My 1st trip to mommy's hometown!

It has been a while since we planned to take Luther back to Ipoh. Well, we went back to Port Dickson to visit Papa's hometown during Chinese New Year.... Since it's the weekend most people will go back home to pay their yearly visit to their beloved..... during Cheng Beng*, so, we decided to go back to Ipoh to join the crowd.

We all traveled in 1 car... Mom, bro, Shereen, Wo, Luther and I. Yup... all 6 in 1 Perodua Alza. We were having fun and what is more fun than being in 1 vehicle with all the people you love. The other half of the group were all in Ipoh waiting for our arrival.... More like Luther's arrival. It's like welcoming our 'Big Chief' back home.

View from the Back Seat.

Big Chief at the back seat!

When we arrived back in Ipoh, the weather was rather good. 

NOT MUCH SUN = NOT HOT!! Yay!!

Ipoh is in a valley surrounded with limestone hills, therefore, during the day, the heat just sink into the valley... Limestone hills extend 20 km north of Ipoh and also 20 km to the south. There are many caves in these hills; cave temples are built in some of these caves.

Of course we ate a lot... not Luther.. but the rest of us. 

My Papa and I in Ipoh

 It was a long ride to and fro but it's all worth it. It was all great fun.

*Cheng Beng is a festival where its name denotes a time for people to go outside and enjoy the greenery of springtime (踏青 Tàqīng, "treading on the greenery") and tend to the graves of departed ones.*

Cranky Luther

I was regularly told by older folks that babies coming back from holidays, will be 'hong sim' (in Hokkien roughly means - over stimulated). And Luther prove that 100%.

On the 3rd day of Chinese New Year, we returned back to KL from Port Dickson. All of us were tired from the traveling and the hustle and bustle of CNY. Luther was unusually cranky and wouldn't take his usual 4oz on his usually accurate timing. Believe me, my baby do not miss his feeding for anything other than sleep and even that is occasional. Actually, he hasn't been feeding well starting 2nd day of CNY taking only 1 - 2 oz each time.

My so-called Uniform

Yu Yee Oil

Nonetheless, he was still smiley the whole afternoon and able to 'converse' with us UNTIL evening approached. I wash and change him out of his 'uniform' and into his regular comfortable pajamas top, yet, he was screaming endlessly. I though he might want direct latching and I did. He didn't take that well too. Than I recall, he hasn't poo-ed today! So I try tapping his little tummy and found it a little gassy. As usual, taught by mom, I rubbed YuYee Oil on his tummy, his back and on both his feet. Well, he did fart a lot but that didn't stop him from crying still.

His crying this time was scary to me and panicking my hubby cause his face was turning really red and his big big tears were rolling down his eyes and there was absolutely NOTHING we could do. I was already in tears feeling really rotten not being able to help my own son to relieve whatever that was bothering him. We called my mom in Singapore (she is there for holiday and to attend my uncle's birthday dinner). In tears I was asking her for advices and she said if he hasn't poo-ed, we just need to wait. He is also not eating because he is not comfortable. Just remember to feed his, even if it's 1 or 2 oz milk along with water to ease him passing motion. We wanted to wait but I was in tears and Luther was also crying. My hubby finally decided that we just bring him to the Dr to confirm he is just uncomfortable because he haven't poo-ed and eliminate other possibilities (i.e. constipation, pain, any discomfort). 

Papa trying to get Luther to take some milk

In Assunta Hospital (no regular Children Clinic nearby, so best option was to go back to the clinic in Assunta), Dr Vijaya checked on Luther and found that there was nothing wrong with him. So, Luther was just really uncomfortable being unable to poo-ed that day (it's not constipation too!). Dr Vijaya called Luther's Pediatrician, Dr Paran, to double check whether to give Luther any medication. Luther was given Duphalac to soften his poo (not a laxative). And true enough, we when back home and feed him some milk and than 2.5ml Duphalac. Within 15 minutes, his 1st poo (smelly as it is) made an exit! We were all relieve (inclusive of our Indonesian maid) and Luther was able to smile a little again.

The smile we missed the whole evening!!

That night, he still didn't take his regular 4oz but we were extremely relieve that he is taking his 2 oz without struggling and slept through the rest of the night soundly without crying or agitation. Nonetheless, Luther is still 'hong sim' the next day. Talking a lot, probably describing to his friends (toys) his adventures for the pass few days.

Our Luther's Charming smile is back!

My 1st Chinese New Year

What an adventure for me and my hubby bringing Luther out of KL for the 1st time without any assistance from experience folk(s) a.k.a my mom!!

Packing clothes for Luther wasn't much of a problem as I love packing with lots of extras 'just-in-case' this and that happens. Anyway, how large can babies clothes be and it fitted all in 1 luggage... really... it's not that big (I meant the luggage). Nonetheless, it's stressful cause I was worried I missed out things. So, I literally packed the whole house.... I took the baby bouncer, sterilizer, all his Milk bottles, 1.5 box of formula, a thermos flask and mug, clothes, socks, mittens, hats, Luther's toiletries, 1 full pack of diapers, a few muslin cloth, baby pillow and bolster, bathing tub and a baby carrier. Well, the car can't fit the stroller so we left that out. I KNOW I KNOW... that's almost everything, missing the baby cot and toys! I was worried Luther would feel out of place when he goes to a new environment.

Anyway, we traveled about 1.5hours down south to my hubby's hometown in Port Dickson (PD). The traffic was surprisingly alright with just a little jam along the Nilai area. Not too bad for a festive holiday. And Luther did great by sleeping all the way from KL to PD. 

3 generations

Enjoying the beach scenery

Luther was alright with the place... of course being a little excited with the new place, looking around with his big big eyes. Ah Gung and Ah Por were very happy to see him. So, there comes all the carrying and coo-ing and laughing. Then we brought him to the shelter next to the beach to avoid the sun. The breeze was refreshing. Although it turned Luther into this sticky little baby... hahaha.....

CNY Reunion Dinner Hainanese Style

Having our reunion dinner was another exciting one. My hubby was saying,"This is the quietest reunion dinner he ever had!" Why? Because our little prince was sound asleep on his bouncer during dinner time and grandparents don't want to wake him up so we all can sit together to eat. The whole situation was so funny... every one was literally whispering throughout dinner.....

I Love Gung Gung

I Love Por Por

1st day of Chinese New Year, we were celebrating it at home with the family. On the 2nd day, we traveled further south to Malacca to visit Luther Great Grandmother. I would say the only surviving great grandparent for Luther. She was so happy to see Luther (great grandma is already 93 years old with failing vision). Everyone was so happy greeting our superstar. 

It was an exciting CNY. We came back to KL on the 3rd day and the traffic was, again, surprisingly ok with slight heavy traffic. Thank GOD.. if not, our little champion would be noisy cause he dislike being in a stagnant vehicle too long.

I am 3 month old already!!

I am a big boy now!!

I can't believe it... My baby is already 3 months old!! I still remember giving birth to him just ....... wow!! it's already 3 months....

Hamster cheeks?

Taking care of your own baby is really a challenge in a way but it's all worth while. I can still remember the feeling of the 1st month where sleep was almost non existence. Than the next thing I worried was my breast milk supply slowing down. 

 Well, either my milk supply was reducing or Luther's appetite was increasing. I choose his appetite grew! So, I tried taking Fenugreek (which really did increase my supply...a little), drinking Holick, eating cheese cake and eating more meat for the protein.... I am still breastfeeding him till now although not as much as I want to.

Guess what I am eating!

Luther has grown very much physically and psychologically. He is now 'standing' at 60cm tall weighing at about 6.5kg. The last time, he was sleeping most of the time and now, for the last 2 weeks, he started to learn calling out to us by whining (it's really cute!) and when we  carry him, he stopped. And after a while, he will start making a kicking gesture expressing that he wants us to start moving (i.e. walking). My baby is now our Chairman with lots of request and demands.

At Mid Valley with Papa

After a long long wait, we finally got to see his voluntary smilesssss. All we need to do are some simple gestures, funny faces and plastic sound. He will smile just like the usual smiley (i.e. =D). The funniest thing is that Luther still laugh in his sleep, which is funny!

Another new development is that he started to find his fist very appetizing and have it all the time. I started to keep his hands clean so that we don't encounter unnecessary visits to the clinic. We have also brought him out a little more often before I start work to expose Luther to the outside world although I still worry about him getting all the cough and flu going around... so no crowded places as much as possible.

'The Ramones'

Now, I know how parents feel about their little child. You love them so much that you worry at the smallest things sometime. You love them so much that you sometimes hate yourself for not being able to give them the so-called best. But yet I have also learn that, to a baby, they love you no matter what. And the give you all the love and trust in return.

If only Luther can read, I want to say, "Thank you baby for being in my life. You have brought so much joy and happiness to the whole family. Papa & mommy love you so much."

Simple Steps to make Baby Passport (repost)

Now Everyone Can Fly... I mean... Now My Luther Can Fly....

I know many mommies would love to bring their little one abroad... maybe to visit some relatives or friends. For me, I not only want to visit my relatives, I also love to show off my beautiful baby to the world. Although bringing a baby traveling is not easy (I literally was like bringing my whole baby items with me!!), it is good for the child as this would be 1 way for him will not to be shy or turn to an introvert person in future. Social exposure is always good to bring up a happy, cute and sociable baby!

Here are some things you will need to prepare before heading to the immigration office to avoid delay or whatever similar. Babies cannot wait long.. neither can this mommy especially when Luther starts to show his untamed temper. hehehe....

What u need to prepare before going to the immigration office:

1. RM150 (for baby)
2. 2 latest passport size photos of your baby
3. Your baby's birth cert (original and copy)
4. Parent's IC (original and copy)

5. Application Form completely filled up . 

*Note: Malaysia Passport Application Form. Print the downloaded file on both side of an A4 paper or else they wont accept your application form and you need to buy one for RM1 per form.

(For further reference, you can check out Malaysia Immigration Official Site)


What to do:

1. All documents and payment to be ready and form completely filled

2. Go to the nearest State Immigration Office  

*Note: Parent and baby to be present at all time at the Office as the officer will need to see both of you.

3. Average time frame from start to passport collection is 2-3hours (not inclusive of lunch and tea break). Although I think it's a bit risky, but you can take 1/2 day leave to do this. 

I hope these information will help those who are planning to get a passport for their child and travel.

Hands Free Feeding

Have you heard of hands free feeding?

I, for sure, haven't!! But my baby has shown how it was done.

Look mommy... hands free style......

All he did was to suck on the bottle of milk so hard that even without hands, the bottle stayed. Amazing how much energy and strength was needed to drink this bottle of milk.... hahaha.....

My 1st Christmas

25th December was a day of peace, joy and happiness and that was what it is for me. 2011 Christmas is extra special having able to spend it not only with my loved ones, also with my new addition to the family, my baby boy; Luther.

2011 Biggest Present fr Mommy & Papa

We had our cook out and had a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner, where I did the Roast Chicken (Turkey was expensive. Can't fit in my small oven anyway...), my hubby did the wedges and frieds, brother did the mash, steam spinach and spaghetti and mom... helped to keep Luther entertained...... 

Dinner is served!

When Christmas arrived, more like early Christmas morning, Luther was wide awake early, as if he knows it's Christmas day and ready to open the presents. However, the presents are only to be opened on Boxing day.... because Luther's poh-poh (grandaunts) were not around they wanted to open the presents all together. So, we all had to look at the presents only. Thank GOD that I already have my biggest present with me this year.... so, I was already smiling.

Don't I look cute?

Too tired!

All my Christmas presents....

 On the 26th, everyone was so happy opening the presents. It is always a beautiful sight to see all smiling and happy.

Blessed Christmas and a Prosperous New Year........

Adventure at Home Base 2

Luther is always cared by me assisted by my mom and occasionally my hubby. Things were a bit easier and taking care of him was not much of a trouble. 

Grandma (my mom) needed to attend my cousin's wedding up north for 4 days. This is the start of our little adventure. Taking care of Luther the whole 4 days all on our own without any experience 'professional'.

It's morning already, papa!

Day 1 (Friday)

We got home at HB2 at about lunch and everything was going great. We were home getting comfortable and papa got mommy some lunch. Luther got to enjoy the stroller turn rocking cradle in the living room. The night was also good with Luther going to bed and only waking for feeding. 

Day 2 ( Saturday)

Luther woke up feeling a little grumpy but all is good until later that day. He started to be very attached to us. Practically want to be carried all the time. Move a little and he will cry. Hold him in a wrong position, he will also cry. Want to sleep, also cry. Want to eat, also cry. He was a cry baby literally that day. That night was bad too. We were carrying him most of the time to sleep because putting him down on his bed will will start his crying within minutes. We even tried changing hands whenever he cry to get to the right carrying position that will sooth him.

Day 3 (Sunday)

Luther woke up feeling a little better with mommy and daddy looking almost like zombies. However,as long as Luther is happy (or shall I say happier), we are all good. The day went by as usual and we found out something interesting. We got to 'know' Patricia Dunsten. She who believe that baby have 5 words that describes what they want. (Source: http://www.dunstanbaby.com/cms/index.php?page=nz-home). Amazing how it really works 90% of the time. Of course there is the remaining 10% where Luther was blabbing the same word for different purpose.... probably trying to confuse the mommy and papa... We were both experimenting the 5 words and laughing to ourselves. Unfortunately, that doesn't stop Luther from turning us to zombies 1 more time. 

Colic? Maybe.... Perseverance? Definitely.... Rewarding? Absolutely....

Day 4 (Monday)

Papa make me say, "Luther love Ah Ma"

It's the final day of our adventure. Luther slept through the whole morning after his feed and bath. Only active before that and my hubby was playing with him. Luther was definitely feeling all better and playful. How I love the look on my hubby's face and Luther's face when both were playing. It's a memory to keep and only me to enjoy that captured moment. Blissful........ 

'100% cute' - sewn by my mommy

Luther Grandma came to pick us up in the evening and she misses Luther so much that she carried him from me almost immediately. So sweet......

Well, mommy and papa made it without any help. We made it taking care of little Luther, although, it was tiring without help of a 'professional' mother... Nonetheless, every baby has their own style and taking care of them required imagination and experience.

What an adventure!

From a distance.........

China. Land of Business Opportunities. Also the most populated state in the world, with over 1.3 mil citizens. The country covers approximately 9.6 million square kilometers (3.7 million square miles). It is the world's second largest country by land area. 

Beijing, also known as Peking, is the capital of China. Most populated area, home to many world renown companies.

Luther was 45 days old (abt 2.5months) when my hubby need to go for a business trip to Beijing, China. You can see the reluctance in his face, leaving our precious little baby. However, work is work and we are fine with the help of my mum.

I thought I will be ok... Of course physically, all is well. But I am missing my hubby so much. And he missing us dearly. So, to reduce the 'missing' feeling, we try at best to chat via gmail as much as we can and I will forward photos of us to him.

Mummy and me

We need to persevere this as the traveling is going to be quite often until things settled for my hubby. I know we can Skype but my personal laptop died on me and this computer do not have a camera and mic. Anyway, it's a family computer and it's located in the living room of my mum's house.

Almost everyday, I will take a photo of Luther and sometimes me, so that my hubby can 'see' us and most importantly, to see Luther change daily (if any!)....

Do I look cute?

At least my hubby can enjoy Luther's milestone as well, although, it would be nicer if he is able to experience it live... But for our future, what has to be done, has to be done. As long as we communicate and understand the situation and endure this together, we will make it through.

Embracing Luther

I love you papa; my hubby!

1 month already!!

My baby is already 39 days old.........

We had a small 'Full Moon' party for Luther last week having him turn 1 month. Amazing how time flies when you don't notice. The 'party was held at my mom's place (Luther's grandma).

The day started off like any other regular day where Luther wakes up and get his feed and bathe and sleep. However, Luther seems to know that today is a special day for him. The day that marks his 1st month in this world..... in our world. He stayed awake from 5pm onwards.

We initially wanted it to be a small gathering with maybe just about 30 - 40 family and friends to celebrate this special day with Luther. We got the caterer to come in with delicious food (not for babies!) and a canopy with simple decoration (just balloons).

My Little Party

Somehow, the invitees grew to an overwhelming 60+ family and friends. Thank God the food was enough as we catered for about 50 as we knew things like that will happen. Guests started to come in at about 7.30pm and Luther was very much awake to greet them all.

My Ang Pau!!

I was surprise that he didn't sleep, yawn or even cry the whole time. Perhaps he enjoyed being carried around in different arms and being embraced throughout the whole evening. My little cheeky angel! Finally when my cell member from church wanted to give their blessings and prayers for the new comer, Luther started to whine a little. I guess he must be tired. However, to our surprise, when we started the worshiping session, he stopped and listen.... very much like enjoying the singing and blessings. You can actually see the peacefulness on his face and he eventually stole a quick 10 minutes nap after the session.

1st worship session

The carrying around starts again once he woke up.

Happy Ah Ma!

Happy Ah Gong!

Happy Ah Por!

Happy Anna Ku Po!

Handing over to next carrier!

Happy God Uncle Han!

We were very happy to have so many good friends and supportive family members. Having them all at the party was already a blessing to me. The party started to disbanded at about 11pm with me breast feeding Luther before placing him in his cot to sleep.

Mummy and Papa is so proud of you, Luther, for being such a sport!

We love you very much.....

Start of Luther's Journey

We were hoping for natural birth, in fact, we attempted natural birth. What an experience! I was induced at about 7.30am on 18 October after my bath in the morning hoping that Luther will arrive in the afternoon. I was already 3 cm dilated the evening before (at about 8pm; 17 Oct). 

My hubby and I were hearing other babies being wheeled across our room to the nursery for other checks after delivery and I have not feel any contraction at my end. You can hear the nurses running up and down the corridor rushing from one labor room to another to assist on the other patient's delivery and here I am (with my hubby), still waiting for a slight contraction. NOTHING......

Nothing until about 12pm when my contraction started. It was rather mild and not as I expected. Seriously, just like the regular menstruating cramps. Movies do exaggerate the pain!! Not until about 3.30pm when I started to have the massive attack! I was than dilated at about 7-8 cm. The nurses were asking me not to push yet as I am not fully dilated, but, the usual, you just have the urge. When I was about 9-9.5 cm dilated, the nurse asked me start pushing and the cervix will eventually dilate to full 10 cm. Until about 45 minutes - 1 hour, I was breathless and no sign of the baby even passing the fully dilated cervix. 

Dr Paul Tay (my Gynecologist) came and thought of doing a vacuum assistant. Unfortunately, my bladder was already swelling and Dr Paul was recommending for an emergency caesarian. My hubby already decided for a caesarian 1/2 hour ago after seeing my in labor... way before any recommendation!

So, finally, at about 5pm, I was wheeled into the operating theater for my caesarian. Boy, was I EXTREMELY tired. I can't even open my eyes. My hubby was with me all the way. When Luther was brought out of me, I was relieve, especially when I hear his 1st cry and when I gave him my (really really) quick kiss on the cheek before he was brought to the nursery.

1st look of Luther after birth

Luther Wo is born on 18 October 2011 at 5.55pm in Assunta Hospital, PJ.