLWRZ9Hl4vEN8mX5jTOYmKTdFY/s320/32.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ninang Anne and Ninang Jois</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoH53YN5TdxwCxfu9UQT2Xu3WfdOhUXdagWWeSMkHDUi1_dIN3BzKTXrDP9N8V31kBzO4IWslGuHKMSY5cyFZq_9uHZm7dtgeQ3_BXSPOVxmdYp0SM_uMc5YmVOWH7N0R8azuQtXLw6g/s1600/38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoH53YN5TdxwCxfu9UQT2Xu3WfdOhUXdagWWeSMkHDUi1_dIN3BzKTXrDP9N8V31kBzO4IWslGuHKMSY5cyFZq_9uHZm7dtgeQ3_BXSPOVxmdYp0SM_uMc5YmVOWH7N0R8azuQtXLw6g/s320/38.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daddy Lolo and Mumc Lola</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DG3Whe6WnMvUXI4ZHW1MsAM9aEP9kkNwn_s8s2UB2OOVkARhMUYx_sNA_Z76WzneP4dwqpmRIbTCNvPwDpBzvyvEslK8cJYBoPFrd7PHkkoUlQ-rhbnMTVhT5Ey76teb4RV7KXolnHU/s1600/45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DG3Whe6WnMvUXI4ZHW1MsAM9aEP9kkNwn_s8s2UB2OOVkARhMUYx_sNA_Z76WzneP4dwqpmRIbTCNvPwDpBzvyvEslK8cJYBoPFrd7PHkkoUlQ-rhbnMTVhT5Ey76teb4RV7KXolnHU/s320/45.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mommy + Inno :)</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypygctBmZBP4oxHFjttUGcDu82JuMCXGMyKsjvLedSWLTFeYUNXmJzhv8IuIi30HEiMx04ECA01NZ_1skSnURaAiBblrQchwKmBzwkC-C7TDkXacz4zS5sFKyziUQbYO3YswM89Llkt0/s1600/73.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypygctBmZBP4oxHFjttUGcDu82JuMCXGMyKsjvLedSWLTFeYUNXmJzhv8IuIi30HEiMx04ECA01NZ_1skSnURaAiBblrQchwKmBzwkC-C7TDkXacz4zS5sFKyziUQbYO3YswM89Llkt0/s320/73.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like a Boss :D</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYeWCsNaLizkYBDn1Xo7yLq6TYMIExlluUyGA_dld4s8-H14uETKuKhWhWOZvtqmZa_770dK2xYGrCpBk3Ii8NS2ybmt0NEX3iJMszE9xk9sxfXXYkyrxlWWJtzszy1X7rvmY-XkmaOs/s1600/117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYeWCsNaLizkYBDn1Xo7yLq6TYMIExlluUyGA_dld4s8-H14uETKuKhWhWOZvtqmZa_770dK2xYGrCpBk3Ii8NS2ybmt0NEX3iJMszE9xk9sxfXXYkyrxlWWJtzszy1X7rvmY-XkmaOs/s320/117.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Great Gwamies! :)</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlK3C2xMOHjPef5DYTHcnwdPZ09AIFeriSriXZ67Pcb4Z1up9tlDZxqnABQ8V0qfZJYiFgDAjDkQm1BaoSSolLY4PdF5ymRFvnOtOZQ0GzhAwUsHtLIbLPuomLXWCZiZciIp3_U7FutE/s1600/120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlK3C2xMOHjPef5DYTHcnwdPZ09AIFeriSriXZ67Pcb4Z1up9tlDZxqnABQ8V0qfZJYiFgDAjDkQm1BaoSSolLY4PdF5ymRFvnOtOZQ0GzhAwUsHtLIbLPuomLXWCZiZciIp3_U7FutE/s320/120.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">CHEERS! :)</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9sIr3cvdkPzgMAdyOPY5pWntEtf-OvABt7rod2Ab4tmnPpYQYcY0o2cFtFt8zRvVkD5FuIrrFdRZwnCR2H1VWd77-Ktyp3X8O2Lmsc-5bnN4dhCgGXNXN_t7kVhj_gnn0blLrECTjWs/s1600/153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9sIr3cvdkPzgMAdyOPY5pWntEtf-OvABt7rod2Ab4tmnPpYQYcY0o2cFtFt8zRvVkD5FuIrrFdRZwnCR2H1VWd77-Ktyp3X8O2Lmsc-5bnN4dhCgGXNXN_t7kVhj_gnn0blLrECTjWs/s320/153.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With Mama :)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3OYlLKzQ_swF3oHkWg17RlM8Qll6cL-DBsF5wPq-O7xKkatwMCIyDqi8VzfD-7mkUUaV0NmkF2rfgVgU3aljXLwUe_dEbetdBFRU2S5iSYFcZyWKRNw0c8vfu9R9Qbl5xJ3ovQiZYOA/s1600/132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3OYlLKzQ_swF3oHkWg17RlM8Qll6cL-DBsF5wPq-O7xKkatwMCIyDqi8VzfD-7mkUUaV0NmkF2rfgVgU3aljXLwUe_dEbetdBFRU2S5iSYFcZyWKRNw0c8vfu9R9Qbl5xJ3ovQiZYOA/s320/132.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sibs :)</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xRSMOuQkC2mODa8ZmSDIeImfR4AfUBQsvyo-GjbANwNTRd0GHPDOytV1-Trv5tPdJgspLPiQpkAoqt2VQC2ee3HBa8dWFxMLzL0jG6UTLTpwKasIh-TM3huJLS_ZbzQjnM7JArldw-Y/s1600/146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xRSMOuQkC2mODa8ZmSDIeImfR4AfUBQsvyo-GjbANwNTRd0GHPDOytV1-Trv5tPdJgspLPiQpkAoqt2VQC2ee3HBa8dWFxMLzL0jG6UTLTpwKasIh-TM3huJLS_ZbzQjnM7JArldw-Y/s320/146.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gifts :)</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHnbmgprotqXg3I1Cdtuo5awzcscnAQNz3HO7x0SZukT9motfXu4YYkwha87tGhPgnAoiWJ-1e8nKawTfoTxLM2T3KutRRHxacZ1kpESHYL49aCGbRdecYk5eW7ulaTVuNRRdtu-r7xE/s1600/154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHnbmgprotqXg3I1Cdtuo5awzcscnAQNz3HO7x0SZukT9motfXu4YYkwha87tGhPgnAoiWJ-1e8nKawTfoTxLM2T3KutRRHxacZ1kpESHYL49aCGbRdecYk5eW7ulaTVuNRRdtu-r7xE/s320/154.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Family :)</span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall, the day was tiring but super fun. :) I couldn't wait for Inno's first birthday party.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3676578646132597178.post-56565848274016857902012-05-14T06:17:00.000-07:002012-05-14T06:17:04.199-07:00Month Two: Felipe Inno<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqel0UlHp_YgHU3RNmtWeO_sKyxQ1Kfw5p4oE8h5yMECwZKwa3TNwG-mjH7kr8UImGM5ZXid8bQ5pnvrgCdzm-hSHHtxWD6mEVtTsyMcqwM_CQ44ZxSQTXlXlSz3CF_P8Bha7e6v_MRC8/s1600/photo-10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqel0UlHp_YgHU3RNmtWeO_sKyxQ1Kfw5p4oE8h5yMECwZKwa3TNwG-mjH7kr8UImGM5ZXid8bQ5pnvrgCdzm-hSHHtxWD6mEVtTsyMcqwM_CQ44ZxSQTXlXlSz3CF_P8Bha7e6v_MRC8/s400/photo-10.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Love! :)</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are compiled photos of Inno on his second month. :) </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I could not wait for him to grow up some more. :)</span>Arianne Dominiquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07891183809771248147noreply@blogger.com0