lalaryneee

[lalaryneee]

John's Adulthood Key Lessons

Entering early adulthood brings a host of new experiences, challenges, and milestones that shape our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For John, working as an IT professional in a BPO company, this stage of life has brought unexpected change in daily routines, a new understanding of responsibility, and the emotional growth needed to manage relationships and career challenges. Let us take a look at John’s journey and the lessons that he learned along the way. 

Before starting his job, John enjoyed a laid-back lifestyle. Basketball, workouts, and free time were a regular part of his routine. However, everything changed when he joined a BPO company. The shift to working nights and sleeping during the day required John to adapt quickly to a much more structured lifestyle. In the beginning, adjusting to night shifts was particularly tough. His body struggled with the new schedule, and he felt the physical toll of long hours at work. “I felt like I was losing weight because my body was adjusting to this new schedule,” he shared. The exhaustion from his job meant that all he could do after work was go home and sleep. His usual activities like working out, playing basketball, and enjoying time with friends were put on hold. The biggest lesson from this experience was the importance of time management. John realized that maintaining a healthy work-life balance would require him to make tough choices, even if it meant sacrificing some of the things he once enjoyed.

John’s transition into adulthood was not just a physical adjustment but it was also a mental and emotional one. One of the biggest mental challenges he faced was the pressure to graduate on time. As an irregular student, John had to extend his studies by a year, which made him feel like he was falling behind compared to his peers. “After I graduated, the pressure didn’t end. It took me three months to get hired, which made me feel even more stressed,” he explained. Watching his siblings already working while he struggled to find a job only increased his anxiety.  

When he finally secured a position as an IT professional, the reality of full-time work hit hard. The expectations were higher, and he had to learn quickly, juggling new responsibilities, working under pressure, and managing his time carefully. “Time management became more important. If I had a 30-minute task, I had to finish it in exactly 30 minutes—no more, no less,” John shared. This experience taught him that adulthood is a balancing act between responsibility and discipline, lessons that are important for success in both personal and professional life.

John’s journey into adulthood has not been without its emotional challenges. One of the most difficult experience that tests his emotional strength, was in a form of a painful breakup. He had been in a relationship where trust was compromised, and his ex-partner's insecurities caused constant tension. “It felt suffocating, like there was no trust,” he said. The situation worsened with jealousy over his friendships and social media interactions, and eventually, John discovered that his partner had been unfaithful.

The emotional aftermath was tough, but John’s family was there for him, showing support and reminding him to focus on his own well-being. “I learned that it’s important to love yourself and take care of your emotional health,” he said. Instead of seeking revenge, he chose healing, learning that moving forward and focusing on self-love was the most empowering response.

In addition to his romantic relationship, John has also faced challenges in friendships, particularly with friends who are sensitive and require extra patience. Through these experiences, he learned the importance of understanding and empathy, recognizing that we cannot always control how others feel, but we can offer support when needed.

When it comes to priorities right now, John's career is one of the things he is very focused on. Since this is his first time in a full-time role, having only done extra jobs before, he is eager to continue learning, tackle new challenges, and find ways to make a meaningful impact through his work. Looking to the future, John holds onto the dream of marriage and starting a family. He hopes to become a good father someday and feels he has a lot to experience and build in himself to prepare for that moment.

As John experiences the challenges of early adulthood, he’s learning that this stage is about much more than just growing up. It’s about adapting, evolving, and finding balance between work, personal growth, and relationships. From adjusting to the physical and mental demands of a full-time job to managing the emotional challenges that come with life’s ups and downs, early adulthood has proven to be a time of significant personal development.

John’s journey teaches us that adulthood is not just about meeting societal expectations but it is about understanding ourselves better, learning from our experiences, and being mindful of how we handle our relationships and responsibilities. With time management, emotional strength, and a focus on self-care, John is learning to manage adulthood with strength and maturity.

[lalaryneee]

Stepping into change by: Daniel

Adolescence is an exciting and challenging time for many. It is a period of physical, cognitive, and socioemotional changes that can shape the way we see the world and ourselves. For Daniel, a young person experiencing this phase, these changes are both surprising and empowering. From new body transformations to deeper reflections on the world around him, here is a glimpse into how he is growing up and learning to balance independence with connection.

As Daniel moves through adolescence, he notices several physical changes that have made him feel more mature. One of the first signs of this transformation was the growth of Adam's apple, which made his voice sound deeper and more adult-like. He also observed facial hair sprouting, particularly his mustache, which added to his sense of masculinity. His shoulders become broader. These changes have marked the end from his childhood self, when he was small and skinny. Now, he feels taller and more defined, which is a bit surprising for him, as he never expected it. However, Daniel approaches these changes with positivity, feeling proud of his new, more grown-up appearance.

Like many adolescents, Daniel has had his share of self-conscious moments. One instance was when he had a bad breakout of pimples just before his senior high school graduation photoshoot. He was worried that his skin issues would stand out in the photos, but instead of letting that hold him back, Daniel took action. He visited a dermatologist and began a skincare routine to manage his breakouts. Reminding himself that acne is a normal part of puberty, he focused on self-care and accepted that it was just a phase. This mindset helped him stay confident, showing that physical imperfections do not define who we are.

While Daniel does not feel intense pressure from family or society regarding his physical growth, he has noticed how some of his friends, especially those from elementary school, react to his changes. His classmates often comment on how much taller he has become, which has made him more aware of his physical development. Despite these remarks, Daniel does not feel pressured. Instead, he understands that everyone’s body changes at their own pace. 

As Daniel matures, his way of thinking has changed. He became more aware of the world around him, especially regarding social and political issues. Things that once seemed unimportant now feel significant, and he learned to think critically about how these issues affect people’s lives. This change in perspective is part of growing up and realizing that the world is much more complicated than he originally thought.

Learning new things has become easier for Daniel. He adapts quickly to new environments, picking up on social dynamics and cultural habits. His perspective on decision-making has also become more thoughtful. What used to be simple choices based on surface-level impressions, like being attracted to someone for their looks, has evolved into more reflective decisions, considering qualities like personality and values.

Adolescence is not just about physical and mental changes it also involves managing social challenges. For Daniel, relationships with friends and family have changed. Some of his childhood friends have drifted away, as they have moved into different circles or environments. At first, this was a tough adjustment, but Daniel has come to accept that relationships evolve over time. It is a natural part of growing up, and he values the friends and family who remain close to him. When it comes to balancing independence and maintaining connections, Daniel faces some challenges. Living in Davao while his family stays in their province has made it harder to spend time together. Though they stay connected through calls and social media, it is not the same as being physically present with each other. 

Despite the physical distance, Daniel’s family continues to support him in many ways. When he moved to college, they ensured he had everything he needed, even funding his education at an expensive school like Ateneo, where he was currently enrolled in. Their constant support, whether it is providing for his daily needs or checking in on him has made Daniel feel understood and appreciated. They ensure he has enough allowance, food, and basic needs, and regularly check on his well-being, both physically and emotionally. Unlike some of his classmates whose parents question expenses, Daniel’s family is always willing to help without complaint, allowing him to focus on his education without unnecessary worries. Daniel said “life isn’t perfect, but my family goes out of their way to make it feel as close to perfect as possible”.

Adolescence is a time of rapid change, and for Daniel, it has been a journey of personal growth. As his body matures, his way of thinking evolves, and his relationships with others change. Though there are challenges, like managing self-consciousness and balancing independence with family connections, Daniel is learning to embrace these changes. With the love and support of his family, he’s managing this stage of life with confidence, knowing that growth comes in many forms.

[lalaryneee]

"Shaping Dreams with Bev and Ghia"

Meet Bev, a mom who has seen it all when it comes to raising her child through the twists and turns of middle and late childhood. From the early days of kindergarten, when little hands were still clinging to hers, to the moments of independence that came too soon, Bev’s journey has been filled with both challenges and joys. As she watched her child grow from a curious toddler into a bright and adventurous kid with her own dreams and ideas. As Bev tells her story, you can hear the pride in her voice as she recalls each milestone like first school friends, the ups and downs of school projects, and discovering new hobbies. With every new stage, Bev found herself growing along with her child, learning as much from the experience as she was teaching. Through it all, Bev has learned that parenting is not about perfection, but it is about being there, guiding, and loving every step of the way.

During middle and late childhood, Bev noticed several changes in her daughter's physical abilities and overall development. Although her daughter was not particularly tall compared to her peers, she often stood out as the first in line. Initially, Ghia loved to eat, especially when she was mostly at home with limited interaction with other kids. However, once she was exposed to a wider variety of foods, she became a picky eater, favoring processed snacks like junk food, gummy bears, and sweets.

Bev also observed changes in her daughter’s dental health, recalling how Ghia had a dental filling at age four and had a broken tooth removed at age six. Additionally, she began to develop body odor, likely due to her energetic and playful nature. Teachers often mentioned Ghia’s active behavior in class, noting that she was always moving around and never seemed to tire, enjoying playtime with all her classmates, regardless of gender.

In terms of sports, while Ghia expressed interest in various activities, she had not shown a strong passion for any specific sport until recently, when she expressed a desire to try soccer, hoping to become a soccer player. Another significant change was her growing awareness of her body, although she mentioned her "boobs" getting bigger, they were not very visible yet. Bev had instilled the importance of privacy and body boundaries early on, teaching Ghia that no one should touch or see her private body parts, not even family members. She also encouraged Ghia to avoid sitting on the laps of boys, following her guidance about appropriate behavior.

Bev was proud to see her daughter becoming more independent, taking care of personal hygiene, bathing herself, and choosing her clothes. This independence and attention to appearance were likely influenced by her surroundings, particularly her teenage sister. While Bev appreciated her daughter’s self-sufficiency, she wished Ghia could learn household chores like washing dishes or cooking rice, which some kids her age already did. Nevertheless, she felt confident in Ghia's growth and happy to see her taking steps toward independence.

Bev also noticed a significant improvement in Ghia's thinking, problem-solving, and school performance. From a young age, she encouraged Ghia with positive reinforcement, like personal medals for her school efforts, helping to build her confidence. Even when Ghia did not win competitions like spelling bees or quiz bees, she proudly declared herself "the best among the rest" or "the smartest." This self-assuredness was evident when Ghia ranked first in second grade,she walked across the stage with pride. During events like "Buwan ng Wika," she was so confident that she posed as if she would win the best-dressed competition, and indeed, she did.

While proud of her daughter's self-assurance, Bev sometimes worried about how Ghia might react when exposed to children who are smarter or in situations where she might feel uncomfortable. They do not pressure her to be an achiever, but Bev knows the importance of balancing confidence with humility, emphasizing that it all comes down to how a child is raised.

One challenge Ghia faced with schoolwork was related to family structure. Having been raised without a father, Ghia had been conditioned to understand that she did not have one. So, when activities like creating a family tree came up, she would automatically mark an X for her father. In kindergarten, this was not an issue, as faculty were aware of their situation. However, as Ghia entered grade school, teachers often asked her questions like, “Why don’t you have a father?” or “How were you born if you don’t have a father?” Ghia would explain that she did not grow up with a father and that her uncles and grandfather filled that role in her life. While Bev felt Ghia was fine without a father, these external questions sometimes triggered uncomfortable situations for her daughter. Despite this, Ghia handled the questions maturely, but it was a challenge they both had to deal with.

Bev takes immense pride in her daughter's cognitive growth, especially when Ghia receives awards that reflect her own hard work and determination. She believes her daughter’s achievements are a result of Ghia's effort and dedication. At church, for example, others are often amazed at how well Ghia can read the scriptures without stuttering, even at a young age. Such moments, where Ghia's skills and confidence shine, make Bev feel truly proud.

As Ghia grew older and was exposed to various environments, Bev noticed a significant improvement in her daughter's relationships with others. When Ghia was younger and mostly around family, she was more reserved. However, as she interacted with more people, she became adventurous and less shy. This exposure to the outside world played a crucial role in Ghia’s social development.

Bev is also aware of how much children mirror what they see on television or phones, which can have both positive and negative influences. Because of this, she emphasizes the importance of parental guidance, ensuring her daughter stays on the right path while building healthy relationships with friends and family. One of the most rewarding aspects for Bev is witnessing how others recognize Ghia as a unique child with many capabilities. Bev feels proud when people compliment and appreciate Ghia, and she finds joy in seeing her daughter navigate social situations confidently, even with adults. What amazes Bev most is how Ghia does not feel intimidated, possibly because she sees everyone as a potential friend. This perspective makes Bev feel blessed and grateful.

As Bev reflects on Ghia's journey through middle and late childhood, she feels an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. Watching her daughter embrace independence, tackle challenges, and thrive in social settings has been a rewarding experience. Each milestone, from learning to read without hesitation, has reaffirmed Bev's belief in Ghia's potential. Despite the challenges they faced, including questions about their family, Ghia’s resilience and confidence have shone through brightly. Bev recognizes that parenting is not just about guiding her daughter, it is about celebrating her growth and encouraging her to chase her dreams. With each passing day, their bond deepens, creating a foundation of love and support that Ghia will carry into her future. As they start on new adventures together, Bev knows that Ghia is not just a reflection of her care but a remarkable individual ready to take on the world, and that fills her heart with hope for what lies ahead.

[lalaryneee]

Steps and Stories in Yuri's Early Years

As a parent, watching your child grow is both a beautiful and challenging experience. For Junie, this journey has been filled with milestones that have shaped her son Yuri from a tiny toddler into a curious little boy. Between the ages of 3 and 5, Junie observed significant changes in Yuri’s physical abilities, cognitive skills, and social interactions. These early childhood years are important, and through her experiences, Junie learned not only about the milestones but also about the challenges that come with them. In Junie’s story, we will explore the various physical, cognitive, and socioemotional milestones that Yuri reached during these formative years, the challenges he faced, and the deep satisfaction Junie felt as a parent.

During the early years of Yuri's life, Junie witnessed numerous physical milestones that filled her with joy. When Yuri was around 1 year old, he started crawling with ease, quickly transitioning to walking. The first time he took his first steps unassisted, Junie felt a rush of pride. It was a moment she would never forget Yuri wobbled across the living room, arms outstretched for balance, and his face lit up with excitement as he reached for her.

As Yuri continued to grow, his fine motor skills began to develop. Junie noticed how he could stack blocks and manipulate toys with increasing precision. Simple tasks like holding a crayon and drawing shapes became easier for him. One sunny afternoon, Junie sat with Yuri at the kitchen table, where he concentrated on coloring a picture of a house. She admired how he carefully stayed within the lines, a skill he had worked hard to master. However, there were challenges along the way. At times, Yuri struggled with coordination, especially when trying to catch a ball or balance on one foot. One day at the park, he excitedly ran to catch a butterfly but tripped and fell. Instead of getting discouraged, he jumped back up, brushing off his scraped knee, and said, "I can do it, Mommy!" Junie patiently encouraged him, understanding that these were natural parts of his development.

Every time Yuri accomplished a new physical skill, Junie felt a deep sense of fulfillment. Whether it was mastering a new drawing technique or finally being able to ride his small motorcycle, each achievement brought them closer. The joy in Yuri's eyes as he celebrated his victories made Junie realize the importance of supporting him through every stage of his physical growth. 

Yuri's cognitive development was just as remarkable as his physical milestones. Junie observed how his thinking and problem-solving skills evolved during these early years. When Yuri turned 4, he began to ask questions about everything around him. “Why is the sky blue?” or “How does the car go?” were common phrases in their home. During breakfast one morning, he watched a bird outside the window and exclaimed, “Mommy, why can birds fly? I want to fly too!” These questions showed Junie that Yuri was not only curious but also eager to understand the world.

However, there were times when learning new concepts was challenging for Yuri. For example, he struggled with the idea of counting past ten. Junie tried different approaches to help him, such as counting toys during playtime or singing counting songs. They would count together as they built towers with blocks or sorted colorful balls. With patience and encouragement, Yuri eventually grasped the concept. When he proudly counted to twenty for the first time during a car ride, Junie's heart swelled with pride. She knew that these moments of struggle and triumph were essential for his cognitive growth.

One of the most memorable moments for Junie was when Yuri completed a simple puzzle by himself for the first time. He had always needed help before, but this time, he worked diligently on a dinosaur puzzle, turning each piece over to find the right fit. When he finally placed the last piece, he jumped up and shouted, "I did it, Mommy!" Junie cheered for him, and Yuri's face beamed with accomplishment. These moments of progress in learning made Junie realize the importance of nurturing Yuri's curiosity. 

As Yuri grew, Junie noticed significant changes in his behavior and ability to interact with others. Initially, at age 3, Yuri was shy and reserved around other children. At a family gathering, he would cling to Junie’s leg when meeting new cousins, hesitant to join in their games. However, as he neared 5, things began to change. Yuri became more adventurous and confident, especially when he started preschool. Junie recalls one particular day at the playground when Yuri approached a group of children playing tag. Instead of waiting for someone to invite him, he confidently asked if he could join. Watching him make new friends filled Junie with joy and relief, knowing that he was becoming more comfortable in social settings.

Yet, this social interaction was not always smooth sailing. There were moments when Yuri struggled with managing his emotions, especially when he did not get his way. One day at the grocery store, he wanted a toy car, but Junie explained they were only there to shop for groceries. He threw a tantrum, causing other shoppers to look their way. Junie took a deep breath and knelt down to his level, calmly discussing his feelings. “I know you’re upset, but we can get a toy next time,” she said. It was moments like these that reminded Junie of the importance of teaching him how to express his feelings constructively.

Through these challenges, Junie found it rewarding to see Yuri develop empathy. One day, while playing in the backyard, she noticed him comforting a friend who had fallen down. He hugged the child and offered his favorite toy truck to cheer them up. These moments reassured Junie that her guidance was making a difference. Watching Yuri grow socially and emotionally, building friendships and understanding his feelings, was truly rewarding for her as a mom. She felt grateful knowing that her support played an important role in his journey toward becoming a caring and confident individual.

In Yuri's early childhood, Junie feels a mixture of pride, joy, and gratitude. Each milestone, whether physical, cognitive, or socioemotional, has shaped her son into the wonderful little boy he is today. While there were challenges along the way, these challenges provided opportunities for growth and learning for both Yuri and Junie. As she continues to support Yuri in his journey, Junie knows that these early years will serve as a strong foundation for his future. The love and encouragement she provides will help him manage life’s challenges and embrace new experiences with confidence. For Junie, there is no greater reward than witnessing her child's growth and development, and she looks forward to all the adventures that lie ahead.

[lalaryneee]

Glezy Mae: A Single Mom Balancing life with Strength and Determination

Meet Glezy Mae, a single mom from Kidapawan and mother of a nine-month-old baby girl. Despite the challenges, Glezy is determined to build a better life for herself and her baby. She works during the day and attends classes in the evening, showing incredible strength and dedication. Her story is a powerful reminder of how important it is to make thoughtful decisions in life, especially when it comes to becoming a parent. Being a mother is not easy, and without being fully prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally, it can be truly exhausting. Glezy’s journey teaches us the value of being serious about our choices and responsibilities. She shows that with hard work and determination, it is possible to balance multiple roles, even in tough situations. Her story also inspires others to face their own challenges with courage and persistence. Through her experience, we learn how important it is to approach life’s challenges with determination.

When asked about how she has been adjusting physically since giving birth, Glezy shared her experience of significant physical changes. She mentioned that her weight dropped from over 60 kilos to 47 kilos, likely due to breastfeeding her nine-month-old baby girl. The first few months after birth were particularly challenging. For instance, newborns typically need to be fed every two to three hours, even throughout the night, which meant Glezy was often awake and busy with feeding and soothing her baby as her baby required constant care and attention, leaving Glezy with little time for herself. This, combined with her daily routine of working in the morning and attending classes in the evening, has affected her body. The demands of breastfeeding, along with the physical exhaustion of balancing work, school, and motherhood, affected her weight and overall physical appearance.

Glezy’s thinking or approach to daily tasks has evolved since becoming a mom, reflected on the big changes in her lifestyle. She shared that before becoming a mother, she loved going out with friends and was known as a "party girl." However, everything changed when she became pregnant and realized she had new responsibilities to focus on. Now, as a mom, her priority is the needs and wants of her baby, which means she can no longer go out as freely as she used to. When her baby starts to learn rolling over, sitting up, and reaching for objects she ensures the safety of her baby. Additionally, when teething begins it is more challenging as it causes discomfort and irritability, which can lead to more frequent crying and disruptions in sleep. As a result, Glezy finds herself needing to be highly attentive to her baby’s needs, whether it is giving comfort during teething pains or providing encouragement as her baby learns new skills. This new reality has required her to focus entirely and embrace her role as a dedicated mother. She also noted that she has matured in her way of thinking. Before motherhood, she had no specific plans for her life and often lived in the moment. Now, her thoughts are focused entirely on her baby’s growth, needs, and future, to a more practical mindset where her own personal needs are secondary.

When discussing how her relationships and emotional experiences have been influenced by her new role as a mom, Glezy shared that she has become more aware of her emotional responses and the importance of patience in parenting. She candidly described her struggles with managing stress and frustration. There are times when the exhaustion from long, tiring days makes it difficult to control her emotions, and she sometimes finds herself expressing her frustrations toward her baby, despite knowing it is not right. She believes these moments may be influenced by postpartum challenges, as there are times when she can manage her emotions well, but there are also times when she forgets that her baby cannot understand her feelings or anger. The constant demands of her baby can be exhausting like when her baby wakes up several times during the night, cries a lot due to teething pain, or is fussy and hard to soothe. Despite these tough moments, Glezy remains motivated to study hard and work diligently, knowing that she is now fighting not just for herself but also for her baby’s future. Her mother’s support, guidance, and encouragement, reminding her to stay strong and focused. Even though her pregnancy was unplanned, Glezy does not see it as a failure but as a lesson that has helped her grow.

Glezy Mae's journey into motherhood has been a transformative experience filled with both challenges and growth. As a single mom, she had to adjust to big changes in how she looks, daily routines, and emotional well-being. The demands of caring for her baby while balancing work and school have tested her strength and resilience. Her new role as a mother has changed her priorities, making her focus more on her baby’s needs and future. Despite the exhaustion and moments of frustration, particularly when dealing with the constant demands of a newborn, Glezy remains motivated by her desire to provide the best life for her child. The support and guidance from her own mother have been invaluable, reminding her to stay strong and focused. Through it all, Glezy's story is a testament to the power of love, dedication, and the unending commitment a mother has for her child, even in the face of overwhelming challenges, the sacrifices she makes are driven by the deep bond she shares with her baby.

[lalaryneee]

Pregnancy in the Great White North: Estela’s Journey

Pregnancy is a journey filled with a mix of changes and challenges, which can be both exciting and demanding. For Estela a Filipina mom, this journey is proving to be even more challenging as she prepares to welcome her third child. Estela lives in Canada, with her husband and two kids. Each day brings new surprises as her body goes through noticeable changes and her mind races with thoughts and plans about the future. Managing the needs of her two older children, adjusting to a new baby, and maintaining her own well-being requires mindful planning. Throughout her third pregnancy, we will gain insight into how it affects her physical health, cognitive outlook, and socioemotional well-being, exploring the challenges of her daily life, relationships, and sense of self.

Estela, currently 32 weeks into her pregnancy, has noticed significant physical changes in her daily life. Despite this being her third pregnancy, it has proven to be the most challenging compared to her previous ones. Estela attributes this difficulty, in part, to her age. She was 26 when she had her first child and 29 for her second, whereas now, at 38, the physical demands of pregnancy seem more intense.

During her first trimester, Estela experienced a particularly tough phase which is discomfort and fatigue. These challenges made her make the decision to stop working. Previously, she worked 10 hours and four days a week. The stress from her job and the physical demands of pregnancy made it harder for her to keep working.

Estela also faced several specific physical challenges during her current pregnancy. She has noticed significant changes in her appearance, such as swelling in her nose and face, which has affected her self-esteem. Despite receiving compliments from others, who say she looks "blooming," Estela struggles with feeling unattractive. Since becoming pregnant, Estela had to make adjustments to manage the physical demands of her pregnancy. Physically, she has found even simple tasks difficult; walking or going grocery shopping becomes exhausting after just 10 minutes, leaving her feeling unwell. Bending over to perform tasks like putting on clothes or tying her shoes is now challenging, requiring her to ask for assistance. Previously very active and engaged in daily household chores, now her routine has drastically changed. The activities that once filled her day have been replaced by a much more limited set of tasks. Her current daily routine revolves around a basic cycle of eating, sleeping, and frequent trips to the restroom. The fatigue and physical discomfort she experiences have made it difficult for her to engage in her usual household activities. She now spends most of her time resting and conserving her energy. Reflecting on her previous pregnancies, Estela recalls feeling more comfortable during the first trimester, even with morning sickness, but this time the experience has been markedly different, likely due to her age.  

To manage her health, she is taking three types of medication: one for high blood pressure, one to alleviate nausea, and one aspirin to help prevent preeclampsia. These medications have contributed to her grogginess, making it even harder for her to stay active and maintain her previous level of productivity.

Pregnancy has significantly influenced Estela’s emotional well-being and outlook on life. From the moment she received a positive pregnancy test, she experienced a range of intense emotions. The unexpected nature of the pregnancy left her in disbelief and struggling to accept the news, as it had not been part of her plans. During the first trimester, she was overwhelmed with frequent crying, reflecting a state of emotional stress and exhaustion.

The unplanned nature of this pregnancy led to changes in her short-term goals and personal plans, including adjustments to her wardrobe and daily activities. However, living in Canada has provided some practical support that has helped her manage these challenges. Despite no longer working, Estela receives financial assistance from the government, which, while modest, helps cover bills and groceries. This support is set to continue after the birth of her child, including an additional allowance for the baby, which is a big help to her financial stability during this uncertain time.

Estela’s pregnancy had a notable impact on her relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. She is particularly grateful for her husband’s constant support during this time. Despite the challenges of dealing with cravings for Filipino foods, like kakanin, which are not available in Canada, her husband has always been there to give comfort and help.

She has also observed a cultural difference between Canada and the Philippines in how pregnancy is viewed and supported. In the Philippines, she recalls feeling self-conscious due to comments from coworkers and others, such as remarks on her appearance or restrictions on her diet and activities. These comments often contributed to feelings of self-doubt and pressure.

In contrast, the culture in Canada has provided a more supportive and encouraging environment. People around her, including friends and colleagues, have been attentive and positive, frequently saying words of encouragement and affirmation about her pregnancy and her baby. This positive reinforcement has a major effect on her well-being. Additionally, the generosity of her friends, colleagues, and church members in providing nursery items has been a source of support, making her feel valued and cared for.

If Estela were in the Philippines, she might face criticism for her physical appearance or perceived inactivity, such as being labeled as lazy for resting or being urged to engage in more physical activity. However, the supportive environment in Canada has made her pregnancy journey more manageable and positive, contributing to her overall sense of gratitude despite the stresses of pregnancy.

One of the most memorable and special moments for Estela during her pregnancy has been the organization of her first-ever baby shower. This event, arranged by her friends, colleagues, and church members, has been a highlight. Estela was excited and touched by the difference in how the event was handled compared to her experiences in the Philippines. In Canada, the initiative to organize the baby shower came from her community, allowing her to simply relax and enjoy the occasion. Her friends created a baby registry, listing items she needed or wanted, which made it easy for them to select appropriate gifts.

The generosity and support of her Canadian community have been very helpful. Even though Estela did not ask for help, her friends and acquaintances insisted on contributing, including providing essential baby items like clothes. This level of community support was particularly helpful, especially given her initial concerns about affording necessary items such as rent, nursery essentials, and a car seat for the baby. The car seat was very important to purchase, as it is mandatory for transporting a newborn home from the hospital, and its high cost was a bit concerning. Fortunately, her community came together to raise funds to buy the car seat, easing one of her major worries.

Additionally, Estela is looking forward to the benefits that her baby will receive as a Canadian citizen. This includes access to various government benefits, which provides further reassurance and support during this important time in her life. Overall, the support and generosity from her Canadian community have made her pregnancy journey more memorable and positive, highlighting the difference a caring and proactive support system can make.

Estela’s journey through her pregnancy has been both challenging and eye-opening. Discovering she was expecting her third child at 38 was a significant surprise, leading to a rollercoaster of emotional highs and lows. The unexpected news initially overwhelmed her, leaving her feeling exhausted and drained, particularly during the first trimester. Her daily life had a big change, from the activities she once enjoyed, such as household chores, became increasingly difficult as she battled fatigue and grogginess from her medications. Emotionally, the pregnancy reshaped her outlook on life, with the supportive environment in Canada showing a clear gap to what she might have faced in the Philippines. The encouragement and practical help from friends and community members such as organizing a baby shower and providing essential baby items helped ease her concerns about affording necessary items like a car seat. Estela’s experience shows that having a supportive community can greatly impact life changes, like pregnancy illustrating how cultural differences and community support can significantly influence one’s journey.