Little Munchkin

Verity sure likes her food. She started semi solid at 5.5 months. While other babies started their 1st feed experimenting with several small spoons and bits, Verity decided to start with a big bang.

Her first feed was a bowl of porridge. Yes a bowl. Instead of displaying grimaces due to experiencing different textures in her mouth and coming to terms with foreign gooey stuff, she adapted with great (and quick) stride.

She yelled at my mom to quicken the feed. While my mom hurried to scoop the next mouthful, Verity was already yelling for more. So my mom had to feed very fast.

Verity was interested in every single thing we put in our mouth. Now, 1 month into eating, she has tried rice, bananas, pears, ice cream, beancurd, buns, bread, and durians. If we refuse to feed her anything we're eating, she would grimace, pout, shake her fists and stamp her feet.

We are breeding an eating machine.

Guess this can't be helped, since both Clement and I are the buffet-eater type.

Now that foods are more interesting, Verity shows less interest being breastfed. She would get so distracted by her surrounding that it become pointless to breastfeed. Suck suck, turn around, look around. Turn back and suck suck, turn around, look around. I'll keep pushing her face back but the same cycle would occur, as if internally programmed. I figure I should stop battling with breastfeeding and not get too emotional. I come to terms with the fact that I breastfeed as her snack, no longer a staple food.

Eat well, babe!

Adventures in Taipei (Part III: 26 Dec 2007)

26 December 2007
Occasional rain (17-20 Deg C)

The weather seemed great in the morning so we planned to go to Shenkeng, the (smelly) tofu street. We needed to transfer train then transfer bus. I'm not exactly sure which bus but the travel guide was very helpful. Also, at every station, there was info on where the nearest places of interest were and how to get there. So after getting the bus info, we went to the bus stop.

After confirming with the bus driver, we hopped onto the bus. Cavan was asleep on the stroller so Clem lugged the whole stroller onto the bus. There was an electronic signboard on the bus indicating the location at every stop, so I kept a lookout to make sure we didn't miss our stop.

After about 10 min, the bus suddenly swerved into what looked like an abandoned garage. The bus driver told us to get down. I looked around the ulu place and it didn't look like what I expected. But we had to get down as this was the so-called bus terminal. I asked the driver where Shenkeng was and he randomly pointed at a direction.

So we got down and headed toward where he pointed. Clem asked me whether we were near. I seriously had no idea! Just walk, and ask for direction. But the place was so ulu, we didn't know whether there would be anyone to ask. Anyway, I was sure that we'd smell Shenkeng.

Soon it began to drizzle so we took shelter at a restaurant that appeared out of nowhere. After putting on the rain shield on the stroller (Cavan still blissfully asleep) and wrapping Verity up, we ventured out again in the rain.

In 5 mins' we began to see people, then tour buses, the we SMELT it! We found the place! Yippee! First on the agenda- lunch!

After a sumptous meal, we explored the street. There were so many titbit stalls in this small street! Rice cakes, malt candy with sesame, sesame rice balls, freshly made peanut and almond candy, preserved fruit and foods, tofu ice cream and smelly tofu! We were overwhelmed by the selection!

The smelly tofu was a must-try. It smelt bad but tasted good! The Taiwanese smelly tofu was smeared with some salty-sweet sauce and came with preserved veg. They were absolutely delicious! I had one everyday during my previous trip.

For the night, we decided to go to Raohe Night Market which was around 10 min walk from our hotel.

Raohe Night Market was teeming with different kinds of xiao chi. Pepper buns (which were meat buns with gyoza skin), chou chou guo (smelly pot- something like smelly tofu steamboat), mutton soup, Taiwanese-style roti prata. This place also had shops selling cheap clothes, shoes, cute stationery etc. I bought lots of socks here for the kids and a scarf.

Got to watch the time. Alas, too late. Verity was fidgeting before it became a full-blown cry. To take the short cut back, we could cut through the train station. The train attendant at the entrance heard her and asked if I wanted to breastfeed her. They had nursing rooms available at the station. I politely refused since we were so near our hotel. But to get to the other side, we needed to buy a ticket. The train attendant looked so apologetic. The pass-through ticket was so cheap (I think 60 cents) so we got them and went through a special gate cos we had a screaming baby.

Same routine. Rushed into the hotel. Receptionist passed us the key at the lift. Got into the hotel room. Fed. Finished. Happy. Took photo.

27 December 2007
Fair weather (15 Deg C)

Our target today was Ximending, the hip and young shopping district. Plenty of funky shops here. Yeah, and loud music too. Managed to buy shoes and a gold cardholder for myself. Clem got himself a bag for his laptop.

Couldn't help but indulge in Mr Donut. Their donuts was fantastic! Not too sweet and the doughnut had a nice chewy texture. So yummy. We got assorted minis and Cavan was fighting with me over the strawberry flavoured one. Nowadays, he was into pink and strawberry flavoured stuff. Hmph! Whatever happened to children-love-chocolate norm?

That afternoon, something happened that almost made me faint. Today being our last 2nd day, we thought we'd exchange another $100-$200 worth of NT$. We went to the bank. They did not accept S$ (surprisingly given there were many Singaporean tourists) so we used the ATM. Only certain ATM could dish out S$ so we had to go further ahead to another bank's ATM.

After Clem withdrew the money, he paused for awhile and told me blankly that he suspected he withdrew too much. How much? Well, S$1000 worth. WHAT??!! I couldn't believe my ears. We would only be here for another day and you drew out that much? Why? You are going to buy a house here issit?

Seemed that he miscalculated... Ok... suddenly I felt liberated to spend. Let's go shopping! And we went across to Far Eastern Department Store.

I deposited Clem and the kids at the basement, bought him a coffee and steamed carrot cake, and went off in my shopping spree.

The imported stuff here were cheaper. Le SportSac, Nine West... I got a Nine West bag and a cardholder. At 30% some more! Almost tempted to buy boots and clothes but restrained myself.

Went back to collect Clem and kids for dinner. Went to Bearded Zhang (Hu2xu1 Zhang1 near Houshnpi MRT) for dinner. Really popular place. We were initially not very hungry so was modest in our order. But the food was good so we ordered more. Cavan also enjoyed every morsel of his rice.

Went back to Wufenpu for more shopping. Got cheap wollen overcoat at S$50+. What a steal. Back home, they cost S$200+!

Also, managed to satisfy Clem's longing- mango ice. Said that if he didn't have this, wouldn't feel like he'd been to Taiwan. A S$2 bowl was 3 times bigger than the ice kacang back home. Guess the happiest person was Cavan who was given permission to indulge in these cold treats almost everyday.

28 December 2007
Fair weather (19 Deg C)

We only had till 3pm to go around before the airport transfer. Went to Taipei 101. Got down at City Hall station where a free shuttle service was provided. We figured we'd walk there instead. The brisk walk took us 15 min.

We had lunch there, as Taipei 101 had the biggest foodcourt. The selection was overwhelming and the portion was humongous.

We only had little time and headed back to the hotel. Soon it was time to say good bye to Taipei. It was really a friendly place with very polite people (I wonder why the politicians seemed less civilised, always see them breaking out in fights during parliament).

Taipei was also super baby-friendly, with nursing rooms even at MRT stations. And the blue seats on the MRT- they were reserved for diabled, elderly, preggies and those with children. These seats were almost always empty. Even if they were occupied, the passenger would offer me the seat the instant I entered the train. So unlike the culture in Singapore!

While waiting at the airport, dear Cavan was doing the very touristy thing. He explored all the signboards and decor and asked excitedly, "Mummy, come and take picture for me!" before posing next to whatever.

A seasoned travellor indeed! Till our next trip.

Adventures in Taipei (Part II: 25 Dec 2007)

25 December 2007
Fair weather (17 Deg C)

The weather was great, so we planned to go to Danshui, a sea-side town. The Metro ride took around 30min and we were there.

Wanted an iconic photo but Starbucks snatched all the attention. Talk about globalisation!

This little town is full of small shops and pasar malam stalls by the sea side. There is also the "Lovers' Bridge" which we didn't walk through. Visitors can take the ferry to the other side, the Fishermen Wharf, where Meteor Garden was filmed. For us, we just hung out at Jhong Jheng St and ate all sorts of munchies.

One of the few recommended places are Chez Jean, where they sell traditional wedding cakes. You can also visit the Fishball Museum, which isn't exactly a museum. It's a shop selling fish crackers.

We stopped by at a small eatery to lunch as it was time to feed Verity. Had fried bee hoon, gong wan soup, a plate of cold cuts and an ah ge. An ah ge is something like a huge soon kueh but its fillings consisted of fried tang hoon, bits of mushrooms and dried prawns. A pinkish sauce is usually poured over it. Ours had tau pok skin instead of the soon kueh skin.

What I couldn't resist having throughout the Taipei trip was milk tea. I must have at least 1 or 2 cups each day. Cold ones, hot ones, with pearls, Jamu milk tea etc. Taiwanese are health conscious. You have the option of less sweet and there are different sweetness levels.

Verity ready to rock the town!

Treated Cavan to tall ice cream. It was like yogurt ice cream but lighter and less sweet. He was so thrilled! He chose the strawerry and melon flavour and enjoyed it by the seaside. Clem and I had to "fight" with him to get a lick.

Clem and I had our treats too, albeit less healthy. We chomped on BBQ giant squid, fried mushrooms of sorts, crackers, Taiwan sausages with fish roe etc.

Get fat!

At 6+, we headed for Shih Lin Night Market, yes a place for more xiao chi. What a mistake! Given that it was Christmas night, the streets thronged with people. Illegal clothes hawkers also lined the streets with their wares and it was a nightmare trying to push the stroller through the crowd.

Home-made ice cream on chopped peanuts and peanut candy shavings wrapped in popiah skin. A real treat!

We didn't join the queue for the famous Giant Chicken Cutlet. Had it almost every night cos there was an outlet near our hotel who sold this. Would buy one whenever we headed back. Great snack!

We made our way back as it was near Verity's feeding time (around 9+). Verity was bawling and screaming by the time we reached our hotel lobby. The hotel staff were great. They observed that Verity would be crying everytime we returned. For the 2nd night, they had our room key ready so Clem dashed out from the lift, grabbed the key and dashed back into the lift. Didn't even have to tell them our room no.

Tonight, even better. The lift door opened and lo and behold! There stood the hotel staff at the lift handing us our key. We didn't even have to step out! She smiled and said, "I hear her crying already." That's what I call service!

We were having a mini Christmas celebration. Although I was supposed to feed Verity, we wanted to take a pic with the cake as Cavan was close to digging his fingers into the cake and licking the cream off and eating all that adorned the cake. Sorry, gal! Anyway, it was a cute family pic.

Bought Cavan a Christmas present. He loved Thomas the Train so this would add to his collection. Cavan was so excited to see it but the anticipation turned out differently... well, that's another story. (Clem always has a great laugh whenever he sees this Thomas the Train)

Verity happy again after feed

Enjoyed the rest of the night in a simple and warm fashion, just enjoying one another and thankful for all that we have. While the kids slept, we ate our cake, drank our coffee, ate the Giant Chicken Cutlet and cup noodles, and watching the TV prog.

Christmas Day concluded peacefully, with the whole family huddled in a bed. What warmth!

Adventures in Taipei (Part I: 23 & 24 Dec 2007)

Clem and I loved free and easy trips. We were able to explore freely, take public transport, eat at small eateries and not rush through our activities. Especially more this time, cos with 2 kids, we preferred more flexibility.

When hearing that it was going to be cold and rainy in Taipei, my Assistant CEO's PA Vivian bought Verity a woolly pink shroud with matching hat, a purple sweater and a romper (she did the same when Cavan went to Korea in 2006). Aunt Judy also bought Verity a sweater.

Verity was quite cranky in the days leading up to the trip. Suspected teething. We found that she would forget to cry in the midst of her crankiness or hunger when there was a program on TV. So I borrowed Tze Wei's DVD player just in case she got cranky during the 4-hour flight (Jetstar does not have in-flight entertainment).

23 December 2007

Fair weather (17 deg C)

Thankfully, the kids were well behaved. Verity fell asleep before we took off. She woke up later to play a while before I nursed her for the remaining 2.5 hours (no kidding!).

Cavan was occupied with play-doh, a timely Christmas present from Aunt Yo, Uncle Bernard and Bernice.

We didn't make any prior airport transfer arrangements so we thought we'd get a cab. Someone came along and offered to take us to Wan Tai where we stayed at NT$1,200 (S$57). We agreed. On hindsight, we were so trusting! Lesson: Better make arrangements next time with a reliable provider.

The travelling time between C.K.S Airport to Songshan area was around 40-45 min.The driver couldn't find the hotel initially. Not surprising why cos when we got there, we found that it was not a stand-alone building but was part of a building, tucked in next to a convenience store.

Nevertheless, the service was good and the room was very spacious with clean toilets.
After check-in, we quickly went down to grab a bite. The good thing about the hotel was its location. Very near eateries, next to a 24-hour convenience store, in front of Wufenpu (a wholesale clothes and accessories market), 10 min walk to Raohe Night Market and 10-min walk to nearest metro station.

Ordered stewed meat rice for Clem and Cavan. Got gong wan soup (something like fishball but more chewy and delicous) and yi-mian for myself.

Cavan was taking a long time to feed and Verity was hungry by then. The young female boss asked if I brought Verity's milk out. Well, yes, the milk's in me. I forgot to bring my feeding shawl out. The boss was full of sympathy for Verity. (We later noticed that Taiwanese loved babies and Verity attracted all sorts of attention.)

We decided to pack Cavan's half eaten dinner and feed him at the hotel. After feeding the 2 kiddos, we explored Wufenpu at around 9.30pm, which was usually open till quite late.

We retired at around 11pm. The 4 of us squeezing (horizontally) into a queen-sized bed. Surprisingly, we still managed to get a good sleep. I guess we weren't the sort to toss and turn in our sleep. Except for Verity, whom I had to adjust her position throughout the night. Oh well, had to feed her at night anyway.

24 December 2007

Rainy (15 Deg C)

We made plans to go indoors when there was rain and venture out for occasional rain or fair weather. Today was expected to be rainy so we decided to go the Children's Museum of Taipei.
Buffet breakfast by the hotel consisted of rice, porridge and condiments. Our kind of food so we ignored the toast and others.

Had to find our way to the Metro station in the rainy weather. For the 1st few days, we travelled to Yong Chun station. Later we found that Houshanpi station was even nearer.

Cavan was put on the stroller with a rain shield. Verity was wrapped up in her sweater. Thanks to Evan's baby carrier, Verity was happy to snuggle against our body. She was so happy, she could look around as she wished and slept as she wished. We were also hands-free and that left us plenty of hands for shopping and eating. Happy baby, happy parents.

Only the Taiwanese weren't used to the idea. Is that how we carry babies in Singapore? Would Verity's crotch area be uncomfortable? Would her legs be deformed? Suddenly I felt like a bad parent. But that was how angmohs carry their kids, what. At most, we carry her when she sleeps lor.

We got down at the next station, City Hall station. We grabbed a bite cos it was Verity's feeding time. We tried to coordinate our meal times. Had zhajiangmian, beef noodles, egg tofu soup and steamed meat dumplings.

Walked around 10 mins and looked for Eslite, a 7-storey high bookstore. Children's Museum of Taipei was housed there. I was so impressed by Eslite! So many interesting books, mags, stationery and gifts! The children's section was even more elaborate, with painting lessons and craft sessions as well.

Paid NT$300 for Cavan and NT$200 each for us to get into the Children's Museum of Taipei. It wasn't really a museum, more of a theme land for kids to learn about science, geography, life skills through their hands.

Cavan enjoyed it thoroughly. There were so many things to explore and play!
We had dinner at the swanky foodcourt while Cavan napped. Clem and I shared this huge bowl of beef hotpot for NT$100.
I also indulged in Black as Chocolate's Dark Chocolate ice cream. It was very bittersweet but absolutely yummscious. The ice cream came in a gift box so pretty and cleverly designed. Before the ice cream was eaten, it was blackout. After we finished it, the bottom of the box wrote "Lights on". So funny!

It was Christmas Eve and there were performances at the Children's Dept by a church group so we stayed on to watch. They were distributing sweets and cookies to the shoppers to publicise the performance.

At the same time, took a few pics with the Christmas light up.

Made a final dash back to the hotel for Verity's next feed and packed dinner for Cavan. Couldn't believe we spent the whole day at Eslite! Pray that tomorrow's weather would be great!

Good night!

Preparing for Family Trip to Taipei

We're going to Taipei, dragging along the brood and all. Well, if it's meant to be a vacation, why are we bringing along Verity? Cavan is no problem - tried and tested - fuss-free both as a travelling baby and toddler. Now, to bring 2 kids... we're really asking for it.

The reasons are simple: 1st, I'm still breastfeeding her. It sounds like less hassle to bring her along to offload the milk than to pump and pump before and during the trip. If I have to pump and store milk during the trip, then what vacation am I having? Direct feeding is easier.

2nd, her doting father decided that she should come along as well. She's now our family and if Cavan is coming on a trip with us, she should be in the family trip as well. Right. Like she's going to be permanently emotionally scarred for being left out of the family trip.

So the decision was made. We're all going during the expensive Christmas to New Year period. Clem is currently studying at Command and Staff College and he can't take leave till next year. This is the only window for a trip. At the same time, I've been so busy since I returned from maternity leave. Felt like I've done 2 months' worth of work in that one month. And I needed a break desperately. So we're paying premium to getaway.

Everything was done last minute (yea, I sort of like this kind of thrill). We're not going on a tour cos if I have to breastfeed every now and then, the programme's up by the time I finish feeding. Booked Jetstar budget flights and found that they were more expensive than normal flight. Will lose $$ if cancel. Have not been successful in getting hotels cos mostly were fully booked. Fortunately, managed to get one with much sourcing and prayers. We're not very savvy bookers and tend to do everything last minute, so always ended up spending more than needed.

Oh, and one more thing. Verity doesn't have a passport yet and Cavan needs to update his passport photo.

Other than that, we just need to pack for the trip and plan the itinerary. This is going to be twice the prep we did for last year's Korea trip. Maybe 3 times more.

All said, we're really looking forward to the adventure!

Cartoon kids

Someone recently remarked that Verity looked like Cabbage Patch kids. Yea so true! Doeful eyes, button nose, small mouth, chubby cheeks.

Many commented that Cavan looked like Jack Jack when he was a baby.

Why do our kids all resemble cartoon characters?

Return of the Working Mama

Tomorrow, I will return to the rat race. Admittedly, I've been looking forward to this day. However, as the day draws nearer, I'm beginning to have mixed feelings. Half of me wants to stay home.

Think I enjoyed this maternity leave more than the previous, though more exhausting. Reason being I had a conversation partner- Cavan. During my 1st maternity leave, there was only baby Cavan. I didn't have a decent adult conversation the whole day. Only monologue. And the replies came in "Wahhhhh!", "Eh eh eh", "Gurgle, gurgle." As you can see, I'm a social being. I need to talk!

Well, the things I'll miss when I return to work:

* enjoying private mornings with Cavan, dunking our wheat crackers in milo kosong

* hearing him yell, "Mommy, I'm home already!" as he returns from PG before letting loose on the happenings at PG

* feeling the warmth of Verity's tiny body while rocking her on my shoulder, and having her sleep on my chest

* watching Verity's satisfied face after nursing her

* seeing my 2 kids interact with each other

* watching my 2 kids asleep in the mornings and savouring every moment gazing at their serene, cherubic faces

peace

The baby's sleeping. The brother is at PG. The house is cleaned.

Peace. Bliss.

I had my hair-tearing moments the day Clem returned to work. And the baby decided to bully her mommy. Wide-eyed and cried unconsolably for the whole day.

Oh dear, colic. I thought and expected this to last a few days.

Thankfully, it didn't.

While the baby slept, I was able to clean up the house, washed the clothes, eat lunch, snack, surf the net and update my blog!

Ahhh... the simple pleasures of housewifery.

the 2-hour window

Breastfeeding has made planners of most (if not all) moms. Especially those who can't stick around at home, like me. I slipped out many times during my confinement. My feet were itching to get out.

Verity demands to be fed every 2 hours and I have yet to introduce the bottle. So I had to plan my excursions, or rather escapades, on 2-hour windows:

Step 1: While travelling, feed. Identify a nursing location at the shopping destination.
Step 2: 2-hour Window. Shop.
Step 3: Feed.
Step 4: 2-hour Window. Shop/ have meal. Identify a nursing location at the next shopping destination.
Step 5: Feed

Repeat the steps till we decide we should head home. Then the next feed would be in the car.

I must thank the support group for advocating breastfeeding in public places. People are more aware and less judgmental of mothers who nurse in public places. (And of course, we should be more discreet and not expose flesh.) I'm not sure whether it's due to increased acceptance, or I've become thick-skinned, but I'm less conscious than during Cavan's time.

So I've breastfed in libraries, food courts and while enjoying my meal. Nothing can stop a mom who can't stay home!

Guess who is who?

Somehow, every newborn looks like his or her older sibling. (Not me though. My father said my brother and I looked poles apart as newborns.)

Which is Cavan and which is Verity?

Yes, the ones on the left with spiky hair is Cavan! No prizes for getting all answers right. The dates are stamped, what.

Many friends commented that Verity is a carbon copy of Cavan.

That left me wondering... does that mean Verity would look like this when she turns 8mos?

Attempting to "girlify" Cavan (8 mos) with a hairclip, much to his father's chagrin

Birthing empowered

I had the birth we were praying for. Natural, fast, no intervention. We even had a REFUND from the hospital! Clem's jaw dropped and eyes popped out of his sockets when he heard that.

For Cavan's birth, though I didn't have any epidural, I was induced as he was 2 days late. I had pessaries inserted, waterbag broken, penthidine jab, episiotomy, vacuum suction.

For Verity, I had none of the above. Just gas. That's why so cheap lah, I told Clem and had to push his jaw back.

Here goes the story on 29 Aug 2007...

11.35am - Gynae Appt

Checked that I was already 3cm dilated but babe's still facing up. Dr said I was likely to go into labour that night, if not the next morning. In any case, he asked us to check into the hosp the next morning if nothing happened at night and he would break my water bag. There's still time for one more movie, Dr exclaimed. Go, watch a show.

Frankly speaking, after hearing about the impending labour, I was not in the mood for ANYTHING. I didn't even feel like having lunch.

On the way back, I prayed and claimed the labour to happen naturally. Divine intervention, not human intervention, Lord!

That day was the day for deliveries. We had our stove delivered, Cavan's bed delivered and soon Verity to be delivered.

2pm - Cramps

When the guys were installing the bed, I decided to nap. However, I began to feel cramps and tried to sleep them away. I have a rather high threshold for pain. Well, for the clueless, this does not mean I DON'T feel pain, as many tend to misunderstand. It just means that I can manage pain.

Clem told me in my semi-sleep state that he was going back to the office for a while. Ok, go.

3pm

The contractions were getting too intense so I got up. Hmm, maybe I can distract myself by cleaning Cavan's new bed. At the same time, I can time my contractions. No time wasted.

Hmm... 35-38 sec per contractions at 3.10 min interval.

Cavan's new bed cleaned during contractions

After I finished cleaning, I decided to sms Clem to see what time he was returning and told him I was having bad cramps. Meanwhile, I went to take a shower and Clem was back. The cramps were getting worse and I had to bend over while showering and continue when they ended.

By this time, the duration of contractions was 45 sec.

Clem called the Dr and reported the stats. We were summoned to his clinic so we quickly packed our bags and were ready to go. Oh, wait, I paused. I haven't taken a bikini pic! (I took one on 38th wk while having Cavan.) It sounded like a ridiculous request at this point but we took anyway.

No stretchmarks again!

6pm - Back to Gynae

Duration of contractions: 60 sec.
I was the next to see Dr the moment I reached his clinic. "Hi Soann, you look very comfortable for a person who is having contractions!" He performed a check and remarked that most women would be screaming at this point. Maybe you're screaming inside, he joked. Yep, he was right.

Ok, I'll see you at the hosp at 8. The baby should come out by midnight. Go and have a nice dinner.

As we were about to leave, suddenly Dr asked the assistant to put me on CTG just to be safe. So I was strapped with the transducer. I asked if I could be strapped standing up. Really felt terrible to lie down. Of course the answer was no. But I could lie on my side.

Tracking the fetal heartbeat

After 10 min, another assistant came to check on the chart and exclaimed that due to my position, the machine couldn't read properly so we had to redo. Argghhh... do I have to stay here longer, I screamed silently. Ok, I said calmly and noting my discomfort, I was given a cushion to prop me up.

Finally we could go. In the car, we were discussing where to go for dinner. How about the famous chicken rice shop? Oh, or the Hong Kong cafe? I was squirming in my seat and began to take long deep breaths to cope with the contractions when suddenly Clem said he wanted to pump petrol and swerved into a petrol station. My dear hub was unaware of the predicament I was in. I think I looked too cool. He returned with a bag of snacks: potato chips, chicken in a biscuit, chocolates. I thought, huh, you think you're going to watch a movie?

I didn't think we could go for dinner anymore as I was getting increasingly uncomfortable. I was afraid I would become uncontrolled. At most, pack. At the rate I was going, I'd frighten the diners. Let's just check into the hosp.

I had to wait for one contraction to end before making my way from carpark to lobby. But as soon as I got out of the car came another. I had to lean and press my palms on the car, like a thief who was caught. Must be quite a sight for the passing vehicles on the main road. But who cares? The contraction was consuming my mind totally.

After it ended, we walked as quickly as we could. Then came another wave but I gritted my teeth and walked up the stairs. After admission, the kind hearted nurse wanted to put me on the wheelchair but I felt better walking so I walked my way to the labour ward.

7.40pm - Labour Ward

Got dressed in the labour ward while Clem did some registration and nurses called Dr for update. The nurse wanted me to lie down so I could be strapped with tranducers (again!) to track fetal heartbeat. I refused to lie down and leaned on the counter for support. I asked not to be strapped but they had to report to Dr on the reading. I think it took me quite some time before I walked to my bed and just stood there, still refusing to lie down. The patient nurse waited and later asked me if I wanted gas. At that point, yes, anything that helped. So I sucked in the gas greedily and hey presto! Suddenly I was transported to lala-land. My head felt woozy and I had to lie down as I was losing my balance. Clever nurse.

Perhaps my labour was progressing too quickly. I didn't get the routine enema nor the shave. (Shucks. And I was looking forward to a free, painless Brazillian.) A short while later, I heard Clem's voice and I felt relieved that support had come. Then the nurse told him he could wait at the family lounge! Wait! Did anyone ask me for permission? I called out to Clem but my voice was too feeble... I felt my helpline fading...

The intervals were getting shorter and the nurses wanted to transfer me to the wheelchair and wheel me to the delivery ward. But I was not in the state to move. I was so crippled by the contractions. So the nurses waited patiently and I stubbornly refused to budge. Then I asked feebly, "Can I bring along the gas mask?" "Yes, we've prepared the gas for you in the delivery room." "No, I want to bring this along with me!!" I cried desperately. "You can't! The mask is fixed to the wall!!"

Argghhh!

The nurses discussed among themselves privately and decided to push my whole bed to the delivery room. They told me that they were going to take away the mask and the delivery room was just next door. Noooo...!

The scene next was a drama. My "clutch" was removed from me and the nurses heaved and pushed the bed as fast as they could, knocking into every possible obstacle in the way. I was sitting up, refusing to lie down, trying to grab the nurse, pounding on the bed, wailing "Gas! Now!" as they pushed me across the corridor. Anyone who saw me then might never want to have kids.

8.20- In the Delivery Room

The nurse said that I was already 8cm dilated (10cm means baby can pop out). I asked how do you know. You didn't even check! The nurse replied, I don't know. That's what Dr said.

I got into the flow of the rhythm, getting as much gas as I could when I felt the wave of the contraction building up and removed the mask when it went down. For my first birth, I relied on the monitor. Once I heard the "galloping" sound (which means contractions building up), I would quickly grab my gas mask. Even when it went down, I still refused to let go. That left my head spinning. This time round, more seasoned. Even though I struggled with the pain, I listened to my body and was able to control my intake of gas.

Finally, Clem came and it was at the right time. By then, I was struggling so much the nurses were shouting, "Mommy, don't jump off the bed!" and they were so afraid I would fall off. Dunno why but I felt better lying as close to the edge of the bed as possible and grabbing the bed bar as far back as possible. Clem poured baby oil and massaged my lower back and hips furiously to ease the pain while commanding the whole parade, "In and blow! In and blow!" with the nurses as the chorus. Everytime a contraction ended, the nurse would encourage, "Going down. Veeeery good. Keep going." I realised that rhythm was very important during labour. Just kept you in the routine and going.

I kept my eyes closed throughout. I found that once I opened my eyes, the sense of reality would hit in my awake-ness and somehow I found it hard to manage. With my eyes closed, I was still in my lala-land and it felt better in a semi-awake state.

A deceitfully peaceful look between contractions

The contractions got stronger and more intense and I had the urge to push. The nurses yelled, "Don't push yet! Dr's not here yet! You'll tear yourself!" I didn't care, it felt better pushing than resisting the urge. It was cathartic to follow what was natural to your body's instinct. Think I was getting rather violent due to the strong contractions. They had to pin my legs down and later Clem told me that I actually kicked one of the nurses.

Suddenly, I heard a pop and a slight splashing sound. Sounded like a water bomb hitting the ground. Everyone exclaimed, "Oh!" I burst my own water bag while pushing.

Next, I was asked to lie on my back. I refused. After more coaxing, I relented. I vaguely heard the nurse told Clem, "Dr said don't check (the dilation). But do you want to check. If you give permission. I'll do it." Clem permitted and the nurse reported that I was 9cm.

After another contraction and push, I felt the nurse meddling with my intimates and at the next contraction and push, I felt a warm sensation below and Clem exclaimed, "I can see the baby's head... The baby's out!"

I thought he was kidding. Or trying to make me feel better. Then I heard baby cries. Where did it come from... it's MY baby!

I couldn't believe it! It was faster than I had expected. I didn't have to push as hard as I did with Cavan. On hindsight, perhaps because I didn't have to put my legs on the pedestal cos it somehow impeded the ability to push. If Dr were around, he would have insisted cos he would have done an episiotomy. This time without an episiotomy, I tore on my scar on my 1st birth. However, it did not hurt as much. Then Dr arrived and expressed his disappointment in missing the birth.

Cradling my little girl

I was pretty pleased with the whole event. I thought it would take longer since Dr said baby should be out by midnight. No no no, she came out in less than 2 hours after I checked in. I guess my cool demeanour deceived Dr into thinking he still had time hence he missed the birth. Ha!

A New Addition to the Yee Family... Verity Yee

Verity decided to come on the dot and arrived on 29 August 2007. She was in such a hurry to come out that she popped out before my gynae came, less than 2 hours after I was admitted to the hospital. More stories on the birth later.


In the meantime... a picture with Daddy & Mummy.

Verity Yee, born 29/8/07, 2121 hrs
2.7 kg, 47 cm

Cavan's 1st Friends

Cavan enjoys playing with Jedi these days and asks everyday if we are going to Jedi's house. One night, as we were returning from Dan & Evan's, I asked him, "Do you like Jedi?"

He replied, "Yes! I like Jedi!"

And on his own accord, he added, "Also like Faith, also like Bernice."

These are the 1st 4 babies of Ichthus. Since then, we've multiplied to coming 10. (Josh, Krisalyn, Seraphine, Erika, Claris and Baby Yee #2). Very productive, aren't we? I pray these kids will grow up to be men and women of God, shining brightly, serving and loving God.

The 4 kiddos: Growing up
Cavan at 4 mos, Faith at 7 mos

4 babies' dedication on Christmas Day 2005 (along with a twin). Bernice partially hidden in pic.

Chinese New Year 2006

The tumbletots

Cavan 16 mos, Bernice 11 mos

At Bernice's 2nd Birthday party How we've grown!

Not Ready

Babe was already down but position was not correct. She was facing up. Dr said if she were still facing up during delivery, I’d scream like mad. At the same time, I was not dilated yet. These sounded worrying to me. When I had Cavan, I was already dilated 3 weeks before EDD. Why did it seem more difficult this time? Didn’t they say 2nd one would be faster, earlier?

Dr then exclaimed happily, hey it was unusual to have baby facing up near full term, so can do 3D scan. Will be a beautiful pic.

Thanks so much for the optimism.

Baby dreams

Babe is still in there... thank God.

I was negotiating with her not to come out too quickly as I was involved in organising a week-long event for my organisation last week. After so much preparation, I just HAD to be there for the action. Everyday, my colleagues were prepared that I would not turn up, or go into labour. When Friday came, they marvelled at how "obedient" my babe was, still in there! Of course, how could she come out without "parental consent"?

After Friday, I've been having dreams. A dream of holding her in my arms. A dream of my bulging tummy going flat (or rather, flab). Another dream more shocking, babe is not a gal, it's a boy!

My colleague said, to my amusement, babe must be sending dreams to me asking for permission to come out. Err... ok, but things aren't ready yet. Moreover, she isn't due till next Wed so I'll feel so cheated if it's anytime earlier.

Hang in there!

Innovation Baby

Cavan was termed “SQA Baby” cos he was in my tummy when I busied with SQA in 2004. This baby was termed “Innovation Baby” cos I busied with Innovation.

Today, I got a scare. Was running errands for the preparation at Bras Basah when I slipped off a flight of slippery stairs. Thank God I wore pants that day (I seldom do!) otherwise my fall would have been worse. I only suffered bruises and a bleeding toe.

Babe was still blissfully sleeping. Cushioned by mommy.

Preparing for #2

#2 is due to come next month. People asked if I'm ready. Me ready? I'm more pre-occupied with whether Cavan is ready. Aiya no prob lah, kind friends offered. Cavan seems to like babies a lot!

True.

Cavan loves to go to babies and stroke their little faces. He would ask mommies about their babies. Whenever he sees someone pushing a stroller, he would run up to them to see their babies. Even when he flips a book and sees a pic of a baby, he would kiss the pic.

Yes. He likes babies a lot. But he can say goodbye to these. For #2, she's here to stay. Different story.

Maybe I worry too much. But the last thing I want, is to rob my dear son of his sense of security. I'm so afraid that he will transform from an affable little boy to one that is withdrawn and whiny, as I so often heard from parents who had #2.

Pray that we as parents will be sensitive to his needs and behaviour. Hope our parents and friends will be too.

It’s a Girl!

People have been commenting how my tummy protrudes out, so it must be a boy. As usual, the theories. Today’s detailed scan confirmed it’s a girl!

Cavan was there to see his mei-mei. But to him, it may seemed like a monotone animation without dialogue. The only sound the animation had was a chi-gog chi-gog galloping sound of his sister’s heartbeat.

A Sibling for Cavan

Initially I thought end 2006 would be a good time for Junior #2. But there were other schedules overridding the plan. I was offered by my company to take up a 9-month course, starting in July '06 till May '07. After that, need to serve 1-year bond. Take it, my colleagues goaded. After that, take maternity leave and shave 3 months off the bond! Good idea.

But still need to have some responsibility right. So we counted to make sure I needn't to leave halfway through my course. Okies... a good time to start planning would be Oct '06. Wait, wait, wait... I already signed up for the marathon so must wait till Dec!

So there, now I'm 19 wks.

Bump not showing much. Managed to keep the news from my parents till 2 weeks ago when Cavan started to chant "Got baby, got baby" while perching out his little tummy. My aunt got suspicious for a whole week (or 2) and finally pulled me aside and interrogated me. Finally, the truth was out. If I hadn't confessed it, they couldn't even tell...

Boy? Girl?

We wanted a surprise for our first baby. For the 2nd, we figured it was more interesting to find out the gender. Friends joked that we were more likely to have boys than gals cos we were meat lovers. And Dar always thought well of his vigour (ahem!).

However, we suspected that this time round should be a gal. Cos we suspected that she was conceived right after our 42.195 km marathon. Either that or that day when Dar was nursing a flu. Go figure.