Looking Back on 2012 and Ahead to 2013

***Warning: Long-ish post.

Ok, it's now the fourth day in the year 2013. I'm not making any resolutions this year. With the baby on the way, I know it will be a very busy year getting to know the baby and getting used to our new life as 3 instead of 2.

Last year, many things happened...

I finally took the plunge and put my career on hold. It was one of the biggest decisions I have ever made, and it wasn't easy. But my priorities changed after we found out that we're expecting a baby. I want to be there for the baby and to be able to take care of the baby myself. With our country's Employment Act, maternity leave is only 60 days. I really cannot imagine sending a 2-month old baby to a baby sitter / stranger. I have received many comments ranging from "oh you are so fortunate" to "so just goyang kaki at home?" but this decision came with many sacrifices on both my part as well as the hubs. And we both know that this is one decision that we will definitely not regret. 

Empty desk on my last day at work.

My pregnancy so far have been quite easy. I am now in my 36th week. We've attended Hypnobirthing class and breastfeeding class. And I've done yoga weekly up until 2 weeks ago when Upward Yoga temporarily closed for Ninie to go on her maternity break.

Journal writing as a way of bonding with baby.

Our 'tutup muka' baby at 20weeks (left) and 25weeks (right).

Baby at 29weeks, getting really really chubby!

That's right... We're having a baby GIRL!

I also made many new friends who are also SAHMs (stay-at-home-moms). We try to meet as often as we can. These ladies kept my sanity in check. Ranting, sharing tips and advice on cooking, baking, taking care of babies, and everything under the roof.

The past 1 year was also a year of baking, crafting and sewing.

Hubs got me a Kitchen Aid for my birthday. I made meringue kisses, pavlova, tarts, cupcakes ordered by ex-colleagues, candied orange peel, cinnamon pancakes with home made apple sauce, chocolate truffles, etc. The chocolate truffles are for sale. Details will be provided soon.

I also designed my own cupcake toppers. These are available for order.

I made cards, a Halloween costume for the hubs to wear to his office Halloween party, friendship bracelets, felt crafts, cross stitching, iPhone covers, etc. Some of these crafts are for sale.

So that was my 2012. Here's to more baking, crafting and sewing, and our baby in 2013!