Random Thoughts

Steamed Chicken with D.O.M Liquor

2010-03-26T16:09:00.006+08:00

I'm glad to receive advise from colleagues and friends about pregnancy, child care and even recovery after labor. I realize that different cultures have different types of confinement. My Chinese friends would tell me that during the first month, I would have to really take good care of my body. Chinese confinement involves chicken, ginger, chicken, ginger and more chicken and ginger... Which I don't really mind, since I love chicken and ginger.

I was also advised to refrain from touching water, in the sense that I can only bathe once a day and maybe 3 times a week or alternate days, not everyday. Also, If I do bathe, the water must be warm... and if possible boil the water with ginger, and use that to bathe.

When it comes to food, they have herbs... and of course chicken essence to take, to help in recovery of the body after giving birth. I was told that I should also take at least a small cup of Benedictine D.O.M. I didn't know about this until my friend told me and my colleague gave me a bottle today.

She also told me about this recipe which would really be good for me during the time of my recovery. I quickly looked it up in the internet and found the recipe.

It's Steamed Chicken with D.O.M Liquor.

Here's the recipe:

Ingredients
(Serves 2)
- 2 large chicken thighs (I leave the skin on, but trim the excess fats around it)
- 3 tbsp DOM (D.O.M) Benedictine liquor (法国廊酒)
- 1 tbsp ginger juice (grate the ginger, take the ginger pulp and squeeze out the juice)
- 5 tbsp water/stock (I use clear chinese soup which I cooked that day)
- 1 tbsp wolfberries
- 10 red dates
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 10 shitake mushrooms, stems removed and then sliced thinly
- spring onions, sliced thinly to wispy strips (to garnish, optional)
Directions
1. Place the chicken thighs into a wide and deep plate. Line the bottom of the vessel with sliced mushrooms, reserving some to top the chicken.
2. Add in ginger juice, D.O.M, water/stock, sesame oil, wolfberries, red dates and the rest of the sliced mushrooms.
3. Cover the vessel with a lid or seal tightly with aluminium foil and cook the chicken on high heat until the water at the steamer is boiling.
4. Lower down the heat and continue to cook for about 40-50 minutes.
5. Season the soup with some salt if you like. I didn’t do that since I am using Chinese soup for the stock. Use a spoon to drizzle some soup onto the chicken. Garnish with spring onions. Serve with warm rice.

Notes:
- The original recipe calls for the chicken to be double boiled. If you prefer this method, place the chicken and ingredients in the double boiler pot and filled the outer pot with water (not covering more than half of the inner pot)). After cooking, arrange the contents into a bowl/plate.
- Whether you steam or double boil, the important thing is to seal the vessel you are using so as not to lose the aroma and soup due to evaporation.
- To test if the chicken is cooked, insert a fork in the thigh area. If clear liquid (no blood) runs out, it is cooked.

Actually, even before I was pregnant, I love Herbal Chicken soups. There's something about the herbs that I love, especially the dates and the wolfberries.

This is something that I would love during my confinement... and of course spending time with my new baby boy. Just seeing him, would really help me in my recovery.

Preparing for our new bundle of joy!

2010-03-23T17:23:00.003+08:00

I noticed that since the beginning of March, and even during the end of February, I didn't even have at least one post here in my blog.

Since I started reaching my 8th month of pregnancy, I've been so lazy. My baby's getting bigger and still very active like before. Here's a photo of the 3D scan taken last month (he's trying to cover his face with his hand... the sonographer actually tried to make him move his hand away by jiggling my tummy, but that only made him try to lift his feet up... haha...)

I wasn't really in bed the whole day, or throughout the week (even though sometimes that's what I want to do... just sleep, eat and sleep) I rather be at the office, finishing as much work before I take my maternity leave. Sometimes I also feel like having the office at home instead.

As my pregnancy passed the middle stage, I fear that I am blatantly unaware of how to take care of my baby. I spoke to my friends about this and asked them to help me and my hubby find some childcare classes that we could attend to teach us about all the important things to take care of our newborn.

Luckily, one of my friend is a nurse and has offered to help teach me when my newborn has arrived.

Basically, I'm treading on new water and having to rely on my friend, books, doctor, internet and instinct. But doing all the necessary things beforehand parents, especially the mommy, to rest instead of rushing around everywhere when the baby is born.

I mean, let's face it, we would rather spend all our time with our newfound happiness, instead of trying to frantically get everything prepared for him.

So, my hubby and I browsed through the internet to get a list of what to prepare before the actual day of delivery.

Just to share with other Moms-to-be out there, We found this list from a website. This list has been accumulated from pregnancy sites, so it should be somewhat accurate:

Hospital Stay

Tip: pack your hospital stay bag 1 month before your due date.

Nightgown/t-shirt to give birth in
Nightgown/slippers to wear after delivery
Nursing bras and pads (pads even if you're not breast feeding for leakage)
Bathrobe
Birth plan
Tissues
Wet wipes and/or a sponge
Books/magazines/personal stereo & music
Hand mirror to see your baby being born
Warm socks
Underwear
Drinks & snacks
Money/phonecard and telephone numbers
Camera/Video camera, film, batteries, and tapes
Hairbrush
Soap
Deodorant
Shampoo & Conditioner
Towels

Makeup (if you feel like it)
Toothpaste and toothbrush/Mouthwash
Stop Watch with second hand (to time contractions)
A picture or stuffed animal to use as a focal point when in labor
Journal or Diary
Going Home Clothes
Diaper bag with diapers, wipes, changing pad, burp cloths, and a change of clothes for baby
Car seat
Bottles and formula (if not breast feeding)
A knitted baby cap
Recieving blankets

Baby's First Months

CLOTHING

6 cotton shirts
6 stretchsuits
6 vests/bodysuits
2 cardigans
4 pairs socks/booties
4 Bibs
Hats & mittens
Snowsuit/jacket
4 socks or booties
2 hooded bath towels

BREAST FEEDING

2+ bottles (for water)
1 bottle and nipple brush
6-8 nipples and caps
Breast Feeding
Breast pads
Breast pump
Milk storage kit/bottle

BOTTLE FEEDING

6 bottles, teats & tops
Sterilizing equipment
Bottle warmer
Bottle brush

BATHING & CHANGING

Bath tub (optional)
4 washcloths
Nail scissors/clippers
Brush & comb
Toiletries: baby bath,
shampoo, lotion, powder,
wipes, cotton wool,
ear buds, Diaper cream
Changing mat
Diaper disposal unit
Diaper sacks
Diaper pail
Disposable Diapers
(10-12 diapers a day for first month or so)
or Cloth Diapers
(can use for burping too)
Diaper liners
Rubber pants or diaper covers
Diaper pins

ON THE MOVE

Car seat
Pram/pushchair
Baby Carrier
Changing bag
Sun canopy/parasol

BEDTIME

Cot or cotbed
Crib & Mattress
Crib bumper pads
Mattress
Nursery thermometer
Baby monitor
For Cradle, Pram or Carrycot
3-4 fitted sheets
2-3 flat sheets
3 blankets

LATER ADDITIONS &
OPTIONAL ITEMS

Bouncer/rocker
Toys
Activity centre
Play mat
Crib Mobile
Musical night light
High chair
Baby swing
Play pen
Changing table
Bassinet

We're both really excited to see our baby boy. Our friends have also helped us during the preparation.

We can't wait to welcome our new baby to our home.

Cooking at Home - Nilagang Baka (Boiled Beef & Vegetables)

2010-02-24T12:18:00.004+08:00

Since my hubby Matth's off-day was yesterday, he decided to cook something for me. I asked him to make something soup-y. I'm not feeling well, so something with soup would really help.

After sending me to work, he stopped by the grocery to get all the ingredients.

It was really sweet of him to cook even though that day was suppose to be his rest day. I guess we both miss Filipino food so much that every time we cook at home, most of the time, it's always a Filipino dish.

But I really hope to learn how to make Malaysian or Indian dishes as well.

There are actually a different versions of making this dish. Matth prefers to add one or two Saging na saba (Saba Bananas). It makes the stew a little bit sweet, which we both love.

Here are the Ingredients he used:

3lbs. Beef Chunk roast cut in 2 inch cubes
2 medium onion sliced thinly
1 small cabbage de-cored and cut in wedges
3 medium carrots peeled and cut in 2 inch pieces
4 medium potatoes peeled and quartered
1 or 2 pieces cut Saba Bananas (this depends on whether you want it to be a bit sweet)
8 whole peppercorns
1 tbsp salt
patis (Fish sauce) small amount for taste

Directions:

In a large pot place beef and cover with water about 2 inches above the meat. Bring it to a rapid boil. Add the onions, and lower the heat to medium high. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes. Next add salt, and whole peppercorns. Cover and let it cook for 1½ hours or until beef is very tender. Add water if necessary maintaining the 2 inch water level above the meat. At this time you may add the carrots and potatoes. Cover and let them cook for an additional 15 minutes or until carrots and potatoes are tender. Add cabbage and saba bananas, cover, and let it cook for 3 more minutes. Adjust the taste by adding more salt if necessary. Serve with white rice and the fish sauce condiments. Enjoy!

Another type of dish that would be great, especially on a cool weather, would be Bulalo (Beef Bone Marrow and Vegetable soup)... It's quite similar to this, with a few different ingredients and of course, you'd use beef bone marrow.

Top Ten Largest Observation Wheels (or Ferris Wheels)

2010-02-10T13:16:00.004+08:00

You know how sometimes people tend to come up with a list of the top ten things to do before they die... Well, this isn't really my top ten things to do list... but I certainly hope to be able to visit these top ten world's largest observation wheels/ferris wheels.

I've always loved going on Ferris wheel rides since I was small. When my Dad used to take me to carnivals, that's the first place I'd go to.

Here are the top ten Ferris wheels and Observation wheels in the world so far. Construction of these wheels seems to be of good business lately, which could also boost tourism in these areas, all the wheels on the list seem to have been constructed around the 1990s-2008 period, and have no sign of stopping their operation anytime soon.

Actually, the sixth (6th) wheel was suppose to be The Southern Star in Melbourne, Australia. After operating for only a month since it's opening in 20 December 2008, the wheel is now indefinitely out of operation, due to pending major repairs.

10. Daikanransha Ferris Wheel - Palette Town, Odaiba, Japan

Height: 115m

Diameter: 100m

Rotation Speed: 16 minutes/ revolution

Open to public: Since 1999

More Info:

The Giant Sky Wheel is Palette Town's most conspicuous attraction. With a diameter of 100 meters, this is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world. The wheel is painted in bright red and white stripes and its cars cycle through the colors of the rainbow -- appropriate since this is part of the larger Palette Town complex. Just as impressive as the size is the wheel's beautiful night-time light performance, when it presents 120 kaleidoscopic variations on sixteen basic patterns. The Giant Sky Wheel is Tokyo's most colorful landmark.

9. Daiya (Diamond) & Hana (Flower) Ferris Wheel - Kasai Rinkai Park, Tokyo, JAPAN

Height: 117m

Diameter: 111m

No. of capsules and capacity: 68 capsules, carrying 6 passenger each

Rotation Speed: 17 minutes/ revolution

Open to public: Since 2001

More Info:

Rising to 117 meters, the "Diamond and Flowers" Ferris wheel offers spectacular views to Tokyo Disney Resort and Odaiba, beyond to the high rises of Shinjuku and Yokohama, and on a clear day you can even see Mt. Fuji. At night the wheel lights up in the brilliant patterns that give it its nickname.

8. Sky Dream Fukuoka - Fukuoka, Japan

Height: 120m

Diameter: 112m

Open to public: Since 2002

More Info:

Sky Dream Fukuoka is a Ferris wheel of 112 meters diameter and 120 meters height. This giant wheel is located near to a comparatively large Japanese mall named Evergreen Marinoa. The giant wheel of Sky Dream rules the Fukuoka harbor and also Japan’s skyline to the west. The decoration of Sky Dream at night makes it look all the more gorgeous.

7. Zhengzhou Ferris Wheel - Zhengzhou, China

Height: 120m

Open to public: Since 2003

More Info:

The most beautiful facility in the park is the Ferris wheel, claimed to be the largest in Asia in 2004. It is also the land mark of zheng zhou city. Visitors can broaden their horizon to see the beauty of whole zheng zhou city.

6. Changsa Ferris Wheel - Changsa, China

Height: 120m

Diameter: 99m

Open to public: Since 2004

More Info:

5. Tianjin Eye - Tianjin, China

Height: 120m

Diameter: 110m

No. of capsules and capacity: 48 capsules with a capacity of 8 passangers

Rotation Speed : 30 minutes / revolution

Open to public: Since April 2008

More Info:

It is claimed to be the only such wheel to have been constructed over a bridge.

4. London Eye - London, Great Britain

Height: 135m

No. of capsule and capacity: 32 capsules carrying 25 passengers

Rotation Speed: 30 minutes/ revolution

Open to public: Since 1999

More Info:

The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel. At the time of building, it was the biggest in the world. The London Eye has become the most popular paid visitor attraction in the UK, visited by over 3.5 million people a year.

It was opened by British Prime Minister Tony Blair at 20:00 GMT on December 31, 1999, although it was not opened to the public until March 2000 because of technical problems. Since its opening, the Eye, operated by Merlin Entertainments but sponsored by British Airways, has become a major landmark and tourist attraction.

By July 2002, roughly 8.5 million people had ridden the Eye. It had planning permission only for five years, but at that time Lambeth Council agreed to plans to make the attraction permanent.

3. The Star of Nanchang - Nanchang, China

Height: 160m

No. of capsule and capacity: 60 capsules carrying 8 passengers

Rotation Speed: 30 minutes/ revolution

Open to public: Since May 2006

More Info:

The wheel is a full 82 feet taller than the London Eye. The ride is lit up with fluorescent red and blue lights. A full rotation of the wheel takes about 30 minutes.

2. The Singapore Flyer - Singapore, Singapore

Height: 165m

Diameter: 150m

No. of capsule and capacity: 28 capsules carrying 30 passengers

Rotation Speed: 37 minutes/ revolution

Open to public: Since April 2008

More Info:

Located in Singapore, on the southeast tip of the Marina Centre reclaimed land, it comprises a 150 m (492 ft) diameter wheel, built over a three-story terminal building which houses shops, bars and restaurants, and offers broad views of the city centre and beyond to about 45 km (28 mi), including the Indonesian islands of Batam andBintan, as well as Johor, Malaysia.

The wheel features 28 air-conditioned capsules which, like those of the London Eye, are exo-capsules attached outward of the wheel structure. These offer the advantage of a continuously unobstructed view when the capsule is at the peak, unlike the more common endo-capsule design of most wheels (e.g. Star of Nanchang).

...And the world's largest Observation Wheel/ Ferris Wheel right now... Well... It's still under construction... Which started around 2007...

1. Beijing Great Wheel - Beijing, China

Height: 208m

Diameter: 198m

No. of capsule and capacity: 48 capsules carrying 40 passenger

Rotation Speed: 20 minutes/ revolution

Open to Public: Under construction - scheduled opening this year, 2010

More Info:

China is building a 208m-high Ferris wheel — more than 50% taller than the 135m-high London Eye. The Great Beijing Wheel, which due to start spinning in time for next year's Olympic Games, is being designed by the same multinational team which developed the London wheel.

The 198m-diameter Beijing wheel will rotate three times an hour, with each of its 48 capsules carrying 40 passengers. Like the London attraction, the 2,800-tonne wheel will be turned by 32 tyres running along its rim, powered by an almost maintenance-free hydraulic power system.

Unlike the London wheel, passengers will be able to board from both sides of the Beijing attraction. They will climb aboard from platforms moving at the same speed as the turning wheel.

The company building the Beijing Wheel, the Great Wheel Corporation, is looking at around 20 similar projects around the world.

Prosperity Plant: Indoor Young Bamboo Shoots

2010-02-08T16:12:00.005+08:00

Chinese New Year is just in a few days... (and my birthday too... :D ) So my friend and I decided to take a drive to Ikea to check out some nice new things to decorate her house and mine.

Since our dear husbands were at work, we decided to bring her kids and just shop around in Ikea (we just love Ikea). You could get furnitures, decorations, kitchen wares, etc... cheaper and you'll love their designs.

Ikea (in KL) started selling plants to decorate homes for this Chinese New Year since January.

I stumbled upon this nice young bamboo plant that you could place indoor. So I decided to grab some. I took a few straight ones and also grabbed some curly ones.

Since plants are a symbol for life and growth, Chinese believe that it is a must to decorate their homes with certain plants during the Chinese New Year. Aside from their decorative purpose, it is believed that each of them carry a special connotation that is usually synonymous with abundance of wealth, business growth, good health and fortune.

Most of the popular plants sold before Chinese New Year are lime trees, cherry blossoms, young bamboo shoots, and a lot more.

My friend actually bought some Pussy Willows... which would actually look good once it blooms fully around the Chinese New Year period.

She placed the pussy willows in a nice vase... and hang some of those small Chinese New Year deco lanterns... I mean, miniature lanterns... and folded "Ang Pows".

It was actually a nice decor to liven their home for the holidays.

As for my bamboo plant, I guess I have to tie some small red or gold ribbons to liven it up a bit too.

Actually, what I'm really looking forward for during this holiday is a time to relax at home. Even just for one or two days of not going to the office, staying at home with my hubby, baking or cooking something nice for dinner together.

I can't wait... :)

T.G.I. Friday!!! Friday Follow

2010-02-05T19:31:00.002+08:00

Thank God It's Friday! :-) It's another week of celebration of Followers. This has been my 2nd week of Friday Follow...

Friday Follow is hosted by Rita @ One 2 Try Tami @ Hearts Make Families and Lynn @ Midday Escapades.

I would like to thank all those who visited my blog since last Friday.

I must say, I'm still getting the hang of it... I don't know whether I'm doing this right. :-)

Here's how you could join:

* * Link up your blog name and URL using the MckLinky below. Only need to add to one blog linky.
* * Follow the Friday Follow hostesses listed in the first 3 slots. We will follow you back.
* * Follow as many blogs as you like
* * Comment on the blogs telling them you're from Friday Follow
* * Follow back when you get a new follower through Friday Follow

The Blog Hop is the same at each of our three hosts blogs so you do not have to add your blog at each site. Just one - but you can follow each host blog. Here is the great part, we will follow you back.

Friday Follow Blog Hop #4
Hosted by Rita @ One 2 Try Tami @ Hearts Make Families and Lynn @ Midday Escapades . Join us every Friday as we celebrate followers! Link up your blog name and URL below to follow and be followed!
Want to be a part of this Blog Hop?

Hope you could join in this Celebration!

Cooking at Home - Sinigang na Baboy (Pork in Sour Broth)

2010-01-29T15:50:00.004+08:00

Last week, I was really craving for something sour-ish... and since it was also raining, I decided to make some Pork in Sour Broth... which we call in Tagalog, "Sinigang na Baboy".

After work, I drove to the nearest grocery to find pork meat. I had to go to the grocery since this is considered as "Non-Halal" here... so I couldn't just buy it off a nearby store, unless I find a Chinese store.

Anyway, I'm glad I managed to get there on time before the grocery closed and got all my ingredients to make this dish.

Here are the ingredients and procedures.

Ingredients

1 Kilo Pork (cut into chunk cubes)
12 pcs Tamarind (Sampaloc) or sampaloc mixed or Mama Sita Sinigang Mix
1 big Onion (diced)
6 big tomatoes (quartered)
2 pcs Radish (sliced)
1 bundle Sitaw Stringbeans (cut into 2″ long)
1 bundle Kangkong (cut into 2″ long)
Salt and Patis to taste
6 cups water

Instructions

Boil Tamarind to soften or boil the mixed sampaloc. Pound and strain all juicesand set aside. If you're using Mama Sita Sinigang Mix, you may add it in while bringing the pork to boil.
In a casserole, bring pork to a boil, lower fire and simmer until pork is tender.
Add onions, tomatoes and Tamarind juice.
Add in all the vegetables.
Season with salt and Patis to taste.
Serve hot.

For those who love sour soups, "Sinigang" is a nice dish to make... also it doesn't take that long to prepare. You could also prepare Sinigang with Prawn, Beef or Fish (particularly, Milkfish or in tagalog "Bangus") which are also good for Sinigang.

Hope you guys enjoy this dish.

Another one of my cravings... Cinnamon Rolls

2010-01-14T21:54:00.003+08:00

My baby and I had some Cinnamon Rolls today... I actually got it at Starbucks... with my Hazel (cold) Chocolate.

I don't know why, but I seem to be craving for sweets these past few months.

First, I had cravings for Mars Bar, like, once everyday. I tried to cut down on it, and eventually, I lost my craving for that.

Then I had a craving for Daim chocolates... I still do actually.

I notice that, it just has something to do with Caramel. Mars had Caramel and now Daim also has caramel. :-)

But now, I just got to have cinnamon rolls... and the more it has that white icing on top... hmmm.... the more I love it. :-)

I know what you're thinking... I really have to go for a Blood-Glucose check... which I certainly have to do this week. My friend warned me that when she was pregnant, she had Diabetes... but was normal after giving birth.

Anyway, I read this article about the benefits of Cinnamon... I just thought of sharing it... for those who loves Cinnamon as well... here's some health benefit for you.

From http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-health-benefits-of-cinnamon.html

Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.

In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.

In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland, cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month.

When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

I didn't actually know this... but I enjoy eating it anyway. ;-)

What goes around, comes around...

2010-01-13T19:03:00.008+08:00

I received this message from a friend. It's a lovely story... I don't know whether you have all read it before... but when I finished reading it, I just thought I had to share it.

The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.

"Leave me alone," he growled... To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows.

"Are you hungry?" she asked.
"No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president.. Now go away."

The woman's smile became even broader.

Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone.

Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked..

"No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?"

The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?"
"See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile."
"Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up.
"Let me go, officer. I didn't d o anything.."

"This is a good deal for you, Jack," the officer answered. "Don't blow it."
Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived.

The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. "What's going on here, officer?" he asked."What is all this, is this man in trouble?"

"This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered.
"Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business."

Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so.. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place."

The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?"

"Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms."

"And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?"

"What business is that of yours?"

I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company."

"Oh.."

The woman smiled again.. "I thought that might make a difference."

She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a laugh. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?"

"No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty."

"Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?"

"Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice."

The cafeteria manager turned on his heel. "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer.."

The officer watched him walk away... "You certainly put him in his place," he said.

"That was not my intent... Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this."

She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently.

"Jack, do you remember me?"

Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so -- I mean you do look familiar."

"I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry."

"Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry.

"I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment.. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I
saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat."

Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy."

"I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my
food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right..."

"So you started your own business?" Old Jack said.

"I got a job that very afternoon I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered.." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll
find something for you to do around the office."

She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. If you ever need anything, my door is always open to you."

There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he asked.

"Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. He led me to you."

Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways.. "Thank you for your help officer," she said.

"On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget, And thank you for the coffee."

Have a Wonderful Day. May God Bless You always and don't forget that when you "cast your bread upon the waters," you never know how it will be returned to you. God is so big He can cover the whole world with his Love and so small He can curl up inside your heart.

When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go.

Only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly!

The power of one sentence! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor.

God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close..
If you need God to open some doors for you...send this on.

Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing....

New Year with family and friends...

2010-01-08T19:25:00.005+08:00

I know it's kinda late for me to post this, since it's already the 8th. I've been busy at the office after the New Year, since we've shifted our office to a different location... so I didn't get any chance to open my blog.

Anyway, just to share how we celebrated the New Year... :-)

Matth and I celebrated our New Year's Eve at our friend's place. It was just a simple gathering with family and friends, but we really had fun cause it also felt like back home in the Philippines.

Well, the only Filipino food that time was Pancit Bihun, and Tita Ruby made it... I must say, she really makes good Pancit Bihun.

I made some Carbonara... and some Tacos (since the kids like Tacos)... and Tita Ruby's friend made some Polish food.

We also barbeque some chicken and pork... which I really enjoyed cause I was craving for it.

We thought we wouldn't see any fireworks... but we did.

And of course... it wouldn't be a Filipino gathering without karaoke... and drinking. We sang till 7am... haha. Well, the kids were already asleep, I mean fast a sleep. Despite how noisy we were, they were still asleep. :-)

We went there again on the night of the 1st... and continued our Karaoke session. :-)

It was a fun New Year...

Happy New Year to everyone!!!

Temper Tantrums during Pregnancy... I thought I was the only one

2009-12-30T19:29:00.004+08:00

After reading this article...

http://www.ninemonths.com.au/woman-who-have-temper-tantrums-during-pregnancy-put-babies-at-risk-of-heart-problems/

According to a new study anger can affect the development of babies' hearts in the wombs.

Researchers say angry behaviour even things such as door slamming, shouting loudly and even binge-eating whilst pregnant can affect the development of babies’ hearts.

Infants born to mothers more prone to these impulsive and aggressive acts had less variation in their heart rates after birth, the research found. Variation in heart rate is thought to be healthy because it indicates the body is flexible and adaptable to change. For example, different breathing patterns should affect the heart rate.

But if the heart does not adapt to change it is more at risk of disease and infection. It is already known that adults who have a lower variation in heart rate are more likely to develop heart problems.

Researchers also say the hormonal changes in the body which trigger aggressive behaviour may pass through the placenta to the unborn baby, and could have an influence on the way cells develop. And so staying relaxed and calm whilst pregnant is important – what a better excuse for a spa day!!

The study, led by researchers from the University of Sussex, recruited 49 pregnant women aged between 22 and 39 from childbirth classes. The volunteers were tested to see how likely they were to develop ‘impulsive, uncontrollable bouts of temper’. The women were asked in interviews to describe how they normally dealt with anger and their brain activity was monitored to see how they responded to certain sounds and images designed to prompt a negative reaction. They found 22 women fitted into the ‘angry’ category, nearly half of the volunteer group.

The researchers said this was a higher proportion than would be expected in the general population, attributing this to the fact that the study had been advertised as investigating the effects of temper on foetal hearts and attracted volunteers concerned about their anger.

After the women gave birth, the electrical activity of the babies’ hearts was measured using an electrocardiogram, or ECG. They found newborns whose mothers were in the angry group had a lower variation in their heart rate.

-----

I realize since we can't really control these kind of emotional outburst, it is important that we do when we're pregnant... I've talked to my husband about this, it really helps if we do.

Christmas Day... picnic at a waterfalls in Bentong, Pahang

2009-12-26T18:04:00.004+08:00

It's Christmas day... and we decided to celebrate it at a Waterfalls, at Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia. Had a nice picnic there and enjoyed the scenery.

We really had fun. It was actually a bit far than we expected... in fact, everyone was actually hungry once we got there.

The food was nice... Pinakbet (a popular Ilocano dish from the Philippines) (it's a mixture of pork, bitter gourd, eggplants, tomatoes, string beans, and okra with bagoong alamang (shrimp paste)), Rellenong Bangus (stuffed Milkfish) (you actually have to take out the fish bones, take the bangus meat mixed with peas, raisins... to create the stuffing), Tinapang Isda (smoked fish), Black Pepper Chicken and Sweet and Spicy Chicken.

After having our lunch picnic there... we went to the waterfalls... just wading in the water... the kids went for a swim at a deeper (yet safe) part.

The water was cold... so we all enjoyed it. It was a bit dangerous though, cause of the rocks. We just had to be careful going down to the waterfalls.

My hubby took some good pictures of the waterfalls from a better angle... at the top of some huge rocks.

It was a good Christmas... we really had fun. :)

Noche Buena (Christmas Eve Dinner)

2009-12-26T17:42:00.002+08:00

It's always good to spend the holidays with good home cook meals, laughter and cheer with family and friends.

We celebrated Christmas Eve at Tita Ruby's house. I made Tacos... both Beef and Chicken... since Uncle doesn't eat beef. Tita made some Pancit Bihon (Filipino dish), Rellenong Bangus (Stuffed Milkfish), and others.

After stuffing ourselves with good food... we hang out at the living room, watching some movie... chatting... and they had some Guinness Stout Beer. If I wasn't pregnant, I'd probably be drinking with them :) hehe. Guinness Stout is actually nice cause when you drink it (right amount though, not too much) you wake up the next day, feeling fresh... none of those really bad hang-over.

We had a great time. My hubby and I went back around 5am already. There house was just a few minutes drive from our place anyway.

Pasar Malam (Night Market) before Christmas

2009-12-26T16:52:00.003+08:00

My hubby and I visited the Pasar Malam (which they always have every Wednesday night at Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia).

We like just going around the pasar malam, find some interesting items or buy some fresh fruits and veggies, or fish and meat.

They also have clothes, bags and watches. The best part is... it's cheap and near our area. Only a few minutes drive from our home.

Here, we actually bought some vegetables and meat to cook for Christmas... and to stock at home for the week so we don't have to keep running to the grocery for items.

Happy Holidays!!

2009-12-24T11:29:00.002+08:00

To all my dear lovely blogger friends...

May the Christmas season

fill your home with joy

your heart with love

and your life with laughter....

Have a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

God bless you all! :)

Studying while Pregnant

2009-12-21T12:13:00.004+08:00

I'm going through my final year of Law School right now. I've actually emailed the University in London, to ask if I could at least move my exam date around November instead of May, since my Due date is in April 2010.

They sent a reply saying that it wouldn't be possible, and that if I would like to defer, it would have to be in May 2011... which is ridiculous... I can't wait another year for it. I thought I could at least ask for November since exams for referrals occur during this time... and perhaps, maybe they could also give some leeway to students with special cases by moving it to November.

I'll still try and contact them in London about this. If the response is still the same, I guess I have no choice though, I have to buckle down for it.

I've read the thread of post about Dealing with Pregnancy and Studying:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Dealing-With-Pregnancy-and-Studying&id=2166769

I know there are a lot more pregnant moms who had to go through this, so it should be fine.

Here are some advice from the article that I find could be useful:

1. It is best to perhaps cut down on their number of social obligations and recreational activities in order to use those times to rest and rejuvenate. Particularly if these activities are daily or weekly in nature, temporarily removing them from a pregnant woman's calendar can allow for more time to rest without compromising a busy work or study schedule.

2. Women who are pregnant should avoid the use of caffeine while pregnant. Ordinarily, caffeine's stimulating qualities may give a woman the added boost that she needs to get through a busy day, but research strongly indicates that caffeine consumption during a pregnancy can greatly restrict the growth of an unborn child.

3. Every woman's pregnancy is different and few know what they will be able to endure while pregnant until they are actually with child. Making decisions based upon her physical health, energy, and overall strength is an important issue that a woman should discuss with her obstetrician, as the doctor will be able to lend valuable insight to assist her in making her final decision.

4. The woman's family should also be allowed to discuss the issue so that she can receive the care and support that she will undoubtedly need from them during this time.

It goes on to explain that whatever a pregnant woman's decision could be in these situation, whether to defer for a year or two or (having no choice) continue with the course, there are things that a pregnant woman can do to assist in having a healthy pregnancy. These are: getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, keeping all medical appointments and maintaining an emotional balance. Every decision during this time could impact not only a pregnant woman's life but it is also a crucial time in the life and development of her new child.

Hope everything goes well.

Cooking at Home - Chopsuey (Filipino Style)

2009-12-19T16:34:00.005+08:00

This is actually my hubby's favorite dish.

The recipe for this dish actually includes Pork, which we didn't include here. We just added Chicken liver & gizzards... which when I cooked this dish, I tried to cut down as well... cause I've read some articles that said liver is not really good for pregnant women.

Ingredients:

1/4 kilo chicken liver and gizzard, sliced to small pieces
1/4 kilo cauliflower/broccoli, broken to bite size
1/4 kilo string beans
1/4 kilo snow peas (sitsaro)
12 baby corns (fresh), cut into halves
5 cloves garlic, diced
2 onions, diced
1 carrot, sliced thinly
1 piece red bell pepper, cut in strips
2 tablespoons of cornstarch, dissolved in 1/4 cup of water
2 cups chicken stock (broth)
3 tablespoons of sesame oil
3 tablespoons of patis (fish sauce)
4 tablespoons of corn oil or vegetable oil
Salt to taste

Directions:

In a big pan or wok, sauté garlic, onions then add chicken liver and gizzard. Add 1 cup of stock, pinch of salt and simmer for 15 minutes or until chicken giblets are cooked.
Mix in all the vegetables. Add the remaining 1 cup of stock, patis and the dissolved cornstarch. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are done. Add the sesame oil.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with rice.

This dish is easy to prepare. It's also a quick and healthy meal.

Ohs and Aws...

2009-12-18T18:20:00.002+08:00

Isn't this picture cute? Well, that's what I'm feeling now.

I'm on my second trimester... today's exactly my 21 weeks and 3days... 19 more weeks to go (can you believe how time flies?)

This morning I woke up due to my baby's sudden kick on the right side of my tummy... and then another... and another... but by the time my hubby placed his hand, the kicking stopped. Only to find out a few minutes later that the kicking would occur on the left side of my tummy.

He was so happy when he felt the baby kicked this morning. I actually just woke him up for that. Hehe.

I could tell he was still sleepy cause we slept around midnight, but after he felt the kick (which I would say was kinda strong) he woke up right away, got excited and asked the baby to kick some more for him. :D

Despite all the Ohs and Aws I felt when the baby kicks, I'm just so ecstatic to know that he/she's well and active. I'm sure most mothers would agree that your baby could really brighten your day by just being there and doing all the adorable things that they do in the morning... and that's what my baby did to me today.

When he/she kicks, it feels as if the baby's saying "I'm here Mommy... talk to me" It's amazing. :) I really thank God for this wonderful blessing.

Cave Trekking: Gua Tempurung, Perak, Malaysia

2009-12-17T14:56:00.002+08:00

Last year, my hubby Matth and I decided to go to Cameron Highlands (Malaysia) for Christmas. Although it was definitely not easy to get a place to stay, since it was peak season, we still went there for the holidays. I guess it's a change of scenery from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Anyway, after a few days at Cameron, we just felt like we wanted to go some place else. We didn't really feel like going back yet.

So... we went to the Tourism Center, took some brochures of places we could go.

There were other nice towns and even jungle trekking and tour packages we could try, but Matth really like going to caves, and we saw this brochure for Gua Tempurung (Tempurung Cave). We also saw the photos from the brochures, and it was beautiful, so we decided to look for it. It was then that Matth and I knew that we're both adventurous.

We drove down from Cameron Highlands quite early, and by the time we arrived at Ipoh, it was almost around noon. We actually had no idea how to get to the cave, all we know was to get out of Cameron and go to Ipoh. We had to ask around... and eventually found the cave we were looking for.

I really thought we'd be walking in the cave with flash lights, and with bats flying around. Hehe. Lucky for me, since bats are nocturnal, they were asleep that time... and of course, it was a well lit place, with pathways. :)

We walked through the pathways, and as we go deeper to the cave, it was getting a bit humid. Which explains why you could see our oily faces. It was warm, so if you guys decide to go for the trekking, really bring a bottle of drinking water with you.

As we were walking, the was this one place where it was actually windy... so we had to stop there for awhile, relax and took some picture.

The cave is actually more than 3KM long... and of course there are parts that you couldn't really go through. It was really a good experience and we would definitely go cave trekking again and other caves... especially in Sarawak.

After cave trekking Gua Tempurung, we were so tired and hungry. We drove around looking for a nice place to eat. There were a lot of nice places... but we were lucky that we ended up at this nice town called Kampar.

When you get a chance to go to Kampar, you should try their specialty Chicken Curry Bun.

After Kampar, before heading back to KL, we actually saw this road sign that said Lata Kinjang. So instead of heading straight to the Expressway that goes to KL... we thought of taking a drive there.

If you pass the North-South Expressway, you could actually see it. Since there were several times when we use the N-S expressway, we could see the waterfalls, we decided, why not check it out.

Lata Kinjang (Kinjang Waterfalls) is actually one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia. Once we've reached the place, there was actually a lot of families camping around it (since it was a holiday).

It's a nice place to relax, have picnic with the family, or just go there to hang out with friends.

Cooking at Home - Chicken Afritada (Another Filipino Dish)

2009-12-15T15:08:00.006+08:00

Here I am at the kitchen again last night... lol. I guess it shows that I love to cook... actually, it's more like, I love to eat! ... and of course, prepare for my hubby too. ;D

Last night’s dish was Chicken Afritada.

Here’s how it’s done:

Ingredients:

1 kilo chicken, cut into pieces
5 pieces potatoes, peeled and halved
2-3 pieces carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
1 red onion, diced
1 head garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
2 chicken stock (broth)
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons of patis (fish sauce)
3 tablespoons of cooking oil

Direction:

In a cooking pot or wok, heat oil.
Sauté garlic and onions.
Add chicken and slightly brown.
Pour the tomato sauce and stock. Bring to a boil and allow to simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is almost cooked.
Add potatoes and carrots and continue to cook for 10 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are cooked.
Add the green, simmer for an additional minute or two.
Salt and pepper to taste
Serve this chicken recipe hot with steamed rice.

This was actually a quick dish that you could also prepare when you don't have much time.

After work, which was pretty late, we made a quick stop at the grocery store, bought the ingredients and peeled and cut the veggies. We made sure that the chicken we bought was already cut into stew portions.

Cooking these dishes every night, makes us feel like we're back in the Philippines. :D

No One Cared For Me Like Jesus

2009-12-15T12:47:00.007+08:00

Every time at the office, I would try to keep my Live365 tuned to Worship Hymn Radio.

Although there seem to be no conclusive research that supports the conclusion that links music to smarter babies.

I quote:

"There are no studies on the effects of stimulation before birth on intelligence, creativity, or later development," says Janet DiPietro, a developmental psychologist who studies fetal development at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.

However, there are studies indicating that fetuses can hear and react to sound by moving.

I'm listening to songs of worship & praise, in hopes that he could hear it too.

I heard this really lovely song. It was the lyrics of the song that touched me. I hope that when you read the lyrics (and hear the song too) you would be touched my the message as well.

No One Cared For Me Like Jesus

By: The Benson Studio Singers

I would love to tell you what I think of Jesus,
Since I found in Him a friend so strong and true;
I would tell you how He changed my life completely,
He did something that no other friend could do.

No one ever cared for me like Jesus,
There's no other friend so kind as He;
No one else could take the sin and darkness from me,
O how much He cared for me.

All my life was full of sin when Jesus found me,
All my heart was full of misery and woe;
Jesus placed His strong and loving arms about me,
And He led me in the way I ought to go.

No one ever cared for me like Jesus,
There's no other friend so kind as He;
No one else could take the sin and darkness from me,
O how much He cared for me.

Ev'ry day He comes to me with new assurance,
More and more I understand His words of love;
But I'll never know just why He came to save me,
Till some day I see His blessed face above.

No one ever cared for me like Jesus,
There's no other friend so kind as He;
No one else could take the sin and darkness from me,
O how much He cared for me.

It's just amazing, no one has really cared like He does for us. How many times I've been out of His sight and in the dark... and yet He brought me back. He's always taken care of me, even though I'm so unworthy for his attention and love.

That's how I know that His love has NO bounds.

Cooking at Home - Kare Kare (Filipino Oxtail Stew)

2009-12-14T12:49:00.005+08:00

We just moved in to our new apartment... and as you could see, it's still a bit empty. We're filling it bit by bit with stuff. My hubby and me are just glad that we have a proper kitchen, cause we both love to cook.

Last night, after work, we went to get groceries and decided to cook at home. I've been craving for Kare Kare since last week. Finally, I got the chance to cook.

My hubby loves kare kare as well as I do. I think it has something to do with the peanut sauce... and contrast with the shrimp paste.

Here in KL, I couldn't really find Atsuete oil (Annato oil). So, I thought it would be better if I'd use Mama Sita's Kare Kare Mix. It's easier too, since I don't really have all the time to prepare coming from work and all.

If you're currently outside of Philippines and you'd like to make Kare Kare, you've got to head on down to the nearest Filipino specialty store and get some of those Mama Sita Mix. They're quite good too, and saves you time in preparing your food.

Here's how I did it:

Ingredients:

2.2 lbs oxtails, or beef cut into small chunks
Egg plant, cut into pieces (about 1 1/2 cup)
3/4 cup peanut butter
1 cup beef broth (usually, I use the broth to boil the oxtail)
1 1/2 cup string beans cut into 2" lengths
1 cup bok choy (pechay)
garlic and onion
salt to taste
Mama Sita's Kare-Kare Mix - Just Add Peanut Butter!

and of course, Shrimp paste (Bagoong) - sauteed

Directions:
Cut the oxtail into serving pieces, boil until tender, leaving about 4 cups of broth. Skim off fat from the broth. Set aside meat.

Dissolve Mama Sita's Kare-Kare mix and peanut butter in about a cup of the broth.

In the pan, saute garlic and onion. Mix in the oxtail and the sauce mixture of Mama Sita Kare Kare mix with peanut butter. Add the remaining broth.

Let it boil. Add eggplant and long beans into the boiling broth until almost cooked. Add bok choy. Salt to taste.

Serve with a side dish of Shrimp paste (Bagoong) and rice.

It's that simple.

My hubby likes the sauce with more of a peanut taste, so I'll just add a bit more extra for him when I cook it. It's a bit sticky than the normal stew... but he likes it.

Our Baby listens...

2009-12-12T11:15:00.006+08:00

Here are some interesting facts from studies:

By nine weeks, a developing fetus can hiccup and react to loud noises. By the end of the second trimester it can hear.
Whether or not a fetus can taste, there's little question that it can hear. A very premature baby entering the world at 24 or 25 weeks responds to the sounds around it, observes Als, so its auditory apparatus must already have been functioning in the womb. Many pregnant women report a fetal jerk or sudden kick just after a door slams or a car backfires.
Even without such intrusions, the womb is not a silent place. Researchers who have inserted a hydrophone into the uterus of a pregnant woman have picked up a noise level "akin to the background noise in an apartment," according to DiPietro. Sounds include the whooshing of blood in the mother's vessels, the gurgling and rumbling of her stomach and intestines, as well as the tones of her voice filtered through tissues, bones, and fluid, and the voices of other people coming through the amniotic wall. Fifer has found that fetal heart rate slows when the mother is speaking, suggesting that the fetus not only hears and recognizes the sound, but is calmed by it.
This was from an Article written in Psychology Today, October 1998, by Janet L. Hopson.

When I used to have morning sickness (around my first trimester and beginning of second trimester), I was worried that I had to go to college. Can you imagine going out of class in the middle of a discussion? ...while your Law professor stares at you when you walk back in, wondering why you had to visit the toilet for almost every 15mins.
I really thought this scenario would happen to me in college, since every time after lunch at the office, I would go to the toilet and throw up... some times, I even wish I would have never gone to work.
One day, I went to college (despite having morning sickness) while I was walking, I was feeling nauseous, I entered the class, I had to sit next to my friend (wearing this REALLY strong perfume), I know for sure right then and there I might just embarrass myself in class by throwing up.
When our Law professor started his lecture, I just sat there and listened. Trying to ignore the perfume smell (that I think even the last row could smell) and just listened to the lecture. And to my surprise, I stopped feeling nauseous. The whole time sitting in the lecture hall, even with the smell that makes me feel dizzy, and yet, I didn't feel uncomfortable.
Several times this has happened, and all those times during the lectures, I didn't feel my morning sickness coming in, as like when I'm at work. See, the thing is, it's not that I moved around in the office... most of the time, I'm just sitting in front of the computer. And yet, I only feel comfortable when I'm at lectures.
The thought came into my head, maybe, our baby's also listening to the lectures. He must have also enjoyed listening to what my Law professor had to say about Hart's Theory in Jurisprudence or about the Brussels 1 regime in Conflicts of Law.
He may not understand, but he could have just been listening.
I told my husband about this and from then on, we try to talk to him. Like, in the morning when we wake up, he would say good morning to the baby and kiss him.
Our baby's been healthy and active, Praise God.

Mars Bar... Anyone?

2009-12-10T13:34:00.003+08:00

I've notice a craving for Mars Bars... and it's been weeks since I've been eating a Mars Bar almost once everyday.

I read this article (since I'm always checking the internet about what I've been eating... being worried about whether I've been eating the right food for my baby) , it's from: http://www.pregnancywizard.com/food-diet-nutrition/chocolate.php

Quote: A recent study done by the University of Helsinki in Finland has shown that consuming chocolate while pregnant may benefit babies. The babies studied were tested in areas of smiling and laughter, and fear of novel situations. The babies of mothers who ate chocolate smiled and laughed more, and they also showed less fear when put into a new situation. Overall, the babies of mothers who ate chocolate had a much more positive mood than those who did not. -So, I guess it's good, I'm gonna have one happy baby.

Actually, most of the articles on chocolate during pregnancy, stated that it's ok to eat chocolates, but there are limits. Of course, excess of everything is definitely not good.

Honestly, coming from a Filipino culture (or Asian), I've heard a lot of superstitions on what and what not to eat during pregnancy (or some are not really superstitions, but just a comparison, like, some Mom's would advice not eating certain type of food cause this is what they've experience, and this was the effect on their babies, etc.).

Like, if I ask my OB about whether it would be alright to eat veggies, he would say, "of course, it's good that you're eating vegetables"... But a friend of mine advised me, not to eat certain type of veggies, like kangkong (a.k.a water glorybind, water spinach, water convolvulus (sounds like a scientific name... hehe) and swamp cabbage... and believe me I had to look up it's english name, all the while I thought it was always known as only "kangkong", didn't know there are so many names for it).

...anyhow, I was told that it's not good for pregnant mothers to eat water spinach. I do not know whether it's true, since my doctor didn't say that I should avoid eating it. Even pineapple and papaya, I was told that I should avoid eating those.

A friend of mine told me that certain times, a pregnant mother would crave about something because that's what their bodies need for their growing baby... and I believe that makes sense. For instance, when I was on my 7th week, I notice craving for Fish, which before I was pregnant, I wasn't really eating much of it. Since fish has (as we all know) Omega 3 and DHA, which is also essential for fetal development.

Christmas at the Pavilion

2009-12-07T11:40:00.008+08:00

This year, Matth and I went to Pavilion to do some shopping. We actually like their Christmas decor this year, instead of last year. Although, last year's White Christmas was also spectacular, with the Big White Christmas Tree. This year's Christmas Decor, kinda reminds you of those Walt Disney Christmas (of course, they play the Disney Christmas songs too).

Around end of November till December, there's always the Year-End Sale event to look forward to every year (which I believe most foreigners come to KL for).

To make things feel like we're back in Philippines, of course we'll have Noche Buena (Christmas dinner) with our Filipino friends. With all the Filipino food, chatting with friends and a good Karaoke night.

Next Christmas, we're both excited (my hubby Matth and I) cause our baby's celebrating his/her first Christmas with us.

Can't wait for that. :-)

On my 19 weeks...

2009-12-06T17:09:00.003+08:00

...this is me ...already 19 weeks pregnant. My baby bump's already showing, and I'm so happy.

My husband and I work in the same company, and every time he would walk pass my table, he kept noticing my tummy and with a smile on his face he would say "wow, baby's bigger now, huh?"

It was just like a few weeks back, with the first ultrasound, all we could see was a small, peanut sized fetus. Now, whenever we go for the prenatal checks, and an ultrasound is done, we're just so happy to see our baby moving around. As if he knows that an ultrasound is done to see what he's doing in there.

Now, I know it won't be easy for me to juggle both my work and my evening classes... so I might have to find a freelance work soon.

I don't really mind working and studying cause I can't stand just staying at home too. I feel kinda restless at home. I guess I got used to the work & study schedule.

I'm just glad that my hubby's been really sweet... doing all the household chores when we get home from work. I try to help out too, whenever I can.

Cravings for today

2009-12-05T14:49:00.002+08:00

... Beef Steak (Filipino Style)... or "Bistek" as we call it in the Philippines.

I'm talking about cooking it till theres hardly any sauce left... and the meat is soft... or almost burnt.

hmmm..... can't wait to make one later. ;-)

Should pregnant women take the H1N1 Vaccine?

2009-12-05T13:23:00.002+08:00

An Article at: http://blogs.discovery.com/tlc-dr-rob-blog/2009/10/should-pregnant-moms-consider-the-2009-h1n1-vaccine.html

09 October 2009

Pregnancy can affect a women's immune system, as well as put added stress on her heart and lungs. These factors increase the risk for getting the flu, as well as developing secondary complications such as pneumonia. This can set up a cycle of events that may increase the risk for miscarriage and premature labor. This is why the annual "seasonal" influenza vaccine has been encouraged for pregnant woman to help prevent these potential problems.

WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER THE 2009 H1N1 VACCINE?

The 2009 H1N1 flu has caused more significant health complications in pregnant women than the general population. As of the end of August, the CDC reports that twenty-eight pregnant women have died from complications related to the 2009 H1N1 flu, and another 100 pregnant women had been hospitalized in Intensive Care. Needless to say, this is concerning and is a key reason why pregnant women are encouraged to receive the 2009 H1N1 “flu-shot” (pregnant women can't get the nasal spray -- the inactivated influenza injection is the only option) in order to decrease the risk for their getting the flu, as well as decrease the risk for health complications (pneumonia, others) related to the flu. There is also a side benefit to a pregnant mom’s unborn baby: the antibodies from these types of vaccines cross the placenta and may help to provide her newborn with several months’ protection from the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. This is especially important since infants less than six months of age do not get the vaccine.

IS THE NEW VACCINE SAFE?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expects the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine to have a safety and side effects profile similar to the regular "seasonal" influenza vaccine, which has a very good record for safety. Vaccine trials on healthy people in the United States and the United Kingdom have gone well without serious adverse effects. From what I can gather, the National Institutes of Health has vaccinated more than 60 pregnant women as part of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine study to see if it was safe and effective. They intend to vaccinate more as part of the ongoing study. Up to now there have been no reports of serious side effects.

I realize this is a tough decision, and one that is very personal. Please speak with your Obstetrician and/or Family Physician, as well as continue to monitor information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) and Discovery Health www.health.discovery.com

Excited parents...

2009-12-04T19:16:00.002+08:00

You really wouldn't know the feeling of being blessed with having a baby... until you actually have one.

I know there are times when parents wish they were just single and carefree... but, I'm sure they wouldn't trade the happiness they felt when they first saw their baby and held them in their arms.

The other day, my hubby Matth and I bought some baby stuff... they're all so cute. I really like those from Baby Gap... their colors and patterns for baby clothes.

We actually don't know the baby's gender yet, but we've already planned the baby's name. If it's a boy, we'll name him: Gideon Micah; if our baby's a girl, we're naming her Gabrielle Miriam. Both names are actually from the Bible, and I chose them because of the story behind those biblical characters.

Notice how both names have an initial of G.M... which is actually my hubby's first name initials.

Matth's really happy to have our first baby, that he would kiss, stroke my tummy and talk to the baby before we go to sleep.

We really thank the Lord for this wonderful blessing.

Online ordering and delivery woes...

2009-12-04T18:36:00.002+08:00

It just sucks when you finally see a nice and affordable maternity dress/top that you really wanted, and then find out that they just don't ship to your country.

I find it hard to find a good online store for Maternity clothes that actually delivers items to Malaysia.

I checked out Topshop Maternity line, and I really love their designs, but they can't seem to be able to send to Malaysia. I even went to the Topshop branch here in KL, but they don't have the Maternity line at this moment.

Even Nordstrom doesn't send items here... how long and how difficult it is to send here anyway.

Hope to find a good online shop that actually delivers here, it would really help.

Mandelson on having Ashton on Foreign Policy

2009-12-04T18:27:00.002+08:00

... I guess Lord Mandelson wasn't that happy having Baroness Ashton as the new Foreign Policy chief. He also expressed that he would actually consider running for the post, but the circumstance didn't arise.

A report on Reuters today: http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE5B22W620091203

Well done, Baroness Ashton!

2009-12-01T19:16:00.004+08:00

... First woman to hold such a high position in European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

PM Brown said that this would give UK a louder and clearer voice in the EU, and ensure that Britain remains at the heart of Europe.

She was also the first woman British commissioner, first woman trade commissioner, and now, the first woman High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

Kudos! to Baroness Ashton...

Dreams

2009-12-01T10:56:00.002+08:00

I had this dream again last night, about the same place I've dreamt of before... Only, I really don't know where this place is...

They say that because of the hormones, pregnant women tend to dream weird dreams, but this dream seemed so real... It wasn't some weird dream about fighting aliens, or whatever... It was just a normal day to day thing, like visiting my husband Matth's Aunt. But the place where she lives, looks like a place I have been to before.

I've dreamt of this particular place a couple of times, but I don't think I've been there before.

I hope to find out where this particular place is.

Cravings....

2009-11-29T15:29:00.003+08:00

.... I really don't know why, but I seem to be really craving for Chocolates...

Which is actually good though... I heard some stories about how pregnant women tend to crave for the weirdest things... like the smell of gasoline or shoe polisher.... I don't really believe that, but, quite a number of (previously) pregnant women said they or their friends really had weird cravings.

I'm glad so far I had cravings for food... and not those stuff.

We're listening to Worship Hymn Radio

2009-11-27T16:41:00.003+08:00

... It's just nice and relaxing... good for my baby to listen too as well.

Since it's my 18th week, the baby could hear my voice, heartbeat... and as I listen to good relaxing songs, and sing or even hum... I'm sure my baby could hear it.

Matth loves to stroke my tummy and talk to the baby... we just hope the baby hears it too... but I think the baby could feel his Dad's touch and how his Daddy loves him/her.

Next check, we'll find out the baby's gender... although, it's not a 100% certain... we're really excited to just find out.

Love my baby so much... even though I haven't seen (only through ultrasound) or touch him yet.

We feel truly blessed.

Catching up...

2009-11-26T13:33:00.006+08:00

... I didn't post for two days... I guess it doesn't have to be everyday...

I seemed to have missed a lot of things these past two days... Well, last week I missed the Brickfield's College Ball... I think this was the only time I didn't attend since I started studying in Brickfields. I'm sure everyone had a great time... I really wish Matth and I could've made it, but we had other plans that day.

This week, I missed the MBA seminar they had in KLCC... which would have been beneficial for Matth and me since we're both trying to get our MBA or Masters soon. Oh well, I guess we'd have to apply and get the assessment for every individual University on our own then.

We've also missed going for a migration seminar. But we actually went to a migration company to inquire already... so it's alright.

That's pretty much all.

But I'm glad cause my friend (since Elementary School) is coming over for a visit... and tomorrow's a public holiday with means no work for me.

I don't know why yesterday I was feeling restless at home (cause it was our off-day, Matth and I)... and I needed to get some rest, but I just couldn't sleep. Until the time I actually fell asleep, Matth and I had to go to our friend's house for a visit, which we already promised... so we had to go.

Anyway, all I've been thinking about is how's my baby now... I guess, if I had a home ultrasound (if there was such a thing) I'd be looking at how my baby's doing everyday, every hour. hehe.

Can't wait for the next check-up. :-)

I want a cake!!!

2009-11-23T13:15:00.002+08:00

I just suddenly had this craving to have a nice, big chocolate cake... with a creamy chocolate topping.

I used to love Black Forest... cause it's got whip cream and cherries... but today, I just want ALL chocolate.

I'm trying not to eat much chocolate cause I've read some articles that chocolates are not entirely safe for pregnant women. It seems, Hershey's has a little bit of caffeine in their chocolates... so if you eat a lot of it, it's also like drinking tea or coffee which is a complete no-no for pregnant women.

I didn't have much chocolate yesterday anyway... I just had one Mars Bar... so I'm entitled for one slice of chocolate cake later ;-)

Work Work Work

2009-11-23T11:07:00.000+08:00

... and work some more... I only get one day to rest. One off day... and that just doesn't seem enough. I guess I was so used to having two days (weekend) off from the other companies I used to work for before.

Honestly, I wouldn't mind even if I don't get an off-day if I had my own business... which I'm planning to have... and I'm really saving up for. I've always been happy managing my own business rather than working for someone.

I don't have problems with authority or whatsoever... It's just that since I was young, I've always love having my own business.

I remember my Mom used to tell me about how I was when I was in preschool. I kept asking her to buy me some stickers... she thought I wanted to collect them that's why I kept asking her to buy.

Then one day, she told me she wanted to give me some money to buy some food at school the next day... and to her surprise, I already have some money.

So of course, she asked, where did I get the money. Since my Dad's not around, he's a seaman so he's not always with us, my Mom thought I got it from someone else. I told her that I sold my stickers and the kids had to pay me.

She would ask how did I manage to sell them.... (and this is the funny part) If they don't really want to buy, I would sometimes just stick it on their face or arms and tell them, "there... isn't that nice... that's 25cents"... hahaha... not really a good thing to do... but you know how kids are. ;-)

During Elementary, and High school, I would also have some small business. In Elementary school, I used to sell my Mom's homemade sweets at school.

The best time was actually when I was in High school, I used to do calling cards for my classmates. I just had my first colored printer then, so I started creating fancy calling cards... some had cute borders, or printed in an apple background... my classmates would order a lot (honestly, I don't know what they do with them, but they seem to enjoy giving it out to their friends) until they started ordering for their cousins, their other friends... the orders just kept pouring in (and that's just in my class).

I had sleepless nights printing and cutting the cards. My Mom used to scold me... cause she thought I'm more preoccupied with that small business, rather than my studies... and even asked me to stop eventually.

I've decided to ask my friends to come over my house to help me cut the cards that I've printed out. I would pay them to do that or give them discount if they wanted to order calling cards for themselves. I just had so much fun doing that, but I had to stop cause my Mom didn't want me to continue and neglect my studies.

Actually, a friend of mine who I used to work for just a few months ago, handles training in NLP (Neuro Linguistic Program), and all these Train the Trainer programs. He asked me about what I wanted to do in life. I told him about that story, about how I seem to be more inclined in business. He told me that there could be something that my Mom said and asked me about what were the exact words she told me to make me stop. I don't really remember exactly... he even mentioned that normally he gets his clients (with their consent) into Hypnosis to find out about what hinders them.

He knows that I stopped having my own business after High school. In College, I didn't really have one, especially when I started here in Malaysia.

Anyhow, I hope to start a new one soon. For now, I'm still saving up for a lot of things too.

Glad to meet good friends again

2009-11-22T17:57:00.000+08:00

“Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there”

I don't really know who quote this, but I really like it.

I mean, it's true anyway... even for how many months you don't get to meet them or talk to them on the phone, somehow, once you have that bond... they're always there... if they are your true friends.

I just met my good friends today, Uba and Shane, and it feels good to meet them after so long (well, 3 months for us felt like a long time). Even for lunch, and to chat about things... or bit@$ about things... hehe. It just feels like we're back to those days where we used to hang out after class at the cafeteria and talk about stuff.

The other day (I think it was last Wednesday) Matth and I went to visit my good friend Myles. Actually, I consider these friends of mine as my sisters/ brothers... It's like they're my family here in Malaysia. I told Myles about the news that I'm pregnant and she was so happy. She just gave birth last April to a beautiful baby girl, and she was happy to know that I'm also going to have one of my own.

I heard someone quote this before, I think it was in a TV show... It goes... "Good friends are our strength." I believe in that too. Being far from one's family, just isn't that easy, I'm glad to have good friends who are always there... whether it is to help, comfort, listen or just be there for me in one of those days when you need someone.

My husband Matth has also been like my best friend, we share any problems, happiness, dreams, at times I also bit@$ about things to him (not that I have a lot to bit@$ about :-) ) but he listens to me too.... and I'm very lucky to have that kind of relationship with him.

I guess what I'm trying to say here... is that we should always appreciate every bit of blessing that God has given us through our friends...

...and we should also let them know how much we appreciate them being there.

Celebrity Pregnancy Fashion

2009-11-22T11:19:00.000+08:00

This may not be the latest article written about celebrity pregnancy fashion, but I really love the clothes worn by celebrities like Angelina Jolie (isn't it obvious... I'm, like, a huge fan of her ;-) ) Jessica Alba and Nicole Richie.

It's in this site: http://www.pregnancyclothes.com/celebrity-pregnancy-fashion/index.htm

I just love Angelina's Maxi Dresses.

It's true that pregnant women ARE beautiful.

Dontcha wish you look like this when your Pregnant

2009-11-21T10:49:00.000+08:00

I sure wish I would....

Is it Angelina's dress or how she just carries it... but she still looks good even when she was pregnant.

I got this image from an article: "How Celebrities Hide Baby Bumps" (http://pregnancyfashion.sheknows.com/blog/1st-trimester/how-celebrities-hide-baby-bumps/)

You've also got celebrities like Jennifer Lopez hiding her baby bump by wearing tunics or long flowing dresses.

I guess it really depends on how far a woman is during pregnancy. Some don't show until their 5th month. It all depends on a woman's body structure too.

But why hide it when you have top designers like Jean Paul Gaultier creating clothes for pregnant woman, and even had Jourdan Dunn down the runway to show his new designs. Mind you, Jourdan Dunn was already heavily pregnant at the time of the show. But hey, even when Heidi Klum was pregnant, she was praised for her fashionable clothes, and even had her designers in Project Runway to create designs for Rebecca Romijn to show off her baby bump.

Even Nicole Richie opened her own line of maternity clothing label - A Pea in the Pod, which from what I've checked out from their website, they have nice and affordable, stylish maternity wear.

I didn't know until recently that even Topshop and Juicy Couture also have stylish maternity wear available.

It seems that gone were the days where there was an incompatibility between fashion and baby bumps... hmmm... does this mean pregnancy has become like a trend as well?

If it has, I'm glad I had my baby bump at the right time ;-)

A lil' bit of courtesy...

2009-11-20T18:54:00.000+08:00

.... Goes a long way.

I noticed in KL, or even in any part of the world, people REALLY needs some courtesy on the road. Nowadays, It's just hard to find drivers who actually gives way whenever possible. When they see a driver in a tight spot and they need to give way, they just don't do that anymore. Does it ever occur to them that this kind of attitude could also lead to some accidents? And we wonder why whenever there's some major public holidays here, there is an increase in accidents. Well, it's also partly because most of the drivers could be tired and don't have enough rest, and yet they still travel. They leave as early as possible just to reach their hometown in time for the party or gatherings. But besides that, there is also a lack of road courtesy.

I was driving back from work one night, and was about to turn into the main road, I saw this lady driving and she was still far, I'd say there could have been three or more cars in front of her if you compare the distance... but instead of slowing down, she just HAD to speed up. I turned in cause I know that there was still ample distance for her to slow down, she speed up and as soon as she got close, she honked as if I did something wrong.

Is there REALLY a need to do this things? I mean drivers won't really know who you are, unless you hit them and exchange information... whether you're some high ranking person who deserves honor and respect... still, everyone is equal before the law (such as in Road Rules) (although there are some jurisprudential thoughts on this).

I like this quote : "There is a courtesy of the heart, it is allied to love. From it springs the purest courtesy in the outward behavior." by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Could it be that some people nowadays are full of hatred in their hearts instead of love?

There could be so many factors for this. But whatever it is, we should always strive for safety in our roads.