B a b i e s

Happy new year!

2012-01-02T22:57:00.000+08:00

Adelyn is 7 months old and can walk when holding onto something! I have a feeling she's gonna be walking soon! She's been babbling dada a lot which melts her daddy's heart!

Caitlyn is doing well and loves her sister a lot! The first thing she does when she gets back home from school is to see her little sister. Well, I prefer her to take her shoes and wash her hands first though! But still sweet :) She was a flower girl for daddy's friend's wedding at the end of December. It was so funny because the ring bearer ended up being my high school friend's kid! We were so surprised to see each other at the wedding! We also went to another wedding last weekend, and so when I told Caitlyn we were going to a wedding, she asked me "Who am I holding hand with?" assuming that she was the flower girl. I tell her that she was not the flower girl (well, they didn't have flower girls at their wedding, just page boys!) and she got soooo upset she told me she was so sad she wasn't the flower girl! I suppose given 3 opportunities to be a flower girl since September (and 5 in her life time) naturally became her duty at all weddings!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T00:38:00.000+08:00

Kids say the funniest things

2011-12-22T00:34:00.000+08:00

One day, we were looking at some of my childhood pictures and I asked Caitlyn if she recognized anyone in the picture. Well, the picture was of my parents and my sister and I about 24 years ago. She recognized my parents, then I told her the 2 kids were me and her aunty. Then she asks "Where am I?" I answer "You're not here yet!" then she asks "Why?".

Sometimes it's hard to answer her questions!

Happy 6 months birthday adelyn!

2011-12-01T18:03:00.000+08:00

Dear adelyn,

Happy 6 months birthday to you my sweet baby! I can't believe how fast this 6 months went by. You're growing up so fast, I sometimes wished I could stop time to enjoy the little you that can be wrapped in my arms.

I've been very behind with blogging but I figured there must be a blogger app for my phone and ofcourse it exists! I'm blogging this on my phone as I type and I'm sure I'll be able to journal more about you and your sister's milestones more often from now on.

You are a super baby in my eyes! You started standing at 5 months! And one little teeth is starting to grow.

When I come home, you reach out your arms to me like you really recognize me and know who I am.

You're also very good at playing on your own. But not so much sleeping on your own. Daddy & mommy loves to spoil you and pick you up and cuddle with you in the middle of the night.

In blink of an eye, you will turn 1, then start going to school like your big sis, Caitlyn. Even though I'm so sleep deprived with broken sleeps each night, I know this is just a phase and that all is worth it.

Love, mommy

Adelyn is sitting up so well!

2011-11-01T18:17:00.002+08:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T18:17:00.003+08:00

We were the flinstones!

On motherhood

2011-10-02T15:10:00.004+08:00

There are days when I get SOOOOO frustrated with Caitlyn, but the truth is, I just have to remind myself that she is only 3 years old! Shouldn't expect too much, right?

A bit of a TMI but I had a plugged duct yesterday and it freaking hurts! Its a lot better today but I decided to stay home with Adelyn while Cliff took Caitlyn to Church this morning.

When they got home, Caitlyn said to me "I missed you at Sunday school today because I was thinking of you... I love you..."

Not only can she say so many words in a sentence, she really made my heart melt and I just had to quickly journal it down so that I can think about what she just said on days I need a lot of patience!

So proud

2011-09-22T09:29:00.004+08:00

Caitlyn's been going to kindergarten happily even though she doesn't understand the language. Probably only a few words...
I'm sure she will have more fun once she picks up Cantonese. Really looking forward seeing her progress and hopefully become fluent!!
I see kids with separation anxiety and just feel lucky for CAITLYN'S independence. No melt down at all (touch wood)

I'm so proud of you Caitlyn...!!!

Happy 100th day!

2011-09-08T16:35:00.000+08:00

Adelyn is 100 days old today!
Next thing you know it, they'll be in college already!

Sigh.

She can turn too!

Caitlyn happily started kindergarten this week!
No melt downs, thank god!

Happy 2 months to Adelyn!

2011-08-01T17:01:00.003+08:00

Wow, Adelyn is 2 months old already! She's been eating and sleeping well, she gained over 5kg now!

Day 19!

2011-06-19T09:43:00.002+08:00

Adelyn is 19 days old now!

Lucky us, she's so far a very easy baby. She only cries a little when she's hungry but at night time, I wake up before she does because my milk has been so sufficient, it starts to feel uncomfortable ;) and she only wakes up (or I wake her up) once in the middle of the night! Hope this keeps up!!!

We did have a bit of a rocky beginning though. The 2nd day we returned home from the hospital, Adelyn had a fever and we decided to go to the hospital at 3am. We ended up staying for 2 nights for observation, but the pediatric ward was no where as comfortable as the neonatal ward! We had to do it all ourselves (obviously)! She was only 4 days old, and seeing her going through all these test and needles was really sad. I was still hurting as well. Anyhow, we're so glad all tests came back negative and that she is healthy now.

Caitlyn has been doing well as a big sister. She loves to share her favourite security buddies "Bunny & Bear" with her little sister. She also loves to run to Adelyn when she's crying and says "It's ok! It's ok! Caitlyns here... Nothing to worry about". Haha.

Baby Adelyn is here!

2011-06-13T12:40:00.000+08:00

Caitlyn's a big sister now!

Adelyn Erin Ma born June 1st, 2011 @ 6:08am
3280g / 49cm

She came out an hour after we arrived at the hospital.
Super speedy delivery :)

Happy 2011!

2011-01-23T23:55:00.004+08:00

Merry belated Christmas and a happy new year!

I know. I'm terribly behind in this, but its better late than never!

Since my last entry, 2 big events happened before Christmas time. It was my father in law's 70th birthday party AND my friend's wedding on the SAME NIGHT!!! Caitlyn was the flower girl at my friends wedding so it was definitely a crazy night for us.

Then Christmas came and we all know how busy the end of the year gets! As usual we celebrated Christmas with the Ma Family but we were missing Derek, Janice and Ethan!

Right before Christmas, we finally announce that we are expecting a new family member beginning of June! I am now about 21 weeks along. Caitlyn loves to "see the baby" and lift of my shirt to say "I love you baby!" "I miss you baby!" "I'm Caitlyn!" and she's been treating her baby dolls quite differently these days too. Hopefully she really understands that she will soon be having a sibling soon. She likes to carry her baby doll around and say "It's ok.... it's ok... don't cry... Caitlyn mommy is here" :)

Caitlyn loves talking. She sometimes says the funniest thing that surprises us. She greets strangers hello and actually makes conversation with them! We were in Taipei last week to celebrate my dad's 60th birthday, and on the hotel elevator, she would say Good morning to strangers and say "It's very cold outside..." haha. But by far, my favourite is when she says to her daddy "Cliff~~~!!! Did you fart???" then Cliff would say "Say Daddy!!!"!!!

My 2.5 year old lectured me...

2010-11-08T15:37:00.002+08:00

The other day, we were invited to a friend's birthday party, and as we left and walked a good 2 blocks, I realized that I left my bag at the venue! I swear I'm the responsible one and this has never happened to me before!!! So I speed walked back to the venue with Caitlyn in her stroller and as we got on the elevator, I said to myself "I'm so stupid!!!". Then Caitlyn looks up and says "Don't say that, OK!!! Don't say stupid!!!"

Already feeling stupid, I wasn't sure to feel even more stupid-er (If thats even a word) or to laugh.

Oh well, she's bossy just like me I suppose...

Dear Caitlyn

2010-10-15T15:47:00.000+08:00

Dear Caitlyn,

I was looking at you last night while you were sleeping, and saw how much you've grown... mostly length wise. I love watching you sleep because it's so peaceful. Sometimes you giggle and it makes me happy to think that you're having a happy or funny dream.

I wished I kept a better journal in your milestones but almost each day you surprise us with your new abilities and new words. You are so fun to be with, Caitlyn. Sometimes we lie down together and stare at each other and just giggle :)

I love you so much Caitlyn!

Toy Story!

2010-08-19T15:09:00.003+08:00

Caitlyn went and had her first movie theater experience a few weeks ago! We watched Toy Story 3 and Caitlyn sat through the entire movie! I think she really enjoyed it though she was really scared of the "Big bear" she had a nightmare :(

I really enjoyed the movie too! I cried several times during the movie and even after! I'm the retard who's already thinking of the day Caitlyn goes off to college. haha.

Did you watch Toy Story 3?

Strange feeling

2010-08-05T22:41:00.004+08:00

It's so strange to think if I didn't have a miscarriage, I would be about 32 weeks into my pregnancy and in just over 2 months, we would be carrying a new baby in our arms. A bit sad but thankful that I have been insanely busy, I haven't had much thought about it. I am also thankful that I am able to spend time with Caitlyn alone. I don't think I could have handled taking Caitlyn to playgroups & playdates all alone, doing bubble couture, etc. while carrying another child.

Seriously, kudos to those moms who did it!

For now, I'm enjoying all the precious moments with my baby girl.
(And now I understand no matter how old we are, we will always be our parents baby)

She's growing up so fast...

Free disney puzzles!

2010-07-16T00:15:00.003+08:00

My friend told me that Hong Kong Disneyland was giving away puzzles to annual pass holders during the summer season! So I went and got myself one and they are pretty cute! and free!

Free Collectible Puzzles
From June 11 - August 29, 2010, simply present your Annual Pass in person at the Pass Processing Center and get one of the five versions of the Stitch and Friends collectible puzzles. Apart from the fun-loving Stitch and Lilo, the series also features their new cool friends including Sulley and Mike from Monster Inc., Carl and Russell from Up and many more!

Check out this link for more detail:
http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/annualPass/overview?name=APSummerCollectibles2010Page

Funny conversation

2010-07-14T21:49:00.004+08:00

Caitlyn says a bunch of funny stuff lately.

Today, she said "Max bump hisself here~" points to eyebrow.
"Where?" we ask.
"... in Hong Kong"

Caitlyn: "Mommy!!! Pou Pou!!!" (carry me)
Me: "Say it nicely!"
Caitlyn: "Nicely!!!"

So blessed!

2010-07-12T11:30:00.002+08:00

I often think to myself how blessed I am to be married to Cliff! He's such a good husband and a good daddy! For example, a lot of times on weekends, he would take Caitlyn out for breakfast dates so I can sleep in. Mom gets to sleep, Caitlyn gets to spend time with daddy. He sometimes makes me breakfast too! and most of the time, he lets me do whatever I want :)

Remenising old days

2010-06-04T10:08:00.002+08:00

Sometimes I find myself saying things my parents said to me when I was little.

I remember my dad telling me to use "Two Hands" when holding bowls or cups.

Now I say it to Caitlyn all the time!

(She likes to hold onto her cup with only 1 hand)

Potty Training!!!

2010-05-29T23:54:00.004+08:00

We started Caitlyn's potty training last Sunday (May 23) and I think we have succeeded! The first day was a nightmare, she had so many accidents and so many undies in the wash but she got really good 2nd day onwards. She now understands to tell me when she wants to pee pee, we even took her to a wedding today. I did put her diaper on just incase, but since she told mommy and daddy she needed to pee pee, her diaper remained dry! She also did a massive poo poo in her potty all by herself this morning. I did take a photo (just like Kate from the show "Jon & Kate plus 8") but it's disgusting so I won't post it here. I'm so proud of her!

The photo above is Caitlyn's training chart where she gets a sticker each time she does her business in her toilet. I stopped giving her stickers by Friday because she "got it" already and didn't seem like she was waiting for an award anyway.

HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY TO OUR DARLING!

2010-05-20T00:43:00.004+08:00

Happy Birthday to our darling! Caitlyn turned 2 last Monday and we've been having lots of fun activities and events that we're almost hardly ever home. Let me try to recall what we've been doing!

5/9 (Sunday) This year her birthday celebration kicked off at her Grandma and Grandpa's home. We had a combined celebration of mother's day, Caitlyn's 2nd birthday and Big bro Brandon's 40th! We had a great time as usual spending the whole day with the family. It was a beautiful day so we took out the pool and the kids got to play in water.

5/10 (Monday) On the day of her birthday, Cliff and I both had to work, but we managed to get home earlier than usual, so took Caitlyn out for dinner just the 3 of us. It was her birthday so she managed to get a free ice cream sundae, but ofcourse mommy and daddy had the most of it as we know how hyper she gets with sugar high!

5/11 (Tuesday) I took her to her Japanese playgroup, and immediately after, rushed off to the Central pier to catch our 11:30am ferry to Ma Wan with Caitlyn's friend Noa. We went there to visit the Noah's Ark! We had a very fun day there. I especially enjoyed how much positive message they tried to express through this amusement park.

5/14 (Friday) A few of us went to Disneyland, we ended up staying till the fireworks but had a very fun time as usual. I love seeing how happy Caitlyn is on her favourite rides which is the carousel and mad hatters tea cup! She recognizes Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto.

5/15 (Saturday) Her birthday party! Organizing a party is always fun but lots of late nights on my part. We invited about 20 kids to the party, I hope the kiddos had fun. (Will post more photos later!)

5/18 (Tuesday) Took her to her Japanese playgroup in the morning and again had to rush off toe Central pier again! But this time to Cheung Chau Island to check out the Bun Festival! This event is the highlight of the year for this Island and I have never seen so many buns in my life. We went there for 9hrs, had seafood for both lunch and dinner, just walked around, looked at the bun towers, chilling. There was one point we just sat by the beach for a good hour just watching the kids play with sand. It was really nice to chill and do nothing in particular!

5/19 (Today) A bunch of us mommy friends decided to hire a tram for a party! The weather went crazy and started pouring with an amber rain storm warning about an hour before our departure from our tram depot. The tram said we couldn't cancel unless the rainstorm became red or black so we all decided to stay positive and went along with it. Thank God the weather cleared up a bit, just a bit of drizzle here and there, but we all had a great time on the tram. When we got off the tram, it started raining again so I'm so thankful God heard my little prayer that atleast during the party the weather cleared up a bit :)

So thats our update for the last few days and it's getting late as usual so I'll end this post with a group photo from the party. It's always a challenge with taking photos of the kids isn't it, but that's the beauty of it.

Join of Facebook Fan Page!

2010-05-05T18:12:00.001+08:00

We are doing a promotion from now till May 31 for people who have joined our Facebook Fan Page!

Please feel free to join our page for our latest updates and promotions!

http://www.facebook.com/BubbleCouture

The 10% discount shopping code is on our facebook page.

Happy Shopping!

Blessings Cakes & Sweets

2010-05-01T23:39:00.023+08:00

Some of you might have noticed our beautiful logo cake and mini cupcakes and brownies from our launch party post. BEAUTIFUL right? It looks delicious, right? Well, today I wanted to write a post to introduce you all to Blessings Cakes & Sweets! They have tons of goodies to offer, and to name a few... Cakes, Cupcakes, Brownies, Cookies, Chocolates, Favours... the list goes on.

We finally got a chance to visit their store in Tai Kok Tsui today (Olympic Station). We bought a ton of stuff to bring back home. Cupcakes, Brownies, Cookies, etc. We really loved their cute little shop in this quiet location. Not only their products are delicious, their testimony of how they started this business is just so amazing. If you are have a spare moment, please visit their BLOG.

Blessings Cakes & Sweets
Add: Shop B, G/F., 22, Pok Man Street,
Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon
Web: http://www.blessingshk.com/
Phone: 2383-1088

Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 10:00 am - 7:30 pm
Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Directions: MTR to Olympic Station, exit at Exit B, walk towards HSBC Tower 3, go down the escalator and walk across the street to your left.

All photos from Blessings Cakes & Sweets

Ballux

2010-04-29T13:30:00.006+08:00

Do you ever have trouble coming up with what to get for a guy as a gift? Like birthdays, anniversaries, christmas... because I sure get a headache when it comes to brainstorming what to get for my dad or my hubsband or even my guy friends.

Well, here's the good news:

There is a new Men's underwear brand called Ballux. OK, I know, you won't get underwear for just anyone, but they also offer Tee's and organic lounge wear (Pajama's) and they all come in really nice packaging. Ballux underwear is made with superior materials to cater every gentlemen's need for quality, comfort and style.

They are now offering you 20% on any purchase!

Simply register online with the invitation code BCADQS and enjoy this limited time offer!

I won't post any pictures up with the model because it's super sexy, but do check out their website for the styles.

Next time you get stuck in what to get for a guy, give ballux a try, my husband loves them! Atleast you know you'll be getting them something useful, practical and something new that perhaps they haven't heard of! I would definately be so excited to receive something from a new high quality brand.

Web: http://www.ballux.com
Promotion Code: BCADQS

Ballux products comes in very nice packaging.
Click on the photo for a better view of the image.

My goodness!

2010-04-27T01:00:00.000+08:00

I just realized that our daughter is turning her BIG 2 in TWO WEEKS!!! I've been so busy with the preparation for launch, I didn't realize how fast time just flew by. So now that the launch party is over, next is her birthday party! hahaha. It feels like it's never ending. This year we're going to invite just Caitlyn's friends who she plays with regularly. Her 1st birthday was probably mostly our friends ;)

Caitlyn is growing up fast. I can't even keep up with all her new words anymore. I'll try to put up a list of her vocabs but her latest favourite is "I like it"! She's such a girly girl. This is our conversation:

Caitlyn: (pointing at my necklace) I like it!
Me: You like it?
Caitlyn: Yes. Pretty.
Me: I'll give it to you when you turn 16 ok?
Caitlyn: Okay!

:)

I don't know how much she understands but its fun to have some what of a continuous conversation with her.

She also loves to copy me when I'm doing my make up. She'll be drawing her eye liners with her fingers, and pretends to put cream on her face. When i'm doing my brows, she'll demand me to do it on her, so I use the back of the pencil and "Draw" it on her eye brows, and she'll look very pleased.

Anyway, I better go to bed. Tomorrow is Caitlyn's first day of class to her Japanese Playgroup. I've been looking forward to this for about a year now.

I leave you a photo of her doing her favourite "scary face". This is her on her way to breakfast date with daddy.

Launch Party - Success!

2010-04-25T21:50:00.021+08:00

Thank you so much to all those who came to our launch party, and also to those who couldn't make it but sent us flowers and messages!

We had a very fun launch party, more than 80 people came and supported!

I will let the photos speak for itself :)
and will blog about Caitlyn next time, this blog is suppose to be about her, after all!

All photos by my awesome husband!

Launch Party this SATURDAY!

2010-04-23T02:22:00.001+08:00

Don't forget its our launch party this coming Saturday April 24! Our online store will also officially launch on this same day.

This is an OPEN INVITE so please feel free to forward the invitation to whoever might be interested!

We will be serving Tim Horton's Coffee, Cupcakes by Blessings Cakes & Sweets, and hand made swiss chocolate by Beschle, and lots of other goodies.

Lucky draw every 10-15mins, Come and Win Great prizes!

Enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on all items on the day, while stock lasts! There are lots of new arrivals. Credit Card payment will be available for purchases over $500.

Hope to see you there!

Thank you to our sponsors:
Ballux
Blessings Cakes & Sweets
Elim Christian Bookstore
Funkimama
Heavenly blessed
Makari International Ltd.
Mulberry Moment
Tastings Wine Bar
Yobago

Bubble Couture Launch Party!

2010-04-11T15:45:00.003+08:00

You are cordially invited to join us and our friends in celebrating the launch of Bubble Couture!

Enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on all items on the day, while stock lasts!

Date: Saturday, April 24, 2010
Time: 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Unit A, 7/F, Kader Building, 22 Kai Cheung Road, Kowloon Bay

RSVP: info@bubblecouture.com / +852-9109-2592
(Please include full name & email address - Thank you)

Come & Win Great Prizes!

Refreshments will be served.

***** Our website is currently under construction *****

Thank you to our sponsors
Ballux
Blessings Cakes & Sweets
Elim Christian Bookstore
Funkimama
Heavenly blessed
Makari International Ltd.
Mulberry Moment
Tastings Wine Bar

Happier post as promised!

2010-03-20T00:41:00.007+08:00

Hi Everyone!

Caitlyn turned 22 months last week on the same day I turned 30! Ha. So I've been busy celebrating my birthday and such. My mom flew in from Shanghai to surprise me at our doorstep! That was one of the best birthday present. Thank you mom! I love you :)

Caitlyn is such a big girl now. I haven't been keeping up with her new vocabularies but here are some.

Sit Down
Now
Appapan (Anpanman)
Bagel
Bread
Oh Man
Sorry
Miss you
Oishi (delicious in Japanese)
Dakko (carry me in Japanese)
Cracker
Ice Cream
Walk
Mickey
Minnie
Dog
Cat
Duck

Today, we went to a friends house and she was riding a bike with her friend Sacha. She said, in a bossy way ofcourse, "Sacha! Sit Down!" Here's a picture of them. (Thank you Mizuho-San!)

Lastly, we have good news! No, not 2nd baby. Are you crazy?! It's only been 2 weeks since the incident from my last post.

Our online store is launching very very soon! Finally!!! Our showroom is 95% ready, thanks to my mom who helped me clean and unpack! I don't know what I would have done without her. Thanks again mom!!! You're the best :)

Here's a little preview of our showroom. We will be having a launch party next month and you are all invited!!! I will let you know the date & detail once confirmed!

2010-03-07T22:11:00.004+08:00

Who visits this blog? I'm sorry if this post will bring discomfort to you but I need somewhere to jot down something that happened to us recently. About a month ago, we found out that we were pregnant! This was very exciting for us to know that Caitlyn would soon have a sibling. However, when I went for a check up last week, the Doctor told me that the fetus did not look like it was growing properly, pretty much border line and that there was no heart beat so I was asked to go back about a week later to confirm. For the next 10 days, we tried to be hopeful and positive, but also in our hearts prepared for the worst. Unfortunately, the baby didn't make it because I have had an missed miscarriage. I tried to stay strong not wanting to bawl at the doctor's office, but as soon as we stepped out of the clinic to discuss where I should get my operation done, tears just came flowing down my cheeks. I couldn't believe this was happening to me and also a strange place to be in, where you see a bunch of ladies in different stages of their pregnancy waiting for their turn to see the doctor.

Everything was happening so fast, in less than 2 hours I had to get to the hospital. Fortunately, my sister was in town so she cancelled her plans and graciously offered to take care of Caitlyn while Cliff accompanied me to the hospital. We went back to the same hospital where Caitlyn was born, Cliff commented that he never thought we'd be back to the same place for this reason.

Never have had any surgery in my life, apart from my toe surgery I had when I was 16, I was nervous not knowing what to expect. But the operation went very smoothly and quickly, even the anesthesiologist did an excellent job. After the surgery, they moved me back to my room, and I was finally able to eat and drink. I rested, I wasn't in any physical pain, it was just surreal like nothing ever happened.

Though I'm handling this situation quite well, since it happened, I've cried several times. I think it's ok to grieve and be sad and that I don't need to push myself to be strong. But I choose not feel sorry for myself and will not allow myself to be depressed.

Did you know that we tried for a year before we got pregnant with Caitlyn? I did not share with many, because you just don't want to whole world to know. But that was one of my roughest time I went through, not knowing whether we were able to have a baby or not. I know a year is nothing, but when you're in that situation, you just don't know. You start to feel like everyone else around you is getting pregnant, and you get offended when people ask you when you want a baby.

A lot of people casually asks, when are you having a baby? when are you having your second? For those who's gone through or going through what I shared in this blog entry, I just want to say, don't take it personally.... people surely don't mean to hurt you on purpose.

I believe that God has the perfect plans and timing for us and that everything is meant to be. I am still thankful for many things in life. I am thankful that I find peace in Him. I am thankful that this happened to us the 2nd time around, not the 1st. I am thankful that it was physically not painful at all. I am thankful that we have family and friends that love and care for us so much. I am thankful that my husband was with me the whole time, and that we have each other to share this experience and to cry with. Most of all, I am so thankful that we have Caitlyn and that she is healthy. She truly brings so much joy and laughter in to our lives.

Tonight, we lit a candle for the little baby who didn't make it. We hope this act brings a closure for Cliff and I. We know that tomorrow will be a brand new day.

My devotion from yesterday was quite significant. You can read the whole thing here.

I feel a lot better now that I let it out in a written form of some sort. If you have read till this far, I thank you for reading it. I promise the next post will be a much brighter one.

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea-billows roll—
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul. —Spafford

Happy 21 Months Caitlyn!

2010-02-09T22:29:00.006+08:00

Tomorrow, Caitlyn turns 21 months!

Is it just me? I feel like January went by SUPER fast, and even though it's somewhat the beginning of February, it's going to be March very soon!

I recently got Caitlyn a set of Anpanman DVD's, because all her little Japanese friends loves them! While we were watching it, Cliff asked me if I actually got it for myself or Caitlyn because he could tell that I was into it too! My sister and I also grew up watching this show so it brings back a lot of memories and also nice to see that Caitlyn enojoys watching it. She'll actually tell me she wants to watch Appa (Anpanman) or Mickey, goes and turn on the DVD machine and go make herself comfy on the sofa.

Aside from the above, we are able to converse with Caitlyn more these days. Caitlyn will pull me to her play area and say "Come!" "Play!" then says "Toys!" and commands me to "Sit!".

When she wants me to cuddle with her, she would pat the pillow and tell me to "Sleep"!

Anyway, here are Caitlyn's new vocabularies:

Buddy (Cousin's Dog!)
Come
Sip
Sleep
TV
Socks
Nice
Pretty
Oh No
Uh Oh
Teeth
Bus
Car
Back
Play
Toys
No More
Bite
Yummy
Scare
Appa (Anpanman)
Mickey
Elmo
Bag
Give
See You!

Photo time~ Some are a bit old...

At J&J's wedding last October.

Caitlyn and her friends from church!

A satisfaction of my own...

2010-01-28T22:03:00.004+08:00

Having a domestic helper is a norm here in Hong Kong and I must admit that it's good life having extra help when it comes to housework and taking care of Caitlyn. Cliff and I have this unsaid rule that either one of us has to put her to bed because we want to be the last person she's in contact with before she sleeps.

Caitlyn's been sleeping in her own bed since the day she came back from the hospital, and sleeping on her own in her bed room at 2 months. We trained her to be able to sleep on her own and to sleep through the night, but it all went down the drain when we went on our first family vacation to Cebu when Caitlyn was 5 months old. She was not used to the environment and the cot, and not wanting to disturb other guests, we held her, rocked her, nursed her, you name it. From then on, the teething comes and goes, and there were countless nights where we would spend an hour to put her to sleep. I know there are so many methods out there, but I believe that every parents should do whatever they feel right for their own child. For me these days, I carry Caitlyn to sleep because she wants me to, and I want to also. It only takes about 3-5 lullaby songs from her Sleepytime Lullabies CD. It's a great satisfaction for me to know that she feels comforted in my arms. When I see her falling asleep in my arms, it gives me a warm fuzzy feeling, I really don't care if people say it's a bad habit or what not. How long will it be until I can hold her in my arms like this?

And ofcourse to end this bitter sweet post, I have to mention, that Sleepytime Lullabies is available at Elim Christian Bookstores!!! hehe.

Ps- some of Caitlyn's new words:
Sour
Hai Mai Ah (Chinese)
Mou Ah (Chinese)
That
What
Nani (What in Japanese)
Phone
Wash
Happy!

Happy 20 Months Caitlyn!

2010-01-10T00:40:00.002+08:00

Our first post for the year 2010 so Happy New Year everyone!

Caitlyn turned 20 months today and made me realize that there is only 4 months till her 2nd birthday! Am I crazy to think about her birthday already? Time just flies so quickly, I know in just a blink of an eye, I will be busy preparing for her birthday party.

Well, what have we been doing lately? We got ourselves a Disney Annual pass! Caitlyn's favourite ride is the Mad Hatter Tea Cups. At first I thought she might be scared but she absolutely loved it. Mommy's favourite is "It's a small world" :)

Look at that smile!

Cailyn also experienced her first ever hair cut! She didn't want to sit on her own so I held her, and everything was ok.

Whats going on mommy?

Yesterday, we attended a beautiful wedding where Caitlyn was the flower girl! When we were asked, we thought... a 20 months old flower girl?! But what mother would not take this kind of opportunity for her child? I was so nervous and just prayed that she would finish walking down the aisle. Though there was a tiny bit of drama at the beginning, she managed to finish walking all by herself. The original plan was to walk down the aisle with the handsome ring bearer, but she refused, threw down her bouquet, and decides to walk down solo, following the ring bearer.

We also took Caitlyn to the banquet where she partied till midnight! She was having so much fun dancing on stage and dance floor.

Getting Ready

Walking down on her own

Almost to the finish line!

During the ceremony

The bridal party with the newly weds!

With the newly weds- Beautiful!

Caitlyn's been able to say a lot of new words as well.
From top of my head...

Open
Come
Sit
Water
Juice
Nacks (Snacks)
Morrow (Tomorrow)
Night (Good Night)
A few ABC's
One Two Three
This
Do
Bubble

And she can pronounce some words better
Yesh (Yes)
Peese (Please)

Hope you enjoyed this post.

Until next time~

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T00:38:00.000+08:00

Merry Christmas!

Happy 19 Months Caitlyn!

2009-12-10T19:02:00.004+08:00

Caitlyn turns 19 Months today!!! Ah, how fast time flies.

Sorry for our lack of updates, but here are some milestones of Caitlyn!

She can hum the ABC / Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Song! and her latest vocabulary is "Hair Pin" hehe. She is getting better with keeping her hair pin on her hair, but whenever she takes it off, she usually knows where she put it, and when we ask where is it, she'll go and find it for us!

She also whispers to us when we put her to bed. I have no idea what she's saying but its very cute! She looks straight into your eyes and whisper! haha.

And here's an update of her other vocabs...

Pleeee (Please)
Table
Apple
Baby
Orange
Go!
Amy (Aunty's name!)
Maya (Her Cousin's name)
Ee Ee (Ethan, her other cousin)
Gor Gor Ju (Max's nick name)
Ye Ye (Grandpa)
Bao Bao (To carry her in chinese)
Yeh (Yes)
Eyes
Nose
Mouth
Fiii (Fish)

Here's Caitlyn with her cousins

And here's us at the Discovery Bay Market!

Sorry for the bad quality photo.... phone camera...

Christmas Market at Discovery Bay!

2009-11-21T22:31:00.000+08:00

It's time for Christmas Shopping!

Bubble Couture is doing it again! We are joining the Christmas Market as vendors, and this time, we will be at the same booth! Come join the fun and visit us!

Date: November 28 (Sat) & 29 (Sun)
Time: 11am ~ 6pm
Venue: Discovery Bay Piazza

Range of products:
Christmas Decoration, Clothing, Food, Crafts, Collectibles, & Kids entertainment.

FREE Kids entertainment and ferry ride will be offered too! Just spend HK$100 at designated D Deck restaurants and you can enjoy a free ferry ride back to Central on the same transaction day. Please check website for Dine N' Ride detail: http://www.ddeck.com.hk

ABOUT US:
Bubble Couture offers a full range of baby products and some unique goods brought back from the US such as dapper snappers, snacker catcher, and teething bling. Lots of cute outfits for 0-3 year old too, prices starting from only $30. We will be doing a special for summer clothes, and free souvenir for purchases above $150.

http://www.bubblecouture.com <- Coming soon!

Happy 18 Months Caitlyn!

2009-11-10T12:30:00.002+08:00

I cannot believe how fast time flies! Caitlyn is 18 months old already.

She is now 78cm tall, and still weighs 20lbs. Both her height and weight is in the 25% percentile. Today we went into the pediatrician's clinic to get her 18 months shot. I am so proud of her, she didn't cry one bit! (I know, blind parental love again!)

Since the last time we updated, she's been able to mimic a lot of stuff that we do! We better watch out!!! She can now reach the door handle, hence, able to open doors. She can copy us when we whistle and snap our fingers. Her latest one is putting her chin closer to her neck and glares at us and say "No!". She must have learned it from me!

The cutest and sweetest is when she wants to give us a kiss. Even though we are 5 meters away from each other, she would pucker up, and walk all the way to us with her puckered lips, and give us a kiss! Very often, is out of the blue.

I feel like I finally understand why people say "They grow up so fast!", they really do! She's at such a fun stage now and as much as I love seeing her grow and develop each day, I also feel a bit sentimental to think she's growing up. I feel a bit sad to think when those times when she rather want friends than her parents... or even to think how we can't cuddle her tiny body at this size anymore... or holding her little hands... kissing her little feet... We really need to cherish_every_moment. I sometimes wonder if my own mother feels like that? That in blink of an eye, her daughter is all grown up and about to turn 30?

Anyhow, I shall end this post with a photo ofcourse.

One day, Caitlyn came out of the study wearing my shoes!!! I told you she's growing up so fast!!!

SoHo Wine & Dine Carnival!

2009-10-30T22:48:00.004+08:00

Bubble Couture is joining the Community Market as vendors at the SoHo Wine & Dine Carnival! Booth will be open on November 7 & 8 from 12pm - 9pm on both days! Come join the fun and visit us!

Bubble Couture is at Booth #43 on Elgin Street (across from McSorleys) We have a full range of baby products and some unique goods brought back from the US such as dapper snappers, snacker catcher, and teething bling. Lots of cute outfits for 0-3 year old too!

Check out below link for more info about the carnival.

http://www.discoverhongkong.com/hkfoodandwineyear/celebrations/eng/carnival.jsp

It's going to be a fun day out for your family!
There will be Kids Playzone too!

Free Admission.

Hope to see you there! :)

* Bubble Couture is your online store coming soon!

Caitlyn in 17 months!

2009-10-16T11:04:00.005+08:00

We're back from our LA trip and boy, its definitely a challenge bringing a walking infant with you on vacations. We had a wonderful 12 days there though! I'll update when I have time.

Today I wanted to jot down some words she can say as of today! I got inspired by Jello.

Mama
Dada
Gaga (Good girl)
Guh Guh (Big brother in chinese which she calls Noah)
Elleh (Ellen, our helper's name)
Lao Lao (Grandma in Chinese)
Hi!
Bye!
Bye Bye!
Up
Down
Deh Deh (Thank You - with a bow!)
No
Nonononono (with her finger going left and right!)
Hi Mama!
Ai Lah (I love you)
Nana (Banana)
Baba
Nai Nai (Milk)
Bur (Bird)
Bo (Ball)
Ah Man (Amen)

I think there's a few more.... update later!!!

Aside from words, she can do a lot of stuff now!
She can run, climb up her high chair, up the bay window, blow kisses, hug, stomp...

Click HERE for a bit of our LA pics!

LA!

2009-09-30T14:07:00.000+08:00

We're flying to LA tonight!!!

Caitlyn is 16 months!

2009-09-16T00:09:00.006+08:00

Hello everyone! I feel so bad that it's been awhile since I've updated properly on this blog. I haven't even posted pictures from our cruise holiday... and most importantly, I haven't been writing down Caitlyn's growth progress!!!!! :(

Well, she started walking really well on the cruise and now, she's running everywhere and moving non stop. Sometimes we all wonder if she's tired or not, just so energetic. She's also extremely good at climbing it's so scary! She can climb up to her high chair and I'm afraid if we don't watch her, she's going to climb out of her crib. She has muscle on her arms!!!

She's also very sweet and loves to give mommy and daddy lots of kisses and cuddles :)

It's late. I'll update again properly some other time.

Few photos.... enjoy!

Baby Expo!

2009-08-06T14:59:00.003+08:00

Photo coutesy of Eugene Club

Its that time of the year!

The 17th International Baby/Children Products Expo starts tomorrow!

Date: Aug 7-9, 2009
Time: 10am-9pm (Aug 7 & 8)
10am-7:30pm (Aug 9)
Venue: HK Convention & Exhibition Centre
Add: 1 Expo Drive, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Price: $20

Caitlyn's BDAY Album!

2009-08-04T15:54:00.006+08:00

Cannot believe it's AUGUST already!!!

But I wanted to share with you photos of Caitlyn's 1st Birthday celebration!
(By the way, her birthday is May 10th)

The lucky girl had 6 cakes!
We celebrated in Shanghai, Hong Kong and on the cruise.

Click the below photo to enter album!
Enjoy...!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-22T01:29:00.005+08:00

I'm sorry I haven't updated this blog in awhile. We went on a cruise vacation with my side of the family to celebrate my parents 30th wedding anniversary + caitlyn's 1st birthday! We went to Northern Europe and had a wonderful time just spending time with each other and visiting different countries. We took a LOT of photos that still needs to be sorted out, so I'll post that another time.

Today was father's day. We all went into C's parents home to celebrate. Since we have 4 babies now, it's just easier to do a whole day event at C's parents home. Luckily the weather was nice, so we let the 2 older babies play in the baby pool!

Happy Father's Day!

Toddler!

2009-05-16T02:22:00.002+08:00

I just received an email from baby center, the subject head has been changed to "My toddler this week" from "My baby this week"! Aww, our baby is getting big!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAITLYN!

2009-05-14T12:55:00.006+08:00

Our little darling turned 1 last Sunday, which also was Mother's Day this year. Can't believe 1 year went by so fast. I'll upload more photos once I get the chance.... busy busy busy!!!

Grandma made me healthy lemon cupcakes (without icing!)!

Ah! so this is lemon cupcake! I LOVE IT!

Our silly family picture- we're all trying to blow out the candle ;)

6 more days!

2009-05-04T14:46:00.002+08:00

I can't believe it's only 6 more days till our little baby's 1st birthday! *sigh* I'm going to cry...

Last Monday, I took Caitlyn up to Shanghai to visit my family and for work. I have to say, even though its my 2nd time travelling with Caitlyn by myself, it's so much easier with papa C. So glad he came up on Thursday to pick us up :) Will post photos later.

In Shanghai, we had Caitlyn's early birthday celebration with my family. Too bad we were only there for a week, wished we stayed longer, everyday was just so hectec!

Elim Mama Nursing Covers!

2009-04-17T11:00:00.004+08:00

Elim Mama Nursing Covers are now available at Elim Christian Bookstores!

Our shop location is at Lippo (Admiralty), East Point Centre (Causeway Bay), Sino Cheer Plaza (Jordan), and Jusco (Kornhill).

http://www.elim-hk.com/shoplist.php.

Don't forget you get 10% discount with our Elim membership card!

Countdown has begun!!!

2009-04-13T02:08:00.002+08:00

Caitlyn is turning 1 in less than a month! Our little girl is growing up too fast... Can't believe she was still in my tummy just a year ago! My lovely friends threw me my showers this time around.

Wanna see something scary?
Here's the last tummy photo before it got painful....
Man, I was huge.

Walking!

2009-03-28T22:21:00.005+08:00

Caitlyn can walk!!!!

Ok, just 2 to 3 steps, but I'm still proud of her :)

She can also...
say Mama and Dada.
say "Gaga" when I say "Good Girl!" to her.
Pretends to talk on the phone.
Wave bye bye.
Open and close her hands.
Fly Kiss.
DANCE!!!

I tried to upload videos but it doesn't work!!!

But here are some photos of Caitlyn and Lyle at Playtown!

Happy 10 Months!

2009-03-10T06:59:00.000+08:00

Our baby is growing up too fast!

and today is the beginning of my last year of 20's!!!!!!!!!

Hi!

2009-03-06T13:36:00.010+08:00

Sorry I've been a bit occupied lately, I haven't updated on our little Caitlyn. Well- she's turning 10 months old next week (double digit!!!) and she's been doing little "dancing" and talking a lot! She can say Mama and Dada :) AND!!! Her twin cousins Max and Maya has arrived! Can't wait till the 4 cousins can play together.

I've been trying to get her to interact with kids around her age, here are some photos of caitlyn playing with her friends ;)

With Lucy

Cheeky girls

At the park

With Amelia

With Preston

Lastly... I know you all love discounts.
Check out my latest post on funkimama bags at my nursinginhk blog!

Click click!

Happy 9 Months Caitlyn!

2009-02-10T23:25:00.010+08:00

Our baby girl is 9 month old today!

Let me type out some of the things she has started doing!

She can...
walk around holding onto something!
clap her hands when we tell her to (in both English and Mandarin)
click her tongue when we do it
LAUGH
run in her walker (first she runs, then slide!)
hold her own bottle (actually for a few months now!)

Anyway it's getting late so I'm going to finish off here.
Tomorrow I need to take Caitlyn for her shot again!

But I leave you with a few photos as promised in the last post.
Enjoy!

We're back!

2009-02-04T21:25:00.002+08:00

Hey guys! Hope you all had a wonderful chinese new year!

Sorry for the lack of updates... times just flew by so quickly, we're back from our LA trip!
I will update with photos next time.... jetlag... zzzz

Happy 8 Months Caitlyn!

2009-01-10T12:14:00.001+08:00

Our baby girl is 8 month old today! Time flies.

We have officially started our countdown to LA!
Caitlyn's first trip to the US!

11 more days!

OYABAKA

2009-01-07T01:19:00.005+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Hope you all enjoyed the photos in the last 2 posts!

Today, I wanted to journal what Caitlyn's been up to these days! Aside from being able to stand up all by herself while holding on something, she is starting to "Cruise" as well! She can walk around her crib while holding onto the bars! One full circle! And she learned how to clap a few days ago, and seems to have fun with her new discovery as she would stop eating so she can clap! Very cute I must say. I know I know! Blind Parental Love! Here's a new Japanese vocab for you all, it's called OYABAKA!

Noah and Aunty Jello comes to HK!

2008-12-31T01:09:00.001+08:00

Hi, it's Caitlyn!

My second cousin Noah and Aunty Jello finally came to Hong Kong!!! We've been anticipating for their visit since forever! I can't wait to see them again in LA in 2 weeks time!

Here we are playing together while big people eats!

Yippeeeee!

(@_@) (^x^) (-_-)

See... We're good kids!

Noah came over to play!

Photo Time!

2008-12-27T00:46:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone! Caitlyn here!

Here are some photos from our Christmas Holidays!

Christmas Eve

We went to my grandparents home to celebrate!

Here I am opening presents!

This is my grandparents and my cousin Ethan!

Christmas Day

Mommy & Daddy got me a new ride!

New toys!!!

In the morning, everyone went to the Christmas Service at Church, but I was taking a nap so I missed half of it! Then we went to Yum Cha and hung out with Ethan and Aunty Janice and Uncle Derek in the afternoon. At night time, we went to Aunty Sam's Christmas Party and it was so much fun! I was so happy there were so many Aunties and Uncles to play with!

Aunty Sam made these! But I wasn't allowed to eat any :(

We did secret santa and I picked out a number all by myself!

I got a present, yay!

I even touched OJ!

To be continued...

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-26T20:29:00.001+08:00

Merry Christmas!

Caitlyn celebrated her first Christmas this year! I'll update with photos later!

If you did not receive our first family newsletter, please let me know! I may have sent it to your old email address!

Caitlyn can STAND!!!

2008-12-14T02:57:00.010+08:00

I forgot to write that Caitlyn can STAND in her crib! This happened a few weeks ago actually... so we lowered her crib. It is so scary. I feel like I cannot leave her alone even in her crib! I don't want her to hit her head!

Other than that, she's been very good with her solids. She loves her rice cereal, spinach, carrot, banana, etc! She doesn't really like congee so much but we're going to add a bit of veggie soup and see how it goes!

Here are some photos of Caitlyn & Katelyn from a few weeks back AND a video of her standing! Enjoy!

Happy 7 months Caitlyn!!!

2008-12-11T21:28:00.004+08:00

Caitlyn turned 7 months old yesterday and guess what!!!!!!! Her cousin Ethan decided he wanted to come out 2 weeks early!! We are so excited for this new addition to the family and can't wait to see him! Congratulations D & J!

Besides this exciting news, I am doing a trial sale for these nursing covers.

Please visit http://nursinginhk.blogspot.com for more details ;)

PS- She's CRAWLING!!!

Happy 6 Months Caitlyn!

2008-11-10T21:00:00.003+08:00

Today, we celebrated Caitlyn's 6 months birthday (?) with her first ever solids! She absolutely loved her rice cereals, it was so adorable.

Babies just grow so fast...! I've been thinking of all the things we see now but will not be able to in even a few months time. Her cute toothless smile, we will soon see a full set of teeth! (ok, not that soon!). Her baby talk will soon be words... then real talking. Her flipping and rolling will soon be crawling and walking!!! I really want to enjoy every moment of her growing stages, and God has shown me a glimpse of how He sees us.

Some photos.... enjoy as much as I enjoy looking at them :)

(I know.... blind parental love!)

Teething!

2008-10-29T16:09:00.004+08:00

We're back from Shanghai and guess who's teething?

Caitlyn!

TWO of her bottom teeth are growing!
I tried to take a photo but it's hard.

I started a new blog.

Nursing in Hong Kong <- CLICK!

Please feel free to leave me suggestions!
Thanks!

Shanghai!

2008-10-20T23:23:00.003+08:00

Hello from Shanghai!

Caitlyn and I traveled to Shanghai today, just to two of us! It was a bit of a challenge for me but it was fine apart from not having daddy around! It's definately easier doing the parenting stuff together with him. We miss him so much already!

Travelling with a baby alone, people are actually much nicer! They let me cut in line for getting on the plane and going thru immigration. Flight was good, the plane seemed new and the food was surprisingly good and it came with hagendaaz ice cream! So when we got on the plane, Caitlyn was sleeping and she was behaving pretty well until the ice cream came cus she wanted some and I wouldn't let her! True story!

Being at home is pretty nice. I haven't been back for a year and a half! When we were driving home, I didn't even recognize where I was because we were on some new road near our place. The traffic was crazy though, it took us almost 2 hours to get home! But it's ok cus we had hairy crab and other seafood for dinner :)

So there were some stuff I wanted to write for awhile. I've been thinking how true it is when people say babies grow so fast. They really do! They get to wear new clothes all the time cus they grow out of it so quickly. Not to mention, I think I need to get her new hairbands too cus her head is getting bigger as well! And it just makes me think how soon we won't be able to carry her in our arms anymore. I mean, we can, but not tiny like a baby. It feels so strange to think how we won't be able to see the Caitlyn when she was 0-5 months anymore cus they change so quickly. Not sure if I make sense but it just makes me want to cherish every moment with Caitlyn and not to miss out on her developments.

Speaking of every moment with the baby, I'd be lying if I said I've been loving every single moment cus there are times when she's cranky and we don't know what to do. But definately we've learned to be more patient and loving.

We miss you daddy!

Update!

2008-10-14T10:59:00.005+08:00

Long time no blog!

It's been quite eventful since the last time I blogged!

We went on our first family vacation to Cebu & Manila! There were lots of "firsts" for Caitlyn such as going on airport express, the airplane (4 times!), swimming in the big people pool and ocean, sleeping in hotel, taking a nap at the beach, riding jeepney, doing touristy stuff, etc. Surprisingly, she wasn't scared of the water :) and she was very good on the plane except for our flight for Cebu to Manila. She was crying hysterically for 5 minutes non stop(which felt like FOREVER!!!!!) but she slept through the flight after she calmed down. So overall, she managed very well!

In Cebu, we were able to go visit Nehemiah House which was one of our highlight of this trip. It's been 4 years since we went to visit them and all the kids grew so much! Personally I was bummed that I was not able to meet one of my favourite kid whom I promised I'd go back. He moved back with his family and I hope everything is going well with him.

In Manila, we stayed with my highschool friend at her beautiful home! She was such a great host, we had a wonderful time there! We were only there for less than 2 days but it was nice to just hang out with her and do some shopping and go to Fort Santiago!

After we got back to HK, my family and Aunty came mainly for Caitlyn's dedication service! The house was full house (7 people!). Caitlyn was dedicated with her friend Lucy :)

Caitlyn's going lots of new things too! She's really good at grabbing things, flipping over, and she can hold her bottle now! We're making her practice drink out of a bottle these days! and she has a new trick too! When we put a piece of cloth on her face, she knows how to remove it :) Oh, and she's learned to put her feet in her mouth! Yikes!!

I'll upload more pictures later.

Happy Mid Autumn Festival

2008-09-16T00:04:00.009+08:00

For Mid Autumn Festival every year, all the siblings and their wives go into Sheung Shui to the parents home to spend time with each other with extremely good food, movies and MJ. This year was Caitlyn's first visit to her grandparents home and her first time going on sleep over!

Today, we witnessed Catilyn do her first roll over and got in on video! I think the file is a bit too big so I'm having trouble uploading. Once I get it fixed, I'll post it immediately!

Meanwhile, please enjoy some other video's of Caitlyn talking.... :)

Happy 4 Months!

2008-09-10T23:39:00.003+08:00

Caitlyn's 4 months today! Her neck is a lot stronger now and it seems like she feel a lot more comfortable in her bumbo chair.

We were super busy last weekend! Starting off on Friday, we went over to a newly wed's housewarming + Bday Party, their place was so awesome, I wished we were as handy like the husband, he like renovated the place hinmself! Then we dropped by at a wine bar called Tastings for another friend's Bday. Tastings happens to be a bar my friend just opened so I felt ok to bring Caitlyn along. But when I got home, I realized she was WAY TOO UNDER AGED!!!

On Saturday noon, we went to a surprise encouragement party at this amazing house over looking HK with an amazing pool. Too bad it was raining, so we passed on the swimming. Afterwards, we went to Aunty Janice and Uncle Derek's house for their housewarming at the Caribbean Coast!

On Sunday, we went to the 11:30am service, then C and I went to Sushi Shota for some delicious sushi, and ran some errands around Causeway Bay.

Lastly, Monday was Aunty Vicky's birthday dinner at DWB Golf Club!! Whew!

Caitlyn's 3rd shot!

2008-09-02T23:09:00.000+08:00

Today, we took Caitlyn to her 3rd immunization shot! I was a bit nervous thinking how it's going to hurt my little girl but she didn't even cry! What a trooper! I was so proud of her :)

Her measurements as of today... (8 more days till she's 4 months old!)

Length: 64cm (About 85 Percentile)
Weight: 6.1kg (About 50 Percentile)
Head Circumference: 41cm (60 Percentile)

On August 18th, her measurements were:

Length: 60cm (50 Percentile)
Weight: 6kg (75 Percentile)
Head Circumference: 40cm (50 Percentile)

Can you believe it? She grew 4cm in 2 weeks! Wow!

2008-08-24T22:37:00.003+08:00

Mommy and grandma went to one of their favourite sushi place for lunch today. I wasn't allowed to have any but here's a picture of me outside the restaurant!

And here's a video of me giggling today!

15 Weeks!

2008-08-23T22:54:00.007+08:00

We went to pick up my Home Return Permit, then drfopped by at the Elim Bazaar. Mommy got me a lot of CD's! She says I can listen to them when I'm a bit older. After my "afternoon tea", mommy and grandma took me for a walk at the park, then we spontaneously decided to go to a baby store in Causeway Bay to pick up some stuff for me. Mommy wanted to get me a new sponge but they didn't have it, so instead, they got me a new hair band, teether and a rain cover for my stroller! I can't wait to wear my hair band tomorrow :)

Ready to go out!

Trying to talk.....

Still trying to talk.....

(I think we can hear more of grandma in the background!)

I miss daddy so much I cried :(

PS- I'm 15 weeks old today!

Typhoon Signal No. 9

2008-08-22T20:56:00.007+08:00

I'm not sure if babies get influenced by the weather, but Caitlyn was quite cranky today! On top of that, she pooped 3 times! One was very messy, and she even spit up quite a lot on her play mat! Grrrr......

Anyhow, it was quite an uneventful day today because of the typhoon but I'll leave you with some photos and a video. Hope it works!

Yum yum yum.....

Not really enjoying tummy time.

Can't move!

Diapers! So cute!

Busy bee...!

2008-08-21T22:50:00.010+08:00

Mommy and Grandma took me out to so many places today! First stop was Shatin to visit my great grandma's sister. She's 90 years older than me! Then next, we went to Jardine's Lookout to visit another relative! After we were done with visiting, I was getting hungry so mommy decided feed me at my grandpa's bookstore to kill 2 birds with one stone as my grandma needed to pick up some CD's. When I was finished, it was their turn to eat so we headed to CCC to have dinner with my grandma's friend! Boy, I was exhausted!

With my great grandma's sister!

I was a bit cranky on the car because I was so sleepy!

With our other relative.

Me at the bookstore!

With my grandma's friend, she said I behaved very well!

I was SO EXHAUSTED I fell asleep at the restaurant!!!

Missing Daddy :(

2008-08-20T21:43:00.006+08:00

Daddy left for SF for Uncle Ken's wedding this afternoon so mommy and grandma took me to visit 5 days old baby Deborah! Mommy said I was the same size as her when I was born and light as feather compared to now! She said I'm getting heavier by the day and that I grew 2cm since last week!

When we got home, Grandma and Grandpa Ma was waiting for us at home to have dinner. They gave me a cross today, thank you grandma & grandpa!

I miss daddy... can't wait for him to get back with some souvenirs :P

Me and Deborah. We're gonna play together when we're a bit older!

My new jewelry!

Me with my grandma & grandpa Ma

Me with my two grandma's!

With my Lao Lao (which is what people from Northern China calls grandma). She came to spend time with us while daddy's away!

100!!!

2008-08-17T00:27:00.001+08:00

Happy 100th day to you Caitlyn!
We love you so much!

She slept 10.5hrs straight the other night!
Such a good baby!

Going to work with mommy!

2008-08-15T22:10:00.000+08:00

Mommy took me to work with her today! I behaved very well!

Happy 3 Months!

2008-08-10T01:45:00.005+08:00

Our baby is 3 months today :)

Caught her grabbing her toy in her sleep!

I can sit now! (sort of!)

My great grandma bought me this outfit even before I was born!

Saturday outings!

2008-08-09T23:56:00.001+08:00

Saturday is one of my favourite day because we take Caitlyn out to different places each week! It's kind of like a little adventure and a fun family outing we do :)

Today, we went to the fleet arcade to pick up some magazines, then had lunch at The Quaterdeck Club. Afterwards, we headed to Stanley Market to do some walking around. I haven't been there for a few years now, and noticed lots of cute baby clothes like Carter's, Gymboree and Baby Gap for cheap! I guess you never notice these things until you have a baby yourself. We then decided to stop by Victoria Park which is only 10 minutes away from our home to check out The Olympic Live Site. To my surprise, it was not crowded at all. I guess not too many people know about it?

Her leopard print pants finally fits!

At Victoria Park. Behind is Ying Ying!

Mommy Days

2008-08-08T11:58:00.004+08:00

Thursdays and Fridays are my "Full Time Mommy Days" as we don't have helpers on those days and weekend. This leaves me to bringing her out with me if I must go out! So whenever I take Caitlyn out by myself, I usually use the combi carrier as I don't need to worry about folding the stroller when getting on/off a cab. Yesterday, I took Caitlyn to Ikea which is about 15~20 minute walk from our place with the stroller to get some stuff. We were out for a good hour and a half and though I was a bit worried she would start getting fussy and crying, she behaved so well, I had no trouble shopping at all! We also switched her feeding time to every 4 hours so that gives me more time to do stuff :D

Today, I took Caitlyn to the Baby Expo with one of our Elim staff. Ideally, I wouldn't have brought her if I had the choice but she didn't cry at all until we were done and lining up at the cab line because it was way past her feeding time! Poor baby and bad mommy!

The expo was interesting. Lots and lots of preggos and people with babies so it was crowded but I'm sure we made a good choice going today rather than the weekend. A lot of the stalls were giving out lots of samples too! Got a few diapers, wipes, rice cereals, shampoo, lotion, toothbrush, pen, measuring tape, etc when you give them the coupon with your information on the back. Some people had printed out all their information on a lable so they can just stick it on the coupon! So genius! I was scribbling here and there, I'm for sure preparing lables if I go next year! Anyway, I picked up a few baby outfit for Caitlyn and also a little something for Noah! Can't wait to give it to him when they come in fall!

Caitlyn at the convention center!

Samples!

Tomorrow is weekend, planning to go to Stanley! Hope the weather's good!

Ps- Beijing Olympic opening was VERY impressive! Go China! Caitlyn wanted to watch it too!

Wii Fit!!!

2008-08-02T22:15:00.000+08:00

Today we were very productive despite some happenings. Our plan was to stop by wanchai to pickup some stuff then go to Stanley, but the car battery died! So C had to get it fixed and we had to just go for a drive for 70miles non stop. So at the end, we just decided to only go to Wanchai to do the stuff we needed to do, and went over to Cafe Zambra for tea and to nurse (!!!), then headed to Louis Steak House for dinner.

And we got ourselves a new toy!!!!! I must say Wii Fit is a pretty genius machine and how unfit I am to actually get quite tired from it!!! Fun though~

Caitlyn update! She's 12 weeks today and has been getting better and better at falling asleep on her own in her crib! Yay! She's getiing big too, started wearing 3-6 months.

11 Weeks Old!

2008-07-27T00:49:00.005+08:00

Today, we went out to Discovery Bay to visit Jaime, Peter and little Caleb (+ bump)! It was Caitlyn's first time on the ferry and she behaved really well the whole entire day! We ended up having an early dinner out there, and even dropped by One_eighty when we got back to HK side! Here are some pictures from today :)

Caitlyn at the Simpson's

Welcome to One_eighty!

あっかんべーだ

STRIKE!

2008-07-25T01:03:00.005+08:00

Caitlyn is on strike!!!
She is refusing the bottle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SIGH.

She has been so good with it when I'm unable to nurse for the past 10 weeks, and all of a sudden, its like she doesn't know how to drink from a bottle anymore.

Well- gotta keep trying!

Katelyn on the left, Caitlyn on the right... singing duet!

10 Weeks OLD!

2008-07-21T02:18:00.003+08:00

O..M..G....! I've lost track of time and just realized that Caitlyn has turned 10 weeks old on Saturday. I know. No biggie. But I was telling the whole wide world she was 9 weeks old this weekend! Hrm. Should keep better track!

Anyhow, Grandma Ma finally came back after her almost 3 month stay in LA. Again, she brought back lots and lots of clothes and some cool toys for Caitlyn!

It's getting extremely late, better sleep and hope for no mid night feeding!

Happy Baby!

Sleeping Baby!

Hungry Baby!

Travel documents and such

2008-07-16T22:55:00.003+08:00

Today, we went to go get Caitlyn's HK re-entry permit plus everything else she needed to do and get at the US Embassy! So much paper work and was kind of confusing but we did it!!!! I suppose it gets complicated when one is eligible for so many permits and such!

Anyhow, Caitlyn is 68 days old as of today! She's been responding to our smiles more and trying to "talk" as well - very cute.

Caitlyn's been out quite a bit already! She even made her first debut to Soho! I've been taking her out to visit friends with my new 4 way carrier on my own and on weekends, we'd been take her to different malls that are some what baby friendly with stroller :) I would do some research before we leave home to find out where the changing station are and if any nursing rooms are available. My sister got me a Nursing Cover which has been quite useful. Still getting used to nursing in public though!

Some photos... enjoy!

2 days old

Burrito Caitlyn

2 months old!

2008-07-10T23:19:00.000+08:00

Posting some pictures on her 2 months bday :)

Exercising

Playing with Miss Lion

Caitlyn and her friends taking a nap

7 weeks old

2008-06-28T21:36:00.002+08:00

Today, out little Caitlyn is 7 weeks old! We went to Conrad for afternoon tea and she behaved extremely well!

So, it's been 7 weeks but it still feels so surreal that we have a baby! So crazy!
I've neglected this blog/diary, but I'll try to keep up so that I remember the little things that she does that makes me smile.

When we bathed her just now, she farted. It stank quite bad!

Here's a photo of her chillin'! Enjoy!

Thank God...

2008-05-29T23:26:00.003+08:00

Here are some things I'd like to thank God for...

Starting off...
1) My water breaking at home. Not a gush, but just a little bit. Not messy at all!
2) C was still home. If it happened 15 minutes later, he would have left already!
3) It was painless for 5 hours or so after my water broke. This made my checking in to the hospital and filling out forms very CHILL. Imagine doing all that when you're in so much pain!
4) Nice nurses.
5) C giving me back rub/massage like every 5 minutes.
6) Wi-fi at the hospital :P
7) Nice labour room.
8) Epidural.
9) Safe delivery.
10) Healthy Caitlyn :)
11) Family.
12) Prayers.
13) Friends.
14) Nice roommate who named her daughter Katelyn, and we live 10 minutes away from each other!
15) Support from all the hot mama friends from church.
16) K who brought me soup and just cheering me up from my emotions!

So much more to list.....

Here's a picture of our little miracle after she got home.

She's here!

2008-05-17T09:04:00.002+08:00

Miss Caitlyn Karin Ma
Born May 10th 2008 (Sat)
11:11pm
7lb2oz

Everyone kept telling me she would come earlier than her due date (May 14th). I didn't really think so, probably because I like to keep a schedule and wanted a bit more time.

The day before our baby made her arrival, we were playing Mahjong till about 3am. My water broke at 8:30am, leaving me very tired and regretting staying up so late. It must have been all the noises we made with shuffling the tiles that got her to come out earlier. So, my water broke. Just a little bit. C was getting ready for his Temple Street outreach, and luckily he hasn't left the house yet! We then got to the hospital at 9:30am, filled out forms which took quite some time, then checked me in to my room and hooked me up with machines and my ob/gyn told me I had strong contractions. I was very surprised because I wasn't hurting at all. Just uncomfortable and hungry. I was even thinking "I think I can tolerate this. Maybe I don't need an epidural! I can save money!" but by 2pm, it started hurting so much like a really bad period cramp that I've never felt before. Every other minute I had to tell cliff to massage my back because it was killing me so I decided I need an epidural for sure. At around 4pm, they wheeled me to the labour room (first time on wheel chair!) and finally gave me my epidural and IV (firs time IV!). I then felt so much better but my cervix just wouldn't open wide, it was at 2~3cm for the longest time. Suddenly at around 10pm, the nurses started coming in to prep, and told me to start pushing. This was before they got my legs up so I thought they were just making me "practice" for the real thing. (Man, my cantonese sucks). At 11:11pm, our little baby FINALLY came out! I was just so tired from waiting and pushing, thinking "when is this gonna be over???" the whole time, so I was so surprised when she popped out I screamed! I think it's the drugs :) Anyway, before they sent me back to my room, they gave me laughing gas. Man, that felt quite addictive!

To be continued.

11!!!

2008-05-03T13:48:00.005+08:00

11 more days!!!!!!!!! I've been doing a few laundry for the baby before her arrival and enjoying it for now...!!! I love looking at tiny little socks, they are so adorable.

I forgot to mention, a few weeks ago, my friends threw me a baby shower!!! :) One of them was with my closest girlfriends (+ 1 guy) and another one was with a whole bunch of girls from chuch! It was a lot of fun.

I don't have any pictures of the smaller baby shower cus I can't find USB thing to upload photos, but here are some photo of the one from church girls :)

+10kg

3 more weeks!!!

2008-04-22T01:25:00.000+08:00

and I am finally getting nervous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Less than 5 weeks!

2008-04-12T00:32:00.003+08:00

We have less than 5 weeks to go! Time just flew by so quickly especially because we've been busy preparing for our new home and packing! (I hate packing!). We're moving to our new home in 2 days! That day is my last class for pilates for pregnant ladies but I won't make it :( too bad. Thank God C's mom has offered to help, it's good to have an extra person while the movers are here.

Pregnancy has been going well, I feel pretty good. C's been wonderful giving me a back massage before he heads off to work everyday :) A lot of people ask me, are you nervous? To be honest, things have just been so hectic and lots of little things to do here and there, the thought of labour and a new life hasn't really sunked in yet. It'll be alright though! I can't believe we're going to have an additional to our family, it's just so surreal.

Here's a photo taken by our lovely talented friend Fifi. I wanted to take some pictures to remember this experience. Enjoy!

+9kg..............

49 more days!!!

2008-03-27T01:16:00.005+08:00

I forgot to mention that C & I started taking antenatal class and we've been enjoying it so far! Since HK Sanatorium & Hospitals only does Cantonese classes, we've decided to take the English class at Adventist Hospital. Tomorrow is our last session :(

Here's the program:

Session 1:
Discomforts of Pregnancy
Mechanism of labour
Prenatal exercise

Session 2:
Stages of Labour & Alternatives for pain relief
Breathing techniques during labour

Session 3:
Warning signs & Cesarean section, forecps and ventouse delivery
Unit Tour

Session 4:
Breastfeeding & The newborn

What else... we started packing our stuff! Threw 3 big bags of junk away and more to throw! We'll be moving on April 14th... and renovation is still on going! yikes! And!!!!!! today marks 7 more weeks till due date which means 49 more days! Time really flies. She's been moving a lot more than ever and we can't wait to see her :) no name yet though!

+8kg :(

Third Trimester

2008-03-05T08:10:00.003+08:00

I didn't realize I was in my Third Trimester already till I hit my 29th week.

30 weeks today.

10 more to go!

Yikes!

2008-02-29T20:19:00.003+08:00

I haven't updated in so long! and I have not been journaling my weight gain... Current weight gain +6kg :( ...don't judge me!

So, I thought I'd write some stuff about strangers! Now that my bump is bigger, I had a few experience where people treated me so well! The first time was this old man giving me his seat, and the second time was today, when the cab driver asked me if I would like him to drive slower. Some mean people bump into me, well, I'm sure they didn't bump a pregnant lady on purpose but its not nice to bump into people regardless!!! And on the MTR, even if I shove my belly to people, they pretend they're sleeping! So sad, huh?

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-14T23:18:00.005+08:00

We had a quiet night at home :)

Happy Valentines Day!

Los Angeles!

2008-02-11T20:09:00.003+08:00

Our last vacation before our baby girl arrives! We went to LA over Chinese New Year, it was SO hectic, but so so nice to be able to hang out with family and friends. We did a lot of baby shopping and our baby girl received so much gifts! We must have brought back 50 pieces of clothings for her! Thank you everyone for your beautiful gifts! We can't wait to dress her up :)

* Thanks to Lao Lao, Da Yee, Er Yee, Aunty Annie, Dren, Janelle, Jenny, Rita, Lily, and Laura!

Some Food.... :)

Cutie Pie Noah!!!

Sigh...

2008-01-12T19:16:00.000+08:00

I went for our 5th check up with Dr. O today.... she said something I was hoping to never ever hear.....

"You better watch your weight gain!"

I'm not trying to convince anyone but I seriously think her scale is not accurate!! Unless the one we have at home is broken! The check up said that I have gained 3kg since the last check up! Thats crazy, huh? But according to the one at home, maybe 1.5kg.

Oh well, I suppose it's time to be serious about eating healthy... and I'm starting Prenatal Pilates at the end of this month!

Besides that, no ultrasound picture today but we got to listen to the baby's heartbeat!
It was pretty neat ;)

Weight Gain

2008-01-05T12:49:00.000+08:00

I'm going to start journaling my weight gain...

Current weight gain +2.5kg

(Yikes...!)

First Gift

2008-01-04T10:32:00.000+08:00

Here's a picture of our baby girl's first gift from Aunty Dren Dren! ;)
Isn't it adorable?