Hello, Dad?

This was taken a couple of months ago when Daniel was still learning how to walk. The next thing I knew, he was on the phone and pretending to talk to someone.

How observant!

Sleeping Prince

There are times when I can’t help but take photos of Daniel while asleep. I love how wonderful this toddler is. I feel like squeezing him all the time!

The Happy Walker

Daniel will be 18-month-old soon and has grown into a smart and happy toddler and a happy walker. He has long abandoned his crib and now seldom uses his stroller to go places. He prefers walking and has expanded his playground to the lawn where he can enjoy the colorful flowers and lush greenery.

He also loves dancing, which makes him popular among relatives, neighbors, and even among my mother’s co-workers. He loves his Brainy Baby videos, which are extremely effective to soothe his tantrums.

Although Daniel likes watching his videos, he prefers being read to and likes to look and point at illustrations. He can identify photos of the following: banana, apple, Coke, bird, car, duck, chicken, ball, flower, tree, baby, mommy, and daddy. He also attentively listens to his favorite children stories.

Daniel started talking last month and has expanded his vocabulary by early June. He now uses words and actions to effectively communicate what he needs and wants. While some kids have mama or papa as their first words, Daniel first uttered the words banana (his favorite) and Coke.

I love being a mom and I’m happy to see my son’s progress every day. I can’t wait for him to have full mobility so he can just tag along with us wherever we go.

Inspirational Video | Encouragement

This video ad is based on a true story. A Facebook friend posted a link to this on his wall. This video shows that even the most embarrassing situations can be turned into something that will teach everybody a lesson.

Encouragement is one of the best gifts a parent can give to his or her child: it can be done anytime and it’s free.

Hope you’ll enjoy the video after the jump [Click here to read more about this entry...]

3D Ultrasound and Our First Glimpse of Baby Daniel

Perhaps all pregnant women will agree with me when I say that one of the most awaited pregnancy moments is when you get to listen to your baby’s heartbeat for the first time; or better yet, when you get your first glimpse of him while he is still in your tummy.

Looking at Daniel for the first time

Our experience was no different. We rushed to St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City as soon as our obstetrician advised us that we could have pictures of our baby taken through 3D ultrasound. Unfortunately, Daniel was not too cooperative during our first session so we had to go back for another session, and boy, was it worth everything!

The experience was priceless. As soon as we saw the first image, we felt a rush of love for this beautiful being inside my womb. I cannot quite believe that God has just entrusted this little miracle to us. Needless to say, we brought home his 3D ultrasound images, intending to cherish them until we are able to cradle him in our arms.

More photos after the jump [Click here to read more about this entry...]

Daniel’s 16th Month Milestones | Baby’s 16th Month Milestones

My son turned into a curious 16-month-old four days ago and before I knew it, I was already running after his tiny and agile form across the room. Yes, Daniel is now a full-fledged walker who freely trots in and out of my room, reducing the whole house into his own version of a mulch-less park.

Now, I completely understand my mother when she said that I won’t be able to rest when my son starts to walk. Good thing I still manage to take some [cat] naps–thanks to our yaya who relieves me from my motherly duties a few hours a day. No doubt, with a little help, motherhood has become so much enjoyable when I get to spend time with Daniel and, at the same time, enjoy some “me” time: 3x a week massage, facials, manicure and pedicure, and a dose of reality TV.

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What to Buy for Your Newborn Baby | Shopping for Newborn Clothes and Accessories

Shopping for newborn clothes and whatnots is an exciting and exhilarating experience. But it can also be quite overwhelming, especially for newbie parents. It is therefore important to come up with a comprehensive checklist that outlines the things that are absolutely essential and those that may be done away with. It is also helpful to compare notes with other mothers. I find it particularly less stressful to check other mom blogs and websites for tips on newborns.

Stick to the basics

Welcoming a baby to the family can put a toll on the family budget if you are not careful with your expenses. For the first few weeks, it would be practical to only buy the basics. Also, other people may give presents; if you buy only the basics, you reduce the chances of buying doubles.

What are these basics? First, you would need a layette and a set of newborn clothes. You would need a special going-home outfit, for the benefit of those who eagerly wait that day when you bring home your baby. Do not forget to buy gentle and scent-free laundry detergent for your baby’s clothes.

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