Audrey Ooi: Mother of Two & Blogger at Fourfeetnine

You might know Audrey Ooi.  She started fourfeetnine in 2004, and was the star of the meme proposal video that went viral.

Audrey has since married her “Fatty” Timothy Tiah, welcomed their son Jude (aka “Fighter”) in 2013 and gave birth to baby girl, Penny last week. We caught up with Audrey just weeks before giving birth to her second baby, Penelope.

Hi Audrey! How are you?

Good! Feeling a bit tired; I’m in my last leg of pregnancy now. But overall not too bad.

Congratulations on expecting your baby girl! How is Fighter adjusting into his big brother role?

Errr… I don’t think he consciously realises it but ever since I got pregnant he’s become more clingy. I don’t know if it’s true what they say about babies sensing a new sibling coming.

I’m also a bit worried because he doesn’t react well whenever any of us – me, my husband, his grandparents or even our helper – carries another baby. He gets angry and tries to push away the other baby. So I’m a bit nervous introducing him to his sister. Haha!

What are the essentials in your hospital bag?

I haven’t packed one! I didn’t pack for Fighter either cos I was hospitalised so early, it was unexpected. But I’d say…:

• Comfy pajamas
• Breast pump
• Toiletries and maybe some light makeup
• Phone and charger
• Camera
• Swaddle or blanket for baby
• 1-2 outfits for baby
• Car seat

So Fighter Tiah had his first birthday last August. How was it?

That was six months ago! It was fun. At a year old it’s hard to tell what preferences they have yet so it’s probably his only birthday where I got to pick the theme. I chose a Beatles theme since his name is Jude (from Hey Jude).  The first birthday is more for the parents I think – celebrating their first year as parents with friends and family.

Any tips for moms looking to throw their child’s first birthday party?

Honestly, anything goes. Whether you want to just have cake at home or throw a big themed party for friends and family, by all means do whatever you want to do.

You’re a pretty busy mom! How and when do you find time to blog?

Usually when Fighter is asleep. Either during his naps or at night. That’s the only time I can get any computer work done or else he’ll come over and insist on smashing on my laptop and “helping”.

What are your favourite things to do with your son? Do you take him to any specific spots or cafes on weekends?

We basically take him everywhere we go. Our family outings are going out for meals and grocery shopping. We’ve recently started taking him to the playground and indoor play areas too.

Are there any considerations that you think moms should take before having another baby?

Figure out if they’re financially okay to expand the family, and what the childcare options are. Are you going to stay home and care for them? Or send them to grandparents or daycare? Or have a helper?

Do you have any tips for dads wanting to help their wives around the house?

Erm… no! Anything a husband does will be greatly appreciated by the wife, trust me 🙂 Even if they don’t know what they’re doing it’s great that they’re helping out.

Finally, what’s the one thing a person should never say to a pregnant woman?

“Do you know who the father is?” HAHA!

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To read more about Audrey’s life now with two kids, head over to her blog.