Meet the Moms: Introducing Monica

Monica is a first-time mom to Pilar, an adorable 8 months old little girl. She's passionate about adopting more mindful consumption behaviors and is sharing her tips with other moms below. Her goal is to become a minimalist. You can follow her on Instagram @monichkaglez.

What’s your name? Any nickname?

Monica Rodriguez and I do not like nicknames, but my Russian friend calls me Monichka. 

Live in? Grew up in?

I live in Miami Florida and I grew up in Cuba. 

You’re the mom of...

Pilar, my 9 months old daughter.

What made you want to be more careful about things you were buying for your house or your kids? Was there an “aha” moment or specific event?

Everything started when I was pregnant, I was not working so I had a lot of free time to do my research. I read a lot of books and articles. We are living a consumerism era right now, and I just want to do the opposite of that. So, I am doing baby steps, because it is so difficult these days, but not impossible. My goal is to become a minimalist.

Monica and Pilar

How did you get started? What were the first few changes you made?

I first started with the food, I only buy organic food and I always spent like two hours in the grocery reading labels. There are two apps called “Think Dirty” and “Healthy Living” that help me a lot. Later, I did the same but with house hold cleaning products. I use Branch Basic, they are free of harmful chemicals and toxic ingredients. And then Pilar came into our lives and thanks to Karrie Locher I found out about UpChoose. For my daughter products I used “Honest Company” they are free of parabens and all of those dirty chemicals.

Any tips you'd like to share with moms who just heard about these issues and trying to figure out their first steps?

You need to have an open mind and do baby steps. It is a lot to take in, but you can start doing it little by little. Do your research, and start with the one thing that is easier for you at the moment.

❝ Everything started when I was pregnant, I was not working so I had a lot of free time to do my research. I read a lot of books and articles. We are living a consumerism era right now, and I just want to do the opposite of that.❞

You’ve used UpChoose to buy clothes for your daughter but also return items she outgrew. Why did you decide to do it and how did you feel about that experience?

First of all, it is practical. Babies outgrow their clothes so quickly, plus is better for the planet and your pocket. Also, it feels so good knowing that other mamas are being conscious about their babies and family. Here, in Miami, there is no such thing about recycling your baby’s clothes, but I definitely tell every parent that I know about what UpChoose is doing. Such a clever idea!

Pilar wearing a Finn and Emma onesie from her UpChoose Baby Set

What would you tell other moms who consider doing the same but like to hold on to their baby's clothes?

If you want to hold on to your baby’s clothes be conscious about it, and practical. I only safe one or two pieces for each size!

What’s most exciting to you about being part of the UpChoose community and what are the most important things we can help you achieve?

The most exciting thing about being part of the UpChoose community is to know that my baby’s clothes is 100 percent organic and there are not toxic chemicals interfering with my baby skin. One of the most important thing that UpChoose can help me achieve is to be more conscious.

Favorite outfit or item from your UpChoose set?

I can’t really tell which one is my favorite. They are all so adorable, but I can say that the toys are so lovely. I had to use them as ornaments in my Christmas tree!

"I can say that the toys are so lovely. I had to use them as ornaments in my Christmas tree!"

If you could have any superpower what would it be?

Time travel. 

Favorite movie?

Kill Bill.

Dream place for a vacation?

Any Nordic country.

Favorite dish?

Sushi.