Wednesday, June 27, 2007

A Personal Respomse....

This post is a personal response to two posts made by a certain someone dated on 20 June 2007 - the person in question would know who she is.

Firstly, I would like to apologise for "giving a face" when she gave me a suggestion. But I had my reason for it. The reason might not justify the action but nonetheless it is a reason. The story goes like this:

The person in question had requested that we hold a certain event at our place instead of another (the request did not come from her personally but through another source. I would have appreciated it if she had told me herself cos' I know she would have expected the same from us). Anyway, even though it would be quite cumbersome to have the event at our place (transporting the food over, cleaning up after, etc), we agreed to her request as we really want to make things easier for her and in her favour cos' we respect her and care for her. So, after making arrangements to have the venue changed, she suggested, on another day, that we change the itinerary for the event and have a simpler one. Those who know me well would know that I don't like last minute changes to my plans so you can imagine my reaction (i.e. "the face") at having adviced to change my plan, after I already made one major change (i.e. the venue). There, that's my reason for making the face. Like I said it might not be justifiable but it is MY reason.

Also, as my family and friends would know, I am one who can't be angry or displeased about something or at someone for long. In fact, I had forgotten about this "making of the face" issue until I saw it on the person's blog this morning. Imagine my surprise! No wonder she had not come around to visit us lately (it would have been exactly a week today since her last visit); was cold towards me when I called her; and didnt reply my SMS.

Anyhow, I would have thought she would tell me how she felt about the issue to me in person and not let me discover it in her blog. In any case, since she had used her blog as an outlet to let me know about this issue, I feel it is apt to do likewise, here. I hope she accepts my apology cos' I know she is not a petty person and is very forgiving. I would also like to let her know that I appreciate all the advices that she gives and hopes that she continues to do so.

But just to highlight one matter, the event in question, although is largely influence by the Malay culture, is not against Islam's practices. I lifted this information from the Muis website: "Majlis kenduri atau bacaan maulid berzanji yang diadakan serentak dengan majlis mencukur rambut itu tidaklah menyalahi peraturan syariat. Akan tetapi perbuatan menabur beras kunyit, wang, bertih serta memasukkan potongan rambut itu ke dalam mangkuk atau kelapa muda adalah perbuatan khurafat." So be rest assured, we won't have the berat kunyit, wang, bertih, etc, during the event.

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

MILs and their DILs

My Secondary school friends visited me a few days ago as I had just given birth to a baby boy on 30 May 2007, three weeks shy of my estimated delivery date on 18 June 2007. Both gals who visited me are pregnant. We started talking about pregnancy and delivery at first. Somehow along the way the topic switched to about mother-in-laws. My two friends had each married into Indian Muslim families and they found it very hard to adjust to the practices of their husbands' families. One complained about the food - having to eat curry and rice cooked with salt, everyday; while the other complained about the MIL dressing her one-year-old daughter in sexy clothings - read tube tops and hot pants! -- please note that my friend is a pious gal, who wears tudung while her MIL is one who dresses sexily although she is in her 40s.

Both didnt understand why MILs have to meddle in their sons' family affairs - given that the sons now have grown up and have their own families. Not enough that these MILs meddle in their sons' affairs but they also like to have things done their own ways, regardless what their sons and daughter in laws think. To make things worse for their daughter in laws, their husbands are "Mommy's boys" so there is no way the sons will go against their Mothers. All my friends can do is suffer in silence as they are told to do things against their will, cos' they did not want to be seen as rude daughter in laws.

My views on this? I feel that although we are in the 21st century and many women are now holding high posts in the corporate world, one thing still remains -- we have to be docile to our husbands and his family. It doesnt matter if at work we are aggressive, when at home, we have to be as meek as a lamb. I feel this scenario is hypocritical but I am sometimes guilty of it too. I mean can we afford to be perceived as rude to our husbands' family members?

Anyway, I hope that MILs out there can be more understanding and not force their own ways on their sons and daughter-in-laws. I mean I am sure there is a limit to a daughter-in-law's patience, right? If she always gives in or compromises to your demands, can't you do the same too? After all, your daughter-in-law is brought up differently, with a different background and sets of values so you can't expect her to agree with everything you say or ask to do. Plus, you wouldnt want your daughter-in-law and your son to quarrel cos' of you - cos' that's what my two gal friends said they argue about with their husbands.

I just hope that my two gal friends will have better relationships with their MILs in the near future. Good luck, L and Z! ;)

p.s: I have nothing against Indian Muslims. It just so happens that my Malay gal friends are married to one. My mentioning it here is just an example of how difference in cultures/backgrounds can cause clashes.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

What to Say and What Not to Say to a Mother-to-Be

I got this article off the Pregnancy Weekly website (www.pregnancyweekly.com). A good read for those non-preggers - so you know what to say to new moms.

What to Say and What Not to Say to a Mother-to-Be

Understand pregnancy for what it is: A wonderful and beautiful experience, wrapped up in a colossal shift in hormones! Not only is the new mother dealing with the uncomfortable symptoms of pregnancy, but also with anxieties and fears of motherhood (not to mention feeling like a beached whale half the time!). New mothers need a tremendous amount of compassion and support throughout the nine months of pregnancy, and beyond.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when offering advice, support or criticism to a new mother:

On the Issue of Pregnancy and Postpartum Weight:
What to Say (All with Sincerity):
Honey, you look terrific!
Pregnancy becomes you.
You need to gain weight, our baby's well-being depends on it!
Honey, you just had a baby! You look great for just having a baby!
You're having our baby! That automatically makes you beautiful!


What NOT to Say:
Wow, you're BIG for____months!
Well, at least people know you're pregnant!
Should you be eating that? You don't want to gain too much weight.
Hey, try breastfeeding! That should take the weight off!
Oh, I didn't realize you already had your baby!


On the Issue of Bottle Feeding vs. Breastfeeding:
What to Say:
Whatever you decide to do, dear. The baby will be healthy either way.
Let's take a breastfeeding class together.
I know a friend who's breastfeeding her child. I'll put you in touch with her.
There are lots of great formulas out there for you to choose from.
Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience to enjoy with your baby.


What NOT to Say:
Breastfeeding is for mothers who are too cheap to buy formula.
I wouldn't breastfeed if I were you. I tried for three months and gave up because it was too hard.
Formula is unhealthy for babies. He'll be sick all the time.
Mothers who love their babies breastfeed their babies.
Breastfeeding is "dirty" and perverted, especially if done in public.


On the Issue of Child Rearing:
What to Say:
I would love to give you advice on anything you need. Just let me know.
I've got some great books on parenting. Would you like to borrow them?
Let's take a parenting class together. That way, we can be prepared.
Parenthood is challenging, but I know you'll be great at it!
Follow your heart. You know what's best for your child.


What NOT to Say:
Well, here is what I (my mother, Aunt Mabel, Dr. So-n-so, etc.,) think/thinks is best for your baby.
This is the only book worth reading on parenting!
Just you wait when this baby is born; you'll see how difficult parenting is!
Always/Never pamper your children, give them time outs, etc. (In fact, eradicate the words "always" and "never" from your vocabulary when discussing parenting!)
Well, if I were you...

Monday, March 19, 2007

My Dream Vacation

I fell in love with Santorini, one of the islands off Greece after I watch The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. I vow to myself that I'll save enough money to visit this beautiful sanctuary within the next three years (ok, make that five). Meanwhile, all I can do is drool at the photos of the place.




A Hot Night = A Pissed Off Me

It's very hot, tonight. I am perspiring, non-stop. This despite me showering twice and having the fan blown at me on full speed!

Other than being incredibly hot, I said some harsh things on msn to my dear friend. I feel crappy about how I delivered my thoughts. I feel I could be more diplomatic with my words but being physically hot, didnt exactly help me to keep my cool. All these said, I am not apologising for what I said cos' I meant them - only that I could have delivered it in a better way.... Hmmm, am I making sense here?

Friday, March 16, 2007

To My Dear Friend

One of my dearest friend is feeling down. I am at my wits' end as I don't know how I can help my friend. But I just want to say to that person (you know who you are) -

That no matter how frustrating things are,
How things are not going right for you,
You'll always have a friend in me.

I'll always be here for you,
And in my eyes you are strong,
You'll overcome this rough patch in no time at all.

I care for you and I am thankful to have a wonderful friend like you....

Friday, March 09, 2007

Checklist for Hospital Bag for Admission

Here's another useful list that I had gathered. This is for the "Hospital Bag" and it should be packed, ideally by your seventh month in case you have to deliver prematurely.

Daddy’s & mommy’s identity cards
Letter from Gynecologist
Booking Slip for admission
Notebook, writing materials

For Baby

2 baby tops (1 long-sleeve, 1 short sleeve)
1 bottom
2 pair of mittens and booties (preferably baby-socks coz' booties are too big on new born
2 receiving blanket with-hoods
1 swaddling cloth
Handkerchiefs
1 baby soft cap (if the receiving blanket hood is too big)

For Mommy
Maternity or Normal pads (Day & Night use)
2 pyjamas with front opening buttons for nursing
Slippers
Inflatable ring (After Episiotomy) - can loan from hospital too
1 pack disposable panties
Clothes for after discharge
Books/Magazines
2 nursing bras
Disposable Nursing pads
1 face towel
1 bath towel
Toiletries
A pair of socks (if feeling-cold at night)
Plastic bags for soiled clothings
Handphone & charger
Breast Pump
Snacks in case you don’t like hospital food
Nipple cream
Fybogel – can get from Pharmacy (Drink a pack aft delivery... makes it easier to move your bowels cos with the stitches below, it can get quite painful)

For Daddy/Miscellaneous
A jacket
Digital camera (CF card, batteries, charger)
Video-cam (batteries, tapes)
Essence of chicken/Red bull
Chocolate bars-& snacks
Tissues/ Wet tissues
2 bottles of Mineral Water

Note: I was advised not to wear my contact lenses. So for those who wants to wear your contact lenses upon discharge, just bring them but make sure you don't wear them when you are going for delivery.

Essentials for Preggy Moms & Babies

Seeing that I'll be a first time mom, I decided to do some research on the items that I'll be needing for my baby. My other preggy friends had told me to start buying the items for my baby before my seventh month cos 1. in case I have to give birth prematurely (I hope not) 2. once I am in the third trimester, I'll be more tired and "heavier" and shopping will be quite an inconvenient.

Anyway, I want to share the list of essential items that preggy moms should get:

A. Clothing

Baby abdominal binder - 5
Swaddling cloth - 4
Hat - 2
Mittens - 5
Booties - 5
Short pants - 3
Long pants - 3
Short sleeved shirt (button) - 2
Short sleeved shirt (side-tying) - 2
Long sleeved shirt (button) - 2
Long sleeved shirt (side-tying) - 2
Romper (short sleeved) - 4
Romper (long sleeved) - 2
Socks - 5

B. Sleeping

Baby Cot/Playpen - 1 (I am considering getting the baby cot cum playpen as it's more cost-effective)
Baby pillow - 2
Bolster - 2
Bedding sets - 2
Blanket - 1
Mattress - 1
Waterproof sheet - 1

C. Daily Essentials

Baby wet wipes
Baby detergent
Bottle brush - 1
Diaper
Milk powder container
Teats - 2
Pacifier - 2
Feeding bottle - 3
Bottle warmer -2
Ear thermometer - 1
Fever cool plaster
Changing mat - 1
Steam steriliser - 1
Sterilising tablets

D. Bathing

Nappy rash cream
Baby shampoo
Baby bath gel
Bath towel
Face towel
Bath mat
Baby powder
Bath sponge
Bath tub
Baby lotion/oil
Miniature set of bath essentials - for travelling or to put at caretaker's place

E. Breast Feeding

Breast pump - 1 (manual/electric)
Disposable breast pad
Nipple cream/Breast care gel
Breastmilk storage bag
Stretch mark cream

F. Travelling
Baby carrier

Baby stroller (I plan to get a lightweight stroller and am considering brands like Combi and BabyCraft cos' they are cheap, light and durable -- cost less than $200)
Diaper bag
Feeding set
Travel changing mat

I hope the list is useful. Do let me know if I miss out on any other important items. Happy shopping! :)

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Tutti Fruitti

This is quite accurate… Make a guess which fruit I am...

Fruit Personality Test

Did you know that you can tell what kind of personalities people have by the kind of fruits they like? Click on the name of the fruit you picked to see your personality.

Which fruit would you pick first if you were handed the following:
1. Orange
2. Apple
3. Banana
4. Coconut
5. Pineapple
6. Papaya
7. Mango
8. Cherry
9. Black Grapes
10. Peach
11. Custard Apple
12. Pear


ORANGE
If an orange is your favorite fruit, it speaks of a person who has enduring patience and willpower. You like to do things slowly, but very thoroughly and are completely undaunted by hard work. You tend to be shy, but are reliable and a trustworthy friend. You select your partner with care and you love with all your heart. You avoid conflict at all costs.

APPLE
If an apple is your favorite fruit, you are an extravagant, impulsive and outspoken person, often with a bit of a temper. While you may not be the best organizer yourself, you make a good team leader and are good at moving things forward. You can take quick action in most situations. You enjoy travel immensely. You ooze with charm when you are with your partner. You have an enthusiasm for life, unmatched by most.

BANANA
You are a softie! Loving, gentle, warm and sympathetic by nature is the banana lover. You often lack in self-confidence and are quite timid by nature. People often take advantage of your sweet temperedness, and sheer vulnerability to a situation. You adore your partner in every which way, both for their mental and physical beauty! Because of the way you are, your relationship is always very much in harmony!

COCONUT
The coconut lover is a serious, very thoughtful and contemplative person. Though you enjoy socializing, you are particular about the company you keep. You tend to be stubborn but not necessarily foolhardy. Shrewd, quick-witted and alert, you ensure that you are right on top of any given scenario, especially at work. You need a partner with brains and while passion is important it certainly isn't everything for you.

PINEAPPLE
You are quick to decide and even quicker to act. You are brave in making career changes. You have exceptional organizing abilities and are undaunted by the size of the task at hand. You tend to be self reliant, sincere and honest in your dealings with others. Though you don't often make friends very quickly, once you do, it is for life. You rarely, if ever, make romantic overtures. Your partner is often impressed with your sterling qualities but disappointed in your ability to show affection.

PAPAYA
You are truly fearless and take much that happens in life in stride. You give considerable thought to things you do. You have a sense of humor that along with your generous nature keeps you in most people's good books. You are a go-getter in your professional life, and have a knack for being in the right place at the right time. You enjoy meeting new people and seeing new sights whenever you can. Your sense of humor is what attracts members of the opposite sex to you more than anything else. It is simply charming!

MANGO
A mango lover is a personality to be reckoned with, quite often it's a person who has quite fixed ideas, and influencing you is not an easy task. You tend to be an extremist with strong likes and dislikes, and at times even like to control a situation. You enjoy getting involved in something that presents mental challenge. Strong as you may be, you are like a kitten when you are with your partner. You accommodate the love of your life, and make up for all the strong will elsewhere!

CHERRY
If cherry is your favorite fruit, life isn't always as sweet for you. You often face ups and downs, particularly professionally, and find that you make small sums of $$$, instead of a lump sum. You have a fertile imagination and are often involved in creative pursuits. You are a very sincere and loyal partner, but find that expressing your feelings is not very easy. Your home is your haven, and you love nothing more than being surrounded by close family and your beloved partner.

BLACK GRAPES
You are a polite person in general, but do have quick flare-ups of temper that cool down just as quickly. You enjoy beauty in all forms, including beautiful people. You are very popular because of your warm, gregarious nature. You have a zest for life, you enjoy everything you do, right from the way you dress, to your style and your day-to-day life. Your partner must share your zeal and zing for life to enjoy all you have to offer!

PEACH
Like a peach, you enjoy the juice of life and all its lush ripeness! You are the friendly sort, and are quite frank and outspoken, which adds to your charm. You are quick to forgive and forget; and value your friendships highly. You have an independent and ambitious streak in you, that makes you a real go-getter. You are the ideal lover, fiery and passionate but sincere and faithful in love. You don't however like to display all that passion in public.

CUSTARD APPLE
You are a modest and conservative person who can be quite sensitive at times. You tend to be thoughtful and contemplative, and therefore are rarely rash in doing things. You are quite ambitious and are good at anything that requires much detailing or working with numbers. You are quick at finding fault with others. While looking for a partner, you value a person's intellect far above their looks or good old passion. You are quite shy and not very comfortable demonstrating affection.

PEAR
If you put your mind to something you can do it successfully, but by and large you tend to be fickle and have trouble completing a task with the enthusiasm you started it with. You need to know the results of your efforts almost immediately. You enjoy mental stimulation and love to get into a good discussion!

A mango lover is what I am........ ;)