Tag: littlebeejanddin beejanddin monicamanika parenthood mommylife

Mothering Monica: Year 10

This year is all about turning the pages and getting ready for another chapter of you.

I remember your first day in Grade 4. You were so positive and excited, setting your goals so clearly and telling yourself that you can achieve them. You were once again elected as class president, something that made me happy because even though you’re not the super friendly type, your classmates know that you are responsible and firm when needed.

I remember this year as the year I allowed you to use your iPad, with the condition that it would only be for chatting and calling your bestie Oona and playing games with no private chats involved. I was hesitant at first because you were almost gadget-free for the past eight years. But I remember choosing to trust you and allowing you to self-regulate, something you need as you grow-up.

I remember seeing you so happy and giddy, sharing stories with your friend on days when classes were cancelled or shifted online because of storms and typhoons. I can clearly remember how your eyes lit up when you giggled and laughed so hard.

I remember observing if it was the same when the two of you were together offline, and I am happy to say that it was. I remember bringing you two out on dates multiple times this year and just watching the two of you enjoy each other’s company.

I remember hanging out with our dear friends almost every two weeks this past year. I hope it showed you that friendships can go beyond school and that making time for people we love is important.

I remember starting corporate work again after almost a decade, only to quit because it required me to be onsite on days when you needed me at home. Without question, I left and stood firm in my decision that you and Daddy come first.

I remember this year when I did not have regular work and it made me question my choices more than once. On days when I pity myself, I look at you and suddenly my worries go away. You will always hug me and thank me for raising you. I remember your Daddy assuring me every single time that I should not worry about not having work.

I remember this year when you had your piano and voice recital. More than the performance, it was the process and the lessons that stayed with you. You were disappointed not because you were off-key or you made a slight mistake, but because you knew you could have practiced more. I think that taught you that effort and hard work bring results.

I remember this year when you were chosen to join quiz bees and contests. I may not have shown it, but every time you competed, my heart raced nonstop. Of course I always wanted you to win, but deep inside, what I really hoped for was that you would learn. Learn that wins bring confidence, and losses build character. Both are equally important in shaping you as a person. I was just so happy that you got to experience both winning and losing.

I remember you joining the student publication club. Your works were published, your efforts recognized. You also got to attend a journalism summit outside school, which I honestly think is pretty cool.

I remember how happy you were when Jeorgia was born. You finally had your own cousin, and as she grows up, I can see how much happier you become whenever you play with her.

I remember us fighting more often this year, especially on days when I could not manage my own triggers. You are definitely much braver now when it comes to standing up for yourself. Something I admire and dread at the same time.

I remember hormones taking over on some days. You really are entering the next phase. You were always hungry, sometimes grumpy. You have grown so much this year that your baby features are slowly starting to fade.

I remember our winter trip to Japan. It was truly a memorable one as we experienced snow for the first time. It felt so surreal to finally play with snow. But more than that, it’s magical experiencing many things as a family, especially those we did not have growing up.

We realized how much Japan has truly captured us that Daddy booked another trip for spring. It was such magic seeing you so happy. I cannot thank your Daddy enough for allowing us to experience things like this.

I remember your Grandma’s 60th birthday. You said she looked really beautiful.

I remember supporting your BFF in her singing contest. Last year, you competed with her. This year, you clapped from the sidelines.

I remember you finishing the school year with your primary goal achieved: getting the Highest Honors award. We were beaming with pride because we knew that’s what you wanted, and we knew you did everything you could to attain it. What made it even special was that you were the only recipient of that award. You are truly a bright child, bias aside.

I remember us going on a 3D2N camping trip right after recognition day, the perfect way to celebrate the end of the school year. We were with our treasured friends and every hour was spent playing, laughing, and eating.

I remember our spring trip and how we explored the other side of Japan. Traveling with you and Daddy is such a joy. We got to eat, walk a lot, shop, ride the Shinkansen, and simply admire the beauty of spring. It was also a great time spent with your Ninang Nica and Ninong Alvin—two people I can entrust you to. Mind you, there are not many people I would trust you with. 🙂

I remember how happy pigeons made you. Oh how we intentionally looked for pigeons anywhere we go just so you will be happy.

I remember us going to Boracay with friends for the first time. Another fun and memorable experience because traveling with just us three is nice, but having good company is even better. So happy it happened on Mother’s Day. It made me appreciate motherhood even more.

I remember so many beautiful things this past year, and I am sure you will keep them in your heart too.

Today, as I write this, I can’t believe I am at a loss for words. A day before your birthday, and all I can think about are the days we spent together these past ten years.

Time did go by so fast.

So fast that I can still hear your baby giggles. I can still feel your tight little hugs. I remember the different versions of you, but I also remember the different versions of me trying to raise the different stages of you.

I don’t think I could ever have the perfect words to describe how I am feeling now that you are ten.

Anak, happiest birthday to you.

The next few months will be a mix of changes and challenges, and not much on the familiar side. But Mommy and Daddy will always be here, watching you, supporting you, and holding your hand when needed.

Go and enjoy this next stage of your life.

I am excited to meet the tween version of you.

We love you very much.

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“It seems that I don’t need you for that anymore.”

Some days, I want her to grow up so she can do more things on her own. But most days, I just want her to stay little and need me a little more.

It’s been a week since Monica started to wash on her own every after bathroom business. I can’t count how many times I asked when will she be able to do it. Not that I want to rush things, but just so she won’t bother me when I am asleep, at work, or simply resting.

Lazy mama you must say, but yes. I have days when I don’t really want to function as a mother. 

One Sunday, when I was napping and Beej was in a meeting (he has Sunday work), Monica woke me up because she wanted to poop. Awoken from a very rare nap, I snapped and her and said “I hate that my sleep is now interrupted! Don’t talk to me first! Let me rest!” I know, I know, too bad of me. I felt guilty after and explained why I got mad.

Almost the same scenario happened again, but this time, Monica did not wake me up. She waited for her daddy’s meeting to finish before calling him even if it meant waiting in the toilet for 30 minutes. I asked why she had to wait, “I don’t want to disturb your sleep, mommy.” My heart was crushed. 

A few days after this incident, she asked me to teach her how to wash herself. So I taught her; showed her how to use the bidet, soap, and so on. At first I was so excited and proud. She learned fast and she seemed to enjoy doing things on her own. Until last night when I decided to secretly watch her wash.

She seemed uncomfortable; imagine, a small built trying to reach the bidet, the soap, while making sure her shirt won’t get wet. It took a long time for her to finish. But as soon as done, she ran to me and shared how she did it as usual. That’s when I cried.

Monica: Mommy why are you crying?

Mommy: Why are you washing your pwet on your own already??

Monica: It seems that I don’t need you for that anymore

Mommy: ????

Monica:

Oh no don’t cry mommy! I still need you in learning new things. I still need you to take care of me.?

I am sorry for being emotional but it really made me cry. Now I wanted to do all things for her but I know I shouldn’t. No matter how much I stop or delay, this stage will come. I felt guilty for being so lazy but at the same time, I know it was needed.

Haaaaaay. My baby who used to be so clingy and needy is now a big girl. Haaaaaaay. BRB crying again.???

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Our Birthing Story: Hello there, Monica

Birthing Story: Part 1
Birthing Story: Part 2
At 7pm, I was brought to the operating room while Beej was signing documents (about change of package from Normal delivery to Emergency CS). I was feeling cold in the OR while they prepare for the operation. I think I fell asleep (probably because of the extra dosage of epidural) for a while because the next thing I remember was they called Beej already and my OB said, “Oh konting press lang to ha…”
Beej refused to look at my open tummy haha. He just took photos of what’s going on, took a video, and reassured me that it’s gonna be okay.
After a few minutes, we heard Monica cry.
Then they brought her to me for Unang Yakap and they had her latch on me. She’s beautiful. This little human being came out alive and healthy. Thank You Lord.
I cried of course and passed out.
I woke up after an hour and found myself in the recovery room. I was too excited to see and hold Monica. I was advised to move my legs while the effect of anesthesia is still there – it’s for me to cope better and to heal faster.
I can’t remember being tired. All I felt was happiness. Seeing Beej so smitten with our daughter was enough to forget what I went through.
Monica is love. Thank You God.
PS: And because of what I went through, NO, you cannot just tell me: “Ay CS ka pala?” TRY MO? Haha. #Galit 😛

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Our Birthing Story: Labor

Birthing Story: Part 1
So a little before 7am, I was already in the labor room, contractions here and there. Beej called my Mommy and informed about the situation.
Good thing was, Monica’s doing well inside, heart rate was good. Contractions were pretty regular and I would cry in between. MASAKIT. TALAGANG MASAKIT. My pain threshold was not that high, probably that’s why the early contractions were stressful already.
I called my mom because I know  she would panic knowing that her daughter is in pain. I cried and she told me she’ll be going to the hospital soon. I was advised to rest and sleep, but HOW? MASAKIT TALAGA.
Kudos to my husband for being so supportive and cheerful still, no signs of panic. Haha.
At 12 noon, I was checked again and to our surprise, it’s still at 4cm. Mind you, IE while contracting was really REALLY PAINFUL. Please lang.
Normally, dilation will progress at 1-1.5cm every hour. But in my case, the progress was very small. At that point also, I was crying of pain and I could not handle it anymore. I think the slow progress added to my frustration. I was so tired, hungry, and feeling so down and yet it seems there was no progress at all. The resident OB advised that I get an epidural already as it will make me rest because I won’t feel any pain at all. They decided to break my water and induce me to help with the dilation. We agreed.
Epidural was heaven for me. For a few hours, I got to rest but not sleep, at least I was inp peace even if contractions came every two minutes with high intensity.
And so we expected that at 4pm, I will be full dilated. I was checked  again and sadly, it only progressed to 5cm. Too bad. My OB said I should be 7-8cm dilated by 6om, if not we may have to talk about Emergency CS.
This stressed me out a little more. The cost, the pain, everything. The only consolation was, Monica’s still doing good inside.
6:30pm came. Sadly, it’s still at 5-6cm. Did not really progress that much. OB explained what happened and what will happen. We can opt to just wait till 8pm and see.
I was crying and feeling really tired already. I’m not sure if I can still do it. I prayed. Beej looked at me and decided we go emergency CS already. Awang awa na ang asawa ko. We hugged and prayed and got excited that finally, our baby will be with us soon.

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Our Birthing Story: Contractions

This story is about me, my husband, and our daughter.
I was told to just wait and let Monica come out when she’s ready. I did my share of walking, swimming, exercising – to get ready for her big day.
We went to the OB for our weekly check-up on Thursday, June 23. It was also the 39th week of Monica inside my tummy. I told Dra. Soci that I’ve been having contractions and had barely slept for a couple of days; I also told her I just had a pinkish discharge before meeting with her. She said it’s my body getting ready for labor. She did an internal exam and found out I was 2cm dilated already. Since it’s still early to tell, she sent us home and advised to just relax and wait.
Since Beej already took a leave, we went to the mall and walked (and walked and walked). From Greenbelt to SM, in between walks, I would have contractions and would stop for a few minutes.
On our way home, Beej was already monitoring my contractions. Around 6pm we reached home and my contractions were every 5-7 minutes already but pain was still manageable.I said I would still do some exercise but around 9pm, pain became intense and Beej decided we go to the hospital already.
Makati Medical Center, Delivery Room, June 23, 9:30PM. The resident OB checked and found out my dilation did not progress as it’s still 2cm. We were sent home because it’s still not progressing and the contractions were not regular.
We had light dinner at 11PM and went home. I was not able to sleep as contractions were becoming painful and regular again. I was crying and Beej was worried and decided we go back to the hospital. At 5Am we’re back at the hospital and at last my dilation progressed and it becamce 3cm. I was admitted and brought to the labor room.

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Pregnancy: 1st Trimester

Two days (Tuesday) after  we found out that it was positive in the pregnancy test, we went to Dra. Syki-Young in Makati Med, she’s the OB referred by one of our friends. Based on my Last Menstrual Period (September 24, 2015), she said I was possibly 4 weeks and 4 days pregnant. But of course we cannot tell this early if it’s 100% accurate so she advised us to have a Transvaginal Ultrasound on the 7th week.
I was disappointed really, because I was expecting it to be the grand ultrasound right away. Hehe. So I went back to the office and faced the stress of a recruitment job.
Thursday came and I felt some pain in my lower back and tummy. I panicked and went to the OB clinic right away! She mentioned it’s just nothing and I was just too paranoid or probably stressed out. She advised me to take a two day rest and not to stress out too much.
Week 7. So anxious for the first ultrasound. And there you go, we saw our little bacon. We heard and saw the heartbeat and we were so happy! However, there was a slight (normal) problem seen in the ultrasound. I was seen with Subchorionic Hemorrhage near the sac; I was told it’s pretty normal but it’s still best that I take a bed rest for two weeks and come back on the 9th week for another ultrasound. I was given meds to make sure the baby will be alright. I immediately told my boss about it and took my 2-week leave.
I stayed in Batangas because I was really having a hard time in the initial stage of pregnancy. I hated anything that’s fried. The smell of “ginisa” was making me puke and was making me angry. I kept vomiting and I was always nauseous.  Plus during those times, I longed for my mother so much. Shecooked me real food, prepared and bought fruits. I felt really loved. This also meant, my husband can already eat breakfast at home without worrying that I’ll throw up. Hehe.
Week 9. We went back for another ultrasound. I remember praying so hard that our baby is okay. And yes, our little bacon’s doing just fine! I was cleared for the internal bleeding but was asked to continue with my “pampakapit” meds plus folic acid.
Back to work. I told myself, actually I was told by everyone, to take it easy at work. It was really hard to function since I was always feeling weak and all.
On the 12th week, my birthday, we finally heard our little bacon’s heartbeat via the Doppler device! Oh it was the perfect gift!!! We were teary eyed! 🙂


 

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Positive

Prior to getting married, Beej and I agreed to wait for 6 months to 1 year before having a baby. So after getting married, we enjoyed our time just the two of us. Five months of being together, we talked about trying to conceive and prepared ourselves. We were excited.

I resigned from my graveyard shift job and applied to a regular day-job, did some exercise, and quit smoking. We had ourselves checked to make sure we really are ready. On the first month, I tested and it was negative. I felt a bit sad and thought to myself, “it’s not that easy to get pregnant even if I know my period and cycle so damn well.”

And so we tried again. I remember it clearly, October 4, 2015 – I knew I was fertile then, but I didn’t tell my husband as I know pressure won’t help. Hehe. Night of October 6, we did it again. In my head, I loved it of course, but in my heart I knew, that was it.

October 20, 2016, I was supposed to have my period but it didn’t happen. I thought it was probably because of too much stress in the office. So I waited. October 24, still no period but I was feeling tired and my back really hurt – just like whenever my period is about to come. But that night, I bought Pregnancy Test Kit already, just because I was almost 5 days delayed, something that never happened in the past.

Six in the morning of October 25, I woke up anxious. Not sure if it’s because I felt like peeing or because I was excited to do the PT. Beej was sleeping soundly, I did not want to wake him up. So I went ahead and checked. In just a matter of 10 seconds, 2 lines showed up! That fast. I did not even blink and saw how it formed two lines right after I put my pee on it. I cannot explain how I felt – I was shaking, speechless. Went to husband and gently woke him up. He said, “wow” and hugged me.

At 10am, he bought 2 more PT kits just to double check. And those two came with 2 lines again. So happy! We went ahead and told our mothers. We prepared for the day because we’re scheduled to have lunch at Rej and Oneal’s place. They were the first ones to know about the good news!

After that, we heard mass and sincerely thanked the Lord for this blessing. And since then, there’s never a time that I did not touch and talk to my tummy. I felt love at that very moment. <3

Continue reading “Positive” →

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