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.