Being present in time

Being present & giving my Aunt undivided attention

 Lately I've been very reflective and thankful for all my experiences. I'm enjoying living for today and being present in time with those I love. Our lives become so busy and hectic that we tend to go through the motions and the schedules and exist rather than live. We always have 'somewhere to be or something to do'. Are we connecting? Are we present? Are we wasting precious time?

Since losing my dad a few years ago, I've grown to appreciate time. However, I'm also guilty of being wrapped up in the busyness of life. There are days when I plan stuff for my 5 year old and he would sometimes respond that he'd like to just stay at home with me. I'm learning to stop and be present with my son. There's no time like the present and I know for sure that I would never regain these years with him. I am becoming a person who lives for today as I embrace my life in the now! I love my life and enjoy sharing it with everyone.

I've learned to spend quiet time and be present with myself as I talk with my God. I spend time with my hubby and kids and other members of my family and friends.  I even make time for strangers who eventually become friends. Giving your time to those you love is precious and rewarding. Be present when you spend time with others. Give them your undivided attention. Too many times I've been with others while thinking what's next on my agenda. As I continue to practice being present, appreciating time and living in the now, I invite you to do the same. We may not perfect the art, but at least we are willing to do our best to spend quality time with those we love and be present in their presence.

Appreciate the time you spend with your loved ones, be present, be balanced and embrace your journey now.

Single moms.....a new type of superhero!

Raising children is a challenging undertaking. Raising children alone appears to be the job of a superhero! There were times in my past when I've said that I felt like a single parent. I apologize for that statement because I do not have a clue what that is like. I might have had a little more juggling than my husband, but I was ever alone.

The single mothers that I know are strong, hard working and dedicated to their children's success. I admire their devotion and committment as they parent alone. It is important that all mothers support each other. As moms we need to encourage, uplift and support each other on our journey...and that includes single moms.

Ways in which you can reach out to the single moms in your life:

• Offer to take her kid(s) for a couple hours

This allows mom to do whatever she likes for a couple hours....chances are it'll be laundry. At least she'll be doing it alone.

• Assist her with carpool (school & activities)

Mom might be running late or unable to leave the office. Knowing that a friend is picking her child up will place her mind at ease.....at least for the first 15mins.

• Arrange a babysitter for her and take her out for an evening of fun

Every mom needs adult time and interaction away from work. Getting mom to 'let her hair down' could help her get her groove back!

• Ask her how you can help her

Even though we may have ideas on how to help, the best way is to sometimes ask. This way you'll be more effective and create an impact.

• Email her an inspirational quote

Sending inspirational messages can uplift a person's day (moms are no exception). Send her a note and make her day! The note you send her could motivate her to get through a tough day.

• Give her a call to check in with her

Giving your single mom a call is always the best form of contact. Allow her to vent, cry and laugh. Afterall....what are friends for? Never let life get in the way of friendship. Never be too busy to listen.

As you navigate through this journey of motherhood, remember to be kind and show love and support to those who are in need. Be supportive, be uplifting and embrace your journey!

"In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love" - Mother Teresa