5 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress as a Moms

 

 

 

5 Ways Mothers Can Reduce Holiday Stress

As the holiday season continues and we are entering into a new year sometimes this can also bring about stress and overwhelm, especially for mothers. Balancing the spiritual significance of the season with the demands of festivities requires intentional effort. Here are five practical strategies to help mothers navigate the holidays with a sense of peace and joy.

1. Prioritize Your Relationship with God:

In the midst of holiday preparations, it's crucial to carve out time for the Lord. Engage in reading the word of God, prayer, or attend church services to reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas. By placing faith at the forefront, the season becomes a time of reflection and gratitude rather than a hectic race. {Please know that we are aware that Jesus was not born on December 25th}.

2. Simplify Your Traditions:

Review family traditions and consider simplifying or modifying them to align with your values. Focus on activities that bring genuine joy and meaning, steering away from the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Remember we are not to conform to this world but be transformed by the renewal of our minds. By streamlining traditions, you create space for more meaningful moments.

3. Delegate and Seek Help:

You don't have to do it all alone. Embrace in community and ask for help when needed. Delegate tasks such as cooking, decorating, or shopping to family members, friends, or your church community. Shared responsibilities not only alleviate the burden but also foster a sense of togetherness.

4. Set Realistic Expectations:

One of the significant sources of holiday stress is the pursuit of perfection. Whew, it took me years to free myself from this. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. Understand that imperfections are part of the joy of the season. It's perfectly okay to say no to certain commitments to preserve your peace and focus on what truly matters.

5. Schedule "Me Time" and Rest:

Among the hustle and bustle, prioritize self-care. Schedule time for yourself to recharge and indulge in activities that bring personal joy and relaxation. Ensure you get enough rest, maintain a healthy sleep schedule, and remember that taking care of yourself enables you to better care for others, especially your children.

This holiday season, let's shift our focus from chaos to peace. By embracing these strategies, Mothers can create a more meaningful and enjoyable experience for their families. Remember, it's not about perfection but about cherishing the moments that truly matter with family!

As you navigate this holiday season, we invite you to share your own tips and experiences in finding peace among the festivities. Join our community and connect with other Christian mothers on the journey to a more meaningful and joyful holiday season. Together, let's celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. Click here to join our community now.

What to Wear for Your Fall Family Photos

 

Fall is a season of warmth, vibrant colors, and cozy moments, making it the perfect time for a family photo-shoot. If you're a mom blogger preparing to capture the essence of autumn with your loved ones, choosing the right outfits is key to creating timeless memories. In this blog post, we'll explore seven tips to help you and your family look effortlessly stylish during your fall photoshoot, featuring some fantastic finds on Amazon.

1. Coordinate Colors, Don't Match: While matching outfits can be tempting, opt for coordinating colors that complement each other instead. Embrace the rich tones of fall by incorporating warm hues like deep reds, mustard yellows, and earthy greens(which is my all time favorite). This creates a visually appealing and harmonious look for your family.

Amazon Find: Women's Long Sleeve V-Neck Sweater in Burgundy or Cream

2. Layers Add Depth: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so consider layering your outfits. This not only adds depth and interest to your photos but also allows you to adjust to changing temperatures. Think about scarves, cardigans, or stylish jackets that complement your chosen color palette.

Amazon Find: Boy's Plaid Button-Up Shirt with Hooded Vest

3. Texture Matters: Incorporate different textures to add dimension to your photos. Consider fabrics like knit, denim, or faux fur for a cozy and visually appealing touch. Textured accessories, such as a statement belt or chunky scarf, can elevate your look without overpowering it.

Amazon Find: Kids' Cable Knit Sweater

4. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories can make or break an outfit. Choose accessories that enhance the fall theme, such as wide-brimmed hats, leather boots, or statement jewelry. Be mindful not to overdo it – a few well-chosen accessories can go a long way.

Amazon Find: Women's Wide Brim Wool Fedora Hat

5. Consider Your Setting: Think about the location of your photoshoot and let it inspire your outfit choices. If you're surrounded by nature and foliage, earthy tones may work best. In an urban setting, you might opt for more modern and streamlined looks. Tailoring your outfits to the environment ensures a cohesive and visually pleasing result.

Amazon Find: Kid’s Fit Corduroy Pants

6. Timeless Classics Never Fail: When in doubt, stick to timeless classics. Pleated pants, crisp denim, neutral sweaters, and well-fitted blouses never go out of style. These pieces can be easily mixed and matched, ensuring a cohesive and polished look for your family.

Amazon Find: Women's Classic Pleated Wide Leg Pants

7. Comfort is Key: While style is important, comfort should not be overlooked. Ensure that you and your family feel at ease in your chosen outfits, especially if you have little ones. Happy and comfortable family members will radiate genuine joy in your photos.

Amazon Find: Kids' Fleece-Lined Leggings

As a mom blogger, fall family photo shoots are an opportunity to create beautiful, lasting memories. By following these tips and exploring the suggested Amazon finds, you can confidently showcase your family's unique style while embracing the warmth of the fall season. So, gather your loved ones, dress in style, and let the beauty of autumn unfold in your family photos.

After School Activities for Kids

 

As a single mom, finding creative and educational after-school activities for your kids can sometimes feel like a juggling act and I know it can be tempting to give your toddler an electronic device. One thing I’ve learned in this journey of motherhood is, you want to keep them engaged, entertained, and learning, all while managing your household. But fear not, I'm here to help! I've put together a list of 15 fantastic after-school activities that you and your little ones can enjoy right in the comfort of your home.

1. Art and Craft Adventures: 

Gather some art supplies and watch your child's creativity blossom. Whether it's drawing, painting, or crafting, this activity is a wonderful way to encourage self-expression and imaginative thinking.

2. Reading Fun: 

Create a cozy reading nook with a comfy chair and a stack of books. Reading time not only fosters a love for literature but also provides a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for bonding.

3. Kitchen Helper: 

Invite your child to join you in the kitchen for some cooking or baking. It's an excellent opportunity to teach them valuable life skills while having loads of fun.

4. At Home Science Lab: 

Turn your home into a science lab with simple experiments. Spark their curiosity and fascination for the world around them.

5. Gardening Helper: 

Nurture an appreciation for nature by starting a mini-garden or becoming a plant mom. Whether it's a few potted plants or a small outdoor garden, kids can learn about responsibility and the wonders of growth.

6. Jam Session: 

Introduce your child to the world of music with lessons in playing instruments like the piano, guitar, or even singing. You might have a budding musician on your hands!

7. Dance Session: 

Set up a dance space and let your little one groove to their heart's content. Dancing promotes physical fitness and self-expression.

8. At-Home Exercise: 

Share the benefits of physical fitness through kid-friendly exercise routines. It's a fantastic way to keep them active and healthy.

9. Board Games: 

Stimulate their minds with classic board games, puzzles, or even chess. These games enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

10.Bible Venture:  

Explore the bible in a new way by making the bible stories interactive. One of my favorite things is to open up the bible app that has several resources for children. This makes learning the basics stories both educational and enjoyable.

11. Language Lessons: 

Expand your child's horizons by introducing them to a new language. You can utilize apps and online resources to make the process engaging, interactive and even you picking up a new language. 

12. Nature Scavenger Hunts: Unleash their inner explorer with fun and educational scavenger hunts. Whether indoors or outdoors, these adventures offer a unique way to discover the beauty of the world.

13. Play Doh Session:

Create an area on the table or floor using plain white paper where your child can use their imagination to enhance their creative learning skills.

14. Photography Fun: 

Teach your little one the basics of photography using a simple camera or smartphone. You'll be amazed at the unique perspectives they capture.

15. Explore Lovevery: Have fun with physics by using Lovevery's 'The Play Guide' modular wooden ramp set. Encourage your child to make predictions about what will happen. This set has helped improve my son's building and critical thinking skills.You can find all of their play guides using the link here

Single moms, remember that spending quality time with your kids while engaging in these after-school activities can create lasting memories and foster their growth. These activities aren't just fun; they're opportunities to connect, educate, and inspire. So, whether it's art, science, or a culinary experiment, you've got this! Enjoy the journey of learning and growing together.

Time Management Tips for Single Moms

 

 

 

Hi Guys! Thanks for watching! I hope you enjoyed these tips as much as they have helped me along the way. If you have any additional tips, let us know in the comments.


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Safety Tips for Single Moms: I Got Stalked as a Single Mom

 

 

Hey there, sis! I've got a gripping story to share with you today, and I can hardly believe it happened to me. It's a story of being stalked, a situation that had my heart racing like never before. But, let me tell you, I'm beyond grateful for the grace and mercy that kept me safe throughout this ordeal. In this video, I'll recount the chilling experience of being stalked and shed light on the safety precautions every single mom should consider. Trust me; this is a story you won't want to miss.

 

Top 5 Safety Tools for Women

1.  Home Self Defense SABRE pepper gel

 

2.  ZUMIMALL Security Cameras Wireless Outdoor with Magnetic Mount

 

3. SABRE Lipstick Pepper Spray

 

4. Addalock the Original Portable Door Lock 

 

5. MDMAK Door Stop Alarm with 120DB Siren Door Stop for Home & Travel

 

 

Single Motherhood 101

As a single mother, I know that the world has a lot to say about single motherhood. But I believe that only a single mother can truly speak on this topic.

 

If you are a single mom, I want you to know that you are not alone. There is beauty in our journey, even when we can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. You got this.

 

In this video, I want to discuss where you can start as a single mother. I know it may be hard, and I know it may be difficult. But I want to create a safe space here to help you thrive.

 

 

Here are a few tips for single mothers:

• Take care of yourself. This is easier said than done, but it's important to make time for yourself, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and get some type of exercise in.
• Set realistic goals. Don't try to do too much at once. Start by setting small, achievable goals for yourself. As you accomplish those goals, you can set bigger ones.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available to single mothers. If you need help with childcare, finances, or anything else, don't be afraid to ask for it.
•  Find your support system. This could be family, friends, other single moms, or a support group. It's important to have people who understand what you're going through and who can offer support and encouragement. If you are looking for a space, join our waitlist today to the "You Got This Club" here
  

Being a single mother is not easy, but it is possible to thrive. By following these tips and surrounding yourself with a supportive community, you can create a happy and fulfilling life for yourself and your children.

Remember, you are not alone. There is a community of Black single mothers who are here to support you and help you thrive.

 

List of Places To Get Birthday Freebies or Discounts

As the candles on my own birthday cake begin fade, I couldn't help but reflect on the fantastic time I had being showered with freebies and discounts. It was an absolute blast, and now I'm here to spread the joy to you! That's right, I've compiled an extraordinary list of places that are all too eager to make your special day even more extraordinary by offering delightful treats and incredible deals. So buckle up and get ready to celebrate! Here are the list of places that gives out freebies and discounted items for your birthday and birthday month.

 

1. Nothing Bundt Cake: Free Bundt cake of your choice, must show email. 
2. Chic fil a: Free desert item of your choice
3. Bath and boyd works: Free gift up of your choice up to 17 bucks.
4. Texas Roadhouse: Free appetizer
5. BB's Cafe: Free appetizer 
6. Target: 5% off purchase
7. Ultra Beauty: Free Birthday Gift
8. AMC Theaters: Free Popcorn and Beverage
   
9. Starbucks: Free birthday drink or treat through their rewards program.
10. Sephora: Free beauty gift or discount through their Beauty Insider program.
11. Denny's: Free Grand Slam breakfast.
12. IHOP: Free stack of pancakes.
13. Benihana: Free $30 gift certificate for use during your birthday month.
14. Red Robin: Free burger during your birthday month.
15. Chili's: Free dessert or appetizer.
16. Olive Garden: Free dessert or appetizer.
17. Cold Stone Creamery: BOGO (Buy One, Get One) coupon for a cold treat.
18. Baskin-Robbins: Free scoop of ice cream or discount on a birthday cake.
19. Buffalo Wild Wings: Free snack-size wings.
20. Panera Bread: Free bakery item or pastry..
21. P.F. Chang's: Free appetizer or dessert.
22. TGI Fridays: Free dessert or appetizer.
23. Hard Rock Cafe: Free dessert.
24. Krispy Kreme: Free dozen of doughnut.
25. Jersey Mike's: Free sub and drink.
26. Smashburger: Free side or shake with purchase.
27. Firehouse Subs: Free medium sub.
28. Wingstop: Free order of fries.
29. Sprinkles: Free cupcake. 
30. Chipotle: Free Guac for your birthday 

Let me know your favorite place to receive your freebies and discounts. I hope you have a fabulous birthday month and year. Praying the peace of God shower you like never before. Enjoy!

The Doux Big Poppa Gel: Achieve Perfect Curls with Ease!

Hey Queen! Are you tired of battling frizz and struggling to define your curls? Well, guest what! I cracked the code the defining curls for natural hair for you! Say hello to The Doux Big Poppa Gel – your new secret weapon for flawless, bouncy curls.

This game-changing gel is designed to give you maximum hold, definition, and shine, all while keeping your hair hydrated and frizz-free. Whether you have loose waves or tight coils, this gel is formulated to enhance your natural texture and bring out the best in your curls.

 

Sis, don't just take my word for it – I've got a special treat for you. I've created an amazing YouTube tutorial featuring The Doux Big Poppa Gel, where I will guide you through the process of achieving stunning curls. From application techniques to tips and tricks, this tutorial is packed with valuable information to help you master your curl game.

So, if you're ready to take your curls to the next level, head over to the YouTube channel and watch the tutorial. Discover how The Doux Big Poppa Gel can transform your hair and give you the confidence to rock those beautiful curls every day.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to enhance your natural beauty. Try The Doux Big Poppa Gel and unlock a world of stunning curls this summer.

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 Remember, beautiful curls await – it's time to make them pop with The Doux Big Poppa Gel!

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Recommendation: Stay under dryer until product is dry.

Best Ways to Celebrate a Single Mother

With Mother's Day approaching, it's important to start considering how to celebrate and honor all of the hard-working and dedicated mothers out there, especially those who are single mothers.

Single mothers are some of the strongest and most resilient people in the world, often juggling the responsibilities of parenthood, work, and personal life on their own.

 

To show your appreciation for a single mother in your life, there are numerous ways to celebrate and make her feel special. Here are a few ideas that you can consider:

1. Give her a day off: 

Treat her to a spa day or plan a day out for her to relax and enjoy some time to herself.

2. Plan a special activity: 

Take her out for a special activity or experience that she's been wanting to try, such as a concert, a cooking class, or a hot air balloon ride.

3. Throw a brunch: 

Plan a surprise brunch for her with her friends and family, where she can relax and be pampered.

4. Give her a gift: 

Give her a thoughtful and heartfelt gift, such as a piece of jewelry, a thoughtful book, or a heartfelt card.

5. Help her with a task: 

Offer to help her with a task or project that she's been struggling with, such as cleaning or organizing her home or planning a special event.

6. Show support: 

Show her your love and support by spending time with her and listening to her. Being a single mother can be hard and she might need a friend to lean on

7. Show appreciation in small ways: 

You can bake her favorite cookies, leave a note of appreciation or just give her a hug and tell her how special she is.

8. Show her support in her passion or hobbies. 

Buy her some supplies or help her with some work related to it. 

       9. Leave her alone and let her rest.

If you are a family member that wants to support a single mom. Take a day and keep the kids so she can do nothing but rest. At the end of the day, that's all we can use.

Remember that every mother is different and she might have her own preferences, it's always best to communicate with her and ask her what she would like to do. If you are a mother, I want to take this moment to say happy Mothers day and I am praying that this Mother day is filled with more love, joy, and relaxation.

How to Get Organized as a Single Mom

 

As a single mother, it can be really difficult to stay organized with toddlers. I sometimes find myself in a cycle of insanity as I try to get a perfect pinterest board of how I would like my home.

In reality, its insanity. With little ones always moving, always developing, always growing, you do yourself a disservice or put that hard pressure on yourself to get it perfect. Take it one day at a time, enjoy your little ones, and clean up what you can and what you can't, get to it when you can. 

 

 

Here are a few tips to help you as a single mother get organized:

1. Make a schedule: 

Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for work, errands, and spending time with your children. This can help you stay on top of your responsibilities and ensure that you have enough time for everything that needs to be done.

2. Use a planner or calendar: 

Use a planner or calendar to keep track of important dates, appointments, and deadlines. This can help you stay on top of your responsibilities and ensure that you don't miss anything important. I love google calendar and still believe in hard copy calendars as well.

3. Prioritize top to-do’s: 

Make a list of tasks that need to be done and prioritize them based on importance. Focus on the most important tasks first, and then work your way down the list. It's ok if you don't get everything. I like to have my Priorities first then work through what I can. If it's something hard, then I like to tackle it first, then work my way through it. 

4. Try to Delegate: 

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Delegate tasks to your children or other family members when possible, and consider hiring a babysitter or cleaning service to help with tasks that are taking up too much of your time. If it's not in your budget to get help, please do not beat yourself up if you can't get it done. 

5. Practice organizing: 

Keeping your home and workspace organized can help you save time and reduce lots of stress. I like to take the last 15 minutes of my day to just clean off my desk to create an inviting space in my office. 

6. Practice Sabbath and Rest: 

For the last 2 months, I have faithfully taken a sabbath each week and when I tell you it's been the best thing that could have happened to me, it's been the best thing that could have happened to me. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, and try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Being well-rested can help you be more productive and better able to handle the demands of being a single mother.

7. Be flexible: 

Remember that things don't always go as planned, so be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes. Stay positive and be open to trying new strategies to stay organized.

 

Being a single mother can be challenging, but with the right tools and mindset, getting organized is possible. Remember to prioritize, delegate tasks when possible, and make use of resources available to you, such as support groups and technology. 

By developing a routine and sticking to it, you can reduce stress and make the most of your time as a mother. Implementing small changes can make a big impact on your overall organization and help you stay on top of your busy schedule. So take a deep breath, stay positive, and start implementing these tips to make your life as a single mother more organized and enjoyable.

Weekend Activities to Enjoy with Your Toddler

Hi Mommas, 

Weekends are the perfect time to bond with your child and create unforgettable memories. Engaging in fun activities not only promotes a healthy relationship between you and your child but also helps them develop various skills. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to prioritize quality time with your child, and cherish the moments spent together.

There are plenty of fun and educational activities you can do with your toddler over the weekend. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Visit a park: 

   Take your toddler to a nearby park for some fresh air and outdoor playtime. You can bring their bikes or balls to play with, or simply let your toddler explore the playground equipment.

    

2. Attend a story time: 

    

   Check with your local library or bookstore to see if they have a story time event for toddlers. This is a great way to encourage a love of reading while also socializing with other children. I recently visited the library to get a library card and found that there was so much to do for kids. The only thing to be mindful of are the homeless. They don't bother just make sure your kiddos don't wonder off out of site.

    

3. Cook or Bake together: 

    

   Choose a simple recipe, such as spaghetties or cookies, and let your toddler help measure and mix the ingredients. This is a fun way to introduce basic math and science concepts while also enjoying a sweet treat or a fun meal.

    

4. Arts and crafts: 

    

   Set up a table with some crayons, markers, and paper and let your toddler get creative. You can also try more involved crafts, such as playdoe time or making a collage.

    

5. Go on a nature walk:

    

   Take a walk through a nearby park or nature trail and encourage your toddler to point out different animals, plants, and insects. You can also collect leaves or flowers to make a nature collage or other craft.

    

6. Visit a children's museum:

    

   Many cities have museums geared specifically towards young children, with interactive exhibits and activities. This is a great way to engage your toddler's curiosity and encourage learning. Be mindful that covid is still real and a lot of these location have gone away with the mask mandate. It is not a good time for you to go away with the mandate as well. Masking up would be my advice to you.

    

7. Try a amusement themed park: 

   We recently visited a park called dig world and my toddler had a blast. He loves construction, so he was able to enjoy and ride on a lot of equipment during his time there. Lets not talk about when it was time to go. Homeboy cut up but we still made it through.

Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time with your toddler and have fun together!