Miracle Babies

Watch these videos about miraculous babies that survived amidst impossibilities. May your spirit be moved by these heartwarming stories. 

1. Miracle baby born with foot in the brain

2. Miracle baby in Haiti

3. Miracle babies rally each other through cancer treatment

"You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me." Psalm 139:4


"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made." Psalm 139: 13-14

Toddlers: the terrible twos or do they really are?

NO!!!!! I don't like!!!!!

I love you Mama and Dada!!!!!!

Toilet training
Offer choices
Don't leave alone
Doubt vs. Autonomy
Love security object
Explorative
Rituals and Routines
Saying "NO"

During this stage, alot of developmental milestones can be observed in a growing toddler. He can sit and walk with or without support. At 15 months, he can already drink from a cup, stack two blocks, say up to six words, listen to a short story and use a spoon or fork. At 18 months, he can walk backwards, throw a ball, say up to ten words, point to body parts, and scribble with a crayon.

Physically, a toddler's weight is tripled at 1 year of age and height is increased by 50%. This time, his chest is bigger than his head when measured.  

To facilitate learning in your toddler, it is important to provide learning opportunities such as:

1. Let the child try new things.

2. Let him/her help in the housework.

3. Hand the child with big puzzle pieces.

4. Expose your toddler to dancing and singing.

5. Visit a playground and let him/her explore with your assistance.

6. Give him a mirror to appreciate his face.

Now, let's go to the basics of caring for your toddlers:

1. Toddlers can be very picky when eating foods. Always give him options to assert independence and make sure his nutritional status is not altered. Finger foods like cut sized chicken, fruits, vegetables, macaroni, and cereals are good food choices. 

2. Ignore tantrums and set limits. You may use "time out" in one room corner to discipline your toddler. Never shout because it just worsen the tantrums. 

3. Acknowledge his fears and tell he doesn't have to see his fears. Ask your toddler what would make him less afraid.

4. Observe for readiness in your child when doing potty training. Do not be disappointed if he does nothing and say "We'll try next time." Give incentives for him to remain longer on the potty chair.

5. Always allot playtime no matter how busy you are. It can be lying down on a couch, pointing body parts, bouncing balls etc.

Toddlers can be irritating at times but they are truly the joy in a family. Let me quote this bible verse; Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14 

Caring for Newborns

Newborns are very fragile yet in their smiles are promises of hope, peace and love. During their first few weeks, they learn many important skills that all parents should note.

Most babies look on their mother's face and follow it with their eyes. They respond best to their parent's voices by turning their heads and usually, sudden sounds or movements make them startle. 

Here are some important notes to familiarize yourself about your baby's behavior:

1. The most important communication of a baby is crying. Sometimes they create cooing sounds that signals pleasure; arching their backs, grimacing and clenching their fists for displeasure. A high pitched cry often means pain or hunger. Observing your baby is still the key to master their art of communication.

2. When your baby is trying to convey something; pick her up, change her or feed her. You may try to talk to her, sing to her, and cuddle her gently. 

3. Most babies show social smile at 2 months. This is a common response to a friendly face or gesture. Smiling is a developmental ability that parents and doctors are truly proud of.

4. Your baby's temperament is affected by genes. However, it is partly affected by the environment that is why parent's immediate response to their baby is very crucial.

Knowing these behaviors, the physical growth of a baby is important to observe too.Take note that a newborn's height is increased by 50% in 12 months while its weight is doubled at 6 months.

Another development milestone of a baby is his teeth eruption. The first tooth that erupts is the lower central incisor usually at 4 months. Common signs are drooling, red and inflamed gums, awakening at night, fussiness, and chewing on rubber toys and their fingers. 

To soothe their pain, here are some helpful ideas for parents or caregivers:

1. Give him something to chew on.

2. Try teething rings or rubber toys and check which works best for your baby.

3. You may apply a cold and frozen washcloth to numb the pain.

4. If these didn't work, as your doctor for any OTC pain relievers.

Now let's go to the basics of caring for your babies. 

1. In bathing your baby, wash face and ears first using a washcloth. Use a mild soap and shampoo only. Make sure to play and have fun so she will look forward to her next bath.

2. In making your baby fall asleep, it is necessary that you wait few minutes before comforting your baby. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule each day and follow a bedtime ritual. 

3. Introduce soft foods at 4-6 months of age. This can be in the form of iron-fortified infant cereals, strained fruits and vegetables, and even strained meats like chicken, beef and pork. 

4. To encourage movement, put interesting toys on the floor for her to grab. Sit her on a chair or you may want to let her stand on your lap. Let her practice push up by lying on her stomach. Most importantly, give her alot of time to develop this skill. 

To be continued. Happy reading!!!!

Before an angel arrives

Pregnant women used to caught my attention because of the wondrous stage they are going through. They must have imagined how their tiny angel would look like and how would it feel to hold them in their arms. Before their baby is born, this is the perfect time to prepare themselves and their home for the drastic changes ahead. If you are a mom/dad, a soon to be mom/dad, or a man/woman who dreams to have a baby, this article is perfect and timely for you!

Several ways can be undertaken to ensure a healthy pregnancy. This includes regular prenatal check up with an obstetrician/gynecologist, cessation of cigarette, alcohol or other medications, proper intake of multivitamin tablets, balanced nutrition rich in whole grains, vegetables and low fat foods, and protection from potential infections. It is also important that the recommended weight of 25-35 lbs. for the entire pregnancy is adhered by a normal weight woman. Otherwise, being under/overweight would adjust to consume less/more calories to meet the healthy weight.

Now, months had pass and one of the crucial dilemma of soon to be parents is what should their baby wear or I would say what are the "must have" clothes that their baby would need just in time.

To be specific, the basic clothing needed are the following according to "The Children's Hospital Guide to Your Child's Health and Development" book:

• 4 - 8 undershirts
• 4 pairs of socks or booties
• 4 sleepers, either blanket sleepers, or gowns
• 4 snap-front playsuits with feet
• 2 sweaters or jackets
• 4 snap-crotch rompers
• Bibs
• A warm outer garment, bunting, or snowsuit
• 1 - 2 hats

It is also essential that the following gears are present:

• Receiving blankets
• Crib/bassinet blanket
• Changing table
• Petroleum jelly
• Diaper rash ointment
• Thermometer
• Infant stroller
• Infant car seat
• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls
• Antibiotic ointment for cuts
• Rehydration, electrolyte fluids for infants
• Calibrated dropper for measuring medicine doses
• Liquid children's acetaminophen
• Infant bath
• Mild soap
• Baby shampoo
• Baby nail scissors or clippers

Here are further tips to ensure your baby's safety:

•  For infant car seat, choose a seat manufactured after 1981. It must be rear-facing, reclining seats with a five point harness. Make sure the straps are snug against the body.

        

• For baby's crib, slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart and not be missing or cracked. The crib mattress should be firm and fit securely into the crib. Pillows, quilts, comforter or any toys are not advised to be on the crib because of possible SIDS.

• A changing table for diapering and clothing would be beneficial. It should be padded to make the baby comfortable and the diaper pail is placed right next to the table.

I'm pretty sure that the moments after birth would be very exciting. My next posts would still be about babies, their behavior, talents and alot more. Happy reading!

A Beautiful Mind

This is a story of a genius mathematician who worked at Princeton University in the later part of his life. Having diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, it does not stop him from winning the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.

Here is one of the most sought after and must see movie in the field of health and psychiatry. A beautiful mind starring film artists Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Ed Harris, Christopher Plummer and Paul Bettany portrayed their roles with excellent twists and captivity to viewers. Although criticized as inaccurate to the real experiences of John Nash, it has won several awards and has continue to provide exemplary education and entertainment to public audiences.

Our minds are precious gift from God. It will dictate the way we live, the way we think, and the way we see ourselves. It is where dreams begin to sprout and with proper diligence, realities are not far behind....  

DARE TO THINK BEAUTIFUL!

Let's talk about herbals

It is inevitable that people get sick for various reasons. Several factors would include poor eating habits, unhealthy environment, lack of exercise, unhygienic practices, change in weather, refusal to medical adherence and so on. Any of these can alter our body's functioning to carry out our day to day activities. Hence, we need to be on guard in every possible way although there is no such thing as 100% guarantee. To combat present ailments, medicines are created by intelligent minds and creative human hands but today I would like to talk more of God's given resources which are economical in nature and readily available. Yes it is none other than herbal medicines.


Herbals are collection of plants for medicinal purposes. In a community setting where money is often a problem, alternatives to prescribed medicines are being advocated to ensure health for all individuals. In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) advocated and endorsed the ten most common and acceptable (10) medicinal plants which are:

1. Sambong - ( Blumea balsamifera)

Uses and Preparation:


 > Good for headache and fever - Apply crushed and pounded leaves on forehead and temples

 > Used as diuretics - Boil chopped leaves in a glass of water for 15 minutes until one glassful remains. Divide decoction into 3 parts, drink one part 3 times a day.

 > For cough

2. Acapulco - ( Cassia, alata L.)

Uses and Preparation:

> Anti-fungal (tinea flava, ringworm, athlete’s foot and scabies) - Fresh, matured leaves are pounded. Apply soap to the affected area 1-2 times a day.

> Mouthwash in stomatitis – Soak and boil for10 – 15 minutes.

3. Niyug - niyogan - ( Quisqualis indica L.)

Uses and Preparation:

> Anti-helmintic - The seeds are taken 2 hours after supper. If no worms are expelled, the dose may be repeated after one week. (Caution: Not to be given to children below 4 years old)

> Relieve toothaches – Fruits

4. Tsaang Gubat - ( Carmona retusa)

Uses and Preparation:

> Diarrhea - Boil chopped leaves into 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Divide decoction into 4 parts. Drink 1 part every 3 hours

> Stomachache - Boil chopped leaves in 1 glass of water for 15 minutes. Cool and strain.

5. Ampalaya 

Uses and Preparation:

> Diabetes Mellitus (Mild non-insulin dependent) - Chopped leaves then boil in a glass of water for 15 minutes. Do not cover. Cool and strain. Take 1/3 cup 3 times a day after meals.

> Disinfects and heals wounds and burns – Apply warm leaves to afflicted area.

> Remedy for cough and fever – Drink juice a spoonful daily.

6. Lagundi - ( Vitex negundo)

Uses and Preparation:

> Asthma, Cough & Fever - Decoction ( Boil raw fruits or leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes)

> Dysentery, Colds & Pain - Decoction ( Boil a handful of leaves & flowers in water to produce a glass, three times a day)

7. Ulasimang Bato/Pansit-pansitan - ( Peperonica pellucida )

Uses and Preparation:

> Lowers uric acid (rheumatism and gout) - One a half cup leaves are boiled in two glass of water over low fire. Do not cover pot. Divide into 3 parts and drink one part 3 times a day

> For skin disorders like abscesses, pimples and boils – Pound the leaves and/or stalks and make a poultice. Boil in water for a minute or two then pounded then applied directly to afflicted area.

8. Bawang/ Garlic

Uses and Preparation:

> Hypertension - Maybe fried, roasted, soaked in vinegar for 30 minutes, or blanched in boiled water for 15 minutes. Take 2 pieces 3 times a day after meals.

>Toothache - Pound a small piece and apply to affected area

9. Bayabas / Guava - ( Psidium guajava L.)

Uses and Preparation:

> For washing wounds - May be use twice a day. Fresh leaves may be applied to wound directly for faster healing.

> Epistaxis – Densely roll bayabas leaves then place in nostril cavities.

> As gargle and for toothache - Warm decoction is used for gargle. Freshly pounded leaves are used for toothache. Boil chopped leaves for 15 minutes at low fire. Do not cover and then let it cool and strain. Leaves can also be chewed for toothache.

> Uterine hemorrhages, swollenness of legs and other parts of the body

10. Yerba Buena - ( Mentha cordifelia)

Uses and Preparation:

> Pain (headache, stomachache) - Boil chopped leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Divide decoction into 2 parts, drink one part every 3 hours.

>Rheumatism, arthritis and headache - Crush the fresh leaves and squeeze sap. Massage sap on painful parts with eucalyptus

>Cough & Cold - Soak 10 fresh leaves in a glass of hot water, drink as tea. (expectorant)

Additional Info:

In decoction, it is advisable to use clay pot without covering. It has a lifespan of 2 days and for it to last for a week, 1 cup of decoction may be added with 5 tbsp. of sugar. Presto! You now made a herbal syrup.

A Government Lie. A Woman's Secret. A story that must be told. MISS EVERS' BOYS

A must - see movie based on a true to life story of a brave, dedicated, and strong willed nurse who faces an ethical dilemma in human experimentation. This does not only portray medical controversies but shows the large disparity between races that often results to injustice.