Music Matters

During this special season, many people are playing the music of the holiday. However, as far back as I can remember, music has always been a very important part of my life. My parents played music in our home all the time. They would also take me to concerts and musicals. I was a member of the choir in my school and at my church. In elementary school I learned to play the flute. Even today, I enjoy different types of music. And music can affect my mood. During this Christmas season when I hear Nat King Cole singing "The Christmas Song" on the radio, it brings back fond memories from my childhood.  And I'll admit, I have followed that same pattern with my children. I began playing music to them while they were in the womb. I have exposed them to all types of music; from Mozart to MJ. And I'm not doing it because of tradition, but because of the benefits music can bring. A study from St. John's University and Iona College says that music aids in memory development and retrieval as early as three months of age. So if you start playing music to your infant today, it could have a positive effect on their motor skills and creative thinking in the future! There is some type of music for everyone to enjoy. Find your melody and add music to your child's life year-round.

What is Your Legacy?

If your parents are still alive, you are so blessed! Sadly my parents passed away several years ago: Mom in 2005 and Daddy in 2009. I miss them every day; yet, they still live on through me, my siblings, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. My parents left special memories for our family.

Ephesians 6:1-2 reads, "Children,obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. Honor your father and your mother..." Although my parents may not be with me physically, I still want to honor their legacy every day by:

1. Living a life that will make them and God proud.

2. Keeping my word as my bond.

3. Giving service to the family, the church and the community.

We have a responsibility to leave an endearing and enduring legacy for the next generation. How will you honor yours?

Respect the Water

Everyone needs water. We wash with it; cook with it. Some drink the recommended 8 glasses of water each day. And during the summer months, many of us are at the pool or on the beach splashing in it. Unfortunately the increase in summer water fun can turn tragic.  According to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) more than 4000 accidental drownings happen each year. And sadly, drowning is the leading cause of death for children between the ages of 1-4 years.

So how can your family still enjoy the water parks and not become a statistic? Here are some tips from the American Red Cross:

• Make sure everyone in the family learns to swim well;
• Swim in a designated area supervised by lifeguards;
• Always swim with a buddy; and,
• Never leave a young child unattended near water.

As you enjoy family time this summer, have fun, stay safe and respect the water.

Happy New Me in 2023

Recently our Youth Pastor gave an awesome sermon at our church. He reminded the congregation, at any age, we ALL have a purpose. It was such a powerful message for me. Throughout my life I've always had goals; graduating from high school, going to college, having a media career, falling in love.  However, after having children, my life was all about them. Somehow over time, I kind of lost myself. The only thing I focused on was helping my children achieve their dreams and making sure they had the physical and financial resources they needed. I don't blame my children. The onus is really on me for forgetting who I was and putting my dreams on hold. Anybody else feeling that way?

Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm your; plans to give you a future and a hope".

If you are 25, 47, 63 or 90, don't lose hope. Keep making plans. No, matter your season in life, you still have value. It's never too late to go back to college, write that book, start that business. Remind yourself, everyday, you have a lot to give!

Happy Mother's Day

To all the Moms who wake up each morning, ready to balance family, work, church and community in their corner of the world. Over worked, under paid. Putting others first while your needs are last on the list. We Love You, We Appreciate You and We Honor You. Thank you!

Here's what Proverbs 31:25-31 (Living Bible translation) says about a Mother:  She is clothed with strength and dignity;  she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.  She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.  Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."  Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. 

                             Have a Happy Mother's Day!

Enjoy the Holidays!

I really love the Christmas season. It may sound like a cliche, but there seems to be a different spirit in the air. People are more kind and generous; families and friends get together. Special foods are shared. But sometimes when we try to plan the "perfect" events, we get too stressed to enjoy them.  As Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year's Eve are quickly approaching, here are a few tips I've shared before with a little help from BabyCenter.com. They may make your holidays more fun and less frantic.

Scale Back:  Unless you have a lot of household help, it can be difficult attempting the perfect Martha Stewart ambiance. I mean, who really needs a wreath made with fresh cranberries? Simple decorations can still be festive.

Simplify Gift Giving: Since my family is growing and our budgets are shrinking, we decided to draw names this year; literally picking names out of a hat. We've agreed spending more time together is better than spending more money.

Collaborate on Festivities:  Ask holiday guests to contribute to the party. Let them bring hors d'oeuvres or a dessert to your holiday event so you won't be responsible with all the cooking.

See the Holidays Through the Eyes of a Child: Most children want your presence instead of a present. Making memories like singing Christmas Carols as a family can bring more delight than a fancy toy. 

Give Yourself a Break: It may be difficult to find time for yourself, however, try. If you relax, your children, family and guests will be relaxed too.

Enjoy the Holidays!

The Help They Need

During the early days of the Covid 19 pandemic, many of us were held up in our homes. Everything changed in an instant; our work, our home life, our routines. I  missed going to the gym, because exercise helps with my physical and mental health. The pandemic affected all of us in different ways. It even affected our children.

According to information published on the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Beyond getting sick, many young people's social, emotional and mental well being has been impacted by the pandemic. 

1 Peter 5:7 says, Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.

Let's realize adults and children struggle with the challenges that have been caused by the Covid 19 pandemic. Find more resources to help the children in your home, school and community at CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

Get the help they need.

Getting Started in 2020

Happy 2020!
It's so hard to believe that we're not only beginning a New Year but a New Decade; Wow! I remember New Years eve 2000 when so many fatalistic people were predicting the end of the world; ridiculous. The New Year is when most of us get ready for a fresh start. So if you want to be more physically or fiscally fit, here are some useful tips I suggest for success!
Set Your Goal:  Put some serious thought into what you want to achieve this year and make it realistic. You will not lose 20 pounds in a week, but you can do it over time. Stay positive as you work toward your goal.
Gather your Support: Most folks are more successful when they have a support system. Tell family and friends what you want to accomplish and ask them to help you stay on track.
Get Started: Procrastination is a terrible thing. The "I'll begin sometime" attitude can derail our plans. Not next week or next month, get started now. Don't delay; start today!
Keep the faith, stay focused and have a fun New Year!

All Teachers Make an Impact

Hi Moms:
My children have been blessed with some amazing teachers.  I hope you've had some positive experiences too.  But the most important teacher is your child's first teacher. And their first teacher is you!  How Moms handle family challenges;  how we deal with conflict and success; how we advocate and stand up for our child.  We make a permanent impact in the lives of our children everyday.  Think how your Mom affected your life.
A Scripture says, "Set an example of good works yourself, with integrity and dignity in your teaching".
Be a good example for your children with your words and your actions, because you are their First Teacher.

A Message from N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms

Building Our Village One Mom at at Time!

For Auld Langs Syne?

Hi Moms:
As we begin a Blessed New Year, for many of us, it's time for a fresh start:  Starting that diet (again), learning a new skill, beginning a new career.  As we make new plans, let's also think about the old things we've left behind, like old relationships from year's gone by. Every year I promise to reconnect with my childhood friends and reminisce about the  "good old days".  There have been times when I've finally found an old phone number, reached out to that friend, and sadly discovered it's too late, and that friend has passed away. So I encourage you in 2016 to seek those friends, playmates, even family members who you haven't spoken too in a long time, for Auld Langs Syne.

                                                 N. Michelle Sutton, The Mentor 4 Moms

                                               Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Slow Down

Hi Moms:
Some days, motherhood can be a complete blur! You don't even remember what you did the entire day and now it's bed time. But enjoy these days.  The time between pre-school and high school goes by way too fast. So slow down. Family time is special time.

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Winning!

Hi Moms:
Look in the mirror today and say:
"I am a Winner"
"I am Awesome"
"I am Victorious"
Because You are!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Daily Blessings

Hi Moms:

When your child receives a gift from Grandma, don't you expect her to say Thank You?  When a friendly stranger offers his seat on the bus, don't you say thanks?  It shouldn't take big things to make you grateful. Think of the blessings you get everyday - shelter, food, health and much more.  What are you thankful for? Find ways to give thanks this week.

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Your Body for Life!

Hi Moms:

Most of us have heard soulful singer Aretha Franklin's song RESPECT. What do you respect? You may never disrespect your church. You may not deface your home. But how much respect are you giving to your own temple - your body? Are you getting enough rest?  Do you drink water daily? How often do you exercise? What is your temple saying about you?

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Watch Your Words

Hi Moms:

Do these words sound familiar?:  "No one appreciates me!"; This situation will never change!"; "My children are so bad!" There is power in our words.  When you use negative words, you get negative results.  So watch what you say and know God has the ability to change any situation.  Change your words to:  "I am loved!"; "My life is getting better!"; "My children have a bright future!" Wait for changes to happen as you watch your words.

Building our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Children See - Children Do

Hi Moms:

Our children are great observers.  And as a Mom, you know they will follow our actions; sometimes even closer than they follow our words. When we tell our children not to tell a lie, but then ask them to tell a caller on the phone we aren't home, what's a child to think?  We are our children's first teacher. What are you teaching your children?

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Take a Deep Breath

Hi Moms:

Let's be honest. Life can cause us to lose our temper! Bumper to bumper traffic, Bosses, Bullies! Everything isn't perfect and real people have real emotions. So when those emotions happen - take a walk, count to 100 or eat some chocolate. And when the issues are more serious, talk to your Pastor, see a Counselor or talk to a close friend. Find a way back to your peaceful place.

Building our Village One Mom @ a Time

Surprise!

Hi Mom:
Let’s be honest, life is full of surprises and sometimes those surprises can cause us to lose our temper.  Think of your day – bumper to bumper traffic, bosses, bullies.  Everything isn’t perfect and real people have real emotions.  But if we want to survive and enjoy life, we must find ways to handle negative emotions.  Take a walk, count to 100, eat chocolate. If it’s a more serious issue, talk to your Pastor, a Counselor or a close friend.  Find ways to get back to a peaceful place.

Building our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Your Community Needs You

Hi Moms:

Are you holding onto talents and skills that others can use?  Could you teach a child how to sew or could you help design a garden that would benefit your community?  Instead of watching the next segment of the Real Housewives of ..., find a way to make a difference where you live. Many schools, parent groups and recreation centers would love to get help from Moms just like you.  Share your ideas.  People need you.

Building our Village One Mom @ at Time!

Christmas Music in the Air

When I turned on my car radio the Monday morning after Halloween, I got a surprise.  One of our local radio stations here in Columbus, Ohio was playing Christmas music. In fact, they'll keep playing holiday tunes until Christmas morning. That means we'll hear songs about Frosty, Rudolf and the Little Drummer Boy 24 - 7 until December 25.  My Daughters and I are loving it!  My husband not so much. He thinks it's too early.  What do you think?