Motherhood in Stilettos| The Glitz & Glam of Growing Kids

You're On a Special Assignment by Brook Marie Eneas

2012-10-16T07:02:00.000-04:00

As a mom, you are on a special assignment. In your very capable hands, you have the awesome responsibility to help shape the next generation. This is an incredible thought. Just to think about how legends in the past must have been impacted by their households makes me realize how really important my assignment is to raise up my sons to embrace the future leaders they will become. Very often, I hear the importance of creating a vision for life but this principle is vitally important when considering child rearing. What is your vision for your child? How will you develop their character? How will they treat and relate to the opposite sex? We must visualize where we want them to end up and then learn to break our overall vision into bite size pieces so that we can create the masterpiece we desire.

When both my sons were born, my husband and I sat down and wrote out life plans for our sons. Don’t get us wrong, we didn’t plan out every detail of their lives but we did, however, develop an action plan on how we would create an atmosphere conducive to pulling out every gift our sons were divinely designed with. Did you know that now-a-days, the average college student takes 6 years to finish a 4 year degree due to multiple changes in majors; and, 40% never finish at all. Only 10-15% of those who finish college go on to work in the field for which they spent years and thousands of dollars preparing. When I hear statistics such as these, I wonder how good a job we are doing in parenting.

We have an obligation as mothers to:

Help our young ones figure out their purpose and teach them not to run after careers because of fame or fortune. In our society, we are enthralled with these two themes and deter our children from fulfilling their passion resulting in generations that are out of place and who seek affirmation in things and status versus their Creator.
Take notice of each of their gifts--no matter how small it may appear. Write down your observations and help them put the pieces of the puzzle together. Just imagine before David became King, he was overlooked and not even considered for the position.
Choose to speak life. Words are extremely powerful and have the ability to mold their perspective and shape their lives. This truth holds true especially when their behavior is contrary to our expectations. Remind them of who they are.
Develop relationships, have mutual respect and cultivate a connection with your children. My mother was a rock star at this and because she took the time to know each of us in a very special way, we have remained extremely close even to this day.

One day, you children, like Abraham Lincoln will turn back with gratitude in their hearts and say, “All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." Embrace your assignment.

Brook Marie Eneas @dgiinspired, has an uncommon gift to inspire women and girls to live their dreams through her passion as a life coach, fitness coach and motivational speaker. www.dgiinspired.com

Would you ever carry a Skunk Purse???

2012-10-12T19:51:00.001-04:00

Skunk-Fur Purse by Tom Ford

Ok, so I'm confused....even in the name of fashion I don't understand why anyone would want to carry a skunk purse. Sure, black and white is a classy color duo...but when I think of skunks I think of stink, not beauty.

Well apparently, designer, Tom Ford thinks that women will pay $1660 for a purse covered in Skunk Fur....The purse is being carried at Neimen Marcus.

Hmmmm. Sorry, but not this Stiletto Mommy.

Would you carry a skunk fur purse?

The Scariest Stilettos I've Ever Seen!

2012-10-09T19:41:00.000-04:00

Ok...So I am officially traumatized! I have just witnessed the scariest pair of stilettos known to man. The shoe is appropriately called, "Scary Beautiful," and is the creation of artist Leanie van der Vyver and Dutch shoe designer René van den Berg. According to the video commentary on Vimeo, the shoes serve as an example of today's impossible standards of beauty.

The stilettos appear backwards on the foot, so the wearers feet point straight down the back, as if in ballet shoes, with their shin leaning against the front "heel" end of the design to balance. Look at the video below to see the model walking...VERY CAREFULLY...in the shoes. Imagine chasing your kids around with these on...

Scary Beautiful (Leanie van der Vyver) from Lyall Coburn on Vimeo.

Self Defense for Women Part One: What's in Your Purse

2012-10-09T17:23:00.001-04:00

For the next three weeks I am taking a Women's Self-Defense Class! I was really excited to be part of the class and took a BAZILLION notes, lol. Over the next few days I am going to be talking to you about the things I learned in that class as the teacher encouraged us to share with all women that we know.

This first lesson I want to share is, "What's in Your Purse?" Believe it or not there are many things in our purse that we can use to protect ourselves. Take a look at the 3 minute video below to see how to use your lipstick as a weapon :-)

One of My Greatest Discoveries by Brook Eneas

2012-09-18T21:02:00.000-04:00

One of the most challenging times in my life was right out of college where for the very first time in my life, I was faced with “me.” Here I was single, educated and confused and trying to figure out who I was seemed nearly impossible in a world that could really care less.

It was during this time that I cried the most and prayed the hardest.

It was during this time that I realized that I was carrying hurt from my past that had been hidden from plain sight.

It was during this time that I came to grips with some of my fears, character flaws, idiosyncrasies and gifts.

It was during this time that I surrendered.

As a mother, I have come to really appreciate that time in my life because it has served as a foundation for me personally and especially my household. It helped me to prioritize the things that are most important to me, shifted my perspective on my value and it placed me on a different path toward my destiny. Over the past decade, I have spoken to countless girls and women about self-discovery only to realize that there are only a few who have really taken time to know themselves. Many women are stuck in careers that they hate, in marriages where they feel alone, and in circles where they wear masks. Teenage girls are searching for themselves too but often times get caught up in the “rebelling/exploring” cycle, the “good girl” cycle, or the “vanity” cycle all the while struggling to really figure out who they are.

While self-discovery is a life long journey, it starts with a single step. Making time to be alone in the presence of God is one of the greatest things we as moms can do. Ultimately, He is the only one who really knows you simply because He made you. Challenge yourself to endure through this time of exploration because not only will it benefit you, but everyone around you. It’s time for you to discover the greatest you ever.

Brook Marie Eneas @dgiinspired, has an uncommon gift to inspire women and girlsto live their dreams through her passion as a life coach, fitness coachand motivational speaker. www.dgiinspired.com

A lesson learned from my Mommy/Daughter Day

2012-09-15T19:44:00.001-04:00

Today it was just me and the little one. My five year old princess,Amari ans I traveled through four states today. We watched birds, marveled at the shapes and caves some fallen trees had made and finished it off with some ice cream.

Initially, this was supposed to be a pamper me day, but I am so glad I chose to skip the "me" day and spend it with my princess.

Let me be very honest, Amari is the baby of the family and she is spoiled by EVERYONE. She is the child that tends to be the most challenging because she is very vocal about what she wants and what she believes is right..,, whether she really is right or not. However today she was an absolute dream.

As always I find myself learning from my children. Today we happened to pass a playground in our travels and she jumped right in playing with the children, quickly making friends. At first I was nervous about letting her run around by herself and walked around the swings and slide with her. Just as I was getting ready to follow her to another toy she looked at me and said "Mommy, you can go and sit down."

It wasn't rude, as a matter of fact it said in a comforting tone that let me know I COULD and NEEDED to let her go just a little bit.

So I did what she asked... I sat down at the table she had pointed out. It within the fenced in playground, and was close by. I sat there and slowly let her grow up... Only a little bit though I still had a very watchful eye on her lol.

The lesson for the day was learn when to let go.... Just a little :-)

My first day as a coupon queen!

2012-09-13T10:06:00.004-04:00

I can't really say why I never took advantage of those little pieces of paper called coupons, but I had an epiphany last week. Last week I decided to start clipping coupons. I will be honest it was overwhelming at first...there are just so many out there!

Making my Menu

So I went to a site called The Krazy Coupon Lady (www.thekrazycouponlady.com) and my addiction began to bloom from there.

I am still learning but I finally decided to make a menu for the rest of the month and go from there. For example, I knew I wanted to grab some snacks like Fruit Roll Ups and Little Debbie snacks for my kids, so I decided to look up coupons for specific items. At the end of it all I saved $50 at the store!
I can't wait to keep learning how to coupon and bust my grocery bill!

Make Up Your Face in Five Minutes!

2012-09-11T11:06:00.002-04:00

I don't claim to be a make up artist, but I have picked up some tricks of the trade along the way with doing pageants and such. I find that though I love applying make up, sometimes running behind four children tends to put makeup on the back burner

Over the years I've learned that if you concentrate on your Eyes, Lips, and Cheeks, you will be good to go. This will not only add a little glamour to your life, but it will also give a natural look and glow to your overall look.
Gather a Few Items:

Foundation
Moisturizing Lotion (that you can apply to your face...scented lotions may be an irritant to your skin)
Eyeliner (in the video I use a Gel liner)
Mascara
Blush
Bronzer
Lip Gloss
Lip Stick (A few shades lighter than your lips for a nude look)

Watch this quick 'How To Video" for getting glam in five minutes!

Child's death prompts recall of window blinds

2012-09-10T17:38:00.004-04:00

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in conjunction with Blind Xpress of Livonia, Michigan, have recalled approximately 139,000 custom made vertical blinds and 315,000 horizontal blinds. Therecall was issued due to the death of a two-year old girl from Commerce Township, Michigan. The death happened in 2009 when the toddler was strangled in the loop of the vertical blind cord that was not attached to the wall or floor.

Though it has been three years since the toddler’s death, the recall was determined to be the best course of action. According to the CPSC report, “Blind Xpress custom vertical blinds have an adjustment cord that forms a loop that is not attached to the wall or floor. In some instances, this loop has a weighted device at the bottom. The custom horizontal blinds do not have inner cord stop devices to prevent the accessible inner cords from being pulled out. A child can become entangled in a cord loop and strangle.”

The blinds were sold at various blind specialty stores in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana from January 1995 through December 2011 for between $16 and $380. Consumers are being urged consumers to immediately stop using the window coverings and contact the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) to receive a free repair kit. For more information, contact the WCSC toll-free at (800) 506-4636 anytime or visit www.windowcoverings.org. View the full recall on the CPSC's website:www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml12/12273.html.

See this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/child-s-death-prompts-recall-of-window-blinds?cid=db_articles

Halle Berry wows on the Red Carpet Toronto Film Festival

2012-09-10T10:22:00.001-04:00

Stiletto Mommy, Halle Berry was seen at the Toronto Film Festival for the premiere of her new film, "Cloud Atlas." Berry stunned the crowd in a figure-hugging Roberto Cavalli Suit and Sheer Top with a black lace bra underneath.

Berry receives 5 Stilettos from us at Motherhood in Stilettos. We understand that everyone wouldn't wear the outfit, but it is so rocker chic given the right time and place, and it takes a HAUTE mamma to rock this outfit...not to mention you can see that she is still in great shape.

Moms can opt to recreate this look by going with a form fitted suit, sheer top, and maybe add a camisole if you are uncomfortable with showing your bra.

Dixie Chicks' Emily Robison welcomes fourth child

2012-09-07T13:21:00.003-04:00

Dixie Chicks' Emily Robison gave birth to her fourth child on Tuesday, September 4th at 3:01 a.m. Baby girl Violet Isabel Strayer weighed in at 8.5 pounds. 40-year-old Robison is also mom to twins Juliana Tex and Henry Benjamin, age 7, and son Charles Augustus, age 9. The children are from her marriage to ex-husband Charlie Robison.

A representative for Robinson told US Magazine, “Mom and baby Violet are doing well and Dad couldn’t be happier.”

Violet Isabel Strayer is the first child together for Robison and her boyfriend Martin Strayer. Martin Strayer is the guitarist for Court Yard Hounds, a country music duo founded by Robison and sister and Dixie Chicks’ member, Martie Maguire. The band was formed during a hiatus from Dixie Chicks.

The Dixie Chicks are the highest selling female group in any genre. They are the only country group in history and the only female group of any genre to earn back-to-back Diamond Awards signifying 10 million in record sales. For more information about the Dixie Chicks log onto: www.dixiechicks.com

Read this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/dixie-chicks-emily-robison-welcomes-fourth-child

Jessica Simpson uses her battle with weight to inspire all women

2012-09-07T13:16:00.000-04:00

Jessica Simpson is used to being scrutinized for her body. The singer-fashion mogul recently revealed in an interview with USA Today that her baby weight hasn’t just fallen off like many women experience. "I let myself indulge in everything I wanted because it was the first time I was ever pregnant,” Simpson said. “I wanted to enjoy it. I wanted to be happy and eat what I wanted."

Simpson gave birth to her daughter, Maxwell Drew on May 1, 2012. In March, Simpson had given information that she was already 170 pounds, with the birth of her daughter she was faced with the task of dropping weight, “I didn’t realize it didn’t all come off with the baby.”

Simpson signed a $4 million deal with Weight Watchers to be their spokesperson and help her shed the extra baby pounds. The first commercial will air next week around the same time as her September 10, 2012, interview with Katie Couric. Simpson will be revealing her post-pregnancy figure on Couric's new show.

READ MY ARTICLE ON THE EXAMINER: http://www.examiner.com/article/jessica-simpson-uses-her-battle-with-weight-to-inspire-all-women

For those who may be skeptical of the success of Weight Watchers, Simpson told USA Today, “I’ve lost weight every single week." Simpson is eating well but let the world know, “I don’t believe in completely depriving myself.”

Simpson also spoke about how she shed the pounds with Weight Watchers. When she first started Weight Watchers, she allowed herself 34 points a day (for example, fresh fruits and vegetables count as zero points), but after weaning Maxwell off breastfeeding, she's now down to 28 points.
Simpson still allows for sweet treats in her life,"I'm a woman who wants her chocolate," she says. "I allot myself a fun-size [bag of] M&Ms. I eat one of those, and my craving is satisfied. I don't need the whole bag of M&Ms."

In addition to eating a balanced diet Simpson also does 60 minutes of cardio each day. "My boobs are way too big to run at this point, I’m just walking.” According to her Pedometer she takes between 10,000 to 14,000 steps every day.

Lastly, Simpson sees what she is doing as being a role model for all women who may struggle with their weight. "I feel like everybody can do what I am doing. I'm not a supermodel. My body is not bouncing back like a supermodel. I'm just your everyday woman who is trying to feel good and be healthy for her daughter, her fiancé, and herself.”

Watch the Full Speech by First Lady Michelle Obama

2012-09-05T09:31:00.001-04:00

Last night, September 4, 2012, First Lady Michelle Obama gave a rousing speech at the Democratic National Convention. First Lady Obama entered the room to a standing ovation that lasted for more than a minute before she could begin.

First Lady Michelle Obama is a true Stiletto Mommy! Take a look:

Today is Your Day by Brooke Marie Eneas

2012-09-04T08:14:00.000-04:00

What’s really holding you back from living your best life? We tell our kids that they can be anything that they want to be when in reality many of us are not living up to our own potential and pursuing the wildest dreams that are secretly hidden in our hearts. We settle for less by thinking about all the reasons we “cannot” instead of thinking of the possibilities of why we “can”. What’s on your list of cannot? Is it that you don’t have enough time, money, energy, knowledge, or help? Or are you just simply afraid to step out and believe what really can be yours and the very thought of “walking on water” paralyzes you?

Listen, YOU were created to create. Everything you need is already in you.

What does not exist right now may be in your reach to develop. I have always been different—when others told me it wasn’t possible, it really was. When I didn’t necessarily qualify for the position, I was still promoted. When things didn’t exist, I created it. Here’s my bucket list of principles I used to design my life:

1. Understand that “greatness is a choice, not your destiny”. One of my favorite authors, Dr. Myles Munroe, stated this quote and it changed my life. While your purpose in life doesn’t change, it will require diligence, sweat equity and sacrifice to achieve it. Burn the midnight oil, turn off the television, and say hello to a new level of discipline.

2. Take stock of your past. Our childhood’s play a major role in the way that we perceive life and the way that we perceive ourselves. Allow your heart to heal from words said or deeds done to you that were unhealthy and make the lesson your servant. In addition, take the good things that you were taught early on in life and run with them.

3. Create a plan. Nothing spells failure like pursuing things prematurely. Do your research, talk to others in your field of study, create a budget, be accountable to others and just get started. Learn to celebrate small steps.

4. Believe in yourself. There is something great for you to offer to the world. Just think there are over 6.8 billion people in the world and no one has the same fingerprint as you. That is just how unique your contribution to the world will be.

Today is your day! It’s time for you to whisper to yourself that you can do it.

Brook Marie Eneas has an uncommon gift to inspire women and girls to live their dreams through her passion as a life coach, fitness coach and motivational speaker. www. thegenerationaleffect.com

Vicki Sarber is crowned Mrs. America 2012

2012-09-01T20:07:00.001-04:00

Tonight, 51 women competed for the title of Mrs. America at the Lowes Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona. Nearly two thousand viewers tuned into the three hour production on Livestream as Vicki Sarber (Alaska) captured the title of Mrs. America 2012.

The pageant was hosted by Florence Henderson from the iconic series, The Brady Bunch, and her daughter and actress, Barbara Chase. The duo kept the crowd laughing and entertained. After a high powered opening number LaHoma Caudill (California) was announced as Mrs. Congeniality, and Leah Bartos (New York) received the Publication Award.

The 51 contestants then competed in the costume competition and Michelle -Des Ormeaux- Merrill (Louisiana) was presented with the Most Whimsical Costume, the Most Original Costume was given to Vanassa Sebastian (Connecticut), and the Best Costume was awarded to Jamie Cherlan (Iowa).
The contestants then performed a unique Broadway style number where contestants danced in tuxedo jackets, canes, and black swimsuits. Danyele Gardner, (South Carolina) was presented with the first Carol Wior Swimsuit award. Vicki Sarber (Alaska) was presented with the Seacret award.

The Top 15 semi-finalists were announced: Kirin Christianson (Arizona) and Erin Piibor (Oregon), were voted into the semi-finalists by raising the most money for charity online. Laura "Stacey" Snee (Hawaii), Kristie Jelinsky (Nevada), Michelle Flake (Arkansas), Brandi Pope (Virginia), Bethany Sharp (Tennessee), Ali Carr (Minnesota), Vicki Sarber (Alaska), Jamie Cherlan (Iowa), Jessica Harvey (North Carolina), Juliet-Tietjen (Utah), Vanassa Sebastian (Connecticut), Leah Bartos (New York). The 15th finalist, Stephanie-Duffield (West Virginia) was chosen by a raffle.

After competing in Fitness and Evening Gown the 15 semi-finalists were narrowed down to the Top Six Finalists: Vicki Sarber (Alaska), Bethany Sharp (Tennessee), Juliet-Tietjen (Utah), Jamie Cherlan (Iowa), Laura "Stacey" Snee (Hawaii), and Jessica Harvey (North Carolina). The finalists were all given the same question to answer, "What do you want the judges to know about you that they don't already know?" Though all contestants heard the question at the same time, the order in which they answered was determined by drawing a number out of a fishbowl.

The Top Five were: Bethany Sharp (Tennessee), Fifth Runner-Up, Juliet-Tietjen (Utah), Fourth Runner-Up, Jamie Cherlan (Iowa), Third Runner-Up, Laura "Stacey" Snee (Hawaii), Second Runner-Up, and Jessica Harvey (North Carolina), First Runner Up.

For more information about the Mrs. America log onto: www.mrsamerica.com.

See this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/vicki-sarber-was-crowned-mrs-america-2012

Tori Spellng welcomes fourth child

2012-09-01T19:57:00.003-04:00

From torispelling.com

Tori Spelling and her husband, Dean McDemott welcomed their fourth child, a son, on Thursday, August 30, 2012, at 5:39 p.m. "We are so excited to announce the birth of the newest member of the McDermott family," Spelling wrote on her website. "Please join us in welcoming Finn Davey McDermott."

Finn entered the world weighing six pounds, six ounces and measuring 20 inches long. Baby Finn joins Hattie, along with Stella, age four, and big brother Liam, age five. McDemott, 44, also has a son from a previous marriage

The 39-year-old, Spelling, announced the pregnancy back in March when Hattie Margaret was just six months old. Though Spelling says that she is in love with pregnancy, she announed earlier this week on her site, ediTORIal, that this would probably be the last one.

In addition to balancing life as a mother and wife, Spelling is also the host of Craft Wars on TLC. Craft Wars airs every Tuesday at 8/7 Central. For more information about Tori Spelling and family, log onto: www.torispelling.com

See this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/tori-spelling-welcomes-fourth-child?cid=db_articles

Urban Outfitters New line of T-Shirts Promotes Drinking to Teens

2012-08-28T11:49:00.001-04:00

By Tamika Hall, Motherhood Examiner Column

Yahoo Shine Released information about Urban Outfitters’ new line of t-shirts with such slogans as “I Vote for Vodka” and “USA Drinking Team.” One of their models is a young woman who appears to be a teenager wearing a t-shirt with blurred out letters that reads, “I Drink You’re Cute.”

*Click Here to Read the Rest of My Article on the Examiner*

Glam on the Go for Stiletto Mommies!

2012-08-24T18:40:00.000-04:00

By Tiffany Jeffers, Beauty Expert

If you are a Mommy in Stilettos like me, then you know that looking like it sometimes can be a challenge! Between baby spit up, baby powder and other unmentionable items we have to deal with, our own grooming and beauty can be last on our list of things to do. However, it is extremely important to our health and sanity that we take at least 15 precious minutes each day to ourselves that are dedicated to making ourselves look and feel beautiful.

Now, that you have stopped chuckling, please know that I understand how daunting that task may be for you. But trust me, I have learned to fight for those moments and have even learned that my “Mommy Time” may not happen at the same time every day, however I have to be creative in making sure it happens for me…EVERY day! Why, because I deserve it…and so do you!

So, how do we make the most of our “Mommy Time?” Well, I will list a few tips that help me when I am able to grasp them…and each of these things take a few moments to do, so group them together as they fit for you!
1. This is an everyday thing…cleanse, tone and moisturize your skin. Your skin will thank you! The first place we show our age is on our face. So take the few moments and get your skin clean and fresh. Moisturizing the skin is important because each day you shed cells and your skin can become dull and dry. I like to use cleansers and moisturizers with little kicks in them like orange zest or caffeine even. These help me to feel more awake even if I have been up all night with the baby…or the two year old who sneaks in our bed.

2. Put on a little “face”. This is a quick and easy way to look fresh and feel that way too. Start with a great foundation. One that has SPF so that when you go outside, it will give you some protection from the sun. Then add a little shadow. I like to use something with gold in it because it gives my eyes a little pop and I don’t need to add anything more than that. Then just add a little mascara to open your eyes. The last step is a nice gloss to your lips. You won’t believe how doing just that can really brighten your face.

3. Paste a mantra on your mirror while you do this regimen and repeat it until you feel it! You can have it say something like “I am beautiful no matter what everything else looks like”. I say this…and then I ignore the piling laundry, pull on my pants that may be a bit snug still, carry my 2 year old and go on with my day! Nothing and no one is perfect, its all a work in progress, so don’t down yourself. As long as you feel beautiful, it will show and it will be contagious!

Remember ladies, its only 15 minutes, but it is valuable time that you need every day to STAY BEAUTIFUL!

Tiffany Jeffers has been a freelance make up artist for more than ten years. She is the CEO of Sylk Cosmetics located in Owings Mills, Maryland. Sylk Cosmetics carry their own line of cosmetics, have in house photography and host events. www.sylkcosmetics.us

Two Secrets to balancing Family, Fitness, & Healthy Living!

2012-08-24T18:19:00.000-04:00

By Ericka Denke, Fitness/Nutrition Coach

Want to know two Secrets to Keeping Your Kids Vibrant, Strong and Healthy? Well, it starts with you! Parents, wish you could change and lead a PROACTIVE, healthy lifestyle for yourself and your family? If you answered "yes," continue reading.

In this article, I will tell you 2 ways to incorporate healthy eating and an active lifestyle into your day; because America's weight is spinning out of control (we KNOW this!) But as parents, it is our responsibility to teach our children the do's and don’ts of caring for themselves, so it only makes sense that we start with the basics.

Tactic #1: Eat HEALTHY

Healthy eating means eating foods as close as possible to their natural state.

A natural, wholesome food WILL NOT contain these 3 ingredients:

High Fructose Corn Syrup
Artificial Ingredients (Colors, Flavors, Sugar)
Hydrogenated or Partially Hydrogenated Oils

These ingredients are found in processed foods. AVOID THEM LIKE THE PLAGUE, especially if you are trying to lose weight and want your family to stay healthy! Make going to the grocery store a fun game for your kids –call it “who can pick out the healthiest food”. How will you know? Read the food labels.

Need more help? Michis Ladder is not a diet, but a substitution plan. Take this sheet with you to the grocery store for guidance!

Tactic #2: Exercise 30 minutes 6x/week

I know – who has time for exercise? Well I say that putting exercise on the back burner is in the top 2 health, youth and energy destroyers. You need it, your body wants it, and your kids want to play. Try just 10 minutes a day working out in your own home with “10 Minute Trainer” by Tony Horton. Is that doable for you? Now ‘TIME’ cannot be your excuse! Otherwise, take those little kiddoz for a walk or a bike ride. This is amazing bonding time and what a great message you will be sending to your children!

Your health and fitness habits send messages to your children whether you like it or not! Parents, we need to be PROACTIVE and be that role model! Let's ‘End the Trend’ today by starting in our own household. Let's make a pact with ourselves to change bad habits into good habits, and set the example for our loved ones so they can lead a healthy, proactive life too. These things are important, right?

Ericka Denke is a new mom and Nutrition and Food Science Major at South Dakota State University for Dietetics. She is a Beachbody Fitness Coach. http://beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/erickadeneke#

Bangin' Baked Beans | Soul Food in Stilettos Kitchen

2012-08-23T10:58:00.003-04:00

Jazz up that boring can of Baked Beans with this very simple recipe. Special thanks to Stiletto Mommy, Tee Tunnell Harris for allowing me to film in her kitchen :-) Baked Beans are great with most meals. This dish was created for a family cook out and the taste was great with our grilled Turkey Burgers & Hot Dogs!!

Ingredients:

1 Can of Baked Beans (We used Busch's Vegetarian Baked Beans)
1/4 Cup Diced Onion
1/4 Cup Diced Green Bell Pepper
1 Tablespoon of Mustard
1 Tablespoon of Brown Sugar (We used Dark Brown Sugar but it doesn't matter)
1 Tablespoon of Sweet Relish

Directions: Combine all ingredients into your pot and let simmer for approximately 20 minutes. For best taste, serve hot.

Time Management for Single Mommies

2012-08-22T09:03:00.000-04:00

By Rosanna Cooper, Single Parenting Column

Who Has Time for That? This phrase is probably the one that spends the most time in a single parent’s head. For me, I’m not even talking about time to start a new business or get another degree. I’m referring to making up my bed before leaving the house in the morning.

Yesterday, I sent a follower request Twitter to a business owner in my office building. She sent a message stating I should come by some time. I responded I work in the building and often run into her at the Chinese restaurant during lunch. My mind immediately went back to a question my boyfriend asked me Saturday, “Did you ever find a new hair stylist?” At that moment, I realized the owner did not recognize me because the pictures on my Twitter and website were often not who she saw.

I went from always making sure my hair, make-up and clothes were always “perfect” for appearances to pulling my hair back into a pony tail happy to be walking out of the house in time. While I agree the way you look on the outside is not the most important thing in the world, looking good gives me extra energy and makes me feel even better to be the wonderful me that I am.

I would sit and list the things we all hear about how to be most effective with your time but I would rather be realistic. For instance, I often write off my to-do list and list them by priorities. Unfortunately, I never add things like eat dinner so I never make it to my list. By the time I get home from work, cook (or pick up) dinner, and spend a little time with my son, it is time to put him to bed. I lay down for a little while to relax and I fall asleep. Therefore, I’m proposing a new way to manage your time.

Enjoy life! – Life is short and time with your kids is even shorter. Take them to Chuck E. Cheese, get a lot of extra coins and play some of the games yourself. There are only parents there so no one will judge.
Make time for yourself. – If the other parent takes the child for any length at time, treat yourself before Spring Cleaning. If money is a concern, catch a matinee or go searching for treasures in the clearance section. You need to revitalize yourself in order to get through the daily challenges that are thrown your way as a parent
Breathe and Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff – We all screw up. I love making omelets, pancakes, and fresh fruit for breakfast but will admit to once letting my son eat popcorn. (I REALLY needed extra sleep.) We all make mistakes, often huge ones. If it won’t affect your child in the long run, cough it up to a learning experience. I enjoy making mistakes in front of my son and use them as teaching moments. Life isn’t about being perfect but taking sensible risk to obtain major rewards. If it doesn’t work out, learn from it and move on.

Rosanna Cooper is a single mother of one fabulous little boy. As Mrs. North Carolina Essence 2011, she went on a national tour sharing her story of living with Lupus.

Cheers to a New Beginning on LIfe!

2012-08-21T15:17:00.001-04:00

By Rosanna Cooper, Single Parenting Column

Happy New Year! You’re probably thinking this is an old article. But no, I’m writing this in August 2012, the beginning of the school year of most children in the country. This year is not only a new school year for us, but a new school as a whole. People often talk about the challenges kids face when starting a new school but I have never heard anyone talk about the challenges parents face.

My son, who is entering 2^nd grade, has been at the same school since he was 3 years old. Over the years, I have developed many friendships from field trips and classroom activities that later turned into lunches and late night talks. Those friendships helped me during my transition with my divorce. Now, I have to start from scratch. I went from being an officer in the PTO to a new member that does not know anyone. Despite this, I look forward to the adventure that lies ahead. Just as a new calendar year brings about the opportunity for a new beginning, I look forward to the new friendships I will forge.

Since this is my first Blog, you may be wondering why I decided to write. With all the free time that is afforded as a single parent, I had to find something to do with my time. (Notice the sarcasm.) But seriously, life as a single parent can be challenging at times. The things that occur in my life are often so ridiculous I just have to LOL (Laugh Out Loud) at myself, literally. I’ve been told that I am a funny person but I reply, "funny things just happen to me."

So I’m writing to let other single parents know that they are not along. I’m fortunate enough to have a tremendous support group with my family and friends, and ex-husband whose time with his son allows me some freedom. But for those who do not have that luxury, I hope to provide a place for them to feel normal, whatever that is, and ask any questions they may have. I may not have the “right” answer but I think I can provide a unique prospective.

Welcome aboard!

Overcoming Post-Partum Depression

2012-08-21T07:28:00.000-04:00

I released an article on Singer/Songwriter Alanis Morrisette who recently spoke openly with British Magazine about her experience with Post-Partum Depression. I silently suffered with this in 2007 with the birth of my daughter. Here is my experience with it:

Read my article on Alanis Morrisette: www.examiner.com/article/alanis-morrisette-talks-about-overcoming-post-partum-depression

Summer Cold, Lack of Sleep, and Kids...Oh My!

2012-08-16T13:32:00.002-04:00

I have been dealing with the worst Summer cold I have ever had...yikes! One day I was trying to get some sleep and my children kept interrupting my sleep with crazy issues like fighting over toys and the fact that one was starring at the other one. I promise I think one complained that it was Monday and not Tuesday...I'm just sayin.

Anyway, that day was the motivation for this latest video, "Can I get Some Sleep Please?"

Mommy & Me Classroom| Piano Class Lesson #1

2012-08-10T16:49:00.002-04:00

Tee Tunnell-Harris of The Keys Productions brings us her virtual piano class to Motherhood in Stilettos. This first lesson focuses finger placement and the C-Major Scale. So grab your computer, pull up to your piano or keyboard, and you and your child will begin to learn how to play the piano. Please leave a comment and let us know that you have been taking the classes and how you are progressing :-)

Tee Tunnell Harris, a native of Delaware, started playing the drums and singing at the age of 2. Her passion and skill for music landed her a scholarship at an HBCU in Houston, TX. Harris released her first album with her group 1Voice in 2004. Now an active Minister of Music at her church Light Outreach Fellowship Ministry, she teaches private vocal and music lessons. One of her most successful students…her three year old son who already plays the drums J

Find her online at www.thekeysproductions.com