Reality bites

Milo just started school last June, and two weeks into classes, his adviser called me for a short conference. Apparently, he's having quite a challenge adjusting to the rigid school structure (he is so used to unstructured play) and needs additional guidance at home. It was my first inkling that there would be struggles ahead when it came to Milo's education. A month later, I was still getting called to school. I consulted my pediatrician about other behavioral reinforcements that I could try, and she suggested that I bring him to an occupational therapist. We are going onto our third session with the OT and so far, we are seeing opportunities to reinforce correct behavior in ways that Milo will be receptive to. The OT also explained that his hyperactiveness, impulsiveness and lack of focus would really be highlighted in such a traditional school setting... I guess it's time to explore progressive educational institutions in the area as well. In Milo's first two years of life, I really was the proud parent, ever defensive of even the slightest criticism, basically convincing myself that Milo could do no wrong. But in doing so, I have done wrong by him, and now it's time to take a hard stand on his behavior. Hopefully, with time, effort and consistency, we'll be able to correct this and help Milo assimilate better into student life. It's a humbling experience to go through this, and I am thankful for my supportive husband and family who assure me that things will be ok. Most of all, I am thankful that Jess has let his kindness and Grace shine through all the preoccupations in my life, and slowly but surely find its way to my heart.

Almost a year later...

Kung Hei Fat Choi (a late post)

More photos

Just some recent photos, courtesy of Tita Jo Elicaño.

A Fun Ranch indeed!

We took Milo to Fun Ranch for the first time last march 6. After taking a while to warm up to the place (the play area is huge, Milo was running around, climbing up and down steps, going through tunnels and of course, diving into the cage of balls.





Although it was only our first visit, I am definite it won't be our last! :)

Hospital blues

Milo was confined for the first time last February 10 at Asian Hospital. We stayed there for almost a week, during which time he was diagnosed with gastritis. We were discharged on February 15 only to rush back to the hospital the next day due to Milo having a persistent high fever. Fortunately, the fever was traced as an effect of his recent MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, and he was OK by February 20. Still, it was a nerve-wracking 10 days. The hardest part was watching the nurse (and eventually the doctor) try to put an IV line into him. His veins kept collapsing and he was very, very distressed during the entire procedure. the had to wrap his entire body in a blanket (save for the part they were trying to put the IV in) so he wouldn't dislodge the needle. It was torture watching him screaming in pain. I hope it will be a long time before I have to go through that again.

Here are two photos of him with his "boxing glove"

Milo's first birthday (a super late post!)

Last week, I finally got a hold of some photos from Milo's birthday party last 2 Jan. An officemate of mine was nice enough to share them. So I finally have photos to post after two months of requesting for copies from other sources. Thank God for cool officemates! :)