34 weeks

Post baby shower - we finally have some time to reflect and focus on baby. This week was also the last of our antenatal class, 5 weeks of 3 hour Tuesday night sessions going though birth prep, birth options and parenting. Whilst it was tiring (6-9pm after work!) it was also very informational and helped Twitchy and I think about things and know what to expect. It was also quite reassuring to be in a same room with 12 other couples.

Now that everything else is done and dusted, it's all about baby and preparing for baby!

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How far along? 34 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: Last time I saw the OBGYN, I am 60.5 kgs, which means a weight gain of 12kgs.

Maternity clothes? Yes! Wearing the same old outfits day in and out. It's also beginning to get really cold (it's the last week of Autumn) and most of my coats can't button. And all my fat coats are left in Canberra! Truly is a first world problem as I really don't want to but coats that I'd only wear for a month (and I intend to not be this big post baby).

Stretch marks? Not sure. Still applying lots of Clarins oil at night and the occasional cream in the day/after shower. Tummy gets really red some days, i don't know if its from the clothes/leggings I wear irritating and chafing the skin or stretch mark related....

Symptoms: In my last update, I was convinced that my ribs hurt, but since my last checkup with the OBGYN, I've been told it's actually my muscle being stretched. I actually the muscles tore a little as the pain is constant now. The only way I am mediating it is to have light meals or to go lie down after a heavy meal. My pimples are back! And I can no longer stand around too long, my back hurts after an hour of activity.

Sleep:  Still the best sleep of my life. I've never looked forward to going to bed everyday. This is even with the 2-3 trips I make to the toilet in the middle of my sleep! Although I am beginning to get the odd night or two where I feel restless.

Best moment these 2 weeks: Baby Shower and Housewarming was fun! The dessert table was divine. I think every girl deserves to have a dessert table decked up at least once in her life. It was also a good opportunity to have everyone visiting and looking at our place. Some of our friends were also so generous to buy expensive items from our gift registry! It was also my birthday and I enjoyed my quiet bday this year - just with my love.

Have you told family and friends: Yes. I've also uploaded pictures on fb, though not "publishing" to the wider audience. My tummy has popped too - so it is pretty obvious I'm about to become a mummy. Had a few comments from strangers about how cute I look and how pregnancy agrees with me? Hmmmm

Miss Anything? i miss having more energy and going for a run. I can't do as much as I'd like to. The mind says "let's go!". the body says "no". :(

Movement: Baby is now head down! We're all set! Lots of movements and sometimes I see a 45 degree rise on one side of the tummy. She loves stretching. and I've felt her soft feet a couple of times now. Baby is also very shy. She was very quiet when there were lots of people around at the baby shower. She prefers being in family grounds, just me & Twitchy!

Food cravings: Vegetable and fruits. i don't eat enough of them these days. and have the having too much carbs, i think! I still can't say i have cravings - more like food aversions (what I definitely don't want to eat!)


Anything making you queasy or sick: The smell of the bbq didn't make me sick at the housewarming. and I ate some of the chicken! We had a team planning day at the bosses' place and we had indian for dinner. Can't say I'm a fan. Which is strange. I usually loveeeee my curry.

Have you started to show yet: Yes! I have a big tummy and it's getting in everyone's way. I'm a bit cheeky that way - using it to bump Twitchy around.

Baby is a: GIRL!

Belly Button in or out? Still In. Getting shallower. I still have a feeling it will pop soon. 


Wedding rings on or off? On. Doesn't look like my finger are going to swell.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy and euphoric. We bought a whole new tv system yesterday (tv, sound system), blur ray and wall mounts. We have talked about buying it for a while, but didn't think it will happen as we were trying to save some money for the baby. But did it anyway! Then we bought our first big baby items - pram, bassinet & car capsule! Woo Hoo! Also have been receiving baby registry items so we are getting there. Finally getting all prepped for BABY!

Looking forward to: ......continuing to furnish baby room, buying baby items & finishing up work in 2 weeks!

Baby Shower & House Warming

After umm''ing and ahh'ing for a while, Twitchy and I decided to hold a housewarming party. After all, we have moved into this beautiful (and spacious!) home. At the same time, I was constantly being asked about baby items that friends would like to buy us. Practical items they keep asking about what we need. I found that question incredibly hard to answer. After all, we are about to be first time parents, i don't know what to expect - what more what I need! Never the less, Twitchy and I spent one month cleaning, tidying and furnishing the home in preparation for the low key affair. And what an affair it was!

We invited 15 of our closest friends and family. From the get go, Twitchy's sister has been adamant to help out with the shower, so both her and L, my closest girlfriend spent many emails splitting up the huge task of many the baby shower dessert table a reality. I didn't let them do it all, of course. I created the invites, deco, prepped the house and prepared to host our housewarming with a bbq.

We even manage to set up a baby registry, which was emptied before the event! everyone bought something from the registry. Even with the expensive items! can't believe how generous our friends are......

What a memorable day. One that I will cherish forever.

In honour of baby

Party Favours

Fruit Pram!

31 and loving life

It's my 31st birthday today. Wasn't planning for much, given that baby K is on its way and I'm that far along in the pregnancy. But wow. What an awesome day!

I went to work as normal and my temp replacement actually started today so I had the big task of settling her in and showing her around.

Then we had a Baby Shower #2 - thrown by my lovely lovely workmates.  We had a long lunch and I opened lots of pressies and we even played games. It was truly awesome. I am immensely touched by how nice and thoughtful some people are. I'm calling this Baby Shower #2 because I had a mini Baby Shower (#1) with some girly workmates a few weeks ago.

Then Twitchy whisked me off to a romantic dinner tonight. We were at the Private Dining Room at Balmoral.

Aren't I lucky to be blessed with so much love? Baby K : You will be loved by all these wonderful people too!

A little bit more upbeat

Ok that was a low point, perhaps I was being hormonal. But all good now. who cares if the house is in a mess or not perfect?We'll make do!

There, don't I sound a little more upbeat? Since my last post the house has been tidied, most of our junk has been put away or hidden. Work has been a little stressful last week (there was an event in Perth) and I could feel my body (and baby) stressing from being stressed too!

So I decided to go on my maternity leave a week earlier than expected. Come June 10, I will be home resting! Looking forward to it as my ribs are beginning to hurt and so does my back! :(

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How far along? 32 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: + 11kgs. Last check was at the OBGYN 10 days ago. I am now seeing my doctor every 2 weeks.

Maternity clothes? No more shopping for me, I think. Time to make do with what i've bought and big loose clothing.

Stretch marks? Not yet! Still applying lots of Clarins oil at night and the occasional cream in the day/after shower.  I think it helps. I still feel stretched though.

Symptoms: My ribs still hurt after meals and the back hurts when I've been sitting or standing for too long. I feel better after a bit of a lie down. Oh...and finally some heartburn when I sleep at night! I've been woken up by the pain last 3 nights!

Sleep:  Still getting good sleep despite the heartburn. I merely shift positions and it helps. Also getting up to pee doesn't bother me that much.

Best moment this week: Stayed home on Wednesday. Took a sick day. Best decision ever, as my back was hurting me a fair bit at work. At least it's easier to get comfy at home. Also today I had TWO naps! Morning and evening! haha!. My preggie bellies class has also ended - and I have mixed reactions. It was a bit of a hassle to go to class, and It's getting a little harder. At the same time it kept me fit and active....i can just feel the fat flab growing on me now...


Have you told family and friends: Yes.

Miss Anything? This week I miss having cheese. Soft camembert cheese!

Movement: Baby's really active and strong. I get combo kicks periodically as well as waves moving from side to side of my belly! Cool and freaky at the same time.

Food cravings: I'm in the mood to having good food but I dread eating - the rib pain after is not worth the discomfort.


Anything making you queasy or sick: Not sure about the smell of meat being cooked anymore. Our kitchen still hasn't been set up so we hardly have been cooking. Though some strong curry smell from work made me a little sick the other day.


Have you started to show yet: Yes! I have a big tummy and it's getting in everyone's way. I'm still a bit cheeky that way - using it to bump Twitchy around.

Baby is a: GIRL!

Belly Button in or out? Still In. Getting shallower. I have a feeling it will pop soon. 


Wedding rings on or off? On. Doesn't look like my finger are going to swell.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy now! and I am taking lots of care to ensure i am well rested!

Looking forward to: My birthday tomorrow. We don't have much planned for my birthday this year as I just don't feel like having a bit one. Twitchy is taking me out for dinner and I think it's good enough for me! Oh and work is throwing my a baby shower/birthday lunch tomorrow - that would be nice!

Not all fun and games

Lying here in bed, on the verge of tears. Tears of frustration. I am 31 weeks and I have done shit all to prepare for the arrival of baby k. I have no pantry, the kitchen is in a mess. My birthday is in a week and I am on no mood to celebrate. And baby's been giving me lots of rib and back pain. And have I mentioned we haven't bought anything for baby yet?

There's nothing worst than feeling helpless. Knowing there's lots to do but not being capable to do it. 😪

Sucks.

31 Weeks

Past two weeks have been madness. We moved to our new home! Amidst the moving, the settling in, going to work and trying to get used to a new foreign place - life has been pretty hectic.

We took a 5 day long weekend over Anzac day, and even by spending everyday unpacking and tidying - the house is still not in place!

Oh we also managed to squeeze in a one-night trip to Cbr to vote. Yes - my first and last ever vote for the home country. What an experience.

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How far along? 31 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: + 15kgs. (haven't weighed myself in a while - but i have a feeling I've grown a bit)

Maternity clothes? Yes! bought myself a new dress over the weekend. New bra and a new haircut! Been feeling like a dag for a while now....

Stretch marks? Not yet! Still applying lots of Clarins oil at night and the occasional cream in the day/after shower.  I think it helps. I feel stretched though

Symptoms: My ribs hurt! Especially after a meal. I think the stomach pushes the uterus towards my ribs. Either that or baby likes to sit there. My back hurts from standing too long - which i did a lot when we were tidying and unpacking. I even did some heavy lifting during the few days we went crazy at ikea. Stupid move. I was alright - but in a hindsight, what a stupid thing to do. Constipation is back too - which is a pain. Anyway - i'm still glowing, the hair is still healthy (even better after the haircut!)

Sleep:  Still the best sleep of my life. I've never looked forward to going to bed everyday. This is even with the 2-3 trips I make to the toilet in the middle of my sleep! Although I am beginning to get the odd night or two where I feel restless.

Best moment these 2 weeks: Nesting in full bloom. Been furnishing the place and dreaming of how else we can "do it up". This is so much fun! If only we have more money....

Have you told family and friends: Yes. I've also uploaded pictures on fb, though not "publishing" to the wider audience. My tummy has popped too - so it is pretty obvious I'm about to become a mummy.

Miss Anything? i miss alcohol. Work has been crazy and stressful - was totally hanging for a Gin and Tonic to take the edge off......

Movement: Felt baby's feet the other day - that's crazy! Baby doesn't kick as much but definitely moves a fair bit and is super strong too! Oh had 3 slices of cake the other day and that set baby off on a 20-second non0stop kick. Whoops!

Food cravings: None. I dread eating - the rib pain after is not worth the discomfort.


Anything making you queasy or sick: Not sure about the smell of meat being cooked anymore. Our kitchen still hasn't been set up so we hardly have been cooking. Though some strong curry smell from work made me a little sick the other day.


Have you started to show yet: Yes! I have a big tummy and it's getting in everyone's way. I'm a bit cheeky that way - using it to bump Twitchy around.

Baby is a: GIRL!

Belly Button in or out? Still In. Getting shallower. I have a feeling it will pop soon. 


Wedding rings on or off? On. Doesn't look like my finger are going to swell.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Highly stressed at the moment. Work is still busy and is taking a toll on me. I'm also finding that I'd rather stay home (in our new home) than work....Today I've advised work that I'm taking off a week earlier for my maternity leave. So my last day is the 7th of June! Between now and then, if things get too hard I might just get the OBGYN to give me MC to stay home.

Looking forward to: ......and Baby shower/house warming party in 3 weeks and my birthday in 2 weeks. Wow. and to continue fixing up the place and finally buying baby stuff!

Voting

Having been here in Australia for the past 11 years, I still call myself a Malaysian. How can I not? How can I ever forget my roots, my family, friends and the beautiful memories I have growing up?

I never thought I would be living here, married to a local and most likely settling here. Back at uni, I thought I would be going home after. Little did I know that love comes a calling....

Anyway.... For the first time ever, I'll be voting in the general elections. Voting for a change, to end corruption, for equal rights in Malaysia. Doing this in the Malaysian High Commission. Am I nervous? Oh yeah! What can I expect?

First day at our new home

Oh how I love my new home. There's so much space! And it now takes 10 seconds to walk from the bedroom to the living room. How divine is that!?

True enough, even though I was away most of the move yesterday, the stress obviously took a toll on me. I had a few Braxton Hicks contractions in the middle of the night. My first ever!

I put it down to dehydration. It didn't hurt, just that I felt the tummy cramped up and harden for a couple of seconds. It all went away when I drank more water. Scary!

Anyway, here are some pictures of the new place!

Move day!

Well, had the most restless night ever and woke up early feeling stressed. It's a terribly feeling, feeling helpless and not being to help. Worse still, I'm not even supposed to be around when we're moving! It's some weird Chinese superstition. And why do I choose to follow? Because I don't want to risk baby's life!

So I got out of home at 930, left Twitchy to do all the moving with the removalists and with a few friends. And went to the spa. Perhaps it was a good thing I left. I was beginning to feel really stressed. Oh and have I mentioned that its raining? Not light rain but torrential, even!

I drove off to the spa to get a facial done. pre facial- I was way restless and fidgety.
Post facial- I was way more relaxed. And then lunch w my two favourite girls!

Got to the new place at 2, and all the boxes were unpacked, but clutter clutter everywhere!

It'll take us a few days ( or even weeks) to get this sorted. I just gotta pace myself and take it easy.

Last Night in our old place

It's midnight and I'm lying here awake in our old place. It's partly sentimental, partly excitement... And partly just me recovering from an awful day!

I don't really want to dwell into it but in a nutshell:

A high maintenance friend drove me mad by her insincerity.

A problem arised. Struggled to be diplomatic at work and bit my tongue to apologise despite it not being entirely my fault.

Disappointment because no one recognized how much good stuff I have done at work this week, a cumulation of months and weeks of hard work. Sigh.

... And the horror of finding out that a close friend has decided on a very similar name for her baby. Who is due in 2 weeks.

Which means Twitchy and I will have to pick another one. Bummer :( I had an inkling that it would be the case. It's inevitable, after all, you're close to people who are like-minded like you.

But geez. Would some one please cut me some slack this week?Anyone?

I'll get over it. I know I will. I have many things to be grateful about. The new place we're moving to. The good things coming our way... And baby K being healthy and kicking along! I just need to pick myself up, dust myself up and move along!

Moving home

Moving is always unsettling. In the past 10 years, I've moved at least 6 times. It's the life of renting.

But not anymore! Next weekend we move to our home. Hopefully will settle there for a good few years until we can afford a proper house. Yet, part of me is missing my current place already! I love this area. I love walking to work (well - i don't walk to work as much recently as I am getting bigger). Soon we will have to commute to work - 20 mins via train, i think. No more being close to the city.

I am also unable to help with the packing and unpacking of the move. My bump has grown so much over the past few days, i struggle to even catch my breath walking! I'm also a little clumsy these days - often underestimating how much space i need to allocate for my bump. Ooops!

So for my last weekend of being here - I will just sit back (try) and enjoy being here.

28 Weeks

Filling this in at 2am - I've just realised I haven't consistently documented the pregnancy and I've just entered my third trimester! Whoa time flies!

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How far along? 28 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: + 11kgs. (yup I've put on a fair bit since week 21. especially from week 26 onwards)

Maternity clothes? Yes! Mainly pants/skirts. I can still fit into my t-shirts but my tops are getting a little tighter!

Stretch marks? Not yet! Although when I was in Perth at 26/27 weeks, I thought I saw (and felt) a red mark appear on the side. Could be due to dehydration - it's gone now. Still applying lots of Clarins oil at night and the ocassional cream in the day/after shower.  I think it helps.

Symptoms: No headaches. It's been smooth for the past few weeks (week 24-28). I suppose if I were to mention a symptom, it would be stretching pains the past 2 weeks? Round ligament pains? Also a huge growth spurt (for me) between week 26-28. Possibly due to the amount of food consumed in Perth and in Canberra for Easter (the mothers spoil me way too much)! My hair and nails are fabulous - Finally benefitting from the hormones. Pimples seem to have stopped too - I don't know if it's the new organic exfoliant or the hormones are giving me a break. I know I glow. I can see it when I take pictures.

Sleep:  Still the best sleep of my life. I've never looked forward to going to bed everyday. This is even with the 2-3 trips I make to the toilet in the middle of my sleep! Although I am beginning to get the odd night or two where I feel restless.

Best moment this week: Getting keys to the new place. Let the nesting begin!

Have you told family and friends: Yes. I've also uploaded pictures on fb, though not "publishing" to the wider audience. My tummy has popped too - so it is pretty obvious I'm about to become a mummy.

Miss Anything? Sashimi! Twitchy made the best tuna sushi over the weekend. Best ever! Given the circumstances. I love my husband - the things he did for me.

Movement: Baby is back to being active. She slowed down a little during 26-27 week, but still kicking when I lay down at night. Oh and I can feel where baby is, she is getting much bigger! The movements are a lot different too. Hiccups, vibrations and slow movement from left to right.... It's move obvious when she changes position - and we sometimes can feel parts of her the body on my tummy. She moves when we give it a pat/rub!

Food cravings: Not really. I have to say I got Twitchy to make me eggs on toast at 4am last Saturday. I was just feeling.....hungry! Twitchy ended up making himself eggs on toast too... 


Anything making you queasy or sick: The smell of meat being cooked - Still! or the smell of raw meat. Yuck!


Have you started to show yet: Yes! Pretty obvious I am. In fact I had a growth spurt from week 26-28. My tummy is getting bigger and I am getting clumsier. Bumped the tummy into things as I keep underestimating my size/agility.

Baby is a: GIRL!

Belly Button in or out? In. Getting shallower. I have a feeling it will pop soon. 


Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy! but stressed. Moving homes, work (so hectic) and the urgent need to nest and yet trying to save money for a rainy day. Let's face it. There will be lots of rainy days coming up.

Looking forward to: My 28 week check up on Friday. Went for my GTT blood test last week - the one where I have to drink think sugary/lemonade drink and wait (yes literally wait) for an hour before I get my blood tested. I'd know of results this Friday when I see the OBGYN......and Baby shower/house warming party in May.

Before I went to Perth

After 4 days, 5 nights in Perth and 2 nights in Canberra!

Mid Week 27

Keys to the new home

Exciting milestone of our life- we got our new home keys today!

We immediately checked out the place and were so pleased with our big purchase, I am so incredibly proud. Move in date is in 2 weeks and we have a million things we'd like to do before then. Paint, change locks and install new lights!

Gosh. Money sure is flying out of our pockets....

26 weeks

About 6 months into the pregnancy and I am here sitting in the Perth Qantas Lounge. Flew over to see mum who is here on a holiday.

Everyone seems to think I am mad to travel but I didn't think too much of it. After all, it's only a 5 hour flight! Haha I kid, I thought I'd be alright. And I knew I would be.

Baby is happily kicking along while I indulge in all the good food and company over here. It's nice to hang out with family ;)

Second biggest purchase of our lives

We bought a car!

After many weeks/months of test driving, we finally bought a car!

A brand spanking not-so-new (second hand) SUV that even I feel comfortable driving.

The exchange will probably happen Tuesday/Wednesday so stay tuned!

24 weeks

Wow. The past two weeks I think baby underwent a little growth spurt. And I can now say, I've popped! I am now visibly pregnant though I'm still trying to hide at work..hehe! Worst kept secret, maybe? Nobody has actually walked up to me to asked - but maybe they all know but are not talking about it. My closest workmates and team, know about it, of course.

Three girls that I'm close to at work even took me out to lunch and got me presents. They called it a mini baby shower. How sweet are they? I have to admit, in this work I haven't made much effort to hang out and socialise with people. Well who'd have time with planning a wedding, honeymoon and not a baby?! Anyway, I was just reminded how I missed having close gfs at work. They are as close as they can get. Not good enough I think. Need to try harder. One day I will.

Back to baby. Wow. Baby girl sure is active. She is constantly moving, kicking, flipping (i think - it felt as though I'm sitting on a rollercoaster, on a hill drop) and then there are vibrations. I think the vibrations are hiccups, not sure about it. She also seem to respond to Twitchy's voice. When he says hello to her, she tends to kick or move towards him. The belly movement freaks me out at times. I guess it's now a good time for baby to swim around - there's space. I can't imagine what's going to happen in a couple of months!

I'm doing well, though work does get me a little tired some days. It's mental exhaustion. And I do get a little agitated. I've only put on about 7kgs, which is not too bad. I do hope I don't exceed 11 kgs for this pregnancy though....

Oh and i bought baby her first pair of booties! I knew everyone would not be able to resist buying cute baby clothes but I really wanted to be the first to buy our baby something. So here it is. Teeny Tiny fluffy booties! Aren't they the cutest?!

Baby's first booties

Apart from that, we haven't been shopping for baby. I figured I'd wait till we move to our new home (4th May!) before I start buying items. After all, we don't have much space at our current place.

So we're moving homes, we sold the bachelor beemer, are shopping around for an SUV, visited his parents - his dad was in hospital for a surgery - and I have a baby shower to plan.

Phew! Life sure is happening all at once!

To the niece whom I'll never meet

Awful awful news. Baby actually has a cousin who is due to arrive in May. A cousin who will be her age. We were all filled with joy, thinking that we'd be raising two kids so close in age.

Unfortunately it wasn't meant to be. My brother and sis-in-law lost their baby at 28 weeks. SIL had high blood pressure and had an episode last week. Blurred vision and nausea. Confined to bed, she stayed there for a few days. When things didn't get any better, they went to see the doctor who then told them he couldn't hear the baby's heartbeat. Their baby had passed.

What happened after, is a series of heart-rending hours. Of when their baby had to be induced. Of praying that my SIL will survive and not suffer a stroke. Of finding out the gender of the baby (girl!). And finally for SIL to be safe and past the danger zone.

I didn't know how they will get through this - but I guess the saviour of all would be my 3 year old nephew, who would not comprehend this but would light up the dark with his laughter. And for the two of them to know they have one to live for, to continue on.

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Baby K is now 22 weeks! She's actively kicking away. And even got Twitchy in the cheek when he was trying to listen to a heartbeat 2 days ago. And yesterday got Twitchy in the mouth, when he was talking to the belly. Yes. Twitchy likes to converse with baby!

Baby kicks very strongly these days. Sometimes I'm amazed by how strong her kicks are! What's going to happen in a few weeks?!

21 Weeks!

I'm finally allowing myself to embrace baby and be happy! It's not that I've been unhappy, but I've been overly cautious - wary of things going wrong, etc.

But enough is enough. Time to be happy!

We bought a place and settlement will take place in about 20 days. Twitchy is finally about to sell his far in a few days (fingers crossed) Bye bye bachelor beemer! We're shopping around for a pram-friendly car...and I've got my eye on the X1.

But anyhooooo...here's whats happening with baby and me.
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How far along? 21 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: + 5.5 kgs (or about)

Maternity clothes? Yes, brought out the pants a week ago

Stretch marks? No not yet. I am religiously rubbing stretch marks cream every night before I sleep, and sometimes after I shower during the day. My favourite oil to date is the Clarins Huile Tonic. Not so much the Bio Oil - it sticks and smells too medicated.

Symptoms: Headaches once or twice a week but easily meditated with some Coke (coca-cola!) Caffeine's bad, I know but you try having a bad headache at work! Nausea is rare these days, though it stills happen when I don't eat in time!

Sleep:  Best sleep of my life. I've never looked forward to going to bed everyday. This is even with the 2-3 trips I make to the toilet in the middle of my sleep! 


Best moment this week: Getting excited thinking about the baby shower. I'm thinking late May!

Have you told family and friends: Yes and only ones I'm closest to in the office. No fb announcements.

Miss Anything? Sushi & Sashimi. Desperately!

Movement: Lots! Baby is very active especially when I am sitting still or lying down. Lately I notice baby reacts to sugar and caffeine...(uh oh)

Food cravings: Fruit! I sometimes crave refreshing fruits! i.e today it was watermelon. 


Anything making you queasy or sick: The smell of meat being cooked

Have you started to show yet: Yes! I've noticed people's eyes being drawn to my belly - which has never happened before. Even the car salesman congratulated us without asking.

Baby is a: GIRL!

Belly Button in or out? In - does it really pop out? huh?!?


Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: 50/50. I do tend to get cranky at work. certain people annoys me

Looking forward to: seeing baby again in 2-3 weeks at the 24-week check up.

20 weeks

Saturday morning and we woke up nice and early. I had a sleepless night, being a little anxious.....

It was our 20 week ultrasound appointment, also known as the gender scan!

So we got to the ultrasound place, and spent almost an hour looking at all of baby's anatomy.

What a cheeky baby we had, it sure was being a handful - don't think baby like being scanned. Every time we tried to take a good picture of the heart, baby would move or block with its hands. Same with the face - baby keeps turning away from the u/s, or cover with its hands. And baby would actively move around. Sure kept the ultrasound technician on her toes!

But it was all good. Baby has a healthy heart, and all organs are growing very well. I breathed a sigh a relief!

Most excitingly, baby's a girl!

A girl, a girl, a girl to call my own!

Kick kick and kick some more!

Baby is a few days short of 20 weeks. Gosh, what an active Baby I have in my belly.

What started off as a few kicks after dinner, while lying down at 18 weeks quickly progressed to kick every few hours ( regardless of what I'm doing) today! Last Thursday/Friday, I was just thinking how odd it is to have baby kick me while I'm sitting down at work. Today I even felt baby kicking as I have my dinner!

As odd as it is, I am thankful to feel baby kicking. It's very reassuring to me. To know baby is active, happy and hopefully healthy in my belly.

3 days till we find out if baby K is a he or she!

Quick survey and everyone seem to think we're having a girl! We shall soon see :)

Scare

What a Friday. 1st February is one I will remember for a long time. Woke up feeling tired. Tummy felt odd. Despite it all, I decided to go to work because I had an important social event to organise.

Big mistake.

By 11 am, I was fighting back tears, doubling up in pain at work. It started off with a headache at work. I've had that before, so I thought I'd have sometime to eat. A banana. Not long after I started having sharp tummy pains. That gave me a shock - as I've never had that before. I got all terrified for the baby.

Told the boss I had to go. I was truly sorry I couldn't organise the event. But the pain and the scare ( and probably hormones) got to me and soon got tears started rolling down my eyes. He got really alarmed and told me to head home.

Soon I couldn't stop crying so he walked me out to catch a cab. Poor boss. I'm so sorry to show this side of me. Wish I didn't. I don't like being made to look like a softie.

Made it home and immediately laid on the couch. Rang the midwife, who says my tummy pains are too far up to be related to the babe. Besides, I had no bleeding, no nausea and no diarrhoea. So she just advised me to go on bed rest and see how I feel when I get up.

I did feel better lying down. But could n't stop crying in the afternoon. What a scare! Am I truly ready to be a mum? Am I ok to endure a lot more pain that is coming my way? Will I be able to survive work? Is baby truly ok?

(Baby was alright. Felt a few reassuring kicks in the evening.)

I am still a little traumatised by the experienced. I hope I'll be ok soon.

Our Big Day

Didn't think I'd get around to posting about our wedding day.

22.9.12
It was a bright beautiful day, with a high of 27degrees. All I remember of the day was smiling a lot, being very happy and it was just beautiful. The flowers, my bridal party, our shoot at the beach, the reception, our dance....Truly magical.

16 weeks

It's been a while since my last scan. 

Amidst all the sadness with Baby V, and work and an incident of my walking into a fan and hitting my tummy one night (yes it really did happen).....I was scared, at the back of my mind. I was counting down the days till my next ultrasound, which is TODAY!

To my immense relief, there it is. Baby K, lying contently waving its hands at me. And what a strong heartbeat baby had! Our next screening is on Valentines Day, when we'll find our the gender. Yes Twitchy wants to know. And I think it's nice to know too...

On another note. I think I finally popped. There is a small baby bump, and it became obvious over the past 2 days, when I got to 16 weeks! No pictures yet. Tomorrow, maybe?

How we are going

A 3:30am post.

Week 14 (last week) was the strangest week ever. Woke up one morning and behold - I felt the most unpregnant ever! Was a bundle of energy, went to bed late (10:30pm!), no nausea and no bloat! I felt so good. But after 2-3 days, I got a little worried - what is wrong with me?

Yes, this is so typically me. Miss worry-wart. Anyway, I had to take a breather and pace myself to enjoy it. Was also reassured by bff who says "Nothing. Welcome to your second trimester!"So I had a pretty good week/weekend, being super productive and active.

Week 15 started the same.
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When I got that call about baby V, my insecurities came right back up. Am I ok? Should I get a doppler to find the heartbeat? Once again had to take a breather and to tell myself to chill out! Instead, Twitchy and I went for a long walk by the beach and had Ben & Jerrys!

Today (i mean yesterday - being up at 3am still counts as the night before), I was suddenly hit with a headache. It's not your typical pounding headache, but uncomfortable nevertheless. Reduced me to being in bed the entire afternoon. Which wasn't so bad - I read a book and listened to the rain. Sipped on hubby's coke during dinner, and felt 100% better! Caffeine really is the remedy when you have preppy headaches!

On, and another update - I think I can finally feel and glimpse the bump. Which is exciting, because before this, I don't really look pregnant. Just felt pregnant and fat (when i have only gained 2 kgs).

OBGYN appointment in 4 days, will be looking forward to seeing mini K then!

Bye V

Friday started of like any other usual day. Uneventful, but with a restless countdown to the weekend.

The phone rang at lunchtime. Strange, I thought. I don't hear from this person much these days. 10 minutes later, a blanket of sadness and grief engulfed me. My dear friends have lost their 4 month old. She was tucked to bed, and when they checked on her later that night, she wasn't breathing. From what I gathered, they rushed to the hospital, where she was put on life support. But didn't make it in the morning.

Devastating. I've heard of SIDS but never heard or know anyone who've been affected.

...the sound of both of my dear friends sobbing will haunt me for a very long time.

I couldn't sleep that night. Culmination of heat, sadness and fear. Is my baby ok? Will my baby be ok?

I'd be happier when I have my next OBGYN appointment next week.

And that's a wrap

It's the last day of 2012! Normally at this time of the year I'd be gearing up to party hard. But with a bun in the oven - I'm crossing my fingers that I would be all right and awake to watch the fireworks.

It's a busy day ahead. Instead of our usual beach house getaway, we'll be at Coogee beach, and possibly staying over at our friend's place, who are heavy drinkers and smokers.

Have I mentioned how sensitive my sense of smell is these days? When Twitchy has more than a beer, he has to resort to sleeping in the living room. The smell is too much to bear!

It's tempting to sit out this New Years Eve, but gotta be a good sport about this, don't we?

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13 Weeks and 6 days

Little bun is now 13 weeks and 6 days. I'm now on my second trimester and nausea has eased up a little. (still creeps up when I fail to eat on time). We survived Xmas in Canberra. Had a 13 hour sleep one night - a result from a morning walk and an evening walk. I am easily breathless from walking up a hill. Typical Xmas, ate too much and tummy got a little stretched and uncomfortable.

Prior to Xmas, I had my 12 week ultrasound. Lil bun was the cutest thing ever. We got a little wave, and its hands were constantly touching its face/nose. Because lil bun was sedentary, I was told to give a little cough. When I did, it moved a little and decided to turn to its side. Mooning us in the process. Ahhhh what a cheeky little bun!

Hunger or Nausea?

Never thought I'd get to the day where I don't know if I'm extremely hungry or just nauseous. 

Sometimes it's both. Which is, bizarre!

Morning sickness is at its peak and I find it so hard to concentrate on functioning. What more being at work and pretending to be normal. Maybe that's here pregnancy brain comes in.

Morale's a little low, as you can probably tell. I feel like crap, the tummy's bloated from all the carbs (thats all I ever want to eat these days) and I feel like I'm expanding. Rapidly!

Melbourne again

Back in Melbourne again, this time for a happy occasion, albeit a work one. We won an award for the hard work we did back in May.

Awards night is tomorrow night, but I caught an earlier flight to catch up w BFF and her Bella.

So here I am tonight, back in this familiar hotel room. As nice as it is to be back on familiar grounds, can't help feeling a slight tinge of depression!

Yuck. Shoo fly, don't bother me!!!

Heartbeat

I saw my little one today. And the little one's heartbeat.

Wow... It really is happening!

When something so significant happens in your life, you just become speechless.

8 weeks

I admit, the last time I wrote about baby, I was already late.1 week late.

Today I'm still late.

And ... 3 home test kits later, it can't possible be wrong, right?

We aren’t really trying, we just aren’t preventing

Having just been married, the conversation often revolves around when we plan to have kids.

What a dilemma.  Kids, inevitably would change your life (for good and bad). Whilst I like the thought of having them, I'd be first to admit. I am scared shitless!

On one hand, we're in the best shape of our lives, we've just survived 9 months of crazy wedding planning and could do with my "us" time. I'd love to party! On the other hand, we're not getting any younger, I'd hate to be an "old" mom and if I want more than 3 kids, we should probably get started.

We've had many conversations, mostly around me telling Mr Twitchy that having a baby is not as easy as it seems. Him, like all men, seem to think it's just the matter of doing it and getting it done. Not so much from what I see. I've seem friends who struggle for years, who remain childless. And I can't imagine the thought of wanting some but not being able to.

So we're letting nature takes its course.

One month on

It's been a little over a month since we got married and it's been rosy. We were kept busy when we got back from Bora - catching up with friends, work and being the bridesmaid at a close friend's wedding.

Yeap. Our close friends got married a month after us, and we were in each other's bridal party! Their wedding was a whole lot of fun, we travelled to hunter valley for that. My fav moment is probably from hanging out with our wider friends like how we'd be on a road trip.

Not so fav moment is being stressed and helping out at the wedding. Meg. Stressed. Also, not pleased that here were some elements similar to our wedding. But hey, imitation is the best form of flattery, right?

But I digress.

So now we're back to a bit of quiet tie. And I'm feeling lost. I desperately miss being at Bora Bora. The tropical sun, the luxurious hotel....the beautiful blue....

SIGH!

Bora Bora Paradise

It's day 4 of our honeymoon and I thought I'd post a note to self. I really made it here and it's as beautiful and even better than I thought! All those pictures of Bora Bora: no photoshop is required!

For the past few days, we spa'ed, jet ski'ed, went on a jeep safari up 3 peaks (that was exhilarating) and even had a photographer in tow while we toured the lagoon and snorkeled. Ahhhh what bliss.

It isn't all roses of course. Both of us were struck with food poisoning( or maybe alcohol poisoning ) before we got here. So the few days leading to the honeymoon and our journey over was quite horrendous.

Spent day 1 recovering. Day 2&3 was fantastic but Twitchy was down again with food poisoning on day 4.which is today. So what did I do? I went on a photography excursion around the hotel. All by myself.

Enjoy!

First class in a budget airline

Twitchy and I flew first class on a budget airline. Well, it's as first class as it gets in that plane. Our chair reclined to a bed! Ahhhh the luxury. I could get use to this. Traveling in style and comfort.

Married

As of 220912

The night before

Lying here in bed on the 69th floor of an apartment on the eve of the wedding - what a surreal feeling. A culmination of 9 months of prep. Of blood, sweat and many tears.

Yes, many would say a wedding is just a night of your life, and that marriage is is of far more importance but still....wow. I'm getting married!!!!

Amazing.

Zoo

One of the absolute must-do that I always recommend to my Sydney visitors is going to the zoo. Our glorious Taronga Zoo. And today we actually went to the zoo - the first of zoos to come for my 3 year old nephew.

We were joined by my future sis in law and future nephew & niece (can't wait to remove the term future). So as you can imagine, a 2 year old, a 3 year old AND a 4 year old. All racing through the zoo! Kids make fast friends and by the end of the day my poor nephew was quite attached to his new mates and couldn't wait to see them again!

... And poor Aunty Esther is reeling from exhaustion. Me want me time. Maybe i should sit in a corner. Like the boss below.

4 sleeps to go!

My life is the mother of all hectic at the moment. Every spare moment is spent wedding planning. When not wedding planning, I am entertaining my guests, early arrivals for the wedding. With so much that is happening, I am a little lost, and whingy, tired and I crave some me time. Or some us time :(

But twitchy says we have a lifetime of us time. And we should soak in every experience we have, instead of wishing them away. My fiancé, the wise one.

Can't wait to be your Mrs.

Xx

15 days!

We are now 15 days from the very big day.

Apart from being sick, we've been so busy!

Pick up rings - done

Deliver cake toppers to the cake lady - done

Bridal gown fitting - done

Attend a marriage preparation course - in progress

Wow, what an experience. This would be my first "therapy-like" consultation. You know, like the ones you see on TV, when people see a psychologist and sit on a couch while you are being analysed. Except that in real life, the psychologist seem to talk a little more. It can be a little daunting, being put under a spotlight. Almost as though you are forced to reflect everything you do and question who you are. But thats the entire purpose isn't it? Find out who you are and what you reflect as a couple.

Learn our wedding dance - in progress

It really has been fun, learning a dance routine and dancing in sync! Now all we can hope for is that we don't forget out steps

All the big stuff's done. Just the little tiny bits that need attending and refining, like meeting and briefing the suppliers. And wedding shopping, getting all out accessories done. 

Our nights are pretty much packed till the very big day.

How do I feel?

Occasionally, I have pockets of euphoria and excitement. After all, we are getting married!!! Then at times I am a nervous wreck. Then I get all anxious because I fear I am not sitting back and enjoying myself as I should. All these plus the fact that I have been so sick.....

Wow....weddings!

Lurgy

Been down with the flu since...my hens! Which is more than 2 weeks now. I just can't seem to get any better and my spirits are sinking lower and lower as the day goes by.

The wedding's 15 days away, and here I am fighting to get well.

I can't feel anything except anxiety. Please please please let me be well again. I need the energy, the strength and stamina to get through this.

My Hens night

Had the best hens night ever, and it was for me! There is just something about getting your fav girls together and being naughty around town.

😜

Success

I am immensely proud of myself!

I did it!!!

Cryptic post

I am nervous. And embarrassed. I am a procrastinator. And I can't hide anymore.

Tomorrow is that day I face my fears and do something I really should have done a long long time ago.

Wish me luck.

Busy busy bee

So I'm clocking in at 530am in kl at the moment, took the night flight and arrived in the wee hours of the morning. All this for a 3 day weekend here. For BFF2's wedding and to sort out last minute prep for my kl one.

So I wouldn't call this a leisure trip,more like a work/diplomatic one. I can only hope it's a good trip.

Mum. Need I elaborate more?

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All things aside, celebrate Twitchy's birthday just yesterday and we both realized- its 72 days until the big day!
Until then it's plans every weekend, so many things to do, so many places to go....rock and roll baybeh!

...just don't stop with the redbull.

Reading our vows

Reading and picking my vows has made me super excited for the big day, that is....less than 3 months away!

OMG I can't believe it, I am getting married!

....I never thought I'm such a stickler for tradition and etiquette. And it seems like Mr Twitchy's like that too. It's amazing how much you learn about yourself as you start organising towards a massive occasion like this!

Bridezilla moment 1

I'm having a meltdown. Invitations that were printed came out looking cheap and tacky!

Welcome to the world

Sitting here at the airport, gathering my thoughts. Once again was tapped on the shoulder to come down for work. Two days, one night, leading up to the big preso. As reluctant as I was to actually be here again, I don't have much choice. And just as I suspected, my presence is really just a presence, to hold the bosses hand and help here and there where required.

Got to the Melbourne airport early Wednesday morning and saw THE text. BFF's water broke and she's in labour. 36 hours later, and with my work duties finally done, Baby S arrives!!!

So with 4 hours to go before my flight I hopped on a cab across town ( west to east) and got to the hospital, where I fumbled my way around. Baby S had only been here for an hour!

BFF hubby let me in the birthing suite and convinced me to just pop in. And I did. What a vision. BFF looking so serene and Baby S being so settled. I promptly cried....BFF thought I was being silly but I just couldn't help it. It's the most beautiful scene in the world!

What a feeling!

Daddy K and I shared a moment after. Where we just didn't say much but to stand outside and look stunned.

Baby S,

You probably know it but you're the luckiest baby in the world. You will be so spoiled with love and care, not only by your mum, dad and family but from Aunty E too.

I am so blessed to be able to meet you so soon and even more being able to be with my BFF, that's your mum, to share such a lovely, tender moment.

A moment I will treasure for life.

Love,
Aunt E