A Day Held Together by Coconut Oil, Cold Baths, and Quiet Prayers

We Woke Up Very Early in the Morning

The day began far earlier than we hoped. Nina and Josh woke up in the early hours of the morning with persistent coughing—one of those coughs that sounds deep and stubborn, the kind that immediately worries parents. Jesz was especially concerned because we didn’t have our nebulizer handy. We had previously purchased a handheld nebulizer because of how portable and convenient it is, but unfortunately, it wasn’t within reach that morning.

Our immediate response was simple but intentional. We moved the kids away from the air conditioner’s exhaust and gently rubbed Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) on their chest and back, letting warmth and touch do what they could in that quiet hour.

Scientific studies suggest that virgin coconut oil contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Research has shown that lauric acid can help modulate inflammatory responses and may support the body’s natural immune defenses by disrupting lipid-coated viruses and reducing irritation in inflamed tissues. While VCO is not a medical cure, its soothing, moisturizing, and mild anti-inflammatory effects make it a commonly used complementary remedy in traditional and household care—especially when paired with rest and warmth.

You can read more about this from Healthline’s article on coconut oil and inflammation and PubMed’s review on lauric acid and immune response.

After a while, the coughing softened. The house slowly returned to calm. What followed was a small, unexpected gift—a mini slumber party. Nina and Josh played quietly for a bit, laughed softly, and eventually drifted back to sleep. So did we.

The Morning Started Late, but I Prepared Well

I didn’t wake up early that morning—and honestly, it was intentional. I’ve learned that alarms give me jitters, especially when they ring too early. Instead of setting one, I quietly asked my guardian angel the night before to wake me up at a certain time. Ironically, I forgot to ask properly—but grace still found a way.

Thankfully, yesterday-me had prepared for today-me.

Breakfast was already planned. I had prepped chorizo and sweet ham the night before and stored them in the chiller, not the freezer, so they were ready to cook in the morning. I also made egg omelets as a backup—because feeding kids always requires a Plan B.

One challenge we encountered was our Richli water connection, which tends to run slowly in the mornings. Even with the heater on, the water wasn’t warm enough for Aia’s bath. She had to bathe in cold water. She hated every second of it—screaming, shivering, protesting—but she survived it. And while she didn’t appreciate it, cold morning baths are often linked to improved circulation and alertness, as discussed in this medical overview on cold exposure.

We managed to get her ready just in time for Lolo Rics to pick her up for school. She loved her breakfast, which made the morning rush easier.

Meanwhile, the Relatives Came Over

Just as Aia was heading out, Jesz’s sisters arrived with our brother-in-law. They planned to make suman—glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves—and needed leaves from the banana trees beside our house.

Jesz quickly gathered his tools: a knife and a curved spade, and went to work harvesting fresh banana leaves. Watching this simple exchange reminded me how food, tradition, and family are deeply connected in Filipino households. I can’t wait to share how that suman turns out.

For readers unfamiliar with suman, Kawaling Pinoy’s guide to traditional suman is a great resource.

Aia Is Entering a Competition

Later that day, we received sudden news—Aia had been signed up for an on-the-spot art competition. No preparation, no rehearsals, no overthinking. Just showing up and creating.

We quickly gathered her materials, encouraged her, and sent her back to school right after lunch. It reminded me that sometimes, children don’t need preparation as much as they need confidence and permission to try.

The Habit We Kept for the Week

One habit that has kept me from unnecessary burnout is protecting our afternoons.

By 3 PM, I had already finished my responsibilities, giving me time to focus on the kids. We stayed out until around 5 PM, then returned home early to avoid mosquitoes and prepare dinner.

That night’s meal was simple but nourishing: bolinao (anchovy omelet) and law-oy nga isda (fish vegetable soup). The kids enjoyed it—no complaints, empty plates, small victories.

Hallow Time

By 7 PM, we were all in pajamas (except Jesz). The kids played, watched a movie, and laughed—until Jesz gathered everyone for Hallow Time.

Hallow Time is our quiet ritual before bed. We pray the Holy Rosary using the Hallow App, not forcing the kids to kneel, but letting them hear the rhythm and language of prayer. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s familiarity.

Most nights, they fall asleep before the Rosary ends. In a way, it’s perfect. We introduce them to the mysteries of faith while also helping their bodies rest.
For parents interested in faith-based bedtime routines, The Hallow App official site and Catholic Sprouts’ guide to praying with children are excellent resources.

Quick Remedy

At around 12:30 AM, coughing woke us again—this time, Josh’s. His cough was persistent and disruptive to his sleep.

We tried comfort first. We elevated his pillow, placed him in a more upright position, and gently massaged VCO on his back. When this wasn’t enough, we gave him his prescribed cetirizine drops and nebulized doctor-recommended salbutamol, mindful not to delay treatment if breathing discomfort was present.

Soon, he slept peacefully again. Whether it was the medication or the comfort—or both—we were simply grateful to see him resting well.

Reflection: What This Day Taught Me

This day reminded me that parenting is a constant balance between faith, preparation, and action.

We prepare when we can. We trust when we must. And when things escalate, we act responsibly without guilt. Natural remedies and modern medicine don’t have to compete—they can coexist when guided by love, prudence, and professional advice.

To fellow parents:
You don’t need perfect days. You need responsive hearts, prepared hands, and the humility to rest when the day finally allows you to.