Our Cellphones Are Put Down!

I watched a report on The Today Show this morning that President Obama is pushing for kids and parents to put down their cellphones and spend more quality family time together. I'm sure he'd be proud of me. Clara, Timothy and I spent time together at Ocean View Beach playing volleyball, making sand castles, splashing each other and simply enjoying each other's companay. Just so you know... I only used my cellphone to capture these beach shots.

Keep Sowing into Your Children

Keep sowing and pouring into your children. The results will show up favorably. Trust me.

College Fair... Here My Kids Come!!!

Your children are never too young to attend a college fair or do a college tour. I took Clara and Isaac to a college fair held at the Chesapeake Conference Center last night. It was such an empowering experience for them. They picked up a lot of information, captured some Kodak moments and left knowing that college is certainly an attainable thing. Click on the link to check out what they did https://www.facebook.com/powerhousmediagroup/media_set?set=a.10153294701271564.1073741841.689361563&type=1¬if_t=like.

Congrats on Graduating Timothy!

I got to Timothy's school at 7:50 am just so that I could be one of the first parents to get a front row seat. Today is Graduation Day! My scholatic prince was dressed in his pinstrip slacks and vest and sky blue bow tie. Oh, how he looked sharp. And, when his homeroom teacher, Mrs. Hamill, called his name to come across the stage, I bolted out of my seat because I need to capture this moment on camera. Congrats son on all of your achievements today. In addition to receiving awards for Perfect Attendance, Honor Roll, President's Education Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement and his promotion certificate, he was also recognized for being "Citizen of the Month" for October 2013. Intermediate school is over and now he is headed to middle school. I pray God's favor over his mind as he moves forward in his academic pursuits. Copy and paste this link to see him receive his awards http://youtu.be/X7QGEgVX0zU.

That's Right... I'm Building Up a Wordsman!

While looking up a word in Isaac's Scholastic dictionary this morning, the idea hit me strong: I am going to have my son to read the entire dictionary just like Malcolm X did -starting today. Imagine what his vocabulary will be like when he enters 6th grade in the fall?! I am excited. I dare you to challenge your children to do this as well.

Thankful to See Clara Receive Her Athletic Award

Thank you to my co-worker Kayla who worked in my place today at the Y so that I could see my firstborn recieve her athletic award.

Slurpees: The Perfect Show of Appreciation

I love Clara and Isaac. To show a token of my appreciation and love for such awesome children, I stopped by the 7 Eleven behind our apartment complex and bought them blueberry and mango slurpees. When they got home, the slurpees were waiting for them in the freezer. They smiled. So did I.

My Car is Coming (Thank You, Lord!)

I ran into a fellow solo mommy friend while at the library this evening. She was sharing with me how God moved on her behalf and blessed her with the car she had prayed for. It was an amazing story of faith and favor. KeKe encouraged me by what she shared and reminded me that what God has for us is most certainly for us and that in His time He will give us the desires of our heart. As a solo mommy with active youth, it is very important to be able to get them to and from their track meets, acting classes, mime rehersals, etc. Just like God granted KeKe with a car, I know He will do the same for me. So, I am standing on His word where He says that He will supply all of my needs, give me the desires of my heart and bless me exceedingly and abuntantly above anything that I can ask for. In the meantime of waiting on God, I will be a great steward of what He has given me -- my feet and a bus pass. Where I can walk to, I shall walk. Where I can't walk because of the extreme distance, I will get on the bus. I am thanking God in advance for my car. When I get it (and the key word is "get"), it will be a happy day for I will know that God's timing was made perfect. For any solo mommy reading this, please stay encouraged while you wait on God. Do what you have to do with what you have and believe that you will recieve favor. Until I write you next... I'm just living the solo mommy life. Love you to life! Feona Sharhran Huff

Family & Friends Day was Wonderful!

Clara and I had a blessed church experience today with Charles Deanes Sr. at Living Word Ministry Church of God in Christ for "Family & Friends Day". Elder Thomas B. Campbell delivered a message that I needed to hear. He anointed my head with oil, prayed over me and spoke a Godly adherence in my ear. My godbrother and Minister of Music Byron Collins set the atmosphere for Praise & Worship. Bro Joe was so welcoming to us and I had the opportunity to fellowship with my Sister-in-Christ Chelsea Campbell. Oh yes, today is a good day.

I Absolutely L-O-V-E My Macys Makeover

I believe that every solo mommy should experience getting a makeover. It is a fabulous treat. I had the opportunity to receive a full skincare treatment and makeover by Terri Shorter. She works for Fashion Fair at the Macys inside of Lynnhaven Mall (Virginia Beach, VA). She worked her magic on me and put a capital "F" in the word fabulous because that's how I looked at felt when I got out of her chair. Terri did such a stellar job on my face that the department store's customers were walking pass giving me kudos and thumb ups. Her coworkers were raving about me while in the store and well after I left. Terri brought out my inner beauty and ignited an extra pep in my step. I can't thank her enough. If you like what you see, I strong urge you to check Terri out. She will hook you up, too.

Tyler Perry's New Film for Single Moms Was a Right On Time

Single moms are oftentimes overlooked, blamed for the troubles of society and bad mouthed. But, for the first time, I was able to go to the movies and see something dedicated to my parenting community. Tyler Perry's new film "The Single Moms Club" debuted in theaters nationwide last night. I attempted to gather other single moms together to join me, however, that didn't pan out. I was initially disappointed especially since it's my heart's desire to bring single moms together to bond and be there for each other. I do, however, understand that when situations arise, you have to handle them because you are the only one there. I was glad that I had my very supportive daughter and aspiring actress Clara to accompany me. Oh yes, single moms carry a heavy load, which is why we need each other. We must be each other's support. We must create a "VILLAGE" for us and our children. But, we must also show up to get the help and support that we seek. God gave me this ministry many years ago and because he chose and entrusted me to carry out this very important work, I won't give up on single moms. Please keep me in prayer. I really want to do all that I can to keep us lifted, inspired and empowered. Also, please let me know what your interests and needs are. What I loved about "The Single Moms Club" is that it bares witness to our challenges as single moms and celebrates our strength and tenacity. I am very thankful to Mr. Perry for being bold enough to shed a glimpse into our lives as single moms and for taking the heat when being bashed by people who are negative. There were many moments where I laughed and definitely some when I shed a tear or two. I think my favorite filmmaker did a fine job. But please, check out the film for yourself. And, if you want to know what it's like to raise a child alone, ask a single mom. Don't judge her or make assumptions about her. We do the best we can with what we have. If you are reading this and you are a single mom, I encourage you to make time for you. Replenish yourself.Go back to school if you want to. Take a dance class. Laugh. Live. Do whatever makes you happy. I feel even more empowered after leaving the theater. I will continue to love and support my children and raise them according to God's Word. I will celebrate my small and major accomplishments. Is it easy running this solo mommy race? No. Do I get sometimes get overwhelmed and question myself? Absolutely. But, I know that I am a blessed woman with blessed children and we will make it. I want you to know that you, too, will be just fine. If you in the South Hampton Roads area and want to join me in forming a single moms club, please email me at solomommymag@yahoo.com. Until the next time I write... I'm just living the solo mommy life. Love, Feona

Single Mom Support Group Comes to Hampton Roads (VA)

Are you a SOLO MOMMY who lives in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia? Would you like to connect with other mothers like you for support, empowerment, fellowship and fun? If you answered "YES" to both questions, I have GREAT news for you... Beginning next month, Solo Mommy Magazine will host a monthly support group for single moms. If you're interested in finding out more information, please email me at solomommymag@yahoo.com.

I Had a Dream...

I woke up this morning with a dream about Timothy Huff fresh on my mind. It seemed so real and it was amazing. It is as though the dream was confirming what my son put on his vision board. Timothy received his jersey number for his rec basketball team The Warriors (#12) this past Monday. His first game (and 1st time ever playing bball on a sports team) is Sat, Jan 11th at 12 noon. I have to pray on this dream. I have a feeling that God is up to something really good for Timothy.

Happy Birthday to Me... Looking Fine at 39!

Know what today is?! It's my birthday. To be exact, it's my 39th birthday. And, I can't be more happier. While many may wish to hide their age, I choose to highlight it. I am thankful for hitting this year in my life. You know why? Someone didn't reach this age. But God saw fit to continue to let me live and that is more than reason to shout to the mountain top. To kick off my birthday, a dear friend made me breakfast: Fried whiting fish with onions and grits. Next up, I went shopping at L'Bella Couture, a new boutique in Chesapeake, VA. Jaylin attended my purchasing needs with such care for my fashion focus. With her help, I found the perfect dress: A burgundy and tan A-line cut leather dress. After that, I headed over to Denny's for a FREE meal -- the "Build a Breakfast". I had a choice of four items to build my breakfast. I chose whole wheat pancakes, buttermilk pancakes, turkey bacon and grits. Then, I picked up my birthday cake from Farm Fresh. It looks so delicious (FYI: I will eat it after I return home from my son's basketball practice!). Right now, I'm at the Indian River Public Library watching "Polar Express" with Clara and Isaac as well as the other kids and parents who are assembled in the Meeting Room for this Christmas centered movie. In a few minutes, though, I have to head over to basketball practice with my son. Once I return home, I'm taking my cake and come individually-wrapped ice cream cups over to my neighbors house so I can celebrate with my friends. But no one is getting a piece of my face (smile). I want to thank my children and friend Raymond for my lovely cards and to all of the birthday shout outs on Facebook and via text along with phone calls. I love my life. I am happy about today. Happy Birthday Me!

I Choose Chess for My Son... It's a "Thinking Person's Game"

I remember the first chess set that I purchased for Isaac back in New York. It was marble and brand new. I discovered it at a local shop near my after-school program. As soon as we got in the house, Isaac -- who was six years old at the time -- opened up the chess board, read the directions, assembled the pieces and began playing. I was totally impressed. Although completely new to this "thinking person's game", he seemed a natural. Over time, he'd enlist me or his sister to play him in a friendly game. He always won. Fast forward four years... Isaac is now 10 years old, and he continues to love the game of chess. In fact, the first place he makes his way to when we visit our local library, is the chess table (which is nestled in the back near the reference desk and computer station). It got me to thinking that I should really look into a chess program for him. Initially, I posted a request for leads on a social media site that I frequent, but I didn't get any responses. It wasn't until a three weeks ago when I posted a photo of Isaac at the chess table that Misti Goodson -- a childhood friend and advancement writer at our alma mater Norfolk State University -- suggested that I reached out to Dr. Arthur Bowman. She shared that he was the Head of the Biology department and taught students how to play chess. I called up Dr. Bowman, told him all about my son. He offered not only to help my son sharpen his skills but to coach me as well. Two days later, we were on campus for our first lesson. Dr. Bowman was very simple in his explanation of how the game of chess is played. I greatly appreciated that. And, I was able to catch on quickly. After playing a few games, I was feeling pretty good about my playing ability. Dr. Bowman wants to continue to coach both of us and even train me to facilitate a "Learn & Play" station in my community. I'm all for it. The beautiful thing about chess is that it's a game of critical thinking and strategy. You have to be one or two steps ahead of your opponent in order to be victorious in the end. I see Isaac being a Grand Master in his future. I'm going to see to it by keeping him involved in chess. I would encourage you to look into it for your son and/or daughter as well. Search the Internet for chess programs in your area. Also, check with your neighborhood and recreational centers.

Boot Camp Class was the Bomb!

Boot camp class at the Greenbrier North YMCA Wellness & Racquetball Center was the bomb today. Although the class was was quite intensive and caused me to use muscles I didn't now I even had (SMILE), I truly do thank Greg for leading the class and making sure that I stayed on task. Cool thing is I received several compliments from him throughout the one hour long class. He asked me if I was coming back to which I said YES. I have always been an advocate for investing in one's health by exercising. And, as I approach 39 on Wednesday (12.11.13), it is even more imperative that I stay active. What you don't use, you loose. When I return the Saturday after next (no class 12.14.13 because of a racquetball tournament), I'm bringing Clara Huff. After all, she's in track training mode.

Cheers to Literacy: Clara's School Does Fundraiser at Barnes & Noble

This evening, Clara and the Indian River Middle School cheer squad, assembled at Barnes & Noble Bookstore on Greenbrier Parkway in Chesapeake, VA, as part of a fundraiser for the school. Every 15 minutes, they'd deliver three cheers then branch off in groups of two to mingle with customers and encourage them to buy a book with a percentage of the sales going toward IRMS. I thought it was an excellent means of encouraging literacy and support for the students. I ran into two of Clara's teachers: Ms. Bradley (who teaches Honors English) and Mrs. Young (who teaches Honors US History). Principal Naomi Dunbar was front and center(as usual) to support her students. The Norfolk Admirals mascot even came out to show them some love. It was a really great turnout. I hope they have another book fundraiser real soon. We love reading.

This Saturday Night Was Live and Well!

This evening, I had the pleasure of celebrating Clara Huff as Miss Youth Matter Teen 2013 and Timothy Huff who mimed with Out The Box Kidz at Youth Matter Inc.'s 5th Annual Black & White Gala Fundraiser at the Chesapeake Marriott. I pulled double duty with cheering, crying and photo opts. I praise God for blessing me to be there for the loves of my life. I thank God for the people He has placed in our lives to encourage us and sow into our gifts and ministries. I thank God for having a heart for His people, especially our youth because they matter.

This is What Can Happen When Are Children Can't Take Bullying Anymore!

I am heart-broken after watching the news earlier today which reported on 12-year-old Rebecca Ann Sedwick from Lakeland, FL, who committed suicide after a year-long battle with cyber bullying. She climbed on top of a tower and blunged to her death. Rebecca is only a year younger than my eldest child, Clara Huff (who, too, has experienced being bullied). We have to talk to our children on a daily basis to listen to them, encourage them and equip them with handling bullying in all of its forms (physical, cyber, name-calling, blatant alienation, etc). Please keep Rebecca's mom, Trisha Norman, in your prayers, as well as all of the parents worldwide who had to or is about to bury their children as a result of bullying. R.I.P. Rebecca Ann Sedwick Love, Feona Sharhran Huff "A Concerned Mommy"

Hut One… Hut Two… Today’s Celebrity Football Camp Scored a Touchdown in Our Book!

Today was a spectacular day out on the football field at Booker T. Washington High School for Sir Isaac, Lady Clara and I. We were out there so that my All-American athletic son could participate in the 2nd Annual Youth & Celebrity Football Camp presented by Action Sparks Events LLC. Sir Isaac and the other male youth ages 6 to 18 got the opportunity of a lifetime to learn plays first hand and do football drills with some of the NFL’s most down-to-earth and talented players including Don Carey (Detroit Lions), Perry Kemp (Green Bay Packers), Keith Henderson (San Francisco 49ers), Trevard Lindley (Philadelphia Eagles), Craig Wilkins (Seattle Hawks), C.J. Jones (New England Patriots), D.J. Bryant (Baltimore Ravens), Justin Bethel (Arizona Cardinals), Cameron Graham ((St. Louis Rams), Nick Eason (Arizona Cardinals), Adrian Hamilton ((Baltimore Ravens)), Eric Matthews (Green Bay Packers), Lamar Campbell (Detroit Lions), Ben Tate (Houston Texans) and others. With Sir Isaac playing his first season of football for the Chesapeake Tigers in the Fall, this one-day camp really had a profound impact on him. I could tell based on how meticulous he was in executing what he learned from the NFL players and by how intently he listened as the men shared their life’s story during the mentoring portion of the camp. The players all expressed how important it was to bring a positive attitude out on the field, be serious and ready to play as well as to remain humble and focused. What I also loved about them was the emphasis they placed on getting a good education and maintaining good grades first and foremost. We had the honor of taking photos with all of the NFL players (see below). I was extra proud to capture a “Kodak Moment” with Don Carey. He was raised by a SOLO MOMMY. I had a heart-to-heart with Ms. Karen at the conclusion of the camp. It was very encouraging to hear her journey as a single mom. As a result of her faith in God, daily sacrifices and dedication to ensuring that her children stayed involved in positive activities and around empowering people, she is a walking testimony that it is possible to raise productive children; that our children DO NOT have to be what society constantly swears they will become. Don, who was drafted by the NFL in 2008, is a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and Norfolk State University (my alma mater). He was an honors student at both. To his surprise and delight, Chanda Farrow-Copelin (Founder of Action Sparks Events, LLC), presented him with the inaugural Don Carey Award for Athletic Excellence. This will be an annual award given to a current player at Booker T. Washington High School. It was a proud moment for him, his mom and definitely for me. It was great seeing my high school buddy Antione Corbin on the field as a volunteer coach. My frat brother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Thomas Thorogood as well as my other high school friend Monquez Hunter were front and center to support their sons. I honor these men because they are actively engaged and involved dads who also stand in the gap as role models and mentors for the sons and daughters of single moms like me. Esteemed radio personality Cocoa Butter, who is a dear SOLO MOMMY friend of mine, was also at the camp to lend her support as was Jennifer Williams who's son participated. On top of all that Sir Isaac and the other young men received during their celebrity football camp experience today, they walked away with certificates of participation, a gift bag, autographs and photo opts. I am so blessed that my son was a part of this camp. He’ll be back next year for sure! If your sons are interested in playing football, I strongly encourage you to find a sports program to get them on the right track. Look into www.actionsparksevents.com to see what events they have coming up next. Thanks to all of the volunteers and sponsors including Powerhouse Media Group (www.stepintoyourpower.net) for making this a successful event. Until I write you next, I'm just living the solo mommy life. Love you, Feona Sharhran Huff. P.S. Be sure to leave a comment on the blog posts. Stay connected with me on Facebook. Request to join the "Living the Solo Mommy Life" group. Follow me on Twitter @ solomommy.