September

Where is the year going. In a few short months it'll be your first birthday and then the holidays! We are going to need to start planning your party, and also the holidays in nj. Mommy needs to purchase tickets this weekend. We're also going to go to london, and visit for daddys friends wedding. That will be mommy and your first trip to england! How exciting but cold...

Things are the same with mommy and daddy, but you are growing and changing. Pointing at things are your favorite now, along with still saying "mamamama, babababa, and mehhhhh" (means milk) you're getting stronger and baancing better too! Sometimes you can stand for 3 seconds before falling. In the pool you love to splash the water and practice walking and climbing the stairs as well. :) its such a joy to have you in our lives sofia... Though not always easy, but always wonderful to think of your beautiful smile.

Children are so real, so genuine... So pure. They do what they feel, exactly... And what fresh air. Growing up though means learning, conditioning, so its necessary, but I think it is important to be children at heart so we don't forget to be real and genuine, especially to our loved ones. A simple smile, brings such joy. Everyone needs to smile more. :)

Just like you sofia. :)
Love mommy and daddy.
Xoxoxoxoxoxooxoxox
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NINE.

nine months little sofia!! gosh, where has the time gone... it's really much quicker than i could've ever imagined... so much has happened and i really havent' been documenting very well in blogging!! but you've learned to much in the past month-- since we went to phuket, between waving hello/bye bye... clapping, sharing toys and foods... to say the least!  also trying new foods, including frog soup! (yes, frogs!! ack!)

such a blessing you are... i know i say that all the time, but you really are.  You're healthy, happy and so loving.  Though this past month you actually have been more attached; it's sweet but also can be difficult at times...  9 months.. almost need to start weaning but you show no signs of that yet.  can't believe you'll be 1 year in a short few months.  it really seems like only a little bit ago that you decided to have your birth day.  i remember it so clearly too... sigh.  (yes you've learned to "tao dai hei"  too, not necessarily a good thing as it worries mom a bit of your respiratory!)

anyhow, thank you little sofia... for being such sunshine in not only mommy and daddy's lives, but the lives of our entire family.  everyone loves you. you are such a good little girl... xxxooo
love mommy & daddy

First japanese (7/30)

Sofia likes japanese food! Well, bean curd (inari), and seaweed that is... Some grilled sweet potato as well! Today we brought Sofia out to lunch with us, at langham mong kok, since we had a coupon for lunch! We had the japanese restaurant and ate a lot! (When do we not?!) Chirashi don, udon, hand rolls, fried oysters, wagyu beef, chicken gristle, and sweet potatoes! Sofia had a piece of seaweed... Then some more... And more! I gave her two ikura as well (salmon eggs), some little cucumber, inari pieces (in the chirashi don), sweet potato and some bits of udon! She loves it. :) what a happy healthy little girl. Its nice too becase we can spend family time like this together, even on weekdays. We actually went swimming this morning before lunch too. We're very fortunate, and very grateful for that.

The weather is nice today in hk... Not too hot, nor humid. A nice summer day to spend with loved ones.

Xoxoxoxox love mommy and daddy.

Ps: mommy still needs to finish writing about our phuket trip last week!!!
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daddy's birthday, the twilight impact along with i spy more teeth!, the pool, and a few other things...

Today is Daddy's birthday... he's 29.  But mommy doesn't really think so.  In our hearts and our heads, we think we're about 26. maybe 24 even! it's all just a number after all. Age is a state of mind and well being. :)

But it was a chill birthday.  We didn't do much, really at all.  Today we spent most of the day sleeping, eating and then at 4pm we received a sudden call from grandma asking us to go to Causeway bay to go buy an apartment?! So off we went... (auntie grandma vivian and grandma auntie poon were there already) uh, just because grandma was so excited about it.  We spent 2 hrs about getting there, getting things signed and finally coming back home, to which we were partially late for daddy's dinner at manhattan hill clubhouse.  :(  everyone was already eating, but of course took a break to greet you little girl.  What joy you bring to everyone... especially your great grandparents!! :) it's so cute.  You were tired though,  so a bit fussy towards the end.

It was exciting though, because last night in bed you figured out how to crawl... FORWARDS! :)  for the past week you've been crawling backwards, but finally last night, you pushed your legs forward and moved in the direction you wanted! What a great milestone, and on daddy's birthday. :)

*
Also a few other things-- mommy noticed on Friday (7/9) that your teeth #4 AND 5 are coming in!! #4 is the right front center (yay, finally) and #5 is the left canine... speaking of which!

It's true, i think, what they say... when you're pregnant you should be careful and look at pretty things b/c it influences your baby!! the TWILIGHT impact on you little girl...

So last March, mommy started to read "Twilight", the books... i finished all 4 books within a matter of i think 3 weeks.  crazy, since it's quite a lot of reading.  but apparently those books might have had quite the impact (of course team edward-- from the movie haha) but yes... because your tooth #3 was the right canine, aka the vampire tooth!! and it's SHARP.  I couldn't figure out why you sprouted this tooth before the center top two (since that's usually what happens)... but yes... i think it's due to the twilight books! :p  that tooth came in last month-- early june.  so we're accelerating now, two teeth for the month of july! little miss sofia, you really are eager to eat!!

Which btw- you've now had... peas, carrots, sweet potatoes/yams, bananas (dislike), apples (dislike), corn on the cob, kiwi (love), avocados (love), strawberries (love), rice cereal, congee, congee with steamed fish, grapes, blueberries, watermelon, cantelope, and some other spelt/organic grain cookie/biscuit type things.  That's quite a lot! mommy needs to start making you more fish though, so you can grow smart.  You already are, but more is better in this case as you're growing and developing your little brain!! You absorb so much everyday, ready to learn... mommy needs to get you out more so you can learn.

*
July 4th was last sunday... unfortunately we didn't get our grill in time for a july 4th bbq, but did get it delivered on the 7th (wed).  so we had a bbq on the 8th, thurs: of burgers, 9th: ribs, lamb chops, steak, wings and prawns, and 10th: more burgers, steak, wings, and sausages.  We still have a fish in the freezer and a rack of lamb... so much food! but yes... the grill is great.  but anyhow, on the 4th mommy and daddy took you to the pool for the first time.  We slathered on the sunscreen (so you wouldnl't get burnt!) and took you to manhattan hill, into the water.  Since it was your first time, i think you were a little bit scared... since you didn't really know what was going on.  We only stayed for about 5 minutes in the pool, since it was a bit cold as well and your toes were turning into prunes already! Plus we had to go to lunch, so it was a quick trip.

but then on Saturday (10th) we went to the pool again, this time in the afternoon and you seemed to like it a bit more.  You started to move your feet like a frog, and how cute it was.  Unfortunately the pool guy said we couldn't take photos :( boo.  but we took some anyhow.  We'll try to go to the pool again this week, since next week we will be going to phuket!! yay!! mommy and daddy can't wait. :)

*
Anyhow, that's what's been going on.. mommy needs to try to update more, but it's been a forgetful mommy... between watching world cup (which ends tonight- go spain!) and also trying to get some work done on your clothing line... which mommy needs to hurry more.  that and the photobooth.  so hopefully those will be done by the end of july/ august. mommy needs to balance her time more efficiently but also wants to take care of you enough since you are mommy's little girl.

balance is key.

we love you little sofia michael... you are such a blessing.
xoxoxoxxoxoxoxo mommy and daddy

another month...(6/22)

7 months now have passed since we met you little girl!!

your sitting up is getting more sturdy everyday and lately you've started to be able to crawl backwards! it's quite funny actually.  you though, don't like being on your tummy much, but we try to play some games just so your arms and legs get stronger.  crawling supposedly helps arm/leg coordination, so it's important for you to learn.  some babies don't crawl, i read that some people think it's linked to developmental things/issues later on.

anyhow. each baby is different... :)

lately mom and dad have been watching world cup, so you haven't been sleeping very early- around 10-11pm... you'll sleep a bit and wake up.  we need to get back on a better schedule.  actually though, mommy has noticed that if helper rowena puts you to sleep in the afternoon, you'll fall asleep quite quickly w/o crying in your crib... vs. if mommy puts you in your crib! it's like you know, which i'm sure you do.  You're quite smart... it seems you like to read signs, esp in the elevator.  mommy needs to start teaching you alphabets and words now... at least in english.  We also need to get you some more music, in spanish and other languages so you can learn too!!

Grandma came to hong kong on thursday night but left on friday to xiamen to see great grandma... she'll be back though on wed, so that'll be good. she'll be excited to play with you. :)

Today we went to brunch with auntie lois. She gave you some new clothes, they're cute. :) It's nice to catch up with her, we went to hullet house, the parlour. it's fancy, and not very baby friendly, but we managed. :) you were really "guai"... and fell asleep as soon as we got back into the car.  too bad it was raining

nothing else much new... but you're still just as cute, getting cuter every day. :) mommy loves you very much. daddy loves you too. xxoo

almost 7 months!

it's been over a month since we've been home in hk. the weather is hot and humid. and more humid. sometimes it rains, so we get a bit of cooler weather, but for the most part, hellooooo hk summer!! It's tough too, since it's so hot that we don't get to get out much, nor go down to the part around 4-5pm b/c the mosquitos are having their fun in the summer as well.  they are pesky little pin dot sized mosquitos too. :(  blood thirsty and hungry! so either we should wake up in the morning to go to the park for a walk or we should just stay indoors.  unfortunately it's the latter.  i wish we could go out more, when you didn't sweat as much, or weren't so hot.

it was weird today, mommy wanted ot take you for a walk and for soem reason the helper decided she was coming? uhhh... next time i think i need to clarify that she doesn't need to come to the park to walk. although we only walked for a little, about 20 minutes, you were so sweaty and started to get uncomfortable, so we decided to go home.

i'ts okay, having a helper, i just need to make sure she's doing her cleaning house chores first... it seems that she's always very eager to play with you (though who wouldn't be!) and so need to make sure things are clean... she's still technically on probation/trial, so i donno.  she's ok clean. not immaculate, like i'd like... so we'll see i guess. i'm sure we'll still end up keeping her anyways, just because.

you're still growing. such a doll.  you were so excited to see daddy after last week when he came back. it was the cutest little thing how happy you were! it's nice to have daddy home too, of course, and fathers day was this past sunday. we didn't do much, actually mommy didn't prepare much, since it's just still too early and i didn't have the chance to... but i'm sure next year will be better when you can draw daddy a card or something. :)

i don't think you like avocados btw. you seem to find them funny tasting... you'll eat a few bites still, but then no more. you still love your puffs the most.

grandma is coming thursday!! yay! that will be nice to see her again. she's so excited to see you too little sofia.
xxoo love mommy

Your own bed...

Today is the 6th day of napping in your own crib.  It's been a tough week- we started last Thursday... then it was 45-50 min of crying... and day 2, 3, 4, 5--- still 45 minutes of crying then passed out. But today, the 6th day of nap time in your own crib, 10 minutes of on and off crying and yay!!! Nap time! :D

What a great thing! This morning you woke up at 730am, then went back to sleep from 930-11:30... then played, ate, played some more and into the crib at 2:45 (so already almost 3 hrs of being awake) and boom! sleep. hopefully you'll sleep about 2 hrs and then wake up at 5ish and then we can play, eat dinner at 6 and go back to sleep by 8pm.

Tonight mommy and daddy have to go to dinner for Uncle Ronald's birthday, so auntie Rowena will watch you...  and hopefully you'll sleep okay tonight as well. :) But she understands the importance of leaving you in your crib. And you do know as well!! Mommy is really proud of you, and how quickly you can learn. Maybe night time sleeping in your own room wont' be too bad and isn't too far away!! (i'm sure daddy will be happy!)

On another note, daddy got a new "job" today as Project Director of CIA-- your Grand-uncle Sy's company in Tokyo, Japan! Hopefully we can visit someday, as Tokyo is a pretty interesting place.

Anyhow, congratulations to daddy. We're so very proud of him. :)

And we're very proud of you too little Sofia. our little girl.
xxoo
mommy and daddy

Nice Weekend...including Sofia's first boat ride and tooth #3!

What a chill weekend... at least Saturday afternoon...

On Saturday we had dim sum with great grandma- hou bu and all our relatives on grandma's side, total of 15 people! You got to see great grandma and also your cousins Jayden and Jiselle, not to mention all your aunties and uncles! :) It was a nice gathering, since the last time was about 3 mos ago for your 100 days at the intercon. Lots of food and mommy invited everyone since i was the one who called everyone.  Was a good thing to do.

Then in the afternoon daddy went to kickboxing class with uncles tristan and will.  We went home to take a nap!! By 4:25 we got up and went to pick up daddy since we had to go to Aberdeen Marina Club for uncle Justin's surprise party.  It was a good thing we went, since Daddy's friends invited us on the boat! Uncle Rex's boat- LO RIDER. (classic). it's a really really nice boat though, 70ft.  You seemed to like it, being on the boat, rocking back and forth. it was definitely a chill afternoon.  We had dinner on Lamma island, but you slept thru it all, which was a good thing, so mommy could eat! So it was Uncle Rex, Tony, Edward, daddy mommy and you. What a lucky little girl you are... fancy fancy.  But a very chill afternoon and unplanned. Those are the best. :)


Then on Sunday we had our typical dim sum with great grandpa/ma at the intercon. Uncle edwin took some photos, which were nice. :) you're such a happy little girl. .. we are really blessed with you sofia.  Just remember, you too, need to be thankful that you're surrounded by so many people who love you!!

Nothing much in the afternoon... just stayed at home and rested. Family nap!!


Today, you napped in your crib again. Only 20 min of crying (though perhaps you missed your morning nap so were a bit more tired).  but either way, you're getting better... I hope by the end of the week you nap w/o fighting and crying. :)  then next week we'll try nighttime sleeping! joy!!

You're a good girl sofia. Thank you for choosing mommy and daddy.
we love you.
xxxo

Growing up.

It seems the turning point of 6 months is quite a milestone. Between Sofia's first fever, cough, and also starting to sit up more!! She's been also realizing how to push buttons and adverse... cry, whine, and see if she can get what she wants! It's definitely fun and a challenge at the same time as mommy and daddy trying to figure out what she wants and also if she should get it... like being picked up/ held all the time. :p

Today was a big day as well.  Yesterday the helper Rowena changed your sheets in the crib. They're the dwell ones now. so very girlie, and pretty.  So today mommy decided to put them to use.  At 2:30pm you started to look tired, so at 2:40, into the crib you go! and the tears and crying started... and kept going... it's tough, for mommy, but i know it's best for you, and for our little family-- so that you get used to sleeping in your own crib, in your own room... i'm sure daddy will be thrilled too. haha.  maybe he'll be the most thrilled. :p  The books say that I need to let you cry- and so you can figure out how to self soothe. I cannot pick you up, but can talk to you, etc.  So i let you cry, and cry, and give you a pacifier, and that seemed to help but then the crying persists... i'm glad you don't like the pacifier actually. better. :)  But at 3:10, i put my head on your chest and "shhhh" and it seems to help calm you down. by 3:26pm you're sleeping in your crib. :) i'm sure you're tired; you're definitely sweaty and hot! You've also managed to move completely in the opposite direction- from your head towards the wall to ending up towards the door! But, what a big step... Mommy is so proud of you.  Mommy is letting you cry, but it's for the best. I promise to always be here for you Sofia...

have a good afternoon nap little angel.
xoxo
mommy

ps:

we are also almost sitting up all the time unassisted! mommy is trying to make you sit as much possible, since usually it's around this time that little babies do sit up... hopefully you'll be able to do so by next week and grow that strong spine and muscles!! and also- even though you only gained 1 lb in the past 2 months, you have become so much more aware and alert to the things around you... you even make it very clear to us when your toy or water sippy cup is taken away... ohhh the fun has begun for mommy and daddy... responsiveness from the little girl. haha.

we love you no matter what though. :)

First Fever.

Yesterday we went to the doctors for your 6 month checkup.  Including 2 shots, as expected...  You're now 27"  tall and 19lbs 4oz.  From your 4 month checkup, you only gained 1 lb and only grew 1/2".  I think perhaps it was marked you were taller last time, or i suppose your growth spurts didn't really happen the past 2 months.  I'm sure perhaps travelling too, and not really getting a proper schedule had a bit of an effect as well. The time change especially.   Anyhow, doctor says you're doing well and you're still in the 90-95th percentile.

So 2 shots- one in each thigh and yes, this time you did cry. I think though, you were crying not because it was hurting you (the shots), but because you just didn't want to lie down!  But yes, home we went after the doctors and were just at home for the rest of the day.  Then at night, mommy and daddy went out to eat.  No real signs of fever but then when we got back auntie Mila actually put you to sleep in your playyard (yay!) but noooo! she had covered you with blankets and a pillow even, on top of that! The a/c was on, but still i think that might have facilitated in getting your fever even higher. Though you were in bed by 7pm (before we got home from dinner), throughout the night was rough... you wanted to suck/eat all night, so mommy didn't sleep much- also because I was worried about you over-heating/ fevers in babies are dangerous if too high- can cause seizures. :(  Luckily you were okay, but at 6am we woke up and your temperature was still 102.  So mommy gave you some fever reducing medicine, but that syrup is kind of gross, and you vomited it up (just like mom would've too... so I don't blame you!)  so Mommy and daddy gave you a lukewarm bath, which seemed to help a bit.

All day today you were a bit fussy, but probably because you weren't feeling well. :(  Poor thing. Mommy was going to take you to see aunties lisa and jane but decided against it since you still weren't 100% (100.7).  Mommy dropped them off at the airport and came home-- where you had slept 1 hr but were then playing with auntie Mila and Wheng.  Still feverish.  101.  :(

I'm hoping that your fever will go away otherwise we'll have to go back to the doctors tomorrow morning... though they probably won't do much additional, so better if it ust goes down... but it seems like it has so far (925pm now)... so hopefully your little body and immune system is figihting hard to get rid of the buggies inside you so that you get healthy and happy again. :)

On another note, the new helper Wheng, you're not very familiar to her, so Auntie Mila still comes over... she is very eager to really play with you all the time, though I don't really want her to all the time, so maybe only once a day or so... after she finishes her work etc.  She wants to do a lot with you- feed you, etc. but that's still for mommy to do since that's our time!! I'm still figuring out if it's good or not, and it seems good, since a lot of household chores/cleaning is helpful when she does them... so mommy can't quite complain. but it's still a bit different , having someone around all the time. a bit weird, so needs time getting used to.

Anyhow, mommy just hopes that you get better soon... mommy wants you to be a happy little girl, and of course healthy as well.

big kisses, hugs and cuddles, what every little baby not feeling well needs.
xxxo love mommy

6 months.

Happy half a year Sofia!! So quick, the 6 months have passed.

We're back in HK now, you did amazingly on the flights back!! Mommy gives you an A++.  The flight from NJ to SF luckily grandpa came with us even though we got to sit in business and grandpa got an exit row.  But yes, good thing grandpa came because he helped us with the luggage in between the terminals... don't know how we would've managed if he weren't there!! So that was really helpful. :)  You slept on the flight though- for about 3 of the 4.4 hrs, then were up the last two.  it was okay, you didn't really cry either and were smiling at the person who sat next to us.  Unfortunately though grandma decided to feed you some new food that morning- polenta "congee" with beef feet stock... hmm. probably not the best idea before our long flight. because on the flight to sf, you had a massive messy up the back poop... no fun.. for mommy! but it's okay... :)  you had fun eating it when it was being fed to you that morning. :p  i will make you the polenta again, but maybe not the beef feet stock yet.  I think we will try with the brown rice congee this week.  

Anyhow, we got to SFO and you were awake; we ate dinner with grandpa and then checked in for our flight.  we went thru the gate and grandpa went to get his rental car/ and go to his hotel for his mtg in sf in the morning. :)     we were very tired though... since we weren't taking off till 1:20am (420am est).   We hung out in the lounge for a bit... and at 12:30 boarded.  We both passed out right after the plane took off (though you might have passed out first) and slept for about 6-7 hrs.  Then you woke up for about 3 hrs (including massive poop #2, on the verge of diarrhea), and then went back to sleep with 3 hrs remaining in the flight.  So Guai!! Mommy even gave you a few bits of strawberries to taste, of course you liked them. :) Mommy was able to eat breakfast and watch "up in the air" too before landing.  You woke up by 630, after we had gone thru security and gotten our luggage, when daddy, grandma and grandpa wong picked us up.

Boy is the weather hot and humid in hk!! We slept most of the day Friday and even Saturday too... Today is Sunday, and we're a little better, woke up at 7am and you didn't take a nap till about 3pm, so hopefully your schedule will be back to normal by tomorrow if not tuesday. :)  But all in all, after 6 flights, across the US on your first tour, you did incredible little girl!!

1- HK-SF
2- LA-Cleveland
3- Cleveland - Cbus
4- Cbus - EWR
5- EWR- SF
6- SF- HK

Of course it's good to be home, but at the same time we will miss the states... those trips are never long enough.  But actually grandma and grandpa tsang will be back in late june/july to visit you again!

What a fun trip though... full of family and friends... you see what's important, family, friends, love... though nothing is ever perfect, sometimes it can come really close, or rather there can be perfect moments in our unperfect lives.   <3

love always, mommy and daddy

Usa

Its been such a trip so far... Sf, la, currently in columbus. Sofia has been really good... As good as a little one can be with all the travelling. M and I have had a bit of hiccups/off times; and I'm sure he misses home in hk. Everytime I come to the states I miss it. I miss the little things. I wonder if and when we'll move back, if ever. I don't think I've fully accepted hk as "home", though I consider a few places home.

We're in cbus now too... Which is "home"... Being the condo is here. Its sad to think of selling, especially because we started here... The emotional factor is much more than I thought! Sad to see furniture being sold, sad to be leaving. Its such a pleasant little place... Its where we started, where we met. Its special.

Sofia has been saying "ah-mmmmm" and "meahhhhh"s lately right before sleeping. Its her way of saying mom I think, "mom I'm tired and want milk". I hope she picks up "daddy" or "baba" soo. Its cute though but I want to make sure daddy feels involved.

Overall the trip has been stressful, I'm sure for michael and I... I think combined with over-tiredness and travelling with a baby... We definitely need a date night soon.

Daddy leaves back to hk tmrw and we're headed to nj... Grandma is here to help, so it'll be better at least. But we'll miss daddy though perhaps the time apart may be a bit ok.

I love him though so much, I hope he knows that forever.

I love u too of course little girl... Oh! You've gotten a double eyefold, but just in your left eye the past 2 days. :p

Xxoo mommy
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It's already May!

The year is going by so quickly. It's already May!

In two days, Sofia, we're going to take your first trip to the states! it's going to be amazing... and such an experience... i hope you do well! There is so much to pack, it's going to be a challenge i'm sure, but i know we'll get through it okay. :)  Mommy prays you'll be a good girl on the plane...and your ears won't hurt!

The past week has been good.  Nothing too special has been going on, but your teeth are definitely starting to come in more and more each day. They're still as sharp as ever too! and actually hurt when you bite mommy's fingers! Mommy read that usually after the first two come in, 4-8 weeks later, the top two teeth will also come in... but no signs of those yet.  You are still teething though and go thru some fits of massive frustration and biting... lately you like to chew on the washcloth in the bath (yes, including the soap that might be on it from washing)... so maybe a cold wet washcloth might do the trick since they say i shouldn't give you the toys filled with liquid since your teeth might bite thru.

Yesterday we had dim sum with tai yeh yeh and tai mama.  Tai yeh yeh gave you a hong bao for going on your first trip! we will need to bring him something back :) that was very nice.

Today we had brunch at Steakhouse with Leeton and joan, raymond. It was nice to see leeton again. He's still smaller than you, but he is getting bigger and more alert too! He'll be a nice friend later on, but i don't think you really understand who he is now anyways. :)  I'm sure daddy wants you to stay away from boys for a LONG time anyhow. You'll just be daddy's little girl for now. :) (which you already are).

It's too cute, i think you look fwd to playing with daddy... he always makes you laugh and smile... it's really a precious moment, when you play together.  when daddy is sleeping on the bed you look up at him, i think, seeing if he's going to wake up to play with you. so sweet.

I tell daddy, the reason why you're so cute Sofia, is because daddy and mommy love each other. And although mommy might pms and feel insecure, she knows at the end of the day, daddy loves her and loves you...

***
Lately we are thinking of having a little brother (hopefully) for you... i can only imagine what type of older sister you'll be... bossy, most likely, kinda like mommy! haha.  But you will be a good older sister.   We'll see when our next blessing will be. :)

***
But yes! The states in two days... mommy has a lot to do and prepare... so better get started.  The helper has also arrived in hk now, mommy is still hesitant, so we'll see how it all pans out.  ok i hope.

we love you little girl! can't wait till you get to see where mommy grew up. :)

love always, mommy and daddy.

happy 5 months sofia!

Yes, five months have already passed. It's amazing. Everyday is such a blessing. To have you, Sofia, in our lives. You're healthy, happy and beautiful.  We couldn't have asked for anything more.  Mommy wishes that you grow up and become a beautiful person, both inside and out.  There is the list! you know. :)

This morning we went to go get your hk passport.  It'll be ready by the time we get back from the states! I'm surprised it takes longer than the USA one, considering hk is usually more efficient, but regardless, i'm glad that you'll have both.  we then went to have lunch (mommy/daddy) at 360 in landmark- it's a hidden gem! Burritos! :)  Yum.  We then dropped daddy off at work and came home.  Mommy was SO very tired though since last night you woke up quite a bit, so didn't let mommy sleep much.  I haven't been that exhausted in a long time. .. but luckily we took a nap or two plus a dr.pepper for some caffiene to help get me thru the day! But yes, 5 months! Unfortunately mommy forgot to take some photos of you, so we'll have to do that tomorrow! cannot forget.

We did though, take a walk, and mommy used the moby wrap (since we had to run some errands), and you sat kangaroo style. so cute. :)  you are such a doll sofia. so fun. but we came home afterwards and just hung out a bit and you took another nap till almost 730pm.

Nothing much else special, just the normal. Hopefully though you sleep better tonight. :) (daddy went out)

But I just wanted to let you know, how grateful I am... that you're such a healthy and happy baby sofia... though you might not look 5 months; you look older everyone says (b/c you're so tall!), mommy is so absolutely grateful that you're strong and healthy.  Mommy's friend Angie's niece was born only at 25 weeks and she's very tiny and not all developed.  Life is so fragile... and it's so important to treat our bodies right and to take care of ourselves and each other... so I hope little Grace is okay. I hope she stays strong, as strong as she can, and if she is in pain that it goes away quickly... she's so precious, as is every little baby... so we pray that she's okay and can make it through safely and grow stronger and healthier each minute, each day...

it makes mommy reflect how lucky we are... remember to say thank you for life everyday little girl... say thank you for each breath, the earth, the beauty of nature, of family, friends and love.

biggest hugs and kisses.
love mommy and daddy

Please pass the peas.

Today mommy tried a new food for you Sofia! Green Peas! Unfortunately we had to buy the frozen birds eye peas but they're yummy nonetheless! It's a bit difficult to mash them in the Vitamix, the blades are too high, but after adding some water, it turned out a bit better.  And, as expected, you ate them up! yummy!  I suspect there won't be many foods you don't like, really. :p  Ahhh my little girl. 

This morning we actually saw Auntie Tina (huang), which was nice too, she gave you a summer hat and bib. Too cute.  I haven't seen her in about 4 years now! It's pretty amazing how quickly the time does fly by. And though we weren't able to really catch up, it's nice to see a friendly face from the past. :) 

Only a few more weeks till our big trip!! 

Soooo exciting! I hope you do well travelling little munchkin so we can take you to more places! 

xoxo

love mommy

Sleeping through the night... and more PBP

It's been a wonderful week in the sleeping through the night category! For the FIRST TIME Sofia, you slept thru the night w/o waking up at all!! a whole 9 hours!! :) What a darling. it's so wonderful for you! Mommy though still wakes up at 7am since the milk is full... so i've been needing to pump the past two days.  but it's okay.  You've been growing so much and are so interested in eating table food! Mommy will try to find you some fresh peas from the market to try that since i think rice cereal is getting old.  I'm sure you will LOVE eating everything since you're already so curious when we're at dinner... and definitely want some too!

what a little blessing... you're happy, healthy and beautiful.
we love you.

and yes, more PBP, once a day if that. :p
xxo mommy & daddy

Water + Rice Cereal = PBP (after 3 days)

So the past week, mommy has been feeding you some rice cereal and water.  You LOVE eating out of the spoon and even drinking water with a spoon! toooo cute.  It seems like water is making you not poop as much, and the rice cereal- ohhhhh! What a sight... after 3 days of no pooping, you finally went! (though grandma taught mom how to press the specific spot on your belly to help with constipation too).  And oh my- did you go... it was like peanut butter consistency-- or as daddy said, the "ice cream machine!" and it certainly was. a LOT.  Mommy wanted to record it (gross), but too funny.  

***

4/11: Sunday- grandma left this morning.  Mommy got to drive!! it's sad to see grandma go home but we'll see her very soon!! in a month! :p  The rest of the day we just hung out, took a walk, and relaxed.  

Mommy fed you some rice cereal as well... which you happily ate up!  Its' funny, if mommy doesn't feed you fast enough, you will actually get upset.  Though when we start to record you crying- you realize you're on camera and stop! Our little actress. :p   

***

4/12 Monday: You're 20 weeks today Sofia!! :) 

Today we went to the USA Embassy to get your passport! It should arrive in 10 days... just in time for our big- and your first trip to the states!! We will be going to SF, then driving to LA, flying to Columbus (where mommy and daddy met!) and then flying to NJ- to see grandma and grandpa! :)  Exciting for sure... 

Mommy has also noticed that your teeth are coming in more and more... they're quite sharp too! You've been biting mommy at times and it starts to hurt! Hopefully your teething will be over soon, poor little girl- as you keep talking a lot mommy notices.  

Today mommy also fed you some more rice cereal...  you pooped once today, though not peanut butter, it was a LOT.  

You're growing more everyday... it's really amazing. 

We love you more and more everyday little girl.  

mommy & daddy

April Fools Day

it's April!! Though we hadn't played any april fools day jokes on anyone.  i could tell daddy we're pregnant again, though that's not really a joke to be had.  :p  one day- we figured we will try next year- june, so we have a late mar/april baby, 2012.  I'm sure the time will be here so quickly- by then sofia will be 2.5 yrs old!

but quite a few milestones have happened in the past 10 days... it's definitely been exciting!
on 3/23, of course, sofia turned 4 months old... :)

then on 3/25 we went to the doctors for her 4 month old checkup + 2nd set of shots.  Sofia, you weigh 8.3kg = 18lbs 4oz and are 67cm / 26.5" tall!! Wow!! You've gained 4lbs exactly and grew 2" in the past 2 months.  :) You are in the 100th percentile for both height and weight!! Mommy is so proud of you... it's nice to know you're healthy as well, which is actually MOST important! Doctor says you're doing well.  Your left eye is a bit inward, but hopefully by month 6, it'll get back to centered.  I hope your eyesight is good... better than mommy's!  And so you got two shots, just like last time- in your thighs.  the first one, you were a good girl- you didn't even cry at all! In fact, you smiled! The nurses said, haha, just like grandpa wong. :p  Then the second shot you cried a bit, but still, less than 5 seconds.  Such a tough cookie. :) Mommy wasn't even scared, so i think neither were you. Mommy is so proud of you Sofia.  Doctor said you can start to eat rice cereal too// starting solids, so yay! (since i know you've been anxious as you watch mommy and daddy eating all the time and seems like you want to taste and eat too!)

so the past week mommy has been giving you water with a spoon, which you're happy to slurp (and yes, i mean slurp with your tongue * vaguely reminds mommy of torrance, funny)... and when mommy doesn't feed you quickly enough- you get impatient! too cute.

though the past 3 days you've definitely started to come out with a bit of a temper... must be from daddy's side, since you start to throw tantrums! crying fits... which at times, are quite mean. >:(  hopefully these aren't very long lasting and you'll become more patient, as that was, on mommy's list!!

but things are going well. you're healthy, and happy-- when sleeping enough, fed and clean... and your smile is just tooo cute.  we love you so much little girl...
it's amazing, you're our daughter.

love mommy & daddy

4 months ago...

mommy was in the hospital, waiting for your arrival little girl...

4 months ago, 10pm, we had just checked in and were getting strapped into the monitor to hear your heartbeat and feel the contractions... nothing normal or regular yet-- that would come by 11pm, but how excited i was.  how excited we (daddy and i were).

4 months ago, you finally decided that it would soon be your birth day... after being 10 days late from your original estimated due date of 11/13.

4 months ago, it sure flies by.

You're sleeping already, you have been since 8pm tonight... after your bath, massage and eating... and you sleep like a little angel. But in mommy and daddy's bed, taking up half the bed, for a little person... but such an angel you are and so beautiful in your sleep.

mommy loves you and only wants the best for you... remember to be thankful and guai, be good to mommy... and daddy (today you were mad though! because you woke up from your nap and mommy was out shopping/running errands and daddy couldn't manage you)...how the love of a mommy and a daddy are so different.  daddy is actually out at a concert tonight with karlson, and because i said he could go-- yet he doesn't thank me for everyday that he gets to go out and comes back late and i watch you; like he has taken mommy for granted sometimes and doesn't know that it's hard work to take care of a little baby!  And the house is messy, but i'm sure he thinks that a helper will fix all that, with less work for mommy to do, since he doesn't clean up much either... otherwise he thinks mommy is nagging. sigh.  and he expects mommy to go back to work. and be a mommy. and clean.  it's all about balance little girl.  being a wife, mommy is about balance... i'm still learning, though i want to cry somedays. not because i'm sad or anything, but sometimes it's frustrating because i love you little girl so much and it's not your doing-- i just need a little bit of help sometimes and i wish it'd come from daddy.  lately i just feel it's not balanced, he can complain about his back, being tired, etc... yet i am too.. and i don't nearly go to the spa as much, or out with friends, or this, or that... it's just not balanced so i feel slightly blahhhhhhhhhh. balance. balance.  i hope little girl, that you are better at expressing yourself than mommy is, it's not good to keep things inside. I hope you will be able to communicate them better and speak well, and are charismatic, and above all, graceful and appreciated, grateful.

4 months... the time really goes by.  i can still remember it like it was yesterday... happy 4 months my little girl sofia... mommy's little baby girl. 

grandma & grandpa tsang

it's been a nice week!

this past sunday, daddy came back from shanghai.  then on Monday evening, grandma and grandpa tsang arrived! How happy they were to see you Sofia... and i was happy to see them.  It's such a wonderful thing, to see mommy's parents, since we don't get to see them as much as daddy's parents.  And it's always like Christmas when they come! Bringing lots of goodies from the states. :)  This time was no different! They actually brought FIVE suitcases this time, which is a lot, i worry sometimes that it's getting heavy, since mom and dad aren't as young as we think.  In my mind they're still about 40... but in reality they're more like 60.  Mom and dad... :)  i love them.

So this past week has been fun.  They're doing their own thing, like going to see great grandma (which we should go see sometime soon too) and just resting.  Grandpa works a lot, so when he was here, he rested a lot this week, which was good for him to catch up on some sleep.  They also walked in the park, and like it a lot.  Someday they want to buy a place here... in front of the park.  I wish I had more money so i could buy a place for them! maybe someday in the future. :)  then they can be closer to you, sofia. :)  hopefully, in time.

This past Wednesday, 3/17, we had your belated 100 day celebration dinner at Intercon with all mommy's relatives.  It is nice to see them, though buffet isn't the most easy way to have dinner conversation, but I think everyone enjoyed it.  You were a good girl that night too... and we took some photos but not enough.  I find daddy doesn't really like to take photos, or is lazy.  one or the other.  either way though, i'm still a bit annoyed we haven't taken a family photo since xmas and it's now mid march. :(  i'm going to have to hire a photographer b/c otherwise he's not going to do it.  some things you just have to do yourself, you'll realize.

today grandma and grandpa though went to shanghai. they will see other grandpa (wong) and uncle aaron.  We'll see grandma back in one week- saturday and she'll get to hang out a few more days with you before she takes off to malaysia.

today you slept quite a lot... but in the afternoon we had our first playdate with auntie kim and auntie valerie with samantha and evan! though you cannot really "play" yet, it was nice to see another complex (waterfront/arch/harborside) and playrooms of other apt complexes.  The harborside playroom is huge! quite nice indeed.  Maybe in about half a year, you will be able to play there more. :)  But it was nice to see the other mommies and you were looking at all the kids on the playground.  You were a good girl today as well-- i think you might have been tired from all the visual stimulation, but it's good you can see the bigger kids running around, and slowly learn from them. :)  You actually were up only from 300-630, b/c you slept from 11:30-3 (woke up at 920 b/c grandma/grandpa were leaving), and up from ~8-10... when daddy left.

daddy went to uncle daryl's going away party tonight. hopefully he doesn't come back too late or too stinky...

we love you sofia.  mommy's little girl... you are so precious.
big hugs and kisses, everyday, forever.
love mommy

i spy... little teeth!

Yes! Last night, 3/12 (yes, i know i haven't posted for almost 10 days)-- but sofia grabbed my finger and put it in her mouth. She's lately been putting her fingers in her mouth a lot, so it didn't quite surprise me, but then i felt something... yes- little teeth coming thru her gums! And sure enough, i saw them as well, little white dots.  awwww, my little girl is growing up... and so fast! she's not even 4 months old yet... but I guess she is eager to eat! as everytime i'm eating dinner with daddy, she's always curiously watching what we're putting into our mouths.  :)  go figure. "loves to eat", number xx on "the list". :)

this past week actually daddy has been in shanghai... it's been a quiet month- since daddy was in munich for a week earlier this month and now this past week in shanghai! but it's been nice, to be able to spend the time with sofia and get her on the schedule at night w/o interruptions and such.  She's been such a good girl. Still sleeping about 15-16 hrs a day, which is probably why she's been growing so much as well! I think she's about 65cm now and she must be closer to 20lbs as well.  She is getting so tall, a lot of her footed onesies don't fit, so i'm slowly putting them away... even the footed pants, i still like to use them since they keep her feet warm, but her feet are already longer than the foot allowed per the pant.  She doesn't complain though. she's a good girl.  Since the weather has been cooler as well, i've started to use the fuzzi bunz again, however not overnight, as i've noticed they have some MAJOR leakage problems (i tried 2xs this week just to see...)... so we're still in disposables during the night but during the day i'll use the fuzzi bunz.  When it gets hotter though, we'll probably shy away from them again, just b/c they are fleece and not very friendly for the weather, esp since she sweats a lot.

Earlier in the week- on Sunday actually, 3/7 was Baby Leeton's 100 day celebration.  I took Sofia and Uncle Aaron came with us. Daddy didn't want to go b/c he was too tired (i think he was just being anti social).  Anyhow, it was cute to see how big you are compared to other babies, and how healthy and strong you are! you are certainly a cutie.  You were eating your fingers that night... now i know why- you're probably gumming them as your teeth are coming out! But you are so adorable sofia... such a little girl, so cute to play with.

When the weather is warm out, I've been taking you for walks. We went today, and also to the grocery store. Though for some reason, by the time we get to the grocery, you're asleep.  Mommy's favorite is grocery shopping but perhaps it's boring to you right now. :p  We've been taking the stroller out as well.  On thursday we had lunch with cousin Jessie and her parents, and you were a good girl-- not crying at all and very alert and attentive, letting everyone hold you. :)  (uncle jackson and aunty shirley said you are so good because you don't cry when strangers hold you! whereas their little granddaughter jiselle cries for mom/helper) i'm so proud of you!!

Daddy will be coming home tomorrow, with grandma, and then grandma and grandpa tsang are coming on monday!! mommy is really excited because they can see how much you've grown in the few months since they last saw you in december... i'm excited for grandma to play with you as well. she (and you) will have so much fun together!! i'll be really happy. :)

anyhow, we miss daddy lots, but will see him soon... you've been such a good girl sofia. mommy knows that you will always be a good girl, mommy's little helper (and best friend!) and daddy's little girl.
love mommy

One-Hundred.

Happy 100 days my little Sofia! :)

How incredible.

Daddy came home last night from Germany... he brought home fun stuff- like sweet mustard, honey and even chocolates from london!  He also got mommy an extremely nice present- a hermes watch! it's simple and lovely. :)  we missed daddy and i'm glad he's home.

But unfortunately today, his back was hurting, so he has gone to the massage place, instead of eating dinner with us to celebrate your 100 days.  But i guess that's okay since you don't really know it anyhow...  hopefully his back feels better after he is done. maybe he can bring mommy home some food too. haha.

Today was nice though, we had lunch with mommy's old team-- and they had so much fun playing with you! you were VERY well behaved, and you are getting so good at going out, letting people hold you. :) everyone took some photos with you too. you're so cute sofia! :)

After lunch we went for a walk, but i think because everyone had kept you up and were playing with you, you fell right asleep! (as mommy knew you would)... but we walked around the park until about 3 in the afternoon and came home & you slept in your stroller until about 430.

it's such a blessing to have you, watch you grow healthy and strong... happy, smiling and laughing, and it just makes us so happy to see you happy sofia... i hope that mommy and daddy can keep you smiling and laughing forever and ever.

happy 100 little girl.
love mommy and daddy

Happy 3 Months little Sofia!

Yay! Day 92, aka 3 months!

The time (i'll say it again), flies so fast. You are adorable as ever. You love to talk, especially when your diaper is getting changed. You smile in the morning when we say good morning to you.  You smile when you see Daddy (more than seeing anyone else).  You know Mommy, Daddy, Mila and Grandma. You laughed at Grandpa the other day so hard you almost choked! You're sleeping about 5-6 hrs a night now, even if it's at 3am, till 9am.  Then sleep again from 11am to the afternoon 2-3ish.   Everyone loves you more and more each day.and mommy is so thankful you're a happy and healthy baby.

***
this past Sunday we finally got to meet up with Joan, Ray and Leeton! He's adorable though has this air of an old man... he has horrible skin allergies joan says and cannot hold his neck up yet.  It doesn't phase us how strong you really are, or how advanced until we see other babies.  Sofia, you're so alert, so interested in everything... mommy hopes you are getting enough stimulation and seeing enough so that you are learning more and more everyday... I want to teach you as much as I can, and stay home with you as much possible, and daddy has been wonderful in letting me do so.  I do need to start working on your line as it's already the 23rd and the deadline is the 28th, so that should be done soon...

mommy and daddy are so proud of you, everyday as you learn more and observe more...mommy is so happy i can be with you all the time (except for dinners out with dad occasionally), and that you are our little girl....

happy 3 month old birthday our little sofia!
we love you.
xxxxooooooooo

february 17th.

The month is flying by.
When you have a little one, you realize just how quickly the time really passes. I guess this means we need to make the most of it, really. :)

This morning Sofia and I were playing in bed. She actually grabbed my finger and decided to put it into her mouth. *lick*  She missed her mouth a few times but eventually she got it and *lick* into her mouth. Good thing I washed my hands just before... but i forsee this is what's to come... everything into the mouth! haha.

She is such a blessing... so cute.

We were supposed to go to have lunch this afternoon with Monica and Ben but it's only about 11C out, and a bit drizzling, so I decided we should just stay home.  She's sleeping now and it's 330pm, so we'll have to wake her up soon since she's been sleeping since about 12:30 i think.

So cute. I'm so in love. :)
xxoo
mommy

Happy Chinese New Year! Happy Valentines Day! Happy 12 weeks!

A holiday packed weekend indeed.  One with lots of family, lunches, dinners, and celebration. :)

Friday night the 12th was Adrian & Joleen's wedding dinner.  Mela watched Sofia at home, and also Rowena, the new helper.  I'm still a bit hesitant for her to start, as i don't feel totally comfortable leaving her alone with Sofia, even Mela alone sometimes as Mela doesn't always wash her hands when she touches/plays with Sofia. Though I guess I'm a bit too anal with the germs things... esp since now Sofia is starting to put her hands in her mouth- need to be careful but I guess the germs help build her immune system...?

Saturday the 13th we went to yuen long for dinner. Sofia was pretty good... slept, ate, didn't cry too much. :) that night we came home and watched sherlock holmes and she slept thru it (we finished at ~1am). unfortunately though she didn't want to go back to sleep until almost 8/9am... with naps between... i was really tired by the morning, and that probably was the shortest temper i have had thus far... only because knowing we had to go to lunch the next day (sunday) for CNY at abu/agongs... luckily m helped out a bit in the early morning so that i did sleep, for about half and hour. but i think that's really the first time i was the most impatient.  At least the rest of the day went okay...

Sunday, 14th, Happy Valentines day! Happy Chinese New Year! We went to abu/agong's for lunch, and uncle boris/auntie virginia lesley and jeffrey were there.  Sofia was pretty good, sleeping at first then woke up towards the end only, which was good.  Mela makes her laugh, probably because she plays with her when she is here, though really, it is important for babies to sleep  - mary told me that babies under 2 should sleep at 730 and need a full nights' rest! i wish we were closer- as she's such a great mommy i'm sure. plus JT is adorable!  Anyhow, lunch at Abu's then we went to Kaiyehyeh/Kai Mama's house to see them. It was the first time Kaimama saw Sofia.  It was nice to see them. Kaiyehyeh is starting to eat lifepak too, which is good. He says he feels the difference as well, so I'm glad that we're able to help, by me marrying Michael, mom able to help his family and the people around them. :)   Anyhow, we had a lovely pizza dinner for valentine's day...  :) yum. pizza.

Oh! but something SO cute- mommy was changing you and found a fuzz in your right armpit, i tried to take it out and what did i hear? *giggle*, so i did it again, tickling you... *giggle*giggle*! ahhh so cute!!!!!! i love you sofia!!

Monday 15th,  Today we went to yuen long again for lunch at yehyeh/mama's.  It was yummy, as usual.  Sofia was a good girl, actually she was really good today! having fun, playing with yeh yeh, taking photos, even jumping with auntie joyce.  she must've been extreely tired after all that playing since she fell right asleep as we were leaving.  it was cute though, she even laughed aloud! her little giggle is the most precious thing. it melts my heart.  Yehyeh looked SO happy. It was so cute. :)  After yuen long we went back to grandma/grandpa wong's house where some other aunties/uncles came to see sofia, though i think you were tired so you were getting cranky... it's okay. we came home and you took a nap after eating.  Mommy and daddy had mcd's (oh geez for junk food this weekend!) then we all passed out from food coma.

We woke up and you got your bath and afterwards mommy put you down on your playmat and OH YAY!! You grabbed your bumble bee! this was the first time you ever grabbed your toy-- although yesterday you did already start to notice, each time you pushed the bumblebee, the butterfly would sing... anyhow, mommy is so proud of you!! What an exciting accomplishment!!

Mommy has also been playing with your fingers, and you like to put your hand on mommy's... you are learning so much each day and absorbing all the colors, wonders around you. You are learning so quickly and aren't even 3 mos old yet, it's absolutely amazing.  I don't want you to grow up so fast, you are absolutely such a wonderful little girl Sofia. Mommy and Daddy love you.

big hugs and kisses, always and forever to our little Sofia! xxxxxxxxxoooooooo

11 weeks

Amazing how quickly time flies.

Lately sofia continues to put her fingers in her mouth. She's managed to get her index finger alone into her mouth but not yet her thumb (thank goodness). She's pooping less, about 2-3xs a day instead of 6, but still pees just as much. She loves her bathtime and baby massage- actually she is showing more progress too with tummy time- able to raise herself on her arms now for a few minutes before she gets tired. I think she in fact does favor her left hand too- so we'll see. Though I hope she is ambidextrous!

The other day I played piano with and for her as well... I hope she learns to love it. :). Her favorite colors seem to be red and yellow (her strawberry!) And we read the very hungry catepillar almost everyday... A few times a day.

Sofia, you're getting bigger, mommy took a funny picture of you sitting on the sofa. You must be over 15lbs now, though not yet sleeping thru the night. We're getting better though, with waings less than 1 hour typically.

Unfortunatey daddy's back has been out of whack again, since last saturday, so he can't hold you. Its from too much drinking/staying out late in january. Mommy is glad he knows what caused it, and hopes he finds balance. Balance is so important in life.

Aside from that, grandma comes over everyday. Its nice but at the same time is a bit eh. She says funny stuff like you stick to mommy too much but of course you do! I'm mommy. And I feel like she wants you to love her more but when there's a diaper change, "oh your mommy will change you.". Its like everyone only wants a clean happy baby. But mommy loves you and is happy to change you. Its not "sum foo" or anything like that at all. I love playing and holding you, teaching and talking to you. You are a little wonder Sofia, and I know you are going to be mommys best little girl. :)

Mommy and daddy also hired a helper, paperwork given to her yday, so by march I guess she will be here. Though mommy wants her priority to be housework, vs watching you. Because mommy still wants to raise you herself with daddy, since we are, your parents.

We love you little girl. Keep getting stronger and healthier... Smile. Be happy.
Xxxxooooooo mommy and daddy
Sent by BlackBerry® from PCCW mobile

Happy February!

And so January 2010 has passed. It's already February! the 2nd to be exact, and well, little jackie's birthday! although she isn't really little anymore- in fact, it's her quarter life crisis birthday, the big 25.  I still remember my 25th birthday... apex dinner. sunset room. lol. and those were the days.  24 I think was more memorable- still working for acn, and my solo trip to paris.  time really flies, i still remember it so clearly really. anyhow, wishing my lil sister and auntie jackie a happy happy birthday!

lately i still haven't been well at managing this blogging thing.  Sofia is still a bundle of joy.  Lately (within the past week actually), she's learned to suck on her hand more, slowly and closer in getting fingers, a finger or her thumb into her mouth.  I guess this is self soothing, as i've read in the books and we shoudln't be worried as it'll subside in a few years max.  she's cute though when she does do it.  but we do need to make sure she isn't putting her hands anywhere they shouldn't be (i.e. near dirty diapers during changes), and then later on into her mouth. eeew.  so the fight against germs really begins.  :p  In the past two days i've noticed too that she is able to bring her head up strongly, when laying on her tummy (depsite that she hates hates tummy time)- she can lean on her forearms and push herself up! :)  I'm hoping she can use her wrists and hands soon too... though her wrists are pretty chubby! :p

she's 10 weeks old now... growing and growing... we're still trying to establish a good sleep pattern, though lately she's also found her way into our bed, making her able to sleep better at night, though less room on the bed for mommy.  my neck has been cramping some lately too and my wrist isn't better yet.

& now for my venting.
last Wed, i went to dinner with jane (who was here for work) and dad decided that even after his family mtg which already ended at 130am, he decided to go out. where? to see daryl and karaoke (that same place he went with andy till 5+am the monday before).  Well, i called at 5am when i woke up of course, and no answer. i was starting to get worried as i really thought perhaps he got mugged between walking home from his parents here.  Finally at early 6ish i got a bbm, saying he's okay and at dad's and not to worry... but i called again and no answer.  then 630 he finally called back saying he's coming home.  Well, turns out he wasn't at dad's passed out and lied.  ... long story short, he finally fessed up and we went into this thing about trust, and going out/ being responsible, just letting me know. etc.  I hate to make it feel like he can't go out, but really, not coming home? tha'ts no good. plus his clothes smelled like smoke and well, he said it was only daryl and him.  Plus at 645am someone called, and i called back and a girl picked up.  it was the name on the card. joey.  at the karaoke place. but i think it's a landline b/c yah, no redial afterwards. anyhow. drama? i hope not. he said i need to trust him, but at the same time when he lied and that karaoke place's card is shady... and yah, well even now the card is gone. so i donno what to think. but i have to give him the benefit of the doubt. he was out all day on thursday, didn't go to work.

i think he felt bad so on friday we had a semi "date night" and went to eat at the oyster bar in the sheraton. it's quite nice. we intended to go shopping first, which we did and then walked over. mela and m's mom watched sofia. it was a nice dinner.  i was partially drunk too from the bottle of wine he ordered.  anyhow we picked up m's dad at intercon and he was drunk. then he was saying oh no, have cancer... m started to cry because he was so upset, but i know it isn't that bad, or could be not too bad, since dad had cancer. it's just a mind thing... change in diet, exercise, etc.  anyhow, m's dad told m to take care of me, and of course he's lucky and so am i.  anyhow, i hope things are okay, and they turn out okay. i'm sure they will though.

so m now thinks he's grounded.  i hate to think he feels like he can't go out. i only ask that he be responsible about it, like 4am isn't early... plus i know the alcohol intake in january was pretty high for him. he went out at least once a week if not more, based on weddings and such. i didn't really say anything... but i think that's why his back when out again on saturday.  yep.  oh well. it's better now for the most part. he went to the accupuncture dr on sunday and another dr today.

but Sofia, you're doing well. I hope you don't hear mommy and daddy being short with each other. i am doing my best not to argue or say negative stuff in front of you b/c i know that's not good.  so yah. hopefully you just know that mommy and daddy love you very very much and we just want you to be happy and healthy. our little sunshine... mommy and daddy love you always. no matter what.  

i need to update more. you're growing so fast.
tonight you even were talking in full baby sentences. i have yet to capture it on video though. it's like you know i'm taking a photo or video of you, so you kinda get shy and stop. haha. smart cookie.
i love you little girl.
xxxxxxooooooooooo

The past few days... 2 months & first doctor's appointment (shots included)

The past few days have been pretty good. Sofia has still been growing, and it's apparent by our doctor's trip y/day!

Let's start from this past Saturday-- 1/23... Happy two months old Sofia!
To celebrate we actually went to Ronald and Jacinth's wedding.  We got to take a photo with the bride and groom and you were quite good. :) But Mila ended up watching you upstairs in the room.  You slept most of the time, which was a difference from the week before- Paul and Diana's wedding where you cried the entire night.  :) Perhaps you're getting used to Auntie Mila now... which is good since we have one more wedding next monday- Natalie and Lawrence.  Anyhow, you got to see, or rather a lot of auntie and uncles got to see you! And they all say you are so cute-- which, of course you are. :) But it was a good night.  You were a good good girl Sofia. I'm so proud of you.

Sunday we rested, since daddy went out late the night before (rather early morning). 

Monday we went to the doctor.  (1/25), actually it was auntie jen-jen's birthday too! :)  But the Dr appointment was going to be interesting since it would be the "first", since we missed the 1 month shots... Grandpa Wong came with us since he knows the doctor (it's his doctor too!).  Which was a good  thing, so the nurses were a bit nicer to us actually. nicer than last time. anyhow, two shots- one in each thigh (enough meat there!) and you only cried for less than a minute! :) what a good tough girl you are. Mommy was so proud.  Also you didn't really get a fever which is good, only slight- 100.1, but i didn't give you medicine (b/c it's that gross pink stuff, i didn't even want to open it b/c it probably is nasty).  You are definitely healthy- already 14lbs and 4 oz and 24.5" tall! That means you've almost doubled your birth weight in 2 mos and grew about 5"!! Amazing... i still look at the scar from delivery and it's amazing really, how big you've gotten even from then.  You will grow so much more too-- it's true "babies really don't stay little forever.".  No wonder people have multiple kids! :)  But the dr said mommy shouldn't feed you so much, only 6xs a day max.  Just so you don't grow so much.  Mommy looked in her books and apparently you're about in the 95th percentile for both weight and height... my little over achiever yes? b/c i certainly wouldn't call you fat nor do i want to put you on a diet already! (nor will I!)

But it's good to know you are healthy and strong and growing. :) good girl Sofia.

You've definitely been "coo-ing" a lot more and smiling and laughing too. It's such a joy and such a wonderful thing.  I do need to give you more tummy time though... tha'ts the one thing i know i haven't been good about b/c you don't like it. but we'll have to just do it anyways so you start to learn to roll over and also crawl.  Your legs are strong though, so that's good. :) though crawling before walking, of course i'm sure is necessary. I think you will talk earlier though, it's so cute to see your expressions when you talk.  So animated, so curious, so loving... so happy.

it's wednesday today...  a pretty sunny day but the weather has gotten colder again.  We went to the office y/day and probably need to go again tmrw to pack since we're moving offices.  But I hope with this new job, mommy will have more time to spend with you... and to watch you and be there as you grow and learn everyday.

i love you little sofia! (and so does daddy!)
big hugs and kisses...
love mommy & daddy

60 Days!

Tomorrow is 1/23... Sofia will be 2 months old! Tomorrow is also Uncle Ronald/Auntie Jacinth's wedding... 

Anyhow, this past week has been quite fun.  Sofia is coo-ing and talking more, it's beyond adorable and makes my heart melt.  She is so alert and so curious... her eyes are so bright and open and wide awake- though unfortunately at night! For the past three nights she's finally slept 6 hrs! however her bedtime seems to be 3am - 9am... I think it's probably because she sleeps too much during the day, so I probably need to wake her up during the day.  But because i'm trying to do some work as well, that doesn't always happen.  

She's eating quite a bit still, though today less, since she's been sleeping practically ALL day. Perhaps she's going through another grown spurt??? it's week #8... We'll go to the dr on Monday, that should be interesting to see exactly how much she weighs, her length as well. Grandpa Wong will go with us too, since he knows the doctor. Unfortunately though, it's 4 shots that she needs, so it won't be a fun day for her... but who knows, she does do well at the dr's office, so she might just be a tough cookie and be okay. :) (which i think actually she will be). 

Earlier this week- the 19th, we went to cousin Jiselle's 100 day celebration.  She's 14lbs already! Her birthday is 10/12, so she's a bit over a month older than Sofia... but she's chubby! Sofia looks much cuter... but then again I'm biased. lol.  Cousin Jayden is almost 2, he's growing up quite a bit... and so fun.  So much expression and curiousity and just innocence.. it's adorable.  talks a lot too- all in english! I'm sure Sofia will be more fun as she starts to talk, walk, even crawl, though we have a LOT of baby-proofing the house as well. when that happens. 

She is such a bundle of Joy.  I just smile when I see her, soooo precious. 

lots of love, love love hugs and kisses, 

love mommy

8 weeks!

Sofia is 8 weeks old today. The 8 wks have passed and we're still trying to get into a groove... She hasn't much of a schedule just yet but bathing at night does help. I suppose I am the one who needs to dictate so that's my bad, bc I'm not the greatest w/schedules... I should try better.

Perhaps its the sleeping late... So getting out of bed at 2 is not the most effective way to spend the day... Though I do get everything done.

Anyhow, things are definitely changing... Mostly dealing w/sync. So it looks like anf is coming to a close, and we're going to be laying off a lot of ppl... Basically everyone except for 2. Its going to be tough and I'm not sure how it will turn out, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I hope for the best, and need to keep thinking positive! So we will be left w/all saints, and that's really it. A bit scary... To have all the eggs in one basket again.

In addition to that, we are now starting "sofia michael & friends" which is a collaborative effort w/all our friends and their children. Its definitely going to be a lot, a LOT of work dealing w/6 diff designers (kin, dan, sally, james, betty, & craig) and about 30-60 pieces, along with sofia's line... I need to start planning now! Crazy but I certainly hope it works out. It will. Its such a wonderful idea... I need to buy a sketchbook.

Anyhow Sofia is a joy. She's been crying more when she's tired (which is often) vs falling asleep eating. In fact she doesnt even want the nipple sometimes when she's tired! Before she'd take it whenever. She is becoming more and more alert and starting to follow voices. She definitely knows mommy... Daddy, she is getting used to- I think last week when he was gone, she may have missed him a bit. But she is an angel still. Children are here to show us what's important, to teach us... I just hope sofia is happy and healthy. (She should be pretty healthy the amount of time she eats and by her chubby cheeks and rolls on her legs!) But what a joy. :). I couldn't be happier staring at her when she sleeps, seeing how peaceful she is. So beautiful, a sleeping baby.

This wkend, the 23rd is ronald's wedding. Unfortunately sofia can't go, so I need to try to figure out what to do... It will be tough. Perhaps I go later on in the evening... Last week was paul/diana's wedding, poor sofia got diaper rash probably from mila wiping too hard. Its almost gone, but sofia's a trooper. Tough cookie. *even her first booboo- when I was cutting her toenail and accidentally clipped her big toe, bleeding yes. But she only cried for a few seconds and then stopped! She bled longer than she cried. :p. But its good to know her blood clots ok. :) healthy!

Such a joy, such a wonder... I am still amazed, that we brought this little girl into the world. So precious.

Love mommy
Sent by Blackberry from PCCW mobile

updates.

I feel like I don't update enough.

Perhaps because I'm busy with Sofia, or playing scrabble, or online shopping.

These days though I guess I am also tired.  We haven't set a schedule yet, though it's about 1-2pm we usually finally get out of bed.  Sofia sleeps about 3 hrs each time, and my body has come to adjust to this schedule as well.  Even the milk has adjusted to this schedule, it's amazing how the sync is... the human body is amazing. But slowly I know I need to start setting a schedule, so that Sofia can learn day from night and when to sleep and when to play.  She's grow so much in the past 7+ weeks, not even 2 months! I don't know how tall she is, but she seems really tall for being so little and also quite heavy! though I guess it's the nutrients she's been getting in mommy's milk. :)

She can totally focus her eyes now and follow an object or person, it's wonderful... she's been able to do so since last week actually= week 6.

This week (week 7) she is also smiling much more, and talking, or coo-ing, if you will. It is so adorable. I can't wait till she learns more.  I need to start to teach her colors and read to her, but unfortunately her attention span isn't very good yet.  In the morning (well, when we get out of bed), i wash her face, so I'm slowly teaching her parts of her face, like "nose, mouth, chin, cheeks, ears, eyes," etc.  And we also look in the mirror so she can see herself too.  She is such a bundle of joy, it's wonderful.  And she's just so precious when she sleeps. :)

Tonight though was the first night M and I have been out since Avatar when mom was here... M's mom and Mila watched Sofia... we went to Diana and Paul's wedding.  I don't think it went too well but I think it might have been because she didn't eat enough it seems.  B/c I left 3 bottles of milk but only 1 1/2 were done... But she was definitely tired so I got back around midnight and nursed her and she fell asleep 15 minutes later. She's still sleeping now, but probably will wake up shortly.  Daddy is still out partying though... I don't expect him home till about 3:30 perhaps? Hopefully not later than 4... o_O

Anyhow, I've noticed Sofia has started to cry more when she's tired, whereas before she would fall asleep at the nipple.  I suppose she still does, but less.  Before she'd cry b/c her diaper was soiled, or hungry, or gas.  But add "sleepy" to that list.  It's interesting.  I am still trying to learn the cries as well... I'm trying and I hope i'm doing okay though b/c sometimes I don't know what it is... and I feel bad.  But hopefully I will learn as the time goes on... i mean, i'd better!

Oh! and her eyelashes are so cute.  :)

Also she loves her baby bjorn. Falls asleep when we go for walks in the park... I try to take her as often as possible, dressed in her bear suit, it's super cute, though I can't walk much longer than an hour since my back starts to hurt... but it's wonderful.

I do need to focus more on her though, esp when I nurse, I feel sometimes I'm busy with bberry or computer, which isn't fair to her, so I should start to spend more time in concentrating on her too... my bad habit that I need to fix, for sofia.

We love you little girl.. daddy is home now too, so it's nice, though he feels you don't recognize him! I'm sure you'll spend more time with him and remember. :)

love mommy and daddy.

ps: i'm going to update more too... I should.  at least twice a week to record how you're doing and what you're learning!
xxxxxxxxoooooooo

The 1st Week of 2010

7 days have already passed in 2010.  They really do fly by.  Each day however is such a blessing.  Sofia is still growing, getting heavier... my left wrist i think is developing a sensation of tendinitis, if that's possible, from carrying a baby around... I must be careful, as my finger joints are starting to ache and be stiff in the morning again too... Sofia is 46 days old, so we're both still under that 100 day mark, so we are still both recovering, growing and need to take it easy.  But it's such a joy to know everyday I am helping her get stronger, grow, and be there for her. it really is such a rewarding feeling, like no other.

M and I are also getting more adjusted, though we are tired, we try to make time for each other to spend together. Last night was fun, we had another one of the hysterical laughing bouts before going to bed... just for about 5 minutes of nonstop laughter for no apparent reason. It's things like these, which makes me fall in love with him all over again... the simpleness of the pure joy and happiness in being able to spend time with him.  He did however go on a trip again today.. .
1/8-> Sha
1/9-> tsing dao
1/10 -> back to Sha
1/11-> tokyo
1/13-> home!

its nice though, to spend some time with sofia. :)  though tough? not too bad. i don't know why everyone thinks it's so "sum foo"... when it's really such a joy to take care of a little baby that's yours! yes, at times it's difficult, but it's so worth it. :) it's how you look at things in life, right? :)

today (1/9 - Sat), I took Sofia for a walk... it was sunny for the first time in a few days, and the weather wasn't too cold.  It was nice... Sofia, you LOVE the bjorn! everytime you're in it, you love to sleep! (last time was Sunday when we went for a walk 1/3) we then went grocery shopping and then stopped off by agong/abu's (tai gong/ tai pou to you little girl!) and you got hungry! but sure enough as soon as we were leaving, i put you back in the bjorn you were already asleep as we walked thru the park.  amazing! i think i know the secret now haha.  but you are darling.  your eyelashes continue to grow, they are so pretty! though you still look like a boy sometimes... but i know you're going to be beautiful Sofia. :)

we're going to go back to agong's for dinner tonight, so i hope you behave... and hopefully eat enough so you won't be unhappy or crying.

we love you lots little girl... you're 47 days old already!!
love mommy & daddy