*1. Blk 66 Lor 4 TPY next to mkt
- $3.50 each pkt (1 pkt per bath)
- boil a pkt per bath
- available at TCM Medical Halls
2. TPY Ctrl near the holy tree
- $3.50 each pkt
- boil a satchet per bath (keep the used satchet & add new satchet for next bath before throw)
- available at TCM Medical Halls
**3. Blk 70 behind the mkt (Blk 73 along main rd)
- $1.40 each pkt
- boil a pkt per bath in a pot (add hot water if insufficient for bath)
- available at TCM Medical Halls
*my choice
Daisypath Happy Birthday tickers
Saturday, July 31, 2010
TCM soup after delivery
*1. Blk next to Lor 4 TPY mkt
- $5, $7 or $10 each pkt per week
- to consume within a week after delivery (3 bowls of water boil to 1 bowl)
- available at TCM Medical Halls
2. TPY Ctrl near the holy tree
- $5 each pkt per day
- to consume for 2 consecutive days
- available at TCM Medical Halls
3. Blk 70 behind the mkt
- $10 each pkt per week
- to consume 1-2 weeks after delivery (3 bowls of water boil to 1 bowl)
- available at TCM Medical Halls
*my choice
- $5, $7 or $10 each pkt per week
- to consume within a week after delivery (3 bowls of water boil to 1 bowl)
- available at TCM Medical Halls
2. TPY Ctrl near the holy tree
- $5 each pkt per day
- to consume for 2 consecutive days
- available at TCM Medical Halls
3. Blk 70 behind the mkt
- $10 each pkt per week
- to consume 1-2 weeks after delivery (3 bowls of water boil to 1 bowl)
- available at TCM Medical Halls
*my choice
Infant stimulation
- during the first year, 1-year old baby's brain will have reached 70% of its adult weight.
- 70-85% of all the previously set down brain cells will be completely developed.
- 45% of your baby's brain growth takes place during the first year!
- this crucial time from conception to 1 year old of age as the period of the "brain growth spurt".
- introduce a form of play that challenges your baby's mind and satisfies his/her newly discovered preferences
- best that your baby is presented with experiences that foster learning and growth, not by force-feeding knowledge but rather through an interactive loving relationship that pleases your baby.
* Your child's environment has the strongest impact on his brain during the growth spurt period
* Interaction is more valuable than observation
* Curiosity: stimulation begets stimulation
* Baby's attentiveness is vital
* Baby learns through repetition
* Baby's position makes a difference in stimulation
* Baby needs to experience warmth and love
* Being sensitive to baby's cues is important
(adapted from Dr Ludington's studies, 1985)
- 70-85% of all the previously set down brain cells will be completely developed.
- 45% of your baby's brain growth takes place during the first year!
- this crucial time from conception to 1 year old of age as the period of the "brain growth spurt".
- introduce a form of play that challenges your baby's mind and satisfies his/her newly discovered preferences
- best that your baby is presented with experiences that foster learning and growth, not by force-feeding knowledge but rather through an interactive loving relationship that pleases your baby.
* Your child's environment has the strongest impact on his brain during the growth spurt period
* Interaction is more valuable than observation
* Curiosity: stimulation begets stimulation
* Baby's attentiveness is vital
* Baby learns through repetition
* Baby's position makes a difference in stimulation
* Baby needs to experience warmth and love
* Being sensitive to baby's cues is important
(adapted from Dr Ludington's studies, 1985)
Infant Care Centre_My First Skool
- My First Skool is the pioneer childcare arm of the NTUC First Campus Group
- currently offer more than 4,000 childcare places through our chain of over 40 centres island-wide.
- programme subscribes to experiential learning and a process-oriented approach that supports the natural curiosity of the child
- help them to develop positive dispositions desirable for life-long learning.
- offers childcare, infant care, student care and flexi-care programmes.
- nurture confident and happy children who are ready for life and prepare them to achieve their best in school, through a balanced curriculum that lays a strong foundation for life-long learning.
Contact:General hotline: 6509 7888
Mail me at info@myfirstskool.com
Address:
229 Mountbatten Road
#02-08 Mountbatten Square
Singapore 398007
Opening Hours:
7.00am to 7.00pm (Monday to Friday); 7.00am to 2.00pm (Saturday)
Closed on Sundays and Public holidays
Blk 192 #02-672 (Infant Care)
Toa Payoh Lor 4 S(310192)
Tel 6355 0641
Register Now
Email: heeon@myfirstskool.com
Childcare and Infant care services available! Call 6509 7887 or email us at info@myfirstskool.com for more information.
- currently offer more than 4,000 childcare places through our chain of over 40 centres island-wide.
- programme subscribes to experiential learning and a process-oriented approach that supports the natural curiosity of the child
- help them to develop positive dispositions desirable for life-long learning.
- offers childcare, infant care, student care and flexi-care programmes.
- nurture confident and happy children who are ready for life and prepare them to achieve their best in school, through a balanced curriculum that lays a strong foundation for life-long learning.
Contact:General hotline: 6509 7888
Mail me at info@myfirstskool.com
Address:
229 Mountbatten Road
#02-08 Mountbatten Square
Singapore 398007
Opening Hours:
7.00am to 7.00pm (Monday to Friday); 7.00am to 2.00pm (Saturday)
Closed on Sundays and Public holidays
Blk 192 #02-672 (Infant Care)
Toa Payoh Lor 4 S(310192)
Tel 6355 0641
Register Now
Email: heeon@myfirstskool.com
Childcare and Infant care services available! Call 6509 7887 or email us at info@myfirstskool.com for more information.
Rosy Hearts Babies
Rosy Hearts Babies
- Infants develop at an amazing pace during their first 36 months.
- 3 stages of growth represented by our 3 creches:
* Rosy Infants
(2 - 10 months)
* Rosy Explorers
(11 - 18 months)
* Rosy Toddlers
(19 - 36 months)
The Montessori method
The Rosy Hearts Babies’ environment and curriculum integrate the Montessori Method. It comprises the following curriculum areas:
* Practical life
* Sensorial
* Language
* Mathematics
* Cultural
12 Lorong Pisang Batu
(Upper Bukit Timah Road)
Singapore 597925
Tel: 6464 6618
Email: mail@rosyhearts.com
- Infants develop at an amazing pace during their first 36 months.
- 3 stages of growth represented by our 3 creches:
* Rosy Infants
(2 - 10 months)
* Rosy Explorers
(11 - 18 months)
* Rosy Toddlers
(19 - 36 months)
The Montessori method
The Rosy Hearts Babies’ environment and curriculum integrate the Montessori Method. It comprises the following curriculum areas:
* Practical life
* Sensorial
* Language
* Mathematics
* Cultural
12 Lorong Pisang Batu
(Upper Bukit Timah Road)
Singapore 597925
Tel: 6464 6618
Email: mail@rosyhearts.com
Student Care Centre_Whispering Hearts (WHSCC)
- can accommodate up to 65 students.
- our caring teachers look after school going children of ages 7 to 14 while their parents are at work.
- besides basic before and after school care programmes, we organise ad hoc activities
- aim at the total development of their children, including their physical, intellectual, social and emotional needs and development.
- Students from Secondary Schools and Junior Colleges help us in our enrichment programmes for our students.
Admission Criteria
- caters to children from 7 to 14 years old.
- subsidy is available for lower income families
Fees
Registration fee : $50 (non-refundable)
Deposit : $260 (refundable)
Monthly Fee : $260 /month
Address:
Blk 617 Jurong West St. 65
#01-488 S(640617)
Tel: 6795 8967
Fax: 6795 9423
Email: whscc@viriya.org.sg
Whispering Hearts Student Care Centre
- our caring teachers look after school going children of ages 7 to 14 while their parents are at work.
- besides basic before and after school care programmes, we organise ad hoc activities
- aim at the total development of their children, including their physical, intellectual, social and emotional needs and development.
- Students from Secondary Schools and Junior Colleges help us in our enrichment programmes for our students.
Admission Criteria
- caters to children from 7 to 14 years old.
- subsidy is available for lower income families
Fees
Registration fee : $50 (non-refundable)
Deposit : $260 (refundable)
Monthly Fee : $260 /month
Address:
Blk 617 Jurong West St. 65
#01-488 S(640617)
Tel: 6795 8967
Fax: 6795 9423
Email: whscc@viriya.org.sg
Whispering Hearts Student Care Centre
Tai Pei Child Care Centre
- managed by Tai Pei Foundation as part of its many contributions and services rendered to the community
- 3 branches and open to all members of the public regardless of race, language or religion
- curriculum designed to promote the overall development of the child physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially in a funfilled and stimulating environment
Services provided:
- conducive learning environment
- qualified and dedicated teachers
- nursery and kindergarten classes
- enrichment programmes such as computer and dance classes
- outdoor activities such as excursions and field trips
- balanced and nutritional meals
- from age 24mth - 7 & below
Tai Pei Child Care Centre
Address:
2 Lavender Street
S(338823)
Tel: 6298 6255
Fax: 6255 2401
- 3 branches and open to all members of the public regardless of race, language or religion
- curriculum designed to promote the overall development of the child physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially in a funfilled and stimulating environment
Services provided:
- conducive learning environment
- qualified and dedicated teachers
- nursery and kindergarten classes
- enrichment programmes such as computer and dance classes
- outdoor activities such as excursions and field trips
- balanced and nutritional meals
- from age 24mth - 7 & below
Tai Pei Child Care Centre
Address:
2 Lavender Street
S(338823)
Tel: 6298 6255
Fax: 6255 2401
Student Care Centre_TLC
- Tender Loving Care Student Care Centre was set up by Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery in 2000 as part of its community project to reach out to the public
- Although under the compassionate patronage of a Buddhist organisation, we reach out to children and parents of all race and religion.
- conduct activities that emphasise on the nurturing of the child’s self-esteem, mental attitude and ethical conduct.
- the centre provides a holistic approach to modern-day education, enabling your child to face the world with the confidence to meet any challenges.
- A Half Day Programme is available for children between 7 to 14 years old during the school term
- a Full Day Programme is available during school holidays.
- From $240 – $310 a month
Before School Care
Morning Tea Break and Lunch will be provided.
After School Care
Lunch and Afternoon Tea Break will be provided.
Full Day Programme
Morning Tea Break, Lunch and Afternoon
Tea Break will be provided.
Please note that all meals provided will be
nutritious vegetarian food.
Branches:
Ang Mo Kio
Blk 621 Ang Mo Kio Ave 9 #01-68
Singapore 560621
Tel: 6454 6686 Fax: 6454 6696
Choa Chu Kang
Blk 684A Choa Chu Kang Crescent
#01-308 Singapore 681684
Tel: 6310 6410 Fax: 6219 0068
email: tlcscc@kmspks.org
- Although under the compassionate patronage of a Buddhist organisation, we reach out to children and parents of all race and religion.
- conduct activities that emphasise on the nurturing of the child’s self-esteem, mental attitude and ethical conduct.
- the centre provides a holistic approach to modern-day education, enabling your child to face the world with the confidence to meet any challenges.
- A Half Day Programme is available for children between 7 to 14 years old during the school term
- a Full Day Programme is available during school holidays.
- From $240 – $310 a month
Before School Care
Morning Tea Break and Lunch will be provided.
After School Care
Lunch and Afternoon Tea Break will be provided.
Full Day Programme
Morning Tea Break, Lunch and Afternoon
Tea Break will be provided.
Please note that all meals provided will be
nutritious vegetarian food.
Branches:
Ang Mo Kio
Blk 621 Ang Mo Kio Ave 9 #01-68
Singapore 560621
Tel: 6454 6686 Fax: 6454 6696
Choa Chu Kang
Blk 684A Choa Chu Kang Crescent
#01-308 Singapore 681684
Tel: 6310 6410 Fax: 6219 0068
email: tlcscc@kmspks.org
Infant Care Centre_Learning Vision
- We recognise the need for fine nurturing and dedicated supervision of a child during the infant stages.
- infant programmes cater to babies from 2 to 17 months’ old.
- with trained and caring professionals specialising in infant care, development and/or state-registered nursing qualifications, we are well-equipped to look after infants’ growing & developmental needs.
- aesthetically designed and specially-fitted to ensure optimal safety and protection of infants while maximising their development and learning capabilities.
Find out more about our infant care centres:
# Republic Polytechnic
# The Grassroots' Club
# Cecil Street
# Novena
# Tan Tock Seng Hospital
# Alpha at Science Park II
# KK Women's and Children's Hospital
# Temasek Life Sciences
# Nanyang Polytechnic (for staff only)
Infant Curriculum
- The infant program is holistic and focused on optimum periods for learning characteristics of infant development in the first three years of life.
- Holistic development emphasizes the development of infants’ emerging physical, sensory-motor, perceptual, cognitive, language and social-emotional skills.
- The framework that determines the pedagogy and key practices of the infant program is guided by three distinctive features: caregiving, attachment and play.
Infant Wheel
- presents the infant curriculum experiences and activities which are designed to meet the developmental goals of promoting early learning in cognition and language skills, sensory and motor development as well as social-emotional development.
- these goals are effectively promoted through the 8 key learning experiences of the infant program
# Baby Read
# Baby Touch
# Baby Sensory Play
# Baby Art
# Baby Chef
# Baby Gym
# Sunshine Baby
# Baby Music
At NYP: For Staff only (Before MCYS subsidy and prevailing GST)
Service Fee (S$)
Fees are correct as at published time
Full Day Care for Public
$850 (Toddler-Kindergarten 2)
Centre Principal: Grace Sin
Nanyang Polytechnic
180, Ang Mo Kio Ave 8
Blk F, Level 2, Unit 1
Singapore 569830
Telephone: +65 6455 7784/ +65 6454 5485
Fax: 6455 6702
For general enquiries and feedback, please call our hotline at 65017557
Learning Vision
- infant programmes cater to babies from 2 to 17 months’ old.
- with trained and caring professionals specialising in infant care, development and/or state-registered nursing qualifications, we are well-equipped to look after infants’ growing & developmental needs.
- aesthetically designed and specially-fitted to ensure optimal safety and protection of infants while maximising their development and learning capabilities.
Find out more about our infant care centres:
# Republic Polytechnic
# The Grassroots' Club
# Cecil Street
# Novena
# Tan Tock Seng Hospital
# Alpha at Science Park II
# KK Women's and Children's Hospital
# Temasek Life Sciences
# Nanyang Polytechnic (for staff only)
Infant Curriculum
- The infant program is holistic and focused on optimum periods for learning characteristics of infant development in the first three years of life.
- Holistic development emphasizes the development of infants’ emerging physical, sensory-motor, perceptual, cognitive, language and social-emotional skills.
- The framework that determines the pedagogy and key practices of the infant program is guided by three distinctive features: caregiving, attachment and play.
Infant Wheel
- presents the infant curriculum experiences and activities which are designed to meet the developmental goals of promoting early learning in cognition and language skills, sensory and motor development as well as social-emotional development.
- these goals are effectively promoted through the 8 key learning experiences of the infant program
# Baby Read
# Baby Touch
# Baby Sensory Play
# Baby Art
# Baby Chef
# Baby Gym
# Sunshine Baby
# Baby Music
At NYP: For Staff only (Before MCYS subsidy and prevailing GST)
Service Fee (S$)
Fees are correct as at published time
Full Day Care for Public
$850 (Toddler-Kindergarten 2)
Centre Principal: Grace Sin
Nanyang Polytechnic
180, Ang Mo Kio Ave 8
Blk F, Level 2, Unit 1
Singapore 569830
Telephone: +65 6455 7784/ +65 6454 5485
Fax: 6455 6702
For general enquiries and feedback, please call our hotline at 65017557
Learning Vision
Whispering Hearts infant and child care centre (WHICC)
- WHICC provides infant and childcare services to more than 60 children from low income families.
- officially opened in 2006 by Mr. Cedric Foo, MP for West Coast GRC (Pioneer) and Patron of Whispering Hearts Family Service Centre
- provide a safe, well-supervised, stimulating and enjoyable environment for the total development of young children of different ages.
- to develop to their fullest potential and parents will have the peace of mind leaving their children in our care while they go to work.
Fees (Before subsidy)
Half Day
Monday-Friday 7am-1pm or 1pm-7pm; Saturday 7am-1pm
Infant Half-Day : S$825
Child Half-Day : S$412.50
Full Day
Monday-Friday 7am-7pm; Saturday 7am-2pm
Infant Full-Day : S$1100
Child Full-Day : S$ 550
Other Fees:
Registration fee(non-refundable) $50.00
Deposit: Equivalent to one month’s fee
Child’s Insurance per calendar year $ 10.00
Mattress $ 45.00
Mattress Cover per piece $ 10.00
Uniform per set $ 14.00
Monday to Friday - 7.00am to 7.00pm; Saturday - 7.00am to 2.00pm
Blk 688 Jurong West Central 1
#01-237 Singapore 640688
Tel: 6792 2321 Fax: 6791 3231
Email: kamal@viriya.org.sg
Viriya
- officially opened in 2006 by Mr. Cedric Foo, MP for West Coast GRC (Pioneer) and Patron of Whispering Hearts Family Service Centre
- provide a safe, well-supervised, stimulating and enjoyable environment for the total development of young children of different ages.
- to develop to their fullest potential and parents will have the peace of mind leaving their children in our care while they go to work.
Fees (Before subsidy)
Half Day
Monday-Friday 7am-1pm or 1pm-7pm; Saturday 7am-1pm
Infant Half-Day : S$825
Child Half-Day : S$412.50
Full Day
Monday-Friday 7am-7pm; Saturday 7am-2pm
Infant Full-Day : S$1100
Child Full-Day : S$ 550
Other Fees:
Registration fee(non-refundable) $50.00
Deposit: Equivalent to one month’s fee
Child’s Insurance per calendar year $ 10.00
Mattress $ 45.00
Mattress Cover per piece $ 10.00
Uniform per set $ 14.00
Monday to Friday - 7.00am to 7.00pm; Saturday - 7.00am to 2.00pm
Blk 688 Jurong West Central 1
#01-237 Singapore 640688
Tel: 6792 2321 Fax: 6791 3231
Email: kamal@viriya.org.sg
Viriya
Recommended weight gain during pregnancy
- suppose your body weight before pregnancy was normal (BMI 20-25) and you gain the recommended 11.3-15.8kg (25-35lb) during pregnancy, very little of this is in the form of fat
- also known as lean body gain, it is definitely not unhealthy or unsightly
- studies show that women who eat according to the demands of their appetite during pregnancy, and stay physically active, gain ~13kg (28lb)
- besides the baby which contributes most to your overall weight gain, the uterine enlargement and the amniotic fluid, fluid retention in your body are the next heaviest
- breast enlargement and the placenta being the lightest
- also known as lean body gain, it is definitely not unhealthy or unsightly
- studies show that women who eat according to the demands of their appetite during pregnancy, and stay physically active, gain ~13kg (28lb)
- besides the baby which contributes most to your overall weight gain, the uterine enlargement and the amniotic fluid, fluid retention in your body are the next heaviest
- breast enlargement and the placenta being the lightest
Unrefined and refined grains
- take at least 6 servings a day of unrefined grains
Unrefined grains:
wholemeal (bread/cereals/crackers/pasta/tortillas)
Bulghur (cracked wheat)
Kasha
Quinoa
wholegrain (cold cereals/couscous/waffles)
oatmeal
whole cornmeal
brown rice
grains, 1 serving:
1/2 wholewheat bagel
slice of wholewheat bread
45g (1.5 oz) cereal
85g (3 oz) cooked bulghur
5 wholegrain crackers
1/2 wholewheat muffin
125g (4.5 oz) porridge
4" (10cm) pancake
75g (2.5 oz) cooked pasta
85g (3 oz) rice
6" (15cm) tortilla
Refined grains:
white (flour/bread/rice)
Unrefined grains:
wholemeal (bread/cereals/crackers/pasta/tortillas)
Bulghur (cracked wheat)
Kasha
Quinoa
wholegrain (cold cereals/couscous/waffles)
oatmeal
whole cornmeal
brown rice
grains, 1 serving:
1/2 wholewheat bagel
slice of wholewheat bread
45g (1.5 oz) cereal
85g (3 oz) cooked bulghur
5 wholegrain crackers
1/2 wholewheat muffin
125g (4.5 oz) porridge
4" (10cm) pancake
75g (2.5 oz) cooked pasta
85g (3 oz) rice
6" (15cm) tortilla
Refined grains:
white (flour/bread/rice)
Guide to good fuel during pregnancy
1. Being pregnant isn't being ill.
2. Carbohydrate intake. Consume 50-60 % of your calories from carbo, 25-35% from fat, and 20% from protein.
3. Avoid counting the calories. Take a diet with a wide variety of healthy foods to supply you and baby with all the nutrients that you need.
4. Unrefined foods. Take unrefined grains as the basis of your diet and save white bread, white pasta and white rice for occasional treats.
5. Fats. Focus on getting the majority of fat in your diet from healthy fats rather than trying to achieve a low-fat diet.
6. Folate or folic acid. Bump up your intake of folate and folic acid while you are trying to conceive and in the first twelve weeks of your pregnancy.
7. Fibre. Avoid constipation and excessive weight gain & eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
8. Home cooking. Prepare your own meals as it's healthier and less costly. Cooking from home also reduces the risk of exposure to listeria bacteria.
9. Whole food health. Cook whole foods and fresh fruits and vegetables. Go for organic if can.
10. Caffeine & alcohol. Limit to small amounts of caffeine daily and max of 1 or 2 units of alcohol 1-2 times weekly.
2. Carbohydrate intake. Consume 50-60 % of your calories from carbo, 25-35% from fat, and 20% from protein.
3. Avoid counting the calories. Take a diet with a wide variety of healthy foods to supply you and baby with all the nutrients that you need.
4. Unrefined foods. Take unrefined grains as the basis of your diet and save white bread, white pasta and white rice for occasional treats.
5. Fats. Focus on getting the majority of fat in your diet from healthy fats rather than trying to achieve a low-fat diet.
6. Folate or folic acid. Bump up your intake of folate and folic acid while you are trying to conceive and in the first twelve weeks of your pregnancy.
7. Fibre. Avoid constipation and excessive weight gain & eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
8. Home cooking. Prepare your own meals as it's healthier and less costly. Cooking from home also reduces the risk of exposure to listeria bacteria.
9. Whole food health. Cook whole foods and fresh fruits and vegetables. Go for organic if can.
10. Caffeine & alcohol. Limit to small amounts of caffeine daily and max of 1 or 2 units of alcohol 1-2 times weekly.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Caesarean Birth (C-section) Delivery & Birth video
So informative and educational.
Before the procedure:
- IV line
- Catheter (inserted into the bladder to drain urine)
- Regional or GA (General Anaesthetic) given
During the procedure:
- Incision will be made at the abdomen
- vertical incision from just below the naval to the top of the pubic bone
- more frequently a horizontal incision across & just above the pubic bone (bikini cut) will be made.
- 2nd incision will be made on the lower part of the uterus
- time duration from the initial abdomen incision to birth is ~5 min
- clamp and cut the umbilical cord and gently remove the placenta which last ~45 min
- usually stay for 3-5 days in hospital after delivery and breastfeeding is encouraged
- full recovery takes 6-8 weeks and scar will lighten as it heals
Caesarean Birth (C-section) Delivery & Birth
Before the procedure:
- IV line
- Catheter (inserted into the bladder to drain urine)
- Regional or GA (General Anaesthetic) given
During the procedure:
- Incision will be made at the abdomen
- vertical incision from just below the naval to the top of the pubic bone
- more frequently a horizontal incision across & just above the pubic bone (bikini cut) will be made.
- 2nd incision will be made on the lower part of the uterus
- time duration from the initial abdomen incision to birth is ~5 min
- clamp and cut the umbilical cord and gently remove the placenta which last ~45 min
- usually stay for 3-5 days in hospital after delivery and breastfeeding is encouraged
- full recovery takes 6-8 weeks and scar will lighten as it heals
Caesarean Birth (C-section) Delivery & Birth
Key considerations when choosing your Baby Carrier
8 Key Considerations you want to keep in mind when choosing your Baby Sling or Baby Carrier:
- Using the wrong baby carrier can result in discomfort for the baby as well as the parent.
- injuries can result
- the key considerations based on our own experiences to help you better assess and decide which baby carrier is best suited to your needs and that of your baby's.
Choose your Baby Carrier
- Using the wrong baby carrier can result in discomfort for the baby as well as the parent.
- injuries can result
- the key considerations based on our own experiences to help you better assess and decide which baby carrier is best suited to your needs and that of your baby's.
Choose your Baby Carrier
Respect for others
- When we say respect, we also mean respect others' feelings, perceptions and consciousness
- mindfulness helps us to be at peace, eg when we don't own a hi-tech dig cam or iphone
- most of the time, when we see something newer, more expensive and we may want to upgrade to this better camera
- this is one of the reasons manufacturers continue to produce more and more and in the end, we produce more castoffs
- we'll be kept busy working all the more, leaving no time to love, to build our relationships
- a simple life can bring a lot of happiness
~Thich Nhat Hanh
- mindfulness helps us to be at peace, eg when we don't own a hi-tech dig cam or iphone
- most of the time, when we see something newer, more expensive and we may want to upgrade to this better camera
- this is one of the reasons manufacturers continue to produce more and more and in the end, we produce more castoffs
- we'll be kept busy working all the more, leaving no time to love, to build our relationships
- a simple life can bring a lot of happiness
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Mindfulness training
- the 1st step in mindfulness is to recognise and embrace what is there whether it is positive or negative, pleasant or unpleasant
- we would know the nature of what is there and how to transform the energy and channel it in a good direction
- if we organise our life intelligently and direct all of our energy skillfully, we're capable of helping other people suffer less
- the teaching of love is crucial where loving kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity are the elements of true love which we can practise everyday
- with deep understanding and communication, happiness is possible
~Thich Nhat Hanh
- we would know the nature of what is there and how to transform the energy and channel it in a good direction
- if we organise our life intelligently and direct all of our energy skillfully, we're capable of helping other people suffer less
- the teaching of love is crucial where loving kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity are the elements of true love which we can practise everyday
- with deep understanding and communication, happiness is possible
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Placenta and its functions
- an organ which begins to form between 8 and 10 weeks into your pregnancy by growing onto the muscular wall of your uterus.- oxygen and nutrients are supplied to your baby via your bloodstream and carbon dioxide and waste products are returned to your circulation from the baby's for excretion
The placenta is an organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother's blood supply. Placentas are a defining characteristic of eutherian or "placental" mammals, but are also found in some snakes and lizards with varying levels of development up to mammalian levels.[1] The word placenta comes from the Latin for cake, from Greek plakóenta/plakoúnta, accusative of plakóeis/plakoús – πλακόεις, πλακούς, "flat, slab-like",[2] in reference to its round, flat appearance in humans. Protherial (egg-laying) and metatherial (marsupial) mammals produce a choriovitelline placenta that, while connected to the uterine wall, provides nutrients mainly derived from the egg sac. The placenta develops from the same sperm and egg cells that form the fetus, and functions as a fetomaternal organ with two components, the fetal part (Chorion frondosum), and the maternal part (Decidua basalis).
- makes a number of hormones in large quantities, including oestrogen and progesterone
- serves as the conduit through which substances carried in the bloodstream can be exchanged between mother and foetus
- this way it ensures that your blood and the baby's blood never mix
The placenta is an organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother's blood supply. Placentas are a defining characteristic of eutherian or "placental" mammals, but are also found in some snakes and lizards with varying levels of development up to mammalian levels.[1] The word placenta comes from the Latin for cake, from Greek plakóenta/plakoúnta, accusative of plakóeis/plakoús – πλακόεις, πλακούς, "flat, slab-like",[2] in reference to its round, flat appearance in humans. Protherial (egg-laying) and metatherial (marsupial) mammals produce a choriovitelline placenta that, while connected to the uterine wall, provides nutrients mainly derived from the egg sac. The placenta develops from the same sperm and egg cells that form the fetus, and functions as a fetomaternal organ with two components, the fetal part (Chorion frondosum), and the maternal part (Decidua basalis).
- makes a number of hormones in large quantities, including oestrogen and progesterone
- serves as the conduit through which substances carried in the bloodstream can be exchanged between mother and foetus
- this way it ensures that your blood and the baby's blood never mix
Pregnancy A-Z Postpartum
1. Planning. Make lists, and prepare and freeze meals to reheat and enjoy during the whirlwind early days of caring for your newborn baby.
2. Sleep. Make it a priority to get as much sleep and as many naps as you can whenever possible, to build up your energy levels and help your body heal.
3. Meals. You must eat whether you are breastfeeding or not. If there's no time for sit-down meals, eat frequent nutritious snacks.
4. Nutrients. Your hormones may trigger cravings for sugar and unhealthy foods, but you need proper nourishment to aid recovery and keep you strong.
5. Breastfeeding. You need 200-500 calories more a day if you're breastfeeding, plus extra fluids to replace those lost through breast milk.
2. Sleep. Make it a priority to get as much sleep and as many naps as you can whenever possible, to build up your energy levels and help your body heal.
3. Meals. You must eat whether you are breastfeeding or not. If there's no time for sit-down meals, eat frequent nutritious snacks.
4. Nutrients. Your hormones may trigger cravings for sugar and unhealthy foods, but you need proper nourishment to aid recovery and keep you strong.
5. Breastfeeding. You need 200-500 calories more a day if you're breastfeeding, plus extra fluids to replace those lost through breast milk.
Tips for a healthy diet
1. Relax. Getting the right nutrients during pregnancy to give your baby the best possible start in life is easy to achieve if you eat a well-balanced diet.
2. Diet. A healthy diet will keep you strong, positive and energized, making it easier for you to cope with the big life changes of pregnancy and afterward.
3. Lifestyle. Pregnancy is a great time to establish new lifestyle habits you can continue in future, as you care for your newborn and for yourself.
4. Benefits. Your baby will benefit from increased protection from some birth defects and go on to enjoy lifelong benefits if you eat a well-balanced diet.
2. Diet. A healthy diet will keep you strong, positive and energized, making it easier for you to cope with the big life changes of pregnancy and afterward.
3. Lifestyle. Pregnancy is a great time to establish new lifestyle habits you can continue in future, as you care for your newborn and for yourself.
4. Benefits. Your baby will benefit from increased protection from some birth defects and go on to enjoy lifelong benefits if you eat a well-balanced diet.
Protein intake for vegetarian
For breakfast:
- nutty granola in vanilla yoghurt, with fruit
For lunch:
- wholewheat rollups with tangy white beans and vegetables
- skimmed milk
For snack:
- mixed nuts
For dinner:
- spaghetti with asparagus and toasted walnuts
For dessert:
- walnut and chocolate chip cookie with skimmed milk
- nutty granola in vanilla yoghurt, with fruit
For lunch:
- wholewheat rollups with tangy white beans and vegetables
- skimmed milk
For snack:
- mixed nuts
For dinner:
- spaghetti with asparagus and toasted walnuts
For dessert:
- walnut and chocolate chip cookie with skimmed milk
Omega-3 Fatting acids
- studies show that a mother's diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can enhance a baby's brain and neural development before birth
- gives protection from neural tube defects
- found in oily fish
- vegetarians can take flax seed, flax seed oil, walnuts and canola (rapeseed) oil
- flax seeds must be ground in order for the body to absorb the oil from them
- gives protection from neural tube defects
- found in oily fish
- vegetarians can take flax seed, flax seed oil, walnuts and canola (rapeseed) oil
- flax seeds must be ground in order for the body to absorb the oil from them
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Pregnancy A-Z for first trimester
1. Bodily changes. Even though the body has changed very little from the outside this early in your pregnancy, huge changes are taking place within.
2. Folate and folic acid. Even before you are pregnant, while you are still trying to conceive, increase your intake of folate or take folic acid supplement.
3. Nature. 1 in 5 embryos miscarries very early. If possible, take heart in the fact that imperfect embryos miscarry spontaneously.
4. Maximise development. This period offers you the chance to maximise your baby's development, along with your own health, through your diet and lifestyle.
5. Nauseous. Severe nausea (cause ~10% body weight loss) or a total lack of nausea are not causes for concern. Both conditions still produce healthy babies.
6. Combat nausea. Eating little and often, grazing on the "white diet" or consuming fresh or crystallized ginger can help combat nausea (more tiredness results in more nausea).
2. Folate and folic acid. Even before you are pregnant, while you are still trying to conceive, increase your intake of folate or take folic acid supplement.
3. Nature. 1 in 5 embryos miscarries very early. If possible, take heart in the fact that imperfect embryos miscarry spontaneously.
4. Maximise development. This period offers you the chance to maximise your baby's development, along with your own health, through your diet and lifestyle.
5. Nauseous. Severe nausea (cause ~10% body weight loss) or a total lack of nausea are not causes for concern. Both conditions still produce healthy babies.
6. Combat nausea. Eating little and often, grazing on the "white diet" or consuming fresh or crystallized ginger can help combat nausea (more tiredness results in more nausea).
The Baby Specialist
- the only company in Singapore that specialises in hospital-grade baby equipment rental.
- wide range of premium baby-related equipment is available for rent
- helps you bring the quality of hospital care back to your home.
- carries only the best and foremost brands; our portfolio of baby equipment extends to the rental of:
• Home Phototherapy Equipment for the treatment of neo-natal Jaundice
• Breastpumps for new mothers
• Fetal Dopplers for expectant mothers
• Baby Weighing Scales
• Nebulizers for asthmatic children
• Baby furniture for travelling parents
With the most trusted of brand names, such as Medela, Summer Infant and Baby Jogger, your little one will be in good hands.
The Baby Specialist
- wide range of premium baby-related equipment is available for rent
- helps you bring the quality of hospital care back to your home.
- carries only the best and foremost brands; our portfolio of baby equipment extends to the rental of:
• Home Phototherapy Equipment for the treatment of neo-natal Jaundice
• Breastpumps for new mothers
• Fetal Dopplers for expectant mothers
• Baby Weighing Scales
• Nebulizers for asthmatic children
• Baby furniture for travelling parents
With the most trusted of brand names, such as Medela, Summer Infant and Baby Jogger, your little one will be in good hands.
The Baby Specialist
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Baby Club
1. Thomsonbaby.com
- Register for free account at Thomson baby
- personalised supporter homepage
- Baby Diary
- Baby calendar and scheduler
- exclusive for Thomson Medical Center (TMC) First Born Incentive (FBI), Subsequent Born Incentive (SBI) members
2. Nestle Baby Club (for babies above 6 months of age)
- Register online at Nestle baby
- sound advice on good nutrition plus recipe ideas
- members events & activities
- enjoy special offers
- a personalised web space & online Baby Book to note your baby's growth
- chances to receive Nestle goodies
- monthly e-newsletters on baby nutrition and development
- for free weaning kit, email nestlebaby@sg.nestle.com
3. Join mother2baby club NDP 2010 offer
- free baby hamper worth $130 for all expectant mums from Rustic Nirvana Massage
mother2baby
4. EnfaMama Club
- Enfa Consumer Care 1800-345 5213
- Free 1-yr membership
- New members receive Enfa Consumer Care fridge magnet, "EnfaMama Club Family on Board!" car sticker, Mystery Gift - Baby vest (call 1800-345 5213 to activate), quarterly newsletter..
- Sample request for EnfaMama A+ 2 satchets
- For members, call to request for complimentary "Breastfeeding Tips for Moms" Booklet
mead johnson
5. Abbott Family Rewards
services available at Abbott
- check out the latest Rewards available
- check your Rewards Points Balance
- change your Personal Information & Password
- check your Rewards Point Summary Statement
- Redeem free Abbott Products online with your Rewards Points
- Check your Redemption History
- Receive Updates on Promotional Offers
email: family.sg@abbott.com
customer service hotline: 1800-227 6363 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri except PH)
6. Huggies Club
- a $10 worth of Huggies voucher
- win 6 mth supply of Huggies Ultra diapers
- sign up for FREE weekly SMS pregnancy tips
Huggies
- Register for free account at Thomson baby
- personalised supporter homepage
- Baby Diary
- Baby calendar and scheduler
- exclusive for Thomson Medical Center (TMC) First Born Incentive (FBI), Subsequent Born Incentive (SBI) members
2. Nestle Baby Club (for babies above 6 months of age)
- Register online at Nestle baby
- sound advice on good nutrition plus recipe ideas
- members events & activities
- enjoy special offers
- a personalised web space & online Baby Book to note your baby's growth
- chances to receive Nestle goodies
- monthly e-newsletters on baby nutrition and development
- for free weaning kit, email nestlebaby@sg.nestle.com
3. Join mother2baby club NDP 2010 offer
- free baby hamper worth $130 for all expectant mums from Rustic Nirvana Massage
mother2baby
4. EnfaMama Club
- Enfa Consumer Care 1800-345 5213
- Free 1-yr membership
- New members receive Enfa Consumer Care fridge magnet, "EnfaMama Club Family on Board!" car sticker, Mystery Gift - Baby vest (call 1800-345 5213 to activate), quarterly newsletter..
- Sample request for EnfaMama A+ 2 satchets
- For members, call to request for complimentary "Breastfeeding Tips for Moms" Booklet
mead johnson
5. Abbott Family Rewards
services available at Abbott
- check out the latest Rewards available
- check your Rewards Points Balance
- change your Personal Information & Password
- check your Rewards Point Summary Statement
- Redeem free Abbott Products online with your Rewards Points
- Check your Redemption History
- Receive Updates on Promotional Offers
email: family.sg@abbott.com
customer service hotline: 1800-227 6363 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri except PH)
6. Huggies Club
- a $10 worth of Huggies voucher
- win 6 mth supply of Huggies Ultra diapers
- sign up for FREE weekly SMS pregnancy tips
Huggies
35th week of Pregnancy
26jul-1aug
- woke up at 5am to go to the washroom
- feet swollen and still abit pain
- office called to confirm start of mat leave next week (darling said maybe take me to sentosa instead of gg overseas next mar)
- mum made wholemeal spaghetti for me w bb spinach & fresh mushroom
- checked email, blog, updated & sorted the photos in the pc and watched movie 'Yip man' at home w mum
- mum helped to fold and keep all the bb clothes into closet (hand me down NB gifts and washed)
- time flew very fast and soon mum is leaving after making veg for dinner
- went to bed at 11plus after abit of reading & TV
- head near scar has more sensation than before and sharp pain lasts longer
- woke up at 3am & 6.35am to go to the washroom
- can't wait to go for 35th week gynae consultation later w darling (darling haven't seen doc since 28 wk) followed by hospital tour at 11am (lasted ~45min) by Ms. Aelina
- meeting another expecting mum this sun to pass her $5 off vchr (2 pc) for enfamama A+ milk 900g
- doc said little one gained another ~400g and me 0g in just 2 weeks (33rd week to 35th week) & adviced to 'stand by' any time mid Aug (little one may grow to 2.7kg - 2.8kg) then
- took our photo together, and darling & I went for lunch (called office to notify of MC) before darling return to work (dropped me home) to catch public transport transfer (within 45min)
- next gynae consultation is 10 days later (doc gg overseas for NDP weeknd) if not it'll be 20 days later
- office just called to submit MC by this week for mat leave to be processed
- returning NLB books later before mtg darling at MRT to go for dinner with friends at PCK (probly last pizza meal before the little one arrives)
- passed by St. Michaels at ION and bought some yummies (potatoes & biscuits)
- went for coffee & chat (last met in Mar) & feeling thirsty
- invited friends over to watch NDP fireworks
- woke up at 5am to go to the washroom
- feet swollen and still abit pain
- office called to confirm start of mat leave next week (darling said maybe take me to sentosa instead of gg overseas next mar)
- mum made wholemeal spaghetti for me w bb spinach & fresh mushroom
- checked email, blog, updated & sorted the photos in the pc and watched movie 'Yip man' at home w mum
- mum helped to fold and keep all the bb clothes into closet (hand me down NB gifts and washed)
- time flew very fast and soon mum is leaving after making veg for dinner
- went to bed at 11plus after abit of reading & TV
- head near scar has more sensation than before and sharp pain lasts longer
- woke up at 3am & 6.35am to go to the washroom
- can't wait to go for 35th week gynae consultation later w darling (darling haven't seen doc since 28 wk) followed by hospital tour at 11am (lasted ~45min) by Ms. Aelina
- meeting another expecting mum this sun to pass her $5 off vchr (2 pc) for enfamama A+ milk 900g
- doc said little one gained another ~400g and me 0g in just 2 weeks (33rd week to 35th week) & adviced to 'stand by' any time mid Aug (little one may grow to 2.7kg - 2.8kg) then
- took our photo together, and darling & I went for lunch (called office to notify of MC) before darling return to work (dropped me home) to catch public transport transfer (within 45min)
- next gynae consultation is 10 days later (doc gg overseas for NDP weeknd) if not it'll be 20 days later
- office just called to submit MC by this week for mat leave to be processed
- returning NLB books later before mtg darling at MRT to go for dinner with friends at PCK (probly last pizza meal before the little one arrives)
- passed by St. Michaels at ION and bought some yummies (potatoes & biscuits)
- went for coffee & chat (last met in Mar) & feeling thirsty
- invited friends over to watch NDP fireworks
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Doing nothing is something
- In Buddhism, we cultivate 'aimlessness' and ideal person, an arahat is a businessless person - someone with nowhere to go and nothing to do
- try to spend a day doing nothing; we call that a 'lazy day'
- doing nothing brings about quality of being, which is very important
~Thich Nhat Hanh
- try to spend a day doing nothing; we call that a 'lazy day'
- doing nothing brings about quality of being, which is very important
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Quotable quotes
Q&A are an opportunity to cultivate our capacity to listen with openess, receptivity & stillness.
Listening in this way, we will surely receive the medicine we need.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Healthy TV habits for toddlers
- almost impossible to keep your little one away from the goggle box if you have to rely on your parents or in-laws to look after your baby while you're at work
- it's like an electric babysitter
- US survey reveals that the average toddler now spends more than 4.5h daily watching TV
- some channels to look for are okto Day, Playhouse Disney, Nickelodeon or CBeebies
- experts from American Association of Pediatrics advises that children below 2yrs old should not watch any TV at all
- older tots take in no more than an hour of TV daily
- from age 2-5, 'active' TV viewing is linked to comprehension
- TV should not be children's main entertainment tool
- the time spent watching TV takes a child away from activities such as active play and interaction
- these activities contribute most to their all-rounded development
- too much TV may cause the young tots less physically active, greater risk of obesity in later life, aggressive, nightmares and speech delays
- the context in the TV a child watches matters more than the amount of time he spends watching TV
- important to strike the right balance and the boundaries to watch TV
- try not to make TV watching a daily routine
- survey shows that a children who watch TV moderately with a parent score higher grades in school
- parents should supervise TV watching but not be a major distraction
- it's like an electric babysitter
- US survey reveals that the average toddler now spends more than 4.5h daily watching TV
- some channels to look for are okto Day, Playhouse Disney, Nickelodeon or CBeebies
- experts from American Association of Pediatrics advises that children below 2yrs old should not watch any TV at all
- older tots take in no more than an hour of TV daily
- from age 2-5, 'active' TV viewing is linked to comprehension
- TV should not be children's main entertainment tool
- the time spent watching TV takes a child away from activities such as active play and interaction
- these activities contribute most to their all-rounded development
- too much TV may cause the young tots less physically active, greater risk of obesity in later life, aggressive, nightmares and speech delays
- the context in the TV a child watches matters more than the amount of time he spends watching TV
- important to strike the right balance and the boundaries to watch TV
- try not to make TV watching a daily routine
- survey shows that a children who watch TV moderately with a parent score higher grades in school
- parents should supervise TV watching but not be a major distraction
Monday, July 26, 2010
Baby Bath Tub
1. Benbeni
- UP$12.90 nett pink
- available at JP Fairprice Xtra
2. Puku
- UP$29.90 white
- available JP Fairprice Xtra
*3. No brand
- SP$29.90 UP$39.90 w baby bath net for 0-12m
- white with pink/blue at hand rest
- available at Kiddy Palace
4.
- $59.90 w sling for 0m+ - toddler
- available at www.firstfewyears.com.sg
5. No brand
- $11.80
- available at Blk 70 Lor 4 TPY
*my choice
- UP$12.90 nett pink
- available at JP Fairprice Xtra
2. Puku
- UP$29.90 white
- available JP Fairprice Xtra
- SP$29.90 UP$39.90 w baby bath net for 0-12m
- white with pink/blue at hand rest
- available at Kiddy Palace
4.
- $59.90 w sling for 0m+ - toddler
- available at www.firstfewyears.com.sg
5. No brand
- $11.80
- available at Blk 70 Lor 4 TPY
*my choice
Saturday, July 24, 2010
34th week of Pregnancy
19jul-25jul
- woke up 5am to go to the washroom, and went back to sleep till 7am (think I'm too tired or else may not fall asleep)
- thought it was Sunday, and luckily it's not too late to prepare for breakfast (chee cheong fun & coffee) before darling go for work
- feet still pain, and yesterday I started limping (left foot) and both feet still swollen for 3 consecutive days
- woke up 2am & 4am to go to the washroom, and went back to sleep till 7am for oats breakfast
- darling accompanying me to gynae consultation next week (will bring dig camera for shooting) and followed by a hospital tour at 11am
- my best friend's birthday next week & meeting up with friends for dinner@PCK Forum
- had pain on left side of tummy after 2 trips to buy the groceries & some baby necessities (dad bought a pkt of mee siam) and rested a while
- darling and I read abit after TV and slept before midnight (chatted abt news article I read about the upbringing of children by famous writer 'Bing Xin' and 'Liang Wen Fu')
- what would you say to a 3-4 year-old when he/she likes to catch little birds or insects?
- would you simply tell the child to let it free because we need to have compassionate heart? (child may not understand what that means)
- Bing Xin asked her youngest daughter 'Wu Qing', "It's dark now, and what would you like to do if you're outside?" and she replied, "I'd like to go home."
- "Then who would you like to see when you reach home?"
- "I'd like to see my mother."
- "It's late now and the little bird would also like to go home to see its mother. Let it free, my dear."
- and she did with the understanding of her wrongdoing instead of 'obeying orders' without understanding why
- another incident when Bing Xin found out Wu Qing led a few boys to bully a Japanese child (during the WWII after she learnt about the Tian An Men Massacre and how the Japanese soldiers killed the commoners cruelly), she told her to treat the military and the commoners separately
- she went on to say that the Japanese commoners also suffered alot when the country is at war (her maternal grandpa also took part to fight the Japanese soldiers & the younger Bing Xin then also felt angry at the Japanese soldiers but at the same time pitied the Japanese commoners)
- I shared this with darling and aspired to be a greater person to mother our little ones in future (starting from now)
- woke up 5.20am to go to the washroom, and prepared for breakfast (mum said my beehoon taste like those sold outside or even better)
- darling says to go shopping during weekend and dine in (last episode of TV drama 'Safe Guards' which displayed a lot of wits, courage and strategies of how the adopted son and his 2nd Uncle & Aunt together with his wife helped to handle the problems faced in the family and business)
- mum cooked darling's fav petai and also made potato+tomato+sweet potato leaves soup for dinner
- napped at 8plus9 after dinner and woke up 10plus to watch abit TV before turning in
- woke up 6am to go to the washroom, and overslept (woke up 8.25am) as it's raining and the weather is cool
- quickly prepared for quick breakfast (multigrain bread+lettuce+olive spread+eng breakfast tea bag for darling) and iron his shirt
- looking forward to tomorrow's final class of meditation (writing blog+hang clothes+reading+take yogurt for morn tea while waiting for mum)
- will be bringing dig cam to take class photo (thank you darling for reminding to charge the batt)
- mum bought some greens before coming (went to redeem a 28g of jam at supermarket) & made spaghetti lunch after doing dishes & filling water from filter
- went to supermarket (mum's 3rd time today) to buy some more groceries to earn points
- had veg soup (potato+tomato+sweet corn+red dates+gou qi zi) & bb spinach for dinner
- darling said to take me to Genting Highlands next time to eat the corn kernels again :)
- I told him to plan for next Mar (when our little one hopefully is still on breastfeeding & no need to bother with preparation of food for him)
- woke up 2.35am to go to the washroom, and got up to prepare for lunch and blog & ate a slice of sandwich (hunger kept me awake)
- dined my fav before our class (yes laksa & probably my last meal there before delivery) as the nex class commence abt 2 wk+4 days before my EDD (Estimated Delivery Day)
- have a classmate also around the same time for delivery (hope she's well and bb fine as she's obviously carrying a 'heavier' watermelon/basketball as darling calls me)
- need to shop for bb bath tub, non-slip mat, small pails for napkins laundry, spiral bb clothes hanger etc and probably a breastpump
- first time felt sharp scratching sensation on tummy on the frontal (abit left) while chatting with classmates at kopi shop before class
- tonight little one moved and 'boxed' me with greater strength (can feel the little fist moving from left to right and the tummy bulging out) around 11pm
- woke up 8.10am to go to the washroom, and got up to take multigrain bread breakfast, check email (fwd photos taken at meditation class to classmates), update the photos taken to pc, upload to blog and wrote this journal
- my boss called and we chatted for about 40min (had to submit the work appraisal for office and dept by next week)
- went to check out the bb necessities at shophouse near market w darling, and buy bb bath tub and non-slip mat at Kiddy
- felt constant pain at right side for more than 30min (never had before but able to speak softly and walk slowly) & darling was worried that I may deliver
- woke up 5am to go to the washroom, and went back to sleep till 7am (think I'm too tired or else may not fall asleep)
- thought it was Sunday, and luckily it's not too late to prepare for breakfast (chee cheong fun & coffee) before darling go for work
- feet still pain, and yesterday I started limping (left foot) and both feet still swollen for 3 consecutive days
- woke up 2am & 4am to go to the washroom, and went back to sleep till 7am for oats breakfast
- darling accompanying me to gynae consultation next week (will bring dig camera for shooting) and followed by a hospital tour at 11am
- my best friend's birthday next week & meeting up with friends for dinner@PCK Forum
- had pain on left side of tummy after 2 trips to buy the groceries & some baby necessities (dad bought a pkt of mee siam) and rested a while
- darling and I read abit after TV and slept before midnight (chatted abt news article I read about the upbringing of children by famous writer 'Bing Xin' and 'Liang Wen Fu')
- what would you say to a 3-4 year-old when he/she likes to catch little birds or insects?
- would you simply tell the child to let it free because we need to have compassionate heart? (child may not understand what that means)
- Bing Xin asked her youngest daughter 'Wu Qing', "It's dark now, and what would you like to do if you're outside?" and she replied, "I'd like to go home."
- "Then who would you like to see when you reach home?"
- "I'd like to see my mother."
- "It's late now and the little bird would also like to go home to see its mother. Let it free, my dear."
- and she did with the understanding of her wrongdoing instead of 'obeying orders' without understanding why
- another incident when Bing Xin found out Wu Qing led a few boys to bully a Japanese child (during the WWII after she learnt about the Tian An Men Massacre and how the Japanese soldiers killed the commoners cruelly), she told her to treat the military and the commoners separately
- she went on to say that the Japanese commoners also suffered alot when the country is at war (her maternal grandpa also took part to fight the Japanese soldiers & the younger Bing Xin then also felt angry at the Japanese soldiers but at the same time pitied the Japanese commoners)
- I shared this with darling and aspired to be a greater person to mother our little ones in future (starting from now)
- woke up 5.20am to go to the washroom, and prepared for breakfast (mum said my beehoon taste like those sold outside or even better)
- darling says to go shopping during weekend and dine in (last episode of TV drama 'Safe Guards' which displayed a lot of wits, courage and strategies of how the adopted son and his 2nd Uncle & Aunt together with his wife helped to handle the problems faced in the family and business)
- mum cooked darling's fav petai and also made potato+tomato+sweet potato leaves soup for dinner
- napped at 8plus9 after dinner and woke up 10plus to watch abit TV before turning in
- woke up 6am to go to the washroom, and overslept (woke up 8.25am) as it's raining and the weather is cool
- quickly prepared for quick breakfast (multigrain bread+lettuce+olive spread+eng breakfast tea bag for darling) and iron his shirt
- looking forward to tomorrow's final class of meditation (writing blog+hang clothes+reading+take yogurt for morn tea while waiting for mum)
- will be bringing dig cam to take class photo (thank you darling for reminding to charge the batt)
- mum bought some greens before coming (went to redeem a 28g of jam at supermarket) & made spaghetti lunch after doing dishes & filling water from filter
- went to supermarket (mum's 3rd time today) to buy some more groceries to earn points
- had veg soup (potato+tomato+sweet corn+red dates+gou qi zi) & bb spinach for dinner
- darling said to take me to Genting Highlands next time to eat the corn kernels again :)
- I told him to plan for next Mar (when our little one hopefully is still on breastfeeding & no need to bother with preparation of food for him)
- woke up 2.35am to go to the washroom, and got up to prepare for lunch and blog & ate a slice of sandwich (hunger kept me awake)
- dined my fav before our class (yes laksa & probably my last meal there before delivery) as the nex class commence abt 2 wk+4 days before my EDD (Estimated Delivery Day)
- have a classmate also around the same time for delivery (hope she's well and bb fine as she's obviously carrying a 'heavier' watermelon/basketball as darling calls me)
- first time felt sharp scratching sensation on tummy on the frontal (abit left) while chatting with classmates at kopi shop before class
- tonight little one moved and 'boxed' me with greater strength (can feel the little fist moving from left to right and the tummy bulging out) around 11pm
- woke up 8.10am to go to the washroom, and got up to take multigrain bread breakfast, check email (fwd photos taken at meditation class to classmates), update the photos taken to pc, upload to blog and wrote this journal
- my boss called and we chatted for about 40min (had to submit the work appraisal for office and dept by next week)
- felt constant pain at right side for more than 30min (never had before but able to speak softly and walk slowly) & darling was worried that I may deliver
Recipe for Pumpkin soup_Healthy eating during chemotherapy
Recipe
Pumpkin soup with soy sauce
- pumpkin has a sweet taste when cooked it has a very soft texture.
- lovely for soup base and can be replaced by other soft vegetables eg. aubergine, sweet potato, courgette or asparagus
1/2 slice wholemeal bread
abt 150g wedge of pumkin
1 small onion (omit for vegetarians)
1 garlic clove (omit for vegetarians)
sprig of fresh parsley or coriander
3 tbs olive oil
pinch of curry powder
250ml chicken stock from a stock cube or home-made (use mushroom essence for vegetarians)
splash of soy sauce
serves 2 persons
Method:
1. Cut off the crusts and cut the bread into cubes. Peel and chop the pumpkin, onion and garlic. Chop the parsley or coriander finely.
2. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan. Add the pumpkin, the onion and the garlic. Fry for 3 min over a medium heat. Add a pinch of curry powder, the bread and the stock.
3. Cook until the pumpkin is very soft, abt 10-15 min.
4. Whizz to a very smooth soup in a blender or food-processor. Add soy sauce to taste.
5. Pour into 2 small bowls and sprinkle with the parsley or coriander.
Tip:
Some spiciness, such as Tabasco, and acidity, such as lemon or lime juice, can be added at the table according to personal taste.
For a family of 4:
Multiply the ingredients by 4 and serve as a starter.
Pumpkin soup with soy sauce
- pumpkin has a sweet taste when cooked it has a very soft texture.
- lovely for soup base and can be replaced by other soft vegetables eg. aubergine, sweet potato, courgette or asparagus
1/2 slice wholemeal bread
abt 150g wedge of pumkin
1 small onion (omit for vegetarians)
1 garlic clove (omit for vegetarians)
sprig of fresh parsley or coriander
3 tbs olive oil
pinch of curry powder
250ml chicken stock from a stock cube or home-made (use mushroom essence for vegetarians)
splash of soy sauce
serves 2 persons
Method:
1. Cut off the crusts and cut the bread into cubes. Peel and chop the pumpkin, onion and garlic. Chop the parsley or coriander finely.
2. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan. Add the pumpkin, the onion and the garlic. Fry for 3 min over a medium heat. Add a pinch of curry powder, the bread and the stock.
3. Cook until the pumpkin is very soft, abt 10-15 min.
4. Whizz to a very smooth soup in a blender or food-processor. Add soy sauce to taste.
5. Pour into 2 small bowls and sprinkle with the parsley or coriander.
Tip:
Some spiciness, such as Tabasco, and acidity, such as lemon or lime juice, can be added at the table according to personal taste.
For a family of 4:
Multiply the ingredients by 4 and serve as a starter.
Recipe for Cream cheese & tomato finger sandwiches_Healthy eating during chemotherapy
Recipe
Cream cheese and tomato finger sandwiches
- healthier to eat wholemeal bread
- should be soft but not too fresh so easier to swallow
- cut off the crusts if too hard
1 ripe tomato
5 stems of fresh chives
2 slices wholemeal bread
1.5 tsp light cream cheese
pinch of salt
pinch of pepper
serves 2 persons
Method:
1. Put the tomato in boiling water for 15 sec. Rinse under the cold tap and remove the skin. Scoop out the pips, then halve the tomato and cut the flesh into strips.
2. Chop the chives very finely.
3. Cut the crusts off the bread if they are too hard.
4. Spread the slices of bread with the cream cheese.
5. Put the tomato strips on one slice of bread. Sprinkle with the chives and season with a pinch each of salt and pepper.
6. Place the other slice of bread cheese-side down on the tomato. Cut the sandwich into fingers and put them on 2 small plates.
Tip:
The tomato may be replaced by avocado or banana. If banana is used, leave out the chives, salt and pepper.
For a family of 4:
Multiply the ingredients by 4.
Cream cheese and tomato finger sandwiches
- healthier to eat wholemeal bread
- should be soft but not too fresh so easier to swallow
- cut off the crusts if too hard
1 ripe tomato
5 stems of fresh chives
2 slices wholemeal bread
1.5 tsp light cream cheese
pinch of salt
pinch of pepper
serves 2 persons
Method:
1. Put the tomato in boiling water for 15 sec. Rinse under the cold tap and remove the skin. Scoop out the pips, then halve the tomato and cut the flesh into strips.
2. Chop the chives very finely.
3. Cut the crusts off the bread if they are too hard.
4. Spread the slices of bread with the cream cheese.
5. Put the tomato strips on one slice of bread. Sprinkle with the chives and season with a pinch each of salt and pepper.
6. Place the other slice of bread cheese-side down on the tomato. Cut the sandwich into fingers and put them on 2 small plates.
Tip:
The tomato may be replaced by avocado or banana. If banana is used, leave out the chives, salt and pepper.
For a family of 4:
Multiply the ingredients by 4.
Recipe for Oriental rice_Healthy eating during chemotherapy
Recipe
Oriental rice with fruit and nuts
- the flavour of this aromatic, sweet and savoury rice may be enriched by adding a thread of saffron (soaked in a teaspoon of hot water).
- a cardamom seed can also be used.
- both ingredients should be put in at the same time as the dried fruits.
1 orange
1 tbs honey
2 pieces dried apricot
2 pieces prune
2 pieces dried apple
about 10cm piece of leek
4 tbs mixed nuts (but not peanuts)
10 tbs easy-cook whole grain rice
1 tbs olive oil
1/2 vegetable stock cube
1 tsp cinnamon
serves 2 persons
Method:
1. Wash the orange and grate the zest coarsely into a small saucepan.
2. Halve and squeeze all of the orange juice into the pan. Add the honey and cook for 2 min on a medium heat. Set aside to cool.
3. Chop the dried fruits, leek and nuts finely. Wash the rice.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan. Fry the leek for 3 min over a low heat. Stir in the rice, fruits, nuts, 300ml water and the stock cube.
5. Cook the rice over a very low heat until dry and soft (according to the packet instructions). If the rice is dry but not yet soft, add a little more hot water and cook until done.
6. Mix in the cinnamon. Serve the rice on two small plates and add the orange and honey syrup to taste.
Tip:
Since it spoils easily, reheating cooked rice is not recommended so it's better to make just enough and eat it when fresh.
For a family of 4:
2 oranges, 2 tbs honey, 150g dried fruits, 2 leeks, 12 tbs nuts, 350g easy-cook whole grain rice, 3 tbs olive oil, 1.5 stock cubes, 1.5 litres water, 4 tsp cinnamon
Oriental rice with fruit and nuts
- the flavour of this aromatic, sweet and savoury rice may be enriched by adding a thread of saffron (soaked in a teaspoon of hot water).
- a cardamom seed can also be used.
- both ingredients should be put in at the same time as the dried fruits.
1 orange
1 tbs honey
2 pieces dried apricot
2 pieces prune
2 pieces dried apple
about 10cm piece of leek
4 tbs mixed nuts (but not peanuts)
10 tbs easy-cook whole grain rice
1 tbs olive oil
1/2 vegetable stock cube
1 tsp cinnamon
serves 2 persons
Method:
1. Wash the orange and grate the zest coarsely into a small saucepan.
2. Halve and squeeze all of the orange juice into the pan. Add the honey and cook for 2 min on a medium heat. Set aside to cool.
3. Chop the dried fruits, leek and nuts finely. Wash the rice.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan. Fry the leek for 3 min over a low heat. Stir in the rice, fruits, nuts, 300ml water and the stock cube.
5. Cook the rice over a very low heat until dry and soft (according to the packet instructions). If the rice is dry but not yet soft, add a little more hot water and cook until done.
6. Mix in the cinnamon. Serve the rice on two small plates and add the orange and honey syrup to taste.
Tip:
Since it spoils easily, reheating cooked rice is not recommended so it's better to make just enough and eat it when fresh.
For a family of 4:
2 oranges, 2 tbs honey, 150g dried fruits, 2 leeks, 12 tbs nuts, 350g easy-cook whole grain rice, 3 tbs olive oil, 1.5 stock cubes, 1.5 litres water, 4 tsp cinnamon
Healthy eating foods during chemotherapy
Avoid the following foods:- alcohol (most types, except red wine and good malt whisky)
- bbq or burnt foods
- biscuits & cakes (when not home-made with good ingredients)
- doughnuts
- fast foods
- fizzy drinks
- grapefruit
- margarine: hydrogenated or partly hydrogenated
- processed foods, eg. cheese, sausages, hot dogs, ham
- sweeteners
- white bread
- white refined flour
Highly recommended foods:
- apricots
- artichokes
- asparagus
- avocados
- bananas
- beans
- beetroot
- berries
- blackcurrants
- brazil nuts
- brewer's yeast
- broccoli
- cabbage
- carrots
- Cauliflower
- cereals
- cherries
- citrus fruits including zest (except grapefruit)
- cod
- cranberries
- eggs
- fish
- flaxseed oil
- game
- garlic
- ginger
- grains
- grapes
- halibut
- herring
- kiwi fruit
- lean meat
- leeks
- linseed oil
- mackerel
- melons
- nuts
- oily fish
- olive oil
- onions
- organic food
- parsley
- peaches
- peppers
- pomegranate juice
- poultry
- pulses
- pumpkin
- rhubarb
- rosehip
- salmon
- sardines
- sea bass
- seeds
- sesame seeds
- shark
- shellfish
- shiitake mushrooms
- soya product
- spinach
- spirulina (available in health shops)
- squash
- sunflower seeds
- sweet potatoes
- tea: green and white, herbal teas, rooibos
- tomatoes
- tuna
- turmeric
- vegetables
- wheat germ
- bbq or burnt foods
- biscuits & cakes (when not home-made with good ingredients)
- doughnuts
- fast foods
- fizzy drinks
- grapefruit
- margarine: hydrogenated or partly hydrogenated
- processed foods, eg. cheese, sausages, hot dogs, ham
- sweeteners
- white bread
- white refined flour
Highly recommended foods:
- apricots
- artichokes
- asparagus
- avocados
- bananas
- beans
- beetroot
- berries
- blackcurrants
- brazil nuts
- brewer's yeast
- broccoli
- cabbage
- carrots
- Cauliflower
- cereals
- cherries
- citrus fruits including zest (except grapefruit)
- cod
- cranberries
- eggs
- fish
- flaxseed oil
- game
- garlic
- ginger
- grains
- grapes
- halibut
- herring
- kiwi fruit
- lean meat
- leeks
- linseed oil
- mackerel
- melons
- nuts
- oily fish
- olive oil
- onions
- organic food
- parsley
- peaches
- peppers
- pomegranate juice
- poultry
- pulses
- pumpkin
- rhubarb
- rosehip
- salmon
- sardines
- sea bass
- seeds
- sesame seeds
- shark
- shellfish
- shiitake mushrooms
- soya product
- spinach
- spirulina (available in health shops)
- squash
- sunflower seeds
- sweet potatoes
- tea: green and white, herbal teas, rooibos
- tomatoes
- tuna
- turmeric
- vegetables
- wheat germ
Healthy eating dishes during chemotherapy
choosing the right dish
- finding which foods suit patients best will be a case of trial and error. The method recommended is to focus on texture first, then temperature and flavours.
- experience with cancer patients has shown that there's often an initial preference for a sweetish taste, even in savoury dishes.
- smell and presentation are 2 other important factors that influence the appreciation of food. Try to find out what appeals and what repels.
- whenever you sense an appreciation for certain tastes or textures, try to expand on it.
- the type of food that achieves the best results during treatment is often very difficult to pinpoint and may change over time. Keep on trying and always be flexible.
- whenever possible, choose ingredients that are considered beneficial to cancer patients in general and to the type of cancer concerned in particular.
- try to avoid the foods that are advised against if can. If necessary, sparingly use non-recommended ingredients like fructose or even sugar - they could prove to be the irresistible ingredient that makes a recipe work.
- tart foods are often pleasing to those with dry mouths - they stimulate the production of saliva.
- if eating or drinking dairy products results in heightened mucus production, you'd better choose savoury dishes using dairy products as the salt in savoury foods has a clearing effect on the mucus.
- if you suffer from nausea and vomiting, bland foods and mild flavours are often wise choices. Eating dry foods first thing in the morning may help
- ginger can also be effective in controlling nausea - try ginger ale, ginger tea or ginger biscuits.
- when the sense of taste has all but disappeared, try seasoning dishes more strongly than usual, or choose a strong- flavoured recipe in order to provide some sort of taste distinction.
- gas, bloating and cramping can be helped by eating little and often, and avoiding fizzy drinks and drinking through a straw.
- finding which foods suit patients best will be a case of trial and error. The method recommended is to focus on texture first, then temperature and flavours.
- experience with cancer patients has shown that there's often an initial preference for a sweetish taste, even in savoury dishes.
- smell and presentation are 2 other important factors that influence the appreciation of food. Try to find out what appeals and what repels.
- whenever you sense an appreciation for certain tastes or textures, try to expand on it.
- the type of food that achieves the best results during treatment is often very difficult to pinpoint and may change over time. Keep on trying and always be flexible.
- whenever possible, choose ingredients that are considered beneficial to cancer patients in general and to the type of cancer concerned in particular.
- try to avoid the foods that are advised against if can. If necessary, sparingly use non-recommended ingredients like fructose or even sugar - they could prove to be the irresistible ingredient that makes a recipe work.
- tart foods are often pleasing to those with dry mouths - they stimulate the production of saliva.
- if eating or drinking dairy products results in heightened mucus production, you'd better choose savoury dishes using dairy products as the salt in savoury foods has a clearing effect on the mucus.
- if you suffer from nausea and vomiting, bland foods and mild flavours are often wise choices. Eating dry foods first thing in the morning may help
- ginger can also be effective in controlling nausea - try ginger ale, ginger tea or ginger biscuits.
- when the sense of taste has all but disappeared, try seasoning dishes more strongly than usual, or choose a strong- flavoured recipe in order to provide some sort of taste distinction.
- gas, bloating and cramping can be helped by eating little and often, and avoiding fizzy drinks and drinking through a straw.
Healthy eating tips during chemotherapy
Hints and tips
eating and drinking
- appetite is likely to fluctate wildly, so embrace any occasion when patients want to eat, even if it's the middle of the night!
- some people will eat better at certain times of the day, so try to find out the optimum times for them.
- the sight of big portions can be nauseating, so small portions are recommended- and not just for patients, but for those eating with them too. If a patient's appetite increases, you can always enlarge the portions (simply multiply the quantities by 2 or 3), or serve seconds.
- to make food taste better, patients can try rinsing their mouth with water before eating, or brushing their tongue lightly with a wet toothbrush.
- try to eat slowly and chew well to help digestion.
- important to keep the body's fluid level up, so keep sipping water or green tea whatever your symptoms. Try to avoid drinking at the same time as eating.
- if you suffer from nausea or vomiting, avoid cooking smells. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and keep your head upright after eating.
- conventional knives and forks may leave an unpleasant, metallic taste in the mouth. Using plastic knives and forks is a good solution.
- anaesthetic sprays are now available for patients to use in the mouth and throat to enable them to eat more easily.
- keep healthy snacks close at hand for nibbling when required.
in hospital
- eat a very light meal before your treatment, or take a snack with you to eat while travelling to hospital if the journey is long.
- recommended that you drink water both before and during chemotherapy. Keep this up for a couple of days after treatment to flush the chemicals through. Aim to drink between 8 and 10 glasses per day. Green tea is also excellent.
- avoid eating directly after treatment for a few hours.
eating and drinking
- appetite is likely to fluctate wildly, so embrace any occasion when patients want to eat, even if it's the middle of the night!
- some people will eat better at certain times of the day, so try to find out the optimum times for them.
- the sight of big portions can be nauseating, so small portions are recommended- and not just for patients, but for those eating with them too. If a patient's appetite increases, you can always enlarge the portions (simply multiply the quantities by 2 or 3), or serve seconds.
- to make food taste better, patients can try rinsing their mouth with water before eating, or brushing their tongue lightly with a wet toothbrush.
- try to eat slowly and chew well to help digestion.
- important to keep the body's fluid level up, so keep sipping water or green tea whatever your symptoms. Try to avoid drinking at the same time as eating.
- if you suffer from nausea or vomiting, avoid cooking smells. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and keep your head upright after eating.
- conventional knives and forks may leave an unpleasant, metallic taste in the mouth. Using plastic knives and forks is a good solution.
- anaesthetic sprays are now available for patients to use in the mouth and throat to enable them to eat more easily.
- keep healthy snacks close at hand for nibbling when required.
in hospital
- eat a very light meal before your treatment, or take a snack with you to eat while travelling to hospital if the journey is long.
- recommended that you drink water both before and during chemotherapy. Keep this up for a couple of days after treatment to flush the chemicals through. Aim to drink between 8 and 10 glasses per day. Green tea is also excellent.
- avoid eating directly after treatment for a few hours.
Pregnancy A-Z for third trimester
1. Keep up the good habits. Minimise discomforts and maximise yours and your baby's health by continuing to lead a healthy lifestyle and eat a good diet.
2. Nearing the end. You may often be uncomfortable now, but the strong foetal movements you are feeling mean your pregnancy is reaching its natural conclusion.
3. Nutritional resources. Your baby is drawing heavily on your stores of calcium and iron. Keep your intake of these high so you do not become depleted yourself.
4. Vary your foods. Babies in the womb stick out their tongue and taste the amniotic fluid. Eat a variety of foods to introduce the baby to new tastes.
5. Normal swelling. Every pregnant women swells to some degree and it is only considered a problem if you have high blood pressure.
6. Fibre. Keep your fibre and fluid intake high now to counteract constipation and avoid haemorrhoids, which are a common problem in pregnancy.
2. Nearing the end. You may often be uncomfortable now, but the strong foetal movements you are feeling mean your pregnancy is reaching its natural conclusion.
3. Nutritional resources. Your baby is drawing heavily on your stores of calcium and iron. Keep your intake of these high so you do not become depleted yourself.
4. Vary your foods. Babies in the womb stick out their tongue and taste the amniotic fluid. Eat a variety of foods to introduce the baby to new tastes.
5. Normal swelling. Every pregnant women swells to some degree and it is only considered a problem if you have high blood pressure.
6. Fibre. Keep your fibre and fluid intake high now to counteract constipation and avoid haemorrhoids, which are a common problem in pregnancy.
Pregnancy A-Z for second trimester
1. Smooth sailing. Most of the early symptoms of pregnancy are nearly gone, but you may now find yourself craving chocolate, salt or fresh fruit.
2. Increased needs. Depending on the kind of activities, you now need an extra 300-500 calories daily, and increasing amounts of calcium and iron.
3. Exercise caution. Be very careful when exercising, to avoid falling and hitting your abdomen. Avoid skiing, horse riding, rollerblading, rope skipping and contact sports.
4. Fluid intake. Staying hydrated is more important than ever to counteract constipation, feeling dizzy, light-headed, or faint, and to avoid dry skin.
5. Handling heartburn. Eat small meals often, not too close to bedtime, sleep propped up, and take an antacid tablet to help ease the sensations of heartburn.
6. Mood improvers. Depression may be reduced by consuming more omega-3 fatty acids and occasionally having a small piece of high-quality dark chocolate.
2. Increased needs. Depending on the kind of activities, you now need an extra 300-500 calories daily, and increasing amounts of calcium and iron.
3. Exercise caution. Be very careful when exercising, to avoid falling and hitting your abdomen. Avoid skiing, horse riding, rollerblading, rope skipping and contact sports.
4. Fluid intake. Staying hydrated is more important than ever to counteract constipation, feeling dizzy, light-headed, or faint, and to avoid dry skin.
5. Handling heartburn. Eat small meals often, not too close to bedtime, sleep propped up, and take an antacid tablet to help ease the sensations of heartburn.
6. Mood improvers. Depression may be reduced by consuming more omega-3 fatty acids and occasionally having a small piece of high-quality dark chocolate.
Pregnancy A-Z for lunch logic
Winning combinations
- eat a protein source, an unrefined carbohydrate source and a fruit or vegetable.
Examples:
- a few cubes of cheese, some grapes (or other fruit) and wholewheat crackers
- yoghurt sprinkled with muesli and dried fruit
- a salad made with tomato, lettuce (romaine contains folate and calcium) and some cheese and wholewheat bread
- hard-boiled eggs, celery, and carrot sticks and wholewheat bread
- left-over baked chicken pieces (can be replaced with vegetarian mock ham or duck meat for vegetarians), with thin cucumber slices sprinkled with salt and a slice of wholewheat bread
- wholewheat pitta bread with hummus, cucumber and tomato.
- eat a protein source, an unrefined carbohydrate source and a fruit or vegetable.
Examples:
- a few cubes of cheese, some grapes (or other fruit) and wholewheat crackers
- yoghurt sprinkled with muesli and dried fruit
- a salad made with tomato, lettuce (romaine contains folate and calcium) and some cheese and wholewheat bread
- hard-boiled eggs, celery, and carrot sticks and wholewheat bread
- left-over baked chicken pieces (can be replaced with vegetarian mock ham or duck meat for vegetarians), with thin cucumber slices sprinkled with salt and a slice of wholewheat bread
- wholewheat pitta bread with hummus, cucumber and tomato.
Cough remedies
- this method had been tested by many people
- one of the best methods to stop cough.
Method A:
- cut off the top part of the orange, put some salt into the orange, and put back the top part.
- steam it for 10 min
- eat all the flesh including the juice at the bottom of the bowl.
- taste not very nice but cures your prolonged cough in days.
Method B:
- cut off a little shelf of top. Add ½ teaspoon of salt
- place in a bowl and steam it for 20 min
- finish the whole orange including the water left in the bowl
- tastes sour and salty, good for cure.
- one of the best methods to stop cough.
Method A:
- cut off the top part of the orange, put some salt into the orange, and put back the top part.
- steam it for 10 min
- eat all the flesh including the juice at the bottom of the bowl.
- taste not very nice but cures your prolonged cough in days.
Method B:
- cut off a little shelf of top. Add ½ teaspoon of salt
- place in a bowl and steam it for 20 min
- finish the whole orange including the water left in the bowl
- tastes sour and salty, good for cure.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Things that make kids today more intelligent than before
- are kids really smarter than they are before or are they just pushed harder earlier?
- mothers may be wondering and hesitating whether to buy their young children those educational computer lessons or enrol them for memory booster classes
- nowadays parents have the Singaporean trait of kiasuism that may be the reason why kids today are smarter
- a study in the 1990s showed that IQ scores increased from one generation to the next for about the 30 countries studied
- today this increase in IQ over time is called the Flynn Effect
- they just think better on their feet and can solve problems on the spot without being told what to do
- better at working with shapes with the advance of IT and accessibility to computers
Technology effect
- empowers children and provides them with tools needed to solve problems
- children tend to absorb more information quickly at a young age and they benefit from early exposure
- computer software designed for learning can also be an excellent tool for enhancing developmental learning and creativity
- some argue that despite more information at our fingertips, young people are most concerned about things that directly affect them
- can better EQ be factored into assessing a child's intelligence?
- children learn through imitation
- for babies, technology must be carefully used as studies conducted on 1300 children showed that TV is too much for a growing brain to handle
- more likely to have attention problems at school age if exposed to more TV
- get completely mesmerized by the fast-moving images
- for every hour of TV a baby watches, problems relating to attention increases by 10% by the time they hit age seven
- mothers may be wondering and hesitating whether to buy their young children those educational computer lessons or enrol them for memory booster classes
- nowadays parents have the Singaporean trait of kiasuism that may be the reason why kids today are smarter
- a study in the 1990s showed that IQ scores increased from one generation to the next for about the 30 countries studied
- today this increase in IQ over time is called the Flynn Effect
- they just think better on their feet and can solve problems on the spot without being told what to do
- better at working with shapes with the advance of IT and accessibility to computers
Technology effect
- empowers children and provides them with tools needed to solve problems
- children tend to absorb more information quickly at a young age and they benefit from early exposure
- computer software designed for learning can also be an excellent tool for enhancing developmental learning and creativity
- some argue that despite more information at our fingertips, young people are most concerned about things that directly affect them
- can better EQ be factored into assessing a child's intelligence?
- children learn through imitation
- for babies, technology must be carefully used as studies conducted on 1300 children showed that TV is too much for a growing brain to handle
- more likely to have attention problems at school age if exposed to more TV
- get completely mesmerized by the fast-moving images
- for every hour of TV a baby watches, problems relating to attention increases by 10% by the time they hit age seven
Nappy pins for baby napkins
1. Pigeon
- safe secure clips 6's or 9's $2.70
- $0.45 or $0.30 each
- SP$2.43 10% discount
- SP$0.405 or SP$0.27 each
- available at AMK Hub Fairprice Xtra (correct as at 19 Jun 2010) & Kiddy Palace
*2. Tollyjoy
- safe secure clips 6's $2.60
- $0.4333 each
- SP$2.34 10% discount
- SP$0.39 each
- available at Kiddy Palace
**3. Tollyjoy
- safe secure clips 6's $2.60
- $0.4333 each
- SP$2.08 20% discount till 21 Jul 2010
- SP$0.3467 each
- NTUC Fairprice outlets
4. Tommee tippee
- UP$4 for 0m+ for 6pc
- $0.6667 each
- SP$3.60 10% discount
- SP$0.60 each
- available at Kiddy Palace
*my choice
- safe secure clips 6's or 9's $2.70
- $0.45 or $0.30 each
- SP$2.43 10% discount
- SP$0.405 or SP$0.27 each
- available at AMK Hub Fairprice Xtra (correct as at 19 Jun 2010) & Kiddy Palace
*2. Tollyjoy
- safe secure clips 6's $2.60
- $0.4333 each
- SP$2.34 10% discount
- SP$0.39 each
- available at Kiddy Palace
**3. Tollyjoy
- safe secure clips 6's $2.60
- $0.4333 each
- SP$2.08 20% discount till 21 Jul 2010
- SP$0.3467 each
- NTUC Fairprice outlets
4. Tommee tippee
- UP$4 for 0m+ for 6pc
- $0.6667 each
- SP$3.60 10% discount
- SP$0.60 each
- available at Kiddy Palace
*my choice
Recipe for Torte with nutty streusel
6 servings
Ingredients:
Torte
150g (5.3 oz) of castor (superfine) sugar
60g (2 oz) of butter
1 egg beaten
1 tsp of vanilla essence
180g (6.5 oz) of self-raising flour sifted
0.5 tsp of bicarbonate of soda sifted
150 ml (5 fl oz) of yoghurt
Streusel
75g (2.5 oz) of finely chopped walnuts
75g (2.5 oz) of fried breadcrumbs*
90g (3 oz) of finely crushed shortbread
40g (1.5 oz) of brown sugar
60g (2 oz) of butter
Method:
1. Prepare torte. Beat sugar, butter, egg and vanilla essence with an electric mixer at high speed for 3 min.
2. Add sifted flour and bicarbonate of soda alternatively with yoghurt. Stir well.
3. Pour batter into a round 20-cm (8") cake tin greased and lined with greaseproof paper
4. Prepare the fried breadcrumps. Tear each slice of bread into 8-10 small pieces. Place in a blender and process until fine.
5. Level breadcrumbs in a large baking tin lined with greaseproof paper and bake in a preheated oven at 140 deg C (285 deg F) until completely dry
6. Melt butter and oil in a heavy-based pan. When butter is foaming, add breadcrumbs.
7. Stir over low heat for 3-5 min until golden brown.
8. Drain well on paper towels and allow to cool completely before using.
9. Prepare streusel. Combine all dry ingredients. Rub in butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
10. Spoon streusel mixture over torte. Bake in a preheated oven at 190 deg C (370 deg F) for 40-45 min or until a skewer inserted into the middle of cake comes out clean
11. Cool on wire rack before serving.
Ingredients:
Torte
150g (5.3 oz) of castor (superfine) sugar
60g (2 oz) of butter
1 egg beaten
1 tsp of vanilla essence
180g (6.5 oz) of self-raising flour sifted
0.5 tsp of bicarbonate of soda sifted
150 ml (5 fl oz) of yoghurt
Streusel
75g (2.5 oz) of finely chopped walnuts
75g (2.5 oz) of fried breadcrumbs*
90g (3 oz) of finely crushed shortbread
40g (1.5 oz) of brown sugar
60g (2 oz) of butter
Method:
1. Prepare torte. Beat sugar, butter, egg and vanilla essence with an electric mixer at high speed for 3 min.
2. Add sifted flour and bicarbonate of soda alternatively with yoghurt. Stir well.
3. Pour batter into a round 20-cm (8") cake tin greased and lined with greaseproof paper
4. Prepare the fried breadcrumps. Tear each slice of bread into 8-10 small pieces. Place in a blender and process until fine.
5. Level breadcrumbs in a large baking tin lined with greaseproof paper and bake in a preheated oven at 140 deg C (285 deg F) until completely dry
6. Melt butter and oil in a heavy-based pan. When butter is foaming, add breadcrumbs.
7. Stir over low heat for 3-5 min until golden brown.
8. Drain well on paper towels and allow to cool completely before using.
9. Prepare streusel. Combine all dry ingredients. Rub in butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
10. Spoon streusel mixture over torte. Bake in a preheated oven at 190 deg C (370 deg F) for 40-45 min or until a skewer inserted into the middle of cake comes out clean
11. Cool on wire rack before serving.
Recipe for Queen of puddings
4 servings
Ingredients:
3 slices of stale white bread w crusts trimmed
300 ml (10 fl oz/ 1.25 cups) evaporated milk
300 ml of fresh milk
40g (1.5 oz) of butter
60 g (2 oz) of castor (superfine) sugar
4 egg yolks lightly beaten
3 tbsp mixed fruit jam
butter
Meringue Topping
4 egg whites
175g (6 oz) of castor (superfine) sugar
Method:
1. Prepare the breadcrumbs. Tear each slice of bread into 8-10 small pieces. Place in a blender and process until fine.
2. Heat evaporated and fresh milk in a pan until bubbles appear around the edge of pan.
3. Add butter and sugar and heat gently until butter has melted and sugar dissolved.
4. Gradually add hot milk to egg yolks, whisking constantly
5. Stir in breadcrumbs. Pour mixture into a 1.2-litre (5-cup) greased ovenproof dish or into 4 ramekins.
6. Set aside for 15 min.
7. Bake pudding in a preheated oven at 180 deg C (350 deg F) for 30 min until just set.
8. Spread jam over the top immediately
9. Prepare the meringue. Whisk egg whites until soft peak stage. Whisk in sugar 1 tsp at a time, at max speed until stiff peak stage.
10. Spoon the meringue over pudding, spreading it to the edges
11. Bake for a further 10-15 min until the top of meringue is golden brown. Serve immediately.
Ingredients:
3 slices of stale white bread w crusts trimmed
300 ml (10 fl oz/ 1.25 cups) evaporated milk
300 ml of fresh milk
40g (1.5 oz) of butter
60 g (2 oz) of castor (superfine) sugar
4 egg yolks lightly beaten
3 tbsp mixed fruit jam
butter
Meringue Topping
4 egg whites
175g (6 oz) of castor (superfine) sugar
Method:
1. Prepare the breadcrumbs. Tear each slice of bread into 8-10 small pieces. Place in a blender and process until fine.
2. Heat evaporated and fresh milk in a pan until bubbles appear around the edge of pan.
3. Add butter and sugar and heat gently until butter has melted and sugar dissolved.
4. Gradually add hot milk to egg yolks, whisking constantly
5. Stir in breadcrumbs. Pour mixture into a 1.2-litre (5-cup) greased ovenproof dish or into 4 ramekins.
6. Set aside for 15 min.
7. Bake pudding in a preheated oven at 180 deg C (350 deg F) for 30 min until just set.
8. Spread jam over the top immediately
9. Prepare the meringue. Whisk egg whites until soft peak stage. Whisk in sugar 1 tsp at a time, at max speed until stiff peak stage.
10. Spoon the meringue over pudding, spreading it to the edges
11. Bake for a further 10-15 min until the top of meringue is golden brown. Serve immediately.
Recipe for Mosaic rolls
4 servings
Ingredients:
50g (1.67 oz) butter
2 tsp finely chopped parsley
1 tbsp plum sauce
1 tbsp chilli sauce
1 pc seeded and finely diced red chilli
a pinch of salt and ground black pepper
4 slices of white bread w crusts trimmed
4 slices of roasted chicken breast (replaced by vegetarian mock chicken steak for vegetarians)
1 cucumber cut into 16 thin slices
4 slices of fine grain wholemeal bread w crusts trimmed
Method:
1. Mix butter with parsley, plum sauce, chilli sauce, chilli, salt and pepper
2. Spread white bread with some prepared butter and top with a slice of chicken breast
3. Spread wholemeal bread with remaining prepared butter and top with a layer of cucumber
4. Carefully roll each slice of white bread and chicken breast up into a tight roll, then roll again with a slice of wholemeal bread
5. Wrap rolls in aluminium foil and refrigerate for 1 hour before slicing to serve
Ingredients:
50g (1.67 oz) butter
2 tsp finely chopped parsley
1 tbsp plum sauce
1 tbsp chilli sauce
1 pc seeded and finely diced red chilli
a pinch of salt and ground black pepper
4 slices of white bread w crusts trimmed
4 slices of roasted chicken breast (replaced by vegetarian mock chicken steak for vegetarians)
1 cucumber cut into 16 thin slices
4 slices of fine grain wholemeal bread w crusts trimmed
Method:
1. Mix butter with parsley, plum sauce, chilli sauce, chilli, salt and pepper
2. Spread white bread with some prepared butter and top with a slice of chicken breast
3. Spread wholemeal bread with remaining prepared butter and top with a layer of cucumber
4. Carefully roll each slice of white bread and chicken breast up into a tight roll, then roll again with a slice of wholemeal bread
5. Wrap rolls in aluminium foil and refrigerate for 1 hour before slicing to serve
Q&A on milk feeding & phlegm
Q: My son is 5mth old and have a lot of phlegm. Doc advised to reduce the formula but have to see any improvements. Is it normal?
- phlegm is babies is not common, and usually due to some infection
- secretions from the nose or throat may cause noisy breathing in young babies
- formula is not known causes of phlegm in children, and should not change formulas may disrupt baby's feeding pattern
- advisable to consult a doc if phlegm still persists
- phlegm is babies is not common, and usually due to some infection
- secretions from the nose or throat may cause noisy breathing in young babies
- formula is not known causes of phlegm in children, and should not change formulas may disrupt baby's feeding pattern
- advisable to consult a doc if phlegm still persists
Q&A on pregnancy & family planning
Q: I have been married for 2 years and would like to start a family. Is there anything that I should do before trying to conceive?
A: Take measures to optimise the health of you and your spouse:
- eating a balanced diet
- having a consistent exercise programme
- making sure you get enough sleep each day
- ensuring that you have a means of relieving stress
A: Take measures to optimise the health of you and your spouse:
- eating a balanced diet
- having a consistent exercise programme
- making sure you get enough sleep each day
- ensuring that you have a means of relieving stress
Q&A on pregnancy
Q: Married late and now in my late 30s. Is it advisable for me to try for a baby given my age?
A: Increasing age beyond 35 years of age is associated with 3 problems namely fertility, falling pregnant (the chance of miscarriage increases rapidly) and finally the risk of chromosomal disorders such as Down's syndrome
Do not delay if you've decided to have a baby.
A: Increasing age beyond 35 years of age is associated with 3 problems namely fertility, falling pregnant (the chance of miscarriage increases rapidly) and finally the risk of chromosomal disorders such as Down's syndrome
Do not delay if you've decided to have a baby.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Q&A on co-sleeping
Q: My daughter is 4yrs old and has been co-sleeping with us since born. When she's 3yrs old, she started to sleep in her own room but I still slept in her room till she's asleep. But she'll move to our room and sleep with us in the middle of the night.
Recently she'd cry very sadly before falling asleep when I started to train her to sleep on her own. However, the routine was disrupted and she cries before she falls asleep or suddenly wake up crying hysterically just after 15min of sleep. Should we continue training her to sleep on her own?
A:
- depends on how the family's sleep arrangements have been as well as the child's temperament and preferences
- letting children sleep on their own allows them to become more independent
- advisable to use the same method before to re-establish child's sleep routine
- ensure that the child's room is conducive
- talking to child about the need and providing positive reinforcement may work
Recently she'd cry very sadly before falling asleep when I started to train her to sleep on her own. However, the routine was disrupted and she cries before she falls asleep or suddenly wake up crying hysterically just after 15min of sleep. Should we continue training her to sleep on her own?
A:
- depends on how the family's sleep arrangements have been as well as the child's temperament and preferences
- letting children sleep on their own allows them to become more independent
- advisable to use the same method before to re-establish child's sleep routine
- ensure that the child's room is conducive
- talking to child about the need and providing positive reinforcement may work
Teach your child to have a compassionate heart
- makes your child more aware of the world around them and encourages tolerance
- use real life stories to touch their hearts and to discuss with them issues in the society
- news article dated in Zaobao 21 Jul 2010 has an interview with Wu Qing, youngest daughter of modern chinese literature writer Bing Xin
- her mother taught her to have compassionate heart by letting go the bird she captured using a simple story
- Bing Xin asked her youngest daughter 'Wu Qing', "It's dark now, and what would you like to do if you're outside?" and she replied, "I'd like to go home."
- "Then who would you like to see when you reach home?"
- "I'd like to see my mother."
- "It's late now and the little bird would also like to go home to see its mother. Let it free, my dear."
- and she did with the understanding of her wrongdoing instead of 'obeying orders' without understanding why
- the incident in the abovementioned article can also be found in my 34th week pregnancy journal
- use real life stories to touch their hearts and to discuss with them issues in the society
- news article dated in Zaobao 21 Jul 2010 has an interview with Wu Qing, youngest daughter of modern chinese literature writer Bing Xin
- her mother taught her to have compassionate heart by letting go the bird she captured using a simple story
- Bing Xin asked her youngest daughter 'Wu Qing', "It's dark now, and what would you like to do if you're outside?" and she replied, "I'd like to go home."
- "Then who would you like to see when you reach home?"
- "I'd like to see my mother."
- "It's late now and the little bird would also like to go home to see its mother. Let it free, my dear."
- and she did with the understanding of her wrongdoing instead of 'obeying orders' without understanding why
- the incident in the abovementioned article can also be found in my 34th week pregnancy journal
Storytelling Tips for babies
- children loved to be told stories
- storytelling can be memorable and fun for both the parent and child
Tips for storytelling
1. Capture attention
- remove distractions eg. Turn off the TV or radio so as to get the child's undivided attention
- maintain some degree of eye contact with child so that he feels that you're telling him a story instead of reading
2. Be enthusiastic- tell the story with zeal
- sound eager and give the sense that it is an exciting story worth listening to
3. Hold your child's attention- give your characters different voices
- vary your facial expressions and use funny gestures
- speed up and slow down, speak louder or whisper at different points of the story to create excitement and set the mood
4. Use props- eg. puppets, toys or even a musical instrument to create sound effects, are also excellent for holding your little one's attention and making the storytelling more fun
- storytelling can be memorable and fun for both the parent and child
Tips for storytelling
1. Capture attention
- remove distractions eg. Turn off the TV or radio so as to get the child's undivided attention
- maintain some degree of eye contact with child so that he feels that you're telling him a story instead of reading
2. Be enthusiastic- tell the story with zeal
- sound eager and give the sense that it is an exciting story worth listening to
3. Hold your child's attention- give your characters different voices
- vary your facial expressions and use funny gestures
- speed up and slow down, speak louder or whisper at different points of the story to create excitement and set the mood
4. Use props- eg. puppets, toys or even a musical instrument to create sound effects, are also excellent for holding your little one's attention and making the storytelling more fun
Storytelling for babies
- children loved to be told stories
- through storytelling, many delightful stories, fascinating legends and poignant accounts of history were passed down from generations to generations
- nowadays other entertainment such as TV and computers are some factors that led to the diminishing of storytelling rituals in families
Benefits of storytelling
1. stimulate baby's brain
- studies showed that mere exposure such as listening to the TV provides little benefit to babies
- storytelling to your child acts an interaction which is vital for a baby's brain development
- close interaction betw parent and baby during storytelling fosters intimate bonding
2. Develops language
- expands baby's vocabulary as child picks up sounds and patterns while listening to storytelling
- patterns eg. intonation, pronunciation, sentence structures
3. Sharpens listening and comprehension skills
- a child learns to sequence a story chronologically, recall information and predict what might happen next in the story
- he/she also hones his listening skills and develops his abilities to understand a series of events and characters in a story
- through storytelling, many delightful stories, fascinating legends and poignant accounts of history were passed down from generations to generations
- nowadays other entertainment such as TV and computers are some factors that led to the diminishing of storytelling rituals in families
Benefits of storytelling
1. stimulate baby's brain
- studies showed that mere exposure such as listening to the TV provides little benefit to babies
- storytelling to your child acts an interaction which is vital for a baby's brain development
- close interaction betw parent and baby during storytelling fosters intimate bonding
2. Develops language
- expands baby's vocabulary as child picks up sounds and patterns while listening to storytelling
- patterns eg. intonation, pronunciation, sentence structures
3. Sharpens listening and comprehension skills
- a child learns to sequence a story chronologically, recall information and predict what might happen next in the story
- he/she also hones his listening skills and develops his abilities to understand a series of events and characters in a story
5 Simple ways to make your baby smarter
1. Songs
- make up songs while changing his diaper, or while pushing him around in the stroller
- research suggests that learning rhythms of music is linked to math skills
2. Let him lead
- let him play around
- when you have spent so many months making him follow whatever you do, he will want you to now follow his
3. Change his environment
- change where his highchair is placed at the dining area
- challenge him to remember where things are placed
4. Play peek-a-boo
- teaches him that things disappear and they come back
5. Play with food
- encourages him to practice his motor skills, grasping and explore his senses
- make up songs while changing his diaper, or while pushing him around in the stroller
- research suggests that learning rhythms of music is linked to math skills
2. Let him lead
- let him play around
- when you have spent so many months making him follow whatever you do, he will want you to now follow his
3. Change his environment
- change where his highchair is placed at the dining area
- challenge him to remember where things are placed
4. Play peek-a-boo
- teaches him that things disappear and they come back
5. Play with food
- encourages him to practice his motor skills, grasping and explore his senses
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Sleep Awareness Week 2010
- held in Singapore from 19-28 Mar 2010
- held in celebration of World Sleep Day on March 19
- highlights important sleep related issues such as disorders, treatment, education and perception
- topics include consistent sleep schedules, night feedings for toddlers and even co-sleeping
- sleep-related activities to make learning interesting available
- highlights include the Good Sleep for Good Health Public Sleep Symposium, the online Sleep An Hour More Movement and Visit A Sleep Lab programme
Singapore Sleep Society
- held in celebration of World Sleep Day on March 19
- highlights important sleep related issues such as disorders, treatment, education and perception
- topics include consistent sleep schedules, night feedings for toddlers and even co-sleeping
- sleep-related activities to make learning interesting available
- highlights include the Good Sleep for Good Health Public Sleep Symposium, the online Sleep An Hour More Movement and Visit A Sleep Lab programme
Singapore Sleep Society
Organic lifestyle
- free delivery of organic fruits and vegetables available online
- freshest fruits and vegetables sourced from the world's best organic and bio-dynamic farms
- SuperNature offers extensive selection of organic foods, groceries, homecare, health supplements and wellness products
Location: 21 Orchard Boulevard #01-21/27 Park House
Tel: 6304 1336
Supernature
- freshest fruits and vegetables sourced from the world's best organic and bio-dynamic farms
- SuperNature offers extensive selection of organic foods, groceries, homecare, health supplements and wellness products
Location: 21 Orchard Boulevard #01-21/27 Park House
Tel: 6304 1336
Supernature
Infections during pregnancy
- expectant mothers fear that it'll harm their unborn baby if they get ill during pregnancy
Some of the infections:
1. Thrush
- common infection among pregnant woman
- more often seen in women who are also diabetic, have a high sugar/carbohydrate intake or who are overweight during pregnancy
- at times occur due to poor hygiene when pregnant women have difficulty reaching and cleaning the groin
2. Group B Streptococcal (GBS or Strep B for short)
- some bugs can be transmitted to baby through the placenta or during birth when women gets an infection during pregnancy
- infection found in up to 25-30% of pregnant woman's vagina or rectum
- can cause profuse vaginal discharge in any trimester
- a small percent of mothers can pass GBS to her baby during pregnancy, resulting in severe infection of the lungs and brain resulting in the possible death of the baby within the first few days of birth
- test swab of the vagina can be done at betw 35 & 37 weeks during the routine antenatal visits
- other symptoms include rupture of membrane before 37 weeks, fever during labour (>38 deg C), GBS urinary tract infection during your pregnancy and a previous baby infected with GBS infection
- doc will administer intravenous antibiotics during your pregnancy to prevent baby from becoming infected
3. Chickenpox
- can be more severe if you're pregnant, and more likely to develop dangerous complications such as pneumonia
- have to bear with discomfort as there's no specific treatment for chickenpox except for anti-viral drugs at the early stages
- seek medical assistance should you have any breathing problems
4. Toxoplasmosis
- caught through eating raw, undercooked or cured meat as well as contact with animal faeces
- can cause infection in unborn baby resulting in eye problems and brain abnormalities if left untreated
- symptoms such as fever or flu-like symptoms
- antibiotics are necessary to destroy the parasite
5. Common Cold
- expectant women have lower immunity and more likely to catch colds and coughs
- check with your doctor as some medications contain substances decongestants that are not tested for safety during pregnancy
- caffeine & alcohol could affect baby's development and health
- unlikely that flu will harm baby
- should you have fever, seek medical help
Natural remedies to ease discomfort:
- add a few drops of eucalyptus oil into a bowl of hot water, lean over and inhale
- drink plenty of fluids to replenish lost fluids through the mucus or fever
- for sore throat, concoct a soothing drink of honey with a slice of lemon in a cup of warm water. Alternatively, gargle with salt water
- sleep and have more rest for your body to recover by itself
Boost immune system:
- eat a healthy diet including plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and wholegrain foods
- substitute caffeinated drinks for water or fruit juice
- get plenty of rest and try to manage your stress levels by keeping it to a minimum
- consider taking a vitamin and mineral supplement specifically formulated for pregnant women
Alternatively,
- avoid crowded places, eat healthily and visit your gynaecologist regularly
- do not hesitate to schedule a visit your doc should you suspect you have an infection
Some of the infections:
1. Thrush
- common infection among pregnant woman
- more often seen in women who are also diabetic, have a high sugar/carbohydrate intake or who are overweight during pregnancy
- at times occur due to poor hygiene when pregnant women have difficulty reaching and cleaning the groin
2. Group B Streptococcal (GBS or Strep B for short)
- some bugs can be transmitted to baby through the placenta or during birth when women gets an infection during pregnancy
- infection found in up to 25-30% of pregnant woman's vagina or rectum
- can cause profuse vaginal discharge in any trimester
- a small percent of mothers can pass GBS to her baby during pregnancy, resulting in severe infection of the lungs and brain resulting in the possible death of the baby within the first few days of birth
- test swab of the vagina can be done at betw 35 & 37 weeks during the routine antenatal visits
- other symptoms include rupture of membrane before 37 weeks, fever during labour (>38 deg C), GBS urinary tract infection during your pregnancy and a previous baby infected with GBS infection
- doc will administer intravenous antibiotics during your pregnancy to prevent baby from becoming infected
3. Chickenpox
- can be more severe if you're pregnant, and more likely to develop dangerous complications such as pneumonia
- have to bear with discomfort as there's no specific treatment for chickenpox except for anti-viral drugs at the early stages
- seek medical assistance should you have any breathing problems
4. Toxoplasmosis
- caught through eating raw, undercooked or cured meat as well as contact with animal faeces
- can cause infection in unborn baby resulting in eye problems and brain abnormalities if left untreated
- symptoms such as fever or flu-like symptoms
- antibiotics are necessary to destroy the parasite
5. Common Cold
- expectant women have lower immunity and more likely to catch colds and coughs
- check with your doctor as some medications contain substances decongestants that are not tested for safety during pregnancy
- caffeine & alcohol could affect baby's development and health
- unlikely that flu will harm baby
- should you have fever, seek medical help
Natural remedies to ease discomfort:
- add a few drops of eucalyptus oil into a bowl of hot water, lean over and inhale
- drink plenty of fluids to replenish lost fluids through the mucus or fever
- for sore throat, concoct a soothing drink of honey with a slice of lemon in a cup of warm water. Alternatively, gargle with salt water
- sleep and have more rest for your body to recover by itself
Boost immune system:
- eat a healthy diet including plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and wholegrain foods
- substitute caffeinated drinks for water or fruit juice
- get plenty of rest and try to manage your stress levels by keeping it to a minimum
- consider taking a vitamin and mineral supplement specifically formulated for pregnant women
Alternatively,
- avoid crowded places, eat healthily and visit your gynaecologist regularly
- do not hesitate to schedule a visit your doc should you suspect you have an infection
Infant Care Standards in Singapore
- NUH and NTUC First Campus launched its partnership to enhance infants' holistic development and enhance training programmes for local infant care teachers
- areas such as the health, nutrition, and language and mental development of the child will be covered
- this partnership is one of the 2 inititatives to raise local infant care standards
- 27 out of 68 NTUC First Campus pre-school centres offer infant care services
- may double to 50 by 2010 year end
- infancy period is the age where the child develops the most, lots of changes occur from day to day and good or bad habits are inculcated as well
- diseases in adulthood do often have their roots in childhood and even in early infancy
- areas such as the health, nutrition, and language and mental development of the child will be covered
- this partnership is one of the 2 inititatives to raise local infant care standards
- 27 out of 68 NTUC First Campus pre-school centres offer infant care services
- may double to 50 by 2010 year end
- infancy period is the age where the child develops the most, lots of changes occur from day to day and good or bad habits are inculcated as well
- diseases in adulthood do often have their roots in childhood and even in early infancy
Cover Model for magazine
- send cute little pictures of your babies, toddlers and juniors
- email to:
motherhood@epl.com.sg
- email to:
motherhood@epl.com.sg
Monday, July 19, 2010
Motherhood Exhibition '10
Motherhood Exhibition '10 - The Biggest Parenting Extravaganza of the year
3-6 June 2010
12nn - 10pm
Singapore Expo Hall 6B
exhibits include
- Baby & Toiletries products
- maternity wear
- nursing wear
- milk bottles, Sterilisers & feeding accessories
- children's clothes & toys
- baby cots, strollers & playpens
- milk & beaverages
- educational books & learning aids
- Interactive toys, games & multimedia for children
- health products & services
- home needs
- beauty products & services etc
motherhood
3-6 June 2010
12nn - 10pm
Singapore Expo Hall 6B
exhibits include
- Baby & Toiletries products
- maternity wear
- nursing wear
- milk bottles, Sterilisers & feeding accessories
- children's clothes & toys
- baby cots, strollers & playpens
- milk & beaverages
- educational books & learning aids
- Interactive toys, games & multimedia for children
- health products & services
- home needs
- beauty products & services etc
motherhood
Sunday, July 18, 2010
33rd week of Pregnancy
12jul-18jul
- yeah! It's pay day again.
- darling says to accompany me on my next gynae consultation (wonder if doc will say little one has grown another 0.5kg in 2 wk)
- I'd arrange appt on day of neuro review in 35th week of pregnancy around noon after gynae consultation in the morning (darling took leave)
- woke up at 6am to clear bladder (every 1-2h in daytime & 4-5h during night sleep), and made quick breakfast (multigrain bread w lettuce + olive spread)
- continue to read 'yummy recipe book for pregnancy', compile table, organsie the blog and plan for the day before going parents' home to stay for the night (Darling working OT)
- took another slice of bread at 10plus (morn tea) with additional cranberry w blueberry jam
- read the bb magazine (munched a pkt of wholemeal biscuits) while waiting for dad at medical clinic for he complains of eye discomfort
- went for lunch at food outlet w mum and dad, and went home to take a short nap
- took 2 almond biscuits for tea
- went for groceries with mum (spent ~3h incl shopping at Fairprice Xtra for bb necessities)
- met darling at the traffic junction on our way home, and mum 'fed' me w a slice of raisin bread before we made our 'snail' journey back to our 'HSH' (home sweet home)
- made buckwheat noodles this time (instead of spaghetti or angel hair pasta) w seaweed and lots of bai cai, a tomato etc
- yeah! It's pay day again.
- darling says to accompany me on my next gynae consultation (wonder if doc will say little one has grown another 0.5kg in 2 wk)
- I'd arrange appt on day of neuro review in 35th week of pregnancy around noon after gynae consultation in the morning (darling took leave)
- woke up at 6am to clear bladder (every 1-2h in daytime & 4-5h during night sleep), and made quick breakfast (multigrain bread w lettuce + olive spread)
- continue to read 'yummy recipe book for pregnancy', compile table, organsie the blog and plan for the day before going parents' home to stay for the night (Darling working OT)
- took another slice of bread at 10plus (morn tea) with additional cranberry w blueberry jam
- read the bb magazine (munched a pkt of wholemeal biscuits) while waiting for dad at medical clinic for he complains of eye discomfort
- went for lunch at food outlet w mum and dad, and went home to take a short nap
- took 2 almond biscuits for tea
- went for groceries with mum (spent ~3h incl shopping at Fairprice Xtra for bb necessities)
- met darling at the traffic junction on our way home, and mum 'fed' me w a slice of raisin bread before we made our 'snail' journey back to our 'HSH' (home sweet home)
- made buckwheat noodles this time (instead of spaghetti or angel hair pasta) w seaweed and lots of bai cai, a tomato etc
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Seeing Emotions through the Eyes of Impermanence
When somebody says something that makes you angry and you wish they would go away, please look deeply with the eyes of impermanence. If he or she were gone, what would you really feel?
Would you be happy or would you weep? Practising this insight can be very helpful. There is a gatha, or poem, that we can use to help us:
Angry in the ultimate dimension
I close my eyes and look deeply.
Three hundred years from now
Where will you be and where shall I be?
When we are angry, what do we usually do? We shout, scream, and try to blame someone else for our problems.
But looking at anger with the eyes of impermanence, we can stop and breathe. Angry at each other in the ultimate dimension, we close our eyes and look deeply. We try to see three hundred years into the future.
What will you be like? What will I be like? Where will you be? Where will I be? We need only to breathe in and out, look at our future and at the other person's future. We do not need to look as far as three hundred years.
It could be fifty or sixty years from now when we have both passed away.
Looking at the future, we see that the other person is very precious to us. When we know we can lose them at any moment, we are no longer angry.
We want to embrace her or him and say: "How wonderful, you are still alive. I am so happy. How could I be angry with you? Both of us have to die someday, and while we are still alive and together it is foolish to be angry at each other."
The reason we are foolish enough to make ourselves suffer and make the other person suffer is that we forget that we and the other person are impermanent. Someday when we die we will lose all our possessions, our power, our family, everything.
Our freedom, peace and joy in the present moment is the most important thing we have. But without an awakened understanding of impermanence, it is not possible to be happy.
Some people do not even want to look at a person when the person is alive, but when the person dies they write eloquent obituaries and make offerings of flowers. At that point the person has died and cannot really enjoy the fragrance of the flowers anymore.
If we really understood and remembered that life was impermanent, we would do everything we could to make the other person happy right here and right now. If we spend 24h being angry at our beloved, it is because we are ignorant of impermanence.
"Angry in the ultimate dimension /I close my eyes." I close my eyes in order to practice visualization of my beloved 100 or 300 yrs from now. When you visualize yourself and your beloved in 300 yrs' time, you just feel so happy that you are alive today and that your dearest is alive today.
You open your eyes and all your anger has gone. You open your arms to embrace the other person and you practice: "Breathing in you are alive, breathing out I am so happy."
In this way, you are practising the meditation on impermanence ie in the ultimate dimension, anger does not exist.
Similarly, with the understanding that hatred is impermanent in the ultimate dimension, it can evaporate in an instant.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Would you be happy or would you weep? Practising this insight can be very helpful. There is a gatha, or poem, that we can use to help us:
Angry in the ultimate dimension
I close my eyes and look deeply.
Three hundred years from now
Where will you be and where shall I be?
When we are angry, what do we usually do? We shout, scream, and try to blame someone else for our problems.
But looking at anger with the eyes of impermanence, we can stop and breathe. Angry at each other in the ultimate dimension, we close our eyes and look deeply. We try to see three hundred years into the future.
What will you be like? What will I be like? Where will you be? Where will I be? We need only to breathe in and out, look at our future and at the other person's future. We do not need to look as far as three hundred years.
It could be fifty or sixty years from now when we have both passed away.
Looking at the future, we see that the other person is very precious to us. When we know we can lose them at any moment, we are no longer angry.
We want to embrace her or him and say: "How wonderful, you are still alive. I am so happy. How could I be angry with you? Both of us have to die someday, and while we are still alive and together it is foolish to be angry at each other."
The reason we are foolish enough to make ourselves suffer and make the other person suffer is that we forget that we and the other person are impermanent. Someday when we die we will lose all our possessions, our power, our family, everything.
Our freedom, peace and joy in the present moment is the most important thing we have. But without an awakened understanding of impermanence, it is not possible to be happy.
Some people do not even want to look at a person when the person is alive, but when the person dies they write eloquent obituaries and make offerings of flowers. At that point the person has died and cannot really enjoy the fragrance of the flowers anymore.
If we really understood and remembered that life was impermanent, we would do everything we could to make the other person happy right here and right now. If we spend 24h being angry at our beloved, it is because we are ignorant of impermanence.
"Angry in the ultimate dimension /I close my eyes." I close my eyes in order to practice visualization of my beloved 100 or 300 yrs from now. When you visualize yourself and your beloved in 300 yrs' time, you just feel so happy that you are alive today and that your dearest is alive today.
You open your eyes and all your anger has gone. You open your arms to embrace the other person and you practice: "Breathing in you are alive, breathing out I am so happy."
In this way, you are practising the meditation on impermanence ie in the ultimate dimension, anger does not exist.
Similarly, with the understanding that hatred is impermanent in the ultimate dimension, it can evaporate in an instant.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Manefesting and hiding
The true nature of all things is not to be born, not to die, not to arrive and not to depart, but that of no coming and no going.
There're times when conditions are sufficient for manifest, other times I hide.
Sometimes when our loved one passed away, we may not be able to overcome our loss. But look deeply and you may be able to see that your loved one is not born and does not die, does not come, and does not go.
We thought the person no longer exists after they "pass away" because we're attached to one of the forms of that person. Thus we suffer and feel sad when that form is gone.
Our beloved is not lost. The cloud is manifesting in a different form just like our beloved. With this understanding, we suffer less.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
There're times when conditions are sufficient for manifest, other times I hide.
Sometimes when our loved one passed away, we may not be able to overcome our loss. But look deeply and you may be able to see that your loved one is not born and does not die, does not come, and does not go.
We thought the person no longer exists after they "pass away" because we're attached to one of the forms of that person. Thus we suffer and feel sad when that form is gone.
Our beloved is not lost. The cloud is manifesting in a different form just like our beloved. With this understanding, we suffer less.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Trapped by a Notion
The Buddha offered an interesting parable concerning ideas and notions.
A young tradesman came home and saw that his house had been robbed and burned by bandits. Right outside what was left of the house, there was a small, charred body.
He thought the body belonged to his little boy. He did not know that his child was still alive. He did not know that after having burned the house, the bandits had taken the little boy away with them.
In his state of confusion, the tradesman believed the body he saw was his son. So he cried, he beat his chest and pulled out his hair in grief. Then he began the cremation ceremony.
This man loved his little boy so much. His son was the raison d'etre of his life. He longed for his little boy so much that he could not abandon the little boy's ashes even for one moment.
He made a velvet bag and put the ashes inside. He carried the bag with him day and night, and whether he was working or resting, he was never separated from the bag of ashes.
One night his son escaped from the robbers. He came to the new house built by his father. He knocked excitedly on the door at two o'clock in the morning.
His father called out as he wept, still holding the bag of ashes. "Who is there?"
"It's me, your son!" the boy answered through the door.
"You naughty person, you are not my boy. My child died three months ago. I have his ashes with me right here."
A young tradesman came home and saw that his house had been robbed and burned by bandits. Right outside what was left of the house, there was a small, charred body.
He thought the body belonged to his little boy. He did not know that his child was still alive. He did not know that after having burned the house, the bandits had taken the little boy away with them.
In his state of confusion, the tradesman believed the body he saw was his son. So he cried, he beat his chest and pulled out his hair in grief. Then he began the cremation ceremony.
This man loved his little boy so much. His son was the raison d'etre of his life. He longed for his little boy so much that he could not abandon the little boy's ashes even for one moment.
He made a velvet bag and put the ashes inside. He carried the bag with him day and night, and whether he was working or resting, he was never separated from the bag of ashes.
One night his son escaped from the robbers. He came to the new house built by his father. He knocked excitedly on the door at two o'clock in the morning.
His father called out as he wept, still holding the bag of ashes. "Who is there?"
"It's me, your son!" the boy answered through the door.
"You naughty person, you are not my boy. My child died three months ago. I have his ashes with me right here."
There is Nothing Like Experience
Ideas and notions, Direct experience, reality, Buddha's Teachings
Let us use an example that is easy to understand, of a tangerine or a durian fruit.
If there is a person who has never eaten a tangerine or a durian fruit, however many images or metaphors you give him, you cannot describe to him the reality of those fruits.
You can only do one thing: give him a direct experience. You cannot say: "Well, the durian is a little bit like the jackfruit or like a papaya." You cannot say anything that will describe the experience of a durian fruit.
The durian fruit goes beyond all ideas and notions. The same is true of a tangerine. If you have never eaten a tangerine, however much the other person loves you and wants to help you understand what a tangerine tastes like, they will never succeed by describing it.
The reality of the tangerine goes beyond ideas.
Nirvana is the same; it is the reality that goes beyond ideas.
It is because we have ideas about nirvana that we suffer. Direct experience is the only way.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Let us use an example that is easy to understand, of a tangerine or a durian fruit.
If there is a person who has never eaten a tangerine or a durian fruit, however many images or metaphors you give him, you cannot describe to him the reality of those fruits.
You can only do one thing: give him a direct experience. You cannot say: "Well, the durian is a little bit like the jackfruit or like a papaya." You cannot say anything that will describe the experience of a durian fruit.
The durian fruit goes beyond all ideas and notions. The same is true of a tangerine. If you have never eaten a tangerine, however much the other person loves you and wants to help you understand what a tangerine tastes like, they will never succeed by describing it.
The reality of the tangerine goes beyond ideas.
Nirvana is the same; it is the reality that goes beyond ideas.
It is because we have ideas about nirvana that we suffer. Direct experience is the only way.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Poem: The Cloud
As a free person I can always come and go,
Not caught in ideas of is and is not.
Not caught in ideas of being and non-being
Let your steps be leisurely.
Waxing or waning the moon is always the moon
The wind is still flying. Can you feel it my dear?
Bringing the rain from afar to nourish the nearby cloud
Drops of sunshine fall from on high to earth below
And the lap of earth touches the clear vault of the sky.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Not caught in ideas of is and is not.
Not caught in ideas of being and non-being
Let your steps be leisurely.
Waxing or waning the moon is always the moon
The wind is still flying. Can you feel it my dear?
Bringing the rain from afar to nourish the nearby cloud
Drops of sunshine fall from on high to earth below
And the lap of earth touches the clear vault of the sky.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Quotable quotes for self-reflection
More and more people are beginning to realise that the survival of our planet depends on our sense of belonging--to all other humans, to dolphins caught in dragnets, to chickens and pigs and calves raised in animal concentration camps, to redwoods and rainforests, to kelp beds in our oceans, and to the ozone layer.
More and more people are becoming aware that every act that affirms this belonging is a moral act of worship, the fulfillment of a precept written in every human heart.
~Brother David Steindl-Rast
More and more people are becoming aware that every act that affirms this belonging is a moral act of worship, the fulfillment of a precept written in every human heart.
~Brother David Steindl-Rast
Interesting story: Appreciating Earth
Suppose two astronauts go to the moon. When they arrive, they have an accident and find out that they have only enough oxygen for two days. There is no hope of someone coming from Earth in time to rescue them.
They have only two days to live. If you asked them at that moment, "What is your deepest wish?" they would answer, " To be back home walking on the beautiful planet Earth."
That would be enough for them; they would not want anything else. They would not want to be the head of a large corporation, a big celebrity or president of the US.
They would not want anything except to be back on Earth--to be walking on Earth, enjoying every step, listening to the sounds of nature and holding the hand of their beloved while contemplating the moon.
We should live every day like people who have just been rescued from the moon. We are on Earth now, and we need to enjoy walking on this precious, beautiful planet. The Zen master Lin Chi said, "The miracle is not to walk on water but to walk on the Earth."
I cherish that teaching. I enjoy just walking, even in busy places like aiports and railway stations. In walking like that, with each step caressing our Mother Earth, we can inspire other people to do the same.
We can enjoy every minute of our lives.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
They have only two days to live. If you asked them at that moment, "What is your deepest wish?" they would answer, " To be back home walking on the beautiful planet Earth."
That would be enough for them; they would not want anything else. They would not want to be the head of a large corporation, a big celebrity or president of the US.
They would not want anything except to be back on Earth--to be walking on Earth, enjoying every step, listening to the sounds of nature and holding the hand of their beloved while contemplating the moon.
We should live every day like people who have just been rescued from the moon. We are on Earth now, and we need to enjoy walking on this precious, beautiful planet. The Zen master Lin Chi said, "The miracle is not to walk on water but to walk on the Earth."
I cherish that teaching. I enjoy just walking, even in busy places like aiports and railway stations. In walking like that, with each step caressing our Mother Earth, we can inspire other people to do the same.
We can enjoy every minute of our lives.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Interesting story: Return me my milk
A woman left a saucepan of milk with her neighbor, saying: "Please keep it for me; I shall come back in a few days."
There was no refrigeration, so the milk curdled and became a kind of cheese.
When the woman came back she said: "Where's my milk? I left milk behind, not cheese, so this is not my milk here."
This person did not understand impermanence. Milk will become cheese or yogurt if left for a few days. The person wanted only the milk of 5 days ago and refused to take the cheese.
So, is the milk and the cheese the same or different? With the insight of impermanence we can see the truth about the universe and all phenomena.
Take for example the Mississippi River. You have the impression that the river is always there for you, but the water in it is not the same even after just one moment.
Philosophers have said that you can never bathe twice in the same river.
This is the nature of impermanence confirmed not only by the Buddha, but by Confucius and Heraclitus and many other wise people.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
There was no refrigeration, so the milk curdled and became a kind of cheese.
When the woman came back she said: "Where's my milk? I left milk behind, not cheese, so this is not my milk here."
This person did not understand impermanence. Milk will become cheese or yogurt if left for a few days. The person wanted only the milk of 5 days ago and refused to take the cheese.
So, is the milk and the cheese the same or different? With the insight of impermanence we can see the truth about the universe and all phenomena.
Take for example the Mississippi River. You have the impression that the river is always there for you, but the water in it is not the same even after just one moment.
Philosophers have said that you can never bathe twice in the same river.
This is the nature of impermanence confirmed not only by the Buddha, but by Confucius and Heraclitus and many other wise people.
~Thich Nhat Hanh
Monday, July 12, 2010
Singapore Cord Blood Bank
- donating your baby’s umbilical cord blood is encouraged because of its potential to save lives;
- i.e. the stem cells found in umbilical cord blood can help to cure patients of diseases such as leukaemia, thalassemia, sickle cell anaemia, other blood cancers and disorders, as well as immune disorders
- expectant mothers and their spouses who are interested to donate their baby’s cord blood after birth should speak with their ObGyn (Delivering Physician) from 28 – 32 weeks of gestation (you must not have blood transfusion within 12 mth of donation)
- Alternatively, you may wish to contact Singapore Cord Blood Bank SCBB directly at 6394-5012 or info@scbb.com.sg after 32 weeks of gestation to complete the Donation Process
- you would be required to make an appt directly with the Nurse Coordinators who will meet with you (and your spouse) to explain all the donation details including completion of the Informed Consent, the Maternal Risk Questionnaire and the Family Medical History Questionnaire
- preferably after 32 weeks of gestation, when you are stable in your pregnancy and awaiting labour
- This process MUST be completed before you go into labour
- i.e. the stem cells found in umbilical cord blood can help to cure patients of diseases such as leukaemia, thalassemia, sickle cell anaemia, other blood cancers and disorders, as well as immune disorders
- expectant mothers and their spouses who are interested to donate their baby’s cord blood after birth should speak with their ObGyn (Delivering Physician) from 28 – 32 weeks of gestation (you must not have blood transfusion within 12 mth of donation)
- Alternatively, you may wish to contact Singapore Cord Blood Bank SCBB directly at 6394-5012 or info@scbb.com.sg after 32 weeks of gestation to complete the Donation Process
- you would be required to make an appt directly with the Nurse Coordinators who will meet with you (and your spouse) to explain all the donation details including completion of the Informed Consent, the Maternal Risk Questionnaire and the Family Medical History Questionnaire
- preferably after 32 weeks of gestation, when you are stable in your pregnancy and awaiting labour
- This process MUST be completed before you go into labour
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Baby carriers
First few years
(Specialized in Breast Pump, Baby Products, Baby Strollers, Baby Bedding and cots, Baby bedding and crib/cot)
Square2@Novena
Babyslings and Carriers
1. Baby Bjorn Air Carrier
- $169 UP$199 (Dark Blue, Yellow/White, Grey/White, Blue/White)
- From newborn (at least 3.5 kgs/8 lbs and 53 cms/21 ins) up to 11 kgs/25 lbs
Baby Bjorn Air Carrier
*2. Baby Bjorn Active Carrier
- $199 (Black/Red, Dark Blue/Blue, Blue/Silver)
- From newborn (at least 3.5 kgs/8 lbs and 53 cms/21 ins) up to 12 kgs/26 lbs
- Adjustable Lumbar Support relieves stress on shoulders and back
Baby Bjorn Active Carrier
3. Baby Bjorn Original Carrier
- $119 UP$175 (Midnight Blue, Chilli Red)
Baby Bjorn Original Carrier
*my choice
(Specialized in Breast Pump, Baby Products, Baby Strollers, Baby Bedding and cots, Baby bedding and crib/cot)
Square2@Novena
Babyslings and Carriers
1. Baby Bjorn Air Carrier
- $169 UP$199 (Dark Blue, Yellow/White, Grey/White, Blue/White)
- From newborn (at least 3.5 kgs/8 lbs and 53 cms/21 ins) up to 11 kgs/25 lbs
Baby Bjorn Air Carrier
*2. Baby Bjorn Active Carrier
- $199 (Black/Red, Dark Blue/Blue, Blue/Silver)
- From newborn (at least 3.5 kgs/8 lbs and 53 cms/21 ins) up to 12 kgs/26 lbs
- Adjustable Lumbar Support relieves stress on shoulders and back
Baby Bjorn Active Carrier
3. Baby Bjorn Original Carrier
- $119 UP$175 (Midnight Blue, Chilli Red)
Baby Bjorn Original Carrier
*my choice
Washable Nursing bra pads
*1. Medela
- washable 4's $21.52 UP$26.90, highly absorbent with 4 layers, breathable & contoured for a comfortable fit
- $10.76 UP$13.45 each pair (if need to change 5x daily, need to buy at least 3x $21.52= $64.56 UP$80.70)
- available at Mums & Babes AMK Hub Level 2 (20% discount till end June, correct as at 19 Jun 2010)
Mums and Babes
**2. Avent
- washable 6's $20
- $6.67 each pair
babysuperstore (spend over $350 will receive freebies)
**3. Tollyjoy
- washable $4.60 for 2's
- available at NTUC outlets
*my choice (correct as at Jun 2010)
- washable 4's $21.52 UP$26.90, highly absorbent with 4 layers, breathable & contoured for a comfortable fit
- $10.76 UP$13.45 each pair (if need to change 5x daily, need to buy at least 3x $21.52= $64.56 UP$80.70)
- available at Mums & Babes AMK Hub Level 2 (20% discount till end June, correct as at 19 Jun 2010)
Mums and Babes
**2. Avent
- washable 6's $20
- $6.67 each pair
babysuperstore (spend over $350 will receive freebies)
**3. Tollyjoy
- washable $4.60 for 2's
- available at NTUC outlets
*my choice (correct as at Jun 2010)
25 things to do before your little one arrives
I'm currently in my 32nd week of pregnancy, and I'd have another 7 weekends (including this week) should our little one decides to arrive earlier to celebrate Buddha's Joyful Day on the 24Aug 2010 (on the 15th day of lunar calendar). Otherwise, I'd have another 8-9 weekends should he arrive later to celebrate Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha's birthday on 7Sep 2010 (on the 30th day of the 7th month of lunar calendar).
I found the following in an article, and agree to some of the things mentioned, but not the following:
#3 & #22 - body massage may not be suitable for pregnant women, and hairdo (highlight, dye or perm) is not advisable as the chemicals enter our bodies straight to our womb where our foetus is (though there's no evidence, if you have to, better to do it in your 2nd or 3rd trimester).
#11 - spurging on jewellery is not my cup of tea
#13 - even a getaway with frens locally is difficult (as some may have to make arrangements for their young kids) to meet up if they don't wish to bring along big bags of bb stuff, bb stroller or carrier or even their spouse to take care of the kids
#21 - don't have the time to waste, as shopping and looking around for bb stuff can last only at most 2h as I tired more easily towards the 3rd trimester
#24 - it's no no for me, as heels are all left in the office (though I'd like to wear the heels I bought for our wedding again), and personally, flat shoes are more comfy, and dine at home can save up for bb future expenses instead.
1. Heart talk with hubby- voice out your expectations before and after the birth and vice versa
2. Research work- have a bb shopping checklist (first few years has gift-list services and store managers to provide assistance)
3. Relax- go for a facial, spa, body massage, manicure or hairdo
4. Keep fit- do little & often, begin with 15-min sessions, then increase up to 45-min in the 2nd trimester (walking & swimming can be done in moderation till D-day)
I found the following in an article, and agree to some of the things mentioned, but not the following:
#3 & #22 - body massage may not be suitable for pregnant women, and hairdo (highlight, dye or perm) is not advisable as the chemicals enter our bodies straight to our womb where our foetus is (though there's no evidence, if you have to, better to do it in your 2nd or 3rd trimester).
#11 - spurging on jewellery is not my cup of tea
#13 - even a getaway with frens locally is difficult (as some may have to make arrangements for their young kids) to meet up if they don't wish to bring along big bags of bb stuff, bb stroller or carrier or even their spouse to take care of the kids
#21 - don't have the time to waste, as shopping and looking around for bb stuff can last only at most 2h as I tired more easily towards the 3rd trimester
#24 - it's no no for me, as heels are all left in the office (though I'd like to wear the heels I bought for our wedding again), and personally, flat shoes are more comfy, and dine at home can save up for bb future expenses instead.
1. Heart talk with hubby- voice out your expectations before and after the birth and vice versa
2. Research work- have a bb shopping checklist (first few years has gift-list services and store managers to provide assistance)
3. Relax- go for a facial, spa, body massage, manicure or hairdo
4. Keep fit- do little & often, begin with 15-min sessions, then increase up to 45-min in the 2nd trimester (walking & swimming can be done in moderation till D-day)
Comparison of Hospital Charges for delivery 2010 of 7 hospitals
A - Thomson Medical Centre
B - KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital
C - Gleneagles Hospital
D - Mt Elizabeth Hospital
E - Singapore General Hospital
Daily charges
Single Room A- $380 C- $418 D-$418 E- $267.50
2-bedded A- $226 C- $248 D- $248
4-bedded A- $175 B- $165 C- $178 D- $178 E- $160.50
Package
F - Mt. Alvernia Hospital (2D Normal delivery w epidural)
G - National University Hospital (2D Normal Vaginal Delivery)
Single room F- $2013 G- $1620
Double room F- $1483
4-bedded F- $1281 G- $1190
Other charges
Nursery-cot bed A- $100
Nursery care A- $50 B- $70 C- $55 per day D- $50 per day
Nursery (inpatient) C- $85 per day
Daily Treatment Fee B- $34 - $65
Delivery Fee
(Normal) B- $456.80 - $625.10
Total (2D) A- $650 B- $470 C- $636 D- $456 E- $321
*All prices are not inclusive of 7% GST and other charges.
* my choice
B - KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital
C - Gleneagles Hospital
D - Mt Elizabeth Hospital
E - Singapore General Hospital
Daily charges
Single Room A- $380 C- $418 D-$418 E- $267.50
2-bedded A- $226 C- $248 D- $248
4-bedded A- $175 B- $165 C- $178 D- $178 E- $160.50
Package
F - Mt. Alvernia Hospital (2D Normal delivery w epidural)
G - National University Hospital (2D Normal Vaginal Delivery)
Single room F- $2013 G- $1620
Double room F- $1483
4-bedded F- $1281 G- $1190
Other charges
Nursery-cot bed A- $100
Nursery care A- $50 B- $70 C- $55 per day D- $50 per day
Nursery (inpatient) C- $85 per day
Daily Treatment Fee B- $34 - $65
Delivery Fee
(Normal) B- $456.80 - $625.10
Total (2D) A- $650 B- $470 C- $636 D- $456 E- $321
*All prices are not inclusive of 7% GST and other charges.
* my choice
Mother & Baby (M&B) Cover Baby Contest
- sign up your little one (5-12mth on 1Feb 2010) if your little one wow everyone with her sweet smile, sparkling eyes and sunny personality
- send in 2 pic of your child: one full-height and one close-up (both at least 3R size)
- Closing date: 26 Feb 2010
- all contestants shortlisted for semi-final will be notified by email or phone by 12 Mar 2010
- participants must be prepared to go to BabyCare Festival (BCF) 19 to 20 Mar 2010 to take part in the contest
Submit your entry forms and non-returnable photos to:
Mother & Baby Cover Baby Contest
10 Ang Mo Kio St 65
#01-06/08 Techpoint
S569059
- send in 2 pic of your child: one full-height and one close-up (both at least 3R size)
- Closing date: 26 Feb 2010
- all contestants shortlisted for semi-final will be notified by email or phone by 12 Mar 2010
- participants must be prepared to go to BabyCare Festival (BCF) 19 to 20 Mar 2010 to take part in the contest
Submit your entry forms and non-returnable photos to:
Mother & Baby Cover Baby Contest
10 Ang Mo Kio St 65
#01-06/08 Techpoint
S569059
Mother & Baby - Baby Idol Contest
BabyCare Festival (BCF) 2010
- sign up your little one (5-15mth) if you think she has the chubbiest cheeks, the most enchanting eyes or the sweetest smile
- Closing date: 26 Feb 2010
- all contestants shortlisted for semi-final will be notified by email or phone by 12 Mar 2010
- participants must be prepared to go to BabyCare Festival (BCF) 19 to 20 Mar 2010 to take part in the contest
Submit your entry forms and non-returnable photos to:
BabyCare Baby Idol Contest, MediaCorp Pte Ltd
10 Ang Mo Kio St 65
#01-06/08 Techpoint
S569059
- sign up your little one (5-15mth) if you think she has the chubbiest cheeks, the most enchanting eyes or the sweetest smile
- Closing date: 26 Feb 2010
- all contestants shortlisted for semi-final will be notified by email or phone by 12 Mar 2010
- participants must be prepared to go to BabyCare Festival (BCF) 19 to 20 Mar 2010 to take part in the contest
Submit your entry forms and non-returnable photos to:
BabyCare Baby Idol Contest, MediaCorp Pte Ltd
10 Ang Mo Kio St 65
#01-06/08 Techpoint
S569059
BabyCare Festival (BCF) 2010
The Biggest Mother & Baby Fair 2010 (fifth year)
19-21 March Hall 6B, Singapore Expo
Free Admission
Festival Highlights
1. Mother & Baby (M&B) Cover Baby Contest
- Family to find out more (around Jan)
2. Toddler Telematch (12-18mth) & Baby Crawling Contest (6-12mth)
- cheer your little sprinter as he races to the finish line
3. Carnival-themed play area
- fun rides, bouncy castles, storytelling sessions and engaging performances
Gifts worth $15,000 prizes and goodie bags to be given away.
19-21 March Hall 6B, Singapore Expo
Free Admission
Festival Highlights
1. Mother & Baby (M&B) Cover Baby Contest
- Family to find out more (around Jan)
2. Toddler Telematch (12-18mth) & Baby Crawling Contest (6-12mth)
- cheer your little sprinter as he races to the finish line
3. Carnival-themed play area
- fun rides, bouncy castles, storytelling sessions and engaging performances
Gifts worth $15,000 prizes and goodie bags to be given away.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
32nd week of Pregnancy
5jul-11jul
- Ma's & Bro's birthdae this week
- woke up at 3am to clear bladder (every 1-2h in daytime & 4-5h during night sleep), and made red & green bean soup for dessert
- continue to compile table, and plan for the day before going parents' home to stay for the night (Darling working OT)
- went back to office to submit MC, passed mela oil to a colleague and met a few colleagues before going for lunch
- napped shortly before dinner and read abit and made a few calls to enquire (Singapore cord blood bank, credit cards company, maternity matters etc)
- went groceries shopping with mum after short nap after lunch (feel tired after short walk)
- Darling came to fetch me home after dinner (mum made his fav dish doufu w lots of green-red-yellow chilli pepper)
- Darling had 101 tricks to make his baby break into laughter (every one is unique and full of surprises)
- feet were not swollen (sigh of relief)
- woke up at 4.35am to clear bladder, and had difficulty falling back to sleep (feel little one's heartbeat and movement inside me), thus woke up to prepare for breakfast (hash brown and bun)
- continue to compile table and read abit
- washed the bb clothes (passed down) and mum helped to hang them (so we can start packing them into bb nursery room after that)
- Ma's & Bro's birthdae this week
- woke up at 3am to clear bladder (every 1-2h in daytime & 4-5h during night sleep), and made red & green bean soup for dessert
- continue to compile table, and plan for the day before going parents' home to stay for the night (Darling working OT)
- went back to office to submit MC, passed mela oil to a colleague and met a few colleagues before going for lunch
- napped shortly before dinner and read abit and made a few calls to enquire (Singapore cord blood bank, credit cards company, maternity matters etc)
- Darling came to fetch me home after dinner (mum made his fav dish doufu w lots of green-red-yellow chilli pepper)
- Darling had 101 tricks to make his baby break into laughter (every one is unique and full of surprises)
- feet were not swollen (sigh of relief)
- woke up at 4.35am to clear bladder, and had difficulty falling back to sleep (feel little one's heartbeat and movement inside me), thus woke up to prepare for breakfast (hash brown and bun)
- continue to compile table and read abit
- washed the bb clothes (passed down) and mum helped to hang them (so we can start packing them into bb nursery room after that)
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