Mummy's Angel

The Innocent Beauty Of A Child

2011-11-04T17:01:00.002+08:00

Yesterday, you tried to give mummy an open-mouthed kiss. Lately, mummy's caught you looking curiously at mummy and daddy in the midst of kissing. Several times now you have given me pecks on the lips that are more passionate and how shall I put this, 'lingering'. What you did yesterday though brought tickles right to mummy's belly. You had your little face right in front of mine, you drew your face nearer as you usually do when you want to give mummy a smack on the lips but this time you opened your mouth. Oh the innocence of a four year old! I moved back and smiled. I then told you that is a special kiss that only mummy's and daddy's do. Little children kiss like this (and I give you a firm kiss on your lips) or like this (and I peck your rosy red cheeks this time). You smile shyly at mummy and I grin right back at you. Mummy tries to explain further to make sure you understand but you avoid my gaze. I know you understand and are starting to feel a little self-conscious. Subject dropped immediately.

You enjoy telling mummy stories, your own made-up fairy tales most of the time. There are a lot of pauses in between where you think so very hard of an interesting continuation. You have now started to enjoy Disney immensely. And so your stories end with, "....and they fall in love. THE END". The whole girly-princess phase has started! And so soon too. Mummy's pretty sure Shan has her pretty princess magic wand in all of this! That's ok, it was bound to happen sooner or later.

All that shines and glitters. You don't like it unless it shines. If it's a dress, it better be glittery! When mummy puts on make-up, so must you. Well, actually not anymore; mummy's now set some rules. Little girls get make-up on special occassions selected and applied only by mummy. Why? Because mummy is an adult, and when you become one, you can have all the make-up you want!

Inside and out, you are perfect exactly the way you are. Don't ever let anyone tell you otherwise. It is impossible to love others if you do not love yourself.

Love always,

Mummy

A quick reminder....

2011-09-15T17:35:00.001+08:00

No matter what....

i love you, you say.

I LOVE YOU, i return.

God Bless You mummy's sweet angel.

Love,

Mummy

Potty Training

2009-12-04T07:14:00.004+08:00

Elil & the kangaroos with Uncle Mark's eye. A recent trip to the zoo.

We were at the playground after many kakak-less months a few days ago. The shabby, two swing, one dilapidated slide playground. The one where you met your first friends. Ru Yee is two months older than you. On the first few meetings, her Popo insisted that you two look alike. Mummy kind of agreed with her. There was a resemblence. Not anymore. I can't say how you have both changed, other than growing bigger of course. Then there is Chun Chieh who is a month older than you but was double your size when you first became friends. He was the clever one whos's mother taught him everything. Such good manners he has. A year older than you, is Chia Yee who's Popo brings to the playground in his stroller. Then there is Viyashly (I'm sure I have got the spelling wrong) and Sumathi. Two sisters a few years older than you. You are like a doll to them. They help you up and down the stairs and carry you around. Their daddy jogs round the field as they play in the playground.

On this day at the playground, mummy noticed one thing. You were the only one with a bulky bottom. Still in diapers. Oh no! Mummy's been meaning to get you out of those but just have'nt had the time. Your pink potty has been sitting with your pile of toys forever, brand spanking new. So yesterday, mummy made you go diaperless. You seemed a little confused at first but accepted it without a fuss. You understood that every time you need to either go shee shee or poo poo, you have to tell mummy or Kakak Novie and we will rush you to the potty and you can do your business there. It can't be this easy? There has to be more to potty training, mummy thought to herself. Of course! A reward for such admirable behaviour! One Smartie for every shee shee and Two Smarties for every poo poo in the potty. So, day one, 100% shee shee and 90% poo poo was in the panties. The remaining 10% poo poo was in the potty. You informed mummy of your business a little too late and Mr. Potty managed to catch only the leftovers. No Smarties were rewarded. Let's see how today goes....

PS - We may need to start brushing your teth 3 times a day very soon.

And mummy was worried of how much love she would have....

2009-11-11T11:31:00.003+08:00

It's true that when you have more children you need not worry about dividing your love because it automatically multiplies itself with every child. However, no one ever warned mummy about how physically I am divided. Mummy wishes she could be multiplied, or at least have 1.5 times my current body width and two extra arms.

The night mummy had to be rushed to the hospital, I was angry when I put you to bed. Mummy was exhausted and you refused to go down. That night at the hospital, as you slept at home with kakak Mon, mummy was feeling such deep regret. How could my last night with you, as mummy's only angel end with such frustration and anger? If I had known, I would have let you stay up as long as you wanted, we would have been in your play room together. Playing the night away....

You share mummy (and daddy) now with little Nila Anandi. Your joyful baby sister. You must know however, that our love for you grows more and more each day as you grow into your own little person. It matters not how many little siblings you may have. Oh I wish I could give you more of me! I know it sounds silly. Afterall, mummy is with you 24/7 and utterly miss you even if you are away from me for an hour!

You visited mummy at the hospital after Nila arrived. As they wheeled mummy to the maternity ward, you lay beside me on the bed. It was nice to feel your hug. 3 whole nights away from you. A nurse rolled Nila into mummy's room for a feeding the next morning. You were there and seemed excited. You peeked at the new baby through the crib bars. Your first word to her was a command, "walk!" you demanded. All around burst into laughter. Can't wait to play with her already.

In the past months, you have shown very different reactions and responses to the newcomer, some include; rolling on top of Nila, trying to gouge her eyes out, tight hugs and sloppy kisses, gentle nudges to hard kicks. Hand squeezes that are a little too hard, pressure on her belly. You once dropped the biggest heaviest story book you have on Nila's face, ON PURPOSE. You did this very unsuspectingly. Walked by Nila pretending you wanted a story read to you and suddenly you just slam the book on Nila's face. It hit her forehead, bruised a couple of days. Other than that she was fine. It's a love hate relationship I tell Dr. Chua. He tells mummy this is normal and tends to settle between 6 and 12 months. You have shown signs of improvement but mummy must be careful still. You make Nila cry quite a bit but are very clever to make her laugh as well. She loves you. And mummy is sure she can't wait to grow bigger and play with her 'cheh cheh'. And I'm sure you are just as excited!

Cooling Down With Daddy

2009-02-03T15:13:00.006+08:00

Taking a few moments to cool down during our recent trip to Lokkawi Wildlife Park. You share an ice-cream with your favorite guy, Daddy Doo Doo.

At 19 months you are a charmer!

2009-01-13T09:02:00.010+08:00

Mummy doesn't know where to begin. Your developments in the last 1 month have been outstanding to say the least. Somehow our trip back to KK for Christmas triggered something in you. It unleashed the cheeky personality in you. The moment the aeroplane took off for mummy's beloved homeland, you began to show your true colors....

1. As the plane took off, as usual it rumbles and rattles. Unlucky for us, this aircraft was particularly shaky and it got mummy a little nervous. I'm sure you felt it too. Immediately you had your palm on your chest and you tapped yourself gently, a gesture to calm yourself down in times of fear. This is the first time you did this out of fear. Mummy was plesantly surprised.

2. The last time we were in KK was August 2008. You have grown so much since. In December, you were more aware of your surroundings, grandma and grandpas home was unfamiliar, new. You instantly reconized and warmed up to grandma and grandpa but the place made you a little insecure. So although you played with grandma, grandpa and aunty Meriel, mummy always had to be in sight. And when mummy was out of sight, "mummy mummy mummy" you would call out. I was so pleased to hear this because although you knew how to say mummy, you never actually called out for mummy. This was a first. The long awaited first and boy was mummy delighted! Now its mummy this and mummy that. And you are pretty addicted to saying "daddy daddy" too, which sometimes comes out, "diddy diddy".

3. Days later as we were spending time in grandmas garden (a lot of time was spent in the garden), you spotted a grasshopper. Mummy brought you closer and you became nervous. You had your palm tapping on your chest again. This time, you said, "cared cared" over and over. Aww, my little angel was scared of the grasshopper. As usual mummy is taken over with happiness every time you learn or say something new. You picked up on this pretty quick and before we all knew it, you were chest tapping and going "cared cared" for every little thing. The honk of the gas truck, or the the dog barking at a distance, the 2" high step outside grandpas door step, even an ant crawling past you. Such a charmer!

4. You also came up with a name for your cucut. You never really called it anything before, you would just cry out for it. In KK you started calling it, "tutut teh". Mummy thinks it means, "cucut. there!".

5. Your appetite reduced. You refused solids and didn't finish your milk. Your sleep patterns changed as expected. How to sleep when you got your two favorite cousins to play with 24/7? Mummy was worried and devastated; that was until I noticed 6, yes 6 gigi protruding from your gums all at once! There remains 1 incisor that has yet to sprout out from your gums but already you have your first molars, 2 top ones at each side and 2 bottom ones on each side. So the inside of your mouth looks a little funny now. No sign of the cuspids yet; those would be the pearly whites in between the incisors and molars. I guess that would explain the loss of appetite and yea the runs which lasted a few days.

6. And then there's your speech. Mummy doesn't know where to begin. So many words so many expressions. You pick up words in a snap of the fingers!

am-ma = grandma

am-pa = grandpa

Since we have been back to KL you don't use it anymore because we are so far away. But you get to talk to them when you feel like it.

beech = beach

We were at the beach twice this time round. You enjoyed the second trip because the water was calm and you sat in the water filling your bucket with sand. We walked toward the horizon hand-in-hand with daddy as the sun set and grandpa looked on. Would have been fantastic if someone got a shot of that. You mention beach sometimes, mummy's sure you reminisce and want to go back. We will bring you to a beach one of these days when daddy's back.

You say butterfly but mummy can't figure out how to spell your pronounciation out. The 'fly' comes out clear though. The 'butter' part is a blur to mummy. Daddy is much better at making out your speech.

Animals are still your favorite. You say, tortoise, bird, fish, horse, very clearly now.

Fog = Frog

There was a lost baby frog in grandmas toilet. We spotted it one day, you seemed to take pleasure in seeing a real life frog. Then, for days you refused to take baths. You would make a fuss when mummy tried bathing you. And would cry throughout and cling on to me like there was no tomorrow. I wondered why the sudden change from being unable to pull you away from the water to refusing to even get your head wet. Alas, mummy figured it out. It was the frog that you feared and not the water. Mummy called grandma to the rescue. She picked Mr. Froggy baby out and instantly you were glued to the gayung, tap and water again. I think this little angel is taking scaredy-cat-ness after her mummy.

Ice = Rice or Ice

Oi-idge = Porridge

Momom = Food or Eat

Nennen = Means you want your milk

Mon = For kakak Mon

Eni = For kakak Yeni

Pati = Pati

Oo-Yi = Ru Yee (your friend at the playground)

You love going to the playground. You just love kids in general. Your eyes light up at the mention of Ru Yee. She is about a month older than you and you guys kind of look alile. Recently you have learned to appreciate the slide. Mummy lets you do everything (pretty much) on your own. You climb the stairs with minimal help and slide down all on your own. No 'cared cared' business. Even if you fly down the slide! You are more thrilled the faster you go. The swing is still something we need to get used to.

7. Your facial expressions. There are no words to describe this. The way you flash your teeth when mummy asks you to show your gigi. You enjoy making funny faces for no reason at all. You will do this for anyone and at any given time. Those eyes of yours just light up. Those lips curl in and you twitch your nose. It's just hilarious. Mummy can sit down all day just admiring this little person that is you. With all your comical and cheeky ways. And you know this, you know your mummy adores you. And daddy is so in love with you too.

The many more faces of you....

Don't know where this came from.

Say, "gigiiiiii" or "teethhhhhh"

You do this occassionally, mummy's not too sure why

This is you wanting something and not getting it

8. Latest updates, twice you have poohed in the toilet seat. Since KK you have started to use the word "poo-poo". You usually alarm mummy once a poo-poo has been made and sometimes when a fart erupts. So mummy's been telling you to give me a clue before Mr. Poopsie decides to come out. Twice you have done so since, and twice you have done your business on the toilet seat. Yesterday was the second time and boy were you interested in your poopsie. You kept turning around to check-it-out. Stretching out your hand wanting to, "tahch-tahch".

I just needed to get a quick one in and tell you....

2008-12-16T09:47:00.002+08:00

....you are beautiful beyond description,
Too marvelous for words,
Too wonderful for comprehension,
Like nothing ever seen or heard....

And I LOVE YOU

xxx

mummy

The Things You Say & Do 2

2008-11-20T09:10:00.004+08:00

Just a quick update for you boo boo.

Your vocabulary grows everyday and everday you amaze me with how quick you pick words up and how vast your understanding is. So here are some words mummy can think of for now....

When asked, "What's your name?" You reply very consistently, "Ehyi".
When asekd "What's the dog's name?" You reply very consistently, "Ehyi". Hilarious you are sweetie. Cracks me up everytime.

You sing so well. In tune too. You know how to change your tone according to how mummy sings. So if mummy sings 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' gently, so do you. You soften your voice and follow me. This is how we sing together:

Mummy: "Twinkle twinkle little star...." At the same time, You: ".......tarrrrr...."
Mummy: "How I wonder what you are...." You: "(humming the words).....are...."
Mummy: "Up above the world so high...." You: "Papabuv......."
Mummy: " Like a diamond in the sky...." You: "....a dai..........skai...."
Mummy: "Twinkle twinkle little star...." You: ".........tarrrrrr...."
Mummy: "How I wonder what you are...." You: "(humming the words).... are...."

You also sing to the chorus of the Taio Cruz song, "She's Like A Star". Of course, your favorite part is " She's like a starrrr...tarrr....tarrr....."

Toyz/Doyz = Toys

You get excited when mummy asks, "Shall we go up and play with your toys now?" right after dinner. I think this has become a ritual. You lead me to your play room and you run straight into your igloo tent and lie down on your pillow. You play around in there for about 5 minutes before you dask to your table and grab one of your giant books. You flip through the pages and point at the pictures wanting me to tell you a story.

Ohtt = Hot

You know very well what hot is. You show signs of caution and fear when mummy points at something and says, "hott". You point at a steaming kettle and say, "Ohtt!".

Bahh = Bus

When you say, "Bahh" you refer not only to buses but trucks and lorries too. Cement trucks, mobile cranes, tractors, you name it. Any automobile that's bigger than a four wheel drive is a "bahh" to you.

You have begun the first step in counting. When we say, "One..." you say, "twoooo". Sometimes it sounds a little like,"Doooo".

Bert = Bird
You have always loved watching birds fly in the sky. Especially when its a flock flying above us. This gets you all excited, pointing to the sky screaming, "bert bert bert!".

Barmey = Barney
Your favorite purple dinosaur. Since moving you have not been able to watch this great guy on TV. Daddy has yet to organize his AV system so we are TVless for the moment.

Ai-oh/ Ai -yu = I love you
You try very hard to get all three words together but only manage to get the "I love" or the "I you". It's so cute that you are eager to get it right. It's right either way baby and WE love you too!

Boo = Moon
You know the moon and you know the sun. Somehow you can't get the word "sun" out though.

Boo = Moo (the sound the cow makes)
Again mummy has to say, you love love love animals. Especially when mummy imitates a sound. You just go nuts.

Doosh = Juice
I love this one. I really do. Everytime you say,"doosh",mummy just falls in love. It really is so adorable. Any colored liquid in a glass is "doosh". You like mummy's fresh milk "doosh".

Wowerr = Flower
You point at a flower and say, "wowerr". Mummy plucks it and hands it over to you. Again you will say, "wowerr" and immediately start tearing the petals apart. Haha!

There are so many words that mummy just can't think of right now. Mummy swears you speak several languages. Several baby languages anyway. Sometimes you pick up an object and just chatting away. You seem to be talking to it. It's hilarious!

I wan't to share about your sudden need for independence and your strong will, but we'll leave that to another post k. I love you angel!

Love,

mummy

Deepavali 2008

2008-11-04T10:42:00.013+08:00

Deepavali Day:

There were these pink dangly things hanging off the bottom of you top. You pulled 'em all out before evening!

All in pink -mummy and baby.

Your cacat daddy

The night before Deepavali, a visit to your granduncle's house.

The orange ensemble a gift from your Pati.

We just got you a bubble gun. You went ballistic chasing the bubbles around.

Beemah didn't want to miss out on all the fun as well.

You want to make you own bubbles and daddy's teaching you how.

Bonding with Aunty Carol on Deepavali afternoon.

The Things You Say & Do

2008-10-20T10:16:00.003+08:00

Your vocabulary is quickly expanding, mummy can't keep up....

Haiyo/Ehyo = Hello
You welcome your daddy home with a hello and sometimes when you meet strangers too. When the phone rings, you put your hand to your ear and say 'haiyo'.

Ehyee/Ehlee = Elephant
Ohrs = Horse

You love animals. Lions, bees, elephants and horses in particular. You don't know how to say lion but you are sure good at roaring like a lion.

Ais = Eyes
Nos = Nose

"Where's your nose Elil?" You grab your nose. "Where's mummy's nose Elil?" You grab mummys nose. "Where are your eyes?" You bat those bright eyes like nobodys business. Hehe. You point at your mouth, ears and fingers when asked where these parts are.

Bye = Bye

You have been waving bye-bye for the longest time now but only recently have you learned to say it. A simple and short bye.

Ehyi = Elil

You say your name pretty well. Yesterday Aunty Pu Nie asked you what your name is and you answered, 'Ehyi'. Mummy and daddy were pleasantly suprised.

Atu = Satu

Your kakak teaching you how to count in BM already.

You love dancing. Anything upbeat gets you moving. Nowadays you have different styles for different types of music. For general pop songs on the radio you do your head nodding move. You nod your head back and forth and move your body to the beat. This is can be done sitting or standing up. You also know how to do a little Indian dance. You got the basics from Shan who is self-taught by watching cultural shows on TV. And I think your Pati enforced the moves further. Now when you hear music on the Tamil channels you immediately get into position. Getting into position means you first bend your knees until you are almost in a squatting position (not sure how you can do this for so long coz mummy tried and it hurts). Then, you put your hands up in the air, the right one slightly higher than the left. You loosen your wrist muscles and take a couple of steps back and forth while twisting your wrists. All this in rhythm with the beat. Somehow you manage to bob your head up and down too. This is just too cute for mummy.

Si Mata Juling

2008-10-14T12:00:00.001+08:00

2008-10-14T11:32:00.009+08:00

Mummy, I want to main air.

Elil looking up mummy's blouse:
Ooh what do we have here....

I wanna see. I wanna see.

Hmm...interesting....

Mummy's life savers are really yummy

Hehe...I triumph after all.

2008-10-14T08:34:00.004+08:00

You are now 16 months! How fast time flies. Mummy's angel is turning into quite the social butterfly. It's a good thing by the way. You fear almost no one. Any stranger with a warm, smiley and friendly face is a friend in no time. You are ever curious and active. Since learning to walk it seems like you never want to stop. You are the longest lasting battery mummy knows. You are pleasant and jolly. Always the happy baby...oops...toddler. You're still my baby. Mummy has a feeling you will make either a good lawyer or a talk show host. The house is always alive with your chatter. You talk A LOT. ALL the time. It's amazing listening to you. You seemed to have developed your very own language. Mummy and daddy try very hard to understand you but I guess we are not so advanced and can't quite reach your level.

Colorful and blinking lights amaze you. Last night we were driving around after dinner, trying to get you to fall asleep. (Since Paris your night time sleeping patterns have changed. You now sleep at 11pm.) You were already half way to lala land but as we drove around some new housing estates, your half-open eyes spotted some Raya deco - colorful blinking lights. Instantly you spring off mummy's chest. Eyes wide and bright, excitement in your voice and movements, hands stretched out wanting to grab the lights. You grab the door handle and tug on it. " We can't go down sweetheart, the family is asleep and we need to go home and rest as well. Say bye-bye to the lights." Reluctantly you wave your hand bye-bye. You fall back asleep in another 15 minutes, it is 11pm.

It seems we have a cheeky little angel in our hands. Your latest favorite thing to do is pick up the remote and slam it on the floor until the battery cover snaps off and the batteries fall out. And as usual you grab a battery and put it in your mouth. All remotes now must be located on higher grounds.

It takes you under a minute to climb a flight of stairs on all fours. You sometimes hold the railing and walk up but this takes longer and you don't have the patience. No such thing as both feet on one landing. You take your strides like a big person.

Kak Mon taught you to main mata some time ago. Nowadays you do it all the time (and to everyone) just for the fun of it. It isn't the normal main mata neither. Your version is more 'lingering'. You leave those lids closed for just a second longer. It looks like you are flirting or you could pass off as being sleepy too. Those heavy eyelids. It's adorable. Some foreign lady on our flight back to Malaysia from Paris after seeing those batting eyelids commented, "You must keep any eye on this one when she grows older." Haha.

You have 4 incisors. They don't seem like they are full size yet though. Your right upper incisor is quite big but the left one is much smaller. It did come out later but has not really grown much since. You may not have many teeth but boy are they doing their job. Those are some pretty sharp pearly whites you have there boo boo. Its fun for you when mummy screams out in pain as you sink your teeth in my fingers.

The last time we weighed you you were 9.7 kg. Somehow you seem a lot heavier. We'll need to weigh you again to confirm. Your appetite has not changed. You are not a big eater just like mummy when she was younger. Your portions are small, tiny. Carrots and peas are your favorite. Surprisingly! Fruits are top on your list too. Banana being the yummiest and cempedak a close second. Papaya and oranges too. Oh and recently grapes. You are not a fan of cold and fizzy drinks. However, you do get excited when you see a cold drink being served not so much for the drink itself but the ICE. Oh the look of triumph you give me when you manage to convince (your not too hard to convince) mummy to give you a piece to suck on! Chupa chups is another weakness for you. Pasta/Macaroni and cheese is still one of your all time favorite meals. And quacker oats for breakfast. You enjoy snacking on biscuits occassionally and a slice of bread too now and then. Your milk intake is about 15-20 oz a day depending on how much solids you take.

Your yet-to-be-declared new swim suit

2008-09-23T11:13:00.007+08:00

Always the cutie. Always.

Such a classic Elil look

Check out that bum-bum. Check out that pose! Posture looking familiar....

Gosh Elil. Mummy loves you so much. And misses you tons. You are such a gift, a miracle. I can never thank God enough for giving you to me (and daddy). Blessed are we to have you in our lives.

xxx

mummy

Pony Tails

2008-09-12T08:00:00.002+08:00

You would not stay still for the camera. Your first double pony tail. Still a long way to go....slowly but surely baby boo.

Yesterday at the playground...

2008-09-12T07:43:00.006+08:00

You and your stick

All prepped for the playground. Hat. Check. Bling bling. Check. Barney bag. Check. Comfy sandals. Check. One funky baby! Check.

Did mummy over do it?

Mummy got back from work yesterday and immediately had the thought to bring you to the playground. I havent done this in a while. It was still nice and sunny outside so mummy brought your cap along. The playground up the hill is rundown and meant for older kids really. The slide is way too steep and high for you, the swings are not baby friendly and they have one of those bouncy things which is over-sized. The ground is barren around the play area. Lots of pebbles and hard soil. A bunch of older boys were playing football in the adjacent field. A few 3-4 year olds were swinging.

You are friendly one. Always approaching little toddlers and older kids. Wanting to make friends. Reaching out your hands, inching closer for a hug. You love being around people your size (or closer to your size). As much as you want to be friends with other children, somehow they don't ever seem to feel the same way. Even older kids shy away when you approach. Kesian my angel. So yesterday, kids came and went. It would truly trouble and sadden you when a kid would leave. Always you will reach your hand out and call them back, "tatatata...tatatata" you would scream out. But they would continue to walk away. Mummy thinks you are so used to spending so much time with little children and babies while staying with Shan and Ron for the last 7 months. You probably miss the hullaballoo.

Better start to the day

2008-09-08T08:35:00.004+08:00

This morning mummy left for work feeling lighter than usual. Why? Well because Baby Boo Boo decided to awake from her slumber at 6.25 am. And watching those eyes adjust to seeing mummy and being able to kiss those cheeks, lips, face, bum bum, the list goes on.... is just priceless. Giving you that tight squeeze in the morning truly makes my day. Thank you for making my day sweetheart!

xxx

mummy

You love these things....

2008-09-02T10:58:00.005+08:00

There's no way avoiding these little machines. They are up every alley in nearly every mall. You go totally nuts when you see/hear one. Mummy's on it with you every time. It was a little embarassing at first, having adults look at me moving around on this animal but mummy got used to it soon enough! As much as I try, mummy can never figure out what animals they are.

Knocked-Out!

2008-09-02T08:26:00.004+08:00

Your routine always goes out-of-whack during the weekends. What more when its a long one! It took you forever to 'go out' for your morning naps. And you refused to sleep in the afternoons. So at night, you are knocked-out by 7-8 pm. Last night we were watching Corwin's Quest on Animal Planet. Boy do you love animals, ALL animals, anything with a face! Last night's feature was on crocodiles mainly, kangaroos,monkeys and snakes too. Since learning how to walk, you can't seem to stop. You walk around in circles, back and forth, up and down. You look like a little drunkard sometimes. It took you probably a half hour to wind down last night. When mummy saw you were wobbling a little more than usual, I picked you up and sat you right next to me. As usual when you are tired, you would dig your face in anything soft and cuddly, a pillow or a stuffed toy, sometimes the lamb skin downstairs. You would lie still for several seconds in one spot then suddenly sit up in a half asleep state and find another soft spot. Yesterday, you found the perfect place to rest facing the TV on mummy's lap. In unders 60 seconds you were out. Like a log you fell asleep on me. I love that feeling. I know exactly when you knock-out. Somehow your body becomes limp and you are rested.

When you are tired and sleepy you want one of two things, your nennen or your cucu. You can't sleep without the latter. And even when you are already asleep and your 'best friend' falls lout of your mouth, your hands will move about frantically looking for it. When you finally find it, you grab it and stuff it in your mouth. Sometimes you grab it by the pacifier end and put the handle in your mouth. It's so entertaining to watch you get it the right way in. All this is done with you eyes closed and while you are still asleep. Hillarous! Mummy laughs silently every time. When I see Mr. Cucu out of your mouth and you are still soundly asleep then I know you are truly out for the night.

She Walks

2008-08-29T15:34:00.003+08:00

It was the last day in July, our flight to KK was the very next day. You had been walking with assistance from mummy for a couple of weeks. I knew you had it in you if you would only try. You seemed to want to do it on your own but always pulled back by fear. On this day you had an audience. Mummy, Aunty Otta, Uncle Allen, Kak Mon and Kak Mimin. So many cheers from every corner. The excitement, the claps and encouragement, the smiling and eager faces; all these forces combined with your strong little legs and you walked! Around 4 steps at first. Then as you saw how proud we were of your accomplishment, you refused to stop. Your next try you made it 8 steps! Woooooo! My angel walks, it's official, she's a walking toddler! I could not kiss you enough. Could not hug you hard enough. A mummy beaming with pride as she watches her little baby grow right in front of her. Ahhhh...that milestone that is such a huge step, the biggest difference between baby and toddler. How fast time flies from when we brought you home from the hospital. It's now been a month and guess what? You are eager to run! Practically flying now! Watch out world here comes Elil!

The walking video to come....

xxx

mummy

Random Elil Pix

2008-08-22T10:53:00.004+08:00

My juling friend makan sandwich

Your expanding vocabulary and responsiveness....

2008-08-21T16:11:00.005+08:00

You are a copy cat. Everything mummy says, you repeat. Shan has got two new pets, Pegasus and Star she named them. They are chickens, the small type. Ayam Semarak my colleague tells me. When we ask you, "Where's Pegasus & Star?", you point outside and say "asus tarr". Daddy is now "dedi" and you still don't say mummy. Somehow, the 'mee' just doesnt roll out so easily. Mummy's anxious now. *sigh* When its about time and you hear a car approaching outside, you go "dedi dedi dedi" whether its daddy or mummy. You let out a sharp, "Yeeeeeeee! Yeeeeeee!" when you are 'geram'. This is usually when mummy doesnt give you what you want.

You know where your eyes, nose and belly-button are. Mummy calls belly-button 'tootchi', you laugh whenever I say this word. It is a funny word come to think of it. I think its a Sabahan thing, or it could be a Wong thing. You like flowers and when mummy mentions flowers, you point at any flower you see be it a real one, plastic, embroided on your blouse or a print, in a picture frame, you name it. You are very clear on YES and NO. You nod your head for a yes and shake it left and right for a firm no. And when Kakak Mon tries to force feed you, you give her a tight slap on the cheek or a sharp pinch on the hand. This is hilarious. Serves Kakak Mon right, no more forcing!

Another thing, you have mastered the art of fake laughing. Anytime mummy and daddy laugh in your presence, you come up with your own little joke to laugh about. And then this little hilarious action makes us laugh even harder which is such a treat for you. You are so amused and entertained by this you let out an even more exaggerated laugh. This goes on and on until either baby or mummy and daddy cannot keep up.

You love books. We try to make it a habit to read to you before bed time, but this doesn't always happen. What amuses you is the flipping pages action, the colorful pictures, and the sounds mummy makes when imitating the animals. Haha! You ocassionally read on your own. Mummy doesnt disturb and watches silently. You flip the pages, sometimes the book is upside down, other times you flip back and forth between pages and you even read the back leaf. As you try to get a better grip and flip the pages of the book, you read the story aloud. Of course this is only deep mumbling and sometimes you manage to add in a tune or two. Ah such an amazing experience to watch you read!

For a while you enjoyed playing 'Round & Round The Garden' on yourself. You would point at your palm and move your finger across trying to imitate Shannon who taught you this in the first place. When mummy saw this for the first time, I thought you were pretending to write. Wah, my baby's a genius! You enjoy the first part, 'round and round the garden, like a teddy bear' but get a little stiff (smile still plastered on your face) when it gets to the last part, " a 1 step, a 2 step....a tickly under there!".

A while ago mummy wrote about your roaring like a lion. You have not forgotten this. Something new you learned during our trip to KK, roaring like a lion or tiger at the sight of:

a) A Tiger Beer trademark - mostly on kedai kopi advertising and sometimes on mummy's/daddy's beer can.

b) Maybank trademark - on any Maybank bank
So everytime you roar, we look around everywhere for either a real lion/tiger (haha) or a Tiger Beer advertisement or a Maybank.

When we say, "kai kai' or "vroom vroom" you know this means were going for a ride. Your excited face will take over and you will be kicking your legs away. Sometimes you respond by saying "broom broom".

And finally, you can walk! But this deserves a post all on its own. So watch this space.

xxx
mummy

More shots from the Zoo....

2008-07-29T15:37:00.010+08:00

Givin' you some lovin' in between animals

So pandai oh the elephants. So bodo oh the people who fed them twisties n gummies.

Seconds after daddy took this shot, all the giraffes came right up to sniff us out.

These guys were too muscular for mummy's liking

Happy Happ Joy Joy

I think this was the colorful parrot that didn't say much

Reaching out to Mr. Pony

Concentration, concentration now begins, keep the rhythm...subject

Mari kita pergi ke zoo...

2008-07-28T13:12:00.016+08:00

Bergembira disitu...

Guess what we did over the weekend? Yup you guessed it, we were at Zoo Negara. Mummy and daddy's last trip was over 2 years ago. We were there with Aunty Otta, Aunty Pu Nie and Shannona. Boy has the state of our national zoo deteriorated since then. One example, mummy and daddy were intently looking into a glass enclosure for the captive animal/reptile. We had no idea what we were looking for because the spider web infested label holder was hanging off its hinges and there was no label in sight. After a while we realized it was empty. We were staring at nothing other than crickets. There were several other lit up boxes with only crickets as inhabitants. It's in such a sad and rundown state but we still had a great time, you, daddy, Kak Mon, Kak Yeni and I.

You love animals. All animals. It's so amazing to see you react and respond to animals. The excitement in your face and actions, the sounds you make and how you lunge toward the object of desire. When you are excited over something you tend to let out a cheeky sort of laugh. This happens especially when you see your chiu chiu or when you want nennen and you see your bottle. By the way, daddy calls it cee-yu cee-yu, Kak Mon calls it cee-cee - all code language so you are not reminded of your lovey.

Anyway, back to the animals. We started off with the monkeys. I think we might have come at the wrong time because they were lazing around, picking out ticks from each other's heads. Not much movement and very little sound. So the monkeys derived little excitement from you. We continued walking and the next animals were the hip hippos. Perfect timing! They were in the midst of lunch. Show-offs they were. Posing for the camera with the hippo's trademark grin - a wide open mouth displaying a set of yellow teeth. However, it's not too attractive during lunch time when they have half-chewed grass in their mouths.

Mummy held her breath when taking this shot

A whole different level of chubbiness

Next we went to the kiddy corner which really didn't look all that kiddy-friendly. Most of the kandangs were empty and the ones that did have animals in them were in such terrible conditions. Surprisingly the little wabbits and guinea pigs looked in the pink of health. You spotted the pony from a mile away and when mummy brought you near, your legs were flying about everywhere; you couldn't wait to get near. Mr. Pony is chubby-wubby and stumpy-tumpy. Everytime mummy brought you near to touch him, you'd back away. Poor baby scared of the little pony.

Hello Mr. Pony

You would not go any nearer than this

There were kangaroos, and snakes, squirrels and alligators. We saw colorful birds. Bright pink flamingos too. Surprisingly you were not too impressed with the birds. You go a little crazy when you see the crows fly in the sky during our evening walks at Aunty Otta's. But the colorful parrots did nothing for you. You spent a while bonding with the chickens. Mummy was a little freaked by the porcupines. Somehow, I imagined them shooting their thorns at me.

Paahck paahck paahck

Oh dear

Flamingo watching

Thorn-shooting porcupines

Your favorite were the lions. Of course because you are such a pro at roaring like a lion. Finally, you got to see one of those things in real life be it from a electric gated and moted distance. The elephants were a hit with you too. Well, they're trained to perform. And some ignorant people were feeding them, no not peanuts but Twisties and Gummies! The elephant would reach out with its trunk and vacuum the goodies right off the people's hands. Then when the feeding stopped, these pandai elephants started showing little stunts, like kneeling and lifting a leg up in the air. Trying their best to get rewarded. Pretty cute if you ask me. You showed liking to the Sun Bears as well. Especially when they stood up on twos. Maybe they reminded you of Barney. That's what Kak Mon said when she saw the bears, Barney! Mummy wanted to tell her that Barney is a dinosaur and not a bear. But I didn't.

More pix on the way....

A Tooth Story

2008-07-11T09:08:00.001+08:00

Days after your birthday bash, you were ill. Teething did cross my mind but I brushed it away quicky because there have been so many teething false alarms. One morning a week after your party mummy noticed something white on your bottom gums. I rubbed my finger on it and whaddya know, its rock hard, a tooth! Mummy is so excited. Finally, you will be able to chew your food! Late in the evening, after work, mummy and daddy bring you to Dr. Lam for the second time because your fever would not subside. While waiting for our turn, mummy notices 3 other white spots on your gums. After some wrestling with you to get your mouth open, and my finger in, mummy felt 3 other teeth. No way! 4 teeth all at the same time? No wonder you were so ill. Mummy shows you to daddy and he confirms that we have 4 alright.

The next morning, mummy checks your mouth again to see how those pearly whites are coming along. To my shock, your mouth was back to its pure gumminess. No more pearly whites. They seemed to have disappeared in shyness. I am a little worried. Is this normal? So after a day of being toothful, you go back to being toothless.

Fortunately, a week or so later mummy spots two white caps at the center of your bottom gum. Daddy spots it too. This time we don't get all excited about it and keep silent until they broke out fully. Two days later, thank God the two decided to break through. They have been growing bigger ever since. So my dear little angel, for now you have two little caps to chew your mommom. Mummy got you a funky green and orange toothbrush to help you keep 'em clean. I know you don't quite have much to brush at this point but I read that its good to get you used to having a toothbrush in your mouth for when you actually do need a brush.

Chatterbox

2008-07-02T13:34:00.004+08:00

Your vocabulary is astounding. Granted your words do not sound like actual adult words. But to you they sure count as real words with real meaning. We dumb adults just need to tune ourselves into babydom before being able to understand the complex language of baby. So when you open your mouth to chatter mummy gladly joins in the conversation and boy do our conversations go on and on and on. Mummy hopes in 20 years we will still be able to have our little girl talk like this. Nowadays you enjoy pointing at different objects around you and asking, "dis?" "Dis" is actually "this". And when you say this while pointing at something, you are asking mummy what that something is. So mummy is more than happy to explain and describe. One morning, (like every other morning) you greet mummy with the sweetest smile and you immediately look down at your disney print pyjamas. You point at Daisy Duck and say, "dis?". Mummy tells you it's Daisy Duck. Then you point at Minnie Mouse and ask, "dis?" "That's Minnie Mouse baby boo". You smile. This goes on with every other character on your pyjama.

Other random words that roll off your tongue:

dada - sounds like daddy but your usage can be confusing
rara - could be Shan's doll, Sara or grandma
neneh - your chiu chiu
mama - you have said this a couple of times but you don't really use it. Mummy's still waiting
papap - you tend to say this over and over again. Not too sure what you're referring to.

And all sorts of baby talk that mummy doesn't quite get at this point. You seem to be talking a whole lot more these days. Just random jabbering depending on your mood. There are times you scream out words on top of your lungs, other times you seem to talk to yourself in a silent whisper. It's so rewarding just watching you as you go about playing on your own, or watching the tele and having these small conversations with yourself. Mummy really wonders what goes through your head. Ahhh....the wonder of you.

A different kind of birthday surprise

2008-06-28T13:49:00.001+08:00

Today is mummy's birthday! Happy Birthday Mummy! You give me a different kind of surprise. Just when we all thought you were on the road to full recovery, the fever decides to strike back. It started yesterday evening with a slight temperature. Improved after a dose of paracetemol but came back once the medication wore off. Mummy was very upset. You were in such an irritable, frustrated, exhausted condition. It didn't help that you were developing a flu. The night was restless for all three, mummy, daddy and baby. Your helpless cries, mummy hugging baby tight and you refusing to let go. Your temperature never really shot up thank God. But it was just there lingering, leaving you in discomfort. So this morning, mummy, daddy and baby are back at Dr. Lam's clinic. He refers to himself as uncle not doctor when he talks to you so mummy does the same. This time round you warmed up to him and he didn't have to cover his face with a piece of paper to avoid eye contact with you while talking to daddy. Doctor told mummy and daddy that you have somehow contracted another virus, acute coryza aka the common cold. He sent us off with more paracetemol, something for the cough and flu and saline solution drops for your blocked nose. The unexplainable and nearly unstoppable cries are because your nose is blocked and you are finding it difficult to breathe. Dr. Lam said the saline solution will help with this. Mummy sure hopes so. Well, I feel better now knowing whats causing your distress. Fingers crossed and a little prayer you will be well in 2-3 days.

xxx

mummy

Fever, purging, cough - the works

2008-06-27T14:39:00.002+08:00

It started last Wednesday with a little diarrhea. Mummy left in the morning and you felt a little warm. Grandma and Aunty Otta were closely monitoring your condition. At about 4:00pm mummy gets a call from Aunty Otta. She said you have a high fever and she sounded worried. It is unlike Aunty Otta to panic so mummy figured you must be really warm. Mummy skipped her meeting and rushed back home. Mummy took you in her arms the moment she arrived home. You were so warm. Mon had already packed your bag so Aunty Otta grabbed mummy's car keys and we were in the car in no time. Drove into town. We arrived at the first pediatrician but it was closed. We drove around for about 45 minutes before we spotted another one which was closed too. By this time, you are so exhausted from the drive that you fall asleep in mummy's arms. Mummy is thankful for this. Finally, we give up. And out of desperation decide to visit any old GP.

Dr. Wee was very nice. She took your temperature, it was 38.8 degree C. By the time we arrived the clinic, your temperature had reduced. I could feel it. She checked inside your mouth and in your ears. This was no easy task, you kept struggling and fighting back, crying like in pain. You were sick and moody, poor thing. We left the clinic after giving you one dose of paracetemol. Dr. Wee also gave you something for the cough and diarrhea. I am so glad that the good doctor avoided antibiotics.

On the way home, you slept in the car. Not a peaceful sleep, you kept tossing and turning in my lap. Mummy knows what it's like having a fever and diarrhea. Just when you manage to overcome the discomfort and fall asleep, your tummy starts to churn and everything is purged. You wake up and cry from frustration and exhaustion. My heart aches.

The fever goes up and down for the next 2 days. Your purging worsens. Your bum bum is so sore. The skin is raw and pink. Everytime you purge, it stings and you cry in pain. Mummy has to wash your little toosh and this too stings. More crying. Mummy is crying too by now. You cling to mummy and refuse to let go.

By Friday evening there are no signs of improvement. Daddy and I bring you to Dr. Lam in Taman Megah. We wait over an hour for our turn to see the doctor. He tells us it is most probably a viral fever (not bacterial that requires antibiotics) and will go down in another 2 days. The diarrhea however should improve but should take 1-2 weeks to go back to normal. In the meantime, he tells us to change you milk to a non-lactose (soya based) milk. Which we already did as advised by Dr. Wee earlier. Apparently cow's milk is acidic and this causes the skin to burn.

For the next two days, your temperature is fine during the day but increases in the wee hours of the morning, around 3:00am. Mummy gives you water every 30-45 mins and when it seems too high, a dose of paracetemol as well. The fever subsides within an hour. Your sleep is not peaceful for a week. The purging and discomfort from having a fever wake you up an average of 6 times a night. Mummy loses sleep as well. Wednesday night, one week after the first loose stool, you sleep better. No more fever. Mummy is so grateful. Your bum bum too is healing. Pooping no longer causes you pain. Relief sets in.

Today you are back to your normal self. You lost 500gm after a week of diarrhea and restless nights. Not too bad considering. Your appetite has improved and I can see the cheeks fill in a little.

THE BIG DAY

2008-06-17T10:08:00.019+08:00

Your homeade, handpainted birthday banner contributed by Mummy, Grandpa, Grandma and Aunty Meriel

Tiny polka-dot cuppies for the babies and bigger ones for the mummy's and daddy's, aunty's and uncle's. The scrumptious cuppies are from Hey Cupcakes

A yummylicious 3-tier polka-dot birthday cake & pails of fun for all your little friends. The divine cake is from Babycakes

Your Aunty Sumathi & Uncle Naveen

Mummy with Aunty Nadiya

Mummy & Aunty May sharing a joke

Mummy, Grandma, Aunty Pu Nie, Aunty Meriel and Aunty Otta

You and your Daddy

You grabbed a blue polka-dot off the cake and put the sweet stuff in your mouth

The Birthday Song

One with Mummy

More shots to come....

2008-06-12T14:46:00.006+08:00

Check out that 1 year old expression. Soo happy to be One! On the morning of your birthday, Shan knocked gently on our door and rushed in to wish you happy birthday. Such a sweetie. Both of you here muka baru bangun.

Hey mummy, please pick me up. Pretty please....

Car Model

Learing to walk on your own already. Sigh.

Happy Birthday!

2008-06-09T15:46:00.005+08:00

Little 1 year old with her mummy

Today you turn 1. And guess what we did? Daddy and mummy brought you to Doctor Chua for your 12 month check-up! Imagine that! We'll be busy next weekend with your party and mummy doesn't know when daddy will have to fly out next so your birthday it was!. Mummy dressed you all in white, you had you little shiny black shoes on and a black ribbon in your hair. So precious you looked. Doctor Chua gave you your MMR (Mumps, Measles & Rubela) jab and you burst out crying but stopped the moment daddy gave you a toy to play with. So cute.

According to Dr. Chua, you are reaching your milestones at a perfect rate. You are 75 cm tall and 8.9 kg heavy. Your stats are smack at the center of the scale for 12 month olds. So you are doing just fine. Mummy was worried you may be a little underweight but the doc confirmed you are perfect! There's nothing he can do about your toothlessness, those he says depend on your natural body clock and for some kids sprout as late as 16-18 months. Grandma says you look like a little baby still because of your gummy grin.

You walk a lot now. Not all on your own yet but with minimal assitance. You like to impress us with your standing though. Just yesterday, daddy and mummy were trying to get you to sleep on your own. So we lay down in bed and placed you in your playpen. We pretended to sleep in hopes you would eventually knock-out yourself. But instead of sleeping you stand at the edge of the pen with both your hands gripping the bar and you start talking to us trying your very best to get our attention. Mummy and daddy try hard to hold back their giggles. After a while you realize your jabbering was not getting you the attention you wanted so what do you do next? You take your cucu out of your mouth and throw it at us. At this point both mummy and daddy unable to hold back any longer burst into laughter. You are hilarous. Such a joker. Then, to keep our attention you amuse us further. With this cheeky, up-to-something look on your face, you dramatically let go of the edge of the pen with both your hands open and up in the air. You stand on your own for a few seconds and again dramatically fall down with a thump into the pen. Mummy and daddy are in laughter and you join in laughing hysterically. How impressive, mummy's little girl learning all these tricks so young. Of course because of our applause and laughter, you repeat this little stint over and over again until were all exhausted. Such a cutie la you!

xxx

mummy

Grandpa O Grandpa

2008-06-06T17:40:00.003+08:00

A Poem For Grandpa

Grandpa o grandpa,

I see it in your eyes,

They light up when you see me,

I see it in your smile,

The pure affection for me,

I feel it in your touch,

Your gentle arms holding me,

I sense it from your heart,

The genuine love for me,

Grandpa o grandpa,

I love you.

The Infamous Bee-Mobile

2008-06-06T17:37:00.002+08:00

Since falling off this little vehicle, you refuse to be pushed around in it. Even the music has lost its appeal. It's confirmed a bee. Tee hee.

You Welcome Me Home

2008-06-04T13:43:00.002+08:00

Sometimes Mon brings you outside just around the time mummy gets home. You wait patiently for mummy's car to appear at the end of the road. As I make the turn into the alley, I see you standing (or squatted) patiently. And when Mon spots mummy's car, I can see her lips move and the edges of her mouth turn up. She is telling you that mummy is home. I see a glow on your face. She stands you up (if you are not standing already). Your arms stretched out and your legs kicking and stamping the ground. Such pure excitement in those eyes and your movements. Mummy's heart skips a beat.

Yesterday was different. Yesterday the only thing holding you up was your tight grip on Mon's finger. And you were walking towards me. A few steps very confidently and firmly. Wow! You will be walking all on your own in no time. Now mummy is wondering whether you can make it for your birthday party in 2 weeks. We'll just have to wait and see. Just a little more practice.

xxx

mummy

Mummy's busy preparing for the BIG DAY

2008-06-03T14:14:00.004+08:00

Guess what this is?

Roar Like A Lion

2008-05-29T16:04:00.003+08:00

The Alphabet

A week back Aunty Otta stuck some nursery/kindergarten style learning pictures on the upstairs living room wall. There is the alphabets one and the numbers one. The alphabets show each letter with a picture of an object that starts with the alphabet. The numbers show random objects in the amount of the corresponding number. Two nights ago while we were hanging out upstairs, you brought mummy to the alphabets on the wall. Mummy took it as a sign you wanted to learn. So I started off with the letter closest to me. I said, "B. B is for Bee. Bzzzzzzz. Bee Elil." The letter was actually Q for Queen Bee. You smile as you usually do when mummy teaches you animal sounds. You especially love the buzzz of the bees. You turn back and stare at me as if trying to get my attention back to the alphabets. So I look at the alphabets and then back at you. You are staring intently at a particular alphabet. You struggle to get on your feet and stand up using the wall to support you. Your arms are stretched, you point at the letter L and start growling. "Grrrrrr grrrrr", you said. Wow! I look at you and smile (my head off). I clap and tell you what a good and clever girl you are and hug you ever so tightly. So much excitement but I look around and there is no one to tell how proud I am of my little angel. No one except Shan that is, but I doubt she would find anything special in Elil growling like a lion especially when she was so engrossed in Barney. So mummy kept this joy all to herself. All these special little moments to be cherished forever.

xxx
Mummy

Big Boo Boo

2008-05-27T14:01:00.002+08:00

Today you had a big boo boo. And who's irresponsible supervision were you under when this unfortunate incident ocurred? MUMMY'S!!! Oh no!

When Ronan was born, he was given a musical tricycle from a friend of his daddy's. The type where there is a long handle at the back for mummys n daddys to steer/control their babies. It has a little button in front that you can press to play music. The tune is some tacky 80's pop song in which the title escapes me right now. Mummy believes this particular ingenious creation was meant to be some sort of bug, either a bee or grasshopper.

Anyway, since Ronan is a little too young to cycle or to be pushed around in this contraption, you have been happily entertained by it for some months now. You especially love the music. A few days back mummy decided to push you around the neighborhood in it because you are getting heavier and its harder now to carry you around during our strolls and visits to the playground. You seem to find EVERYTHING interesting. And tend to pull your body weight toward every object that fascinates you. Mummy ends up being pulled from one tree to another, from one post box to the next and to every other patch of carpet grass you see. Oh speaking of carpet grass, you long to touch it with your fingers but are 'geli' to stand on it barefoot. So mummy has to dangle you on top of the grass so you get to feel it without having to step on it. Your legs curl up everytime mummy tries to put you down. It's quite funny.

Ok back to your boo boo story. So this morning as I was feeding you your oatmeal breakfast, the little bee (or grasshopper) caught your eye and you went absolutely nuts. Obviously mummy had no choice but to bring you outside and onto your bee (or grasshopper). So we set out into the neighborhood, up and down the lane. You occassionally pressing the magical (music) button and mummy feeding you a spoonful of oatmeal upon your request. You must have been hungry this morning because you kept turning around to ask for more. This nearly never happens. Then on our last stretch, you decide its more fun if you had both legs on one side of the buggy instead of the conventional (and not forgetting more stable and safe) seating position of one leg on each side. Mummy wasn't too worried because I still had control of the steering. Then suddenly something (mummy forgot to check what it was) caught your attention because in an instant you swooped down bringing your full weight on one side. You topple over bringing the whole buggy with you and land face down on the pavement. It takes 1.5 seconds before I hear your wail. I already have you in my arms but you are still entangled in the buggy. Mummy holds you close for a few seconds and tries to console you. Then I take a look at your face and the rest of the body to see if you are injured. Everything is fine except for a scrape on top of your lip. Not too bad. Nothing permanent. Your cries turn into cries of anger somewhat. No longer of pain. Mummy holds you tight and as we walk back to the house, you notice something interesting on the gate. You stop crying and mummy brings you closer to the desired object. You smile. Mummy smiles and is relieved you are truly ok. Your eyes are red and your face wet with tears. There is still dirt from the ground stuck to your face. Mummy brushes it off. Mummy wishes she doesn't have to leave you for work.

xxx

mummy

Look who's talkin 2

2008-05-27T10:18:00.002+08:00

You wow mummy once again. Overnight you seemed to have quadrupled your baby vocabulary. Your first word (and only word for the longest time) is 'tata'. You have a lot of things you need to say but when you open your mouth to speak, all that comes out is 'tata'. So for a while, everything was 'tata' to you. Or 'tatata' ot 'tatatata'. Initially we thought you were calling for your tata (Tamil for grandfather) but then EVERYTHING was tata so mummy firgured it was the only word you managed to master. BUT yesterday, you blurted out so many different words. There was 'neneh', mummy thinks this is means you want your nennen. And then I heard 'dada'. Maybe you were calling for your daddy who has been away for a week now and whom you miss tons i'm sure. AND you even said 'mama' a coupla times. Sometimes you go 'papa' or 'papapapa'. It's always amazing when something new comes out of your mouth.

A few weeks back, you started making this new sound. It sounds a little like a lion roaring. Mummy teaches you animal sounds and figured maybe you were imitating a lion's roar. Still I wasn't convinced. THEN a couple of days back, mummy was talking to Shan and all of a sudden she gets real angry and lets out this growl sort-of. She tilts her head down and rolls her eyes up. Crosses her arms over her chest and shows me her angriest face. AND then it hits me. You are a copycat and have taken after Shan's angry/frustrated growl. Oh goodness, mummy couldn't stop laughing. How cute. Another new sound you have been making a lot of lately goes something like this, "bthhhhhhhhhhhh". A bit like a bee buzzing. Mummy teaches you about buzzing bees too. And you like them very much. But let's wait and see what else cuzzin Shan has up her sleeve.

The Mohawk

2008-05-23T13:57:00.005+08:00

Mummy gave you a mohawk the other day. The lighting is bad so you can't really see it. But you seem pretty fine with this look. Will try this do again sometime in natural sunlight and when you have more hair. The mohawk works best when you are nice and sweaty. Your hair gels real well.

On The Purple Dinosaur

2008-05-23T11:24:00.004+08:00

Who loves Barney?

Mummy's sure of it, you are a couch potato in the making. Shan loves watching all her cartoon channels and you are always there right beside her. A loyal lil' sister indeed. Always wanting to be a part of the action. The bean bag is your usual favorite spot and you can watch cartoons for around 10 minutes before you get bored and start to explore the living room for more interesting objects.

Mummy was surprised 3 days back when you were seated in front of the tele on your knees with your legs bent back as usual and Barney came on. The moment you heard, "Barney is a dinosaur from our imagination...", you went hysterical, almost. You were bouncing up and down, your eyes glued to Barney and full of excitement, palms together clapping away. Mummy's not sure how else to describe your reaction to that purple dinosaur; super thrilled is an understatement! You are not this excited even when you see mummy at the gate after work. Well, it's a different type of excitement anyway.

Mummy can't quite describe the noises you were making but I'm sure if I could understand baby language well, you were probably saying, "Mummy, mummy look, its Barney! I love Barney!" over and over again. Because you kept looking back at me as if to make sure I wasn't missing anything. Like you wanted me to watch this purple dinosaur and his little friends because they were so much fun. You seemed to be making sure mummy didn't miss a thing. It was so amazing. At that moment I realized that my little angel baby is on her way to being a full-fledged toddler and the signs were showing up already! You're growing. My baby is growing! It was bitter sweet and mummy wasn't sure how to react. You just blew me away with that smile and that genuine, innocent joy and pure excitement.

Mummy was struggling very hard to hold back the tears. Boy was I beaming with pride and smiling from ear to ear. My initial reaction was to grab the camera to capture the moment on video so that we could have it with us. But then I realized, I would have spoiled it for myself had I experienced it through the camera's lense. So I just absorbed it and now its etched in my heart and mind forever. The joy you bring me is immeasurable.

xxx

mummy

The songs I sing to you

2008-05-13T10:48:00.003+08:00

Mummy loves singing. She doesn't have a great voice but she sings in tune (most of the time) which is fine by you. I sing to you all the time but I 'belt it out' at bed time. You are so calmed and soothed by my singing. Our current favorites are....

1. My Bonnie
My bonnie lies over the ocean

My bonnie lies over the sea

My bonnie lies over the ocean

So bring back my bonnie to me

Bring back, Bring Back

Bring back my bonnie to me, to me

Bring back, Bring Back

Oh bring back my bonnie to me

2. K' Sara

When I was just a little girl

I asked my mother

What will I be?

Will I be pretty?

Will I be rich?

Guess what she said to me?

K' Sara Sara

What ever will be will be
The future's not ours to see

K' Sara Sara

3. Daisy Daisy

Daisy Daisy

Give me an answer do

I'm half crazy

Over the love of you

It won't be a stylish marriage

I can't afford a carriage
But you look sweet

Upon the seat

Of a bicycle made for two

Mummy learned all these beautiful songs from Grandma. And now I'm teaching them to you. They're classics - simple yet have such deep meaning. Keep these close to your heart and teach them to your little ones. Mummy has just started singing this to you as well....

Edelweiss, Edelweiss
Every morning you greet me
Small and White
Clean and bright
You look happy to meet me..

Blossoms of snow may you bloom and grow
Bloom and grow forever

Edelweiss Edelweiss
Bless my home land forever

A shot with grandma who loves you so.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-13T09:10:00.004+08:00

Thank you sweetheart for the wonderful card. Mummy was very much surprised to get 2 cards for Mother's Day. So little and already you have such a great sense of humor. You must get this from mummy. ;)

On the cover....

And inside....

How true baby boo!

mummy

xxx

The many faces of YOU

2008-05-05T11:38:00.006+08:00

The Curious Look

The Faraway Look

The Eee-bil Sneeky Look

And finally....The Classic Elil

Finger Food

2008-05-02T10:01:00.005+08:00

Meal times are long but fun. Messy but funny. Mummy tries to feed you at the dining table on your high chair most of the time just so you get into the good habit. However, sometimes its more fun to just hang out on the sofa. So here you are, going at your breakfast....

You like a breakfast of bread, cheese and boiled egg.

Mummy still feeds you but also lets you feed yourself when you insist. It's good distraction which works all the time.

Today's breakfast is hard boiled egg and cheese. You never say no to cheese.

Impossible Dressing Time

2008-04-30T17:17:00.010+08:00

Nowadays its a struggle to get you dressed and undressed. You cannot sit still and detest being restrained. So changing times is a challenge for mummy. It's almost impossible to do it alone. I am sweating buckets by the time you are presentable. The key to a semi-peaceful changing session is distraction. No more changes lying down. It's on the go changing now. Mummy may complain but truly she loves everything about being your mummy. Dirty diapers, resistance during meal times, crankiness when its sleepy time. Impossible change times. Everything!

This is a typical change time for you:

1. No more lying down on the change mat.
2. Distraction this time is mummy's wallet (which is strategically located by the way).

1. Powdering time is no simple task.
2.Chin up. Poof poof. Chin down. Arms up. Poof poof. Arms down. Unfortunately, it doesn't work this way.

1. Distraction losing its distracting abilities. Boo boo getting bored.
2. Got your eyes on something else already.

1. And she's on the go! Catch her before she falls.

1. Finally, you are dressed and mummy's exhausted.

Splishin' n Splashin' n comin' down with the flu...

2008-04-30T11:56:00.008+08:00

You absolutely love the water. Whether it comes from your bottle or through the tap. Whether its in the tub or Shan's inflatable pool. Or even if it falls from the sky. Licking water is your favorite thing. When I wash your mouth after meals, your tongue is everywhere trying to lap up the water. In your bath tub, you lean down with your face in the water so that you can drink it. When mummy bathes you, she enjoys letting water trickle and splash over your face. This makes you smile and laugh even when the its all in your eyes and you swallow some of the soapy stuff. Such a brave little girl.

Splishin' n splashin' and biting away

3 very happy girls.

So much fun in the pool. Next day you are down with the flu. Nothing serious but it did bug you the second night. You could not breathe properly and therefore didn't get much sleep. And when baby can't sleep, neither can mummy. I rubbed Vicks on your chest and back and gently brushed some under your nose. It lasted about a week and now you are fine.

High Fives & Flying Kisses

2008-04-29T10:29:00.004+08:00

You with your Pati and your current fave fruit

Your hi-5s started about 2 weeks ago. Mummy wanted to teach you something different and started you off with the hi-10. But its more common for friends and family to go, "give me a hi-5". So this is what you know. And being a baby, repetition is your favorite game. So if anyone is going to give you a hi-5, they better be prepared to stay a while and do it with you at least another 10 times. And when people clap or smile or giving you a "yay! clever girl!", they ARE encouraging you and this is enough to get you doing the hi-5 forever! Oh but mummy is so proud of you. You are moving so quickly from being a baby-baby to moving into toddler-hood. It's sad and exciting for mummy to watch you learn and grow up so fast. Too fast.

Your Pati has been blowing you kisses for the longest time now. Finally, you are returning (well not really) her kisses. At least your'e trying. You have the first part of the kiss mastered but can't seem to blow them away. A flying kiss to you is your palm on your mouth while its wide open and your tongue sticking out. You seem to like how your palm tastes (salty) and tend to start licking away. Unable to pull your hand away from you mouth, you forget to blow the kiss. So it's basically you licking your palm and smiling away so proudly with this flying kiss accomplishment. And oh what an accomplishment! Mummy is always glad when you learn things your way and add a little Elil uniqueness to it. You go girl!

First CD post

2008-04-17T12:14:00.006+08:00

"Here mummy, have a chiu-chiu"

You are ok with the whole mummy having to go to work thing. It's mummy who's a wreck.

Some quality time with mummy before she has to go to work.

Your Wahmies One Size. So far this is mummy's fave cd. It's got the best fit and its trim but only you can tell me how comfortable it is.

Milestone Alert: Pulling to a stand & Clapping

2008-04-16T09:29:00.006+08:00

Sometime mid of your 9th month you managed to pull yourself to a stand. You grab on anything, coffee tables, the grille, legs of chairs, your walker, stand speakers, you name it. Sometimes you hold on to something lower, like your toy box. This is when you push yourself up to a stand. It's quite amazing. You do this effortlessly. Mummy finds it funny and interesting how not 2 seconds after you get yourself up, you sit right back down and crawl to other things that interest you. Again you will pull or push your self up, take a few breaths, check out the scenery and off you go again. Always on-the-go. Off to find new adventures. That's my girl! As wonderful as your curiosity is, it's always scary for mummy, thinking of what you might pick up and put in your mouth or what unstable object you may hang on to fo support. Those stand speakers scare mummy more than anything. And those teeny tiny toys of che-che Shannon's that you could so easily choke on. Since mmummy is not around for the most part of the day when you are active and on the loose, Mummy can only pray for your protection. *Sigh*

Clapping. You love to clap. Sometimes you wake up to your mummy's smiling face and you start clapping. I find you like fun music. This always puts a smile on your face and gets you slapping your palms together. You fingers are straight out and spread apart and do not meet as you clap. So the clap is of your palms only. Still a clap. Such a happy happy peaceful baby.

For the past month mummy has stopped preparing your food in advance and keeping it in the freezer. You appreciate fresh food. And do not eat defrosted and heated food kept in the freezer. We make your porridge fresh now, making just enough for lunch and dinner. You seem to like your food in bigger chunks too and dislike mush. Nowadays, mummy feeds you at the dinner table together with everyone else. You like this very much. Sometimes I have to mix your porridge with mummy's food to give you the impression you are eating adult food. Your appetite is better this way and greater still when che-che Shannon is around to entertain (distract) you. Your milk intake is on average 25 oz a day. Mummy thinks this is a healthy amount. So I'm happy. So happy to have you.

xxx
mummy

My little wonder

2008-04-15T16:16:00.010+08:00

Made you smile. I know I made you smile.

Such peaceful sleep. It's a miracle to watch you as you sleep.

Panjang oh your head

You got the chiu-chiu under your forehead (the shiny clear plastic thing) and Shan-doll partially under your knee.

Shan-doll. Named after your che-che Shannon who has an identical (except for rosier cheeks) one named Strawberry (after Strawberry Shortcake). Shan-doll is meant to be your chiu-chiu replacement but it ain't happening yet

Plate-On-Head look: This is quote an interesting look on you boo boo....

2008-03-19T11:28:00.000+08:00

Undergoing MyBlogLog Verification

2008-03-13T15:54:00.000+08:00

Look who's talkin

2008-03-13T14:26:00.005+08:00

I was amazed yesterday when I bid you farewell in my usual, "Goodbye baby boo boo, mummy loves you" manner and you replied,"Ba Ba" and gave me the twist of the wrist wave. Wowee, mummy's baby is talking. Real communication. Not a fluke. Coolness.

These days you tend to wave at nearly every moving object. A passing car or motorbike will get that sweet and gentle gesture from you. Strangers that walk by too. The moment you hear the word,'goodbye' or 'bye', your hand is up and doin' the twist.

We have started to teach you about objects. Mummy says,"fan" immediately you look up (head tilted all the way back) and your hand reaches for the fan. "Light" and your eyes turn toward the light. When were out in the garden, "bird" and you look to the sky. The joy in your eyes when you see a bird, priceless.... You know "Shannon" and "Ronan". If they are around you turn to look and when theyr'e not, you look toward the stairs waiting for one of them to come down. You enjoy being with Shannon. Especially chasing her around the living room in your walker and she in her tricycle. Of course you never actually catch up with her but you love this game all the same. Shannon enjoys your company too and is constantly showering you with kisses and hugs.

Elil loves Ronan. It is you who showers him with kisses. You are not this generous with those sloppy kisses of yours even with mummy. But with Ronan, you will kiss on demand. You love the adoring claps and praises of your audience.

Other fave words are like papa = a-pa, mama = maybe mummy (not too sure), (m)-me = mummy, (g)a-ma = grandma.
() : means you pronounce this very lightly.

Accomplishment Alert: Waving Goodbye

2008-03-11T14:44:00.000+08:00

You have actually been 'waving' for some time now. But it has been more of like a twist of the wrist in anti-clockwise direction with your palms curved in and fingers stretched out. A little like an Indian dance movement. It is super cute. Somehow (mummy doesn't know why) you only do this with your left hand. Will post the video as soon as I get the camera from daddy. But yesterday morning as mummy was getting into her car to go to work, you gave me a 'real' wave goodbye. I know there are many different ways to wave goodbye. Yours was the type where your palm is open and you move your hand up and down and bend or curve your fingers down/in at the same time. Mummy is so proud of your accomplishment. Today you went back to your 'Indian dance' wave which is still so adorable. Mummy thinks that maybe you need a little more time to get used to the conventional adult wave. We'll see again tomorrow ok.

mummy

xxx

Reminder Of The Day

2008-03-04T11:48:00.001+08:00

Remember this, I love you UNCONDITIONALLY and you are PERFECT exactly the way you are.

This means that there is nothing you can do, or say or become that will make me love you any less. By day I love you more.

This also means that I accept you exactly the way you are. You need not change anything about yourself to please me. The very person you are, the very person you were born to be pleases me to no end.

Remember this.

I love you.

mummy
xxx

Milestone Alert: Crawling

2008-03-04T11:18:00.001+08:00

Baby boo boo. You are crawling. You have been on all fours for over a week. Always rocking and shaking back and forth but never able to move. On the 28th February 2008, mummy saw you crawl for the first time. You seemed to master the art immediately. From a tummy shuffler to a pro crawler instantly. Crawling on the tiled floor hurts your knees I'm sure but you are a strong one and take it bravely. Now, not even a week later you are cruising the living room, crawling as fast as you can to mummy, attempting the stairs. The focus of our next outing with daddy should be baby proofing the home. Oh, I'm so proud. Ahhhhhhhhhhh!

Mummy really needs to download all the crawling shots and recordings from the camera. You need to see yourself in all your cuteness. Mummy constantly needs to hold back the urge to either squeeze you, bite you or kiss you all over. You make it so hard sweetiepie.

Another milestone you have recently achieved is pulling yourself up to a stand. You can pull yourself up with some effort but can't seem to get down. You tend to stay in one position for the longest time till you get too tired to hold your own weight and break out crying. Mummy finds this kesian but funny at the same time. I was sure this was meant to be the earlier milestone (before crawling) but I guess different development for different babies. Which is fine by me.

You have been sick - Part II

2008-02-28T14:30:00.001+08:00

On Tuesday evening last week, you started feeling a little warm. It was a warm day so I didn't think anything of it. As I lay you down that night, you were a little warmer and this time I knew it had nothing to do with the weather because we were in an air-conditioned room. You had a fever. Your first official fever. Well you had a slight temperature after your third Triple Antigen shot but mummy had your fever pillow and it went down within a couple of hours. This time round we didn't have the fever pillow with us. So mummy was up all night, dabbing your forehead with a wet cloth to keep the temperature down. By morning, you were still warm. Mummy skipped work. I checked your temperature with your cucut thermometer and it read 38.5 degree C. Yes a fever but not an alarming figure. Your appetite was good and your mood was as bubbly as ever. Mummy decided to give you some baby paracetemol. By Friday morning, your fever was down. Mummy figured it was safe for me to go back to work and imagined coming back after work to a perfectly healthy baby. Boy was I wrong. Your fever was back. I continued with the cold compress and the paracetemol. By now your appetite has reduced and you have started coughing. However, you smile and laugh no less. Always the happy baby. Your fever peaks during the wee hours of the morning. I worry and I pray. Mummy brings you to the nearest clinic mummy can find. Your temperature is 39 degree C. This is pretty high. The doctor says your body is heaty, your throat is red. However, your lungs are clear. We left with fever medicine, antibiotics and something for your cough. You take the medicine very badly. It hurts me to have to give you three different horrible kinds every 8 hours. But its necessary. By evening your fever is down. I am relieved. Your cough worsens somehow. It's heart wrenching to see my little baby cough. We continue with your medicine. Your appetite remains small. You lose the chubbiness around your arms and thighs. Mummy is so sad. But within 3 days your cough slowly disappears and your appetite is slowly returning. Thank God.

Today, your appetite is back to normal. In fact better than ever. Well, your appetite for milk anyway. Yesterday you took a total of 27.5 ounces! That is a record for you. Mummy is so proud. You have regained some of the chubbiness you lost due to your sickness. You don't know how relieved and happy this makes your mummy. You are such an amazing and perfect little person even when you are sick. I love you baby boo boo.

mummy
xxx

Family Trips: Genting Highlands

2008-02-19T15:34:00.001+08:00

We were at Genting Highlands over the weekend. We left KL on Saturday after lunch. Our first Family Trip. Mummy has been waiting for this day FOREVER. I packed all our stuff in daddy's huge luggage. 3/4 of the suitcase was filled with baby gear. Bottles, warmers, brushes and cleaners, wet wipes, diapers, cream and oil, your toys and books, porridge and formula. Then there was the big stuff, your car seat and pram, baby carrier. It was exciting preparing and putting all this together. I bathed you and dressed you in a long-sleeve romper (the beautiful white one with frilly shoulders) and your tiny pair of jeans. Slid on some warm socks for those perfect feet and your oh-so-comfy dress shoes (the Christmas gift from Uncle KT). Finally, you got to wear the cool hoodie Aunty Selina got you. Mummy had to be sure that you were warm at all times. Reduce all risk of you catching a cold on our first trip together - mummy, daddy and baby.

We arrived at our destination about 3:30pm. It took us close to 2 hours to check in because we made the mistake of booking a room (from a CNY promotional package) in the hotel with the most number of rooms in the world! Thank goodness we were up in the mountains where it was cool, comfortable and relaxing. It helped too that you found the CNY decoration and lighting mesmerizing. Your gaze wouldn't leave the colourful clowns that walked by. And the sea of other people waiting to check-in as well. All the hullabaloo kept you occupied and distracted. Mummy even managed to single-handedly feed you lunch while daddy was out parking the car. Baby and food container in one hand and feeding spoon in the other. You finished your porridge!

We finally got to our tiny (but comfortable and clean) room. Mummy unpacked and got organized. Cleared the desk and placed all your feeding and clothing essentials for easy reach. Once settled, mummy was dying to get out and about. So we packed your diaper bag and we headed for the mall. Never had you seen more people (and babies) in your life. We were lucky because just as we walked to the center court a troop of lion dancers lept on stage. This was the first lion dance mummy got to see this year so she was real glad. You were focused on the dancing for maybe 30 seconds before you found the rest of your surroundings like a roller-coaster flying by, a colourful ferris wheel, gondolas steered by mannequins, flickering neon lights, and just about everything else more interesting. It was getting late and we had a long day so we had a quick Thai dinner and headed back to our room for some shut eye.

Sexy back. Hanging on to your crib for dear life. I don't think you've figured out how to get down.

The next morning you woke up happy. Mummy and daddy got dressed and we headed to the cafeteria to have our buffet breakfast. I brought along your brown rice-blueberry-yogurt porridge which you love so much. After stuffing ourselves, we got back to our room, gave you a bath standing up in the sink and hmade our way to Starbucks coz daddy can't do without his daily email checking. We spent the day walking around the indoor theme park and nearby hotels. We had a KFC lunch which you slept through. Come evening mummy, daddy and baby are tired so we get some rest before the show. Dreamz it's called. 2 free tickets with our holiday package. They are a troop from Russia. Like a circus somewhat. Magic shows, lions and tigers, a lot of dancing, a live band and comedy stints. Bright colorful lights and acrobats. You were quite mesmerized by the whole spectacle but mummy guesses it was a little overwhelming for tiny you. Despite the loud music, you dozed off mid show. Then 3/4 of the way, mummy and daddy both decided it was too much for you and we left. The 3 of us needed our rest before the journey home in the morning. I tucked you in your crib just before 11pm, a record for you.

On the way home we stopped by Awana for a feel of something different. Some greenery.

It's All About You

2008-02-14T14:49:00.000+08:00

The Runs

2008-02-14T11:25:00.000+08:00

An episode of the runs has caused those chubby cheeks of yours to deflate a little. On top of that you have lost some folds around your arms and belly. Those thighs are still thundery and gigitable though. Your appetite has reduced somewhat. Mummy's a teensy weensy bit sad about this. But am super relieved that your poop is now pretty much back to normal, it's regained most of its firmness and greenish-brown color. And gone back to its normal stinkiness. Runny baby poop has such an unusual smell. Tuesday night was a hard night for mummy, daddy and baby. You were up many times, letting out little cries of pain and discomfort followed by some major letting go of air and other matters. Mummy couldn't do much to console you because she was experiencing some unexplainable pains and aches herself. I could hardly stand let alone hold you in my arms. So I lay down in bed, kept myself warm and rested. Thank God daddy came to the rescue. He took care of you and made sure mummy was feeling alright too. After more farting and purging episodes, daddy managed to calm you and finally you dozed off. Mummy was soon in dreamland too.

You have been rubbing your gums together for some months now but your pearly whites have yet to break through those gums. Smacking your lips together over and over has become a new and super cute habit. More drool, Less appetite. Purging. The only 'teething sign' you have not experienced is fever. Thank God. Although everyone around me is convinced these are teething symptoms, I have read several articles that mention there is no connection between these signs and teething. BUT, mummy's convinced you'll get your teeth soon. According to your doc, from her experience the average age of teeth sprouting is 8 months. That's you!

Anyhow, your front row (top and bottom) gums are hard and have turned mostly white. But no sign of a tooth yet. Mummy's probably going to wake up one morning to you smiling at me with a complete set of shiny teeth! A bit of a scary thought when you really put your imagination to it. Doesn't matter, you're my angel with or without teeth!

mummy
xxx

Blast-Off

2008-02-11T11:38:00.000+08:00

3...2...1...blast-off!

Hey sweetheart, were not sending you to the moon so don't worry that not-so-little head of yours. It doesn't show in this shot but you actually like your new car seat. For one, you are no longer facing the back. Two, you're elevated so your eye level is pretty much near mummy's. You enjoy being able to see what we see. I want to say the beautiful landscape, country meadows, etc. but alas all we see is passing traffic and elevated highways. Oh well, as long as you are snuggled comfortably and safely. Oh, but today I read in Baby Center that you should be in your rear-facing car seat until your first birthday or until you reach 20 pounds. So, mummy's gotta have a serious discussion with daddy on this and decide on the best solution. Come to think about it, you do look a little tiny for that seat.

Splish Splash

2008-02-11T09:07:00.000+08:00

Pre-dip

We decided to bring you swimming for the first time. You have been by the poolside so many times. Had a few dips - just your little feet. So on Friday, we got you in you itsy-bitsy blue two-piece suit and got you soaked. Boy were you excited. You kept rubbing those little feet of yours together. Daddy was in the pool with you. Mummy had to stay dry to take the pictures. It was so much fun watching you kick excitedly in the water. You had your floaties on and daddy held you tight the whole time. Swimming pool water tastes just like regular water doesn't it? Ewks.

You geram-ing the floatie

So happy to finally be in

Mummy was very prepared. Before soaking you in, I rubbed some Vicks Vaporub on your chest and back. This being your first time, we made sure you were not in for too long, I think it was about 10 minutes. We went in when the pool water was at its warmest. According to Aunty Otta, this is around 6pm. It was quite sunny out and the water was cool but not cold. First daddy held you face down but you kept licking the splashing water. So we decided lying you on your back was the most practical. Mummy thinks your'e a natural backstroker.

The backstroke. Check out those thighs! Gigitt!

After your ten minutes were up, we snuggled you in your towel and got you out of your wet bikini right away. Rubbed a little more Vicks on your chest and back and bathed you real quick. No fuss on your end. We'll probably bring you again in a week or so. Thank God you didn't fall ill or anything.

Post-dip

The Little Pink Clip

2008-01-31T11:32:00.000+08:00

The little pink, felt clip. The one with the flower. Five pink petals. It sits in the tiny compartment on the door to my right. Some people unintentionally fill this compartment with loose change, paper clips, scraps of paper, toll receipts, a collection of dust. My little compartment is clear except for the little pink clip. In the morning I sit myself down and close the door beside me, I glance down and I spot the little pink clip and my heavy heart is warmed and I smile a smile that comes from within. I reach my destination and as I open the door to start another day, again my eyes are drawn to that little pink clip. And I am reminded of you, again. The little pink clip trying its best to hang securely on your little little hair. I start my day with that simple but powerful thought of you. And after a long and exhausting (and most of the times unfruitful) day, I sit myself down safely and there it is, the little pink clip. My feeling now is different. My destination is you. The corners of my lips turn up and the eagerness builds. Oh, I can't reach soon enough. I switch off the engine, I look at that little pink clip for the last time (today). I want to pick it up and rub the felt with my fingers but thats just a delay. My movements are clumsy-like. It takes tremendous effort not to sprint to the lifts. But in seconds I see you through the metal grille and when you spot me, the excitement and joy in your eyes sends me to heaven. I want to hold you and never let you go.

xxx
mummy

You have been sick

2008-01-30T16:30:00.000+08:00

You have not been well this past week. It started off as a little cough (sounded more like a clearing of your throat). Then gradually it turned into a wet-phlegmy sort of cough which somehow only attacked late evening or early in the morning. Your right eye started getting watery. Mummy brought you to the doctor but she said your lungs and nose was all clear. She gave you an anti-histamine anyway. I started giving it to you in the evening after your dinner. No improvement but you didn't get worse neither. So you have been that way for over a week now. Medicine is nearly finished. According to the doc, the wateriness of your right eye could be a sign of an onset cold or it could be that your tear duct is blocked somehow and all you need is a little eye massage and it should go away. Apparently, daddy had this too when he was about your age. So mummy needs to give you a massage now and then. You are still the little sweetheart. Not cranky or moody. Smile on demand. Hehe. Getting a little more manja and more aware of mummy's whereabouts. I hope your cough leaves you completely very soon. It disrupts your sleep at times and it just tears at my heart having to see and hear you cough. I'm sure you are not suffering but still. *Sigh*

xxx
mummy

Laughter & Dancing

2008-01-28T16:37:00.000+08:00

....thank You that she laughs so effortlessly. May it always be so. Protect her heart and her spirit from the things that rob her joy. She is completely innnocent and pure. I know that the world will come around to find her one day, but may she always remember how to laugh from the heart....

Excerpt from a book given to me by a friend. Thank you very much Eyasmin.

mummy
xxx

Daddy Dearest

2008-01-14T12:00:00.001+08:00

" Sitting on your head and tugging on your hair is so much fun daddy"

Ok so daddy is off to another part of the world AGAIN and its just you and me for another 2 weeks. Mummy's sure you will be missing daddy big time. Everytime you see him coming through the door after a long day's work, you flash him the sweetest smile ever and those legs of yours go flying about everywhere. Begging for him to take you. When you get real excited, you rub your feet together until your shoes and socks are flung across the room. Look closely at those tiny feet in the picture with daddy. This picture was taken Christmas morning. The whole family was on the floor surrounded by prezzies. Check out how packed the tree was. Just an additional 2 to the family and look at the enormous amount of gifts!

Milestone Alert: Holding The Nennen Bottle

2008-01-14T10:05:00.000+08:00

Hey sweetpea. You held your own nennen bottle yesterday. You can pretty much feed yourself now but mummy's got to push the bottle back a bit when there is very little nennen left in the bottle. You have not quite got the hang of tipping it back yourself. You don't seem to like your sippy cup at this point. Probably when you have mastered the technique of tipping it over or sucking on the rubber teet. For now you use your sippy cup purely to ease the discomfort in your gums caused by teething. Speaking of teething, when are those little pearly whites of yours going to sprout? The irritation in your gums disrupts your sleep and when your sleep is disrupted, well mummy can't have a good night's rest neither. You are so adorable when you wake up in the middle of the night. Your eyes are wide open and you stare straight at me. Oh that smile you give me. Melts my heart every time.

Slithering on your belly

2008-01-11T15:42:00.000+08:00

What else do I call it? The beluncas move? Or the combat crawl? Whatever you call it, it's so so cute and mummy just wants to gigit those chubby legs. You are on your belly and your feet are flying up in the air. You don't quite know how to use your knees to push yourself forward yet. You manage to move (in all directions) solely by the strength of your upper body. Your arms bent in front of you. You use your elbows for support. Kesian. But this is how it works baby. It's always hard in the beginning but if you keep trying and practising, you will succeed! Mummy will be there every step of the way ok. *sigh* Mummy's baby is growing up. Soon i'll be dropping you off at kindy and in no time some guy's gonna be at our doorstep to pick you up for your first date! Oh the horror!

I imagine you on your belly being 'mobile' and I am reminded of that round little butt of yours and those 'tagap' legs. Ok, so you have a big bum like your mummy and daddy. You wear M size diapers meant for babies between 6 and 10 kg. You have yet to reach 8 kg and we may be forced to upgrade you to an L very soon. Can you say 'ghetto booty'?

You know sweetheart, for the last 7 months mummy has been trying to come up with the right words, the perfect expression to describe what I feel for you. To put into writing the intense emotions in my heart. Today I realize that I must give all this up. It's nonsense! There is just no way to put into words the pure and profound feelings a parent has towards their child. You will only know when you have one of your own. It's as simple as that.

mummy

xxx

Alamak so juling!

2008-01-02T11:44:00.000+08:00

Aunty Pu Nie put her cap on you. So no fuss oh you. Such an angel. Anything goes. Now I know what it's like to love unconditionally.

The 6th month - a solid chapter

2008-01-02T11:23:00.000+08:00

The booster chair. Fisher-Price is ingenius! I love this chair. So do you. It's great feeding you in this - keeps you upright and safe. It doubles as a high chair too - has straps to secure it to regular chairs. Plus its foldable and portable. And you can use it till you're 4.

It cost daddy a little bomb but mummy thinks its worth it.

Yep, babies are as messy during meal times as they show on TV. By the end of a meal, baby and mummy both need a shower. And the floor needs another round of mopping. But pictures like these make it all worthwhile! Nice kan the huge blue bow. You look like a wabbit!

Oh boy oh boy oh boy

2008-01-02T10:35:00.000+08:00

Everyone thinks you're a boy! It must be the little amount of hair you have. Poor baby. Even when you're dressed in all pink, people still say, "handsome boy". Yeeks. Mummy got you some tiny clips for your hair but they don't stay on long coz you have so little and fine hair that it is'nt enough to hold even the tiniest clip. It's ok baby boo, mummy woke up this morning and noticed some baldy spots have filled in a little. So mummy's guessing (and hoping) by your first birthday, you will have baby pig tails and pink ribbons in your hair.

At close to 7 months, you love porridge with anchovies. It's real tasty. You also like chocolate. Your aunty Otta is paving the way to sweet-toothness for you. *shakes head* You started brown rice for breakfast today. Did not take this one too well. I think Kak Mon made it a little too pasty. You need the right mix of porridge and water. Mummy makes porridge the best! He he. Today mummy is going to make some porridge with broccoli. Let's see how well you take this.

Yesterday, we were at Aunty Winnie's house for Tina's 10th birthday. So many little children. You were super excited. It was a warm evening and you were sweating like a piglet so mummy stripped you to your diaper. Fuiyoh the attention you got! Folds of chubbiness. Gigitt! You passed a huge milestone yesterday but mummy missed it. You probably didn't realize what a huge accomplishment it was. Grandma was with you at the time. She put you down on the carpet and you went on all fours. You were up for a few seconds only so mummy didn't get a chance to see you. So sad. It's ok. You will do it again soon and mummy will be there ready with the camera.

Sippy cups. We got a free cup from when we got the Avent Bottle Sterilizer. I read that sippy cups are good transitional objects (from bottles to regular cups). They make interesting toys as well. So mummy is going to give you yours today for a chance to familiarize before actually putting any liquids for you to drink from it. Boy oh boy, how fast you grow! I love you little angel.

mummy
xxx

Your Daily Food Intake @ 6 months

2007-12-21T10:51:00.000+08:00

At 6 months, mummy gives you 2-3 meals a day. Your milk intake has reduced from around 20-24 oz to 16-20 oz daily. We've changed your milk to PROMIL (Wyeth) Step 2. Your S26 (Wyeth) Step 1 was only for babies under 6 months. There's a nice vanilla smell to the new milk. You show no preference to either milk.

Your new diet includes:

Breakfast is usually Nestum Rice with milk added from the tin. It's nice, sweet and smells yummy too. You take this very well. I think we have a little sweet tooth baby in our hands.

For lunch (and sometimes dinner when the time and your mood is right) mummy feeds you pumpkin/carrots boiled with rice into porridge and then blended. No salt or sugar for taste. I read and hear this is not good for you at this stage. Grandma insists mummy put a little flavoring so you can enjoy it better. I'm still considering. We'll wait and see how you take vegetables. Within the next three days, mummy will experiment with some spinach. Yum!

Snack time. You take OJ from the bottle now. We still get that funny look from you at the first taste of the juice. After a few sips you seem to be ok with the whole tangy flavor. Mummy just got you Farley's Rusks. You enjoy rubbing the biscuit on your gums to soothe the irritation from teething. Fruits - bananas you take with a little water to ease swallowing. Again you seem to like sweet stuff. Today mummy is going to give you some papaya for the first time. We'll see how things go.

mummy

xxx

Another reason for our trip to KK....

2007-12-03T10:24:00.001+08:00

This is your great-nenek. She can't wait till you visit again. Great-nenek can't forget your face and wishes grandma could kidnap you for a month! Hehe.

The Face Of An Angel

2007-11-27T11:10:00.000+08:00

Who's lovin' her chiu-chiu?

Hey there baby boo, why the angry face?

Your first experience in those baby chairs attached to supermarket trolleys. We are at TESCO Kajang.

This is you with those folded in lips - your lips are sealed! Oh, and your daddy looks a little nutty here!

You're My Everything

2007-11-27T10:46:00.000+08:00

You're a falling star, You're the get away car.
You're the line in the sand when I go too far.
You're the swimming pool, on an August day.
And you're the perfect thing to say.
And you play it coy, but it's kinda cute.
Ah, When you smile at me you know exactly what you do.
Baby don't pretend, that you don't know it's true.
Cause you can see it when I look at you.

[Chorus:]
And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.
You're a carousel, you're a wishing well,
And you light me up, when you ring my bell.
You're a mystery, you're from outer space,
You're every minute of my everyday.
And I can't believe, uh that I'm your man,
And I get to kiss you baby just because I can.
Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through,
And you know that's what our love can do.

[Chorus:]
And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.

So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La

[Chorus:]
And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.
You're every song, and I sing along.
'Cause you're my everything.
Yeah, yeah

So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La, La, La, La, La

Baby Boo

2007-11-26T11:10:00.000+08:00

This is mummy's name for you right now. Isn't it the cutest?

So much has been happening with you. Let me see....

1. You have no problems turning over and supporting the upper half of your body with your forearms. It is an almost instant process which surprises me every time I see you do it.

2. On the 16th November 2007, while still groggy from waking up in the morning you kinda uttered your first syllable. You sounded something like this, "laaah". Mummy was shocked and shed a little tear. Can't imagine what your first word will be. If you say "mama', you would send mummy floating in the clouds for at least a week.

3. There were these few days (a month back) where you would fold both your lips in and seal your mouth. You refused to open not even for nenen. We'd make you smile and still your lips would be tucked in. I will soon post a shot of you doing this. You melt my heart.

4. Recently, you started to roar like a lion. You sound a little like a baby monster. Mummy is tickled-pink every time you do this. Which is only during the late evenings, I'm not too sure why. Geram oh. Cubitttttt!

5. About a week ago we started giving you OJ. So funny the look on your face when I gave you your first spoon. Such a different taste to your usual nenen. We will continue to give you teaspoonfuls at a time till you are used to the flavour.

6. Mummy is thinking that maybe this weekend we will experiment with some smashed bananas. You seem so eager to eat solids. However, the way your tongue moves, like its pushing food out of your mouth instead of down your throat suggests otherwise. I got to think this one over.

7. It's so hard to get you dressed and undressed. You are constantly rolling over to your side, distracted by all the things around you. Wanting to grab everything and put it all in your mouth.

8. Mummy is convinced you are teething. You get good sleep during the night except for the 2-3 times you let out little whimpers and complaints like you are experiencing discomfort. Mummy has to tap that cute butt of yours till you are in peace again. I read that teething causes babies restless sleep. Sometimes during the day, mummy helps you out a little. Mummy makes sure her hands are real clean and rubs those little gums of yours. You seem to enjoy this very much.

9. You give me more and more reasons to love you. Everyday it gets harder for me to leave you, so difficult to say good bye at the door. Sometimes I just give you a quick peck and rush off, it's easier than long goodbyes. But mummy is always sure to explain to you everyday before I leave that I have to go to work and that you will have a good day and that I will be back as soon as possible and spend the rest of the day bonding with you. Mummy always reminds you to drink lots of nenen and get enough rest, sleepy sleepy time.

I love you.

mummy
xxx

The Main Purpose For Our Trip To KK

2007-10-19T16:48:00.001+08:00

L-R: Kung-Kung, Po-Po, Mummy, Grandma, Little You, Cousin Shannon and Aunty Otta at Kung-Kung's shophouse in Papar, Kota Kinabalu.

We were in KK for a week from the 13th-20th September 2007. Mummy wanted you to meet your great grandparents. Kung-Kung is pretty weak so he didn't get the chance to carry you but he did give you the gentlest kiss. Po-Po managed to have you in her arms for a while. She could not help but sniff you over and over (coz you smell so yummy).

Scare No. 3: COLIC

2007-10-17T10:00:00.000+08:00

Monday, 15th October 2007 night you gave mummy a huge scare! Daddy and I went browsing around for electrical items for our house and decided to bring you along. You seemed fine throughout, napped a little. When we got home, you were tired and cranky. We had some visitors but you were not in the mood to entertain. So mummy hugged and sang you to sleep. Not five minutes after putting you down, you woke up crying. I changed your diaper thinking maybe the wetness was causing you discomfort. Then mummy cradled you again but you wouldn't stop crying. In fact, you started wailing from the bottom of your lungs. Poor baby. I get a little worried. Mummy feels your forehead, its fine no fever. I take your clothes off and wipe you all over to get you nice and comfortable. This does not help. I get Kakak Mon to call daddy. He comes up and I pass you to him. He tries to calm you while mummy pats your bum. This doesn't help. Then I tell daddy to get the Yu Yee oil and rub it in his palms. He then presses his heated palms firmly on your belly. I give you your cucut. You are calm for a minute. By now mummy is pretty sure it is angin. Moments later, you are screaming again. How it hurts to see you suffer. Mummy is close to tears. I have it in my mind that if things don't improve we should go the the clinic. Daddy's thoughts are the same.

After a while we rush you downstairs. As I walk downstairs with you in my arms, you are instantly calm. We get in the car and you are quiet except for the little unavoidable sobbing after a wailing session. Before we reach the clinic, you are asleep. Your pediatrician is closed. So is your back-up pediatrician. It's a public holiday. We drive around a little longer. I tell daddy that we need not bring you to the doc. You tummy is settled and it would be silly to disturb you. We go home. Tired but relieved. Mummy cannot control her feelings and starts crying. I hold you for a long time before putting you down in your cot. You sleep like an angel. Every little movement you make from then on startles me. But deep down I know you are fine. You wake up for a feed 5 hours later and you are farting like a little baby machine gun. I smile till the sides of my mouth ache. I thank God for you.

I love you.

xxx

mummy

My Little Marshmellow

2007-10-17T09:26:00.000+08:00

Have you seen anything more adorable? Marshmellow was given to you by your Aunty Yolanda. Those are grandma's strong arms that are holding you up.

14th October 2007

2007-10-17T09:07:00.000+08:00

At 6:20pm on this day you flipped over all by yourself for the very first time. You have been flipping over many times but always with someone's help. You mastered the whole turning over thing but never had enough strength left to pull your arm out from under you. You developed this technique of slowly twisting your body around moving it away from your arm and eventually freeing it. This is a very long and tiring process and you have since given up on it. On Sunday you flipped over as usual (real professional) and suddenly you pulled your arm out from under you. Just like that! Mummy was so proud. I wish I had the camera. I clapped and smiled. You cooed and gurgled, looked up at me and smiled. Ah, melt my heart. You are very good at suporting your upper body weight using your elbows. It loks tiring but you seem to enjoy it because you stay with your head up this way for quite some time. Maybe you feel a sense of accomplishment. Or maybe you just like the view from that angle. Sometimes you push you butt up in the air, it almost looks like you are ready to crawl. In no time you will be. How fast you grow and develop.

I love you.

xxx

mummy

On friends

2007-09-03T10:36:00.000+08:00

Hi there sweet pea,

Mummy got this made-my-day sms from your Aunty Sel on Friday:-

"Friends are a treasure. There are friends that will come and go. Then there are others that can't seem to leave you alone. These are the ones you want to hold onto."

Mummy has been blessed with the best set of friends ever! Never underestimate the importance of your true friends, your friends forever. You will meet many people in your life time. Some will remain acquaintances, some you will get to know a bit better and then there will be those precious few who no matter where you go, what you do, no matter how much time passes or episodes you experience together, will be there with you no matter what - be it in body, mind or spirit. As in many relationships, there will be trying times that will test the strength of you bond but with friends forever, it will pass. And you will know that you will never be alone. Of course there's always God and mummy and even daddy but it's always good to have a Plan D.

mummy
xxx

The best that I can be

2007-08-28T16:20:00.000+08:00

Mummy truly wishes she could breastfeed you.

There was some complications in the beginning. I think I introduced the bottle to you too early. This caused a little nipple confusion. Maybe I didn't try hard enough. I don't know. I wish people were more encouraging. I felt like I was starving you. Never really knew if I had enough to give. You were hungry so soon after a feed. You couldn't latch on properly. Of course none of this is your fault. I did not provide you much to latch on to. You seemed so frustrated.

Now there is no supply and no demand (for my breast) neither. You are 100% on formula. It tears at my heart, thinking that I could not do this for you. I could not give you the one thing that only a mother can give. The one special thing that only the two of us can share. My privilege for my baby! I want that bond so much. I want you to need me and I want to be there for you. In that way that only I can. I cry inside when I am reminded that this is something I cna no longer do for you.

Mummy feels like she's lost that chance. I love you beyond words or expression. I love you unconditionally. You bring new meaning to the word love. To loving another. I want you to know that and remember it always.

Hey there Elil....

2007-08-22T10:31:00.000+08:00

Oh it's what you do to meeee....
Oh it's what you do to me.
Oh it's what you do to meeee....
Oh it's what you do to me.
What you do to me.

Love,

mummy
xxx

The New Addition

2007-07-30T15:35:00.000+08:00

Eli the Elephant. You like Eli's bright red color. You are fascinated with the colorful ball he carries and the purple and yellow hoops he has. Eli has big elephant ears and a long red trunk.

This is the quilt that grandma made. It's beautiful isn't it? Grandma misses you terribly and loves you so so much.

The Weekend

2007-07-30T14:27:00.000+08:00

We had a big celebration for you this Saturday. All your tata's/pati's friends were there. Daddy's friends too. Not forgetting cousin Shannon, aunty Otta and uncle Allen. You got so many gifts; too bad you are too tiny to get all excited over them. Don't worry mummy was excited for you. It was a nice evening although you were passed around from one aunty/uncle to another aunty/uncle so many times. I'm sure that must have been tiring. But you were the star of the night so I guess it was expected. You knocked out only at 12.30am. As usual at night mummy will lay you down on your side snuggled in between your two tiny bolsters.

Cool eh?

So cute you looked (eee geram, gigittt!). That night mummy lay down on the rug by your bed. I was didnt want to lie down in my own bed for fear the squeeking noises the mattress makes might wake you up. What a surprise I had minutes later when I got up to check on you. You were sleeping soundly on your belly! You tiarap yourself! Mummy is so proud of you. I am sure it took a lot of energy and effort to turn your little 7 week old self over.

This was taken yesterday - lunch in SS2. Daddy carrying Shannon. Shannon carrying Elil

Why the frown sweetheart?

Everyday...

2007-07-24T13:54:00.000+08:00

Everyday...

...you give me more reasons to love you.
...I love you more.
...you teach me more about yourself.
...I want to hug you more, squeeze you harder, kiss you all the time, smell you all over (except the diaper area when you have pooped).

...I sing to you. Talk to you.
...I can't tell you enough that I love you.
...I don't look forward to going back to work.
...I cannot imagine my life without you.

...I thank God for you. Pray for you.

...you grow a little. Your chin just gets a little heavier, the folds on your thighs a little deeper, your chest a little wider, your feet a little longer.

...you try your best to communicate with mummy. Through your wide eyes, or your flapping hands and kicking feet, through the little sounds you let out.

...it gets a little harder to carry the whole 4.2kg of you. I still do. Still love to.

...you don't know the joy you bring me.

...you remind me more and more of an angel.

love

mummy

xxx

Mega Mall

2007-07-23T12:01:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was your first trip to Mega Mall. I don't think you enjoyed it too much. We brought you around in your brand spanking new stroller. You don't know how long daddy and I waited to use that thing. 5 whole months! We forgot to bring your quilt and pillow along so you weren't very comfortable. I could tell you were soaking everything in. A whole new environment. The noise, the hustle and bustle of people all around. The strange faces staring at you admiringly, oogling.

This morning you did the funniest thing. You had your usual adorable smile on but at the same time your body started shaking, almost vibrating. It was like you were laughing uncontrollably except in silence but the whole body movement was there. Reminded me a lot of 'tickle-me-elmo. So cute. Mummy wished she had the video camera rolling. Boy I just want to squeeze you and kiss you and never let you go.

A few days ago you said your first word. Well, it wasn't a real word but it was clear and it sounded like you were talking to me. You went, "Ah ah-yee" real loud and clear. Mummy was shocked. Again I wish I had the video camera at hand.

The last two nights have been good. I think you are starting to follow a schedule. The longest time you are awake is early evening, from around 8.30pm - 11.30pm. When you are tired you get a little cranky and insist (cry your lungs out) on having your nennen. You have this habit of falling asleep 2 seconds after the bottle is in your mouth. Once your eyes are shut, mummy has to hold you for at least 20 minutes before putting you down in your cot. You wake up otherwise. Your next wakey-wakey time is usually 3.30am - 4.30am. Usually you are up for an hour. Enough for one feed - nowadays you gulp down close to 5oz (babs!), burpy time and rock-you-to-sleep time. At around 8.00am you start to let out little whiny noises - hints that you want to be carried. Mummy waits for you to cry out a little before picking you up. This is usually at 9.00am. You drink your 4oz and fall asleep right after. Bath time is around 12 noon. You love the water (thank God). When were done dressing you up, you like to roll around in your cot for a bit. Doggy and Roo entertain you. Sometimes you fall asleep all on your own and other times mummy makes you nennen before you shut eye. Its an experience just watching you sleep. The perfect, peaceful little angel.

love

mummy
xxx

Nappy Rash

2007-07-18T12:31:00.000+08:00

Blue Frock

Yesterday you had a bit of a nappy rash. Mummy & Aunty Otta noticed it when we gave you a bath. It was entirely mummy's fault. The night before mummy noticed your diaper was full and heavy but mummy didn't change it. You were making pushing noises and I was convinced you would poop so decided to wait before changing you. Unfortunately, you poop-pa-di-dooped only at 9 in the morning. By then it was too late and you were already sore. Poor thing. So after your bath, mummy slathered on a thick layer of nappy rash cream and powdered you all over. This morning your rash is nearly gone, phew! From now on mummy will make sure to change your diaper before it gets too full ok sweetheart.

Mummy was going through your drawers yesterday and realized that you have so many beautiful/adorable/cute little outfits that actually fit you. And if I don't put them on you now you will outgrow them in no time. There is this NEW white pyjama set that mummy got which you have never worn. No chance of fitting it now! So this morning, after your bath I put you in this blue frock (inherited from cousin Shannon) with embroidered flowers on the bib. Unfortunately, we don't have matching panties to go with it so I paired it with Mickey Mouse undies. They don't quite go together. You still look as cute as ever.

More of the angel....

2007-07-17T14:58:00.000+08:00

Taken this morning - just had your bath & 3.5oz of milk - life is perfect

In the arms of Aunty Otta - burpy time

Mummy was changing your diaper in this shot - no complaints from you.

You in your new cot - looking snug

The morning of your full moon - grogginess

Aunty Otta

2007-07-13T20:59:00.000+08:00

You and Aunty Otta during your full moon. Aunty Otta loves you very very much

Let me introduce you to your friends...

2007-07-12T19:54:00.001+08:00

Doggy, mummy fish Lama and baby fish Nemo, Roo

Doggy. Doggy is your very first friend. He is Australian. The two of you met through daddy. He is the first to wish you good morning and the last to wish you good night. Every single day. You and Doggy will be friends forever.

Lama & Nemo. Lama and Nemo have been hanging around for some time now (since they moved here from Seremban) but you made friends only this morning. You think they're very interesting and colorful. You like the funny rattling and scratchy noises they make.

Roo. Mummy introduced you to Roo. Mummy works with Roo's daddy. She bounced by one day and decided to stay. She is here to make sure you are always safe. Roo will tuck you snugly in her pouch whenever you need her.

mummy
xxx

2007-07-10T14:44:00.001+08:00

Some pix from last night

mummy and baby

pati, tata, uncle allen

mila and ati

grandma, you, aunty elaine, aunty punie

iyerr...chubiness

the little princess

2007-07-10T12:36:00.000+08:00

Happy Full Moon Sweetheart!

You turned one month old yesterday. Mummy wants to get you something to celebrate your birth but has yet to figure out what. I was thinking of something pewter, a baby's rattle maybe. We could get your name and date of birth engraved on it. And it will be yours to pass down to your first born. Our heirloom.

We planned on celebrating your full moon this Saturday. A pretty big gathering of family and friends. But daddy is away and he won't be back till the week after. So we've postponed the do to the following Saturday. Sadly grandma won't be around then, she goes back to KK this Sunday.

Mummy felt a it sad that we had nothing planned for the actual full moon day so grandma and grandpa suggested all go out for a nice dinner. Great! We dressed you up in the cutest two-piece. A little cotton number with tiny blue flowers and smocking. You looked like an angel. Everyone was there for the dinner (except daddy of course who was miles away) - Pati and tata was there, grandma, aunty otta, uncle allen, shannon, aunty punie and elaine, mila and ati too. Don't be too disappointed that daddy couldn't make it. He 'dropped in' for a while via video conferencing. Ah, thank God for 3G. Daddy saw how perfect you looked and wished he was with us.

I love you my little baby!

mummy
xxx

Her Royal Cuteness

2007-07-06T21:06:00.000+08:00

Day 26: Sleepyhead

Day 26: 2 seconds later, she's wide awake!

Day 26: Lookin' handsome?

Day 25: Fresh after her bath

Day 22: Check out the elephant socks!

First Scare: The case of colic

2007-07-06T14:44:00.000+08:00

You didn't get much sleep yesterday. Usually you fall asleep after a feeding. But yesterday something was not right. You tossed and turned shortly after being put down. It was the same after every feed. I know it was not hunger, and we checked your diaper plus we burped you several times. Mummy didn't know what to do. I hugged you and sang to you. Grandma suspected angin in your little belly. So we went to the store to get you gripe water and yu yee oil (some chinese traditional oil for angin). Then later in the evening, you got worse and started crying non-stop. Even mummy's nipples couldn't soothe you for long. We gave you a teaspoon of gripe water and grandma rubbed a bit of yu yee oil on her palms and gently pressed them on to your little belly. The moment your skin felt the soothing heat from grandmas palms, you stopped crying. Moments later you farted and farted and farted. Within an hour you were calm again and all you wanted was milk. So mummy fed you until slowly you fell asleep. Ah, the relief! You don't know how much it hurts mummy to see you in any pain or discomfort. Thank God for grandmas!

mummy
xxx

Your Greediness

2007-07-02T18:41:00.000+08:00

It was only yesterday you started taking 3 oz of milk. For two weeks you were gulping down 2-2.5 oz per feed. Today you were taking 4 oz every feed! Wow! I'm impressed. Looks like you will be piling on the chubbies pretty darn fast. Your'e already developing daddy's double chin.

We put you down on your side during your afternoon nap today. Didn't use the usual double bolsters to keep you snuggled tight. Your arms and legs were free to move about. However, your sleep was restless and you kept waking up and letting out gentle whines. Then mummy put you on your belly (tiarap) and you slept like a log. You are so strong, you love lifting your head and have no problems turning your head from one side to the other while 'tiaraping'.

Your sight is improving by the day. Yesterday mummy noticed you were actually looking and focusing on me. No more vacant look in your eyes. You see me. You can also smell me and know everytime when I'm in the room.

mummy
xxx

Mozzie Attack

2007-06-30T15:38:00.000+08:00

Yesterday morning I picked you up from your cot and got the shock of my life. The whole left side of your face was covered in mozzie bites! My poor little baby. What did they do to you? I counted 14 bites all together. 1 on your nose, 1 on your chin, 1 on your ear, and another 11 on your cheek. You were asleep on your right side so they couldn't get you there. Mummy felt so bad. I wish I could have prevented it. Today daddy and I are going to get you one of those giant and hideous I must add 'tudung saji's' from the baby store. And we thought we took all the anti-mozzie steps - put up those magnetic mosquito nets, door closed at all times, mosquito spray, etc. but alas those mozzies were 1 step ahead of us. Thank goodness the little red marks have disappeared and you look 'normal' again.

mummy
xxx