Just $1 a Month Can Support One Woman's Mission to Help Many

Please support Dr. Wanda Jones' "$1 Campaign" as well as the mighty work that she's doing through Woman of Integrity Support Center Inc. She's touching and changing lives with an unselfish heart. She has an incredible story and a great calling on her life to help all women to become a "woman of integrity". When you watch this video, you will be compelled to take action. God bless her efforts. God bless you in advance for getting involved. Thank you big bro Rodney Bow Tie Harraway for introducing me to Dr. Wanda Jones.

For more information, contact Dr. Wanda Jones at (347) 221-1078 or director@womanofintegrity.org. Visit her online at www.womanofintegrity.org.

What Does Your Faith Walk Look Like?

If you missed my guest appearance and message ("What Does Your Faith Walk Look Like?" last night on Beautiful Gate's Release The Word, you're in for a treat. Here's the link to listen: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/beautifulgate/2012/01/26/bgm-release-the-word-welcomes-feona-huff. Thank you so much Stacey Cox for embracing my ministry and having me on the show. I will see you again in March! God bless you and may Our Heavenly Father continue to expand your territory. ~ Feona Sharhran Huff, Publisher & CEO of Solo Mommy Magazine(TM)

I'm Setting Lady Clara Up for Middle School Success

The other night, I attended "Technology Night" at Lady Clara's school. The workshop facilitators - including the school's guidance counselor, Mrs. Donaldson - informed parents on specific ways to keep our children safe on the Internet (FYI: An extensive write-up about what was shared will be in another posting)

When I saw Mrs. Donaldson this morning after dropping my daughter off at school, I thanked her again for such an empowering session. Then, I asked her if she planned on talking to the 5th graders (which Lady Clara is one) about keeping safe when they enter middle school in the fall. Ms. Donaldson went on to say that it would be worked into her schedule more closer to the end of the school year. In the meantime, she suggested that I have a heart-to-heart with my first born about certain topics prior to her transition from elementary school to middle school.

Mrs. Donaldson said peer pressure is big concern at the middle school level, especially because that is the time where cliques begin and friendships matter the most. She advised me to encourage an open dialogue with Lady Clara to gauge her comfort level regarding self-esteem and confidence. She mentioned that personal hygiene is an issue that must be addressed as this is also the age of development (and for girls, the onset of the menstrual cycle). The overall message Mrs. Donaldson presented was being able to communicate with my daughter. Once communication is in place, she agreed, it's much more easier to talk about the "tough" and "sensitive" stuff.

I had a terrific middle school experience. I was one of those outgoing students and very much into academics and creative expression. I got along with everyone (okay, I did have a little issue with this one boy -- Nakia -- who purposely said my name wrong just to get a rise out of me which sometimes worked). I had a crush or two, but it wasn't that serious because my focus was honestly on my books.

However, things have greatly changed since my days at Rosemont Middle School (Norfolk, VA). The middle school children these days are privy to a lot more than I was. They have a lot of peer pressue -- as Mrs. Donaldson mentioned -- to be a certain type of person or hang with a particular crowd. If they are not grounded in a strong self-esteem, middle school students can easily get caught up.

It is my mission to keep Lady Clara on track. I am confident she will fare well in middle school because she is focused, has goals and me! We already have a wonderful mommy-daughter relationship and talk about everything. I allow her to voice her opinion and share with her why I may agree or disagree with something that she says -- always pointing to proof or a solid example.

To help me stay on top of the middle school game, I plan to do a lot of reading, observing, communicating and praying. I will especially be involved in Lady Clara's school life. I plan to make everyone from the principal to the custodian my BFF. They will know me by name, face and voice. So will the students. I care just that much about my daughter. I desire for her to have a healthy experience that will have lasting effects.

I encourage you to start now with preparing your impending middle school student. Elementary school is so much different from middle school. It's a whole new world. The better equipped they are, the more likely they will excel.

Here's to empowering our children!

Cheers,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Publisher & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine

Anaya Grant Wants to Help Young Moms Beat the Odds

Please support my sistah and fellow SOLO mommy in her book endeavor. Anaya Grant is a mom on a mission to encourage younger moms to stay the course and never give up. Read her "call to action" below:

To my community of friends and family:

You know what it's like to be a parent but imagine what's it's like to be a mom at 16, 17 or even 18. Not only do you have to deal with the issues of being a teenager but a parent. I know exactly what it feels like because I gave birth to my daughter when I was 17 years old. I was scared, disappointed and lost. Yet, with the help of friends and family I was able to overcome the many challenges I faced. However, many young moms do not receive any emotional support.

That is why I would love for you to help me create a book entitled, Beating the Odds. It is a book of letters written to young moms that will give them the courage and confidence to create a life they love for themselves and their child.

I would love for you to contribute to the book by writing a letter. Share your personal story or simply write an endearing letter about: education, self-esteem, parenting, pursuing your dreams, family or courage.

I am trying to create a MIRACLE! I would love to have a 100 letters or more submitted by February 18. Anything is possible, especially when a village is involved in making a difference. Please pass this information on to friends and family members who are interested in impacting the life of a young mom.

When submitting your letters please include your full name, email address and current occupation. All letters should be submitted to AnayaGrant09@aol.com

Thank you so much for your love and support.

Anaya Grant

I'm Training Up My Children in the Word of the Lord

In Proverbs 22:6 of The King James Version of the Holy Bible it says, "Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." I interpret this to mean that when I raise Lady Clara and Sir Isaac up in God's Word -- teaching them what His Word says and helping them to live a Godly life according to the scriptures -- that when they get older they will turn back to their foundation if they ever get sidetracked.

This morning, I had Lady Clara to read Hebrews 11:1-10. Then, we had a discussion on faith and how we can apply it to our lives.

I decided that beginning this evening (and every evening thereafter) we will have Bible Study together just like I had growing up. My grandfather, Chairman Clarence Isaac Anderson, Jr., use to gather the family together when he got in from work and someone would read a scripture he decided on. Then, we'd have a brief talk about it.

I know how much the foundation of my relationship with God has empowered my life and kept me centered when I went astray for a brief moment. I am dedicated to giving my children the same thing. And, I encourage you to do this for your children as well. ~ Feona Sharhran Huff, Publisher & CEO of Solo Mommy Magazine (TM)

Cookies-N-Creme Pie: My "Mommy Treat" to Me!

This SOLO MOMMY did her thang yesterday. I empowered my people all throughout the day, did some strategic networking, fixed a deliciously healthy dinner (yum yum), participated in "Literacy Night" at my son's school (Oh, and I captured Sir Isaac doing his thang as he performed on stage prior to the activities), put in some family time at the library, assisted with and corrected homework, wrapped Lady Clara's long locks, ironed clothes for my "Party of Three" and did some blogging and planning for Tuesday. Hmmm... I'm sure I forget something else to add to "The Accomplished" list (LOL). So, even though it's a little past 1 am and if anything I should be eating an apple or grapes (which are in the frig), I'm going to indulge in Cookies-N-Creme pie by Edwards. I worked for this "Mommy Treat"! I encourage you to do something special for yourself when you know you're worked extra hard and accomplished much. Happy snacking to ME! ~ Feona Sharhran Huff, Publisher & CEO of Solo Mommy Magazine (TM)

I Speak LIFE Into Their Life

This past Wednesday evening, I was the featured guest on the Lilies of the Field Teleconference Call. Sharisa Robertson, the founder of Lilies of the Field, gave me the "floor" so that I could give the moms on the line key strategies for empowering their sons and daughters that I personally use for Lady Clara and Sir Isaac.

The first of the nine strategies I offered was "Speak Life into Their Lives." I said, "The Bible says that life and death is in the power of the tongue. What we say to our children sticks with them and resonates in them. When we say something positive, they are going to light up. When we speak negatively, those words also stick with them. Words can tear a child down. It can stunt them in their growth."

I am extremely conscious and mindful of what I say to my princess and prince. Even when I may get upset, I never lash out at them and say hurtful things. My responsibility as a mommy is to build then up, not tear them down. It is to encourage them, not destroy their self-esteem. It is to make their pearly white teeth beam bright from ear to ear, not cause tears to fall down from their eyes.

Speaking life, hope, prosperity and greatness into my children's lives feeds their minds, spirits, souls and walk. When they internalize the positive things I say to them, I see the manifestation through their conversation and their behavior.

I encourage you to speak life into your children's lives and watch them soar to higher heights.

In service to you,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Publisher & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine(TM)

I Made It Happen This AM!

I woke up this morning just in the nick of time to get Sir Isaac up, dressed and out the door to catch the bus. Then, it was Lady Clara's turn to get ready. I made it happen this AM! Can I get a high five?!

I'm Going LIVE as a CO-HOST on The 2hrmom Show Mommy Roundtable

In less than 30 minutes, I go live as a CO-HOST on The 24hrmom Show Mommy Roundtable. Today, myself, Aja Hunter, Terryl Ebony and Luva Alvarez (the show's founder) will focus on the topic: "Change The Way You Think."

Join us officially at 1pm EST. Listen in online at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/24hrmom/2012/01/19/the-24hrmom-show-mommy-roundtable-change-the-way-you-think below or call 1-646-378-0291.

Oh, and DO tell a friend (or two, or three)!

I'll be waiting on the air,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Publisher & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine(TM)

Sir Isaac Received a Favored Ride This Morning

I had a tough night. I didn't fall asleep until a little after 1 am. So, it was no surprise that I overslept. When I woke up, it was 7:22 am. Sir Isaac's bus had left 22 minutes ago, which meant we would have to endure another 12-block walk to his elementary school. This time, I didn't beat myself up or panic about him being tardy. I simply got him and his sister up and dressed, and out the door we went. I dropped Lady Clara off first then journeyed onward. While walking, I just kept thanking God for His favor. I think I even asked The Father to place in one of the school bus operator's hearts the desire to stop along our route to school and offer to take my son the rest of the way.

As we passed a particular street -- five blocks from our scholastic destination -- Paula from bus no. 754 pulled her bus window back and asked if I wanted her to take Sir Isaac to school. Just that quick God had answered my prayer. I accepted her offer -- explaining the circumstances behind our long stroll down the street from our house -- but just smiled brightly then waved us to come over so Sir Isaac could get on. She seemed genuinely concerned about my son getting to school, which would free me up to head to the library and get some work done. I thanked her from the bottom of my heart, told Sir Isaac to have a great day and went about my way while watching the bus roll pass me.

I just want to encourage you today to keep hope, faith and the expectancy of answered prayer at the forefront of your mind and heart. You can and will receive favor today. I can certainly testify to that. - Feona Sharhran Huff, Publisher & CEO of Solo Mommy Magazine

Chef Clara Enjoys Her Day at the Culinary Institute of Virginia

My 11-year-old daughter, Chef Clara, had an amazing day at an OPEN HOUSE for the Culinary Institute of Virginia (Norfolk, VA). It was a day topped with food tastings and a cooking demonstration with Chef Blunt. She had mudslides, strawberry daquaris, chocolate-covered strawberries, parfaits, omelettes, shrimp & grits, french toast, waffles and more. Her tummy was stuffed and her heart was full. She adores the school. If your child shows an interest or deep desire to pursue something -- whether it's art, cooking, dance, science, etc. -- I encourage you to do all that you can to support it. You never know what investing in it will lead them to in life. I already know that Chef Clara will one day become a professional adult chef. I'm positioning her now for the inevitable. I wish to thank the staff and students of the Culinary Institute of Virginia for embracing my tween chef and encouraging her to continue pursuing her passion for cooking.

Culinary School... Here Chef Clara Comes!

This morning, I’m taking Lady Clara (aka “Chef Clara”) for OPEN HOUSE at the Culinary Institute of Virginia. She'll get a tour of the culinary school, meet chefs and participate in food tasting. I believe in planning now for her tomorrow. I am just as much excited for her tour as she is for herself. This is going to be a great experience - one which I will document and will blog about later in the day (Stay Tuned!). I encourage you to do this for your sons and daughters as well with regards to determining their career interests and finding programming to support their learning. This positions their young minds to consider college and careers early on. It gives them a chance to plan their future instead of having it dictated to them. – Feona Sharhran Huff, Publisher & CEO of Solo Mommy Magazine(TM)

Just when you're not doing enough to get the work done, you are reminded of the impact that your sincere steps have on those who are watching you. So, when I received such an outpouring of appreciation via testimonials for the work that I do out of love to support and empower single moms, my heart was so full. The following praises remind me that my work is not in vain and that I must keep pushing for my parenting population. God bless EVERYONE who has sown a positive seed into my life and ministry!

Sincerely,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Publisher & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine(TM)

"Feona Huff brings creativity and inspiration to parenting. She believes in helping to flourish the talents of children, so that they will manifest authentic expressions of themselves." -Tachelle Shamash Wilkes, Author of Amanda's Ray

I’m so happy for you. You are doing extraordinary work and your light is shining brighter everyday. -Bonique Harris, The Entrepreneur Roundtable

“Ms. Feona Huff always keeps the main thing the main thing. It is about the children, and the children of the Solo Mommy are to be heralded, applauded encouraged, loved and acknowledged just like all children, but the Solo Mommy is the machine that keeps everything running. It was not until Feona honored me as a Solo Mommy Award winner and placed me on the Front Cover of her magazine that I had ever received so much love for the role of the Solo Mommy for my son. I was going and going like the “Every Ready” bunny, like most other Solo Mommy's and never stopped myself to realize just how much is involved and how overlooked the role is that Feona Huff is a blessing to me and my family, to my business and to her phenomenal children. All mothers -- solo or not -- can take a play from her book. I thank you Feona for being a solid force in my life, someone who I can always be sure will understand the journey of the Solo Mommy. Thank you for all that you do for Solo Mommies everywhere. God Bless you, I love you. -Cathleen Williams, Author, Single Mother The New Father, Volume 1 Sports: The Mother's Playing Field, Secrets For Navigating the Man's World of Amateur Sports, CEO, I'm Just Saying, LLC and President Cathleen E. Williams Enterprises

“A solo mommy decides to turn her lemons into lemonade. She chooses not to focus on the challenges in her life but focus on the opportunities that are available to her and her children. She knows that her situation is not her destination. Every now and again she needs a reminder that she may be a Solo Mommy but she is not alone. Thank you Feona Huff for choosing to uplift and empower Solo Mommy's everywhere. You are truly an angel.” -Geneva Farrow-Executive Director and Founder, A Young Mother's D.R.E.A.M.

“Feona Huff is a Visionary who believes in strengthen the single mother's. It is with great honor to support ""The State of the Solo Mommy Address". I look forward in seeing more gatherings & being apart!’ -Minister Kim E. Underwood, Morning Glory Prayer, www.KimEUnderwoodMinistries.com

“The State of the Solo Mommy Address is a movement that I choose to support, its foundation is rooted on hope, overcoming and victory despite the odds. I believe in the Solo Mommy mission and look forward to supporting them in their national campaign. Feona Sharhan Huff continue to be the voice for all single moms, you are a Solo Mommy who Rocks!” -Lucinda Cross, Author, Inspirational Keynote, www.lucindacross.com


“I just love reading the things you and your children are doing. It makes me re-evaluate me as a parent and any excuse I try to come up with as to why something is or isn't a certain way, I remind myself of what you are doing. You are a single mom raising two children. I am not married but I am not a single mom, so there isn't any excuse, especially these days. We are our children's teachers by our words and actions. Speak it because you are already sharing with the world on FB. You're children are living proof of your successful methods, teachings, and nurturing. You inspire me. I hope to begin to become a mother like y a mother like you to my three children. I find it hard sometimes because of some things but like I said that is no excuse. There is a needed market out there for you and children to work together as family in business and ministry”. –Sharisa Robertson, Lilies of the Field

“Feona Sharhran Huff is a powerhouse of empowerment. As a dynamic workshop facilitator and founder of Solo Mommy Magazine, she is on the front lines teaching women how to step into their purpose and power as well as raise terrific kids. She is a much needed voice in the area of personal power and solo parenting.” -Cassandra Mack, Author of, "Don't Let A Break-Up Break You Down"

"Feona Sharhran Huff is fueled with deep commitment, passion and expertise when it comes to providing the tools and insights for parents to reach their full potential. Our communities, families and children are challenged on so many fronts, Feona's information and inspiration offers clear cut strategies for success." -Shawn Dove, Manager, Open Society Foundations Campaign for Black Male Achievement

“Feona is exceptional. There are few people who can keep up with the level of performance. I too have a 10 year old daughter and I applaud her for stepping up and making a difference in parents lives as well as the lives of their children. She is truly a blessing and an inspiration.”
-Chris Alexander - League of Extraordinary Women

“As a parent of three myself, Feona is a sterling example for me to expect more from my kids, empower them to accomplish all they can imagine, and for me to be the guidance they need to prosper in this "new world". Our kids need this extra boost from us and Feona can show you how to be all they need us to be!” -Dawniel Patterson-Winningham author of the Girl! Power series, Motivational Speaker, CEO Twin Power Publishing, CEO Dreamscapes Life Coaching

Let Her Express Herself

My daughter is a very creative person. She is a pro at drawing and has fallen in love with singing and performing. I encourage her zest for expressing herself. So, it was a no-brainer when she asked me to record her singing one of her fave Lady Gaga songs. As soon as I gave her the cue that I was recording, she went into performance mode. It was so cute to see her getting into the rhythm of the song. We played the video back to both of our delights. I smile from ear to ear when I watch it (again and again and again!). If your son or daughter desires to express themselves in some shape, form or fashion, let them. It's going to build up their self-esteem and confidence. I can see it happening already for my darling daughter. Check her out at http://youtu.be/Pi2xzpKl6fE.

Feet Don't Fail Me Now!

I woke up this morning at 7:03 am. Fairly early, right?! Not when Sir Isaac's school bus comes between 7 am and 7:10 am. Just as I dashed to the window to peep out of the blind, I saw the yellow bus rolling up to his pick-up spot. His school is about 10 blocks away -- and while I'm a walker and it'd be no problem -- I was concerned that it'd be too much on my son's little legs. I had no choice, though. I had to get him to school. I wasn't going to let him lose out on learning time because I overslept. This all meant that I had to hustle. I quickly ironed his clothes and got him dressed. We walked out of the house at 7:23 am. A student's considered late at 7:45 am. I boosted myself up and said, "Don't worry, Feona, you'll get there on time."

Although we were speed walking down the road, we were still late. When asked why was Sir Isaac tardy when we entered the main office, I explained that we'd missed the bus. The administrator understood because it's a real hike from my house. She wrote him a note, I gave him a kiss and he was on his way to class. Could I breathe for a second now?! Nope, I still had to go back and take Lady Clara to school.

I sprinted out of my son's school building and began high tailing it back to the apartment. I told my daughter that she was going to have to iron her clothes because I wouldn't be able to do it based on the distance that I was away. The big girl that Lady Clara is, she got her clothes and ironed them. When I did a time check, it was 8:06 am. Oh no... She had to be in school at 8:15 am. And, I clearly wasn't going to make it because I still had three blocks to go. When I finally got to the house, I made sure she had everything and then we headed out. She got to school at 8:23 am.

I was very upset -- not with her or her brother but with me. It is always my intention to get the children to school on time and if I don't, I feel really bad. I shed a tear because it really bothered me. Then, I began deep breathing and praising God for my feet. Yes, I was late getting them to school. But, given the distance from one school to the next and all the walking I had to do in between, I did pretty good. The blessing was really in the fact that I didn't give up. Neither did my feet.

Savvy Shopping at The Salvation Army Thrift Store

I absolutely love shopping at thrift stores. I've been doing so since middle school. I always find high-end clothes for nearly nothing. I've been known to walk into a thrift store with $20 and come out with Anne Taylor, Anne Klein and Kenneth Cole clothing. Purchasing a blouse for $2 is nothing new to me. As a single mom with two children to clothe - trust me - the price is right.

The other day in a Salvation Army thrift store in Virginia Beach, I worked my savvy shopping magic and exited the place with a large bag of clothes and shoes - all for just $27. I bought several pairs of shirts and pants for Lady Clara and Sir Isaac. And, I picked up two sassy dresses for myself as well as a pair of gray pinstripe heels (Oh, and they only cost $3!). Did I mention the fact that on Wednesdays, everything is half off. That means that a shirt which is priced at $3 will now cost $1.50. You can't beat that bargain!

I love to dress well. However, I don't want to spend all of my hard-earned dollars to accomplish this. Shopping at thrift stores is a smart option for a penny-pinching single mom like me - especially one who has financial goes to fulfill for her family.

If you haven't explored shopping at thrift stores, I strongly suggest you to do so. You'll find a lot of nice clothes, shoes - and even furniture. And, you won't go broke doing it. Guess what? Tomorrow is Wednesday. If you're in the Chesapeake/Virginia Beach area of Hampton Roads like me, you may want to head over to a Salvation Army Thrift Store. Remember: All items are half priced!

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

Love ya,

Feona Sharhran Huff
"Solo Mommy"

Dear "Solo Mommy"... You ARE Appreciated!

Since the birth of my first born, Clara Huff (Lady Clara), I have been working diligently to empower single moms with savvier ways to live a simpler life through the magazine as well as through workshops, conferences, blogs (like this one!) and one-on-one conversations. I do it out of love -- not glory. I give out awards (i.e. "You Go, Mom! Awards©), I don't seek them out. And so, when someone sends me a note of encourage, praise report or testimony in celebration of my life's ministry, I feel unspeakable joy. It lets me know that someone is listening, being touched, empowered, healed, restored, etc. Receiving the following quote from Rodney (Bow-Tie) Harraway, nearly caused me to cry. I know it came from a place of authenticity. Here's what "The Child Support Czar" had to say:

"After meeting Feona and her Solo Mommy Movement, I gained a better understanding of what she was attempting to achieve, which is the empowerment of our single parents who have been struggling to gain support from the world. Feona has taken the bull by the horn and not only does she rear her children in the fear of the Lord, she has also commanded nothing less than total victory and success for her own two young children. I’m a man who stands on the word of the Lord, and Feona's spirit of excellence and integrity speak volumes of the women and men she reaches. The Bible says that we are overcome by our testimonies. And, Feona's empowering stories will help break the generational cures that plague our communities -- one family at a time. She has started with her own and the Lord is well pleased with her work."

Thank you Rodney! I appreciate your acknowledgement of the work I do. I shall continue to journey of empowering my parenting population.

In service to single moms,

Feona Sharhran Huff
Publisher & CEO
Solo Mommy Magazine©