Gorgeous Supermom Meghann Sta Ines-Hernandez is a PR practitioner who has worked for 3 international hotel brands to date, a columnist for Edge Davao, a lifestyle photographer, a crafts artist/designer (check out a few of her works here: Weekend project: 5 Spaces and things to brighten up with paper flowers), and of course mom to 8-year-old Tatiana.
How in the world does she do it all?! Let’s find out.
What’s your secret to being a supermom:
There really is no perfect formula to being a supermom, or a perfect one at that, so to speak. I’m not so sure if I even fit the title. Given the fact that I’m a working mom (and singlehandedly raised my child for 7 years before settling down), I try my hardest to make up for lost time with her with every chance I get.
I make myself involved in all of my daughter’s interests and hobbies and she’s also part of everything I do outside of work. I take her with me when I see my friends, we get our hands dirty over arts and craft sessions, I drag her to bookstores with me, etc. I guess it’s all about finding a good balance.
Read: On being a single mom – A heartfelt letter for single mothers
Motherhood is just as challenging as it is rewarding. As much as anyone would wish that there was a step by step guide in being a good mother, there really is no perfect formula in becoming one.
Each mom has different challenges, different abilities and skills, and certainly different children. Imagine a mom of five, managing five different personalities and temperaments. You’d never know whose needs you have to prioritize first, but moms are able to rise above the endless tantrums and whining and provide all that’s necessary.
Motherhood is like a rollercoaster ride that doesn’t end after a few rounds or when fuel runs out. Your duties and responsibilities go beyond the usual routine. Day in and day out, mothers face different surprises on the battlefield, wiping sweat and tears and nurturing future champions and icons.
While there is more to motherhood than what meets the eye, sometimes the beauty of it can get lost in all the chores, sleepless nights and noise. A mother’s love goes beyond words, and no amount of sweat and tears can put an end to our giving, loving, and caring.
Tell us about Tatiana!
Tatiana is my best friend and confidante. She has a big heart, full of compassion and care for everyone around her.
Sometimes I wonder how she can have the understanding and brains of a young adult. Throughout our trying times, she beamed with so much optimism and hope. “It’s ok, Mom. Sometimes it’s sunny, sometimes it’s rainy. Sometimes we have gifts and there are times when we only have what we have.” So much wisdom from someone so little.
Read: Tips for a single mom: How to budget and save your money
Before I met my husband, she was the strong and willing voice who cared to comfort me late at night, after work, reminding me that “even mommies need rest.” She is full of love, never one to hold a grudge. She is the sunshine in every room — her laughter, contagious; her crazy antics, inimitable; and her sincerity and compassion are sources of comfort.
She made single-parenthood easy for me. She never had qualms about me not having enough to give her the luxuries in life. She appreciated what I could give and, in turn, gave back the love tenfold.
At her age, she is well-armed with wisdom, talent and positivity — all of which will see her through life. She’s an achiever in her own right, acing exams and maintaining straight A’s even without Mommy and Daddy’s help.
Your favorite parenting hack:
Always bring a pad of paper and a stack of coloring materials and pens with you whenever you’re out with your child. You’ll never know when boredom strikes.
Click next to find out what love advice Mommy Meg got from Tatiana when she was just 4 years old!
Your most heartwarming mom moment:
She has always been very protective of me, even when she was little. As much as she could, she would always remind me that I should not date anyone just yet because she was afraid I’d get hurt.
One Sunday, in the middle of lunch, Tatiana (who was then 4 years old), told me, “Mom, if you find a boyfriend [whom] you’re sure will love us both, it’s okay. I will not feel bad if you choose to get married. Just make sure it’s the right man — good and kind.”
Read: Dating tips for single parents: Introducing your partner to your kids
Your funniest mom moment:
We were in a toy store and my daughter asked if I could buy her this figurine doll. She was still 4 years old at that time and I figured it might not be appropriate for her age. I said, “Maybe when you turn 7 or 8 years old.” Then she quipped, out loud, “Is it too expensive for us, Mom?” It was such a grown up kind of remark and I couldn’t help but laugh.
I have always been honest with my child when it comes to finances and what I can afford. In a way, it also relieved me that my daughter understood my challenges and the hard work that came with all the little luxuries that I was able to give her.
What you’re reading now + your favorite parenting book:
I have 2 now on by bedside table: Write here, Write now (by Arnel Patawaran) and Crazy, Rich Asians. “Mom’s Devotional Bible” is the closest to what I’d consider as my favorite parenting book.
Did you turn out to be the parent you wanted to or thought you would be?
Motherhood happened when I least expected it. I was just starting a career and I didn’t plan on getting pregnant so soon. Having said that, I didn’t really have that picture of what kind of mother I wanted to become. Instead, I’d say motherhood made me become the kind of person I wanted to be. Here’s how I felt at that time: EXPECTING THE UNEXPECTED
What parenting issue are you dealing with right now and what you are doing about it:
My husband and I went through a long distance relationship for 3 years. After getting married, it also took a while before Tatiana and I moved back to join my husband in Manila.
My daughter has wanted a sibling since she was 6 years old. Now that our family is finally all living under one roof, she is having second thoughts about a new baby and feels that she’d like to have both of us to herself for a little longer.
I figured it’s because it’s her first time to experience living with a father by her side and she’d like to treasure those moments first without having to share our time and attention with another child.
We fully understand this, but we always assure her that she won’t be loved any less if ever a new blessing comes. We just take it one day at a time, and, with the way things are going, I think the idea of becoming an “ate” is starting to get into Tatiana’s head again.
What do you think is the biggest mistake you’ve made as a parent and how did you feel about it then? How do you feel about it now?
I wouldn’t consider it a “mistake” at all. I just wish I was able to give my child the traditional Christmas and New Year celebrations with the family while she was growing up. For the longest time, it was just the two of us. It was only since two years ago that we get to fly out and celebrate the holidays with the family.
What’s your proudest moment as a mom?
There’s nothing she does that I don’t feel proud of. I take pride even in the little things, like when she cleans her play area or tidies up her shelves. I am her biggest fan in all her ballet recitals. I cheer her on during figure skating sessions. I feel so much joy when I see her extend kindness and generosity to others. I clap the loudest when I hear her name called on stage, announcing her academic achievements.
What unique aspect of Pinoy/Asian parenting have you found to be the most helpful in raising Tatiana?
I am happy that I get to raise my child in a society where there’s a strong sense of family. We Filipinos love a good laugh and it helps that the children in our society are able to appreciate simple joys in life.
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