First Gen Compassion To-Say List

In this post, we’re unpacking the unique challenges of First Gen life—from imposter syndrome to the weight of our parents’ sacrifices. I’m sharing a compassionate “To-Say List” that honors our experiences and cultural strengths. Let’s explore how acceptance and self-compassion can transform our healing, moving beyond relentless to-do lists to embrace a gentler way of being. Together, we’ll learn to nurture ourselves with the same cariño we give to others, porque tu vales, exactly as you are.

Grieving on “Happy Mother’s Day”

Mother’s Day isn’t always about flowers and brunches. For many of us—especially in First Gen and immigrant families—it’s a day of complex emotions and unspoken grief. This post creates space for those mourning mothers lost, yearning for bonds never formed, or navigating the weight of cultural expectations. Whether you’re missing your mother, grieving a child, or healing from maternal wounds, your feelings are valid. We’ll explore culturally affirming ways to honor your grief, set boundaries with love, and practice self-compassion. Because healing isn’t about “getting over it”—it’s about finding meaning amidst the pain and discovering strength in our shared experiences. Let’s walk this journey together, honoring all forms of motherhood and loss.

15 Statements to Convince Yourself to Self-Care: A love letter to all parents

  “What to say” Series: Last week I wrote a blog post on 20 easy 5-minute self-care ideas for parents. Today, I continue the conversation in the guest post, “15 Statements to Convince Yourself to Self-Care: A love letter to all Parents” on The Productive Parent website. I provide 15 statements and quotes that parents […]

“I’m not bad…”

Ever want to shout out at a child, “Stop it, you’re being BAD?” You are definitely not alone. Parenting, caregiving, teaching children requires lots of patience and skill especially when they are not complying. Growing up, I knew a lot of kids who heard this from teachers, siblings, and well-meaning neighbors. These kids didn’t listen, […]

What to Say: It’s OK to not be OK

‘WHAT TO SAY’ Series: Recently mental health awareness efforts on social and public media have been growing exponentially. It makes me super happy that folks are talking about it from a public health perspective and making it’s way to people’s instagram, Facebook and Pinterest accounts and even music playlists as different artists are writing and […]