Eating Local When Expecting

Jan.Feb. 2016
Vol. 15 #1
Time is of
the Essence
Treats for
Mom
Holiday
Babies
Literacy
Changes
Lives!
Eating Local
When Expecting
Keeping the Lines of
Communication Open
editor's letter
Welcome 2016! It’s like Sweet 16 for all of us!
This is a special year for MAÑAGU. July 2016 signifies 15 years
in publication as a family friendly magazine that includes articles,
health education and activities for the entire family. We are grateful
to our readers, editorial contributors and underwriters who have
supported—and continue to support—MAÑAGU for over a decade.
Dangkulo na Si Yu’us Maase!
And this year, we welcome Régine Lee as MAÑAGU’s managing
editor. While many of you may know Régine personally, I would
venture to guess that most of you know her through the stories and
photos she has shared in MAÑAGU over the years. We’re excited to
have her as one of the leaders on our team.
In “Keeping the Lines of Communication Open,” Régine taps into
the experiences of parents who have found success in continuing
to dialogue and interact with their children as they’ve become
teenagers. Although my children are grown, I can certainly
appreciate the approaches these parents have taken. Thank you Tony
Babauta, Karina Dolorin Quito, Sirena Sanchez and Carina Fejerang
for your insights.
While these parents are raising teenagers, MAÑAGU recognizes 13
families who are on the other end of the parenting spectrum. These
are mothers and fathers who welcomed “Holiday Babies” into their
families this past Christmas season, including Tasiah Ceasar, Sagua
Mañagu’s New Year’s baby. What a wonderful way to make the
season bright and start off the year.
In this issue, you’ll also find tips on “Eating Local When Expecting”
from nutritionist Tanisha Aflague. Cathy Flores from the Guam
Humanities Council announces the launch of a new family literacy
program: Motheread/Fatheread. MPG and Sagua Mañagu are
pleased to provide the setting for the 15 weekly sessions of interactive
lessons, hands-on activities and arts & craft projects that can enhance
literacy skills. And Siska Hutapea makes a conscious choice about
career and family life in “Time is of the Essence.” A great start to
MAÑAGU’s 15th anniversary year!
Thank you for reading MAÑAGU. It’s certainly our pleasure to bring
it to you.
MAÑAGU
Editorial Contributions
TANISHA AFLAGUE
TONY BABAUTA
RÉGINE BISCOE LEE
KARINA DOLORIN QUITO
CARINA FEJERANG
CATHY FLORES
SISKA HUTAPEA
BARBARA MAFNAS
SIRENA SANCHEZ
Owners
ANNIE BORDALLO, MD
ELLEN BEZ, MD
Managing Partners
LINA LEON GUERRERO
FLORI SANCHEZ
Published by
SAGUA MAÑAGU
A DIVISION OF MPG
Managing Editor
RÉGINE BISCOE LEE
Editing & Layout
DAVID CASTRO
CARLENE OKIYAMA
Creative Contributor
LEAH MALANUM
Cover by
EXPRESSIONS STUDIO
Copyright © 2016 by
Sagua Mañagu
A division of MPG
All rights reserved.
No portion of this magazine may
be reprinted without prior
written permission.
We welcome your comments at:
info@saguamañagu-mpg.com
or contact us at
www.saguamanagu-mpg.com
2 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
6
8 10
16
IN THIS ISSUE
Eating Local When Expecting 6
Ready, Set: Diapering Baby 8
Holiday Babies 10
About the cover:
Literacy Changes Lives! 16
Sagua Mañagu’s New Year’s baby, Tasaiah
Ceasar wonders what 2016 has in store for him.
Photo by Expressions Studio
Keeping the Lines of
Communication Open 18
Time is of the Essence 20
REGULAR FEATURES
Congratulations to all the Families
Born at Sagua Mañagu 22
Barb’s Corner 24
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 3
Lamaze and More in 2016
Instructor Barbara C. Mafnas, BSN, LCCE, CLC, IBCLC, HB
Lamaze® Classes: A combination of relaxation,
breathing techniques, comfort measures and
position changes that are designed to help
during labor and birth. We stress that partners
are essential throughout labor, birth, postpartum
and parenting. Please bring: a pillow, blanket,
bath towel (for foot soaks), tennis ball, snacks
and water. Moms need to wear shorts or slacks
and comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing some
floor work!
Baby Bonding: Designed to help mothers and
fathers gain confidence as they pick up on
feeding cues and other needs of their babies.
The class includes the first hours after birth,
breast feeding and feeding cues, baby bath time
and massage.
Prenatal Care: Covers journey of pregnancy
from positive pregnancy test to third trimester.
The class Includes prenatal care, nutrition,
common discomforts, early warning signs and
sexual activity. Also covered are the benefits of
rest and exercise.
Orientation: A class specially designed for parents
who choose Sagua Mañagu, covering pregnancy
from positive pregnancy test through third trimester,
then onto childbirth and newborn care. The first
part of the class includes procedures and care
during pregnancy, good nutrition and exercise as
well as answers to common questions regarding
discomforts, early warning signs, sexual activity,
the effects of alcohol, smoking and recreational
drugs. The second part is an orientation to
Sagua Mañagu that includes patient rights and
responsibilities, the differences between birthing
centers and hospitals; family involvement; newborn
care here and what to expect when you go home.
Sibling Class: Designed for parents and children.
Discussion of child involvement in the labor
process and emotional aspects of being with mom
at this time. Also covers mother/child relationship
changes and expectations. Film “Lizzie and the
Baby” addresses relationship changes, doctors’
visits with mom, animated growth of the fetus,
how baby is born, what new babies look like,
what they can do, how to hold them and more!
Baby Daddy Class: Designed exclusively for dads
to help increase their confidence in becoming a
new dad. Dads will have better understanding of
his woman, recognize the cla ssic signs of labor
and what to do, verbalize 3 feeding cues of the
newborn, understand relationships and dynamics,
and understand his role as the new dad.
Parenting & Safety: This 2-hour class helps parents
understand the importance of interacting with their
4 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
baby and understanding growth and development
to provide realistic expectations. The class will
also use open discussion to talk about subjects
as discipline, prevention of Sudden Infant Death
Syndrome, and Shaken Baby Syndrome. Life skills
such as basic infant CPR will be included.
Class Fees effective January 2016.
Lamaze $75
Lamaze Refresher Class $50
Baby Bonding, Prenatal Care, Orientation,
Sibling Class, Baby Daddy, & Parenting & Safety
are offered at no charge courtesy of MPG and
Sagua Mañagu.
All classes are held at MPG/Sagua Mañagu Classroom
www.saguamanagu-mpg.comPhone: 647-1417 or 1418
TUES
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
February 2016
2
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
• Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
3
4
5
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
6
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Sibling Class
12p-1p
• Orientation
1p-3:30p
9
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
• Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
10
11
12
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
13
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Crash Course Lamaze
12p-6p
• Lamaze Refresher
3p-6p
16
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
17
18
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
19
20
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Baby Daddy 12p-2p
• Parenting & Safety 3p-5p
23
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
24
25
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
26
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Custom Lamaze
6p-9p
27
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Sagua Story Hour
10:30a-11:30a
• Prenatal Care
12p-2p
• Baby Bonding
3p-5p
• Custom Lamaze
6p-9p
1
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
2
3
4
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
5
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Sibling Class
12p-1p
• Orientation
1p-3:30p
8
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
9
10
11
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
12
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
15
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
16
17
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
18
19
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Baby Daddy 12p-2p
• Parenting & Safety 3p-5p
22
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
23
• Custom Lamaze
6p-9p
24
• Custom Lamaze
6p-9p
25
26
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Sagua Story Hour
10:30a-11:30a
• Prenatal Care
12p-2p
• Baby Bonding
3p-5p
29
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
5p-6:30p
Traditional Lamaze
6:30p- 8:30p
30
31
• Lactation Clinic
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
March 2016
Schedule subject to change without notice
Eating Local
When
Expecting
Photo courtesy of FarmtoTableGuam.org
By Tanisha Aflague
During pregnancy, the need for certain vitamins and minerals is notably
higher. Vitamins A and C, folate, iron, and magnesium, in particular,
support healthy growth and development of your baby in and outside of
your womb.
To meet increased nutritional needs during
pregnancy and while breastfeeding, the USDA’s
MyPlate is an easy-to-follow guide. MyPlate
has replaced the food guides that many may
remember as the MyPyramid or the previous
version the Food Guide Pyramid (refer to images
on pg. 7). The concept of MyPlate is to guide
your healthy food choices at meals using “real
estate” or the space on your plate and placemat
to include all five recommended food groups
(vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, grains, and
protein). Generally, half of your plate at most
meals should be fruits and vegetables and the
remaining half grains and protein. Another
essential beyond your plate is low-fat dairy that
6 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
can be added to a meal as a cup of milk or a
bowl of yogurt, cottage cheese, or a dairy-based
smoothie. For more information about nutrient rich
foods, visit USDA’s National Nutrient Database for
Standard Reference.
Choosing local fruits and vegetables to fill
half your plate is an easy and economical way to
provide you and your baby the necessary vitamins
and minerals. Many of the fruits and vegetables
found in the Marianas and throughout Micronesia
are great sources of the vitamins and minerals
recommended for pregnancy and lactation.
For example, dark green leafy vegetables as in
taro leaves (hågon suni), marungay leaves, bok
choy, and choi sum can be found locally and
your pregnancy
Asia-Pacific cultures alike. You just might
are good sources of vitamin A and iron.
find one of these fruits, vegetables, or
According to an article on the Farm To
both in your backyard or neighbor’s,
Table Guam website, locally grown
in which case permission is highly
papaya (papåya), guava (åbas),
advised. This scenario makes
banana (aga’), and avocados
the healthy choice an easy and
(alageta) are particularly higher
economical one. It might also
in vitamin C when compared
encourage you to consider
to other imported fruits. Star
starting your own small
fruit (bilembines) is another
garden of your favorites.
local source of vitamin C.
Guam’s diverse ethnic
These local varieties are also
population offers many
a good sources of folate,
opportunities for residents
particularly guava (åbas),
to explore different
papaya (papåya), avocado
preparations of local fruits
(alageta), bittermelon, and
and vegetables that can
cabbage varieties. Soursop
satisfy any pregnancy
(laguana), long beans
craving that arises while
(frioles), marungay leaves,
giving you an opportunity
and okra are good sources
to diversify your palate.
of magnesium.
Learn more by
The availability and
contacting the Community
access to local fruits and
Nutrition Education
vegetables are no more
Programs at the University
than an arm’s reach or a
of Guam at 735-2030 or
short walk away, as they
MyPlate (below) has replaced the Food guide
check out the Websites to
are included in many dishes
Pyramid (above).
Visit (right).
from the Chamorro and
Websites to Visit
Farm to Table
http://www.
farmtotableguam.org
USDA’s MyPlate
http://www.
choosemyplate.gov/
nutritional-needs-during
pregnancy
USDA’s National
Nutrient Database for
Standard Reference
http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/
The Pacific Islands
Food Composition
Tables
www.fao.org/
docrep/007/y5432e/
y5432e06.htm#bm06
University of Hawaii
http://hawaiifoods.
hawaii.edu/learn.asp
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 7
your baby
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 9
Holiday Babies
Each year Sagua Mañagu celebrates the
births of
our Holiday Babies. Every baby born from Christmas Eve
through New Year’s Day receives gifts from the birthing center
and many wonderful sponsors.Our sponsors are:
Bank of Guam, Calvo’s SelectCare, Expressions Studio, Neni & Me,
Moylan’s NetCare Life & Health, Procter & Gamble,
StayWell Insurance and TakeCare Asia Pacific.
Special thanks to our Holiday Babies and their parents for
choosing Sagua Mañagu and making our holiday season bright.
Samantha Alicia Flaherty
Parents: Jesusa & William
Date of Birth: December 24, 2015
Weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz. Length: 20 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Dr. Annie Bordallo
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero
Nurses: Charlie, Amy, Lani, Leah
It was a very relaxing experience during a stressful time. Your
staff was very kind and courteous to our family. Thank you.
Xaiden Allen
Devenencia
Parents: Regielen & Allan
Date of Birth: December 26, 2015
Weight: 6 lbs. 3 oz. Length: 20 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Dr. Annie Bordallo
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Cristina Manaloto
Nurses: Sheryl, Ruby, Rowena
10 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
Roxanne Alejandra
P. Caguin
Parents: Jonna & Argel
Date of Birth: December 26, 2015
Weight: 6 lbs. 14 oz. Length: 20 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Cristina Manaloto
Nurses: Sheryl, Susan, Rowena
Excellent Service! Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year to all of you!
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 11
Jeremiah Ngiratumerang
Parents: Catherine & Melvin
Date of Birth: December 27, 2015
Weight: 7 lbs. 15 oz. Length: 20 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Dr. Annie Bordallo
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Milliecor Fojas
Nurses: Susan, Lani, Rebekah
Very welcoming, professional, helpful and patient.
Marcus Eli Baisa Sawada
Parents: Sheryl & Ryuto
Date of Birth: December 28, 2015
Weight: 6 lbs. 14 oz. Length: 21.5 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Edna Santos
Nurses: Nicole, Mandy, Dora
It was a good experience. Nurses were very friendly,
helpful and accommodating right from the start.
Khelia Erabelle Dillomes
Actouka Guzman
Parents: Tiffany & Frank
Date of Birth: December 28, 2015
Weight: 5 lbs. 15 oz. Length: 18.25 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero
Nurses: Mae, Leah
12 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
I personally love how the entire staff makes you feel
right at home. This is our second child here and just like
the first, we had the best care. We had a safe delivery
of a beautiful healthy baby girl. It was made possible
with an amazing group of women. We are and always
will be forever grateful for the joy you all have given us
this holiday season.Thank you so much.
Aria Jerese Leon Guerrero
Quichocho
Parents: Aisha
Date of Birth: December 29, 2015
Weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz. Length: 19.5 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Dr. William Vercio
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. John Garrido
Nurses: Carla, Marie
Great nurses and doctors. Very helpful.
Jayvian Nick Santos Palacios
Parents: Diane & Jonathan
Date of Birth: December 29, 2015
Weight: 7 lbs. 13 oz. Length: 19.5 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Dr. William Vercio
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. John Garrido
Nurses: Carla, Charlie, Anne, Leah
I love the generosity of the staff and doctors with their
patients. Thank you all for your great support. May the Lord
continue to bless you in what you do best.
Princeton Towaiking
Smith-Ilemelong I
Parents: Channi-Alia Smith & Tenison Ilemelong
Date of Birth: December 31, 2015
Weight: 7 lbs. 10 oz. Length: 21 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Dr. Annie Bordallo
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Antonio Garcia
Nurses: Rebekah, Susan, Andrea
It was wonderful. The nurses are amazing. Their timing
was good. Overall experience was excellent. The nurses
and doctor was very kind and understanding with a lot of
patience during my delivery.
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 13
Franchesca Louise Garcia
Maceda
Parents: Arcelyn & Roberto
Date of Birth: December 31, 2015
Weight: 8 lbs. 10 oz. Length: 21.5 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Milliecor Fojas
Nurses: Anne, Lani
Nice service and all personnel are nice and friendly.
Tasiah Rayeniu Ceasar
Parents: K.Me James & Tommy Ceasar
Date of Birth: January 01, 2016
Weight: 8 lbs. 9 oz. Length: 20 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor:
Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero
Nurses: Charlie, Anne,
Lani
Our experience as
Sagua Mañagu’s first
baby of the year was
unbelievable. We didn’t think
our precious son Tasiah Rayeniu
Ceasar would be the first baby
born at Sagua Mañagu in 2016.
Sagua Mañagu took great care of my
son and made sure everything was
okay and good. As a holiday family,
we would like to thank Sagua Mañagu
and wish you all a happy and safe
New Year.
14 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
Katie Olivia Acfalle
Joshlynne DelMonte
Lordios
Parents: Nieves & Jonar
Date of Birth: December 29, 2015
Weight: 8 lbs. 4 oz. Length: 20.5 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Gladys Linsangan
Nurses: Gloria, Susan, Rowena
Excellent.
Parents: Ashley & Vincent
Date of Birth: December 26, 2015
Weight: 5 lbs. 8 oz. Length: 18.5 in.
Mommy’s Doctor: Teresa Anderson, CNM
Baby’s Doctor: Dr. Cristina Manaloto
Nurses: Rebekah, Susan, Lani
I was scheduled for induction the day after
Christmas. Having delivered our older daughter
here at Sagua, we were comfortable here. Being
the holiday season, everything happened so fast.
Thanks to the staff, and nurses for making this
another great experience.
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 15
your child
Clockwise from top left:
1. Participants involved with arts and crafts at the Ironwood Heights site; 2. Participants from the Pagachao site; 3. Reading at the Santa Rita Senior Center;
4. Program coordinator Cathy Flores with facilitators Tressa Dela Cruz, Vera De Oro, and Jennifer Berry at the Headstart 50th Anniversary.
Literacy Changes Lives!
By Cathy Flores
The Guam Motheread/Fatheread
Partners with MPG & Sagua Mañagu
Every parent dreams of the traits they hope to see in their child – intelligence, compassion, responsibility, and
more. Parents hold a powerful key to boosting a child’s potential simply by making reading a fundamental part of
their lives.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has long been outspoken about the importance of reading at home
throughout infancy and early childhood, arguing that parents who spend time reading to their children create
nurturing relationships important for a child’s cognitive, language and social-emotional development. In fact, new
studies mapping brain activity and stimulation in children while listening to stories also support this claim.
The Guam Humanities Council has encouraged family reading on Guam for over 15 years, and established
the Motheread/Fatheread program to improve family literacy in our island community. Trained facilitators present
a curriculum that uses children’s literature to teach essential skills to adults through lesson plans and interactive
activities that draw upon child development themes in the multicultural books selected. The program enhances and
16 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
your child
reinforces adult literacy development through reading and
writing activities, opportunities for reflective listening and
speaking, and ways to adapt the lessons at home. Now
the Council’s longest running program will partner with
Marianas Physicians Group (MPG) and Sagua Mañagu to
host sessions at the Tamuning facility!
Knowing that reading in the first months and years
sets children up for success in school and life, the Council
further stresses the potential of Motheread/Fatheread.
When asked, I explain that “We help make reading a fun
family activity! Not only does the program enhance literacy
and critical thinking skills for both parents and children, it
also helps to improve communication and build stronger
family relationships.”
Former program participants frequently comment on
how the program helps them to bond more with their
children and even to see things better from a child’s point of
view. “I enjoyed this program because it taught me a new
form of intimacy or interaction with children through reading
and comprehending literature,” a former participant said.
Alethea Bordallo and Jennifer Berry, who attended the
Motheread Institute in October, are thrilled to coordinate
the sessions at MPG/Sagua Mañagu. “We look forward
to embarking on this journey with parents and Motheread/
Fatheread, and we are excited to share a variety of stories,
interactive activities, and resources to promote literacy at
home,” Bordallo said.
They hope to have a group of 15 to 18 participants
to take part in the 15-week cycle. The sessions will take
place every Wednesday, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. from
January 13 through April 20, 2016. Participants will also
be able to receive free books to start their libraries at home,
meet new friends, receive community service hours, and
other incentives.
The Guam Humanities Council was awarded a grant
from Guam Community College for Motheread/Fatheread.
The funding is provided through the Workforce Investment
Act, Title II, Adult Education and Family Literacy Act. With
10 years of grant support from the Guam Community
College, the Council has partnered with over 49 nonprofit
organizations, schools, government agencies and village
mayors to reach over 2,000 community members and their
families through Motheread/Fatheread.
The Guam Humanities Council is a non-profit
organization that provides foundational support and
educational programs for the people of Guam. The mission
of the Guam Humanities Council is to foster community
engagement and dialogue, inspire critical thinking,
celebrate diversity and enrich the quality of life of island
residents through the power of the humanities.
To sign up for the Motheread/Fatheread program at
MPG/Sagua Mañagu or for more information, please
contact the facilitators Alethea Bordallo at 688-9695 and
Jennifer Berry at 483-6161, or program coordinator Cathy
Flores at 472-4468.
Concerned about
your child’s
HEARING?
FREE HEARING SCREENING services are available.
To schedule an appointment, call the
Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS) at
Telephone: 300-5776 / 5816
Produced by the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) Project with 100% funding support by the U.S.
Department of Health & Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Grant No. H61MC00094, and facilitated by
the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS).
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 17
tweens • teens
The Sanchez family
The Fejerang family
Keeping the lines of
communication open
By Régine Biscoe Lee
mother-daughter journal
Scrolling through social media on any given day, there are loads of terrifying things that one can come
across. There’s local and national news, natural disasters, giant insects, even presidential politics, but equally as
scary are the articles or status updates from my friends with teenaged kids. Conversations about puberty, drugs,
alcohol, college, prom - Oh, the horror! How are these parents coping with all the hormonal changes? How do
they get their kids to open up? How do you keep the lines of communication open when your once chatty and
excited non-stop talker now only responds in one-word monotonous answers? Thinking of my two girls and how quickly they’re growing makes this challenge a fast approaching nightmare.
So, I’ve enlisted the help of some folks who are charting this unfamiliar territory to give us some tips.
Technically speaking
Tony Babauta connects with his 12-year old daughter
Gabriella using technology to keep the lines of
communication open. They check-in with each other during
the day via whatsapp and FaceTime. establish boundaries, mainly to keep them safe. As they
get older and more independent, some of those barriers
turn into expectations, especially when they take on
more responsibilities, like having their own cell phone or
engaging in social media.”
Establish boundaries and expectations
Tony also recommends establishing expectations early
on. “This begins when they’re children. As parents, we
Take advantage of uninterrupted private time
Karina Dolorin Quito also sets tech boundaries and takes
advantage of opportunities to connect with her 18-year old
18 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
Kersha & Karina Dolorin Quita
daughter, Kersha. “She’s not allowed to use her phone in the
car, even as a passenger. We use that uninterrupted private
time to talk about anything and everything. The same rules
apply at the dinner table - no phone, TV or toys allowed,”
Karina shared.
Write it down
Another unique tool Karina & Kersha use is a mother-daughter
journal. Karina explains, “We take turns writing entries about
anything on our minds.”
Pick your battles and give them space to grow
Sirena and Ian Sanchez, parents of Noah (18), Masi (13)
and Mason (10) recommended choosing your battles. Sirena
shares, “Parents don’t always have to be right and when
you’re not, apologize. Have open conversations with your
teen. Allow them to have their opinions and try to listen
without judging or criticizing.” She continues, “They will form
their own ideas and opinions. And I have to just take a step
back and allow them their space to grow. When you do this,
you develop a trust with your teen and they will come to you
when they need you.”
Get involved. Stay involved.
Sirena & Ian do their best to take part in their kids’ activities.
“It isn’t easy and time isn’t always on our side but we make
every effort because our oldest teen is just as important as our
young ones and we want him to know that!” Being involved
with their activities also gives the Sanchez family another
common topic to talk about, along with more family time
together.
Carina and Jerome Fejerang, parents of 15-year old
Paradis also recommend investing time early on in your child’s
life and staying on top of it as they grow. “Stay abreast of
everything your child is doing and dedicate your time as
much as possible to be involved with their lives. When you
invest your time and continually ask how their day went, they
become accustomed to your involvement and communication
remains open. As they get older, it gets harder - so it is
necessary to recognize the signs and let them know you are
always there for them no matter what.”
Brain development and hormonal changes
Scholastic.com offers this important information: “The human
brain develops from back to front, which means the part of the
brain that helps adolescents reason, plan ahead, and manage
impulses (the prefrontal cortex) is one of the last areas to
mature. It doesn’t happen until around age 25!”
An adult brain processes verbal cues — tone of voice,
facial expression, gestures — in the prefrontal cortex, but
adolescents process these cues in the anger center of the
brain, or amygdala. In addition, the part of the brain that
manages emotional urges is under construction. This explains
why preteens may interpret a parent’s normal tone of voice as
yelling.”
Gabriella & Tony Babauta
for you
The Hutapeas are
happiest when
they’re all together.
L-R: Edward,
Christian, Siska with
Hope in front, Faith,
Timothy and Grace.
Time is of the Essence
Edward and I are blessed with five children, three girls
and two boys. Faith, our first born, is a sophomore in
high school and enjoys basketball and studying. Grace
is in the seventh grade and loves volleyball and Math
Counts. Our fifth grader, Tim loves Pokemon, Math, band
and is just naturally a great student. Christian is in the
third grade, also loves volleyball, soccer and Shopkins.
He is our social butterfly and can make friends anywhere
and anytime. Hope, our baby, is not a baby anymore
and shares everything that her brother Christian is in love
with including volleyball, Shopkins, and Minecraft. Hope
has the benefit of having four older siblings and absorbs
knowledge like a sponge. We are a very communal family
and do a lot of things together.
Spending quality time together is essential. When we
started our family, we had a lot of older friends that advised
us to enjoy our children, as time flies too quickly. Quality
time maybe an overrated concept, as all time you share
with your children IS quality time. Unfortunately, time for
all of us is limited. How do we do this parenting thing in
a modern age, especially when we are pulled in so many
directions? Time is of the essence, but it is essential to focus
on what matters.
So, what are the things that matter? My dad was
a big influence in my life. He said the best things you
could leave for your children are faith and education. He
would encourage each of us to take turns leading family
devotional time every morning before school and work.
We try to instill this in our children, too. We ask them to
share what they are thankful for and have found it to be
20 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
By Siska S. Hutapea
a great way to get insights on their day. Now, we read
“Our Daily Bread” every night and ask each child to share
what they learned from each day’s message. My dad also
stressed the importance of education - not only by paying
for it, but also by earning his Master’s degree in his 40’s.
We actually watched him studying hard! What matters for
you may be different, but find out about it and underline it
in everything that you do.
When I was an employee of a firm, my time was not as
flexible. At this point in my career, I‘m fortunate to arrange
special mommy time for each child. I think it’s important in
the sea of communal activity to make each child feel special
and develop their own personality. The drive to school can
also be a great teaching moment. Picking up my children
from school is one of the highlights of my day as they tell
me the happenings of their day.
We are fortunate to do family activities on a whim.
One of our favorites is going to Ypao Beach on a Saturday
morning and eat at King’s afterward. Visiting the flea
market for fresh vegetables or having barbecued chicken
and arrozcaldo for breakfast at our favorite vendor is also
a fun time. When I have to do a property inspection, I
bring the kids along so they know what their mom does
for a living. Edward also takes them to his construction
sites, which the kids enjoy. I recently completed a large
assignment that absorbed a majority of my time over the
last 18 months. Before beginning this project, Edward
and I explained the extreme level of commitment that we
as a family, not just me, would need to devote. There
are times in our lives where we have to sacrifice, a lesson
for you
that is valuable for the children.
Last summer, after completing
this excruciating assignment, we
regrouped as a family and took six
weeks travel. We visited 10 States,
from New York to DC, California and
Texas. It was a great way to break
the intensity and stress, giving us
wonderful time to spend 24/7 as a
family.
I now find myself saying “no”
to other commitments, so I can
focus on raising the children and
spending more time with them. It is
a conscious choice and I can always
get back to community service and
other activities once our kids leave
the nest.
Do what works for you and your
family. Show your children the ropes
in each aspect of your daily life.
Although I am a firm believer that
as a parent we have to tell our kids
what they need to do, they learn best
by imitating. Show them by doing
(L-R) Timothy, Grace, Christian, Faith and Hope enjoyed their family trip to Palau.
and involve them in your life.
Jan.Feb. 2016 • MAÑAGU • 21
Congratulations to all the babies
born at Sagua Mañagu!
November
Noah Paul
Kristy Conner & Dave Sardoma
Lincoln Doyle
Shani Cruz & Arthur Doyle
Chrishay Lynn
Christine Martinez &
Ray Mantanona
Zaveyah Jewal
Regina Pocaigue &
Donovan Roberto
Tahlia Elyse
Beverly Chargualaf
& Anthony Taitague
Jairus James
Annelyn Meneses
& James Sandoval
Marian
Mariedith & Melvin Ortiola
Kian Robert
Gabrielle & Kenneth Wusstig
Zayla
Sarah & Jerus Lardizabal
Rogerlee, Jr.
Renee & Rogerlee Carpela
Jahvon Kyler
Mylene Coronado & Jervin Aldana
Simon Reiji
Carmina Chumacera
& Ryan Dalalo
Jaylene Jay
Josephine Crisostomo
& Franklin Meno
Darian Conan
Audrey & Vid Jones
Minnia Celina
Monaliza Xavier
& Augustin Lorenzo
Castiel Jenzen
Jennifer & Christopher Calinagan
Julian Jose, Jr.
Ha’ane Taitano & Julian Flores
Kneritosy
Nemesei Billy & Kiterson Selifis
Supena Chieko Marie
Anjola David & Jake Rotrikes
Eli Adam
Allison Santos & Feliciano Mora
Jayarth Johnny
Ina Simi & Johnny Arthur
22 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016
Maile Nabeyan
Nelly Lemathaw
& Borten Ruwekugbung
Astor
Yan & Guo Zheng
Alexander Dominic
Ariane Gaza & Dominic Bada
Wriona Elise
Ellen & Willie Kho
Staesha
Persha & Stephen Amaguin, Jr.
Aundrey Luschmad
Bianka & Austin Quichocho
Genesis
Lolinda Ladd & England De Leon
Asher John
Angela Laygo & John Limtiaco
Pelyn Arie
Annalyn Bato & Peter Metcalf
Vance Ethan
Annalyn & Vaughn Lujan
December
Livia Vienna Jenova
Christina Evola
& John Nowakowski
Robinson Alanso
Mysleen & Alanso Roby
Shawn Techong
Shannon & Shalom Etpison
Evan Jay
Laranda Barcinas
& Antonio Flores
Zane
Marie & Rodel Vergara
Kaliah Maxine
Ma. Christine & Matthew Martinez
Ghabriel Xhage
Madonna & Bernardo Arjona
Saleva Maily Wengu
Ulys Sepety & Mike Kokore
Anaecia Maree
Joyce Bernardo & Marcus Conway
Cenzie Renee
Camarin Bustillo & Ricky Camacho
Caynoah Ajayus
Makayla Gumataotao
& Christian Guerrero
Paul Jacinto,Jr.
Alisha Candoleta & Paul Campos
Ratu Matala Bukatatanoa
Kia-Maria Meno & Ratu Uluiviti
Adrian Yuto
Erika Otsuka & Edward Aclaro
Jase John
Amanda Cruz & Prudencio Cruz
Rayjay
Rina & J.K. Kikku
Ernesto, III
Ivy Joy & Ernesto Rosario, Jr.
Dianna Maeve
Natasha Wells & Dustin Rivera
Dei’Lilah Rae
Janalyn Leon Guerrero &
Jon’Nathan Sajo
Zayden Greg
Celine Cruz
Heidi Paige
Ashia & William Olmstead
Raymond
Marjorie & Raymundo Pabroa, Jr.
Nohea Teresa
Ruth Cruz & Calvin Castro
Samantha Alicia
Jesusa & William Flaherty
Xaiden Allen
Regielen & Allan Devenencia
Katie Olivia
Ashley & Vincent Acfalle
Roxanne Alejandra
Jonna Guintu & Argel Caguin
Jeremiah
Catherine
& Melvin Ngiratumerang
Marcus Eli
Sheryl & Ryuto Sawada
Khelia Erabelle Dillomes
Tiffany Actouka & Frank Guzman
Joshlynne
Nieves & Jonar Lordios
Aria Jerese
Aisha Quichocho
Jayvion Nick
Diane & Jonathan Palacios
Princeton Towaiking
Channi-Alia Smith
& Tenison Ilemelong
Franchesca Louise
Arcelyn & Roberto Maceda
barb's corner
Family Pets
Barbara Mafnas, BSN, LCCE, CLC, IBCLC, HB
Looking at the national averages of pets
can. Our furry child, Cupcake, passed
per household in the U.S., the average
away quietly on a Monday in early
number of dogs per household is 1.6 and
December. She would have been 15
the average number of cats is 2.1. We are
years old on Dec 21st.
dog people. However we far surpass the
Pets have a way of capturing the
national average. We have three indoor
hearts of everyone in the family. I was
dogs and two outside dogs that protect our
out to dinner when Savannah, called and
property. We acquired the furry children in
said, “Mom, Cupcake is breathing hard
various ways.
and she is not responding to us. She
Many years ago I wrote about a
keeps staring at the floor.” I knew she
procedure that Chris had to have that was
was getting frail a few months before.
hours longer than we expected and was
She was losing her spunk. She stopped
more painful than we had imagined. At the
interacting with the other dogs, napped
end of the procedure, we asked Chris if he
most of the time and was not interested in
wanted something as a reward for being
eating or barking when someone came
so brave. He put his hands to the side of
to the door. Brian lovingly nicknamed
his face next to his ears and wiggled his
her Grandma. I told everyone that they
Savannah and her furry twin, Cupcake.
fingers. “What does that mean?,” I asked.
needed to say their goodbyes as I did
He said, “I want a K-9.” “A K-9?” I asked
not think she would make it through the
for confirmation. Chris confirmed his wishes. “I want a
night. One by one everyone came by the bedroom to
German Shepherd.” We picked out and purchased $700
stroke her and say a little something to her. When daylight
Sasha. Time went by and soon Sasha was of age and
came and she was still alive, but struggling, I knew what
we bred her and she bore a beautiful litter of puppies and
had to be done. I called Wise Owl and told them we were
we kept all but one for the stud fee. We went from one to
on our way.
three Shepherds overnight it seemed. When Nala, one of
It was a terrible feeling knowing that we were taking
the Shepherds, died one of my students gifted me with a
her to be put down, but she spared us that little bit of grief.
Chihuahua puppy. He is fondly known as Macho. Kasse
We had to weigh her for the proper amount of medication.
and Cupcake round out our dog pack.
I placed her on the scale and scooped her back up.
The most special dog to me was Cupcake, born in
Savannah had the blanket ready for me. As I placed her
2001 in the corner of my kitchen. I watched the mama-dog
in Savannah’s arms, Cupcake drew her last breath. The
whelp five puppies. She did a remarkable job (without
vet entered with a syringe in hand and witnessed what
Lamaze!). After a day or so, Savannah had them all
happened. He listened to her heart and pronounced her
named half expecting that we would keep them all. I told
passing.
her we could only keep one. She cried as each one left to
We hugged and cried and cried some more. We miss
their new owners. She picked out the chubbiest and fluffiest her terribly. The other inside dogs are in mourning as well.
one of them all and named her Cupcake. I asked her to
We all have a void in our hearts and a sense of sadness
think of another name. I could not imagine being out in
for a dog that was more than a dog. She listened when no
the yard calling out to a food item, “Cupcake, Cupcake.”
one else would; she was loyal and faithful as all dogs are.
Especially being the size I am. I can only imagine people
This furry child has left many puppy prints across our
thinking I am a sweet-toothed food crazed foodie.
hearts and will be missed and remembered by all of us
Our family pets are like children. They just have more
for years to come. I know I will see her again because I
limbs, more hair and get away with things that only dogs
believe that all dogs really do go to heaven!
24 • MAÑAGU • Jan.Feb. 2016