Blog for Modern Single Moms

Creamy Divine Chicken Divan - Kansas City Motherhood | Examiner.com

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 23:36:00 +0000

You've gotta try my recipe for buys moms!

Creamy Divine Chicken Divan - Kansas City Motherhood | Examiner.com

Keeping Kids Safe in Kansas City's Soaring Temps

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 21:14:00 +0000

Keeping Kids Safe in Kansas City's Soaring Temps

Gift ideas for dad: What to get dad for Father's day

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:39:00 +0000

Gift ideas for dad: What to get dad for Father's day

Ages and Stages: healthy diet guidelines for kids

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:29:00 +0000

Ages and Stages: healthy diet guidelines for kids

Baby Einstein: still in the news

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:44:00 +0000

Baby Einstein: still in the news

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Great New Stuff!

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:11:00 +0000

Hi Moms!

Thanks to Allied Integrated Marketing in Kansas City, SHS has another opportunity to beat the winter doldrums and enjoy a free movie!

If you would like to see "Alvin and the Chipmunks" for free, call the SHS office or email Teri today!

Secondly, we have created a brand new online community at sistershelpingsisterskc.ning.com. It's amazing! You can have a email, chat, blog and talk to other KC moms - for free! We'll post information about community resources we access and more! Be sure to join today.

Finally, I've chatted with a few of you and I can hear that end of the year stress in your voices. Stay encouraged, Single Mom. Regardless of what you have endured this past year, your best years, relationships, career opportunities and blessings are a head of you - not behind you.

Good things are still happening. Allied's gift is proof of that! Be watchful for those "little" blessings to keep your hopes strong.

Keep your hope strong and remember the best is yet to come.

Beat the Holiday Blues, Single Mom!

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 15:55:00 +0000

There’s one surefire answer to battle the holiday blues. Your weapon is gratitude. I know it sounds overly simplistic but the best solutions in life usually are.

Inventory your blessings frequently and reject the tendency to focus on the negative. That will never produce anything encouraging in your life or your inner spirit. If in all things you are thankful, you’ll be surprised how your perspective will shift from what you don’t have to the wonderful, many things you do.

Here are 16 things you can be thankful for right now:

1. Your children and their giggles bring pleasure to your life.

2. If you have teens, be grateful that you raised them thus far.

3. You’re kids are grown? Do a little gig right now! What an accomplishment!

4. Do you have a supportive person in your life? Someone that has a smile and encouraging word regularly? That’s a blessing.

5. Do you have a place to live? It may not be your ideal situation, but it’s a piece of good fortune. Recognize it as such.

6. Are you breathing? I’m sure you are. Be happy about that!!!

7. Be thankful for the fact that you have enough strength to read this.

8. Is there a place that feeds your spirit? If so, celebrate that! If not, find one.

9. Do a set of wheels take you from one point of the city to another? It may be a car, bus, bike or friend’s automobile. Focus on the good.

10. Access to technology is another opportunity to be happy and thankful.

11. Did at least one good thing happen to you this past week? One?

12. Does someone else genuinely care about you or your kids? A neighbor, teacher or friend?

13. Does an old song still make you smile? (Mine is “I can make you dance” by Roger Troutman and Zapp)

14. Did you survive a situation that would have broken another woman in two? A divorce, abuse or rejection? Celebrate and be appreciative you overcame that!

15. Is there a guy in your past that you’re THRILLED is gone? Whew! Be happy!

16. Did you get a pleasant surprise this last year?

Could you be thankful for at least three items on the list? If so, you’re blessed beyond reason. There will be days that are so “heavy” that you’ll need a reminder of your blessings. On those days refer back to this list. Soon you’ll find yourself able to smile again and rejoice in the Holiday season – and every day that follows.

What's Going On?

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 06:31:00 +0000

For some moms, the meetings seemed to simply cease! For others, it's a sigh of relief since the weather has begun to turn frigid.

The conundrum is hosting the meetings for single moms that must rush from work, pick up their children from childcare; deliver them to a sitter; and come to Midtown for the meeting. SHS is comprised of single moms and former single moms and we understand how something as simple as a meeting can create a small amount of stress in the lives of some moms. For us, that seems counterproductive.

So, on the site, you'll see a new poll asking your opinion. Let us know what you want and what works best for you. Just know that we're still available for support, resources and even a free movie from time to time!

Let us know your thoughts...and Happy Holidays!

*To stay informed of local resources, join the mailing lists here!

Talk to your kids about sex

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:36:00 +0000

Talk to your kids about sex

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5 Tips for moms to de-clutter your world

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:17:00 +0000

5 Tips for moms to de-clutter your world

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Recall Alert: Children and Infants Tylenol

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Recall Alert: Children and Infants Tylenol

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Is too much homework stressing your kids?

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:23:00 +0000

Is too much homework stressing your kids?

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Dating Single Moms: Tips for Guys

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 01:05:00 +0000

Tips for Dating Single Moms

Sisters Helping Sisters.Org doesn’t get a lot of daddy visitors to the website, but from time to time we hear from a few. As a result, I thought it would be a good idea to feature some information men might find useful and info that would help single moms at the same time.

Dating as a single mother is one of the trickiest elements of raising kids on your own. There are no cookie-cutter approaches to the subject, but these tips might make the process easier for everyone involved. Guys will find these ideas particularly useful should they date a single mother. Go ahead and forward this to your male friends and family members! These tips might include some information difficult to say, but they need to hear.

Tip 1: Respect the multiple roles and facets of the single mother. The single mom you date may enjoy nice evenings on the town as she is able, but know that it took some planning and arranging for you to enjoy that time with her. Single moms can rarely spontaneously jump up and go on a date at a moment’s notice. She must put a lot of “ducks’ in a row to make that special moment. So respect her time, value her boundaries and make the evening extraordinary.

Tip 2: Don’t mislead her. Clearly, single moms are women, but they are also someone’s mother. Treat her with respect. If you’re not interested in a possible commitment or marriage, then you must tell her so she will know how to treat and interact with you. She doesn’t have time for games or weak wishy-washy men. So, initiate the conversation about your intentions and find out hers. If you guys define the relationship it lessens the possibility of misunderstandings that will distract or hurt her later.

By the same token, don’t assume that she is looking for an instant husband –just because she has kids. She may not view you or need you that way.

Tip 3: Children are fragile little beings. Be careful about meeting her kids. The last thing kids need is a string of men in and out of their lives. Unless you are interested in being a stable part of their lives, there’s little reason for you to meet them.

Tip 4: A single mother doesn’t need booty calls. In my experience as a single mom, sex before marriage only clouded and muddied relationships. My faith empowered me to make good decisions about my body so I didn’t continually fall into situations that inhibited my ability to parent well.

If you are dating a single mom and you love her; then wait for her. If you love her enough to be physical then step up like a real man: wait for sex and then progress toward a real commitment that involves a preacher and a ring.

Back to the Moms. Men of integrity are a blessing and they still exist! I can attest to that. However, he did not come overnight. I went though a string of nutmos. But the good ones are out there, ladies.

Single moms, set emotional boundaries to protect you and your children. It’s also time for men to exhibit integrity and conduct themselves sensibly and reasonably in dating relationships. The number one benefactors will be the children.

Lose that Belly Fat, Mom!

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:00:00 +0000

For many moms, the tummy area seems to have a fat-attracting magnet! Mid-section pooches are the toughest to lose because of reduced elasticity and muscle tone as a result of pregnancy. Most experts agree that it’s almost impossible for you to return to your pre-pregnancy washboard belly. But don’t despair; you can shrink fatty tissue to get a bit closer to your ideal tummy.

Cardio is a mommy-must!

Cardio is basically any exercise that raises your heart rate and gets you “winded”. Such movements burn fat and build endurance. Examples include: running, walking (really quickly), jumping and the like.

Did you know tummy-reducing exercises are somewhat useless without some cardio? You need that cardio to burn away the fatty layer hiding the muscles you want to showcase. A great workout tool – that won’t make you cry for an ambulance– is Leslie Sansone’s “Walk Away the Pounds” series. You can get it at Walmart or Target for about fifteen bucks. Leslie's moves are easy and require no rhythm or fancy techniques! Buy online below at Amazon for a bit less.

Cut the Carbohydrates

You simply must reduce your sugar intake to lose your tummy fat. Sugar lurks in processed foods such as white breads, white rice and even crackers! Once that processed food hits your tummy it turns into sugar. Sugar turns to fat – sometimes congregating around your mid-section. Understand belly fat? Check out the video featuring Dr. Mehmet Oz.

A low-carb diet like the South Beach is a quick way to get rid of belly fat – but it’s far from easy. Here’s why: according to “The South Beach Diet” by Arthur Agatston, your body develops a sugar addition making you crave more and more “fixes”. During phase one you quit sugar “cold turkey” and lose some inches, but you also may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches. The good news is after your detox period, you’re less likely to crave sugar and should be free of it’s wicked, evil power forever!

Track those calories

Take advantage of free online tools to track your caloric intake. Try The Daily Plate or The Calorie Counter for some great tools! Dr. Ian Smith’s health challenge is also free and offers great resources.

Whichever course of action you choose to banish those mommie pounds, make sure you include cardio, limit your sugar and sweets and track what you eat. Soon you’ll be the size you want and a lot healthier to boot!

Access Resources Online:

Stress and the Single Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 23:06:00 +0000

Thanks to Juanita Bartel for speaking to Kansas City single moms on Monday, August 31st at the Plaza Library. She shared practical insights on what stress is, how to manage it and some simple physical exercises to relieve it.

We also completed an assessment to gauge our feelings about our stresses and how to link our behaviors to core issues.

Thanks again to Juanita for taking time from her busy schedule to spend an evening with some dynamic single mommies!

Winners of give-a-ways were Cheryle, Keesha and Wilma! We love ya, guys!

School District Websites in the Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas Areas

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:45:00 +0000

As you're getting ready to transition your children to school, you'll have questions. Visit your child's school district website to learn information about start times, school supply lists and faculty details. If your school's site isn't listed, feel free to add it to the comments section for other parents.

Missouri School Districts

Kansas City, Missouri School District (includes school supply lists and more)
http://www2.kcmsd.net/Pages/default.aspx

North Kansas City Schools
http://www.nkcsd.k12.mo.us/

Belton School District
http://www.beltonschools.k12.mo.us

Blue Sprints School District
http://www.bluesprings-schools.net

Center School District
http://www.center.k12.mo.us

Grandview School District
http://www.csd4.k12.mo.us/

Hickman Mills School District
http://schoolweb.missouri.edu/hickman.k12.mo.us/

Independence School District
http://www.indep.k12.mo.us/

Lee’s Summit
http://www.leesummit.k12.mo.us/

Park Hill School District
http://www.parkhill.k12.mo.us/

Platte County School District
http://pcr3pirates.org/nav1-10-04/

Raytown School District
http://www.raytown.k12.mo.us/

Smithville School District
http://www.smithville.k12.mo.us/

Kansas School Districts

Blue Valley School District
http://www.bluevalleyk12schools.org/

Bonner Springs School District
http://usd204.net/education/district/district.php?sectionid=1

Olathe School District
www.olathe.k12.ks.us/

Piper School District
www.piperschools.com/

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools
http:// www.kckps.org/

Shawnee Mission School District
http://www.smsd.org/

Turner School District
http://www.turnerusd202.org/

Dads Play An Important Role in Kid’s Lives

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 20:33:00 +0000

Last evening, CNN ran a feature hosted by Roland Martin and Soledad O’Brien called “Reclaiming the Dream”. I must admit that I didn’t view the entire episode, but I was impressed by the profile about Steve Harvey’s youth program. Before I tell you why, let me first say I have never been counted among Steve Harvey’s fan base. Nothing personal against him, it’s just that his humor never appealed to me, but my pre-teen son loved him. You couldn’t pay me to listen to his show or watch his re-runs.

That is until last evening.

The CNN special spotlighted Harvey’s weekend camp for boys called “How-to-be-a-man school” Don’t be fooled. The curious title intentionally reflects Harvey’s comedic flair, but it’s nothing to scoff at. The camp is actually a clandestine mentoring opportunity for young boys from single mom homes. While enjoying camp, young boys learn life lessons most commonly taught by dads. In one scene, a little guy is taught to tie a necktie while being compassionately coached by an African-American male. The moment is touching and inspiring.

New position: I love Steve Harvey!!!

Through the years, I received tons of emails from dads accusing Sisters Helping Sisters of ignoring their plight in the child-rearing process. Nothing could be further from the truth! Here’s the skinny: Sisters Helping Sisters supports and empowers single moms to reach their fullest personal potential so that they can raise healthy, strong young people. The goals and the mission are clear and succinct - moms. SHS does not in any way malign the needs or contributions of dads.

As a result of the Steve Harvey feature on CNN, we take this opportunity to salute them. Fathers play a huge role in the healthy development of kids. The most unselfish and magnanimous gift you can give your child is allow their dad to be a part of their life. Whether or not they pay child support, regardless of how they disappointed you relationally, the kids need dad. As long as no safety risks exist, you’ve got to encourage that relationship. Dad’s involvement can contribute to your children’s lives in a myriad of positive ways.

For instance, a University of Illinois study shows that the earlier dads are involved, the more likely they’ll interact as the child(ren) matures. If your children are small now, be sure to include dad in pediatrician, school visits and more. Believe me; you’ll need support from the child’s father as the child approaches [and during] the adolescent years. Further, your child’s sexual choices can be linked to that dad/child relationship.

A study from the same university says “the more attentive the dad — and the more he knows about his teenage child's friends — the bigger the impact on the teen's sexual behavior…” Although your role is important, the study shows that dad’s is “twice as influential”. Make room for daddy!

Letting some dads “in” is difficult, I admit that. I’ve been there. At times, I forgot it wasn’t about me, but about my son. Thankfully, I learned that lesson and his dad was a large part of his growing into the wonderful man he is today. After a while, when he disappeared from his life, we were blessed to have another great dad willingly step in to fill the void.

Bottom line: in spite of your ex’s role in the break-up, he’s essential to your child’s well-being.

So, on this day, at this moment, in response to Steve Harvey’s notable efforts, we salute and honor you, dad! Keep up the good work improving the lives of your children. They need you and truth be told, so do we. What do you think?

Watch video from CNN
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2009/black.in.america/

Visit Steve Harvey's Website
http://steveharvey.com/

Divorce May Widen Distance Between Teens, Fathers
http://www.physorg.com/news119098181.html

The Role of Fathers with Daughters and Sons
http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/stories/news4822.html

Devoted Dad Key to Reducing Risky Teen Sex
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31086977/

July: Great Single Mom Meeting!

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:02:00 +0000

What a great meeting!

Lynette Dewberry spends her days as a professional in the financial industry. But on last Thursday evening, she was an advocate for financial readiness in the lives of Kansas City single moms. Lynette generously took time from her busy schedule to share valuable insights to help single moms conquer money barriers in their lives.

Lynette Tip: Careful of Emotional Spending

Emotional spending is part of most everyone’s life. Emotions play a significant role in our interactions, relationships and parenting styles. In their proper context, emotions contribute to the excitement and spontaneity of life. In extremes, the same emotions can contribute to mayhem and chaos, especially in our finances. Lynette encouraged single moms to think critically about emotional purchases to avoid creating problems later.

Lynette Tip: Give and You’ll Get

The law of attraction is an often overlooked principle of life. Lynette reminded us that the more we give, the more we receive. She also modeled this spiritual truth by giving amazing gifts to moms at the meeting. A beautiful jewelry set and a few sets of movie tickets were among the give-a-way items at the Sisters Helping Sisters Single Mom Empowerment Group.

Thank you, Lynette, for providing practical, useful tips and advice at the Plaza Library. Because of you, we are all better able to track spending trends, develop savings strategies and plan for future financial security.

We appreciate you for donating your personal time and resources. We will see you again soon!

Visit Lynette's website

"10 Money Tips from Mom"
"Tips from Healthy, Wealthy Moms"

Post your favorite money-management resources!

Salmonella lettuce recall: Be safe and knowledgable

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:10:00 +0000

Salmonella lettuce recall: Be safe and knowledgable

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Moms Need Friends Too: Identifying Your Own Personal Support Group

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 03:11:00 +0000

Moms Need Friends Too: Identifying Your Own Personal Support Group

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Ideas for Time With Your Teens

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:27:00 +0000

Spending time away - from home - with your teenager promotes strong relationships and open communication. Research-based sources validate the significance of your involvement in your teen’s day to day life. You can easily utilize “together” moments as opportunities to convey your values and expectations about sex, drugs and other risky behaviors. As you spend time with your kids, you can actually position yourself as the “safe” person for advice and ongoing support.

Kansas City offers countless opportunities for low-cost fun with your young person. Take advantage of the City’s resources to create “mindless” and almost effortless time to just enjoy one another. Many parents mistakenly wait until their teen is in crisis to develop close interpersonal relationships. It’s often too late at that point. Instead, spend small, but frequent, increments of time with your teen on a regular basis. They may act as though they don’t like it, but they will thank you for the memories later in life.

Here are some cost-free ideas to “hang out” with your teenager:

• Visit the lush, multi-colored Kauffman Memorial Gardens off of Rockhill for a peaceful mini-retreat.
• Take snacks to Shawnee Mission Park and gaze at the rippling water from the gazebo.
• Leisurely take in the greenery at Loose Park.
• Introduce your kids to the excitement of City Market on a Saturday morning – loads of fun and plenty of conversation starters!
• Read the same book or magazine article and walk the Country Club Plaza while discussing it.

As you can see, spending time with your teen doesn’t have to break the bank. Nor will it take hours and hours of time. In reality, frequency is more importance than duration. Recurrent chunks of bonding time demonstrate your commitment to your teen’s interest and them as a person. The end result will be a strong, trusting relationship that propels your teenager toward self-confidence and a sense of belonging. In fact, my teen gripes when I suggest we hang out. But just the other day he said he enjoys our time together. Go figure.

Any other ideas of how we can enjoy our teens?

Useful Links:

Things to do with your teen

Kauffman Memorial Garden

For more links visit Teri Kansas City Examiner articles here.

Manners Aside: Survival for Moms

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:39:00 +0000

Have you ever noticed when you travel by plane, the very minute the plane is in the air and you are relaxed in your seat that the flight attendant comes with along with the “in case of emergency” lecture? Frankly, I roll my eyes when I see him or her positioning in the aisle. I usually don’t care about the exits or how to use the oxygen masks. I generally just want to sit undisturbed until my graham crackers [or peanuts] arrive.

But they come with their spiel anyway.

You know the speech, it’s something like this: “in the event of trouble, affix your own oxygen mask before helping others with theirs”. The first time I heard this demonstration, I thought “hmmm…that it seems kinda rude.” Shouldn’t I help others first? The answer is a resounding NO! Why you ask. The answer is simple: the flight attendant is talking about [your and other's] survival not the social registry.

As a young mom, I was surprisingly aware of the link between effective parenting and my personal well-being. My son needed me and relied on me. I loved him, so I wanted to be physically and emotionally healthy for him. Whenever I did slack in my self care, my mom swiftly reminded me: “Teri, you are no good to anyone else if you don’t take care of yourself first.” My mom was just talking about me taking vitamins, but I saw other life applications to her advice. As a result, I incorporated “little” self-care rituals into my daily routine. For instance, in the morning I would purposely wake up before my son, Benji, to do something I wanted to do. I’d use the time to journal, experiment with hairstyles or just paint my nails.

I found it helpful to do the same in the evenings. After a stressful day at work, I desperately needed to de-compress. So when my son was older, I allowed myself five minutes “me” time before I started dinner. It is amazing what five minutes could do for my mind and spirit. I often would just sit on the floor and stretch out the kinks of the day. It felt great! Other times, I’d slather on one of my favorite scented lotions before I headed to the kitchen to prepare a quick meal. My son must have thought I smelled like a giant vanilla bean or pomegranate when I came out of the room, but I didn’t care. Those simple gestures reminded me of my worth and significance.

Just as in the flight analogy, you must take are of yourself before you can competently care of anyone else – including your kids. It may “feel” selfish initially, but when you integrate balance, it’s anything but selfish! It’s absolutely necessary. We’re talking your physical and emotional survival.

Remember this: extreme self-compromising behaviors send unhealthy messages to your kids. Self care for you – as a parent - is an important part of a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle. That’s a great lesson to learn early in life.

Take care of yourself. In doing so, you’ll be providing your children the best care imaginable. Check out these sites for more tips:

"31 Ways to Relax in 10 Minutes or Less"
"100 Ways to Relax, Unwind and Loosen Up"
"8 Simple Ways to Relax"

I love Rodney Lee with Gaim. I have his Yoga tape "Yoga for Beginners".

Special note: As I penned this blog entry, I remembered that I hadn’t eaten a good meal the entire day! So, I left my laptop and took care of me. All lessons in life need a little reinforcement from time to time. What a great reminder for myself as well!

How Single Moms Are Like Al Pacino

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 17:06:00 +0000

How are you like Al Pacino?

Last week, I watched one of my favorite movies “Carlito’s Way” starring Al Pacino. In the film, Pacino portrays a newly reformed and newly released gangster determined to abstain from the deadly influences of the ghetto streets. He was released from prison on some legal technicality. He viewed his release as a perfect opportunity to make a clean start.

How you are like the Al Pacino character, you ask? Patience, I’m getting there.

During one of my favorite scenes, Carlito stands on a rainy corner of a gloomy street watching his beloved Gail dance inside a studio. She is completely unaware that he is there – or out of prison for that matter. The camera zooms in on Pacino’s face. Pacino was captivated by this woman he has not seen in many years. Enormous raindrops pounced on him until he was dripping wet.

Then Carlito did something intriguing.

He noticed a few aluminum garbage cans lining the dark, lonely curb. Suddenly, he reaches over, swipes a lid and holds it over his head to shield him from the rain as he watched Gail’s flowing ballet movements. From a sociological perspective it was a fascinating action. A garbage can lid is something that most people would not see as a resource for anything other than covering the stench of decaying trash. Nonetheless, it was right there - sitting, waiting and ready to serve a new and creative purpose for Carlito. Carlito was a gangster, a survivor in the most primal sense of the word. A survivor uses whatever is available to them to be okay, to survive and to succeed.

As a single mom, you are what Carlito is in the film – a survivor. When you are trying to survive, you grab whatever you can to ensure that your [and your children’s] needs are met. You take full advantage of every possible resource to stay strong. You become creatively practical.

What resources are you overlooking that may be of great benefit to you? Is it a small business idea that could render extra cash for your family? Is it a college degree that might increase your earning potential? How about your faith? Are you making the best possible use of your faith to encourage you during the hard times? Do you pray? Are you reading scripture for strength and reinforcement?

Your over-looked resource could also be people. People can be great resources. Communicate your needs and goals to trusted individuals. You never know, they may be able to help you. Don’t underestimate people’s knowledge areas, networking connections or wisdom. Quite possibly, your buddy at work may be related to the head of a human resources division. Perhaps, your cousin knows someone that could help you go back to college. Your quiet elderly neighbor may know of a great babysitter for your kids! The possibilities are endless. Just cast your bread upon the waters and see what happens.

Ah-Choo...Be Careful, Not Crazy

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Fri, 01 May 2009 01:51:00 +0000

As you well know, the Swine Flu is raising a great deal of concern in the news. I’m glad information about it is surfacing so that I can protect myself and my family. It is good to be educated and knowledgeable. However, the media is teetering on the line between educating us and scaring us to the point of manic distraction. Aside from the flu, a lot of folks in my social circle are enduring colds and allergies. In fact, as I pen this blog entry, I am in bed with a nasty case of bronchitis. My soupy cough is the result of a lingering sinus infection. Go figure. Anyhoo, I went to the doc a few days ago where I was diagnosed, treated and at peace with my path to wellness…that is until I began watching television today.

A self-proclaimed news junkie, I am spending my “sick in bed” time watching the twenty-four hour news networks. I love the developing political stories and pundits spouting their opinions. But surprisingly, politics is not as much in the news as the Swine Flu! It’s shocking that almost every news station is discussing the flu in one form or another. Each segment, each interview gets scarier and more alarming that the first. Slowly my peace of mind [about my own cough] begins to dwindle. “Do I have it?” Thankfully, sanity prevails over panic and I remember that I simply have is a sinus infection and a little bronchitis. That’s it! No need for a masks or quarantine just yet!

As you know, when it comes to the press, you’ve got to take the meat and leave the bones. If not careful, you can easily become paranoid after hearing stories of economic troubles, murders and yes, flu outbreaks. In this latest case of the Bird Flu…I mean the Swine Flu… professionals advise to basically wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when coughing and stay home if when sick with fevers, sore throats and coughs. Oh yeah, the president says to wash your hands after you shake. That wouldn’t go over so well in my world, but good advice.

For more information, check out CNN’s FAQ at http://pagingdrgupta.blogs.cnn.com/2009/04/27/cnn-answers-your-faqs-on-swine-flu/

Saving Some Doe!

noreply@blogger.com (Godsy Girl(TM)) — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 00:53:00 +0000

Now days, everyone is shopping for a bargain – especially many single moms in need of stretching each dollar to it’s fullest potential. I have always admired those women that know exactly when to shop and how to get a bargain even during the toughest economic times. I’ve asked around and here’s what some of the consumer geniuses told me.

Get ready to shop for your winter items.
Because we are somewhat “in-between” seasons, all of the winter items are not as low as they will be in about a month or so. So, start watching the clearance racks now for items you will likely need come October and November (coats, sweaters, hats, gloves, etc.). Also, buy a size or two up for your kid’s winter clothes. That way you are sure to have items that will fit them when Jack Frost arrives. Great article: http://www.finweb.com/financial-planning/shopping-for-clothes-in-the-off-season.html

Food Items
This just depends. You have to watch the advertisement flyers so that you may compare. If you’re in Kansas City, Apple Market doubles your coupons – look for other stores that do likewise. Also, many swear by shopping on Wednesdays when the sales are fresh and items are just displayed. For more food shopping tips for healthy items, check out http://kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/nutrition/grocery_shopping.html

Coupon Craze
I have never been the best at collecting coupons. I just never knew how to organize them without buy another “something” for my already cluttered life. However, I really love the concept of digital or online coupons. You can search for them when you need them and print them right from your computer. SmartMoney.Com makes some recommendations of the best online coupon sites. View them here: http://www.smartmoney.com/spending/deals/5-best-coupon-clipping-web-sites-23634/

Check out the CBS segment about online coupons!

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