Bagong Nanay

Author: Bagong Nanay

  • Chee Vicente: The Perks and Trade-offs of Being an Influencer Nanay

    Chee Vicente: The Perks and Trade-offs of Being an Influencer Nanay

    Hello, #BagongNanay!

    Alin ka dito: yung simula nagka-baby eh panay post na ng pictures niya sa social media, o hanggang gallery lang talaga ang mga selfies niyo?

    For our #KuwentongBagongNanay, tinanong ko si Mommy Chee Vicente, isang nanay na introvert, kung paano nga ba maging isang katulad niya na content creator at influencer. She has over 7,000 followers and counting sa kanyang page na Mommy Chee Speaks. Worth it nga bang i-set to public ang iyong buhay nanay?

    Read more and know the perks and trade-offs of being an influencer nanay.

    1. What made you decide to go public in posting your nanayhood journey?

    When I started my Instagram account, I only thought about myself. I wanted to use it as platform to speak what’s on my mind. It will be an outlet for my creative juices. It’s where I could share my learnings from reading articles, watching videos, and my personal experiences.

    Some of my friends, who were then my first followers, started thanking me for my posts. They said that my posts were something that even they themselves cannot bravely express, and they find it inspiring. That was the time when I set my Instagram account to public.

    I believe that some women, especially moms, need someone who can speak on their behalf – probably because of their fear of being judged and humiliated. 

    I feel grateful when women and moms share their thoughts on the comment section of my posts. I also learn from them.

    My Instagram page then became a platform not only for myself, but also for other women, especially moms. 

    2. What are the perks of being an influencer nanay? Can you share your top 3?

    When my outputs are recognized, it is a more fulfilling experience than receiving free products.

    Chee Vicente, influencer nanay

    First, I found new acquaintances when I became an influencer nanay. Daming communities pala ng nanay na hindi ko alam, kasi prior to building Mommy Chee Speaks, I’m not active in social media nor part of mommy groups. I am an introvert type of person kasi.

    Second, I am learning a lot. From photo/video editing to caption writing to content strategy, I try to improve day-by-day. I also learned a lot from other influencers kasi may nakilala akong influencers who are willing to share their knowledge and skills by replying to my questions via direct message or DM. Haha.

    I also learn from my followers through their comments, and some of them share their personal experiences with me through DM too.

    Finally, what that I like about being an influencer nanay is that I gained opportunities to showcase my talents through working with brands, guesting in live streams & podcasts, and other collaboration projects. When my outputs are recognized, it is a more fulfilling experience than receiving free products. 😂

    Mommy Chee and her son, Tian

    3. What are the top 3 trade-offs of having a public profile on social media?

    Having a public profile on social media is a daily risk.

    First, our privacy (including my immediate family) is somehow compromised. I sometimes post pictures including them and we don’t know if some bad person might grab these pictures and use them for selfish reasons. So for our safety, I don’t post everything about our lives unless I want my readers to gain something from it, or the brand requires it.

    Having a public profile on social media is a daily risk. It also exposes me to a high risk of mental stress.

    Chee Vicente, influencer nanay

    I take time to read the comments of my followers, respond to them, and learn from them so I can plan what content I should post next. Because I treat my followers as my community, I spend time responding to their comments and DMs.

    Being out in the public exposes me also to a high risk of mental stress. As an introvert, hindi ako sanay sa maraming tao. Plus, having a larger audience means having a diverse set of thoughts and beliefs.

    I’ve met some influencers and non-influencers who almost made me stop this page. Glad that I was able to learn to compose myself, and be able to let go of those unhealthy stressors.

    4. If you can go back to your first Instagram post, what would you have done differently?

    We say that we have to change what we did before to make it better. But for me, I wouldn’t change anything. That’s the process that I had to go through. 

    Follow Mommy Chee on Instagram and Facebook: mommycheespeaks

    As per my first post, it will always be a reminder of how far I have gone being an influencer and a content creator. My first post is my stepping stone to where I am right now.

    5. What is your dream brand collab and why?

    This question is a bit hard for me. Pero I dream of working with Puregold or Super8. Haha.

    Since most of my followers ay simpleng nanay din, mas madaling gawan ng content yun mga ganito, yung abot-kaya, yung feasible, ‘di ba? I’m having a hard time creating content kapag yun brand is hindi naman affordable ng karaniwang tao, especially ngayon na pandemic. And honestly, I am not an “into brand” type of person, so kung ako rin ang mag-eengage sa posts ng iba, doon ako sa products na kaya kong bilhin. 

    6. In only six words, describe what kind of Bagong Nanay you are.

    I am a Bagong Nanay with faith, confidence, motivation, and love.

    I am Chee Vicente from Laguna.

    I am the Bagong Nanay of Tian, a 9-year-old boy.

    When I’m not busy with my job and household chores, I ride my bike, play with dogs, and watch movies and tutorials.

    Got a #KuwentongBagongNanay story to share? Email us at bagongnanayshop@gmail.com

  • “Anong ulam?” Easy-to-cook ulam ideas according to Nanays

    “Anong ulam?” Easy-to-cook ulam ideas according to Nanays

    ECQ, MECQ, GCQ pa man, may nananatiling constant: kailangang bumangon at magluto ng Bagong Nanay.

    Dahil bawal lumabas, madalas gusto nalang natin magpadeliver ng pagkain. Kaya naglipana ang mga Facebook and Viber groups kung saan napakaraming pwedeng pagpilian. Sold tayo lalo na pag mabasa natin ang magic words na “FREE DELIVERY.” 😛

    Pero siyempre, hindi naman pwedeng araw-araw take-out or delivery. Magastos siya, at alam nating mas malinis at mas mura pag lutong-bahay. Problema, ang hirap mag-isip ng lulutuin sa araw-araw, o di kaya, hindi naman tayo magaling magluto. Saktong fried egg lang or pancit canton ang alam natin bago tayo nagkapamilya. 🙈

    Katulad ko ba kayo na kada gabi, naglilista na ako kung ano ang lulutuin kinabukasan, para hindi ako mag-aksaya ng brain cells kakatitig sa kung anong mga ingredients sa ref. Kaya lang, madalas, paulit-ulit na ang niluluto ko. Ako mismo nauumay na.

    Kaya naman, tinanong ko ang mga Bagong Nanay sa Instagram kung ano ang mga easy-to-cook recipes nila ngayong ECQ na naging MECQ na pala. Kinompile ko sila, at nagsingit na rin ng mga photos ng luto ko. 🥰

    May sabaw

    • Nilagang baka na may mais
    • Sinigang na isda
    • Miso soup
    • Law-uy (bisaya vegetable soup)
    • Tinolang manok with malunggay
    • Hotpot
    Paboritong lutuin kapag kakapamalengke palang ng gulay – sinigang na kahit ano!

    Dahil may toddler kami sa bahay, mahilig siya sa sinabawang kahit na ano. Pag may sabaw ang ulam, sure na marami ang kakainin niya.

    Ginisa

    • Ginisang sayote
    • Ginisang sayote sa sardinas
    • Ginisang pechay sa sardinasSpicy tuna sisig
    • Ginisang kamatis with egg
    • Sizzling tofu
    • Stir-fry vegetables (carrots, beans, sayote)
    • Ginisang repolyo
    • Ginisang sausage
    Gisa ka lang ng giniling, add cabbage, cheese, wrap in tortilla – instant burrito!

    Basta’t may bawang at sibuyas, may ulam. Share ko lang – napaka-life-changing ng tortilla wraps. Yung mga usual na ginigisa mo lang, ibalot mo sa tortilla wrap, at mag-le-level-up ang luto mo.

    Prito

    • Pan-seared salmon steak
    • Pritong bangus
    • Scrambled egg with onion
    • Tortang sardinas
    • Processed meats (tocino, meatloaf, corned beef, hotdog)
    • Air-fried bacon
    Veega meat-free burger steak with mushroom gravy and mashed potatoes!

    Eto yung mga pinakamadaling lutuin. Kaso, madalas, kulang sa nutrition! Kaya pag prito ang ulam namin, lagi akong magtitimpla ng M2 Malunggay Okra Luya Tea. Para sagot na niya yung gulay. 😉

    M2 Malunggay Okra Luya Tea ang favorite drink namin!

    May sarsa

    • Adobong manok
    • Adobong baboy
    • Kinamatisang manok na may malunggay
    Adobong manok with spinach

    Sarsa is love. Kasi sarsa palang, ulam na!

    Non-rice

    • Spaghetti
    • Tuna pasta
    • Tacos
    Creamy chicken alfredo pasta with quesadillas

    Madalas kong menu for the day is breakfast, lunch na rice, then dinner na pasta. Para medyo may variety. Bili kayo ng iba-ibang klase ng pasta para di kayo maumay na puro spaghetti lang. Lakas din maka-sosyal ng olives. Favorite ng toddler ko.

    Roasted

    • Oven-roasted cabbages
    • Roasted or baked chicken
    • Sausages with baked potatoes
    Maharlika Taste’s Beef Randang with cucumber and tortilla

    Dahil wala kaming oven, microwave is key sa amin. Like this instant ulam – beef randang in a bottle, heat lang, then poof! Walang kapagod-pagod pero ang sarap! Okay din ang gourmet tuyo or spanish sardines for instant ulam.

    Instant

    Eto naman ang ultimate panawid gutom. Instant noodles but make it fashion! Lagyan ng mga available gulay, egg, and beef balls. I-serve with nori/seaweed, and with kimchi on the side. Naging ramen ang simpleng mami!

    Sana may napulot kayong ideas dito ng lulutuin habang naka-lockdown pa rin tayo. Kapit lang, naway matapos na ang pandemya at makapag-boodle fight na ulit with our loved ones.

    Salamat mga nanays sa pagsagot sa ating #BagongNanayQOTW! rejjventress, cybilmalipot, mavicholics, happygo_chrissy, mommyjhentrese, mommylou_18, mommy_alexies, orangepopsicle18, mayjowa_na, and xingogaoiran!

    And as promised, isa sa mga sumagot sa ating #BagongNanayQOTW ay mananalo ng M2 Malunggay Okra Luya Tea gift pack from The Bagong Nanay Shop!

    Congratulations, momofhyperkids, Honey Quiambao-Iresare! :)

    Ano pa ang mga easy-to-cook recipes niyo ngayong lockdown? Comment below! :)

  • Freda Dador-Agustin: The Secret to Balancing Family, Work, and a Business

    Freda Dador-Agustin: The Secret to Balancing Family, Work, and a Business

    Hello, #BagongNanay.

    First of all, I see you. When you are exhausted and at the brink of tears, finding out ways to calm your child, I see you.

    I see you. When you are staying up late to search for a new job. I see you.

    I see you. When you can’t seem to figure out what kind of business you want to start. I see you.

    I’m going through all these too, so I get you. Let me tell you – you are doing great, and you don’t have to be so harsh on yourself, okay?

    This is why I want to share the story of a Bagong Nanay who has gone through all these too, and proves that it’s not easy, but it can be done.

    Here’s the #KuwentongBagongNanay of Freda Dador-Agustin – a mother, a development worker, and a business owner.

    1. How are you juggling being a mother, a development worker, and a businesswoman at the same time? Share your top 3 hacks.

    Now that I am working from home [because of the pandemic], it became easier for me to manage my time. I don’t have to go to the office, and waste four hours of my time in traffic. 

    1. Make a daily routine. Write down all the things you need to get done daily, in your work, business, and mommy life. Aminin sa sobrang dami ng list natin, hindi kaya matapos in one day, so you also need to prioritize tasks. I am still working on this. Guilty ako because? Procrastination is real. Haha!
    2. Ask for help. They say it takes a village to raise a child. Sobrang totoo itong si Mareng Village, and I have an incredible village that’s been helping me. From my husband to my mother, to my friends, to my colleagues, my boss – lahat sila andyan to help me. So do not be afraid to ask for help. ‘Yung simpleng group chat with your friends will keep you sane.
    3. Make time for ME TIME. All-caps para intense! It is important to make time for yourself. Sabi nga nila, you cannot give what you don’t have. If you are unhappy, you cannot give happiness to your child. If you are unhappy, it will reflect on how you answer your customers and colleagues. So very important talaga to fill up your love tank. Do what makes you happy. That will help you balance your stress, increase your energy and help you focus.

    Make time for yourself. Fill up your love tank. Sabi nga nila, “you cannot give what you don’t have.”

    Freda Dador-Agustin, on balancing family, career, and business

    2. What are the struggles of having to fulfill these three roles?

    Take it from me – struggle pa rin ang time management kahit may daily routine. Minsan, kulang ang 24 hours sa dami ng need i-accomplish. Especially pag walang donor sa work and walang client sa business, kain oras maghanap ng mga clients and donors. So minsan lead generation palang, ubos na ang maghapon ko. 

    3. How do you practice self-care?

    Again, it’s very important that you make time for yourself. So I make time to do what makes me happy. Happy na ako when I get to sit down and watch Netflix or YouTube videos while munching on my favorite snacks. And as a people person, I enjoy chatting with my friends on social media.

    4. What can you say is your biggest achievement yet as a Bagong Nanay? 

    My biggest achievement siguro is I was able to raise a happy and healthy child. Praise God, we haven’t experience being confined in a hospital. He rarely gets sick. So feeling ko achievement ko na ito.

    Mommy Freda and Red, 5yo

    5. What’s your advice to Bagong Nanays who are planning to get back to work or start a business?

    If you are planning to start a business, do something that you’re good at. And of course, do something that you are passionate about. Sa business namin na Graphics Create, my husband Jec is a graphic artist by profession. Ako naman, I love to chika-chika. So swak na, may taga-market, may taga-design.

    6. In only six words, describe what kind of Bagong Nanay you are.

    Nako, ang hirap, taga tawa lang kasi ako. Haha! I am a “mommy that finds humor in anything”. Walang kwentang nanay. Hahaha

    Red got it from his mama!

    I am Freda from Rizal. I am the Bagong Nanay of Red, 5 years old. When I’m not doing the laundry and washing the dishes, I love watching Netflix and YouTube videos.

    Want to share your #KuwentongBagongNanay too? Send me a message! 😊

  • Gawaing Bahay, But Make It Bago!

    Gawaing Bahay, But Make It Bago!

    Hello, #BagongNanay!

    Nangyari na ba ito sa’yo:

    ‘Yung magtitimpla ka lang ng kape – tapos nakita mo hindi pa pala hugas yung tasa mo. Kaso ubos na pala yung Joy, need na i-refill, so pagtingin mo sa stock room, nakita mo na malapit na pala mag-expire yung isang delata. Kaya kumuha ka ng can opener para kainin mo na at hindi na masayang, kaso pagbukas mo ng drawer, nakita mo na may mga langgam! 🐜🐜🐜

    So tinrace mo kung saan sila nagmumula at napaupo ka sa sahig. Nakita mo na may mga mumo pala ng kanin sa sahig, so kumuha ka ng walis, napawalis ka ng kusina, sinama mo na yung buong sala, nakarating ka na sa kwarto, tapos sabi mo maliligo ka na at isasabay mo na ang paglinis ng banyo. 🚽🪠

    Tapos tsaka mo naalala na iinom ka lang pala ng kape. 😅

    Bilang nanay, ang dami nating workload na akala ng iba ay maliliit lang. Pero i-ignore lang natin ang isa sa mga yun, ang laki na ng impact sa buong bahay!

    Buti nalang may mga chores na kahit na sa paningin ng iba ay mahirap o nakakatamad gawin, ang tingin natin sa kanila, ME TIME! Kanya-kanyang mindset nalang kasi no choice naman tayo eh. 🤣

    Ayon sa mga Bagong Nanay sa Instagram, eto ang kanilang mga paboritong gawaing bahay:

    Maglinis ng banyo

    Ayon kay Mommy Cybil, paborito niya ang paglilinis ng banyo. Kasi daw, iniimagine niya na yung kinukuskos niyang sahig o inidoro ay ang mukha ng taong kinaiinisan niya! 🤣

    Source: Pinterest

    Si Mommy Sam rin, ito ang paborito at ginagawa niyang “me time” ito. “Napaka-fulfilling na makakita ng malinis na banyo, at alam kong ako ang naglinis. Yung parang may imaginary sparkles in my mind!” sabi niya.

    Magluto

    Ayon din kay Mommy Sam, paborito niya magluto kasi natutuwa siya makita na nagugustuhan ng anak niya ang luto niya. Subalit, pag hindi naman daw ito nagustuhan, vocal din ang anak niya dito. 😅

    Source: Pinterest

    Sina Mommy Erin at Mommy Lou naman, mahilig din magluto kaya lang with reservations. “Magluto [ang paborito kong gawaing bahay] pero ayaw ko kumain,” sabi ni Mommy Erin.

    Si Mommy Lou naman, “madali akong nabubusog pag ako ang nagluluto.”

    Kung pareho tayong nagluluto nang tatlong beses sa isang araw, meal planning is key talaga. Minsan, igu-Google ko nalang kung ano ang pwedeng gawing recipe depende sa kung anong merong ingredients sa ref. 💯

    Maglaba

    Si Mommy Daisy, paborito ang paglalaba. “Gustong gusto ko ang maglaba. Ayaw ko kasing nakatambak na ang labahin eh. At pagtapos maglaba, maglinis naman ng CR, para mainam tingnan,” sabi niya.

    Sa paglalaba naman, bilang limited ang space sa aming bahay at walang area for sampayan, nag-invest talaga kami sa washer-dryer combo na washing machine. Yung tipong pagkatapos ng 2 hours, itutupi mo nalang. Ang tanong: sulit ba sa halaga niya? Gagawa ako ng review ng LG Front Load washer namin soon. 💯

    Source: Pinterest

    Mag-“dish-watching”

    Ako ang paborito kong chore noon ay ang maghugas ng plato sa gabi, habang nanonood ng K-Drama. 😅 Kaya lang, binilhan ako ng husband ko ng Maximus Tabletop Dishwasher, kaya tuloy bihira nalang ako maghugas ng plato. 🤣 Choosy ka pa, mamsh?!

    Pero seryoso, ang dami mo pang ibang magagawa kung ipapasa mo nalang sa dishwasher ang trabaho, lalo na kung no yaya ka din tulad ko. 💯

    Hehehehehe

    O siya, salamat sa mga sumagot sa ating #BagongNanayQOTW! Sa susunod na ulit at magluluto pa ako. Teka, kailangan ko muna maghugas ng plato. Bago yun, mag-CR muna pala ako. Ay, hindi pala ako makatayo dahil dumedede pa ang anak ko. 😅

    Ikaw, anong paborito mong gawaing bahay?

  • Esther Ramonez-Lautiya: The Joys and Struggles of Moving to the Province

    Esther Ramonez-Lautiya: The Joys and Struggles of Moving to the Province

    Hello, #BagongNanay.

    I hope you and your family are well.

    As a Bagong Nanay who lives in the Covid-19 capital of the Philippines (Quezon City), I am fearful for my family’s lives. Palapit ng palapit ang Covid, close friends and family are getting infected, and we can only do so much. We pray and pray harder that the government response would improve, so that we can all feel safe again.

    That’s why I thought of sharing this #KuwentongBagongNanay story today. Amid the rising cases of Covid-19 in Metro Manila, there are towns in the Philippines that remain Covid-free.

    In this story by Bagong Nanay Esther Ramonez-Lautiya, she shares the trade-offs and the joys of moving from the city to the province with her family.

    May her story give you hope in this very trying time.

    1. What are challenges of moving to the province with your family?

    I feel as if we migrated to another country. It was not my choice, but an assignment we (together with my husband) agreed upon. Nearly three years ago after graduating from a ministerial course as a pastor, Sta. Ana, Cagayan Valley became our mission field. We mutually understood it was his calling, and as a wife, I submit.

    Sobrang nakaka-homesick! At kailangan namin mag-aral ng Ilocano language lalo na’t we are pioneering a church. But more than the challenges, we can testify that hindi kami nagkamali na sundin ang kalooban ng Diyos.

    2. What are the joys and rewards of living away from the metro amid the pandemic?

    Being in a coastal community with fisherfolks as church members, we are humbled as to how life can be so beautiful with the simpler things. We are learning to be content! Hindi nagkukulang ng anumang bagay ang Panginoon!

    And praise God, out of the many towns in Cagayan, as of now, Sta. Ana remains Covid-free. We are praying na manatiling ganito dito bagkus sana talaga mawala na ang virus na ito (gaya ng prayer nating lahat). There are protocols to adhere to, but generally our lives here seem the way as usual – which is definitely a blessing!

    3. Can you share what’s a typical day like in your home?

    Papa, my husband, is our handy man and also our laundryman twice week. Minsan sumasama sya mag-laot, while i take care of the kitchen and other errands. And together with my mom-in-law, we share time para alagaan ang aming 1.5 y/o na bebe boy. Our home is far from perfect, but it is filled with prayers and songs. There are difficult times, very difficult ones, but we overcome by God’s grace.

    4. As a Bagong Nanay, what do you think are the top 3 considerations before moving to a new location?

    Make sure to provide yung daily basic needs ng bawat miyembro ng pamilya, and an environment na mapa-practice ng mga bata yung kanilang mga karapatan.

    Esther Ramonez-Lautiya, on moving to a new location

    For me, it all boils down to maturity. Sana matured enough to be responsible sa mga decisions. In the first place, ito’y tumutukoy sa pagpapamilya (whether mag-stay or considering to move to a new location).

    Try to make sure to provide yung daily basic needs ng bawat myembro ng pamilya, and an environment na mapa-practice ng mga bata yung kanilang mga karapatan.

    5. What’s the biggest lesson that you’ve learned from the transitions in your life? Single to mother, living in the city to settling down in the province.

    Learning to be content! Be content with what the Lord gives! First, sa binigay Niyang husband ko, I am simply grateful for his life. And now our son!

    Nanay Esther and Rhen Zion. Sand, sea, and sun everyday!

    Second, from the mainstream to a very simple living dito sa tabing-dagat, be content! The Lord remains faithful and He’s not done yet.

    6. In only six words, describe what kind of Bagong Nanay you are.

    I am God’s work in progress.

    I am Esther Ramonez-Lautiya from Sta. Ana, Cagayan Valley. I am the Bagong Nanay of Rhen Zion, 1.5 y/o.

    When I’m not doing a nanay’s usual tasks or even while doing it I sing, sing, and sing, and I take lots of pictures to showcase God’s wonderful creations.

    Got a #KuwentongBagongNanay to share too? Send us an email or message us on instagram.com/bagongnanay.

  • “Self-care routine, nakakain ba ‘yun?”

    “Self-care routine, nakakain ba ‘yun?”

    Tayong mga #BagongNanay, best foot forward tayo lagi sa mga anak natin. Siyempre, first time natin eh. Natatakot tayong magkamali, ma-judge, o masabihang bad mom. Kung kailangang hindi matulog o hindi maligo para lang mabantayan si baby, gagawin natin ‘yun. Lahat ng atensyon, kay baby napupunta. Paano naman ang sarili natin?

    Guilty ako dito. May time na wala akong pakialam sa itsura ko na pumayag akong magpakalbo dahil sa post-partum hairloss ko. Sa totoo lang, isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit ko yun ginawa kasi madalas kong nakikita na nakapulupot sa kamay ng baby ko noon ang mahabang hibla ng buhok ko. Yun pala minsan ang dahilan kung bakit umiiyak siya. Siyempre, ayokong masaktan siya. Kaya goodbye, long hair.

    Pero na-realize ko na napakaimportante na inaalagaan din natin ang sarili natin. At hindi naman pala ganun kahirap mag-self-care, o magbigay ng pansin sa kalusugan natin. Pwedeng sa maliliit na bagay, napaparamdam mo na pala ulit sa sarili mo na mahalaga ka. At kung inaalagaan mo ang sarili mo, mas maaalagaan mo ang ibang tao.

    Ayon sa World Health Organization (WHO), ang self-care ay ang “kakayahan ng mga indibidwal, pamilya at pamayanan upang maitaguyod at mapanatili ang kalusugan, maiwasan at makayanan ang sakit at kapansanan na mayroon bagama’t kulang o walang suporta ng isang propesyonal na taga pang-alaga ng kalusugan.”

    SOURCE: MSF PHILIPPINES

    Kaya naman, tinanong ko ang mga #BagongNanay sa Instagram kung ano ang kanilang “self-care routine.” Gagamitin ko ding reference ang mga posters mula sa Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) Philippines na pinost nila sa kanilang Twitter, Instagram at Facebook in time for International Women’s Day.

    Exercise and meditate

    Ayon kay Mommy Rej at Mama Mindy, exercise ang kanilang self-care routine. “Exercise: depends on my mood and energy level. Sometimes I feel like [doing] yoga, for stretching and peace of mind. Sometimes I want to dance, so I do Zumba,” shares Mommy Rej. “Sometimes I want to feel strong and powerful so I do weights or core exercises,” dagdag pa niya.

    Kung kakapanganak mo palang at palagay mo ready ka na to get your pre-Bagong Nanay body back, i-check out mo ang Instagram ni Mama Mindy. Isa siyang certified post-partum core rehab specialist. May back stretches for breastfeeding mamas, early post-partum babywearing workouts, and more.

    Kelan ka last nag-exercise? Photos from MSF Philippines

    For meditation, sabi ni Mommy Rej, “Spotify lang OK na! There are guided meditations on Spotify. There are also nature sounds or white noise for sleep and relaxation. But there are also free apps like Headspace and Smiling Mind.”

    Walang time mag-meditate? Subukan mo itong breathing technique na ito! Photos from MSF Philippines

    Pamper yourself

    Ayon naman kay Nanay Claire, “I am making sure that I am putting my skincare routine daily. Kahit I am a widow now, but I am [practicing] self-care and self-love.”

    Agree ako dito. Nakaka-tempt yung kesa mag-cleanse, tone, and moisturize ka ng skin, eh itutulog mo nalang. Pero yung simpleng makapaghilamos ka lang, minsan sapat na yun para ma-refresh ka.

    At syempre, while you’re at it, i-compliment mo din ang sarili mo habang nakatingin sa salamin. Sabihin mo na maganda ka, noon at ngayon, and you are enough.

    You are enough, Bagong Nanay. Photos from MSF Philippines

    Keep your body clean and healthy

    Gaano katagal ang pinakamatagal mong paligo since naging #BagongNanay ka? Kung dati may time pa tayong maglagay ng hair spa treatment, ngayon, wala pang one minute, banlaw na ang conditioner. Pero madalas, ang pagligo ang pinaka-me time ng mga Bagong Nanay.

    Fun fact: Naisip kong gawin ang Bagong Nanay habang naliligo ako, isang araw noong September 2019.

    Sabi nga ni Mommy Daisy, “Hindi po dapat nawawala ang self-care natin, sa kabila ng mga busy nating buhay. Ako po ang aking self-care, sa umaga pa lang makaligo na, tapos hilamos at toothbrush sa gabi bago matulog. Yan lang ang aking simpleng self care. At siyempre kumain ng masustansyang pagkain.”

    Mas mainam ang home-cooked meals. Safe at tipid! Photos from MSF Philippines

    Destress and sleep

    Kung anumang bagay ang pwedeng magbigay sayo ng ngiti o magpatawa sayo, gawin mo ito. Kahit kasing simple ng paglalaro ng Candy Crush, or panonood ng K-Drama, pag-browse ng Facebook, deserve mo yun, Bagong Nanay.

    At usually, ginagawa natin ito pag tulog na ang mga bata.

    “Self care routine ko is watching at least one series/movie per day after work, pagtulog na lahat, bago ako matulog. Most of the time kasi lalo ngayon WFH, nawawala na yun me-time at boundaries natin eh,” sabi ni Mommy Chee.

    Eto yung tinatawag ng mga experts na ‘revenge bedtime procrastination.’ Habang isang way ito para mag-destress tayong mga nanay, bilin ng mga eksperto na matuto tayong i-balance ang schedule natin para hindi tayo masanay na laging napupuyat dahil dito.

    Tulog-tulog din tayo! Photos from MSF Philippines

    Be spontaneous

    Hindi natin kailangang magpaalipin sa ating routine. Why not shake things up a bit? It won’t hurt kung minsan, umorder ka ng paborito mong take-out food kesa mag-spend ka ng oras sa pagluluto. Mag-screentime kayo together ng anak mo for a few minutes? What if bumili ka ng dishwasher para hindi ka na palagi maghuhugas ng plato?

    Do something different today! Photos from MSF Philippines

    Wala namang perpektong nanay. Wala namang nag-ge-grade sa atin kung gaano tayo kagaling na magulang. Give yourself a break, Bagong Nanay. And when you do, you will be more focused, more energized than ever.

    At kung hindi mo talaga kaya…

    May mga panahon na kahit maghilamos hindi natin magawa dahil sa dami ng kailangang gawin. Yung tipong lumamig na pala yung kape mo, hindi mo pa natitikman. Okay lang yun. Ang mahalaga, alam mo ang gagawin kung sakaling maramdaman mo na parang may nag-iba sayo.

    Kung gusto mo ng makakausap na mga kapwa Bagong Nanay, join the Bagong Nanay Community on Viber. Dito, walang pagalingan. Walang payabangan. Usap-usap lang. Damayan lang. Dahil at the end of the day, #BagongNanaysEMPOWERBagongNanays.

    Talk to someone. Photos from MSF Philippines

    Ikaw #BagongNanay, anong self-care routine mo?

  • #BagongNanayReviews: Hey Baby PH Personalized Books

    #BagongNanayReviews: Hey Baby PH Personalized Books

    When I was still pregnant, I received lots of preloved books from my friends – all of which are still loved and enjoyed by my almost 2 year old daughter today.

    More than the clothes and toys, I loved the books! I love reading as a child; I read encyclopedias and dictionaries, and then obsessed with Stephen King books when I became a teen.

    As a #BagongNanay, I came to love giving books as gifts to babies. I believe that a picture book is always age-appropriate. Babies will love looking at the pictures, then identifying them as toddlers, and then finally, reading the story when they become preschoolers. It’s a no-fail gift. After all, as my favorite author Stephen King said, “Books are a unique portable magic.”

    “Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

    Stephen King

    That’s why, my daughter and I were very giddy when we received a book last week, from one of her book fairy Titas. What’s more, it’s personalized! It’s the first time we ever got a personalized book!

    My daughter’s face when she got a new book!

    So I thought of sharing what my daughter and I love about Hey Baby PH’s personalized book.

    1. It’s thoughtfully created.

    2. The material and print is high-quality.

    3. It’s the perfect bedtime story.

    4. It’s created by parents – who are teachers!

    Each book is unique

    Just like how each of our babies is unique, so is every book from Hey Baby PH. From the cover to the inside pages, it is personalized with your baby’s name. The story character is also customized based on your child’s gender. Hooray for inclusion!

    When she wants to read this book, my 20-month-old tells me,
    “Read books, goo-night Lia!”

    Best part is – if you give it as a gift, you can add a personalized note! For sure, the receiver will remember you forever. It also comes in a sleek black packaging that is personalized too!

    Value for money

    For its price which is Php 425, you would expect a flimsy book. But no. Hey Baby PH’s book is printed on vivid lustre paper, making the illustrations and words stand out. The size is also just right for my toddler’s tiny hands. I love that the pages are thick, making it almost indestructible (for now).

    Material is tough enough to be flipped repeatedly by my little bookworm. Size is also just right for her cute little hands.

    Storyline is simple and relatable

    This rhyming bedtime story is so relatable. It starts of with a child who is not yet sleepy. So she drinks milk, brushes her teeth, and then ends up sleeping.

    When my daughter saw the book for the first time, she wanted to brush her teeth! She doesn’t like to brush, but the book made her do it! Magical, right?

    “Nanay, brush teeth!” she said, after seeing the other Lia brushing.

    Created by a #BagongNanay and a #BagongTatay who are teachers

    I learned from my friend that the creators of Hey Baby PH is a mom and dad duo who are teachers and first-time parents! It’s nice to know, and it inspires me to write a storybook too! I can imagine the love they put into this project. My child inspires me to do things I never thought I could do too.

    Personalized Hey Baby PH book for Lia! Thank you to Tita Cait, her book fairy tita for gifting it out of the blue. ☺

    I look forward to the books that they will create next!

    So if you are looking for a gift for pregnant moms, babies, or toddlers, I recommend getting a personalized book from Hey Baby PH!

    Check out their Instagram and Facebook page to order yours. It is available for pre-order, and they don’t accept rush orders.

    Again, this is not a sponsored post. I just love their product, and I wanted to help spread the word to more #BagongNanays like me.

    Nanay Judy

  • #ChooseToChallenge, Bagong Nanay.

    #ChooseToChallenge, Bagong Nanay.

    Happy International Women’s Day, #BagongNanay!

    Noong March 8, nakiisa ang Bagong Nanay sa pagsaludo sa lahat ng mga kababaihan sa buong mundo. Nuks, lakas maka-SEC registered org? Haha.

    Ang theme ng #IWD2021 ay #ChooseToChallenge. Ang ganda nito, dahil bilang isang bagong nanay, magandang pinipili nating i-challenge ang mga mindset, pananaw, o mga kinagawian na ng society. In short, madami tayong kuda.

    Maraming mga stigma sa mga bagong nanay, na kesyo dapat ganito o ganyan tayo. Isa lang ang masasabi ko. Sabi nga ni Les Brown, “never let someone’s opinion become your reality.” Yes, kakanood ko lang ng Start-Up, at #TeamGoodBoy all the way ako. Hehehe.

    Kaya naman, tinanong ko din ang mga Bagong Nanay sa Instagram kung anong mga negatibong pananaw ukol sa pagiging baguhan sa larangan ng parenting ang gusto nilang i-challenge. At bumilib ako sa mga sagot nila.

    “Walang alam”

    Ayon kay Mommy Chee, isa sa mga negatibong pananaw na gusto niya i-challenge ay ang pag-judge sa mga Bagong Nanay na wala tayong alam. “Wala daw alam, makinig lagi sa sasabihin ng mga matatanda kasi yun daw lagi tama.” Meron bang pinanganak na marunong na agad maging nanay?

    While it is important to listen to what our parents say, we have to be discerning because every child is unique. Hindi pwedeng kung ano ang nag-work kay Baby A ay yun rin ang magwowork kay Baby B. Kung noon, gumagamit sila ng mansanilya para sa kabag, at sinabi naman ng pedia mo na hindi maganda yun, as a mother, ikaw ang may final say. Kasi in the end, whatever happens to your child, ikaw ang accountable doon.

    Para sa mga nakatatanda, bigyan naman natin ng chance ang mga Bagong Nanay na matuto at magamit ang diskarte nila. Hindi pwedeng ipilit ninyo ang gusto ninyo sa apo o pamangkin ninyo dahil hindi niyo po sila anak.

    “Wag ka na mag-work”

    Gusto naman i-challenge ni Mommy Marie Cris ang negatibong pananaw na “pag natapos na ang maternity leave and need na bumalik sa work, guilt trip sa mga bagong nanay instead na suportahan sila, for sure they would want to stay at home with the baby pero no choice ang iba but to work.”

    Sad reality, pero malayo pa ang tatahakin natin para maging supportive ang mga workplace to first-time mothers. Sometimes, wala na sa kamay natin to choose if we work or stay home. Lalo na ngayong may pandemic. We do what we need to survive. Nasa survival mode tayo. Kaya please, I call on companies, to be extra kind to your employees who are also moms. They are facing a different kind of battle. Please default to empathy, until the pandemic is over.

    “Wag mo masyado i-baby”

    Bilang Bagong Nanay, syempre best foot forward tayo sa mga anak natin. Pero madaming nagsasabi na huwag daw masyado i-baby ang baby. So paano, i-adult agad ang baby? Haha.

    Sabi ni Mommy Erin, “I can recall na madami nakikialam how I am very protective of my child, and masyado daw bini-baby or kinakarga. Well, once they grow up, you’ll miss those moments din talaga. “Your child, your rules,” and do everything with love, sabi nga nila and you’ll know what needs to be done.”

    Do everything with love – dyan magaling ang mga Bagong Nanay. Kaya naman please, when you see us sacrificing our sleep just to watch our babies sleep well, bigay niyo na sa amin. They grow up so fast. Let us cherish the moments.

    “Wala ka namang ginagawa”

    Eto ang gusto ko ring i-challenge na pananaw ng mga tao eh. Agree ako kay Mommy Daisy. “Yung masabihan kang, “wala ka namang ginagawa sa bahay.” Eh, ano pala yung pag-aalaga mo sa mga anak mo? Pag-aasikaso sa asawa mo? At sa buong bahay? Very challenging yang ganyang mga salita na yan nung nagsisimula pa lang kami ng buhay namin bilang mag-asawa. But as time goes on, ginawa ko siyang challenge. Hindi ko siya minasama, pero pinakita ko sa kanila na kaya kong maging nanay at the same time magampanan ang pagiging asawa.”

    Some women had to quit their job to become a full-time mother sometimes not by choice but by circumstance. Either walang makuhang yaya, or need tutukan si baby, or dahil nga may pandemic. While other people think that being a stay-at-home mom is “maswerte” dahil hindi ka nga nagwowork, well, if you’ve never tried to be one, you’ll never know.

    Stay-at-home mom depression is real. And it is important that we create safe spaces for Bagong Nanays to express their emotions and exhaustion. This is something I would like to stand for and challenge. Because it is happening to me. And I know I’m not alone.

    If you want someone to talk to, join the Bagong Nanay Community in Viber. You can personally message me, and we can talk.

    As Bagong Nanays, we already have our own crosses to carry. We hope the people around us don’t add to the load, and help us instead.

    Let’s continue to #ChooseToChallenge, and also, choose to be kind to one another. We are living in extraordinary times, and I hope that we don’t add to someone else’s burden.

    #BagongNanaysEmpowerBagongNanays

    Nanay Judy

  • #BagongNanayReviews: Maximus Tabletop Dishwasher

    #BagongNanayReviews: Maximus Tabletop Dishwasher

    Washing the dishes is a chore that most Bagong Nanays loathe, but need to do. Makita mo palang yung gabundok na hugasin, parang pagod ka na. This year, I had a resolution to never leave dirty plates on the sink overnight.

    To keep myself inspired to wash the dishes at midnight, I then started “dish-watching.” I wash the dishes while watching K-drama on Netflix. For a while, it worked! I actually look forward to washing the dishes because that would mean I get to watch an episode of It’s Okay To Not Be Okay or Start-Up.

    Last Valentine’s Day, my husband surprised me with a very unexpected gift: a dishwasher. Yes. The one that we only see in movies and can only afford in The Sims. I was very shocked because I never asked for it.

    Unboxed Maximus Tabletop Dishwasher

    “How about my K-dramas now?” I asked him. “Then watch your K-dramas in peace!” he said.

    Why buy a dishwasher? Bakiiit?!

    As a #BagongNanay, I’d like to share my honest review of Maximus Tabletop Dishwasher. Washing the dishes takes up one to two hours of my time, depending on how much plates we used from lunch to dinner. With a dishwasher, I just need five minutes just load it up with the dirty plates, and I can spend the time doing the more important things. So it is worth it. That’s it. That’s the review.

    According to my husband, he read somewhere that there are only three kitchen appliances that are essential for any household: A refrigerator, a stove, and a dishwasher. Sana all. At first, I felt unworthy to use it. Haha. Ayoko sa kanya nung una kasi feeling ko useless na ako. Lol.

    Here are some of the questions that I had in my mind the moment I met Maximus:

    Does it really clean the plates?

    Yes. You’ll be surprised that it washes the dishes better than you. Just make sure to remove the leftover food so they won’t clog the dishwasher. No need to pre-rinse though, just scrape them from the plates.

    We are using Corelle plates, and they are squeaky clean after the wash. It also saves more water than manual dishwashing. So yes. It gets the job done. It can fit a lot of plates, cutlery, mugs, and at least one pot or pan.

    Last night’s load

    How long does it take to wash one load?

    For this particular model, there are different options. But I always choose the ECO because it’s the most energy efficient.

    It takes three (3) hours and 15 minutes to wash a single load of dishes in the ECO cycle. There’s also rapid wash (30 mins), normal (2 hours), and intensive (2 hours and 30 mins) for pots and pans.

    In ECO mode

    What’s the catch?

    The only downside of getting a dishwasher is that you need to buy a specific brand of the dishwasher tablets, salt, and rinse aid from them. Magastos siya. You cannot use Joy or some cheap soap and table salt. So yes. You are paying for your precious time. You need to watch out when these items go on sale. They are available in Lazada and Shopee.

    This is where you put the dishwasher tablet and rinse aid

    What I do to save is I just use the dishwasher when I really have something important to do than washing the dishes. It enables me to rest after a long day of cooking and taking care of my child.

    How’s the electric bill?

    In terms of electricity, we didn’t see a spike in our electric bill so I guess it’s not costing us that much.

    Until now, it hasn’t sink in (pun intended) that we have a dishwasher at home. I’m a full-time mom and wife, so you would expect that I should just wash the dishes because I don’t have a job. But having a dishwasher is like having an extra hand, and it made me realize this:

    Life is short. Invest in things that help you spend your time and energy to do the more important things. If it’s going to help you save time, then it’s worth it. Get a dishwasher, Nanay!

    PS. This is not a sponsored post. But I hope they get to read this and give me some free dishwasher tablets. Lol.

    Nanay Judy

  • Ericka Mercado: How To Be a Mama of Two

    Ericka Mercado: How To Be a Mama of Two

    On this year’s International Women’s Day, I’m happy to share the very first #KuwentongBagongNanay.

    This series aims to tell stories and experiences of new and modern nanays so that they can inspire and empower first-time moms.

    Our first featured Bagong Nanay is Ericka Mercado from Canada. I asked her to share how she is raising a preschooler (5yo) and a newborn (1mo) in their home. And I’m amazed that she sent her responses before the deadline! Wow. What a wonder woman! I honor you!

    Read on to know some of her struggles, ultimate nanayhood hacks, and essentials that she swears by.

    1. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received as a Bagong Nanay, and tell us why you value it.

    Never compare your kids or yourself to others. 

    This applies to my kids and my journey as a Bagong Nanay. God created us uniquely, and our journeys are all different. Sabi nga nila, comparison is the thief of joy, and there were times when I am not able to stop myself from doing it. This is especially true when people around you would do the comparison. Ending: you feel bad about yourself, and you feel inadequate as a parent. 

    This advice actually came from my husband. It is more of a constant reminder. It resonates with me a lot, and I value it because it has allowed me to be conscious of my choice of words and thoughts when I talk to my kids, when I talk to others about my kids and their kids, and most importantly when I look at myself and my journey as a Bagong Nanay. I am at my happiest when I focus on our own progress, and stopped comparing our lives with others. 

    2. Share a Bagong Nanay hack that you recently discovered that helped make your nanayhood journey a little bit easier (could be a new gadget, app, or tipid tip).

    For the Nanays: 

    Two words. Pelvic physiotherapy. I recently went to a wellness clinic to prepare for Eden, my second child’s birth. I had a pelvic floor assessment. I had pelvic exercises and once a week sessions with the physiotherapist. This has helped me shorten my labour and delivery time, as well as recovery time, not to mention it helped minimize tearing.

    I know it is not a hack, but if you are pregnant or knows someone who is, and you have access to a pelvic physiotherapist, please do yourself a favour and use it. 

    For the babies:

    Gripe Water. Both my babies were gassy babies, or are all babies gassy? Anyway, for my firstborn Elon, I didn’t use anything. I burped him and did bicycle exercises and waited to let it pass. Eden’s gas is something else. I learned about Gripe Water, and on the first day of using it, I already saw the difference. She indeed slept like a baby. One teaspoon of this stuff, and it worked wonders for her. Now she sleeps even longer.

    Just make sure you check with your pedia of course. It’s not a hack, but I think it’s been around for ages. If you find yourself needing help with your babies being gassy, this might be it. 

    3. What’s one truth about your nanayhood journey that you want everyone to know but you were too scared or embarrassed to share?

    I love being a Nanay, and I always share these feelings of love and joy. But it didn’t start that way. My first child was not planned. We were married, but we were not expecting to get pregnant so fast.

    When I had Elon, the first month was TOUGH. I was so tired. I love my son, but because of the lack of sleep and being tired physically, there were days I wished I could have my old life back. The first few weeks were truly a test. But then one day, it just got better. The first few weeks seemed like a dark phase that has already passed. 

    Ericka and her son Elon

    The truth is, having these thoughts doesn’t mean I love Elon any less. These feelings were part of my process into this wonderful nanayhood journey. It is not all rainbows and butterflies everyday. Sometimes it is rough, and it’s okay to feel frustrated and wanting a break. Admitting you need a break is okay. And sometimes putting yourself first before your kids is an important part of being the best nanay for your kids. 

    4. What’s the best part so far of being a Bagong Nanay of two?

    “Best part of being a Bagong Nanay of two is [finding out] how much love you are actually capable of feeling and giving. This actually surprised me as I always had the question of “do parents have a favourite child?””

    Ericka Mercado, mom of two

    Pre-Eden, I believed that there is no way a parent can really love their kids equally. When I had Elon, I gave him my 110%. Everyday, I made sure he felt loved and cared for. So I always tell my husband that I am not sure how to love a second child the same when we do have one. But then I had Eden, and it’s as natural as when I had Elon. All the love just came rushing in.

    Bagong Nanay Ericka with Elon (5yo) and Eden (1mo)

    It’s true what they say, your heart just gets bigger with each additional child. Your heart becomes enlarged with so much love that it naturally flows for both of your kids. So yung 110% that I gave to Elon, ngayon meron na akong another 110% for Eden. I answered my question, there are no favourites, and it is possible to love your kids equally (there is so much love to give and share!).

    5. What are the top 3 Bagong Nanay essentials that you swear by?

    Infant baby carrier. It doesn’t matter if it is a sling, wrap, or structured carrier. Carriers are life savers. Moms and dads can either wear the babies and stay hands-free. The best thing is your baby is so close; it’s an instant snuggle too! 

    Kering-keri!

    Stroller and car seat. Don’t feel like wearing your baby? Then there’s the stroller. We use the stroller for walks with the car seat  (when it’s stroller accessible). It’s easy because you don’t have to carry anything, you just push it while the baby is safe and sound in the carrier. Instant snoozefest for both of my kids! They love bumpy walks. Plus is, I get to exercise outside the house while they sleep. 

    Diaper changing mat. How many poop blowouts did Elon and Eden have? Many. Can’t count them. Having the changing mat allows for an easier change of clothes and clean up. Not to mention, it helps you change diapers anywhere that has a flat and safe surface for your baby. 

    PS. 

    If you are breastfeeding, get a good nursing bra and lots of V-neck shirts para madali hilahin! Hehe!

    6. In only six words, describe what kind of Bagong Nanay you are.

    I am a “wear my heart on my sleeve” nanay. So all my emotions are out, felt, apparent and obvious. 

    I am Ericka from Canada! I am the Bagong Nanay of Elon, 5 yrs old and Eden, 1 month old. 

    When I’m not changing diapers, burping, cleaning, cooking, making baon, reading bedtime stories, I usually enjoy hiking, yoga, Kdrama, and photography.