Project H&S: My First Letter To My Dear Daughter

One of the things that kept my bond strong with my mother Corito when she was still alive was our constant letters to each other. I think I got my passion for writing through her because she always encouraged me to write. Growing up, she inspired me to write about my experiences by keeping a journal/diary. She said that I should write about my feelings, travels or anything that was of value to me so I could remember it forever. I took her advise and developed my love of writing. I was able to fill up 7 diaries (since I was 6 until I was 4th year High School!). I told myeslf that one day, I will share these experiences with my daughter... that's you!

Today as you turn a month old, I decided to write you my very first letter...

Dearest Sofia,

I cannot believe it has already been a month since you came into our lives. Let me tell you briefly the events that happened prior to your coming.

When we found out I was pregnant, your Dada and I both agreed that we wanted it to be a surprise this time around. We didn't want to find out the gender until the very end. It was NINE whole months of excitement and sheer anticipation. During my 7th month check-up/ultrasound though, Tita Addie went with me. She requested the doctors to tell her the gender with the promise that she won't react or say anything. So she was the only person who knew if what was inside my tummy was a boy or girl! In fact, during the Baby Shower, I wasn't allowed to open her gift. It was a huge red paper bag with a message in all caps outside stating " DO NOT OPEN UNTIL YOU GIVE BIRTH...OR ELSE! (umm..or else the surprise would be ruined!). And so I waited. Everyone, well most of my friends and family, guessed that I would have a a boy because of the pointed shape of my belly. There were a few who said that it would be a girl because I was blooming...ahem! naks! Thank you to all those who rooted for a girl! Hahaha :)

After one false alarm on April 15 (I went into the pre-labor room thinking it was 'time' already but was sent home) and a lot of complaints of back pain and stomach cramps...You were born on the 18th of April. I remember the utter joy (and tremendous relief!) I felt after that final push and Dra. Vicencio announced, "Congratulations it's a Baby GIRL!". I teared up because your dad and I were really praying for a girl. Dada also got emotional and choked when the nurse called him into the delivery room to meet you for the very first time.

God is really great. He answered our prayer and gave us a girl...YOU, Sofia Isabelle!

2 Days Old

2 Weeks Old at Home

It's been both a blur and bliss the past month as the whole family welcomed you to our home. As for me, I am still adjusting to my new routine with breastfeeding involved. It's a full-time round-the-clock job by the way. Although after the first two weeks, I had to supplement with formula because I sensed that my milk was not enough and that you were still hungry after a full 'feed'. Even with the fairly low milk supply, I promise to stay committed for as long as my supply lasts! :) Your Dada, on the other hand, has been putting a little more focus on your Kuya to help him adjust to his new role. We don't want him to feel left out so we make sure he also gets the needed attention. And lastly, your "Kuya" Henri's favorite move when he sees you is to kiss your feet. Your Dada and I think it's really sweet of him. That's his lambing to you.