At Healthy Mum and Bub, we’re proud to introduce the Inspired by Mothers Interview Series — a heartfelt collection of stories celebrating the strength, resilience, and everyday magic of motherhood. Through these interviews, we’ll be sharing the voices of inspiring mums from all walks of life, each with their own unique journey, wisdom, and experiences.
This series is a beautiful way to celebrate and honour the incredible stories of motherhood — not just within our Healthy Mum & Bub community, but from inspiring women everywhere. It’s about recognising the strength, resilience, and heart of mums from all walks of life, and giving their voices the space to shine.
The Interviews will feature in Healthy Mum & Bub’s Facebook Group, blog site and Instagram. So it is also great for mums to showcase yourselves.
And for the beautiful mums that have read this blog post and also wish to participate, please feel free to leave “I’m in” in comment so that we can get in touch with you to feature you.
We’re proud to shine a spotlight on one of the incredible mums featured in HMB’s Inspired by Mothers Interview Series — a celebration of motherhood, resilience, and the powerful stories that connect us all.
Spotlight on the beautiful Chel TinaCruz Toots — a truly inspiring mum we’re honoured to feature in our Inspired by Mothers Interview Series. Hooray for strong, radiant women like her!
Hey Chel, I know that you are a devoted mother supporting others to build their dreams, so tell us…
Q: A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.
A: I’m a Filipina living in the UK for most of my life. Currently working part-time in retail, full-time mother to 4 and supporting the hubby with his business.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of being a mother?
A: Nothing else pleases me than watching my children grow, being there for their milestones and knowing that they know you are always there for them. The unconditional love and daily hugs and kisses are what I love.
Q: What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?
A: Devoting my time to the children meant big changes to my then social life. Life without children was dressing up, going out every night, having dinner with friends and partying.
I’m still able to do these things with and on rare occasions without the children but parenthood changes your priorities.
I feel much more at ease to catch up with a friend over coffee with the children by my side than feeling guilty that I left them behind.
Q: What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?
A: The hardest thing about being a parent is that it is constant. It doesn’t stop until you know the children are sound asleep. Even when asleep I’m that parent who would check in on them to check they were ok.
If there was anything that affected me I would say the sleepless nights especially during the newborn phases. But it’s short-lived and they grow.
Q: What makes your child smile and laugh?
A: Silly faces, funny remarks, fun times, their favourite books and toys.
Q: Words that describe your child?
A: Adorable, Amazing, Adventurous and Angelic (at times )
Q: Any standout memories of your child?
A: There are way too many to mention. Each child has their unique ways and memorable moments.
For me growing up with a huge Filipino family filled my memories with fun times with the immediate and extended family. This is what I would like to instil in mine:
Family Forever!
Q: How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?
A: During the stay-at-home period, we followed a routine that balanced school and work, meal times, and dedicated family time. Our family time was filled with games, movies, workouts, and Zoom calls. Now that restrictions have eased, we’re excited to make our first family outing — a fun day at the zoo!
Q: Any great advice to your child when he/she becomes a parent?
A: Take one day at a time and enjoy all the precious moments.
Q: Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?
A: No day is the same. Each day is different but the outcome is always the same. To have a smooth-running day.
Q: What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?
A: Being a mother has helped me juggle many plates at one time and prioritise what needs to be dealt with first.
I use this at my part-time job in retail and when helping the hubby with his business.
Q: Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?
A:
- Make communication a priority
- Catch your child being good and reward it
- Let them know you are there for them – show them love
Q: 13. If anyone needs great advice on building their dreams or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?
A: I’m available on both Facebook and Instagram.
Thank you for your time dear Chel! It is an honour to interview you and gain more insight of you and your wisdom!
If you like this article, then please show your support by subscribing to our Healthy Mum and Bub e-Newsletter for insights from pregnancy to parenthood and beyond. Follow our Facebook Page and join our Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with other parents, ask questions, and share your wisdom. Let’s make the journey of parenthood easier and more rewarding for everyone.
