KINGDOM K I N G D O M
M O M S
W I N
P R E S E N T S
MOMS Winter FASHION 4 WINNIG MOMS!
Take your winter wardrobe up a notch with these fashion tips.
New Year NEW YOU
& SPIRITUAL SUCCESS
Make this year your best year yet.
QUARTER 1 // 2021
hey ! GIRL Omg...Girrrrrllll, WE MADE IT!!! Just take a second and celebrate yourself for getting through one of the toughest, longest years ever. Despite what you experienced; you didn’t give up. While 2020 was an unusual year, full of challenges, hurt, pain, loss, uncertainty and so much more, we must take time to acknowledge the growth, wins, strength, faith, and perseverance that pushed us through last year. These are attributes that some of us have been working on for some time and it seems like overnight, God gave us just what we needed to get through this past season of our lives. We experienced God, and His love and provision on a different level. He’s proven Himself to be faithful. We really know this scripture to hold true, “I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” Psalms 37:5 Here’s the thing, it’s not that God changed the way that He cares for us, it’s simply that He finally has our attention, allowing us to see His hand in every situation. We can now hear Him more clearly and that’s all God was after...our FULL attention. This is the focus we must take into 2021. When we are able to rid ourselves of the distractions that come to redirect our attention, we’ll find that we have what it takes to be successful as a mom, wife, sister, daughter, friend, entrepreneur, career woman, domestic engineer (stay at home mom) and any other area of our lives. God has equipped us with the necessary ingredients to fulfill our life’s purpose. Sister/Mom, we must remember to trust God with our EVERYTHING. When we give our ALL to GOD, we can then give our BEST to everything else. Here’s to an EXCEPTIONAL 2021! Girl, You’ve Got This!!! Take it by Force, Shalena Dudley / / E D I T O R & C H I E F
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personal development fashion beauty mom health healthy & happy finance spiritual health education business CONNECT
@KINGDOMMOMSWIN // WWW.KINGDOMMOMSWIN.COM
Happy 2021 !
Wow, it’s a new year already. As we embrace 2021, it’s hard to do so without mentioning 2020 and some of the challenges that it presented. We were all touched in some way by the global pandemic. There were protests against social injustices and we were urged to exercise our right to vote. On the home front as moms, we felt forever challenged with failed attempts of trying to balance this new way of life. But Girl, Sister, Friend, Momma, Auntie, Grand momma, wife, entrepreneur, and employee, I am here to tell you that you did it! You got through one of the most challenging years— 2020. Now, let's talk about how we are going to take 2021 and make it ours! Several years ago while doing some self-reflection, I asked myself the question, how come you are a good starter but not a finisher? You see I was notorious for starting something but not following through and finally, I got tired of me. I was tired of having false victories, so I asked God for a strategy. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” I prayed and listened for the voice of the Lord and He, in fact, gave me a strategy for my life. I have applied this strategy and have seen the benefits of it come to fruition. So what’s the strategy? I’m glad you asked that question. I began by planning my year out one year at a time. My birthday is in October, so I break my year down from October to October in six-month increments. I started by taking a blank piece of paper and drawing a circle in the middle of the paper. Inside of the circle, I put October to April, then I repeated the same steps in April, planning for MayOctober. Then I drew lines from the outer part of the circle, (it looked like a children’s drawing of the sun.) On each line, I wrote down what I was looking to accomplish in five areas of my life, as in the words of Joel A. Barker, “Vision without action is merely a dream.” So, I would write the steps that I needed to take to make this plan a reality.
SHARONDA
CARLOS
1. Spiritual development - I would assess what area I was looking to progress. I would ask myself if it is my prayer time, meditation and scripture reading or prayer time with my spouse or maybe all three. Remember, spiritual development is not something to be acquired over night but overtime. I wrote down the steps I needed to take, which for me meant getting up earlier in the morning to spend time with the Lord. I recommend having a dedicated time each day that you sit, meditate, read scriptures and pray. Sitting, kneeling or laying prostrate helps you to become centered and assists with focusing on your time with the Lord. Meditation allows you to reflect on the word of God and how it applies to you, your life and situations. Joshua 1:8 says this, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” 2. Self/Career development - First, I identify an area in which I would like to grow and develop. This area may be connected to my career or it could be for personal growth. It could be in such areas as communication, public speaking or leadership. For me in this area, I seek out mentorship. I connect with people who have been to the heights I am trying to reach. My mentor(s) and myself, establish how frequently we will connect and when we do connect it is purpose driven and goal-oriented. I do not have a mentor but mentor specific connections. Some may specialize in certain areas while some have expertise in other areas. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or employed at a company, I encourage you to develop your gift and your craft. It is easy to become comfortable, but I dare you to challenge yourself to develop in different areas. For me, I usually invest in conferences or seminars each year. I choose topics of interest and spend that day or week being poured into. As women, we are constantly pouring out and oftentimes, we don’t have moments of people pouring into us. I challenge you to have a “selfish moment”; A moment where you are intentionally investing in yourself. It is easy to invest in everyone else and their dream and forget to invest in our own. 3. Relational development- This area is usually related to a connection that I have with another individual. This could pertain to the relationship with my spouse, children, parents, siblings, church family, friends, community, etc. I start by assessing the status of the relationship; is it healthy, is it toxic, or is it starving? In this area, I am looking to either enhance my engagement or set boundaries in my engagement. God has created us to be relational beings so this area is one that I assess frequently. Once I have identified who and what, then I write down the steps it’s going to take to reach the desired goal. Is it additional date nights, mommy/child time, frequent check-ins or do I need to pull back a little? By seeking God in this area, he will reveal the who and what needs to happen. 4. Financial development - As a wife, this is not something that I often thought about. Although I have worked full-time, while being a wife of one and mother of three, I saw my husband as the breadwinner. As I begin to implement this strategy, I started to think, “what does financial freedom mean and what does that look like?” I then begin to assess my input and output. I am a firm believer that it’s not so much about how much money you make as it is about money management. If you are newer to money management, I recommend connecting with a financial advisor. Yes, there are apps and documents online but having someone to hold you accountable adds another level of value. Proverbs 24:3-4 says, “through wisdom is a house built; and by understanding it is established: And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.”
5. Love Development- As I strive to accomplish to be better spiritually, personally, professionally, and financially, I have to remember to be patient with myself and love myself through the process. I remind myself that I loved myself enough to set these goals and I am going to love myself enough to follow through.
Listen, let me forewarn you, you may not accomplish everything on time and that is okay. Continue to assess and evaluate but whatever you do, DON'T STOP! Keep pressing forward and keep moving forward! Remember you are a Kingdom Mom and you are worth it. Girl, you’ve got this! I wish you continued success as you plan and execute. May this year be one of the best years that you have ever lived!!
fashion
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WINTER WAY
Ladies, here we are in the coldest of seasons. Unfortunately for those of you that adore thin sweaters and light-weight jackets, Fall has come and gone! Depending upon geographical location, some of you are enjoying the dwindling of snow. Some are driving carefully in the hail. And for the Southern states, we’re bundling up wondering if this will be the year we’ll get some snow-action. However, no matter our location, we can all agree on one thing: the temperature has significantly decreased! Therefore, it is no secret that with the transition of forecast comes the shifting of fashion! So, Let’s do some shopping!
1.VANITY
Miss Selfridge Velvet Wrap Mini Dress In Red / ASOS / $56
VELVET
Velvet, by far, is one of the most sophisticated materials in fashion. In the 14th and 15th Centuries, it was undoubtedly expensive and difficult to produce. Due to such reasons, it was primarily worn by individuals of royalty. Fast forward to modern day, most velvet is made from cotton to resemble the
look and feel of the fabric; Nevertheless, that makes it no less luxurious and exclusive. Mark my words: You WILL stand-out with many onlookers of admiration when wearing such fabric. Velvet transcends generations, and it can be worn in any environment. It isn’t too sexy for you to wear to the office, nor is it too professional for you to hit the dance floor. You don’t need a closet full of velvet pieces, however, a couple of dresses, and maybe one or two double-breasted blazers will cause you to look and feel like the exquisite woman you already are!
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PUFF ME .PRETTY
It is a truism that, if you live long enough, something unfashionable will return full-circle back “in-style”. The fashion piece this Winter that is up for grabs is… *drum roll* The Puffer Coat! They’ve been around forever, but designers have revamped them, and subsequently, women (AND men) are wearing these warm insulated coats with confidence. They are functional and fashionable, light weight, travel friendly (roll up, wrinkle free), and casually FLY! From basic black designs and chic pops of color to oversized maxi lengths and edgy vintage varieties, the puffer jacket is an option for everyone! As the winds increase, you’ll be grateful you snagged yourself one of these! Azalea Wang Women Asymmetric Puffer Coat / Dr. Jays / $103
7th Avenue Suit I NY&Co I $19.99 +
Women's Faux Leather Balloon Elbow Sleeve Shift Dress / Target / $34
3.LEATHER
LOVELY IN KINGDOMMOM FAVORITE
Leather coat. Leather skirt. Leather blazer. Leather joggers. Leather gloves. Leather Hat. Leather handbag…ANY OF IT—ALL OF IT are complete statement pieces! Leather is timeless. It will never be out of style. It will never read “tacky”. It will never translate “basic”. It is a sure way to add some edge into your look, or to elevate your outfit. The next time you’re on the hunt for a piece to wear to dinner, or an event, or maybe even a ladies’ night—grab yourself one of the leather items I mentioned above, and rock it with confidence!
Women’s Turtleneck Cropped Pullover Sweater I Target I $25
L E N A W R I G H T
Whether you are getting ready for work or dropping the kids off at school, taking just five minutes to put on makeup helps you feel refreshed, polished and ready to face the day. Moms have the hardest, most important and demanding jobs out there. You all deserve to feel great about the way you look without spending a lot of time making it happen.
Here’s how to get your makeup on fast.
1.PrepYour Skin 2.UseA Skin Smoothing FOUNDATION .
Start with a clean, moisturized face: Take care of your skin before going to bed. You may be tired at night after a long day, but taking the time to do that at night will save you time in the morning.
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Foundation helps even out skin tone and disguises spots and imperfections. Apply a very light moisturizer that is not shiny so that you do not have to put foundation and/or powder all over your face and neck. Find some foundation that matches your skin exactly at the jaw line and use it just on the spots that need it. Blot — do not rub — with a facial tissue to remove excess oil if the foundation is not matte.” I recommend Stila One-Step Makeup for multitasking mamas. It’s a primer, foundation, concealer and powder in one product. Genius!
3.Perk Up TIRED EYES .
•Use a squirt of eye drops in the morning to instantly brighten your sleepy eyes.
•The one thing a mom can do to look more polished and brighten up and lift the eye area is to get eyebrows shaped and waxed (or plucked) and fill in remaining brows with a compact powder or pencil. •Use an under-eye concealer one to one and a half shades lighter than your overall skin tone, to brighten the under-eye area. •To fake a refreshed look, apply soft white eye shadow to the inside corners of your eyes (not on the lid). •Finish off with a generous coat of lash-plumping mascara, like Covergirl Lashblast.
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4.PlumpLIPS .
Smooth on lip gloss or a light coat of lipstick to brighten up your entire face. Applying lipstick with a lip brush rather than just swiping it on makes it last much longer.
3 MINUTE Makeup I think there are only three beauty products a mom needs to look and feel put together each day: A face moisturizer with SPF to hydrate and protect the skin; a lip balm or gloss to plump up and define the lips; and a mascara to open up the eyes and make them pop. Quick and inexpensive! Using these quick makeup tips, moms can look and feel great without being slaves to the makeup counter. Being organized is key. If you have everything you need and just 3-5 minutes, you can look great in a few
Ask A DOULA T E N I S H A
B I B B S
January is an amazing time of year. We are entering into something new and ending something old. So many babies are being born and new mommies get to experience the joy of having their new bundle of joy. All expecting mommies want nothing more than to have a healthy, happy baby. The thought of having their newborn can be scary and overwhelming. With so much information to remember, mommies will get confused and frustrated, which can cause them not to enjoy and appreciate the gifts God gave them. Mommies—while awaiting your babies’ arrival, have you asked yourself the following questions: What do I do once my baby gets here? How will I get through these next few weeks? Well mom, I have created a short but important list of strategies to assist you in this new journey.
Support System Having a support system is important to the next 6-8 weeks. They will play a great role in this process. Your support system can help out with your newborn’s routine (ie: feeding and sleep time). Create a schedule that will allow others to assist you while maintaining consistency. Delegating tasks such as: newborn laundry, organization of baby items, and handling day-to-day house chores will be extremely beneficial for the new parent(s).
Keep updated on Flu/Covid information The CDC daily/weekly posts new information concerning Covid and the flu. It is imperative that you are aware of these updates, considering newborns' immune systems are still developing. Be sure to wash your hands with antibacterial soap and wear a mask before touching (or allowing anyone to touch) your newborn. Try to: - Avoid public places. - Wear a mask if you feel sick. - Keep your baby away from those that are challenged in their health. - Make sure that anyone who’s around your newborn is vaccinated. Having a hand-free pumping bra is life saving for new mommies. This investment is such a time-saver. The time you saved will allot freedom to focus on other areas personally, or around your home.
Prepare a way of escape in your home After your newborn comes home, it can take some time adjusting to the new system. Be sure to take some time for yourself. Plan an escape in a private area in your home. Light a candle, play soothing music, run the bath water using lavender or lemongrass bath bomb oil to soothe and relax your body. Sit in the bathtub or stand in the shower with warm water running down your body. This moment will allow you to breathe and regroup.
Recognize when you’ve had enough Postpartum depression is common during this time. Your new normal can, at times, become overwhelming. Your hormonal imbalance can cause isolation, anxiety, and the feeling of inadequacy. If this should occur, don’t be afraid to reach out to trusted individuals. If you see yourself: - Drifting off - Crying and don’t know why - Having thoughts of suicide - Disconnected from your newborn
Immediately contact your physician or local psychologist for help. You are not in this alone. Your baby will grow to love and appreciate you. Please remember that neglect of self only negatively affects your loved ones, and your child. Don’t forget to take care of YOU!
Happy HEALTHY AND
KRISTINA LOUISSAINT, FNP-C
The goal of a healthy lifestyle is not achieved overnight. It is in the small steps and habits done daily that will guide you on your health journey. When a woman is at her healthiest (mind, body, and spirit) she is her best self; she can accomplish anything. The strength of a woman is not only in her body, but in her mind as well. It is the will power to get up everyday and overcome every obstacle that comes her way. Ladies, I encourage you to be the best you by taking the time for self-care. Create healthy habits that will lead to your well-being by doing something every day for YOU! Here are 10 tips to a healthy lifestyle: 1.Meditate: You cannot have a healthy body without first having a healthy mind. These two things go hand in hand. Taking at least 5-10 minutes out of your day, whether it is in the beginning, middle, or end of your day will feed your mind. 2. Exercise: Taking at least 30-45 minutes, 3-5 days per week will help relieve stress, improve weight, and increase blood flow. Do not forget to include stretching to release endorphins to improve your mood. 3. Hydrate…Hydrate…Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. Drinking at least four 16 oz water bottles a day will keep you hydrated and can lead to mental clarity and weight loss. If you find yourself dehydrated often, you can contact The Hydration Bar to get your IV hydration at the cellular level. 4. Portion control: Living in America has conditioned many of us to consume more food with each meal than our bodies require. Limiting your carbs to a fist-full size with each meal and eating sugar in moderation will contribute to a healthy lifestyle. 5. Eat breakfast: By eating breakfast, you will have the rest of your day to burn those calories and you will be energized. 6. Listen to your body: Be in tune with your body and listen to your body. Your body will tell you when to stop whether you are ready for it or not. Seeing your gynecologist or primary care provider annually and when you feel something is not right is imperative to your health. 7. Rest & Relaxation: A little R&R never hurt anybody. It is ok to step away for a little “you” time. As a woman, you can not help anyone until you first help yourself. 8. Daily vitamins: We get most of our vitamins from our food; however, having a busy lifestyle may not allow you to intake frequent well-balanced meals. By including a daily multivitamin, your body will have its necessary vitamins. You will see a boost in your immune system and energy. 9. Sleep: Adequate sleep reduces stress, promotes mental clarity, and improves weight loss. At least 8 hours of sleep is imperative. 10. Colon cleansing: Gut health is so important. The foods we eat can leave behind sludge or waste along the lining of your colon. This can lead to various diseases, bowel and digestive issues, and abdominal bloating. Whether you get a colonic or take a supplement, incorporating this in your yearly health regimen can improve your lifestyle. As always, consult with your primary care provider before doing so.
The Hydration Bar // WWW.HYDRATIONBARATL.COM
(678) 561-4228 │@NURSEKRIS_ │ @THEHYDRATIONBARATL
mommy &MONEY Changing how we think about money is the most critical part of building wealth. Our thoughts govern our behaviors, and our behaviors produce results. We can create an excellent plan and sabotage ourselves by focusing on perceived impossibilities. Just as we must be intentional about changing how we eat and exercise to get healthy, building wealth requires intentional thinking and execution. To test your internal thinking about money, wealth, and prosperity, think about how your body reacts to those thoughts. Notice any tension or discomfort. When you have an opportunity to invest in stock or real estate what is your immediate thought? When a business idea comes to mind, do you switch from creative development of that idea to the financial cost and allow it to outweigh what is possible? Counting the cost should not deter you from the pursuit. It should inform “how” you pursue.
Here are a few suggestions to change the thought process about wealth building:
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Find what God says in scripture about building wealth and being prosperous. He said “…the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil” (emphasis mine), 1Tim 6:10. He did not say money was evil. Jesus' ministry had access to wealth and resources that was so weighty, when Judas was stealing from it, no one knew but Jesus. waver from the plan. Save for the “want.”
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Develop and use “I Am” affirmations. While this may sound simplistic, the truth is what we magnify, we meditate on. What we meditate on, creates a story on the canvass of our imagination (thank you Pastor Johnny Burns). Our imagination is fueled by the words we speak and agree with. For clarity, not disputing information is the same as agreeing with it in the spirit realm. “I Am” affirmations are designed to disrupt thinking that misaligns you from purpose. to justify the purchase, don’t do it.
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Use your five senses to make ideas around building wealth feel real. Our minds and thoughts are not constrained by time. Whatever we’ve experienced that has engaged multiple senses is more likely to be accepted as fact and easily recalled.
The access to Kingdom wealth is unlocked by our faith. Our faith is demonstrated by what we say. Challenge your thoughts about wealth building and take every thought captive that does not allow Father’s best to manifest. - JEWELL JONES
LF E S R U O Y E R A P E R P FUL FOR A SUCCESS R SPIRITUAL YEA
P A S T O R
2020 was a year of challenge and change. We experienced a plethora of diverse emotions due to the unexpected crisis that affected us all. There were losses for many of us. In the midst of the hurt, pain, and suffering we saw the Hand of God strategically move upon the Heart of His women to pray and seek the Face of God. According to 2 Chronicles 7:14, b part of verse 14,“ . . . then we will hear from heaven, He will forgive our sins and heal our land.” This means that our families, loved ones, communities, and even our nation can be recipients of this promise. Our God is faithful to His Word and although in the natural, it may have appeared that we did not make much advancement in 2020, but I want to encourage and enlighten you to the truth that things may have been Delayed, but they have not been Denied. God NEVER stops working on the behalf of His people. Our big brother, Jesus, sits at the right hand of the Father forever making intercession for us, without ceasing. Be confident in knowing that the seeds of faith you have sown in 2020 will harvest in 2021. HALLELUJAH!!!!
S H A R O N
B U R N S
Our 2021 spiritual preparation consists of continuing to birth what God has given us for His glory and honor . . .YOU SHALL BRING FORTH! Do not allow distractions of life, distortions of doubt, or deception to manipulate your faith in producing what you are created for. This is your DUE SEASON!!!! Jeremiah 1:5, says “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” God’s divine plan shall be fulfilled within you.
IN 2021 YOU WILL SUCCEED & PROSPER AS YOU CONTINUE IN THESE 4 STEPS:
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REMIND YOURSELF OF THE PROMISE
It is important that we meditate and confess the word of God until we become one with the word. 2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in him, are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. Joshua 1:8 For then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success in 2021
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REFINE THE PLAN
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REMAIN IN POSITION
Cultivate, upgrade, and improve the plan.
Know who you are and whose you are.
Habakkuk 2:2 Write the vision and make it plain. Rehearse the vision, declare the vision.
1 Peter 2:9 You are a chosen generation and of a Royal Priesthood, you are peculiar, created with uniqueness, God’s exceptional design.
Psalms 75:1 Rehearse among nations His glory, among all the peoples His wonders. God wants us to be fit for the Vision so we can fit in the Vision for 2021.
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RESTORE THE PRESS
We will overcome fatigue, worry and exhaustion as we cast our cares upon the Lord, knowing that he cares for us (1 Peter 5:7) Isaiah 40:31 also tells us He will renew our strength with new vigor, stamina, resilience, and the power to PRESS IN. You are pressing into your 2021 promises!
1 Corinthians 6:19 We are God’s property, and He prefers us to represent Him here on earth. Your position in Christ is vital and necessary in 2021.
EMBRACE 2021 WITH CONFIDENCE, BOLDNESS, AND DETERMINATION TO SUCCEED IN EVERY AREA OF YOUR LIFE KNOWING THIS IS THE WILL OF GOD FOR YOUR LIFE.
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E X P E R I E N C E
EDUCATION IN 2021
What are some ways we can nurture the best experience…whether online or face-to-face (F2F)? Education has long needed an overhaul…but it is no easy lift to upgrade an immense social construct…especially amidst a pandemic when our collective experience is full of inequities. Let’s start with our immediate sphere of influence…
BRENDA
BLASCO,
EdS
Advocate with Empathy. Belt of Truth. Yes, speak up with and for your child when it comes to their needs in the classroom. Communication is the most important part of developing a partnership with your child’s teacher. Emailing or talking regularly is essential. Topics include attendance, engagement, frustrations, and please add in the joy and excitement that happens because of a class activity or the content. We should realize that teachers are charged with crowded classrooms, whether brick and mortar or a virtual class depicted on multiple screens. Imagine meeting the needs of 25-120 students. Responses to emails and phone calls will take at least 24 hours to respond to, not counting weekends or holidays, and grading could take even longer. When a student turns in late work, it may not be graded for a few days, as it gets stacked in the already moving schedule of assignments. If feedback is sparse or vague, ask for clarification. You should advocate and seek to understand, just on a realistic timeframe. Reverence for Knowledge and New Wonders. Sword of the Spirit You can set the tone for learning in your home—launching children into the world with a curious mindset ready to acquire new skills and analyze ideas. We model attitudes about learning, whether intentional or not. Reflect on yours and how you want to prepare your child for a world of fast paced change. How do you embrace change? Whether it is a new teacher or a different and challenging assignment. How do you respond to discomfort? Discomfort is a normal step through growth and transition. We choose how we respond to various new ideas; we can show awe at a new math standard, a different cultural norm, or a complicated art project. We choose how we explore challenges: Consider another approach; do not underestimate yourself and others; encourage your child to self-advocate. When I was a child I did not always like school, but I loved learning. I believe we all want to grow, learn, and succeedbut our beliefs about how can be a struggle. Watch for negative talk like, “Math is hard.” That can be subliminal programming. Instead, voice “I wonders.” I wonder if there is more than one way to do that. I wonder if you could explore more details about that subject or idea. I wonder where they are coming from. Faith through Failures and Disappointments. Shield of Faith People and organizations will let us down. No one can keep a perfect track record. So what to do? Not be overly dramatic. Let the response settle a little before hitting SEND on that keyboard. Whether virtual or F2F. Sometimes we just need perspective or information to move forward or make improvements. Blame and punishment does little to improve most situations. Instead, creativity and communication are often the best tools, woven together with faith, in seeking highest and best outcomes. Collect information from your child’s teacher before your deduction is concluded. Then work with everyone for the best possibility. Anticipate Positivity. Breastplate of Righteousness Speak it. Call it out. Expect it. Thank others, your child, their teacher, their administrator…in advance. The appreciation is for mindful feedback from teachers, for your child’s resourcefulness and resilience, or your administrators’ attentiveness in responding. Name it, praise it – first there is the word in bringing that is good to life. Even if you feel doubt, plant the seed. The potential to manifest is worth it. Perseverance in Planning. Helmet of Salvation 2020 definitely put all goal getting into challenge mode. The stage is different. But, we are still here, full of potential, love, and the need to grow through the times. What will we take from this experience? Certainly not a spirit of timidity! We should always have wisdom to be flexible, but unyielding when discernment is in place. Your child can still continue to grow as a reader and student as they learn about the world. Keep a realistic vision while nurturing all involved in the undertaking, so instead of four goals, maybe zone in on one or two and realize that they may take longer. Consider reading. If you were hoping that their Lexile (reading level) would go up, just be wise at how to rate the gains. An example is 100 Lexile points is average growth for a 3rd-5th grader. By middle school it may only raise 70 points a year. So, whether your child struggles or is advanced, growth may slow considering trauma or stress that may be sustained over this difficult year. But, goals are still good to have. Do not stop completely. Succumbing to victimization or hopelessness is not an option. Manage resources; there may be less energy, time, or access, but let’s make the most of what we have (while speaking up for what you need!). Use your sword of the spirit and speak life. Wear your gear : The Belt of Truth, the Sword of the Spirit, the Shield of Faith, the Breastplate of Righteousness, and the Helmet of Salvation. Then go forward to be a positive role model, communicating as a team player with your student and their teachers, and setting realistic expectations for this school year.
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KeysToBuilding
YOUR BRAND J A Z M I N E
R O C H E L L E
Branding marketing strategy used to give one’s business, organization, or vision an identity. Your brand is comprised of people’s perception of what you’re building. Use these keys to ensure you are building the right way.
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clarity
Clarity is one of the most important aspects of effective branding. In order to ensure clarity for you and the consumer, you must be able to communicate the 4 P’s of Marketing:
PRODUCT: What are you selling? PROMOTION: How will you promote your product? PRICE: How much will it cost you and the consumer? PLACE: Where will you distribute this product?
Your brand must be clear enough that others will want to invest their cash.
consistency
Consistency determines the success of your brand. In order to master consistency, one must be consistent in the following areas: • • •
EXECUTION EXPERIENCE EXTERNAL APPEARANCE
creativity
Creativity is the backbone of branding. Like chronological time, branding is broken up into to time periods.
(BB) Before the consumer acknowledges your brand What creative elements have you put in place to attract your ideal client? Are you consistent in executing these elements?
(AB) After the consumer acknowledges your brand What creative elements have you put in place to retain your ideal client or audience? Are you consistent in executing these elements?
SHALENA DUDLEY EDITOR & CHIEF
JEWELL JONES
SHARONDA CARLOS
#CONTRIBUTORS
TENISHA KYLER
PASTOR SHARON BURNS
K R I SN TU I NR A S E LKORUI SI S S A I N T
BRENDA BLASCO
TENISHA BIBBS
JAZMINE ROCHELLE
LENA WRIGHT