Bagong Nanay

Category: #KuwentongBagongNanay

  • Mindy Lagdameo: Your Body Is Not Broken, It Is Brand New

    Mindy Lagdameo: Your Body Is Not Broken, It Is Brand New

    Hello, #BagongNanay!

    It’s been almost two years since I gave birth via C-section, and it’s only recently that I have come to really appreciate and love my “new” body.

    Growing up, I was constantly underweight. When I was in college, I used to weigh 78 lbs. I’m not proud of it because I was not also eating healthy then. No exercise too. So my skinny body was borne out of my unhealthy lifestyle.

    But since I got pregnant with my firstborn, I changed my eating habits. I added more fruits and vegetables to my diet. I’ve been breastfeeding her, and just recently, I started getting myself into physical exercises – in May I’ve tried classes on Zumba, Pound Rockout Workout, Belly Dancing, and KPop Dance (thanks to my oily friends for the free classes).

    And I was also influenced greatly by my husband who has started to do some weight-lifting exercises at home – because physical fitness is part of our family goals for 2021. I told him that our goal for having a healthy and fit body as parents should not just be about looking great, but more on being physically and mentally capable to take care of our child.

    So I try to get myself moving, even if that means dancing my daughter’s favorite Banana Chacha or Hotdog dance.

    But what inspired me the most was seeing and meeting virtually this Bagong Nanay, who happens to live just in our neighborhood! I’ve seen her in mommy groups, and I’ve always wanted to try joining her classes. She is a certified pre/postnatal fitness coach, and a certified postpartum core rehab specialist.

    So I took the leap and asked her if I can share her #KuwentongBagongNanay, and her answer was a resounding yes. She is the mama behind MamafitPH, Coach Mindy Lagdameo.

    May we all be inspired and empowered with her story.

    1. What was the toughest challenge you faced when you became a Bagong Nanay?

    I literally had no clue how hard it was going to be to lose my sense of self. My first pregnancy was such a breeze I didn’t think that I would change or compromise so much after. I felt like I was literally just winging it and was terrified most of the time. My body didn’t feel like my own. I had a fit pregnancy, but ended up with an emergency CS and horrible postpartum period. I really struggled with the lack of support and knowledge of how to move properly or get back into feeling like myself. 

    How did you overcome? What helped you?

    It really does take a village. My mom lived nearby, plus I had a circle of Mama friends that really supported me through my early postpartum phase. Then I decided as well to educate myself on how to properly recover and regain strength after childbirth. I took pre and postpartum rehabilitation and wellness certification courses in order to better equip myself, and also to be able to raise awareness and help other Mamas as well.

    Mama Mindy Lagdameo with her girls Ellie, 6yo, and Erica, 3yo

    3. As a Bagong Nanay, how important is it to be physically fit? What is your definition of being a ‘fit’ mama?

    “Fit” is a relative term, and honestly being fit as a mama doesn’t need to mean that you can lift barbells, or run marathons or have 6 pack abs. Those are definitely great, but to be a fit mom is simply being able to be physically, emotionally and mentally capable to look after yourself and your family and have complete connection and full control of your body. Yung kaya mo buhatin si baby ng ilang oras na walang back pain, or if maisipan mo na gusto mo mag jogging or mag join ng Zumba class na walang fear na you might pee yourself.

    Follow @mamamindy.fit on Instagram for pre/postpartum fitness content!

    “To be a fit mom is simply being able to be physically, emotionally and mentally capable to look after yourself and your family and have complete connection and full control of your body.”

    Mindy Lagdameo for Bagong Nanay

    4. What are top 3 items that Bagong Nanays can use to do simple workouts in their home?

    You actually just need your beautiful body!

    When returning to movement and exercise postpartum, as you are still getting to know your body again, it is best to start with bodyweight exercises. Also kung simple lang and exercises mas mataas and chance na you will be motivated to start and continue the exercises. This is why my Mamafit core restoration program is a completely bodyweight program; all you need is a mat.

    Super helpful content on her IG: mamamindy.fit

    5. What is your advice to Bagong Nanays who have insecurities about their postpartum body?

    Mama, your body just achieved an amazing, wonderful feat. It has also gone through the biggest change it will ever go through. Be kind to yourself. Your body is brand new and can change again, it has the capacity to heal itself, and be strong and amazing again. Just don’t ever give up on yourself.

    Your body is brand new and can change again, it has the capacity to heal itself, and be strong and amazing again. Just don’t ever give up on yourself.

    Mindy Lagdameo

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

    Trying my best, day by day.

    I am Mindy Lagdameo from Eastwood, Quezon City. I am the Bagong Nanay of beautiful Ellie, 6 years old; and Erica, a very makulit 3-year-old. When I’m not constantly picking up after my kids and ignoring my laundry, I workout, meditate and read.

  • Cybil Malipot, Bagong Nanay At Age 39: It’s Worth The Wait

    Cybil Malipot, Bagong Nanay At Age 39: It’s Worth The Wait

    Hello, #BagongNanay.

    Katulad ko ba kayo na atat na atat mag-asawa noon dahil sabi ng society ay dapat mag-buntis na ang babae at a certain age? Or else, baka huli na ang lahat?

    Share ko lang. I remember when I was still in my early 20s, I was very keen on getting married and have kids to the point na nagiging reason na siya ng awayan namin ng jowa ko. Pressure cooker ka ghorl because?

    But it was partly because when I was only 17 years old, I had an abdominal ultrasound because I was complaining about stomach pain. The test didn’t find anything wrong with my organs though. But it showed an unexpected result: I had two masses on both ovaries. At 17 years old. The doctor told me and my father then that the only way to get rid of those is to get pregnant, and take them out when I deliver the baby.

    I was like, WHAT?! I can’t explain how shookt my father was either.

    Fortunately, both masses disappeared after a few years. I became a mom at 29 years old. Then my father asked me: “Are you sure kaya mo na alagaan si Lia?” I was like, “May choice ba ako Papa, syempre kakayanin. At matanda na ako no!”

    Kahit ata 21 or 32 ako naging nanay, di ko masasabi kung kaya ko.

    Our #KuwentongBagongNanay for today is the incredible journey of Mommy Cybil Malipot, a Bagong Nanay at age 39. Yes. 39.

    I hope that her heartwarming story will inspire you that while age could only be just a number, being a parent goes beyond being physically and mentally prepared for your baby.

    But is it worth all the pain, all the trouble, and all the wait?

    Read on.

    1. How would you describe your nanayhood journey?

    It’s not perfect, but it has been the most amazing journey by far.

    Four months past the birth of our son, and we still can’t believe that we have been blessed with this tiny, sweet, and beautiful baby.

    I guess that’s what waiting and longing can do. No matter how tough the road ahead is or will be, because we have long imagined ourselves to be where we are now, we will embrace it.

    Cybil Malipot, Bagong Nanay at age 39

    Often, I’d find myself tearing up while staring at my son’s face, and I don’t know why. Not once have I complained to my husband about having sleepless nights, or the toe-curling pain of breastfeeding, or having my battle scars slowly healing and not allowing me to wear a bikini (as if!) anytime soon.

    Now that we are here, there is no way but to welcome this adventure called parenthood. There is nothing that this whole journey can throw at us that will make us complain about every tough curve ball parenthood will bring.

    I felt being chosen to bring this beautiful boy to this world; we cannot mess up. I still have my fears. Being a parent is scary especially that parenthood doesn’t come with a manual. To be given this chance to nurture another human being makes this experience so surreal. This baby completes us. Completes me.

    Mommy Cybil with her son, Gian Elroi

    2. What were the challenges that you encountered when you were pregnant?

    I cannot say mine was the toughest, but what I can say was, I have been very blessed. I didn’t have morning sickness, no aversion to food. We thought I wasn’t pregnant which led to me taking the pregnancy test almost every day from my 8th to 10th week of pregnancy!

    When we lost our second baby, first baby to my husband, my aunt told me to look for a Maternal and Fetal Medicine Doctor. The stars have aligned, I found one in VRP Medical Center, a tricycle ride away from where we live. She recommended I do an Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APAS) screening, which confirmed I was APAS positive. I developed gestational hypertension, my heart was enlarged, and the APAS might lead to deep vein thrombosis.

    Everything had to be controlled from then onwards. The restrictions were overwhelming, which made me think that I wasn’t giving enough nutrients to the baby. From one cup of rice reduced to only ¼. Only one fruit per day. Low to no salt diet.

    I guess the worst part of being APAS positive is the twice a day injection of Heparin – an anticoagulant to decrease the clotting ability of my blood so I can give enough supply to the baby. These shots had to be made at the belly area twice a day, by yours truly. For how long? The instruction was until I give birth.

    Cybil Malipot

    The first shot was terrifying. I remember having to go on a Viber video chat with my mom, a licensed nurse. She taught me virtually how to inject myself in the belly. The most painful part was when you run out of areas to inject, so there are spots where I need to inject into them twice or thrice. Ouch.

    3. How do you find being a Bagong Nanay at a time like this?

    My biggest worry was going back to work. Leaving my son at home while I work in the office was something that I wasn’t too open about, to be honest.

    We have been very blessed that my work allowed me to stay home and be with my son. I feel lucky because not all moms have the same opportunity – to still witness the small and big milestones of our son at the comfort of our home.

    Of course, I am still very paranoid. Our groceries are done online. We disinfect everything. Groceries, fruits, vegetables, everything in our house. It has made me appreciate technology even more because we really don’t go out except when we have a doctor’s appointment, but other than that we just really stay home.

    The pandemic may have made me paranoid but it has also made me more cautious about physical and mental health. My self-discovery was that I can be a home body, which I thought I couldn’t. I had to be creative to find ways to purchase our needs despite the restrictions, or how to entertain myself and the baby at the confines of the four corners of our home.

    But more than anything, the time that I spend with my son is the best reward this pandemic brought to us. We enjoy every bit of it while we still can.

    4. Do you think that the age you become a parent actually matter?

    I am neutral on this. I was told that a woman’s prime years are between 25 to 29. I was 26 when I had my first baby. I lost my baby two days after I gave birth. I was in my supposed to be prime years.

    I got pregnant with my second baby when I was 38, and lost it. I then gave birth to my third at 39. To someone who has lost two, we never expected our baby to survive. I was prepared for the worst.

    Cybil Malipot

    The downside of being a parent, at this “stage” of my life, is centered towards the fact that physically, there are noticeable limitations. I kept telling my husband a woman’s system is not like men’s that even at 70 they can still procreate. Our body is not designed to give birth at 70 – we have a “deadline.”

    I regret not to have tried having a baby sooner. In the first few years of our marriage, we agreed to put aside baby plans until we were ready. We got pregnant, I wasn’t ready still. I was just forced to be ready because I was already in the situation.

    On the upside, while waiting for my turn to be a mother, I felt like I’ve had all the time in the world to learn from all the mothers around me. This motivated me even more to be one.

    Cybil Malipot, Bagong Nanay at 39

    Now, I can say that we have a clear vision of how we want to be as parents. I have the advantage of technology where tips on how to be a parent is readily available. And now that I have experienced motherhood, it’s the most beautiful thing in the world, becoming a mom. It has made the wait even more worthwhile.

    Family of three

    5. What can you tell women who say that they are already too old to be a mother?

    There is no limit in age in becoming a mom or a parent. Anybody can be a mom – no matter how old they are. It’s the readiness of being one that is more crucial for me.

    Cybil Malipot

    I have seen from friends and family where they became parents at a young age and aced it even as a first-timer. I have also seen a “veteran” mom who wasn’t very good at being one in so many levels.

    Also, being a mom isn’t always gender sensitive for me. I have witnessed my father become both my mom and my dad at the same time and it didn’t bother me, because my mom was too far away to be one for me. He wasn’t perfect, but he was fantastic at it.

    It made me see parenthood at a different level – that one must have the strong desire to be a great parent to be called a mother or a father to their children.

    Cybil Malipot, Bagong Nanay at 39

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

    I’m the “guilty type” of Nanay. 

    I am Cy, a true bisaya. Born in Cebu, grew up in Bohol, and lives in Mandaluyong.

    I am the Bagong Nanay of Ramon Gabriel (+), 2 days old; Unborn Child (+), 8 weeks old; and Gian Elroi, 4 months old.

    When I am not breastfeeding or changing nappies, I am always nesting (rearranging my son’s cabinet!), and a huge Instagram, Netflix and youtube person.

    I love kdrama and I am still waiting for my Hogwarts letter to arrive because I believe I am no muggle. I love Harry Potter and his friends. The whole movie series is my favorite, my antidepressant. 

  • Regina Layug Rosero: It’s Okay To Not Be Okay, Nanay

    Regina Layug Rosero: It’s Okay To Not Be Okay, Nanay

    Happy Mothers’ Day, #BagongNanay!

    I wish that today and everyday, you will find time to just rest and take care of yourself. Not only because you need it, but most importantly, you deserve it.

    For our #KuwentongBagongNanay on this special day, it’s my pride and honor to share the story of a friend and mentor who inspires me in so many ways. She inspires me to keep writing, to keep believing, and to keep going.

    Among other things, she is the Mom Who Hugged a Hundred Queer Kids During the Metro Manila Pride. Yes, she gives out warm hugs for free. I’m not a hugger, but I admit I miss her hug. And as I was reading her story, it’s like a big tight hug after a long, crazy day.

    Read on. I know you need a hug, too.

    1. How do you feel about being a working mom amid a pandemic?

    It’s hard to be a mom. It’s hard to be a working mom. Add pandemic. Paano na? 

    There is literally no division–be it time or physical barrier–between work and parenthood. My work desk is in our living room, and my son walks from the bedroom past me to get to the kitchen for cookies. He lounges on the sofa to watch TV while I work. After school he runs to me to show me his drawing–sometimes while I’m in a meeting!

    Sometimes I wish I could escape. To be honest I look forward to errands because I get to go out for a little while. I look forward to the times when he’s at (online) school, or asleep, because it means I get to focus on work, or I finally get to watch Netflix!

    Regina and son Lucas

    But other times I am grateful to be at home with my son. I hear him laugh and giggle. I feel his little arms wrap around me for random hugs throughout the day. He walks past me and randomly says, “I love you,” and my day is better. It’s tough, but we make it work.

    2. How do you take care of your mental health at this time?

    Motherhood is actually what taught me to be more aware of my mental health needs, and the pandemic reinforced that awareness. 

    There are so many stressors these days, and it is so easy to have an anxiety attack, or to slip into a depressive slump. But I am very fortunate to have access to mental healthcare, not only in the form of psychiatric consultation services, but also through friends and colleagues who constantly support my mental wellness. 

    Until recently, I have been taking antidepressants, and this is immensely helpful. I find movement helps so much. If I’m doing weights or a cardio workout, I feel powerful and strong. If I do 30 minutes of Zumba, I feel so happy and energetic. If I do yoga, even for just 20 minutes, I feel calm and peaceful. 

    I have always been a writer, and I find that writing on my blog helps a lot too. It is not just a way to process and express my feelings, but also a way to share what I hope is useful information, whether it’s about women’s issues or cooking or fitness. Meditation, coloring books and gardening are calming too!

    3. Describe a day in your life. What are some hacks that help you throughout the day?

    Routines are so helpful. After breakfast, if I don’t have any meetings, I try to do yoga, anywhere between 20 to 45 minutes. When I start work, I monitor the news, and I do this until it’s time for lunch. In the afternoon, my husband stays with my son for school via Zoom. I usually prepare dinner, and we sit down to eat when my mom is done with work.

    I love bedtime. After a shower, we read together, tell each other stories, play a little. He likes to snuggle next to me as he falls asleep, or he’ll ask me to rub his back or his tummy while I sing. I love watching him sleep.

    It’s really hard to keep an energetic, curious boy engaged while stuck in lockdown. We don’t want him to watch YouTubeKids or play games all day. Recently, we were able to potty-train him using a chart and stickers; after a certain number of stickers, he gets a reward. I picked up this life hack from a childhood friend. Now we’re trying this same tactic to get him to read more, and to feed himself during meals. For each book and each meal, he gets a sticker! 

    Big smiles!

    4. As a Bagong Nanay, what are the three things that make you happy?

    Things I do with my family, from enjoying meals and watching movies to cooking, these sound like such mundane, trivial things, but the fact we are together, safe, and healthy, makes me happy.

    Apparently gardening makes me happy! A few months ago my mom and my brother started being more adventurous in their gardening, and the lovely leaves and flowers growing around our house make me so happy. My husband is so supportive too, drilling holes into planters and helping us with research and composting. It’s a family effort!

    My real motivation is food. Some vegetables are so hard to find, or so expensive. So I decided to plant vegetables. I planted some bell pepper seeds about a week ago. Yesterday I found tiny green leaves, and it made me so happy. 

    My work makes me happy too. As a communications and liaison officer for Doctors Without Borders/Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), I get to develop content about health issues around the world. 

    Last December, our team launched a children’s activity book on COVID-19. It has been translated into seven languages, and is being distributed to children in many places where MSF works. This makes me immensely proud and happy.

    5. What is your advice to mothers who are struggling with mental health issues?

    It’s hard to be a mom. It’s hard to be a working mom. Add pandemic. Paano na? 

    But my advice, whatever the state of a woman’s mental health, is this: YOU DESERVE REST.  

    Few and far between are the people reminding moms that rest is important. Too often we praise moms for being hardworking, for their martyrdom, for their sacrifice. I say no! I say we can do better for moms. 

    Skin care is self-care!

    I want moms to realize that they cannot take care of everybody and everything if they are exhausted, angry, overworked, unappreciated. I want moms to take time and make space for themselves, to do what makes them happy, calm, rested. I want moms to take charge of their mental health, to set boundaries for their time and energy, to value themselves just as much as they value the families for which they care so much. I want them to realize that if they take better care of themselves, they take better care of the people around them.

    I want EVERYONE to remember that, before these women became moms, they were people with hopes and dreams, desires and cravings, hobbies and goals, and these things still matter. 

    Regina Layug Rosero

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

    Fit, fab, feminist and almost forty! 

    I am Regina from Antipolo. I am the Bagong Nanay of Lucas, age 4. When I’m not cooking or doing laundry, I do yoga and HIIT, write, and think about how to smash the patriarchy!

  • Help a nanay out: Please vote for My Smart Parenting Story

    Help a nanay out: Please vote for My Smart Parenting Story

    I’m one of the 10 finalists of #MySmartParentingStory! I hope you can read my story, and vote for me. ☺

    I’m Judy from QC! :)

    I wrote about overcoming postpartum struggles. Yes, maybe like you, I am still going through it everyday.

    💜

    Here’s the link to my entry. At the end of the article, there’s a poll where you can vote. Thank you so much! 🥰

    Here’s the URL that you can copy and share too!

    https://www.smartparenting.com.ph/parenting/real-parenting/mom-who-overcame-postpartum-struggles-a00264-20210424

    Feel free to share, and vote until May 15, 2021. They are counting unique votes, so your one vote is enough. But it would mean a lot if you can share it to your friends. 💜

    I am still thinking about what to do with the 100k prize, but for my story to be shared around, I hope we can normalize postpartum depression. All of us will win.

    Thank you, and a big tight hug, #BagongNanay.

    Love,

    Nanay Judy

  • 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

  • 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! 😊

  • 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.

  • 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.