Find Your Melody

During this special season, many people are playing the music of the holiday.  But being surrounded by music isn't new for me, because, music has always been an important part of my life. Growing up, if you walked past our house, you would always hear records playing on the stereo or the latest hits coming from the radio. My parents would take me to concerts, I sang in choirs and even learned to play the flute. And those experiences formed my diverse taste for various types of music today. From Country to Rock & Roll. I love it all!

During this Christmas season hearing Nat King Cole singing "The Christmas Song" on my car radio brings back fond memories from my childhood.  And during my their childhood, I've played various types of music for my daughters.  They have heard the sounds of Mozart and danced to the beat of MJ.  And over the years, I've learned sharing music with our children isn't just a great tradition, but it also has big benefits.  A study from St. John's University and Iona College states that music helps with memory development and retrieval as early as three months of age. That means, if you start playing music when your child is an infant, it could have a positive effect on their motor skills and creative thinking in the future! What type of music do you like? There is something for everyone to enjoy. Find your melody and add music to your family's life year-round.

Pillars of Productivity

Diva: A woman focused on her divine assignment, operating strategically and slaying her goals. This is a definition shared at the Momathon Conference, I recently attended in Atlanta, Georgia.  The event was a great opportunity to connect with Moms from around the country. Workshops focused on the importance of self-care, mental and physical health and how to start a business. There were Moms from various professions, including: lawyers, ministers, doctors and stay at home Moms. Although they may have come from different cities and different backgrounds, the conference coordinators hoped all would leave as members of the Momathon tribe who had an aversion to settling for less! 

The Momathon Conference was founded by Christina Garrett, an active wife, business owner and Mom of five. This international speaker and workshop presenter has been featured on various media platforms, including Essence, the Washington Post and Forbes. This was the 9th year for the faith-based conference and Christina hoped all of the Moms left encouraged and ready to go back home and share their divine purpose. "The Momathon Conference is all about you...When ladies say YES and come into this space, they are saying yes to more than just a weekend off or some workshop time, but instead saying yes to what's possible for them in the future". Women who attend leave empowered by the amazing speakers, conversations and the positive energy exhibited by Christina and her tribe of supporters and volunteers. "We have you surrounded, we want you to know you're supported and everything you want to accomplish is possible", she says

During Christina's workshop, she presented the Pillars of Productivity. These ideas could serve Moms well as we continue to problem solve with our family:

1. Create a Family Vision - The corner stone for all of your plans

2. Communicate Your Needs - Tell your loved ones what you need

3. Delegate Unnecessary Tasks - Ask for help

4. Elevate Your Movement - Where you are going will be Bigger

I left the conference excited to share ideas with Moms who are my family members, friends and co-workers. I was also blessed to meet new friends at the conference who are now members of my Tribe! 

For more information on the Momathon Conference go to: TheMomathonMovement.com

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Jessica's Story

Cancer: It’s a scary word that affects millions of families across the country.  No matter your race, your economic status or your zip code, most of us know someone, a family member, a friend or a co-worker who has been touched by cancer. Or maybe you have been diagnosed with the disease. Although it’s a sensitive topic, sharing our cancer stories, struggles and successes could encourage others. Knowing the signs and symptoms, knowing your family history and knowing how to make healthier choices could also make a difference. As we recognize that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to start the conversation. 

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently reported that breast cancer is on the rise, especially for younger women. In the report the ACS says that since 2012, breast cancer rates have increased by 1%; and for younger women, breast cancer rates have increased by 1.4% since 2021.  

Asian women and women under 50 have seen a 50% increase since 2000.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. Breast cancer in young women is more likely to be hereditary than breast cancer in older women. And breast cancer is more common among African American women.  

One young woman who has the courage to share her breast cancer story is Jessica. At 37 years old, being diagnosed with breast cancer took this active African American wife and mother of two young children by surprise. Especially since she has no family history of cancer.  An appointment to her dermatologist in June of this year for an unrelated issue is how her cancer was discovered.  “(My dermatologist) found a mass under my underarm. The cancer is in my milk ducts. Your milk ducts can go all the way in your underarms.” In September Jessica had a lumpectomy and is now awaiting her test results to determine her next level of treatment. “It’s also good to make sure you get a genetic test to make sure you don’t have any other types of cancer”, she said. Jessica says family members have given her strength through this challenging time. “My husband and family have been so supportive. By praying for me, bringing my family meals, because I can’t move my arms much. They also (are) checking to make sure that I’m ok.” 

In 2015 the CDC launched the Bring Your Brave Campaign to educate younger women about breast cancer. Through real life stories, the campaign shares information everyone can understand, if you are a Mom or a health care provider. The goals of the Bring Your Brave program is to: 

• Encourage young women to learn their family history of breast and ovarian cancer. 
• Educate young women on the risk factors for breast cancer before age 45. 
• Inspire young women to talk to their health care provider if they think they may be at a higher risk for breast cancer. 
• Encourage young women to live a healthy lifestyle and be aware of their own breast health. 
• Educate providers on the risk factors for breast cancer before age 45. 

Jessica adds that doing self-breast exams is very important at any age. “Doing your own breast exams at home is important and making sure that you feel any lumps or bumps in your underarms is great too, because you never know.” She adds, “Having a good support system is key to getting through it and your mindset has to be focused on just getting through all of it. No matter what the outcome is.” 

Friendship

Journalist Maria Shriver said this about Friendship:  “I really believe you are the company you keep and you have to surround yourself with people who lift you up, because the world knocks you down”. 

Friendships are a special part of my life.  Hanging out with my girls, talking, laughing & even crying can uplift my mood, knowing I’m in a safe space. Throughout my life, I have been surrounded by some great friends.  But through the years, I've also had to release some friendships, because our relationship became toxic, competitive and untrustworthy.  I’ve told my daughters, you don't need a lot of friends to be happy.  If you have one trusted friend who exhibits character and kindness, that relationship can be priceless. When friends work together and support each other, everyone is Blessed 💗

Avoid the Drama

Have you ever met someone whose life seems to always be filled with drama? Workplace...Drama! Friends...Drama! Baby Mama...well, you get the picture.

Some people may just need a little help to keep them on track. Speaking with a pastor, a trusted mentor or even a professional counselor could help them make better choices to turn their lives around.

All of us have made mistakes. One poor choice could be a game-changer. But, there is always hope. 

Be intentional. End the drama. Seek help and live the wonderful life God has prepared for you. Choices matter.

Be Water Ready

Summer is here! And as we prepare for summer, many of us are looking forward to enjoying various water related activities, like going to the pool, hanging out at the beach, fishing or kayaking. Every year, I write a summer article that stresses the importance of water safety, because we see alarming reports on the news about people drowning every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4000 people die from drowning in the United States every year. When it comes to children between the ages of 5 years and 19 years, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury deaths. It's so very sad yet, so very preventable.  

So as you have fun in the water this season, please follow these suggestions from the American Red Cross:

*Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim well;

*Learn the safety steps you should take before starting any activity in or near water;

*Know what to do in case of a water emergency;

*Watch out for the dangerous "Toos": Too tired, Too Cold, Too far from safety, Too much sun and Too much hard playing;

*Use Coast Guard approved life jackets when boating;

*Never swim alone

These are just a few tips to remember. For a complete list of suggestions on Swimming and Water Safety, go to RedCross.org

Have fun this summer and be safe!

5 Motivating Mommy Messages

It's so hard to believe I've been on this "Mommy Journey" for more than 20 years! Both of our daughters are now young adults, preparing for their future. They are completing college, looking for career opportunities and praying for which path to follow as they leave home to begin life on their own.  Although their hopes and dreams have changed over the years, I still stand by the same "Motivating Mommy Messages" I wrote many years ago to inspire myself and others. And I hope no matter where you are on your Motherhood journey, you will find these words are relevant to you too: 

1) Ask for Help:  You don't have to be "Super Mom" to be labeled as a good parent. Reach out to others you can trust. Learn to ask for help from family members and friends.

2) Be Prepared:  Don't just "wing it". Take time to plan ahead. Not just planning for the next day for work and school, but for your life. Speak to a financial expert to plan for your financial future; make healthy choices for your physical health.  Planning ahead can save you time and energy.

3) Complete your Tasks: When you start something, finish it. Keeping your promises will show others you can be trusted and it also shows your leadership skills.

4) Dress for Respect: It doesn't matter if your clothes are from the mall or the thrift store. Don't focus on the designer label or if it has no label. When you dress in a respectful way, you will gain respect from others. 

5) Encourage Someone: You never know who may need your support; a kind word, a hug or a smile. Give encouragement to another Mom and tell her she matters.

I hope these messages will uplift you as you travel the road through Motherhood💗

Celebrate Minority Health Month

April is National Minority Health Month and states around the country are celebrating. And Ohio is no exception. The Ohio Commission on Minority Health is sharing information on various events being held across our state. Minority Health Month began in Ohio in April 1989, then it became a national holiday in 2000. This year's theme is "Achieveing Equity in Birth Outcomes". Click on this link www.mih.ohio.gov/minority-health-month and I'm sure you'll find events that will have a positive impact in your community. 

Women's History Month Feature: Shirley Anita Chisholm

If you thought that Hillary Rodham Clinton was the first woman to run for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination, you would be wrong. That honor actually goes to a Black woman:  Shirley Chisholm. Born as Shirley Anita St. Hill to immigrant parents on November 30, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York, she always embraced her heritage and considered herself to be a Barbadian American. Shirley was a leader at an early age and excelled in her academics. After receiving a scholarship to Brooklyn College, she would eventually earn a master's degree in education from Columbia University. Shirley was considered an expert on early childhood education and worked as a consultant to New York City's Bureau of Child Welfare from 1959-1964. Shirley stepped into politics in 1968, becoming the first Black woman to win a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. In 1972, she declared her candidacy for the office of President of the United States; the first Black and the first woman to make that bid! Even after her retirement from Congress in 1983, Shirley used her gifts as an educator and an advocate. She taught at Mount Holyoke College and continued to speak out against the Vietnam War. Throughout her life, she helped with causes to improve living conditions for the poor and disadvantaged. Shirley Chisholm passed way on January 1, 2005. You can learn more about Shirley Chisholm by reading her autobiography: "Unbought and Unbossed" and by watching the film SHIRLEY, premiering on Netflix on March 22, 2024.

An Amazing Woman in Herstory : Marva Collins

I'm a firm believer that Black History IS American History so we should celebrate it alongside the stories of our founding fathers and mothers. And as misguided politicians and perceived pundits try to erase Black History, it's becoming even more important for all Americans to listen and learn about the many ways African Americans have contributed to this nation.  

One amazing American we all should know is Marva Knight Collins. Born on August 31, 1936 in Monroeville, Alabama, Collins' early life was attending school in a strict, one-room schoolhouse. This learning experience would have a profound effect on her later in life.

After graduating from Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia, Collins returned to teach in Alabama. Eventually she moved to Chicago, and over the next 14 years, she taught in the inner-city Chicago Public Schools as a full-time substitute teacher. 

Collins would marry Clarence Collins and together they would have 3 children. Although she had a happy homelife, Collins became very frustrated with the teaching techniques she witnessed in the public-school system. Using money from her personal funds, Collins started a private school in Chicago called the Westside Preparatory School. The low-cost private school was specifically designed to help teach low-income Black children who Collins felt had been mislabeled as being learning disabled. 

The Westside Preparatory School became an educational and commercial success. Collins received recognitions and awards from the school house to the White House, where Collins was the National Medal of Humanities recipient presented by President George W. Bush. In 1981 a movie based on her life, entitled The Marva Collins Story aired on TV. Before her death in 2015, Collins also became an Honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  

This is just one Black History story. Take time to learn more about Black Americans who have impacted our country and our world.

Happy New You!

Sometimes when I strike up a conversation with a lady while we're waiting in the grocery store checkout line,  I'll ask her, "So what do you do?" Most of the time she'll respond by saying, "Oh, I'm just a Mom." What are you talking about? No one is "Just a Mom"!  Moms are Influencers.  Think how your Mom influenced your life. Moms are Educators. What are you teaching your children? And Moms are Advocates. No one speaks up and supports their children like a Mom. So if you are one of those ladies who has labeled herself as, "Just a Mom", Stop it! Please change your words. Beginning in 2024 see yourself for who you really are. You have the most powerful job in the world! Know your value. You are raising the next generation of leaders. You have Power, You have Pride, You Are Awesome!