Easy DIY At-Home Holiday Photoshoot Ideas

Peace, blessings, and love to you all. I don’t know about anyone else, but life has been a lot lately. Between caring for my brother during his recovery and juggling everything else on my plate, I’ve been reminded how important it is to slow down and make space for the moments that truly matter. Life will life regardless so finding joy in the midst of the chaos becomes a choice and a practice.

As the year comes to a close and we enter a season of rest, my little munchkin wanted to take some cozy photos to send our family a little light and love. So I dusted off my equipment and we created a mini photoshoot right at home with no rush, no pressure, just us playing, practicing, laughing, and making new memories together.

You don’t need a studio or anything fancy to create moments that last. Just a little intention, a little love, and the willingness to be present. Our at‑home shoot was simple, sweet, and full of joy and I’m sharing how we did it so you can do the same. No stress, no big budget… just you, your little ones, and a few creative touches. 

Want the full checklist right away?
Download my exact at-home photoshoot prep checklist — the one I used to create these cozy, joy-filled shots with my little one.Includes a printable PDF + plain text version for Notes or Notion!

Click here to download it now

How You Can Do It Too

What You’ll Need:

• Natural Lighting: Morning or golden hour light from a nearby window works best.
• Fadeless Art Paper: We grabbed ours from Michaels for the backdrop.
• Your Outfits: Match, coordinate, or just go with what feels right.
• A Blank Wall: Choose a clean, clutter-free background or if not a wall you can cover.
• Lighting (Optional): A ring light or soft lamp if you're short on daylight.
• Tripod or Propped Phone: Use what you have! A stack of books works too.
• Camera or Phone: Your iPhone’s portrait mode is your bestie if you don’t have a professional camera.
• Pose Inspiration: Search Pinterest for “Mommy & Me” or “At-Home Photoshoot Poses.”
• Editing App: I love Lightroom Mobile for subtle edits or presets.
• Print Your Faves: Walgreens, Shutterfly, or Canva are great for turning these into cards or keepsakes.

These photos were such a joy to take, just simple, fun, and full of love. And though we don’t celebrate the holidays, this season is the perfect time to send love, light, and handwritten notes to our family, especially our elders, just to remind them they’re on our hearts. You can create the same kind of warmth and intention right at home, one photo and one moment at a time.

Want This Checklist For Yourself?

Ready to plan your own cozy, stress-free at-home photoshoot?

Grab the exact checklist I used to get these shots — including what to prep, what to wear, and how to capture it all with your phone.

•  Includes a printable + a plain-text version for your Notes or Notion!
• Just drop your name + email below and it’ll be sent straight to your inbox!

Download Here

 

Copyright & Usage Notice

All images in this post are owned by Zak L. Grace | AuthenticallyZ and are protected under copyright law. These photos may not be copied, reproduced, edited, reposted, or used in any format without express written permission.

Unauthorized use may result in legal action. If you would like to collaborate or license imagery, please contact me directly for permission.

 

Carnival Cruise Glory Experience — My Honest Review

 

Peace and blessings, y’all. After returning from my cruise on the Carnival Glory, I wanted to share some real, honest insight — especially since the last time I cruised was back in 2018. So much has changed. And to top it off, as soon as I got home, Netflix dropped that wild “Dookie Cruise” documentary. Let’s just say... the timing was uncanny (and yes, I’ve been on the Triumph before — help Lord).

But let me break down my experience.

 

The Room

 

First impressions? The room was dusty. Like, really dusty. I noticed folks were boarding right after our group disembarked, so I brought my own cleaning supplies (because: germaphobe life). I sanitized everything from top to bottom before we got comfortable.

 

The room itself was small, but functional. We didn’t spend much time there — just to sleep and shower. Still, Carnival: if people are paying what they’re paying, those rooms need to be deep cleaned before new guests arrive. I did way too much cleaning to feel truly relaxed at first.

 

Also... the sewage smell at night? Yeah, it was real. Especially the last two nights — had both me and my friend feeling nauseated.

 

As for the balcony — it was nice, but not essential. If you’re not big on having your own outdoor space, I’d recommend sticking with an ocean view or interior room and just spending more time on the Lido deck. Personally, I wouldn’t splurge on a balcony again unless it’s a longer cruise or I’m being sponsored.

 

The Staff

 

The staff was, as always, incredibly kind and helpful. Pro tip: learn the names of your room stewards and bartenders. Build a relationship, and be generous with cash tips, not just what’s included in your cruise package. I came prepared with plenty of cash to bless the crew — they deserve it.

 

The Drink Package

 

This was my first time purchasing an adult drink package. Was it worth it? Kinda.

By night two, I noticed the drinks were watered down compared to what we got the first night. I even had to give the bartenders the recipe for some of my go-to drinks because the mixes were off. That said, know your bartenders. When they like you, they’ll look out for you.

 

The Club

 

This one disappointed me. As someone who’s been on seven cruises, Carnival’s clubs used to be a vibe. Great music, high energy, fun crowd.

This time? Not so much.

 

The DJ told us he couldn’t go outside Carnival’s set playlist which meant no hip hop and no “Boots on the Ground”, but they did play old school music. They even started turning on the lights 30 minutes before closing, so people thought it was time to leave early. The club closed earlier on the last night too.

 

We still had fun, but it wasn’t the same as to what I know as the turn up cruise line. Also, Carnival, what’s with not allowing fans in the club anymore? That was very disappointing.

 

The Food

 

We barely touched the breakfast — it looked super processed. Thankfully, we’re not big breakfast people, so we started most days with lunch.

 

Shoutout to Guy’s Burgers though — they never miss. We had one every day. For late-night eats, the pizza was clutch (but it’s no longer 24 hours — it shuts down around 2 a.m.).

 

The Activities

 

Since it was a 3-day cruise, we kept it chill. We hit the gym, walked the boat, lounged, enjoyed drinks, did dinner, and caught one comedy show. It was enough — we really just wanted to relax and have fun. No pressure to do everything.

 

The Bahamas

 

We made it to the Bahamas and did a lot of walking — but I loved every minute of it. There’s something powerful about being in the Caribbean and seeing our people just living, working, and vibing. That energy is unmatched.

 

The cruise always recommends booking excursions ahead of time — and after hearing from a few of our cruise buddies, I get why. They said their excursion to one of the island’s private beaches was the highlight of their trip. We, on the other hand, decided to take the “let’s wing it” route and walked about 20 minutes to a nearby public beach.

 

It was nice… but let’s just say next time, I’m sticking to an excursion or a private beach.

 

Real talk: Carnival will warn you about “getting pirated” — basically meaning, getting hustled. We experienced a little bit of that when a group of kids came around saying they were fundraising for a basketball camp. Of course, we gave a few dollars. But five minutes later, we watched them dip off with the money. We weren’t offended — it’s survival for a lot of folks out there, and if a few dollars helped someone eat that day, so be it.

 

But… I’m a beach napper. I came to lay out, relax, and fall asleep by the ocean. What I didn’t love was having to pop my head up every two minutes because someone was trying to sell me something. The hustle is real, and while I respect it, I also respect my rest.

 

So lesson learned — next time I’m booking an excursion or sticking with a private beach. Still had fun. Just couldn’t nap in peace.

 

The Boat Itself

 

Let me be real: the cruise was fun, but mainly because of the people I was with. That’s the key — you are the vibe. Not the boat, not the itinerary, not the room.

 

Create your own joy. Make memories with people you love. Be present. But also… Carnival, it’s time to upgrade these ships. I’ve been cruising since 2007, and it’s 2025. We deserve a more modern experience — especially for folks who are cruising for the first time.

 

Final Thoughts + What’s Next

 

Overall, I had a blast. We laughed, we danced, we made memories — and that’s what matters most.

 

A video recap is coming soon! I’ll also be sharing a full breakdown of how to prepare for a cruise, plus what to pack and what to leave at home.

 

In the meantime, grab my What to Pack for Your Cruise Checklist here on the blog to help you plan your next getaway with ease.

 

Shalom,

— Zak L. Grace | @AuthenticallyZ

 #AuthenticallyZ #CarnivalCruise #CarnivalGlory #CruiseChecklist #WhatToPack #SummerMommySeries #CarnivalCruiseReview

What to Pack for Your Cruise Checklist

 

 

Let me keep it real with you—cruising is supposed to be relaxing, but packing as a queen? Not so much. Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, overpacking (or underpacking) can turn your ocean escape into a whole ordeal.

 

After my latest cruise, I realized how much I brought that I never touched (and some things I returned the minute I got home). Cruises have their own rhythm: chill mornings, dressy dinners, unpredictable weather, and lots of walking. 

The key? Pack with intention.

 

Don’t let TikTok, Pinterest, or cruise forums convince you to bring your entire wardrobe “just in case.” I’ve been there—this list is based on real experience, not theory.

 

What to Pack for Your Cruise

 

Below is my complete, no-fluff checklist to help you pack smart and stress-free.

Prefer a downloadable version to keep or print? Click here to download the PDF.

---

Clothing

• ☐ 2–3 swimsuits + 1 to 2 cover-ups
• ☐ 2 dinner outfits (semi-formal or elegant depending on cruise)
• ☐ 3–4 daytime outfits (shorts, sundresses, jumpsuits)
• ☐ 1 pair of comfy walking shoes
• ☐ 1–2 pairs of sandals/slides
• ☐ Swim shoes
• ☐ 1 sweater or light jacket (ships can be chilly!)
• ☐ Undergarments + sleepwear
• ☐ Some type of sunhat
• ☐ Fanny pack
• ☐ Makeup mirror (came in handy with a group)

---

Toiletries

• ☐ Cleaning supplies (the rooms are not top-tier clean)
• ☐ Travel-size hygiene kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, air freshener, etc.)
• ☐ Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
• ☐ Razor + small grooming items
• ☐ Feminine hygiene products (you never know)
• ☐ Lip balm + lotion (the salt air dries you out)
• ☐ Bathroom air freshener
• ☐ Your own blanket and pillowcase
• ☐ A portable straw
• ☐ Toilet seat covers
• ☐ N95 mask for crowded spaces
• ☐ Antibacterial paper soap
• ☐ Mini perfume bottles
• ☐ Laundry bags or paper bags
• ☐ Water bottle bag with phone pocket
• ☐ Immune support electrolyte + vitamin C packets
• ☐ Beach towel bands for beach chairs

---

Cruise-Specific Must-Haves

• ☐ Passport or valid ID
• ☐ Cruise documents (boarding pass, luggage tags, etc.)
• ☐ Keychain for your boarding room key
• ☐ Refillable water bottle
• ☐ Magnetic hooks (the walls are metal!)
• ☐ Small fan or portable neck fan
• ☐ Dramamine or sea bands
• ☐ Power strip (non-surge protected — trust me)
• ☐ Waterproof phone pouch
• ☐ Mini medicine kit (ibuprofen, Pepto, allergy meds)
• ☐ 12-pack of drinks (we brought 3 cases but only needed 1)

---

Things You Don’t Need

• ☐ Multiple pairs of heels (1 is enough if that)
• ☐ Hair tools galore (the humidity has other plans)
• ☐ Full-size toiletries
• ☐ That third beach hat you think you’ll wear (you won’t)

---

Tips to Stay Sane

• ☐ Pack outfits that can mix and match
• ☐ Roll your clothes to save space
• ☐ Use packing cubes (especially for family trips)
• ☐ Leave room for souvenirs
• ☐ Download the cruise line’s app before you board

---

Final Thoughts + What’s Next

Cruising is about ease, fun, and being present — not overthinking every outfit or item. Hopefully, this list saves you from the stress and helps you walk on that ship feeling prepared, cute, and covered. Shop my Amazon storefront for some of these essentials at AuthenticallyZ here

 

Coming soon: I’ll be dropping a video on exactly how I packed, what I regret bringing, and what I wish I had. Subscribe or follow along so you don’t miss it!

Until then,

 

Pack light, live fully, and don’t forget your sunhat. 😉

 

— Zak L. Grace | @AuthenticallyZ

 #AuthenticallyZ #CarnivalCruise #CarnivalGlory #CruiseChecklist #WhatToPack #SummerMommySeries #CruiseWithConfidence #SmartPacking #NoStressTravel

From Goddesses to Greeting Cards: The Hidden History of Mother’s Day

 

By Zak L. Grace | AuthenticallyZ

Let’s talk about Mother’s Day. On the surface, it feels like a sweet, harmless day to honor the women who raised us—but when you peel back the layers, there’s more to the story. This post isn’t to shame anyone or make you feel guilty. It’s to uncover the truth and give you the knowledge to decide for yourself what aligns with your spirit and what doesn’t.

Let’s Take It Back: The Ancient Roots of Mother’s Day

Before the Hallmark cards and Sunday brunches, cultures around the world were already honoring “motherhood”—but not in the way we think. These celebrations were deeply spiritual and tied to goddess worship, fertility rituals, and seasonal festivals.

2000 BCE – Sumer (Ancient Mesopotamia)

• Deity: Ninhursag (also called Ki or Ninmah) – the “Mother of All Living”
  
  

• Seen as the goddess who birthed humanity. Early texts like the Enki and Ninhursag myth place her as one of the most powerful deities in Sumerian creation stories.
  
  

• Reference: Sumerian Mythology by Samuel Noah Kramer
  
  

1500 BCE – Egypt

• Deity: Isis – revered as the mother of Horus, a symbol of divine motherhood and resurrection.
  
  

• Isis became one of the most worshipped figures throughout the Greco-Roman world.
  
  

1200 BCE – Canaanite Culture

• Deity: Asherah – often referred to as the “Queen of Heaven.”
  
  

• Yah repeatedly warned Israel about worshiping Asherah poles and groves.
  
  

• They provoked Him to anger with their high places, and moved Him to jealousy with their graven images.– Psalm 78:58

700 BCE – Greece

• Deity: Rhea, mother of Zeus, Poseidon, Hades
  
  

• Honored with spring festivals celebrating her as the “mother of the gods.”
  
  

200 BCE – Rome

• Deity: Cybele – also known as Magna Mater, “Great Mother.”
  
  

• Worship involved processions, music, wild dancing, and sometimes self-harm by priests to show devotion.
  
  

• Festival: Hilaria, celebrated around March 25 (spring equinox)
  
  

• Learn not the way of the heathen…– Jeremiah 10:2

Medieval Europe (1600s) – England

• Transitioned into “Mothering Sunday,” a day to return to your “mother church.” Later, it became a day to honor actual mothers.
  
  

Early 1900s – United States

• Anna Jarvis, whose mother was a peace activist, led the movement to make Mother’s Day a national holiday in 1914.
  
  

• Ironically, Jarvis later fought to stop it because of how commercialized it became.
  
  

So What’s the big deal? It’s not about mothers being honored—it’s about where the tradition came from and what spirit is behind it.

Yah (God) is clear that we are to be set apart.

• Take heed to yourself, that you be not snared by following them… and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their gods? I will do likewise.– Deuteronomy 12:30

• Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”– Exodus 20:3

• I am YHWH: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.”– Isaiah 42:8

When we participate in rituals—even unknowingly—that were designed to honor other deities, we risk inviting in spiritual confusion. This doesn’t mean you can’t love your mom or be honored as one. But we need to ask:

• Where did this tradition come from?
  
  

• Who started it—and why?
  
  

• What spirit am I coming into agreement with when I participate?
  
  
  

Books You Can Study to Go Deeper

1. "The Two Babylons" by Alexander Hislop – breaks down how many modern traditions are rooted in ancient paganism. This book here!!!!
   
   

2. "Pagan Christianity?" by Frank Viola & George Barna – challenges traditions that have crept into churches.
   
   

3. "Sumerian Mythology" by Samuel Noah Kramer – foundational study of the earliest goddess systems.
   
   

4. The Bible (KJV) – read with spiritual discernment and an open mind; it's all there if you look closely.
   
   
   

This isn’t about being “deep” for the sake of it—it’s about returning to the truth. If we say we serve Yah, we can’t keep mixing what’s holy with what’s common.

 

We can still love our mothers. We can still show honor and gratitude. But let’s do it every day, not just on a date stamped by man, rooted in goddess worship. Let’s create our own days to uplift one another, led by the Ruach (Holy Spirit) and not tradition.

• And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.– John 8:32

Come with me to New Orleans- Nola Vlog

Growing up in NOLA shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until I left. From the neighborhoods I ran through as a kid to the family traditions that still ground me, my journey has been one of growth, change, and realization. There’s a rhythm to life in New Orleans that never really leaves you. The warmth, the resilience, the way people show up for one another—it’s in my DNA. But it wasn’t always easy. I grew up watching strength in action. I witnessed how creativity and faith could stretch limited resources into something meaningful.

 

Of course, no trip to New Orleans is complete without diving into the food. Every bite carried a memory—of childhood, of laughter, of moments that mattered. From red beans to beignets, every meal felt like a small reunion with a part of myself I forgot I missed. But more than the food, it was the conversations shared over those plates that reminded me how deeply rooted I still am in family and culture.

 

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that growth doesn’t have to look like major milestones all the time. Sometimes it’s just being present in a space that once overwhelmed you—and realizing you’re standing in it with more clarity, more confidence, more peace.

 

This trip back home helped me see that even though I’m not exactly where I want to be, I am so far from where I started. And that is worth celebrating. If you're in a season of growth—or even just trying to hold it together—take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve already come. You don’t need a big breakthrough to be proud of your progress.

 

Maybe your “walk down memory lane” looks different. Maybe it’s a conversation, a journal entry, or a quiet moment alone. Wherever you are, honor your journey.

Watch the Vlog below:

 

 

Then drop a comment in the YouTube video and let me know: What’s something in your life that reminds you how far you’ve come?

The Biblical New Year: A Fresh Start in The Most High Time

 

 

Peace, blessings, and love to you all. On March 14, 2025, we welcomed the Biblical New Year—not according to the Gregorian calendar, but in alignment with God's divine order. Unlike the world’s celebrations in January, the true new year begins in the first month of Abib (Nisan), when new life springs forth, and creation aligns with The Most High's timing (Exodus 12:2, Deuteronomy 16:1).

 

Why Does the Biblical New Year Matter?

 

I see a lot of people teaching the Bible, but when they speak, I can usually tell if they've actually read it for themselves. When you truly read the Word—whether it's the Old or New Testament—you’ll notice how often the Most High uses words like "forever," "throughout your generations," or "perpetual." Those aren’t just poetic phrases—they’re instructions that reveal what He actually expects, which is often very different from what many of us were taught in church.

 

Understanding this shifts everything. The renewal of the year isn’t just another date—it’s a spiritual reset. A divine opportunity to realign with the Most High’s will, cleanse our hearts, and prepare ourselves for His appointed times (moedim). It marks the beginning of His holy cycle, drawing us into the set-apart feasts He commanded us to keep.

 

Breaking free from tradition and stepping into truth is both exciting and liberating. It’s beautiful to realize that the Most High loves us so deeply, He gave us appointed times to celebrate, dance, reflect, and remember the promises He made to our forefathers. These aren’t just feast—they’re reminders of who we are and who He is.

 

Upcoming Feasts to Prepare For:

 

• Passover | March 28, 2025-April 3, 2025
  Passover reminds us of The Most Highs deliverance and redemption—both from Egypt and through Yahusha, the ultimate Passover Lamb (Exod. 12, 1 Corin. 5:7).

• Feast of Unleavened Bread | March 29, 2025-April 3, 2025
  For seven days, we remove leaven (sin) from our homes and lives, symbolizing our commitment to walk in obedience and righteousness (Exod. 12:15-20, 1 Corin. 5:8).

• Pentecost (Day of First Fruit)| May 17, 2025
  This feast celebrates the early harvest and Gods provision, pointing prophetically to Yahusha’s resurrection as the first fruits of those raised from the dead (Exod. 34:22, Deut. 16:9-11, Lev. 23:9-14, 1 Corinthians 15:20).

 

If all of this is new to you, my prayer in this season is that the Most High increases your wisdom and understanding of the Word He gave us centuries ago.

 

Throughout the year, I’ll be sharing and breaking down what I’ve learned from Scripture over the past two years—so you can grow, learn, and walk this path with clarity and confidence.

 

As we step into this new year, let’s do it with intention and obedience. It’s a time to purify our hearts, prepare for the feasts, and seek the Most High more deeply. Let’s move forward in faith, honoring His appointed times with joy, purpose, and reverence.

 

Shalom & Happy Biblical New Year! ✨

12 Must-Visit Places to Take Your Kids In Houston

Hey Mamas!

I know this season is hectic, but I hope you're taking some time to breathe and care for yourself. Finding fun places to take your kids in Houston can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you're looking for adventure, education, or just a way to keep them busy (because let’s be real, they have energy for days), this list has something for everyone. With spring break right around the corner, let’s dive into the best spots for making unforgettable family memories in Houston!

 

1. Parks, Gardens, and Playgrounds: A Classic Adventure

Houston has some amazing parks that are perfect for running, playing, and just letting kids be kids.

• Hermann Park: A massive 445-acre urban park with playgrounds, trails, and even a train ride! I personally love going here solo, but it’s also great with kids.
• Discovery Green: A vibrant 12-acre park in downtown Houston with playgrounds, splash pads, and wide-open spaces. Parking can be tricky, so I recommend going early!
• Houston Botanic Garden: A peaceful, educational spot where kids can explore different plants and themed gardens.
• McGovern Centennial Gardens: Nestled in Hermann Park, this beautifully landscaped space is great for kids to roam and explore.

Check out a full list of Houston parks here.

2. Dive into Discovery at Museums

Museums aren’t just for grown-ups—Houston has plenty of hands-on, interactive experiences for curious little minds.

• Children’s Museum Houston: Packed with fun, hands-on activities for kids 0–12. They’ve recently upgraded a lot of spaces for even more exploring!
• Houston Museum of African American Culture: Family-friendly exhibits showcasing African American history, art, and culture. Check it out here.
• Houston Museum of Natural Science: From dinosaur skeletons to the planetarium, there’s always something new to discover. Pro tip: The downtown location is way better than the Sugar Land one!
• Buffalo Soldiers National Museum: Learn about African American military history through interactive exhibits and displays.

3. Meet the Animals: Zoos and Aquariums

Nothing lights up a kid’s face like seeing their favorite animals up close.

• Houston Zoo: Home to over 6,000 animals with interactive exhibits and educational programs.
• Downtown Aquarium: Could use a little refresh, but it still has cool marine life exhibits, touch tanks, and even a Ferris wheel.
• Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve: Hands-on exhibits, animal feedings, and learning experiences make this a great day out! Check them out here.

4. Libraries: A World of Imagination

Libraries aren’t just for books anymore—they offer storytime, crafts, and cozy play areas.

• African American Library at Gregory School: A historic site with exhibits and archives celebrating African American culture.
• Houston Public Library – Central Library: Tons of children’s programs, storytimes, and interactive events.

5. Indoor Play Centers: Rainy Day Bliss

Houston weather is unpredictable, but these spots are perfect for burning off energy indoors.

• Jumping World: A fun trampoline park for all ages.
• Urban Air: A locally owned indoor adventure park in Katy.
• Big Air Trampoline Park - North Houston: From ninja courses to trampoline dodgeball, this place has it all. Check them out here.

6. Water Fun: Pools and Splash Pads

Cool off and make a splash at these kid-friendly spots!

• Typhoon Texas Waterpark: A family favorite! The lazy river is a must.
• Big Rivers Water Park: A hidden gem my family discovered during a pumpkin patch visit. Check it out here.

7. Farms and Petting Zoos: A Hands-On Experience

Get up close with farm animals and enjoy seasonal activities like berry picking and hayrides.

• Dewberry Farm: Fun seasonal events like a pumpkin patch and corn maze.
• Blessington Farms: A great place for animal encounters and picking fresh fruit.
• Froberg Farm: The best spot for strawberry picking! My son and I are going in April—I can’t wait!

8. Beaches and Boardwalks: Sun, Sand, and Fun

A quick drive from Houston can get you to some fun waterfront spots.

• Galveston Beach: Perfect for a beach day with the kids.
• Sylvan Beach Park: Offers swimming, fishing, and a playground.
• Kemah Boardwalk: Rides, games, and kid-friendly restaurants all in one spot! More details here.

9. Movie Theaters: Big-Screen Magic

Sometimes you just need to sit back and enjoy a good movie.

• AMC Theater: Family-friendly screenings with comfy seating.
• ShowBiz Cinemas: Movies, bowling, and an arcade—what more could you ask for? Check it out here.

10. Sports and Games: Active Fun

Bowling alleys, skating rinks, or mini-golf courses are perfect for active outings.

• Dave and Busters: Features sporting area for adults and arcade games for a high-energy day out.
• Main Event Entertainment: A one-stop destination for bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and more. Visit Main Event

11. Seasonal Events: Year-Round Fun

Seasonal key events everyone must try.

• Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: A beloved seasonal event offering rides, games, and kid-friendly activities during the spring. When i tell you, my kid and I had a blast! It was the best. Visit Houston Rodeo.
• Urban Harvest Farmers Market: A weekly market offering fresh produce, live music, and kids’ activities. Visit Urban Harvest.

12. Black-Owned, Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Support Black-owned businesses while enjoying delicious, kid-approved meals!

• Lucille’s: Southern comfort food with a welcoming atmosphere. Great for brunch with the little ones! Lucille’s
• The Breakfast Klub: Famous for their chicken and waffles—perfect for a morning out with the family! The Breakfast Klub
• Gazebo: A kid-friendly spot with a Louisiana vibe, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. Gazebo
• Stuff’d Wings: A creative twist on classic wings with fun flavors kids will love. Stuff’d Wings

No matter what you and your little ones are into, Houston has something fun for every family. I hope this list helps you plan some exciting adventures with your babies. Let me know which spots are your favorites or if there’s a hidden gem I should check out next!

Happy exploring! 🖤

How to Plan a Branding Photo-shoot Day

 

 

HOW TO PLAN YOUR BRANDING PHOTOSHOOT

— A Simple Guide to Stress-Free, High-Quality Visuals

Peace, blessings, and love to you all. Branding photoshoots can feel intimidating—especially when you’re juggling multiple platforms, showing up consistently, and trying to visually communicate who you are and what you do. But with the right plan, your shoot day can be smooth, intentional, and truly reflective of your brand.

Whether you're a business owner, creative, or influencer, thoughtful preparation will save you time, eliminate overwhelm, and help you walk away with photos and videos you can use for months. Here’s how to plan your shoot with confidence.

1. Get Clear on Your Brand Story + Shoot Goals

Before stepping in front of the camera, take time to outline the message you want your visuals to communicate. Ask yourself:

• What story am I telling through these images?
• Who is my audience, and what do I want them to feel?
• What content do I need for my website, social media, or marketing?

This clarity helps you create intentional visuals—not random photos that don’t match your brand identity.

2. Choose Outfits, Props, and Locations That Match Your Brand

Your photoshoot should show your brand, not just tell it. Select items that support your message:

• Outfits that reflect your brand colors, personality, and professionalism
• Props that highlight the tools you use, your lifestyle, or your products
• Locations that match your vibe—minimalist, creative, luxurious, cozy, or bold

Consistency will make your images instantly recognizable across every platform.

3. Batch Your Shots for Maximum Efficiency

Instead of randomly capturing content, organize it by themes or needs. Try batching:

• Headshots
• Behind-the-scenes moments
• Thought-leadership or coaching-style photos
• Lifestyle images of you working, planning, or creating

Batching speeds everything up and ensures you leave with a full library of diverse visuals.

4. Prep Your Equipment + Set the Scene

A smooth branding shoot starts with preparation. Before your shoot, make sure you have:

• A charged phone or camera
• Good lighting—natural if possible, ring light or softbox if not
• Easy outfit changes for variety
• A playlist to keep the energy high

A little prep goes a long way toward a polished, professional look.

5. Grab the Free Branding Photoshoot Checklist

To make this easier, I created a FREE checklist that walks you through every part of planning your branding shoot—from mapping your shot list to prepping your outfits. Download it and use it before every photoshoot to stay organized and stress-free.

 

👉 Download it now and make your next content shoot effortless! Link Here

How to Support Your Child’s Behavior at School

 

As we are midway through the school year and as a parent, I want to ensure that my child develops positive behavior habits that set him up for success. When he started receiving conduct marks for things like not listening the first time or being slightly disruptive, I knew it was important to understand what was causing these challenges and how to best support his growth. Here’s how to navigate this if you're ever in this situation as a parent trying to support your child effectively both in class and raising them up.

 

Step 1: Take a Breath First

The first thing I had to do was just take a breath. As parents, we juggle so much—not just in our personal lives but also with everything happening around the world. When something happens at school, especially when it feels unclear as to what is happening, my first reaction is frustration. But before reacting, I take a moment, breathe, and approach the situation with a clear mind.

 

Step 2: Helping Your Child at Home

After calming down and understanding the situation, the next step is to help your child navigate their behavior effectively.

• Discuss Their Conduct Openly

  Sit down with your child and have a calm conversation about what happened. Ask open-ended questions to get their side of the story. This helps you understand if the marks are justified or if they feel unfairly treated. Instead of jumping to conclusions, use this as a learning moment.

• Create a Behavior Tracking Chart

  Kids love visuals, and a behavior tracking system helps them take ownership of their actions. Log daily whether they listened the first time, followed directions, and stayed focused in class. Celebrate small wins and progress rather than just focusing on mistakes. To add fun to it, I like to add a sticker to reward great behavior.

• Use Positive Reinforcement

  Instead of just focusing on punishment, reward good behavior. Praise them when they listen the first time, follow directions, or improve their focus. Small incentives, like extra playtime or a fun activity, can be strong motivators to keep them on track.

• Practice Listening & Following Directions

  Reinforce listening skills at home by turning it into a game. Give simple directions and challenge them to follow them the first time. Over time, this helps build a habit of immediate response and attentiveness.

  If there isn’t any improvement, I usually take it to the next step below.

Step 3: Communicating with the School

1. Request a Meeting with the Teacher

   Open communication with your child’s teacher is essential. This week, I scheduled a meeting with my son’s teacher to gain a clearer understanding of the situation. When preparing for a meeting like this, think about specific questions that relate to your child’s experiences. Ask about the school’s behavior policies, how conduct marks are assigned, and whether the challenges are unique to your child or part of a broader classroom issue.

   I approach these conversations as a collaborative effort to support my child, rather than just seeking answers.

2. Ask for Documentation & School Policies

   If you don't have it already, request a copy of the behavior policy to ensure the school is following clear guidelines. This helps understand what’s expected and if there is details you need to know about in discipline.

3. Ensure Fair Treatment

   If I suspect that my child is being unfairly disciplined compared to others, I would gather evidence by talking to other parents, requesting class observations, or discussing with school administrators.

    

Our kids behavior is an opportunity for growth, both for them and for you as their advocate. By reinforcing positive behaviors at home, you can help them develop the skills needed to succeed. Open dialogue with teachers, setting clear expectations, and tracking progress are key strategies in guiding them toward better conduct.

 

Would you like a free copy of the Behavior Tracking Chart to help guide your child’s progress? Click here to download it and start using it today!