MomsTown NEWS - JUNE 2021

JUN 2021 | VOL II

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MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

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Letter from MomsTown!

Let’s have a big round of applause for all the moms who made it through the school year! We recognize all of the efforts also put forth by all of you dads and kids, but...hey… this is MomsTown! ;) It’s been a roller coaster of a year, but summer is here.

Hooray! It’s time now to slip on those flip flops, grab the beach chairs, take a big deeeeeeeep breath, strike a few yoga poses and relax! You’ve earned it.

And when you’re hanging out on the beach or putting your feet up in the backyard, we’ll be there for you every day on MomsTown365, The Daily Podcast for Mom Creators. We’re excited to announce we’ve moved into our new studio in Downtown Encinitas. We’ll be bringing you even more interviews, interesting guests, great tips, life hacks and so much more (and sometimes even a little comic perspective)! Our goal is always to keep it upbeat, informative and inspiring.

Another voice taking the world by storm is that of Poli van Dam. Poli, the leader of The Bombpops, shares with us how her childhood band (formed right here in North County) has been touring the world and what’s in store next for the punk rock mom.

Meg Applegate recently published a comprehensive list of helpful resources for moms interested in career advancement.

And finally, award-winning designer, Dasha Hervey, gives us tips to pretty up our patios.

As always, thank you to our amazing sponsors and our loyal readers!

We invite you to head on over to MomsTown365.com and check out our lineup of great guests. If you’re interested in starting a podcast, we are building a fabulous community of mom podcasters, right here in our own backyard. Drop us an email to Podcast@MomsTown.com.

Our guests always seem to put the wind in our sails. For example, we recently interviewed Christy Harst. She’s the “Mom behind the Machine!” She’s the voice of John Deere.

She shares her journey of turning her voice into her business.

Happy Summer!

Warmly,

Heather & Mary

podcast@MomsTown.com

LOCAL UMBRELLA MEDIA publication San Diego CA

PUBLISHER

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Reproduction or duplication of any part herein requires written permission from Publisher (Inspired Media, Inc).

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Paid advertisements or advertorials herein are not endorsed or recommended by Publisher; therefore, Publisher shall not be held liable for business practices of advertisers. Publisher or MomsTown, Inc. not liable for images or content accepted in good faith.

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

get ready to read for

Father's Day!

Shopping for Father’s Day can be difficult. From tools to tech toys, some gifts are used over and over again, but thoughtful gifts that match your dad’s interests can make this year’s present a memorable one.

If he enjoys reading, there are options that align with almost every hobby and interest, from advice for hands-on projects to thrilling mysteries and exploration of the challenges many dads face every day, and these picks can provide a reminder of you every time he sits down to read another chapter.

PRACTICAL ‘DADVICE’ FOR EVERYDAY TASKS

From the host of the YouTube channel that went viral, “Dad, How Do I?,” comes a book of the same title that’s part memoir, part inspiration and part DIY advice. Rob Kenney wished he had someone who could teach him the basics — how to tie a tie, jump-start a car, unclog a drain, use tools properly — as well as succeed in life. In this book, he shares his story of overcoming a difficult childhood, with an absent father, through the strength of faith and family, and offers words of inspiration and hope. In addition, he provides instructions for 50 practical DIY projects, illustrated with helpful line drawings, as well as the occasional dad joke.

A RIVETING RACE AGAINST TIME

“New York Times” bestselling author Linwood Barclay returns with a riveting thriller, “Find You First.” Diagnosed with a terminal illness, tech millionaire Miles Cookson begins a search for the children he’s never known. Somewhere out there, after having been a sperm donor, he has nine unknown kids who might be about to inherit both the good and the bad from him — maybe his fortune, or maybe something much worse. One by one, Cookson’s heirs are vanishing — every trace of them wiped, like they never existed at all.

AN EXPLORATION OF THE CHALLENGES FATHERS FACE

Growing up in Columbia, South Carolina, Craig Melvin, news anchor of NBC News’ “Today,” had a fraught relationship with his father. Lawrence Melvin was a distant, often absent parent, due to his drinking as well as his job working the graveyard shift at a postal facility.

A powerful, intimate exploration of fatherhood, addiction and resiliency, “Pops: Learning to Be a Son and a Father” is the story of their long journey to reconciliation and understanding, as well as an investigation of the challenges facing all dads.

Find more stories to share with your dad at Facebook.com/WilliamMorrowBooks

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

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THE RIGHT CHOICE for an easier, healthier and more delicious

LIFE

FOUNDERS

Cassie & Brett Dudley

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Pure Meal Prep SD's

FAMOUS CHAMPAGNE VINAIGRETTE

SALAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon dijon mustard 2 cloves fresh garlic minced 2 tablespoons fresh thyme 4 tablespoons champagne vinegar 2 tablespoons organic honey 1 cup avocado oil black pepper and kosher salt to taste

STEPS

In an immersion blender add mustard, garlic, thyme, champagne vinegar and honey.

Turn on blender and slowly add in the avocado oil to emulsify all the ingredients, creating the dressing (sauce should start to thicken). You don't want it to become too thick — if this happens you can add a little bit of cold water.

Your guests will absolutely love this dressing on almost any salad you make.

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MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

KITCHEN DOUGH a baker's dozen

reasons to start a COTTAGE FOOD biz

California’s Homemade Food Act (AB 1616) allows makers and bakers to create food businesses from home. So, what was once illegal is now legit!

If you have a great recipe and an overwhelming need to knead, here are some reasons you might want to consider turning your dough into cash:

1. FULFILL A DREAM If you've always dreamed of being in the food business, the cottage food industry is potentially a great way to start. And, you can get started today!

2. SHARE A RECIPE A lot of cottage food startups got their jumpstart with a treasured family recipe.

3. SHARE A CULTURE Food is one of the best ways to introduce people to the tastes and traditions of different cultures. Food helps us engage with the past so we can be rooted for the future.

4. WORK FROM YOUR HOME KITCHEN Cottage food laws make it possible to enter the food industry without spending a lot of money on commercial kitchen rentals.

5. SET YOUR OWN SCHEDULE FREEDOM! 6. HELP YOUR LOCAL ECONOMY Local businesses attract local consumers and keep dollars within your local community.

7. CONNECT WITH LOCAL PEOPLE Food unites us. Food starts conversations, creates connection and strengthens bonds. Building a business around a community is definitely satisfying.

to make under your state’s cottage food license. Also, noteworthy in many jurisdictions, there are different classes of licenses. Homework is important. Do your research. We suggest starting with the Harvard Food Law & Policy Clinic Guide.

10. WORK WITH LOVED ONES Cottage businesses, by virtue of operating from home, often involve working with family and friends.

11. CULTIVATE YOUR CREATIVITY Creating a food product takes a creative soul. Beyond the recipe, there is the presentation, the packaging, the marketing and being creative when it comes to finding new ways to sell.

12. THERE IS JOY IN COOKING There is joy in the creative satisfaction of taking ingredients and making something that nourishes and/or pleases others. If you love being in the kitchen and it brings you joy, then a cottage food business is perhaps one of your callings.

13. PROMOTE BETTER LIVING THROUGH BETTER FOOD Food made the way grandma made it. What's better than that?!

To catch more cottage food buzz, be sure to tune into the podcast Kitchen Dough, Making Money from Your Home Kitchen.

8. FULFILL A MARKET VOID The cottage food market gives food starters an opportunity to fill a market void and gauge the possibility for traction.

9. PAY THE BILLS There is money in cooking. The transaction of selling food helps feed your family. But, like most ventures, cooking is not a get-rich-quick-kind-of-venture. It’ll take time to build your business and that’s when the “Joy” factor will play an important role. It’ll be a lot easier to swallow the difficulties you’re inevitably going to encounter if you're enjoying the journey. It’s also important to note that, in most states, there are literally caps on how much you can make in a cottage food business. So, before you jumpstart your food venture, be sure to check into what kind of money you’ll be allowed

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

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APPLE guacamole

STEAK banh mi

a truly memorable Complement this year’s summertime excitement with food that matches your enthusiasm for the season. Start with a fruity dip and a salad before diving into steak for the main course and a kid-friendly treat to top it all off. These recipes make the most of what summer has to offer with fresh fruits and veggies, bright and refreshing greens, tender cuts of meat and frozen treats that celebrate those memorable moments together.

DIP UP A GOOD TIME

This Apple Guacamole can be made in mere minutes, making it an ideal shareable among loved ones, by combining mashed avocados and seasonings with chopped Granny Smith apple pieces.

APPLE GUACAMOLE

(recipe adapted from the Meredith Corporation) Prep time: 10 minutes ♦ Serves 8-10 3 1/2 1/2 1 1

ripe avocados, halved and pitted cup finely chopped Vidalia onion cup snipped fresh cilantro lime, juice only bottled hot pepper sauce, to taste Granny Smith apple, peeled, finely chopped kosher salt, to taste tortilla chips

In bowl, use fork to mash avocados, onion, cilantro, lime juice and hot pepper sauce to desired consistency. Stir in apple and season with salt, to taste. Serve with tortilla chips.

SAVOR A BITE OF STEAK

Inspired by Vietnamese tradition, this Steak Banh Mi recipe — which features tender grass-fed flat iron steak, pickled carrots, bright lettuce and crunchy cucumbers — is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next summer gathering.

STEAK BANH MI

Prep time: 2 hours ♦ Cook time: 15 minutes ♦ Serves 2 10 2 2 1 1 1 1/8

ounces grass-fed beef flat iron steak teaspoons each hoisin sauce and soy sauce teaspoons honey teaspoon fish sauce clove garlic, minced teaspoon, plus 1/2 cup, rice vinegar, divided teaspoon five-spice powder

Find more summer food inspiration at culinary.net 8

2 1 1 1 1/4 2 1/4 4 1/4 1

tablespoons sugar pinch salt small carrot, cut into matchsticks tablespoon vegetable oil cup water Vietnamese baguettes or dinner rolls cup mayonnaise Batavia lettuce leaves cup cilantro, chopped Persian cucumber, sliced

Remove steak from packaging and set aside 10 minutes. Once steak reaches room temperature, place steak in deep plate or storage container. In small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, fish sauce, garlic, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar and five-spice powder; pour over steak. Cover and marinate in fridge at least 2 hours, or overnight.

In small pot over medium heat, heat remaining rice vinegar, sugar and salt.

Cook and stir until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool.

Place carrots in deep plate or storage container. Pour cooled pickling liquid over carrots. Set aside to marinate.

Remove steak from marinade and pat dry. Reserve marinade.

Heat oven to 325 F. Heat heavy-bottomed pan over high heat and add oil. Once oil begins to smoke, add steak. Sear both sides, about 1 minute per side. Lower heat to medium.

Add reserved marinade and water to pan. Cook, covered, 3 minutes, removing lid to flip meat occasionally. Remove lid and let sauce reduce 1 minute, or until slightly thickened.

Transfer steak and sauce to large plate and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Toast baguettes in oven 5 minutes. Let cool 5-10 minutes.

Slice baguettes along middle without cutting through. Slice steak into thin pieces.

Spread mayonnaise on baguettes and add 1-2 lettuce leaves to each. Layer steak on lettuce leaves followed by cilantro, cucumbers and pickled carrots.

Slice baguette into two sandwiches.

Visit silverfernfarms.com for more grass-fed beef inspiration MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

apple, strawberry, blueberry

SALAD

WATERMELON BERRY frozen pops

summer menu . . .

This year, make sure you set the table with a bright, delightful bowl of greens that sets the tone for an enjoyable and festive meal with loved ones.

After some fun in the pool and time spent in the sun, a cooling treat is often the perfect way to cap off a summer day. Fresh fruits make those sweet eats even tastier and easier by making dessert in the morning and letting it freeze while you enjoy the warmth outdoors.

GO FOR SATISFYING SUMMER GREENS

This Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad calls for an array of fruits, including a homemade blueberry dressing, paired with Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix for a fresh and flavorful base with pecan halves to add crunch. The salads are thoroughly washed, rinsed and gently dried then sealed in Keep-Crisp bags to maintain freshness.

APPLE, STRAWBERRY, BLUEBERRY SALAD TOTAL time: 30 minutes ♦ Serves: 6

BLUEBERRY DRESSING 2 1/4 2 1 1/2

cups fresh blueberries cup balsamic vinegar tablespoons honey tablespoon lemon juice cup olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste

2 2 1 1 1/2

large apples packages (6 ounces each) Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix pint strawberries, cut in half pint blueberries cup pecan halves, toasted blueberry dressing

TO MAKE BLUEBERRY DRESSING: In blender, process blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth. Set aside.

SWEET SUMMERY TREATS

These Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops make dessert about as simple as possible by blending watermelon, blueberries, raspberries and honey before adding to ice pop molds and freezing throughout the day.

WATERMELON BERRY FROZEN POPS Serves: 6 6 cups watermelon 1 cup blueberries, divided 1 cup raspberries, divided 3 tablespoons honey

In blender, blend watermelon, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup raspberries and honey until smooth. Press through fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and seeds.

Fill ice pop molds 3/4 full with liquid. Add remaining whole blueberries and raspberries to molds. Insert sticks and freeze at least 4 hours, or until completely frozen.

TO PREPARE SALAD: Cut apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. Using 1-1/2inch diameter star-shaped cutter, cut apple slices into stars.

Place lettuce mix in large bowl; add apples, strawberries and blueberries. Sprinkle with pecans. Before serving, drizzle each salad with blueberry dressing.

images courtesy of Getty Images Find more summer salad inspiration at freshexpress.com MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

To find more summertime snacks, meals and treats visit watermelon.org 9

LEMON cheesecake

with fruit

refreshing treats Fresh fruit is finally in season. When the sun is out and kids are hitting the pool, it’s also time to indulge in some sweet fruit flavors. Watermelon, berries, bananas and more can all be found near perfect ripeness at grocery stores or farmer’s markets during the warm summer months.

On a hot day, there is almost nothing better than trying something new that sounds delicious. Throw your apron on, prepare your kitchen and get baking.

If you’re craving something sweet with no ideas where to start, try this sweet Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit. It’s tangy and rich, and allows you to escape to the summer oasis of your dreams, at least for a few minutes.

UNFORGETTABLE FRUITY FLAVOR

The smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake mixed with a hint of tart lemon juice. Topped with raspberries, mint and oranges, the burst of fresh fruit enhances the cheesecake flavor. It’s the perfect sweet treat for summer for people of all ages with its bright colors and varying flavors.

LEMON CHEESECAKE W/FRESH FRUIT Serves 6-8

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 3 eggs 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 orange, peeled and separated 8 raspberries 3 mint leaves, for garnish

Heat oven to 350 F. In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed.

Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle.

Top with mint leaves.

Find more recipes at culinary.net 10

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

STRAWBERRY cream cheese tart

fluffy peanut butter

PIE

for hot days . . .

Satisfy any sweet tooth with these decadent yet easy-to-make summer dessert recipes. The perfect ending to a perfect summer day!

PEANUT BUTTER PERFECTION

This is a rich but light dessert that will likely never go out of style. Sink your fork into the chilled triangle resting on your plate. With a chocolate cookie crust and a thick, delicious peanut butter filling, this pie is everything the dessert-lover craves!

FLUFFY PEANUT BUTTER PIE Serves 6-8 20 1/4 1 1 1 3 1 1

chocolate cream-filled cookies cup butter, melted package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened cup smooth peanut butter can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk tablespoons lemon juice teaspoon vanilla extract cup whipping cream chocolate syrup

SWEET SUMMERY TREATS

Get the kids in on the action and let them help place the fresh strawberries on top of this delicous summer sensation.

STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE TART Serves 8

CRUST

1 1/4 cups flour 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes 1 large egg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract uncooked rice

FILLING

8

1/4 2 1 1/2 1/2 3 1

Remove cream filling from chocolate cookies; set aside. With rolling pin, finely crush chocolate cookies.

ounces reduced-fat cream cheese cup sour cream tablespoons extra-fine sugar tablespoon lemon zest teaspoon vanilla extract cup strawberry fruit spread teaspoons lemon juice (optional) pound strawberries, halved whipped cream (optional)

HEAT OVEN to 375 F.

In medium bowl, combine finely crushed cookies with melted butter.

FOR CRUST: In food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse until combined. Add butter, egg and vanilla extract; pulse until combined and crumbly.

Press crumb mixture firmly into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate; chill while preparing filling.

Lightly flour surface then form dough into ball. Slightly flatten to form thick disc. Wrap dough in plastic wrap; refrigerate 1 hour.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add reserved cookie cream filling, peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk; beat until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.

Flour a surface then roll dough to 11-inch circle. Place dough in 9-inch tart pan with removeable bottom. With rolling pin, roll over top to trim excess dough around edges. Cover dough with plastic wrap and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes.

In medium bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into peanut butter mixture. Mix until combined.

Pour into crust. Chill 4 hours, or until set. Drizzle chocolate syrup over pie before serving.

Cover leftovers and store in refrigerator.

images courtesy of Getty Images Find more summer food inspiration at culinary.net MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

Press aluminum foil against crust, covering edges to prevent burning. Fill and distribute uncooked rice evenly. Bake 20 minutes. Cool completely.

TO MAKE FILLING: In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, lemon zest and vanilla extract until blended and smooth. Spread cheese mixture evenly over crust. Refrigerate 1 hour.

In small bowl, microwave fruit spread and lemon juice, if desired, stirring often.

Arrange strawberry halves around tart. Drizzle heated fruit spread over strawberries. Top with whipped cream, if desired.

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P o l i & the

Bombpops Born and raised in North County, Poli van Dam is now raising her own family and rocking the music scene with her punk rock band, The Bombpops!

We recently had the opportunity to interview Poli on MomsTown365, The Daily Podcast for Mom Creators (Episode #86). She inspired us with her talent, personality and sheer authenticity. So, without further adieu, here’s more of our interview with the leader of the band:

Q

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

My name is Poli van Dam. I’m married to a rad dude named Mike and we have an awesome 8-year-old kid named Adler. My husband and I met when our bands played together in Los Angeles 11 years ago and the rest, as they say, is history. I play guitar and sing in a pop punk band called The Bombpops that I started circa 2008 in North County San Diego. We have recorded albums and toured the US and Europe tons of times. With me being a touring musician, a Type 1 Diabetic, and doing a brief stint at rehab, my family has been through a lot, but we always have the best time together and genuinely live life to the fullest. It may sound cheesy or cliche, but it’s ever so true.

Q

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PLAYING MUSIC & WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START A MUSIC CAREER?

I have been playing music more or less my whole life! I started taking piano lessons when I was 5, then played clarinet in middle school, and bought my first guitar when I was 13. It was all so natural and perfect - I remember the first time playing in a rehearsal studio with real amps, super loud for the first time, and I knew it was what I wanted to do forever. I was motivated by the rush of adrenaline that I felt, I can remember it to this day. I came home and was like “Mom, I’m doing this.”

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Q

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST JOY IN PLAYING MUSIC?

:My greatest joy in playing music is seeing how my band has inspired people. Hearing that our songs got someone through a tough time or inspiring a young lady to pick up the guitar and start learning. When we are up on stage and the feeling you get when you can hear the crowd singing your lyrics louder than you can hear yourself, when that happens, that’s pure joy for me.

Q

WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST OBSTACLE/HARDSHIP YOU’VE HAD TO OVERCOME IN YOUR MUSIC CAREER? We’ve been through a lot as a band. My best friend Jen and I started it together in 2008, and went through our fair share of drummers and bass players over the years. It felt like starting over every time but Jen and I stuck through it all and as of now we’ve maintained the same drummer and bass player for 10 years. Touring is also hard, that’s an obstacle for sure. It’s not easy living with 4/5 other people for a month on the road, missing home, and feeling exhausted. I am also Type 1 Diabetic as I said, so traveling makes it harder to manage my sugars.

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

Q HOW CAN READERS LEARN MORE ABOUT YOU AND

YOUR BAND?

You can go check out our music videos at: youtube.com/thebombpops WEBSITE: thebombpops.com INSTAGRAM: @thebombpops @polivanpop FAMILY YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Odd Duck Family

Q

Any final words you’d like to offer to other moms?

Moms, you got this. Keep music and art alive in your family. Our babies are truly miracles and we should be grateful BUT it’s also okay to get the heck outta town and/or do what you do that makes you happy (even if that means just simply pooping in peace with the door closed for once).

Q

HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK MUSIC IS TO KIDS & FAMILIES? Music is important to kids and families because it’s such an amazing way to express yourself. My son goes on garage band now and is learning how to record his own songs. It’s always amazing to see what he comes up with. Music is art that you feel in your soul and is capable of making you feel so many different ways. We all need to express ourselves more and I believe this generation of kids is going to be insanely better than anybody else at doing so, which could result in great things.

Q

WHAT TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER ASPIRING MOM CREATIVES? My main tip for moms would be to use your kids for inspiration. I know Adler inspired me greatly to just work harder on my career because I wanted him to see that I didn’t give up my dreams, even when chasing them wasn’t easy. Motherhood comes with a lot of complicated emotions that I try to channel into my song writing.

Q

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR THE BAND? ANY UPCOMING CONCERT DATES? The Bombpops are always working on something. Go follow us on social media to stay updated, get announcements for shows and all that good stuff.

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

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It's Malasada Season The ultimate beach donuts!

Oceanside Pier Thursday-Sunday mornings Starting ay 15th

Come early!

When we sell out...

We sell out!

NOMADIC

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MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

Summer Living can be easy

by Dasha Hervey

Sea and Pine Interior Design

DASHA HERVEY Hello summer! Bring out the Bocce ball and BBQ. What could be better than pure sunshine, long days, and ocean breezes? It's time to give that patio, dining space or deck a freshen-up to liven-up your senses and improve your mood.

“Creating a fun exterior space is as easy as one, two, three,” says Dasha Hervey.

1. Identify your space and ground it with a pat-

tern. Today’s outdoor rug selections look as good on the inside as they do on the outside. Her go-to resource is Safavieh (www.safavieh.com). They make an endless selection of patterns and styles that are both durable and affordable.

ABOUT DASHA

Award-winning Principal Designer Dasha Hervey is Kitchen & Bath + Universal Design certified. She has served as Director with the American Society of Interior Designers and is an active member with the National Kitchen + Bath Association.

Awarded First place from the American Society of Interior Design in the Design for Excellence Awards, 2020 Best of Houzz 2016 to 2021 Published: San Diego Tribune, Ranch and Coast Magazine www.seaandpine.com ♦ (619) 823-8858 Service Area: From the Sea to the Sierras

Photography Courtesy of MinoPro Media Group Deck Design by Sea and Pine Interior Design

2. Select your furnishings. Look to the interior of your home for inspiration to continue the design theme to the outdoors. This creates a more fluid look between the spaces. Patio Productions (www.patioproductions.com) here in San Diego creates beautiful and stylish furnishings + accessories for any sized space. It doesn’t have to all match, and less is more. Just ensure you keep the furniture to scale for the space you’re designing.

Photography Courtesy of Eduardo Contreras, The San Diego Tribune Weather-resistant furnishings, small space design

by Sea and Pine Interior Design

Furnishings are more than furniture. Consider a cozy throw, graphic pillows for visual impact, a grouping of plants in eye-catching vessels and don’t forget the cherry on top, lighting. Hurricane candles grouped together, a bio-fuel fireplace, or a battery-operated table lamp will add to the ambiance and extend the lounge attitude into longer evenings in this wonderful new space.

3. Create shelter. As humans we naturally seek and feel more comfortable in a sheltered space.

You can create this with a patterned umbrella, a triangle shade canvas, pergola, or even solar string lights that mimic the Footprint of the defined space. If you're fortunate to have a covered patio, a third of your project is already on its way.

Design Tips Further define space through varied plant heights in the same-colored pots Add in fragrant plantings like night blooming jasmine to create a wonderful scent White flowers or silver foliage illuminate at night, especially under a full moon Limit the risk of fire by using battery operated candles. Especially fun when placed on a timer. They are also less inclined to melt in the sun Consider a water feature to create a tranquil space for you and your feathered friends When you need tunes, and want unbeatable sound, consider a Sonos speaker system that is mobile and connects to your WI-FI system

Photo Courtesy of Patio Productions Enjoy the process, be bold, and let your personality shine through to reflect this special space. And most importantly, have a happy summer!

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

15

the Mom behind

the Machine

she's the voice of John Deere!

Another amazing mom creator joined us in-studio to talk about how she created the career of her dreams by turning her voice into a business while working from home. Here’s her interview.

CHRISTY HARST

HEATHER

My husband and I were watching TV in bed last night and all of the sudden a John Deere commercial came on and I said, “I know that voice, we’re interviewing her on our show tomorrow!”

Welcome to the show, Christy Harst. Tell us how you got started in the voice over industry.

CHRISTY

When I was 12, I decided I was going to be the next Barbara Walters. I went to college and majored in broadcast communications. And I did a ton of internships at radio and television stations. When I interned at MTV, in my last quarter before graduation, I realized that I no longer wanted it to be the next Barbara Walters.

So, I went to work in the nonprofit world of doing events and marketing. But, I started to realize I was missing something in my life. I was missing that passion I had for performance. And, when I was working at the city of Cleveland, I started looking for and getting an agent to represent me and I did. I started getting auditions for on-camera and voiceover work.

Then I got married and we started a family and we realized daycare would take an entire salary to pay for so we committed to build a makeshift studio in our basement. I started to learn more about how to market myself as a small business owner and now I've been doing this full-time for seven years.

CHRISTY

We were tight on funds, so I took moving blankets from Home Depot and my husband and my dad put together these PVC pipes. And we used shower curtain rings and punched holes through the moving blankets and just made like a box in the corner of my basement. I did get lucky because I had a friend who agreed to invest in my business and she loaned me money to buy a computer, a mic, all the equipment set-up I needed. I eventually paid her back Now, I have a really nice brick studio with a door. And when you push up the handle, it vacuum seals you in. And I've got a really nice mic and I've worked really hard to get me to the point where I am a female voice for John Deere. You can also hear me on the World Series or Monday Night Football.

MARY

What do you believe, with hard work aside, helped you be so successful?

CHRISTY

I found that I listened to what the universe was telling me, which was, this is not you. You need to do what you're passionate about. And, I am so grateful that I have a supportive husband, supportive family and friends, and the ability to wake up every day and do what I absolutely love to do because it's not a job, it’s a dream come true.

HEATHER

I, too, left broadcasting when I had my first baby.

MARY

When Heather and I met, I was hosting an internet radio show for Entrepreneur Magazine. She started MomsTown, an Internet radio show. She connected with me and we happened to live three miles from each other in the same zip code! What was your makeshift studio in the basement like?

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To hear our full interview with Christy, go to MomsTown365.com and tune into Episode #130

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

top career picks for

MOMS IN 2021

In case y’all didn’t know, we love LinkedIn. We are making great connections on the platform. Recently, we ran across Meg Applegate. Meg is an award-winning resume writer who connects high-achieving women to career advancement under her boutique resume writing and coaching firm, Hinge Resume Collaborative. She also pens interesting articles. She recently created a collaborative post on LinkedIn that is pulling together some amazing career resources for moms.

The article is so chock full of great tips we just had to share it! So . . . here ya go . . .

If you don’t know it yet, motherhood is an all-out, hands-on, messy course in leadership. From the stork’s arrival to beyond the empty nest, moms enroll in the most-character building (and trying) boot camp there is: Raising children.

91% agree. According to Bright Horizons’ recent Modern Family Index, Moms bring a unique (and much needed) combination of skills to the workplace, compared to working fathers and employees without kids, like:

A Listening ear

Diplomacy

Calm in crisis

Team-orientation 89% of the participants in Kelton Research’s study maintain that working moms bring out the best in their employees. So when we saw 4.2 million women exit paid work in droves due to the impact of COVID-19, one of the greatest workforce superpowers went missing – MOMS! The rise of maternal support and flexible work arrangements is a bright light in the wake of the public health crisis. LinkedIn released stay-at-home parent job titles in their work experience section and professional network, HeyMama, encouraged the add of “Mother” on your resume both touting that unpaid skill development is equally as valuable as those attained on payroll.

YOUR CAREER RESOURCE BOUQUET Mother’s Day's flowers have faded and fallen by this time, but career longevity lasts a lifetime. Our ode to moms is more than fresh flowers, but a career resource bouquet to grow with the seasons.

From returning to work and leaning in to downshifting, we need each other (and expert resources) to bloom over the long haul.

This article was inspired by a LinkedIn post in May 2021.

See original post and comments by visiting Meg Applegate’s profile Be sure to tell her Mary & Heather say, “Hi!" linkedin.com/in/megapplegate

MEG APPLEGATE

RETURN-TO-WORK iRelaunch - irelaunch.com Learning Motherhood - learningmotherhood.co/for-families Pathforward - pathforward.org Parents Pivot - parentspivot.com Prepare to Launch U - preparetolaunchu.com ReacHire - reachire.com STEM Re-Entry Task Force - reentry.swe.org The Mom Project - themomproject.com The Second Shift - thesecondshift.com ONLINE RESOURCES / JOB BOARDS Bus Stop Mamas - busstopmamas.com/jobopportunity Fairygodboss - fairygodboss.com Flexjobs - flexjobs.com Inhersight - inhersight.com Remote.co - remote.co COMMUNITY Ellevate - ellevatenetwork.com Boss Mom Crew - bossmomcrew.com Hey Mama - heymama.co Pass The Torch for Women - passthetorchforwomen.org Working Christian Mom - workingchristianmom.com Working Momkind - workingmomkind.com BOARD RESOURCES ACE Board Training for Women - acellc.consulting BoardRooms - broadrooms.com Catalyst Women on Board - catalyst.org/catalyst-women-on-board/ CEOX - projectceox.com Forté Connect fortefoundation.org/site/PageServer?pagename=women_boards Women In The Board Room - womenintheboardroom.com 5050 Women On Boards - 5050wob.com PODCASTS Called & Equipped listennotes.com/podcastscalled-and-equipped-jessica-hernandez-zKJkdwFpSNG iRelaunch - irelaunch.com/podcast MomsTown365 - momstown365.com Ready Pause Go - readypausego.com/about Working Christian Mom - workingchristianmom.com/blog BOOKS/BLOGS How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back from Your Next Raise Promotion or Job, by Sally Helgesen & Marshall Goldsmith howwomenrise.com Working Moms Against Guilt - workingmomsagainstguilt.com

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

17

self esteem

let's build it!

with the founder of Priority Parenting ~ Laura

Greer

Before building our child’s self esteem, we need to start with ourselves. There’s a lot to learn in parenting, have you noticed? It's our generation that has the academic studies and awareness to realize this, so we didn’t grow up seeing parents learning to parent.

The past has been Step 1: have a child, Step 2: you know all answers and how all things should be done.

Parenting begins with us, with you.

In my parenting education, I know that any and all emphasis on adult responsibility is ONLY for the awareness of effectiveness toward your end goals— no blame or shame!

Don’t we all need to be reminded of that? You got this, you really do, you are the exact right person to be the parent of your child.

If something isn’t working well, admit it, if you want to change some things, you can do that.

The foundation for children to have healthy self esteem is the development of the belief: “I am capable.” (It’s the same with you!)

To help kids feel capable, they need to experience creating a result or solution where their actions are involved. This starts with putting toys away, getting their socks on! Then it's completing their homework, taking trash out weekly. Remember, in learning to do something there needs to be space to do it wrong first, to fall off the monkey bars, then try it again.

That sequence is success, it’s being capable of starting over, doing it again!

Encourage kids by pointing out when they are capable of taking care of something themselves, then provide the patience, time and space for them to do so.

Reality check: of course you can’t do this all the time, protect your sanity and obligations, but look for these opportunities more!

Learning “I am Capable” can’t be developed when we: Do too much for them, Overprotect them, Do homework for them, Demand.

Opportunities to feel needed and significant encourages “I am Capable”.

Today, children don’t have many natural opportunities to feel needed and significant, but parents and teachers can thoughtfully provide these opportunities. We have an obligation to provide opportunities for children to develop responsibility and motivation.

Children can develop capable perceptions and skills naturally when they are allowed to work side by side with their parents, on-the-job training while making meaningful contributions to the family lifestyle. Cooperation based on mutual respect and shared responsibility is more effective than authoritarian control.

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE’S CRITERIA FOR EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE 1. Does it help children feel a sense of connection? (Belonging and Significance) 2. Is it respectful and encouraging? (Kind and firm at the same time) 3. Is it effective long-term? (Does it consider what the child is thinking, feeling, deciding?)

4. Does it teach important life skills? (Respect, concern for others, problem-solving, cooperation) Parents, you got this! Always be curious about who your child is, what traits can you nurture for their greatest adult life to flourish?

ABOUT LAURA

Laura Greer is the owner of Priority Parenting which focuses on supporting parents helping children be seen and heard.

She discovered so many rewards working with families she created a side, “from the heart”, business in 2002. Serving the parenting community in every way, she continued Certification and Education paths to become a Parenting Coach and Child Development Specialist establishing Priority Parenting in 2018.

Join her for: Workshops, Private Consultations, Parenting Conferences and Events. One of her sought after programs is a Music & Language Program to improve cognitive, social, behavioral, emotional and communication skills: Musical Sing & Sign Enrichment Program.

EDUCATION: Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Infant & Toddler Development Specialist, Master Teacher Permit in Early Child Development, American Sign Language Studies

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MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

MomsTown is partnering with Simplecast, recently acquired by SiriusXM and Pandora, to build something special and you’re invited to join us!

KEY BENEFITS TO JOINING THE MOMSTOWN PODCAST NETWORK Turnkey Platform Community of Show Hosts & Monthly Get-togethers Increased Potential of Ad Sales & Monetization Dynamic Ad Insertion Access to Podcast Weekend All Shows Promoted on MomsTown.com Data & Statistics Dedicated Support Tools & Training Cross-Promote w/ Other Network Shows Recurring Feature on MomsTown365 (only available to network hosts) If you’re an aspiring podcaster or have an existing podcast please reach out.

It’s going to be fun! Send an eMail to: Podcast@MomsTown.com

MOMSTOWN • JUN 2021

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