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Table of Content Pg.4- I Rise Pg.6- Tsahi Alexander Pg.7- MyRecipe4Life Pg.8- How to Nurture Your Love Pg.9- Charming Jewelry Box Pg.10- TMonique Naturals Pg.13- For Daughter, From Mother Pg.16- Meet Laren McDonald Pg.18- Norma Groves-McElroy Pg.19- Norma’s Bath and Body Pg.22- Meet Tiara Williams Pg.23- Primerica
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Super Mom Mom, you're a wonderful mother, So gentle, yet so strong. The many ways you show you care Always make me feel I belong. You're patient when I'm foolish; You give guidance when I ask; It seems you can do most anything; You're the master of every task. You're a dependable source of comfort; You're my cushion when I fall. You help in times of trouble; You support me whenever I call.
I love you more than you know; You have my total respect. If I had my choice of mothers, You'd be the one I'd select! By Joanna Fuchs 3
You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may tread me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise. Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? ‘Cause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room. Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I’ll rise. Did you want to see me broken? Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops. Weakened by my soulful cries. Does my haughtiness offend you? Don’t you take it awful hard ‘Cause I laugh like I’ve got gold mines Diggin’ in my own back yard. You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise. Does my sexiness upset you? Does it come as a surprise That I dance like I’ve got diamonds At the meeting of my thighs?
I Rise
Out of the huts of history’s shame I rise Up from a past that’s rooted in pain I rise I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide, Welling and swelling I bear in the tide. Leaving behind nights of terror and fear I rise Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear I rise Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise I rise I rise
-Maya Angelou 4
NOT THE TRADITIONAL
MAGAZINE. IT IS THE MAGAZINE FOR SMALL BUSINESS &
ENTREPRENEURS.
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y name is Tsahi Alexander. I am a mother of a 17year-old son and 24-year-old daughter who recently graduated from SUNY Buffalo State. I am a private chef and event manager. I am the owner and operator of Myrecipe4life LLC. I am also an Independent Travel Ambassador for iBuumerang.
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If you read the comics, you’ll soon learn that superheroes have cornered the market on multi-tasking. A newspaper photographer by day becomes a flying strongman by night. A billionaire playboy moonlights as a crime-fighting bat.
imagine mylife own capacity for out motherhood: how hat do you get when you have foundI try theto love of your and you find that could I possibly add another thing to my already-hectic she has more secrets and more excuses than the Government? Do you pray and ask life?raised I mustyou say,toit’s challenge balancing God for clarity? Do you go to the streets that getathe answers? Do youmotherhood look and being an entrepreneur. But moms everywhere are through weary eyes filled with distrust, or do you follow your heart because love making it happen, simultaneously nurturing small conquers all….well this book is about to take you on that journey. businesses and their families– both 24/7 jobs. And they’re killing it. Two years ago, after many long days and nights of nurturing and working on branding, sauces, spice mixes, recipes and event planning, I was feeling stretched, tired and wishing I had more time to focus on my passions. I still work my day job in New York City. I was at the end of my rope and had nothing to lose. I started Myrecipe4life LLC and created a website for content and exposure. The inspiration? My children. I want to create a legacy that I can leave behind building generational wealth. At the time we’ve been living in Beacon, NY roughly 9 years and I still didn't know anyone here. I joined Mom’s blogs, farmer’s markets, business groups and in 2016 joined a local church New Vision Church of Deliverance to connect with God and the community. Myrecipe4life motto is Love, Peace and Soulfood. Do what is healthy for you and your family. On several occasions, I involve my family with my business ventures. It’s teamwork to make the dream work. Myrecipe4life hosts Women’s Empowerment events, Women’s Wellness Retreats, selling yummy food/merchandise at local Farmer’s Market, Pop Up shops, Gospel Festivals and so much more. The support of a loving and supportive fiancé eases some of stresses that come with being a multitasking Next Level Boss Lady. My beautiful family assists in all areas of my business especially the day of from set up, cashier, taste testers, break down, marketing, clean up and the overall smooth production of events. It’s a great way for us to bond, quality time and still handle business. Some of the best advice I can offer to other Mom’s in business is time is the most precious commodity. Find a balance, cut off when you have to, plan ahead and do as much as you can when you have downtime. Great support is essential, you can’t do it alone so don’t be afraid to ask for help. 6
Myrecipe4life LLC primary existence is to perfect the details tailored to our client's vision while alleviating the stress associated with creating an unforgettable extraordinary experience. Myrecipe4life, LLC isn’t your conventional chef and event management company we can assist you planning your occasion as well we produce and execute special events, conferences and charity galas; we are So much more. We create memories. We value a fabulous client experience as our currency. We are deadline oriented, budget conscious and hassle-free. We provide a multitude of services ranging from Day-of to Full Service Event Coordination, and everything in between. We are here to coordinate the client to produce an unforgettable event that will be tailored to you and your vision. Nonprofit Event Management holds a near a dear place in the heart and soul of Myrecipe4life, LLC. We understand that events are crucial to nonprofits for raising money and awareness. In order to successfully accomplish both goals, we can provide development and event planning for strategic nonprofit event planning and intuitive fundraising; under one roof. We create memories. We value a fabulous guest experience as our currency. We are deadline oriented, budget conscious and hassle-free. We provide a multitude of services ranging from Day-of to Full Service Event Management and everything in between. We are here to coordinate the client to produce an unforgettable event that will be tailored to you and your vision.
SOULFOOD FAIRY ESSENCE OF BOLD AND FLAVORFUL SAUCES, SPICE MIXES, MARINADES
Private Chef in Beacon, NY, creator of signature sauces, spice rubs and marinades are refined recipes from the kitchen of her Grandparents. Prepared with quality ingredients resulting in mouth watering yumminess that will make you want to kiss the cook. Myrecipe4life, LLC "Soulfood Fairy" special blend of Seasonings, Rubs, Marinades and Sauces are like magic. Sprinkle it on your food and TADA.....Yumminess. We prepare delicious tasting homemade sauces, dips and marinades. Straight from the Farm to the Table with seasonal ingredients keeping the quality fresh with no preservatives added.
www.myrecipe4life.com 7
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I began my business because I decided to go natural and had a difficult time finding products that actually worked for my hair. I noticed a lot of products contained toxic chemicals that was not good. A lot of products marketed to black women contain chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, silicones, formaldehyde, drying alcohols, phthalates, and petroleum. TMonique Naturals does not contain any of these toxic chemicals. I officially launched TMonique Naturals in June 2019, but I started making my own natural hair products for my hair in 2018. It's hard balancing mom life and entrepreneur life, but I know it has to be done. I learned that utilizing a planner keeps me on track. I also include my family in assisting me with my business . They help me with packaging products and preparing orders for shipment. To me, building a business with your family brings you closer together. My family has supported me from the beginning. We pick a day during the week where we sit down and discuss ideas we have come up with for TMonique Naturals. Also, by me creating TMonique Naturals I have encouraged my oldest daughter to start embracing her natural hair. She used to wear wigs and braids all the time. My husband also helps out He has attended and assisted me at events I have participated in. Building a business has also motivated my daughters to come up with ideas to become entrepreneurs in the future. Although I have my own business I still work a 9-5 as a Registered Nurse. Just knowing that I have a business and create products that people are buying and loving gives me satisfaction. One day I know TMonique Naturals will be a household name and I will be able to run my business fulltime.
TMonique Naturals was inspired by the natural woman on the go with the need for healthy hair with less hassle. All products are made with natural and organic ingredients. Products do not contain sulfates, parabens, formaldehyde, phthalates, or mineral oil. Our mission is to create high quality and effective products without harmful chemicals and to encourage women 10 and young girls to embrace their natural hair.
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“My mom is the ultimate mother. She is feisty, strong, courageous, and powerful; yet she still finds time to run her radio show, take care of three kids, six dogs and work with artists. She is an ultimate woman in business and deserves all the recognition. While we all navigate quarantine, she continues to produce content and keep her business and family running.� -Abiola Agoro 12
For Daughter From Mother Ar’Moni Nikole Hall, much like a mirror, is a shimmering creation of reflection. Since her earliest days of education in the elementaries of Waco, Texas, Ar’Moni has always excelled and strived for more. She will continually go above and beyond her means for any task given to ensure that it is nothing short of perfection. Forever with a smile on her face, Ar’Moni is a beacon of light for her family, classmates, teammates and any stranger that may grace her presence.
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My oh my that girl can move! From being this little girl parading the pee wee football fields at Doris Miller YMCA to becoming the captain of the James Bowie High School Volunteers, cheer has always been one of her passions. If it has a beat then you better believe Ar’Moni is coming with choreography and plenty of energy. A true creative coupled with persistence, there is nothing this young lady cannot do. Giving her all in volleyball. Stepping in competitions until her feet are numb. Cheering until her vocal cords cease to meet. You better believe Moni is going all or nothing, pedal to the metal. On and off the field, Ar’Moni will not settle for failure by any means. Balancing schoolwork, with teamwork, and actual work she will always find a way to make it happen. Her strong will and dedication is unmatched. By making sure to always incorporate a little comic relief in everything her energy is nothing short of infectious. Following high school, I pray that Texas Southern University is ready for the impact Miss Hall is bringing them. Whether it be teaching math or becoming one of the fearless leaders of the United States Air Force...stay tuned World because you haven’t 13 seen anything yet.
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“Of all the rights of women,
the greatest is to be a mother.� -Lin Yutang
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Meet Laren McDonald What Made Her Begin Destinee’s Fashion? McDonald started her business because she wanted something that she could have of her own. A dream that could be passed on to her kids. It was hard, but over the past four years, she has made it work so that her children would know that anything you want can be achieved - if you work hard enough for it.
Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship “Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is hard,” McDonald shared, “I have to basically turn myself into Superwoman every morning because I am juggling so much, such as my kids, home, my business, and so much more. Everyday there is a new goal, whether if it's for my family or business, that needs to be met. If it wasnt for my support team I dont know how I'd keep going because there are days were I want to give up. They give me that extra push and help I need, it could be helping with my business, running errands, or just helping with the kids. Every entrepreneur needs a great support team.” “To balance out being a mother and an entrepreneur, I definitely have to plan ahead so having a planner is a must, it makes it easier and better to split time between business and family. I even get to squeeze time in for myself, because self-care is very important when running a household and business. If you're not taking care of yourself then how can you manage anything else?
…To the Next Mom… My first piece of advice will be to take care of self first, keep a planner to help you stay organized in your private life and business life, plan ahead, surround yourself with people that have similar mindset as yours ( a team for business and one for family) so everything balances out. At the end of the day, take your Superwoman costume off and become the woman, the mother. Leave work behind for a few moments to enjoy family time. Keep proving to yourself that you can have it all and just know there are other business out there that will support you and give any advice if needed
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Norma had an accident that had her unemployed prior to 2004. She then pursued crafting at home and soon discovered SoapMaking. After making soap from her kitchen for herself, she then researched further and was encouraged to selling online in 2004 by her husband to go further and do this as a business. Norma is still making soap 16 years later along with an entire bath and body line… Norma’s Bath and Body. Managing Motherhood & Business Norma’s son was eight years old back in 2004 when she founded her business. “It definitely was challenging but I did it,” Norma admitted, “I knew Norma's Bath & Body was my new life so I pushed past all obstacles and became a go-getter. God has given me my desires of my heart and I'm forever grateful.” Advice for Future Mompreneurs “Pray first! Don't just jump into it. It's not easy to do whether you are twenty or thirty…or forty. Take a deep breath and know that the business that you want to do is what you truly love to do.
Secondly, do your research and believe in yourself and in your product and business. Thirdly, know that it’s not a quick get rich business overnight, but with determination and hard work things will get better. A business isn't for the faint of heart. Still want to start a Business? You're ready. You can do it. You got this! Congratulations.” 18
You can find bath and body products anywhere in retail stores, but Norma knows that you're tired of that! You want some handmade and unique bath and body products. Products that are fruity, moisturizing and creamy on the skin. Norma’s Bath and Body can be found in many gift shops across the USA since 2004 in which she first started her business. Norma creates bulk/wholesale, and custom orders for weddings, birthdays, etc.! Don't Play with Fire.. Play with Bath and Body!
19 normasbath.etsy.com I normasbathandbody.artfire.com
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Meet Tiara Williams Hello World, my name is Tiara Williams. Single mom of 1 daughter. Never would I have thought that I would have a beautiful 8lb 5.8oz healthy baby girl at the age of 34. I am 36, turning 37 on May 13 th and I am so proud to be a mom running a financial services business. God has truly blessed me in this field to bless others. I always loved helping people, but in Finance was never a thought. My background is in Biology and Pharmaceutical Science, so I thought long and hard how could this fit into my busy schedule. The training and mindset change have been the pivotal point in my business. I realized people make time for what they want. You put in what you want to get out of it. There are 168 hours in a week and all I am required to do is 3 hours of training every week and a minimum of 4 hours to conduct business. When I tell you, that I am blessed to be able to work from home doing virtual interviews and meet & greets without leaving my home is the best. I am an introvert extrovert, if that makes sense. I am okay with communicating through social media, email, and over the phone, but if I had to talk to a stranger that is just not me. My creative juices have been flowing and I have attracted over 8 people in a week into my business. That may not seem like a lot, but that is the most I have done my entire tenure in this industry. In Summary, do not tell yourself you do not have time to build for you and your family, especially if you are the breadwinner in your household. I have my WHY right in front of me, I am lasered focus, and my time now is to WIN BIG. I hope this inspired moms and moms-to-be out there to step out in their passion and think outside the box. #BEYOUROWNBOSS
Tiara’s Business 22
We offer a variety of products and services to assist individuals and family's financial needs: 1. Insurance (Life, Auto, Home - also renters’ insurance) 2. Retirement accounts 3. Budgeting 4. Education Planning 5. Vivint SmartHome Alarm System 6. Legal Services 7. Identity Theft Protection
Secondly, I want to bless someone with an opportunity to become a Financial Coach. This is the perfect time to start a business. Immediate start PT or FT, Paid Training, get licensed, all while working in the comfort of you own home. Licensure can happen in all 50 states, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and Canada. My goal is to educate and service a great deal of individuals and families in 2020 and years to come.
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