We're Chillin' at My Cousin's Place

After visiting Lady Clara's BFF, Princess Nieema, the Huffsters had plans to go to a vegan cafe that we frequent. But, from where we were -- and with no bus in sight to venture some 20 minutes away -- we optetd to stay close to the C Train so that we could at least hop on it and head back home. We were headed to Sir Isaac's favorite french frie spot when he noticed a sign in a cafe's window that promoted Free Wifi.

Sir Isaac immediately stopped, tapped on the window -- getting the attention of the man sitting at the table near the window -- and shouted, "Do you have free Wifi?" The man shook his head up and down. Next thing I know, we were walking in. A gentleman was at the counter getting his order of homemade chilli. Did you say homemade chilli? Well, I was sold! I ordered a $4 bowl with some rice and got the children at chicken cutlas hero sandwich, along with some snapple drinks.

The man from the window -- who turned out to be the cafe's co-owner, Frank - set us up in the back of the recently opened soup and sandwich eatery. As Karen made our food and the children logged on for free Wifi, Frank and I conversed. I already knew in my mind -- based on my experience thus far -- that I'd be coming back to chill at my cousin's place. No, I didn't find out by chance that Frank and I are related. That's the name of the establishment. But, you know what? It feels like a family spot. We're chillin' like we're at a family member's house. And, that is refreshing. It's so important to find a place where you can dine in peace. And, for me... get a little (okay... A LOT) of work done on the laptop.

Oh, yes... My Cousin's Place is going to be a regular spot for my family. If you want try it out for yourself, come on down to: 100 Kingston Avenue, Brookly, NY (between Bergen St and Dean Street). Call them up at (718) 363-3111 to see what's on the menu as they try to serve three new soups a week.

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Change IS Good!

For the longest, I have wanted to rock a mohawk hairdo. However, because I am not one to follow everyone elses styling lead, I decided to lay low on the hairstyle change. Besides, I didn't know how it would look on me. I am a firm believer that not everything looks good on everybody.

However (BIG SMILE)... I decided to let my dear friend, Queen, give me a new look about a month ago. Up until then, I was growing my hair out while keeping it in a funky curly fro thanks to the makers of Gummy Gel! After she washed, then flat ironed my hair, I took a look in the mirror and was absolutely amazed. My hair was long and thick. "Wow," I said to myself. "You actually let you hair grow to this lenght. Good going, Feona!"

Then, Queen proceeded to braid my hair. After two hours of sitting still on a makeshift chair, she had completed doing designs on both sides of my head. All that was left was the middle. "Okay, so what do you want me to do," she asked. "I want to rock a mohawk," I exclaimed without hesitation. So, she curled then spiked the hair that was left out. I went back to the mirror and was pleasantly pleased.

I immediately felt differently with my new 'do. While I've always fancied my curly fro, the change in style was a smart move. It's funny because one of Lady Clara's classmates called me Willow (FYI: actress Jada Pinkett Smith's daughter) the next day when she saw the transformation of my hair. I couldn't do anything but flash my signature koolaide smile. Like the hook to the tween's song goes, "I whip my hair!" A longtime friend from my hometown likened me to my fave R&B singer, Mary J. Blige. That was indeed a compliment because the mohawk she (and I) wear is so sassy. And, sassy... I AM! When I went in my neighborhood grocery store that I shop in practically EVERYDAY, the store manager didn't recognize me. He apologized when I said who i was after he replied to my evening greeting a bit differently than usual. I didn't take offense, though. My new 'do was doing something for me. It was changing me.

I embraced the changing of my hair style. I felt an extra pep in my step. I smiled even deeper. I layed on the gloss just a tad bit more (Oh yes... my lipgloss WAS poppin'!). I felt great.

And, you see.... that's what change is suppose to make you feel. While I focused on the change of my hairdo, this mindset applies to the changes that take place in our lives as well. Sometimes we don't want change because we think it's going to mess up our entire M.O. But, that's quite the contrary. Change actually exhances how you do things and empowers you to try even new routes.

So, the next time change knocks at your door (or has a conversation with your hair stylist!), give it a hug and rock it. I embraced some more change even today and it's truly ALL GOOD.

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Let Them GO... Just a Little Bit!

Recently, while dining at our favorite restaurant, Sir Isaac announced that he had to use the restroom. I was about to make my way to the door to stand guard when he stopped me dead in my tracks. "No, mom," he said. "I can do it by myself. I'm a big boy." He was absolutely right. I am so use to escorting him and Lady Clara and waiting around that I hadn't realized that it's okay to let them go just a little bit.

By saying what he did, Sir Isaac was exercising his right to pursue his independence. I let him go ahead to the restroom by himself, though I must admit that I watched him from afar through the glass door. When he returned to our table, he had a huge smile on his face. "All done, mom," he informed me. I could tell that his experience in doing this on his own was a big deal. And, it was.

As solo mommies especially, we want to protect our children and do everything for them because we love them. However, we have to know when it's time to give them a bit of independence. This will be to their benefit now and in the future. Remember, we are raising leaders, thinkers, creators and owners. They have to get their start early on in order to take their place in this world later on.

So now, when Sir Isaac tells me he's going to the restroom, I say "okay," and let him go. He's a responsbile young man so I have no need to worry. And, that's a great thing!

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

I'm Putting ME on My To-Do List!

Take the children to acting class. Check. Get on a conference call with a music studio executive. Check. Take my mom shopping. Check. Take Feona to dinner and a movie. What?! (scratching my scalp as I say this out loud)

If you saw my daily to-do list, you'd scratch your head in amazement -- not because the list of duties nearly runs off the page but because nothing is centered just around me. It's my fault, though. After all, I am the one in control of scheduling my days. Realizing this, however, I have decided to make a significant change.

This past Friday evening (November 5, 2010) was the beginning of a beautiful relationship with ME. I put me on my to-do list without guilt. I went to see Tyler Perry's film, "For Colored Girls" with a group of 16 savvy ladies, thanks to The Sex CEO & Annamjohnson.com. We sat in three rows equipped with nachos, soda, popcorn and tissue (oh yes... there was some crying going on!). I had a chance to network with ladies who are doing phenomenal things. I laughed, cried, networked and enjoyed being in the company of other ladies.

I'm glad that I went out. It was part of my social development and a great source of balance for all the many things I do for my children and others. And you know what? I'm going to do it again! I just asked one of my BFFs to watch his godchildren for an upcoming weekend so I can go out. He happily said "yes." Done deal!

It's great to empower your children and feed into their socialization, but you have to do the same for yourself. This gives you balance. And, since you are on a solo parenting journey and are the sole source for everything, you have to "Do You, Boo" as the founder of The Phenomenal Woman Empowerment Alliance always encourages. Try it. Start out with alloting 30 minutes to yourself when you get in the house in the evening and demand that there be no interruptions. Run a nice bubble bath. Light some candles. Put on some Sade or Mary J. Chill. Smile. Breathe. Be.

Email me at solomommymag@yahoo.com and let me know how things go. Progres is always empowering.

Until I write you next, I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya!

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Let Them Express Themselves

For Lady Clara’s Harry Potter Book Club celebration yesterday afternoon, I bought her a long green wig. Oh, and did she love it! Lady Clara loved it so much that she fell asleep wearing it. I had planned to put it away this morning to preserve it for a future costume occasion. However, she had other plans.

After Lady Clara got dressed for acting class, I noticed that she had put the wig back on. “Look, mom!” she said with excitement. I immediately told her to take it off. After all, the party was over. There was no reason for her to go outside with an Incredible Hulk green wig on (And, yes… I totally dismissed the fact that it was the Halloween season! I only let her wear the wig because of her club’s event).

Lady Clara did as I instructed. But, she looked so disappointed. I suddenly felt bad. My daughter wanted to express herself in her own way and I was impeding on that because I didn’t want anyone starring at me like I was crazy. I had a quick change of heart, which prompted an even quicker change of expression for Lady Clara.

What I learned from this situation was that when your children want to express themselves, let them. This allows them to explore those things that make them happy or that spark their curiosity. When I was younger, my mom let me express myself. Had she stopped me, I wonder would I be the creative and expressive person that I am today.

The next time Lady Clara or Sir Isaac want to wear something to express themselves, I’m going to let them -- without hesitation. Oh, and to add to her green wig ensemble, I gave Lady Clara her green and white pocketbook to rock. “I’m matching,” she said with enthusiasm. “Yes, you are baby!” I responded.

Well, until I write you next…. I’m just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Dear Time... I Need You on My Side!

Last night, a fellow journalist interviewed me regarding my mission to empower single moms and my own walk as a mother raising two children “solo.” One of the last questions that she asked me was, “What would you consider to be your most challenging thing on a daily basis?” Well, that was a no-brainer. The answer is TIME.

Often times, it just doesn’t seem like there’s enough time to do everything. And, I’m just talking about the necessary to-dos of the day. Add a magazine, freelance writing assignments, event planning and extracurricular activities for the children, and it’s definitely crunch time. I get frustrated sometimes because it’s my heart’s desire to fulfill my daily responsibilities and be able to do other things as well.

Sometimes, I joke that I need to be cloned to have another Feona to help with some of the work. It sure would make a difference. But, since I know that’s never going to happen, I must keep pressing on and look at different strategies for getting things done – what I need to do and want to do.

My heart is in the right place and I’m determined to make it happen – and to do so with ease. I’ll let you know how things progress.

Until I write you next… I’m just living the solo mommy life.

Love you,

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Your Child Can Do Come Complex Work, So Let Him!

Sir Isaac loves to do math. He mastered adding two-digits numbers in the first grade. Now, that he's a 2nd grader, I feel that he should be (and can be) calculating more complex math equations early on in the school year. Besides, I don't have to wait until something is taught to teach him, right?!

So, today, while chilling out in the education department after art class, I wrote down nine double-digit addition problems for him to do. I explained to him that when doing these types of problems, you always add from right to left, and that if you get a number with two digits, you write the number in the one's column down and "carry over" the number in the tens column.

After I showed him how to do it, I left him to handle his business. And so, it was on! Sir Isaac answered that 17 + 23 = 40, 10 + 28 = 38 and 18 + 25 = 42. I saw that he even corrected himself when he initially answered that 19 + 14 was 23. He changed it, by himself, to 19 + 14 = 33. That showed me that my son was ready to move on to more challenging math problems.

It's exciting for me to see Sir Isaac solve double-digit math problems with ease rather than frustration. I feel good in pushing him to do more. It's only going to advance him and shut down any signs of boredom. He knows simple multiplication, but I'm going to push the envelop on that as well. His mind is open and he's eager to learn. That's an incredible combination.

I think it does a child good to stretch his learning. And, when he gets it right -- even after a few times of trying -- he will feel good about himself because he'll realize that he CAN do it. The look on Sir Isaac's face was priceless when he knocked out those math problems on his own. I'm going to reward him. Shhhh.... don't tell him. It's a surprise! That's the other component to the learning equation. You have to reward your child for doing something new. It's encourages them to want to do more and get better.

Tonight, I'm going to give him some more double-digit problems. And, for each one he gets right, I'm going to give him money. He'll have to add up all of the money at the end of his math session to see how much he earns. If he adds correctly, he gets to keep it all. Learning is his job. It's cool for him to get paid for it. Well, sometimes (LOL).

I encourage you to see what your child can do. If, for example, he is reading two-sentence page books, see if he can read five-sentence page books. You may be pleasantly surprised to discover that it's a "piece of cake" for him and that perhaps he needs more. The learning process for our children can be so exciting for them -- and us. Do them a favor and keep them pushing higher and higher.

Well, until I write you next, I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com.

Listen to Your Children... They Have Something to Say

When the school year began in September, I noticed a difference in my children's zeal for their charter school. Instead of high praises of their teaches and learning environment, Lady Clara and Sir Isaac expressed discontent with the people in charge of their learning and the entire scholastic experience. Mind you, this was on a daily basis. This was an instant red flag. My household is filled with people who love education. So, when my children shared their dismay, I not only listened, I took action.

After a month and a half into the school year and after a combined seven years at their school, I pulled them out and enrolled them back into their former elementary school. That Wednesday at 4 pm was their last day at the charter school and the next day, they were matriculated back "home." They responded in such a positive way to returning to their academic roots. There was lots more pep in their step, they were smiling ear to ear, they boasted about their teachers, couldn't wait to do their homework, had more time to eat their lunch and socialize with their friends and they were part of a "real" village.

Pulling them the other school was the right decision. I think if I had kept them there -- completely disregarding their unhappiness of being in a place that they spend more of their time on the weekday -- it would have affected their spirit. I was not willing to jeopardize my children's spirit. In just two and a half weeks of being back at the school where they both got their elementary education start, they have stood out amongst their classmates. Lady Clara was invited to be in a member of the Harry Potter Book Club and her teacher is eyeing her for "Student of the Month" for October. Sir Isaac is showing that he is a leader and has received 100 percent on his spelling tests. They feel loved where they currently are. They are getting the academic support in a nurturing manner. They have support. They are enjoying just "being." I see the diffence. And, interestingly enough, their former crossing guard does too. Just this morning when we passed her on our way to their current school, we had a brief conversation and she said they looked happier.

Moms... I sincerely implore you to listen to your children. They have something to say. If you ignore them, it could destroy their trust in the one person in whom they entrust their livelihood. Now, that doesn't mean that you have to respond favorably to everything that they say, but if it's important enough to them to tell you about the concern day after day, it's time to take notice and take action. In the end, it's about communication and respecting their feelings and concerns. They are "little" people with voices. They need to be heard.

Until I write you next, I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
"Empowering you with savvier ways to live a simpler life
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

I LOVE Me Some Him!

God blessed me with an AMAZING gift. His name is Timothy Isaac Lewis Huff. Or, as I affectionately call him, “Sir Isaac.” My son, who turns 7 years old next month, is such a compassionate, thoughtful, loving, scholarly, creative and talented young man. He is full of life. He is an people magnet (everyone gravitates toward him the minute the enters a room). He is my twin. Sometimes, I just stare at him as he sleeps tightly wrapped up in his Spider-Man blanket. And, I think to myself, “Wow…. this little angel is mine!”

Sir Isaac is such an entertainer. The late and great Michael Jackson is his favorite artist. And, when Mj’s music starts blaring from the radio speakers…. watch out! You’re sure to see some fancy footwork from “The Prince of Dance.” LOL…. I love it! I have him on video showcasing his skills.

My son is very in tune with his feelings and that of others. The caring-natured person that he is, Sir Isaac will comfort you and remind you that “everything is going to be all right.” There have been times that I felt sad, but not for long, because my son would come to me, rub my back and tell me that he loves me and not to worry. How could I stay sad after that?!

When I look at my son Sir Isaac, I see so much and I know that he can be so much in life. I published a children's book in honor of my son entitled, "When I Look at You." It reads, "When I look at you, there is so much I see…. Like a judge who rules in the name of justice and equality. An eye doctor who helps people to see better. A meteorologist who tells people about the weather…."

My son wakes up EARLY. If I’m sleep, Sir Isaac wakes me up as well. I don’t mind because his greeting is so sweet: “Good Morning Mommy!” I quickly reply, “Good Morning Son!” Then, I grab him, hug him tight and give him lots of kisses. This causes him to smile. Oh, and what a smile he has. He gets his warming smile honestly!

Sir Isaac is a willing helper around the house. He helps to wash the dishes, sweep the floor, take out the garbage, clean the mirrors and iron his clothes. He is very independent in this way. It let’s me know that he’s going to do fine in life. That’s because he takes initiative. Being a go-getter is the name of the game and I am confident that my son will have his game ON LOCK!

I can go on and on about how I feel about my son. But to sum it all up, I proudly declare, “I LOVE me some him!”

Moms (and dads!)…. please show love to and thanksgiving for your sons. Brag about them. Celebrate them. Let them know they matter immensely. By doing so, you are empowering and building up a future leader and world changer. I’m doing that NOW with Sir Isaac!

Until I write you next…. I’m just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya!

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com/

I’m Moving Forward!

It didn’t hit me until just now – as I was reviewing the creative “farewell” posters that my summer camp students made for me (on the sneak tip) – that I am officially a full-time entrepreneur. I shed some tears, too. It wasn’t out of sadness but rather joy.

In the year’s time that I worked as my employer’s program coordinator for the after school and camp director for the summer camp, I know I have made a tremendous difference and had an impact on the lives of the elementary and middle school students I served.

I’ve seen academic and social growth. I’ve seen a change in behavior. I’ve seen the students take responsibility for their lives. Students, who in the beginning were not focusing on their work, became my prized “scholars.” These same students went from dodging their work to requesting to sit beside me so that they could get their work done. My students would literally play tug-of-war with my arms because everyone wanted to be Ms. Huff’s partner when I came to pick them up from school to attend the after-school program. They’d surprise me with colorful and detailed drawings of me with pigtails! They’ve hugged me long and hard when they come into my classroom and when they see me on the streets of Brooklyn.

I feel good deep down in my soul because I know I have done right by my students. However, it is simply time to step into my season,. I miss “my babies” already but I know that I have to
do this. Oh yes, I’m going to see ALL my students again. It will just be in a different capacity the next time.

I am excited for me. I am confidant in myself and in the gifts, talents and personality that God has given me. Therefore, I am not afraid of what the immediate or far future holds. 2 Timothy 1:7 in The Holy Bible says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

I encourage all my single mom sisters to embrace your “season”
and know that it is okay to move forward in faith, integrity, hope and tenacity. You have everything that you need to succeed within you. Believe that truth. I do. That’s exactly why I am moving forward. On my MARK... Get SET…. Go Feona... GO!!!!!!

Until the next time I write you... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love you!

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com/

The Park, a Racket and Me -- What an Energizing Workout!

After looking at my lavendar and pink Wilson's racket nestled in the corner of my living room for close to a month, I finally decided to make good use of it. So, I arose early this morning, packed my camaflauge pouch and hit the handball court for some a workout.

It felt good running back and forth hitting (and many times missing!) my pink tennis ball. That's right, I said "pink." Hey, I can look cute while I work out, right?! LOL

I felt so alive during the course of my hour-long workout. My mind was free to wonder. I even came up with ideas to work on in the immediate future. I have decided to play racket ball every morning as it was beneficial physically and mentally.

I encourage you to utilize your local park to exercise as well. Take the kids and work out together. Link up with your girlfriends and play one-on-one tennis or talk "girl talk" while power walking around the track. Shoot a few basketball hoops -- or at least attempt to throw the ball near the rim. It's all in fun. After all, that's what a workout should be. Just take a try and you'll see what I mean. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Until the next time I write you…. I’m just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya!

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
“Empowering you with savvier ways to live a simpler life”
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Appreciate the Small Things

After dropping off Lady Clara and Sir Isaac at school, I made my way to the park to take a short cut to the bus stop. I noticed that the Parks Department had cut the sprinklers on. Yes… summer is officially here! The sprouting water looked so cool and refreshing – especially on a smoking hot day as this – that I felt compelled to take a picture to remind me of the season and all it has to offer. As I was positioning my camera phone to take the snap shot, a fellow LPBS parent walked pass me with his son. Apparently, they were in the middle of a heart-to-heart conversation, when the father said, “You have to appreciate the little things.” Wow… how true of a statement that is! After all, it’s the little things that really count.

My son hugging me and telling me that I’m the best mom in the whole wide world means so much to me. My daughter fixing me a delicious salad and serving it to me means so much to me. My after-school students literally pulling at my arms all at once to get a chance to hold “Ms. Huff’s” hand means so much to me. These same students drawing photos of me with pigtails and a big grin on my face (oh how capture me so well… hee hee!) means so much to me. Receiving texts from friends just sending me a quick note to let me know that I am on their mind means so much to me. The fact that I have time (RIGHT NOW) to sit in the park and write this blog means so much to me. I take none of the fore mentioned things for granted. I appreciate them all!

Sure, we have a lot of pressures on a day-to-day basis to overcome. But, we must now allow them to cloud our hearts, minds and spirits and make us forget about the little things in life that mean so much. We need to sweat the little things in life. They are the things that truly make life worth living. The next time you take your children to the park, just watch the look on their faces as the slide down the slide or when they reach the end of the monkey bars. Their smile is an indication that their time is being spent having fun – with you. That is a little thing. But then, it’s a big thing, too. That – and many other memories – will forever be embedded in their minds.

No, it’s not going to be the $400 you spend on summer clothes or the Nintendo Wii that you buy them that will touch their hearts so deeply, but those days when all you had was you and your time to spend with them. It’s a little thing that’s really a big thing. It’s a beautiful thing, too! And, this editorial offering is a little gift from me to you that I hope you use to make big things happen for you and your children.

Until the next time I write you…. I’m just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya!

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
“Empowering you with savvier ways to live a simpler life”
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Step into Your Power!

Did you know that you had it going on? If you didn't, I'm telling you.... YOU DO! After all, it takes a special type of person to do what we do, which is make life happen for ourselves and our children. Only a powerful person can get up every morning to get the children ready and off to school, go to work and make deals happen, run side businesses, volunteer, and the list goes on. And, all of this is done without breaking a sweat (or a nail!).

But, that's what single moms do. We make life happen f or ourselves and our children EVERYDAY. We are skillful and creative. We know how to turn nothing into something. We improvise and wow people with our enterprise. All in all... we get it done. Our surroundings and the way our children live are a direct result of our powerful being.

So the next time that you think you're not doing enough or being enough, put those feelings on pause. Look at yourself in the mirror and see the strength that illuminates. Watch how your children skip about their day happy. That's you! I created my communications agency, Powerhouse Media Group, with all of this in mind. And, as the tagline goes: "When you step into your power, you become a powerhouse." I truly believe that. I embrace that concept everyday. I want you to do the same. This world needs your power to exist. So, step into it... NOW!

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
"Empowering you with savvier ways to live a simpler life"
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Food 4 Thought: Step Out of Your Routine Lunch Break Eating Zone

Instead of lunching at the fast food restaurant nearby, I opted to take the B38 bus then the B15 bus to Food 4 Thought (F4T). The Bedstuy-based eatery boasts delicious dishes that are healthy too. I ordered a chicken wrap and a Flatbush. "What's the later?," you ask. It's one of F4T's signature smoothies that represents a neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY. The Flatbush is made out of peanuts and bananas. It was gone before I made it to the bus stop heading back to work!

The other thing that I love about F4T is the ambiance. It has an inviting and friendly setting. People meet up to catch up on life, listen to eclectic music, play chess (oh, and they have a NICE chess set!) and get work done on their laptops. It also serves as a resource for what's going on in the community.

Venturing out of my lunch time dining norm and going to F4T today was great. Being in such a setting, I was able to partake of some good food and was inspired to write.

Consider this when you take your lunch break tomorrow. You, too, might be inspired to do something just a little different because you stepped out of your comfort zone.

If you'd like to try out Food 4 Thought, here's their info:

445 Marcus Garvey Blvd
Brooklyn, NY 11226
(718) 443-4160
www.myspace.com/food4thoughtcafe

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
"Empowering you with savvier ways to live a simpler life"
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

Celebrate Your Children's Scholastic Deeds

I am so proud of Lady Clara. Yesterday, she came to my after-school program smiling from ear to ear. Now, she normally walks through the door happy, but this day it was for a special occasion. My 4th grader was crowned "Scholar of the Day." This acknowledgement is awarded to the student who showcases a super positive attitude, goes a terrific job on the day's assignments (and is willing to help a fellow classmate) and actively participates in classroom discussions.

As a part of her recognition, Lady Clara was able to wear a blue and white T-shirt that was specifically designed for the 4th graders. On the back of her shirt is the no. 42 and the quick phrase "No Shortcuts." I love it! I was excited for her. She has worked diligently. She deserves to be noticed for her efforts. The proud mommy that I am, I took photos of my "Academic Diva" and promised to post them online, which I am doing now... on this blog!

If your child does something good, celebrate them -- with all the bells, whistles and photo taking! It's sure to build up their self-esteem and belief that they can "Do It!" This sets them on a path to bringing home even more honors. I believe this for Lady Clara and Sir Isaac (who, by the way, received a 100 percent on a recent "Sight Word Challenge"). I believe it for your children as well.

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine
"Empowering you with savvier ways to live a simpler life"
http://livingthesolomommylife.blogspot.com

1st Annual “PINK” Party

POWERHOUSE MEDIA GROUP

(in association with Solo Mommy Magazine)

requests your presence at its…

1st Annual “PINK” Party

Saturday, July 31, 2010
7:00pm - 11:00pm
Brown Sugar Club (Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY)
433 Marcus Garvey Blvd
Brooklyn, NY 11216

Join us at this all-things pink event, which will include live jazz music by The Brandon Sanders Band, spoken word, a fashion show, delicious dining, powerful connections and so much more.

Tickets are $20 in advance ($25 at the door).

A portion of ticket sales will be donated toward helping to find a cure for Breast Cancer and to the Clara Anderson Back-to-School Scholarship Fund for Single Moms.

For more information and to purchase your ticket, please contact Feona Sharhran Huff at (347) 386-9206 or thehuffreport@aol.com.

Please Note: You MUST come dressed in PINK!

We Were on Target to Celebrate The First Saturday in June!

I had a blast yesterday with Lady Clara and Sir Isaac. We enjoyed the sun shinny day and evening by hanging out at The Brooklyn Museum for Target's First Saturdays. Hundreds of others had the same idea as us: To bask in beauty of art and culture. The children ran through the grass, munched on grapes and cinnamon Teddy Grams and made new friends. I sat down and watched the African dancing.

I linked up with a fellow single mom friend who is the creator of Beautifully You Couture (FYI: Her fashions are SMOKING!). We talked a little girl-talk and watched to make sure the children didn't go to far off (Hey... that's what mommy's do -- no matter how old!).

I brought along my composition notebook (FYI: Like my Visa Card... I never go anywhere without it) so, of course, I took some time to jot down some notes. Being in the relaxing setting that I was facilitated my creative juices to flow and flow and flow. I came up with several pieces I'd like to write for this blog as well as some events I'd like to host.

In total, we stayed out for three hours. And, when we got home, we crashed. I was only able to make it to my trusty smoke gray couch. My lovely son tucked me with my favorite blanket and that was that.

Until the next time I write you... I'm just living the solo mommy life!

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine

When You Take Care of Your Children, They Take Care of You!

I go hard for my children. I do so because I love Lady Clara and Sir Isaac to the core of my being. I ensure that their basic needs are met -- food, shelter, clothing and education. I nurture their talents and interests as well -- karate, golf, gymnastics, art, cooking, music and dance.

This care isn't one-sided. The children take care of me, too! One evening, I was very tired and had taken a moment to rest on the couch in the living room. Lady Clara surprised me by fixing a delicious meal: Orange sliced spinach salad with butter croissants.It was a healthy and delicious dinner. I cleaned my plate!

Sir Isaac is so attentive to me. There's not a day that goes by that he doesn't ask, "Mommy, would you like a massage?" His massages are top-notch, too. He even massages my fingers! He certainly eases my stress with the working of his tiny hands. I can recall one evening where I was completely exhausted. I passed out on the couch. When I woke up, my son had covered me up with his Spider-Man comforter.

I feel good because I know that I'm doing right by my children. That's why they do right by me. We are a tight knit trio. We look out for each other. That's how it's suppose to be.

Until the next time I write you...

I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine

I Hustle... Then Flow!

I was hustling this morning to get Lady Clara and Sir Isaac to school on time. We were doing a serious sprint-walk down Fulton Street, making a sharp left turn onto Marcy Avenue. Yes... we arrived in front of the building with two minutes to spare. I told my children that I loved them and watched them eagerly enter LPBS. Their charter school starts at 7:30 am. I released a deep sigh.

Instead of rushing to catch the train bound for work, I decided to "be easy" on this Friday morning. Besides, I didn't have to be to my summer camp office until 9 am. I had an hour and a half to enjoy to myself. So, I walked over to Restoration, which has bench areas in back of its building. I sat down, embaced the A.M. breeze and exhaled some more deep breaths. Then, I texted a dear friend, Jay, to link up for some "real talk" conversation. The vibe session was positive and helpful. It gave me great insight which enabled me to examine my perspecive on certain situations.

I feel empowered and ready to take on the rest of this beautiful day. I'm going to take it slow. I'm going to enjoy the journey -- smiling all the way to my next destination. As a single mom, it's imperative to have this mind set. As Jay so eloquently stated, "Moms -- especially single moms -- do more before 11 am then most people do all day. He is absolutely right. We have to acknowledge our output. Then, we must put something back into us. TGIF single moms!

Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life.

Love,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine

Memorial Day and McDonalds: I'm Loving the Peace and Productivity

It's a quiet Memorial Day. I decided to take Lady Clara and Sir Isaac to their favorite spot near our house: McDonalds. It's not so much the Happy Meal with a to that draws them to the golden arches but the "Bouncey House." That's what my son calls it. It's McDonalds' jumbo jungle gym. The children placed their oders with me then made a mad dash for the play area.

When I got to our booth with their food 10 minutes later, they came over and briefly consumed some french fries, chicken nuggests, sweet tea and soda. Then, off again they went for more running, jumping, sliding, tagging and playing.

While the enjoyed the company of their peers, I took advantage of the time to write -- this blog, in particular -- and to just let my mind wonder. And, to eat my favorite Southwest salad, of course! I am at such peace right now. The children are enjoying themselves. So am I! And, at the end of the day, that's what living the solo mommy life is all about.

Until I write you next....

I'm just living the solo mommy life!

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Founder & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine

I love seeing my son getting suited up for his day, especially when his wardrobe consists of a jacket and tie. I feel so good when he watches his every move in the mirror as he buttons up his crisp white shirt, places his tie around his neck, slides on his suit jacket and gives himself the once-over before he steps out the door. "I look good, mommy," he proclaims. Indeed, he ALWAYS does!