The Diaries of Kimberly

Building beautiful from the ground up

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    • The Doctor Who Changed Everything: My Childbirth Story

      The Doctor Who Changed Everything: My Childbirth Story

      A few days ago, I brought Kendall back to meet the woman who brought him into this world. At nearly 9 months old and weighing 9.5 kilos, my baby boy has grown so much since that dramatic night in May. As I held him up to my OB, I said cheerfully, “Kendall, this is Doc! She pulled you out!” My doctor immediately corrected me with a smile: “No, Kendall. YOUR MOM pushed you out.” And that’s when I couldn’t help but laugh and whisper, “Well… one of the doctors in your team did put her knee on my belly to help push him out.” Doc’s eyes went wide as she playfully hushed me: “Shhh, that’s actually not allowed. We just did that for you because I really wanted you to have a normal delivery instead of an emergency C-section.”

      Growing up, I was terrified of childbirth. Every story I heard made it sound like the most traumatic experience a woman could go through. The pain, the complications, the emergency situations – it all seemed so overwhelming and scary.

      But my childbirth story? It was nothing like what I feared. And it’s all because of one incredible doctor who listened, who believed in me, and who supported my choices even when things didn’t go according to plan.

      🌙 The Night Everything Changed

      It was 11 PM when I went to the hospital. My water had broken – three weeks early.

      But let me back up, because the hours leading up to that moment were nothing like the dramatic movie scenes we’ve all watched.

      That day, I’d come from a meeting – heavily pregnant, still driving myself around, still handling business. I got home and my water broke while I was there with my house helper.

      And you know what? I didn’t panic. I didn’t rush. I didn’t create drama.

      Thanks to that birthing class I’d attended just a week before, I knew I had time. So I took my time. I took a shower. I gathered my bags – hospital bag, baby bag, everything I’d prepared months in advance.

      I have a car. I could have driven myself to the hospital, honestly. But I chose to book a Grab instead – why add unnecessary stress when I could just sit back and let someone else navigate traffic?

      I called my brother. We talked it through logically. With Manila traffic, it made more sense for me to head to the hospital and for him to meet me there rather than backtrack to pick me up. My house helper helped me carry my bags downstairs. I got in the Grab. I alerted my other brother and sister-in-law that baby was coming.

      We all coordinated. We all planned accordingly. No chaos, no drama – just calm, practical preparation.

      It was 11 PM when I arrived at St. Luke’s BGC.

      Don’t get me wrong – I was prepared. My hospital bag was ready. Kendall’s baby bag was packed. His nursery was set up with the baby nest and everything he needed. I’d gotten everything ready months before my expected due date because I’m just that kind of person.

      But emotionally? Mentally? I wasn’t prepared for this moment to happen three weeks ahead of schedule.

      When my OB walked into the holding room and saw me there, she was visibly surprised. This wasn’t part of the plan. But I looked her straight in the eyes and said something that probably made her think I’d lost my mind:

      “Doc, I think I want a water birth.”

      She just looked at me, maybe shrugged, and laughed it off. I don’t blame her – here I was, three weeks early, water already broken, talking about a water birth like I’d just casually decided to redecorate the nursery.

      You see, just a week before this happened, I’d attended a birthing class. I learned about different types of childbirth, about what my body was capable of, about options I didn’t even know existed. I’d walked out of that class convinced I wanted a natural delivery – maybe even that water birth I mentioned. I had dreams of this beautiful, serene birthing experience.

      Reality had other plans.

      ⏰ 25 Hours of “You Can Do This”

      What followed was 25 hours of labor. Twenty. Five. Hours.

      But here’s what made it bearable – my doctor never left me emotionally, even when she physically couldn’t be there. The next morning, she had to be at a different St. Luke’s branch to care for another patient. I could have felt abandoned, scared, alone in this process.

      Instead, my phone kept buzzing with texts from her. Whenever she had a moment, she checked on me:

      “3cm! You can do this!”

      “6cm! You’re doing amazing!”

      “Keep going, Kim!”

      She was at another hospital attending to someone else, but she still made time to check in, to cheer me on, to make sure I knew I wasn’t alone.

      And I wasn’t alone physically either. My brother and sister-in-law were there through it all, taking turns staying beside me in the holding room, switching off across those long 25 hours. From admitting me to the hospital to sitting with me through contractions, they never left me to face it by myself.

      💉 The Epidural I Didn’t Know I Could Have

      By 7 PM, I was at 7cm dilated. The pain was… I don’t even have words for it. It was beyond anything I’d imagined. I was trying to be strong, trying to breathe through it like they taught me in that birthing class, but I was struggling.

      That’s when my phone buzzed again:

      “Do you want an epidural? You can have it.”

      Wait. I could have an epidural? Nobody told me this was an option!

      “Yes, please.” I probably typed back way too fast.

      The relief was immediate. The pain melted away. I could breathe again. I could think again.

      But epidurals don’t last forever. The pain started creeping back. And that’s when the real test began.

      💪 “I Think I Can Do This”

      Hours passed. The pain was back. I was exhausted. The medical team started talking about an emergency C-section.

      I looked at my doctor in the eye and said: “I think I can do this via normal delivery.”

      She listened. She believed me. They gave me one more try.

      And then… I hit my wall. In the weakest voice I’ve ever heard come out of myself, I said:

      “I don’t think I can do this anymore.”

      I meant it. I was ready to give up. Ready for the C-section. My body had given everything it had.

      But here’s the thing – I don’t think my doctor heard me. Or maybe she chose not to hear me. Because instead of calling for surgery, she said:

      “One more try.”

      Three pushes later, Kendall was here.

      🎉 The Moment Everything Changed

      The room erupted. Everyone was so happy – the nurses, the doctors, my doctor who’d been texting me encouragement in that period of 25 hours.

      They placed Kendall on my chest immediately. He cried for just a little bit, then went completely calm against my skin. I remember looking at my doctor, worried, and asking:

      “Isn’t he supposed to be crying a lot more than this?”

      She smiled and reassured me: “No, he already cried. He’s just a calm baby.”

      Even from his very first moments, Kendall knew exactly where he belonged – right there on his mama’s chest.

      And then my doctor did something that I’ll never forget. Even though it wasn’t technically allowed, she let me cut Kendall’s umbilical cord.

      The scissors were in my left hand (I’m right-handed). I was so weak from labor that I had to cut four times before it finally separated. It was fuzzy, surreal, and absolutely perfect. She gave me that moment – that memory – because she knew how much this experience meant to me.

      😂 The Post-Birth Fog

      After delivery, I was in this weird state – exhausted, emotional, overwhelmed. The medical team started asking me questions about what to do with the placenta, and I just… couldn’t process anything. My brain was mush.

      My OB immediately stepped in: “Never mind. Don’t ask her so many questions.”

      She protected me even in those fuzzy post-birth moments, knowing I’d been through enough.

      But the funniest moment came hours later in the recovery room. I’d been resting, sedated, for a couple of hours. When I woke up, I felt some discomfort and casually asked the nurse:

      “Can I have anesthesia again? Or an epidural?”

      Like I was ordering room service or something. The nurse just laughed and said, “No, you’re already in recovery. You cannot have another anesthesia!”

      In my defense, that first epidural had been SO good that I thought maybe it was just… available on demand? The post-birth brain fog is real, people.

      💝 Why This Matters

      Here’s what I want every pregnant woman to know: childbirth doesn’t have to be the terrifying experience we’re told it will be.

      Yes, it’s intense. Yes, it’s painful. Yes, things don’t always go according to plan.

      But with the right support, with a doctor who listens to you, who believes in your choices, who advocates for your vision while keeping you and your baby safe – it can be an empowering, even positive experience.

      My doctor pushed back against the rush to C-section not because she was reckless, but because she heard me say “I think I can do this” and she believed me. Her team, even when they questioned how long we’d been trying, trusted her judgment and supported my wishes.

      🏃‍♀️ The Recovery Nobody Talks About

      One month after giving birth, I was back to my physical yoga activities. Two months after, I was able to actually start pole dancing for the first time – and I loved it so much that I’m still sticking with it today.

      This matters because when you have your energy back, when your body feels strong again, when you’re not recovering from major surgery – you have the mental and emotional capacity to be your best self for your baby.

      I’m not saying C-sections are wrong – they save lives, including mine potentially. But I’m saying that when you can deliver naturally and safely, the recovery difference is real.

      And here’s proof: when I brought Kendall back to see my OB a few days ago, she looked at my 9.5-kilo baby and asked how I could carry him around all day. The answer? Natural childbirth gave me that strength. Being able to jump back into exercise immediately after giving birth meant my body recovered strong. Nearly 9 months later, I’m still reaping the benefits of that decision.

      👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Full Circle

      A few days ago was so special. After almost 9 months, I finally brought Kendall back to meet the woman who helped bring him earthside. This was the first time she’d seen him since that intense night in May. I took photos, we laughed about the knee-on-belly moment, and I got to say thank you properly.

      And here’s a beautiful twist – I found out that two of my cousins gave birth with the same doctor. She’s changing childbirth experiences for our whole family.

      To everyone who’s pregnant or thinking about pregnancy: find your doctor. Find someone who listens to you even when things don’t go according to plan. Find someone who texts you encouragement from another hospital. Find someone who hears “I think I can do this” and says “then let’s do this.”

      My childbirth story isn’t perfect. It’s not the serene water birth I imagined. But it’s mine, and it’s empowering, and it completely changed everything I thought I knew about bringing a baby into this world.

      To Dr. Tabaquero and her team: Thank you for believing in me when I barely believed in myself. Thank you for the texts, the support, the knee on the belly (shhh), and for letting me cut that cord four times with my weak left hand (another shhh 🤫 ). You gave me more than a healthy baby – you gave me confidence in my body and a birth story I’m proud of.

    • From Fussy to Fearless

      Kendall’s Tummy Time Transformation

      A month ago, tummy time felt like an impossible challenge. Today, I’m watching Kendall confidently lift his head, turn from side to side, and even practice rolling over with my gentle support. Sometimes the most amazing transformations happen when we’re patient, consistent, and willing to meet our babies where they are.

      I’ll be honest – tummy time wasn’t love at first sight for us. Like many newborns, Kendall’s initial reaction to being placed on his belly was less than enthusiastic. But now, at 8 weeks old, he’s become a tummy time champion, and I couldn’t be more proud of how far we’ve both come on this journey.

      📹 [Watch Kendall’s Tummy Time Progress on YouTube]

      🤱 The Early Days: Building Foundation

      Those first few weeks, tummy time sessions were brief – maybe 2-3 minutes at most before Kendall would get fussy. I learned quickly that timing was everything. Right after diaper changes when he was alert but not hungry, or about 30 minutes after feeding when he was content but not sleepy.

      Interestingly, even from the very beginning, Kendall showed a natural preference for being on his tummy. Throughout many nights, he would sleep peacefully on my chest in the tummy position for hours at a time. There’s something so special about feeling his little body rise and fall with each breath, completely relaxed and content on my chest. I think this early comfort with the tummy position actually helped prepare him for formal tummy time sessions – his body was already familiar with the feeling of being belly-down, just in a different, more comforting context.

      The key was starting small and being consistent. Even 1-2 minutes counted as a win in those early days. I would get down on his level, make eye contact, use animated facial expressions, and talk to him constantly. Sometimes I’d place a small mirror in front of him or use high-contrast toys to keep him engaged.

      What worked for us:

      • Short, frequent sessions rather than trying to push for longer periods
      • Getting down to his eye level to provide encouragement and connection
      • Using his alert, happy moments rather than fighting against his natural rhythms
      • Celebrating every small milestone – holding his head up for 10 seconds, turning it to one side, staying calm for a full minute

      💪 The Confidence-Building Magic

      Around 6 weeks, something beautiful started happening. Kendall began to show genuine interest in tummy time. His neck strength improved dramatically, and he started lifting his head higher and for longer periods. But the real breakthrough came when I started helping him practice rolling movements.

      Supported Rolling at 8 Weeks: This is where the magic happens for building confidence. With very gentle guidance, I help Kendall experience the motion of rolling from tummy to back. It’s not about forcing the movement, but about letting him feel what it’s like when his body moves in that way.

      Here’s how we do it:

      1. Start in tummy time when he’s alert and comfortable
      2. Gently support his hip and shoulder on one side
      3. Slowly guide him through the rolling motion while talking him through it
      4. Let him complete the movement mostly on his own
      5. Celebrate the achievement with excitement and praise

      The goal isn’t to make him roll independently yet – that typically happens around 3-4 months. Instead, it’s about familiarizing his body with the motion, building his confidence in movement, and strengthening the muscles he’ll need when he’s ready to do it solo.

      🧠 The Incredible Benefits We’re Seeing

      The transformation in Kendall through consistent tummy time has been remarkable:

      Physical Development

      • Incredible neck strength: He can lift his head confidently and hold it steady
      • Shoulder stability: His upper body strength has improved dramatically
      • Core engagement: You can see his little abs working during tummy time
      • Coordination: The way he moves his arms and shifts his weight shows developing motor planning

      Cognitive Growth

      • Spatial awareness: He’s learning how his body moves in space
      • Problem-solving: Watching him figure out how to lift his head higher or reach for a toy
      • Visual development: The different perspective helps with depth perception and visual tracking
      • Cause and effect: Understanding that his movements create results

      Emotional Confidence

      • Self-soothing: He’s learned to stay calm even when movement feels challenging
      • Achievement recognition: You can see his pride when he accomplishes something new
      • Trust building: Our supported rolling sessions have taught him that movement can be safe and fun

      🌟 Why Supported Rolling Matters

      When I gently help Kendall practice rolling movements, I’m not just working on physical skills – I’m building his confidence in his own body. Each supported roll teaches him:

      • Movement is safe when done with care and support
      • His body is capable of amazing things
      • New positions can be comfortable and fun
      • Trust in the process of learning and growing

      It’s like giving him a preview of what’s coming next in his development. When he’s ready to roll independently (probably in the next month or so), his body will already be familiar with the sensation and sequence of movements.

      📈 Our Current Routine

      Now our tummy time sessions are 5-10 minutes, twice a day:

      Morning Session (10:30 AM): After his feeding and before vitamins, when he’s most alert Afternoon Session (3:00 PM): During his active period, when he’s ready for more engaging activities

      During each session, we incorporate:

      • Free tummy time: Letting him work independently with toys and mirrors
      • Supported movements: Gentle rolling practice when he seems ready
      • Interactive play: Peek-a-boo, singing, and conversation at his level
      • Gradual challenges: Placing toys slightly out of reach to encourage reaching and shifting

      💡 Tips for Other Parents

      If you’re struggling with tummy time, here’s what I’ve learned:

      Start Small: Even 30 seconds counts in the beginning Follow Their Cues: Stop if they’re getting frustrated, try again later Make it Interactive: Your face is the most interesting toy they have Be Patient: Some babies take longer to enjoy it, and that’s perfectly normal Try Different Surfaces: Sometimes a change of location (playmat, bed, your chest) helps Use Props: Mirrors, toys, even playing music can make it more engaging

      For Supported Rolling:

      • Wait until they’re comfortable with basic tummy time
      • Always move slowly and gently
      • Talk them through what you’re doing
      • Stop if they seem uncomfortable
      • Remember it’s about familiarization, not forcing development

      🎥 Sharing Our Journey

      I decided to document Kendall’s tummy time progress on YouTube because I know how helpful it can be to see what these milestones actually look like. Every baby develops at their own pace, but seeing real examples can give parents realistic expectations and ideas for their own tummy time sessions.

      Watching him in the video, I’m struck by how much confidence he’s gained. The little boy who used to fuss after two minutes is now engaging enthusiastically with tummy time, holding his head high, and trusting me completely as we practice new movements together.

      🌈 Looking Forward

      As we approach the 3-month mark, I’m excited to see how his skills continue to develop. Independent rolling is probably just around the corner, and I know all this foundation work we’re doing now is setting him up for success.

      But more than the physical milestones, I love watching his personality shine through during these sessions. His determination, his curiosity, his little expressions of concentration and pride – these moments give me such insight into who he’s becoming.

      Tummy time has become so much more than a developmental exercise. It’s our time to connect, to challenge each other, and to celebrate the amazing things his little body can do. Every session reminds me what an incredible privilege it is to witness and support his growth.

      Currently watching Kendall sleep deeply on his side (something he began doing recently as well), occasionally breathing deeply but peacefully, probably tired from his activities today. These are the moments that make all the early challenges so worth it.

      💪 How is tummy time going in your house? Share your experiences and questions in the comments – let’s support each other through these amazing early milestones! 💪

    • Formula Feeding with Confidence

      Formula Feeding with Confidence

      Removing the Shame and Embracing What Works

      Let me start with this: I love my baby fiercely, and we have built an incredible connection over these past 8 weeks. How we feed him has nothing to do with how much I love him or how strong our bond is. It’s time we stop letting feeding methods define our worth as mothers.

      When I got pregnant, the topic of breastfeeding seemed to dominate every conversation among the moms in my circle. My sister had just given birth, two of my best friends had recently welcomed their babies, and everyone was talking about the special connection that comes with breastfeeding. The pressure to breastfeed – and to do it “successfully” – was everywhere.

      Don’t get me wrong: I really wanted to breastfeed. I believed in all the benefits, I was excited about that intimate bonding experience, and I was ready to commit to nursing for up to two years if possible.

      🤱 The Perfect Beginning

      Those first two nights in the hospital felt like a fairy tale. When Kendall latched onto my breast for the first time, he did it immediately – no struggle, no guidance needed, just pure instinct. When the lactation consultant came into our room and saw how quickly and efficiently he was feeding, she was genuinely surprised in the most positive way.

      I remember feeling so proud of Kendall in that moment. Compared to other babies in the hospital who needed help with latching, my little guy seemed to have it all figured out. It felt like our first parenting win together – this natural, beautiful thing that we were both just good at.

      Those early days were magical. The skin-to-skin contact, watching his little face as he fed, feeling like I was providing everything he needed from my own body – it was fulfilling in a way I’d never experienced before. He looked so content, so focused, and yes, absolutely adorable when he was hungry and eagerly latching on.

      💔 When Reality Set In

      But as the days passed, what started as beautiful and natural became increasingly challenging. The first few days weren’t painful – maybe because he wasn’t feeding as frequently or as intensely yet. But by the end of the first week, everything changed.

      Here’s what nobody prepared me for: I have an inverted left nipple. This meant that essentially, only one breast was working effectively for nursing. While Kendall could latch, he was clearly getting frustrated because he wasn’t getting enough milk. I could see it in his little face – that look of working so hard but still being hungry.

      The pumping equipment that everyone swears by? It just didn’t work for me. Between my physical challenges and what seemed like insufficient milk supply, I found myself in a constant state of stress about whether Kendall was getting enough nutrition.

      🍼 The Transition to Formula

      By Kendall’s second week, we started introducing formula. Not because I wanted to give up on breastfeeding, but because my baby needed to eat, and I needed to know he was getting enough nutrition to thrive.

      We started mixing both – I would nurse him (always direct latching, never pumping, because that’s what worked for us), and then supplement with formula. For over a month, we did this dance of breast and bottle, and you know what? It worked.

      But somewhere around 6-7 weeks, we transitioned to formula exclusively. Not because I failed, not because I didn’t try hard enough, but because this is what worked best for my baby and for me.

      🌟 The Truth About Connection and Love

      Here’s what I want every mother to know: The way you feed your baby does not determine your connection with them.

      Since transitioning to formula, Kendall and I still bond deeply during every feeding. I hold him close, I talk to him, I hum to him, I watch his face as he drinks. He looks into my eyes, sometimes he holds my finger, and those moments are just as intimate and meaningful as any breastfeeding session ever was.

      Our connection isn’t built in those 20 minutes of feeding time – it’s built in every moment we spend together. When I give him his morning massage after bath time, when we do tummy time and he looks at me with such focus, when I read to him and he coos back at me, when we have our evening wind-down routine.

      Love isn’t measured in ounces of breast milk. Connection isn’t determined by how your baby gets their nutrition.

      🚫 Removing the Shame

      I’ve been fortunate not to face direct judgment about formula feeding, but I know many mothers do. I’ve seen the looks, heard the comments, felt the subtle (and not-so-subtle) implications that formula feeding is somehow “less than.”

      Let me be crystal clear: There is no shame in formula feeding.

      • If you can’t breastfeed due to physical challenges – no shame.
      • If you don’t produce enough milk – no shame.
      • If breastfeeding affects your mental health – no shame.
      • If you choose formula for personal reasons – no shame.
      • If you’re a single mom who needs the flexibility that formula provides – no shame.
      • If you tried breastfeeding and it didn’t work out – no shame.

      💪 The Benefits I’ve Discovered

      While I initially saw formula feeding as Plan B, I’ve come to appreciate the unique benefits it’s brought to our lives:

      Predictability: I know exactly how much Kendall is eating at each feeding. There’s no guessing, no worry about supply, no stress about whether he’s getting enough.

      Flexibility: Other people can feed Kendall. My nanny can give him his bottles, my sister can help during her visits. This has been crucial for my ability to return to yoga and take care of my own recovery.

      Peace of Mind: Watching Kendall gain weight steadily, seeing him content after feeds, knowing he’s getting consistent nutrition – it’s allowed me to relax and enjoy motherhood instead of constantly worrying about feeding.

      Better Sleep: When Kendall sleeps through longer stretches, I can too. I’m not waking up engorged or in pain, and anyone can handle night feedings if needed.

      Physical Comfort: No more soreness, no more pumping schedules, no more physical discomfort that was making feeding times stressful rather than bonding times.

      🍼 Our Feeding Routine Now

      Our current routine with HiPP Organic formula has become such a beautiful part of our day. Every 2-3 hours, Kendall gets his 3oz bottle. I prepare it carefully – 3 scoops to 3oz of distilled water, test the temperature, and then we settle in for feeding time.

      He drinks efficiently and contentedly. He burps well afterward (which gives me such peace of mind). He’s growing beautifully, hitting his developmental milestones, and is genuinely thriving.

      During feeding times, I still hold him close, make eye contact, talk to him about our day. Sometimes he holds my finger while he drinks. Sometimes he pauses to “talk” to me between sips. The connection is absolutely still there – it just looks different than I originally imagined.

      💕 To Every Mother Reading This

      Your feeding journey is yours alone. Whether you breastfeed for two years, formula feed from day one, or do some combination of both – you are not more or less of a mother based on how your baby gets their nutrition.

      What matters is that your baby is fed, loved, and thriving. What matters is that you’re taking care of yourself too, because you can’t pour from an empty cup.

      If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, please know that switching to formula doesn’t mean you failed. If you’re feeling guilty about formula feeding, please know that fed is best, and a happy, healthy mommy is what your baby needs most.

      Trust your instincts. Do what works for your family. And release yourself from anyone else’s expectations about how your feeding journey should look.

      Kendall is happy, healthy, and so loved. Our bond grows stronger every day, regardless of whether his nutrition comes from breast or bottle. And honestly? That’s all that matters.

      Currently listening to the rain while Kendall naps peacefully after his perfectly satisfying formula feeding. No guilt, no shame, just gratitude for finding what works for us.

      💕 Share your feeding journey in the comments – let’s support each other without judgment. Every story matters. 💕

    • Returning to My Mat

      Returning to My Mat

      Finding Balance in the Fourth Trimester

      One month. That’s how long it took for me to realize that taking care of Kendall meant I also needed to take care of myself. Today marks exactly 8 weeks since our little one arrived, and I’m sitting here reflecting on one of the best decisions I made during early motherhood – returning to my yoga practice and accepting the help I needed to make it happen.

      When Kendall turned one month old, I made a choice that felt both necessary and terrifying: I started going back to daily yoga classes. Not because I wanted to “bounce back” or return to some pre-pregnancy version of myself, but because my body was asking – no, demanding – the attention and care it deserved after growing and birthing our beautiful boy.

      🤱 The Fourth Trimester Truth

      Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention: the fourth trimester. Those first three months after birth when your body is still recovering, your hormones are doing their own complicated dance, and you’re learning to navigate this entirely new version of yourself.

      People focus so much on pregnancy and birth preparation, but the recovery period? That’s where the real work begins. Your core needs rebuilding. Your posture needs attention after months of carrying extra weight. Your mind needs movement to process all the changes. And honestly, your spirit needs something that’s just for you.

      I learned quickly that giving to my body wasn’t selfish – it was essential. How could I pour into Kendall if my own cup was empty?

      🧘‍♀️ The Return to My Practice

      Those first yoga classes back felt like coming home and visiting a foreign country all at the same time. My body moved differently. What used to be effortless now required patience and modification. But there was something so grounding about flowing through familiar sequences, feeling my breath deepen, and reconnecting with the strength I knew was still there beneath the exhaustion.

      The physical benefits were immediate: better posture (crucial after all those feeding sessions), stronger core engagement, and relief from the neck and shoulder tension that comes with constantly looking down at your baby. But the mental benefits? Those were even more profound.

      For one hour each day, I could focus entirely on my breath, my movement, my intention. It wasn’t about escaping motherhood – it was about returning to myself so I could be more present for it.

      👶 Enter Our Village

      Here’s what made this possible: accepting help. When Kendall turned one month, we made the decision to bring a nanny into our family. This wasn’t just about giving me time for yoga – it was about creating a support system that would benefit everyone, especially Kendall.

      One month is actually the perfect time for this transition. Kendall was just starting to become more alert and social, ready to bond with another caring adult. Having a nanny meant he could begin building relationships beyond just me, which is so healthy for his development. Plus, it gave me the peace of mind knowing he was in loving, capable hands while I took care of my own needs.

      But let me be clear – the nanny wasn’t my first line of support. During those crucial early weeks, my sister-in-law and my sister were my lifelines. They helped with everything from holding Kendall while I showered to bringing meals when cooking felt impossible. They reminded me that asking for help isn’t failing – it’s part of building a strong foundation for my family.

      The fourth trimester is not meant to be navigated alone. In many cultures, new mothers are surrounded by women who care for them while they care for their babies. We’ve somehow lost that village mentality, but I was determined to rebuild it, one support person at a time.

      🌱 The Ripple Effects

      What amazes me is how much my return to yoga has positively impacted my entire routine. I’m more patient during those challenging moments. I sleep better (when Kendall lets me!). I have more energy for my development activities with him and more presence during my feeding times.

      And Kendall? He seems to thrive knowing that mommy is taking care of herself. There’s something beautiful about modeling self-care from such an early age. I want him to grow up understanding that taking care of your body and mind isn’t optional – it’s essential.

      The nanny has been incredible with him too. Watching Kendall light up when she arrives, seeing him comfortable and content in her care, has reinforced that I made the right choice. She brings fresh energy and new perspectives to his day, and I love hearing about their little adventures together.

      🧘‍♀️ Different Practices for Different Days

      My yoga journey post-baby has looked different than before. Some days I need gentle restorative flows that honor where my body is in recovery. Other days I crave the intensity of power yoga or the precision of alignment-focused classes.

      I’ve learned to listen to what my body needs each day rather than pushing through a predetermined routine. Recovery isn’t linear, and neither is rebuilding strength and flexibility.

      The variety keeps things interesting too – vinyasa for flow and creativity, yin for deep stretching and meditation, HIIT-style classes when I want to feel powerful and strong. Each practice serves a different aspect of my healing and growth.

      ⛈️ Finding Flow in Every Season

      Speaking of different days – as I’m writing this, the rain has started again here in Metro Manila. The rainy season has officially begun, and there’s something so cozy about the sound of raindrops while Kendall naps nearby.

      It’s midday now, and I’m already planning my movement for today: a HIIT Pilates Pop class this afternoon to get my heart rate up and build that core strength, followed by a Detox Vinyasa flow this evening to release any tension and center myself for the night ahead.

      There’s something poetic about the rain returning just as I’m returning to my practice. Both are natural cycles – the ebb and flow of weather, the ebb and flow of motherhood, the ebb and flow of taking care of ourselves while caring for others.

      💕 To the Mommies Reading This

      If you’re in your fourth trimester, or planning for it, please hear this: You deserve support. Your body deserves attention. Your recovery matters.

      Whether it’s yoga, walking, swimming, or simply sitting in meditation for five minutes – movement and mindfulness aren’t luxuries in early motherhood. They’re necessities.

      And please, please ask for help. Accept the meals, say yes to the offers to hold the baby while you rest, consider bringing in professional support if it’s possible for your family. Building my village isn’t admitting weakness – it’s creating the foundation for my strength.

      Your baby needs you to be well. And you deserve to feel like yourself again, even as you’re becoming this new version of who you are.

      The rain is getting heavier now, and I can hear Kendall stirring from his nap. Time for his bath, then off to sweat and flow and remember that taking care of myself is taking care of him too.

      💪 What does self-care look like in your fourth trimester? Share your experiences and support each other in the comments below. 💪

    • Life with Kendall

      Life with Kendall

      Our First 8 Weeks Together

      It’s hard to believe our little Kendall is already 8 weeks old! Time moves differently when you’re a parent – somehow the days feel endless while the weeks fly by. As I write this, I’m watching him sleep peacefully after his evening feeding, and I can’t help but marvel at how much our lives have changed since May 10th.

      People always tell you that having a baby changes everything, but until you’re living it, you can’t really understand what that means. It’s not just the sleepless nights – though we do have our 2 AM and 4:30 AM wake-up calls – it’s the complete reorganization of time, priorities, and even how you think about the simplest daily activities.

      The good news? Kendall has been relatively good about his night schedule, usually only waking twice before his 6 AM start to the day.

      🌅 Finding Our Rhythm

      After weeks of trial and error, we’ve finally settled into a routine that works for us. I wouldn’t call it a strict schedule – babies have their own agenda, after all – but having some structure has been a lifesaver for my sanity and Kendall’s development.

      Our days start early at 6:00 AM with Kendall’s first feeding. There’s something magical about those early morning moments when the world is quiet and it’s just the two of us. After his bottle, we do a quick diaper change (which has become an opportunity for some gentle leg exercises – who knew baby care could be so multifaceted?), and then we step outside for our morning walk.

      That sunlight isn’t just nice for photos – it’s actually important for his developing circadian rhythm and helps with vitamin D synthesis. Plus, the fresh air seems to make him more alert and happy for the activities that follow.

      👶 The Art of Baby Development

      One thing I didn’t expect about newborn life was how intentional every interaction could be. At 6 weeks, Kendall is becoming so much more aware of his surroundings. His eyes track movement now, he’s starting to focus on faces (especially mine – my heart!), and he’s even beginning to “talk” back when I chat with him.

      We’ve incorporated simple development activities throughout our day:

      👁️ Visual Play

      Right after our walk, when he’s most alert, I spend time making exaggerated facial expressions at him. It sounds silly, but watching him study my face and occasionally try to mimic expressions is absolutely fascinating.

      🤱 Tummy Time Adventures

      I was nervous about this at first, but Kendall has turned out to be a tummy time champion! He actually seems to enjoy these sessions now. We do 3-5 minute sessions when he’s alert, and he’s gotten so strong – lifting his head confidently and even turning it from side to side to look at different toys. I love getting down on his level and watching him work those little neck muscles. His determination is already showing!

      👐 Sensory Experiences

      After bath time, I give him a gentle massage with baby lotion. It’s become one of my favorite parts of the day – he’s so relaxed and content, and it feels like such a bonding moment.

      🍼 The Feeding Dance

      Formula feeding has become second nature now, though it took some time to get the preparation down to a science. We’re using HiPP Organic formula, and Kendall takes 3oz every 2-3 hours. The key I’ve learned is consistency – same ratio every time (3 scoops to 3oz of distilled water), test the temperature religiously, and never rush the process.

      Feeding times have become more than just nutrition – they’re opportunities for connection. I narrate what we’re doing, sing little songs, or just talk about our plans for the day. He watches my face intently during feeds now, and sometimes I swear he’s actually listening.

      One thing that brings me so much peace is how well Kendall burps after his feedings. Getting a good burp means I can lay him down for sleep without worrying about an upset tummy or discomfort. It’s one of those small parenting wins that makes such a big difference in both our comfort levels – he sleeps better, and I sleep better knowing he’s comfortable.

      💊 The Vitamin Routine

      At 10:45 AM each day, we do our vitamin routine: Nutrilin, Celeen, and Baby Ddrops. It took a few tries to get the timing right, but doing it before bath time means if things get messy (they sometimes do), we can clean up right after.

      Pro tip: Having everything ready beforehand makes the whole process smoother for everyone.

      🌙 Evening Wind-Down

      Our evenings have become sacred time. Around 7:00 PM, we start our bonding activities – peek-a-boo games (he’s just starting to show some recognition of the pattern), gentle conversation where I pause for his little coos and gurgles, and visual tracking games with colorful toys.

      The pre-bedtime routine at 9:00 PM is all about calm energy. A gentle massage, some mirror time (self-recognition is developing!), and soft lullabies while we dim the lights. It signals to his little system that sleep time is coming.

      💫 The Beautiful Chaos

      Not every day goes according to plan. Sometimes Kendall decides he wants to cluster feed. Sometimes our carefully planned development activities are interrupted by a diaper blowout that requires a complete outfit change (for both of us). But thankfully, some things are going really well – like his excellent tummy time skills and his reliable burping after feeds, which gives me such peace of mind.

      But that’s the beauty of this new life – it’s teaching me to be present, to be flexible, and to find joy in the unexpected moments. Like when he gave me his first real smile last week during one of our 2 AM feedings. Or when he fell asleep holding my finger after his bath yesterday. These moments remind me that even though it’s just the two of us now, we’re building something beautiful together.

      ✨ What I’m Learning

      Six weeks in, here’s what I wish someone had told me:

      • Babies are more resilient than you think – They don’t break if you don’t get everything perfect
      • Routines are guides, not rules – Flexibility is your friend
      • Document everything – The small moments are the ones you’ll want to remember
      • Trust your instincts – You know your baby better than anyone
      • Every baby is different – What works for others might not work for you, and that’s okay

      🔮 Looking Ahead

      As I watch Kendall grow and change daily, I’m excited about what’s coming next. Soon we’ll introduce more interactive play, longer tummy time sessions, and maybe even some outdoor adventures beyond our morning walks.

      This blog is going to be our space to document this incredible journey – the wins, the challenges, the 3 AM philosophical thoughts that come with newborn life, and all the beautiful chaos in between.

      For now, I hear him moving and making little noises beside me. This parenting gig never stops, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

      Until next time,
      Living life one beautiful moment at a time

      💕 Follow our journey and share your own parenting wins and challenges in the comments below. 💕