Tummy Troubles

B's tummy acted up again! This time it's constipation.

We introduced her to stage 2 milk and after two days of the fm, I find her always crying trying to push her poo out! Such poor thing! She really cried out loud and tears rolled down! It pained my heart to see her in such pain! This pushing and crying carried out for 2 days over 5 times before she finally could pass her motion! The stools were all hard and bloody. When she moved her bowels, I could see the relief on her face! We, including A, are all very happy for her too!

I read up a little on this topic of constipation. To get things moving for a constipated infant, you could try the following:

- change the baby's feeding pattern e.g. if you began new foods, return to the looser-stool diet
- engage in some physical exercises. Exercise improves digestion and speeds the passage of food through the intestines.
- for bottlefed baby, give your formula-fed baby an extra bottle of water a day
- gently massage and rub baby's tummy in a clockwise direction. Place your hands at baby's naval and massage in a circular motion, moving your hand(s) out and away from the center of baby's belly.
- Place baby on the back and lightly hold the legs in a half-bent position. Gently begin to move the legs as if riding a bicycle. This may also help to relieve a baby who is gassy.
- give baby a warm bath
- try giving 1-2 ounces of diluted fruit juice such as grape, prune or apple-prune twice daily
- adding more fiber to the diet by trying strained foods such as: apricots, pears, prunes, peas, peaches, spinach, plums. Barley or oatmeal cereals or most vegetables are preferred
- avoid baby foods such as rice cereal, applesauce and bananas and toast
- insert the glycerin suppository, wiggle it a bit, which stimulates the tense rectal muscles to relax and eases the passage of the hard stools

[Edited on 5 Jul 2012: I always thought that the constipation was due to the stage 2 formula but later on, I had a revelation that it was due to the increased amount of milk I gave her. The more than double milk intake, I almost confirmed, was the very cause of the constipation!]


Related Posts:
B's Poop
Milk Powder Woes
Colic Causing Foods

Useful Reference Tables for New Mummies

A compilation of info taken from various sources, very useful for new mummies...

How much sleep is required?

Sleep Guidelines
Age	Nighttime Sleep	Daytime Sleep (number of naps)	Total Sleep
1 Month	8.5	7 (3)	15.5
3 Months	10	5 (3)	15
6 Months	11	3.25 (2)	14.25
9 Months	11	3 (2)	14
12 Months	11.25	2.5 (2)	13.75
18 Months	11	2.25 (1)	13.5
2 Years	11	2 (1)	13
3 Years	10.5	1.5 (1)	12

Breast Milk Storage

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines
Room Temperature	Refrigerator	Freezer compartment	Freezer	Deep Freezer
4-8 hours (May be left at room temperature for up to 10 hours if the temperature is below 72°F, 22°C)	Three to eight days	Up to 2 weeks	3-4 months	6-12 months
66-72°F, 19-22°C	32-39°F, 0-4°C	Temperatures vary	4°F, 20°C	0°F, -19°C
Use at next feeding or discard	Transfer to freezer within 8 days, use, or discard	Once frozen breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours. Do not refreeze.	Once frozen breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours. Do not refreeze.	Once frozen breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours. Do not refreeze.

*Note: Leftover thawed milk from a feeding must be used immediately or discarded.
Thawed milk can only be kept at room temp for 1 hour.


Singapore Immunization Chart

Immunization Table
Age	Vaccine	Immunisation Against
At Birth	BCG Hepatitis B - 1st Dose	Tuberculosis Hepatitis B
1 Month	Hepatitis B - 2nd Dose	Hepatitis B
3 Months	DPT/DT - 1st Dose Oral Sabin - 1st Dose	Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Poliomyelitis
4 Months	DPT/DT - 2nd Dose Oral Sabin - 2nd Dose	Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Poliomyelitis
5 Months	DPT/DT - 3rd Dose Oral Sabin - 3rd Dose	Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Poliomyelitis
5-6 Months*	DPT/DT - 3rd Dose Oral Sabin - 3rd Dose	Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Poliomyelitis
1-2 Years	MMR - Primary dose	Measles, Mumps & Rubella
18 Months	DPT/DT - 1st Booster Oral Sabin - 1st Booster	Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Poliomyelitis
6-7 Years (Pri 1)	Oral Sabin - 2nd Booster MMR - Booster dose	Poliomyelitis Measles, Mumps & Rubella
10-11 Years (Pri 5) See Note	DT-containing vaccine - 2nd Booster** Oral Sabin - 3rd Booster	Diphtheria & Tetanus Poliomyelitis

* The 3rd dose of Hepatitis B vaccination can be given with the 3rd dose of DPT
and Oral Sabin for the convenience of parents.

** Can use either :
Diphtheria-tetanus vaccine; or
Combined tetanus, reduced diphtheria and acellular pertussis vaccine

Note: Children in Primary 6 in 2008 will still receive the MMR booster and DT 3rd booster. Children in Primary 5 (2008 -2011) will receive the MMR booster and DT 3rd booster.

Data taken from here.


How much nutrition is required?




Related Posts:
What is vitamin E for?
The language of love
Establishing a sleep routine

Shingles At A Glance

* Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and can be spread to people who have not had chickenpox.
* Shingles, also known as Herpes zoster, is not related to the sexually transmitted herpes virus disease called herpes genitalis.
* Shingles may cause pain that can continue after the rash disappears.
* Steroids and antiviral drugs can help prevent long-term pain after shingles if they are started within the first two days of the appearance of the rash.
* A vaccine is available for people over 60 years of age to reduce the incidence and severity of shingles.

My poor dad is exercising self-quarantine now, it must been very painful for him to contract the disease after his eye op and not able to go outdoors... and not able to see his little grandson! That has to wait till he's well again.


Related Tweets:
25 Sep 2009, 1:31PM, CP: Just read about Shingles, it doesn't seem friendly...


Related Posts:
Stylo Dad

Lack of sleep could get you fat!

Less ZZZZzzzzzz... = More FATS!

Studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between the amount of sleep you get per night and the weight gain!

Inadequate sleep affects the hormones that help control our appetite and metabolism. Lack of sleep decreases the level of leptin, a hormone that makes one feel full after eating. It also increases the level ghrelin, a "hunger hormone" that stimulates one's appetite. This results in overeating and weight gain.

See report here.

This report is so depressing, no wonder it's so difficult for people to lose weight after pregnancy!! I'm suffering from sleep deprivation way back when I was expecting A. With the C-sect wound not fully healed yet, was advised by my gynae to wait for 3 months before getting into any fitness routine... Although 10kg heavier than before, my BMI is still within normal range. There's no cause for concern but I hope I can find the time to lose the excess weight I've put on after the confinement lady leaves!


Related Posts:
Sleeping Queen
When Sleep Tight Does not Equal Sleep Well
Where do you sleep when he's not around?

F1 Jargons to chew on

Here's some F1 Jargons for you to chew on...

Practice Sessions


Practice sessions usually take place on Fridays and Saturdays and allow the drivers to get a feel for the track and racing conditions but they also crucially permit both the drivers and constructors to test out the two cars they are allowed per team. It is during these practice sessions that vital last minute adjustments are made to the car, and these adjustments can make the difference between a place on the podium and at a place outside the points.

During practice, the drivers are out on the track fine-tuning all the necessary components of their set-up in preparation for qualfiying and the race on Sunday.

Formation Lap


The formation lap is the lap before the start of the race when the cars drive from their qualifying places on the grid in order to form up on the grid again for the start of the actual race.

Paddles


Levers are located on either side of the back of a steering wheel, and drivers can change gear by pushing them up or down.

G-force


Although it sounds very scientific, a G-force is simply a physical force equivalent to one unit of gravity that is multiplied during rapid changes of direction or velocity.

Drivers experience G-forces as they corner, accelerate and brake.

Paddock


A paddock is a private and enclosed area for each team, where they will keep their car transporters and motor homes.

Pit


A pit is an area of track which is separated from the main track by a wall.

Cars are brought into the pits for new tyres and to refuel during the race. The pits can also serve to implement any set-up changes during practice, as each driver can stop at their respective pit garages, until they are given further information.


Related Posts:
The F1 night race flags off
As the SGP season approaches, do you feel the heat?

What is Vitamin E for?

Just the other day, my bro asked me whether I know what Vitamin E is for and where can this vitamin be found...

He had me stumbled. I knew about A, C and D... but couldn't remember anything about E! How could the family advocate of health not know about this? Hmm... I immediately searched Wiki and gave him a quick answer. Later, I did a more detailed search and compiled the list below from the netdoctor...

More information can be found from:
The Harvard School of Public Health
The Singapore Health Promotion Board

Vitamins

Vitamin A (retinol) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Eyesight, growth, appetite and taste.	Night-blindness.	800 micrograms	Liver, fish-liver oil, carrots, green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, enriched margarine, milk products, yellow fruits.	This vitamin is fat-soluble and so is stored in the body for a long time, especially in pregnancy. An overdose may be dangerous.	Fatty acids.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Nervous system, digestion, muscles, heart, alcohol-damaged nerve tissues.	Tingling in fingers and toes, confusion, difficulties in maintaining balance, loss of appetite, exhaustion, weakened powers of concentration.	1.4mg	Liver, yeast, rice, wholemeal products, peanuts, pork, milk.	No danger. It dissolves in water, so any excess is passed in urine.	High temperatures, alcohol and coffee.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Growth, skin, nails, hair, sensitive lips and tongue, eyesight, the breakdown of protein, fat and carbohydrate	Itchy irritated eyes, itchy mucous membranes (nose/mouth/throat), itchy lips and skin.	1.6mg	Milk, liver, yeast, cheese, green leafy vegetables, fish.	No danger. It dissolves in water, so any excess is passed in urine.	Alcohol and light (this is why milk-cartons are better than bottles).

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Preventing skin conditions, nerve problems, helps the body absorb protein and carbohydrate.	Skin inflammation	2mg - women taking the contraceptive pill may need more.	Fish, bananas, chicken, pork, wholegrains, dried beans.	May cause nerve problems in large doses. Evidence is conflicting about the maximum safe dose, so get medical advice before exceeding the RDA.	The contraceptive pill, roasted or boiled food, alcohol and oestrogen (the female hormone).

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Making red blood and the formation of the nerves.	Tiredness, breathing difficulties, dizziness, abnormalities in nerve tissue function.	1 microgram	Fish, liver, beef, pork, milk, cheese.	No danger. It dissolves in water, so any excess is passed in urine.	Water, sunlight, alcohol, oestrogen and sleeping pills

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Immune defence system, protection from viruses and bacteria, healing wounds, reducing cholesterol, cell lifespan, preventing scurvy. It's also a natural laxative.	Tiredness, bleeding gums, slow-healing wounds.	60mg	Citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, berries, tomatoes, cauliflower, potatoes, green leafy vegetables, peppers.	Large doses can cause diarrhoea and nausea. Some scientists have argued that 1000-5000mg per day may damage your DNA.	Boiling food, light, smoking and heat.

Vitamin D properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Strong bones and teeth	Unhealthy teeth, osteomalacia (causes weakening of bones), rickets in children.	5 micrograms	Sunlight (the action of sunlight on the skin allows our bodies to manufacture vitamin D), cod-liver oil, sardines, herring, salmon, tuna, milk and milk products.	This vitamin is fat-soluble so can accumulate in the body. Overdoses are dangerous.	Mineral oil.

Vitamin E (tocopherol) properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Fighting toxins - vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant.	Weak muscles and fertility problems.	10mg	Nuts, soya beans, vegetable oil, broccoli, sprouts, spinach, wholemeal products, eggs.	There is a slight risk of overdose, because vitamin E is fat soluble.	Heat, oxygen, frost, iron, chlorine and mineral oil.

Folic acid properties

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger	Destroyed by
Production of red blood cells. It is essential in the first three months of pregnancy to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida, cleft palate or cleft lip.	Tiredness due to anaemia, red tongue.	200 micrograms. Women planning to conceive should take a daily supplement of 400mcg, continued for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.	Carrots, yeast, liver, egg, yolks, melon, apricots, pumpkin, avocado, beans, rye and wholewheat, green leafy vegetables.	No danger. It dissolves in water, so any excess is passed in urine.	Water, sunlight, oestrogen, heat.

Minerals

Calcium

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger
Strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle contraction, blood clotting.	Poor teeth and brittle bones.	800mg	Milk, cheese, butter, yoghurt and green leafy vegetables.	High doses can lead to headaches, stomach pain, high blood pressure and diarrhoea. Excess calcium can be deposited as kidney and gall bladder stones.

Iron

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger
Red blood cells and muscle function, white blood cells and the immune system.	Tiredness, irritability, difficulties concentrating.	14mg	Lean red meat, oily fish, egg yolks, green leafy vegetables, nuts, wholegrains and wholewheat.	Iron is stored in the body and high doses (over 17mg) can lead to constipation, vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea. Very high doses can be fatal.

Magnesium

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger
Converting energy from food, cell repair, building strong bones, teeth and muscles, regulating body temperature.	Muscle spasms, and has been associated with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and weak bones.	300mg	Green leafy vegetables, wholegrains and nuts.	High doses can cause diarrhoea.

Zinc

Benefits	Deficiency Symptoms	Recommended Daily Intake	Food Sources	Danger
Immune system, the breakdown of protein, fat and carbohydrate.	Lesions on skin, eyes and in throat, loss of taste and smell, hair loss, diarrhoea, slow healing of wounds, growth problems in children.	15mg	Meat, shellfish, milk brown rice and wholegrains.	High doses can lead to stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting.

Related Posts:
Food for Thought
The Joy of Soy
Ways to fight off flu

Perfect Bag? Not Really!

Stains found on the bag caused by the bag handles after barely one week of usage?

The counter assistant claimed that Neverfull is a perfect bag and no one had reported a similar problem. We've checked the Internet too, so far no complaints of stains... Why me? :(

DC did further research on the bag and found that the leather Vachetta used on the bag is untreated and care has to be taken to maintain it from dirt, grime and water. The leather straps will start out almost white and eventually turn into a honey color due to air and use.

They offered to remove the stains for me and guess what they used? An eraser! It's a really unexpected but quick fix. I think I've an eraser lying around somewhere in the house, gonna search for it just in case the bag got stained again!


Here are some other suggestions to clean and clear the bag that I found from the Internet:

1. VACHETTA

Vachetta is the untreated leather trim that is found on many Louis Vuitton bags. Since it is untreated, it has plenty of opportunities to pick up dirt and grime. It starts out almost white and eventually patinas due to air and use into a honey color.

TREAT IT! This will slow down the patina process and make it less susceptible to stains. One great leather protector is Shining Monkey Spray. It may darken the vachetta at first, but will dry clear. Apple Guarde and Kiwi also make a leather protector. Look at your local megastore in the leather care section (car or cleaning) or search online for the brands above.

If you have bought a used bag off ebay or did not treat your vachetta and it is getting a little grimy, you can remove surface dirt with baby wipes. Look for alcohol free ones, they don't dry out your bag as much. Baby wipes are also excellent for blending in watermarks if you did not treat your bag.

If baby wipes don't remove all of the dirt, try a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Dampen the eraser and gently scrub at the vachetta. If the dirt is set in, you may need a few applications. Allow vachetta to dry between each one. WARNING: While Magic Erasers are wonderful at removing set in dirt, they do strip the vachetta of its natural oils and dry it out. It is helpful to apply a moisturizer such as Apple Guarde or Coach Leather Moisturizer.

2. CANVAS & EPI
Mono and damier bags are made out of treated canvas. The canvas has been treated to withstand most everything. Baby wipes are excellent for cleaning up messes on canvas. Baby wipes are also great for Epi as it is treated leather!

3. VERNIS
Vernis is Louis Vuitton's patent leather. As with all patent leather, it is susceptible to color transfer. Once color transfer is on your bag, it is permanently there. There is no way to remove it. Take care as to where you set your bag (avoid newspapers or other printed papers) and avoid wearing a new pair of dark jeans with the bag. Basically if something can transfer onto you or other fabrics, be careful! Because with vernis it is permanent.

Scuffs: Over time, vernis may develop scuffs from use. These are white or black and sit on top of the vernis. The scuffs are different from color transfer, which actually permeates the patent leather. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is a great product to get rid of scuffs. PLEASE USE LIGHTLY. If scrubbed too hard, it is possible to remove the top layer of patent from the leather. It is always better to scrub lightly and have to do two applications than rushing through and harming your leather.



Related Posts:
We were there this afternoon
LVoe LVoe LVoe

Where do you sleep when he's not around?

1. On your side of the bed, or
2. On his side of the bed, or
3. In the middle of the bed?

According to Jul's Cleo magazine, your solo sleeping position speaks volumes about your relationship...

Just nice DC was away on reservist these few weeks, I was able to test this out!


Ready with your answers? Here's the test results!

On your side of the bed
You're secure in the relationship and in his absence, are confident and independent enough to resume your normal routine.

On his side of the bed
You tend to feel unsafe or vulnerable when he's not around and you crave his presence. It might be time to think about whether you might be a bit too needy.

In the middle of the bed
You're in an equal and well-balanced relationship. You're not territorial and can adapt to different situations easily.


Possibly Related Posts:
Mosquito Combat

Uniquely Singapore London Cabs

You can find these eye-catching "Uniquely Singapore" London cabs in UK! Nice!






Related Posts:
Fantasticar
Taxi queue for the first time
Bang

Where to go for flavoured soya milk

Have you read the lifestyle section on The Sunday Times June 15 2008? It was such a coincidence to see a related topic on the newspaper a day after I've written about my recent craze on soy. The paper featured the new un-conventional flavours of soya milk and where to get them! :D



Some of the flavours sound really special and tempting... black soya bean milk, green tea soya bean milk, aloe vera, black sesame and ice kachang! I must try them all... :)


Related Posts:
The Joy of Soy
A bit about coffee

The Glow of Aesthetic Medicine

A glowing and growing industry it is with the increased demands on aesthetic treatement and therapies with the support of medical expertise.

Medical spas utilize lasers and intense pulsed light technology as well as medical microdermabrasion, photofacials, Botox and Restylene injections, medical peels and other medical beauty procedures. You can get also get traditional spa services like facials, massages, and body treatments.

I've got a list of the medical spas around (see below). Would definitely want to be treated and pampered at some of these medical spas set up by the medical professionals someday! :)


DRx Medispa
www.drxmedispa.com

In addition to conventional spa services, DRx Medispa offers radically different alternatives to relieving fatigue, stress or pain - all based on medical science and advanced spa technology developed by medical doctors.

The signature Mind and Body Rejuvenation treatment for instance, which aims to revitalise tired bodies and minds, is delivered with well-proven techniques.

Start off with Airnergy (an advanced oxygen therapy system to repair body cells), then relax in a shallow pool of Epsom salt solution in the well-documented Flotation REST system before ridding your body of any remaining tension through a 60-minute aromatherapy or deep-tissue massage.

For pain management, a revolutionary treatment, known as Ondamed, uses pulse electromagnetic fields to identify the source of any pain and discomfort in the body. It then delivers a temporary frequency to promote relaxation, muscle re-education, and offer pain and stress relief.

There is also the usual gamut of elective procedures with revolutionary new additions. One of them is Ultrashape, a non-invasive body contouring that permanently destroys fat cells without surgery, an alternative to liposuction.

The other is the Thread Lift, a minimally invasive face-lifting procedure involving the placement of special absorbable threads in strategic locations and tensioned according to the degree of suspension required. It works to ‘lift’ the upper, mid-and lower face, the neck, narrow broad noses, enhance nasal tips and receding chins.

Make sure you read the rules and conditions before you walked in (shoes, sandals and tank-tops are not allowed!)


The Wellness Lounge
www.thewellnesslounge.com.sg

One place that epitomises the reinvention of the conventional spa with added frills is the Wellness Lounge.

With Pacific Healthcare already a well-known speciality centre providing a host of medical services, the Wellness Lounge has tapped on its wealth of medical expertise to design the perfect aesthetic and wellness sanctuary which focuses on one’s health and cosmetic concerns. The result is a unique mix of advanced medical aesthetic treatments for the face and body.

Spa services here are provided in an innovative manner. The Wellness Deluxe Facial combines the latest in aesthetic technology such as microdermabrasion, cell rejuvenating Swiss serum, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Radio Frequency Foto Facial (RF).

The latest addition to the spa menu is the Medical Sleep Spa Therapy, using the latest dual radio frequency technology and unique pressure point dream massage for a much needed rest. This is an integration of the medical sleep diagnosis and treatment with spa relaxation therapy, ideal for those on the go as it prepares the mind, assesses sleep quality and thereafter, aims to improve the sleep quality.

The Sleep Spa Dream Massage with De-stress Therapy treats insomnia, stress and associated illness, muscle pull, migraine, poor blood circulation, slow metabolic function and tension headache, coincidentally issues commonly linked to business persons on tight schedules.

* Photo above from the Wellness Lounge


The medSpa
www.medspa.com.sg

Off the cuff, The medSpa seems like your run-of-the-mill spa, but there is definitely more under its skin. Its clients like the fact there is a consultant specialist here to look after them. Whether they go in for Botox, eye-bag removal, skin therapy or a simple laser peel, a specialist plastic surgeon always checks in on them.

However, the real uniqueness about The medSpa is that clients can come in after undergoing surgical procedures in the Plastic and Hand Surgery clinic next-door, to receive for instance, post-operative treatment to decrease swelling and accelerate healing if necessary.

Also, many visit The medSpa for StimuShape, a special treatment designed to complement fat-reducing procedures by further eliminating remnant fat tissues to maximise the aesthetic outcome. The medSpa was the first in Singapore to offer such transitional services.

With travelers usually staying between three to five days, such procedures or others like fillers to smoothen creases and fill in facial lines, skin-tightening thermage, and StimuLaser Therapy (electrical and laser facial stimulation) are popular due to the short downtime involved.



Related Posts:
Wellness Village Spa
Fish Spa
Matahari Spa
Relax
The Ultimate Spa
The Garden Spa

Mosquito Combat

I am back for in-camp training once again. The mosquitoes are there as usual, doing their commando attacks. Damn the mosquitoes ...

So I am going to try 3 defensive measures.

1. Electric Mosquito Repeller
2. Mosquito Coil
3. Anti-mosquito wristband

Only the mosquito coil had been tested but it wasn't very effective. Well, it's the most basic and common around.

I'll get to see the effects of the other two after I go back to camp. If all else fails, the army-issued gel-based insect repellent will always work ... although it's quite a strong smell ... and sticky ...




Related Posts:
Air Supply
A trip to Changi10,000 shutter count

That's Nice, Honey!

Father-in-law just bought a bottle of premier honey from the food exibition at Expo today. At night at his place, he eagerly scooped a spoonful for us to try. DC had that funny, tongue-out, squirming facial expression that I thought the honey tasted sour! When did Honey ever taste bad? I didn't believe him and I tried... true enough, it wasn't at all sweet as he claimed. The golden semi-liquid was so thick, gluey and tasted marvellous!

Coincidentally, my dearest mummy kept asking me to finish up my huge bottle of honey at home yesterday when she came to visit and boss treated us a cup of warm honey lemon drink during meeting this morning, and today father-in-law let us try his newly-purchased honey!

I like honey! Maybe I should just listen to wise mummy and father-in-law's words, to drink it daily for its beneficial effects:
(1) Resists Bacteria
(2) Anti-Ageing
(3) Anti-Oxidation
(4) Promote Child Growth
(5) Promote Skin Healing
(6) Promote Liver Protection
(7) Promote Digestion and Bowel Molity
(8) Enhance Hematopoieses
(9) Improve Sleep


Related Posts:
Healthier Diet...Possible?
Food for thought
Sick!
Air Supply

The language of Love

It's Valentine's Day today. :)


If you are planning to get a flower as gift for your special one, be sure to know the meaning behind the flowers...

A
Absinth/Wormwood	Separation and Torment of Love
Acacia	Platonic Love, concealed love
Aconite/Monkshood	Misanthropy and Poisonous Words
Adams's Needle	A Friend in Need
Adonis	Recollection of Life's Pleasure
Almond	Virginity and Fruitfulness
Almond Blossom	Hope and Watchfulness
Aloe	Wisdom and Integrity
Allspice	Compassion
Alyssum (sweet)	Worth beyond beauty
Amaranth	Fidelity
Amaranth, Globe	Unchangeable
Amaryllis	Pastoral Poetry, Pride
Ambrosia	Your Love is reciprocated
Anemone	Refusal and Abandonment, Forsaken
Apple	Symbol of Perpetual Concord
Apricot Blossom	Timid Love
Abor Vitae	True Friendship
Arbutus	Thee only do I Love
Artemesia	Symbol of Dignity
Asphodel	Languor and Regret
Aster	Daintiness, Symbol of Love
Azalea	Fragile and Ephemeral Passion
B
Baby's Breath	Happiness
Bay Wreath	Reward of Merit
Begonia	"Beware! I am fanciful!"
Bindweed	Coquette and Busybody
Bittersweet	Truth
Blackthorn/Sloe	Difficulty and Austerity
Blue Bell	Delicacy and Humility
Bouquet of Withered Flowers	Rejected love
Burdock	Importunity and Boredom
Buttercup	Childishness
C
Cactus	Bravery and Endurance
Camellia	Excellence and Steadfastness
Camellia, red	You're a flame in my heart
Camellia, white	You're adorable
Camomile	Initiative and Ingenuity
Candytuft	Indifference
Canterbury Bell	Constancy and Warning
Cardinal Flower	Distinction and Splendor
Carnation	Fascination
Carnation, Pink	Emblem of Mother's Day, I will never forget you
Carnation, Purple	Antipathy and Capriciousness
Carnation, Red	Admiration, my heart aches for you
Carnation, Striped	No, Sorry, I cannot be with you
Carnation, White	Pure Love, Sweet Love, Innocence
Carnation, Yellow	Disdain and Rejection
Cedar Leaf	"I live for thee"
Chestnut	Independence and Injustice
China Aster	Jealousy and After-thought
Chrysanthemum	You are a wonderful friend
Chrysanthemum, Red	I love you
Chrysanthemum, White	Truth
Chrysanthemum, Yellow	Slighted Love
Cinnamon	Love and Beauty
Clematis	Artifice and Ingenuity
Clove	Dignity and Restraint
Clover	Fertility and Domestic Virtue
Clover, Four leafed	Symbol Of Good Luck
Clover, Five leafed	Symbol Of Bad Luck
Cockscomb/Celosia	Silliness or Foppery
Coltsfoot	Maternal Love and Care
Columbine	Cuckoldry and Deserted Love
Convolvulus	Humble Perseverance
Coreopsis	Always cheerful
Cornflower	Delicacy
Crane's-bill/Wild Geranium	Constancy and Availability
Crocus	Youthful Gladness, Attachment, Cheerfulness
Crown Imperial	Majesty and Power
Cyclamen	Resignation & Goodbye
D
Daffodil	Emblem of Annunciation/Regard, Unrequited love
Dahlia	Good Taste
Daisy	Gentleness, Innocence, Loyal love
Dandelion	Oracle of Time and Love, Faithfulness, Happiness
Day Lily/Hemerocallis	Emblem Of The Mother
Delphinium	Airy
Dogwood	Durability
E
Edelweiss	Daring & Noble Courage
Eglantine	Spring & Poetry
Elderberry Blossom	Humility and Kindness
Everlasting	Constancy
F
Fennel	Strength
Fern	Sincerity, Magic, Fascination, Confidence, Shelter
Fir	Time & Evaluation
Forget-me-not	Faithful Love, Memories
Forsynthia	Anticipation
Fuchsia	Amiability
G
Gardenia	"I love you in secret"
Geranium, Oak-leaf	Friendship
Geranium, Rose	Preference
Gillyflower, Pink	Bonds Of Affection
Gladiolus	Strength Of Character, I am really sincere
Gloxinia	Love at first sight
Goldenrod	Treasure And Good Fortune
H
Heather, Purple	Admiration, Beauty and Solitude
Heather, Pink	"Good Luck"
Heather, White	Protection From Danger
Heliotrope	Devotion, Eternal Love
Hibiscus	Delicate Beauty
Holly	Foresight
Hollyhock	Ambition and Liberality
Honeysuckle	Sweetness Of Disposition
Hyacinth	Games & Sports
Hyacinth, purple	I am sorry, Please forgive me, Sorrow
Hyacinth, white	Loveliness, I will pray for you
Hyacinth, yellow	Jealousy
Hydrangea	Vanity, Thank you for understanding, Frigidity
I
Iris	Faith, Wisdom, Valor, Your Friendship means so much to me
Ivy	Friendship, Wedded love, Fidelity, Friendship, Affection
J
Jasmine, Red	Folly and Glee
Jasmine, White	Amiability and Cheerfulness
Jasmine, Yellow	Timidity and Modesty
Jonquil	Violent Sympathy and Desire, Love me, Affection returned
K
L
Lady's Slipper	Capricious Beauty
Larkspur	Open Heart
Laurel	Success and Renown
Lavender	Constancy
Lilac, Mauve	"Do You Still Love Me"
Lilac, Pink	Youth and Acceptance
Lilac, White	"My First Dream Of Love"
Lily, Calla	Majestic Beauty
Lily, Day	Coquetry
Lily, Orange	Hatred and Disdain, Wealth, Pride
Lily, White	Majesty and Purity, Virginity
Lily-Of-The-Valley	Purity and Humility, Sweetness
Lotus	Mystery and Truth
Love-In-The-Mist/Nigell	Delicacy and Perplexity
M
Magnolia	Dignity, Splendid Beauty
Marigold	Sacred Affection, Cruelty, Grief, Jealousy
Marjoram	Comfort and Consolation
Marvel-Of-Peru	Flame of Love
Mistletoe	Affection and Love
Mimosa	Sensitivity
Myrtle	Love, Mirth and Joy
N
Narcissus	Egotism, Formality
Nasturtium	Patriotism
O
Oleander	Beauty and Grace
Orange Blossom	Your Purity Equals Your Loveliness, Innocence, Eternal Love
Orange Mock	Deceit
Orchid	Magnificence, Love, Beauty, Refinement
P
Pansy	Thoughtful Recollection
Passionflower	Faith and Piety
Peach Blossom	Generosity and Bridal Hope
Pear Blossom	Health and Hope
Peony	Healing, Life, Happy Marriage, Gay life
Peppermint	Warmth of Feelings
Periwinkle, Blue	Early Friendship
Periwinkle, White	Pleasures of Memory
Petunia	Anger and Resentment
Phlox	Sweet Dreams
Plum Blossom	Beauty and Longevity
Poinsettia	"Be of Good Cheer"
Poppy	Imagination, Dreaminess, Eternal sleep
Poppy, yellow	Wealth, Success
Primrose	Young Love, I cannot live without you
Primrose, evening	Inconstancy
Q
Queen Anne's Lace	Fantasy
R
Rose, Bridal	Happy Love
Rose, Carolina	Love Is Dangerous
Rose, Christmas	Peace and Tranquility
Rose, Coral/Orange	Enthusiasm, Desire
Rose, Dark Pink	Thank you
Rose, Light Pink	Admiration
Rose, Musk	Capricious Beauty
Rose, Pale	Friendship
Rose, Peach	Let's get together, Closing of the deal
Rose, Pink	Love, Grace, Gentility, You're so Lovely, Perfect Happiness, Please believe me
Rose, Pink & White	I love you still and always will
Rose, Red	Love, Desire, Respect, Courage, Job well done
Rose, Red & Yellow	Congratulations
Rose, White	Charm, Secrecy, Silence, You're Heavenly, Reverence, Humility, Youthfulness and Innocence
Rose, White on Red	Unity/Flower Emblem of England
Rose, Yellow	Infidelity, Joy, Gladness, Friendship, Jealousy, Welcome Back, Remember me
Rose, Yellow & Orange	Passionate thoughts
Rosemary	Constancy, Fidelity and Loyalty
S
Salvia, Blue	"I Think of You"
Smilax	Lovely
Snapdragon	Presumption, Deception, Gracious lady
Snowdrop	Hope and Consolation
Spearmint	Warmth of Sentiment
Spider Flower	Elope with me
Statice	Lasting Beauty
Stephanotis	Happiness in marriage
Stock	Bonds of affection, You will always be beautiful to me
Sunflower	Homage and Devotion
Sweet Basil	Good Luck
Sweet Pea	Departure, Blissful pleasure, Thanks for a lovely time
Sweet William	Gallantry, Finesse and Perfection
T
Thrift	Sympathy
Thyme	Courage and Activity
Tiger Lily	Wealth and Pride
Tuberose	Dangerous Pleasures
Tulip	Symbol of The Perfect Lover
Tulip, Red	Believe me, Declaration of love
Tulip, Variegated	Beautiful eyes
U
V
Violet	Modesty and Simplicity
Viscaria	Will you dance with me?
W
Wallflower	Friendship and Adversity
Water Lily	Eloquence and Persuasion
Wisteria	Youth and Poetry
X
Xeranthemum	Eternity and Immortality
Y
Yarrow	Healing
Z
Zinnia	Thoughts of Absent Friends
Zinnia, Pink	Lasting Affection

Related Posts:
Valentine's Day
Sentosa Flowers 2008
Flower Blossom

How to sew a button

Father-in-law demonstrated to both of us how to sew on a button. DC had asked him to help mend a button that almost came off a shirt. Yes, 1 more lesson learnt from the elder! :) Now we know how to correctly fix a button (I hope)! :P

We should have taken a video of the demo! I managed to find this video on the Net but the method varies a little from father-in-law's method. Neverthess, it's a good enough demo:

What the video missed out: Before finishing off, you need to twist the cotton a few times around the threads between the button and garment, to form a tiny column of thread (called the "thread shank") for the button to sit on. This ensures a big enough gap to enable you to do the button up.

Sewing Sew-Thru Buttons
Use a double strand of thread. Knot the end. Take a small stitch on the right side. Take a second stitch in same place.




Bring needle and thread through one hole in button. Center button over stitch. Insert needle into another hole in the button and into the fabric. Pull through.





Slip a toothpick, needle, or pin between thread and button to form shank. Take 3 or 4 stitches through each pair of holes.








Bring needle and thread to right side under button. Remove toothpick, needle, or pin.




Wind thread 2 or 3 times around button stitches to form shank.





Secure thread in fabric under button by making a knot or several small stitches.






Extra Tip:
When sewing on a shank button and a two-hole sew-thru button, the shank or the holes should be placed in the same direction as the button hole.



Related Posts:
Stitch It
Sick!

Stitch It

DC asked me to help close an open stitch on his tie yesterday. Not that I've never done this before (I've mended my own clothes before), but somehow this time I felt nervous "operating" on DC's tie. This is the woman's pride at work I gathered... the time to prove to him that I'm still worthy of the "Best Home Econs student" many years ago has finally come.

Actually I've forgotten most of what was taught in school. The operation was not at all perfect but at least it was successful... I got the tie back in shape. Have to admit that the result was a bit slipshod but haha, DC accepted it. :)

I have since refreshed my memory to prepare myself for the next stitch:

Backstitch
Backstitch is the strongest hand stitch and is used to imitate machine stitches.
Work backstitch from right to left.


Oversewing Stitch
Oversewing, or overcasting, is a way to neaten a raw edge to prevent heavyweight fabrics from fraying. Relate the length of the stitch to the fabric and how badly it will fray.


Running Stitch
This stitch is used for seams and for gathering.


Slipstitch
This stitch is used for holding a folded edge, such as a double hem, to a flat piece of fabric.


Tacking Stitch
This is used to hold the fabric in position while it is being permanently stitched. Similar to running stitch but with longer stitches. Also known as Basting.